South Korea Unlocked: 12 Days of Culture, Tradition & Calm

For those joining the flight group booking, you will depart all together from Malta International Airport. 

Group Flight Details:

TK1370 | 11 OCT | Malta – Istanbul  10:40 – 14:05
TK 020 | 11 OCT | Istanbul – Seoul  16:50 – 08:35

For those arranging their own flights it is important to arrive in Seoul by 8:30AM on the 12 October 2026.

After breakfast, you’ll begin exploring Seoul with your tour guide. As South Korea’s vibrant capital, Seoul is known for its cutting-edge technology, impressive skyscrapers, and mouthwatering cuisine.

You’ll begin exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is the largest and most iconic of Seoul’s five grand palaces, featuring the impressive Gwanghwamun Gate and the changing of the royal guard ceremony.

Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of traditional houses, or hanoks, dating back to the Joseon dynasty. Today, many of these hanoks function as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean culture. 

In the afternoon, you’ll dive into a kimchi-making class, learning the art of creating this iconic Korean dish. 

Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, Lunch and Cooking Class.

Today, you will leave Seoul and head to Seoraksan. This is home to one of the most famous national parks in South Korea. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural significance. 

Sinheungsa Temple – You will visit the oldest Zen temple in South Korea, which was built by a traveling Shilla monk by the name of Jajang Yulsa in AD 652 and has been destroyed by fire and rebuilt many times. This is located in Seoraksan National Park.

Option 1: Mt. Seorak Hiking Experience
For more active travelers, this moderately challenging hike visits two of Seoraksan’s most famous landmarks. Discover the Rocking Rock, a massive granite boulder that surprisingly moves slightly when pushed, then continue to Ulsanbawi Rock for panoramic views of the East Sea and surrounding peaks. The trail includes many stone steps and offers a highly rewarding outdoor adventure.

Option 2: Gwongeumseong Cable Car 
Ride a scenic cable car up Seoraksan Mountain to Gwongeumseong, an ancient stone fortress located near the summit. Enjoy breathtaking views and explore Seoraksan’s iconic rock formations, one of the national park’s most memorable highlights. This option is ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed experience with minimal walking.

Daepohang Fish Market – You will end the day by heading to Sokcho to enjoy Sokcho’s freshest seafood at a charming market – Daepo Fish Market. 

Hotel: Ramada by Wyndham Gangwon Sokcho in Sokcho (4-star) (or similar)

Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, all activities & Lunch

Today you will hit the road for a one-of-a-kind experience, Golgulsa Templestay in Gyeongju. This offers an unparalleled glimpse into traditional Korean culture. Spending a night here allows you to experience the deeply rooted practices of a working temple, and it’s an opportunity to gain a sense of inner peace and perspective that few other travel experiences can provide.

Why Golgulsa Templestay?

At Golgulsa, you’ll immerse yourself in a spiritual world as you follow the daily routines of the monks, learning meditation techniques, participating in chanting ceremonies, and discovering the principles that guide a mindful life. Accommodations are modest but comfortable, shared with two to five guests of the same gender. While you’ll sleep on floor mats, it’s all part of the authentic temple experience, encouraging simplicity and awareness of the present moment.

What You’ll Gain:

• Mindfulness and Reflection: The structured activities allow you to step away from the business of life and embrace a slower pace, perfect for reconnecting with yourself.
• Shared Community Experience: Sharing a room and participating in group activities fosters camaraderie with fellow travellers, creating memories that last long after the trip.
• A Unique Cultural Opportunity: Very few people get to experience monastic life first-hand. A night at Golgulsa is a rare chance to try out this honoured way of life.

Optional Hotel Stay

If you prefer more conventional accommodations, a nearby hotel is available for an additional €140. This includes twin sharing and access to hotel facilities for a relaxing evening. However, this option may lack the same cultural immersion that Golgulsa Templestay offers. If you opt for this option, you will not participate in the day activities at the temple, but you could have a relaxed afternoon using the facilities at the hotel.  The additional cost for this is €140 based on twin sharing.

Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, lunch, dinner (only at templestay).

Bulkuska Temple – Throughout the history, the city has remained as an important centre of Korean Buddhism. Bulkuksa, located on the East of Gyeongju, is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Republic of Korea. The temple is considered as a masterpiece of the golden age of Buddhist art of the Silla kingdom, encompassing seven national treasures of the Republic of Korea.

Explore the timeless charm of Yangdong Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site where traditional Korean houses and centuries-old customs come to life. Wander through this living museum to experience Korea’s rich cultural heritage in an authentic village setting.

Transfer to Busan – check-in to hotel and have free time to explore the area. 

Included: Breakfast, lunch, transfers, guided tour and all entrances. 

Hotel – Busan Asti Hotel (4-star) or similar

Today’s highlight will be Gamcheon Cultural Village – which is a romantic alley where history, culture, and art meet. While the village’s beautiful landscape gave it the nickname of the Machu Picchu of Korea, the town was a part of the painful history of Busan. Refugees settled in Gamcheon Village during the Korean War and cultivated the mountainous region to make a living. In 2009, students, artists, and residents decorated the village as a part of the Village Art Project, and the town grew into a leading tourist attraction of Busan since then.

Before visiting Gamcheon Village, you will also stop at the following:

• Busan Tower
• Jaglachi Fish Market
• BIFF Square Plaza
• Songo Cable Car

After, move to Busan Airport and fly to Jeju Island.

Domestic flights: 17:00pm- 18:00pm

Hotel: Ocean Suites Jeju Hotel (4-star) or similar in Jeju

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Transfers, Flight, Guided tour and all entrances.

Meet your tour guide in the morning and explore the eastern wonders of Jeju Island. Begin at Seongsan Sunrise Peak (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a stunning volcanic cone offering panoramic views of the sunrise and surrounding landscapes. Continue to Seopjikoji Peak, famous for its dramatic cliffs, lighthouse, and ocean vistas. Drive along the scenic Jongdalri Shore Road, passing picturesque coastal scenery. Conclude the day with a visit to Seongeup Folk Village, where traditional Jeju houses and cultural heritage provide a glimpse into the island’s history.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Jeju.

Hotel: Ocean Suites Jeju Hotel (4-star) or similar in Jej

Meet your tour guide in the morning and begin an unforgettable exploration of Jeju’s west coast, combining natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and optional adventure.

Hyupjae Beach: Famous for its white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hyupjae Beach is one of Jeju’s most scenic coastal spots. Enjoy relaxed seaside walks, photo opportunities, and views of Biyangdo Island just offshore.

Hanlim Park:A beautifully landscaped botanical park featuring themed gardens, lava caves, palm trees, bonsai displays, and traditional Korean architecture. A peaceful stop that showcases Jeju’s diverse flora and geological heritage.

O Sulloc Green Tea Museum: Discover Korea’s green tea culture at this modern museum surrounded by tea fields. Learn about traditional tea production, browse premium tea products, and enjoy signature green-tea desserts at the onsite café.

Optional Activity: 981 Park, Kart Racing Experience (Additional cost of €35)

Add some adrenaline to your day with high-tech gravity-powered kart racing at 9.81 Park. Race down scenic tracks with smart safety systems and real-time performance tracking, suitable for beginners and thrill-seekers alike. A fun, unique experience you won’t find anywhere else on Jeju.

After, move to Jeju Airport and fly to Seoul

Domestic flights: 17:00pm – 18:00pm

Upon arrival, transfer to Hotel and check-in

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Transfers, Flight, Guided tour and all entrances.

Hotel: Botanic Sewoon Myeongdong Hotel or similar

Today, you’ll explore the intriguing Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a weapons-free buffer zone between North and South Korea.

During your visit, you’ll have the unique opportunity to peer into secretive North Korea from the Dora Observatory and explore the tunnels built by the North as part of an invasion plan. MAKE SURE TO BRING YOUR PASSPORT TO THE DMZ.

Highlights include:
– Imjingak Park
– Freedom Bridge
– The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
– DMZ Theater / Exhibition Hall
– Dora Observatory
– Dorasan Station & Unification Village (pass by)

After we will visit the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge.

Please be advised that the DMZ tour confirmation will be finalised closer to the date due to the region’s volatility. Should the tour be unavailable, we will arrange an alternative activity for that day.

Hotel: Botanic Sewoon Myeongdong Hotel or similar

Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, All entrances & Lunch

Spend your free time exploring Seoul’s famous shopping districts such as Myeongdong or Dongdaemun, or unwind before departure with a relaxing Korean spa (jjimjilbang) experience.

Depart to the airport around 7pm.

You could opt for a late check-out at an extra cost.

Included: Breakfast & Transfer to airport.

Every client is required to have a travel insurance package. This needs to be presented to us.

1. Single Supplement is €730
2. Single Supplement if hotel in Gyeongju is chosen instead of temple stay: €870 

Autumn in South Korea is one of the most beautiful and comfortable seasons to visit. The weather is mild and crisp, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 20°C across most regions, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies and low rainfall add to the pleasant conditions. October is especially popular as vibrant autumn foliage colors parks and mountains, creating stunning landscapes and a perfect atmosphere for travel.

South Korea uses the Type F plug. Type F electrical plugs used in South Korea are manufactured to the CEE 7/4 and CEE 7/7 standards and is commonly referred to as a Schuko plug. The line and neutral plug contacts for South Korea Type F plugs are two round pins with a 4.8 millimeter diameter.

Maltese citizens and most European citizens who are planning a trip to South Korea aren’t required to apply for a visa if they wish to go for short stays (tourism). But it’s required to obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA or eVisa) before entering South Korea. The Globaltravelbook team will guide you with the process.

Please inform us of your nationality before booking.