7 day Ancient South Korea
Description:
Itinerary:
Arrival – Seoul
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea! Upon arrival at Seoul Airport, you will make your own way to the hotel.
Overnight: Stanford Hotel Seoul (or similar)
Seoul to Gyeongju
The Blue House, otherwise known as Cheong Wa Dae, is the residence of the South Korean president. It is an icon of
South Korea, set against the back drop of Bugaksan Mountain.
Today, we have the chance to visit the Blue House before making our way to Gyeongbokgung Palace, originally built in 1395 as the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.
In the afternoon, we will depart for Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty, where our journey through Korea’s historical treasures will continue.
Overnight: Gyengju Commodore Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Gyeongju to Daegu
Today, visit the Bulguksa Temple and the beautiful Seokguram Grotto – a UNESCO World Heritage site. We then continue on to the southeast city of Gyeongju which was the capital of the 1,000-year-long Silla dynasty and is known for its extensive historical remains. Here we will see the Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
We then make our way to Gyeongju National Museum, home to numerous historical and cultural artefacts of the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – AD 935).
We will then head to Daegu and visit the famous Dongseongno Shopping District
Overnight: Daegu Inter Burgo Exco Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Daegu to Andong to Seoraksan
Today, experience the charm of rural Korea with a visit to Andong Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage.
Then, journey to Sokcho Daepo Port, a picturesque fishing village nestled along the coast, where you can immerse yourself in the local fishing culture and savour fresh seafood delicacies
Overnight: Sokcho Sea Cruise Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Seoraksan to Seoul
Today, we will visit to the Mt Seorak region. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Preservation District in 1982 due to the many rare species found in the national park, Mount Seoraksan National Park is Korea’s most famous national park. Tour Shinheungsa Temple and take the cable car to Gweongeumseong Fortress to experience the beautiful natural landscapes on offer.
We then go back to Seoul to stroll through the heart of the city down the streets of Isa-dong, a historical entertainment districts. Step back in time in Bukchon Village, where traditional Korean houses (hanok) preserve the spirit of the past.
Overnight: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar
Meals: Breakfast, & Lunch
Seoul
Today we will visit North Korea’s 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, located within the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 44 km drive northwest of Seoul. An entire infantry division can move through the tunnel in an hour.
On the way back to Seoul, we will also visit the famous Amethyst Store.
* DMZ- Due to its unique position, there are many rules to abide by in order to help maintain peace and stability. From how many people are allowed to enter and where you can visit, the tours follow strict regulations imposed by the nation.
If the tour cannot visit the DMZ, you will visit Imjingak Resort instead.
Overnight: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Depart – Seoul
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flights or further travels.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions:
- 6 nights in 4-star twin share accommodation
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 2 dinners
- Professional tour guide throughout
- Dedicated coach transportation
- All monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
- Departing airport transfer
Maximum group size is 45 people
Exclusions:
- Flights to and from your home city/country
- Arrival airport transfer
- Meals and beverages
- Optional activities/tours
- Any travel insurances
- Tour guide gratuities
- Visa(s)/Visa fee
- Items such as souvenirs, laundry and similar personal expenses
Optional activities:
Included:
- Seaol
- The Blue House
- Gyeongbokhung Palace
- Guengju
- Bulguska Temple
- Seokguram Grotto
- Donggung Palace
- Wolji Pond
- Geyngju National Museum
- Dongseongno Shopping District
- Andong Hahoe Village
- Sokcho Daepo Port
- Mount Seoraksan
- Shinheungsa Temple
- Gweongeumseong Fortress
- Bukchon Village
- North Korea’s 3rd Infiltration Tunnell