Highlights of South Korea

Seoul, the fast-paced capital of South Korea, has plenty to offer. From historic palaces and traditional architecture, to vibrant markets, busy malls and interesting restaurants there is so much to see and do. The city is home to five Joseon-era palaces of which the Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest. The walled complex, with nearly 300 buildings inside, has been meticulously restored offering a peek into a bygone era. There are a plethora of markets in Seoul such as Gwangjang Market, which sells clothes, traditional crafts and delicious local treats. Myeongdong and Gangnam are two areas where you can find iconic Korean beauty products and the latest in fashion. There are also quieter spots in the city such as the peaceful Seoul Forest and the neighborhood of Insadong with its quaint alleys filled with stores selling handcrafted artisanal products. For insight into the country’s long military history, visit the War Memorial of Korea. In the evening, the N Seoul Tower is the place to take in a stunning sunset before exploring the city’s buzzing nightlife. Plenty of day trips are possible from Seoul as well, including to the DMZ, which is 34 miles north of the city and is the area that separates North and South Korea.

Busan is located along the seafront in southeast Korea, and is the second largest city in the country. Famous for its busy port, the metropolis is also a popular tourist destination because of its lively beaches including Haeundae and Songjeong. The areas around the beaches are lined with restaurants, bars, and street food stalls that come alive in the evening. There are also quieter beaches to visit such as the peaceful Dadaepo. The mountain of Geumjeongsan has a cable car that goes all the way up and hiking trails for the more adventurous. Another city highlight are the famous marketplaces. At Jagalchi market, explore narrow streets packed with stalls selling fish, octopus and cooked seafood. To learn more about Busan, visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, with its artwork covered lanes and stairways. Busan Tower, in Yongdusan Park, is a great spot to take in panoramic views of the city. For a taste of the local nightlife, head to the areas of Gwangalli and Seomyeon with its clubs, eateries and pubs.

Visit the landmarks of Busan and ride the Songdo Cable Car on this guided day tour. Your first stop is the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea, which contains 2,300 graves of the United Nations Command casualties from the Korean War. Next, explore the labyrinthine Gukje Market, packed with items such as hanboks and toys, as well as street vendors selling local delicacies. Then, a short walk brings you to Jagalchi Fish Market. Korea’s largest seafood market brimming with dried, live and dead seafood. View sea creatures such as the eel-like hagfish, sea squirts and stingrays draped over colored baskets and tubs. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the Gamcheon Culture Village. Stroll through this picturesque village that features colorful houses, murals and sculptures created by professional artists. Next, ride the glass-bottom Songdo Cable Car across the ocean. Disembark and make your way to the Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge. Take in panoramic views and explore the area before heading back. (Duration: full day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private activity & transfers; All entry fees & Songdo Cable Car tickets are included; Meals included: lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Please bring your own refillable/reusable water bottle)

Jeju Island is located south of the mainland, in the Korea Strait. This UNESCO-listed destination makes for an idyllic getaway, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It contains the Hallasan National Park, named after South Korea’s highest mountain that is also a shield volcano. On the summit sits the small Baengnokdam Crater Lake, where deer come to drink water. Immerse yourself in nature at Bijarim Forest, Saryeoni Forest Trail, and Jeolmul Recreational Forest. There is also the iconic Jeju Olle Trail that winds past prominent landmarks. In summer, beaches such as Hyeopjae Beach, Samyang Beach, and Iho Tewoo Beach, are also open to public for swimming and watersports. The island’s nightlife centers around the cities with their vibrant markets and eye-catching lights. In Jeju City, you will find Dongmun Traditional Market and Olle Market, packed with stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and household goods. Meanwhile, Cheonjiyeon Falls and Saeyeongyo Bridge in Seogwipo City come to life in the evening. Food is an essential part of the Jeju experience, and it is known for local specialties including grilled red tilefish, black pork and the delicious orange fruit called hallabong.

Seoul, the fast-paced capital of South Korea, has plenty to offer. From historic palaces and traditional architecture, to vibrant markets, busy malls and interesting restaurants there is so much to see and do. The city is home to five Joseon-era palaces of which the Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest. The walled complex, with nearly 300 buildings inside, has been meticulously restored offering a peek into a bygone era. There are a plethora of markets in Seoul such as Gwangjang Market, which sells clothes, traditional crafts and delicious local treats. Myeongdong and Gangnam are two areas where you can find iconic Korean beauty products and the latest in fashion. There are also quieter spots in the city such as the peaceful Seoul Forest and the neighborhood of Insadong with its quaint alleys filled with stores selling handcrafted artisanal products. For insight into the country’s long military history, visit the War Memorial of Korea. In the evening, the N Seoul Tower is the place to take in a stunning sunset before exploring the city’s buzzing nightlife. Plenty of day trips are possible from Seoul as well, including to the DMZ, which is 34 miles north of the city and is the area that separates North and South Korea.