Description
Wanna see the best of South Korea? On this trip, you’ll go all the way from the bustling streets of Seoul to the scenic coasts of Jeju Island in just 12 days. Plus, you’ll go extra authentic in Jeonju, taste plenty of delicious food, and even explore the incredible scenery around Jeju Island.
South Korean Soul with Jeju Island Highlights:
Departures
- Departs Seoul at 4:00pm
- Ends at Gimpo International Airport, Seoul at 12:00pm
Dining Summary
- 11 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Dinner (D)
What’s included
- 11 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Dinner (D)
- Expert Trip Manager, Driver Team, Local Guides
- 14 included experiences
- ALL INTERNAL TRANSPORT
- ALL ACCOMMODATION
What’s not included
- Flights to/from the start/end location
- Travel insurance
- Free-time Add-ons
Included Experience
Seoul:
- Of all the traditional Korean experiences (and believe us, there are a lot of ’em) this might just be the coolest. Don’t miss your chance to visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of 5 Royal Palaces in Seoul from the old ruling dynasty. We’ll also dress up in the Traditional Hanbok dress too.
- Once home to hand-made shoe craftsmen, Seongsu is now one of Seoul’s most exciting shopping districts where you’ll find small cafes, pop-up shops and beautiful green space AKA Seoul Forest. You and your crew will have the chance to get lunch here, plus pick up some souvenirs for your fave folks back home.
The DMZ:
- The DMZ remains an active Military installation, and we’ll visit for a Peace Tour which includes the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory (where you can see over into North Korea if the weather is right) and then to the Unification Village. The tour is semi-private with a local guide, and we’ll travel through the zone in a military shuttle.
Seoul:
- One end of the country to the other in just two-and-a-half hours? With superfast Wi-Fi and spectacular views? That’s right, you can’t explore South Korea without getting on a high-speed train.
Busan:
- Our local guide will show us Busan’s best spots. For lunch, you’ll get to visit the international market where you’ll find a plethora of different fish dishes from across the continent. Busan is famous for being one of the only regions not to fall to the North Koreans during the war in the 50s. The Gamcheon Village was settled by refugees during the Korean War; it’s since had a refresh and is now known for it’s bright coloured buildings and awesome art school vibes.
Jeonju:
- On our way to Jeonju, we’ll stop off at a traditional Hanok and bask in the mountain views. BTS filmed a music video here too, so this is the perfect place to follow in their footsteps. You’ll also have a chance to check out the onsite café and art gallery before we make our way to Jeonju.
- We’ll tuck into a traditional bibimbap that Jeonju is famous for. Served warm in a brass bowl, with chilli on the side, there’s a chance that your meal will be delivered to you by robot (but we can’t make any promises).
Seoul:
- We’ll hit the Gangnam District, made famous by Psy, for a bit of shopping, browsing and posing in front of the Gangnam hands. Don’t miss coffee served by robots, or your chance to order an ice block from one of the many vending machines. Gangnam is home to lots of K-Wave stars too so keep your eyes peeled (and have your autograph book at the ready).
- This afternoon, we’ll slow things down and take time to learn about the local Buddhist practices here in Seoul. We’ll partake in a few of them too, such as tea making and Sutra script writing. That’s right, culture never felt so calm. Please note: Exact temple activities could change depending on departure.
- One final night. One final meal together. It HAS to be the world’s most popular Korean cuisine – that’s right, it’s BBQ time. The perfect chance to reminisce with great Korean food and even greater people.
- We’ll zip through the skies on an included flight towards Jeju Island.
Jeju Island:
- We’ll hop on our coach and head to the eastern part of Jeju Island with a local guide & your Trip Manager. Get ready to see jaw-dropping views of the island after a short hike to the Seongsan Sunrise Peak
- Take a scenic hike along the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Jeju Island with a local guide. One for your bucket list!
- We’ll make our way back to where it all began – Seoul with another included flight.
Itinerary
Well hello there, and welcome to your trip to South Korea. You’ll meet your crew in the afternoon, and in a super central location too. Following on from some free time to explore the Insadong Hanok village, we’ll regroup for some famous Korean fried chicken (and beer too if you like – you’re on vacation after all).
Our Seoul City tour begins bright and early today with a visit to the traditional Gyeongbokgung Palace. To cap off the experience, we’ll also have the chance to dress in traditional Hanbok dress. Oh, and is it possible to visit South Korea without seeing Gangnam? Nope. That’s why we’ll make a pit-stop there. Next, we’ll head to Seongsu – one of the best up and coming districts of Seoul – to check out the shops, cafes and treat ourselves to some lunch. If the weather is kind tonight, we’ll head out to Yeouido Hangang Park for a riverside picnic. AKA vibes, tunes and convenience store ramen.
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences:
- Tour the Gyeongbokgung Palace (in Traditional Hanbok Dress)
- Discover Gangnam (Contiki Style)
- Shop Til You Drop in Seongsu
Seoul
This morning we’ll head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the strip of land which separates North and South Korea.
The DMZ
With a local guide on hand to answer our questions, we’ll see the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory (where, if it’s sunny, you’ll be able to see all the way into North Korea) and then the Unification Village.
Seoul
After a rather sobering morning outing, we’ll head back to Seoul where you’ll be free to explore this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Explore the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on a Peace Tour
Seoul
Today we’ll step away from the historic sites and hustle and bustle of Seoul and head off to Busan on a high-speed train (travellin’ like locals, baby)!
Busan
With a rich history, Busan is now known for its arty vibes, sumptuous street food and colourful buildings… so have your cameras at the ready. Tonight you’ll have a free evening to chill out with your Contiki crew. (Karaoke anyone?)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences:
- Take the High Speed Train from Seoul to Busan
- Discover Busan with a Local Guide
Wakey wakey folks, we have a whole day to explore the beauty of Busan (the world’s 5th largest port). Home to Haeundae, this is one of South Korea’s best beach spots – don’t miss those coastal walks and sublime city views. Any K-drama fans in the house? Talk to your Trip Manager about filming locations nearby from your favourite shows. Then tonight we’ll get
together to enjoy Busan by night on a private yacht – complete with snacks, drinks and big tunes.
Meals: Breakfast
Busan
Today we’ll take a turn for the traditional with a visit to Jeonju – a UNESCO listed city recognised for its Hanok heritage.
Jeonju
After checking out spots from BTS’ music videos and sampling candy made famous from ‘Squid Game’, we’ll enjoy a traditional bibimbap lunch. This afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the traditional village, checking out the multiple crafts and cuisines on display. We’ll have time to learn about traditional Korean crafts and culture, and then tonight we’ll bed down at a local guest house and discover Korean hospitality at its finest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences:
- Visit the Awon Hanok Museum & Gallery
- Enjoy a Traditional Korean Lunch
Jeonju
Today we’re heading back to where it started – Seoul. We’ll stay in Hongdae – one of the city’s best up and coming areas, home to some cool shops, eateries and edgy nightlife.
Seoul – Hongdae
Today, we’ll visit a local Buddhist temple to take part in some traditional Buddhist practices, including meditative art and tea making. Don’t pass up the opportunity to catch a stray at one of Korea’s famous baseball games.
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Have Tea at a Buddhist Temple
On our final full day in Seoul, we won’t waste any time hangin’ around. After learning some sick moves at our optional dance class, you’ll have the chance to unleash your inner K-Pop star when we make our very own music video at HIKR Ground. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to shop for K-Beauty must-haves and traditional Korean cooking staples. Then, it’s time to get some rest. Because tomorrow – it’s gonna be island time!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences: Say Farewell over a Korean BBQ
Seoul – Hongdae
Shake a leg! We’ll head to the airport, where we’ll hop on a flight to the very picturesque Jeju Island.
Jeju Island
Aaaand, this is what you’ve been waiting for… welcome to Jeju island! We’ll check into our conveniently-located hotel in Jeju’s vibrant cultural hotspot – Tap-dong Plaza. Then, you’ve got the entire evening to hang around with your crew and check out the markets here. (Make sure to try all the local eats!)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Fly from Seoul to Jeju Island
Today, we’re ticking off Jeju’s east side. For starters, you’ll visit the Seongsan sunrise peak. Then, we’ll head to the Haenyeo Museum to learn all about the culture of Jeju’s female divers & folklore. What next? Glad you asked. How about chilling on Woljeongri Beach? Or going on an ATV adventure down the trails? Or maybe even devour a delicious Black Pork Korean BBQ dinner. There’s no geing bored here…
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Explore the Eastern part of Jeju Island
Jeju enjoy all the incredible scenery yesterday? (Soz). Today, you’ll get to do more of that as we hike up the Olle Trail (with a guide, ofc). Then, you have the option to dive down and explore the sea like the local Haenyeo AKA Women of the sea. It’s your final full day here, so make the most of it!
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Trail along the Olle Path with a Guide
Jeju Island
Morning! Time to soak up those scenic island views one last time. Because aer breakfast, we’ll catch our flight back to Seoul.
Seoul
And with that, our South Korea trip is complete. Culturally fulfilled? Yep. Beer and more well rounded? Of course. Already planning the next one? Absolutely.
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences: Fly from Jeju Island to Seoul
Important Info
- TRAVELLERS WITH A MIDDLE NAME PLEASE CONTACT RESERVATIONS TO PROVIDE AS SERVICES CANNOT BE BOOKED WITOUT THIS INFORMATION. Trip starts in Seoul at 4:00pm and ends at Gimpo International Airport, Seoul at 12:00pm. Single supplement is available for all nights in hotels, but Special Stays are multi-share ONLY, with likely 3-4 per room (single supplement does not apply on special stay nights). Full Passport Information (inclusive of middle name) is required at time of booking as services cannot be booked without this information. Chargeable arrival transfers are available for this trip (ICN Airport Only). Full Flight Information must be provided if transfers are required to be booked. Travellers are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of the trip. Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Curious Korea.
Please ensure that your name is correct on your ticket, as per your passport. Name changes or amendments may incur Contiki and/or Airline fees. It is the passenger’s responsibility to have a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for their selected holiday as well as any necessary vaccinations. It is compulsory for travellers to take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and evacuation expenses before travelling on a Contiki holiday. We strongly recommend insurance also covers cancellation, personal liability and loss of personal property, and is arranged at time of deposit. Contiki has the right to refuse travellers without the required insurance cover to join our trips. For full details please visit www.contiki.com/booking-conditions. As Contiki trips are specifically designed for likeminded 18-35 year old travellers, to confirm space on the trip each travellers date of birth must be provided. Full payment must be received no later than 60 days before the trip start date.
