10-Day Best of South Korea 2026

Tour Code 683-21069 Language English
From
US$6095
¥41137
€5278
C$8542
Rs.579903

Highlights

Experience the Best of South Korea, from Seoul’s royal palaces to Busan’s coastal charm, uncovering centuries of history, bold flavors and local traditions. Ride high-speed trains, taste street food at Gwangjang Market and sample traditional rice wine, or makgeolli, with an official registered makgeolli master. With every stop, you’ll get to know the true spirit of this dynamic country.
  • Explore Seoul, Andong, Gyeongju and Busan
  • Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong Street, Gwangjang Market, Changdeokgung Palace, the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Bongjeongsa Temple, Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, Hahoe Village, Hahoe World Mask Museum, Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa Temple, Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Donggung Palace, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Dongbaekseom Island, Gamcheon Cultural Village and Gukje Market
  • See Gwanghwamun plaza, Woljeonggyo Bridge and The United Nations Memorial Cemetery
  • Scenic Train Ride on the Skyline Park Sky Capsule
  • Visit the Songdu Sea Cable Car
  • A hands-on dining experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is the food. You’ll sizzle up meats like bulgogi, galbi or pork belly right at the table, paired with a spread of banchan (side dishes) like kimchi and pickled vegetables. A favorite across South Korea and beyond, it’s a must-try meal that brings people together over bold flavors and good company. 
  • Seoul: Step into the past at Gyeongbokgung Palace for the Changing of the Guard but this is no ordinary ceremony — it’s a full display of royal tradition, just as it was centuries ago in the days of the Joseon Dynasty. Expect guards in colorful uniforms, traditional weapons in hand, and the rhythmic beats of drums in a ceremony once held to protect the king.
  • Seoul: Join a tasting tour through the buzzing Gwangjang Market, one of the capital’s oldest and liveliest street markets. Snack your way through crispy nokdujeon, bite-sized mayak gimbap, spicy tteokbokki, and of course, Korea’s iconic kimchi — this is street food at its best.
  • Seoul: Step into history at the Korean Demilitarized Zone, one of the world’s most heavily guarded borders. A powerful experience offering you a rare glimpse into Korea’s divided past and hopes for the future.
  • This centuries-old performance mixes humor, history and tradition with bold masks and sharp satire. You’ll be right in the action, watching the stories unfold before meeting the performers for a private lesson — learning the moves and getting a real feel for this unique Korean tradition. 
  • Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been home to the Ryu clan for over 600 years. Tucked into a bend of the Nakdong River, its thatched and tile-roofed houses sit beneath a 600-year-old tree, believed to protect the village. It’s a true step back into Korea’s past.
  • Gyeongju: Discover the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Silla-era Buddhist architecture, home to intricate pagodas and national treasures. Nearby, see the Seokguram Grotto, where a 3.5-meter-tall granite Buddha has stood since 774 AD, regarded as one of the finest in the world.  
  • Busan: Glide above the coastline on the Skyline Park Sky Capsule, a colorful elevated railway with panoramic views over Busan’s waterfront. Sit back and watch the city and ocean unfold from this fun, retro-style ride. 
  • Busan: Explore the colorful streets of Gamcheon Cultural Village, where a once-forgotten hillside settlement has become a lively mix of murals, cafes and local art shops. Built by Korean War refugees in the 1950s, this vibrant neighborhood is now one of Busan’s most unique and creative spots to visit. 
  • Busan: Soar 86 meters above the sea on the Songdo Sea Cable Car, gliding from Songnim Park to Amnam Park with unbeatable views over Songdo Beach and the coastline. Sit back and enjoy a whole new perspective of Busan’s stunning waterfront. 
  • Andong: Join your host Jongbu Kim Do-Eun for an experience that celebrates Korea’s rich culinary heritage. Inspired by Soowoonjapbang, a Joseon-era cookbook passed down through generations, this home-hosted dinner brings traditional recipes to life. You'll enjoy authentic flavors and dishes that have been part of Korean culture for centuries.
  • Gyeongju: In Gyeongju, you’ll stay overnight at this award-winning hotel, a striking S-shaped architectural feat built using cutting-edge techniques. Designed by Hyundai Engineering & Construction, its 360-degree curved facade offers a unique view from every angle. A landmark of modern design, blending innovation with comfort in the heart of Gyeongju.
  • Busan: Meet Yoo Cheong-gil, the sixth-generation owner of Geumjeongsanseong Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, and the only officially recognized makgeolli master in South Korea. Step inside his brewery to learn about the centuries-old rice wine tradition, taste the difference from mass-produced versions, and hear why preserving this craft matters as he searches for the next generation to carry it forward. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. 

Dates & Prices

Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)

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Itinerary

Includes & Excludes

Price Includes

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 9 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Lunch (L)
  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Additional Notes

  • DAY 1: Complimentary arrival transfers depart Incheon International Airport (ICN) at 07:00 and 16:30 on the first day of the tour.
  • DAY 10: Complimentary departure transfers arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN) on the last day of the tour at 06:00 and 16:00.
  • TRANSFERS: Chargeable transfers available in Seoul. Guests who have booked their extra hotel nights with Trafalgar, or whose flight times do not coincide with the shuttle coach timings may purchase a chargeable transfer. However, guests booking independent hotel nights should make their own transfer arrangements.
  • SOUTH KOREA: Currently USA passport holders do not require K-ETA until December 31, 2026. Travellers are still welcome to apply for a K-ETA if they wish. Those who have a K-ETA, will not be required to complete an arrival card upon arrival.
  • IMPORTANT: Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
  • LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Each guest is permitted one bag with maximum dimensions of 58 linear inches (147 cm), the total of length, width, and height - and a weight not exceeding 44 lbs (20 kg). Guests may also bring one personal item, such as a purse, backpack, or similarly sized item that fits comfortably under the seat in front of them or the overhead compartment weighing no more than 15 lbs (7kg).
  • PORTERAGE: Please note hotel porterage will not be provided.
    *HIGH-SPEED TRAINS: The main luggage is transported by road by truck and delivered to the hotel on the same day. Small bags with essentials are recommended for the train. Porterage at the train stations is not included. Guests will need to carry their hand luggage through the train stations and will be required to take their carry-on luggage on/off the train.
  • IMPORTANT: Minivans or minibuses may also be used depending on the group size. Motorcoaches without toilet facilities are used; the Tour Director will ensure to arrange regular stops on longer journeys to ensure guests' comfort throughout the tour.
  • GROUNG HANDLER: This trip is operated by Curious Korea.

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From
US$6095
¥41137
€5278
C$8542
Rs.579903
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