Best of South Korea (10 days)

Seoul – Jeju Island – Busan – Gyeongju – Seoul

South Korea has come a long way since the Korean War (1950–1953), which left much of the country in ruins. Today, it ranks among the world’s most technologically advanced and prosperous nations, yet its rapid modernization has not erased the traditions and cultural heritage that have shaped Korean society for centuries.

This carefully planned 10-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction to South Korea, taking you from the royal palaces of Seoul to the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island, the bustling port city of Busan and Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla kingdom. A visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) near the North Korean border provides a sobering reminder of the country’s turbulent modern history.

Travelling in a small group with knowledgeable local guides, you will experience the country’s historical treasures, natural beauty and modern achievements at a comfortable pace, with time to explore independently. The itinerary is particularly suitable for curious travellers who want to understand South Korea beyond its best-known tourist attractions.

Important Features

• Small group size (average 15, maximum 20)
• Expert local guides
• Luxury hotel accommodations
• Quality local and Western cuisine
• Korean BBQ farewell dinner in a high-end restaurant
• Excursion to the Demilitarized Zone near Seoul

Best of South Korea Itinerary

Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner

Day 1: Departing for Seoul
Your South Korea tour begins with an international flight departing from a city of your choice. International airfare is not included in the tour price.

Day 2: Arrival in Seoul
Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, transfer independently to our centrally located hotel. You can take a taxi, airport limousine bus or Airport Railroad Express (AREX) train.

A taxi from the airport to the hotel typically costs 70,000–100,000 won, including expressway tolls, depending on traffic. The nonstop AREX Express train to Seoul Station costs approximately 13,000 won, with a further taxi ride required to reach the hotel.

The airport limousine bus may be a convenient alternative, depending on your arrival time and hotel location.

Detailed airport transfer instructions will be provided before departure.

Day 3: Seoul – Jeju Island (B/L)
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling metropolis where modern skyscrapers, advanced public transportation and vibrant commercial districts coexist with centuries-old palaces, Buddhist temples and traditional neighbourhoods.

Our sightseeing today includes Gyeongbokgung Palace, the principal royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, and Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic residential neighbourhood known for its traditional Korean houses.

Late afternoon flight to Jeju City, the capital of Jeju Island.

Day 4: Jeju Island (B/L)
Jeju Island, covering approximately 1,849 square kilometres, is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, scenic coastline and distinctive local culture. Dominating the island is Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain at 1,947 metres, an extinct volcano surrounded by forests, hiking trails and numerous smaller volcanic formations.

Our full-day guided sightseeing includes Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the world’s notable lava-tube cave systems; Seongsan Ilchulbong, a spectacular volcanic tuff cone rising above the eastern coastline; Seongeup Folk Village, where traditional Jeju architecture and customs are preserved; and Sangumburi, a large volcanic crater surrounded by grasslands.

Day 5: Jeju Island (B)
Free day to relax or explore on your own.

Day 6: Jeju – Busan (B)
Free morning.

Free morning. The late afternoon flight to Busan takes approximately one hour.

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city and principal seaport, has a population of approximately 3.3 million. Situated on the southeastern coast, the city is known for its beaches, mountains, seafood markets and long history of maritime trade, particularly with neighbouring Japan.

Day 7: Busan (B/L)
Today’s sightseeing begins with a visit to the United Nations Memorial Cemetery. Established in January 1951 during the Korean War (1950–1953), this 35-acre cemetery is the final resting place of approximately 2,300 servicemen who fought under the United Nations Command. Among them are more than 370 Canadians, along with soldiers from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and other countries.

We then proceed to Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market. Today’s sightseeing concludes with a leisurely walk along Haeundae Beach, one of Busan’s best-known seaside attractions.

Day 8: Busan – Gyeongju – Seoul (B/L)
Following breakfast, we drive approximately 100 kilometres northeast to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla kingdom, which ruled much of the Korean Peninsula following its unification of the Three Kingdoms in the seventh century. The city’s numerous royal tombs, temples and archaeological treasures bear witness to its importance as a centre of Korean civilization.

Our sightseeing begins at the eighth-century Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture from the Silla period. The temple complex features elegant stone pagodas, wooden halls built on raised stone terraces and beautifully constructed stairways. Together with nearby Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We then visit Gyeongju National Museum, home to an extensive collection of Silla-era artefacts, including royal ornaments, Buddhist sculptures and other objects that illuminate the kingdom’s history and artistic achievements.

The afternoon train journey to Seoul takes just over 2 hours (KTX #40, 15:07/17:14, 300 km).

Day 9: Seoul – DMZ – Seoul (B/L/D)
This morning, we visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates North and South Korea. Established under the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement, the DMZ stretches approximately 250 kilometres across the Korean Peninsula and is about four kilometres wide. Despite its name, the surrounding border region remains heavily fortified, a reminder that the Korean War ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

The afternoon is free for independent exploration. Recommended attractions include the National Museum of Korea, the War Memorial of Korea and Changdeokgung Palace.

Tonight, we enjoy a farewell Korean barbecue dinner at a high-end restaurant.

Day 10: Returning Home (B)
Your South Korea tour ends this morning.

Transfer independently to Incheon International Airport, approximately 50 kilometres west of Seoul. A taxi generally costs 70,000–100,000 won, including expressway tolls, depending on traffic.

The airport limousine bus is a convenient and economical alternative. The nonstop Airport Railroad Express (AREX) train from Seoul Station to Incheon Airport costs 13,000 won per person.

Detailed airport transfer instructions will be provided in the final tour update approximately two weeks before departure.

Hotel List

Dates and Prices

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. See Terms & Conditions for cancellation penalty.

South Korea Tour – Questions & Answers

What makes this South Korea tour special?

This carefully designed tour combines South Korea’s historical and cultural highlights with its modern cities and natural scenery. From Seoul’s royal palaces and the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island to Busan’s coastal attractions and Gyeongju’s ancient monuments, the itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction to the country. A visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) provides insight into the Korean Peninsula’s divided history.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?

Yes. Many Laurus Travel guests are active seniors who appreciate our small groups, comfortable accommodations and carefully planned itineraries. However, participants must be reasonably fit and comfortable walking several kilometres a day, sometimes on uneven ground or stairs. Some attractions on Jeju Island involve uphill walking. Travellers with mobility limitations should consult us before booking.

How large are the tour groups?

Laurus Travel specializes in small-group tours, generally averaging around 15 participants. Smaller groups allow for more personal attention, easier coordination and a more enjoyable sightseeing experience. The maximum group size for this tour should be confirmed against the published departure conditions.

Will we have a tour leader throughout the trip?

Tour leader arrangements depend on group size. For departures with fewer than 10 participants, dedicated local guides and drivers provide assistance at each destination rather than a tour leader travelling with the group throughout. Local guides also help with hotel check-ins and other arrangements.

Why does the itinerary include three nights on Jeju Island?

Jeju is quite different from mainland Korea, both geographically and culturally. Its volcanic landscapes, coastal scenery and traditional villages make it one of the country’s most interesting destinations. Three nights allow for a full day of guided sightseeing and a free day to relax or explore independently.

Are domestic flights and high-speed trains included?

Yes. The itinerary includes domestic flights between Seoul and Jeju Island and between Jeju and Busan, as well as a high-speed KTX train journey to Seoul. These arrangements reduce long-distance road travel and make the tour more comfortable.

What standard of hotels can we expect?

We select comfortable, well-located hotels with reliable service and convenient access to sightseeing and dining. Hotel selections may change when necessary, but any replacement will be of a comparable standard.

Are meals included?

Daily breakfasts and selected lunches and dinners are included as indicated in the itinerary. Meals not included give you opportunities to explore Korean cuisine independently. Our guides can recommend suitable restaurants.

What is Korean food like?

Korean cuisine is varied, flavourful and often served with several side dishes. Popular foods include bibimbap, bulgogi, grilled meats, seafood, noodles and kimchi. Not all Korean dishes are spicy, and milder alternatives are generally available. Please advise us of food allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.

Are airport transfers included?

Arrival and departure airport transfers are not included. Travellers make their own way between Incheon International Airport and the designated Seoul hotel. Taxis, airport limousine buses and the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) are available. Detailed instructions will be provided before departure.

Is South Korea safe for tourists?

South Korea is generally a safe destination, with relatively low levels of violent crime. Public transportation is efficient, and major tourist areas are well developed. Nevertheless, travellers should take normal precautions with valuables and follow local advice, particularly when visiting crowded places.

Can we visit the DMZ?

The itinerary includes an excursion to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), subject to local security conditions and government restrictions. Access to certain areas may be suspended without advance notice. If necessary, alternative sightseeing arrangements will be made.

What is the best time to visit South Korea?

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for sightseeing. Cherry blossoms are a major attraction in spring, while autumn brings comfortable temperatures and colourful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters are often cold, particularly in Seoul and inland areas.

Is shopping compulsory?

Absolutely not. Laurus Travel tours have no forced shopping stops. Guests are free to shop during their leisure time, but sightseeing will never be sacrificed to accommodate commercial shopping visits.

What currency should I bring?

The local currency is the South Korean won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but some cash is useful for small purchases and traditional markets. ATMs are readily available in major cities. We recommend withdrawing modest amounts of local currency as needed.

Is Wi-Fi readily available?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at the hotels, and internet access is generally excellent throughout South Korea. Travellers who need continuous connectivity may consider purchasing an eSIM or local SIM card.

What are the passport and visa requirements?

Your passport should have sufficient validity for your trip, and we recommend at least six months beyond your intended departure date as a precaution.

Canadian, American, British, Australian and New Zealand passport holders can generally visit South Korea without a visa for short tourist stays of up to 90 days. However, Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) requirements and exemptions are subject to change. Travellers should verify the rules applicable to their nationality before departure.

Are vaccinations required?

South Korea generally does not require routine vaccination certificates from travellers arriving from Canada or the United States. We recommend that you consult your healthcare provider or a travel medicine clinic regarding routine vaccinations and any additional precautions appropriate to your circumstances.

What about travel insurance?

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your policy should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, interruption and baggage loss. Please ensure that your coverage is appropriate for your age, health and travel plans.