10-Day South Korea Premium Tour
10-Day South Korea Premium Tour
10-Day South Korea Premium Tour
10 Days Starting in Seoul and ending in Seoul, South Korea
Visiting: Seoul, Dora Observatory, Gyeongju-si, Golgulsa Temple Stay, Busan, Jeju-do
Tour operator:
Tour code:
44KFT
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
5-75
Special diets catered:
Halal, Vegans, Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a luxurious 10-day Premium Tour of South Korea and immerse yourself in its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and culinary delights. Experience the vibrant energy of some of Asia's most dynamic cities, the serene calm of mountain retreats, and the charm of a picturesque island. This diverse itinerary showcases South Korea as a rising cultural powerhouse. Highlights include a tranquil temple stay in the mountains, an exhilarating K-Pop experience, and a visit to the DMZ, where you can glimpse into the enigmatic world of North Korea. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Korea! Begin your journey with a group dinner (included in the price) to sample your first tastes of delightful Korean cuisine.
Enjoy a mesmerising cityscape view from the top of Seoul’s N Tower, gazing down at the metropolis you will explore over the next few days.
Day 2 : Historical Seoul And K-Pop Night
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour Seoul’s fascinating history with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. Step further back in time by trying on a Hanbok at Bukchon Hanok Village, followed by a delicious local lunch and a stroll down Insadong Art Street.
In the evening, dive into Korea’s vibrant K-Pop scene with a night of karaoke!
Day 3 : Dmz Exploration And Urban Seoul
Location: Dora Observatory
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Understand the tragic history of this divided peninsula with a trip to the DMZ. Visit the Dora Observatory, see the invasion tunnels, and hear insights from a North Korean defector.
Relax in the popular Hongdae area, known for its urban art and vibrant street culture. This evening, explore the bustling Myeongdong district before enjoying the acrobatic and comedic Nanta Show.
Day 4 : Historic Gyeongju
Location: Gyeongju-si
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel by KTX to historic Gyeongju. Enjoy a cycling tour covering Chunmachong Ancient Tombs, Daereungwon Tumuli Park, and Cheomseongdae Observatory.
Experience a traditional set meal in a hanok and marvel at Anapji Pond’s stunning night views. Sample traditional liquor before checking into a traditional hanok for the night.
Day 5 : Golgulsa Temple Stay
Location: Golgulsa Temple Stay
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to the scenic Golgulsa Temple. Immerse yourself in temple life with morning hikes, archery classes, and Sunmudo martial arts demonstrations.
End the day with a traditional dinner and a chanting and meditation session.
Day 6 : Vibrant Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to Busan, Korea’s bustling cultural capital. Visit the cliffside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, explore the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, and take in the views from the Songdo Marine Cable Car.
Dinner is at BIFF Square, where you can see the handprints of famous Korean film stars. Enjoy drinks at Haeundae afterwards.
Day 7 : Busan Delights
Location: Busan
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start with a traditional Korean cooking class, followed by free time to relax at a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) or enjoy the city’s beaches.
In the evening, join an evening boat party and then explore Haeundae for drinks and dinner.
Day 8 : Jeju Island Adventure
Location: Jeju-do
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Jeju Island and embark on a yacht trip for fishing. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure, whether at Olle Market, Jungmun Beach, or local attractions like Cheonjiyeon Waterfall.
End the day with drinks by a cliff, watching the sunset.
Day 9 : Hiking And Beach In Jeju
Location: Jeju-do
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional hike to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), followed by a hike along the Jeju Olle Trail. After a revitalising lunch, continue to Oedolgae Rock for spectacular views.
Spend the afternoon on the beach or visit the tranquil Sangumburi Crater or Jeju Folk Village. Conclude with a BBQ party, sunset drinks, and reflections on your Korean adventure.
Day 10 : Departure From Jeju
Location: Gimpo International Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your premium tour concludes today with a flight back to Seoul (included). You may also choose to extend your stay on the stunning island of Jeju.
What's Included
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Meals
All breakfasts, 4 lunches (with 1 included in the cooking class), and 3 dinners
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Accomodation
Accommodation based on twin occupancy (including boutique hotels, luxury hotel, and a temple stay)
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Transport within South Korea
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Bilingual Adventure Leaders
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Included Activities
Group dinner on first night Seoul N Tower Gyeongbokgung Palace & the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony Lunch at Bukchon Hanok Village DMZ experience, including a meeting with a defector & Dora Observatory visit Nanta show Sunmudo training Meditation session Archery lesson Hanok set dinner Anapji Pond Traditional liquor sampling experience Songdo Marine Cable Car Jagalchi Fish Market Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Haeundae sightseeing boat Jeju yacht sailing trip Jeju Olle Trail BBQ party
What's Not Included
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International Flights
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Travel insurance
Accommodation
Accommodation based on twin occupancy (including boutique hotels, luxury hotel, and a temple stay)
Mode of Transport
All transport within South Korea is included (including Busan-Jeju & Jeju-Seoul Flight)
Check out our Q&As
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I have a medical condition – is this OK?
Generally yes, but please do inform us of your specific requirements at the point of booking.
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What kind of restaurants will we go to?
Your Adventure Leader will always offer to take you for a group meal, where we go to a local restaurant, which we know is hygienic and has cheap and delicious food. If you are craving Western food, then there are lots of great options. South Korea also has endless, delicious street food options like Tteok-bokki and Bibimbap, which will allow you to stick to a slightly lower budget.
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What should I pack for my trip?
We strongly recommend packing very light for The Dragon Trip. You will have access to laundry services at your accommodation throughout the trip, so you won’t need to pack a new outfit for each day. Items can you can mix and match are your best bet, as you’ll be able to bring less clothing and thus, have lighter luggage. Ensure that you research the time of year you are travelling, so your clothing is appropriate for the climate.
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What kind of food will we be eating on the trip?
One of the best parts of travelling in South Korea is definitely the food! It may not have as high of a profile when it comes to Asian cuisines, but South Korea has something for everyone, even the pickiest or most adventurous of eaters.
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How much should I budget for food and drink on the Dragon Trip?
It really varies depending on your taste and budget. You can get a meal of Gimpap (Korean sushi) or noodles for 5,000-6,000₩ (£4-5). Generally, we take travellers to affordable restaurants and recommend budgeting £10-15 a day for food and drink.
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Can I book additional nights accommodation?
We can arrange additional nights accommodation in Seoul or Jeju Island if you plan on arriving early or staying on at the end of your trip.
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How do I get money in South Korea?
You will be able to withdraw money at ATMs in the major cities and tourist areas in South Korea, and your Adventure Leader will tell you when the next stop on the trip where you will be able to withdraw more cash is. Not all ATMs in South Korea will accept foreign bank cards, so would recommend researching ATMs in advance. We advise that you notify your bank that you will be travelling before you depart. As a note, many banks and cards do charge a foreign transaction fee when withdrawing money while abroad. Withdrawing cash in your home currency before travelling and exchanging it to the local currency in South Korea will allow you to avoid card fees, however, ensure you research the exchange rate and pick the vendor with the best offers to avoid heavy commissions or poor rates.
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I’m vegetarian/have allergies – will I be able to get the right food?
Yes! With so many food choices, South Korea can meet the needs of individuals with special dietary needs or requests. Just tell your Adventure Leader and they can help you find something suitable. You will probably discover a new dish that you love!
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Do the hostels have Wi-Fi? Will I be able to keep in touch with friends and family while in South Korea?
There is Wi-Fi available for use in all the accommodation you stay in during The Dragon Trip. During the temple stay experience, there is Wi-Fi available in communal areas, however, there is no Wi-Fi in your rooms for the night.
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Packing suggestions:
We advise a rucksack, but a small suitcase is also fine. If absolutely necessary, arrangements can also be made to send things domestically, for an extra fee. Flipflops Sensible walking shoes T-shirts Shorts/skirts Long pants Swimming costume Lightweight waterproof Warm sweater/jacket Towel Washbag Passport (see our Visa section for useful information) Cash, South Korean won or credit/debit card Student card if you have one, although it is not guaranteed to be accepted Travel insurance policy Photocopies of insurance policy, bank cards, passport photo page, visa Reusable water bottle Books and other entertainments for trasnfers Mosquito repellent, sun-screen and after-sun Camera and charger – South Korea is a photographer’s dream! Small first aid kit with medicine for diarrhoea, paracetamol, disinfectant etc. A big bag and a small rucksack. We sometimes get separated from our big bags, so you’ll need to keep your valuables with you in a small bag.
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Do I need to tip in South Korea?
Tipping in South Korea is not customary and is not necessary. It’s not uncommon for staff to politely refuse tips, so you won’t offend anyone by not tipping. You can offer for a taxi driver to keep the change, but formal tips are not expected.
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I’m not very physically fit! Is the trip suitable for me?
At its heart, the Dragon Trip is an adventure tour of South Korea, but you can make your Dragon Trip as physically active (or inactive) as you want. If there is an activity you’d like to give a miss, you could ask your Adventure Leader for a more relaxing activity!
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Do I need to bring power converters?
Yes! South Korean electrical outlets use the same sockets as central Europe, so if you use any other type of plug, you will need to bring an adaptor. South Korea uses 230 volts and the plug sockets are Type C, featuring two round pins.
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Who are the adventure leaders?
Each group will be accompanied by English speaking Adventure Leaders. All our adventure leaders have the passion and knowledge to ensure that they can help you have a great time in each destination.
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Who looks after our bags when we’re on transport and/or day excursions?
The bags will be stored at the hostels where they are tagged and recorded. We have never had a case of anyone losing their luggage or having their luggage stolen so you can focus on having fun.
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How do I get my South Korean visa?
Nice and easy! South Korea offers visa-free entry for up to 90 days for many nationalities, including British, American and Australian. Be sure to double-check your country’s status before you travel.
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What travel insurance do I need for South Korea?
We require all our customers to have backpackers travel insurance when coming on the trip. We recommend purchasing a travel insurance that offers ‘Bad Weather or Natural Disaster Coverage’. Please bring details of your travel insurance along with you. In the event of an accident, we may need to contact your insurance company on your behalf, so we will need the insurance company’s name and phone number and your policy number.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Majority of our clients are solo travellers and our prices are based on sharing in dorm style rooms. We do offer single room upgrades for those who do not wish to share a room.
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Can you guarantee same-sex dorm rooms?
We always strive to ensure the highest level of comfort and convenience for our valued clients during their travels with us. However, for our tours in Asia, we cannot guarantee same-sex dorm rooms in the hostels we use, particularly during high season, such as the cherry blossom season in Japan. Please rest assured that we do our utmost to accommodate our clients' preferences wherever possible. However, the availability of same-sex dorm rooms ultimately depends on the policies of the hostels we work with. In some cases, different genders may be allocated to the same room due to limited availability.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Please speak to our sales team as soon as possible to see how we can help.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All our accommodation is check regularly to make sure it's a safe and clean environment.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
We are not perfect but we aim to be, that is why year on year we aim to increase the proportion of local businesses we work with as well as reduce the average carbon footprint of all of our group tour adventures. We do this by measuring our performance and making small but positive changes to how we operate.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
You will receive a booking pack with all the pick up times, accommodation and activities included.
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Who should I contact in the event of an emergency on tour?
Depending upon where you are travelling, the following emergency contact numbers are available for The Dragon Trip: China: +86 21 2206 4018 Japan: +81 50 1742 2696 South Korea (can only be used in Korea): 00308 491 0186 Singapore: +65 3158 0233 Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka: +84 284 458 1410
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Passport Details
For most destinations we will require the details to be submitted on our online form (the link for which will be provided post-booking and prior to your travel date). Please note that this needs to be complete & accurate to avoid any late update fees for accommodation and transport bookings. IMPORTANT NOTE: China tours is the only destination where we require an actual copy of your passport. We require these in order to book travel tickets for clients and passports are used during the check-in.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
The Dragon Trip has been trading since March 2011
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, although you will have to make your own way to where the group is heading to out of your own expense.
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Why do the tours have an age range?
While we strive to cater to a diverse range of travellers, it is important to consider whether the tour aligns with your expectations and preferences. We want your travel experience to be enjoyable and fulfilling, and we believe that selecting a tour that matches your age group and interests is crucial in achieving that. Our tours are very active and jam-packed, including early starts and getting on and off local transportation. There will be a lot of walking, and activities such as cycling. You could be walking up to 20,000 steps per day!
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are aimed at fun, out-going and open minded individuals. We typically get people aged between 18 to 55 travelling on our trips. Feel free to contact us to see the ages of the people who are booked already. Some of our trips have an upper age limit because of the pace of the tour, style of accommodation and the average age of the group - please do not be offended if we check your age and perhaps recommend a different itinerary. Our premium trips are suitable for most.
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Low Deposit
The Dragon Trip requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 65 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the dragon trip charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.