Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

Upon arriving at Incheon International Airport (ICN), our representative will greet you for a private transfer to your hotel in central Seoul (unaccompanied by a guide). Alternatively, you can choose to travel independently using the efficient AREX (Airport Railroad Express) train.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Seoul.

Distances and travel times: Incheon International Airport – Seoul (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr  

Day 2: Seoul Exploration via Public Transportation

• Tour Duration: 09:30 – 19:30
• Transport: Local public transportation experience with an expert guide.

 Following breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide in the lobby at 09:30 to begin an immersive day exploring Seoul like a local using the city's exceptionally efficient public transport network.

• Namsan Mountain & N-Seoul Tower: Begin your morning with a ride on the iconic Namsan Cable Car, gliding high above the treetops while taking in sweeping views of the capital's vast skyline. Arriving at the summit, take a relaxing stroll through the peaceful surroundings of Namsan Park before heading to the observation deck of the N-Seoul Tower. Positioned 480 metres above sea level, the viewing platform offers breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic vistas of the sprawling city below. Descend by cable car once more, enjoying a completely different angle of the bustling metropolitan area.
• Myeongdong District: Next, take a short transit ride to Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s premier shopping, lifestyle, and street food hubs. Wander through lively pedestrian streets lined with countless beauty boutiques, fashion stores, and pop-up stalls. This is the perfect spot to browse world-famous Korean skincare products or simply soak up the high-energy downtown atmosphere. Be sure to sample a few street snacks, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) or hotteok (sweet, filled pancakes).
• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): Indulge in an authentic bowl of Naengmyeon at a celebrated Michelin-starred restaurant. This classic, traditional Korean dish features thin, delightfully chewy buckwheat noodles served in an ice-cold, deeply refreshing savoury broth.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream Walk: After lunch, enjoy a pleasant walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a brilliantly revitalised urban waterway that winds peacefully through the heart of downtown Seoul. Lined with public art installations, historic bridges, and tranquil seating areas, the stream offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding urban bustle and showcases Seoul’s innovative approach to blending nature with city life.
• Dongmyo Flea Market: In the afternoon, head via local transit to the vibrant Dongmyo Market, an eclectic and buzzing hub teeming with local character. Famous for its vintage flea market stalls, Dongmyo offers a fascinating array of items ranging from retro electronics to rare vintage fashion, providing a unique insight into local daily life and subculture.
• Culinary Highlight (Dinner): Conclude your day in the Majang-dong district, home to Majang Meat Market—the largest meat market in Seoul. Here, experience South Korea's legendary beef culture firsthand by dining at a local restaurant. Grill premium cuts of local Hanwoo beef (such as striploin and chuck flap) over live charcoal, savouring the rich, melt-in-the-mouth flavours and exquisite marbling that makes this beef world-renowned.
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• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Seoul.

Day 3: Busan Authentic Korean Cookery Lesson

• Tour Duration: 07:30 – 18:30

This morning at 07:30, check out of your hotel and meet your guide in the lobby for a private transfer to Seoul Station. Board the high-speed KTX train for a scenic rail journey to Busan, taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes (Suggested train time: 08:57 – 11:15).

Busan is South Korea's second-largest city and a major port located on the southeastern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is globally renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant maritime culture, delicious local cuisine, and diverse coastal attractions. Upon arrival at Busan Station, a private vehicle will pick you up and transfer you directly to the Busan city centre.

• Authentic Korean Cookery Lesson: Join an expert-led cooking class to explore the rich history and unique flavours of Korean cuisine. You will choose to prepare two signature dishes—such as Bibimbap (mixed rice bowl) or Nakji-bokkeum (spicy stir-fried octopus). Enjoy the dishes you have prepared for lunch, perfectly paired with a selection of local traditional liquors like Makgeolli (milky rice wine) or Soju.
• Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory: Next, experience the thrill of walking along the glass-bottomed observation deck that extends directly over the ocean. Soak in the stunning coastal views while feeling the adrenaline of walking high above the crashing waves.
• Haeundae Blue Line Park Sky Capsule: Take a unique ride on the iconic Sky Capsule train along the Blue Line Park route from Cheongsapo to Mipo. This scenic coastal track offers breathtaking views of the open sea and rugged cliffs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you glide along the picturesque coastline.
• Culinary Highlight (Dinner): In the evening, try grilled beef small intestine, known locally as Gopchang. This highly popular Korean dish is loved for its rich, chewy texture and deep, savoury flavour. It is enjoyed as a classic style of Korean barbecue and is served alongside a variety of traditional side dishes (banchan) and dipping sauces. Following dinner, transfer back to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
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• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Busan.

Distances and travel times:

Seoul Station – Busan Station: +/- 2hr 15 mins    

Day 4: Full Day Busan Market & Coastal exploration

• Tour Duration: 09:00 – 19:00

Following breakfast at your hotel, begin your day with a visit to Yeongdo Haenyeo Chon (Haenyeo Cultural Village). Here, you can sample freshly prepared sea urchin, sea cucumber, and conch caught by the iconic female divers known as Haenyeo. This offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about their UNESCO-recognised diving culture while tasting fresh seafood directly by the shore.

• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): Head to a local restaurant to try Busan's signature Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup). This comforting dish consists of a hearty, rich pork broth filled with tender pork slices, served with rice and various banchan (side dishes). You can customise the flavour to your taste by adding condiments like green onions, salted shrimp, garlic, and spicy chilli paste.
• Traditional Markets Exploration: After lunch, explore the historic Gukje Market (International Market) and the famous Jagalchi Fish Market

.Gukje Market is one of Busan's oldest and largest traditional markets, offering a vast array of goods. At Jagalchi Market, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of South Korea's largest seafood market and sample local street delicacies.

• Gamcheon Culture Village: Next, visit the iconic Gamcheon Culture Village, celebrated for its brightly coloured houses and vibrant street art. Take a leisurely walk through the village to admire the murals, creative art installations, and charming, winding alleyways.
• Songdo Marine Cable Car Ride: In the evening, take a scenic cable car ride across the sea. During the 15 to 20-minute journey, enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the ocean, Songdo Beach, the Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, the Namhangdaegyo Bridge, the Songdo Coastal Dulle-gil Road, and the surrounding sea cliffs.
• Culinary Highlight (Dinner): Afterwards, dine at a coastal restaurant that serves Mulhoe (sometimes referred to as raw fish soup). This traditional Korean seafood dish is exceptionally popular in coastal cities like Busan. It features a refreshing mix of fresh, raw fish and seafood submerged in an icy, spicy, and tangy broth. The remainder of the evening is at your own leisure.
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• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Busan.

Day 5: Busan to Gyeongju (Ancient Silla Kingdom Heritage)

• Tour Duration: 09:00 – 18:00
• Distance & Journey Time: Gyeongju is approx. 89 km from Busan (around 1 hour 20 minutes by private vehicle).

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. You will then travel towards Gyeongju in the comfort of a private vehicle. Gyeongju, once the capital of the ancient 8th-century Silla Kingdom, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Revered as an "open-air museum", it is a veritable treasure trove of history, brimming with historic palaces, ancient temples, and royal tombs.

• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): Savour a traditional Sundubu-jjigae (spicy soft tofu stew) set menu. Gyeongju's pristine natural environment provides exceptionally clear, clean water, making the region famous for its artisanal tofu production. Local producers still preserve traditional methods using 100% locally sourced soybeans, offering a rich flavour profile distinct from tofu found in other regions.
• Cheomseongdae Observatory: After lunch, explore Cheomseongdae, one of the oldest surviving astronomical observatories in East Asia. This historic stone tower is constructed from 365 individual stones, representing the days of the year. It also features 27 distinct stone levels, which historians believe symbolise the 27 constellations of the lunar calendar.
• Daereungwon Tomb Complex (Tumuli Park): Next, head to Daereungwon, also famously known as Tumuli Park. This historic archaeological site is one of the city's premier attractions, showcasing 23 giant, grass-covered burial mounds of the Silla Kingdom's royal families. The varying sizes of these rolling green mounds give the park a remarkably serene and picturesque appearance.
• Hwangridan-gil & Woljeonggyo Bridge: Take a stroll down Hwangridan-gil, a charming street celebrated for its beautiful hanok architecture, trendy cafes, and unique boutique shops. It beautifully blends traditional Korean design with contemporary culture. Continue your walk to see the spectacular Woljeonggyo Bridge, a historic covered wooden bridge. Reconstructed to its original Silla-era glory, it serves as a stunning showcase of traditional Korean engineering and cultural heritage.
• Culinary Highlight (Dinner): Finish the day with a fun, relaxing dinner of Korean fried chicken and cold beer—a globally famous food pairing known locally as Chimaek. Enjoy the perfect combination of ultra-crispy, flavourful chicken and refreshing local lager at a popular neighbourhood spot. Following dinner, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
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• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Gyeongju.

Distance and journey time:

Busan – Gyeongju (approx. 89 km): +/- 1:20 hr

Day 6: Gyeongju to Andong (Buddhist treasures and Confucian heritage)

• Tour Duration: 09:00 – 18:00
• Distance & Journey Time: Andong is approx. 143 km from Gyeongju (around 2 hours by private vehicle).

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Meet your guide in the lobby at 09:00 to continue your journey north to Andong.

• Seokguram Grotto & Bulguksa Temple: Your first stop is the magnificent Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Grotto. Seokguram Grotto is globally renowned for its monumental, stone-carved Buddha sitting in a beautifully engineered arched chamber, representing the peak of Silla-era artistic achievement. Bulguksa Temple, a true masterpiece of Buddhist architecture and a designated national treasure, beautifully symbolises the ideal harmony between humanity, nature, and spiritual enlightenment.
• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): For lunch, enjoy a traditional Tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties) set menu. This popular Korean delicacy features seasoned, minced beef rib meat shaped into tender patties and char-grilled to perfection. It is served as a hearty main dish alongside rice and a colorful array of seasonal banchan (side dishes).
• Travel to Andong: After lunch, transfer to Andong, widely celebrated as the spiritual and cultural heart of South Korea. Andong is famous for its exceptionally well-preserved historical landmarks, traditional architecture, and living ancient customs.
• Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy: Upon arrival, head to Dosan Seowon, one of the most notable and beautifully preserved seowons (Confucian academies) in the country. Established in the 16th century to honour the revered Korean Confucian scholar Yi Hwang (Toegye), this tranquil complex offers a fascinating insight into Korea’s historic educational and philosophical heritage.
• Woryeonggyo Bridge: Next, visit the iconic Woryeonggyo Bridge (Moonlight Bridge), a spectacular wooden footbridge spanning the picturesque Nakdong River. Connecting the city centre to the eastern banks of Andong, it is celebrated for its scenic views, delicate traditional architecture, and its poignant local love story.
• Culinary Highlight (Dinner): Conclude your day at Andong’s famous Jjimdak Street, home to numerous historic eateries. Savour an authentic bowl of Andong Jjimdak—a locally born, incredibly flavourful dish of tender braised chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy cellophane glass noodles tossed in a rich, sweet, and spicy soy-based sauce. Following dinner, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in Andong

Day 7: Andong to Seoul (Folk Villages)

• Tour Duration: 09:00 – 19:00

Following breakfast at your hotel, check out and meet your tour guide in the lobby at 09:00 to begin your final day of regional exploration.

• Andong Hahoe Folk Village & Buyongdae Cliff: Proceed directly to the historic Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site established in the 16th century during the Joseon Dynasty. This living museum has been home to the Ryu clan of Pungsan for generations. The village features beautifully preserved, traditional Korean-style houses (Hanoks) with historic thatched or tiled roofs, scenic courtyards, and tranquil gardens. Afterwards, take a short hike up the majestic Buyongdae Cliff to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire village layout and the surrounding river landscapes.
• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): Before departing the region, sample Andong’s most famous culinary tradition: an authentic Gan-godeungeu (Salted Mackerel) set menu. Historically preserved with salt to allow transport inland, this traditional local dish is celebrated for its perfectly balanced savoury flavour, crisp skin, and soft, moist texture. It is served alongside a wide variety of local seasonal banchan (side dishes).
• KTX Bullet Train to Seoul: After lunch, transfer to Andong Station for a comfortable high-speed rail journey back to Seoul Station

via the KTX train (Suggested train time: 14:50 – 17:27).

• Arrival in Seoul: Upon your arrival at Seoul Station, you will be met by a professional local driver for a private transfer to your hotel in central Seoul (unaccompanied by a guide). The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy entirely at leisure.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Seoul.

Distance and journey time:

Andong – Seoul by KTX: +/- 2:30 hr

Day 8: Full day Seoul exploration ( Palaces, Hanoks, Villages and Street food)

• Tour Duration: 09:00 – 18:00

Following breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide to begin a comprehensive exploration of South Korea's capital, discovering historic landmarks and vibrant local markets.

• Bukchon Hanok Village & Pedicab Ride: Your day starts with a visit to the historic Bukchon Hanok Village. Dating back to the Joseon period, this picturesque neighbourhood features hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanoks) that are still inhabited today. After exploring the architecture on foot, hop on a unique pedicab (rickshaw) tour to discover the hidden gems of Seoul. Glide effortlessly through the narrow alleys, hidden cafes, and boutique shops that are completely inaccessible to cars.
• Changdeokgung Palace: Continue to the spectacular, illuminated Changdeokgung Palace, another iconic royal residence from the Joseon Dynasty. A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the palace is globally renowned for its Secret Garden (Huwon), where historic pavilions and man-made structures were built in perfect harmony with the surrounding natural woodland. (Please note: Changdeokgung Palace is closed on Mondays).
• Culinary Highlight (Lunch): Head to a local restaurant to taste authentic Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup). This famous, traditional dish features a whole tender young chicken stuffed with ginseng and aromatics, simmered into a rich broth celebrated for its exceptional health benefits and medicinal properties.
• Jogyesa Temple: After lunch, visit Jogyesa Temple, the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism located right in the heart of the city. The temple grounds provide a serene, spiritual atmosphere and are exceptionally vibrant when decorated with a colourful array of traditional hanging lanterns.
• Gwangjang Market (Korean Street Food Tour): In the late afternoon, proceed to the historic Gwangjang Market, where centuries-old culinary traditions come to life in a kaleidoscope of flavours and aromas. This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of street foods and local delicacies. Sample iconic dishes, including piping-hot bindaetteok (crispy mung bean pancakes), savoury tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), fresh gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and delectable handmade mandu (dumplings).
• Myeongdong District: Conclude your day tour with a scenic stroll to Myeongdong's lively lifestyle district. Take in the vibrant local atmosphere and bustling streets before bidding farewell to your guide and transferring back to your hotel.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay in Seoul.

Day 9: Departure from Seoul

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel followed by a leisurely morning. Later today, you will be met at the hotel by a private vehicle for a comfortable, unguided transfer directly to Incheon International Airport (ICN) in time for your onward departure flight.

(Please note: Standard hotel check-out time is 11:00. A surcharge will be applied by the hotel for any late check-out requests).

Distances and travel times:

Incheon International Airport – Seoul (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr  

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