TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1
Upon arrival in Seoul, begin your Korean journey with visits to Namsan Park and the iconic N Seoul Tower, offering panoramic views of the city. Continue to the bustling Myeong-dong district for an introduction to Korean urban culture. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or a similar class hotel in Seoul.
Day 2
Exploring Catholic Heritage in SeoulStart the day with a visit to Myeong-dong Cathedral, the heart of Catholicism in Korea and the first brick-built Catholic church in the country. Continue to Seosomun Martyrs’ Shrine, a deeply significant site commemorating Korean Catholics who were martyred for their faith. Enjoy time to explore the Myeong-dong shopping district. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar.
Day 3
Visit Yakhyeon Catholic Church, the first Western-style Catholic church in Korea. Then proceed to Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine and Museum, a moving tribute to Korean Catholics who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Korean traditional culture at a Hanok Village, either Bukchon or Namsangol. End the day at Gwanghwamun Square, featuring a statue of Catholic scholar Dasan Jeong Yak-yong. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar.
Day 4
Travel to Ganghwa Island to visit the Ganghwa Anglican Church, Korea’s first Anglican church. Continue to the Ganghwa Martyrs’ Shrine, dedicated to some of the first Korean Catholic martyrs, and the ancient Chamseongdan Altar, offering stunning views and historical depth. Return to Seoul for evening Mass and overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar.
Day 5
Depart for Suwon to explore the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, a symbol of Korean innovation and history. Continue to the peaceful countryside of Yeoju to visit the Pungsuwon Catholic Church, the oldest Gothic-style Catholic church in Korea, followed by a stop at the birthplace of St. Andrew Kim Dae-geon. Return to Seoul for overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar.
Day 6
Take the high-speed KTX train to Daejeon. Begin with a visit to Solmoe Holy Ground, birthplace of Korea’s first ordained priest, St. Andrew Kim Dae-geon. Then travel to Gongju to see the Catholic Martyrs’ Shrine before returning to Daejeon to explore the city and visit Daejeon Catholic Church. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar in Daejeon.
Day 7
Travel to Jeonju, a city known for its historical and religious significance. Visit the magnificent Jeondong Catholic Church, one of Korea’s most beautiful, and then stroll through the charming Jeonju Hanok Village with its well-preserved traditional houses. In the evening, attend Mass at Jeonju Cathedral. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar in Jeonju.
Day 8
Travel to Gwangju with a stop in Mokpo to visit its historic Catholic Church, situated beautifully by the harbor. Continue south to Haenam to visit the Catholic Martyrs’ Site, a serene yet powerful pilgrimage destination. Return to Gwangju for overnight at a local hotel of similar standard.
Day 9
Take the KTX train to Busan and begin your visit with the Busan Catholic Center and Namcheon Cathedral, among the oldest in the city. Then enjoy a scenic experience at the Oryukdo Skywalk before heading to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside Buddhist temple that highlights Korea’s cultural diversity. End the day with Mass at a local church. Overnight in Busan.
Day 10
Travel to Daegu to visit Gyesan Catholic Church, a historic church located in the heart of the city. Explore the vibrant Seomun Market and sample local delicacies. Later, attend Mass at St. Justin Martyr’s Church. Overnight in Daegu.
Day 11
Take the KTX train back to Seoul and visit the Eunpyeong St. Andrew Kim Dae-geon Shrine, a modern pilgrimage site dedicated to Korea’s first Catholic saint. Spend your final afternoon enjoying free time for shopping at either Namdaemun or Dongdaemun Markets. Overnight at the Swiss Grand Hotel or similar.
Day 12
After breakfast, transfer to Airport for your return flight.
