South Korea Family Holiday

Hwan-yeong! Welcome to Seoul – South Korea's vibrant capital of high-tech gadgets, impressive skyscrapers and delicious eats. A modern Asian metropolis that blends bold futuristic intentions with strong links to the past, Seoul is one of Asia's great cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm this afternoon. After, join your leader and the other families for a short walk up Naksan Mountain for an awesome view of the city skyline. Then, you’ll feast on Korean BBQ at your welcome dinner and get to know your fellow families over sizzling meats, vegetables and refreshments.

After breakfast this morning, join a local guide for a tour of the fascinating Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). From the South Korean side of the Zone, you’ll learn how this peninsula has been divided since the devastating Korean War. You’ll visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression, the Unification Bridge, Imjingak Park and the Dora Observatory. In the afternoon, you’re free to explore Seoul’s many sights at your own pace (or simply relax at the accommodation or a nearby café). Maybe explore Hongdae – a popular area for urban art with the young locals. Here, you can see street musicians and artists, wander through the many shops and cafes or, if visiting in summer, you can cool off in one of the outdoor swimming pools along the Han River. Tonight, maybe join your leader and visit Mangwon night market for some tasty Korean street food.

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to say goodbye to Seoul and head east to the Golgulsa Temple for an unforgettable ‘day in the life of a monk’ experience. Take part in some traditional Korean archery (the kids will love this activity), try your hand and mind at some meditation and participate in a Sunmudo training session – a Korean Buddhist martial arts practiced at only a few places around the world. Tonight, enjoy a special, authentic Buddhist vegetarian dinner at the temple before returning to Gyeongju. You’ll spend the night a Hanok (traditional Korean house) tonight – a truly unique experience where you can fully immerse yourself in the culture and get to know the locals.

Today, enjoy a full day exploring Gyeongju – commonly known as the Golden City because of its 1000-year-old history and many important cultural sites. Join your leader this morning after breakfast for a walking tour to explore the area. Visit the Royal Tombs and then head to a traditional folk village to take part in a fun calligraphy activity. Get the kids’ help to create a family motto – a great keepsake that will always remind you of your time in Korea. Here, you’ll have the option to sit down for a steaming Korean hot pot lunch. After, maybe rent a few bikes and explore the area further in your free time or dress up in traditional Hanbok clothing for a family photo – another great souvenir option!

This morning, have some breakfast and then head to the bright lights of Busan – South Korea’s second-largest city. When you arrive, join your leader and explore Gamcheon Culture Village – known for its layered streets, twisted labyrinth-like alleys, brightly painted houses and street art. This afternoon is free to choose your own adventure. You might like to take in the coastal scenery on the retro Haeundae Sky capsule or the Haeundae Beach Train – the world's first battery-charged eco-friendly train, perfect for sightseeing. Maybe take a walk on the Busan Green Railway – a 4.8 km coastal walking trail. There’s lots to do in Busan and if you’re lucky, you may even be able to catch a game of Korean baseball at the nearby stadium!

This morning, visit Haedong Yongungsa Temple – a picturesque scene that sits on the coastline, made even more beautiful during cherry blossom season. After your temple visit, you’ll take part in a local cooking class, where you and the kids will try your hand at making Korean favourites, like kimbap and kimchi, before enjoying the fruits of your labour for lunch. This afternoon is yours to enjoy however your family chooses. Spend time relaxing on one of Busan’s many beaches (Songjeong is well-loved by local families and surfers in the summer) or maybe take a ride on a cable car for sweeping views. You could also check out the nearby amusement park if the kids are craving some adrenaline.

Today after breakfast, make the speedy journey back to Seoul on a KTX fast train – watch the views fly past you! When you arrive, your final afternoon is free to enjoy the city however you like. You may want to take a taekwondo class and learn some more martial arts moves or visit one of the many museums on offer. K-pop fans would love a visit to the Hallyu K-star Road in Gangnam for a hit of local Hallyu culture. Come back together with your fellow families this evening to enjoy a final group dinner and celebrate a trip well-travelled.

Your adventure comes to an end today after breakfast. With no activities planned, you’re free to depart anytime after breakfast. If you’d like to stay in Seoul for longer, just speak to your booking agent.