Selected: Small group tour Soul of Korea 2026Korea’s distinctive dramas have their own section on Netflix, its skin care products are highly prized and you’ll find its famous barbecue cuisine in every major city. But, despite being travel media’s ‘hottest new destination’, it’s still relatively quiet for Western tourists. Introducing our Small Group Tour: Soul of Korea.South Korea’s ppalli ppalli (quick quick!) culture means there’s always something new to see. That’s why we keep a morning free for your tour leader (we call them Insiders) to show you what's new and trending at that very moment, from niche festivals to new pop-up bars.Korean culture is also defined by its food: and it’s not just what you eat, but how. Collective dining is part of South Korea's social fabric, so eating as a group unlocks some of Korea’s most authentic experiences.Read more LocationSouth Korea Tour Length10 days /9 nights Activity Level Group sizeMax 14 people Ratings LightLight mobility requirements as sightseeing activities are done predominantly by vehicle, with light walking SteadyIdeal for most fitness levels. Sightseeing involves walking and being on your feet for a couple of hours at a time, with down-time included too ActiveRequires a moderate level of fitness. Activities and sightseeing will generally involve walking and being on your foot for much of the day. Often includes light activities such as cycling, kayaking, or hands-on experiences AdventureDemands higher fitness. Most days will include a substantial amount of walking and/or activity throughout the day. EnergeticFor people who love being active. We reserve this rating for active itineraries with substantial movement and adventure activities almost every day. Trip highlights Itinerary Departure dates Is this trip for you? Reviews What's included FAQs No two trips are the same – because we keep a day free on each tour for your tour leader (we call them Insiders) to show you whatever’s hottest at that very moment, from niche festivals to emerging pop up bars. Food is the gateway to South Korea’s culture, and on this tour, you won’t stop eating. Tuck into fried chicken and beer in a Seoul back street and share one of South Korea’s best-known culinary exports – Korean BBQ – with your group. Korea's blend of ancient sites, stunning natural beauty and energetic modern cities surprises many first-time visitors. On this group tour, you’ll experience it all, from sea temples to folk villages and skyscrapers. Extend your trip by visiting JapanThis trip works perfectly when combined with a Small Group Tour to Japan. Visit our sister company to see which dates would work for you. ItineraryThis Small Group Tour is easy to extend with pre- or post-tour nights in Korea or join up with a trip to Japan. Secure your place Image Image Day 1-4Seoul Highlights: Full day walking tour of Seoul: combine the city’s most interesting and famous sights with your Insider’s favorite local spots Spend a day with your Insider guide exploring whatever’s currently hot and trending: from niche festivals to galleries to pop up bars Get your first taste of communal dining: enjoy a sizzling Korean BBQ dinner with your groupSeoul is the gateway to all things Korea.Visit Seoul’s hanok village, a time capsule of heritage architecture. You’ll witness pomp, ceremony (and extreme hats) during the changing of the guard at Gyeongbok Palace, the largest and grandest of Seoul’s palaces.Begin your Korean culinary education at Gwangjang Market, where an elderly Korean imo may bring you a bowl of what she thinks you should eat. Tuck into an evening KBBQ (Korean barbecue) and learn where to put your chopsticks and when to cheers soju cups (always).Spend a day with your Insider guide in Seoul. In the morning, you’ll visit the Cheonggyecheon stream – a slice of natural calm in built-up Seoul that our team can’t stop talking about. You’ll learn just how much of Seoul and Korean history flows within its waters and is built into its bridges. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered nuts to chew under the bridge to ward off spirits...In the afternoon, you’ll get to experience what’s hot right now in Seoul: it could be a building transformed into a living terrarium, a festival dedicated to lights, or an emerging neighborhood with pop-up bars on every corner.On your final day in Seoul you’ll have a chance to explore the city under your own steam. Your Insider will give you tips, based on what interests you most. If you’re into museums, Seoul has some of the quirkiest: from its traditional furniture museum to Leeum Art Museum – where exhibitions stretch from ceramics and calligraphy to contemporary art and a sunken basement garden. Or, you can head over to local hotspot Seongsu, known as the 'Brooklyn of Seoul', packed out with vintage stores, cafes in converted warehouses and pop up shops and installations so fleeting, by the time you read this, the latest will be long gone. Accommodation Seoul • South Korea Superior Nine Tree by Parnas InsadongA sleek minimalist retreat in the heart of historic Insa-dong, Nine Tree Hotel pairs stylish comfort and rooftop city views with easy access to Seoul’s most traditional streets and markets. TransportDay 1: Car transfer from Incheon airport to hotel (1 hour) MealsBreakfast included Day 4Day trip to Chuncheon Highlights: Take a ride on the Gangchon Rail Bike and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and themed tunnels. Sit out by the lake and taste some fresh mountain ginseng and makgeolli rice wine.On day four you'll escape the city and head east from Seoul to the charming, lesser-known region of Chuncheon, a place famous for Nami Island, but with so much more to experience. Long before overseas travel was common in Korea, Chuncheon was the destination for university trips, friendships, and even romances. The old train line became known as the “Love Train,” and today you can relive that nostalgia on the Gangchon Rail Bike, pedaling through themed tunnels and mountain scenery.After your ride, take a short, scenic boat journey across Soyang Lake and eat lunch: crispy jeon (Korean pancakes), fried mountain ginseng, and the local favorite, makgeolli rice wine.Next, follow the gentle mountain trail to Cheonpyeongsa Temple. Along the way, you’ll pass a statue from the legend of the Princess and the Snake and a waterfall. At the temple, take in over a thousand years of history and the tranquil atmosphere of Korea’s mountain monasteries before returning to Seoul’s bright lights. MealsBreakfast included Day 5-6Busan Highlights: Try hoe (Korean sashimi) or nakji (octopus tentacles) at Jagalchi fish market: the largest in South Korea. Explore Gamcheon Cultural Village: where multi-colored houses are punctuated with street art murals, making for a photographer’s dream. Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: Busan’s sea temple built in 1376 that offers stunning coastal views. It’s deemed to be one of the most beautiful in Korea. Bar hop through Busan: Your Insider will take your group to three different bars, cafes or restaurants to sample snacks or craft beers, all part of the Haeundae beach atmosphere.Coastal Busan is the city of colorful neighborhoods and a whole lot of cool. It’s where South Koreans head for the weekend.You’ll tour the city with your guide, starting at Jagalchi – where downstairs you’ll find live tanks of otherworldly sea pineapples and giant crabs, and upstairs there are kitchens cooking up the day’s catch.At Busan’s sea temple, Haedong Yonggungsa, you’ll spot turtle and Buddha statues as you ascend, with epic views to reward your mountain path walk. Back in central Busan, during your free time, we suggest relaxing at Spa LAND, a high end Jjimjilbang with 13 saunas to choose from, and (if you’re feeling brave) a traditional Korean scrub! Accommodation Busan • South Korea Superior L7 HaeundaeA stylish modern base by the shore, L7 Haeundae offers light filled rooms with ocean or city views, a vibrant rooftop pool and effortless access to the beach and Busan’s best dining and nightlife. TransportDay 5: Subway transfer to Seoul station (15 min)Train transfer from Seoul to Busan (2.5 hours) MealsBreakfast included Day 7-8Gyeongju Highlights: Take in one of the most important historical temples at Bulgksa Temple and its neighbouring Seokguram Grotto. Enjoy the historical sites illuminated by night, like the Anapji Pond and Asia’s oldest observatory – Cheomseongdae. Visit the Yangdong Folk Village in the surrounding hills, where people still work and live today.Founded in 57 BC, Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly a thousand years. Today, it's fondly known as ‘the museum without walls’, clustered with more historical sites than any other city in South Korea, including UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bulgksa Temple.Take time to explore Hwangridan-gil, an artsy corner of the ancient city, where you can shop for crafty souvenirs, check out the street art, or sip cocktails on a hanok roof.Just outside the city, you'll visit a nearby folk village that dates back to the Joseon dynasty, surrounded by juniper trees in the remote foothills. It’s a chance to capture Korean traditional life in a village where people live and work today – it’s not just set up to please tourists. Accommodation Gyeongju • South Korea Moderate Wadamjeong Hanok and 1st Hanok StreetLocated just south of Gyeongju's historic downtown, Wadamjeong Hanok and Hanok 1st Street offers an elegant blend of traditional Korean architecture and modern comfort, creating an ideal setting for a memorable stay. TransportDay 7: Private transfer from Busan to Gyeongju (1 hour 30 min) MealsBreakfast included Day 9-10Seoul Highlights: Shop for K-Beauty products and your favorite snacks from the trip. Say geonbae! to your Insider guide and the rest of your group over a final night mealReturn to Seoul for your final afternoon to explore. In contrast to the start of the trip, you’ll stay in Hongdae to see a different side to the city: an up-tempo neighborhood, where K-Pop hopefuls perform dance routines in the streets.Make the most of your last chance to grab some final K-Beauty products and Korean snacks. We'll enjoy our final meal together – to say geonbae (cheers!) before you fly. Accommodation Seoul • South Korea Superior Ryse Autograph CollectionLocated in the trendy Hongdae neighbourhood surrounding Hongik art college, Ryse was designed to reflect and celebrate the indie arts and music culture of its local area. The result, designed by Michaelis Boyd of London, is suitably bold: think bright white walls, splashes of colour, and lashings of contemporary art. TransportDay 9: Transfer to Gyeongju station (20 min) Train to Seoul (2 hour) Day 10: Car transfer from hotel to Incheon Airport. MealsBreakfast included Dates & PricesSoul of Korea has departures in every season. Each season is not only dramatically distinct but influences Korean daily life from festivals and food - even small talk. Contact us if you’d like to join the list for future date launches.Secure your place Availability Available Limited availability Sold outDepartingEndingPrice (per person)AvailabilityTue 24 Mar 2026 Guaranteed departureThu 02 Apr 2026 $4,886 Sold outSold outFri 03 Apr 2026 Guaranteed departureSun 12 Apr 2026 $5,026 Sold outSold outTue 12 May 2026 Guaranteed departureThu 21 May 2026 $4,886 Sold outSold outTue 15 Sep 2026 Guaranteed departureThu 24 Sep 2026 $4,886 Sold outSold outFri 09 Oct 2026 Guaranteed departureSun 18 Oct 2026 $5,026 AvailableAvailableTue 20 Oct 2026 Guaranteed departureThu 29 Oct 2026 $5,026 AvailableAvailableFri 06 Nov 2026 Guaranteed departureSun 15 Nov 2026 $5,026 AvailableAvailableFri 26 Mar 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 04 Apr 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 09 Apr 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 18 Apr 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 23 Apr 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 02 May 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 07 May 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 16 May 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 24 Sep 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 03 Oct 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 08 Oct 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 17 Oct 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 22 Oct 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 31 Oct 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailableFri 05 Nov 2027 Guaranteed departureSun 14 Nov 2027 $5,096 AvailableAvailable Is this trip for you? What's greatThis is a classic introduction tour – hitting all the hot spots that made you want to travel in the first place.Traveling with an Insider, you’ll also visit places you haven’t heard of, and experience the latest Korean trends.Our Small Group Tours are the perfect balance of guided insight and independent adventure.Food is a big focus: from fried chicken and beer to fresh octopus and soju, it’s an omnivores paradise.Your trip doesn’t have to end here. Fly to Japan or another of our Asia vacation destinations, or explore more of Korea before catching your flight home.Things to considerKorean food is delicious, but it’s meat and fish heavy. Many of the included food experiences are not customizable for vegetarians, or other dietary requirements. Speak to us to find out more.You’ll be moving a lot. If you want a slower pace, an independent trip may be for you.This trip is not accessible for wheelchairs. Please speak to us about Self-Guided Adventures in South Korea where we can find more suitable accommodation and transfers for your needs.All accommodation is 4* - apart from the traditional hanok stay in Gyeongju, which classically includes a futon bed.You’ll need to be able to carry your own luggage. ReviewsOur trips start with listening. These honest, unedited reviews show how we put people first - because making customers happy is what we’re here to do.Read more reviews This was our second trip planned through InsideAsia - we used them for a small-group Japan tour in 2023, and came back for a self-guided Korea and Japan trip in 2026. Both of my sons have severe food allergies, and the combination of having translated allergy information sheets prepared ahead [...] This was our 2nd experience of using InsideAsia. It was so reassuring to know that someone had our back during the trip. It was so much more relaxing and enjoyable to have everything booked for us and the trip was definitely far more exciting and varied as a result. The [...] Our trip to South Korea exceeded our expectations. We cannot express enough how wonderful, kind, knowledgeable, patient and accommodating our local guides were. Their love of South Korea instilled in us a new found respect and admiration for their country. I personally left my cell phone in our hotel in [...] We had such a great time in South Korea, organised by Rhian. We have been to South Korea before so knew what to expect, and we also knew everything would be well organised for us, from travel arrangement, hotels, tours, all of it. We can highly recommend Inside Asia to [...] Inside Asia Tours were quick in responding to my initial request. Overall my trip was incredible and easily met my expectations What's included? What's includedAccommodation9 nights’ accommodation including traditional Korean hanok MealsBreakfast every day, five lunches and five dinnersResourcesYour InsideAsia Tours info pack, T-Monday card with 30,000KRW credit for city transport, shared portable Wi-Fi access throughout the tripTransfersPrivate transfers to your arrival and departure flights GuidingFull time service from your expert InsideAsia tour leader , two days of private guiding in Seoul, full day private guide and transport in Busan, a day and a half of private guiding and transport in GyeongjuTicketsEntrance to Gyeongbok Palace, Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggunsa temple, Bulguksa temple, Yangdong Folk Village and Wolji PondActivitiesCraft activity in Bukchon Hanok Village and food tasting in Gwangjang marketLuggage forwarding from Seoul to Busan and Busan to SeoulNot includedInternational flightsAny local transport (subways, taxis, busses) unless covered by the included transport passes (see above)Any entrances fees to sites not included on the tour. Any sites you visit independently are not includedBaggage handling and luggage forwarding, unless otherwise specified. You will be expected to carry your own luggage Frequently asked questions How many days should we spend in South Korea? The Soul of Korea Small Group Tour lasts 10 days.To ensure you’re feeling fresh for the start of the tour, we recommend booking an additional night before the tour starts.While this tour gives you a great introduction, it’s also an ideal way to start a longer trip to South Korea (we can help you with your plans to follow the tour) or jump onwards to Japan and join another of our Small Group Tours there.Whatever you’re thinking, our travel consultants will be happy to support extending your trip. Get in touch to chat through today. How will we get around? What transport can we expect? This tour starts and finishes in Seoul for arrivals and departures at Seoul Incheon airport. Please note that the included meet-and-greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is only available from this airport. There’s a mix of transfers during the trip. Some transfers are by public transport, so you’ll get to experience Korea’s first-rate transport network, but others will be by private car, taxi or coach, where more convenient.Logistics and Journey Times: Day 1: Car transfer from Incheon airport to hotel (1 hour) Day 5: Subway transfer to Seoul station (15 min) Train transfer from Seoul to Busan (2.5 hours) Day 7: Private transfer from Busan to Gyeongju (1 hour 30 min) Day 9: Transfer to Gyeongju station (20 min) Train to Seoul (2 hour) Day 10: Car transfer from hotel to Incheon Airport. Who will I be travelling with? In your group: Our Soul of Korea Small Group Tour is a maximum of 14 people per group.Your tour leader: Our tours are led on the ground by our Insiders, your tour leader for the trip. Our Insiders are fluent English speakers and are residents of South Korea – so they can speak fluent Korean. They are there to make sure you get the most out of your trip and the whole adventure goes smoothly. Your Insider travels with the group and stays at the same hotels as you, so please feel free to ask for help or advice at any time. Your Insider is not a history-focused guide, so may not know every historical detail of every shrine, temple or palace, although they will know a lot! They will be available pretty much all day every day, and will even be happy to accompany tour members out at night on occasion. Our Insiders reserve the right to deny participation in an activity if they feel that it is in the safety or best interest of you and/or any other members of the group. Similarly, dangerous weather conditions may lead to activities being cancelled. What if I don't like some of the things on this trip? Our Small Group Tours have fixed itineraries and accommodation – so if this isn’t quite what you’re looking for, speak to one of our experts to plan a more independent trip (we love these, too!) Can you accommodate dietary requirements? South Korean food features meat, eggs and fish heavily. It’s a foodie paradise for omnivores, but can be particularly challenging for vegetarians and vegans because the meals are often shared with no option to order your own dish.Vegetarians and vegans may feel sensitive to meat cooking in the centre of your table during the Korean BBQ meal, or may wish to skip the fish markets. This means you may feel you’re missing out. Speak to us about a more independent, customisable trip. What happens to my luggage? All travellers will need to carry their own luggage (apart from luggage forwarding, see below), so we highly recommend that you pack reasonably light. Large suitcases could be an inconvenience for you.We’ll forward your luggage between Seoul and Busan and Busan and Seoul, so you’ll be without your main baggage for two nights in Gyeongju. You will need a small overnight bag (e.g. backpack) for this. What if I arrive on the tour early? Landing in Seoul, you’ll probably be tired after a long international flight. Your rooms at the Seoul hotel will only be available from 3pm (and hotels in Korea tend to be inflexible about this). If you have an early arrival, you can either book an extra night for any-time check-in, or the hotel will be happy to securely store your luggage for you while you go for a drink or explore the local area. Your Insider will be at your first hotel on the day the tour starts, so they’ll be available for advice if you choose to book pre tour nights. We recommend booking at least one extra night to check in and relax before the tour begins. Is this trip suitable for solo travelers? Yes! Our Small Group Tours are brilliant for solo travelers wanting to travel with like-minded people, unlocking experiences that are best accessed as a group.Solo travelers will need to pay a single supplement fee ($658-$952 depending on your date of departure). You will have your own room at each hotel; rooms for solo travellers are the equal of twin share rooms. Singles will get the same rooms as double room couples. I use a wheelchair/have mobility issues. Can this tour accommodate my needs? The short answer is, unfortunately not. This Small Group Tour does not focus on accessible accommodation or transfers. South Korea is still a relatively new destination for us when it comes to accommodating accessibility needs. However, we are one of the best tour operators for arranging tailor-made travel on a Self-Guided Adventure. Get in touch to discuss possible options. Grab a copy of one of our dossiersGet dossier now Perfect ways to extend your tripSecure your placeDownload brochure South Korea Jeju IslandThe largest of Korea’s thousands of islands is also the country’s favorite vacation destination, and it’s not difficult to see why. Jeju Island boasts a balmy climate, juicy tangerines, beautiful beaches, Korea’s highest mountain, and a rich, indigenous culture all of its own. South Korea Seoraksan National ParkGiven that three quarters of South Korea is covered by mountains, it’s both annoying and convenient that most of the best-looking ones have decided to huddle together in the same location, near the east coast – welcome to Seoraksan National Park, the answer to all your Korean hiking prayers. South Korea SokchoWhile best known among international tourists as the gateway to nearby Seoraksan National Park, Sokcho’s salty charms make it an intriguing destination in its own right – from super-fresh seafood to what must be up there with the world’s cheapest, and weirdest, ferry rides. Book this trip with our Korea specialistsSecure your place today with one of our expert South Korea travel consultants +44 117 409 5065 RhianTravel Consultant GrantAsia Specialist Why book with InsideAsia? Travel’s friendliest expertsWe promise we’ll care about your trip as much as you do. A dedicated travel consultant will listen, guide and create a trip that could only be yours. Specialists make it effortlessFrom seamless logistics to unexpected discoveries, our deep destination specialism means travel that feels effortless and richer than you could plan for alone. Rockstar service as standardWe guarantee that you'll have our support every step of the way. We never pass the buck or fail to take responsibility. We’ll be there whenever you need us. Our Info-Packs are legendaryTransfers, tickets and check‑ins verified so your trip runs like clockwork. Plus, we create your totally tailored trip bible, so every detail is in your hand, at all times.
This was our second trip planned through InsideAsia - we used them for a small-group Japan tour in 2023, and came back for a self-guided Korea and Japan trip in 2026. Both of my sons have severe food allergies, and the combination of having translated allergy information sheets prepared ahead [...]
This was our 2nd experience of using InsideAsia. It was so reassuring to know that someone had our back during the trip. It was so much more relaxing and enjoyable to have everything booked for us and the trip was definitely far more exciting and varied as a result. The [...]
Our trip to South Korea exceeded our expectations. We cannot express enough how wonderful, kind, knowledgeable, patient and accommodating our local guides were. Their love of South Korea instilled in us a new found respect and admiration for their country. I personally left my cell phone in our hotel in [...]
We had such a great time in South Korea, organised by Rhian. We have been to South Korea before so knew what to expect, and we also knew everything would be well organised for us, from travel arrangement, hotels, tours, all of it. We can highly recommend Inside Asia to [...]
Inside Asia Tours were quick in responding to my initial request. Overall my trip was incredible and easily met my expectations
Travel’s friendliest expertsWe promise we’ll care about your trip as much as you do. A dedicated travel consultant will listen, guide and create a trip that could only be yours.
Specialists make it effortlessFrom seamless logistics to unexpected discoveries, our deep destination specialism means travel that feels effortless and richer than you could plan for alone.
Rockstar service as standardWe guarantee that you'll have our support every step of the way. We never pass the buck or fail to take responsibility. We’ll be there whenever you need us.
Our Info-Packs are legendaryTransfers, tickets and check‑ins verified so your trip runs like clockwork. Plus, we create your totally tailored trip bible, so every detail is in your hand, at all times.