Pricing to be used as a guideline - rates may fluctuate between weekday and weekends,
Surcharges apply over public holidays. Availability of train tickets during Korean New Year, Chuseok, Christmas, and major holidays cannot be guaranteed.
Independent Holiday
4 Days ex Seoul
Departs: Daily
Departs: Daily
Gyeongju (1) | Busan (2)
The city of Busan is the cultural capital of South Korea and is full of ancient and modern marvels. Hosting both the Busan International Film Festival and an annual fireworks festival, the city is also home to some of the most beautiful ancient temples in the country. This four-day itinerary connects with other South Korean holidays, as well as international airports for those wanting to add South Korea to other travel in this part of Asia.
Highlights:
- 24/7 local operator support in South Korea
- Temple stay and Sunmudo experience at Golgulsa Temple at Gyeongju
- UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto
- Explore ancient Silla sites including Cheomseongdae Observatory
- Discover local culture and street food at Gukje Market and BIFF Street
- Visit the colourful hillside of Gamcheon Cultural Village
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Seoul - Gyeongju (D)
This morning after checkout, you will be transferred by private vehicle to the station for your high-speed KTX journey to Gyeongju (approx. 2.5–3 hours). On arrival, meet your driver and travel to Golgulsa Temple, set at the base of Hamwolsan Mountain, with a short stop en route for lunch (own expense). Begin your daytime temple stay with an introduction to monastic life. Participate in activities such as meditation and archery, followed by a demonstration of Sunmudo, a traditional practice combining meditation, movement and martial arts. There is also the opportunity to try Sunmudo training and the 108 prostrations (optional-own expense). A simple plant-based dinner is served at the temple before transferring to your hotel in Gyeongju for the night.
Note: Golgulsa daytime temple visit is not recommended for travellers over 70 or anyone with mobility needs/the Sunmudo demonstration may be conducted by a non-Korean resident monk/if cancelled no alternatives are available
Day 2: Gyeongju – Busan (B)
This morning, visit the UNESCO-listed Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, both dating back to the Silla Kingdom and showcasing remarkable Buddhist artistry and architecture.
Continue to the Gyeongju National Museum to view an extensive collection of relics and royal artefacts that illustrate the region’s history. Visit the historic Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia, followed by the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, home to large grass-covered burial mounds of Silla rulers.
Later, travel by private vehicle to Busan (approx. 1.5 hours) and check in to your hotel.
Day 3: Busan (B)
Meet your guide and begin exploring Busan with a visit to Dongbaekseom Island, a scenic coastal area known for its walking trails and views over Haeundae Beach. Here, see the Nurimaru APEC House, a modern conference venue set in a picturesque location. Continue to the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, a significant site honouring those who served during the Korean War. Then visit Gukje Market, a lively hub of local goods and street food, followed by nearby BIFF Street, known for its connection to the Busan International Film Festival and local snacks. End the day at Gamcheon Cultural Village, where colourful houses line the hillside, creating one of Korea’s most distinctive urban landscapes. If time permits, take an optional cable car ride over the coastline for panoramic views of the sea, bridges and cliffs.
Note: Heavy traffic may occur during the peak season on roads leading to Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple.
Day 4: Busan – Seoul (B)
After breakfast, you will be transferred by private vehicle to the airport for your flight to Seoul. Arrangements conclude upon arrival at Gimpo Airport.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 local operator support in South Korea
- 3 nights’ hotel accommodation as specified
- Daily breakfasts at hotel
- Seoul-Busan by KTX in economy class
- Domestic flight Busan-Seoul – baggage allowance 20kg
- Transfers as specified by private air-conditioned vehicle with driver (no guide). Surcharge applies for airport transfers between 10:00pm – 7:00am
- Tours as specified by private air-conditioned vehicles
- Join-in daytime temple experience in Gyeongju
- Songdo cable car ride on day 3
- English speaking local guides
- Entrance fees
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Gyeongju
First Class: GG Hotel (3*) (best available)
Deluxe Class: Lahan Select Gyeongju
Busan
First Class: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae
Deluxe Class: Park Hyatt
Busan Beaches & Swimming Regulations
In Busan, public swimming is strictly permitted only during the official opening season (typically July to August), when lifeguards are on duty. Outside this period, entering the water for swimming is generally restricted for safety reasons.
Popular public beaches include: Haeundae, Gwangalli, and Songjeong
* In Korea, all beaches are public property. While some premium resorts provide direct beach access and exclusive guest services (such as dedicated sunbeds during summer), the beach areas themselves are shared with the public.
Public Holidays & Festivals in South Korea - 2026
January 1 (Thursday): New New Year's Day
February 16 (Monday) - February 18 (Wednesday): Seollal (Lunar New Year)
March 1 (Sunday) - March 2 (Monday): Independence Movement Day
May 5 (Tuesday): Children's Day
May 24 (Sunday) - May 25 (Monday): Buddha's Birthday
June 6 (Saturday): Memorial Day
August 15 (Saturday) - August 17 (Monday): Liberation Day
September 24 (Thursday) - September 26 (Saturday): Chuseok
October 3 (Saturday) - October 5 ( Monday): National Foundation Day
October 9 (Friday): Hangeul Day
December 25 2026 (Friday): Christmas & New Year
Sightseeing
Golgulsa daytime temple visit: is not recommended for travellers over 70 or anyone with mobility needs/the Sunmudo demonstration may be conducted by a non-Korean resident monk/if cancelled no alternatives are available.
Transfers
Surcharge applies for airport transfers between 10:00pm – 7:00am
Availability of train tickets during Korean New Year, Chuseok, Christmas, and major holidays cannot be guaranteed.
Water Bottles
We encourage travellers to travel with their own refillable/reusable water container in order to minimise plastic bottle usage and water waste, as more and more refilling stations are now available in destinations.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
