Autumn Colors in South Korea
Among crimson maples and thousand-year-old temples, South Korea reveals its most beautiful autumn splendor.
Duration
12 days
From
€2,490/pers.
Ideal seasons
Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, Honeymoon
The spirit of travel
Between mid-October and early November, South Korea transforms into a warm setting, where mountains and urban parks display vibrant colors. This circuit invites you to experience a break between culture, nature and local immersion, alternating between urban atmospheres and peaceful landscapes.
In Seoul, you immerse yourself in the energy of a capital with stark contrasts, between traditions, lively markets and panoramic views. You then set out to breathe fresh air in Seoraksan National Park, an ideal destination for a hiking getaway in the heart of Korean terrain.
The journey continues in Gyeongju, between hanok, heritage and evening strolls, before heading to Busan and its maritime atmosphere: markets, artistic districts, coastline and beaches.
A balanced, fluid and authentic adventure, designed with the attentive support of the local team.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Authentic First Discoveries in Seoul
Welcome to South Korea! After passing through customs and collecting your luggage, your private driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your accommodation (approximately 1 hour journey).
Upon arrival, a member of our local team will meet you to discuss your trip and hand over your essential documents. You will receive in particular our Roadbook (visit suggestions), as well as a complete presentation of your digital programme via our application, where you will find details of your accommodations, inter-city journeys and planned activities. Your T-Money transport card will also be provided to you, along with other useful documents for travelling with peace of mind. We will of course take the time to answer all your questions.
Then set off to discover Seoul.
Korean capital with ancient history, Seoul has transformed over the centuries to become today a dynamic metropolis and resolutely modern. It captivates with its energy, its diversity and its ability to blend traditions and innovations, in an urban setting in perpetual motion. The Namsan Seoul Tower, perched on its hill, offers a beautiful panorama of the city and its contrasts.
On either side of the Han River, you will discover a capital where cutting-edge technology and cultural heritage coexist naturally. The atmosphere is exotic, vibrant, and immerses you from the first hours in the unique rhythm of South Korea, between lively neighbourhoods, local life scenes and typical urban landscapes.
For your first discoveries, head to the Jongmyo Shrine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, then join the Gwangjang traditional market. There, you will be able to taste different typical Korean specialities, in a lively and resolutely local atmosphere.
End this first day with a night stroll along the Cheonggyecheon stream, former express road converted into a peaceful watercourse, pleasant to walk along in the evening.
Transport: transfer from the airport to your accommodation in a private vehicle
Seoul chic and modern between temples and technologies
Gangnam District is considered one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Seoul, and one of the most emblematic of South Korean modernity. Its wide avenues, lined with buildings featuring contemporary architecture, create an urban landscape with futuristic lines.
Here, fashion and new technologies naturally coexist, in an atmosphere of permanent movement. Known internationally, particularly thanks to K-pop, Gangnam attracts many foreign visitors and reflects a decidedly current facet of the capital.
You will discover Samsung D'light, an interactive exhibition space dedicated to the latest technological innovations from the Korean giant, before continuing to Coex Mall, the largest shopping center in Asia. With its 154,000 m², it is organized into several zones and offers a wide range of attractions: kimchi museum, large aquarium, huge library, varied shops, as well as numerous Korean and international restaurants.
The Bogeunsa Temple, one of the main centers of Buddhism in South Korea, offers you a moment of calm in the heart of the city. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, it is notably known for its monumental statue of Maitreya, the Buddha of the future, which dominates the site at a height of 28 meters, its gaze turned towards Seoul's modernity.
The visit continues to the Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs, ideal for a pleasant stroll in the quiet park, before heading to Apgujeong Rodeo, an upscale neighborhood often considered the "Mecca" of fashion. You will find a wide choice of major department stores, in the heart of an emblematic zone of South Korean urban culture.
Getting around: public transportation
Colorful and Romantic Landscapes on Nami Island
Today, set off for a romantic getaway to the famous Nami Island and enjoy its magnificent multicolored foliage.
Also called Namiseom, the island was formed following the rise in water levels caused by the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam in 1944. It owes its name to General Nami, who died at only 28 years old after being wrongly accused of treason during the reign of King Sejo, the seventh king of the Joseon dynasty. Although his tomb was never found, a pile of stones on the island is considered to be the place where he is believed to be buried.
Recognized for its crescent moon shape, the island can be visited year-round and changes its appearance with the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, warm colors in autumn, then a peaceful atmosphere under a white blanket in winter.
Nami is also known as the filming location of the Korean series Winter Sonata (2003). The first mythical kiss, as well as several key scenes, were filmed there.
Transportation: ITX regional train
Hiking and Stunning Panoramas in Seoraksan Park
Today, discover the Seoraksan National Park, one of the most iconic natural sites in South Korea.
Located in the northeast of the country, the Seoraksan mountain is the third highest in South Korea, after the Hallasan volcano and the Jirisan mountain. It peaks at 1,708 m at the Daecheongbong peak and reveals landscapes marked by beautiful cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, as well as rich fauna and flora.
The name Seoraksan means "the mountain with a snowy peak", in reference to its winter appearance. The park offers a wide variety of accessible hiking trails, for complete immersion in the heart of Korean nature.
Designated a national park in 1970, Seoraksan is also recognized as a UNESCO biosphere protection site since 1982. It is home to around thirty peaks and several must-see places, such as Ulsanbawi Rock and its granite peaks offering panoramic views, the Geumgang cave, a place of contemplation, as well as the Sinheungsa temple, considered the oldest Zen temple in South Korea.
Hiking is a very popular activity in South Korea, and Seoraksan is among the most beautiful walking terrain in the country, to be discovered in every season.
Transportation: express inter-regional coach then public transport
On the banks of the Han River in Seoul
This morning, departure for Seoul, then go strolling along the Han River.
In the heart of the capital, Yeouido Island is today an important business district, appreciated for its vast green spaces along the riverbank. It is a pleasant setting for a walk or bike ride, and a quieter break, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Discovery begins with the National Assembly and its remarkable architecture. Its imposing pillars and its dome symbolize different opinions that come together within a common ensemble.
You will then continue towards Yeouido Park, a true green lung of the city. This ecological park, the first of its kind in Corée du Sud, extends over nearly 230,000 m² and is divided into four distinct zones where Koreans come to relax and recharge.
Do not miss Tower 63, a true symbol of the district. Known for its recognizable silhouette and numerous attractions, it houses an aquarium (Sea World), an art gallery and a wax museum, and regularly hosts shows and musical performances. From its observatory located on the 60th floor, the panoramic view over Seoul and the Hangang River offers a beautiful moment of discovery.
Transportation: journey by KTX, the Korean TGV, then public transport
Immersion in Gyeongju
This morning, departure for Gyeongju, a charming city in the southeast of the Korean peninsula, dotted with small mountains and bordered by the Hyeonsang River. Former capital of the Silla Kingdom founded in 57 BC, Gyeongju stands out for the richness of its cultural heritage, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Rich in vestiges and relics, it is often considered a true cultural landmark in Corée du Sud.
Upon your arrival, check-in to your hanok, traditional Korean house.
The city center can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Start with the Tumuli Park, a unique site with its impressive royal burial mounds. The trees lining the route provide shade and beautiful hues as you walk.
Nearby is the Cheomseongdae Observatory, considered Asia's oldest astronomical observatory. You will also discover the Gyeongju Hyanggyo Confucian school, which trained members of the Joseon dynasty according to Confucian principles. You will also see the Choi's Old House, the first house of the Choi clan, established in the region for 400 years and whose name is now borne by nearly 5% of Koreans.
End the day with a visit to the ancient fortress and Anapji Pond, particularly pleasant to discover at dusk, when the atmosphere becomes softer and the lights enhance the beauty of the places.
Transfer: journey by KTX, the Korean TGV, then transfer to accommodation in a private vehicle
Discovery of the Sacred Treasures of Gyeongju
Today, set off to explore two major sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage, located in the mountains around Gyeongju: Bulguksa Temple and the grotto Seokguram. The walk connecting these two places makes for a pleasant moment of the day, with beautiful natural scenery throughout the journey.
Nicknamed the "temple of the Buddha's lands", Bulguksa is a symbol of the Silla kingdom and holds an important place in Korean Buddhism. Its architecture, built with great geometric precision, illustrates the passage from the earthly world to a sacred space, which contributes to the unique identity of the place.
The Seokguram grotto, considered a masterpiece of Far Eastern Buddhist art, is an artificial grotto composed of several hundred granite blocks, a stone reputed to be difficult to carve. Access is via a tunnel leading to a rectangular antechamber representing the Earth, then to a vestibule framed by two columns, before reaching the large circular chamber, symbol of the sky, where the central statue of Buddha is located.
Transportation: public transport
Busan, a warm and colorful port metropolis
Today, discover Busan, a major port city facing the sea and the country's first truly international city. Connected by sea to Asia, Europe and North America, it benefits from a strategic location near the strait between Corée du Sud and Japan, at the heart of commercial and tourist exchanges.
Driven by its maritime activities, Busan is among the world's largest ports, ranked as the world's third largest port according to the American Association of Port Authorities. Known for its long sandy beaches, it also captivates with its energy, colorful atmosphere and the warm welcome of its inhabitants. Between the Sea of Japan and mountainous relief, the city offers a unique atmosphere.
On the coast, discover the Jagalchi market, the country's largest seafood market, where fish and shellfish can be enjoyed raw or cooked, as you wish.
Nearby, the Busan Tower offers a sweeping view of the illuminated coast. BIFF Square street, the former location of the international film festival until 2011, invites you to spot the handprints of local and international celebrities.
Finally, reach new heights in the neighborhood of Gamcheon Cultural Village, once a refuge during the Corée du Sud War, now known for its artistic atmosphere and colorful facades, driven by a vast solidarity renovation movement.
Transportation: KTX journey, the Korean TGV, then public transportation
Recommended option: night yacht cruise in Gwangalli Bay
Seaside walk and spirituality
This morning, set out to discover the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built on a cliff face on the northeast coast of Busan. Facing the sea, the site offers a peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the clear view of the ocean and the Buddhist chants that accompany your visit and naturally invite contemplation.
A coastal city, Busan enjoys a sunny climate throughout the year, with temperatures generally higher than in the rest of the peninsula. Its large stretches of fine sand beaches are thus prime spots to take a break and savour the maritime atmosphere.
Among them, Haeundae Beach is the most famous in the country. It stretches for nearly 1.5 km and leads to a pleasant promenade towards the verdant island of Dongbaek. Very lively, it welcomes singers, musicians, magicians and artists, whose performances continue late into the night, creating a vibrant and warm atmosphere.
Finally, don't miss the Busan Aquarium, located on the shore. It invites you to discover the richness of the marine life from all corners of the world, through an immersive experience. A great way to round off the day, especially as a family.
Transport: public transportation
Recommended option: custom "Local Friend" day to share a moment with an English-speaking expatriate who will introduce you to Korean culture and tell you about their daily life. Also try your hand at decorating objects in hanji, traditional Korean decorative paper.
Immersion in the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul between palaces and traditions
Today, dive into the royal history of Seoul with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most complete of the five palaces of the Joseon dynasty.
From the morning, attend the royal guard changing ceremony, an outdoor spectacle recreated in respect of traditions. Colorful costumes, weapons and traditional instruments transport you back to the atmosphere of the 15th century.
A few minutes' walk is then enough to reach the great Gwanghwamun Square, where stand the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun Shin. In the background, Bukhansan Mountain completes this emblematic backdrop of the capital.
Continue your immersion at Namdaemun, one of the eight gates of the Seoul city wall. Its immense Namdaemun Market, the oldest and largest in Corée du Sud, brings together more than 1,700 types of products. Among the stalls, small local restaurants welcome you in a friendly and typically Seoul atmosphere.
Continue towards Myeongdong Market. This lively district is full of varied shops, and its street food is renowned for its diversity and quality: a great opportunity to taste several local specialties and awaken your taste buds.
End the day at Namsan Seoul Tower. Perched at the top of a hill overlooking the city, it offers you a beautiful panorama of Seoul and the surrounding mountains.
Transportation: public transport
Recommended option: hanbok fitting, traditional Korean costume, with a professional photo session to immortalize this day.
Traditions and Heritage at the Palaces
Today, discover traditional Seoul.
Start with the Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The second royal residence of the Joseon dynasty, the site was heavily damaged by fire during the Japanese invasion at the end of the 16th century, before being carefully reconstructed. It then became the seat of the dynasty for 250 years.
This palace profoundly influenced Korean architecture, as well as the art of designing gardens and landscapes, with an approach in harmony with the surrounding nature.
Just a few meters away, continue your immersion at Buckchon hanok village. This district is home to around a hundred traditional houses, « hanoks », now transformed into cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants or tea rooms, preserving the spirit of the era.
Continue then towards the great Jogyesa Temple, the main center of the largest branch of Korean Buddhism in Seoul. You will admire its three golden buddhas before ending your day on Insa street. This traditional neighborhood, renowned for its art galleries and Korean artisan shops, is the ideal place to find your souvenirs.
Getting around: public transport
Recommended option: "Local friend" day tailored with an English-speaking expatriate who will guide you through the city. You can also participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
See you soon in Corée du Sud!
Today marks the end of your trip to the land of the morning calm.
After these days rich in discoveries and encounters, it is time to leave Seoul, taking with you beautiful memories and an authentic immersion in Korean culture, through its must-see stages.
Transfer: return transfer to the airport in a private vehicle
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Meals (plan for approximately 20 euros per day per person)
- Your personal expenses (water, food, souvenirs…)
- International flights (possible partnership with Asiana Airlines – feel free to ask us for our rates)
- Travel insurance (possible partnership with Mondial Assistance – rates on request)
- Entrance tickets to sites (excluding Palace Pass in Seoul)
- Additional options you could choose during your trip (shows, hanbok try-on, days with a guide, etc.)
Included
- Round-trip transfers between the airport and your accommodation in a private vehicle
- Airport pickup by a private driver
- English-speaking welcome and travel desk upon arrival at your accommodation
- Double room accommodation with breakfast (when available)
- Pass Palais: access to 4 main palaces in Seoul and Jongmyo Shrine
- T-money prepaid card for public transportation
- KTX Train Journeys (Korean TGV) in Standard Class: Seoul-Gyeongju, Gyeongju-Busan, and Busan-Seoul
- Round-trip transfers between the railway station and your accommodation in Gyeongju in a private vehicle
- Complete digital program via application (accessible on tablet, computer or phone) with details of accommodations, transportation and activities
- Detailed summary of your selected transportation, brochures and tourist maps
- 24/7 support
- Our expertise and our trilingual services in French, English and Korean
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
• More than 45 days before departure: 30% of the total price of the trip and/or the canceled service;
• Between 45 and 22 days before departure: 50% of the total price of the trip and/or the canceled service;
• Between 21 and 8 days before departure: 75% of the total price of the trip and/or the canceled service;
• Less than 8 days before departure and after the departure date: 100% of the total price of the trip and/or the canceled service.
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to South Korea for tourism purposes. Entry regulations may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter South Korea, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay and have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Visa-exempt tourism stay
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada are eligible for visa exemption for tourism stays.
This exemption allows stays of up to 90 days on South Korean territory. This period is generally not extendable on site for tourism purposes.
Authorities may also request:
an outbound travel ticket (return flight or onward travel),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in South Korea.
Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)
Nationals eligible for visa exemption must in principle obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before departure.
However, South Korea has implemented a temporary suspension of the K-ETA requirement for many countries eligible for visa exemption, including EEA member states, Switzerland, and Canada. This suspension has been extended multiple times; you should verify its current status before departure on the official South Korean authorities website.
When K-ETA is required, the application is submitted online and requires:
passport information,
a recent photograph,
flight and accommodation details in South Korea.
The application must be submitted at least 72 hours before departure. A digital confirmation is issued upon approval.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should contact the embassy or consulate of South Korea in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation and repatriation assistance and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy outlining all coverage and claim reporting procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
For a tourist stay, you must obtain a K-ETA authorization online before departure (approximately 10,000 won). Your passport must be valid. Before booking your trip, check the entry requirements applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 180 and 280 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and activities. International flights (700-1100 euros round-trip) are additional. South Korea combines urban modernity and rural authenticity at reasonable rates.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each trip to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage, which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on-site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Seoul Region
Travel Consultant, based in Séoul
What I love about Korea is this constant contrast between Seoul's energy and the serenity of places like Jeju. You can experience several journeys in just one trip.
— Maud
