Seoul - Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) - Andong - Gyeongju - Busan - Jeju Island

This tour of South Korea is a memorable journey that captures the true essence of the country through eye-opening experiences and local encounters. From Seoul to Andong, via Gyeongju, Busan, and Jeju Island, this trip reveals the rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural wonders of South Korea.


Itinerary

  • Day 1: CITY OF ORIGIN - SEOUL

    Departure on a scheduled flight to Seoul. Overnight flight.

  • Day 2: SEOUL

    Arrival at Incheon International Airport and transfer by shared air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in Seoul (unguided). The rest of the day is free to relax or enjoy optional activities in the city, such as a culinary experience or attending the Nanta show. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological, and historical hub in East Asia. Overnight stay.

    Important Notes:

    ●Standard hotel check-in time is 3:00 PM. If you arrive earlier, you can leave your luggage at the hotel. Advance registration depends on availability and may be subject to additional charges.

    ●Drivers in South Korea do not always speak English.

  • Day 3: SEOUL

    Breakfast. At 9:00 a.m., meet your Spanish-speaking guide in your hotel lobby. We begin our walking tour of the Korean capital with a short 15-minute walk to Gwanghwamun Square, a large open space in the heart of Seoul. The square is home to iconic statues of King Sejong, creator of the Korean alphabet, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a national hero famous for his victories during the Japanese invasions. These statues symbolize Korea's rich history and offer a fitting introduction to the nation's past. From the square, we proceed to Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace. This majestic gate once served as a passageway for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. At Gwanghwamun, you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a centuries-old tradition still observed today. The ceremony offers a beautiful glimpse into Korea's royal heritage and provides insight into the nation's fascinating culture and history. Next, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (closed on Tuesdays), the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces, with its stunning architecture and tranquil gardens. For those interested in delving deeper into Korea's cultural history, the National Folk Museum, located next to the palace grounds, offers a wealth of information. Enjoy a delicious lunch (included) and sample some local Korean specialties. We begin the afternoon with a short walk to Insadong, a street famous for its traditional Korean handicrafts, tea houses, and art galleries. The area offers an excellent opportunity to discover unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in Seoul's cultural scene. Afterward, stop at Jogyesa Temple, the head temple of the Korean Buddhist order Jogye. This serene Buddhist temple, with its impressive architecture and tranquil atmosphere, offers a peaceful respite in the heart of the city. It is a wonderful place to relax, reflect, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. We ended the day with a transfer to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's most vibrant and iconic food markets, a paradise for Korean street food lovers. Stroll through its bustling aisles and don't miss the chance to try some of the local specialties like mayak gimbap, crispy bindaetteok, and spicy tteokbokki, all in a colorful and authentic atmosphere, brimming with energy and tradition. Gwangjang Market has also gained international fame as a filming location for popular Korean dramas and documentaries, making it a must-see for fans of Korean culture who want to experience the scenes they've seen on screen firsthand. Return to the hotel at 6:30 PM and the rest of the afternoon is free.

    Notes:

    ● Snacks and dinner at Gwangjang Market are not included and will be at the client's expense.

    ● Passengers who wish to extend their visit to Gwangjang Market and its surroundings can return to the hotel on their own by subway (approximately 15 minutes) or by private taxi (approximately 15 minutes).

  • Day 4: SEOUL - DMZ - SEOUL

    Breakfast at 6:30 AM (Korean opening time). At 7:00 AM, meet your Spanish-speaking guide in the hotel lobby and transfer in an official vehicle with an official DMZ guide to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), an area rich in history and intrigue. The DMZ, the border zone between South and North Korea, is steeped in history and symbolism. Explore key sites and exhibits, including the Freedom Bridge, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, and the Dora Observatory. At the end of the tour, transfer by official bus to City Hall Station. Arrival around 3:30 PM and lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, return to the hotel with the Spanish-speaking guide and the rest of the afternoon is free to explore the city on your own or book an optional experience such as a visit to Seongsu Street and the famous COEX Shopping Center (an activity known as "Instagram Seoul"). Overnight stay.

    (*) Packed breakfasts are not available in Korea. Since the DMZ tour is operated through an official organization, punctuality is required.

    Important Notes:

    ●The DMZ tour must be operated by designated official vehicles and guides, on a strict schedule.

    ●Transfers to/from the DMZ and the DMZ tour are provided on a regular schedule (approximately 30-44 passengers per bus) and must be accompanied by an official English-speaking DMZ guide assigned to accompany the group. Our Spanish-speaking guide will also accompany the group.

    ●The DMZ is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

    ●The pickup time and meeting point for this shared tour will be confirmed by your Spanish-speaking guide one day in advance.

    ●During peak season, travelers may experience longer wait times when entering the DMZ.

    DMZ.

    ●To enter the DMZ, each traveler must carry their original passport (copying is not permitted).

    ●A strict dress code is enforced in the DMZ; military-style clothing and military pants are not allowed.

  • Day 5: SEOUL - ANDONG

    Breakfast. Meet your Spanish-speaking guide around 9:30 AM and transfer to Seoul Station, where you will board a KTX, the Korean high-speed train, for a comfortable two-and-a-half-hour journey to Andong. Andong is often considered the spiritual and cultural heart of South Korea, renowned for preserving traditional Korean culture, customs, and architecture. Upon arrival at Andong Station, meet your driver and transfer to Hahoe Village. Enjoy a late lunch at one of the local restaurants near Andong Hahoe Village. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the village, admiring its historic buildings and unique traditional architecture. Afterward, visit the Hahoe Mask Museum to learn more about Korean mask traditions and the international heritage of masks. Then, on the way to your hotel in Andong, make a brief stop in Buyongdae, which offers a spectacular golden hour view overlooking the entire village of Hahoe from the clifftop. Arrival at the hotel at 6:00 PM and the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay.
  • Day 6: ANDONG - GYEONGJU

    Breakfast. At 10:00 AM, meet your guide and driver at the hotel and transfer to Gyeongju (approximately 2 hours). Gyeongju, the former capital of the Silla Kingdom in the 8th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considered an open-air museum, it is a true historical treasure trove filled with palaces, temples, and tombs. Upon arrival in Gyeongju, lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. In the afternoon, explore the extraordinary religious complex of Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. Built during the Silla Kingdom, these UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase the architectural and artistic mastery of the era. Marvel at the serene stone Buddha inside Seokguram and the elegant wooden halls and stone terraces of Bulguksa. Afterward, visit Woljeong Bridge, a beautifully restored wooden structure that once served as a key passage between the royal palaces and the southern part of the city. We will continue with a short walk to Gyochon Hanok Village, a well-preserved traditional village in Gyeongju showcasing historic hanok houses, local crafts, and the cultural heritage of the Silla Dynasty. Return to Gyeongju at 7:30 PM, check in to the hotel, and the rest of the afternoon is free. Those who wish to enjoy Gyeongju at night can return to the hotel independently by taxi. Overnight stay.

    Note:

    Since restaurants in Gyeongju close early (at 7:00 PM), dinner time (not included) will be arranged before the transfer to the hotel.

  • Day 7: GYEONGJU

    Breakfast. Departure from the hotel at 9:00 AM. Today, we will discover Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Transfer to the city center and visit Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (formerly Anapji), an elegant artificial pond that was once part of the royal palace complex. Continue to Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest astronomical observatory in Asia. Built over 1,300 years ago during the Silla Dynasty, its elegant stone structure is a testament to Korea's early scientific achievements and its profound connection to the cosmos. Next, we will explore the Daereungwon Funeral Complex (Tumuli Park), where more than 20 grassy mounds house the remains of Silla royalty and aristocracy. We will visit the tomb of Cheonmachong, famous for the discovery of the fresco known as the "Celestial Horse," and learn about the funerary customs and craftsmanship of that remarkable era. The journey continues to Hwangnidan-gil, Gyeongju's most charming and modern street, where traditional hanok-style buildings blend seamlessly with trendy cafes, boutiques, and dessert shops—a perfect fusion of past and present. Lunch at a local restaurant is followed by approximately an hour and a half of free time in the area. Guests can choose to shop, relax at a local cafe, or explore nearby cultural attractions on their own. At 3:30 p.m., guests will need to be at the designated meeting point to depart for the Gyeongju National Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of artifacts from the Silla era, including royal crowns, Buddhist sculptures, and archaeological treasures that bring the kingdom's history to life. Return to the hotel at 5:00 p.m. Guests who wish to spend more time in the city center can return to the hotel independently by taxi. Overnight stay.
  • Day 8: GYEONGJU - BUSAN

    Breakfast. At 9:00 AM, accompanied by a Spanish-speaking guide, we depart for Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, a dynamic coastal metropolis famous for its beautiful beaches, lively seafood markets, and stunning ocean views. En route, we'll stop at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a unique coastal Buddhist temple perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking the East Sea. With waves crashing below and the temple's colorful structures above, it offers a unique blend of spiritual tranquility and natural beauty. We'll continue to Daritdol Skywalk, an exciting glass-floored bridge suspended over the coast. We'll walk above the shimmering sea and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views where modern design meets the pristine coastal landscape. Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we'll explore Haeundae Beach, Busan's most famous coastline, known for its expansive stretch of sand, lively atmosphere, cafes, and iconic landmarks. We'll then take a stroll on Dongbaekseom Island, a picturesque coastal park connected to the mainland, featuring tranquil paths, pine trees, rocky shores, and stunning views of the ocean and the Busan skyline. Next, we'll transfer to the WON Museum, an immersive digital art museum where cutting-edge technology transforms light, sound, and movement into captivating visual experiences. The museum offers a modern and artistic contrast to the day's historical and natural sites. Return to the hotel at 5:00 PM and the rest of the afternoon is free. Overnight stay.
  • Day 9: BUSAN

    Breakfast. Free day at your leisure to continue exploring the area on your own or, if you prefer, book an optional excursion. Overnight stay.

    Optional activity: For this day, we offer an optional excursion of approximately 8 hours, which will complete the visit to the area of this important coastal city.

  • Day 10: BUSAN - JEJU ISLAND

    Departure from the hotel at 6:30 AM and transfer to the airport with the Spanish-speaking guide. In Korea, breakfast is served from 6:30 AM in hotels and cafes open from 10:30 AM. Therefore, our guide will provide a packed breakfast the night before, including juice, bread, jam, and butter. We recommend that passengers have coffee/tea in their room before departing.Arrival at Jeju Island Airport, meeting with the driver and transfer to the southern part of the island. Jeju Island, often known as the "Hawaii of Korea," is a stunning natural paradise shaped by volcanic forces. Famous for its spectacular coastline, tranquil beaches, lava caves, and unique cultural heritage, Jeju offers an appealing blend of adventure, tranquility, and tradition, making it one of East Asia's most beloved island destinations. We'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, we'll visit Jeongbang Waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in Asia that plunges directly into the ocean. Take in the spectacular scenery and have time for photos. We'll then continue to Oedolgae Rock, an impressive sea stack rising from the coast, surrounded by trails and lush landscapes. Discover the local legends associated with this iconic landmark. Finally, we'll visit Yakcheonsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and photography. Return to Jeju Town and stroll through Dongmun Market, the oldest and liveliest market on the island, where you can sample local snacks (not included), such as Jeju's famous citrus fruits and fresh seafood, and enjoy a leisurely dinner (not included) before returning to the hotel. Arrival at the hotel around 8:00 PM. Overnight stay.

    Note: Snacks at Dongmun Market and dinner are not included and will be at the client's expense.

  • Day 11: JEJU ISLAND

    Breakfast. At 9:00 AM, meet your guide to begin today's excursion, a program designed as a relaxed beach day with a scenic cultural stop along the way. The tour will be conducted in a shared, air-conditioned vehicle. We'll start with an approximately one-hour transfer to the Osulloc Tea Museum, nestled among lush green tea fields that stretch across the hills. This refreshing stop offers an introduction to Korean tea culture, with time to visit the Innisfree flagship store, relax in the café, stroll through the plantations, take photos, or browse the tea shops. We'll then continue with an approximately 20-minute transfer to Hyeopjae Beach, where the rest of the day will be dedicated to leisure by the sea. Enjoy the white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and beautiful views of nearby Biyangdo Island, which make this one of Jeju's most picturesque beach settings. At 4:00 PM, transfer back to the hotel and farewell to the guide. Rest of the afternoon free. Overnight stay.

    Note: Please note that the tea tasting at the O'Sulloc Tea Museum and lunch are not included; these will be at the client's expense.

  • Day 12: JEJU ISLAND

    Breakfast and free time until your transfer to the airport.

  • Day 13: CITY OF ORIGIN

    Arrival in the city of origin and end of the trip.


General conditions

Includes

  • Scheduled flights.
  • Regular transfers with English- or Korean-speaking driver, depending on availability.
  • High-speed train (KTX) ticket, economy class: Seoul-Andong.
  • Sightseeing and excursions as described in the itinerary, with a local Spanish-speaking guide.
  • 6 lunches at local restaurants (drinks not included).
  • 10 nights in hotels, with breakfast.
  • Handling of one standard-size suitcase up to 23 kg per person.
  • Plus travel assistance insurance.

Does not include

  • Tips for drivers and guides.
  • Handling of extra luggage cannot be guaranteed.
  • Drinks during lunches.
  • All other lunches and dinners not specified as included.
  • Optional insurance.
  • In general, any extra service not specified above, such as special meals, personal expenses, or anything else not specified as included.

Special cancellation conditions

- MANAGEMENT FEES - From the moment the booking is made: €30 / booking.

- FLIGHTS: 100% penalty from the moment the airline tickets are issued. Date and name changes not permitted.

- LAND SERVICES:

*Cancellations received up to 61 days prior to the service start date will not incur a penalty.

*Cancellations received between 60 and 17 days prior to the service start date will incur a 30% penalty.

*Cancellations received 16 days prior to the service start date will incur a 50% penalty.

*Cancellations received within 15 days prior to the service start date will incur a 100% penalty.

*No-shows on the start date will incur a 100% penalty.

Observations

The baggage allowance for ground transportation (bus/train) is one piece of hand luggage plus one suitcase per person. If you are traveling with more luggage, there may not be enough space on the transport vehicle, and you may have to leave some of your belongings behind.

announcement Important notes

-Guaranteed departures from 4 passengers, according to the published departure schedule for this program.

-People with reduced mobility: Many places, hotels, and transportation are not wheelchair accessible. Please check and notify us before booking. Any additional assistance costs required during the tour will be the responsibility of the client.

-Rooms: Single rooms may be smaller than double rooms. Triple rooms cannot be guaranteed until confirmation is received from each hotel. These rooms are generally double rooms with 2 single beds or 1 double bed + 1 small folding bed.

-Possible changes to accommodations: If it is not possible to confirm the planned hotels for any of the departures, an alternative will be offered to the client within the same contracted category.

-Special diets: Cases of food intolerances (allergies, celiac disease, vegetarian food, etc.) must be communicated before arrival in South Korea, although it is not possible to guarantee any type of special diet or menu.

-Free time: During free time, clients do not have transportation or a local guide.

-Possible route changes: Our representative in South Korea has the full right to readjust the order and schedule of visits, hotels, restaurants, and means of transport once the trip has begun and for the benefit of the client, or cancel the program due to force majeure, without prior notice and without this implying any type of refund.

-Baggage: In case of loss of baggage by the airlines, it will be the passenger's responsibility to manage the claim and call the company directly to process the delivery or compensation that may apply. Luxotour will not be responsible for any claims related to lost or damaged luggage.

-Consumer Withdrawal: The program is sold as a closed package, therefore there will be no refund or discount for services that clients choose not to use or in which they cannot participate due to personal or medical reasons, flight schedules, or other events.

-Conduct During the Trip: If a passenger's behavior jeopardizes the operation of the tour and/or causes disturbance to the rest of the group or at the hotels, they will be forced to leave the tour without any discount or refund for services they cannot use.

-Credit Card: Generally, hotels require passengers to provide a credit card or a cash deposit as a guarantee to provide services such as telephone calls, extras in bars and restaurants, minibar, laundry, room service charges, etc.

-Personal Documentation and entry requirements for South Korea: It is the client's responsibility to inform themselves about the current entry and exit regulations of the country they are traveling to, as well as to carry the personal documents required by the authorities. Luxotour assumes no responsibility in this regard. Please note that visa, transit, entry, and vaccination regulations vary from country to country and may be subject to change at short notice.

child price

This program does not offer discounts for children.

info_outline Practical tips

Travelers are advised to bring their own refillable/reusable water container to minimize the use of plastic bottles and water waste, as drinking water refill stations are becoming increasingly common throughout the country.