South Korea Through the Ages: A Tailor-Made Journey

Arrive in Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital. Meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel, and take the rest of the day to settle in and get acquainted with the city.

Meet your driver and guide for a full-day exploration of Seoul, discovering its exciting blend of old and new. Start out with a tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace, a sprawling complex of royal apartments, pavilions, and gardens that offers stunning examples of traditional Korean architecture. Meander among the colorful stalls of Namdaemun Market, stopping to sample street food for lunch. Step back in time in Bukchon Hanok, a typical Korean village set within the city limits, and take a walk past the tea houses, art galleries, and craft shops of the lively Insa-dong district. (B,L)

A morning drive brings you to the infamous Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, a buffer zone that has separated North Korea and South Korea since the Korean War. Gain insight into the tumultuous history of the zone and the decades-long conflict on the Korean Peninsula, and take in views that span both countries from observation points. Return to Seoul this afternoon.  (B)

Board the KTX bullet train and speed across the country to South Korea’s “second city,” Busan.  This bustling port city, set among mountains at the edge of the Sea of Japan, is a dynamic hub of history, culture, and cuisine—and home to Asia’s largest film festival. You’ll have the remainder of the day to discover Busan as you wish, perhaps with a walk on Haeundae Beach or a visit to some of the city’s art galleries. (B)

With your guide and driver, travel north to Gyeongju, the capital of the Silla kingdom, which dates back to before the second century. Visit temples and the ancient tombs and burial mounds of Silla royalty, and examine artifacts that shed light on this long-lasting dynasty. Discover how Buddhism, Confucianism, and foreign cultures helped shape Korean society as you explore this “museum without walls,” designated a World Heritage site for its wealth of Korean Buddhist art. (B)

Take in views of Busan’s striking skyline and the surrounding mountains and sea from the top of Busan Tower. Then delve into the city’s vibrant markets with your guide, experiencing the sights and sounds of everyday life in Busan. Witness the bustle and excitement of the Jagalchi fish market, where merchants sell all manner of freshly caught seafood, and explore Bupyeong market, tasting some of the delectable street food that has helped the city become the culinary capital of South Korea. (B)

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Busan. We recommend a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village, made up of polychromatic houses spilling out onto the hills that surround the city. The steep, narrow lanes of the village are filled with street art and photogenic spots. This is also a good day to tour Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perhaps Busan’s most famous temple, which is built into rocky cliffs right on the shores of the Sea of Japan. (B)

Ride the KTX bullet train back to Seoul for a final day at leisure in the city. Your might browse the shops in the buzzing Dongdaemun Market or stroll among the galleries of Hongdae, the city’s university district. (B)

After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home. (B)