Christmas & New Year Tours in South Korea
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10 best Christmas & New Year South Korea tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouth Korea travel expert at TourRadar
- Korean World Heritage Adventure 11D/10N
- Best of South Korea
- Perfection of Korea
- South Korea Express
- 【South Korea】10 Days Scenic South Korea with Hanbok Royal Cuisine Experience Tour Packages
- Complete Korea
- South Korea Explorer
- Seoul Searching & Jeju 4 star - 9 days
- Ultimate Korea: Seoul, Gyeongju & Busan (Private Customize)
- South Korea in Classic: From Seoul to Jeju Island (Private Tailored)
Korean World Heritage Adventure 11D/10N
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accommodations were top-notch, and the tours of the historical city of Gyeongju and the Gamcheon Culture Villiage in Busan were unforgettable.”
Callan, traveled in November
Korea's winter magic unfolds at Seoul's Myeong Dong markets and snow-covered Seoraksan National Park. Illuminated temples and traditional tea houses offer seasonal charm. This 10-day adventure includes stays in 3-4 star hotels across 5 major cities.
Duration 11 days Destinations Seoul, Jeju-do, Busan, Daegu, Gangneung Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Bamba Travel From
- NZ$8,145
Best of South Korea
42 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was awesome—highly recommended!!”
Consolacion, traveled in March
Duration 8 days Destinations Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator G Adventures From $4,819
25% Off- NZ$3,614You save $1,205
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, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Jeju-do, Busan, GyeongjuSee all destinations Age Range 1 to 100 year olds Operator US Travel Korea From
25% Off- NZ$5,482
South Korea Express
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great variety of venues, not just temples and shrines. We got to see how the Korean people live their everyday lives.”
Ian, traveled in September
Winter activities await in Pyeongchang and Seoraksan National Park. Seoul's festive markets buzz with energy, while the DMZ offers historical insights. Traditional Hanok villages radiate Christmas charm, complete with 4-star accommodation.
Duration 8 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong, WonjuSee all destinations Age Range 10 to 90 year olds Operator MW Tours From
25% Off- NZ$3,668
【South Korea】10 Days Scenic South Korea with Hanbok Royal Cuisine Experience Tour Packages
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip provided a great opportunity to experience Korean culture and view Korea. I would definitely recommend Tourradar.”
Daniyah, traveled in December
Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace hosts Royal Guard ceremonies and festive Hanjeongsik feasts in traditional Hanbok. Winter views stretch from Seorak National Park's cable car to Busan's illuminated Jagalchi district markets.
Duration 10 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Yeosu, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong, Wonju Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Delightful Travel From
25% Off- NZ$4,402
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Suwon, Jeonju, Haeinsa, Busan, Gyeongju, Daegu, Andong, Hahoe Age Range 3 to 85 year olds Operator Europamundo From
25% Off- NZ$3,863
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Jeonju, Yeosu, Jeju-do Age Range 12 to 90 year olds Operator G Adventures From $5,899
15% Off- NZ$5,014You save $885
Seoul Searching & Jeju 4 star - 9 days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Great way to see and experience South Korea for the first time. The tour appears to resemble a well organized event.”
Marc, traveled in October
Winter charm fills Seoul's N Seoul Tower and festive Insadong district. Snow-covered DMZ observation points offer unique perspectives, while Jeju's Seongsan Sunrise Peak hosts New Year celebrations. Private transport and 4-star accommodations enhance the journey.
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju-do Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator On The Go Tours From
15% Off- NZ$9,565
Ultimate Korea: Seoul, Gyeongju & Busan (Private Customize)
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing - highly recommend.”
Clare, traveled in March
Busan Tower and illuminated Gwangan Bridge offer spectacular evening views. Gyeongbokgung Palace hosts winter celebrations, while Dongung Palace glows on romantic night tours. Gamcheon Culture Village's seasonal decorations create memorable photos.
Duration 7 days Destinations Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator Odynovo From
15% Off- NZ$5,721
South Korea in Classic: From Seoul to Jeju Island (Private Tailored)
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The hotels had beautiful views. Their breakfast was great.”
Mojgan, traveled in August
Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village shine during winter festivities. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Jeju's Pink Muhly grass fields showcase seasonal beauty. Private guides lead the way through holiday traditions.
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Andong, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju-do Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator Odynovo From
15% Off- NZ$7,193
What people love about Christmas & New Year Tours in South Korea
- Korean World Heritage Adventure 11D/10N
Was good to see so much of South Korea in a short time. Overall I enjoyed the tour. Didn’t get to enter the DMZ due to tickets being sold out but the schedule had been reduced due to COVID. Also the joint security area has been open to public for a few years and that was what I really wanted to experience, so after learning that it wasn’t so much of a loss. The accommodation varied some good, some fabulous (oh my gosh the Grand Hyatt in Jeju was incredible). If you’re vegan or vegetarian it will be difficult for you to eat (and your tour guide may not care so much depending on who you get). It would be nice if we had more idea of what’s around us when we get dropped at our hotel - e.g., any suggestions of what would be worth seeing in the area. Also eating options (where English speakers can interpret the menu and communicate with staff)- often we would just go to a 7/11 and buy sandwiches or sushi and crackers! Highlights: Visiting the temples where the monks are, underground lava caves in Jeju and the Myeong Dong and Namdaemun markets in Seoul. Will definitely return to South Korea again…
- Best of South Korea
Daniel was an amazing guide. A truly caring person who wants his travelers to maximise their travel experience. He's always happy, joyful and lots of positive energy bursting at the rim. He knows his history well and we learned so much from him. The last night's dinner was like high school graduation when we all didn't want to part ways. Even if it was already so late at night and Daniel almost missed his last train home, he stuck with us to the last minutes saying our sad goodbyes to all our newfound friends through G Adventures. And...... Daniel is a rock star at karaoke night!! We never laughed so hard in our life. What an great CEO. What a great group of amazing people. Thank you so much. Daniel, just a piece of advise which you already know because we have actually told you..... Please slow down, it's so hard to catch up with you and your fast walking pace. Hahaha. Take care and all the best.
- South Korea Express
The tour itself was a good representation of South Korea within a short period of time.
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours 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."