2021 & 2022 Globus Guided Tours - Globus® Vacation Packages

Discover South Korea (OS)

10 Day Tour from Seoul to Seoul

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This Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea reveals the ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies that are tempting your travel fantasies with a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Pull back and take aim with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local monastery. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea!

Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 24 guests in Asia, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours. We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available). Enhance your free time with your GlobusGO mobile app!

Discover South Korea map

 Photo Highlights

 Meals

 Meals & Itinerary

9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners


Notes:

While Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village is rich in Korea's ancient history, please be considerate of its current, local residents while touring.

A passport is required to visit the DMZ on day 3.

 Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to Seoul, the nation’s capital. With its rich history and modern innovation, the city is full of opportunities to experience tradition and popular culture. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.

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Day 2 SEOUL

Palace Gates & Plentiful Plates Begin your vacation with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. Continue to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History to learn how Korea has transformed from an agricultural society to an economic powerhouse. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest and largest in Korea. Then, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses). This historic district has been restored to evoke the country’s timeless charm. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ!

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
COLORFUL DYNASTIES & CULTURAL DRESS Gyeongbokgung Palace is the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, originally built in 1395. The palace complex was razed by the Japanese invasion of 1592 and sat abandoned for nearly 300 years before it was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Tour the palace and witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. If you wish, experience a taste of Korean culture and don a traditional outfit called hanbok for a memorable photo of your visit.

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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
DinnerDinner

Day 3 SEOUL

A Tale of Two Countries Journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for an unforgettable tour of the world’s most fortified border. Return to Seoul and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. Consider an optional rickshaw ride through the city’s popular streets and alleyways.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGENDARY LAND Since 1953, the DMZ has separated North and South Korea. This stretch of land measures about 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. For decades, it has been steeped in history and intrigue. Your Local Guide will explain the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory. Please note this is a politically sensitive area, so tour with discretion.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 SEOUL–GYEONGJU

Relics & Rituals Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, often called the “Museum without Walls” due to its rich cultural history and natural beauty. The capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city today is known for its relics, temples, and palaces. Upon arrival, visit Golgulsa Temple for a unique opportunity to Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks.

LOCAL FAVORITE
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Join your small group for a unique experience to learn the art of Sunmudo. This Korean meditative martial art style was a secret of Buddhist monks for many years as a practice of developing mindfulness through motion. You’ll also learn about temple etiquette and try your hand at archery before enjoying a vegetarian dinner at the temple.

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 5 GYEONGJU

Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Visit Bulguska Temple and its ancient wooden pavilions and pagodas built on lush, forested hills. Within the temple complex is stunning Seokguram Grotto, one of Asia’s finest shrines, with its large Buddha statue overlooking the Sea of Japan. Then, visit Gyeongju National Museum, housing artifacts reflecting the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty, and Tumuli Park to see several tombs from the Silla period, including King Michu.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 6 GYEONGJU–BUSAN

Historic Village & Harbor Views This morning, visit Yangdong Folk Village, one of the best-preserved historic villages dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then, continue to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its stunning beaches and harbor views. Before dinner at local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a scenic coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT WISDOM Surrounded by forested mountains and open fields, Yangdong Folk Village features clusters of hanok (traditional style houses) with mud walls and thatched roofs facing the river. Visit the village shrine and Confucius school, and stroll along the village trail to admire the traditional hanoks.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 7 BUSAN

Beautiful Busan Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest and most famous seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You’ll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Supension Bridge.

LOCAL FAVORITE
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Korean cuisine is unmatched! Learn authentic and local specialties with a private cooking class under the instruction of a local chef. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste local rice wine. Collect the recipes and try to recreate your masterpiece at home.

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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 8 BUSAN

Korea to the Tea This morning, visit Un Cemetery, a significant site which commemorates fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Immerse yourself in Korea’s floral tea culture with your small group as you taste different types of local floral and herbal teas to soothe the senses with aromatic flavors. You’ll even learn how to create your own signature blend!

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 9 BUSAN–SEOUL

Seoul Searching Fly to Seoul, then visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Korea.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Explore Insadong Arts and Craft Street, a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the Seoul City Wall, built more than 600 years ago.

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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 10 SEOUL

Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

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Breakfast Breakfast

 Tour Director

With GLOBUS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

JAMES JIN

Escorting tours for more than 5 years

Travel is a fascinating way to learn about a country, and James is just the right person to show you the colorful culture of South Korea. With his enthusiasm in sharing experiences that will enrich your appreciation and understanding of his country, James welcomes you to discover South Korea!

Tour Director - JAMES JIN

 Accommodations

Seoul
Gyeongju
Busan

Seoul

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel

Superior First-Class

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel 238 Euljiro, Jung Gu, Seoul, South Korea

238 Euljiro, Jung Gu
Seoul, South Korea

Free Wifi

Free Wifi

With a premium central location and an incredible view of cityscape, the Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun offers an unforgettable experience in Seoul. The hotel boasts a stunning rooftop bar, outdoor infinity pool, and comfortable guest rooms.

Hotel Amenities

  • Pool
  • Luggage Storage
  • Restaurant On-Site
  • Fitness Room
  • Concierge desk
  • ATM
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Elevator
  • Business Center
  • Laundry Available
  • Free WiFi

Room Amenities

  • Desk
  • Internet Access
  • Phone
  • Television
  • Air Conditioning
  • Iron/Ironing Board
  • Cable/Satellite
  • Room Service
  • Hair Dryer
  • Complimentary Toiletries
  • In-Room Safe
  • Climate Control
  • Coffee Maker


The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.