Golden Route South Korea

Duration: 8 Days | 7 Nights
Dates: All year-round possible (May - October recommended)
Low Season: January – February, 7-14 Mar, 7-28 Feb, 7-14 Mar, 11-25 Apr, 19-30 May, June, 29 Aug, September, 10-17,31 Oct, November, 5-12 Dec
High Season: 21 Mar, 28 Mar,4 Apr, 2 May, 4 Jul, 11 Jul, 18 Jul, 25 Jul, 1 Aug, 8 Aug, 15 Aug, 22 Aug, 24 Oct, 19 Dec Countries to be visited: South Korea
Departure & Return Locations: Incheon International Airport, Seoul

Pack Ya Bags Travel offer many tours to South Korea, whether you prefer traditional and accessible Korea sightseeing, or are in the mood for something more obscure. Likewise, Korea offers destinations and experience that cater both to adventurous eco-tourists and culture-minded city slickers.

When it comes to places to visit in South Korea, most travelers default to Seoul (and, in rare cases Busan, the country’s second city). The vast land between the two cities, filled with charming towns and villages, stunning scenery and food so delicious, goes all too often ignored. This tour is an example of a set itinerary to introduce you to the best of South Korea with an English-Speaking guide and 4* accommodation throughout. It offers you a wide range of attractions, sightseeing and experience with natural wonders, attractive culture and authentic Korean tradition, giving you an immersive impression of Korea.

Day 1: Incheon Seoul
Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, renowned for its exceptional service and awarded World's Best in Airport Service Quality by the Airport Council International, you will be greeted by our representative. You will then be transferred to Seoul, the vibrant center of politics, economy, and culture in Korea. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, allowing you to begin your journey in Seoul with the freedom to discover the city at your own pace.

Day 2: Seoul
At 09:00, you'll be picked up from your hotel to embark on a full day of sightseeing in Seoul. Begin with a visit to Jogyesa Temple, a serene oasis in the heart of the city, followed by a tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace (with Deoksu Palace as an alternative on Tuesdays). Experience the impressive Royal Guard Changing Ceremony and explore the National Folk Museum. You will also have the option to visit either the Korean Ginseng Center or an Amethyst shop. Next, transfer to the Korean Folk Village, located about an hour and a half drive from Seoul. Here, you can immerse yourself in the culture of the late Joseon Dynasty, exploring a large village featuring around 260 traditional houses from various provinces. After a day rich in cultural experiences, return to Seoul and enjoy some rest.

Day 3: Seoul – Gongju – Jeonju
At 07:30 am, meet your driver at your hotel for transfer to the meeting point at the parking lot in front of Donghwa Duty Free Shop Building, located at Gwanghwamun Intersection, Seoul. Depart Seoul at 08:00 am and travel to Gongju, approximately 130 kilometers away (about 1.5 hours). In Gongju, visit the Tomb of King Muryeong, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore Gongsanseong Fortress, also recognized by UNESCO. Next, proceed to Jeonju, roughly 80 kilometers away (about 1 hour), to visit Jeonju Hanok Village, home to around 700 traditional Korean houses known as Hanok. Afterward, check into your hotel in Jeonju and enjoy some leisure time to relax and explore at your own pace.

Day 4: Jeonju – Gwangju – Suncheon – Yeosu
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Gwangju, located approximately 100 kilometers away (about 1 hour 20 minutes). As the leading city of the Honam region and a birthplace of Korea's modern democratic movement, Gwangju is home to the May 18th National Cemetery, which you will visit. Next, continue to Suncheon, about 100 kilometers away (approximately 1 hour), to explore the beautiful Suncheon Bay Garden. Proceed to Yeosu, a charming port city, where you can visit the Historic Site of Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s Path. Finally, check in to your hotel in Yeosu and enjoy some rest.

Day 5: Gwangyang – Jinju – Busan – Gyeongju
After breakfast at your hotel, start your day with a visit to Jinjuseong Fortress, historically significant due to its connection with the Japanese invasion in 1592. Then, travel to Busan, approximately 100 kilometers away (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival at Gimhae Domestic Airport, depart from the airport (1st floor, Ticket office of the bus) and meet for the KS203 tour at 1:00 PM in front of Toyoko Inn Hotel 1, Busan Station. The tour will take you to Jagalchi Fishery Market, Busan’s largest seafood market, followed by visits to Haeundae Beach and Dongbaek Park. Afterward, transfer to Gyeongju, a journey of around 100 kilometers (1.5 hours). Check into your hotel in Gyeongju and enjoy some leisure time.

Day 6: Gyeongju – Andong – Pyeongchang
After breakfast at your hotel, start your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Seokguram Grotto, followed by a tour of Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO site renowned for its stunning architecture and artistic stone relics that attract praise from visitors worldwide. Continue your journey to Andong Hahoe Folk Village, located about 170 kilometers away (approximately 2.5 hours). Arrive at the parking lot of this UNESCO-listed village, which preserves traditional Joseon Dynasty architecture and village layout. The village is naturally inhabited and gained international fame following a visit by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. After exploring the village, depart for Pyeongchang, the host city of the Winter Olympics, located about 234 kilometers away (approximately 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel in Pyeongchang and enjoy some leisure time.

Day 7: Pyeongchang – Mt. Sorak – Seoul
After breakfast at your hotel, start the day with a visit to the venue of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, including the Ski Jumping Stadium (excluding the Tower). Then, proceed to Mt. Seorak National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Preservation District located approximately 50 kilometers away (about 1 hour). The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes where the peaks of the Seoraksan Mountains pierce the clouds and jade-colored waters flow through the valleys, making it Korea's most famous national park. Due to its diverse range of rare species, UNESCO designated it a Biosphere Preservation District in 1982. An optional cable car ride to Gwongeumseong Fortress is available for an additional AUD $29/NZD $32 per person. After exploring the park, transfer to Seoul, a journey of approximately 195 kilometers (around 3 hours). You are expected to arrive in Seoul by 18:00 PM.

Note: Please note that during peak season in October, Seoraksan National Park may restrict bus entries, requiring visitors to park at C District Square and walk 3.6 kilometers to the park entrance. This may affect the feasibility of visiting the park on this tour.

Day 8: Seoul
You will be picked up from your hotel 4 hours before your flight departure to transfer to Incheon International Airport. Please wait for the driver in your hotel lobby 4 hours prior to your flight's departure time. Make sure to check out of the hotel before 12:00 and leave your luggage at the hotel for safekeeping while you enjoy your remaining time.

Tour Price
• Price shown is for a person based on twin share accommodation.
• All prices displayed are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice.
• Prices are guaranteed once booking is confirmed by us and paid in full by the due date.
• Depending on your needs and group size (individual, couple, family, group, etc.) we will provide the final pricing for your tour.
• It may not be possible to visit Mt. Seorak at high peak season (Summer & Fall) due to large crowds.

Inclusions:
• Hotel in twin sharing with breakfast
• Transfers
• English speaking local Guide
• Admission (some attractions not included)

Exclusions:
• International airfare
• Travel Insurance (required)
• Airport taxes and charges
• Any Private Expenses
• Meals not mentioned (Lunch & Dinner)
• Personal Incidentals such as Telephone calls, Room Service, Laundry
• Tip to Guide/Driver, Porterage Fee and others which are personal in nature
• Other services not mentioned in the itinerary

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.