South Korea for Families

Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, you'll meet a local English-speaking guide who will assist you in transferring to Seoul. Seoul, the capital, offers a mix of tradition and modernity with historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture, and a lively arts scene.

Depending on your arrival time, you can explore Gwangjang Market, one of the country’s oldest and largest traditional markets. It is famous for selling beautiful fabrics, especially those used for making traditional Korean dress, called hanbok. The market also features busy, colourful stalls where you can try new and exciting Korean dishes. Afterwards, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

• Hotel Description

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before taking a tour of Seoul's historical sites. Begin with Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was built in 1395 and enlarged in 1867, has 330 structures, and houses the National Folk Museum. If you have time, see the changing of the guard at Gwanghwamun Gate.

Next, take a trip through Bukchon Hanok Village, which has traditional Korean dwellings from the Joseon period. Discover the distinctive architecture and learn about village life. End the day with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace and its famed Secret Garden, followed by supper at your leisure, maybe in the colourful Insadong District, which is noted for its art galleries, tea cafes, and souvenir stores, including the family-friendly Alive Museum. (B)

• Hotel Description

This morning, join a workshop to create traditional Korean paper, Hanji Chueok, with guidance from a master artisan. Afterward, visit Namdaemun Market, Seoul's largest and oldest market, established in 1414, to explore vendors selling Korean food, drinks, and handicrafts. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Han River, enjoying views of Seoul's landmarks. (B)

• Hotel Description

After an early breakfast at the hotel, take the KTX train to Gyeongju, then proceed by private car to Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. Located at the foot of Hamwolsan Mountain, Golgulsa is Korea's only stone cave temple. Experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks, learning temple etiquette and participating in activities like archery, meditation, and Sunmudo, a form of moving meditation. End the day with a simple vegetarian dinner. (B,D)

• Hotel Description

In the late morning, after temple activities, drive to Yangdong Folk Village, a traditional Joseon-era village with over 160 hanok houses. Visit the village shrine, Confucius school, and the village head's house, then stroll along the village trail. In the afternoon, visit the Gyeongju National Museum, which houses artefacts and relics from the Silla dynasty and has a children's museum with interactive exhibits. For the evening, consider an independent walk to Woljeong Bridge and Woljie Pond. Then, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. (B)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast, visit the Daereungwon Tomb complex, also known as Tumuli Park, which has over 20 tombs from the Silla period. Explore the Cheonmachong Tomb, an upper-class tomb with a wooden coffin in an underground chamber. Then, transfer to Bomun Lake Resort, where the rest of the day is at leisure. The resort offers activities like boating and cycling, and nearby attractions include Bomunjeong Pavilion, Gyeongju World Amusement Park, and various museums. Afterwards, make your own way back to your hotel for the night. (B)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Busan, a coastal city known for its beaches, seafood markets, and harbour views. After checking in at the hotel, visit the National Science Museum with interactive exhibits on topics from astronomy to biology. In the afternoon, visit Haeundae Beach, walk along the beach, interact with locals, and explore the city streets. Return to the hotel or continue exploring on your own. (B)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast, visit Gamcheon Village, a revitalised area where refugees settled during the Korean War, known for its colorful houses and art installations. Then, attend a cooking class to learn about local specialities like bibimbap, followed by lunch. Next, visit Jagalchi Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market. Finally, take a cable car ride across the sea, enjoying views of the ocean, bridges, and coastal cliffs before stopping at Sky Harbor Observatory to appreciate the natural beauty of Busan's coastline. (B,L)

• Hotel Description

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before transferring to Busan Gimhae airport for your onward departure flight.