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Prepare to eat your way across South Korea on this 8-day guided culinary adventure, designed for lovers of food and culture. From the bustling Gwangjang Market of Netflix fame in Seoul to the historic flavours of Jeonju and Gyeongju, and finally to the coastal delicacies of Busan, this journey is a feast for the senses. This tour will immerse you in South Korea's gastronomic highlights and paired with cultural experiences, from bustling street food stalls to hands-on cooking classes and a spiritual encounter with a monk to a traditional hanok stay. Uncover South Korea's rich heritage as you slurp, crunch, and spoon your way through its most iconic dishes and hidden gems.
Your adventure begins in Seoul with its iconic chimaek and the vibrant Gwangjang Market before a train whisks you ...
Your adventure begins in Seoul with its iconic chimaek and the vibrant Gwangjang Market before a train whisks you away to Jeonju, the heart of Korean slow food. Here, you will wander through a traditional Hanok Village, master the art of kimchi, and taste royal bibimbap. Journey onward to Gyeongju to share tea with a monk in a 7th-century temple and explore the ancient wonders of the Silla Kingdom. Your tour culminates in the coastal city of Busan, where you will discover seaside temples, feast at the Jagalchi Fish Market, and indulge in a final, celebratory Korean BBQ, before a train journey back to Seoul.
This package includes 7 nights' accommodation in charming and basic hotels with 1 night in a traditional hanok (a traditional Korean house). With some meals and transfers included as specified, you can explore in comfort.
Embark on an epicurean pilgrimage across South Korea, where you'll master the art of kimchi in Jeonju, share tea with a monk in a 7th-century Gyeongju temple, and feast on fresh seafood at Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market. Taste the soul of a nation, from the royal court cuisine of ancient kingdoms to the vibrant, sizzling heart of its street food scene.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to South Korea. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Annyeonghaseyo! Welcome to Seoul, a dazzling metropolis where ancient tradition and futuristic innovation exist in perfect harmony. Your adventure begins at 4 pm with a welcome meeting, where you will be introduced to your leader and fellow travellers.
Once formalities are complete, you will embark on an orientation walk to familiarise yourself with the city's vibrant pulse. The first stop is a local supermarket, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culinary habits of modern Koreans and the staples of everyday life. Your leader will select a variety of popular local snacks for you to sample.
Later, descend into the city's efficient subway system and journey to a local restaurant for your first taste of a beloved Korean classic: chimaek. This quintessential pairing of crispy, juicy Korean Fried Chicken and cold, refreshing beer is a cultural staple you won't want to miss.
Next, allow your senses to guide you through the Gwangjang Market, one of South Korea's oldest and largest traditional markets. As seen in the Netflix series 'Street Food', this bustling labyrinth of sights, sounds, and smells is an essential culinary experience. Follow your leader through the maze of stalls to discover the most authentic vendors, sampling iconic street food along the way.
Should you wish to continue your gastronomic exploration, your evening can extend to the charming neighbourhood of Ikseon-dong. Here, traditional hanok houses have been transformed into a network of trendy cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, offering the perfect atmosphere to satisfy any lingering cravings.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Seoul, Klaven Hotel Myeongdong City Hall offers an oasis of tranquillity just moments from the bustling energy of Myeongdong's shopping and dining district. After a day of urban exploration, retreat to the comfort of your elegantly appointed room, or rejuvenate your senses at the hotel's inviting sauna.
This morning, journey via the metro to Seoul Station and board a train to Jeonju—a city celebrated for its dedication to a slower, more deliberate way of life, a philosophy that permeates its culture and its world-famous cuisine. Upon arrival, you'll be just in time for lunch at a legendary local noodle restaurant. What began as a humble food stall has since blossomed into a city icon, beloved for its exceptional noodle dishes that capture the essence of Jeonju's culinary soul.
In the afternoon, allow yourself to be transported back in time as you explore the enchanting Jeonju Hanok Village. Wander the charming cobblestone alleyways that wind between hundreds of beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses, their distinctive tiled roofs curving elegantly toward the sky. Here, you are invited to embrace the city’s unhurried rhythm, perhaps pausing to admire the intricate craftsmanship of the homes or stepping into a quiet courtyard.
Later, delve deeper into the heart of Korean slow food with an immersive kimchi-making demonstration. Under expert guidance, you will learn the secrets behind crafting this iconic fermented dish, a cornerstone of the nation’s culinary heritage, and also discover how to prepare a savoury kimchi pancake.
As evening descends, join your leader for a taste of makgeolli, a cloudy, lightly sparkling rice beer brewed locally. This cherished beverage is traditionally served in special brass bowls from a kettle, accompanied by an array of inventive side dishes that perfectly complement its unique flavour. Allow this authentic dining ritual to be a memorable conclusion to your day in the historic city of Jeonju.
Tonight, you are invited to immerse yourself in the authentic culture of Korea with an overnight stay in a traditional hanok, where you will sleep on a simple futon mattress on the floor wiht a light covering, embracing a way of life that has been cherished for centuries. The floor of your room is heated and provides a comfortable and cosy night’s sleep.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Note: The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival takes place in early October every year. Departures that coincide with this event will have the cooking class replaced by a visit to the festival.
This morning, you will transition from the traditional embrace of the hanok to a contemporary hotel for your second night in Jeonju. The day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. You might choose to wander through the winding alleys of the hanok village, revisiting its serene courtyards, or perhaps discover the city's regal past at the Gyeonggijeon Shrine, which houses the portrait of the Joseon Dynasty's founder. Should you need direction, your leader can offer personalised recommendations.
Later, you will journey by bus to the famed Sunchang Gochujang Village, the epicentre of Korea's most iconic red chilli paste. Here, you will witness the traditional fermentation process, where rows of earthen jars, or jangdok, line the grounds, each one essential to developing the paste's deep, complex flavour. After a tasting, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the variety of banchan, the small side dishes that form the heart of a Korean meal.
In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle stroll around the base of Mt. Gangcheon, a scenic area known for its lush forests and clear streams. For those feeling more adventurous, a walk to a nearby waterfall offers a refreshing interlude. This evening, prepare for a culinary highlight as you dine at Jeonju's most celebrated bibimbap restaurant. The dish here is so revered for its artistry and flavour that it has been designated an intangible cultural asset, promising a truly unforgettable meal.
Retreat for the night to the Jeonju Tourist Hotel Kkotsim, perfectly situated to offer serene views and easy access to the city's cultural heart. Here, modern comfort meets traditional charm, inviting you to unwind in elegantly appointed rooms after a day of exploration.
After a day of gastronomic discovery, retreat to the refined comfort of the GG Tourist Hotel in Gyeongju. Here, modern elegance meets serene relaxation, inviting you to unwind in the sauna or find peace in the tranquil garden before another day of adventure unfolds.
Begin your day with the local delicacy of kongnamul gukbap, a comforting hot soup made with soybean sprouts, before your journey continues to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Upon arrival, you'll be treated to lunch at a restaurant renowned for its soondubu jjigae, a flavourful and spicy stew featuring soft, silken tofu.
In the afternoon, you will delve into the serene world of Buddhist philosophy with a visit to a 7th-century temple nestled among the trees outside the city. Here, you'll have the rare opportunity to sip tea with a resident monk, offering a moment of quiet reflection and a deeper connection to Korea’s spiritual heritage. Fully recharged, you will return to Gyeongju to explore some of its most significant historical sites. Wander through the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, a collection of large, grassy tumuli housing the tombs of Silla kings and queens, and then visit the Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia.
As evening descends, the city is yours to discover at your own pace. You might choose to explore the vibrant street of Hwanglidan-gil, with its charming blend of traditional hanok houses, modern cafes, and unique boutiques, or take a leisurely stroll to the beautifully illuminated Woljeonggyo Bridge for picturesque nighttime views.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Your journey continues as you make your way to Busan, South Korea's vibrant coastal city. Your first stop is the magnificent Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare and stunning Buddhist temple built along the shoreline, offering breathtaking views where the mountains meet the sea.
Next, you'll embark on a hands-on culinary adventure with a private cooking class. Here, you will learn the secrets behind preparing authentic Korean dishes, which you will then enjoy for a delicious and rewarding lunch.
Afterward, you will travel to the famous Haeundae Beach, an expansive stretch of pristine white sand that creates a striking contrast against the glittering skyscrapers of the city's modern skyline. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. You might choose to charter a private yacht for a sightseeing cruise along the coast, indulge in a traditional wellness experience at a local Jjimjilbang (Korean spa), or immerse yourself in the local passion for sports by catching a baseball game at the lively Sajik Baseball Stadium.
As evening approaches, the group will reconvene for a unique dining experience, feasting on succulent Korean-style lamb skewers. Marinated in a flavourful blend of Korean spices, these skewers are cooked to perfection on a specialised grill that rotates them automatically, ensuring every piece is evenly grilled. It's a culinary delight that perfectly caps off an eventful day.
Optional Activity: (at an additional cost) Jjimjilbang (traditional Korean sauna) in Spa land Centum City
Retire for the night to the elegant Busan Business Hotel, perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Seomyeon, Busan's central hub for finance, shopping, and entertainment. Before you drift into a peaceful slumber, perhaps you'll unwind with a soothing session in the hotel's premium sauna or enjoy a nightcap at the sophisticated lounge, reflecting on a day of delightful discoveries.
Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.
On day six, the morning is yours to continue your exploration of Busan at your own pace. Later in the day, you will be guided to the famous Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, located right by the bustling port. Here, you can witness the vibrant energy of local vendors and see an incredible variety of fresh and dried seafood.
Following your market visit, you will head to a scenic restaurant overlooking the ocean for a delightful clam bake. As evening descends, you have a choice of several optional activities. You might take a leisurely stroll to see one of Busan's hundred-plus lighthouses up close, or perhaps wander through the winding, art-filled alleys of Gamcheon Culture Village, with its colourful houses cascading down the hillside—a perfect spot to find a unique handmade souvenir. Alternatively, you can end your day with a classic Korean experience: noraebang, or karaoke. Unlike its Western counterpart, Korean karaoke is typically enjoyed in private rooms, allowing you to sing your heart out in the company of just your friends and family.
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, your journey will continue as you board the Korea Train Express for a swift and comfortable ride back to Seoul. Upon arrival, the afternoon is yours to spend at your leisure, offering a perfect opportunity to explore more of this dynamic capital. You might choose to wander through the grand courtyards of Gyeongbok Palace, the largest and most impressive of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Alternatively, ascend Namsan Tower to be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape. For those with an interest in modern culture and style, a visit to Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods is a must; explore the chic boutiques and trendy cafes of Sinsadong, or experience the upscale, energetic atmosphere of the world-famous Gangnam district.
For your final evening, make your way to the youthful and vibrant district of Hongdae, renowned for its lively arts scene and bustling nightlife. Here, you will gather for an authentic Korean BBQ, a culinary experience that is both a meal and a celebration. Grill succulent meats right at your table and toast to the memories made during your adventure together, a fitting finale to your time in Korea.
Optional Activity: (at an additional cost) Seoul Nanta Live cooking show
Your adventure comes to an end today. With no activities planned, you’re free to leave at any time making your own arrangements for your onward travel. Airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. If you’d like to spend more time in Seoul, please contact us.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for group bookings and private departures. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure and finish point is Seoul
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Seoul. Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is closer to central Seoul, but most international travelers will arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN). As the larger of the two airports, ICN handles the majority of long-haul international flights into South Korea.
- Airport transfers are not included. Airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. Alternatively, you can make your own way there. Your start hotel is Klaven Hotel Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall is conveniently located across from exit 8 of City Hall Subway Station.
- Make your own way there: Seoul is very well-connected by public transport.
- Option 1 Airport Limousine Bus: Take Airport Limousine bus #6701 from the airport to the City Hall (Plaza Hotel) stop. Cost is approx. USD15. Arrive at Plaza Hotel and walk about 5 minutes to our hotel. From the bus stop cross and go down Namdaemun 1 Road, cross the road and go down Sejong Daero 18 Street.
- Option 2 Train: Take the train from the airport to Seoul Station. Change to subway line 1, travel one stop and arrive at City Hall. The hotel is a 5min walk away.
- Option 3 Subway: Take the subway from the airport, buy a reloadable T-Money card (USD3) and load it with WON7000. Take the Airport Express Train to Hongik University Station (approx. 45 minutes). Once you arrive, transfer to line 2 (green line) towards City Hall. Exit City Hall station at exit 8. Cross the street and go down Sejong Daero 18 Street and take the second right, down Sejong Daero 18. From the subway station to the hotel should only take about 5 minutes.
South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, shaped largely by continental influences and seasonal monsoon patterns. Winters are cold and dry, with Seoul averaging around -6°C to 3°C in January, as cold air masses move in from the Asian mainland. Summers are hot and humid, particularly in August, when temperatures in the capital typically range from 25°C to 33°C and the summer monsoon brings heavy rainfall. Spring and autumn are mild and comfortable, with temperatures generally sitting between 10°C and 22°C, making them the most temperate periods of the year. Overall, the country's continental climate produces a wide annual temperature range, from sub-zero winter lows to summer highs above 30°C.
Please note that the seasonal climate of South Korea means that this trip may, for some people, feel more difficult during the hotter/more humid Summer months (July/August/September). If you are travelling in the Spring or Autumn the weather is milder, however it can sometimes be cool and wet. Please ensure that you pack and dress appropriately.
This trip is rated 3 out of 5.
1 out of 5: these trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.
2 out of 5: Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.
3 out of 5: This trip will raise your heart rate. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.
4 out of 5: Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy it, as most activities will be challenging.
5 out of 5: Our highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You'll be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.
Hotel rooms: Many South Korean hotels have a limited supply of double rooms. If you are a couple travelling, please advise at the time of booking if you would like double bedding (subject to availability). Double bed in South Korea also tends to be smaller than normal western standard, closer to a queen size bed. It may be possible to book twin share rooms where you may push the beds together into one bigger bed, but this can't be guaranteed.
Air-conditioning & Heating: Air-conditioning is not usually turned on until the warmer season. The traditional housing has floor heating.
Hanok Stay: Your mattress will be on the floor. If you find that the surface is too hard, you can stack the bedding or ask for an extra mattress. The futon-like mattress may feel firm compared to Western beds, but heated floors ensure comfort. Extra mattresses are available upon request.
Food & Dietary Requirements: While we will endeavour to cater to dietary requirements where possible, please note that many meals and food activities on Real Food Adventures are set in advance in order to deliver a well-rounded experience of a country’s cuisine. In many countries, dietary restrictions are uncommon and not well understood. If you have dietary requirements and are concerned about whether this may impact on your ability to participate fully in all food-related activities on this trip, please contact your agent at time of booking for further information. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, you must notify your booking agent prior to departure so it can be determined whether your dietary requirements can be met. In South Korea, garlic or sesame allergies are hard to accommodate for. Please refer to the inclusions section for the included meals and food activities. Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are not included with meals unless specified or part of a beverage tasting activity.
Walking & Comfort: South Korea is best explored on foot, and many travelers are surprised by how much walking they do! Be sure your shoes are comfortable and you're ready to spend most of the day on your feet.
Pack: Pack smart! You’ll need to carry your luggage between train stations and hotels, which can involve multiple flights of stairs. Elevators are available, but lighter luggage will make your journey easier.
Monastery Visit: During the monastery visit, you'll experience monastic cuisine and rituals. Respecting local culture is key, so you'll be provided with pants and a tunic to wear, and socks must be worn in the temple.
Festivals: The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival (third week of October) and the Seoul Kimchi Festival (first or second week of November) offer unique experiences. If you're interested in attending, please contact us for departure dates to align with your preferred festival.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.