Seoul is a busy metropolis with plenty to do including the great nightlife, modern skyscrapers and dining experiences. Busan offers a port city with great beaches and hip districts to visit. 

Gyeongju

Known as ‘the museum without walls’, Gyeongju has more tombs, temples, rock carvings, pagodas, Buddhist statues and palace ruins than any other place in South Korea. It’s a lovely city packed full of history. Plenty to look at and explore. 

The centre of Gyeongju features substantial grassy tombs known as ‘tumuli’. The architecture is traditional with colourful hip roofs set against gorgeous green rolling mountains.

Two sites not to be missed are Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto in the outlying districts. They both form a religious architectural complex of exceptional significance and are both part of the UNESCO world heritage sites.

Jeju Do

Jeju Do is Korea’s largest island and has long been the country’s favourite domestic holiday destination thanks to its incredible beaches and flourishing countryside. It also features some great seaside hotels designed for rest and relaxation.

There is plenty of activities to do on the island that appeal to those who want to be active. You could hike up South Korea’s highest mountain, Halla-san or climb Seongsan Ilchulbong also known as ‘Sunrise Peak’. This is an archetypal tuff cone formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions upon a shallow seabed (you have to see it to believe it). From here as the name suggests, you can watch the sun rise.

For an easier more relaxed nature experience, stroll along one of the Jeju Olle Trails and explore tangerine trimmed country roads, jagged coasts and narrow lanes which feature cottage style homes made from black lava rock.

The ocean is always close at hand, so feel free to dive into the beautiful blue sea to view the colourful coral. Enjoy the sunsets and the delicious cuisine. This is a paradise island waiting to be explored.