South Korea
South Korea offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. In cities like Seoul, you’ll encounter a unique juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers, high-tech conveniences, and centuries-old palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Seoul’s vibrant neighbourhoods, such as Myeongdong and Hongdae, are known for their bustling markets, street food, and energetic nightlife, giving you an immersive urban experience.
Outside the cities, South Korea’s natural beauty is captivating. You could explore serene Buddhist temples nestled in the mountains, like Bulguksa in Gyeongju, or hike in the stunning Seoraksan National Park, known for its dramatic peaks and vibrant autumn colours. The country is also famous for its coastal landscapes, with places like Jeju Island offering waterfalls, volcanic craters, and beautiful beaches.
Culturally, you’ll experience a rich tapestry of traditions and modern trends. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional Korean meal of bibimbap and kimchi at a local market or catching up on the latest K-pop sensation, South Korea offers something for everyone. Festivals, including colourful lantern festivals and traditional mask dances, provide an insight into the country’s long-standing customs, while K-dramas and contemporary art showcase the influence of pop culture.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Winters can be cold, and summers hot and humid (although that’s the perfect time to head to one of their beach resorts).
FLIGHT TIME
Around 12 hours if flying direct, up to 15 or 16 if flying via the Middle East.
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +8
CURRENCY
Won
IDEAL FOR
Those who may have visited other places in the Far East like Japan, China or Vietnam
HOW TO GET THERE
There are daily flights from Korean Air & Asiana from Heathrow throughout the year to Seoul.
LANGUAGE
Korean
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Tour on the mainland, with a beach stay on Jeju Island (in summer)
Seoul is a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, where sleek skyscrapers stand alongside ancient palaces. The city is always buzzing with energy, from the neon-lit streets of Gangnam to the tranquil temples of Bukchon Hanok Village. A trip to Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a glimpse into Korea’s regal past, while a visit to Dongdaemun Design Plaza showcases cutting-edge architecture.
The food scene is equally vibrant, with everything from sizzling street food in Myeongdong to gourmet restaurants in Itaewon. Despite its fast-paced nature, Seoul also offers quiet moments, whether you’re wandering through the serene parks along the Han River or hiking up Namsan Mountain for stunning city views.
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, offers a refreshing coastal escape with a distinctively laid-back atmosphere. Known for its stunning beaches, Haeundae Beach is perfect for a day of relaxation, while the more secluded Songjeong Beach is a haven for surfers. Busan’s Jagalchi Fish Market, one of the largest in the country, gives travellers a chance to experience fresh seafood, served straight from the stalls. For breathtaking views, a hike up to the Gamcheon Culture Village reveals colourful houses nestled along the hillside, creating a visual contrast to the surrounding mountains and sea.
With a mix of urban life and seaside charm, Busan seamlessly blends modern attractions like the Busan Cinema Centre with traditional spots such as the Beomeosa Temple. Whether you’re enjoying the local street food or catching a ferry ride along the coast, Busan delivers a vibrant yet relaxed vibe.
Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls,” is a captivating destination for those interested in Korea’s rich history. Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city is brimming with historical sites, including royal tombs, temples, and stone pagodas. A visit to Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must, offering a peaceful atmosphere and impressive craftsmanship. Nearby, the Seokguram Grotto holds a serene stone Buddha overlooking the East Sea.
The ancient tombs in Tumuli Park, shaped like grassy mounds, provide a unique glimpse into the past. Whether you’re cycling around the historic sites or wandering through Anapji Pond at night, Gyeongju is steeped in cultural charm, offering a slower, more reflective pace compared to other bustling cities in Korea.
Suggested Itineraries
Best of South Korea
15 day holiday
Seoul, Andong, Hahoe, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju
Begin your journey in Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital, with a stroll through traditional markets such as Gwangjang and Bangsan. Over the next few days, explore the city’s historic palaces including Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung with its tranquil Secret Garden, visit the DMZ, and gain insight into modern Korean history. Then travel by high-speed train to Andong, home to Bongjeongsa Temple, Confucian academies, and traditional hanok villages. Enjoy cultural experiences such as a mask dance performance and stay in a heritage hanok house. Continue to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, to visit royal tombs, temples, folk villages, and take an optional hike on Namsan Mountain.
Travel onwards to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, to explore its beaches, street food, colourful Gamcheon Village and Jagalchi seafood market, with a Korean cooking class included. A short flight then takes you to Jeju Island, where you’ll meet the famed haenyeo divers and enjoy hikes to volcanic landscapes like Seongsan Ilchulbong and Geomun Oreum. Visit natural wonders such as Jeongbang Falls and the Jusangjeolli Cliffs, and relax in carbonated hot springs. The tour concludes with cultural and historical visits to peace memorials and temples, alongside opportunities to unwind and explore Jeju’s markets and scenic coastlines.
South Korea at a Glance
9 day holiday
Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju
Begin your South Korean adventure in Seoul, a city that beautifully fuses tradition with modernity. Upon arrival, explore Gwangjang Market and the ancient Seoul City Wall before diving deeper into the city’s historic sites. Highlights include Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum, Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden, and lively markets like Dongmyo and Namdaemun. Visit the DMZ to gain insight into the Korean Peninsula’s divided history, then travel south by high-speed train to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. There, explore royal tombs, UNESCO-listed temples, and the impressive Gyeongju National Museum, with options for evening strolls to historic bridges and ponds.
The cultural journey continues with a visit to Yangdong Folk Village and an optional hike up Namsan Mountain, rich in Buddhist relics and panoramic views. Then head to Busan, where modern city life meets history and coastline. Explore the city’s wartime legacy, colourful Gamcheon Village, and bustling Gukje Market. Enjoy a scenic beach walk, Korean cooking class, and seafood experience at Jagalchi Market, capped off with a cable car ride and coastal observatory stop. Return to Seoul via KTX for final sightseeing or shopping before your departure.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Korea
16 day holiday
Seoul, Jeonju, Gwangju, Busan, Gyeongju
ChatGPT said:
Begin your South Korean journey in the dynamic capital of Seoul, where ancient palaces meet a modern skyline. After settling in, visit highlights such as Deoksugung and Gyeongbokgung Palaces, Hanyangdoseong (the old city wall), and N Seoul Tower. Travel onward to Jeonju via Suwon’s UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, immersing yourself in the charm of the Hanok Village and Jeonju’s culinary heritage. Explore historic gates, churches and shrines, as well as local culture through markets and traditional craft centres. Continue to Gwangju, with a scenic stop at Hwaeomsa Temple, then uncover the city’s rich artistic and political history.
From Gwangju, make your way to Busan, stopping at Jinju Fortress, before delving into the city’s wartime past, bustling seafood markets, coastal temples and vibrant street life. Travel to the ancient capital of Gyeongju, exploring UNESCO-listed temples, tombs and royal relics, followed by an overnight temple stay at Golgulsa Temple with opportunities for meditation and martial arts. After hiking Mount Namsan and visiting Yangdong Folk Village and Dosan Seowon Academy, return to Seoul by KTX. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the DMZ and a final wander through Namdaemun Market, soaking in traditional Korean life before your departure.
Culture and Cuisine of South Korea
10 day holiday
Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong
This nine-day culinary tour of South Korea offers a rich blend of food, culture, and history, beginning in the capital, Seoul. Here, you’ll enjoy Michelin-starred dishes, explore traditional markets, and experience Korean barbecue in the city’s renowned meat district. Travel to Busan for a hands-on cooking class, taste local delicacies such as gopchang and mulhaeo, and discover coastal highlights like the Sky Capsule train and Jagalchi Market. Alongside food experiences, you’ll explore the artistic streets of Gamcheon Cultural Village and enjoy scenic views from cable cars and observatories.
From Busan, continue to Gyeongju and Andong, where the itinerary combines visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites with regional dishes like sundubu jjigae and Andong jjimdak. Learn about the Silla Dynasty, explore ancient tombs, and visit traditional villages, all while sampling local specialities. Back in Seoul, discover hidden streets by pedicab, visit royal palaces and Buddhist temples, and end your journey with a taste of street food at Gwangjang Market and an evening in lively Myeongdong. The itinerary offers a seamless fusion of culinary exploration and cultural discovery.
Wellness Escape to Korea
13 day holiday
Seoul, Jeju, Busan, Gyeongju
This wellness-focused itinerary through South Korea offers a rich blend of traditional healing practices and modern beauty rituals. Starting in Seoul, you’ll immerse yourself in experiences such as a traditional jjimjilbang, a personal colour analysis, and red ginseng spa treatments, while also exploring serene temples and cultural landmarks. Highlights include a sound meditation workshop, a visit to the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, and a scalp treatment using Korean medicinal techniques. The journey continues with a unique overnight temple stay in Gyeongju, offering a rare chance to participate in Buddhist rituals and meditation, set against a backdrop of centuries-old heritage.
As the tour moves south, you’ll craft your own kimchi in Busan, hike volcanic landscapes in Jeju, and enjoy wellness therapies like warm stone massage and aromatherapy. In Jeju, visits to the Haenyeo Museum, herbal foot baths, and scenic natural spots offer a calm yet enriching experience. The trip concludes at Healience Seonmaeul, a secluded wellness retreat that encourages digital detox, mindfulness, and relaxation through holistic programmes and farm-to-table dining. Across 13 days, this itinerary balances rest, cultural exploration, and rejuvenation in some of Korea’s most tranquil and inspiring settings.
South Korea for Families
10 day holiday
Busan, Gyeongju, Seoul
This nine-day family adventure through South Korea offers a dynamic mix of cultural experiences, hands-on activities, and scenic exploration. Beginning in Seoul, families can visit grand palaces, lively traditional markets, and take part in creative workshops like Hanji paper-making. Highlights include the vibrant Gwangjang and Namdaemun Markets, the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, and a sunset cruise along the Han River. The itinerary is tailored to keep both children and adults engaged, balancing history and culture with interactive fun.
From Seoul, the journey moves to Gyeongju for a memorable overnight stay at Golgulsa Temple, offering archery, meditation, and Sunmudo martial arts. Families then explore Yangdong Folk Village, ancient tombs at Daereungwon, and enjoy a relaxed day at Bomun Lake Resort. The trip finishes in Busan with beach time at Haeundae, a visit to the colourful Gamcheon Village, and a cooking class followed by a seafood market tour and cable car ride over the coast. The itinerary is designed to be educational yet relaxed, making it ideal for families seeking cultural immersion with plenty of variety.
CALL US
We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
SEND A MESSAGE
If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.
VISIT US
Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.
