Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in South Korea
What if you explored Seoul's vibrant culture and history, visited UNESCO sites in Gongju and Jeonju, then discovered Gwangju's democratic heritage? South Korea's Golden Route takes eight days. Stroll through Busan's bustling markets, tour Olympic venues and Seoraksan Park. From capital Seoul to coastal Busan through UNESCO towns, you're getting Korea's historical sites, modern cities, and natural parks that show the country's incredible development and preserved traditions.
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Itinerary was good as were the accommodations. The guides were generally very knowledgeable. Being my second tour with Europamundo, there has been a noticeable discrepancy in the amount of info given to the Spanish guests compared to English. I was disappointed in the Monday day 2 DMZ tour where after a 20 minute Spanish talk in the bus, the 5 of us english participants were basically told just ask if you want to know anything. Also we didn't get to see the second tunnel or the makgeolli manufacturer on that day as per the itinerary.
Complete KoreaJay Lee is an excellent tour guide. He speaks English well, a good historian of South Korean history like historical places we went to and very caring when it comes to Korean food . He suggested the best food we could eat and taught us the way to eat like bibimbap and others. I wish to travel again with him.
Perfection of KoreaWe had such a good time travelling together with Justin, our tour guide. He has a good sense of humour and makes our trip enjoyable. Although a small group, we bond with each other in no time, enjoying each other’s company. We really cover a lot within five days. hectic but worth.
South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
10 best Christmas & New Year South Korea tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouth Korea travel expert at TourRadar
- Complete Korea
- Perfection of Korea
- South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
- South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
- Complete South Korea - 8 days
- Discover South Korea in 11 Days: From Historic Temples to Majestic Mountains and Beaches
- 11-Days South Korea Explorer: Temples, Mountains & Coastal Highlights
- Tailor-Made 6 Days Best Korea Tour with 4-star Hotel, Daily Start (Private)
- 9-Day Customized South Korea Private Fully Guided Tour, Daily Start & 4-star Hotel
- The Essence of Korea and Jeju Island
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Gimpo-si, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan, Seokguram, BulguksaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- US$2,544
Korea's winter unveils illuminated Bulguksa Temple and snow-covered Mt. Seoraksan. Seasonal festivals light up Gamcheon Culture Village, while Grand Hyatt Jeju provides luxury comfort. Traditional New Year customs come alive with expert guides.
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, Jeju-doSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator US Travel Korea From
- US$3,299
South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
“Excellent tour, highly recommend. Very educational as well!”
Michelle, traveled in June
Pyeongchang's Winter Olympics venue and snow-covered Mt. Seorak National Park showcase winter's beauty. Jeonju's traditional hanok village radiates festive charm, while UNESCO sites like Seokguram Grotto offer cultural richness. December brings special holiday moments.
Duration 5 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, GyeongjuSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$1,385
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
“Fabulous well organised and thoughtfully designed tour to give a thorough experience of the different aspects of Korea's history, culture and nature.”
Lynne, traveled in April
Korean winter traditions come alive at Gyeongbokgung Palace and snowy Seoraksan National Park. Pyeongchang's Winter Olympic venues and Jeonju's Hanok Village showcase seasonal beauty. December travelers enjoy comfortable accommodations with daily breakfast.
Duration 8 days Destinations Incheon, Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, GyeongjuSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$2,095
Complete South Korea - 8 days
“An unforgettable South Korea tour! They were incredibly informative, patient, and made complex history engaging.”
PJ, traveled in April
Magical views from Seoul Sky and seasonal shopping at Myeongdong Market showcase winter festivities. The festive atmosphere at Gyeongbok Palace enchants visitors. December tours feature special holiday experiences at Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and cozy accommodations with breakfast.
Duration 8 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, Gyeongju, AndongSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Aborigen Tours From $2,599
10% Off- US$2,339
Holidays kick off at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple on Busan's rocky coastline, then continue to UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple and the 8th-century Seokguram Grotto with its famous seaside Buddha. Walk Seoul's Gwangjang Market for traditional Korean food, stay overnight at Samhwasa, Woljeongsa, or Shinheungsa temples with evening ceremonies.
Duration 11 days Destinations Incheon, Seoul, Yongin-si, Songnisan National Park, Daegu, Gyeongju, Bulguksa, Seokguram, Busan, Gayasan National ParkSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator East Gate Tours LTD From $4,580
25% Off- US$3,435
The route connects Seoul to Busan through Gyeongju and Andong, stopping at UNESCO sites like Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Haeinsa Temple where 80,000 wooden printing blocks of the Tripitaka Koreana are housed. Accommodations include 3-4 star hotels like IBIS AMBASSADOR INSADONG and AVANI CENTRAL BUSAN, plus a temple stay in Mt. Seorak National Park.
Duration 11 days Destinations Incheon, Seoul, Songnisan National Park, Daegu, Gyeongju, Bulguksa, Seokguram, Busan, Gayasan National Park, HaeinsaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator STM Tours LLC From $4,580
27% Off- US$3,343
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in South Korea
What are the highlight attractions to visit in South Korea during Christmas and New Year?
South Korea transforms during the winter holidays with several notable attractions. The Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul takes on a new character with traditional holiday lighting while Everland theme park runs its Christmas Fantasy events. The Four Points by Sheraton Josun puts visitors right next to Seoul's biggest Christmas market in Myeongdong. Food enthusiasts can explore Busan's Jagalchi Market which serves special New Year seafood dishes. As shared by a TourRadar traveler: "The holiday decorations at Bulguksa Temple were absolutely breathtaking combining traditional Korean architecture with festive lights."
What's the weather like in South Korea during Christmas and New Year?
Winter brings cold dry conditions to South Korea. Seoul temperatures typically range from -7°C to 3°C while Busan stays a bit milder at 0°C to 8°C. Snow is common in higher elevations like Mount Seorak National Park and around the DMZ creating winter photo opportunities. Many visitors appreciate hotels like the Grand Hyatt Jeju that provide warm indoor spaces. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The snowy scenery at Bulguksa Temple during New Year's was magical though you definitely need to pack proper winter gear."
What traditional Korean holiday foods should I try during Christmas and New Year?
Holiday dining in South Korea centers around meaningful dishes. Tteokguk (rice cake soup) serves as a traditional New Year's Day meal believed to bring good fortune. Korean BBQ (bulgogi) features prominently in year-end gatherings. Visitors can find holiday seafood specialties at Busan's Jagalchi Market or sample festive street food at Seoul's Gwangjang Market. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The New Year's Eve special dinner at Four Points by Sheraton Josun was amazing featuring both traditional Korean and festive international dishes."
What type of accommodation can I expect on a Christmas and New Year tour in South Korea?
Accommodations range from high-end properties like the Grand Hyatt Jeju to well-located options such as the Four Points by Sheraton Josun in Seoul. Some tours include stays at historic venues like the Commodore Hotel Gyeongju which offers special holiday packages. Most hotels feature ondol heated floors for winter comfort. According to one TourRadar traveler: "The Royal Hotel Myeongdong's Christmas decorations and holiday atmosphere were spectacular making our stay extra special."
Are there any special New Year traditions I should be aware of in South Korea?
New Year celebrations in South Korea blend ancient customs with modern festivities. Many people practice Seongwha watching the year's first sunrise at spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace. The traditional bell-ringing ceremony at Jogyesa Temple draws crowds while families gather to make tteokguk and play traditional games. A TourRadar traveler reported: "Participating in the midnight bell-ringing ceremony at Bosingak Pavilion was the highlight of our New Year's experience in Seoul."
What are the best shopping opportunities during Christmas and New Year in South Korea?
Holiday shopping centers around festive markets and retail districts. Myeongdong's Christmas market near the Metro Hotel sells seasonal items and Korean cosmetics. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosts evening markets while Namdaemun offers New Year specialties. Busan shoppers can explore holiday deals at Jagalchi Market and BIFF Square. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The Christmas shopping at Myeongdong was incredible with amazing holiday deals and festive atmosphere."