13 great and different guided tours around South Korea. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.
South Korea is a sought-after tourist destination, blending traditional culture with modern technology and incredible natural beauty. The Asian country is also well known for K-pop and its delicious and unique cuisine. Furthermore, the country has a rich history and cultural heritage that can be seen in its tourist attractions.
One of the most popular places to visit in South Korea is its capital Seoul, which offers a plethora of activities for tourists. They can explore the city’s history at Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was built in the 14th century. They can also walk through the traditional Bukchon Hanok neighborhood, a residential neighborhood with traditional Korean-style houses.
For technology lovers, a visit to Seoul’s N Tower is a must. This tower offers stunning views across the city and is a popular spot for couples. Another tourist attraction in Seoul is Dongdaemun Market, a shopper’s paradise with an array of fashion and technology stores.
Some cities are also frequently visited by tourists, such as Busan, a port city on the southeast coast of South Korea known for its white sand beaches. In addition, the country is famous for having hot springs and spas, where visitors can enjoy hot and cold baths, saunas and relaxing massages.
All in all, South Korea is a very diverse tourist destination offering a variety of activities from exploring history and culture to enjoying nature and modern technology. The country is truly one that should be on every traveller’s list of places to visit.
Table of Contents
Top 10 tourist attractions in South Korea
Before we dive into the main topic and discuss tours, we thought it would be nice to introduce some of the most famous tourist attractions in South Korea to help you find tours, itineraries, and activities that align with your interests.
As mentioned earlier, the country is rich in history and culture, with numerous impressive tourist attractions. Below, we have listed the top 10 tourist attractions in South Korea:
- Han River: The river that runs through the capital of South Korea, Seoul, and its surroundings, offers various recreational activities such as boat rides and walks.
- Jeju Island: It is a volcanic island known for its incredible natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches and mountains.
- N Seoul Tower: An observation tower that offers panoramic views of the bustling capital.
- Bulguksa Temple: A Buddhist temple located in the city of Gyeongju, known for its breathtaking historical structures and seven national treasures of South Korea.
- National Museum of Korea: A museum in Seoul that houses a vast collection of historical artifacts. Perfect for those who love to understand a nation’s culture through its history.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Also located in the capital, Seoul, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful palaces in the country, first built in 1395.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: A village known for its traditional houses and architecture, nestled between the beautiful palaces of Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, and the Jongmyo Royal Shrine.
- Hwaseong Fortress: A historic fortress located in the city of Suwon, 42 kilometers from Seoul. It is a Joseon Dynasty construction with incredible architecture.
- Jogyesa Temple: The main Buddhist temple in the country, situated in the capital, known for its traditional architecture and cultural activities offered.
- Seoraksan National Park: It features impressive mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails. A great place for those who want to go beyond historical sites and connect with the country’s nature.
Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in South Korea?
Regardless of whether you choose to travel independently or on a group tour in South Korea, both options have their pros and cons.
Opting for independent travel offers greater flexibility to plan a personalized itinerary and choose activities that interest you. It also gives you the autonomy to decide when and how to engage in these activities, allowing you to explore the country at your own pace. Cost-effectiveness can also be a positive factor, as this option can be more affordable depending on the choices made.
However, independent travel requires detailed planning, including research on accommodation, transportation, and activities, which can be time-consuming and demanding. Additionally, communication may become a challenge if you are not proficient in Korean, and there are greater safety risks, especially in more remote areas.
On the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers companionship and is a great opportunity to meet people with similar interests. It is also easier and safer to travel in a group, especially when accompanied by a local guide who is well-versed in South Korea. However, this option may limit the freedom to explore the country more independently, as you will be restricted to pre-established schedules and activities set by the group.
In summary, the choice depends on personal preferences. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and it is necessary to evaluate which one is the best fit for you and your travel style.
If you decide to travel independently, you can check out our articles with tips on 13 Places to Visit in South Korea Beyond Seoul.
| Positives of traveling on a group tour | Advantages of traveling on your own |
| Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests | Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities |
| Peaceful and fun group experience | Autonomy to follow your own schedule |
| More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide | Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule |
| Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities | Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper |
| Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone | Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip |
13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore South Korea
Best South Korea Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures
1. GAdventures – Best of South Korea (8 Days)
Want a unique experience? South Korea fits this profile perfectly. On this eight-day trip, you’ll see the main highlights around Seoul, as well as visit folk villages, temples and the bustling markets of Busan. Learn about the history of North and South Korea and take a tour of the Demilitarized Zone that separates the two.
2. Intrepid – South Korea Highlights (9 Days)
A melting pot of natural wonders, culinary delights and fascinating cityscapes, South Korea is proving to be a destination well worth including on your travel bucket list. On this tour, you will discover more about the lively and technological country in a nine-day exploration of the main sights.
There will be a tour of the Demilitarized Zone and you can also experience an all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. In addition, it will be possible to spend a night in a traditional Hanok house and discover the ecological beauty of the Suncheon wetlands.
3. Intrepid – South Korea Real Food Adventure (8 Days)
Immerse yourself in the “choose your own adventure” vibe of South Korean cuisine, from the bibimbap to the huge street food markets you could get lost in (if not for the local guide!). South Korea’s food scene is often informal and dining in the country is all about finding your flavors.
Indulge in meals served with dozens of sides, light and crispy Korean fried chicken accompanied by a small-batch craft beer, silky glass noodles stirred with colorful salad and the many delightful kimchi variations. Discover the flavorful diversity and heritage of this rich culinary scene.
Tourradar’s Best Iceland Tours (Best Site to Search and Compare Iceland Tours of Different Lengths, Styles, Prices, and Operators)
4. Tourradar – Discover Korea (7 Days)
Start and end in Seoul! With this tour, you will have a 7-day travel package that will take you to Seoul and 15 other destinations in South Korea. This tour includes hotel accommodations as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and more!
5. Tourradar – South Korea Adventure (12 Days)
Start in Seoul and end in Jeju! On this tour you will have a 12-day travel package that will take you to Seoul and 4 more destinations in the country. The tour includes accommodation in a hostel, as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and much more.
6. Tourradar – Korea Express (6 Days)
Start and end in Seoul! On this tour, the 6-day travel package will take you through Seoul and 4 other destinations in South Korea. It includes hotel accommodation as well as an expert guide and transport!
7. Tourradar – South Korea Circle Adventure (5 Days)
Start and end in Seoul! With this active adventure tour, you will get a 5-day travel package that will take you to Seoul and 10 more destinations in the Korean nation. The 5-day, 4-night tour includes hotel accommodation, as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation, and more.
8. Tourradar – Seoul Searching & Jeju (9 Dias)
Start and end in Seoul! With this cultural tour you will have a 9-day travel package that passes through Seoul and 3 other destinations in South Korea. This tour also includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, meals, transportation, and more.
9. Tourradar – Soulful South Korea (10 Days)
Start and end in Seoul! On this tour you have a 10-day travel package that will take you to Seoul and 4 other destinations in the country. Includes hotel accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.
10. Tourradar – Impressions of South Korea (10 Days)
Start in Seoul and end in Busan! With this Korea tour you have a 10-day tour package that takes you through Seoul plus 5 destinations in the country. Includes accommodation in a hotel, plus an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.
11. Tourradar – South Korea Small Group Discovery Tour (12 Days)
Start and end in Incheon! With this tour you get a 12-day tour package that takes you to Incheon and 11 more destinations in Korea. This tour also includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transportation, and more.
12. Korean World Heritage Adventure (10 Days)
Start and end your journey in Seoul! With the 10-day, 9-night cultural immersion tour, you will get a complete tour package that includes Seoul and 4 other destinations in South Korea. The tour offers hotel accommodation, airline tickets, expert guide, meals, transportation and much more.
13. Tourradar – Live South Korea (12 Days)
Start in Seoul and end in Jeju! With the tour you have a 12-day tour package that will take you to Seoul and 4 other destinations in the country. Includes accommodation in a hostel, as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.
Concluding
Anyway, South Korea is an incredible destination for those looking for cultural, historical and adventure experiences. With so many options for tours, excursions and tours available, it is important to research carefully before choosing the company that best meets your needs and expectations.
We recommend checking the reviews of other travelers and the details of the benefits offered. This is essential for a smooth and safe trip. But regardless of the chosen company, one thing is certain: we guarantee that your trip to Korea will be unforgettable!