South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
8 Days Starting and ending in Seoul
Visiting: Seoul, Jeonju-si, Yeosu-si, Gyeongju-si, Pyeongchang
Tour Overview
Embark on a thrilling journey through South Korea's dynamic cities and ancient wonders. From Seoul's blend of tradition and modernity to the coastal charm of Yeosu and Busan, each day offers new discoveries. Explore historic sites, vibrant markets, and serene landscapes, immersing yourself in the rich culture of this captivating country. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of South Korea.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Seoul, South Korea
Location: Seoul
Arrive at the renowned Incheon International Airport, acclaimed for its top-notch service. Our friendly representative will greet you and escort you to Seoul, the bustling hub of Korean politics, economy, and culture. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring this dynamic city at your own pace.
Day 2: Seoul, South Korea
Location: Seoul
Start your day with breakfast, followed by a pick-up from your hotel between 08:30-09:00 am. Prepare for an exciting full-day exploration of Seoul's cultural gems, starting with a visit to Jogyesa temple and the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, with the option of Deoksu Palace on Tuesdays. Witness the mesmerizing Royal Guard Changing Ceremony before delving into the National Folk Museum. Afterwards, indulge in a visit to either the Korean Ginseng Center or an Amethyst shop. Then, embark on a journey to the Korean Folk Village, an hour and a half drive from Seoul, where you'll immerse yourself in the captivating culture of the late Joseon Dynasty. With over 260 different types of houses representing each province, the village offers a fascinating glimpse into Korea's past. Conclude the day with a return to Seoul for some well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Seoul - Gongju - Buyeo - Jeonju, South Korea
Location: Jeonju-si
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide at 07:30 am in the hotel lobby. At 08:00 am, join fellow travelers at the parking lot in front of the Donghwa Duty Free Shop Building, located at the Gwanghwamun Intersection in Seoul. Prepare for an enriching journey as you travel to Gongju, a historical city renowned for its ties to the Baekje Dynasty. Explore UNESCO-listed sites such as the Tomb of King Muryeong and the impressive Gongsanseong Fortress, a mountain stronghold dating back to the Baekje Period. Afterward, continue your adventure with a transfer to Jeonju, a picturesque city famed for its traditional Hanok Village boasting around 700 beautifully preserved Korean houses. Check into your hotel and unwind, with leisure time to explore at your own pace.
Day 4: Jeonju - Gwangju - Suncheon - Yeosu, South Korea
Location: Yeosu-si
Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a journey to Gwangju, located 100km away, approximately a 1 hour and 30 minute drive. This vibrant city holds historical significance as the birthplace of a pivotal modern democratic movement in Korea, evident in landmarks like the May 18th National Cemetery. Dive deeper into history as you explore this meaningful site, known also for its connection to BTS member J-Hope and his song "Ma City," which commemorates the May 18 Gwangju Democratization movement. Next, continue your adventure with a drive to Suncheon, another 100km journey taking approximately 1 hour. Here, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Suncheon Bay National Garden before journeying onwards to the coastal charm of Yeosu, just 38km away, a brief 40-minute drive. Take in the romantic atmosphere of this coastal gem and explore Yi Sun-shin Plaza before settling into your hotel for the night.
Day 5: Yeosu - Jinju - Busan - Gyeongju, South Korea
Location: Gyeongju-si
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel before venturing to Jinjuseong Fortress, steeped in history and renowned for its connection to the Japanese invasion of 1592. Following this enriching visit, journey onwards to Busan, a 100km drive taking approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival at Gimhae domestic airport, proceed to the 1st floor ticket office to board the bus. Join fellow travelers in front of Toyoko Inn hotel 1 at Busan Station by 13:00 for an exciting exploration of the city. Explore the bustling Jagalchi Market and iconic BIFF Square, filled with the charm of Busan's old downtown and tantalizing seafood delights. Then, bask in the sun at Haeundae Beach and stroll through the serene Dongbaek Park before continuing your journey to Gyeongju, a 100km drive lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Conclude your day with a comfortable check-in at your hotel in Gyeongju.
Day 6: Gyeongju - Andong - Pyeongchang, South Korea
Location: Pyeongchang
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a journey through South Korea's cultural treasures. Begin with a visit to the awe-inspiring Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site constructed by Kim Dae-Seong during the Silla Kingdom. Marvel at the intricate stone relics and timeless beauty of Bulguksa Buddhist Temple, also designated as a UNESCO site. Next, travel to Andong, a 170km drive lasting about 2 hours and 30 minutes, to explore the UNESCO-listed Andong Hahoe Village. This historic village, preserved in its original Joseon Dynasty architecture, is renowned for its authentic atmosphere and was even visited by Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain. Conclude your day with a scenic drive to Pyeongchang, the host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics, located 234km away and approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by road. Check into your hotel in Pyeongchang and unwind after a day filled with cultural discoveries.
Day 7: Pyeognchang - Mt.Sorak - Seoul, South Korea
Location: Seoul
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a scenic tour of the venues from the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. Afterwards, journey to Sokcho, a picturesque coastal city located 100km away, about a 1 hour and 30 minute drive. En route, make a stop at Gangneung Hangho Beach and, if time permits, visit the BTS Bus Station, famous for its appearance on the album jackets of "You Never Walk Alone." Continue your adventure with a visit to the breathtaking Seoraksan National Park, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Zone. Marvel at the towering peaks of the Seoraksan Mountains and the jade-like water flowing through the valleys. For an optional adventure, take a cable car ride to Gwongeumseong Fortress for stunning panoramic views (additional cost of USD 20 per person). Finally, journey back to Seoul, a 195km drive lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with an estimated arrival time at The Donghwa Duty Free Shop Building around 17:00.
*Please note that during peak season in October, access to Seoraksan National Park may be restricted for buses and medium-sized vehicles, requiring a 3.6km walk from C District Square to the entrance.
Day 8: Seoul, South Korea
Location: Seoul
After breakfast, transfer to Incheon Airport according to your flight schedule. Pick up 4 hours before your flights to transfer to Incheon Airport
What's Included
-
Accommodation
7N in Mid-range Accommodations
-
Transport
As per itinerary
-
Meals
7B
-
Activities
Seoul sightseeing
Visit Suncheo Bay National Garden
Jagalchi Market and BIFF Square
Seokguram Grotto(UNESCO)
Bulguksa Buddhist Temple(UNESCO)
Andong Hahoe Village(UNESCO)
Venues of 2018 Winter Olympic Games
Seoraksan National Park(UNESCO)
Reveal the history Baekje Dynasty -
Guides
English Speaking Guide throughout the trip
What's Not Included
-
Personal Expenses
-
Tips & Gratuities
-
Other Meals / Drinks
-
Travel Insurance
Check out our Q&As
-
Is there an age limit?
No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.
-
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2024 Oct
2024 Nov
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025
Friday - Friday
Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 04, 2024Friday - Friday
Oct 04, 2024 - Oct 11, 2024Friday - Friday
Oct 11, 2024 - Oct 18, 2024Friday - Friday
Oct 18, 2024 - Oct 25, 2024Friday - Friday
Oct 25, 2024 - Nov 01, 2024Friday - Friday
Nov 01, 2024 - Nov 08, 2024Friday - Friday
Nov 08, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024Friday - Friday
Nov 15, 2024 - Nov 22, 2024Friday - Friday
Nov 22, 2024 - Nov 29, 2024Friday - Friday
Nov 29, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024Friday - Friday
Dec 06, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024Friday - Friday
Dec 13, 2024 - Dec 20, 2024Friday - Friday
Dec 20, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024Friday - Friday
Dec 27, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025Friday - Friday
Jan 03, 2025 - Jan 10, 2025Friday - Friday
Jan 10, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025Friday - Friday
Jan 17, 2025 - Jan 24, 2025Friday - Friday
Jan 31, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025Friday - Friday
Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025Friday - Friday
Feb 14, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025Friday - Friday
Feb 21, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025Friday - Friday
Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025Friday - Friday
Mar 07, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025Friday - Friday
Mar 14, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025Friday - Friday
Mar 21, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025Friday - Friday
Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025Friday - Friday
Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025Friday - Friday
Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025Friday - Friday
Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025Friday - Friday
Apr 25, 2025 - May 02, 2025Friday - Friday
May 02, 2025 - May 09, 2025Friday - Friday
May 09, 2025 - May 16, 2025Friday - Friday
May 16, 2025 - May 23, 2025Friday - Friday
May 23, 2025 - May 30, 2025Friday - Friday
May 30, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Friday - Friday
Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025Friday - Friday
Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025Friday - Friday
Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025Friday - Friday
Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Friday - Friday
Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025Friday - Friday
Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025Friday - Friday
Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025Friday - Friday
Jul 25, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025Friday - Friday
Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025Friday - Friday
Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025Friday - Friday
Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025Friday - Friday
Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025Friday - Friday
Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025Friday - Friday
Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025Friday - Friday
Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.