10-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through South Korea

Day 1: Arrival and Seoul Exploration

Seoul, South Korea on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Start your day with a nourishing bowl of Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), a traditional Korean delicacy, to energize for the day's sightseeing.
KRW15000, 1h0m

9:30am

Gyeongbokgung Palace Visit

Explore the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, with its impressive architecture and history. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony which happens hourly.
KRW3000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon or nearby Korean BBQ restaurant

Enjoy authentic Korean BBQ lunch featuring grilled meats like samgyeopsal in a local, atmospheric restaurant near the palace.
KRW20000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Bukchon Hanok Village Walk

Stroll through the Bukchon Hanok Village to admire traditional Korean houses and gain insight into local culture and architecture.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Insadong Cultural Street

Discover art galleries, craft shops, and tea houses in Insadong, perfect for picking up souvenirs and experiencing Korean tea culture.
Free entry, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mingles

Dine at Mingles, a Michelin-starred restaurant blending traditional Korean flavors with modern techniques, for a memorable gourmet experience.
KRW80000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Modern Seoul & Shopping

Seoul, South Korea on May 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Isaac Toast

Grab a quick and delicious Korean-style toasted sandwich from this popular local chain to fuel your morning.
KRW4000, 0h30m

9:30am

N Seoul Tower Visit

Take a cable car up to Namsan Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city and enjoy the locks of love area on the observation deck.
KRW11000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Myeongdong Kyoja

Taste handmade kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and dumplings at this popular, longstanding restaurant in Myeongdong.
KRW10000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Shopping in Myeongdong

Explore Myeongdong’s vibrant shopping streets packed with cosmetics shops, fashion boutiques, and street food vendors.
Free to browse, 3h0m

4:30pm

Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Enjoy contemporary architecture and exhibitions at DDP, and shop at the nearby Dongdaemun Night Market that opens later in the evening.
Free entry, 2h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari

Experience Dakhanmari, a whole chicken hot pot dish native to this area, perfect for sharing and savoring South Korean comfort food.
KRW18000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cultural Heritage in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Butterfinger Pancakes

Start with a Western-style breakfast featuring pancakes and coffee to prepare for a cultural day.
KRW20000, 1h0m

9:30am

Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden Tour

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Changdeokgung Palace, and take the guided tour of the beautiful Secret Garden, a highlight of Korean royal heritage.
KRW3000 (Palace) + KRW13000 (Garden guided tour), 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Revisit this famous spot for its rich and healthy ginseng chicken soup, ideal after a morning tour.
KRW15000, 1h0m

2:30pm

National Museum of Korea

Explore one of Asia’s largest museums showcasing Korea's extensive history and archaeological treasures.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Relax and enjoy a peaceful walk along this restored urban stream running through downtown Seoul, especially beautiful as the evening sets in.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gwangjang Market

Taste authentic Korean street food like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap at this traditional market, a favorite for evening food adventures.
KRW15000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to and Explore Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Have a light breakfast before your early train ride to Gyeongju.
KRW10000, 0h30m

8:00am

Travel to Gyeongju via KTX train

Take the high-speed KTX train from Seoul Station to Singyeongju Station, approximately a 2-hour journey.
KRW54000, 2h0m

10:30am

Check-in at accommodation and refresh

Settle into your accommodation in Gyeongju and get ready for an afternoon of cultural sightseeing.
Varies, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Gyeongju Ssambap

Enjoy Ssambap, a local specialty involving rice and side dishes wrapped in leafy vegetables, reflecting traditional Korean flavours.
KRW15000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Bulguksa Temple

Explore the stunning UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, known as a masterpiece of Buddhist art in the Silla kingdom.
KRW5000, 2h0m

4:00pm

Seokguram Grotto Tour

Visit this remarkable stone temple showcasing a magnificent Buddha statue and scenic surroundings, a short drive from Bulguksa.
KRW5000, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Dosol Maeul

Try traditional Korean Silla dynasty dishes at this well-known local restaurant.
KRW20000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Gyeongju Historical Sites

Gyeongju, South Korea on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Start with a wholesome breakfast to prepare for a day exploring historical treasures.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Anapji Pond

Stroll around the aesthetically restored artificial pond and palace site dating back to the Silla period, great for photos.
KRW3000, 1h0m

10:30am

Gyeongju National Museum

View relics from the Silla Kingdom era, including the famous Emille Bell and royal artifacts.
KRW3000, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ssambap Jeonmun Jip

Enjoy an authentic and filling Ssambap meal featuring fresh local vegetables.
KRW15000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tomb of King Munmu and Tumuli Park

Visit the ancient royal tombs and scenic Tumuli Park, showcasing large burial mounds surrounded by nature.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax in Gyeongju Downtown Café

Unwind at a local café with traditional tea or coffee, soaking in the historic town atmosphere.
KRW7000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hwangnam Bread Bakery

Try the famous Hwangnam bread, a sweet pastry specialty, alongside a savory Korean dinner nearby.
KRW12000, 1h0m
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Day 6: Busan Coastal Day

Busan, South Korea on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Have a quick breakfast to prepare for the trip to Busan.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Travel to Busan via KTX

Take a 1-hour KTX train from Singyeongju to Busan for a coastal city experience.
KRW17000, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Haeundae Beach

Relax or stroll along Busan's most famous beach with beautiful sandy shores and nearby attractions.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Millak Raw Fish Center

Experience fresh and delicious Korean seafood with choices of raw fish and grilled shellfish at this bustling market.
KRW25000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Gamcheon Culture Village

Explore this colorful, artistic village with street murals, quirky shops, and quaint cafés.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Jagalchi Fish Market

Walk through Korea's largest seafood market, vibrant in the evening with fresh catches and lively atmosphere.
Free to browse, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jagalchi Market stalls

Choose from an array of seafood dishes prepared on the spot at market stalls, offering a true Busan culinary experience.
KRW20000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Flight to Jeju Island

Jeju Island, South Korea on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Busan hotel before traveling to Jeju.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Flight to Jeju Island

Take a short 1-hour domestic flight from Busan to Jeju International Airport.
KRW50000, 1h0m

10:30am

Rent a car and check-in at Jeju accommodation

Pick up a rental car for convenient exploration and settle into your hotel.
KRW60000/day approx., 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Black Pork Street

Try Jeju’s famous black pork BBQ, a quintessential local delicacy with rich flavour.
KRW25000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Manjanggul Lava Tube

Explore one of the world’s longest lava tubes; a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
KRW2000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Climb or walk around this volcanic tuff cone famous for its spectacular sunrise views and panoramic sea vistas.
KRW2000, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at local seafood restaurant in Seogwipo

Relish fresh seafood caught in Jeju waters at a popular local restaurant.
KRW30000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Jeju Nature and Culture

Jeju Island, South Korea on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Jeju accommodation.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Hallasan National Park hiking

Hike one of the trails in Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain with beautiful flora and breathtaking views.
Free, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local Korean eatery

Sample healthy and refreshing Jeju-style seafood noodle soup or bibimbap near the park.
KRW12000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Jeju Folk Village Museum

Learn about Jeju’s unique traditional culture, customs, and architecture at this well-preserved folk village.
KRW10000, 2h0m

5:30pm

Relax at Hamdeok Beach

Enjoy the serene atmosphere and clear waters at Hamdeok Beach, perfect for sunset viewing.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at O'sulloc Tea House

Indulge in dishes and desserts infused with Jeju green tea, a local specialty, in a beautiful garden setting.
KRW15000, 1h30m
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Day 9: Jeju Island Exploration

Jeju Island, South Korea on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in hotel

Prepare for an active day with a fulfilling breakfast.
Included, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Jeongbang Waterfall

See one of the only waterfalls in Asia that falls directly into the ocean, a spectacular natural site.
KRW2000, 1h0m

10:30am

Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls visit

Walk a scenic trail visiting three waterfalls collectively known as the 'Pond of God', surrounded by lush forest.
KRW2000, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local Jeju seafood restaurant

Savor varied fresh seafood dishes, including Jeju abalone and sea urchin.
KRW25000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Spirited Garden

Explore this beautiful and tranquil garden that offers an impressive collection of bonsai trees and peaceful walking paths.
KRW7000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping at Jeju Dongmun Market

Browse local market goods including fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks for souvenirs.
Free entry, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Donsadon Black Pork BBQ

Enjoy one last dinner sampling the renowned Jeju black pork at this popular BBQ restaurant.
KRW30000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Return to Seoul & Departure

Jeju Island to Seoul, South Korea on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast before your flight back to Seoul.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Flight from Jeju Island to Seoul Gimpo Airport

Take a domestic flight back to Seoul, approx. 1 hour flight time.
KRW50000, 1h0m

10:00am

Transit to Incheon International Airport

Travel from Gimpo to Incheon International Airport via AREX train or limousine bus, allowing for international departure.
KRW9000, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Incheon Airport

Enjoy a variety of Korean dishes available at airport food courts before your flight.
KRW15000, 1h0m
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