Day 1 – Start Seoul

Well hello there, and welcome to your 9-day 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).
Stay: 3 nights at Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 – Seoul

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. Afterwards we’ll head to Seonsgu – one of the best up and coming districts of Seoul – to check out the shops, cafes and treat ourselves to some lunch. Don't pass up the opportunity to take part in a dynamic K-Pop dance class or to catch a stray at one of Korea's famous baseball games. Tonight, you’re free to explore Seoul however you like. Strapped for ideas? Why not try the Korean War Memorial Museum, or check out Seoul Tower when it’s lit up at night?
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – Seoul and DMZ

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 in the afternoon for a sunset city walk (timings do apply for this one though).
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 – Seoul to Busan

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?)
Stay: 2 nights at Felix by STX (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 – Busan

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, drinks and big tunes.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 – Busan to Jeonju

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 (that might be delivered to you by robot). 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.
Stay: Hanok Guest House (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Day 7 – Jeonju to Seoul - Hongda

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.
Is it possible to visit South Korea without seeing Gangnam? Nope – that’s why we’ll make a pit-stop there. Afterwards, we’ll visit a local Buddhist temple to take part in some traditional Buddhist practices, including meditative art and tea making. If the weather is kind tonight, we’ll head out to Yeouido Hangang Park for a riverside picnic. AKA vibes, tunes and convenience store ramen.
Stay: 2 nights at Amanti Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 – Seoul - Hongdae

On our final full day in Seoul, we won’t waste any time hangin’ around. 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. Yup, there’s a farmer’s market visit waiting for us, plus the chance to try your hand at Korean cooking.
Tonight, we’ll sign off with a farewell dinner… and it won’t just be any old farewell dinner. Korean BBQ? You bet.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Day 9 – End Seoul - Hongdae

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.
Meals: Breakfast

Prices

Dates

*Advertised price is based on twin share and is based on 07 March 2025 departure. Other travel dates available at seasonal surcharge. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current availability and pricing.  

*Advertised price is based on 07 March 2025 departure. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current availability and pricing. Other departure dates available at seasonal surcharge. Further terms and conditions apply, please speak with your RAC travel consultant for details.
General RAC Travel terms and conditions apply.

^Save 10%: Save on select Contiki tours. New bookings only made from 31 May 2024 onwards. Savings are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Other conditions may apply.