Budget Seoul to Busan

Welcome to South Korea! On arrival, make your own way to our starting hostel, located in the lively centre of Seoul's renowned shopping area, Myeongdong. After check in and some time to freshen up, join the group for an orientation before we head out to enjoy our first Korean meal at a welcome dinner. After dinner, we'll head up Namsan Mountain to take in the stunning nighttime views of the city's lights.

Please note: This is a budget version of our Seoul to Busan Youth Adventure tour. There are fewer inclusions on this tour and more leisure time. Some members of your tour group will be on the other tour, so you will spend some days apart from the group, usually regrouping in the evening for dinner and drinks.

Please also note: This tour stays in a mixture of hotels and hostels and is designed for younger travellers looking for a backpacker-style experience and to meet like-minded people. The average age on this tour is around 21 - 35, and we are unfortunately unable to take any travellers over the age of 45. We have lots of group tours across our destinations that are suitable for travellers of all ages, browse our website or get in touch to find the perfect trip!

After enjoying breakfast at the hostel, you've got some free time to explore Seoul. Later, join the group at HiKR Ground for a K-pop dance class! You'll learn from a professional dance instructor and choreographer. Afterward, the afternoon is free for you to explore on your own before we regroup for dinner and drinks in the lively Itaewon district (not included).

Seoul is yours to explore today, so choose your own adventure! Begin with a stroll along Seoullo 7017, a stunning sky garden offering city views and diverse plant life. Alternatively, immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of Korea, where you can marvel at over 12,000 artefacts in the free permanent collection. For a burst of creativity, wander through Ihwa Mural Village, snapping photos of vibrant street art by local artists.

If relaxation is your priority, indulge in a beauty session at one of Myeongdong's renowned skin clinics or hair therapy centers, famed for their cutting-edge treatments and premium products.

The group returns to Seoul at around 16:00 and we'll regroup for another unforgettable Korean dinner and maybe some drinks.

Today, we'll journey into the past to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Joseon Dynasty in traditional Seoul. Begin our adventure by witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the five grand palaces from the Joseon era that holds a special place in Seoul's history. We'll have the opportunity to wander through its ancient courtyards, admire its majestic architecture, and relax in its serene gardens. You can opt to try on a traditional 'hanbok' while exploring the palace for an authentic feel.

Next, stroll through the well-preserved Bukchon Hanok Village, where we can appreciate traditional Korean architecture and gain insight into life in Korea centuries ago. For a change of pace, visit the bustling Insadong art street, a lively cultural hub known for its art galleries, and antique and cultural shops.

In the evening, join our guide for a street food tasting tour at the Gwangjang Market, where you will sample an array of Korean dishes, from savoury to sweet, including must-try delicacies like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls).

Prepare to experience the tranquility of a small, active temple nestled in the mountains on the outskirts of Seoul. With intricately decorated temples and shrines scattered throughout the grounds, you'll feel transported far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Engage in temple activities, including a singing bowl meditation session, evening bell tolling, and prayer chanting. Additionally, enjoy tea with a monk after your silent, reflective Buddhist dinner, allowing you to ask questions about life as a monk.

Seoul - Jeonju. After morning chanting and enjoying a wholesome Buddhist breakfast, we will bid farewell to our peaceful mountain retreat and journey to the small city of Jeonju. Tonight, we are staying in a traditional wooden Hanok guesthouse. There's free time to relax after we have checked in, before we embark on a group tasting session at the Hanok featuring one of Jeonju's most famous specialties: a rice wine called Makgeolli. You'll discover how it's made and sample various types. For those interested in continuing, the group will head to Makgeolli Alley to try more varieties and savour 'anju' - special dishes designed to be enjoyed with drinks!

Please note: Some members of the group may be ending their tour in Seoul, and not continuing to Jeonju.

Jeonju - Gyeongju. Departing Jeonju, we'll board a bus to our next destination, the historic city and former capital of Gyeongju. Often referred to as the "Museum Without Walls", Gyeongju features an impressive array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, and royal tombs that tell stories of a rich past.

On arrival, we'll check in to our hostel and you'll have the afternoon free to head out and explore Gyeongju as you please. In the evening, we'll head to Anapji Pond to admire the mirrored reflections of the surrounding structures in the water.

Enjoy a free day in Gyeongju to explore at your own pace. Visit the ancient burial mounds at Tumuli Park, where the history of Silla kings and nobles comes to life. Alternatively, delve deeper into the Silla Kingdom’s legacy at the Gyeongju National Museum, home to an impressive collection of historical artefacts. For a more relaxing day, consider a leisurely bike ride or a scenic boat trip around Bomun Lake, ideal for peaceful picnics amidst beautiful surroundings. In the evening, reunite with the group to sample some of the bars and restaurants in Gyeongju’s charming old town.

Gyeongju - Busan. Today, we travel to Busan, a vibrant coastal city framed by beaches and mountains. After settling into our centrally located accommodation, we’ll visit the bustling Jagalchi Market, renowned for its fresh seafood, and explore nearby shopping districts. The afternoon is yours to enjoy. Stroll through the colourful alleys of Gamcheon Cultural Village, or unwind in the relaxing heat of a jjimjilbang (traditional Korean bathhouse). We wrap up the day and our tour in true Korean style - by singing our hearts out in one of Busan’s famous karaoke rooms.

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and check out. You have the option to either take the train from Busan back to Seoul Station or catch a flight from Gimhae Airport. These options aren't included but our guide will be able to help you plan your onward travel. Annyeonghi gaseyo!