Seoul to Busan & Jeju - 13 days

Welcome to South Korea! On arrival, make your own way to our starting hostel, located in the lively centre of Seoul's renowned shopping area, Myeongdong. After check in and some time to freshen up, join the group for an orientation before we head out to enjoy our first Korean meal at a welcome dinner. After dinner, we'll head up Namsan Mountain to take in the stunning nighttime views of the city's lights.

Please note: This tour stays in a mixture of hotels and hostels and is designed for younger travellers looking for a backpacker-style experience and to meet like-minded people. The average age on this tour is around 21 - 35, and we are unfortunately unable to take any travellers over the age of 59. We have lots of group tours across our destinations that are suitable for travellers of all ages, browse our website or get in touch to find the perfect trip!

After enjoying breakfast at the hostel, we'll make our way to the trendy Hapjeong neighbourhood. Here, you'll have the opportunity to learn a K-Pop dance from a professional instructor, create a video, and visit HiKR to discover more about the global K-Wave phenomenon. The afternoon will be yours to explore at leisure before we reconvene in the lively Itaewon district for dinner and drinks (not included). In your free time, you might want to indulge in shopping at Myeongdong, renowned as a shopper's paradise. It's a great place to pick up K-Pop idol merchandise if you're a fan. Alternatively, you could visit Myeongdong Cathedral, the oldest Gothic church in Korea, for a moment of peaceful reflection.

Seoul - DMZ - Seoul. Today, we embark on an unforgettable tour. We will visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), where we can look into North Korea, often referred to as the Hermit Kingdom. Standing on the border between two contrasting worlds, we'll observe the stark differences between North and South Korea. The tour includes exploring tunnels dug by North Korea into the South, learning about the area's history, and participating in a cultural exchange with a North Korean defector. We will return to Seoul by around 16:00, leaving you ample time to freshen up before indulging in another fantastic Korean dinner.

Today, we'll journey into the past to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Joseon Dynasty in traditional Seoul. Begin our adventure by witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the five grand palaces from the Joseon era that holds a special place in Seoul's history. We'll have the opportunity to wander through its ancient courtyards, admire its majestic architecture, and relax in its serene gardens. You can opt to try on a traditional 'hanbok' while exploring the palace for an authentic feel.

Next, stroll through the well-preserved Bukchon Hanok Village, where we can appreciate traditional Korean architecture and gain insight into life in Korea centuries ago. For a change of pace, visit the bustling Insadong art street, a lively cultural hub known for its art galleries, and antique and cultural shops.

In the evening, join our guide for a street food tasting tour at the Gwangjang Market, where you will sample an array of Korean dishes, from savoury to sweet, including must-try delicacies like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls).

Prepare to experience the tranquility of a small, active temple nestled in the mountains on the outskirts of Seoul. With intricately decorated temples and shrines scattered throughout the grounds, you'll feel transported far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Engage in temple activities, including a singing bowl meditation session, evening bell tolling, and prayer chanting. Additionally, enjoy tea with a monk after your silent, reflective Buddhist dinner, allowing you to ask questions about life as a monk.

Seoul - Jeonju. After morning chanting and enjoying a wholesome Buddhist breakfast, we will bid farewell to our peaceful mountain retreat and journey to the small city of Jeonju. Tonight, we are staying in a traditional wooden Hanok guesthouse. There's free time to relax after we have checked in, before we embark on a group tasting session at the Hanok featuring one of Jeonju's most famous specialties: a rice wine called Makgeolli. You'll discover how it's made and sample various types. For those interested in continuing, the group will head to Makgeolli Alley to try more varieties and savour 'anju' - special dishes designed to be enjoyed with drinks!

Please note: Some members of the group may be ending their tour in Seoul, and not continuing to Jeonju.

Jeonju - Gyeongju. Departing Jeonju, we'll board a bus to our next destination, the historic city and former capital of Gyeongju. Often referred to as the "Museum Without Walls", Gyeongju features an impressive array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, and royal tombs that tell stories of a rich past. Once we arrive, we will drop off our bags and refresh ourselves before biking around to explore this enchanting town. We'll visit tombs, burial mounds, historical sites, and take in some stunning scenery. In the evening, we'll head to Anapji Pond to admire the mirrored reflections of the surrounding structures in the water.

Today, we'll continue our exploration of Gyeongju, starting with a visit to one of the country's most significant temples: Bulguksa. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning landscapes, this ancient temple is a remarkable example of architecture and history. Later, after time to refresh at our accommodation, get ready for a Taekwondo experience at a Dojang. You'll have the opportunity to learn high-flying kicks, lightning-fast punches, and precise movements from experienced professionals. In the evening, join the group to explore some of the bars and restaurants in the old town.

Gyeongju - Busan. Today, we set off for Busan, a vibrant city nestled by the sea, flanked by beaches and mountains. After settling into our accommodation in the downtown area, we'll explore the renowned Jagalchi Market and bustling shopping districts. Then, we'll take a ride on the Songdo cable car for breathtaking views of the city and ocean. In the afternoon, you'll have the freedom to explore, with options to visit the Gamcheon Cultural Village or unwind in a traditional jjimjilbang (public bathhouse). Tonight will be a memorable one, singing in one of Busan's famous karaoke rooms.

Busan - Jeju Island. Today, after breakfast and hotel check out, you will have a free morning in Busan before our early afternoon included flight to Jeju. Arriving at our accommodation, the rest of the day is free for you to head out and explore.

Please note: Some members of the group may be ending their tour in Busan, and not continuing to Jeju.

You'll want a hearty breakfast this morning because we have an energetic day planned! We'll start by boarding our private transport to head directly to the renowned Seongsan Ilchulbong volcano, where you can enjoy refreshing sea breezes and breathtaking views.

Next, we take in the stunning Yakcheonsa Temple, a peaceful sanctuary inspired by early Joseon Dynasty Buddhist architecture. The temple is nestled beside a mineral spring celebrated for its healing properties. Later, we visit the unique volcanic rock formations at the Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs, a perfect spot for capturing incredible photos. After free time for lunch, you'll have the option to explore one of Jeju's famous beaches or waterfalls. We'll then gather at The Cliff for sunset drinks with an ocean view, the ideal way to conclude the day!

Today, we embark on a hike along the Olle Trail, exploring various sections of the island. Enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas, picturesque fields, quaint villages, striking rock formations, and Jeju's renowned waterfall, Jeongbang. This impressive 23-metre-high waterfall cascades directly onto the rocks along the oceanfront, creating a stunning spectacle. After a morning of hiking, the rest of the day is free for you to visit other highlights of Jeju, including the Teddy Bear Museum, the Trick Art Gallery or the Psyche Butterfly Museum. As it is our final night, we'll gather with the group this evening for a farewell dinner (not included).

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and check-out. Your onward travel is not included, but we recommend booking a flight back to the Korean mainland from mid-afternoon.