South Korea on a Shoestring

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul

Arrive in South Korea and make your own way to your centrally located hotel. Comprehensive directions will be provided, with your accommodation situated near a convenient transport hub.

After checking in, spend the remainder of the day exploring independently or relaxing after your journey.

Overnight at Stanford Hotel Myeongdong.

Day 2: Seoul Sightseeing

Make your own way to the meeting point and join a shared sightseeing tour through the South Korean capital.

Visit Jogyesa Temple, watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace and continue to the Ginseng Centre, Insadong Arts and Crafts Market, Namsangol Hanok Village and N Seoul Tower.

The tour ends in Myeongdong or near City Hall, leaving the remainder of the day free to explore.

Overnight at Stanford Hotel Myeongdong.

Day 3: The DMZ

Make an early start for a shared excursion to the Demilitarised Zone separating South and North Korea.

Walk through the Third Infiltration Tunnel and visit Dora Observatory for views across the border. Continue to Imjingak Park, where monuments including the Peace Bell reflect the peninsula’s division and enduring hopes for reunification.

Breakfast is not included today due to the early departure.

Overnight at Stanford Hotel Myeongdong.

Day 4: Seoul to Andong

Check out and make your own way to Seoul Station. Board the KTX train to Andong, a journey of approximately two and a half hours.

Upon arrival, make your own way to your traditional accommodation in Hahoe Folk Village. Spend the rest of the day discovering Andong’s historic architecture, Confucian heritage and local culture.

An optional multi-course dining experience inspired by recipes from the 15th century can be booked in advance at an additional cost.

Overnight at Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok – Giwa.

Day 5: Andong to Gyeongju

Make your own way to Andong Station and take the KTX train to Gyeongju, a journey of approximately 45 minutes.

Upon arrival, continue independently to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day exploring this historic city, once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom.

Overnight at Geumsung Diary.

Day 6: Gyeongju

Enjoy a free day exploring Gyeongju, often described as a museum without walls.

The city contains an exceptional collection of temples, royal tombs and archaeological sites. Highlights include Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory and Gyeongju National Museum.

Overnight at Geumsung Diary.

Day 7: Gyeongju to Busan

Make your own way to Gyeongju Station and board the KTX train to Busan, a journey of approximately 35 minutes.

After checking into your hotel, experience two of Busan’s coastal highlights aboard the Sky Capsule and Beach Train. Travel above the shoreline while enjoying panoramic views across the ocean and surrounding beaches.

Overnight at Kwangsu Hotel Busan.

Day 8: Busan and Night Yacht Experience

Spend the day exploring Busan at your own pace. Possible attractions include Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, Haeundae Blue Line Park, the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, Gamcheon Culture Village and Jagalchi Market.

In the evening, board a yacht for a relaxing one-hour cruise offering panoramic views of Busan’s illuminated skyline and coastline.

Overnight at Kwangsu Hotel Busan.

Day 9: Busan to Seoul

Check out and make your own way to Busan Station. Board the KTX train back to Seoul, where your journey ends upon arrival.

Included:

• 8 nights in hotels (double occupancy)
• KTX train tickets as described (Seoul–Andong; Andong–Gyeongju; Gyeongju–Busan; Busan–Seoul)
• Tours and excursions as described
• Meals as detailed
• One preloaded T-Money card per person (this can be used for most public transport and reloaded at many convenience stores)

Excluded:

• Gratuities for the guide and driver
• International flight tickets
• Any early check-in or late check-out (unless requested)
• Any personal expenses (including shopping, snacks, etc.)
• All admission and activity fees (unless otherwise stated)
• Any meals not specified
• Any optional activities not listed