South Korea: Busan to Seoul

Annyeong-ha-se-yo and welcome to South Korea! After a private transfer to the hotel, we’ll begin with a Group Meeting at 6:00PM followed by an included Welcome Dinner.

Joh-eun achim-ieyo (good morning), Busan! After breakfast, we’ll set out for a full day of exploring Korea’s stunning southern coast. First up is the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a seaside sanctuary where crashing waves meet centuries-old Buddhist serenity. From there, we’ll head to Gamcheon Cultural Village, a hillside maze of colorfully painted homes and quirky art installations. Next, we’ll dive into Busan’s buzzing food scene with a street food lunch tour through Jagalchi Fish Market, Gukje Market, and BIFF Square. This afternoon, we’ll reflect at the UN Korean War Cemetery before arriving at the dramatic Oryukdo Skywalk for panoramic coastal views. Finally, we’ll time our visit to Dongbaekseom Island’s Nurimaru Observatory just right for a gorgeous seaside sunset. This evening, we’ll gather for an included dinner at a local restaurant, where we’ll dig into Busan-style Korean cuisine: fresh, flavorful, and full of regional flair!

This morning, we’ll enjoy an included breakfast before driving to Gyeongju, a treasure trove of Korean history often referred to as a “museum without walls.” Our first stop is the Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO-listed gem perched on Mt. Toham, where a serene stone Buddha gazes peacefully from within a centuries-old cave shrine. Next, we’ll stroll through Gyochon Cultural Village, a beautifully preserved hanok village that offers a window into traditional life during the Silla Dynasty. Here, we’ll roll up our sleeves for a hands-on workshop where we’ll make our own batch of gochujang, Korea’s famous fermented chili paste. For our included lunch, we’ll dine at Gyeongju’s most celebrated Buddhist vegetarian restaurant. This afternoon, we’ll visit the revered Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we’ll slow down and reflect during a private guided meditation session led by a resident monk, followed by a discussion on Korean Buddhism and its place in contemporary society. Tonight’s included dinner will be at a local restaurant.

After a busy few days, enjoy the morning at your leisure. Perhaps stop by the Teddy Bear Museum next to the hotel, relax by the pool, or wander the paths around the nearby lake. This afternoon, we’ll reunite and head to Gyerim Forest, a quiet grove steeped in legend and once believed to be the birthplace of Silla’s royal bloodline. From there, we’ll explore the Daerungwon Tomb Complex, home to the ancient burial mounds of Silla kings and queens. We’ll also visit Cheomseongdae, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia. Next, we’ll step into Gyeongju Hyanggyo, a historic Confucian school where the principles of harmony, respect, and scholarship were passed down for generations. Then it’s on to Gyeongju Tower for sweeping views, followed by a walk across the beautifully reconstructed Woljeonggyo Bridge. We’ll wrap up the day at Anapji Pond, one of Gyeongju’s most popular spots. As night descends, the pavilion lights reflect off the still waters, creating a magical atmosphere. Tonight’s included meal will be another delicious dive into regional Korean cuisine.

We’ll have another morning at our leisure before an afternoon transfer to Gyeongju Station, where we’ll enjoy First Class seating aboard a high-speed train to Seoul (with lunch included). Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel and have time to settle in and soak up our first impressions of this dynamic city where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity exist side-by-side. Later this afternoon, we’ll ease into the rhythm of Seoul with an orientation walking tour through the buzzing streets of Myeongdong, one of the city’s most lively neighborhoods. This evening, we’ll take our VIP seats for the wildly popular Nanta Show, a fast-paced, non-verbal performance blending comedy, acrobatics, and rhythmic cooking chaos. It’s one of South Korea’s most beloved theatrical experiences and a fun introduction to its creative spirit. After the show, we’ll indulge in a delicious, included dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in classic Korean dishes.

Today is a big day! After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off for a deep dive into Seoul’s royal history and traditional neighborhoods on a half-day tour led by a renowned scholar of Korean history and Buddhism. Beginning at Gwanghwamun Gate, the grand entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, we’ll explore the palace grounds, formerly home to Joseon dynasty kings and queens. Next, we’ll tour the National Folk Museum, which offers fascinating insights into Korean culture and daily life throughout the centuries. If timing allows, we’ll witness the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony, a reenactment of an old ceremonial tradition. We’ll say goodbye to our history guide, have an included lunch, then wander through Insadong Antique Street, a lively district filled with tea houses, art galleries, and stalls selling handmade crafts. We’ll then visit Bukchon Hanok Village, where beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) offer a picturesque look into life during the Joseon era. Afterwards, we’ll stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful, tree-lined waterway that provides a refreshing contrast to the busy cityscape. Tonight, we’ll meet with members of a local LGBTQ+ organization for an engaging dinner filled with community spirit and authentic Korean BBQ!

Today we’ll venture beyond the capital for a full-day excursion to Suwon, a historic city known for its UNESCO-listed fortress. Our first stop is the Korean Folk Village, an open-air living museum that brings the Joseon era to life with traditional houses, artisans, and live cultural performances. Stroll through cobbled paths lined with thatched roofs, watch demonstrations of centuries-old crafts, and even catch a reenacted wedding or folk dance if timing allows. It’s an engaging, immersive look into Korea’s pre-modern rural life. After an included lunch, we’ll make our way to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, an 18th-century military masterpiece built during the reign of King Jeongjo. Surrounded by forested hills and cityscapes, the fortress walls stretch impressively for over five kilometers. This evening, you’re free to explore on your own, or join an optional dinner at one of the city’s top spots for bibimbap, Korea’s beloved rice bowl layered with colorful vegetables, savory toppings, and a kick of gochujang.

After another delicious (and included) breakfast, we’ll start the day with a visit to Gwangjang Market, one of Korea’s oldest food halls. Led by a culinary expert featured on CNN’s Parts Unknown, we’ll dive deeper into the flavors and stories behind Korea’s street food scene. Next, prepare your dance moves because we’re heading south to Gangnam, made world-famous by the global hit “Gangnam Style.” We’ll stroll down K-Star Road, where larger-than-life bear statues honor some of K-pop’s biggest idols. Then it’s on to the dazzling Starfield Library at COEX Mall, a striking, multi-story space where books stretch to the ceiling in a futuristic dreamscape of design and culture. No visit to Seoul is complete without a sky-high view, so we’ll ascend to the top of the Lotte Sky Tower for sweeping panoramas of the city before wrapping up the afternoon with a visit to Hongdae Street, an artsy neighborhood packed with street performers, independent boutiques, and funky cafés. This evening, we’ll gather one last time for a special farewell dinner at a hilltop restaurant housed in traditional hanok buildings. Here, we’ll enjoy refined Korean cuisine in a setting that blends elegance, heritage, and scenic views. It’s the perfect place to reflect on our journey and toast to the unforgettable memories we’ve made!

After an included breakfast, guests who are not joining the extension will enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home!

For guests continuing on the extension, today offers a powerful and thought-provoking journey to one of the most historically significant places on the Korean peninsula. Located just 35 miles from Seoul, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) stands as a stark reminder of Korea’s divided past and hope for future peace. We’ll visit key landmarks such as the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and Dorasan Station, gaining insight into the tension, resilience, and complexity that define this border region. After the tour, we’ll stop for an optional lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. This afternoon and evening are at our leisure; a perfect opportunity to go shopping or explore Seoul’s dynamic culinary scene at your own pace.

Please note: Due to security and site regulations, the DMZ portion of the tour will be conducted in a shared manner with other visitors, and is subject to occasional cancellations due to factors outside of our control.

After an included breakfast, guests will enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Thanks for joining our gay South Korea tour!