South Korea in 7 Days: Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju
This week-long trip through Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju highlights South Korea's historic and modern spirit through ancient temples, iconic cuisine, and local neighborhoods.
South Korea
7 days / 6 nights
$2,830 /person
$2,830 /person
Your trip at a glance
Top Activities
Tasting sizzling street food, unique snacks, and mouthwatering dishes at Seoul and Busan's markets
Touring Korea’s demilitarized zone (DMZ) at the border of North and South Korea
Learning how to cook South Korean staples, from bulgogi to bibimbap, during a chef-led workshop
Visiting Gyeongju’s ancient temples and royal tombs on a day trip from Busan
Comparing and contrasting historic Seoul with the modern city on a guided walking tour
Feeding your Soul: Hands-on Cooking Class
Overview
You’ll start today with a delicious breakfast of banchans at your hotel, but make sure to save room as today focuses on a crucial aspect of South Korean culture: cuisine. In the late morning, you’ll join a local chef to prepare some of South Korea’s most iconic dishes, which may include bulgogi, bibimbap, or other favorites. During this immersive cooking workshop, you’ll learn about the flavors and techniques that underlie these dishes, putting your lessons to practice as you chop, stir, and season. After this lesson in gastronomy, you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to revisit any favorite Seoul haunts or discover new ones. If you need a place to start, why not return to Ikseondon, or take a relaxing stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful urban oasis with landscaped walkways and gentle flowing water? From here, you can continue to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a futuristic landmark known for its bold architecture, design exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, don’t miss Dongmyo Market, a lively flea market of vintage clothing, antiques, and local treasures. To cap off this full and fantastic day, consider heading to the top of N Seoul Tower. There’s no better vantage point to gain view after view of the city, soaking in the energy of spirited Seoul. (Breakfast)
Highlights
Cooking Class
Learn the art of South Korean cuisine during today’s informative, immersive, and incredibly delicious cooking class. Alongside a local chef, you’ll dive into Seoul’s culinary culture, learning the intricacies of city-favorite dishes. No matter what’s on the day's menu, you’ll discover the key ingredients, spices, and strategies that comprise Korean specialties, tasting — of course — everything along the way.
Ikseondong (optional)
After your cooking class, you'll have free time, should you want to wander through the vibrant streets of Ikseondong: a cultural hub where traditional Korean arts, boutiques, and hanok homes converge. Ideal for a nice walk, the neighborhood blends generations and is one of the best places to people-watch from a cool cafe.
N Seoul Tower (optional)
At 236 meters tall, N Seoul Tower ranks among the highest points in all of Seoul, with impeccable citywide panoramas. It actually extends from the top of Seoul's towering Namsan Mountain, affording anyone — so long as they're not afraid of heights — an opportunity for photos and even dinner at the tower's restaurant. During your free afternoon and evening, you'll have ample time, should you want to pay a visit to this oh-so scenic skyscraper.
How it works
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Book your trip
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Take-off
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What's included
Included in the final price
- Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
- 24/7 on-the-ground support
- On-trip concierge service
- Personalized trip crafting
- Entry and exit information and assistance
- Accommodations for six nights, with daily breakfast included
- Local English-speaking guides on Days 1, 2, 5, and 6
- Private minivan on Days 2, 5, and 6
- KTX train tickets from Seoul to Busan, standard class
- All activities, entrance fees, and guided visits mentioned in the itinerary, including palace, temple, and park visits
- National Folk Museum entrance fees
- Guided DMZ tour
- All meals and culinary experiences mentioned in the itinerary
Not included in the final price
- International arrival and departure flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Anything not mentioned or listed as optional in the itinerary