- Highlights:
- Explore ancient temples, royal palaces and traditional neighbourhoods, from Seoul to Gyeongju
- Enjoy sandy beaches, mountain scenery, volcanic landscapes and relaxed island life
- Try local food, surf gentle waves, explore colourful markets and experience everyday Korean life
Experience the best of South Korea as a family. From buzzing cities and ancient temples to sandy beaches, lush mountains and volcanic landscapes, this three week adventure is packed with variety. Travel by public transport and domestic flights, try plenty of Korean food and explore Jeju by car at your own pace.
Day 1 - Arrive in Seoul
Welcome to South Korea! Your driver will meet you at arrivals and hand over your T-money cards, handy tap-and-go cards that work on the subway, most buses and in taxis, as well as at convenience stores like GS25 and CU.
It’s about an hour into Seoul, and there’s plenty to spot along the way, from glass skyscrapers and green hills to the wide Han River. You’ll be staying in the historic Insadong neighbourhood, a great base for exploring Seoul with the family. Your spacious family-friendly accommodation is close to traditional tea houses, craft shops, restaurants and plenty of places to grab a quick bite, with the subway also within easy reach.
Take it slow today and get your bearings with a wander around Insadong. If everyone still has some energy, head towards Cheonggyecheon Stream, explore the nearby traditional streets or grab your first Korean BBQ together.
Day 2 - Exploring the city and it's foodie delights
After breakfast, it’s time to get out and explore Seoul. Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the kids can wander through grand courtyards, colourful pavilions and beautiful gardens. If you’re there at the right time, you can also watch the changing of the guard in traditional dress at 10am or 2pm.
From here, make your way through the characterful streets of Ikseon-dong and stop at peaceful Jogyesa Temple before taking a break for lunch. This afternoon, you’ll join a local guide for a half-day city tour using Seoul’s public transport. Together, you’ll hop between neighbourhoods and sights, from historic palaces and temples to the lively streets of Myeongdong, traditional Insadong and creative Hongdae. Your guide will share stories about Seoul’s history and culture along the way, while the kids get a taste of what everyday life is like in this huge, exciting city.
Day 3 - Seoul at your own pace
With another day in Seoul, you can take things at your own pace and see a different side of the city. Start in Bukchon Hanok Village, where narrow streets wind between traditional Korean houses and viewpoints open up across the city. It’s a fun area to explore on foot, with plenty of little shops and cafés along the way.
Next, head to Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful, car-free walkway running through the heart of Seoul. Follow the water, spot local wildlife and watch people walking and running as you make your way through the city. Finish at the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, where the bold modern architecture makes a striking contrast to Seoul’s traditional neighbourhoods.
Day 4 - Seoul - Sokcho
Today you’ll leave Seoul behind and take an easy bus ride to the seaside town of Sokcho. We’ll arrange your tickets with reserved seats, so you can sit back and watch the city gradually give way to greener scenery and coastal views.
Once you arrive, settle into your comfortable family-friendly hotel overlooking the marina and harbour. There’s a relaxed feel here, with the waterfront right on your doorstep and plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby. Head out to explore at your own pace, perhaps wandering through the colourful market stalls, grabbing a snack or strolling along the waterfront to take in the views of the East Sea.
Day 5 - Explore Seoraksan National Park
Today you’ll head into the mountains of Seoraksan National Park, just 20 minutes from Sokcho by local bus. Once inside, there are plenty of ways to explore, so you can pick a walking route that suits the whole family.
For an easy adventure, hop on the cable car for fantastic views across the mountains and valleys, then take the short walk to Gwongeumseong Fortress. If the kids are keen to walk further, there are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from gentle paths to more challenging hikes such as Ulsanbawi Rock. Don’t miss Sinheungsa Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple tucked among the dramatic mountain scenery.
Day 6 - Travel to Gyeongju
Today you’ll travel on to Gyeongju, the historic heart of South Korea. The express train from Andong takes around 1.5 hours, and from the station it’s an easy taxi or local bus ride to your comfortable family-friendly accommodation.
You’ll have time to settle in before heading out to explore. Gyeongju has a relaxed, small-town feel, with strict rules keeping high-rise buildings out of the historic centre. In the evening, head to Hwangnidan-ro, a lively street packed with cafés, street food and little shops. Grab some snacks, pick up a souvenir and enjoy the buzz as local families and young Koreans come out for the evening.
Day 7 - Free time in Gyeongju
Today you’ll step back in time and explore some of Gyeongju’s most fascinating sights. From your hotel, it’s just a short walk to Tumuli Park, where huge grassy mounds rise from the ground. These ancient tombs date back to the Silla period, and the shape of the mounds gives clues about how many people were buried inside. It’s a fun place for curious minds to explore, and you can see some of the treasures found inside at the National Museum.
There’s more history to discover at beautiful Bulguksa Temple, with its colourful details and peaceful surroundings. From here, head up to Seokguram Grotto to see its impressive carved Buddha. Later, make your way to Woljeonggyo Bridge, which is especially beautiful when it lights up after dark.
Day 8 - Travel to Busan
Welcome to Busan, South Korea’s lively seaside city, where the sea is never far away. You’ll stay in a comfortable family-friendly hotel in the Haeundae area, close to the beach, restaurants and cafés, making it an easy base for exploring the city.
For a fun afternoon or evening, head to Gwangalli Beach. Let the kids play on the sand while you enjoy the views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafés nearby. Back in Haeundae, you can stroll along the long sandy beach, explore the lively promenade or follow the walking paths beneath the pine trees. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy Busan’s relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Day 9 - Surf lesson in Busan
Today it’s time to hit the waves at Songjeong Beach, one of Busan’s best spots for beginner surfers. The gentle waves are ideal for families, and during your two-hour lesson, a local instructor will show you the basics and help everyone get the hang of it. Your surfboards and wetsuits are included, and there’s usually some extra time afterwards to have another go and practise your new skills.
Day 10 - Free time in Busan
Today is a free day to explore Busan at your own pace. One of the city’s most colourful places to visit is Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside neighbourhood filled with bright houses, colourful murals and quirky artwork. Originally built by refugees after the Korean War, the village has been transformed by local residents and artists into a maze of narrow lanes, little cafés and fun photo spots. It’s a great place for families to wander, with something new to spot around every corner.
Nearby, you can visit Yeongdo Bridge, a historic drawbridge with a touching story. During the Korean War, families separated from each other agreed to meet here again if they became separated, turning the bridge into a symbol of hope and reunion. Today, the bridge still opens briefly each day, keeping this piece of Busan’s history alive.
Day 11 - Fly to Jeju Island
Today you’ll fly from the mainland to Jeju, a beautiful island with a completely different pace of life. Your rental car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with your family-friendly hotel in Seogwipo providing a great base and easy parking for coming and going.
The drive south takes around an hour, and you’ll soon notice the scenery changing from city streets to beaches, volcanic landscapes and lush countryside. Hallasan Mountain sits in the middle of the island and creates its own microclimate, so don’t be surprised if you drive through misty weather before arriving in bright sunshine.
Once you’ve settled in, head out for a relaxed stroll through Seogwipo’s local market. It’s a fun place to try some of Jeju’s fresh specialities and pick up a few snacks for tomorrow’s adventures.
Days 12 & 13 - Free time in Jeju
Today you can explore part of the Jeju Olle Trail, a network of scenic walking routes that winds around the island’s coastline. With routes of different lengths and difficulty levels, it’s easy to choose one that suits the whole family.
Route 6 is particularly convenient from your base in Seogwipo and takes you past highlights such as Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang waterfalls. Along the way, stop at a local café or restaurant for a snack and try some of Jeju’s fresh seafood, including the island’s famous abalone. If you’re up for an early start, head to Seongsan Sunrise Peak for a spectacular sunrise before exploring more of the island.
Day 14 - Return to Seoul and departure from South Korea
Time to leave Jeju behind, although if you are not quite ready to say goodbye it is easy to extend your stay a little longer. When you do decide to move on, you will take a short domestic flight to Seoul. You will stay one final night here before flying home the following day.
Accommodation
