Duration(in days): 4
From: Seoul
To: Seoul
See more ideas for: South Korea
Discover the best of Seoul on this stopover in South Korea. Enjoy exploring the capital city of Seoul with visits to palaces, museums and temples, before strolling through cool neighbourhoods looking for coffee and fried chicken. Spend the day exploring the DMZ on the border with North Korea and finish with an exciting food tour, showing the best of Korean soju, craft beers and live street music.
On arrival in Seoul, you’ll be met at the airport and driven to your hotel in the city. Welcome to Seoul, where ancient traditions meet modern day life. Spend the next few days exploring the temples, markets and skyscrapers of the city.
On Day 2, we’ve included a full day tour of the city, exploring with a guide using public transport. Start with a walk to Gwanghwamun Square, a popular space where you’ll often find locals performing or exhibiting art. Next you’ll visit Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok) Palace, one of the most beautiful of Seoul’s five palaces, with 330 buildings in the whole complex. If time allows, you’ll get to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, which takes place at 10am and 2pm at Gwanghwamun Gate.
Enjoy a delicious local lunch in Insadong before continuing to explore the city – first with a stop at Jogyesa Temple, the heart of Korean Buddhism. Founded in the late 14th century, it has been a central figure in the religion's history, particularly during the Japanese occupation. After this you’ll stop by Changdeokgung Palace, another palace from the Joseon dynasty which is famous for its Secret Garden, where man-made structures were built in harmony with the natural surroundings. Finish your day with a stroll through Ikseondong Coffee Street, a trendy neighbourhood in Seoul known for its charming hanok (traditional Korean houses) transformed into cool cafes, restaurants and shops.
On Day 3, you’ll head out of the city on a shared tour to explore the DMZ, the Korean Demilitarized Zone, an area steeped in history. On arrival at the border of North Korea you'll spend time exploring the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and the Dora Observatory. You'll return back to Seoul in the early afternoon to relax at your hotel before heading out in the evening to enjoy some local food. You'll be exploring Hongdae, a vibrant university district, where you can taste Korean soju, craft beers and trendy cocktails as well as tteokbokki or Korean fried chicken.
After breakfast, you'll be met at the hotel and driven to the airport for your onwards flight.
South Korea enjoys relatively simple seasonal weather - cold, snowy winters, pleasant springs, muggy, damp summers and crunchy autumns. Spring and autumn are our favourite times to visit, with ideal weather for exploring and enjoying the cherry blossom or autumn leaves.
3 nights accommodation
Return airport transfers
Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
Flights
Any meals not mentioned
Any excursions not mentioned
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities