Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Guided Seoul to the Sea South Korea Bike Tour
This cycling itinerary is a relaxed but adventurous way to experience South Korea from the saddle of a bike. The journey begins in Seoul, where modern city life, riverside trails, and creative neighborhoods like Hongdae and Gangnam set the tone. From there, the ride follows Korea’s famous Four Rivers bike routes, moving steadily away from the city and into quieter landscapes filled with parks, rivers, rice fields, and café culture.
Along the way, you will connect with Korea’s strong cycling community in places like Paldang, explore traditional culture at Yongin Folk Village, and discover Icheon’s renowned pottery heritage. The trip wraps up in Busan with coastal riding, beach views, and a celebratory farewell meal by the sea.
With guided rides, support vehicles, comfortable hotels, and a mix of cycling, culture, and free time, this tour balances challenge, discovery, and fun in a very approachable way.
Guided
casual hotels
Seoul
Busan
moderate
47 km / 29 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Gimhae International Airport (PUS)
Highlights
Four Rivers Cycling Experience
Follow Korea’s famous Four Rivers routes, designed specifically for long distance cycling. These scenic paths take you through river valleys, rice fields, parks, and countryside, offering continuous riding without traffic stress.
Culture Beyond the Cities
Step off the bike to experience Korea’s heritage at places like Yongin Folk Village and Icheon’s ceramic heartland. This tour blends modern Korea with traditional life, history, and craftsmanship.
Beachside Finale in Busan
Finish the journey riding along Busan’s coastline and urban parks before celebrating with a beachside farewell dinner. It’s a relaxed, scenic ending that perfectly balances the adventure with comfort and reward.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Seoul | Hapjeong Junibino Hotel | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Seoul | Hapjeong Junibino Hotel | B, L | 41 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Seoul | Hapjeong Junibino Hotel | B | 39 km / 24 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Paldang | B | 49 km / 30 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 5 | Icheon | Hotel Intrada | B,L | 68 km / 42 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Yongin | Lee Design Hotel | B,L | 46 km / 29 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Busan | Kolon Seacloud Haeundae Beach Hotel (4 Star) | B,D | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Busan | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Seoul
Arrive in Seoul and ease into the adventure with a warm welcome at the hotel. Meet your guide and fellow riders, go through a clear tour briefing, and get your bike properly fitted so everything feels just right. There is time to ask questions, settle in, and soak up the first impressions of this energetic city.
As evening arrives, sit down together for a Korean style welcome dinner with comforting soups, rice, meats, and colorful side dishes. It is a relaxed and friendly start, setting the tone for great riding, good company, and exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Seoul
After breakfast, set out for the first ride through northern Seoul along the scenic Han River. The pace is comfortable, perfect for getting used to the bikes and surroundings. Pedal past riverside gardens, open spaces, and lively cycling cafés that show off the city’s active culture.
The route leads to the famous Ari Trail, one of Korea’s most loved cycling paths, before crossing to the Gangnam side of the river. Return to the hotel by late morning, then enjoy lunch and coffee together. The afternoon is free for museums, cafés, or simple relaxation.
Day 3: Seoul
The ride today blends nature, culture, and classic city views. Start by rolling past Nodeul Island, a creative hangout known for its relaxed vibe. Continue through Yeouido Park, an area famous for riverside paths and nearby TV studios where you might spot familiar faces.
The route then leads into Seoul Forest, a green space loved by families and fitness enthusiasts alike. The highlight comes with the climb up Namsan, made easier as public cars are not allowed. Enjoy sweeping views before returning to the hotel, with the evening free to explore or unwind.
Day 4: Paldang
Leave the city behind as the ride heads east toward Paldang, a true cycling haven loved by local riders. Follow peaceful riverside paths as Seoul slowly fades into the background. Along the way, pass parks, lookout towers, bike shops, and charming cafés that make perfect rest stops.
The scenery becomes greener and more open, giving a real sense of escape. Arrive in Paldang by early afternoon and check into your hotel or glamping stay. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore the cycling community, or simply enjoy the calm surroundings.
Day 5: Icheon
Today’s ride carries you through the heart of Korea’s countryside, with wide views of rice fields and gentle river landscapes. Pedal past Yangpyeong as the scenery feels slower and more traditional, offering a refreshing contrast to the city days. The route ends in Icheon, a place celebrated worldwide for its long ceramic arts heritage.
After lunch, settle into the hotel and enjoy free time to explore local markets, visit pottery museums, stroll through parks, or unwind with a relaxing sauna experience. It is a culturally rich and unhurried day that balances riding with discovery.
Day 6: Yongin
The morning ride leads you toward Yongin Folk Village, blending gentle cycling with a deep dive into Korean heritage. The route is calm and scenic, easing you into a day focused on culture rather than distance. After arriving, enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon exploring the village.
Wander through traditional homes, watch cultural performances, and recognize scenes made famous by historical dramas and films. The experience brings together old and new Korea in a lively, engaging setting. Settle in for the night nearby, carrying just an overnight bag as the journey continues onward.
Day 7: Busan
Say goodbye to the bikes in the morning and board the express train for the journey south to Busan. After arriving, switch to city friendly bikes and head out for a relaxed coastal ride. The route follows rivers, port areas, and green parks before opening up to the lively beachfront near Haeundae.
Drop bags at the hotel and enjoy the fresh sea air as the ride wraps up along the shore. As evening sets in, gather for a farewell dinner by the beach, celebrating the journey with good food and shared memories.
Day 8: Busan
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Busan with breakfast at the hotel and time to soak in the seaside atmosphere. Take a final walk along the beach, grab a coffee, or simply unwind after an active week of riding and exploring.
Later, board the fast KTX train back to Seoul, a smooth and comfortable journey of around two and a half hours. The tour officially comes to an end on arrival in Seoul, leaving you with lasting memories of scenic bike trails, vibrant cities, and shared moments across Korea.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Hapjeong Junibino Hotel
Hotel Intrada
Lee Design Hotel
Kolon Seacloud Haeundae Beach Hotel
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $810
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $390
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water during activity.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.
Motovelo KG7 or similar
Included in your trip price
Merida eBig Nine 675 or similar
Included in your trip price
Zündapp Z901 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
ARRIVAL
Your tour starts in Seoul. The most convenient arrival airport is Incheon International Airport (ICN). Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall and are the easiest way to reach your hotel in the city. Reliable options include official airport taxis and international taxi services. The journey to central Seoul typically takes 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares usually ranging from 60,000 to 90,000 KRW (approximately 45 to 70 USD).
You may also use the AREX Airport Express Train to Hongik University Station, followed by a short taxi ride to the hotel. We recommend arriving at least one day before the tour start to allow time to rest and adjust.
DEPARTURE
Your tour ends in Busan, with onward travel options from Gimhae International Airport (PUS) or by high speed KTX train back to Seoul. If flying out of Busan, taxis can be booked from your hotel to Gimhae Airport, with travel times of about 40 to 50 minutes and fares around 25,000 to 35,000 KRW (approximately 18 to 26 USD).
Guests returning to Seoul will take the KTX train, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Taxis are easily available from Seoul Station for transfers to hotels or onward flights.
Weather
The best time to cycle this route is spring and autumn, when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is low. April to May offers mild days around 15–22°C (59–72°F) with blooming landscapes and clear skies. September to October is equally ideal, with temperatures near 18–24°C (64–75°F) and crisp air that suits longer rides.
Summer can be hot and humid, often reaching 28–35°C (82–95°F), especially in July and August, while winter is cold and less suitable for cycling, with temperatures dropping to 0–8°C (32–46°F) in northern sections.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Best
October
Best
November
Good
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.