Best of South Korea

After enjoying complimentary airport lounge access, you’ll board your overnight flight to the Korean capital.

On arrival in Seoul, you’ll be met at the airport by a private driver and brought to your central accommodation. You’ll have rest of the arrival day at leisure, settling in to sample the city’s neon energy, skyscraping sights and moreish barbecue joints.  A privately guided tour the followingg day will include many of the city’s standout sights, including the majestic pavilions of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the beautifully preserved hanok homes of Bukchon Hanok Village, the atmospheric lanes of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village and the artisan-filled streets of Insadong. Meanwhile, those drawn to vibrant local culture will find plenty to explore among the bustling stalls of Namdaemun Market.

Stay: Gracery Hotel Seoul (Superior) or Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun (Deluxe)

Today’s private tour will see you strike east out of Seoul, driving through the countryside to reach Daepohang, a thriving port town. Here, you’ll visit its fish market, where all sorts of exotic seafood are hawked from live aquariums. Then, you’ll continue past golden sands to Naskana, a pretty temple of sweeping curves and giant statues that sits right on a cragged cliff face. Then, it’s on to the emerald pine forests and stunning rock formations of Mt. Seoraksan, showcased on a cable-car ride to the mountain-wide views of Gwonkeumsansung Fortress and Sinheungsa, thought to be the oldest Zen temple in the world.

Stay: Sea Cruise Sokcho Hotel (Superior) or Lotte Resort Sokcho (Deluxe)

Your private touring today will see you to Danyang where rushing rivers are backdropped by majestic mountain ranges. You’ll take it in with a lake boat cruise, bringing you to Dodam Sambong – a miniature island that houses a 14th-century pavilion hidden among spindling rocks. You’ll then continue to Andong where you’ll stay right among its tiered temples in a 130-year-old hanok guesthouse. It’s not a luxurious experience, but truly authentic, complete with antique furniture, jade flooring, sleeping mats and hinoki wooden baths. You’ll be welcomed with green tea brewed by the owner before settling in to relax in the bamboo-lined garden or firewood-heated sauna.

Stay: Rakkojae Hanok Guesthouse or similar

Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is a living showcase of Korea’s cultural legacy, where centuries of history are woven into temple-filled hillsides, royal tombs and timeless village landscapes. Discover its remarkable heritage on privately guided excursions, taking in serene lakeside palaces, centuries-old Buddhist sanctuaries and some of the country’s most treasured UNESCO-listed landmarks, including Bulguksa and Seokguram. Along the way, explore the fascinating collections of Gyeongju National Museum and wander among the ancient royal burial mounds of Daereungwon Tomb Complex, whose grassy tumuli have endured for over a millennium. The city is also home to Cheomseongdae, regarded as the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia and among the earliest anywhere in the world.

Stay: Commodore Hotel Gyeongju (Superior) or Lahan Select Hotel (Deluxe)

South Korea’s dynamic second city, Busan pairs soaring modern skylines with sweeping sandy beaches and a distinctly laid-back coastal charm. Discover the city’s creative spirit in the colourful hillside lanes of Gamcheon Culture Village before gliding high above the shoreline aboard the Songdo Marine Cable Car to the clifftop walkways and ocean vistas of Amnam Park. Back in the heart of the city, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jagalchi Market, famed for its exceptional seafood and vibrant local character. Your stay on the beachfront offers ample opportunity to unwind by the sea, with fresh-caught delicacies and coastal views never far away.

Stay: ASTI Hotel Busan Station (Superior) or Paradise Hotel Busan (Deluxe)

Explore the volcanic landscapes and coastal beauty of Jeju Island on this privately guided full-day tour. Begin at Hyeopjae Beach, where white sands and crystal-clear waters frame views of the offshore island of Biyangdo. Continue to Suwolbong Peak and its UNESCO-recognised Geo Trail, where dramatic cliffs and ocean panoramas reveal the island’s volcanic origins.  Inland, visit the rolling tea plantations surrounding Osulloc Tea Museum, a peaceful setting to discover Korea’s celebrated green tea culture amid vivid emerald fields. The tour concludes at Jusangjeolli Cliff, where striking basalt columns rise from the shoreline in one of Jeju’s most spectacular natural formations. Shaped by ancient lava flows and pounded by the sea below, it provides a fitting finale to a day spent exploring the island’s extraordinary scenery.

Stay: ASTA Hotel Jeju  (Superior) or Lotte Hotel Jeju (Deluxe)

Your last internal flight, again sandwiched by private transfers, will see you to a day and half of exclusive tours of the Korean capital. Explore the lively streets of Hongdae, a creative district known for its street art, independent boutiques and café culture, offering a glimpse into the city’s youthful energy. In contrast, a visit to the Museum of Tteok in Jongno reveals Korea’s culinary traditions through the history and artistry of its much-loved rice cakes, providing insight into a more traditional side of Seoul life. Experience Seoul’s contemporary character with visits to COEX Mall and the striking Starfield Library, famed for its soaring bookshelves and modern design. Continue through the creative neighbourhood of Seongsu-dong and the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza before finishing at N Seoul Tower, where panoramic views extend across the capital skyline.

Stay: Gracery Hotel Seoul (Superior) or Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun (Deluxe)

After breakfast, a final private transfer will see you to the airport for your flight home.