Travel to South Korea: An Immersion in the Land of the Morning Calm

Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeju

Duration

18 Days

Category

Guided tour
French Accompanist

Date

Tuesday October 6 2026

Description

Discover South Korea, a true yet little-known gem of Northeast Asia, where ancient traditions and vibrant modernity come together in perfect harmony. This trip to South Korea immerses you in the heart of a fascinating country, rich in an exceptional heritage inherited from the great Silla and Joseon dynasties, whose carefully preserved ruins bear witness to a prestigious history.

Throughout your tour, explore Buddhist temples nestled in enchanting landscapes, dynamic urban neighborhoods where skyscrapers and traditional architecture coexist, as well as spectacular parks and gardens that burst with vibrant colors in spring and fall. Korean cuisine—healthy, varied, and delicious—will also enrich your experience through local markets and traditional restaurants.

From the capital Seoul, with its majestic royal palaces, to the bustling port city of Busan, via the cultural treasures of Gwangju, the traditional hanok houses of Jeonju, and the historic site of Gyeongju, this tour of South Korea offers a complete immersion in the heart of Korean culture.

An unforgettable journey through history, culture, landscapes, and modernity, revealing all the richness and authenticity of South Korea.

Highlights:
-Explore sites from the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul
-A perfect blend of palaces, temples, and markets for a diverse experience
-Traditional wooden houses (hanok) in Jeonju and Gyeongju
-Green tea tasting at a plantation in Boseong
-The vibrant energy of the port city of Busan
-Discover the unique culture of Jeju Island

Seoul: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun 5*
Jeonju: Best Western Plus 4*
Gwangju: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Gwangju 4*
Yeosu: Shilla Stay 4*
Daegu: Susung Spa Resort 4*
Gyeongju: Lahan Select 4*
Busan: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Haeundae 4*
Jeju: Regent Marine The Blue 4*

*These hotels are provided for informational purposes only and may be changed at any time to similar hotels.
*Hotel classifications comply with local standards in the country. Please note that hotel classification criteria differ from those in Canada.

The itinerary is subject to change without notice. The final itinerary will be available from your travel advisor!

The price shown is for two adults sharing a double room. Other dates and occupancy types (single, triple, or quadruple) may be available. Price available upon request*.

Inclusions

  • Flights with Air Canada or another carrier
  • All transfers
  • Transportation by deluxe motor coach
  • 2 domestic flights
  • Accommodation for 16 nights
  • 33 meals: 16 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 10 dinners
  • Services of a tour director
  • Services of a tour guide
  • Included activities (unless optional $):
  • Visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace
  • Visit to the National Folk Museum of Korea
  • Visit to the Jongmyo Shrine (exterior only)
  • Elevator ride to the top of N Seoul Tower
  • Welcome dinner
  • Visit to the Mangbaedan Altar
  • Visit to the Third Tunnel of Aggression (DMZ)
  • Visit to the Dora Observatory
  • Visit to the War Memorial of Korea
  • Discovery of Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Visit to the National Museum of Korea
  • Visit to Gwangjang Market
  • Visit to the Hwaseong Fortress
  • Visit to the traditional district of Jeonju
  • Visit to Gyeonggijeon Shrine
  • Walk along Gwangju Art Street
  • Visit to the historic and cultural district of Yangnim-dong
  • Panoramic view from the observation tower at Sajik Park
  • Green tea tasting near the Boseong Green Tea Plantation
  • Visit to the Suncheon Bay National Garden
  • Stop at Haeinsa Temple
  • Walk along Suseong Lake
  • Musical fountain show at Suseong Lake
  • Walk through Seomun Market
  • Cable car ride up Apsan Mountain
  • Visit to Donghwasa Temple
  • Pass by Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
  • Visit to Bulguksa Temple
  • Visit to Seokguram Grotto
  • Walk through the Tumuli Park
  • Visit to the Cheonmachong Tomb
  • Stop at Cheomseongdae Observatory
  • Visit to the Gyeongju National Museum
  • Walk along Hwangridan-gil
  • Stop at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
  • Stop at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery
  • Visit to Gamcheon Culture Village
  • Walk through Jagalchi Fish Market
  • Flight from Busan to Jeju Island
  • Visit to the Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum
  • Visit to the Haenyeo Museum
  • Admission to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
  • Visit to Ilchul Land
  • Walk through Micheon Cave
  • Visit to Yakcheonsa Temple
  • Flight from Jeju Island to Seoul
  • Farewell dinner
  • Audio guides
  • First checked baggage fee with the airline
  • Taxes and service charges
  • Compensation Fund for Clients of Travel Agents (FICAV)

Exclusions

  • All travel or personal insurance policies (trip cancellation/interruption, emergency medical, baggage and other necessary policies)
  • Tips
  • Meals and drinks not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Optional excursions during stopovers and any other excursions or activities not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Personal expenses
  • Luggage handling fees
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Departure on Tuesday October 6th 2026

Places available

10 Persons

Itinerary

Flight to Seoul Departure for South Korea with flights to Seoul, a fascinating capital where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with futuristic modernity. Overnight flight.

Arrival in Seoul Arrival at Incheon International Airport and welcome by your tour guide. Transfer to Seoul and check in at your hotel for a four-night stay. Enjoy your first introduction to the vibrant atmosphere of the South Korean capital before the included dinner.

Seoul Highlights A full day dedicated to discovering the historical and cultural treasures of Seoul. Visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, renowned for its elegant architecture and colourful royal guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate. Within the palace grounds, discover the National Folk Museum of Korea to learn more about traditional Korean life and customs. Free time in the lively Insadong district, famous for its art galleries, artisan shops, and traditional tea houses. In the afternoon, stop at the Jongmyo Shrine (exterior view), an important spiritual site dedicated to the rulers of the Joseon Dynasty. The day concludes atop Namsan Park with a visit to the iconic N Seoul Tower offering spectacular panoramic views over the city. Welcome dinner near the hotel.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Korean War History Departure for the famous Korean Demilitarized Zone, the symbolic border separating North and South Korea since the Korean War. Along the way, travel through Imjingak and Freedom Road before visiting significant sites such as Mangbaedan Altar and the Freedom Bridge. You will then explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel built by North Korea and visit Dora Observatory, offering remarkable views over the DMZ, North Korea, and Panmunjom, where the 1953 armistice was signed. Return to Seoul and visit the moving War Memorial of Korea, dedicated to the history of the Korean War through exhibits and military displays.

Traditions and Culture in Seoul Discover the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, famous for its traditional hanok houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Its preserved alleys offer one of Seoul’s most beautiful historic settings. Continue to the National Museum of Korea, home to impressive artistic and historical treasures from across the country. Then immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, renowned for its street food and traditional Korean specialties.

Seoul – Suwon – Jeonju Travel to Suwon to discover the spectacular Hwaseong Fortress, an impressive UNESCO-listed defensive complex. Highlights include the temporary Haenggung Palace as well as the massive gates, towers, and walls surrounding Mount Paldalsan. Continue to Jeonju, renowned for its cuisine and traditional hanok village. Visit the traditional district and the Gyeonggijeon Shrine, built in the 15th century to honour King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty.

Jeonju – Gwangju Departure for Gwangju, one of the country’s leading artistic and historical centres. Stroll along Gwangju Art Street, lined with galleries, artist workshops, and cafés. Discover May 18 Democratic Square, an important symbol of Korea’s democratic movement, followed by a walk through Yangnim Cultural District and the famous Penguin Village with its colourful murals and creative alleyways. The day concludes with panoramic views from Sajik Park

Boseong – Suncheon – Yeosu A day immersed in the natural beauty of southwestern Korea. Discover the famous green tea plantations of Daehan Dawon in Boseong, whose rolling green hills are among the country’s most iconic landscapes. Tea tasting included. Continue to the Suncheon Bay National Garden, a vast landscaped park featuring international gardens, flowers, and impressive biodiversity. Travel along the scenic Suncheon Bay before arriving in Yeosu, a charming coastal city.

Gayasan National Park and Daegu Departure for Daegu with a stop at the renowned Haeinsa Temple, one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples. Located within Gayasan National Park, the temple houses the treasured Tripitaka Koreana, a remarkable collection of Buddhist scriptures carved onto wooden blocks in the 13th century. In the evening, enjoy a walk around Suseong Lake in Daegu and, weather permitting, its musical fountain show.

Daegu – Gyeongju Visit the famous Seomun Market, one of the country’s largest traditional markets. Ride the cable car up Mount Apsan for breathtaking views over Daegu and the surrounding mountains. Visit the Buddhist Donghwasa Temple before continuing to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom and a UNESCO-listed open-air museum. In the evening, admire Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond as well as the magnificent covered Woljeonggyo Bridge.

Gyeongju’s Cultural Treasures A full day dedicated to the cultural highlights of Gyeongju. Visit the prestigious Bulguksa Temple, considered Korea’s most revered Buddhist temple. Continue to the Seokguram Grotto and its impressive granite Buddha statue. Stroll through Tumuli Park, home to the royal tombs of the Silla Dynasty, before stopping at Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest astronomical observatory in Asia.

Gyeongju: Tradition Meets Modernity Visit the Gyeongju National Museum, showcasing remarkable royal treasures from the Silla Dynasty. Walk along Hwangridan-gil, known for its perfect blend of traditional hanok houses, trendy cafés, and local boutiques. Free afternoon to enjoy Gyeongju’s unique atmosphere or explore the scenic Bomun Lake area.

Gyeongju – Busan Travel to Busan with a stop at the magnificent Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a spectacular seaside Buddhist temple overlooking the ocean. Stop at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery honouring soldiers who fought during the Korean War. Arrival in Busan, a dynamic port city renowned for its beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and international film festival.

Discovering Busan Visit the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, famous for its steep alleys, pastel-coloured houses, and artistic murals. Continue to the iconic Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Korea. Free afternoon to explore the city, enjoy panoramic views from Busan Tower, or ride the Songdo Marine Cable Car above the bay.

Busan – Jeju Island Flight to Jeju Island, Korea’s largest island, celebrated for its volcanic landscapes and unique culture. Visit the Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum followed by the Haenyeo Museum dedicated to the island’s famous female divers. The day concludes at the spectacular Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, offering breathtaking ocean views.

Jeju Island Discover Ilchul Land with its themed gardens, sculptures, and volcanic formations. Visit the magnificent Yakcheonsa Temple before enjoying a farewell dinner celebrating the end of your Korean adventure.

Jeju – Seoul Domestic flight back to Seoul. Free time to enjoy the South Korean capital one final time at your leisure.

Seoul ✈ Return Transfer to the airport in Seoul for your return flight. End of this fascinating journey through South Korea, featuring ancient traditions, spectacular landscapes, and captivating modern culture.

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