UNESCO World Heritage Tour in South Korea

Upon your arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be welcomed by a representative who will assist in transferring you to the hotel by private car.

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Start your day in Seoul with a visit to Deoksugung Palace, a striking remnant of the Joseon Dynasty. Continue your exploration at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal residence boasting 330 buildings and home to The National Folk Museum, showcasing Korean history and culture. If time permits, catch the ceremonial changing of the guard at Gwanghwamun Gate.

After savouring authentic Korean cuisine for lunch, head to Hanyangdoseong, the historic Seoul City Wall, for a stroll with panoramic views. Round off your day at N Seoul Tower in Namsan Park, offering breathtaking vistas of the cityscape before returning to your hotel for the evening. (B,L)

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After breakfast, depart for Jeonju by private car, with a stop in Suwon to visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, Hwaseong Fortress. Built during the late Joseon Period, this fortress showcases unique military structures symbolising the king's dedication to his father and the city's prosperity. Continue your journey to Jeonju, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant en route.

Jeonju, famous for being the birthplace of bibimbap, offers a rich cultural and culinary experience. Explore the well-preserved Hanok Village and indulge in the vibrant food scene upon arrival. Put on your walking shoes to explore the historic city fortress, dating back to the Baekje Kingdom, and enjoy scenic views of Jeonju city. The evening is yours to explore the city's charming restaurants and cafes at your leisure. (B,L)

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Start your full day of exploration in Jeonju at the majestic Pungnammun Gate, the last remaining city gate from the 14th century. Then, proceed to Jeondong Catholic Church, known for its stunning architecture, and Gyeonggijeon Shrine, housing the royal portrait of the Joseon Dynasty's founder.

Continue your tour at the Gyeonggijeon Palace complex, dating back to the 15th century and serving as the spiritual centre of the dynasty. Explore historic scrolls documenting the kings' activities, hidden during the Japanese occupation. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local culture at the Jeonju Traditional Centre, featuring crafts, performances and cultural activities.

Wrap up your day with a visit to Nambu Market, a bustling marketplace offering a variety of food stalls, crafts, and goods, providing a vibrant glimpse into Jeonju's local life and traditions.

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Check out this morning and head to Gwangju by private car, a four-hour journey. Make a stop at Mount Jiri's base to visit Hwaeomsa Temple, renowned for its beauty and history. After lunch, explore Gwangju's cultural and historical sites, including 5-18 Memorial Park, Gwangju Folk Museum and Daein Art Market, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant arts scene. (B,L)

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After breakfast, check out of the hotel and start your drive to Busan with a stop in Jinju to visit the historic Jinju Castle and Jinjuseong Fortress, notable for their role in the late 16th century Japanese invasion.

After lunch in Jinju, the trip moves forward to Busan for an afternoon exploration of Korean War-related sites, including the Provisional Capital Government Office, Memorial Hall and the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, all providing picturesque views of the city.

The evening tour explores Busan's Haeundae area, renowned for its beach and vibrant streets. On top of this, enjoy a foodie walking tour and visit local bars for cocktails, concluding with the option to return to the hotel or explore the city's nightlife independently. (B,L,D)

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After breakfast, join your guide to Seongbulsa Temple, nestled at the foot of Jangsan Mountain. A short hike brings you to the temple, known for its serene ambience and a striking golden Buddha statue. Then explore Jagalchi Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market, brimming with vibrant activity and an array of fresh catches.

In the afternoon, wander through Gamcheon Village, once a haven for war refugees and now transformed into a colourful hub of art and culture. The day ends with a cable car ride offering breathtaking views of the ocean and a stop at Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge for more scenic vistas. (B)

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After breakfast, check out and travel by private car to Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage Site once the capital of the 8th century Silla Kingdom that boasts a wealth of historical sites, including palaces, temples and tombs. The tour begins at Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, showcasing the architectural and artistic mastery of the Silla Kingdom with Buddhist carvings and wooden buildings.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant before a visit to Gyeongju National Museum, offering insights into Silla dynasty art and culture. The tour continues to Daereungwon Tomb complex, featuring over 20 Silla period tombs, including Cheonmachong Tomb. Finally, walk to Woljeong Bridge, a historical gateway linking Silla's royal palaces, and conclude at Woljie Pond, part of the ancient Silla palace complex. (B,L)

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After breakfast at the temple, check out and drive to Yangdong Folk Village, a traditional yangban (Korean Aristocracy) village from the Joseon dynasty. Home to over 160 traditional-style houses ('hanok'), the village features tile or thatched roofs and other Joseon-era buildings amidst stunning natural scenery. You can explore the village shrine, Confucius school and the noble house of the village head while strolling along the village trail to admire the well-preserved hanoks.

Afterwards, drive north for approximately two hours to the Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, established in 1574 and recognised as a UNESCO heritage site. After the visit, transfer to Andong station and board the KTX Express Train to Seoul. Upon arrival in Seoul, a driver awaits at the station to transfer you to the hotel for check-in. (B)

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After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide for a tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The DMZ, a border barrier between South and North Korea, is steeped in history and intrigue. Spend time exploring various sites and exhibitions at the DMZ, including Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum and Dora Observatory.

In the evening, head to Namdaemun Market, the largest, oldest and most popular traditional market in Seoul, which opened in 1414 during the Joseon era. Today, you will find vendors selling a vast array of Korean food and drink, as well as handicrafts and other souvenir items. (B)

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Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your onward departure flight. (B)