Discover South Korea

Discover South Korea

Discover South Korea

11 Days

South Korea

Seoul (6), Gyeongju (1), Busan (2), Seoul (1)

Overview

The history and tradition of South Korea comes to life on this 11-day journey. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the coastal beauty of Busan and the ancient wonders of Gyeongju, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of experiential learning and exploration. Participate in traditional Korean customs, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and experience both modern and historic Korea on this incredible adventure.

Route Map

Discover South Korea

Highlights

  • Discover the beauty and history of Gyeongbokgung Palace and experience wearing a traditional hanbok.
  • Explore Insadong Antique Street and Gwangjang Market, home to art galleries, traditional teahouses, and vibrant local markets.
  • Enjoy thrilling rides at Lotte World, the world’s largest indoor theme park, and cruise along the Hangang River to take in Seoul’s stunning skyline.
  • Learn the basics of Taekwondo with a lesson from a master and earn a certificate for your skills.
  • Visit the University of Utah – Songdo Asia Campus for a unique educational experience.
  • Cook traditional Korean dishes in a hands-on cooking class and explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a hub for fashion and design.
  • Immerse yourself in Korea’s rich heritage at Yongin Korean Folk Village and the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon.
  • Visit historic sites in Gyeongju, including Cheomseongdae Observatory, Daereungwon Tomb Complex, and Donggung Palace.
  • Relax at Busan’s Centum City Spaland and visit the coastal Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.
    Explore the colorful streets of Gamcheon Culture Village and experience the lively Jagalchi Market in Busan.

Itinerary

Arrive in Seoul at Incheon International Airport, where you will meet your English-speaking guide and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure, exploring the local surroundings or relaxing at the hotel.
Overnight: Seoul

Start your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395 and one of the most beautiful and largest palaces in South Korea. Experience wearing the traditional hanbok, followed by a stroll through the galleries and traditional teahouses of Insadong Antique Street. Later, explore the vibrant Gwangjang Market, known for its variety of local goods and delicious street food.
Overnight: Seoul

Spend the morning at Lotte World Tower, one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. In the afternoon, participate in a Taekwondo lesson, learning the basic postures and earning a certificate. Conclude the day with a Hangang River Ferry Cruise, taking in the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks.
Overnight: Seoul

Visit the University of Utah – Songdo Asia Campus to learn about education in South Korea and attend a lecture or discussion (schedule to be confirmed). Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring more of Seoul.
Overnight: Seoul

Start your day with a hands-on Korean cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes, followed by lunch with your creations. In the afternoon, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a hub for design and fashion, and end the day with a walk along Myeongdong Street, famous for shopping and street food.
Overnight: Seoul

Travel to Yongin Korean Folk Village, where you’ll explore traditional houses from the late Joseon period and watch cultural performances. Continue to Suwon to visit Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built to protect the city during the Joseon dynasty.
Overnight: Seoul

Take the KTX train to Gyeongju, where you’ll visit Cheomseongdae Observatory, one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world. Continue to explore the Daereungwon Tomb Complex and the historic Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
Overnight: Gyeongju

Visit the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the cultural heritage of the Silla Kingdom. Later, travel to Busan and visit the stunning Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on the cliffs above the sea. Relax at Centum City Spaland for a traditional Korean spa experience.
Overnight: Busan

Explore Busan’s vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful murals and steep alleys. Visit Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, and then stroll along Gwangan Beach, offering views of the famous Gwangan Bridge.
Overnight: Busan

Enjoy a leisurely morning before traveling back to Seoul via KTX train. Once in Seoul, spend your final evening exploring or relaxing before your departure.
Overnight: Seoul

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, bringing an end to your memorable journey through South Korea.
Overnight: Flight home

This Trip Includes

  • Round-trip airfare
  • All accommodations on program
  • All transportation in-country
  • All meals on the program
  • All activities as outlined in the itinerary
  • A Tour Director available 24 hours a day from when you arrive until you depart
  • Sightseeing tours and excursions led by local guides as specified
  • Airport transfers and transportation between destination cities
  • Travel insurance for all participants
  • 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance
  • Support from GEC representatives abroad

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