Hotels & Resort Deals
Select a destination...
View All Hotels & Resort Deals
Vacation Interests
Miscellaneous
Tours By Type
Tour Deals
Select a destination...
View All Tour Deals
Cruises From
Vacation Interests
Career Discounts
Featured Destinations
Select a destination for info and deals...
Destination Ports
Cruises sailing in each region...
- Transfer Your Booking To Us
- Book Shore Excursions
- Book Land Tours
- Save on Passport & Visa Services
-
![Arrow]()
View All Customer Service Resources
Saving Tools
- Access Reservation (web-made bookings only)
- Make a Payment
- Add Travel Insurance
- Pre-Cruise Registration
For Existing Reservations
- Land Vacation FAQs
- Cruise FAQs
- Cruise Port Directions
- Contact Us
Useful Links
Best of South Korea
-
Length
10 Days
-
Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Seoul (South Korea)
-
Ends in
Seoul (South Korea)
-
Available Tour Start Dates
MAR 6, 2026 to OCT 30, 2026
-
Activity Level
No Rating Provided
-
Language
English
-
Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$4,562.38
Overview
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.
Visited During Tour
Andong (South Korea) | Busan (South Korea) | Gyeongju-si (South Korea) | Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) | Seoul (South Korea)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Best of South Korea tour dates available from Trafalgar. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
Trafalgar Tour Code 768-2208
-
Day
1Touch Down in Seoul
Welcome to Seoul, a city where tradition and modern life collide. You’re arriving in a city that’s always on the move, but first, settle in and take some time to explore before meeting your fellow travelers and Travel Director for dinner — your first taste of South Korea’s flavor-packed dishes.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Accommodations: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun -
Day
2Explore Cultural Seoul
Your first full day in Seoul begins at Gwanghwamun Gate, watching the Changing of the Guard Ceremony before stepping into the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the city’s five palaces. Follow your taste buds to Insadong Street, where you can grab lunch of your choice. Lined with traditional tea houses, art galleries and craft shops, it’s also a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs. But don’t fill up just yet because this afternoon takes you on a food tour through Gwangjang Market, tasting dishes like crispy nokdujeon, spicy tteok-bokki and Korea’s iconic kimchi.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodations: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun -
Day
3Into Korea’s Demilitarized Zone
Get ready for a fascinating day at the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Traveling by military shuttle with a Local Specialist, you’ll dive into the history of one of the world’s most heavily guarded border. Head deep underground into the Third Infiltration Tunnel, a secret passage built for invasion, before making your way to the Dora Observatory for a rare view across to North Korea (weather permitting) — spot the country’s peace village in the distance. After a visit to the Unification Village, where daily life carries on in the shadow of history, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. For those interested to learn more about the Korean War, join an Optional Experience to the War Memorial of Korea, where exhibitions explore the country’s military history and its lasting impact.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun -
Day
4Buddhist Heritage in Andong
Speed through the countryside on Korea’s high-speed train, arriving in Andong, the cultural heart of Korea. Here, step into the tranquility of Bongjeonsa Temple, home to the nation’s oldest wooden building and centuries of Buddhist heritage. The journey continues at Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, where scholar Toegye Yi Hwang once taught, shaping Korea’s intellectual traditions. Cross Woryeonggyo Bridge, the longest wooden bridge in the country, its design inspired by a tragic legend. As evening falls, get ready for a heartwarming Be My Guest experience at your host Jongbu Kim Do-Eun’s home, where Joseon-era recipes are lovingly brought to life over a shared meal.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: Andong Grand -
Day
5Explore Historic Andong
Your day kicks off in Hahoe Village, a UNESCO-listed gem where Joseon-era architecture, Confucian traditions and folk heritage thrive. You’ll wander through the historic streets before a leisurely stroll to Buyongdae Cliff for panoramic views of the village’s lotus-like layout. At the Hahoe World Mask Museum, you’ll see intricate masks that bring Korea’s traditional dances to life. After a local lunch, Dive into Culture at the Hahoe Mask Dance Show, where satire, storytelling and rhythmic movement take center stage. Meet the performers, try a few moves then head to Gyeongju for your Stays with Stories experience at Lahan Select Hotel. You’ll love this award-winning hotel, designed by Hyundai Engineering & Construction, it features a striking S-shaped facade, blending modern innovation with comfort in the heart of the city.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Accommodations: Lahan Select -
Day
6Discover Ancient Korea in Gyeongju
Step into Ancient Korea in Gyeongju, where you’ll uncover the legends and history of the Silla dynasty. Start at the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Buddhist culture, before visiting the Seokguram Grotto, home to an ancient granite Buddha and breathtaking carvings. Wander through the royal tombs of Daereungwon, where Silla kings and queens rest beneath towering earth mounds. Later, admire Woljeonggyo Bridge, an iconic Silla-era structure restored to its former glory. Then, explore the serene gardens of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, once part of a grand palace complex.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodations: Lahan Select -
Day
7Onwards to Busan
Today, it’s goodbye Gyeongju and hello to Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal city. Start with a ride on the Skyline Park Sky Capsule, a colorful elevated railway offering sweeping sea views. Next, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside Buddhist temple, where the 108 stone steps lead to pagodas set against the crashing waves. In the afternoon, pause for reflection at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, the only UN cemetery in the world, honoring casualties of the Korean War from 11 nations. End the day on Dongbaekseom Island, the Island of Camellias, where you’ll walk along coastal trails and enjoy panoramic views of Busan’s skyline. For a view of Busan after dark, join an Optional Experience night cruise from Haeundae. See the coastline lit up, with Gwangan Bridge and the city skyline against the night sky.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodations: Haeundae Ramada Encore by Wyndham -
Day
8Sea Views, Rice Wine and Markets in Busan
Gamcheon Cultural Village is up first today, a hillside gem packed with colorful houses, murals and quirky cafes that make every turn an adventure. Ride the Songdo Sea Cable Car, floating 86m above the ocean with epic views over Songdo Beach and the coastline. Dive into the buzz of Gukje Market, where you can grab lunch from sizzling street stalls or hunt for souvenirs in the maze of shops. Wrap up with a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meeting Yoo Cheong-gil, South Korea’s only officially recognized makgeolli (rice wine) master. Over a rice wine tasting, you’ll hear firsthand about the challenges of keeping this tradition alive in a rapidly changing world.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodations: Haeundae Ramada Encore by Wyndham -
Day
9High Speed Return to Seoul
Checking out of Busan, board your final high-speed train back to Seoul, racing through the countryside in comfort. The afternoon is yours to explore more of the city, do some last-minute shopping, or simply soak up South Korea’s capital one last time. You can also make the most of your free time with a choice of two Optional Experiences. Join a walking tour through Hongdae, one of Seoul’s most creative neighborhoods, known for its street art, indie shops and youth culture. Or step into the world of K-pop with a dance class led by a local instructor, where you’ll learn the moves behind Korea’s biggest hits. Ending on a high, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Korean barbecue dinner, celebrating an unforgettable journey.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Accommodations: Novotel Ambassador Dongdaemun -
Day
10Farewell Seoul
It’s time to say goodbye to Seoul and head home, but not without a suitcase full of souvenirs, unforgettable memories and new friends.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
More Details
Trafalgar is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Best of South Korea tour:
Travelers 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: USA passport holders require an K-ETA for South Korea. K-ETA must be obtained prior to depature. We recommend applying approx. 60 days prior to departure.* IMPORTANT: Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.* 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.* NOTE: This Trip falls under LEVEL 2. Please refer to the Deposit, Payment and Cancellations policies on our website.¿¿¿¿¿
Pricing listed above for tours is per person, in US Dollars, and is based on double occupancy. Pricing may change for other occupancy types. Pricing is based on the last time the vendor electronically sent us pricing data, which varies by vendor (usually occurs overnight or multiple times throughout each day).
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by Trafalgar. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by Trafalgar (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.