Discovering Jeju, the Island of Volcanoes and Exceptional Landscapes

Welcome to Corée du Sud! After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you meet your private driver, who takes you to your accommodation (approximately 1 hour journey from the airport).
Upon arrival, you meet a member of our local team for a travel briefing and to receive your essential documents. You will receive our Roadbook (visit suggestions), as well as a complete presentation of your digital itinerary via our application, where you can find details of your accommodations, inter-city transfers and planned activities. You will also receive your T-Money transport card, as well as other essential documents for traveling with peace of mind. Of course, we take time to answer all your questions.

Then set off to discover Seoul.
Founded two thousand years ago by the Kingdom of Baekje, Seoul was the capital of the Joseon Kingdom for over five centuries. At the end of the 19th century, it opened to foreigners, particularly Americans, and became the first city in East Asia to introduce electricity, running water, telephony and a tram network. Despite a past marked by conflict, the city recovered thanks to the solidarity of its people and modernized rapidly. Today, Namsan Seoul Tower, perched on its hill, offers you a breathtaking panorama over the megacity.

On either side of the Han River, modern technologies and local traditions coexist, creating scenes typical of Korea. Even in just a few days, you quickly immerse yourself in the unique energy of this capital.

For your first discoveries, you visit the Jongmyo Shrine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, then you head to the traditional Gwangjang market to taste some Korean specialties on site, in a local atmosphere.

In the evening, you end your day with a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon stream, a former express route transformed into a peaceful waterway.

Transfer: airport to accommodation transfer by private vehicle

Today, you set out to discover Seoul traditional.

You begin with the Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The second royal residence of the Joseon dynasty, the palace was heavily damaged by fire during the Japanese invasion at the end of the 16th century, before being rebuilt. It subsequently became the seat of the dynasty for two hundred fifty years. The site had a strong influence on 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, you continue your immersion at The Buckchon hanok village. This district is home to around a hundred traditional houses, the "hanoks", now converted into cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants or tea rooms, while preserving the spirit of the era.

You then continue towards the great Jogyesa Temple, the main center of the largest branch of Korean Buddhism in Seoul. You admire its three golden buddhas, before ending the day on Insa street. This traditional district, known for its art galleries and Korean craft shops, is ideal for finding your souvenirs.

Transportation: 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.

Today, you dive into the royal history of Seoul with a visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most complete of the five palaces of the Joseon dynasty.

From the morning, you 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.

Just a few minutes' walk away is the great square of Gwanghwamun, where stand the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun Shin, with Bukhansan mountain as the backdrop.

You continue your immersion at Namdaemun, one of the eight gates of the Seoul city wall. Its vast Namdaemun Market traditional market, the oldest and largest in Corée du Sud, brings together more than 1,700 types of products. Between the stalls, small local restaurants offer an authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

You then continue towards Myeongdong Market. This lively district is full of various shops, and its street food, known for its diversity and quality, is a great opportunity to awaken your taste buds.

You end the day at Namsan Seoul Tower. Perched at the top of a hill overlooking the city, it offers you an exceptional panorama of Seoul and the surrounding mountains.

Transportation: public transport

Recommended option: trying on hanbok, traditional Korean costume, with a professional photo session to capture this day.

Located on the south coast of Jeju Island, Jungmun Saekdal Beach stands out for its arc-shaped form and its fine sand with four unique shades – white, black, red and grey. The cliffs darkened by volcanic basalt create a picturesque landscape, often featured in Korean TV series.

On site, you may encounter the Haenyos, these famous "women of the sea" of Jeju, whose practice has been inscribed in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009. Often in their eighties, these breath-hold divers descend up to 10 metres deep to catch seafood. With a bit of luck, you will be able to witness their early morning return and taste their fresh catches on site.

Don't miss the Bridge of the Seven Nymphs, which spans the stream leading to the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, nicknamed "Pond of God". Renowned for its turquoise water, it is associated with a legend according to which nymphs would come to bathe there. Volcanic activity also shaped the Jusangjeolli Cliff, known for its impressive basalt columns and panoramic views.

Getting around: rental car with pre-programmed GPS.

Jeju Island is known as "the island of three abundances": women, stones and wind. Among its UNESCO-listed sites, don't miss the volcanic cone Seongsan Ilchulbong. Born from shallow underwater eruptions, it stands like an immense crown at the edge of the sea. Its ascent is highly recommended to enjoy breathtaking views, especially at dawn.
Nearby, the coastal village of Woljeongri seduces with its white sand beach and turquoise water, as well as its famous "Coffee Street", an alley lined with welcoming cafés and restaurants.

Also explore the Manjanggul Lava Tunnel, an impressive geological formation carved by lava approximately 250,000 years ago. Its walls adorned with multicolored rock formations testify to the raw beauty of nature. The cave is home to more than 30,000 bats, the largest colony observed in Corée du Sud, as well as 38 other species discovered on site.

Finally, at the heart of the island, the secondary crater of Sangumburi reveals a protected green sanctuary and rich biodiversity, to be observed from the panoramic platform offering a splendid view over the ocean, Mount Hallasan and the oreums, these small secondary volcanoes of Jeju.

Transportation: rental car with pre-programmed GPS.

You are heading to the mont Hallasan, an emblematic mountain located in the center of Jeju Island. Several paths allow its ascent, but the Seongpanak trail is particularly recommended to reach the summit. Throughout the route, you progress between stairs and large rocks.
With its 1,950 meters of altitude, Hallasan is the highest point in South Korea and the only mountain visible from the entire island. Classified as a natural monument n°182 and created in 1970, its national park covers 151.3 km², of which 90.9 km² are protected as a nature reserve.
In the heart of the mountain, you discover the Gwaneumsa Buddhist temple, the oldest temple in Jeju, founded during the Koryo dynasty.

To reach the Baekrokdam summit, two trails are available to you: Seongpanak to the east and Gwaneumsa to the north.

Transportation : rental car with pre-programmed GPS.

Immerse yourself in traditional Korean life at Jeju Folk Village, a site that brings together 117 houses and facilities tracing daily life in villages from the late 19th century. This visit allows you to explore, through faithfully preserved settings, the customs and traditions that shaped the cultural identity of Jeju Island.

Continue with a stroll through Jeju Herb Dongsan, a botanical garden where you discover the richness of local herbs and plants. Along the pathways, the fragrances and colors of themed gardens create a pleasant break, conducive to relaxation and well-being.

Continue your day with the discovery of the Seosokkak estuary, then treat yourself to a break at Terarosa café. This uniquely styled venue features antique machines that trace the evolution of tea preparation.

Transportation: rental car with pre-programmed GPS.

This morning, set off to discover the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built on a clifftop on the northeast coast of Busan. Facing the sea, the site offers a setting conducive to contemplation, enhanced by the peaceful atmosphere of the place and the Buddhist chants that echo throughout your visit.

A coastal city, Busan enjoys sunny weather year-round, with temperatures generally higher than in the rest of the peninsula. Its vast sandy beaches are ideal places to take a break and enjoy 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 walk towards the verdant island of Dongbaek. Very lively, it welcomes singers, musicians, magicians and artists, who perform until late at night, creating a vibrant and warm atmosphere.

Finally, don't miss the Busan Grand Aquarium, located on the waterfront. It invites you to discover the richness of the marine life from all corners of the world, through an immersive experience. An ideal visit to complete your day, especially with family.

Getting around: public transport
Recommended option: "Local friend" custom 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.

Discover the Igidae Park, a peaceful seaside location, ideal for a walk between forest and coast. The trail offers a pleasant and varied setting, with beautiful viewpoints throughout the walk. Continuing along the south coast, experience the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass walkway nicknamed "walking above the sky", located at the junction of the East Sea and the South Sea.

Just three kilometers from the city center, Songdo Beach, nicknamed the island of pines, is a pleasant alternative to enjoy the sea air, in a calmer atmosphere than the most crowded beaches. Restored after being damaged by bad weather, it also offers a cable car connecting the Songdo and Amnam parks, with beautiful views of the city and coastline.

End the day in the young and lively district of Seomyeon, where the atmosphere is created by its many restaurants, cafés and bars, perfect for extending the evening at your own pace.

Transportation: public transport.

Many visits are possible in the Gangnam District from the COEX Mall shopping center to the Seonjeongneung royal tombs, passing through Bongeunsa temple.

You will discover the Samsung D'light, a fun exhibition space dedicated to the latest technological innovations of the Korean giant, as well as the Coex Mall, Asia's largest shopping center. With its 154,000 m², it is divided into different areas and offers a wide range of attractions: kimchi museum, large aquarium, huge library, varied shops and Korean or international restaurants.

The Bogeunsa temple, one of the major centers of Buddhism in Corée du Sud, offers 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 from its height of 28 meters, its gaze turned towards the modernity of Seoul.

The visit continues to the Seonjeongneung royal tombs, ideal for a pleasant walk in the calm of the park, before heading to Apgujeong Rodeo, a chic district often considered a "Mecca" of fashion. You will find a wide choice of department stores, in a dynamic and emblematic area of South Korean urban culture.

Getting around: public transport

Today marks the end of your journey to the land of the morning calm.

After these days full of discoveries and encounters, it is time to leave Seoul, taking with you precious memories and a beautiful immersion in Korean culture through its unmissable stops.

Transfer: return transfer to the airport in a private vehicle