Highlights of South Korea

We'll arrive late afternoon in South Korea's capital city, Seoul. Much like Japan's capital, Tokyo, Seoul is fashion- and technology-forward with tradition still deeply rooted in the culture and architecture. You'll spot bustling markets, ornate palaces and Buddhist temples standing shoulder-to-shoulder with futuristic skyscrapers as we make our way into the heart of the city to our hotel.  

After checking in, the rest of the evening is spent at leisure in and around the hotel. 

Today, we begin our exploration in earnest. We'll start at Gyeongbok Palace, one of five palaces in the city and the main residence of the Korean Royal Family. Although lesser known, many believe Gyeongbok to be equal to Beijing's Forbidden City - we definitely agree that it's as impressive! We'll stop to watch the changing of the Royal Guard ceremony, a stately ceremony complete with colourful costumes and royal flags. Fun fact: If you're wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean dress, which you can hire), you'll get free entry into the palace complex, so you'll see lots of people dressed up. 

Right next to the palace is the National Folk Museum of Korea, which is our next stop. It's a great introduction to South Korea’s  culture and traditions. We'll learn more about the country's history, with exhibits from the prehistoric age to the Joseon dynasty, which only ended in 1910.  

For lunch, we'll head to Gwangjang Market, where you can take your pick from the market stalls - mung bean pancakes sizzle on hot iron grills, fishcake soup keeps warm in giant bowls, and piles of kimbap (bitesize seaweed rolls) slowly disappear from diner's plates. There's plenty to choose from, and your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions. Once you're finished, there'll also be time to peruse the independent shops - there are around 5,000!  

After lunch, we visit the lively Insa-dong, which was once the centre of traditional Korean art and antiques.

After time to shop for souvenirs, we’ll walk back to the hotel along a section of the Cheonggyecheon. This 11km-long, man-made stream weaves between the skyscrapers and is an oasis in the centre of Seoul with walking paths, trees and bridges. It's a great place to people-watch as Koreans and tourists alike relax and enjoy the calming sounds of running water.  

If you don't want to join us on a walk this afternoon, a coach will take you from Insa-dong to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.

This morning's excursion is poignant yet truly unique as we travel north of Seoul to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). A living remnant of the Korean War - which ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty - the DMZ has separated South from North Korea for over 70 years. Stretching right across the Korean Peninsula, it is the most heavily militarised border in the world and includes a Joint Security Area, where North and South Korean forces stand face-to-face - this, you may remember, is where President Trump met the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in 2018. As we explore, there’s a tangible sense of the complex relationship between the two countries and the broader geopolitical dynamics involving global powers like the United States, China, and Russia.

We'll take a guided tour of the Third Tunnel, one of many tunnels that South Korea discovered that North Korea had built from the North to the South to invade South Korea. Discovered in 1978, it's one of four tunnels to have been found so far.

As part of our guided tour of the DMZ, we'll also visit the Dora Observatory. From here you can peer into the slightly mysterious North Korea to see the North Korean propaganda village, Kijong-dong. Although North Korea insists it's a real village, South Korea contends that nobody lives there, and the lights are turned on and off at set times. Why not try to spot a resident for yourself, using the binoculars that line the lookout?

Please note: In the unlikely event we are unable to enter the Third Tunnel, we will board a gondola for a bird’s eye view of the DMZ and visit to another observatory.

Continuing, we'll visit Imjingak Park which is a peaceful tribute to the 10 million South Koreans separated from their families when the peninsula was divided postwar. The expansive open space is punctuated with statues and monuments to the Korean War. We'll also see the Freedom Bridge, the former railroad bridge that was used to repatriate POW/soldiers returning from the North.

We’ll return to Seoul and spend the evening enjoying our first Signature experience: a soju tasting. 

Today is yours to explore Seoul at leisure.  

It's a buzzing, exciting city with plenty to keep you occupied. To delve into the city's rich history, the city has many museums. You could visit the War Memorial or the National Museum of Korea (which is free to enter). Both offer captivating insights.

If shopping is your passion, or you're looking for souvenirs, you could head to one of the vast underground shopping centres or bustling markets. They're brimming with the latest fashions and gadgets. Maybe, you'd like to capture that one perfect photograph? We recommend you take in the stunning city views from the Namsan Seoul Tower Observatory (it's a whopping 236 metres tall) or ride the subway to the famous Gangnam Station and take a photo in front of the ‘Gangman Style’ sculpture in front of the COEX Mall.

Perhaps you're interested in culture? You could wander areas like Bukchon Hanok Village, a lovely neighbourhood made up of traditional Korean houses, also known as hanok. Don't forget to call in the craft shops, art galleries and teahouses along the way.

What will you choose?

After breakfast, we'll leave the bright lights of Seoul and journey northeast through the dramatic and rugged scenery of the mountainous province of Gangwon-Do.

Arriving at another section of the DMZ, we'll head to the Goseong DMZ Museum, which lies within the civilian control line (a line in Korea that creates a buffer zone between the Military Demarcation Line and the Demilitarized Zone). Here, we'll learn more about the history before and after the Korean War in 1950, and pain caused to the residents who were displaced from their home. It really brings home the significance of the truce line. 

Next, we'll travel to a small coastal city, Sokcho, where we'll stay for two nights. After checking in to our hotel, we'll visit Abai Village, a small island that has been a refuge for generations of North Koreans fleeing the country. To get there, we'll board a hand-pulled small barge, and if you're feeling energetic, you can help us get to the other side! Fun fact: The village is also the filming location of the Korean Drama 'Autumn in My Heart', making it a major attraction in Sokcho. 

After breakfast, we'll take a short drive just outside the city to Seoraksan National Park. Set over 63 square miles, the park is home to one of Korea's most beautiful mountains and boasts rugged peaks, cliffs, numerous waterfalls, unique rock formations, and scenic valleys. It's one of the most beautiful areas on the Korean peninsula and holds the distinction of being Korea's first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Soon after we enter, we'll see The Great Bronze Buddha, a 14-meter-tall gilt bronze statue a short walk away from the Sinheungsa Temple, that is believed to be the oldest Zen temple in Korea.

We'll then enjoy an easy guided walking tour to see some of the park's waterfalls. Those who don't wish to join the guided walk can choose their own walk or take the cable car up Seoraksan Mountain, which rises 700 meters above sea level. From the cable car window, you can see famous attractions like Ulsanbawi Peak and Manmulsang Rocks and, from the top, there are even more breathtaking views.

Leaving Sokcho, we'll travel south, stopping first at Dosan Seowan. Established in 1574, this UNESCO World Heritage site was a Confucian academy built to honour the teachings of Toegye Yi Hwang, an eminent Confucian scholar. It's no longer used for educational purposes and now hosts commemorative ceremonies twice a year in its tranquil forest setting. 

Continuing our journey, we'll travel to the village of Hahoe, another incredible UNESCO World Heritage site. This living museum is considered the best-preserved 15th-century clan village in Korea. This charming, old village portrays life in the Joseon Dynasty, with around 460 still-inhabited traditional structures, such as thatched-roof houses, aristocratic mansions, Confucian academies and more.

While here, we'll also visit the Hahoe Mask Museum to see the remarkable collection of traditional Korean masks. Hahoe masks are national treasures and believed to have magical powers to expel demons and protect the village. There is also a collection of masks from across Asia and countries like Nigeria, Italy and Mexico. 

Finally, we'll arrive at our hotel in Andong, where we'll enjoy a one-night stay. There'll be time to settle in before we transfer into the heart of Andong for dinner, where we'll introduce you to a local speciality: Andong Jjimdak. This is a spicy version of a much-beloved chicken dish simmered with seasonings along with diced carrots, potatoes, and other vegetables.

This morning, we'll travel to Gyeongju. Once we arrive, we'll head to the heritage district - Korea's 'museum without walls'. This UNESCO World Heritage site embodies the time-honoured history and culture of Gyeongju. As we wander, we'll gain insight into its 9th-century history when the city was the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. 

We’ll begin with a visit to the Daereungwon Tomb Complex - the last resting place of several Silla monarchs and their family members. In total, there are 23 tombs covered by grassy hillocks that echo the surrounding mountains. Many of the tumuli (the grass mound tombs) have yielded fascinating treasures, which are on display at the Gyeongju National Museum. We'll venture into one of the tombs, Cheonmachong, which is open to the public. Inside, we'll see how the tombs were made and replicas of the treasures excavated in 1973. 

Next, we'll visit the Cheomseongdae. It may not seem like a monumental landmark, but the observatory tower dates back to the 7th century making it the oldest existing observatory in East Asia. It even appears on Korean coins. 

We'll then visit the Gyeongju National Museum where we'll learn more about the Silla culture and history, as well as see all the treasures taken from the tumuli. There's a wealth of priceless archaeological and historical artefacts on display, including gold crowns, earrings, belts, ornaments, glassware, pottery, and clay figures. It's a fascinating place to wander around.

Finally, it's time to check in to our hotel, where we'll stay for two nights. The rest of the afternoon is spent at leisure, relaxing in and around the hotel before our Signature experience this evening.

Nestled in the thick woods on the slopes of Mount Toham is our first stop of the day. Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, portrays the enlightenment of Buddha with a seated stone Buddha from the 8th century surrounded by 38 relief figures of Bodhisattvas, disciples, devas, and guardian kings. Many consider every sculpture in the grotto a masterpiece of East Asian Buddhist art.

Nearby is the Temple of Bulguksa, an ancient temple complex dating back to the 6th century. The architecture and craftsmanship are remarkable, showcasing the rich Buddhist culture of the Silla period. And, inside, you'll find some of South Korea's greatest national treasures.

At lunchtime, we'll enjoy our last Signature experience - a Korean cooking class, after which we'll return to our hotel and enjoy time at leisure. 

Heading south this morning, we'll travel on to Busan.

On arrival, we'll visit one of South Korea's most popular beaches, Haeundae Beach, where you can walk its 1.5km of white sand, paddle in the shallow bay or bathe in the free hot springs foot bath. 

Next, we'll make a sobering yet insightful visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery, the final resting place of soldiers from the Korean War. Created in 1951, this is the only cemetery dedicated to the United Nations troops. While most of the 11,000 fallen soldiers of the UN forces were later repatriated, the pretty grounds are punctuated by memorials and exhibitions on the history and experiences of the soldiers here. It holds special meaning for many veterans who didn’t die in the war, they still come back regularly to honour their friends - some have even requested to be buried here with their compatriots when they die. 

Around lunchtime, we'll visit Gamcheon Culture Village with free time to eat and explore. This colourful community, built on the side of a hill, was once a poverty-stricken village. However, in 2009, it was converted, by public effort, into a cultural hub and now you'll find colourful houses, cafes, murals, galleries and sculptures lining the streets. Take a leisurely stroll through the quirky streets, stopping to admire the street art, on a self-guided walking tour. You may spot a surprising amount of art and sculpture dedicated to the story of The Little Prince and Fox - the French story has captured the hearts of South Korea, It's very popular here.  

Our final stop of the day is the largest seafood market in South Korea. The stalls of Jagalchi Fish Market are filled with fresh and dried sea creatures, some you'll know, like crab, eel and octopus, while others look otherworldly like sea intestines and skirting sea slugs. If you love fresh seafood, nothing is fresher than choosing your meal - still live - on the ground floor and taking it up to the second floor to get it cooked straight away.  

This evening, we'll dine together, enjoying a traditional Korean barbecue. This is a communal and social experience where diners sit around a grill on which expertly marinated grilled beef ribs, or Galbigui, is cooked to your liking, accompanied by a variety of side dishes and sauces.

It takes a bit of preparation, but the results are finger-licking good: The short ribs are marinated overnight in a mixture of green onions, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce and more. Not only does this provide a delicious flavour, but it also helps to tenderize the meat which is then grilled over charcoal or gas at the table in front of you.

This morning, we'll enjoy time to explore Busan at leisure. For one of your last opportunities to shop, head to Shinsegae Centum City - the largest department store in the world. There is a wide range of luxury brands, shops and restaurants spread across its multiple floors - but be warned, it can be easy to get a bit lost! If you'd like to experience a traditional Korean spa, also in Centrum City is Spa Land. Across South Korea, bathhouses are where locals unwind and engage in health and beauty rituals. These spas have an unspoken code of manners and customs, which can make a first-time visit intimidating for foreign travellers so ask your Tour Manager for more information. Perhaps, you'd just like a peaceful stroll with stunning views - the APEC Naru Park has wonderful views of the city skyline, the bridge, the beach, and the sea. 

We'll leave Busan in mid-afternoon, boarding a first-class carriage on the KTX high-speed train back to Seoul. Similar to Japan's famous bullet train, it's the quickest and most comfortable way to travel between the two cities, taking just over two hours (at its fastest, it can travel at 190mph.) Relax and watch the scenery whizz by, as you're plied by a steady stream of water and snacks. Top tip: It's considered rude to talk in train cabins. To remain respectful of local culture, lower your voice to a whisper if you need to speak, and bring something to keep you entertained while we travel.

Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel for one last night in Seoul before our flight tomorrow.