Ancient South Korea

Welcome to Seoul, South Korea! Upon arrival at Seoul Airport, please make your own way to your hotel. Hotel: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar

The Blue House, otherwise known as Cheong Wa Dae, is the residence of the South Korean president. It is an icon of South Korea, set against the backdrop of Bugaksan Mountain. Today, we have the chance to visit the Blue House before making our way to Gyeongbokgung Palace, originally built in 1395 as the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. In the afternoon, we will depart for Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty. Hotel: Gyeongju Commodore Hotel or similar

Visit the Bulguksa Temple and the beautiful Seokguram Grotto – a UNESCO World Heritage site. We then continue on to the southeast city of Gyeongju which was the capital of the 1,000-year-long Silla dynasty and is known for its extensive historical remains. Here we will see the Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. We then make our way to Gyeongju National Museum, home to numerous historical and cultural artefacts of the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – AD 935). We will then head to Daegu and visit the famous Dongseongno Shopping District. Hotel: Daegu Inter Burgo Exco Hotel or similar

Experience the charm of rural Korea with a visit to Andong Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Then, journey to Sokcho Daepo Port, a picturesque fishing village nestled along the coast, where you can immerse yourself in the local fishing culture and savour fresh seafood delicacies. Hotel: Sokcho Sea Cruise Hotel or similar

Visit the Mt Seorak region. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Preservation District in 1982 due to the many rare species found in the national park, Mount Seoraksan National Park is Korea's most famous national park. Tour Shinheungsa Temple and take the cable car to Gweongeumseong Fortress to experience the beautiful natural landscapes on offer. We then go back to Seoul to stroll through the heart of the city down the streets of Insadong, a historical entertainment district. Step back in time in Bukchon Village, where traditional Korean houses (hanok) preserve the spirit of the past. Hotel: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar

Visit North Korea's 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, located within the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 44 km drive northwest of Seoul. An entire infantry division can move through the tunnel in an hour. On the way back to Seoul, visit the famous Amethyst Store. * DMZ - Due to its unique position, there are many rules to abide by in order to help maintain peace and stability. If the tour cannot visit the DMZ, you will visit Imjingak Resort instead. Hotel: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight.