South Korea 8-Day Tour: Seoul, Gyeongju & Busan Highlights

After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel lobby and begin your Seoul city tour with a visit to Changdeok Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After the palace tour, explore Gwangjang Market, one of Korea’s largest traditional markets. Next, head to the National Museum of Korea, which is the sixth largest museum in the world, and houses previous Korean cultural assets showing Korea’s fascinating history, from ancient days to the modern era. ­ Following that, visit COEX Mall which is famous for its instagrammable Byeolmadang Library, one of the hottest places in Seoul with its impressive 13m high bookshelves lined with over 70,000 books across 2 floors. The final stop of today’s tour is N Seoul Tower on Mt. Namsan, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bustling city of Seoul.

After Breakfast check-out, you will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to the Korean Folk Village, located outside of Seoul. Here, you can experience traditional 18th-19th century Korean life, with villagers practicing old customs and living in traditional homes. ­ Next, head to Mt. Songnisan National Park to visit Beopjusa Temple (UNESCO World Heritage site), home to the tallest Buddha statue in Korea. Afterward, drive to Daegu via expressway. Overnight in Daegu

After Breakfast, Visit the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, located in Yangnyeongsi medicine herb market, which has been a hub for herbal medicine since it first opened in the 17th century. Next, visit Seomun Market, one of the representative markets in Daegu. Afterward, transfer to Gyeongju. Gyeongju was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom for close to a thousand years, and is home to a great concentration of Buddhist temples, royal tombs, pagodas and palaces. ­ Next, you will enjoy traditional tea at a local tea café. Then, visit the Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory and the Royal Tumuli Park, which houses the royal tombs of the Silla Dynasty. You will have the opportunity to enter one of the excavated tombs to explore the construction and burial process behind the royal tombs. Overnight in Gyeongju.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour of Gyeongju starting with visits to Bulguksa Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Seokguram Grotto (also UNESCO World Heritage Site). Seokguram Grotto established in the 8th century on the slopes of Mt. Toham features a monumental statue of a seated Buddha gazing out toward the sea and it is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist art in the Far East. Continue your journey to Busan, the second-largest city in Korea. ­ Upon arrival, begin your half-day tour of Busan with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple a rare seaside Buddhist temple offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Unlike most temples located in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa sits along the rocky coastline, making it one of the most picturesque and unique temples in Korea. Next visit Haeundae Beach for your relax time and enjoy the atmosphere of this popular beach destination. A walking tour of Dongbaekseom Island, a scenic coastal park known for its lush pine trees and beautiful ocean views. Visit the Nurimaru APEC House, the modern conference hall that hosted the 2005 APEC Summit, and enjoy panoramic views of Haeundae Bay.

After breakfast, start your day at the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Busan.” Wander through the maze-like alleys lined with colorful hillside homes, art installations, murals, and charming cafés, all offering stunning views of the city and coastline. This artistic neighborhood is a favorite for both photographers and culture enthusiasts. Next, head to Songdo Beach, one of Busan’s most scenic beaches. ­ Enjoy a ride on the Songdo Marine Cable Car(Air-cruise cabin), which glides over the sparkling water and offers panoramic views of the coastline and nearby cliffs — a unique and unforgettable experience. Continue to Jagalchi Fishery Market, where roadside vendors sell a wide variety of fresh seafood, offering visitors a glimpse into the bustling daily life of the locals. Then, visit BIFF Square (Busan International Film Festival Square), a lively cultural and entertainment district. Stroll through this bustling area filled with street food vendors, local shops, and handprints of famous film stars. Make your way to Nampodong Shopping Street for some shopping. Afterwards, visit Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Overnight stay in Busan. ­ ★ Note: If the cable car is not operating due to inclement weather, the itinerary may be adjusted and replaced with alternative destinations

After breakfast, those following the 8-Day itinerary will return to Seoul with an assistant or guide ­ If there are fewer than three participants, the return trip to Seoul can be made via KTX express train depending on the local circumstance. ­ For groups of three or more participants, transportation to Seoul will be provided by vehicle accompanied by an assistant ­ Upon arrival in Seoul, you will check in to your hotel and have some free time to relax at your leisure. ­

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out. Then transfer to the Incheon International Airport