Finding your next escape...
Product Code: MT-1494
Enquire now: 1300 692 784
View
11 Day Fly & Tour Holiday Exploring the Traditional and Modern Wonders of South Korea Including Jeju Island
Book By 31 December 2024
Tour between Mar 2025 - Nov 2025
11 Day Fly & Tour Holiday Exploring the Traditional and Modern Wonders of South Korea Including Jeju Island
Embark on an enchanting journey through South Korea that will immerse you in the country’s rich history, delicious food, extraordinary landscapes, and futuristic cities. Unveil the heartbeat of the urban metropolis Seoul and then contrast this with the natural volcanic wonders of Jeju Island. Let the salty breeze guide you to Busan, a coastal city that has colourful neighbourhoods and golden beaches. Then discover the rich history of the ancient Kingdom of Korea in Gyeongju. With an expert tour leader, meticulously planned itinerary, unique experiences and well-situated hotels this is your chance to take a journey that will immerse you in the rich tapestry of South Korea.
Inclusions
Included Sightseeing & Tour Highlights
Open All
Welcome to South Korea! Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, Seoul, follow the instructions for your included transfer to the hotel.
Meals included: None
Note: Due to flight times and schedules, some customers may be required to depart the day prior on an overnight flight from Australia.
Welcome to a captivating day in Seoul, where the past and present harmoniously coexist. Get ready to explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, an awe-inspiring testament to Korea’s royal legacy. Watch as the Changing of the Guard ceremony unfolds with resplendent uniforms and traditional music, a captivating spectacle that bridges the gap between the past and the present. Why not fully immerse yourself in Joseon history and take the opportunity to try a traditional Korean outfit, a Hanbok (optional at your own expense) and have the palace be your backdrop for photos. Then step back in time and wander the atmospheric streets of Insadong Alley, taking in the sights and smells of traditional Korean culture, food and arts. Enjoy a welcome lunch and savour the delicious Korean cuisine for yourself. Next, explore the 600-year-old houses and alleyways of Bukchon Hanok Village. Finish the day in Myeong-dong, a lively and vibrant neighbourhood popular for shopping and dining.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Today bid farewell to Seoul and take a short flight down to the picturesque haven of Jeju Island. Jeju Island offers pristine beaches, waterfalls, volcanic cones, lava tube caves and many jaw-dropping natural wonders that are absolutely bucket-list-worthy. The first stop on Jeju Island is Sunrise Peak, a volcanic cone crater famous for panoramic views of the coastline, ocean, and the island’s lush greenery. Enjoy a Korean set lunch before watching a cultural performance of the Haenyeo – women divers or ‘sea mermaids’ that free-dive 10m under the sea to collect seafood without oxygen masks. Next visit Seongeup Folk Village a charming traditional village that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage and rural way of life.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Discover more of the enchanting wonders of Jeju today. Start your journey along the bewitching Mysterious Road, where gravity seems to defy logic. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Cheonjiyeon Falls, where crystal-clear waters cascade amidst lush surroundings. After an included lunch explore the awe-inspiring Jusangjeolli Cliffs, a natural masterpiece forged by ancient volcanic activity. In the afternoon, indulge in the serenity of O’Sulloc Tea Plantation, a tranquil oasis where you can learn about traditional tea culture and sample freshly brewed teas.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Today you depart Jeju Island with a short flight to the vibrant port city of Busan. Busan is South Korea’s second largest city, boasting stunning landscapes of mountains and beaches, and brimming with hot springs and seafood. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched gracefully by the sea. Check out nearby Dongbaek Island, an island-turned-peninsula, named after camellia trees before visiting Haeundae Beach, known for its beautiful white sand and picturesque coastline.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today is a free day at leisure to explore the beautiful city of Busan.
Alternatively, enhance your Korean experience with our Optional Busan Tour (at your own expense).
Optional Busan Day Tour – Delights of Busan Full Day City Tour from $220pp*
This tour begins with a trip aboard the Beach Train running along the coast of east Busan. The train’s retro-style exterior and tasteful use of colours add a splash of uniqueness to Haeundae’s panoramic scenery. Watch as the colourful Skycapsules glide by around the curve of cliffs. After your train ride, proceed to the Cheongsapo Skywalk. This glass-floored skywalk extends out over the cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding sea. It’s a unique and thrilling experience to walk on glass high above the ocean. After a delicious included lunch, make like a local with an authentic market experience visiting the maze-like Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market, packed with all types of goods you can ever think of. Continue onwards to the Instagram-famous Gamcheon Culture Village. The village is formed by houses creeping up the foothills of the coastal mountain, earning this village the nickname “Machu Picchu of Busan“. Here the alleys that cut through this community are vibrantly decorated with murals and sculptures created by the residents.
Meals included: Breakfast (lunch is included only on the optional tour)
After breakfast, the tour continues to Gyeongju. Once the ancient capital, Gyeongju is often referred to as “the museum without walls” because everywhere you turn you can find another site with historical relevance to see. Visit the Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an artificial stone temple made of granite. The Temple complex overlooking the East Sea is the only fully intact national treasure from the Silla Kingdom era. Explore Tumuli Park, home to a complex of magnificent tombs of kings, queens, and other court officials of the past. Next visit Cheomseongdae Observatory built in the 7th Century making it the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia and possibly the world. Interestingly the Observatory was built using 365 stones representing the days of the year and has twelve stones that make up the base representing the months of the year.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
In the morning visit Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous temples in Korea. The temple’s beauty and artistic touch of the stone relics are highly praised by visitors from all over the world. Then set off for the return journey back to the bright lights of Seoul.
Meals included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to navigate the labyrinth of bright lights of Seoul at your own pace. South Korea’s capital is a place vibrant with activity. From high-end malls to places of culture, beautiful public parks and delicious cuisine, there is so much to see and do on a free day in Seoul.
Alternatively, enhance your Korean experience with our Optional DMZ Tour (at your own expense).
Optional Half Day Tour – DMZ Half Day Tour from $150pp*
Discover the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 4km wide, 250km long buffer separating North and South Korea. Lined on both sides by tank traps, electric fences, landmines and armies, it is ironically a must-visit tourist attraction, with several observation points allowing you to peek into North Korea. Whilst here, your guide will share the history of tensions between North and South Korea as you explore Imjingak Park, Bridge of Freedom, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, DMZ Theatre and Exhibition Hall, Dora Observatory before you pass by the Unification Village. This optional tour is well worth adding to your itinerary to learn more about the history of South Korea as well as understand the current political climate.
Meals included: Breakfast
On the last full day in Seoul, take part in a cooking class preparing Korea’s number one staple dish – Kimchi! Learn the skills needed to be able to make this superfood for yourself back home. Then set off to explore the natural beauty of Seoul Forest- a captivating urban oasis nestled in the heart of Seoul. Spanning over 1.1 million square meters, this green haven offers a delightful escape from the city’s fast-paced life. In the afternoon visit Seoul N Tower an iconic landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. What a wonderful way wrap up your Korean adventure by contrasting the traditional sights you have seen throughout your tour, with views of Seoul’s vibrant and sprawling metropolis below.
Meals included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to South Korea taking home incredible memories with you. At the appropriate time, a transfer will take you back to the airport for your flight home.
Meals included: Breakfast
Note: Due to flight times and scheduling, you may arrive in Australia on Day 11 or 12. Final documents will confirm travel timings.
OPTIONAL TOURS
Specially-crafted optional tours provide flexibility for you to explore further. Optional tours are expertly guided and include dedicated coach transportation, admissions and more. Optional tours will operate with a minimum of 10 passengers and must be booked at least 3 months before departure.
Delights of Busan Full Day City Tour from $150pp*
This tour begins with a trip aboard the Beach Train running along the coast of east Busan. The train’s retro-style exterior and tasteful use of colours add a splash of uniqueness to Haeundae’s panoramic scenery. Watch as the colourful Skycapsules glide by around the curve of cliffs. After your train ride, proceed to the Cheongsapo Skywalk. This glass-floored skywalk extends out over the cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding sea. It’s a unique and thrilling experience to walk on glass high above the ocean. After a delicious included lunch, make like a local with an authentic market experience visiting the maze-like Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market, packed with all types of goods you can ever think of. Continue onwards to the Instagram famous Gamcheon Culture Village. The village is formed by houses creeping up the foothills of the coastal mountain, earning this village the nickname “Machu Picchu of Busan“. Here the alleys that cut through this community are vibrantly decorated with murals and sculptures created by the residents.
DMZ Half Day Tour from $150pp*
Discover the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 4km wide, 250km long buffer separating North and South Korea. Lined on both sides by tank traps, electric fences, landmines and armies, it is ironically a must-visit tourist attraction, with several observation points allowing you to peek into North Korea. Whilst here, your guide will share the history of tensions between North and South Korea as you explore Imjingak Park, Bridge of Freedom, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, DMZ Theatre and Exhibition Hall, Dora Observatory before you pass by the Unification Village. This optional tour is well worth adding to your itinerary to learn more about the history of South Korea as well as understand the current political climate.
Price Based on Tour Starting:
01 September 2025
Extra charges apply for:
15 March 2025 (+$300pp) – Last chance for 2025 Cherry Blossoms
20 September 2025 (+400pp)
18 October 2025 (+$300pp) – Autumn Leaves
25 October 2025 (+$300pp) – Autumn Leaves
01 November 2025 (+$300pp) – Autumn Leaves
15 November 2025 (+$300pp) – Autumn Leaves
Cherry Blossoms: In spring, late March to early April is historically the best time to view pink and white cherry blossoms in South Korea.
Autumn Leaves: In October and November witness fall foliage turn different shades of vivid red, orange and yellow.
Note: Bloom and fall timings are not guaranteed as they are highly seasonal and subject to changing climate conditions.
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Accommodation
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not be centrally located, but are typically near public transport options, and your friendly guide will provide a helpful orientation tour on arrival into many of the cities you visit. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3 star or higher local rating. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation.
Refer to Important Info for further details.
Itinerary
Our multi-stop Korea tours are carefully designed to give a real insight into the highlights, culture and beauty of each region. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.
Pace
The pace of this tour is leisurely. The tour covers several areas of Korea and involves some early starts and one long travel day – see the itinerary for an indication of the distances travelled by coach. The on-the-go nature of multi-city tours rewards you with maximum sightseeing opportunities. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional programs (at your own expense).
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels, terminals and stations. Airport transfer services may not arrive directly at the hotel reception and a short walk between the station and hotel may be required. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move about unassisted at the required pace. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.
Accommodation
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not be centrally located, but are typically near public transport options, and your friendly guide will provide a helpful orientation tour on arrival into many of the cities you visit. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3 star or higher local rating. The size of hotel rooms in Korea are generally smaller than Western standards. Hotels in Korea generally have very few rooms with double-bed configuration. Requests for rooms with double beds cannot be guaranteed in advance and if not available, twin beds will be provided. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation. All hotel ratings are local or self-ratings provided by the supplier. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Due to the popular culture of smoking in Korea, non-smoking or deodorised rooms will be requested by default – please notify hotel reception if this is an issue. The standard check-in time is after 3pm and check-out is before 10am – actual times may vary.
Transportation
Airport transfers may operate at designated times and may be group or independent services using private or public transportation. A short walk to the hotel carrying your own luggage may be required from the drop-off point. Transfers are not included for extended stays such as early arrival and stay behind in Seoul.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Korean accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with some limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. Due to the internal flight to and from Jeju Island, the luggage weight of 20kg will be strictly enforced and excess baggage fees will apply if you exceed this limitation. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. A light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Group size
On a tour you will meet like-minded travellers and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 20 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 32 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit. The operation of optional programs is subject to a minimum group size. If the minimum number for optional programs is not reached, you will be refunded.
Refer to Important Info for further details.
Exclusions
Meals not stated, drinks on meals, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), visas (if required), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels, terminals and stations. Airport transfer services may not arrive directly at the hotel reception and a short walk between the station and hotel may be required. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move about unassisted at the required pace. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $1100 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms are typically smaller than twin rooms in Korea.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Extra Accommodation
Pre or post tour accommodation with breakfast in the same tour hotel located in Insadong or a similar location can be added for one or two persons. This is subject to availability and based on a from price of $290 per room per night. Please note transfers are not included for extended stays such as early arrival and stay behind in Seoul.
Child
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 10 years of age. Children 10 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Amendment
Each amendment is subject to a fee from $75 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.
Cancellation
Cancellation is subject to a fee from $550 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.
Visa
A visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting South Korea for the purpose of short-term tourism; however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. Due to the internal flight to and from Jeju Island, the luggage weight of 20kg will be strictly enforced and excess baggage fees will apply if you exceed this limitation. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. A light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Transfers
Airport transfers may operate at designated times and may be group or independent services using private or public transportation. A short walk to the hotel carrying your own luggage may be required from the drop off point. Transfers are not included for extended stays such as early arrival and stay behind in Seoul.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Korean accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with some limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Accommodation
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not be centrally located, but are typically near public transport options, and your friendly guide will provide a helpful orientation tour on arrival into many of the cities you visit. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3 star or higher local rating. The size of hotel rooms in Korea are generally smaller than Western standards. Hotels in Korea generally have very few rooms with double-bed configuration. Requests for rooms with double beds cannot be guaranteed in advance and if not available, twin beds will be provided. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation. All hotel ratings are local or self-ratings provided by the supplier. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Due to the popular culture of smoking in Korea, non-smoking or deodorised rooms will be requested by default – please notify hotel reception if this is an issue. The standard check-in time is after 3pm and check-out is before 10am – actual times may vary.
Tipping
Tips are optional but recommended as a token of appreciation for commendable service. The recommended amount is AUD $5 per person per day for the guide and AUD $5 per person per day for the driver.
Flights
The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flight team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 20 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 32 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit. The operation of optional programs is subject to a minimum group size. If the minimum number for optional programs is not reached, you will be refunded.
Blooms
The timing of cherry blossom, autumn leaf and other blooms are not guaranteed as they are highly seasonal from region to region and subject to changing climate conditions. Suggested dates are only an estimate of the best viewing periods based on historical data. Cherry blossom festival season is one of the most incredible times to visit South Korea. Cherry blossom full blooms last over a one week time window, during which, it is lively and crowded every year and expected to be especially busy due to unprecedented pent up demand for post-pandemic travel.
Tour Extensions
Tour extensions must be booked at least 10 months before departure or before flights are issued.
Optional Programs
Optional programs are subject to a minimum of 15 passengers and must be booked at least 5 months before departure. If the optional programs do not operate, you will be refunded.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed within two weeks of departure. For packages consisting of multiple tours or countries, documentation will be emailed individually within two weeks of departure of each respective tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-1494
Need more information from our holiday experts?
Enquire OnlineHold Tight!
We're sending your enquiry through to one of our My Cruises Travel Experts
