9-Day South Korean Soul | 2026/2027
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US$2036 ￥13738 €1762 C$2841 Rs.193701
US$2396 ￥16167 €2073 C$3343 Rs.227951
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Ready to ride that K-wave? This is the South Korea trip you’ve been waiting for – with military history, majestic mountain views and a few robots in between. You’ll discover Seoul with local guides, zoom on a high-speed train, go extra authentic in Jeonju, and even star in your own K-pop video(!). With a night time boat tour, baseball, BBQs and plenty of delicious street food.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Limited Offer
3% Group Discount: 1. Receive 3% off when you purchase 3+ rooms on the same tour (single order only). 2. Receive 3% off when you book 3+ multi-day tours with minimum order total of $500 at once. Not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or pricing offers.
Itinerary
Well hello there, and welcome to your trip to South Korea. You’ll meet your crew in the afternoon, and in a super central location too. Following on from some free time to explore the Insadong Hanok village, we’ll regroup for some famous Korean fried chicken (and beer too if you like – you’re on vacation after all).
Seoul, Korea, Republic of
Seoul is the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea. The Seoul Capital Area, which includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, is the world's second largest metropolitan area with over 25.6 million people, home to over half of South Koreans along with 632,000 international residents.
This morning we’ll head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the strip of land which separates North and South Korea. With a local guide on hand to answer our questions, we’ll see the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory (where, if it’s sunny, you’ll be able to see all the way into North Korea) and then the Unification Village. After a rather sobering morning outing, we’ll head back to Seoul where you'll be free to explore this evening.
Seoul, Korea, Republic of
Seoul is the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea. The Seoul Capital Area, which includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, is the world's second largest metropolitan area with over 25.6 million people, home to over half of South Koreans along with 632,000 international residents.
The DMZ, Korea, Republic of
Seoul, Korea, Republic of
Seoul is the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea. The Seoul Capital Area, which includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, is the world's second largest metropolitan area with over 25.6 million people, home to over half of South Koreans along with 632,000 international residents.
Our Seoul City tour begins bright and early today with a visit to the traditional Gyeongbokgung Palace. To cap off the experience, we’ll also have the chance to dress in traditional Hanbok dress. Oh, and is it possible to visit South Korea without seeing Gangnam? Nope. That’s why we’ll make a pit-stop there. Next, we’ll head to Seongsu – one of the best up and coming districts of Seoul – to check out the shops, cafes and treat ourselves to some lunch. If the weather is kind tonight, head out to Yeouido Hangang Park for a riverside picnic. AKA vibes, tunes and convenience store ramen.
Seoul, Korea, Republic of
Seoul is the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea. The Seoul Capital Area, which includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, is the world's second largest metropolitan area with over 25.6 million people, home to over half of South Koreans along with 632,000 international residents.
Today we’ll step away from the historic sites and hustle and bustle of Seoul and head off to Busan on a high-speed train (travellin’ like locals, baby)! With a rich history, Busan is now known for its arty vibes, sumptuous street food and colourful buildings… so have your cameras at the ready. Tonight you’ll have a free evening to chill out with your Contiki crew. (Karaoke anyone?)
Busan, Korea, Republic of
South Korea's second most-populous city after Seoul, the economic, cultural and educational center of southeastern Korea. It hosted the APEC in 2005, the 2002 Asian Games and FIFA World Cup. It is home to the world's largest department store, the Shinsegae Centum City. Busan was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a "City of Film" in December 2014.
Wakey wakey folks, we have a whole day to explore the beauty of Busan (the world’s 5th largest port). Home to Haeundae, this is one of South Korea’s best beach spots – don’t miss those coastal walks and sublime city views. Any K-drama fans in the house? Talk to your Trip Manager about filming locations nearby from your favourite shows. Then tonight we’ll get together to enjoy Busan by night on a private yacht – complete with snacks and big tunes.
Busan, Korea, Republic of
South Korea's second most-populous city after Seoul, the economic, cultural and educational center of southeastern Korea. It hosted the APEC in 2005, the 2002 Asian Games and FIFA World Cup. It is home to the world's largest department store, the Shinsegae Centum City. Busan was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a "City of Film" in December 2014.
Today we’ll take a turn for the traditional with a visit to Jeonju – a UNESCO listed city recognised for its Hanok heritage. After checking out spots from BTS’ music videos and sampling candy made famous from ‘Squid Game’, we’ll enjoy a traditional bibimbap lunch. This afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the traditional village, checking out the multiple crafts and cuisines on display. We’ll have time to learn about traditional Korean crafts and culture, and then tonight we’ll bed down at a local guest house and discover Korean hospitality at its finest.
Jeonju, Korea, Republic of
It is an important tourist center famous for Korean food, historic buildings, sports activities, and innovative festivals.
Today we're heading back to where it started - Seoul. We’ll stay in Hongdae – one of the city’s best up and coming areas, home to some cool shops, eateries and edgy nightlife. Today, we’ll visit a local Buddhist temple to take part in some traditional Buddhist practices, including meditative art. Don't pass up the opportunity to catch a stray at one of Korea's famous baseball games.
Seoul - Hongdae, Korea, Republic of
On our final full day in Seoul, we won’t waste any time hangin’ around. After learning some sick moves at our optional dance class, you’ll have the chance to unleash your inner K-Pop star when we make our very own music video at HIKR Ground. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to shop for K-Beauty must-haves and traditional Korean cooking staples. Tonight, we’ll sign off with a farewell dinner… and it won’t just be any old farewell dinner. Korean BBQ? You bet.
Seoul - Hongdae, Korea, Republic of
And with that, our South Korea trip is complete. We’ll depart this morning after breakfast. Culturally fulfilled? Yep. Better and more well rounded? Of course. Already planning the next one? Absolutely.
Seoul - Hongdae, Korea, Republic of
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Trip starts in Seoul at 16:00. Guests to arrive into Incheon International Airport (ICN). The kick-start meeting starts at 16:00. Recommended flight arrival time by 13:00 to avoid missing the kick-start meeting.
- DAY 9: Trip ends in Seoul-Hongdae at 09:00. Guests to depart from Incheon International Airport (ICN).
- TRANSFERS: Private chargeable arrival and departure transfers are available from Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN). Transfers will operate per flight information details on the first and last day of the trip. Transfers can be booked on a single or twin basis. Twin transfers require two passengers traveling together on the same reference number and flight.
- 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.
- IMPORTANT: Single accommodation is not available at special stays in Jeonju (Day 6).
- BULLET TRAIN: No luggage cars on the trains and no porterage at the train stations. Guest will need to pack a small bag for the journey. All other luggage will travel by motorcoach.
- GROUND HANDLER: Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Curious Korea.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
Bangkok: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
Seoul: Free Time Add-Ons are special activities Contiki organizes in addition to the trip. They aren’t mandatory (but we do highly recommend them!) and can be done during your free time. Payment for Free Time Add-Ons can only be made in cash, using the local currency - Korean Won (KRW) You can check out the prices on the trip page of the website. Payment will generally be collected on night one after kickstart.Please note: The ‘Attend a Baseball Game’ Free Time Add-On can be pre-booked with your booking agent up to 5 working days before the trip starts. It will also be available to book with your Trip Manager at Kickstart. But seating with the group cannot be guaranteed.
Seoul: Other than all the standard stuff like jeans, trousers, jumpers and t-shirts, here are some things you should consider packing: Rainproof jacket Comfy walking shoes & sandals Swimwear & towels Personal medication & motion sickness tablets Travel adaptors Insect repellent and sunscreen Smart casual clothing for high-end restaurants or night clubs
Seoul: South Korea uses the South Korean Won (₩). Local currency is readily available through cash machines, which will be available in most regions we travel to on this trip.
Seoul: In South Korea, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and F are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 60 Hz.
Seoul: South Korean culture and society is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Ingrained within its rich culture is a deep sense of community and the utmost respect for elders. Here are some things to keep in mind: Revealing clothing can be viewed as culturally insensitive off the beach. Shorts are generally fine (as long as they aren’t too short). In terms of behaviour, public displays of affection between men & women are considered shocking in some places. Although cities like Seoul boast dynamic gay districts such as Jongno and Itaewon, public displays of affection, especially same sex, can attract stares and, in some situations, outright discrimination. Smoking is common in South Korea. But it’s illegal to smoke in public places. There are specific smoking zones across the cities where smoking is permitted. English isn’t widely used in South Korea, so a translation app can be quite helpful. And your Trip Manager or Local Guide can give you some tips on words you can try.
Seoul: If your local service provider doesn’t have an international pack, you can buy a SIM card &/or handset at any mobile phone shop and some convenience stores. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops, local post offices or at the airport. Most areas have 4G coverage, but major cities will have 5G.
Seoul: South Korean Soul trips operate from March to November. Usually, Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit because of the pleasant weather.
Seoul: Tipping isn’t customary in South Korea (and can sometimes be considered rude sometimes!). So, please check with your Trip Manager or Local Guide if you’re unsure whether a tip would be appropriate or not. You’re welcome to tip your Contiki Team if you love our service too!
Seoul: Yep, public transport is excellent in South Korea. And if you’re planning to explore the city in your free time, it’s best done via metro and bus (since taxis are quite expensive!). You can purchase a T-Money travel card at the airport or convenience stores in Seoul. These cards can be used on the bus or train and can be topped up as often as needed. Your Trip Manager can assist with pointing out locations near the start hotel to purchase a T Money travel card if needed.
Seoul: On our trips, you can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs). Please note you’ll be responsible for getting their own luggage on and off the coach and train from Seoul to Busan.
Seoul: The trip officially finishes at 9am on Day 8 at the Amanti Hotel Hongdae. So, you can book flights home at any time in the afternoon. The Amanti Hotel in Hongdae is approximately 45 kms from Incheon Airport and takes approximately 60 mins to reach via bus.
Seoul: Free Time Add-Ons are special activities Contiki organizes in addition to the trip. They aren’t mandatory (but we do highly recommend them!) and can be done during your free time. Payment for Free Time Add-Ons can only be made in cash, using the local currency - Korean Won (KRW) You can check out the prices on the trip page of the website. Payment will generally be collected on night one after kickstart.Please note: The ‘Attend a Baseball Game’ Free Time Add-On can be pre-booked with your booking agent up to 5 working days before the trip starts. It will also be available to book with your Trip Manager at Kickstart. But seating with the group cannot be guaranteed.
Seoul: Other than all the standard stuff like jeans, trousers, jumpers and t-shirts, here are some things you should consider packing: Rainproof jacket Comfy walking shoes & sandals Swimwear & towels Personal medication & motion sickness tablets Travel adaptors Insect repellent and sunscreen Smart casual clothing for high-end restaurants or night clubs
Seoul: South Korea uses the South Korean Won (₩). Local currency is readily available through cash machines, which will be available in most regions we travel to on this trip.
Seoul: In South Korea, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and F are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 60 Hz.
Seoul: South Korean culture and society is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Ingrained within its rich culture is a deep sense of community and the utmost respect for elders. Here are some things to keep in mind: Revealing clothing can be viewed as culturally insensitive off the beach. Shorts are generally fine (as long as they aren’t too short). In terms of behaviour, public displays of affection between men & women are considered shocking in some places. Although cities like Seoul boast dynamic gay districts such as Jongno and Itaewon, public displays of affection, especially same sex, can attract stares and, in some situations, outright discrimination. Smoking is common in South Korea. But it’s illegal to smoke in public places. There are specific smoking zones across the cities where smoking is permitted. English isn’t widely used in South Korea, so a translation app can be quite helpful. And your Trip Manager or Local Guide can give you some tips on words you can try.
Seoul: If your local service provider doesn’t have an international pack, you can buy a SIM card &/or handset at any mobile phone shop and some convenience stores. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops, local post offices or at the airport. Most areas have 4G coverage, but major cities will have 5G.
Seoul: South Korean Soul trips operate from March to November. Usually, Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit because of the pleasant weather.
Seoul: Tipping isn’t customary in South Korea (and can sometimes be considered rude sometimes!). So, please check with your Trip Manager or Local Guide if you’re unsure whether a tip would be appropriate or not. You’re welcome to tip your Contiki Team if you love our service too!
Seoul: Yep, public transport is excellent in South Korea. And if you’re planning to explore the city in your free time, it’s best done via metro and bus (since taxis are quite expensive!). You can purchase a T-Money travel card at the airport or convenience stores in Seoul. These cards can be used on the bus or train and can be topped up as often as needed. Your Trip Manager can assist with pointing out locations near the start hotel to purchase a T Money travel card if needed.
Seoul: On our trips, you can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs). Please note you’ll be responsible for getting their own luggage on and off the coach and train from Seoul to Busan.
Seoul: The trip officially finishes at 9am on Day 8 at the Amanti Hotel Hongdae. So, you can book flights home at any time in the afternoon. The Amanti Hotel in Hongdae is approximately 45 kms from Incheon Airport and takes approximately 60 mins to reach via bus.
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