Tours of South Korea
Centuries-old and futuristic

Holidays in South Korea

A holiday in South Korea is an experience you won’t soon forget. The Korean Peninsula offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. In the bustling capital, Seoul, you can walk from the imposing Gyeongbokgung Palace to the trendy Dongdaemun Design Plaza in barely a metro ride. Outside the cities, a world of serene Buddhist temples, lush national parks and authentic villages unfolds. South Korea is a country that welcomes you with open arms and surprises every traveller, from adventurers to culture lovers, with its wealth of contrasts.

Seoul

The capital, Seoul, is the bustling heart of South Korea and a city that never sleeps. In the historic Insadong district, you can experience Korean culture at its best, with traditional teahouses, art galleries and craft shops standing side by side with trendy cafés. Gyeongbokgung Palace is a reminder of the glorious Joseon Dynasty and offers a breathtaking contrast to the ultra-modern skyline behind it. As the capital of South Korea, Seoul is also the ideal base for an excursion to the DMZ, the demilitarised zone marking the border with North Korea. Seoul is also the departure point for the high-speed train to Busan, Gyeongju and other gems of the south.

Busan

Busan, the vibrant port city in the south of the Korean peninsula, is a city that appeals to all the senses. Haeundae Beach is one of Asia’s most popular beaches, whilst the famous Jagalchi Fish Market immerses you in the city’s bustling daily life. The colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, also known as Busan’s open-air museum, winds its way up the hillside like a work of art with its pastel-coloured houses and street art. Perched above the waves is the impressive Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist temple built directly on the rocky coast and considered one of South Korea’s most beautiful sights.

Gyeongju

Gyeongju is often referred to as South Korea’s open-air museum, and that is no exaggeration. As the former capital of the mighty Silla dynasty, the city is home to an impressive wealth of historical heritage. Tumuli Park, a unique experience in its own right, offers a surreal landscape of ancient royal tombs scattered throughout the city like green hills. At the Gyeongju National Museum, you can admire golden crowns and art treasures that keep the glory of a distant past alive. The area is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a recognition that underlines just how exceptional this part of South Korea truly is.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is the jewel of South Korea and attracts travellers with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush green valleys and impressive coastal cliffs. The island feels like a world apart, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the mainland’s major cities. Walkers and nature lovers are in their element here, with spectacular hikes across lava fields and through dense forests. Jeju is also renowned for its unique local cuisine, with fresh seafood taking centre stage. Whether you’re coming for relaxation on the beach or adventure in the great outdoors, Jeju Island is an unmissable destination on any tour of South Korea.

DMZ

A trip to the DMZ, the demilitarised zone between North and South Korea, is one of the most poignant and unforgettable experiences you can have whilst touring South Korea. This strip of land, just a few kilometres wide, which cuts across the Korean peninsula, is the result of the Korean War and serves as a reminder of the shared and painful history of North and South Korea. Setting off from Seoul on a DMZ tour, you’ll discover tunnels, observation posts and peace monuments that tell the story of a nation. It’s a destination that is both historically and emotionally moving, adding an extra dimension to your trip to South Korea.

Andong and Sokcho

As well as its well-known cities, South Korea also offers quieter destinations that are just as well worth a visit. Andong is the cultural capital of Korean folk culture, with the picturesque Hahoe Village as its unmissable attraction – a living open-air museum listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sokcho, meanwhile, is the ideal base for a visit to Seoraksan National Park, one of South Korea’s most beautiful national parks, featuring spectacular rock formations, waterfalls and Buddhist temples nestled amongst the mountains. The nearby Haeinsa Temple is also home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a unique collection of Buddhist scriptures engraved on more than 80,000 wooden blocks.

Travelling around South Korea

Whether you opt for an adventurous tour by train and bus, a journey of discovery in a hire car from west to south, or a city break to the bustling capital Seoul, travelling around South Korea offers the perfect experience for every type of traveller. The excellent infrastructure, the friendly locals and the impressive variety of landscapes and cultural experiences make South Korea one of the most accessible and, at the same time, most surprising destinations in Asia. Our Travel Designers will be happy to help you put together your ideal tour of South Korea, fully tailored to your pace, interests and budget.