Flavours of Korea

📍 Incheon International Airport – Seoul (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr

Welcome to Korea!

Upon your arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be welcomed by your driver and then transferred with a private, air-conditioned vehicle to Seoul (no guide).

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: Meet & greet service at the airport is available at extra charge.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological, and historical hub in East Asia.

Depending on your flight time, check in to your hotel. 

The remainder of the day is at your own leisure after a long flight. 

Overnight in Seoul

Note: Normal hotel check-in time is 15:00;  a surcharge will be applied for early check-in

Inclusions:

After breakfast at the hotel, meet the guide at 9:30 AM to explore Namsan Mountain. Today’s tour will be using public transportation. 

Begin the day with a ride on the Namsan cable car, gliding above the treetops with sweeping views of Seoul’s skyline. Upon arrival at the summit, stroll through Namsan Park and take in the peaceful surroundings before heading to the observation deck of N-Seoul Tower. Located 480 metres above sea level, the platform offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city below. After soaking in the views, descend by cable car once more, enjoying a different angle of the bustling capital.

Next, stop in Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most popular shopping and street food districts. Wander through its lively pedestrian streets lined with countless beauty boutiques, fashion stores, and pop-up stalls. This is the perfect spot to pick up Korean skincare products, trendy accessories, or simply enjoy the energetic downtown atmosphere. Be sure to sample a few street snacks, like tteokbokki, hotteok, or the famous Myeongdong-style fried chicken.

Indulge in naengmyeon, a traditional Korean dish of thin, chewy noodles served in a cold, refreshing broth, at a Michelin-starred restaurant. 

After lunch, enjoy a pleasant walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a revitalised urban waterway that winds through the heart of the city. Lined with public art, bridges, and peaceful spots to rest, the stream offers a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle and a glimpse into Seoul’s approach to blending nature with city life.

In the afternoon, head to Dongmyo Market, a vibrant hub teeming with an eclectic mix of goods and a lively atmosphere. Known for its weekend flea market, Dongmyo offers a fascinating array of items, from vintage fashion to retro electronics, giving insight into local culture and everyday life.

End the day in the Majang-dong district, home to Seoul’s largest meat market. Here, experience Korea’s beef culture firsthand by grilling special cuts like striploin and chuck flap over charcoal, savouring the rich flavours of premium Korean beef.

Transfer back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight in Seoul

Distances and journey time:
Tour duration: 09:30–18:30 – 9 hrs

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Seoul Station – Busan Station : +/- 2hr 15 mins Tour duration: 07:30-18:30 - 11 hrs

Enjoy Breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Seoul Station (no guide). 

Board the KTX for a train journey to Busan, approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Upon arrival at Busan Station, a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer to the next location.

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is a major port located on the southeastern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It i s renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and diverse attractions.

Head to a local cooking studio for a hands-on bibimbap class. After a warm introduction to Korean cuisine, learn about balance, color, and nutrition, then follow the chef’s guidance to prepare, assemble, and beautifully present your own bowl. Enjoy the bibimbap you’ve made in a relaxed setting, receive a recipe card to take home, and return to your hotel after the class.

After the class, meet your guide and experience the thrill of the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, a glass-bottomed walkway that extends over the ocean. Soak in breathtaking coastal views and feel the adrenaline rush of walking above the crashing waves.

Then, board the Sky Capsule for a scenic ride along the Blue Line Park from Cheongsapo to Mipo. This slow-moving train glides along the dramatic coastline, offering panoramic views of the sea, and picturesque landscapes.

Upon arrival at Mipo Station, take a leisurely stroll to Haeundae Beach, one of Korea’s most famous seaside destinations. This wide stretch of golden sand is framed by high-rise buildings and pine trees, creating a unique blend of natural beauty and modern charm. Take time to enjoy the lively beach atmosphere and street performers, or simply relax by the water’s edge.

In the evening, try grilled beef small intestine, known as “Gopchang” in Korean. This popular dish is loved for its rich, chewy texture and savoury flavour, often enjoyed as part of Korean barbecue and typically served with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces.

Afterwards, transfer to the hotel for the evening.

Note:
- The maximum number of passengers for a sky capsule is 4 persons per capsule.
- Please note that Sky Capsule tickets are subject to availability. During peak seasons and weekends, tickets may sell out quickly. In such cases, we reserve the right to arrange Beach Train tickets instead if Sky Capsule tickets are unavailable. The route remains unchanged.

Overnight in Busan

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide in the hotel lobby at 9:00 AM. 

Begin the day with a visit to the Arte Museum Busan. This contemporary art museum showcases a diverse range of exhibitions and installations, offering insight into the vibrant art scene of Busan.

Next, head to Yeongdo Haenyeo Village, where freshly prepared sea urchin, sea cucumber, and conch await. This is a great opportunity to taste fresh seafood and learn about the unique culture of the female divers known as “Haenyeo.” Experience the process of tasting seafood caught by these skilled divers in the village.

For lunch, indulge in Mulhaeo, also known as water heo or water sashimi, a traditional Korean seafood dish popular in coastal cities like Busan. This refreshing dish consists of various fresh, raw fish and seafood served in a spicy, tangy broth, providing a true taste of the sea.

After lunch, explore Jagalchi Market and the nearby BIFF Square. At Jagalchi Market, experience Busan's bustling seafood scene and sample local snacks while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Korea's largest seafood market. BIFF Square, known for its film festival, is also a great spot for shopping and enjoying street food.

Then, head to Gamcheon Culture Village, famous for its colourful houses and vibrant street art. Take a leisurely walk through the village, appreciating the murals, art installations, and charming alleyways that make this area a unique destination.

In the evening, take a cable car ride across the sea. During the 15-20 minute journey, enjoy spectacular views across the ocean, Songdo Beach, Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Namhangdaegyo Bridge, Songdo Coastal Dullegil Road and rock cliffs.

Afterwards, enjoy a traditional dinner of Gukbap, a hearty soup with rice that is a Busan specialty, often enjoyed with a variety of side dishes.
Transfer back to the hotel for the evening.

Note:
- Yeongdo Haenyeo Village closed every Monday.
- Jagalchi Market is closed every 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesday of every month.

Overnight in Busan

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Busan – Gyeongju (approx. 89 km): +/- 1:20 hr Tour duration: 09:00-19:00 (10hrs)

Enjoy breakfast, check out from your hotel at 09:00 and head towards Gyeongju in the comfort of a private, air conditioned vehicle with a private driver.

Gyeongju, once the capital of the 8th-century Silla Kingdom, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and cultural heritage, often referred to as an open-air museum filled with palaces, temples, and tombs.

Upon arrival in Gyeongju, indulge in a delightful Sundubu Jjigae set menu for lunch at a local restaurant, made with 100% soybeans sourced from the area. Gyeongju’s pristine environment and traditional tofu-making methods ensure a unique and flavorful experience distinct from other regions.

After lunch, visit Daereungwon, also known as Tumuli Park, one of the city’s major tourist attractions. This historic site is famous for its large burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom, with around 23 mounds of various sizes covered in grass, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.

Next, take a leisurely stroll to Hwangridan-gil, a charming street celebrated for its picturesque architecture and unique shops, which seamlessly blend traditional Korean design with contemporary influences.

Continue to Cheomseongdae, one of the oldest astronomical observatories in East Asia, constructed from 365 stones to represent the days of the year. The tower features 27 levels of stones, possibly symbolizing the 27 constellations of the lunar calendar.

Walk to Woljeonggyo, a historic covered bridge that serves as a cultural landmark, illustrating traditional Korean bridge design and its significance in connecting different parts of the city.

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner of Korean fried chicken and beer (known as Chimaek) at a local restaurant. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken paired with refreshing beer.

Afterwards, transfer to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight in Gyeongju

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Gyeongju – Andong (approx. 143 km): +/- 2:00 hr Tour duration: 09:00-19:00 (10 hrs)

Enjoy breakfast, check out from your hotel at 09:00 and meet your guide to continue your incredible journey.

The first stop today is Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. Seokguram Grotto is renowned for its exquisite stone-carved Buddha and other sculptures, along with its intricate architecture, representing the spiritual and artistic achievements of the Silla Period. Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture, is considered a national treasure that symbolizes the ideal harmony between humanity and nature, as well as spiritual enlightenment.

For lunch, enjoy a Tteokgalbi set menu, a popular Korean dish made from seasoned, ground beef shaped into a patty and grilled. This dish is often served with rice and various banchan.

After lunch, transfer to Andong, a city known for its well-preserved historical and cultural sites, including traditional villages, historic houses, and significant landmarks. Often regarded as the spiritual and cultural heart of South Korea, Andong is celebrated for its commitment to preserving traditional Korean culture, customs, and architecture.

Visit Dosan Seowon, one of the most notable and well-preserved seowon (Confucian academies) in the country, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. The academy was established to honor the renowned Korean Confucian scholar Yi Hwang, also known as Toegye.

Next, head to Wolyeonggyo, famous for its scenic views, cultural importance, and traditional architecture. This picturesque bridge spans the Nakdong River, connecting the city center with the eastern side of Andong.

Experience Andong’s dedicated "Jjimdak Street," lined with numerous restaurants offering various versions of this popular dish. Jjimdak, which originated in Andong, is a savory and flavorful dish made with braised chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a seasoned soy sauce-based sauce. Enjoy the authentic jjimdak experience.

Afterwards, transfer to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight in Andong

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Andong – Seoul by KTX: +/- 2:30 hr Tour duration: 09:00-19:00 - 10 hrs

Tour Duration: 09:00 - 19:00

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and meet your tour guide in the lobby of your hotel at 09:00 am. 

Proceed to visit Andong Hahoe Village, which was established in the 16th century during the Joseon Dynasty. It has been home to the Ryu clan of Pungsan for generations, and many of the houses and structures date back several centuries and it features traditional Korean-style houses, or Hanoks, with thatched or tiled roofs, courtyards, and gardens.

Next, enjoy a hike up Buyongdae Cliff for panoramic views of the village and the surrounding landscapes.

Andong is renowned for its seafood, particularly mackerel. Salted mackerel, preserved with salt, is a traditional method of preparing fish. Before leaving Andong, sample the Andong Salted Mackerel set menu to experience its soft and moist texture.

Afterward, say goodbye to your guide and head to Andong Station to take the KTX to Seoul Station (suggested time: 14:50-17:27). 

Upon arrival at Seoul Station, a local driver will pick you up (without a guide) and transfer you into Seoul.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Overnight in Seoul

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Tour duration: 09:00 to 19:00 - 10 hrs

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel before meeting your guide at 9:00 AM.

Your day begins with a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village, which dates back to the Joseon period and features traditional Korean houses known as hanok, many of which are still inhabited today. Spend time exploring the area, taking a closer look at the unique architecture and learning about traditional village life.

Continue your journey to the Changdeokgung Palace. Renowned for being one of the best-preserved palaces, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its Secret Garden, where man-made structures are harmoniously integrated with the natural surroundings.

Then, visit a local restaurant to taste the famous Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), a dish considered to have numerous health benefits.

After lunch, embark on a unique pedicab (rickshaw) ride tour that will take you through the popular streets and alleys, offering a new way to discover the hidden gems of Seoul. Explore the small alleys and find charming cafes, shops, and buildings that are not accessible by car.

Continue to Insadong, a vibrant district known for its rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the streets lined with traditional tea houses, art galleries, and shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. This is a great opportunity to experience Korean culture firsthand and perhaps purchase some unique gifts.

Head to Jogyesa Temple, located in the heart of the city. The temple comes alive at night, adorned with lanterns throughout its sacred grounds, providing a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

Last but not least, proceed to Gwangjang Market, where centuries-old culinary traditions are brought to life in a kaleidoscope of flavours and aromas. This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering a mesmerizing array of street foods and local delicacies. From piping-hot bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) to savory tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), your taste buds will be dancing with delight.

As you wander through the market's labyrinthine alleys, the experienced guide will introduce you to the art of ordering like a local and share fascinating stories about the history of Korean street food. 

Don't miss the chance to savour a warm bowl of gimbap or indulge in delectable mandu (dumplings) from one of the market's hidden gems.

Afterward, bid farewell to your guide and transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight in Seoul

Note: 
- Changdeokgung Palace is closed on Mondays.
- Changdeokgung Secret Garden ticket reservations are subject to availability and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Bukchon Hanok Village is closed every Sunday. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Incheon International Airport – Seoul (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr

Breakfast at the hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely morning on your own at the hotel before transferring by private vehicle ( without a Guide) to the airport for your onward departure flight.  

Normal hotel check-out time is 11:00; a surcharge will be applied for late check-out.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast