visit busan in march 2023

9 New Things To Do In Busan In 2023 So You Don’t Just Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

New things to do in Busan 2023

While we were cooped up in our homes during the pandemic, South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan, introduced many new establishments and attractions. Now that visiting Korea is no longer a pipe dream, here are 9 new things to do in Busan so that you can make the most out of your trip in 2023. 

1. Lotte World Adventure Busan

If this is your first trip to Busan since the start of the pandemic, you definitely haven’t visited this new Lotte World branch.

Opened on 31 March 2022, Lotte World Adventure Busan is the first theme park in Busan. With 16 rides and attractions in the theme park, you’re in for a jam-packed day of adventures, indeed.

Don’t miss out on the Giant Digger , a roller coaster with multiple 360° turns that’s not for the faint-hearted.

Admission: KRW47,000 (~USD32.81)/adult, KRW33,000 (~USD23.03)/children, KRW12,000 (~USD8.37)/infants Address: 42 Dongbusangwangwang-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily Contact: 1661-2000 | Instagram

2. Skyline Luge Busan

The Skyline Luge in Tongyeong, which opened in 2017, now has a newer and cooler sibling in Busan.

Skyline Luge Busan officially opened to the public in July 2021. The great news is that it is conveniently located right next to Lotte World Adventure Busan, which means that if you play your cards right, you can visit both places in one day.

Skyline Luge Busan is a fun activity suitable for visitors of all ages, even if you are convinced that you can’t drive.

Ticket prices:

Address: 205 Gijanghaean-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-7pm | Sat-Sun 10am-8pm Contact: 051-722-6002 | Instagram

3. Millac The Market

Millac The Market is an open plaza and building where local start-ups can set up temporary booths and stores. There are many restaurants, trendy fashion stores, and even art galleries within the compound.

We highly recommend dropping by a dessert cafe called Richoya . There, you must try the Matcha Soft Serve (KRW5,500, ~USD4.40) , which is a creamy high-quality matcha soft serve drizzled with matcha sauce. If you are a matcha lover, try the Matcha Latte (KRW6,000, ~USD4.80) , which is whisked and made upon order.

Millac The Market is a trendy place suitable for young people with an interest in art. You can find artworks everywhere in Millac The Market, from pop art murals to decorative statues.

On the ground floor, there’s a seating area with floor-to-ceiling windows where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view of the Busan port.

Address: 56, Millaksubyeon-ro 17beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan Opening hours: 10am-12am, Daily Contact: 051-752-5671 | Instagram

P.ARK is a 6-storey cultural complex with multiple dining options, including a cafe, bakery, and a Chinese restaurant.

Level 6 of the building, which has an open rooftop area, is the best place to chill and absorb vitamin D. The rooftop also functions as an event space, and is a great venue for couples looking to hold outdoor weddings.

When visiting P.ARK, you have to visit P.ARK Cafe & Bakery , which is located on level 4. It serves a wide selection of pastries and desserts both sweet and savoury.

Get the Mild Blue Dolce Latte (KRW8,000, ~USD6.43) , which resembles Busan’s Yeongdo Beach with its layers of blue and brown. The drink is sweet and has a mild taste, making it great even for those who don’t normally like the taste of coffee.

Address: 180 Haeyang-ro 195beon-gil, Yeongdo-gu, Busan Opening hours: 10am-11pm, Daily Contact: 0507-1353-9202 | Instagram

5. Durumi Bakery Cafe

Newly opened in August 2022, Durumi Bakery Cafe is a massive cafe with a 4-storey building, as well as a large outdoor sitting area.

The outdoor area is dotted with numerous white pavilions adorned with romantic fairy lights, and when the sun goes down, the whole place is transformed into something out of a fairytale. The cafe is known for having a beautiful view of pastel sunsets, so we recommend timing your visit accordingly. 

Those who get a little peckish should order the Loaf Cream Danish (KRW7,000, ~USD5.61) , which has a generous amount of cream and is topped with fresh fruits such grapes and figs.

Try Durumi Bakery Cafe’s bestselling beverages, Bungeo Chocolate Duruccino (KRW7,000, ~USD5.62) and Bungeo Green Tea Duruccino (KRW7,000, ~USD5.62) .

The chocolate latte cappuccino and green tea latte cappuccino are only available iced and topped with a piece of bungeo-ppang (Korean fish-shaped pastry) each.

Address: 654-70 Gomnae-gil, Jeonggwan-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily Contact: 0507-1349-7903 | Instagram

6. Snoopy Place

Situated right next to Haeundae Beach and only a 4-minute walk from The Bay 101, a waterfront complex, Snoopy Place is a Snoopy-themed cafe selling cute desserts and merchandise. On top of that, there are multiple life-size Snoopy statues around the cafe where guests and Snoopy fans can snap commemorative photos.

One of the most popular items at Snoopy Place is the Snoopy Red Velvet Cake (KRW7,500, ~US D6.02) . Its spongy red velvet cake, thick cream cheese frosting, and cute Snoopy design make it irresistible, yet almost too cute to eat.

The Snoopy Place carries a wide range of Peanuts merchandise, including mugs, tumblers, and bags.

Fans of Peanuts should get the Peanuts Tumbler Set (KRW24,000, ~USD19.25) , which comes in a set of 5. Each cup has a different Peanuts character and design, making it great as gifts for your family and friends. 

Address: 197, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily Contact: 0507-1328-0790 | Instagram

YAKI-YA specialises in okonomiyaki and other Japanese street food such as yakisoba and chicken karaage . It also sells several Korean cuisines, including nurungji Soup (scorched rice soup) and jjamppong (seafood noodle soup).

Opt for the bar seats, which grant you access to teppanyaki grill pans so you can be your very own chef.

But don’t worry if you have no confidence in cooking – the kitchen staff prepares the food in advance and the dishes ready to eat. However, you can choose to stir fry it further to your liking, which is where the fun part comes in.

Its signature dishes are the Pork Belly Okonomiyaki (KRW16,000, ~USD12.90) and Shrimp Okonomiyaki (KRW16,000, ~USD12.90) . The portions are enough to share between 2 diners, though if you’re hungry enough, you’ll be able to polish it off alone. 

If you enjoy eating gopchang (cattle intestines), you should try Horumon Yaki (KRW18,000, ~USD14.52) , which is a dish made with spicy stir-fried beef large intestines.

After all the sweet, spicy, and savoury food, get the carbonated Highball (KRW7,500, ~USD6.05) cocktail to cleanse and refresh your palate.

Address: 29 Seojeon-ro 10beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan Opening hours: 5pm-3am, Daily Contact: 051-949-1088

Opened in May 2022, Mongjak is a Korean BBQ house designed with “camping” as the concept.

Located on level 1 is Mongjak Market, where you can purchase everything you’ll need for a BBQ. It sells alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a wide selection of ramyun , meat, and vegetables.

Basic side dishes such as lettuce, kimchi, and garlic are provided for free. Sauces including ssamjang (spicy soybean paste), sesame oil, and soya sauce are also provided. 

Mongjak offers 2 types of seating options – the Glass Zone and Dream Zone. Glass Zone is located on level 1 and has floor-to-ceiling glass windows where you can watch the sunset. In order to use the Glass Zone, you’ll have to book a dining session for a fee of KRW30,000 (~USD24.11) .

Each dining session is limited to 3 hours on weekdays and 2.5 hours on weekends.

On weekdays, there are 2 dining sessions: 5pm-8pm and 8.30pm-11.30pm . On weekends, there are 3 dining sessions: 1pm-3.30pm , 4.30pm-7pm and 8pm-10.30p m.

On the other hand, the Dream Zone is an area with big tents and dining tables on level 2. You can either rent a 4-pax tent or a 6-pax tent.

The rental fee for the 4-pax tent is KRW40,000 (~USD32.14) , while the 6-pax tent costs KRW60,000 (~USD48.21) . The duration and timing of the dining sessions are the same as Glass Zone. 

Address: 36, Namhangseo-ro, Yeongdo-gu Busan Opening hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-11.30pm | Sat-Sun 1pm-10.30pm Contact: 010-5758-1470 | Instagram

9. Yeongdo Marino Auto Campground

As camping has become one of the favourite pastimes in South Korea, there has been an increase in the number of camping sites in the country.

One of the latest camping sites in Busan is the Yeongdo Marino Auto Campground . As its name suggests, Yeongdo Marino Auto Campground is an automobile campsite mainly used by those who have cars, caravans, or recreational vehicles.

The auto sites cost KRW30,000 (~USD24.22)/night on weekdays , KRW35,000 (~USD28.26)/night on weekends and KRW40,000 (~USD32.30)/night during peak season .

Each auto site can accommodate 4 to 6 pax. The site is ready for use at 2pm, and you’ll have to clean up and leave by 1pm the next day.

Visitors can experience the life of a nomad by renting a caravan, which comes equipped with a mini kitchen, bathroom, refrigerator, microwave, air conditioner, television and beds.

There are 2 caravan sizes to choose from: 4-pax or 6-pax.

Caravan rental price/night:

The check-in time for the caravan is at 3pm, and the check-out time is at 12pm. 

However, you can still book an auto site even if you don’t have or don’t want to rent a vehicle. Simply pitch a tent on the camping platform and go about your day.

Address: 13-16 Haehae-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily Contact: 051-419-5661

New things to do in Busan in 2023

When travelling in Seoul gets boring, hop onto a train to Busan and enjoy these 9 new things you can do in the port city.

Also check out:

• South Korea public transportation guide
• Gamcheon Culture Village guide
• Han River Park guide
• Jimjilbang guide
• 10 new hotels in Seoul

Cover image adapted from: @devotion_pyomily , @onl_1thing , @joongkyoung.kim

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The Perfect Busan Itinerary: How to Spend 3 days in Busan

Are you planning your Busan itinerary and looking for the best things to see and do in 3 days? You’ve come to the right place!

Famous for its picturesque coastline, fresh seafood, and bustling atmosphere, Busan is a top tourist destination – especially in the summer.

The port city is the second-largest city in South Korea. It doesn’t shy away from those fun and quirky attractions that make the country so unique – from themed cafes to BBQ restaurants, karaoke rooms, and more, Busan has it all.

This post details the perfect Busan 3 day itinerary and includes all the top attractions and places to stay from someone who visited them all!

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3 Day Busan itinerary

I bet you’re wondering: “How many days in Busan?”.

I had initially given myself 5 days, but after 3 I was ready to head to the next destination on my South Korea travel route. And I recommend you do the same.

With 2 or 3 days in Busan, you’ll have enough time to see all the top attractions, explore the beaches, and indulge in delicious food.

And whilst this travel guide allows for 3 days in Busan, it’s easy to add or remove days, and customize your itinerary depending on how much time you have.

3 Days in Busan Summary

This itinerary for Busan includes a mix of things that make the city so attractive.

Stunning beaches, bustling markets, historic temples – here’s what you’ll find.

Day 1: Gamcheon Cultural Village, Nampo District, Busan Tower Observatory, Gwangalli Beach

Day 2: Spa Land, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Haeundae Beach

Day 3: Busan Air Cruise, Igidae Coastal Walk, Seomyeon District

Busan Itinerary Tips: How To Get Around

Busan has a well-connected transportation system, making it easy to get around the city via bus or train.

You’ll need a T-Money card to access Busan’s public transport. This is a stored money card that can be recharged and used between buses, trains, and subways throughout Korea.

You can purchase this T-Money card from one of the many convenience stores or kiosks at the subway stations. Alternatively, you can buy one online here and it will be waiting for you at the airport when you arrive in Korea.

Tips for getting around Busan

Download the “Subway Korea” app on your phone . This will give you updated train times and routes for the Busan subway.

Buy a local sim card – trust me! It’s far easier to navigate around the city if you have access to the internet. You can conveniently purchase your sim card here.

Download the “Naver Maps” app for directions. Naver Maps shows you more detailed directions including the fastest routes to all the Busan attractions using car, bus, and subway. (I used Google Maps to navigate around Busan, but I followed my location on the map as directions for driving and walking don’t work.)

Where is the best place to stay in Busan

When deciding where to stay during your 3 day Busan itinerary, it’s best to choose one area that will act as your base.

Everything is a lot more spread out when compared to Seoul, so you need to think about what type of trip you want.

The most central district is Seomyeon which is a transportation hub that connects to train lines 1 and 2. It’s popular with those backpacking Busan and is famous for its shopping and partying. Many people compare the vibe in Seomyeon to Hongdae in Seoul.

But I chose to stay in Haeundae , the seaside district on the east of the city. I wanted to be close to the ocean and I absolutely loved it here. While it is slightly further from all the Busan attractions, you won’t get this beach experience elsewhere in Korea.

Busan Accommodation

Looking for a luxurious place to stay in Busan? It doesn’t get much better than Park Hyatt Busan . Located on the shores of Haeundae Beach, the views of the Busan skyline coupled with the fine furnishes make it one of the best places to stay.

Traveling on a mid-range budget but in search of ocean views? H Avenue Gwanganri Beach is the answer. Located in Gwangalli Beach, the panoramic views are hard to beat, and overall, the accommodation provides a lot of value.

If you’re backpacking Busan, MAMA Guesthouse in Haeundae is for you! Given the affordable price tag, prime location, and helpful staff, it’s the perfect option for travelers on a budget.

Day 1 Busan itinerary: Culture and cuisine

It’s your first day in Busan and it’s going to be a busy one!

We’re venturing out to the west of the city and will slowly make our way back to enjoy the sunset from Gwangalli Beach.

Visit Gamcheon Cultural Village

• Time needed: 3 hours
• Cost: Free entrance

Exploring Gamcheon Cultural Village is one of the best things to do in Busan.

This bright and colorful mountain-side village was once a slum town, and home to refugees from the Korean war.

But in 2009, it was transformed into an artsy neighborhood with bright paintings and life-size murals, cute cafes, and art galleries. It has since become the cultural hub of the city and a must-visit destination on any Busan itinerary.

When entering the village, get hold of the tourist map which includes a “scavenger hunt”. It highlights the best viewpoints and art installations to see.

But remember, people still live here so be respectful when passing locals and don’t make too much noise when exploring the alleyways.

You’ll need half a day for your visit. If you want to explore the Gamcheon Cultural Village at night, you may want to consider doing this Busan night tour .

How to get to Gamcheon Culture Village

The closest metro station to Gamcheon Culture Village is Toseong, which is found at the end of Line 1.

Take exits 1, 6, or 8 and look for the bus 1-1, 2, or 2-2 in front of Pusan National Cancer Center. This takes you to Gamcheon Elementary School Bus Stop which is up the hill.

The other option is to go to Seojeong Station on Subway Line 1. At exit 6, take the bus Sakha 1 or Sakha 1-1 to the Gamcheon Elementary School Bus Stop.

Explore the Nampo District

• Time needed: 2 hours

Nampo is one of the oldest districts in Busan and has several key attractions that I’ve mentioned below. These can all be visited in one afternoon.

Try to get here by lunchtime so that you can feast on all the mouthwatering food up for grabs.

Nampo District Attractions

Gukje Market: This market is located in the central streets of Nampo. It boasts hundreds of shops selling everything from electronics, souvenirs, clothes items, household goods, and mouth-watering Korean street food.

Jagalchi Fish Market: If you’re looking for the biggest fish market in South Korea, look no further than Jagalchi Fish Market. Located on the edge of Nampo port, it’s worth a visit – even just for the scenes.

Biffs Square: Home to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), BIFF Square is a bustling area featuring movie theatres, shopping stalls, various dining options, and vibrant nightlife.

Take in the views from Busan Tower

• Time needed: 1 hour
• Entrance to obseravtor: $6

For the best views of Busan, head to Busan Tower which is a short walk from Gukje Market in the Nampo District.

The iconic symbol of Busan stands proudly at 120m high, offering dramatic panoramic views of the city. Admission to the Busan Tower Observatory is $10.

A free alternative to include in your Busan itinerary is the Lotte World Observatory Deck which is on level 13 of the department store. With equally impressive views as Busan Tower, Lotte World is also located in the Nampo district, close to Jagalchi Fish Market.

Sunset from Gwangalli Beach: What to do in Busan at night

If you’re following my 3 day itinerary for Busan, you’re probably exhausted from exploring cultural villages and street markets all day!

But there’s one more destination you can’t miss on day 1 – Gwangalli Beach.

Gwangalli Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Busan. Try to get here towards the end of the day as it’s the best place to watch the sunset.

You’ll also be treated to unspoiled views of Gwangan Bridge, otherwise known as Diamond Bridge, in the distance.

Visiting Gwangalli Beach is one of the best things to do in Busan at night as this iconic bridge is completely lit up. There are also live performances and movies screenings on the sandy shores of Gwangalli Beach.

On that note, if you’re expecting sun lounges, cocktails, and palm trees, think again! The vibe at the beaches in Korea is totally different from other beach destinations in Asia, like Bali or Sri Lanka.

After sitting by the beach and watching the sun go down, head to one of the many Korean BBQ restaurants near Gwangalli Beach and enjoy your first BBQ in Busan before heading home.

Day 2 Busan itinerary: Pampering and nature

After a busy first day in Busan, you’re going to love what’s in store for today – pampering and nature!

• Cost: 17,000 won ($13)

If you’re traveling to Korea, you need to experience a traditional Korean bathhouse. This is where people come to enjoy hot and cold pools, relaxing saunas, massage areas, and communal sleeping rooms.

They’re called jimjilbangs and they’re pretty awesome. But, you have to get naked first!

Jimjilbangs are a place to meditate, relax and unwind. Because of the benefits, jimjilbangs are an important part of most Koreans’ weekly beauty rituals.

After living in Korea, I’ve visited my fair share of Jimjilbangs, of which Spa Land was the first. Jimjilbang etiquette can be confusing so be sure to r ead my post here before you go.

You’ll find Spa Land inside Shinsegae Centrum City Department Store, connected to Centrum City metro station. After visiting Spa Land, grab a bit to eat from the food hall in Shinsegae.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

• Time needed: 4 hours (including transport)

Located on the coastline on the east of Busan, lies Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. This beautiful Buddhist temple, otherwise known as Temple by The Sea, was built in 1376.

It was partially destroyed during the Japanese invasion of Korea and rebuilt in the 1930s.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers sweeping views of the ocean and beautiful scenery. This in itself attracts tourists in their numbers – so expect a crowd.

Pro tip: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is extremely popular and a bit further to travel from the center of Busan. If you’d prefer a walk with similar ocean views, minus the crowds, then head to the Igidae Coastal Walk instead. You can find out more about this on day 3 of my Busan itinerary.

READ MORE: 25 STRANGE THINGS ABOUT LIFE IN KOREA

How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong is located far from areas like Nampo and Seomyeon, so it can take over an hour to get there.

Using public transport, take bus 100 or 181 from Haeundae subway exit 7 which will take you to the Yonggungsa Temple Bus Stop.

End the day at Haeundae Beach

On your way back from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, stop at Haeundae Beach which offers a similar vibe to Gwangalli Beach.

It’s a great place to walk the streets with the sound of the waves breaking in the distance or you can listen to the music spilling out from local bars while admiring the illuminated city skyline.

At 1.5km long, there are so many things to do in Haeundae . It’s a great swimming beach and draws a large crowd over the summer.

Day 3 Busan Itinerary: A bit of everything

You’ve reached day 3 of your Busan itinerary.

There are so many things to do in the city, so I’ll leave the last day for you to pick and choose which activities you prefer.

Busan Air Cruise (Songdo Cable Car)

The Busan Air Cruise is a cable car that takes you from Songdo Beach, over the sea to Amnan Park offering panoramic views of the Busan skyline and ocean beneath.

At the top, you can hop off and grab a bite to eat or enjoy a walk through the scenic park which also boasts a dinosaur museum. This activity is popular for families and couples so if you’re looking to enjoy Busan from above, be sure to add it to your itinerary.

Pro tip : The start of the Busan Air Cruise is on the west of Busan, close to the Nampo district and Gamcheon Culture Village. I recommend that you include this on day 1 of your Busan itinerary and perhaps visit Gwangalli Beach on day 2 or 3.

Songdo is also one of the best beaches in Busan so you could also skip Haeundae Beach in favor of the Busan Air Cruise.

How to get there

Take bus 6,26,30,71,96 or 96-1. Get off at Amnam-dong Community Service Centre bus stop.

Igidae Coastal Walk and Orukdo Skywalk

• Walk distance: 4.7km

The Igidae Coastal Walk is centrally located. It’s a great alternative to visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple on day 2 of your Busan itinerary.

This scenic walk follows a well-marked path that hugs the Busan coastline from Igidae Dongsaengmal to Oryukdo Sunrise Park.

At the end of the trail, you can enjoy Oryukdo Skywalk which is a glass skywalk perched over the sea.

There are numerous steep sections, and you need to come prepared with water and trainers.

Taejongdae Resort Park

• Time needed: 1.5 hours.
• Walk distance: 5 km

Taejong Resort Park is located on the southern side of Yeongdo Island which is easily accessible from Busan.

With its famed coastal views and iconic landmarks including Taejongdae Observatory and Yeongdo Lighthouse, it’s one of the best things to do in Busan in spring or fall.

Taejong Resort Park is often skipped in favor of the temples or the more popular things to do in Busan. But those who venture here will reap the rewards of spectacular scenery, and somewhat quieter trails (when compared to the other locations on this Busan itinerary).

And don’t be fooled by the term “resort” in the name. It’s actually a large seaside park with rocky outcrops and spectacular nature.

How to get to Taejongdae Resort Park

The best way to get here is by bus from Nampo subway station exit 6.

Hop on bus 8,30 or 113 which all take 40 minutes. Alternatively, take bus 88 or 101 from Busan Station.

Enjoy Seomyeon at night

If you’re backpacking Korea and looking for nightlife in Busan, head straight to Seomyeon.

The neighborhood comes alive at night with its bright lights, street performances, and bustling atmosphere. There’s shopping, partying, and a hive of activity that continues until the early hours of the morning.

When to plan your Busan itinerary

Korea has 4 distinct seasons!

I’m talking extremely hot and humid summers (to a point that you do not want to be outdoors) and ice-cold winters which can affect what activities you do during your 3 day Busan itinerary.

You’ll also need to pack carefully depending on the time of year you visit. Here’s my complete packing list for all seasons in Korea.

Summer: Hot and humid

June to August is summer in Korea and whilst it’s the busiest time to visit Busan, it’s not pleasant!

If you’re familiar with high humidity and you can withstand the heat, then you’ll be ok. But, it’s a sticky kind of hot.

I spent two summers in Korea and only went outdoors when I really had to.

Domestic travel is at an all-time high during the summer due to school holidays so expect inflated prices and lots of crowds as many families plan their vacations to Busan during this time.

READ MORE: 17 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT KOREA

Fall: The best time to visit Busan

The fall season from September to November is one of the best times to visit Busan! The weather is pleasant with low humidity and comfortable temperatures.

It’s a great time to be outside and the city is filled with bright orange and red leaves. Try to avoid visiting Busan during Chuseok (Korea Thanksgiving) as many shops will be closed and the tourist attractions are generally very busy.

Busan in winter: Freezing cold

If you enjoy the cold, visit Busan during the winter from December to February. But be warned, the temperature can reach below 0!

Korea’s winter is icy and freezing cold and while many people flock to the northern part of the country to go skiing, Busan doesn’t get much snow at all.

There are a lot of things to do in Busan in winter, but you may not be able to do as much hiking or outdoor exploring as you would have liked to.

Spring: Beautiful time to visit Busan

March, April, and May are my favorite months to visit Busan. It’s spring in Korea and the best time to be outside, hiking, and exploring the streets.

March is still cold but the weather slowly heats up toward the end of the month. Cherry blossoms line the streets of Busan during the first weeks of April which attracts tourists in their numbers.

READ MORE: THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN KOREA

Where to stay in Busan

No matter where you choose to base yourself for your 3 days in Busan, you’re never too far from a beach-side attraction, vibrant street market, or coastal walk.

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is my favorite place to stay in Busan.

The mile-long stretch of golden sand is one of the best-known beaches in South Korea, and there are lots of things to do in the Haeundae District.

If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Haeundae, Park Hyatt should be top of your list. This five-star property boasts touches and offers guests spectacular views over the South Korean coastline from the Sky Lobby or their accommodation.

Traveling on a mid-range budget? Shilla Stay is great value for money given its prime location: it’s just a minute’s walk from the ever-popular Haeundae Beach.

If you’re backpacking Busan, MAMA Guesthouse is a hit with budget travelers. It’s located right next to Haeundae Market and the friendly owner will make you feel at home.

Seomyeon is Busan’s answer to Hongdae in Seoul. It’s very much at the beating heart of Korea’s second-largest city.

If you like to be in the thick of things, then you may want to consider spending your 3 days in Busan here.

Looking for the best place to stay near Seomyeon? Lotte Hotel Busan will exceed your expectations. This luxurious hotel is ideally placed if you want to explore this lively part of town from dawn till dusk.

Are you traveling to Busan on a mid-range budget? Hotel Kyungsung comes with all the bells and whistles and the front desk staff are known for exceeding guest expectations. The location is central and all accommodation at this three-star property is kept squeaky clean.

If you’re traveling on a budget, Seri Inn Guesthouse offers a good range of accommodation choices to suit your budget! The location is superb: it’s within striking distance of bustling Bujeon Market and well-connected Seomyeon Station, making it super simple to get around the city.

Located in southern Busan, Nampo-Dong is bordered by the Nakdong River to the north.

Nampo-Dong is popular with students and this historic part of downtown Busan has a welcoming and local feel.

The best place to stay in Nampo on a mid-range budget is Nampo Hound Hotel Premier. The three-star hotel makes the ideal base for guests from all over the globe, as it has a lounge, a garden, and a restaurant and bar with an outdoor terrace. Be sure to book a room with a view of the city!

K79 Guesthouse is just the spot for travelers on a budget. Guests will appreciate the Korean feel of the property, which has delightful, quirky touches like hanging egg chairs or seats shaped like dice, textured wood-effect flooring, and faux foliage or flowers draped across the ceilings.

Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach lies to the west of Haeundae Beach and like its neighbor it boasts an attractive curve of fine golden sand.

The presence of Gwangan Bridge ensures it retains a big-city feel, however, and there is plenty to do during daylight hours as well as at night.

Arguably the best hotel in Busan for coastal views is H Avenue Gwanganri Beach . Room types range from comfortable doubles to executive suites, and some even have private balconies for kicking back while soaking up those stunning ocean vistas.

Budget travelers will love Wood House Hotel near Gwangalli Beach. If there’s one factor that sets this above the rest, it’s the generous hospitality of the owner. The large private rooms offer great value for money and a tasty breakfast is included in the price.

How to get to Busan

Busan lies in the east of South Korea and is easily connected to the rest of the country thanks to the impressive transportation network.

Getting to Busan by bus

If you’re backpacking Busan on a budget, you may want to consider taking a bus. Not only are they super comfortable and spacious, but they’re also affordable.

The trip from Seoul to Busan by bus takes just over 4 hours (depending on traffic in Seoul) and costs $20.

Getting to Busan by Train

For a quicker trip, hop on the lightning-fast KTX fast train which takes under 3 hours and costs around $50.

Getting to Busan by Plane

You can also fly to Busan but this is the most expensive option. It takes time time and effort to check-in, board, fly and wait for your luggage. The KTX train is often quicker!

READ MORE: 19 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE MOVING TO KOREA

Is Busan worth visiting

I guess this might be the most important part of the entire post: is it worth going to Busan?

I had time on my side, so yes – I’m glad I spent 3 days in Busan.

But as I mentioned earlier, I had initially planned for 5 days and after 3, I was ready to move on to the next destination.

If your time is limited, you may want to consider which destinations are a must-do in Korea. Seoul is one of them!

There’s just something about the capital city and it’s one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever visited. So, you should definitely allocate at least 5 days in Seoul (I recommend 7 days).

And then there’s Jeju Island which is equally as impressive, with its striking natural formations and quirky museums.

If you have less than 10 days in Korea, give Busan a skip and visit Seoul and Jeju instead. But if you have more time, then it is worth a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days in busan.

I recommend spending 3 days in Busan. This is enough time to see all the main attractions.

What to do in Busan?

If you’re planning your 3 days in Busan, be sure to visit Gamcheon Cultural Village, Gwangalli Beach, Haeundae Beach and Spa Land.

Essentials and etiquette for your Busan itinerary

I’m not quite done with this 3 days itinerary for Busan!

Here are a few more tips.

• Escalator etiquette: Always stand on the right and walk on the left. Always!
• When packing for Korea, consider not only the weather but the local customs as well. For example, exposing your shoulders (and chest) is not ok in certain environments.
• Ensure you have cash on you when you’re walking through the markets in Busan as they don’t have card facilities. You can easily draw from the ATMs.
• Tipping in Korea is a big no-no. And don’t offer – it’s seen as an insult!
• Download Google Translate – you’ll need it.
• In Korea, everything starts later and is open later. People only appear from their apartments after 10 am but they’ll be up until midnight, including the children!

READ MORE: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN JEJU ISLAND

Final thoughts on a 3 day Busan itinerary

Busan is a leading tourist destination in Korea and is loved by locals thanks to its glorious coastline.

Have you been to Busan? Is there anything you’d add to this 3 days Busan itinerary, or do you have any questions about your trip? Let me know in the comments section below!

Planning your trip to South Korea? Check out my other posts!

• Where to Stay in Seoul: Best Areas, Hotels, and More
• Teaching English in South Korea: The Only Guide You Need
• Where to Stay in Jeju Island
• The Ultimate Nami Island Itinerary

Did you find this post helpful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, views are my own!

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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The 15 best things to do in Busan

Get ready for historic temples, bustling markets and so much more in this South Korea city

If you’re looking for a travel destination, don’t underestimate Busan. In our opinion, Busan is one of the most underrated cities in the world, but let’s not go there right now. See the magic for yourselves. This huge, sprawling city at the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula is home to three and a half million people, and to fully embrace it, you’ve just got to go along for the ride. 

Busan has huge beaches, a seriously good food scene and plenty of markets and shopping spots to explore. The best part? You can get all this alongside the bright lights of city life, which lends itself to trendy micro-breweries, cool coffee shops and vintage bargains. Fancy fresh seafood from the biggest fish market in Korea? An underground photographer’s gallery? You’ve got it all here. Read on for the best things to do in Busan right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Seoul 🇰🇷 The best things to do in South Korea ✈️ The world’s most underrated travel destinations 🌆 The best cities in the world 🏬 The coolest neighbourhoods in the world

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The best things to do in Busan

1.  Busan Tower

What is it?  A spectacular 389-foot-high tower with fantastic views over the city. 

Why go?  Gazing at this tower from outside it is worth the journey itself, but it’s worth paying the fee to see the inside. Once in, you can really get a sense of the vastness of the city of Busan. Oh and don’t panic, there’s a café up there as a reward for all that walkin’. 

2.  Kim Jae Sun Gallery

What is it? An art gallery specialising in contemporary works.

Why go?  Put simply,  the Kim Jae Sun is one of Busan’s most important art galleries. In  ‘Marine City’, this place showcases an enormous range of art from some of the finest contemporary Korean artists. Prepare to see artists cutting edges like you’ve never before!

3.  Gamcheon Culture Village

What is it? A stunning, kaleidoscopically coloured village. If it had the means, your Instagram would pat you on the back for the gift of this picture.

Why go? Because it’s so darn pretty! After being revitalised in 2009, this former slum is now known as the ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’. Gamcheon’s houses are all painted different colours, and within them, tiny streets and steep stairways lead you to street art a-go-go, with public sculptures scattered throughout.

4.  Jagalchi Fish Market

What is it? It’s only the biggest darn fish market in Korea, that’s all.

Why go? Open from 5am, going to Jagalchi is a must-do for food-lovers visiting Busan. Not only can you experience the organised chaos – run by middle-aged or married Korean women known as ‘Jagalchi Ajumma’ – but you can also stop to eat the fresh fish raw at the end of your visit.

5.  Haeundae Beach

What is it? A ridiculously gorgeous beach that you can barely believe is at the edge of such a massive city.

Why go? For sunny, sandy good times, obvs. Haeundae Beach is only 40 minutes on the train from Busan station, or an hour from the airport, and is considered one of South Korea’s most beautiful beaches. And the sunsets are the stuff of legend.

6.  Gwangbokdong Food Street

What is it? A skinny street teaming with food stalls and restaurants.

Why go? Arrive with an appetite, because you are here to eat. Situated in the labyrinthine Gwangbokdong area, Gwangbokdong Food Street is an absolute feast for the eyes and mouth. Dumplings are always a good idea, or go on an adventure and order at random (warning: may contain fish).

7.  Haedong Yonggung Temple

What is it? A beautiful beachside Buddhist temple.

Why go?  Traditional temples? Beautiful. The sea? Obviously, also gorgeous. Combined? Well, that’s another beast entirely. Haedong Yonggung is one of very, very few temples in South Korea that overlooks the ocean – so, naturally, it’s one of the most jaw-dropping. Haedong Yonggung is also pretty close to Haeundae Beach, so it ’s both accessible and primed for a post-temple dip. 

8.  Cimer Spa

What is it? A seriously spectacular hot springs destination.

Why go? To bathe in luxuriant, mineral-rich waters overlooking the ocean. South Korea is scattered with hot springs, but Cimer Spa is one of its prettiest. You have to be a guest at the Paradise Hotel to get access, but it’s worth it. Plus there’s a bar onsite so you can sip a vino while taking in all those minerals.

9.  Nampodong Market

What is it? A bustling market in the Jung district of Busan.

Why go? To pick up pretty much anything you could want. One-of-a-kind souvenirs and gorgeous vintage offerings are all here, often for much, much lower prices than you’ll come close to in the West. Nampodong is best accessed by  hopping off the train at Nampo Station.

10.  Samjin Eomuk

What is it? A Busan Station eatery serving some of the best fish cakes (‘eomuk’) in town.

Why go? Because Busan is said to have the best fish cakes in all of Korea, thanks to its seaside locale. They are made from the offcuts of white fish, transformed into various shapes and guises. Some even feature cheese. You can’t leave Busan without trying one.

11.  Radium Art Center

What is it?

An art gallery jam-packed with fascinating creations.

For the culture , obvs. Radium Art Center showcases a head-spinning range of art – from painting and photography to digital installations, and even music. You’re dead certain to find something that tickles your fancy.

12.  Galmegi Brewing Co

What is it? A buzzing brewery a mere block away from Gwangalli Beach, with pub locations scattered across the city.

Why go? Because beer. Galmegi Brewing Co is an American-style brewery and brewpub decorated with the works of local artists. Designed in polished concrete and pale wood, it’s a delightful place to drop in for a cold beer on a hot day. Tired of Korean fare? Try their American food menu.

13.  Choryang Milmyeon

What is it? A restaurant serving real, proper Korean fare.

Why go? For an authentic Korean experience. Seated on the floor, order giant dumplings (‘wangmandu’) and traditional Busan iced soup squiggling with noodles (‘milmyeon’). It’s within short walking distance from Busan KTX Station, so frankly you have no excuse.

14.  Taejongdae

What is it? A beautiful spot where you can hike through bushlands and end up with foodie rewards.

Why go? To get a break from the city and see a spot of nature. Situated on the southerly edge of Yeongdo Island, trek through the bush (there’s also a train if your legs get weary), then head back to the seashore to feast on fishy fare from little tents pumping out local seafood.

15.  AnGa

What is it? A Korean barbecue restaurant known for its deliciousness.

Why go? You’ve probably had Korean barbecue in the West, but to really know this sort of food, you’ve got to try the real deal. AnGa is one of Busan’s best. Come with a crowd if you can, so you can sample a bit of everything.

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Your Guide To Visiting Busan In 2023

January 5, 2023 February 22, 2023 by Tin V

From traditional villages to beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and public bathhouses–there are so many unmissable experiences in Busan ! Known as South Korea ’s port city, Busan overflows with a charm that makes every tourist want to come back for more. Whatever the weather is, you’ll love how Busan is just filled with places to go, eat, and stay from morning til the wee hours of the night. Want to know the best places in town? Check out our Busan guide for 2023!

• Currency: Korean Won (KRW)
• Language: Korean
• Airport: Gimhae International Airport

New Normal Travel Guidelines

As of June 8, 2022, mandatory quarantine has been lifted for all international tourists, regardless of vaccination status. However, there are still certain requirements that visitors have to fulfill before departure and upon arrival to South Korea:

• K-ETA for eligible tourists from visa-waiver or visa-free countries OR tourist visa for other nationals not covered by the K-ETA. You may visit the K-ETA website for the complete guidelines and process, or check your local Korean embassy for the specific visa requirements.
• Q-Code (Register online prior to departure.)
• Effective October 1, any COVID-19 test, either Antigen or PCR, is not required for international arrivals to South Korea, either before travel or after arrival.

How to Go to Busan

The main airport in Busan is Gimhae International Airport (PUS), served by major airlines like Air Busan, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and AirAsia, with direct flights from major cities in Asia.

It is also common for tourists to go from Seoul, as they check off the capital first before heading for some coastal adventure. In this case, KTX is the most popular means of transport from Seoul to Busan, although direct domestic flights are also available. 

Flying directly from Seoul to Busan is a good option if you want to get there fast as it only takes about an hour. However, ticket prices vary and if you’re after cost efficiency, taking the train is a more practical option.

The high-speed train of KTX can get you to Busan from Seoul in less than three hours, with an Economy ticket costing KRW 59,800 or about USD 45. Availing a Korail Pass is also another option, if other cities are on your itinerary, allowing you to make the most out of the high-speed rail transport.

Getting Around Busan

It’s fairly easy to navigate Busan. The most widely used transportation is the Busan Metro, which operates until midnight. Buses are also available, with corresponding bus numbers going to several points around the city. Make sure to purchase a reloadable transportation card such as T-money , which you can use to pay for your fare!

From Gimhae International Airport to downtown Busan, you can take the light rail going to Busan for only about 20 minutes. You may also take the bus which takes about an hour. For a convenient way of traveling, opt for a taxi or private transfer instead.

To maximize your visit, it is highly recommended that you avail of the Visit Busan Pass , which is exclusively available to foreign nationals, who are looking to explore all of Busan. With this one pass, you are free to access more than 40 paid tourist attractions in the city, including Busan Lotte World, Busan Ocean Train, Spa Land, and more! You are also entitled to discounts at select shops and restaurants!

Connectivity Options  

You’ll never have a problem connecting to the internet in Busan, thanks to its high speed. If you want to stay connected 24/7 get a portable 4G WiFi that you can rent from Korean airports, or purchase a SIM card instead.

Where to Stay In Busan

Want to stay near the beach and top attractions? Here are some of the top recommendations for Busan accommodation. 

Lotte Hotel Busan

Situated in Busan CBD, Lotte Hotel Busan is a great choice for comfortable accommodation. It’s the largest hotel in Busan, with more than 600 deluxe, suite, and premiere rooms. Many A-listers and high-profile businessmen choose Lotte Hotel because of the luxury it provides with its world-class dining, business facilities, and spa, as well as entertainment and leisure in the form of golf and casino.

Location: 772, Gaya-daero, Busanjin-gu, Busan, Korea Website: https://www.lottehotel.com/busan-hotel/en.html  

CANVAS Hostel Black

A five-minute walk away from Haeundae Beach, CANVAS Hostel is close to Busan’s hottest attractions. The hostel offers cozy and clean rooms, ideal for solo travelers or couples who want an affordable place to stay in Busan. They have dormitory-style rooms too, for those traveling in groups. 

Location: 14, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 197beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hostelcanvas/  

H Avenue Gwangalli

Get Busan ocean views when you book a room at H Avenue Gwangalli. This unique beach hotel offers modern rooms with spectacular views to wake up to. Guests especially love the C181 champagne bar and the Terrace with an overlooking view of the Gwangandaegyo bridge for a night spot to unwind after a long day at the beach.

Location: 29 Millaksubyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea Website: https://enghavenue.gamsunglab.com/branch2  

Where to Eat In Busan

Whether you’re craving seafood, Korean barbecue, or surf and turf, you’ll find restaurants that’ll satisfy you in Busan. 

Busan x The Sky

Enjoy fine dining with an unobstructed view of Busan city and the ocean at Sky 99. This romantic dining place offers lunch and dinner sets that you can book in advance. You can choose from their premium steaks, pasta, salad, and beer and wine sets. The atmospheric restaurant is ideal for a date night dinner or even special occasions. 

Location: Busan X The Sky, 99th floor, 30, Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

Jagalchi Fish Market

Seafood is the name of the game at Jagalchi Fish Market. It’s the coastal city’s pride, as it is also Korea’s largest seafood market. On the ground floor is where the market is located. Go up to the second floor where the restaurants are, and pick your dish. Devour Alaskan king crabs, sashimi, fresh scallops, abalone, steamed fish, live octopus, and more for the ultimate seafood experience!

Location: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Haeundae Sonumnam Amso Galbijip

Get your dose of Korean premium meats in this 58-year-old BBQ place in Busan. It’s very popular among locals for its bulgogi and ribs. The barbecue sauce is said to be an heirloom recipe, which makes their meats juicy and tasty. Aside from their barbecue, you’ll be enticed by its interior which feel like you’ve entered old Korea. 

Location: 32-10 Jungdong 2-ro 10beon-gil, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea Website: https://xn--w39a45ki5j7idj7fkmcgy7b.com/  

What to Do in Busan

There are so many interesting activities to do in Busan–find the experience that best fits your personality so you could fully enjoy this port city!

Day Tour: Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Songdo Skywalk, Taejongdae National Park

The best way to see Busan’s top attractions is to go on a day tour. From morning til night, discover iconic landmarks such as the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village, the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, the beautiful ocean views along Songdo Skywalk, and the scenic Taejongdae National Park!

Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Site

Travel to Gyeongju historic area, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, from Busan. Learn more about the history of South Korea as you visit Yangdong Village, the largest traditional village in the country. Also, see stone pagodas and Buddha in Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto. This highly recommended tour is an insightful adventure that’ll leave you in awe.

Busan Air Cruise

Explore Busan and be mesmerized by the views from the top via Songdo Marine Cable Car! This cable car ride offers you stunning vistas of Songdo Beach, Amnam Park, Namhang Bridge, and more. Stop by these famous attractions to take photos, or take a ride at night for romantic night views.

Eden Valley Resort

Come to Korea’s Winter Wonderland, and go on a skiing adventure with your family and friends! Try winter sports such as skiing, sledding, or snowboarding on various slopes of Eden Valley Resort. You can ride a ski lift too! This amazing winter spot will definitely make kids enjoy it!

Spa Land Centum City

Have you heard of jimjil-bang? If not, it’s your sign to try it. These are Korean public bathhouses that let you relax by soaking in a pool or hot springs. Spa Land Centum City offers this more, including steam rooms and massage places for a rejuvenating spa experience. Get the full body treatment that your body surely deserves after a tiring day out.

Location: 35, Centum Namdae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Korea

See more of Busan’s best attractions and experiences– visit KKDay to learn more!

*This article has input from writer Rei Leano.

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Hi, I'm Tin! When I'm not at work, you'll catch me playing with my three aspin dogs, biking around, or drinking coffee. Read more of my works here: clippings.me/tinvaleriano

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3 Day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)

Thinking about spending 3 days in Busan? Here’s our in-depth guide on how to plan your 3 day Busan Itinerary with the best things to do and best places to visit. This travel guide will help you figure out what to do in Busan, how to get around, where to stay and where to eat in Busan! Let’s explore Busan in 3 days!

Busan is the second-largest city in South Korea , with tall skyscrapers nestled in the mountains. It’s one of the best city spots in South Korea as there’s such a variety of things to do in Busan. It’s definitely known for its beaches, temples and cuisine being so close to the water .

Besides the relaxing beaches of Busan, there are many city sights to see in your 3 days in Busan such as Busan Tower or Nampo, the popular shopping area. You can easily visit this south coastal city at a weekend, however, we’re going to show you how to plan a 3 day Busan itinerary and maybe you’ll be able to choose your favourite things to do! We’ll show you what to do in Busan in 3 days !

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

What to do in Busan (3 Days in Busan)

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

• Beaches – One of the best places to be if you’re visiting Busan in the summer
• Eating – Busan is a foodies paradise with so many markets, cafes and restaurants around
• Learn about the culture – Home to a famous cultural village, you can learn a lot here about Busan
• Temples – One of the most beautiful temples in South Korea is located right here in Busan
• Skyscrapers – They’re pretty hard to miss! The city is covered in tall buildings.

Planning a 3 day Busan itinerary

• Currency  – Korean Won  (compare to your own currency  here )
• Language  – Korean (한글)
• Apps  –  NaverMaps  (like GoogleMaps) &  Kako Talk  (like Google Translate)

Accommodation in Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse: (Seomyeon)

Portable Wifi  – A great option if you want to connect more than just your phone! Find a portable Wifi on Klook here ! (£2 a day) Pick up from Seoul or Busan airport.

Best Busan Guided Day Tour – Busan Skywalks, Gamcheon Culture Village, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Day Tour

Transport – Get a T Money Card to use on public transport for your 3 days in Busan. Look into a Korea Rail Pass if you’re travelling around the rest of the country.

More South Korea posts: 5 Day Seoul Itinerary , Best Things to do in Gyeongju , 2 week South Korea Itinerary & The Best Templestay in Korea !

• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)

How to get to Busan

Arriving from Seoul – Train, bus or plane!

Fastest way : KTX – Speed trains will get you from Seoul to Busan in less than 3 hours! It’s one of the most popular routes in the city, so you may need to book in advance! ( Korail tickets here ) or buy a Korea Rail Pass for your South Korea trip !

Cheapest way : Bus – Another great option for a cheaper price, but it can take up to 5 hours! To book a bus online you’ll need a Korean bank and phone number, it’s possible to book bus tickets at the station. As it’s a popular route there may be fewer seats when leaving it on the day. We booked our bus tickets 2 or 3 days before when we arrived in the city. You can check the times & spots available here – ( Kobus tickets )

Alternative way: Flight – There is a route from Seoul to Busan that takes less than 1 hour! However, the airport is just outside of the city centre (Gimpo Airport) and it may take longer than a KTX train overall! Check Skyscanner for flight times and prices !

Arriving from Gyeongju – KTX or Bus – We recommend getting the bus for this one as the Bus station is in the centre of Gyeongju, whilst the train station is a bus ride away. The bus will drop you off at one of Busan’s 4 bus terminals, and you can use public transport to make your way to your accommodation. It takes less than 1 hour by bus.

Arriving from Jeonju – KTX or Bus – You will need to change trains to get from Jeonju to Busan, however, a bus is also a great option that takes around 3 hours.

How to get around Busan

Busan is a big city! Seomyeon is the area that’s most connected to public transport ( it’s also the area we recommend staying in! )

Public Transport – The cheapest way to get around the city is by bus or metro, you can reach the famous spots by public transport very easily. You just need to make sure you have enough time to get around the city. From Seomyeon it can take around 30 minutes by metro to get to the most famous beach.

We 100% recommend getting a T-Money card when in South Korea. You can buy them and top them up at convenience stores around the country, they are so easy for catching buses and metros.

Taxis – If you’re really in a rush, you can grab taxis on the side of the road. They’ll be much faster but might not be so friendly on your budget because of the distances and traffic in Busan!

3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan

After our tips on how to get around Busan, we can finally get into the Busan 3 day itinerary! We don’t know what time you’ll arrive on your first day but this itinerary will give you more than enough things to do in Busan. We have a few more tips after this 3 day Busan itinerary if you want to plan your trip fully!

Note: We will include the locations on Google Maps – however, Google Maps isn’t the best in South Korea! You’ll want to use the Naver Maps App for directions anywhere! We still used Google Maps to mark our spots and Naver to search for directions.

As well as planning your 3 day Busan itinerary, there are also many guided tours around the city that takes you to the best spots. It’s a great way to learn more about Korean culture and Busan’s history – browse Busan tours here !

Day 1 – Gamcheon Village & Nampo

Start your day with a visit to one of our favourite places in Busan, and a spot you’ll definitely want to add to your Busan itinerary.

Get lost in Gamcheon Culture Village

One of the best things to do in Busan is to explore Gamcheon Culture Village. This art-filled photogenic village is a great way to start your 3 days in Busan, so definitely add it to your itinerary!

It’s free to enter , but you can buy a map for 2,000 KRW that guides you through the maze of the village. You can also collect stamps and postcards along the way. Make sure to visit before 4 pm , as things start to close at 6pm leaving you with an unfinished map (like us!)

What is Gamcheon Culture Village? After the Korean war, the village became home to the city’s poorest residents. Many people moved to Busan from all over the country as it was a safer area during the war. As Busan’s population almost doubled, Gamcheon becomes very crowded with makeshift homes.

In 2009 the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism began making the village into what it’s like today – beautiful art heaven! You can spend a whole morning or afternoon here, admiring all the unique shops, cafes and artwork the village has to offer!

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Gamcheon Culture Village Location

If you’re looking for lunch – we recommend Soban Vegan Restaurant or you can head straight to Nampo!

Explore Nampo-dong

Nampo-dong is one of the best places to shop on your 3 day Busan itinerary! It’s close to Gamcheon Village (only a short bus ride away) so it’s perfect to combine these two things to do in Busan together. It’s also a great area to spend your evening as there are many restaurants, markets and bars in Nampo.

Visit Markets in Nampo

These markets are best to visit in the daytime as stores tend to close around 6 pm!

• Jagalchi Fish Market – Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Jagalchi Fish Market Location
• Gukje Market – Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Gukje Market Location

Find Gwangbokdong Food Street

The street food stalls in Nampo come alive in the evening, with plenty of options for you to choose from (Not 100% on vegan options here)!

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Gwangbokdong Food Street

Discover Biff Square

Another amazing option for street food in Busan is Biff Square. Yes, just around the corner from Gwangbokdong Food Street are more street food vendors. You have to try some street food at this point of your 3 days in Busan. Note: If you’re unsure about anything, you don’t have to eat it!

Biff stands for Busan International Film Festival as it’s the main venue when the festival happens each year.

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Biff Square Location

Enjoy the sunset at Lotte Department Building

So the main reason you want to visit here on your 3 day Busan itinerary is because of their rooftop views! When entering the store, jump in an elevator and go all the way to the top. There will be stairs to make it to the highest platform on the roof. At sunset would be the best time to go, which in June was around 8 pm (although it says they close at 8 pm)

Other than the beautiful views, this department store is massive! You can easily spend a while shopping here, although it’s definitely a more expensive style of shopping. They do have a big supermarket at the bottom too!

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Lotte Department Building Location

We highly recommend a Joby GorillaPod if you want to take photos of some of the best things to do in Busan. We use a Joby GorillaPod for our Sony A600 and love how lightweight it is to carry around. There’s also a Joby Phone Tripod to capture beautiful videos on your 3 day Busan itinerary.

Spot Busan Tower

Busan Tower is open all the way until 9 pm, so if you’re still around, maybe you can check it out! You may have already seen it whilst browsing around Nampo as it’s pretty tall! It’s very iconic to Busan’s skyline, especially in Nampo. At the moment the price is 12,000 KRW to go up the tower.

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Busan Tower Location

A great way to end your first night in Busan is to go on a Busan Night Tour . Visit places such as Songdo Cable Car, Yeongdo Seaside Park and The Bay 101. Find more details and tickets on Klook .

Day 2 – Temples & Beaches

On Day 2 of what to do in Busan, you can see a beautiful temple by the sea and head to the beaches of Busan! If you’re looking for breakfast, we recommend checking out CU or 7/11 for their convenient snacks. If not head over to Doko – Dosi Nongga Cafe in Seomyeon for a deliciously sweet breakfast!

Admire Haedong Yonggung Temple

One of the best things to do on your Busan 3 day itinerary is to visit Haedong Yonggung Temple! It’s a beautiful temple located right on the rocks by the water. It’s said to be one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea.

Haedong Yonggung Temple was originally known as Bomun Temple and was built in 1376 by Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty. It’s very unique for a temple to be built so close to the water!

How to get to Haedong Yonggung Temple? It’s very easy to reach the temple by public transport. (Download the NaverMaps app for the best directions!) If you’re staying in Seomyeon it can take around 1 hour to reach the temple. You’ll have to get a metro and then a bus, and if you have a T-Money Card you can use it to swipe on and off. It’s also free to enter!

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Haedong Yonggung Temple Location

On day 2 of your Busan itinerary, you can opt for a Busan One Day City Tour which includes a Yacht, a visit to the Haeundae Sky Capsule and the famous Beach Train! You can find tickets on Klook !

Relax at Haeundae Beach

Since you’re already on the east side of Busan, you have to come to check out Haeundae Beach ! It’s one of the best and most popular beaches in the city. At different times of the year, there are also special events that take place. In 2022 they had a sand festival where different iconic landmarks were created in the sand.

Haeundae Beach has a really nice atmosphere, you can swim in the sea, bathe on the sand or walk along the promenade admiring it all! There are plenty of cafes around, but you can also find more just up the road.

If you walk all the way down, you’ll reach Dongbaek Park which has amazing side views of Haeundae Beach and the impressive skyscrapers!

Want to see an even better view in Busan? Check out BUSAN X the SKY for incredible views from the skyscrapers in Haeundae! Find tickets on Klook here .

Browse the Haeundae Markets

Just up the road from the beach is Haeundae Market, a place where you can snacks, lunch, dinner, socks or gadgets! There’s a lot going on here and there’s so many options for food, but there are also many restaurants nearby.

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Haeundae Market Location

If you’re still hungry, head over to Vegenarang for a Korean style dinner and then rest for the night as you have one more day of your Busan itinerary!

Alternatively, if you have more time on your 3 day Busan itinerary, hop on a Haeundae River Cruise and see the city from the water.

Day 3 – Coastal Walk & Seomyeon

You’ve reached the last day of your Busan 3 day itinerary! Today you’re going to explore the coast of Busan before watching Seomyeon come alive at night!

Feel the fresh air at Igidae Coastal Walk

We have to warn you here, the walk can take anywhere from 1-3 hours with small inclines and declines along the way! It’s totally worth it if you’re in the mood for a big coastal walk on your 3 days in Busan itinerary. It’s a beautiful way to admire part of the city as you walk along the coast. There are many steps and bridges along the way so the walk is entertaining!

As it’s a walk along the coast, you can either start north or south to make your way to the other side. We started in the north and made our way down to Oryukdo Skywalk . If you don’t want to complete the full walk, we recommend visiting the south side of the Igidae Coastal Walk.

Both the coastal walk and Oryukdo Skywalk are free, so a great thing to do if you’re on a budget!

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Igidae Coastal Walk Location 1 or Igidae Coastal Walk Location 2

If youre’ looking for something different, you could visit Taejongdae Park instead and see Yeongdo Lighthouse! Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Taejongdae Location

Spend the evening in Seomyeon

After a long three days in Busan, you might be after some downtime. There’s one more area to explore on our Busan itinerary and that’s Seomyeon. Try your luck with some arcade games and take in all the beautiful city lights that make South Korea so fascinating.

It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to Busan and there’s many options for restaurants too! We recommend Dajeon for some delicious healthy Korean food.

If you still have some time left in your day, you might want to go back to Nampo if you missed anything!

3 Days in Busan Overview Breakdown

Day 1 – Gamcheon Culture Village, Nampo & Busan Tower

Day 2 – Haedong Yonggung Temple & Haeundae Beach

Day 3 – Igidae Coastal Walk & Seomyeon

Alternative Option: If you’re not interested in some of the activities on this Busan 3 day itinerary, maybe you’d like to take a day trip out of the city and into nature!

Only a 40-minute to 1-hour journey away is the city of Gyeongju and just after that is Golgulsa Temple . (One of the best places to do a Templestay in Korea – find out more here !) These are very close to Busan, it’s possible to explore on a day trip although it’s best to stay one night to experience the temple stay.

More Things To Do in Busan

• Take a ride on the Busan Air Cruise Cable Car and see Busan from above!
• Book a day tour on Klook to have a guide take you to the best things to do in Busan! Find tickets on Klook.
• If you’re going to be doing a lot of activities in Busan, it may work out more cost-effective to get a Visit Busan Pass which includes Busan Tower, museums and hanbok rentals and more !
• Explore Busan in a unique way on a Busan Night Tour – Find more details on Klook here !
• Take a visit to Poo Poo Land in Busan !
• Spending more than 3 days in Busan? Take an Island Day Tour outside of Busan city to Oedo Island .
• Lotte World Busan – South Korea’s most popular theme park! Find tickets here .

Where to stay in Busan

As Busan is so big and the best things to do in Busan are quite spread out, there are a few different areas you can stay in. We recommend staying in Seomyeon – this area is close to great transport so you can get to other areas very easily. It’s also in the heart of the city so you can spend every evening finding somewhere new to eat or even having shopping on your doorstep.

Other areas to stay in Busan are: Haeundae , Nampo & Gwangan . If you’re near a metro or bus stop, it’ll be perfect for your 3 day Busan itinerary! Here are some places we recommend:

Dynamic Guesthouse: (Seomyeon) $-$$ – Amazing location on the 36th floor of a highrise building! It’s two penthouse apartments split into 4 rooms each, you’ll be able to choose from a dorm, double room or family room. Full kitchen access! Find Dynamic Guesthouse on Booking.com here !

Plea De Blanc Hotel & Residence (Haeundae) $-$$ – A great location if you want to spend more time near the beach! They’re beautiful apartment rooms, very close to Haeundae Beach! Find Plea Blanc Hotel & Residence on Booking.com here !

Where to eat as a vegan in Busan

• Dajeon (Korean) – Hearty bibimbap and cosy environment, in Seomyeon!
• Soban Vegan Restaurant (Korean) – Amazing vegan fried chicken, near Gamcheon Village!
• Ecotopia Vegetarian Restaurant (Korean) – Korean food with a Western vibe, Namcheon Dong!
• Vegenarang (Korean) – Cosy vegan restaurant near Haeundae!
• Doko – Dosi Nongga Cafe – Lovely bakery in Busan with many vegan options, in Seomyeon!

Is Busan worth visiting?

Yes! If you’re already visiting South Korea, then Busan is a great city to add to your itinerary. It’s so different to Seoul, including the food and the landscape! As it only takes a few hours by bus or train, it’s definitely achievable in a weekend and you can spend 2 days in Busan.

How many days in Busan?

Our 3 day Busan Itinerary is suited for 3 days worth of activities and things to do in Busan . If you want to spend more than 3 days un Busan or less, you’ll still be able to see the amazing sights.

If it’s summer, maybe you want to stay near the beach and enjoy the Haeundae area. Even if you can only spare 1 day in Busan as a day trip from Seoul, you’ll definitely get the feel of the city and maybe even come back in the future!

Busan Weekend Itinerary

If you want to change this 3 days in Busan itinerary to a weekend itinerary, you can blend the coastal walk into the beach day or skip it out ! It depends on the time of year and the main things you want to do in Busan!

Should I spend more time in Busan or Seoul?

Seoul is the capital and the most popular place to visit in the country. Although Busan has amazing things to do, we would personally spend more than in Seoul over Busan. However, if you’re visiting Busan for the coast then that’s something Seoul does not have!

We recommend checking out our Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024) to plan your South Korea trip as we list how long to spend in each city and how to get around.

What to pack for a 3 day Busan Itinerary

What to pack in South Korea really depends on the season that you visit – if it’s winter, bring thermals, gloves and a hat. If it’s summer you may want to bring a raincoat or umbrella for the rainy season. Here are a few of our favourite travel essentials:

• Stainless Steel Water Bottle – Our metal water bottles have been our side throughout it all! They last a long time, are easy to clean and are better than plastic! Bring one along for your 3 day Busan itinerary!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor – The best plug to have when travelling to different countries – plus as well as an international plug it has 4 USB slots to charge your gadgets at the same time!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – Packing cubes are one of our favourite travel essentials!
• Anker Power Bank – A portable charger is useful for those journeys around South Korea or when you’re out in nature or city with low power!
• Rain Mac in a Bag – A lightweight raincoat to help with heavy summer rain or light spring rain, we also have a backpack cover to stop our clothes from getting wet in our backpacks.
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – GorillaPods are a great little tripod to carry for 3 days in Busan, they’re lightweight and can fit in a day bag. They catch some of the best photos when there’s no one around to take a photo of you. We love our Joby GorillaPod and use it for our Sony A600 . There’s also a Joby Phone Tripod to capture beautiful videos of all the best things to do in Busan.

What to do after 3 Days in Busan

Gyeongju   – A lovely cultural city to visit in South Korea. Spend 1 or 2 days here looking at the sights, shopping or eating. You can even do a Templestay at Golgulsa Temple – see our Templestay guide here ! Seoul  – You may have started your South Korea trip in Seoul, but if not, then your next stop should be here! The capital city of South Korea is filled with markets, hikes, trendy shops and more amazing places to eat! Check out our  Seoul itinerary ! Jeonju  – Take a bus to the small city of Jeonju to stay in a wonderful Hanok and explore the village!

More  South Korea  guides:

• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024) ! Enjoy your time in the beautiful coastal city of Busan and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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BUSAN TRAVEL GUIDE for First-Time Travelers

A complete travel guide to busan, south korea.

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Experience Busan: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, offers a dynamic mix of modern urban landscapes and rich cultural traditions. This coastal city, framed by mountains and edged with expansive beaches, is a destination where visitors can explore South Korea’s spirited energy and serene natural beauty in equal measure. The city’s unique blend of traditional Korean culture and contemporary life makes it a captivating place for first-time travelers looking to experience the full spectrum of what Korea has to offer.

From the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market to the tranquil Beomeosa Temple, Busan strikes an intriguing balance between the old and the new. Travelers can immerse themselves in Korean tradition with visits to temples and bustling street markets or embrace the city’s modernity via its towering skyscrapers, such as the iconic Busan Tower and the state-of-the-art shopping and entertainment districts. The city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, where local foods such as spicy dwaeji gukbap (pork soup) and fresh seafood are not to be missed.

Navigating Busan is made easy by its efficient public transportation system, which connects the city’s numerous attractions and districts. Each neighborhood presents its own character, from the film-famous shores of Haeundae Beach to the artistic village of Gamcheon Culture Village. Whether it’s diving into the intricate world of Busan’s film industry or unwinding in the hot springs of Dongnae, the city promises a diverse range of experiences for those looking to explore the heartbeat of South Korea’s coastal gem.

Best Time to Visit Busan

The optimal time to visit Busan depends on preferences for weather conditions or cultural events. Travelers should consider temperatures, precipitation, and local festivals when planning their trip.

Weather Patterns

Spring (March to May): During spring, temperatures in Busan are generally comfortable , ranging between 56°F and 71°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities like viewing the cherry blossoms in April.

Summer (June to August): Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures frequently climbing above 80°F. June can be particularly wet , due to the monsoon season.

Autumn (September to November): Often recommended as the best time to travel to Busan, autumn boasts clear skies and mild temperatures , perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant fall foliage .

Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with Siberian winds causing temperatures to drop, but Busan rarely sees snowfall . It’s less crowded for those seeking a quieter visit.

Festival Seasons

Spring: The city comes to life with the cherry blossoms and the Haeundae Sand Festival in May, capturing the essence of the season’s beauty and creativity.

Summer: While the weather is hot and humid, it’s also a time for vibrant beach life and the Busan Sea Festival in August, which showcases a variety of maritime events.

Autumn: Cultural enthusiasts may find autumn ideal for the prestigious Busan International Film Festival held in October, a key highlight that draws global attention to the city.

Winter: Offers a more subdued and calm atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy the city at a slower pace without the bustling crowds of festival seasons.

Getting to Busan

Getting to Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal city, is straightforward, whether by air, train, bus, or ferry. Each mode of transport offers different experiences catering to travelers’ preferences, time constraints, and starting points.

Travelers can fly into Gimhae International Airport , which is the main gateway to Busan by air. From Seoul, a flight to Busan typically lasts about an hour. However, passengers should account for additional travel time to the airport and adhere to the check-in requirements, which usually recommend arrival 2-3 hours before departure time. Traveling by plane offers speed and convenience from multiple domestic and international locations.

The KTX (Korea Train Express) provides high-speed rail service from Seoul to Busan, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes . For those seeking a balance of efficiency and comfort, the KTX is a popular choice. Travelers can also consider the ITX , a slightly slower but often more economical train service. A rail pass may provide additional savings, especially for tourists planning to use trains frequently during their stay in Korea.

Buses from Seoul to Busan offer an accessible and budget-friendly option for travelers. The trip duration can range anywhere from 4 to 5 hours , depending on traffic conditions. Seoul’s various bus terminals have frequent departures to Busan, making it a viable option for those with flexible travel schedules.

For an alternative route, one can also reach Busan by ferry, particularly from nearby Japanese cities like Fukuoka. The ferry trip not only provides a unique travel experience but also showcases panoramic views of the Korea Strait. Ferry services vary in speed and luxury, and depending on the choice, the journey can take several hours.

When planning a trip to Busan, travelers have a wealth of options that suit varied preferences and needs. Proximity to Seoul makes Busan an easily reachable destination for first-time visitors eager to explore the second-largest city in South Korea.

Navigating the City

Busan offers a reliable and efficient public transportation system. Newcomers to the city will find a variety of options for getting around, from subways and buses to taxis and bikes, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Public Transportation

Busan’s subway system is a popular choice for residents and tourists alike. It boasts an extensive network that connects major areas throughout the city. Travelers can purchase a T-money card , a rechargeable smart card that can be used to pay fares for subways and buses. The card offers the convenience of tap-and-go access for boarding, and it can be reloaded at various vending machines and convenience stores around the city. The subway is known for its cleanliness and punctuality, making it a preferred method for getting around Busan.

Buses in Busan provide another practical means of transportation. They connect locations that are not served by the subway. The buses are frequent and cover comprehensive routes, and fares can be paid using the T-money card .

Taxis and Rideshares

Taxis are abundant and provide a convenient option for those looking for a direct route to their destination. They can be flagged down from the streets or booked via various rideshare apps. Taxis in Busan are metered, and most drivers are honest; however, having a destination address written in Korean can be helpful. Rideshare services offer an alternative, often allowing riders to book and pay through a mobile app, which can be quite convenient for foreign travelers.

Walking and Bicycling

For shorter distances, walking is an excellent way to explore Busan’s scenic streets and waterfront areas. The city’s layout includes pedestrian-friendly walkways and parks. There are also dedicated bicycle lanes in many parts of the city, and bike rentals are available for those who prefer cycling. Bicycling can be particularly enjoyable along the coastal paths where riders can take in beautiful ocean views.

Accommodation Options

Busan offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable place to stay. From luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses, visitors can choose an accommodation that enhances their travel experience and relaxation.

Hotels and Resorts

Busan’s hotels and resorts provide guests comfort and convenience, particularly in prime tourist areas like Haeundae and Nampo-dong. They offer amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site dining, making them an ideal choice for travelers seeking relaxation without the need to venture far.

For opulence and high-end services, consider properties in Haeundae, known for its upscale experiences.

• Signiel Busan – Check Rates and Availability
• Park Hyatt Busan – Check Rates and Availability
• LCT The Residence – Check Rates and Availability

Central locations like Seomyeon offer comfort at more accessible price points with good connectivity.

• Commodore Hotel Busan – Check Rates and Availability
• Fairfield by Marriott Busan – Check Rates and Availability
• Shilla Stay Haeundae – Check Rates and Availability

Economical hotels can be found near Busan Station, delivering basic amenities at affordable rates.

• Inside Busan Hostel – Check Rates and Availability
• Hostel the Local – Check Rates and Availability

Guesthouses and Hostels

Busan’s guesthouses and hostels are perfect for those looking to stay within a smaller budget. Such accommodations provide travelers with a social atmosphere and are often found in vibrant neighborhoods close to cultural hotspots and public transportation.

• Traditional Guesthouses: Experience Korean hospitality and enjoy communal spaces to interact with other travelers.
• Modern Hostels: A cost-effective option with dormitory-style rooms, often including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Unique Stays

For a distinctive experience in Busan, unique stays such as traditional Hanok houses or beachfront bungalows are available. These accommodations provide a memorable stay and allow travelers to soak in Busan’s local charm.

• Hanok Stays: Immerse in Korean tradition by staying in a beautifully crafted Hanok house.
• Beachfront Properties: Opt for a bungalow or villa by the sea in areas like Gwangan, for direct access to the beaches and stunning ocean views.

Culinary Delights

Busan offers a gastronomic feast, merging traditional flavors with fresh, local seafood. Travelers can indulge in a rich culinary journey, sampling everything from hearty stews to light and spicy noodles.

Local Cuisine

One of the most beloved dishes in Busan is Dwaeji Gukbap , a savory pork soup rice bowl known for its rich and heartwarming flavors. Another local favorite, Milmyeon , presents a unique Busan spin on cold wheat noodles, perfect for the warmer months. These dishes not only satisfy hunger but also provide insight into the region’s culinary history.

Seafood Specialties

Busan’s close proximity to the sea makes for an unparalleled selection of seafood dishes . Hwae , sliced raw fish, is a must-try, often enjoyed with spicy and tangy sauces. For those wanting a deep dive into the local seafood culture, head to Jagalchi Fish Market , Korea’s largest seafood market. Here, one can witness the bustling trade and even pick out fresh catches to be prepared on the spot.

• Explore a wide variety of fresh seafood.
• Jagalchi Market experience.

Street Food and Markets

Street food enthusiasts will find a lively scene in Nampo-dong , where vendors serve up eomuk (fish cakes) and a variety of skewered delights. The Gukje Market is another hot spot where one can munch on various treats while exploring the extensive selection of goods. Such environments offer a dynamic way to taste and experience the local culture.

• Delve into Nampo-dong’s street food scene.
• Savor the flavors at Gukje Market.

Beaches and Coastal Attractions

Busan’s coastal line offers an impressive array of serene beaches and vibrant water activities. First-time visitors have a rich selection of spots for relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Famous Beaches

Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach, known for its lively atmosphere and expansive sands. With plenty of beachside bars and events, Haeundae is ideal for those looking to dive into Busan’s festival culture.

On the other hand, Gwangalli Beach offers spectacular views of the Gwangan Bridge, which is particularly breathtaking at night when the bridge is illuminated.

• Haeundae Beach: Prime destination for new visitors seeking a lively beach atmosphere and cultural events.
• Gwangalli Beach: Famous for its scenic night views and proximity to numerous cafes and eateries.

Songdo Beach provides a different experience with its historic ambiance, stretching back to Korea’s first public beach . For those seeking more tranquility, the lesser-known beaches provide serene settings away from the crowds.

Island Hopping

Island hopping is a beloved activity from Busan, showcasing the city’s maritime charms. Taejongdae represents a perfect starting point, with its cliffside park offering picturesque panoramas of the sea. Travelers can embark on ferry rides that provide a unique perspective of Busan’s coastline and lead to peaceful offshore islands.

• Taejongdae: Renowned for its coastal cliffs and lush park, complete with a lighthouse and observation deck.

Water Activities

The beaches of Busan are not only for relaxation but also for thrilling water sports. Parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are among the favorites at Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches. Those seeking a more laid-back approach can enjoy a paddleboarding session or simply soak up the sun for a perfect tan.

• Haeundae and Gwangalli: Hotspots for a variety of water sports, from adrenaline-fueled jet skiing to calming paddleboarding sessions.
• Tan: Opportunities for sunbathing abound across Busan’s well-maintained beaches.

Busan’s coastal attractions cater to all preferences, whether one seeks adventure on the waves or a quiet corner on the sand.

Cultural Experiences

Busan offers an array of cultural experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the history, spirituality, and artistic expression of South Korea. From ancient Buddhist temples to vibrant cultural villages, there’s a wealth of traditional elements to explore.

Historical Sites

Busan’s historical sites serve as a testament to its rich past and resilience through times of conflict. Yongdusan Park , located in the heart of Busan, is home to monuments commemorating the Korean War and the Japanese invasion. The park’s name means “Dragon Head Mountain,” indicating its significance in Korean folklore and history.

Museums and Art Galleries

For those looking to explore the creative spirit of Busan, numerous museums and art galleries showcase the city’s culture and creativity. Museums provide context and narrative to the Busan experience. At the same time, art galleries such as those in the bustling districts of Seomyeon or Nampo-dong display both historical artifacts and contemporary works that give insight into the vibrant local art scene.

Temples and Shrines

Busan’s temples and shrines provide a serene glimpse into the spiritual life of its inhabitants. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple , situated along the coast, offers a spectacular fusion of spiritual reverence and natural beauty. The Beomeosa Temple, nestled on Geumjeongsan Mountain, also represents a tranquil retreat and a living history as one of Korea’s most significant Buddhist temples.

Cultural Villages

Surrounded by hills, Gamcheon Cultural Village is a canvas of brightly colored houses, narrow streets, and creative murals that tell the story of the city. Often referred to as Korea’s Santorini, Gamcheon’s ascent from a refuge for those fleeing the Korean War to a thriving center for art and tourism is emblematic of Busan’s resilience and vibrant culture.

Shopping and Leisure

In Busan, shopping and leisure blend traditional charm with modernity, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from the bustling local markets in Nampo to the sleek modernity of shopping malls. Each area brings its unique character to the forefront, providing plenty of options for every taste.

Local Markets

Nampo-dong is a treasure trove for those seeking a vibrant market atmosphere. Gukje Market is famous for its eclectic array of goods, from clothing to souvenirs. Nearby, Jagalchi Fish Market offers fresh seafood and a chance to witness the local fish trade. Shopping in these markets isn’t just about the purchases—it’s an immersive cultural experience. For an even more extensive stroll through Busan’s market life, BIFF Square integrates cinema history and local snacks, making it a must-visit for the casual shopper and film enthusiast alike.

• Gukje Market
• Jagalchi Fish Market
• BIFF Square

Modern Shopping Malls

Busan caters to ample modern shopping malls for travelers who prefer contemporary retail therapy. Shinsegae Centum City is the world’s largest department store, boasting many international and Korean brands. This contemporary shopping haven is complemented with leisure facilities, ensuring a well-rounded day for shoppers. In the heart of Busan’s modernity lies Seomyeon, often considered the city’s central business district. Known for its youthful vibe, Seomyeon is lined with fashion boutiques and beauty stores, appealing to trendy lifestyles.

• Shinsegae Centum City
• Lotte Department Store in Seomyeon

Entertainment Districts

Seomyeon is not only a shopping hub but also a buzzing entertainment district. When the sun sets, Seomyeon’s streets transform, with an array of pubs, clubs, and karaoke bars coming to life. It embodies South Korea’s dynamic nightlife and leisure scene, where visitors can mingle with the locals, enjoying food and festivities until dawn. Busan offers traditional tea houses and low-key jazz bars that present an alternative nightlife experience – serene yet equally captivating for those looking for a more relaxed evening.

• Seomyeon Food Alley
• Seomyeon’s Nightlife Quarter

Outdoor Adventures

Busan offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Its scenic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, leisure in parks, and enjoying panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Busan’s natural topography is a haven for hikers, featuring a network of trails that offer varying degrees of difficulty and scenic beauty. Taejongdae Resort Park , known for its rocky cliffs, dense forests, and ocean views, is a popular destination for casual and serious trekkers. The park’s circular trail leads adventurers past a lighthouse, an observatory, and the iconic Yeongdo Lighthouse.

Parks and Recreation

The city’s green spaces provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy the blend of urban and natural elements in parks such as Dadaepo Beach Sunset Park , revered for its large-scale fountain and sunset concerts. For those seeking tranquility away from the bustling city, Samnak Ecological Park offers expansive wetlands ideal for bird-watching and leisurely strolls.

Panoramic Views

Busan is framed by spectacular views, best observed from high vantage points or iconic structures. The Gwangan Bridge, especially when illuminated at night, offers a breathtaking spectacle and is a must-visit for photographers and sightseers. One can visit Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park to enjoy the sweeping city vistas. It provides a 360-degree view of the city’s skyline, port activities, and the distant hills, encapsulating the dynamic spirit of Busan.

Festivals and Events

Busan thrives with a vibrant tapestry of festivals and cultural events that reflect its dynamic spirit. These gatherings range from internationally recognized film festivals to enchanting seasonal celebrations that showcase the city’s beauty and culture.

Film and Art Festivals

Busan is synonymous with the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), renowned as a major global cinema event. BIFF usually ignites the city with cinematic splendor, attracting filmmakers and enthusiasts worldwide. Apart from BIFF, the Busan Film and Art Festival also dominates the local cultural scene, combining breathtaking performances with various visual art displays.

Seasonal Celebrations

Spring in Busan is heralded by the soft pink hues of cherry blossoms , creating a picturesque setting that captivates visitors. The city celebrates this phenomenon with cherry blossom festivals, where streets lined with flowering trees provide a magical backdrop for festivities.

Throughout the year, various seasonal celebrations engage locals and tourists alike. In summer, the beaches come alive during the Busan Sea Festival, which features a range of events, from night pool parties to concerts, and is complemented by a colorful fireworks display that illuminates the coastal skies.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Busan’s nightlife offers various options for evening adventures, from waterfront lounges to bustling nightclubs. Visitors can discover a vibrant scene that caters to a diverse crowd, demonstrating Busan’s unique blend of modern ambiance and traditional charm.

Bars and Clubs

Nampo-dong, the heart of Busan, is a must-visit for night revelers. This bustling district is lined with various bars and clubs where visitors can enjoy a night of dancing or a relaxed cocktail. Among the establishments, “The Wolfhound Irish Pub & Restaurant” stands out as a favored spot for expats and locals, offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beverages.

• Chic Lounges : For a more sophisticated evening, explore the high-end lounges dotting the cityscape.
• Beachside Bars : Unwind with a drink while enjoying the ocean views at casual beachside bars on Gwangalli Beach.

Live Music and Performances

Busan’s live music scene thrives with performances ranging from K-pop to indie bands. Music aficionados can find live gigs at local venues and larger performances at concert halls showcasing domestic and international artists. The Busan Cultural Center often hosts various cultural performances that reflect the city’s artistic diversity.

• Traditional Korean Music : Experience the rich heritage with traditional Korean music performances.
• Jazz Bars : Jazz enthusiasts will find solace in the various jazz bars where live bands play soothing tunes into the night.

Day Trips from Busan

Several day trip opportunities await for travelers looking to expand their horizons beyond Busan. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse landscapes and rich historical tapestry.

Nearby Cities and Towns

A traveler can quickly journey to Seoul’s vibrant city, where modernity meets tradition. They’ll witness a bustling metropolis that maintains its cultural roots amidst skyscrapers and digital innovation. In contrast, the island of Jeju provides a serene escape, showcasing natural marvels like Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Natural Escapes

Nature enthusiasts often venture to Geoje Island for its tranquil beaches and clear waters, an idyllic setting for relaxation or exploration of the maritime culture. Alternatively, they might explore Jirisan National Park, home to South Korea’s tallest peak on the mainland, which offers hiking paths through lush forests and the chance to spot diverse wildlife.

Cultural Excursions

For a deep dive into the region’s history, Gyeongju is an essential cultural excursion. Visitors can find the majestic Bulguksa Temple and the ancient Seokguram Grotto — a testament to Korea’s Buddhist heritage. They can also admire traditional Silla architecture at the Cheomseongdae Observatory, connecting travelers with Korea’s astronomical past.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find concise answers to some common questions to help you plan an efficient and enjoyable trip to Busan, optimized for first-time visitors.

What is an ideal itinerary for a 1-day visit to Busan?

For a 1-day visit, one should focus on Haeundae Beach for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful scenery, followed by a trip to the nearby Dongbaekseom Island. Later, explore the bustling Gukje Market for local shopping and street food experiences.

Can you suggest a comprehensive 3-day itinerary for exploring Busan?

On the first day, one can visit the historic Beomeosa Temple and take a cable car ride on Geumjeongsan Mountain. The second day could be spent beach hopping from Haeundae to Gwangalli Beach, including a sunset at Gamcheon Culture Village. The final day might involve exploring the Jagalchi Fish Market, Taejongdae Park, and ending with the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park.

What are the top tourist attractions to visit in Busan?

The top tourist attractions include Haeundae Beach, known for its urban beach flair, the Gamcheon Culture Village with its colorful hillside architecture, the Jagalchi Fish Market for seafood lovers, and the Busan Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.

Which area in Busan is most recommended for tourists to book their accommodations?

The Seomyeon area is often recommended for tourists to book accommodations due to its central location, which offers easy access to transportation, shopping, culinary experiences, and nightlife.

What is the most efficient way to get around Busan during a stay?

Due to its extensive network, the Busan Metro system is the most efficient way to travel around the city. Additionally, buses and taxis provide convenient options for reaching destinations not covered by the metro.

How many days are typically recommended for a well-rounded trip to Busan?

A well-rounded trip to Busan typically requires at least 3-5 days to soak in the local culture, visit key attractions, and enjoy the coastal beauty without being rushed.

Busan Travel and Tour Packages

Check out our list of affordable Busan hotels and resorts via Agoda  and Booking , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , Pinterest , and YouTube  for more Busan travel and food-related updates.

• Top 15 Best Things to Do in Busan, South Korea
• Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise: Arrival in Sakaiminato Port in Matsue, Japan

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Busan Itinerary: Best 3 Day Travel Guide with Hidden Tips

This is an easy-to-follow Busan itinerary for 3 days that will help you plan a perfect and memorable trip to the city .

In this guide, I’ll share the top attractions you must visit in Busan , along with tips on how to include them in your own itinerary.

Plus, I’ll show you how to get around Busan using public transport , which will save you a lot of time in research. If you’re going to Seoul, check out my Seoul travel guide to help plan your trip.

Let’s explore my Busan travel itinerary below to fully enjoy your trip! 🙂

Plan Your Dream Trip to Busan with My Perfectly Crafted Itinerary for All

Day 1: haeundae blueline park, haedong yonggungsa, oryukdo skywalk and haeundae beach, day 2: gamcheon culture village, jagalchi market, busan tower, gwangbokro street and biff square, day 3: lotte world adventure busan, have one more day in busan, busan itinerary map, how to access the internet in busan, where to stay in busan, travelling to busan from downtown seoul transportation guide, gimhae international airport transfers, related posts.

Busan Itinerary Day 1: Start Your Adventure with These Must-Visit Spots

• 9:30 AM: Haeundae Blueline Park
• 11:00 AM: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
• 2:00 PM: Oryukdo Skywalk
• 4:30 PM: SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium
• 6:00 PM: Haeundae Beach
• 7:30 PM: Haeundae Street and Haeundae Market

1. Haeundae Blueline Park – 30 minutes (9:30 AM to 10:00 AM)

Spend your morning at Haeundae Blueline Park . This new attraction in Busan has been making waves among locals and tourists because of its beautiful seaside views .

Here, you can take the Haeundae Sky Capsule from Mipo Station to Cheongsapo Station . The one-way trip is around 30 minutes .

During the ride, you’d catch a glimpse of the sea and the beautiful surrounding villages . There are also several bench sections around to relax. You may also go to the stone beach and hike your way down.

Getting There 17 minutes’ walk to Haeundae Blueline Park (Mipo Station) from Haeundae Beach. [ More Info ]

2. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple – 1.5 hours (11:00 AM to 12:30 PM)

After your scenic ride, it’s time to go to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and explore the Buddhist temple .

Situated along the coast of Busan, the shrine is bounded by breathtaking nature views . No wonder it’s a popular spot for photographers .

Take a stroll within the temple grounds and enjoy the views of the ocean. And, don’t forget to bring your camera and take plenty of photos during your visit.

Truly, it’s a must to include the temple in your itinerary when you visit Busan with your loved ones.

Must-see Spots in the Temple:

• Daeungjeon Main Hall: Enter the main hall and see up-close the design of the structure. This is one of the historical areas in the temple that was built in the 16 th century.
• Seawater Great Goddess Buddha: Pay respect to this religious statue, which is a key figure in the temple. The sculpture is made in veneration of the goddess, Haesu Gwaneum Daebu.
• Golden Jijang Bosal Statue: Drop by this golden structure that sits along the coastal section. Behind the statue is the beautiful ocean, adding up to the grandeur of the place.
• Laughing Buddha Statue: This is another remarkable religious site that deserves attention. Marvel at the golden sculpture and implore for blessings from the laughing Buddha.

Getting There Take the Bus Haeundae-gu No.10 from the bus stop of Cheongsapo to Daewoo apartment. From there, cross the road to the opposite bus stop and take the Bus No. 100 to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Total: 1,200 won) [ More Info ]. Another way is to ride a taxi from there to the temple. The taxi fare is around 10,000 won.

3. Oryukdo Skywalk – 1.5 hours (2:00 PM to 3:30 PM)

Continue the fun as you wander around the Oryukdo Skywalk . Perched on a 35-meter-high coastal cliff , this attraction comes with a 15-meter glass bridge that you can walk animatedly .

There are 24 glass plates that are designed to elevate your experience .

And of course, you’d fall in love with the picturesque scenes that fringe the coast . If you’ve got a tough heart, try to stand on the glass-bottomed bridge and look down to see the waves below .

• Goraesa Fishcake Shop : If you’re in the mood for some fishcakes, this is the place to be. Check out their variety of flavors, from seafood to cheese, and satisfy your hunger in an instant!
• Haemok : When it comes to a reputed Japanese restaurant in the city, you’d get your money’s worth here. They’ve got sashimi and sushi rice box as well as some tasty desserts for you to try.

Getting There Take the Bus No. 181 from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Haeundae Station. At Haeundae Station, take the Metro Line 2 to Kyungsung Univ. Pukyong Nat’l Univ. Station.

From there, you go out of Exit 5 and walk to the bus stop of Kyungsung University. Afterward, take the Bus No. 24 to Oryukdo Skywalk. (Total: 3,700 won) [ More Info ]

Alternative Solution: Join this famous Bus Tour 1 or Bus Tour 2 in Busan. Both cover Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan Skywalk, Gamcheon Culture Village and more!

4. SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium – 1.5 hours (4:30 PM to 6:00 PM)

Explore the underwater world with a trip to SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium . This is such a fun place to learn about various marine species .

Here, you can walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by rich marine life .

Meet some sharks, manta rays, and other colorful fishes. You’d also come across some Korean seahorses, turtles, otters, penguins, and moon jellyfish.

So, be sure to book the aquarium tickets here in advance to get an extra discount!

Getting There Take the Bus No. 131 from Oryukdo Skywalk to the bus stop of Kyungsung Univ. Pukyong Nat’l Univ. From there, you transfer to Bus No. 1003 and go to Busan aquarium (at Haeundae Beach). (Total: 2,900 won) [ More Info ]

5. Haeundae Beach – 1.5 hours (6:00 PM to 7:30 PM)

Drop by Haeundae Beach and go swimming in the clear, blue waters . As the most popular beach in Busan , this spot is oozing with vibrant vibes.

You may also take a walk along the beautiful coastline that stretches up to 1.5 kilometers . And, don’t forget to try to catch the beautiful sunset !

Getting There 1 minute’ walk to Haeundae Beach from SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium.

6. Haeundae Street and Haeundae Market – 1 hour (7:30 PM to 8:30 PM)

A. haeundae street.

Spend the night at Haeundae Street and experience the lively atmosphere with your family and friends . Surrounded by a wide variety of shops and restaurants , there’s a lot to explore in this area.

Plus, you’d be in awe of the impressive range of local and international cuisines . There are plenty of bars and clubs too. No wonder, it’s a hotspot for nightlife !

b. Haeundae Market

If you’re inclined to know more about the culture and traditional life of South Korea , you shouldn’t miss visiting the Haeundae Market .

This is a famous place with lots of street vendors selling all kinds of goods, from fresh vegetables to meat and seafood .

There are also plenty of local street foods on display . These include Korean Rice Cake skewers, Korean Fried Chicken, Gamja-Hotdog, and more. So, walk around the street and enjoy the food !

• Miryang Sundae Dwaeji Gukbap: Head to this popular restaurant and savor their classic pork soup with rice. You can even try to make it your own by choosing your preferred add-ons like bean paste, pork slices, or shrimp.
• Oh Banjang: If you want some tasty Korean barbecue, this is the best place to be. They have both pork and beef options and even an unlimited refill of side dishes.
• Haeundae Amsogalbi-jip: This is another authentic Korean barbecue restaurant to try. Don’t miss their premium meat and treat yourself with some potato noodles at the end.
• Geumsu Bokguk: Relish a platter or bowl of puffer dishes. You can choose from a variety of options, from seasoned puffer skin to puffer fish soup. If you’ve got extra money, order their puffer sashimi!

Getting There 3 minutes’ walk to Haeundae Street from Haeundae Beach.

Day 2 in Busan Itinerary: Discover Vibrant Markets, Iconic Square, and Cultural Hotspots!

• 9:00 AM: Gamcheon Culture Village
• 12:00 PM: Jagalchi Market
• 1:30 PM: Gukje Market
• 3:00 PM: Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower
• 4:30 PM: Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street
• 6:30 PM: BIFF Square and Nampodong Street

All the recommended spots mentioned above are in close proximity to each other. This means you can visit all of them in one day. You may refer to the map here to get an idea.

1. Gamcheon Culture Village – 3 hours (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)

Begin your trip at the famous Gamcheon Culture Village . This colorful village is known for its vivid houses stacked up the side of a hill .

So, walk through the village and admire the beautiful structures and decorations .

During your exploration, take your time to appreciate some murals and sculptures .

Because of the uniqueness and beautiful sights, this place is truly a remarkable tourist spot in Busan .

You may read this Gamcheon Culture Village page to find out the must-visit sights and how to reach the village by public transport .

Best Photo Spots in Gamcheon:

• Little Prince and the Fox: This is definitely one of the most famous statues in the village. So, take a photo of these two during your trip.
• Face of Gamcheon-King Jongsun: Another iconic art piece is none other than this vivid replica of King Jongsun. Painted with vibrant colors, for sure you won’t miss this spot!
• Gamcheon Sound: The unique design of this art makes it quite popular among tourists. Capture this beautiful piece or use it as your photo backdrop.
• Rainbow Stairs: From the name itself, the stairs come with different colors. Pose along the side or try to climb up for a better view.

Tip: Remember to buy a guide map from the tourist information center before you start walking around the village. For only 2,000 won, the map will surely help you get around the place efficiently.

2. Jagalchi Market – 1.5 hours (12:00 PM to 1:30 PM)

Take your lunch at Jagalchi Market and experience what it’s like to dine in the largest seafood market in South Korea .

This bustling port city of Busan is renowned for its immense array of seafood . So, navigate around the variety of stalls and get to see fresh fishes, live octopus, and more !

You can find the fresh fish market at level 1 while most of the restaurants are stationed at level 2 . Some of the best seafood dishes include raw fish, grilled fish, and seafood soup .

Head to the 7th floor and visit the observatory deck . From the top, you’d be amazed by the amazing city views of the Busan Port .

• Jacky’s Seafood @ Jagalchi Market: Located at level 2 of the market, this is quite popular among locals and tourists. Relish their seafood dishes that are all served fresh.
• Daeseong Sashimi: When it comes to sashimi, it’s highly recommended to visit this place. Here, you can freely choose the seafood that you want to be cooked.
• Nampo Samgyetang: Satisfy your ginseng cravings as you savor their famous ginseng chicken soup. And fascinatingly, they provide you with ginseng liquor to complement your food experience!
• Abiko: If you want to try some tasty Japanese cuisines, don’t hesitate to drop by this restaurant. Check out their delectable menu or order their classic pork cutlet, curry, and udon noodles.

Getting There Take the Bus Seogu 2-2 from Gamcheon Culture Village to the bus stop of Chungmu Market. Then walk to Jagalchi Market. (Total: 1,050 won) [ More Info ]

3. Gukje Market – 1.5 hours (1:30 PM to 3:00 PM)

After your lunch, continue the fun at Gukje Market . As one of the largest street markets in Busan , Korea, for sure you’d enjoy shopping here.

Roam around the market and be amazed by the variety of items on display. There are stalls selling clothing, accessories, kitchenware, and even electronic stuff.

Some also sell traditional Korean handicrafts that are perfect as souvenirs .

Getting There 6 minutes’ walk to Gukje Market from Jagalchi Market.

4. Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower – 1.5 hours (3:00 PM to 4:30 PM)

Carry on with the adventure at Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower . Here, you can see a panoramic view of Busan city .

The traditional Korean garden also gives you a more calming vibe so you can relax peacefully . And, don’t forget to take a look at the collection of sculptures inside.

Getting There 5 minutes’ walk to Yongdusan Park from Gukje Market.

5. Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street – 2 hours (4:30 PM to 6:30 PM)

Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street is no doubt the liveliest shopping street in Busan . This famous location is home to some international and Korean beauty brands .

These include Holika , Innisfree , Nature Republic, Etude House , The Face Shop , and many more. So, dig into these shops and buy your favorite cosmetics and the latest beauty products.

Of course, there are lots of options for clothing, accessories, and shoes too! Go around different shops that offer different fashion choices for both men and women.

Here, you’d find brands like Nike , New Balance , Puma , Adidas , and Skechers .

Getting There 2 minutes’ walk to Gwangbokro Fashion Street from Yongdusan Park.

6. BIFF Square and Nampodong Street – 2.5 hours (6:30 PM to 9:00 PM)

A. biff square.

Cap off your day at Busan International Film Festival (BIFF Square) and devour some tasty street food . This place is filled with stalls offering different local treats.

When strolling around, make sure you try some Korean Fried Chicken , Korean Chicken Skewer , and Grilled Scallop . Also, don’t miss the classic favorites like the Korean Sweet Pancake and Twist Ice Cream .

b. Nampodong Pojangmacha Street

Another must-visit location is Nampodong Pojangmacha Street . Fascinatingly, the word Pojangmacha is a Korean term that means a certain form of a street stall .

Because of its assortment of street food , this place is widely visited by locals and international travellers.

With several tasty foods on display, it’s best to eat your dinner here . Choose from one of the many stalls that serve appetizing Korean snacks and drinks.

After your dinner, make sure to take a good rest because tomorrow you will go to the most famous theme park in Busan.

Getting There 1 minute’ walk to BIFF Square from Gwangbokro Fashion Street.

Your last day will be spent at Lotte World Adventure Busan .

As the largest theme park in Busan, it’s highly recommended that you allocate an entire day here. This way, you get to enjoy the different attractions, from thrilling rides to interactive shows and fun games .

To help you out, be sure to check out this super detailed guide to Lotte World Busan before your trip. In this guide, I’ve recorded the best rides in the theme park as well as some tips on how to get there easily .

Also, don’t forget to buy your Lotte World Busan tickets here . This will give you up to 15% OFF !

Must-visit Attractions in the Theme Park:

• Lorry Castle and Royal Garden: Drop by this scenic area and you’ll find the iconic castle of Lorry. The place itself is very picturesque, so make sure you take lots of photos.
• Talking Tree: Listen to the voices from this famous tree and you’d be surprised by its alluring sounds. This is such a unique spot in the park that you should visit.
• Giant Digger: If you’re looking for an exhilarating ride, then this is the answer to your needs. Hop aboard the high-speed rollercoaster and pump up your senses!
• Giant Splash: Continue the thrill as you board this water shuttle ride. It’s like a rollercoaster journey but with a twist! Here, you need to prepare for both the fast-paced journey and the water splashes.
• Giant Swing: Complete your excitement as you get on this swing. Unlike normal swings, this offers dizzying spins and rotations.

Lunch and Dinner Take your lunch and dinner at Rollercoaster Restaurant . Also known as Food Drop Restaurant , you can find this unique restaurant within the Royal Garden Zone.

Unlike normal restaurants, this place serves its food via rollercoaster tracks . As to their menu, they mostly offer Western food . They’ve got hamburgers, pasta, steaks, chicken, and more.

If you have an extra day in Busan , you can check out my suggested itinerary below . This will help you maximize your time better so you can visit more tourist spots.

1. Songdo Sea Cable Car – 3 hours (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)

Start your trip by riding the Songdo Sea Cable Car (Busan Air Cruise) . This offers you a unique experience as you travel from the city to the sea via a cable car .

If you want, you can take the round-trip journey from Songdo Bay Station to Songdo Sky Park .

Where is the boarding point for the cable car? The ticket office is located on Level 1 of Songdo Bay Station. Meanwhile, the boarding station is on Level 4.

Recommended: I highly suggest that you take the Crystal Cruise (Crystal Cabin) so you can see the breathtaking views from the transparent floor . Moreover, try to book the cable car tickets here to enjoy an extra 10% OFF !

Must-see Sights in Songdo Sky Park:

• Dino Adventure: Meet some of these realistic creatures as you navigate around the area. Because of their towering height, you certainly won’t miss these statues!
• Le Petit Prince: Take a snap of this landmark, which highlights the protagonist of the popular novel, the Little Prince. As one of the crowd favorites, there might be long queues for this spot.
• Dragon of Wishes: Drop by this spectacular and let the dragon fulfill your sincerest intentions. The dragon’s scales serve as the material where you can write your wishes. So, hope that your desires would come true!
• Moment Capsule: Store your favorite memories inside a capsule. This is a rather unique way to save some of your precious moments, so make sure not to miss it!

Getting There Take your time to read my complete guide to Songdo Sea Cable Car for you to prepare ahead of time. I’ve written everything that you need to know about getting to the cable car station , including the best photo spots there .

2. Songdo Cloud Trails – 1 hour (12:00 PM to 1:00 PM)

In the afternoon, make your way to Songdo Cloud Trails . This unique skywalk lets you trek through a beautiful pathway with the ocean underneath .

And just above you is the cable car line, adding up to its attractiveness.

The Songdo Cloud Trails is nearby Songdo Bay Station . This means you won’t have a hard time finding this during your visit.

3. Lotte Department Store (Gwangbok Branch) – 3 hours (1:30 PM to 4:30 PM)

After completing the trails, it’s time to head to Lotte Department Store (Gwangbok Branch) . This shopping destination is known to be the country’s first seaside department store .

So, it’s only fitting to drop by the place and check out what it has to offer.

As you enter the department store, you’d be captivated with the array of fashion items . These feature both domestic and international brands to give you lots of options.

Aside from shopping, this spectacular water fountain is another highlight inside the mall .

In fact, it’s one of the largest indoor musical water fountains in the world . So, listen closely to the alluring sounds that perfectly complement with the flashing lights.

Head to the largest rooftop park in Korea and catch the entire city of Busan from your spot. During your sightseeing, you’d also see the towering Busan Tower .

So, if you want to visit the sky park , make your way to the 11th floor of Lotte Department Store. Meanwhile, the observation deck is located on the 12th floor .

Don’t worry because both are accessible to everyone for free ! This means you won’t be spending extra money to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Lunch For your lunch, there’s no need to fret because there’s a food court in the mall. This is stationed at basement 1 of the department store. On top of that, there are several restaurants on level 10 as well.

Getting There Walk from Songdo Cloud Trails to the bus stop of Amnam Dongbu Community Center. Then, take the Bus No. 6 or 71 to the bus stop near Exit 6 of Nampo Station. From there, walk to Lotte Department Store. (Total 1,200 won) [ More Info ]

4. Seomyeon – 5 hours (4:30 PM to 9:30 PM)

Seomyeon is another vibrant neighborhood in the city of Busan that is popular among visitors.

It’s one of the best spots for shopping, dining, and entertainment . Here, you’d find many restaurants and cafes that offer all sorts of local and international cuisines .

On top of that, the nightlife in this spot is remarkable . There are lots of clubs, bars, and karaoke rooms to liven up the night .

Getting There Take the Metro Line 1 from Nampo Station to Seomyeon Station. Go to Exit 12 for direct access to the shopping center. (Total 1,300 won)

a. Seomyeon Shopping District

Go around Seomyeon Shopping District and visit some local stores. This is loaded with various kinds of shops, selling fashion items to electronics and more .

You’d also come across some fast-food restaurants in the area.

b. Seomyeon Underground Shopping Center

As you enter the Seomyeon Underground Shopping Center , get ready to be dazzled by the number of shops. You’d be surrounded by several stores loaded with trendy apparel and accessories .

If you’re looking for a new pair of shoes or sandals , there are plenty of options here .

And aside from fashion items, you’d also stumble across a series of beauty and cosmetic products . So, take your time to navigate around and have fun in this busy shopping hub.

c. Pojangmacha Street

Cap off your night at the famous Pojangmacha Street . This is the best place in the neighborhood to take your dinner .

So, choose from the many food stalls stationed along the street and treat yourself with some local delights.

To help you easily understand the travel plan in Busan , I have marked all the must-visit attractions on the above map .

Tips for Searching Tourist Spots : You can use KakaoMap and Naver Map too to assist you in navigating around Busan. Both come with English language options, so be sure to download the apps on your smartphone.

The most effective way to stay connected online while travelling in Busan is to rent a pocket WiFi device . You can rent the portable WiFi device here and enjoy a fast network speed and unlimited internet access .

On top of that, you are able to connect multiple devices at once. So, avail of the option online and pick it up from the airport.

The best place to stay in Busan is no doubt Haeundae . This is very convenient for tourists because it is surrounded by many popular attractions .

Some of the nearby tourist spots include Haeundae beach, SEA Life Aquarium, Haeundae Market, and Haeundae Blueline Park. It is also close to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Lotte World Busan.

There are also lots of restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores around .

Another remarkable feature of the district is that it has an easy access metro station , which is the Haeundae Station . So, if you’re looking for a super relaxing stay, I’d highly recommend this place.

And, don’t forget to reserve your preferred hotel in advance . It’s because the hotels here often sold out faster , especially during the peak season.

My Most Recommended Hotels in Haeundae

• MS Hotel Haeundae : Just opposite of Haeundae beach and SEA Life Aquarium, this is the best hotel if you want some unobstructed views of the beach. It’s also just a 5-minute walk to Haeundae Station.
• Best Western Haeundae Hotel : Located beside MS Hotel Haeundae, this is a good option too. The place is near the Haeundae Market, making it more attractive.
• Shilla Stay Haeundae : This is another accommodation that is close to MS Hotel. Plus, it’s just a few steps away from CU and GS25 convenience stores.
• Paradise Hotel Busan : If you want to catch a stunning view of the sea, book this place. The hotel is surrounded by Starbucks and GS25 as well.

How to Tour Around Busan

1. Metro and Public Bus

If you want to get around Busan without breaking the bank, metro and public bus are great options!

It’s easy to get to the city’s most popular attractions with these two public transportations.

For the quickest metro route from point A to B, you can use the KakaoMetro app, as it offers fare and travel time information.

If you prefer to take the public bus, Naver Map app can give you the best route along with associated fares and journey times.

T-Money card

When you’re in Busan, make sure to get yourself a T-Money card! This transport card will make your commute through the metro and bus so much easier.

You can easily obtain one from convenience stores like CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and emart24.

2. Busan Tour Buses

If you’re short on time to plan your trip in Busan, you can book one of the best bus tours in the city – Bus Tour 1 and Bus Tour 2 .

They both include some of the must-see attractions like Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan Skywalk, and Gamcheon Culture Village.

Plus, the assembly points at Busan Metro Station and Haeundae Metro Station make it super convenient!

3. Private Car Charter

For a stress-free way to explore Busan, you should check out the private car charter here !

It comes with an experienced and English-speaking driver who will tailor the trip to your own schedule.

Just let the driver know where you’d like to go, and they’ll take you straight there – it’s that easy!

Are you considering a trip to Busan after Seoul?

If so, I highly recommend you take the KTX train for its swift travel time and cozy amenities. It’s a super-fast train that connects the two cities.

If you want more info, I have written a guide on how to get to Busan from Seoul using KTX. I’ll show you how to ride the train easily.

Planning a trip to Seoul? Check out my Seoul 7 Day Itinerary to find out the most amazing spots to explore and learn how to plan your journey perfectly.

There are 3 options to get you from Gimhae International Airport to downtown Busan. Let me explain what they are.

1. Limousine Bus

The Limousine Bus can be boarded at Platform 2, located on the first floor of the international terminal.

A one-way ride to Busan Station will cost 6,000 won and 7,000 won to Haeundae. It takes an hour to Busan Station and 70 minutes to Haeundae.

2. Subway (Metro)

Gimhae airport to busan station.

You can ride the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail (Purple Line) from Gimhae Airport to Sasang Station.

At the Sasang Station, you transfer to the Metro Line 2 and go to Seomyeon Station. From there, change to Metro Line 1 and go to Busan Station. The travel time is around 51 minutes and cost 2,000 won.

Gimhae Airport to Haeundae Station

Just board the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail (Purple Line) from Gimhae Airport to Sasang Station. From Sasang Station, you switch to the Metro Line 2 and go to Haeundae Station. One-way trip takes about 1 hour and the fare is 2,000 won.

Where to Take the Metro? The metro station is located just outside of Gimhae International Airport.

For a comfortable and stress-free journey between Gimhae Airport and central Busan, a taxi is the best choice.

Pre-book your Gimhae Airport taxi here and avoid any language barrier concerns, as the driver will be waiting for you directly at the airport.

If you are new to Busan and wondering what or where to go, I hope this Busan 3-day itinerary guide has been helpful!

You can also use this guide as a reference for the best places to visit in Busan.

Lotte World Busan: 14 Best Rides & How to Go There

Gamcheon Culture Village: Best Visit Guide and Secret Tips

Seoul Itinerary: The Perfect 7 Day Guide for a Fun Trip

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How to Spend 3 Days in Busan: An Epic Itinerary 

Ready to make the most out of your 3 days in Busan? Get ready to adventure through colourful villages, stunning temples and paddleboarding with this fun Busan itinerary. 

Many call Busan South Korea’s second city. After visiting last October, I can assure you it’s so much more. 

Don’t get me wrong, Seoul deserves the hype and attention, but Busan should be anything but an afterthought when you plan a trip to South Korea . 

I arrived in Busan ready to dive into great beaches and great food. These are both found without much effort, and that’s hardly surprising.

But after spending more time discovering the vibrant neighbourhoods and hidden gems, I can’t get over how impossibly beautiful this place is. 

I know, I know. But honestly, Busan is that gorgeous. 

Peering out over the East Sea from the Songdo Cloud Trails in the morning or looking back at the city’s glistening lights from the Diamond Bay Yacht Cruise at night, I found the perfect photograph everywhere I went. 

It’s not all rosy retrospection, either. It’s very much a live-in-the-moment kind of destination. I spent 3 days in Busan last October and experienced many of the city’s best attractions firsthand. Now, it’s time to share.

Busan Itinerary 

Day 1: getting to know busan.

Today is the first of your 3 days in Busan. Make the most of it from the start. This travel itinerary is the perfect introduction to the beautiful coastal city. 

You’ll visit lively local markets and colourful villages, take in sweeping views of the city from Busan Air Cruise, and eat a distinctly Busan dinner that’s been popular since the Korean War.

Don’t worry. I also discovered a couple of hidden gems on my last trip. Let’s get started.

Street Food Breakfast at Gwangbokdong Food Street

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Heading to a local market should be one of the first things you do in any city, anywhere in the world. Why? You can’t find a better taste of the local culture and cuisine than where the locals shop, eat, and drink. 

Gukje Market is one of the oldest in Busan, providing textiles and home goods to locals since 1945. It’s a lively scene where you can find souvenirs, handmade clothing, and (drum roll) right next door to one of the most important street food streets in the city.

Technically not part of Gukje Market, Gwangbokdong Food Street is like an unofficial extension of it. Walking from Nampo-dong or Jagalchi Station towards Gukje Market, you’ll notice a long section of vendors dishing up handmade goodies along Junggu-ro. 

Look for the stands with the longest line of locals eating grilled octopus, hearty pork soups, and sweet pancakes (called ssiat hotteok). Try anything and enjoy it at a sidewalk table, like the locals do.

The spicy milmyeon is popular in this area, but you should wait and try that at my dinner recommendation below.

Stroll Through Gamcheon Culture Village 

Now that you’ve had something to eat, it’s time to learn more about Busan. 

Busan went through a huge population boom around the time of the Korean War, and Gamcheon Culture Village was one of the neighbourhoods that saw a large increase of residents in a very short amount of time. 

The result? Hundreds of homes were built side by side on the hill, most made from inexpensive wood and metal. Many of the homes weren’t updated for decades and became a bit of an eyesore.

With some help from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2009, both artists and residents have turned the village into one of the most beautiful areas in the city. 

Now, the homes feature bright colours on their roofs and facades, along with beautiful murals throughout the streets. It’s truly charming.

So, what should you make a point of seeing? Famous art installations like the Little Prince and the Fennec Fox statues overlooking Busan Bay are hard to miss. But you’ll also want to climb the 148 Stone Stairs and go to the Haneul Maru observation deck for some of the most Instagrammable vistas in South Korea.

This is one of the best areas to wear a Hanbok dress and pose for photos. There are a few coffee shops that offer insane (and semi-private) backdrops, like Cafe Wooin (카페 우인).

Walk Along Songdo Cloud Trails

Next up? Head to Songdo Cloud Trails in Songdo Bay, where you can breathe in some of that fresh, salty seaside air. The 365-metre (1,200-foot) pier is open 365 days a year and is completely free to visit.

Stroll out on the glass-bottomed platform in the morning when you can see why it gets its name.

A mysterious layer of low-lying clouds hugs the pier like a blanket and only adds to the folklore of nearby Geobukseom Island (Turtle Island). 

The statues of the fisherman and mermaid aren’t just random art installations. The island is home to a legendary tale about the duo who fell in love with each other in the East Sea. Romantic, isn’t it?

Even if you’re a bit funny with heights, it’s a great place to stroll, and it isn’t too intense. You’ll catch great views of a lighthouse, the ocean, and Songdo Bay. 

If you can’t make it until later in the day, don’t worry. The skyline looks especially cool at night, looking back in from the pier. 

Getting There

Reaching the pier is relatively easy with public transportation, but this is one case where grabbing a taxi is considerably faster.

Ride the Busan Air Cruise

This isn’t the oldest tourist attraction in the city by any stretch, but it’s one of the coolest.

Since 2017, the 8-passenger cars have been a big draw for visitors, helping to make Songdo Bay one of the most popular areas in Busan. Once you’re cruising over the craggy cliffs and ocean on the 1.62 km (1 mile) journey, you’ll know why. 

Hop on the elevated cable cars at Busan Air Cruise , and you’ll whisk over the extensive stretch of the bay. 

Plan ahead for this one if you want to ensure a spot. You can book your tickets for a one-way or round-trip ride before you board. 

It only costs ₩17,000 (£10) for a standard round-trip ticket, but the Crystal Cruise upgrade is totally worth an impulse purchase. For just ₩22,000 (£13), you get a glass-bottomed car that offers insane views beneath your feet.

Have a little extra time? When you get on or off at the Songdo Sky Park Station, you can check out the rooftop park for a few minutes. Honestly, it was kind of a strange area, but the views of downtown Busan were amazing.

  If you’re looking for a romantic ride (or a little privacy), you can opt for the Premium Cruise for ₩300,000, which guarantees your own cabin and no waiting in line.

Explore Huinnyeoul Cultural Village

Just across the Namhang Bridge in Yeongdo-gu is one of the coolest urban hikes I’ve ever discovered. 

I know it may sound a bit tired, but you can actually just let yourself get lost in the streets at Huinnyeoul Cultural Village and find some of the most iconic views in Busan. But we’re on a bit of a timeline here, so it’s best to follow the travelled path.

You can walk the coastal or cliffside trails of the neighbourhood that skirt along the bluffs and shores. My suggestion? Walk a little bit of both. 

You’ll see tonnes of bright and beautiful murals on the walls and staircases (several of which connect the pathways). And if you go down to the Huinnyeol Coastal Tunnel, you’ll get those snapshots of the city skyline you’ve probably seen on all the socials.

The village itself is a charmer. Brightly coloured hillside homes overlooking the ocean are why many call it the “Santorini of Busan.” Being pretty familiar with both, I think it’s an apt comparison.

Feeling peckish? Go to Huinnyeoul Jeombbang for a bowl of ramen in a small cafe that offers stunning views from the heart of the village.

Enjoy Dinner at Choryang Milmyeon

I totally understand if you feel like you’ve already had a full plate. Not to worry, because this stop is all about relaxing and refuelling before your big day tomorrow. 

Every Busan itinerary needs to include a great spot to have dinner, am I right? Choryang Milmyeon is that spot. 

It’s a little out of the way from the Huinnyeoul Cultural Village but personally, I think it’s worth the effort. The friendly neighbourhood restaurant sees a steady crowd of locals day and night. You’ll know why the moment you get there. 

For under £10 per person, you can order one of the noodle soups, which are filling and seriously delicious. The cold noodles come with a spicy sauce and a separate broth you pour over the noodles. Yes to this. 

There’s actually a bit of history to this dish. Wheat noodles became popular during the Korean War when they were shipped over from the UN. Why? Farmers weren’t producing enough rice to keep up with demand. 

But even after the war, wheat noodles remained a popular staple in many Korean pantries. They also often found their way into popular dishes, like naengmyeon (a spicy, brothy noodle dish milmyeon is based on).

Order the flagship cold noodle dish, but also try their dumplings. Both are excellent and offer a unique taste of Busan.

Go early or wait until late. The popular restaurant fills up quickly.

Day 2: Exploring the Port City’s History and Hidden Gems 

Now that you had a good look at downtown Busan, it’s time to spend some time on the water. 

But first, you’ll want to learn about the city’s role in the Korean War. You can do this by adding a stop at the UN Memorial Cemetery to your Busan trip itinerary. 

After lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon near the beach paddle boarding and enjoying the city lights on a cruise through the harbour.

Learn Korean War History at the UN Memorial Cemetery 

Busan played an important role in the Korean War, serving as a safe city for refugees from North Korea. The city’s population expanded rapidly during this time, and it was also a strategic port where the United Nations could ship supplies for the war effort.

The UN helped South Korea from 1950 to 1953, with thousands of United Nations soldiers dying in the war. The UN Memorial Cemetery is the only United Nations cemetery anywhere in the world, and it’s an emotional (and educational) tribute to the soldiers.

When you walk through the memorial, take your time to watch the video portraying the UN war effort. It taught me a lot about the conflict and how many lives were lost to help South Korea remain free. Every single person in the room was in tears by the end.

You should also walk through the manicured gardens, fountains, and tombstones. It’s a beautiful space that resonates with tourists and locals to this day.

Make sure you time your visit during the UN flag-raising at 10 am. It was a beautiful tribute that continues to honour the fallen soldiers over 70 years later.

Sashimi Lunch at Bangpajae Hoetjip

Busan is a historic port city surrounded by the ocean. As such, finding good seafood was a top priority on my last visit. I found it easily on my second day.

Though sashimi is traditionally thought of as a Japanese dish, Koreans eat plenty of it too. Bangpajae Hoetjip is the best place to enjoy it in Busan.

The quality of the seafood? It couldn’t get any fresher. The restaurant is set right above a fish market where you can select what you’re having for lunch. 

Once you sit down, the chef prepares your catch raw, slicing it with precision and serving it with a colourful presentation of veggies and herbs.

If you have an adventurous palate, this is where you should try live octopus. I tried it myself, and while it was a weird experience, it’s actually pretty tasty.

The octopus is served with sesame seeds, spring onions, and a drizzle of sesame oil. But I’m not exaggerating when I say that you might catch a sucker on your tongue (or throat) as you eat it. Not for the faint of heart, but totally worth it.

Head to the Daeyeon Station and take the train to the Gwangan Station, which is just a short walk away.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Gwangalli Beach

Once you’ve had some lunch, you can walk over to Gwangalli Beach. While Haeundae Beach is popular with locals and tourists, Gwangalli offers something it doesn’t. SUP rentals. 

I’m all about flopping and dropping along the golden shores of Busan. But paddling out amongst the backdrop of the towering skyscrapers and sprawling Gwangan Bridge is just an epic way to spend an afternoon. 

Where do you find an SUP in Korea’s second-largest city? You can hire a paddle board from Gwangalli Ocean Leports Center , right off the beach. The best part is that they only cost about £6.30 ($8) per hour, which is a steal for how much fun it is.

And as for the ride? The bay is calmer than being on open water, but it got bumpy on my paddle out. That said, trying not to fall into the ocean is kind of part of the charm. Plus, it’s easy enough to climb back on the boards if you do.

You can also swim, ride electric boards, or rent a kayak if you want to make a longer day of it. 

Need a snack afterward? There’s a fun little pub across the street called Happy Monk, which has beautiful views of the bridge and beach.

Diamond Bay Yacht Cruise

Now that you’ve had a full day of adventure, it’s time to head back to your hotel and get ready for an evening on the water.

Diamond Bay Yacht Cruise offers a chance to float around the East Sea near Busan, looking back at the glittering lights from the city’s skyline the whole time. It’s a large catamaran that you can reserve for only £18 ($23) per seat, and it’s available day or night.

Head to the harbour near Igidae Park before your designated time, usually at least 30 minutes, to play it safe. You’ll want to book a ticket along the Haeundae Route for the sunset cruise. 

The 72-foot boat jets around the bay shortly before sunset and is an awesome way to watch the city light up at night.

One of the highlights is seeing the Gwangandaegyo Bridge around 8 pm. A daily light show illuminates the 500-metre (1640-foot) suspension bridge and the water below.

You can find information on tickets and if conditions are good for a sail that week by calling +82 10-9260-3332. 

Day 3: Sightseeing Up and Down the Coast 

It’s hard to believe this is the final day of your 3-day itinerary in Busan. But don’t worry. There’s a lot more you can pack in on your final day.

We’ll try more incredible food, visit one of the area’s most famous temples, and take in some city views from one of Korea’s highest viewpoints.

Brunch at Geumsubokguk, Haeundae Head Store

In a city known for savoury meat and seafood dishes served alongside (or inside) soups and stews, you know that brunch will be one of the main events of your day. 

So, what should you order when you visit one of the most popular seafood spots in town? Blowfish, of course. 

Fugu is blowfish, and Geumsubokguk, Haeundae Head Store , specialises in the dish. They also serve the fish that’s so poisonous you can literally die from it in a soup that many people swear by as a hangover cure. Who am I to disagree?

Now, before you get too worried about impending death, rest assured you’re in good hands. You have to have a licence to prepare the puffer fish sashimi, and the expert chefs do it perfectly.

I had it 2 ways: in a teriyaki sauce and dipped into a clear broth. The soup is very popular, but it honestly wasn’t my favourite.

The teriyaki, however, was excellent. The meaty flavour of the fish was the perfect complement to the sweet and savoury sauce, and I kept going back for more.

If you’d rather try Busan’s other famous seafood dishes, head to Jagalchi Market on a walking tour (you can learn more about it below).

Head to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Now that you’ve seen many of the main attractions in Busan, it’s time to head out of the city centre.

If you take a train from Haeundae Station, you can arrive at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in about 45 minutes. Trust me, the ancient site perched high on the rocky edges of the East Sea is worth the detour.

One of the most popular origin stories of the temple is that scholar Naong Hyegeun spoke with a Sea God in his dreams. The deity instructed him to build the temple on this coastal cliff. Thus, he did.

The original temple was built on the hillside in the 14th century and remained there until the Imjin War.

Walking around the campus, you’ll find several temples and statues of Buddha throughout. Daeungjeon Main Hall is the focal point of the campus and features a beautiful Pagoda with traditional Korean wood and tile construction.

Even though the site itself is a historic Buddhist landmark dating back centuries, most of the current buildings are actually from the 1970s. This doesn’t detract from the experience, however. 

The tranquil setting and walk down the 108 stairs towards the ocean are truly magical.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple opens at 5 am, and it’s the perfect place to see the sunrise if you decide to go before breakfast.

Take a Ride Along the Haeundae Blueline Park 

Looking for a fun way to get back to downtown Busan from the temple? Head to Songjeong Station, where you can catch a sky capsule back into the city.

Ride one of the colourful cars along the full route of Haeundae Blueline Park, which drops you off near Haeundae Beach at Mipo Station. It’s a scenic ride back towards Busan’s main attractions and only takes around 30 minutes. 

The 10-metre (33-foot) track is a bit of a challenge if you fear heights, but it wasn’t too bad overall. The scenery is beautiful, and I liked that the city revitalised the abandoned Donghae Nambu Line train track.

Tickets start around £21 ($27) and give you access to a small car for 2 passengers that pootles its way over Busan. Have your camera ready; these things are totally adorable.

Alternatively, you can buy a package fare for an additional £13 ($17), which gives you additional access to the Beach Train along the coast. This is a great option if you want a change of perspective along the journey. 

Take in the City From BUSAN X the Sky

Busan is an ultra-modern metropolis with an impressive 62 skyscrapers dotting the port city skyline. Of these, the Haeundae LCT Landmark Tower is home to one of the highest observation decks you’ll find anywhere in the world.

BUSAN X the Sky is another one of Busan’s famous cloud walks. Ok, not technically, but at the top of the nearly 412-metre (1,350-foot) building, you are likely eye-to-eye with the clouds.

The good times start rolling right away, riding the elevator to the 100th floor of the building. You can actually watch yourself soaring up the tower on a virtual hot air balloon. I admit this distracted me from the fact that I was actually climbing a quarter mile into the sky.

The views from up top were insane. Really. It was fascinating to see from the Busan Coastline all the way to Dongbaekseom Island. 

Unlike N Seoul Tower, the view isn’t the only attraction. There’s actually a lot to do inside.

Shocking Bridge was the most unique (if legitimately terrifying) feature. You can walk across a glass-bottom platform and dare to look down 100 floors.

You can also choose from 2 coffee shops, including “the world’s tallest Starbucks.” Enjoy an iced americano with an unbeatable view of the city lights at night.

Dinner at Korean Steak Grill

End your Busan 3-day itinerary on a high note at Korean Steak Grill (전설의 우대갈비 해운대직영점) . 

Korean BBQ is popular around the world, known for its deliciously flavoured meats that you cook to order at your table and pair with brightly pickled vegetables and spicy sauces.

Korean Steak Grill is my favourite place for KBBQ in Busan (and honestly anywhere in South Korea). It combines all the elements I love in a restaurant while somehow defying the odds as a really good restaurant in a really touristy area.

Let’s start with the food. Friendly staff walk incredible cuts of steak on the bone to your table. Once they’re grilled, you can cut them into small pieces, and you begin enjoying the rich, smoky flavours of grilled beef. Shall I go on?

There’s also a vibe here. The bustling restaurant is only a short walk from the popular Haeundae Beach, so it’s a lively, festive setting (especially later in the evenings). 

The cosy booths are perfect for sharing with a couple of friends, and if you’re lucky, you’ll have a view from 3 stories above the beach outside. All in all, it’s kind of perfect.

This place is best to go with a group. You’ll have a tonne of food to share, allowing you to try more than one type of meat.

Have More Time? Add These To Your Itinerary 

Oryukdo skywalk and haeparang-gil.

On day 2, you can squeeze in another one of Busan’s skywalks after you visit the UN Memorial Cemetery. I recommend visiting the Oryukdo Skywalk if you need a little fresh air. It’s a lovely little observation deck nestled over the East Sea. 

It’s a really short walk out (only around 15 metres), but the views of Solseom and Oryukdo Islands are worth heading over for.

If you want to make a day of it, take a short walk to the Haeparang-gil trailhead. 

The 10.6-mile point-to-point hike takes you all the way to Haeundae Beach. But you can cut it short at Gwangalli Beach to resume day 2 of my Busan itinerary.

Try Fresh Seafood at Jagalchi Market

Busan is one of the most active port cities in the world, so it’s no surprise that you can get fresh seafood that rivals anywhere I’ve been.

Jagalchi Market is the place to go if you love a great fish market, as it’s tough to beat the biggest of its kind in South Korea. 

So what do you order when you’re here? You’re in good hands with just about any fish or shellfish, as boats drop them off each day in the nearby port.

You can sample raw items in the market or head upstairs to eat at one of the restaurants. It’s fun because you can choose the fish you want to eat and they’ll prepare it for you to eat upstairs, if for a bit of a high price.

Day Trip to Gyeongju

If you’ve ever heard of South Korea’s “Museum Without Walls,” that’s Gyeonju. The good news is it’s only about 2 hours by train, making it a fantastic day trip from Busan.

So, what should you see while you’re in Gyeongju? Lots. 

The former capital of the Three Kingdoms and Silla Kingdom has a long history in South Korea. Some of the architecture and landmarks from hundreds of years ago are still there to see.

If you have a full day, I recommend seeing Cheomseongdae Observatory (a 7th-century stargazing tower), learning more about Silla history at the Gyeongju National Museum , and stopping by at least one of the ancient temples. 

Bunhwangsa is one of the most historic Buddhist Temples at nearly 1,400 years old, so it’s a perfect choice for history buffs.

Handy Tips for Planning Your Busan Trip 

• Bring lots of beachwear if you visit in the summer. Cover-ups are helpful, as South Koreans dress conservatively.
• Delete Uber. Rely on the cheap and affordable trains and buses or Kakao T taxi service.
• An upgrade to first class on KTX is well worth the extra money for its comfortable seats and great views.
• Late March and early April are perfect for seeing the cherry blossom trees around Busan.
• While I recommend visiting in spring or summer, Busan is home to several fun winter events, like the Haeundae Light Festival.
• Pollution isn’t as severe in Busan as in other South Korean cities, but you should avoid November through January if you are sensitive to changes in air quality.
• Naver or Kakao are a lot more reliable than Google Maps when navigating the city.

Learn more helpful tips for visiting South Korea .

Recommended Tours

What to Pack 

Don’t Forget to Pack Your… 

• Swimsuit and cover-ups during the summer.
• Travel adapter . 
• Refillable water bottle .
• Comfy pair of trainers . 

Recommended Hotels

Gimhae International Airport (PUS)

UN Memorial Cemetery, Gwangalli Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, BUSAN X the Sky

Plugs: Type C, Type F

• Currency: South Korean Won (₩)
• Time Zone:  Korean Standard Time (GMT +9)
• Budget: Moderate

Getting Around 

Take the KTX high-speed train into Busan from Seoul (or most major cities you might be visiting from). It only takes around 3 hours, and it’s cheap(ish) at around £60 ($75). 

Read More Busan & South Korea Guides

• Unmissable Things to do in Busan
• How to Spend 10 Days in South Korea
• Top Things to do in South Korea – Discover a Different Side of the Country
• The Things You Need to Know Before Travelling to South Korea

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Busan

INSIDER BUSAN ITINERARY for (2024)

When you think of South Korea, your mind will probably first drift to Seoul, the country’s iconic capital. However, if you want a truly unique and authentic Korean experience, then Busan is the ultimate city to explore! The city located in the south-east of the country is vibrant, friendly and incredibly rich in culture!

To help you kickstart the trip of a lifetime, we’ve put together the ultimate Busan itinerary to guide you on the best places to stay, when to visit Busan, and what to do once there!

From relaxing at one of the city’s beautiful beaches to marveling at a traditional temple, the city promises a memorable encounter for all types of travelers!

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Best Time To Visit Busan

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If you’re deciding when to visit Busan, it is important to consider the climate. The city experiences a subtropical climate which means that it’s hot and humid in the summer, and very cold in the winter.

One of the best times to visit Busan is during the early winter (October) as the skies are clear and the temperature is pleasant. However, if you want to catch the cherry blossom season, then the end of March/beginning of April is a great time to visit the city, just be mindful that you won’t be the only one chasing the blossoms!

If you want to enjoy moderate temperatures that aren’t stifling hot or freezing cold, then you should visit Busan in spring (April and May) or Autumn (October and November). The weather during this time is great for traveling around the city and enjoying all of the attractions.

Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city, which means that there is a lot to explore! Deciding where to stay will have a fairly big impact on making the most of your Busan itinerary.

Busan is a very diverse city, offering a variety of experiences. When deciding where the best place to stay in Busan in three days, you need to consider where your interests lie. If you love to party and enjoy the beach, then make sure that you stay around Haeundae or Gwangan. These areas are full of vibey bars, restaurants, and beach-goers.

If your interest lies more in the art and culture department, then stay in Kyungsung which is surrounded by trendy cafes, art shops, and vintage boutiques. Fancy food and shopping? Then Nampo is the district for you!

Perhaps the most popular area is Seomyeon, the heart of Busan. This is the perfect area for travelers who enjoy being in the everyday hustle and bustle of the city. Many of the cities iconic sites can be found in Seomyeon, and there is no shortage of restaurants or shops! Below are some of our top choices on where to stay in Busan, Korea.

Best Airbnb in Busan – Apartment with ocean view

This apartment is located just a bit further than Nampo, but it’s very well connected to the metro lines. The Airbnb is so close to the ocean that you can even see the water from your window. The view is even cooler at night when the city starts to light up. You’re close to many shopping opportunities as well as restaurants, street food markets and cool attractions.

Best Budget Hotel in Busan – Value Hotel Busan

The Value Hotel Busan gives travelers all of the luxurious comforts that they could want without breaking the bank! Centrally located and offering an incredible view, the hotel is a top choice for those looking for a clean, comfortable, and convenient home-base. Make sure that you take full advantage of the terrace which offers spectacular views!

Best Luxury Hotel in Busan-  Lotte Hotel Busan

Located in the heart of Busan, Lotte Hotel Busan provides a peaceful and luxurious escape away from the busyness of the city without removing you completely! Offering all of the expected luxuries such as air-conditioned, spacious rooms, and there is also a buffet breakfast offered! This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Busan!

Best Hostel In Busan – Blue Backpackers Hostel

Blue Backpackers Hostel is one of the top places to stay in Busan for travelers looking for budget and comfort. The hostel is located in the center of the city, and a short five-minute walk from Seoymyeon, meaning that many main sites are easily accessible. As a bonus, there is a fully equipped kitchen to try out your Korean culinary skills!

If you prefer to stay in hostels, check out the BEST hostels in Busan .

Blue Backpackers Hostel is one of our favourites in Busan but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

As with the rest of Korea, the public transport system in Busan is impeccable! While it is easy to walk around to the main sites in the center of the city, there will be times when you want to venture further, and you won’t be short of transport options.

Often, attractions will require a combination of public transport options such as a bus and the metro. So, it is always a good idea to plan your route before leaving the wifi spot!

The bus system is extensive and reaches far across the city and includes more access points than the metro. It is very normal for travelers to use the bus, and adult fares can start from as little as USD $1. These costs come down if you buy a Hanaro or any other transport card.

Busan has an efficient four-line subway which uses a two-zone fare system which cost approximately USD $1 each. Again, the Hanro transport card can come in handy. You can purchase these cards at subway vending machines.

Between the metro, buses, and your feet, you will easily be able to enjoy your Busan itinerary!

Jagalchi Fish Market | Songdo Cable Car | Taejongdae | Yongdusan Park and Tower | Haeundae Market | Haeundae Beach Boat Cruise  

From one of Busan’s most popular, bustling markets to breathtaking views, this itinerary will have you sorted for one day in Busan. Put on your walking shoes and have a bottle of water ready- it’s going to be a jam-packed day!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Jagalchi Fish Market

• Why it’s awesome: The ultimate tranquil experience in Busan!
• Cost: Free!
• Food recommendation: Pop into Cafe Terra for a quick coffee before heading into the market.

Munching on some fish first thing in the morning may seem slightly odd, but the Jagalchi Fish Market is best visited at the start of the day when the produce is fresh out of the sea!

Browse Korea’s largest fish market and be amazed at the quality of fresh octopus, king crab, and other seafood. Jagalchi Fish Market is by far the best place to experience a local market atmosphere, and you may even learn a thing or two while meandering through the stalls!

The market itself is preempted by rows of roadside stalls selling fresh fish. You can expect to walk past the likes of mackerel, sea squires, giant squids, dried seafood and other unidentifiable food!

If you are looking to test your tastebuds and try some of the local fish, we suggest gwangor , which is a spring delicacy and live nakji which is served with sesame seeds and oil.

There is an outdoor and indoor market. While the outdoor section of the market sells a lot of delicious and interesting marine life, the indoor section is home to the majority of the restaurants.

The market is incredibly easy to get to! Jagalchi Station takes you right there! The station lies on Busan subway line 1. Take exit 10 and turn onto Jagalchi Street. The market will be yours to explore after a short 10-minute walk!

Another great time to visit the market is in the evening around dinner time. There are many restaurants that serve world-class fresh fish dinners.

Insider tip: If you know what you want, it is best to have the Korean translation written down to show to the vendors before you arrive!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Songdo Cable Car

• Why it’s awesome: Soar one mile through the air on a glass floor!
• Cost: Standard car costs USD $13 for adults and USD $10 for children. Glass bottom costs USD $17 for adults and USD $13 for children.
• Food recommendation: TCC (Songdo TCC) is a great nearby cafe with a beautiful sea view

The Songdo Cable Car is a top attraction in Busan, very popular with solo travelers, families, and couples! Originally launched in 1964, the cable car was the first of its kind in the country.

Since it was first opened, the cable car has quadrupled in size! The popular Busan activity features incredible views. Once you get to the other side, you can spend time exploring the park and food stalls before riding back. If you prefer, there is also a wooden bridge which you can stroll along.

You can pick from a total of thirty-nine cars to sail the mile through the air. Thirteen of these cars have glass floors which offer epic views of the clear waters underneath. All cars boast spectacular views of the surrounding hillside and cliffs. Be sure to pack your camera!

The cable car station opens from 9 am which means that the activity is a great way to start the day. As a bonus, the marine ride is available until 9:30 pm so that it can slot into your busy day plans.

The cable car station is located next to Songnim Park and includes a couple of stops if you are taking public transport. First, you take the Jagalchi Station stop which lies on Busan subway line 1 (the same as the fish market) and then head over to Chungmu Dong Gyocharo bus stop to take bus 7, 26. 71, or 96. The trip ends at Songdo Beach bus stop.  The Songdo cable car is definitely one of the top places to visit in Busan in three days.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Taejongdae

• Why it’s awesome:  An expansive, lush natural park that faces the open sea!
• Cost: Free admission!
• Food recommendation: Jeonju Restaurant is on the outskirts of the park and serves a mean spicy squid.

There’s a myth that even gods and goddesses visit Taejongdae when they need to relax! Located on the most southern tip of Yeongdo-gu Island, the beauty of Taejongdae is a designated Busan monument.

Best known for the rock beach, it is also home to over 200 species of trees, including forests of pine. The natural park has magnificent cliffs that face the sea. A visit to Taejondae promises a beautiful and tranquil day out for the whole family.

Once inside the park, there are various facilities to enjoy such as the Danube Train which costs as little as USD $3 for adults and USD $1 for young children. In between the dense flora, there is also an observatory, an amusement park, a lighthouse, and a cruise ship terminal.

The hiking trail and stunning views are incredibly beautiful. The park offers a great escape from the city and promises a tranquil experience.

The park is open all year round, however certain mountain areas are restricted at certain periods during the year for fire-prevention and natural ecological preservation.

The park itself is not central and requires an hour-long ride on a bus. These buses leave from Nampo Subway Station and Busan Station. Once dropped off at the Taejongdae Cliff bus stop, you can either choose to hop onto the Danube train, or stroll around the grounds.

Regardless of how long you spend in the city, your Busan itinerary needs to include a trip to Taejongdae Recreational Park.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Yongdusan Park and Tower

• Why it’s awesome: Arguably the best view in Busan!
• Cost: USD $7 entrance.
• Food recommendation: Grab a Mexican meal at 200 Million Man’s Grill to build up some energy.

Yongdusan is one of three famous mountains in Busan, and at the top of the mountain is the Busan Tower. In addition to the tower, visitors can also explore the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a flower clock, the bell of citizens, and a statue of Baeksan An Hee-je.

Yongdusan Park and Busan tower are two separate sights that go hand-in-hand. Busan Tower stands tall at an impressive height of 120-meters and offers a spectacular view of the whole city.

Once you’ve marveled at the view from the top, you can stop at the various picturesque spots and optical illusion points on the way down. This adds a very unique flair to the whole experience, and makes your pictures that much more impressive!

At the foot of the majestic tower is Yongdusan Park which features an iconic dragon near the park’s entry and a pavilion in the park to relax.

Easy to get to, you can hop onto a metro and ride it until Jungagn Station Exit 1 or Nampo Station Exit 7 and walk for a quick six minutes.

Insider tip: Make the trip to Busan Tower between 8 and 10 pm to witness a spectacular display of lights that happen every 15 minutes.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Haeundae Market

• Why it’s awesome: A short street packed with seafood, meat, fresh veg, and Korean snacks!
• Cost: Free to roam!
• Food recommendation: Enjoy a delectable meal from any of the vendors in the market.

Also known as the Busan Traditional Food Market, Haeundae Market showcases some of the best ingredients in Korea. Take your pick from sampling seafood, meat, fresh vegetables and Korean snacks amongst other products as you walk through the short street.

This is a great spot to enjoy a lunch or dinner before continuing on to the next adventure. The entire experience will take around an hour which means that it is a quick Busan attraction to tick off your list.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Haeundae Beach Boat Cruise

• Why it’s awesome: Discover one of South Korea’s best beaches in the unique setting of a nighttime boat cruise.
• Cost: Free visit, boat cruises vary in price.
• Food recommendation: Stop at the Haeundae Market for your choice of authentic Korean cuisine

Haeundae Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Korea and for good reason. It is the perfect way to start your Busan two-day itinerary. The entire area is filled with a luxurious ambiance which only increases in intensity when you book a ride on one of the boat cruises.

A combined visit to the beach and boat cruise is a treat any time of day. However, a nighttime boat cruise is extra special, giving visitors unparalleled views of the city from the unique vantage point of the water.

Haeundae Beach is incredibly easy to access. You will arrive after a short walk from Haeundae Station, and you’ll find your toes digging gleefully in the sand. If you are visiting Busan with your significant other, this spot offers an incredibly romantic experience!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple | Gamcheon Culture Village | Gwangalli Beach | Night Tour of Busan | BIFF Square

Your two-day itinerary in Busan continues with a whirlwind list of Buscan landmarks. You’ll explore sacred temples, sandy beaches, and culturally rich villages during your second day in Busan!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

• Why it’s awesome: A combination of a unique temple and exquisite views right on the seashore.
• Cost: Free to visit, prices for parking facilities range from USD $3 to USD $6 depending on the size of the vehicle.
• Food recommendation: Beans King Toast, located near the temple, it’s a cozy spot to pop in for a quick breakfast.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a real gem and a great way to start off the second day of your vacation in Busan. The temple is not only one of the city’s most scenic spots but also one of the most culturally rich.

Located on the cusp of the shore, the temple area is surrounded by jagged rocks. The sea breeze wafts through the trees, adding an increased freshness to the atmosphere.

The temple was first built in 1376 by a Buddhist teacher and rebuilt in 1930 after unfortunate destruction due to a Japanese invasion. This history and culture of the site can be felt upon entry. This intricate history that is held within the temple grounds has created a myth-like presence.

The first sight visitors see are statues, pagodas and beautiful sea views. Passing these, visitors can move down the stairs, cross the bridge and take the time to further absorb the surroundings.

Open every day from 5 am until 7 pm and one of the most popular free Busan attractions, Yonggungsa Temple is frequented daily by locals and tourists alike. The site is accessible by both taxis and public transport.

Make sure you bring your camera with batteries fully charged, because you are going to want to save these memories!

Insider tip: If you want to experience the cherry blossoms at the temple, make sure that you visit towards the end of April and beginning of May.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gamcheon Culture Village

• Why it’s awesome: Discover the heart of Busan’s cultural identity!
• Cost: Free to visit!
• Food recommendation: Make sure that you pop into Gamjatang Restaurant for an assortment of local Korean cuisine.

Gamcheon Culture Village is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Lose all sense of time and direction, and allow yourself to get lost in the beautiful labyrinth of color and culture. Anyone planning a trip to Busan needs to make sure that at their itinerary for Busan includes a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village.

The village is perched on a hill and is made up of weaving maze-like alleys packed full of incredible cultural experiences! The area is decorated with colorful murals and sculptures, brightly painted houses, and little spots of interest scattered throughout, but that’s not all!

Gamcheon Culture Village also boasts one of the most incredible views that Busan has to offer! Whether you are marveling at one of the many art installations or taking in the astounding view of the ocean, you are in for a treat!

There are countless places in the village to pick up a unique, artsy memento from your time in the cultural hub. Make sure that you take your time meandering through the streets, dipping into various spots along the way.

For easier navigation, you can always pick up a map at the information kiosk for a small fee which will help guide your adventure, highlighting some of the village’s secret spots!

Nicknamed the ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’, the spot is a vibrant day out for the whole family. The residential area is a hot tourist attraction and is easily accessible with a subway and bus combination of public transport!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Gwangalli Beach

• Why it’s awesome: An epic view of the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge!
• Food recommendation: Treat your tastebuds to a slightly different experience at Bollywood Indian Restaurant and Bar which offers outdoor seating to enjoy the view!

Continue your Busan trip itinerary with a visit to one of Korea’s most beautiful, white-sand beaches, Gwangalli Beach! The area surrounding the beach is filled with tasty restaurants, cafes, and bars to take a breather after a very full day of exploring. Peek your head into your spot of choice and savor the flavors and browse the products on offer!

The beach also offers a wonderful view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge which is an iconic site in Busan. At night, the view becomes even more spectacular as it is lit up! Visiting the beach is just as special during the day.

Considered one of the best places in Busan to spend the afternoon, the long stretch of sand is a great spot to enjoy a walk along the coast. If you are feeling extra energetic and have a bit of time, you can walk all the way to the Skywalk!

So, grab a bottle of Soju, your fellow travelers, and make your way down to the sandy bay for the ultimate hang out experience. This is a great way to catch up on the highlights of your weekend in Busan while creating more special memories!

Even better than the view of the bridge and soft sand of the beach is the ease of getting there! Simply hop onto the subway and get off at Geumnyeonsan Station (Exit 1 or 3) and make a U-turn before turning on the first street toward the beach – easy as pie! This is a wonderful spot to relax for those backpacking South Korea .

Insider tip: This is a great spot for sundowner drinks! You have a variety of bars to choose from!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Night Tour of Busan

• Why it’s awesome: Discover Busan by night as many of the main attractions get illuminated and lit up!
• Cost: Varying prices depending on the provider, approximately USD $26.
• Food recommendation: HQ Gwangan offers a wonderful view of the sea, accompanied by some of the best cocktails in the city!

You simply can not travel to Busan without taking full advantage of the incredibly beautiful city by night! Many of Busan’s popular attractions are lit up at night, resulting in a dazzling experience. Some of these main attractions include Gwangan Bridge, Haeundae Beach, and a view of the city from Mount Hwangnyeongsan.

It can be quite a challenge to visit all of these spots on your own, and so a night tour of Busan is a great way to tick off the city lights in one, effective sweep. A night tour allows travelers to capture spectacular views, revel in the night time scenery and learn a lot about the history and culture of Busan .

In only a couple of hours, you will be able to see some of Busan’s top sights with the convenience of a guided tour. You can choose a Busan walking tour or opt for the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. Regardless of your choice, touring Busan at night is significantly easier with a group.

This is a great way to see the city differently by providing an alternative perspective. From the colorful lights of Gwangan Bridge to the twinkling skyline seen from high vantage points, a night tour promises to be a memorable experience for all!

The tour shares glimpses of unforgettable scenery. As a result, this is a great activity to do as a couple. The sparkling lights and magical atmosphere makes for the perfect romantic night out!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – BIFF Square

• Why it’s awesome: The ultimate Korean space dedicated to Korean film and theatre!
• Food recommendation: Nampo Samgyetang is a casual, family-friendly restaurant near BIFF Square that is the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat

The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) used to be held every year in BIFF Square. Around this time, new films and first-time directors were given a platform to showcase their skills. While the festival has now been moved to Busan Cinema Center, BIFF Square is still an area dedicated to this annual festival.

A visit to the iconic square will bring you up close to signatures of famous Korean celebrities (similar to the Hollywood Hall of Fame) as well as a variety of movie theatres, shops, and leisure facilities.

The area is constantly buzzing with excitement as it attracts countless visitors on a daily basis. BIFF Square is one of the best free Busan points of interest. It is a great area to indulge in the local and modern culture of Busan. The square is bustling with shopping alleys and tasty food stands.

Nampodong, the area where BIFF Square can be found, is one of Busan’s busiest downtown areas. The street expands across 428 meters and is filled to the brim with cinemas, theaters, restaurants, and shops!

There are a few must-see spots in BIFF Square namely Star Street and Festival Street where celebs have their handprints on the floor, movie theaters that showcase the best of K-drama, BIFF archway, and tasty street food.

The best time to visit the area is in the evening when the streets are brightly lit up and full of nighttime revelers. The cultural hotspot can easily be reached by subway and promises a great night out for the whole family!

Blue Backpackers Hostel

Blue Backpackers Hostel is one of the top places to stay in Busan for travelers looking for budget and comfort. For more awesome hostel options, check out our list of the best hostels in South Korea.

• Free Breakfast
• 24 Hour Security

Seomyeon Shopping Street | Seomyeon Food Market | Bujeon Market | Sea Life Busan Aquarium | Hur Shim Chung Spa

Wondering what to do for a three-day itinerary in Busan? Spending three days or even a week in Busa gives you additional time to explore all of the amazing sites that overflow from your two-day itinerary in Busan!

Seomyeon Shopping Street

• An array of fashion, cosmetics, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
• The streets are lit up with bright, colorful lights at night, adding festivity to the mood.
• Centrally located between Busan Station and Haeundae Beach.

If you are looking to shop ‘til you drop, then look no further than Seomyeon Street, Busan’s shopaholic paradise! You can easily spend the whole day exploring the various shops, from trendy fashion boutiques, cosmetic stores, to restaurants with delicious food.

Countless locals and tourists flock to the popular shopping street to enjoy one of the finest shopping experiences available in South Korea. The spot is centrally located between Busan Station and Haeundae Beach, making it an easy spot to stop by and experience for as long or short as you wish.

In addition to countless cafes, bars, food alleys, restaurants, cosmetics, and fashion shops; there are also several underground malls that offer a unique shopping experience.

The lively, bustling area has been closely compared to Seoul’s popular shopping district. The underground malls mean that the experience is also great for a wet day in Busan.

Looking for some extra special stores? Keep an eye out for Korea’s Olive Young that sells cute boxes of tea bags, which make for awesome gifts, and Peri Pera which sells high-class cosmetics!

Seomyeon Food Market

• Affordable meals served by local hawkers.
• An opportunity to taste the uniquely traditional Korean dish, Tteokbokkie (rice cakes).
• Fill your stomach for less than USD $9!

Seomyeon Food Market is an incredible, local spot where you can find a super tasty local dish at an affordable price! While most restaurants sell the traditional Pork Soup, Kalguksu (noodles), dumplings and Pajeon (Korean pancakes) , it is also the spot where you can find the uniquely Korean traditional rice cakes known as Tteokbokkie!

The street is constantly bustling with action. Although narrow, the street is easy to maneuver, with various hawkers selling their goods at every step. One of the best parts about the Seomyeon Food Market is the affordable prices of the food! You can easily eat your fill for under USD $9 per person- now that’s a steal!

If you are looking for something extra special, be sure to pop into Dog Guem What Noodle. They are known to sell some of the tastiest cold wheat noodles!

Bujeon Market

• Discover the goods in Busan’s largest market!
• Incredibly easy to access from Bujeon Metro Station.
• Dive deep into an incomparable, local foodie experience.

Bujeon Market is Busan’s largest market and an incredibly popular spot for locals. Located directly opposite from the Bujeon Metro Station, the market is constantly buzzing with locals shopping for food.

The market sells everything that you could possibly imagine! From ginseng, seafood, and vegetables to the more obscure items such as Korean side dishes and even pig’s heads! This is a great stop for backpackers making their way through Asia to stock up on some essentials.

Some of the products that you can expect include both dried and wet food, nuts, seaweed, seafood, and even clothing! The area is divided into sections so that you can easily find what you are looking for. For example, all of the fruit stalls are in one street, and all the seafood in another.

There is no shortage of items to explore, so make sure that you take your time and look at everything before deciding on what to purchase. The Bujeon Market is open daily from 4 am until 7 pm which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a breakfast, lunch, or early dinner!

Insider tip: This market is a great spot to pick up ingredients and test out your Korean culinary skills!

Sea Life Busan Aquarium

• Discover over 10,000 different species of fish, algae, reptiles, and amphibians.
• Explore the three different underground levels separated into different themes.
• Walk through the ocean floor simulator for a truly unique experience.

The Sea Life Busan Aquarium is a hotspot to visit for both tourists and locals alike. Conveniently and aptl, located near the Haeundae Beach, the attraction is open from 10 am until 5 pm from Monday to Thursday, and from 9 am until 9 pm on weekends and national holidays.

The admission fee of USD $25 for adults and USD $20 for children is 100 percent worth it as you get to explore three different underground levels that boast over 250 different species of fish alone. Not to mention the various species of reptiles, amphibians, and algae!

Make sure that you walk through the underground tunnel that resembles a walk along the ocean floor. Here, you can marvel at the incredible sea creatures swimming above you and enjoy the unique sensation of being able to breathe underwater!

A visit to Busan’s aquarium is a great outing for the whole family, promising an enriching and memorable experience for all!

Hur Shim Chung Spa

• Relax at one of South Korea’s oldest spa and beauty treatment facilities.
• Enjoy a uniquely Korean body scrub for a rejuvenating experience!
• Soak in the various pools, saunas, and hot springs.

If you are spending two days in Busan (or more) then you will definitely need to unwind and relax. Where better to do this than at one of Busan’s oldest spa facilities?

South Korea has a global reputation for incredible spa and beauty treatment facilities. It would be a sin to not indulge in one of these facilities when drawing up your Busan itinerary.

A visit to a Korean spa, otherwise known as a jimjilbang, should be high up on your list of what to do in Busan, purely for the unique and rejuvenating experience it provides. Hur Shim Chung Spa is one of the oldest in the country and very popular among locals.

A visit to Hur Shim Chung Spa is arguably one of the most authentic experiences that you can enjoy in Busan. You can choose to enjoy a traditional Korean body scrub, soak in various pools, saunas, and hot springs and relax in the herb-infused waters.

This is a great activity to do if wanting to relax while making the most of your three-day itinerary in Busan.

After creating such a wonderful Busan itinerary, you probably still have one very important question at the front of your mind- is South Korea safe ?

Busan is not only a safe city to visit, but it is also a very friendly city to visit! There are very low crime rates and travelers do not need to be fearful when planning a trip to Busan.

One day in Busan will clear away any possible concerns that you may have about safety and the only thing that you will really need to focus on is learning to indulge in a new culture!

With that being said, you may come across some begging around the subway stations, but this is a rare occurrence.

Another precaution to consider is the heightened prices around popular tourist areas. You can quite easily find yourself paying more than what a product is worth!

Lastly, it is important to note that very few people speak English. This can leave you in quite a precarious position if you find yourself lost and alone after dark. Always keep important details, such as your address, written down in case of emergencies.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Busan

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Unesco Ancient Capital Gyeongju

Gyeongju is the renowned capital of Shilla dynasty. It is loved as one of the best-preserved and most beautiful UNESCO Heritage Sites in Korea. Visiting this special historic spot makes for one of the most epic day trips from Busan.

With the help of a local guide, this trip will provide interesting details of Korean history and its culture. Prepare to learn about the intricate history of Bulguksa Temple and Anapji pond as you get transported in a comfortable ride from Busan to Gyeongju.

The afternoon will present you with a choice of visiting Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Gyochon Hanok Village.

Oedo Island or Tongyeong

Make the tough choice of choosing to visit either Oedo Island and see the Stairway to Heaven or Tongyeong and enjoy an amazing port view.

A visit to Oedo Island promises to be one of the most beautiful day trips from Busan as you visit the Stairway to Heaven and indulge in the beautiful flowers and exotic plants in the area! Famous for its marine botanical garden and wide array of flowers, Oedo Island can easily be described as Korean paradise!

Prefer a cable car ride and an incredible port view? Then a day trip to Tongyeong is perfect for your Busan itinerary! Discover interesting murals and learn about the history of the area for an unforgettable experience.

Seoul To & From Busan: KTX High-Speed Train

If you find yourself in Seoul wanting to visit the wonder of Busan, then Seoul to Busan day trip is perfect for you! The day trip to Busan from Seoul is everything you can dream of and more!

The Koran Train Express (KTX) is South Korea’s high-speed rail system and is a fast and efficient way of traveling throughout the country. Jump on board and dash through the amazing scenery of South Korea as you travel from one magnificent South Korean city to another!

The quick, three-hour trip promises scenic views of the Korean landscape from an incredibly comfortable vantage point. Why visit one Korean city in a day when you can visit two?

Premium Photography Tour

The premium photography Busan day tour combines the ancient and modern side of Busan to offer an unforgettable photography experience. This day trip includes a traditional lunch and photographer service as you discover various iconic sights of Busan.

From the popular Haeundae Beach to Dongbaek Island (Camellias Island), this tour allows travelers to truly indulge in diverse cultural experiences.

All the while, a professional photographer will be capturing your special moments. At the end of the trip, you will be given amazing enhanced photos to keep as special mementos.

South Korea: Jeonju, Pyeongchang and More

Busan is one of the top spots on a multi-city tour from Seoul. Choose from a four-day trip or a seven-day trip that provides a completely authentic cultural experience in cities across South Korea.

Travel to the best cities and historical sites in Korea with the guidance of a professional who is ready and willing to point out some golden nuggets of information. Prepare to witness dreamlike landscapes, indulge in traditional experiences, and discover cultural experiences with this multi-city tour.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Busan itinerary.

How many days do you need for a full Busan travel itinerary?

Spending 2 full days in Busan will give you enough time to explore different areas.

What should you include on a Busan 3 day itinerary?

There are loads of great things to do in Busan. Highlights include the Jagalchi Fish Market, Taejongdae, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and Gamcheon Culture Village.

Where should you stay for a weekend in Busan?

Haeundae and Gwangan are where to stay if you’re after beaches and bars. Seomyeon is best if you want to be close to everything.

Is Busan worth visiting?

Busan is a must-visit for an authentic Korean experience. From beaches and parks to temples and markets, you won’t be short of things to discover.

The amazing city is bursting at the seams with things to do, and it can be tricky to decide where to start. This comprehensive Busan itinerary should have you fully equipped to make the most of your time in the vibrant and cultural Korean city!

Busan is a city loved for its authentic approach to tourism, offering travelers the ultimate ‘live like a local’ experience. From the bustling markets to the beautiful temples and the serene beaches, Busan offers something for everyone!

So, book your flight, pack your bags and make sure that you pick one of South Korea’s top hostels as your home base. Once settled, open up your Busan itinerary and prepare to have the time of your life!

After you have your accomodation booked, read our packing recommendations to make packing for your trip easier!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Always Overseas

Best Cherry Blossom Spots to Visit in Busan

As the weather starts to warm up in Busan, locals and visitors alike eagerly anticipate the arrival of cherry blossom season. If you’re planning a trip to Busan during this time, here are the best cherry blossom spots you won’t want to miss.

Table of Contents

1. Oncheoncheon Stream

Located in the Dongnae district, Oncheoncheon Stream is a 10-kilometre-long waterway that flows from Geumgang Park to Oncheon-dong.

The stream is lined with over 1,200 cherry trees, making it one of the most popular cherry blossom spots in Busan. Every spring, the stream comes alive, creating a picturesque scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. 

Address: Yeonsan 9(gu)-dong, Yeonje-gu, Busan

2. Dalmaji Hill

Located in the Haeundae district, Dalmaji Hill is a hill that overlooks the sea and is known for its beautiful views. Every spring, the hill comes alive with pink and white blooms, creating a picturesque scene that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The hill is lined with over 1,500 cherry trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll. If you’re planning a trip to Busan during cherry blossom season, a visit to Dalmaji Hill is a must

Address: 190, Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan

3. Hwangnyeongsan Mountain

At the top of Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Nakdong River.

As you make your way up Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, you’ll be surrounded by cherry blossom trees in full bloom. The pink and white flowers create a beautiful backdrop for photos, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the view. 

Address: 391-39, Hwangnyeongsan-ro, Nam-gu, Busan 

4. Samnak Ecological Park

Located in the Sasang-gu district, Samnak Ecological Park is home to over 2,000 cherry trees, making it one of the largest cherry blossom spots in Busan. The park also covers an area of over 6 million square meters and is one of the largest ecological parks in the country.

Every year, from late March to early April, the park becomes a sea of pink and white, as the cherry blossoms bloom and create a breathtaking scene. 

Address: 1231, Nakdong-daero, Sasang-gu, Busan

5. Hwamyeong Arboretum

The Hwamyeong Arboretum is a botanical garden that is home to a variety of plants and trees, including over 600 cherry trees. Visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms while strolling through the garden’s walking paths. 

The beautiful scenery and diverse collection of trees and plants make for a memorable experience that you won’t want to miss. 

Address: 299, Sanseong-ro, Buk-gu, Busan 

6. The UN Memorial Cemetery

The UN Memorial Cemetery, located in Busan, South Korea, is a unique destination to view cherry blossoms in the spring. The cemetery is dedicated to the memory of United Nations soldiers who died during the Korean War and features a beautiful garden area filled with cherry blossom trees. 

As you walk through the cemetery, you’ll see rows of gravestones surrounded by a sea of gorgeous cherry blossom petals. The contrast is both beautiful and poignant, making for a unique and reflective experience. If you’re visiting Busan during cherry blossom season, consider adding UN Memorial Cemetery to your itinerary to pay your respects and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Address: 93 UN pyeonghwa-ro, Nam-gu, Busan

7. Beomeosa Temple

Beomeosa Temple, which dates back to the 7th century, is one of the most important temples in the region and is home to a variety of historical and cultural artefacts. In the spring, visitors flock to the temple to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom. 

The pink and white flowers create a stunning contrast against the temple’s ancient architecture, making for a memorable and photogenic experience. As you walk through the temple grounds, you’ll also find other types of trees and flowers, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. 

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, a visit to Beomeosa Temple during cherry blossom season is a must-do activity in Busan.

Address: 250 Beomeosa-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan

8.Busan National University

Busan National University is located in the Geumjeong district and is home to over 2,000 cherry trees. The campus is open to the public, making it a great spot for a relaxing picnic or a peaceful walk.

Many people come to the campus to take photos and enjoy the beauty of the flowers, while others simply come to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Address: 2 Busandaehak-ro 63beon-gil, Geumjeong-gu, Busan

9. Igidae Coastal Promenade 

Igidae Coastal Promenade is a picturesque destination to view cherry blossoms in the spring. The promenade is a popular hiking trail that runs along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. 

In the spring, the cherry blossom trees along the trail burst into bloom, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere. As you hike along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by pink and white petals, and the sweet fragrance of the cherry blossoms will fill the air. 

You’ll also find plenty of spots to take photos and enjoy the scenery, including benches and lookout points. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful stroll, aIgidae Coastal Promenade should be on your to visit list during cherry blossom season in Busan.

Address: 05-20 Igidaegongwon-ro, Yongho 3(sam)-dong, Nam-gu, Busan

10. Democracy Park

Democracy Park is a charming destination to view cherry blossoms in the spring. The park is named after the pro-democracy movement that took place in Busan in the 1980s and features a large open space filled with cherry blossom trees. 

In the spring, visitors can stroll through the park and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or relax on one of the many benches and take in the view. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a beautiful place to enjoy the cherry blossoms, Democracy Park is a must-visit destination during cherry blossom season in Busan.

Address: 19 Minjugongwon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan

Conclusion 

There are many other cherry blossom spots in Busan, but these 10 are some of the best. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a romantic spot for a date, Busan’s cherry blossoms won’t disappoint. Make sure to visit these top spots during your next trip to Busan, and immerse yourself in the beauty of spring in South Korea.

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Busan Destinations: 8 Must Visit Spots Recommended by the KTO

Busan landed eight spots on this year’s 100 Must-visit Tourist Spots in Korea 2023-2024 by the Korean Tourism Organization.

They include:

Taejongdae Cliffed Coast

Haeundae Beach & Songjeong Beach

BUSAN X the SKY and Busan Green Railway

Gamcheon Culture Village

Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge & Beach

Yongdusan and Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone

Gwangalli Beach & SUP Zone

OSIRIA Tourist Complex

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Local's Guide to Where To Stay In Busan in 2024 (First Timers)

Updated: Jan 7, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 24 Comments

From my years as an expat in Korea, I have a rather unique perspective on where to stay in Busan and what to do when you get there. Most visitors to the city try to stay near the beach, which is a great albeit expensive option in the summertime— but what if you hate crowds?

Similar to my guide on where to stay in Seoul , this post covers the main neighborhoods in Busan and the pros & cons to picking each of them. Visitors come to Busan for the beach & ocean vistas, abundant seafood, and the most famous living village in Korea: Gamcheon Culture Village .

GCV is undoubtedly known as one of the most unique places you can visit or things you can do in Korea , but many people end up missing it when they don't plan their trip well enough in advance. So to help you prioritize fun over frustration, my guide to Busan accommodation will help you pick where to sleep each night & start off each day.

Click here to read my 3 Day Busan Itinerary!

Planning a Trip to Busan

Arrival & getting around busan, where to stay in busan, what to do in busan, what to eat in busan, busan travel tips.

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

Most short-term visitors to Busan arrive by either train or plane, though some locals take the bus if they live outside of Seoul. As the second-largest city in South Korea, Busan is well-connected to the rest of the country.

Nearby cities like Gimhae, Daegu, or the historic Gyeongju are just a short bus ride away, so most visitors come for 3 or more days to make the most of all the sights in the region. The city has its own international airport, located just next door in the city of Gimhae.

Coming from Seoul to Busan, flights are extremely cheap and frequent, as are train trips. The KTX or the Mugunghwa (slow train) are the only trains from Seoul Station to Busan or vice versa . A more affordable option— and the only one, if you live outside of Seoul — is to take the bus.

There are direct buses from all of the Seoul bus terminals (I recommend Express Bus Terminal), but if you're coming from outside of the city it may be more realistic to changes buses at a nearby city. There's a Busan subway line well-connected to the bus stop where you'll arrive.

So if you go that route, you won't have trouble getting to your accommodation. Be sure to download a Korean translation app like Papago and a Korean map app like Naver Maps , as those will have the best translations and directions here.

Despite most of the attention landing on Seoul, Busan itself is still a metropolis. With millions of residents, there are multiple hubs and multiple places to stay. When figuring out where to stay in Busan, it's important to ask yourself what you want to get out of your trip. Cultural experiences? Food? Nightlife? Just some good vibes, and a feel for the city?

Busan Neighborhoods

As I said above, Busan has several hubs and each one is popular for a different reason. Debatably the most popular with visitors is Haeundae , famed for its gorgeous beaches and more laid back vibes. Second-most popular is Seomyeon , the central downtown area of the city, known for shopping & nightlife.

Stay in Seomyeon is most often compared to Seoul's Gangnam district. The other regions are still very popular, but not as well-known unless you've done your research. If you're looking for all of the beach at Haeundae but way fewer people, head to Gwangalli .

This is by no means a quiet beach area, but it is more popular with locals and therefore has a larger selection of Korean restaurants and bars. The final Busan neighborhood I recommend is Nampo & Busan Station .

These two are next door to each other, and thanks to the train system, Busan Station is often the first place that visitors see in the city. However, Nampo is the winner in this scenario, famed for its proximity to the city's main port and therefore its freshest seafood.

Note that the area around Busan Station is notoriously a bit seedy, so while you may arrive there, I'd recommend staying closer to Nampo. Generally, you should stay in Gwangalli for quiet time and a day on the beach, or in Seomyeon for the nightlife , but during the day you'll want to go elsewhere.

Both of those are central locations from which to base yourself, however, so don't rule them out as places to rest your head.

Click here to explore hotel prices in Busan.

Where To Stay In Haeundae (Beach & Nightlife)

Luxury: park hyatt busan.

For that very special weekend away, I can think of nowhere I'd rather stay than the Park Hyatt. This is the definition of opulence, with huge, cushy beds and full-length windows looking right over the bay. Guests love the breakfast buffet and in-house restaurants, as well as the quiet location and the indoor pools for when it's too cold to visit the beach.

The Park Hyatt and its gorgeous views remind me a lot of hotels along the bay in Hong Kong , and it's very popular with couples and families. King rooms start at $200USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Mid-Range: Ibis Ambassador

For the hotel experience at half the price, Ibis is your bet. Motels are very popular in Korea, but have a bad reputation for not being very clean, so some "budget hotels" have stepped in to fill the space, and Ibis has been recommended to me as the best.

Their rooms are a bit smaller than a luxury hotel's, but the beds are large and comfortable, the bathrooms are clean and shiny, and the hotel is a 2-minute walk to the beach. This hotel in particular is very popular with couples and groups of friends. Standard rooms start at just $60USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Budget: The Bay Guesthouse

Since I've found this place, The Bay has become my go-to guesthouse in the warmer months, as it just 3 minutes to the beach and 2 minutes to the metro. It's a very central location for those who plan to base themselves in one place, but travel around the whole city.

The beds are very large and comfortable, and are styled as a cross between those in Japanese capsule hotels and those in a more typical hotel. Every morning the manager even cooks breakfast for the guests, and there's coffee on the pot in the dining room.

This spot is more popular with solo travelers and younger groups of friends or backpackers. Beds start at just $20USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Where To Stay In Seomyeon (Nightlife & Shopping)

Luxury: lotte hotel.

Though better known internationally for their department stores and food products, within Korea Lotte is known for offering a variety of luxury experiences, including in their chain of hotels. Each suite offers big fluffy beds and a spacious bathroom, as well as a bevy of modern furnishings.

Especially popular with families thanks to Lotte's reputation and their spa & restaurant facilities, Lotte Hotel is located right next to Seomyeon Station and the Lotte Department Store. Double rooms start at $170USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Mid-Range: Uniqstay Hotel

While there are bunk beds available in this hotel, it's only because rooms are offered for between 1-4 people at a time, giving it a sort of bed & breakfast feel. The bar, laundry room, and computer lounge are unexpected— but not unappreciated— perks.

Since the hotel has private rooms, it's become more popular with businessmen and other solo travelers, but it is still possible to stay here if traveling Busan with kids. The staff is very friendly, and seem happy to answer any questions about the area and the city. Double rooms start at just $55USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Budget: TraveLight Busan

One of the highest-rated hostels in Busan, you've got to book early if you want to stay here. TraveLight is just a couple blocks from the subway, and offers a hotel feel in a guesthouse setting, with the addition of bedside storage for each guest.

The beds are comfortable, the staff is friendly (& speaks English), and there's even an elevator, a rare find in the budget accommodation realm. The only downside is that you'll have to bring your own full-sized towel, but that may be just a Korean quirk. Dorm beds start at just $20USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Where To Stay In Gwangalli (Food & Beach)

Mid-range: hotel h avenue.

Since it's a more local spot, Gwangalli Beach doesn't really have any luxury hotels. However, the most popular hotels in the area are Kent and H Avenue, and since Kent tends to get a litany of complaints, I'd recommend H Avenue: they've got comfortable beds, great views, and a 1-minute walk to the beach.

The rooms are a bit small, but the breakfast is delicious and the facilities are beautiful. It's definitely worth giving up a little space to have everything else fall into place. Standard double rooms start at just $65USD a night. Click here to check the latest prices.

Where To Stay In Nampo (Culture & Food)

Mid-range: stanford inn busan.

Busan doesn't have a lot of luxury hotels like you'd find in, say, Seoul, but they do have a fair number of affordable hotels. Stanford Inn is a relatively new addition to that lineup, but in the 2 years since it opened its doors, guests have been very impressed with the high quality of the rooms and the breakfast buffet.

The port-side suites have garnered the most praise, with guests impressed by the view and the proximity to the metro, just a few blocks to stations in either direction. Double rooms start at just $60USD. Click here to check the latest prices.

Budget: 24 Guesthouse

Since the Nampo neighborhood is so close to Busan Station, many hostels have popped up in the area to accommodate late-night arrivals. So with the pick of the lot, 24 Guesthouse is by far the winner for me.

Not only do they have an abundance of private rooms with their own bathrooms, but they also have very inexpensive dorm beds with just four guests, so the facilities stay quite clean. The location is also fantastic, right next to Jagalchi Station and Jagalchi Market. Dorm bed start at just $13USD a night. Click here to check the latest prices.

While there are many more activities listed in my Busan itinerary , you can think of Busan as most Seoulites do: the beachy version of Korea's capital city. Most of the people who vacation in Busan visit for the miles of coastline, including rocky shores leading to temples hidden in the mountains.

This is possible because Busan is huge, with a population of 3.5 million, comparable to cities like Berlin or Santo Domingo . Because of this, it can easily take you two hours to get from one side to the other, so I recommend you plan to visit Jeju attractions in the same region each day.

Gwangalli Beach and Haeundae Beach are the most popular attractions in Busan each summer, but year-round, tourists always flock to the beautiful and historic grounds of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple .

Further inland is the Busan Museum of Art , with both permanent and seasonal collections, as well as educational programs and seminars for visitors of all ages. Taejongdae is another popular place to visit in Busan, with a multitude of hikes, a lighthouse, a cafe, and an observatory on the grounds, all reachable by train.

Over in Nampo are Busan Tower and Huinnyeoul Culture Village , two spots with winning views of the city. Just nearby is Jagalchi Market , a foodie's paradise with a selection of the city's most famous dishes. One popular approach for me is to pick one of the major attractions in Busan and then find other interesting things to do nearby.

Busan food is not so different from that in Seoul, except for the fact that it features even more seafood. Dishes like Haemul Pajeon , Sannakji , and Hoe are relatively common (respectively a seafood pancake, fresh raw octopus, and fish eggs), and the side dishes tend to lean more fishy.

While I'd always recommend visiting chocolate shops in Busan , the city is much better-known for their meats and stews; the most famous dessert from Busan is a seed pancake with cinnamon sugar.

One of the best ways to get a quick taste of Busan is to try some of the street food. While there are an endless number depending upon the time of day and season, two of the most popular are  Eomuk  &  Ddeokbokki , which are respectively fish cakes & spicy rice cakes.

Soondae is another common food to see at street stands; it's Korean blood sausage and very popular with soju (rice liquor). Local specialty foods in Busan include Dwaeji Gukbap (pork soup with rice) and Milmyeon (wheat noodles in a meaty chilled broth), both of which you'll see grandly advertised near every tourist spot.

You'll also, of course, see lots of fresh grilled fish and other seafood, always accompanied by local banchan . One of the most popular of these is Jogae Gui , or grilled clams.

• Pollution in Korea is horrible. In recent memory, spring 2018 and winter 2019 come to mind as the worst, with many days seeing pollution levels as high as in Beijing, China. Bring or buy a face mask, although these days you'll be wearing one for another reason!
• Card is king in Korea, but ... always have some cash as backup. International cards are notorious for being rejected seemingly at random, so always keep enough money on hand to pay for your meal, entrance ticket, etc.
• Buy a T-Money Card before you leave the airport. This handy card can be reloaded at any convenience store and used to pay for the metro, buses, taxis, and in convenience stores.
• Speaking of convenience stores, most convenience stores are open 24 hours . If you're ever looking for somewhere to kill some time, stay out of the heat, or ask for help, this is your spot.
• Use your T-Money card to get around by bus outside of the city center . The bus system in Busan is great, and will be much faster to get around on in the outskirts, and much cheaper than taxis. Use Naver Maps to figure out your route (this is true for your entire South Korea trip , not just in Busan!).
• If you can't find the place, look up . If you’re looking for a guesthouse or cafe or restaurant, and you just know you’re at the right address, simply look up. It’s probably just on a waaaaaaay higher floor, like the 10th or 42nd.
• As a port city, Busan has fantastic seafood. So go to the wet market early in the morning to enjoy the freshest seafood, and have it prepared right in front of you. Fried fish is good at any hour.
• On the topic of early, there's a reason they call Korea the Land of Morning Calm⁠— nobody really gets up before 10am. So if you want to have the streets to yourself (& any other smart tourists), wake up early and eat breakfast in your hotel before heading out to your first activity.

When to Visit Busan

Much like Jeju Island , the period between April and October is the best time to visit Busan for good weather, access to tourist sites, and the best seasonal dishes. However, I'd recommend April or October if you don't mind the cold and really want to avoid the crowds.

Then if you enjoy warmer weather and don't mind a few tourists, I'd come during May, June, or September. Korean kids are out of school all of July and most of August, so that's when thousands of Koreans will flock to Busan and its nearby beaches for summer holidays.

Local sights can be different from month to month, but by late March you'll find the cherry blossoms and the festivals they bring. Then as weather continues to warm, more of the plants come to life and green overtakes the city, remaining until the weather starts to cool and the colors of the leaves change once again.

If you want to visit Busan for two days specifically to go to the beach, you should note that beaches in Korea close sometime in late September, due to the weather.

Basic Korean Lesson

So you're ready for your trip, but you don’t know any Korean! Let’s fix that. You won't be fluent overnight, but lucky for you, I’ve already broken down the English-Korean language barrier several times over. Here's a shortlist to help you order food and just generally be respectful.

Many Koreans speak enough English to understand your order, but it’s always polite to throw in a little Korean. If you want to do anything other than order food, though, you'll run into some vocabulary limits. I’d highly recommend downloading a picture-capable translation app before you go, like Google Translate.

Hello //  An-nyeong-ha-se-yo . (안녕하세요.)

Thank you //  Gam-saahm-ni-da . (감사합니다.)

Do you speak English? //  Yeong-aw jal-hae-yo?  (영어 잘해요?)

I don’t speak any Korean. //  Han-guk-aw jal-moat-hae-yo.  (한국어 잘못해요.)

How much is it? //  Eol-ma-yeh-yo?  (얼마예요?)

One of these, please. //  Ee-gaw ha-na ju-say-yo.  (이거 하나 주세요.)

It’s to-go/takeout. //  Po-jahng ee-eh-yo  or  Tae-ee-kow-shi-yay-oh.  (포장 이예요.)

Lesson complete! Now let’s go pack for Busan.

Busan Points of Interest Map

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Have you ever visited Busan, or any of the other big Korean cities? Anything else to add?

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Reader Interactions

February 27, 2024 at 5:34 am

Hi Max, thank you for your update of the locals guide for Busan. I try to figure out when is the best to stay in Busan, during the week (Mo-Thu) or at the end of the week (Thu-Sa). What would you recommend?

February 28, 2024 at 1:16 am

My pleasure, Mai! Nightlife isn't huge in Busan, so generally I'd say to go during the week for fewer crowds at attractions, but if you were super interested in visiting a late-night market or to do some shopping then the weekend would offer better venues. So it just depends on what you're looking for!

February 12, 2024 at 6:19 am

Hi Max, thank you for your detailed Blog about Busan. My boyfriend and I will go to Busan for 3-4 days at the end of November. I'm not quite sure where to stay even though I have read your Blog. Can you recommend me an area in Busan for end of November? We want to be central but not too central. After Busan we will travel to Jeonju with a bus or train, so being close to them would be nice as well. Thank you!

February 14, 2024 at 2:35 pm

Hi, Vanessa! You're there for long enough to stay somewherea bit away from the bus station, but if you still want to be relatively close by, Nampo would be your best bet. But really, anywhere near a subway stop would make it easy for you to get around during your stay. Enjoy Busan, and Jeonju, as well!

Blake Walsh

March 23, 2020 at 1:26 pm

I read your post on Busan, Korea, and I really appreciate your efforts on it. Thanks for posting such a piece of information.

March 25, 2020 at 3:24 am

You're very welcome, Blake!

January 10, 2020 at 7:29 pm

Very Detailed! Now I can truly visit!

January 11, 2020 at 4:35 pm

Thank you! I hope it helps you enjoy your trip~

September 09, 2019 at 1:43 am

I was thinking of going to Busan this upcoming weekend, but it seems like that's Chuseok weekend. In this case, should I avoid going? I heard many businesses/attractions will be closed. It seems that Chuseok is more of a family gathering holiday and not necessarily something tourists/foreigners can engage in, like a festival.

September 09, 2019 at 10:11 pm

It is indeed Chuseok! I know lots of people who visit Busan around Chuseok, though, and you shouldn't have too many problems. Just be sure to check that the activities you want to do aren't closed on Chuseok (they shouldn't be, since many families will go out together to do things after meals), and you should book a place to stay ASAP (teachers get a 4 day weekend and tend to head into the big cities!). Ask at your hotel about places to eat during your stay and enjoy your trip!

September 06, 2019 at 11:34 am

Hi there, thank you so much for this great sharing but are all these places good for winter-visit too?

September 06, 2019 at 11:21 pm

Busan gets pretty cold in the winter, despite being a port city, but the only thing I'd avoid in wintertime is beach stuff (they basically shut down in the winter). But if you really want a picture on the beach, it's worth keeping on your itinerary! I actually went to Taejongdae the first time just after New Years, so even most of the outdoor stuff is doable in winter!

July 23, 2019 at 3:18 am

Hi Max, some great suggestions on Korea. A lot of good information. I recently wrote an article about which is better Seoul or Busan, would be great if you could check it out: https://boundforbusan.com/?p=1191

Thanks again for your detailed post.

July 23, 2019 at 10:06 am

Sure. It looks like you've made a decent comparison there, Mark.

April 20, 2019 at 12:15 pm

Hello! Thanks for this post. We will be in Busan this last week of May and saw about air pollution on this month. Will sure take note of this. Thanks for the post. I like the relaxing and observing itinerary, but can we insert Gamcheon Village and Jagalchi Market in between as we want to maximize our 1 day trip to Busan. Also, which is better - Haedong Yonggungsa Temple or Taejongdae?

Thank you and God bless!

April 20, 2019 at 12:25 pm

You're very welcome, Romzahara! If you only have one day, I'd recommend Haedong Yonggungsa, and if you want to follow that itinerary and still get to GCV & Jagalchi, then I'd take out spa land and visit them then. I'm assuming this is a day trip from somewhere, and it's worth skipping out on the biggest spa to visit a smaller one elsewhere if you only have one day in Busan!

January 26, 2019 at 10:29 pm

I have honestly never heard of Busan before (my Korean geography is severely lacking) but you got my attention with the beaches and the pork belly! ?

January 27, 2019 at 2:49 pm

Glad to hear it, Sammi! I hope it also inspired you to visit sometime soon! 🙂

SecretMoona

January 23, 2019 at 8:03 pm

I am going to Korea this September and wasn't quite sure whether it was worth going to Busan or not. I am glad I read this post. It is very detailed and answered all my questions. I guess I will have to review our itinerary and include a 3 days stop there.

January 23, 2019 at 8:06 pm

If you'll be there in September it's definitely worth a stop! Weather will be beautiful. Be sure to check out Jeju, too, as kids will be in school by then, so everything will be a little less crowded!

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Christina Applegate gets graphic about symptoms after eating 'someone else's poop bacteria'

Since revealing she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2021, Christina Applegate has been candid about her health and how’s she’s doing.

Most recently, on the sixth episode of MeSsy, a podcast Applegate cohosts with Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who also has MS, Applegate revealed she’s been suffering from an illness unrelated to MS for three weeks.

Bluntly, Applegate shared that she’s been “pissing out of my a-- for a few days.”

After having just recovered from COVID which she contracted for the first time, she was sick again. “I was so dizzy. I was so sick. I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t anything,” she said.

So, her doctor ordered a stool sample, an experience she says made her even queasier, and she learned she as sapovirus. “It is when you ingest fecal matter of someone else from your food,” Applegate explained.

She’d somehow and unknowingly eaten “someone else’s poop bacteria” which led her to wake up in a pool of her own poop at 3 a.m.

After some investigating, Applegate came to the conclusion that she likely contracted the virus from a salad she ordered from a restaurant she’d been going to for 15 years. While she wouldn’t name the spot, she confirmed it was closing for reasons unrelated to sapovirus.

“Having MS at 3 o’clock in the morning and trying to change your sheets. It’s not fun,” she said. So, now she’s wearing diapers. Something she’s had to do before because of incontinence often brought on by MS.

When Applegate initially  revealed she’d been diagnosed with MS on X , formerly Twitter, she described the experience as “a strange journey.”

MS is a “potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord,”  per the Mayo Clinic . MS can create “communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body” and “permanent damage or deterioration of the nerve fibers.”

Read on for a full timeline of what Applegate has said about having MS.

April 2024: Christina Applegate reveals her MS has relapsed

On the third episode of MeSsy, Applegate revealed she was in a relapse that the time of the recording.

When Sigler kicks off the episode by asking Applegate how she’s doing Applegate responds: “I’m in relapse right now pretty bad.”

She described experiencing “intense pain in my legs, not being able to to walk to the bathroom without feeling like I’m going to fall, insane tingling that just has spurts of tingles that are weird coming from my butt down.”

Applegate revealed she hadn’t slept in 24 hours because of discomfort in her eye. Every time she’d close it, she’d feel it shift. “I tried looking it up last night and it can be a symptom of MS that could be some kind of possible damage to the optic nerve in my eye,” said Applegate. “I couldn’t sleep because every time I would close my eye, my eye would start doing some crazy shit.”

She was worried her eye was going to “burst out of my face,” plus her legs still weren’t functioning the way she needed them to. “The legs are just done,” she said. “I can’t get circulation, I can’t get them to stop hurting.”

March 2024: Christina Applegate says “(MS is) the worst thing that has ever happened to me” during a podcast appearance

On March 25, Applegate appeared on  Armchair Expert  with Dax Shepard and Monica Padman where she detailed the symptoms she’s experiencing and revealed she has 30 lesions on her brain because of the degenerative disease.

“(There are) sores all over my brain. My biggest one is behind my right eye, so my right eye hurts a lot,” she said on the podcast. It doesn’t affect her vision “right now,” she added.

“I’m not happy about the ones in my brain,” Applegate said, explaining that people with MS will sometimes have similar lesions on other parts of their bodies, including their spines.

She also said she has issues with mobility, described how her “hands go weird” and said she sometimes has a “seizure-y” feeling in her brain but not all the time.

In addition to MS, the “Dead to Me” actress revealed she also has hypothyroidism and cold sores which she isn’t sure is related to MS.

“This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me,” Applegate admitted. “I hate it so much. I’m so mad about it.”

“The second my feet hit my carpet in the morning and they’re hurting as bad as they do every single day,” Applegate says she just gets back in bed. While she knows she’s meant to stretch and attempt to walk for a few minutes per day, when she exerts herself, she feels awful for the following four days. “I beat myself up for that,” she added.

Applegate is no stranger to health challenges. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and underwent a subsequent double mastectomy. The star also  had her ovarian and fallopian tubes removed  in 2017 to reduce the risk of a recurrence.

Unlike her cancer diagnosis, there’s no hoping for a brighter future when it comes to MS, Applegate pointed out on the podcast. “There’s no, like, ringing the bell when you’re done with chemo,” she said. “You live with this for the rest of your life. And either you’re gonna die from it or you’re gonna die in a car crash.”

March 2024: Christina Applegate sits down for an interview with Robin Roberts

Applegate appeared on  ABC News  and shared details about how she’s coping with MS. Even sitting for the interview took a toll on her, Applegate admitted.

“I live kind of in hell. I’m not out a lot, so this is a little difficult, just for my system,” she said. “But of course, the support is wonderful, and I’m really grateful.”

Applegate is still in the midst of grieving her diagnosis. “I’m not putting a time stamp on it,” she said. “I’m never going to wake up and go, ‘This is awesome!’ I’m just going to tell you that. It’s just not going to happen. I wake up and I’m reminded every day.”

“I’m isolating and that’s kind of how I’m dealing with it is by not going anywhere because I don’t want to do it. It’s hard,” she added.

“(MS) can be very lonely because it’s hard to explain to people. I’m in excruciating pain, but I’m just used to it now.”

March 2024: Christina Applegate announces a new podcast with Jamie-Lynn Sigler and shares update on her symptoms

In her March 2024 ABC interview, Applegate was seated next to  Jamie-Lynn Sigler  of “The Sopranos” fame, who was diagnosed with MS 22 years ago. The two discuss their journeys with the disease in “ MeSsy ,” a new weekly podcast that premiered March 19, where they bring on co-stars and friends as guests.

“She’s the only person who really knows me,” Applegate said about Sigler in a  People cover story . “I can talk about anything with her. ... We would talk on the phone for hours, laughing and crying. And then we were like, ‘This is helping us. Let’s record this.’”

However, the podcast is not only be about MS. “That would be boring,” Applegate said. “I don’t want to talk about it that much.”

Applegate also shared an update on her symptoms.

“My symptoms are worse in the morning, like crazy-town bad,” she told People. “The pain and the numbness and the balance. It’s horrible. So of course first thing in the morning, I’m real pissed off about it all. But I don’t want to be like this always.”

She’s committed to being there for her 13-year-old daughter, “so I’ve got to fight. I got to fight.”

After revealing she’s been hospitalized many times for her condition, she also joked about her weight fluctuation and the diapers she has to wear for incontinence.

“They don’t know what’s wrong, but we’re pretty sure my stomach and my intestines are not very good friends,” Applegate said. “It causes me intense pain and vomiting. I gained 45 pounds when I was diagnosed, from steroids and lack of mobility. ... And I’ve lost 30-something. People are like, ‘What have you been doing?’ And I’m like, ‘Vomiting.’ Not Ozempic. Barfing.”

January 2024: Christina Applegate jokes about her MS diagnosis at the Emmy Awards

When Applegate walked on stage as a special guest at the 2024 Emmy Awards, she had an  emotional reaction to the standing ovation  that awaited her. But she also met the moment with her trademark humor.

“Thank you so much, oh my God,” Applegate said as she looked out to the crowd.

“You’re totally shaming me with disability by standing up, it’s fine, OK,” she teased, continuing on to say, “Body  not  by  Ozempic .”

The star later recalled some of her most well-known roles, and when the audience started to clap in response, she cracked another joke about her disability: “We don’t have to applaud every time I do something.”

Applegate was nominated for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series for her role in “Dead to Me,” but she lost to Quinta Brunson.

A few months later, in a March 2024 interview with ABC News, Applegate said she barely remembered what happened on stage that night.

“I actually kind of blacked out. People said, ‘Oh, you were so funny,’ and I’m like, I don’t even know what I said. I don’t know what I was doing. I got so freaked out that I didn’t even know what was happening anymore.”

But she maintained she felt “really beloved, and it was beautiful thing.”

June 2023: Christina Applegate gives a health update

The most recent time Applegate gave an update on her MS was in June 2023. Speaking to Variety, she said that  her disease makes it hard to act , and she wasn’t sure how long she’d be able to continue doing so.

“We don’t know what my future as an actress is going to be,” she said. “How can I handle it? How can I go onto a set and call the shots of what I need as far as my boundaries, physically?”

The prior year, in November 2022, Applegate told Variety that she believes her role in “Dead to Me” could be  her last acting job .

“I’m pretty convinced that this was it,” she said, adding that she still intends to be involved in the entertainment industry, whether that means producing projects or doing voiceover work.

In May 2023, Applegate gave a raw interview  to Vanity Fair  about her life with MS.

“With the disease of MS, it’s never a good day,” she said. “There are just certain things that people take for granted in their lives that  I  took for granted. Going down the stairs, carrying things — you can’t do that anymore. It f------ sucks. I can still drive my car short distances. I can bring up food to my kid. Up, never down.” 

The actor explained that she has a friend who lives with her during the week and helps her take care of her daughter. On weekends, she has a caretaker. According to the star, it’s better that way so she doesn’t get overwhelmed by too much social interaction.

“I also don’t want a lot of stimulation of the nervous system because it can be a little bit too much for me. I like to keep it as quiet and as mellow as possible,” she said.

November 2022: Christina Applegate opens up about her MS symptoms

While chatting with the New York Times in November 2022, Applegate  shared the physical symptoms  she experienced that led her to seek medical assistance before receiving a diagnosis.

The star explained that the signs began a few years beforehand, when she felt unbalanced while filming a dancing scene for her show  “Dead to Me.”  She also started noticing that her tennis skills weren’t quite as strong as they used to be.

“I wish I had paid attention,” she said. “But who was I to know?”

While reflecting on her diagnosis, Applegate admitted that she felt angry about what was happening to her body.

“Acceptance? No. I’m never going to accept this. I’m pissed,” she said.

November 2022: Christina Applegate wears no shoes to receive Hollywood star

Receiving her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame  in November 2022 was the first time Applegate was seen in public since sharing her diagnosis.  She wore no shoes  to the ceremony, and afterward, she took to social media to explain why.

“Barefoot. For some with MS the feeling of shoes may hurt or make us feel off balance. So today I was me. Barefoot,” she wrote on X.

She also referenced her condition in her acceptance speech, explaining that she “can’t stand for too long.” To help,  the actor used a cane , and her friend and former co-star Katey Sagal stood behind her to physically support her.

“Oh, by the way, I have a disease,” she also joked in the speech. “Did you not notice? I’m not even wearing shoes. Anyhoo, you’re supposed to laugh at that.”

August 2021: Christina Applegate reveals MS diagnosis

Christina Applegate and Sadie Grace LeNoble at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards held at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.Gilbert Flores / Variety via Getty Images

Applegate revealed  that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis on social media.

“I have been so supported by people that I know who also have this condition,” Applegate said on X, formerly Twitter. It’s been a tough road. But as we all know, the road keeps going. Unless some a------ blocks it.”

The star ended her post by asking her followers for privacy as she navigated her new normal.

The actor was diagnosed while filming the last season of “Dead to Me,” but admitted in an ABC News interview that her legs used to give out while filming the first season.

“My symptoms had started in the early part of 2021, and it was literally just tingling on my toes,” Applegate told Robin Roberts in the interview. “And by the time we started shooting in the summer of that same year, I was being brought to set in a wheelchair. Like, I couldn’t walk that far.”

When Applegate turned 50, she shared an inspirational message with her followers who may also have MS.

“It’s been a hard one. Sending so much love to all of you this day. Many are hurting today, and I am thinking of you. May we find that strength to lift our heads up. Mine currently is on my pillow. But I try,”  she wrote on X.

Since Applegate went public with her disease, she’s also leaned on her friend and fellow actor  Selma Blair, who also has MS . It was Blair who encouraged Applegate to get tested for the disease, Applegate shared in an ABC News interview.

“She has a lot on her plate. It’s a lot, but she’s as brilliant and beautiful as ever,”  Blair said  in a November 2022 interview with Entertainment Tonight.

Humor has been an important tool for Applegate to cope. While appearing on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” in December 2022,  Applegate said : “My humor shield keeps me OK. But of course, down on the insides, you feel the things. I do it to kind of deflect and also make people not scared to be around me.”

“When people see me now as a disabled person, I want them to feel comfortable that we can laugh about it,” she added.

Aryelle Siclait is the health reporter/editor at TODAY Digital

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Cincinnati Bengals Host Day Two Offensive Tackle Prospect For Visit Ahead of 2024 NFL Draft

The Bengals are eyeing offensive tackles early in the 2024 NFL Draft.

• Author: James Rapien

In this story:

CINCINNATI — The Bengals hosted Notre Dame offensive tackle Blake Fisher for a top 30 visit according to Matt Freeman of IrishSportsDaily.com.

Fisher is 54th on Daniel Jeremiah's big board, which means Cincinnati could target him in round two with the 49th overall selection. The Bengals have plenty of options in the first round and if they don't take an offensive tackle in round one , adding one in the second round would make a lot of sense.

Fisher also visited the Browns, Commanders, Eagles, Panthers, Patriots, Steelers and 49ers according to Freeman. It is worth noting that Fisher is only 21-years-old and is projected to be a third round pick by Dane Brugler of The Athletic.

For more on the Bengals' draft plans, check out our first round big board here .

Blake Fisher checking in at No. 54 isn't a huge surprise as he's gained momentum following the Combine/Pro Day. Fisher took 8 Top 30 visits over the last few weeks: Bengals, Browns, Commanders, Eagles, Panthers, Patriots, Steelers and 49ers. https://t.co/JI9m27fhAc — Matt Freeman (@mattfreemanISD) April 22, 2024

Make sure you  bookmark this site for the latest Bengals news , exclusive interviews, film breakdowns and so much more!

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Look: Complete List of All 10 Cincinnati Bengals Picks in 2024 NFL Draft

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