Seoul

On arrival in at the airport, you’ll be met and guided to the convenient shuttle bus that will take you into the heart of the city Check in to you deluxe hotel and enjoy the rest of this day at leisure.

After breakfast, your personal car, driver and guide will be waiting to show you the historic highlights and modern vibrancy of the city they love and know so well. Your full-day tour begins at the resplendent 600-year-old Gyeongbokgung Palace; on the palace grounds, you’ll also visit the National Folk Museum where fascinating exhibits offer insight into the history and cultural traditions of the Korean people.

Refresh with cup of tea at the Dawon Tea House and then stroll with your guide along Insadong Street. For centuries, this area was popular with artists and painters who came to study at Dohwawon, a famous painting school. Today, it’s still a center for the arts and you’ll find numerous shops and galleries offering a wide variety of traditional Korean arts and handicrafts including paintings, ceramics, antiques and souvenirs.

Next up is Gwangjang Market; established in 1905, this was the country’s first daily market and although it’s now become popular with visitors from abroad, it’s still where many local residents come shop for the finest quality silks, textiles, beddings and handcrafts. And with numerous food vendors specializing in traditional Korean snacks, it’s also a foodie’s paradise! Before returning to your hotel, you’ll also see the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

For dinner this evening, our in-the-know guide will be happy to assist with restaurant recommendations and assistance.  Meals B

Today we’ve included guided sightseeing that will take you to both the Demilitarized Zone and also to Panmunjom in the Joint Security Area. The day begins with a private chauffeured transfer to Camp Kim where you’ll join this group tour. When the Korean War ended in 1953, the North Korean village of Panmunjom was designated as the one place where officials from both sides could meet – which is exactly what happened on January 9, 2018 when delegates from both the North and South gathered for face-to-face talks. It’s a fascinating place where time seems to have stopped 65 years ago at the height of the Cold War. From the Dora Observatory, located in the DMZ on the South Korean side of the 38th Parallel, you’ll be able to see the spectacularly rugged Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains as well as North Korean military personnel. Not far from the Observatory is the infamous Third Tunnel; discovered in October 1978, this is one of four known tunnels under the border between North and South Korea. Back in Seoul, the balance of your evening is at leisure to dine and enjoy as you wish.  Meals B

After breakfast, you’ll be chauffeured to the airport for your onward journey.  Meals B