A Luxurious 8-Day Itinerary to Explore South Korea

1. Day 1: Seoul City
   1-hour (20 km) from Incheon International Airport

   Arrive in Seoul, check into the Ritz Carlton Hotel, and explore the city. Visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace to see ancient Korean architecture, head to the Myeong-dong Shopping District for luxury shopping, and try delicious Korean cuisine at the trendy Jungsik Restaurant.

2. Day 2: Jeju Island
   1-hour (460 km) flight from Seoul

   Escape to the scenic gem of South Korea, Jeju Island. Visit the natural wonder of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, explore the Manjanggul Cave - the longest lava tube in the world, and head to the luxurious Haevichi Hotel & Resort for a day of pampering and relaxation at their spa.

3. Day 3: Busan City
   4-hour (250 km) drive from Jeju Island

   After flying back to Seoul, take a high-speed KTX train to the second largest city in South Korea, Busan. Visit the Gamcheon Cultural Village to experience the unique colourful alleys and art installations. Explore the Kukje Market to find special handicrafts, and then head to the Paradise Hotel Busan for a luxurious stay and seaside views.

4. Day 4: Gyeongju City
   3-hour (220 km) drive from Busan City

   Explore the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty, Gyeongju City. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. Take a stroll in the Anapji Pond park, and stay at the The Suites Hotel Gyeongju for a luxurious stay with a traditional Korean outdoor hot spring.

5. Day 5: Andong City
   2-hour (100 km) drive from Gyeongju City

   Discover the historic town of Andong. Visit the Hahoe Folk Village to witness ancient Confucian traditions, and head to the Woryeonggyo Bridge for scenic beauty. Stay at the Temple Stay - Bongjeongsa Temple to experience monastery culture and meditation.

6. Day 6: Gangneung City
   3-hour (200 km) drive from Andong City

   Enjoy the seaside city of Gangneung. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Jeongdongjin and its sunrise viewing spot. Learn about the Korean tea ceremony at the Ojukheon House and try local cuisine at the luxurious Casa Seorak Bed & Breakfast.

7. Day 7: Suwon City
   2-hour (50 km) drive from Gangneung City

   Discover the modern city of Suwon. Visit the ancient Hwaseong Fortress to learn about Korean history. Explore the Yeonmudae to see army training practices, and stay at the luxurious Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul for a spa retreat.

8. Day 8: Departure
   1-hour (60 km) drive from Suwon City

   Depart from Incheon International Airport after a memorable vacation.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (2 hours, ₩3,000)
• Myeong-dong Shopping District (3 hours, variable costs)
• Jungsik Restaurant (2 hours, ₩80,000)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (2 hours, ₩2,000)
• Manjanggul Cave (2 hours, ₩2,000)
• Haevichi Hotel & Resort (1 day, ₩200,000)
• Gamcheon Cultural Village (3 hours, ₩5,000)
• Kukje Market (2 hours, variable costs)
• Paradise Hotel Busan (1 day, ₩300,000)
• Bulguksa Temple (3 hours, ₩5,000)
• Seokguram Grotto (2 hours, ₩5,000)
• Anapji Pond (2 hours, ₩1,500)
• The Suites Hotel Gyeongju (1 day, ₩250,000)
• Hahoe Folk Village (3 hours, ₩3,000)
• Woryeonggyo Bridge (1 hour, free)
• Temple Stay - Bongjeongsa Temple (1 day, ₩100,000)
• Jeongdongjin (1 hour, free)
• Ojukheon House (2 hours, ₩3,000)
• Casa Seorak Bed & Breakfast (1 day, ₩200,000)
• Hwaseong Fortress (3 hours, ₩1,500)
• Yeonmudae (2 hours, free)
• Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul (1 day, ₩500,000)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding flights and accommodations): ₩1,722,500

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider exploring the beaches of Busan or the mountainous region of Seoraksan National Park. If you have less time, consider removing Andong City from the itinerary. Remember to check the weather and plan accordingly. Book accommodations and popular reservations ahead of time to avoid disappointment.