Arrive in South Korea's capital, Seoul, where you will be met by a driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in. This dynamic city may be well and truly on fast-forward for everything from fashion to technology, but it is still deeply rooted in tradition.

Take a full day to explore some of Seoul's many treasures with a local guide. Start at Gyeongbok Palace, the country's most famous royal palace, where as well as exploring, you will see the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. Next, visit symbolic Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower before heading to Gwangjang Market to taste some of Seoul's best street food. This evening you have the option of watching a traditional music and dance performance at Korea House. (B)

Transfer to Seoul station and travel on the KTX bullet train to Gyeongju. This city was the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, which ruled part of the Korean peninsula from the year 57BC to 935AD. On arrival, meet your driver and start discovering historic Gyeongju. Head to Mount Tohamson and the UNESCO World Heritage Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. There will also be time to enjoy the vistas around Bomun Lake. Stay overnight in Gyeongju. (B,L)

Meet your driver-guide to further explore Gyeongju. Start at the National Museum and marvel at its collection of Silla relics. Continue to Tumuli Park with its many royal tombs before heading to the 7th century Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving observatory in East Asia. Finally, visit Anapji Pond. Return by bullet train to Seoul where the evening is at leisure. (B,L)

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)