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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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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!

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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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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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Travel to Busan

• Things to do

I only need accommodation for part of my trip

Where to stay in Busan

Haeundae Beach and Paradise Casino are top sights in Haeundae, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Haeundae Station or Jung-dong Station to see more sights in the area.

Travellers choose Seomyeon for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Buam Station or Gaya Station and check out top sights like Lotte Department Store Busan Main Branch.

Spend some time visiting places like Busan Tower while getting to know Jung-gu, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Jungang Station or Nampo Station to see more of the area.

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Yeongdo. You might want to make time for a stop at Taejongdae Park or Huinnyeoul Culture Village.

Noted for its beaches and bars, there's plenty to explore in Suyeong-gu. Top attractions like Gwangalli Beach and Gwangan Grand Bridge are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Gwangan Station or Suyeong Station to see more of the city.

Top hotels in Busan

Reviewed on 6 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 8 Apr 2024

Reviewed on 9 Apr 2024

Frequently asked questions

Popular places to visit, gwangalli beach.

Swim in the calm water of a sheltered bay, dine at waterfront seafood bars and see uninterrupted views of Gwangan Bridge.

Haeundae Beach

Let your cares float away while you bob on a tube just off Korea’s most famous beach, where locals and tourists come to see and be seen.

Lotte Department Store Busan Main Branch

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Lotte Department Store Busan Main Branch, a popular shopping spot in Busan. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this culturally rich area.

What to do in Busan

Vietnam: sun world ba na hills, busan: gyeongju unesco world heritage guided day tour, jeonju shuttle bus service & hanbok experience(from seoul/busan), more trip options.

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The perfect 2 day Busan itinerary for first-time visitors

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: April 8, 2024

Are you in search of the ultimate Busan adventure? Look no further because we’ve got you covered!

Nestled at the southwestern edge of the country, Busan, or 부산, as locals call it, is more than just a city – it’s a vibrant tapestry of tradition and modernity. While you might stumble upon older references calling it ‘Pusan’, once you’re here, you’ll find yourself immersed in its unique charm.

For me, Busan feels like a giant metropolis with the heart of a small town, welcoming newcomers with open arms. It’s a place of contrasts, where tradition meets innovation at every turn. From its bustling streets to its serene beaches, there’s something enchanting about this city that captures the imagination.

But what truly sets Busan apart is its embrace of cultural diversity. Whether it’s through world-renowned events like the Busan International Film Festival or its lively Dance and Comedy Festivals, the city thrives on the creativity and complexity of outsiders, greeting them with warmth and hospitality.

So, what awaits you in Busan? With so much to explore, it’s essential to plan wisely. Let’s dive into a personalized Busan 2-day itinerary crafted to make the most of your two days in this jewel of the Land of the Morning Calm.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

2 Days in Busan

Here’s an incredible 2-day itinerary we’ve put together for you. But before we jump into it, let’s chat.

Take a moment to think about how leisurely you want to enjoy each of the sights in the area. And don’t forget to account for travel time between stops.

If you’ve only got 2 days in Busan, we’ve handpicked a few must-see gems that embody the essence of authentic Korea and are conveniently reachable.

In our itinerary below, we’ve tried to provide public transit options for the attractions mentioned so that you have a better idea of distances between stops. In all cases, a taxi or hired car should be quicker, so be sure to factor in your preferred transport mode when planning your movements.

As with any Korean jaunt, you need to allow slightly more time for unexpected traffic, especially during peak times.

Busan can become particularly congested, so don’t quell your excitement with unreasonable expectations on transit times.

Taking public transport is so much more adventurous than jumping into a taxi that probably has some English capabilities.

Getting lost on the bus is always a possibility in a foreign country with squiggly lines for letters, which makes it a riveting experience when you’re game for a full bank of memories.

Where to Go in Busan: Day 1

On day one in Busan, why not hit the more vibrant side of the seaside metropolis?

There are bustling fish markets, resort parks, cultural stops, and amazing architectural feats to enjoy around every corner.

It’s a captivating blend of tradition and technology that’s breathtaking against the backdrop of coastal industry and cosmopolitan throngs.

1. Take the Songdo Cable Car

On a clear day, start your morning with a spectacular perspective of the city by the sea at the Songdo Cable Car in Amnam-dong.

For the more intrepid souls, there are several glass-bottomed cable cars for extra clarity on the scenic round-trip ride. To ride these you have to pay extra for the “crystal cruise”.

Remember to take your camera. The 360-degree views of Busan city are phenomenal.

How to Get There

Take subway line 1 (the orange line) to Jagalchi station and take exit 2.

Walk down Chungmu-daero for about 50 meters until you see a bus stop where you take bus 7, 26, 71 or 96 to Songdo beach.  From here it’s about 15 minutes on foot to the cable car.

2. Wander Around Gamcheon Cultural Village

If you’re tired of blue skies and sparkling oceans (or the burgeoning crowds as the morning draws on), head over to the Gamcheon Cultural Village in Saha-gu for a cultural extravaganza.

It’s a stunning traditional setting that’s full of color, flair, street art, and photo ops.

You’ll need your walking shoes, but it’s difficult to get lost, and the views are truly a delight.

To soak in the most breathtaking panoramic views of this vibrant village, I recommend making your way up towards the library nestled in the historic hot spring building. Trust me, the scenery from up there is absolutely mesmerizing!

If you’re with children (or the young at heart), try the ‘stamp collection’ activity that’s available from the Information Center at the entrance of the village. 

It will help you enjoy the village more as you become aware of the tantalizing secrets that hide in its alleyways.

Here you can also get a paid guide map on which the major sights are indicated.

How to Get From the Songdo Cable Car to Gamcheon Cultural Village

Take subway line 1 (the orange line) to Toseong station. Continue on the local bus to Gamcheon Elementary School Bus (the stop will be announced in English).  You can take bus Saha-1-1, Seogu 2 or Seogu 2-2. 

This will take at least 40 minutes. If you are short on time, taking a taxi will be quicker.

3. Explore Jagalchi Market

Perhaps, the most famous of all Busan attractions is the bustling fish market, called Jagalchi.

It is a massive complex of seafood stores and suppliers with the freshest fish products that you’re going to find in all of South Korea.

Busan is the epicenter of the Korean coastal culture and boasts specialist dishes that are as famous with the locals as it is with international visitors.

The Jagalchi Market is the perfect place to have lunch.

Besides the freshest ‘hwae’ (raw fish, or sashimi) that you’ll find anywhere in the country, Busan also has famous seed pancakes, ‘dwaeji gukbap’ (pork soup), and ‘milmyeon’ (a wheat noodle broth that’s fantastically refreshing in the summer).

Jagalchi Market is also a central stopping point for tours, cooking classes, and curious visitors who can’t wait to try out all the flavors. It’s housed within a complex of grocery stores, specialty shops, stalls, and street restaurants.

Jagalchi Market is also quite central to many of the attractions on Day One of our Busan 2 day Itinerary, so if you need a landmark on squiggly maps, this is it.

  How to get from Gamcheon Cultural Village to the Jagalchi Market

25-30 minutes by bus (numbers 87 or 124) or a quick taxi ride.

4. Discover BIFF Square, Yongdusan Park, and Busan Tower

After a scrumptious lunch at the Jagalchi Market, make your way over to Yongdusan Park just a few minutes walk away.

It’s widely known for shopping, galleries, traditional markets, museums, and the famous Busan Tower (which is almost 120 meters tall) from where you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views during the day and at night.

Here you will find a list of nightlife activities in Busan.

This is also the area where the popular Busan International Film Festival is held (affectionately referred to as BIFF Square ), so it’s jam-packed with places to see and things to do.

If you want a healthy dose of arts and culture, the area has easy walking access to:

• Busan Modern History Museum
• Busan’s Trickeye Museum
• Museum of Musical Instruments of the World
• World Model Ship Exhibit
• Daegaksa Temple.

If it’s food and shopping you’re after, BIFF Square and Yongdusan Park are also within easy walking distance from:

• Gukje Market
• Jagalchi Market
• Bupyeong Market
• Gwangbokro (Culture and Fashion street)
• Gwangbokdong (Food street)
• Bosudong Book Street

Busan Museum of Movies

The Busan Museum of Movies opened in 2017, which makes it one of the new kids on the block as far as the cultural scene is concerned, but it also houses the mind-boggling Trickeye Museum that’s so much fun (with or without children).

The museum is in Yongdusan Park itself, so you can connect with nature and enjoy the views while you’re there.

If you only visit one museum, pick this one.

Most of the exhibits are interactive, and you can try out your movie splicing skills, ride the virtual reality roller coaster, pose with popular characters as you learn more about how movies are made, and so on.

We recommend that you acquire the affordable joint tickets for both the film and trick museums.

Spend a fascinating few hours marveling at the movies and special effects (with amazing photo ops available at the clever Trickeye exhibits along the way).

Purchase Your Tickets Here: Combi Ticket Movie and Trick Eye Museum

There is also an app available (Docent), which isn’t too highly rated but can make the experience slightly more meaningful for non-Korean speakers wanting to delve into more detail at each exhibit.

How to Get from the Jagalchi Market to BIFF Square

BIFF Square is only a three-minute walk from Jagalchi Market. Head away from the coast around the corner on Jagalchi Road and cross the main street (Gudeok-ro) to find yourself immersed in BIFF Square and surrounds.

Wander Around Yongdusan Park

The park itself is just as captivating as all the retail, culture, and entertainment options that surround it.

The Busan Tower is housed here, with its 118-meter spire as a clear landmark for orientation and wonder. There are gardens, monuments, pagodas, galleries, and plenty of rest stops and shady trees to take in the views of Busan below you.

Locals often recommend the view from the Busan Tower at night, so if you happen to be there when the lights are twinkling over the city, make your way up to the tower for another perspective.

How to Get from the Jagalchi Market to Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower

Yongdusan Park is a fifteen-minute walk from Jagalchi Market or fifteen minutes by bus (for which you need to walk a short way to the bus stop anyway).

Busan Tower is in Yongdusan Park and accessible by foot. There is an entrance fee to go up to the top of the structure and enjoy the observatory.

5. Visit Taejongdae Resort Park or Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

At the end of a busy day, you may feel the need to reconnect with nature and take a last breath of fresh air before the evening’s festivities.

There are two options from your location in the BIFF area that are well worth your time: Taejeondae Resort Park or the Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge.

Option 1: Taejongdae Resort Park

If you are up for a long and leisurely stroll in view of the seaside, put on those walking shoes and get the camera ready for the stunning Taejeongdae Resort Park.

It’s advisable to take some water with you if you’re there during the summertime, as it’s a larger area than you might imagine. We wouldn’t want you to rush through it because you’ve misjudged your hydration levels.

If time is on your side, see if you can find the temples nestled on the grounds, otherwise head directly to the observatory for the best views of the coastline and a quicker round trip.

The Yeongdo Lighthouse is right on the edge of the cliffs and gives stunning views of the sparkling blue expanse far below.

How to Get from Yongdusan Park to Taejongdae Resort Park

Bus lines 8, 30, 66, 88, 88-A, and 101 all head to Taejongdae. Take a bus if you have at least an hour to spare, otherwise, hop into a taxi.

Option 2: Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

As the afternoon draws to a close, you might prefer to skip the walking and make your way over to the Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge in Nam-gu instead.

It’s a stunning natural peninsula where you can reconnect with the natural wonder of this fascinating country.

If the bridge itself is closed (due to strong winds or adverse weather), you can still enjoy the view through the massive glass windows of the restaurant on-site. It’s even better with a drink in hand and some Korean cuisine.

How to Get From Yongdusan Park to Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

Take the metro to Busan Station (line 1/orange), exit 10.  From Busan station, you continue your journey on bus 27 for about 30-40 minutes.  The bus stop is called Oryukdo SK back gate. It takes some time to reach Haedong Yonggungsa and Oryukdo Skywalk by public transport.  

A bus will take at least an hour, so consider a taxi if you need to arrive at the bridge before closing time.

6.Walk Along Seomyeon shopping street

Many visitors are glad they’ve booked their accommodation in Busan near Seomyeon Shopping Street (where the Seomyeon subway stop is located).

It’s only six subway stops from Busan Station, and it’s bustling with restaurants, shops, and entertainment to cater to tourists and locals alike. If you’re passing through during the day or night, it’s well worth taking a leisurely look around.

If you’re hoping to mingle with the young and famous in Busan, this is where it is all happening, around the clock.

Some say this upmarket shopping scene is reminiscent of Gangnam (in Seoul) in many ways, but it definitely is not as crowded.

You’ll find whatever you need here after a long day on the go, and it’s conveniently accessible for whatever direction you happen to be traveling.

How to Get to Seomyeon Shopping Street:

The street is easily found if you head to the Seomyeon Subway Stop. From Jagalchi Market, it’s a fifteen-minute walk to Busan station (the subway stop) and then only six stops to Seomyeon.

Follow the signs at Seomyeon to orientate yourself on the street. Exit 1 or 2 will take you to the main shopping area, Exit 12 or 15 to the underground section, and Exit 7 to the Lotte Department Store. If you’re heading to Haeundae area the following day, jump on the subway for the simplest transit (It will take about forty minutes)

Busan 2-day itinerary: Day 2

After such a busy first day in Busan, you’re going to need to put your feet up for a while and unwind.

For a final day of leisure before you hit the road, why not enjoy some of the most beautiful vistas in Busan and a relaxing few hours at the beaches and spas?

1. Vist the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

We recommend starting with the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple for quiet meditation and a heap of pious traditions. This is one of the most beautiful places in Korea. 

Stairs and statues complement the spectacular ocean views below, setting the scene wonderfully for a morning of reflection and gratitude.

It’s the perfect way to start your final day in Busan.

The beautiful temple is a favorite with a great many onlookers, and it’s the kind of attraction that’s enjoyable in any season.

Snowy temple vistas by the seaside are just as breathtaking as the spring cherry blossoms or the vibrant fall tones.

It can get really busy during the weekends so we recommend visiting the temple on a weekday if you can.

How to Get from Haeundae Station to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Take the subway to Haeundae Station (Metro Line 2).  Make your way to exit 7, right in front of exit 7 is a bus stop.  Wait at this bus stop for bus 181. The bus trip should take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. You leave the bus at the Yonggungsa Temple (용궁사) stop. Signage will lead you from the bus stop to the entrance of the temple.

2. Enjoy Haeundae Beach and Sea Life Busan Aquarium

When your head is clear, and your camera lens is satisfied, head back to Haeundae Beach for the rest of the morning.

If you’re in Busan with the family, stop in at the Sea Life Busan Aquarium on Haeundae Beach after a fun morning in the sun.

There are 250 species of fish to admire and a fascinating eighty-meter ‘underground’ tunnel that makes you feel like you’re walking the ocean floor.

More Information and Booking: Sea Life Tickets

Haeundae Beach is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, and it’s the kind of place where you can kick back and unwind until you’re ready to move into a leisurely lunch at the myriad of beachside restaurants.

Then, prepare for an afternoon of retail therapy and more relaxation at the impressive Lotte Department Store in Centum City.

How to Get from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Haeundae Beach

Head back to Haeundae Station the same way you came. For orientation, the Haeundae Subway Stop is a five-minute walk from the main beach.

3. Busan Museum of Art

When you’ve had enough of the gentle surf and soft white sand, take a stroll over to the Centum City region for shopping, culture, and relaxation.

If you feel like you need a dose of culture before a serious stint as a shopaholic in Centum City, pop across the road to The Busan Museum of Art for a more contemplative experience.

It’s a small but radical collection of pieces from all over the world, and contemporary art lovers rave about the exhibition.

The Busan Museum of Art is only a few minutes away from Centum City, too, and it closes at 6 p.m.

How to Get from Haeundae Beach to the Busan Museum of Art

Walk five minutes to Haeundae subway station for three stops to Busan Museum Art, or four stops to Centum City. Or, take Bus 1001 for three stops until Centum City BEXCO (a three-minute walk from Lotte Department Store).

4. Go Shopping in the Lotte Department Store, Centum City

The grand Lotte Department Store at Centum City is a sight to behold, indeed.

The impressive complex provides an enlightening view of all that Korea has to offer in the way of technology, retail, and top-notch brands for the high-end market.

If glamor is what you seek, this is where you’ll find it, and the tenth-floor viewing garden is quite spectacular, too.

How to Get from the Busan Museum of Art to Lotte Department Store, Centum City

The museum is two minutes away from Centum City by bus or subway, and a few more minutes to walk (but not more than ten minutes).

5.Relax in Spa Land or at Gwangalli Beach

Our final two recommendations for day two of your Busan itinerary go hand-in-hand with a day of nature and relaxation: Spa Land and Gwangalli Beach.

We’ll leave it to you to decide on the order that suits you best as we are torn between the most luxurious way to end two memorable days in Busan.

Option 1 is a glorious soak and pamper in Spa Land (Centum City) after a long afternoon of shopping. The spa will be followed by a quick taxi to take you to dinner and nightlife at Gwangalli Beach. You’ll eat and marvel under the lights of the beautiful bridge that sparkles in the bay.

Option 2 is a leisurely early supper at one of the beachside restaurants in Gwangalli for a beautiful sunset that turns into a twinkling bridge scene. Excellent Korean cuisine will be followed by a nightcap at one of the quirky pubs that line the road and a quick return to the comforts of Spa Land, Centum City. The rest of the evening will be a blur of hot tubs, massages, saunas, and bliss until you retire to your hotel, utterly relaxed.

How to Get There:

Spa Land is located on the first floor of the Shinsegae Centrum City shopping center which is directly connected to Centum City Station on Subway Line 2 (green line).

Either way, we worry that you will not be in the least bit ready to leave your newfound love in the morning – Busan quickly turns into everyone’s favorite city in South Korea.

Spas in Korea are unlike most in the Western world, but telling you every detail would ruin the surprise. So, be prepared to do things ‘the Korean way.’ If you’re not sure about the protocol, ask for directions, and the friendly staff at Spa Land will be happy to oblige.

Check Prices and Availability: Busan Spa Land

How to Get from Busan to Seoul

Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city and it is well connected to the rest of Korea by both train and bus. 

The city also has an airport and several daily flights link the city to the capital.

Busan International Airport is called ‘Gimhae’.  The airport offers multiple daily flights to Seoul (both Incheon and Gimpo airport) and Jeju.

There are several flights per hour between Seoul and Busan. Flights are offered by Korean Air,   Air Busan, and Jeju Air.   The flight time is approximately 1 hour.

Because of the many daily flights, it will sometimes be cheaper to fly than to travel by KTX.

If you want to score cheap flights to Busan we advise you to have a look at Momondo , Kayak,  and  Skyscanner. 

There is a direct KTX service between Busan, Seoul, and Gyeongju.  KTX is the high-speed rail service from Korail, the national rail operator.

The KTX train is the fastest option, it requires 2 hours to reach Gyeongju (Singyeongju station) from Seoul, and getting to Busan requires about 2 hours and 45 minutes.  

The KTX train leaves Seoul from KTX Seoul Station or KTX Yongsan Station. 

Korail also operates slower and cheaper trains in between Seoul and Busan.  These are the ITX express trains and the Mugunghwa intercity trains.   Express trains reach Busan in 4 hours and 30 minutes, the intercity runs one hour longer.

Korail offers various train passes to foreign visitors.

You can choose passes for 2, 3,4, or 5 consecutive days or you can opt for the flexible select passes.

With the select passes, you can select either 2 or 4 days within a 10-window period. 

The passes offer unlimited train travel on all trains operated by Korail, including the high-speed KTX trains.

The passes are not always a good deal so make sure to compare the prices of the individual segments with the price of the pass before you buy a pass.

A return ticket for the KTX between Seoul and Busan is cheaper than the cheapest Korail pass.

Click here to get more info about the Korail pass: Korail Pass

Supreme Railways is a private high-speed operator. It offers train services between Seoul and Busan. Tickets tend to be slightly cheaper than those for the KTX and the journey takes 2,5 hours which is almost just as long as with the KTX. 

The trains depart from Suseo station in the Gangnam district of Seoul.

The perfect Seoul itinerary f or first-time visitors and  things to do in Seoul in 4 days.   Here you will find a  Seoul 4 day itinerary.  If you are looking for  the best area to stay in Seoul, click here.  Here you will find plenty of  things to do in Seoul at night. 

Various bus operators run express buses throughout South Korea. It shouldn’t be hard to find a bus from Seoul to Busan or vice versa. 

On average there are 3 buses each hour between the two cities. 

The buses leave from Dong Seoul and Seoul Gyeongbu.

The most convenient way to check the bus schedules is the website of Kobus .  The website shows the departure time and comfort level of each bus.  You can also directly reserve your tickets and seats on the bus.

Korea can be discovered very easily with a self-drive. Koreans tend to ignore the speed limits but beyond that, they drive very courteously. 

All road signs are bilingual and with the help of a navigation system such as Naver maps (Waze, Google Maps and other foreign systems don’t work properly in South Korea) it’s easy to find your way around. 

Don’t be fooled by the website of Naver which is only in Korean, the Naver maps app is perfectly bilingual.

It should take approximately 4,5 hours to get from Seoul to Busan by car.

We shared our experience of driving in South Korea along with tips about the toll roads and the local GPS apps here.

Where to Stay in Busan

Busan sprawls out across its landscape, so if it’s your first time visiting, I’d recommend opting for a centrally located spot like Seomyeon or Nampo-dong. These areas are fantastic choices, bustling with restaurants and conveniently situated near Busan’s subway system, albeit it’s somewhat limited.

Staying in Seomyeon places you within easy reach of subway lines 1 and 2, whisking you directly to popular hotspots like Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches, the tranquil Beomeosa Temple, and the bustling Jagalchi Market.

On the other hand, if you’re all about shopping and sightseeing, Nampo-dong is the perfect base for your adventures in Busan.

Below we share an overview of the best hotels in Seomyeon and Nampo-dong.  For more information, you can also read our in-depth guide on where to stay in Busan .

Hotels in Seomyeon

Lotte hotel busan.

The Lotte Hotel lies close to the Seomyson subway station. You will stay in spacious and well-kept rooms. The friendly staff speaks very well English. The hotel offers direct access to the Lotte department store and there are many other dining options nearby as well.

The perfect choice if you want to pamper yourself for a few days.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Busan

The Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel lies near the Lotte department store. You will also find plenty of restaurants in the neighborhood.  The hotel lies a 10-minute walk from the Seomyeon subway station.  

This is a good place to stay if you are looking for a comfortable well-located hotel.

Arban hotel 

The Arban Hotel is located a little south of the Lotte Mall.  The hotel lies within walking distance of restaurants, the underground shopping mall, and the subway. You will stay in a spacious and clean room. The staff speaks English fluently. 

The perfect hotel if you are looking for good price value.

Hotels in Nampo-Dong

Aventree hotel busan.

The Aventree Hotel  is located in the middle of the Nampo shopping street and close to tourist attractions such as the Jagalchi Fish Market, Busan Tower, and Gukje Market as well as the subway. Clean rooms with comfortable beds. The hotel staff speaks fluent English. 

Comfortable stay in a great location

Nampo Hound Hotel Premier

The Nampo Hound Hotel  is a brand-new hotel. It lies within walking distance of the subway and the Nampo shopping street.

Wonderful rooms with comfy beds and a big bathroom.

If you aren’t convinced of these hotels, you can find more hotels in our in-depth guide about  where to stay in Busan.

This itinerary will show you most of the city’s highlights over an exciting 2 days.  Busan is, together with Seoul and Gyeongju, a city not to be missed during a trip to South Korea.

The city is very extensive and the subway fails to get you to most of the tourist highlights.

If you want to check off all the items on this itinerary we recommend you rent a car.   Traffic was mostly relaxed during our stay in the city although some parts of the city get congested during rush hours.

If you only have 2 days and prefer not to drive yourself, it is best to opt for an organized tour .

If you have more days to spend in Busan, it could be fun to make a day trip.  Here you can find a complete overview of the best Busan day trips. 

Enjoy your time in Busan and make sure to try some of the fantastic local food.

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
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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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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Gimhae International Airport Guide

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Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Busan: The Complete Guide

Busan is the second largest city in South Korea, thus offering a host of activities, fine dining, nightlife, and more. It is home to the world-famous Haeundae beach and Shinsegae, one of the largest department stores for world-class shopping . Busan is the perfect destination for party goers, or families looking for a chilled out holiday on the beach. Whether you want to indulge in traditional Korean spoils like Korean bathhouses (jimjilbangs), visit temples and cultural villages, or partake in more of the cosmopolitan offerings, the choices are abundant in Busan. Use this guide to assist you on your journey to Busan.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Busan is from May through September. The summer months are peak travel time to the city, due to warm and sunny weather. Tourists can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and festivals during this time.
• Language: Korean is the official language; however, English is widely spoken throughout the city.
• Currency: The South Korean Won is the official currency.
• Getting Around: Busan has an extensive public transportation system that comprises buses, a metro, and train network. The city rail network is operated by the Busan Transportation Corporation, or Humetro .
• Travel Tip: If you are visiting Busan after Seoul and already have a T-money transport card, this card can be used in Busan as well. If you need to purchase a card once arriving to Busan, the pre-paid Cashbee card is recommended.

Things to Do

There are plenty of things to do and see during a visit to Busan, from stunning beaches to museums and historical sites. Here are some of the best things to do.

• Busan is home to the world’s largest department store, Shinsegae Centum City , according to the Guinness Book of World Records  . The store features the famous Spaland, a massive multiplex movie theater, a theme park, and ice skating rink. It’s the place to go to enjoy glamorous shops, fine-dining, and relaxation at its finest.
• Visit the UN Memorial Cemetery to view the burial grounds of veterans from the Korean War. It is one of the only United Nations cemeteries in the world and is home to a sculpture park and Wall of Remembrance, which is inscribed with the names of 40,896 UN service members who died or went missing during the Korean War  .
• Located in the Seungdumal region of Busan is the Oryukdo Skywalk , a glass bridge suspended over a cliff. Visitors can watch the crashing waves flow beneath the clear floor and take in stunning views of the sea.

Discover more attractions with our full-length articles on the top things to do in Busan and the best places to shop in Busan .

What to Eat and Drink

Busan has an eclectic selection of foods from around the world. While the port city is known for its fresh seafood, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have a wide array of international dishes and restaurants for tourists to dine upon. No matter if you’re looking for a fine-dining establishment or traditional Korean street food, you’ll have many options in Busan.

Check out this article regarding an unconventional but delectable restaurant option to consider while in Busan.

• Located in the Park Hyatt Busan hotel is the Dining Room , a sophisticated steak and seafood restaurant. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to try local catches as well as high-end cocktails and desserts.
• Situated in the Haeundae area is Mad for Garlic , which is known for just that—delicious garlicky twists on favorites such as pizza, pasta, and steak.
• Mugunghwa is a traditional Korean restaurant located in Lotte Hotel Busan . It caters to an upscale crowd interested in trying Korean BBQ and the famed samgyetang, aka ginseng chicken soup.

Learn about the best dishes to try while in town and also the top restaurants in Busan .

Where to Stay

Busan is made of up vibrant, bustling neighborhoods, from trendy and artsy ones to more traditional and historic areas. Centrally located Seomyeon and chill beach areas of Haeundae and Gwangan’s Gwangalli Beach are a few popular options for visitors.

A top pick of luxurious five-star hotels is The Westin Chosun Busan located right on Haeundae beach. The ritzy hotel features an indoor swimming pool, spa, and fitness center. Or, right in the center of Seomyeon (a district famed for shopping) is Lotte Hotel Busan . It offers high-end restaurants and world-class facilities such as a casino, spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

For more hotel options in Busan , check out our full-length article.

Getting There

The main airport in Busan is Gimhae International Airport , the fourth busiest airport in South Korea. It serves more than 16 million passengers annually, so give yourself plenty of time to arrive via either public transport or self-driving modes. Upon arrival, there are plenty of public transportation options to travel around the city, including buses and the metro operated by the Busan Transportation Corporation .

Culture and Customs

South Korea is a country that thrives on tradition and cultural beliefs. In particular, family and respect to elders is a very important component  . The traditional greeting in Korea is to bow followed by a handshake among men. To show respect while shaking hands, make sure you support your right forearm with your left hand. Korean women may nod as opposed to a handshake with Western men, but with other women a handshake is fine.

Koreans are very hard-working and value education and success. In a group setting, you may notice that younger people do not make direct eye contact with elders, especially if in a social work setting. It’s a sign of respect between junior and senior businesspeople to avoid direct eye contact. When dining out, no need to tip, as is the case around the rest of South Korea.

Money-Saving Tips

While Busan is already a pretty affordable city, there are numerous ways to save money during your time in the energetic city. The city offers an incredible amount of cheap eats and food stalls, as well as cheap pubs to enjoy while on a trip. Below are some ways to stay on a budget while in Busan.

• Purchase a public transport pass for the amount of time of your visit instead of daily passes. Pre-load a T-money or Cashbee card to move about the city.
• Visitors can opt to stay in dormitory style accommodations or hostels while in the city.
• Instead of eating out at restaurants every day, enjoy affordable street food that is located all over the city. Some Korean faves include kimchi pancakes, fish cakes, and Jogae Gui (grilled clam

Guinness Book of World Records. "Largest Department Store."

American Battle Monuments Commission. " Busan Korean War Monument ."

Britannica." South Korea Daily Life and Social Customs ."

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Busan Beyond the Beach: A 3-Day Journey Through Korea’s Coastal Metropolis

Last updated on March 3rd, 2024 at 10:55 am

Welcome to Busan, a captivating coastal city in South Korea that effortlessly blends modernity with tradition. This bustling metropolis offers a plethora of exciting experiences, from stunning beaches and historical landmarks to vibrant street markets and delectable cuisine. In this Busan Travel Itinerary, we present a detailed Busan 3 Day Itinerary packed with fun things to do in Busan, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this alluring destination.

Busan Travel Guide

How to get to busan.

By Air: Fly Directly to Busan For international travelers, flying directly to Busan is the most convenient and time-efficient option. Busan’s Gimhae International Airport (PUS) serves numerous international and domestic flights, making it easy to reach from major cities worldwide.

Once you land at Gimhae Airport, you can conveniently access the city center by airport limousine buses, taxis, or the metro. The airport limousine buses provide comfortable transfers to various destinations in Busan, while taxis offer a more personalized service. The metro system connects the airport to major areas, including Haeundae, Nampo-Dong, and Seomyeon, allowing for a seamless journey within the city.

By Train: Arrive at Busan Station If you prefer a scenic journey, traveling by train to Busan is an excellent choice. Korea’s high-speed KTX trains connect major cities, including Seoul, to Busan, providing a comfortable and efficient travel option.

The KTX trains offer different classes, including standard and first-class seats, and they whisk you to Busan Station in around 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at Busan Station, you’ll find various transportation options, such as taxis and the metro, to reach your accommodation or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

By Bus: Affordable and Flexible Travel Traveling to Busan by intercity buses is an affordable and flexible option, particularly for those who prefer a leisurely journey. Bus terminals in major cities across South Korea operate frequent buses to Busan, offering a convenient way to access the city.

Upon arrival at Busan’s central bus terminals, such as Nopo Bus Terminal or Seobu Bus Terminal, you can take taxis or the metro to reach your desired destination within the city.

Where to Stay in Busan:

With its diverse neighborhoods and accommodation options, Busan caters to every traveler’s desires. Whether you prefer a relaxing beach escape, a bustling city experience, or a shopping extravaganza, Find the perfect place to stay during your unforgettable Busan 3 Day Itinerary adventure. So, pick your ideal location and get ready to explore the vibrant beauty of South Korea’s coastal gem!

Haeundae Beach Area: Coastal Serenity and Vibrant Charm

If you crave the soothing sounds of the ocean and a laid-back beach vibe, Haeundae is the perfect neighborhood where To Stay In Busan. This famous beach district is bustling with energy, offering a plethora of entertainment options, from beachfront cafes and seafood restaurants to lively nightlife venues.

Best Hotels in Haeundae:

– Paradise Hotel Busan : A luxurious beachfront resort boasting stunning views of Haeundae Beach and lavish amenities, perfect for a relaxing stay.

– The Westin Josun Busan : An elegant 5-star hotel with a direct view of the ocean, offering easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.

Nampo-Dong: Downtown Convenience and Culture

For those seeking a more urban experience, Nampo-Dong is the heart of Busan’s downtown area. This bustling district is home to vibrant street markets, shopping centers, and cultural landmarks, providing a perfect spot where To Stay In Busan with a blend of modernity and tradition.

Best Hotels in Nampo-Dong:

– Lotte Hotel Busan : A luxury hotel with modern comforts and easy access to Nampo’s shopping streets, making it ideal for shopping enthusiasts.

– Hotel Foret Busan Station : A stylish boutique hotel near Busan Station, perfect for easy transportation links to various attractions.

Seomyeon: Shopping and Entertainment Hub

If you want to be in the midst of shopping and entertainment, Seomyeon is the place where to stay In Busan . This lively district is a shopping haven with an array of fashion boutiques, department stores, and trendy cafes.

Best Hotels in Seomyeon:

– Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Busan : A contemporary hotel 4 star hotel with breakfast, situated close to shopping and dining options.

– Hotel The Lua : A cozy boutique hotel with easy access to Seomyeon’s vibrant nightlife and shopping streets.

Things To Do In Busan

Busan, South Korea, offers a wide range of exciting activities and attractions. Some of the best things to do in Busan include visiting Haeundae Beach, exploring Gamcheon Culture Village, hiking in the beautiful Geumjeongsan Mountain, experiencing the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, and enjoying the panoramic views from the Busan Tower. Don’t forget to also try the local seafood dishes and relax in the rejuvenating hot springs at Spa Land Centum City. The Official Busan Travel Site is Visit Busan .

• 1. Visit Haeundae Beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and water.
• 2. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village with its colorful houses and art installations.
• 3. Hike up Geumjeongsan Mountain for stunning views of the city and nature.
• 4. Haeunde Blueline Park – 4.8km Ride in a small train through Cheongsapo and to Songjeong.
• 5. Enjoy panoramic views of Busan from the iconic Busan Tower.
• 6. Wander through the beautiful Taejongdae Park and its coastal cliffs.
• 7. Discover the historical and cultural exhibits at the Busan Museum.
• 8. Relax and rejuvenate at Spa Land Centum City, one of Asia’s largest hot spring spa facilities.
• 9. Take a stroll along the picturesque Gwangalli Beach and the Gwangandaegyo Bridge.
• 10. Immerse yourself in the traditional Korean culture at the Busan Hanbok Experience Center.

Day 1: Unveiling the Seaside Charms

On your first day in Busan, kick off your adventure by exploring the picturesque Haeundae Beach. As one of the most famous beaches in the city, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore. For panoramic views of the city’s skyline and coastline, head to the Busan Skywalk, a stunning glass bridge that extends over the ocean.

Transitioning to cultural delights, visit the Beomeosa Temple, a sacred Buddhist site nestled in the foothills of Geumjeongsan Mountain. Admire the intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings, offering a serene escape from the urban hustle. 

Day 2: Embracing History and Culture

Start your second day at Gamcheon Culture Village, a vibrant community adorned with colorful houses and captivating street art. Take Sunway Line 1 and exit Toseong Station, and bus 2. Get lost in the narrow alleys and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while discovering charming cafes and local shops. Next, delve into Busan’s maritime heritage at the Korea Maritime Museum, where interactive exhibits and artifacts shed light on the city’s seafaring past.

Transition to a taste of Busan’s culinary wonders by indulging in a seafood feast at the Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest fish market in Korea. Savor the freshest catch of the day prepared in various mouthwatering dishes. Conclude your day at the Gwangalli Beach, renowned for its picturesque nightscape as the Gwangandaegyo Bridge illuminates the skyline.

Day 3: Nature and Tranquility

On your final day of your Busan Travel Itinerary, venture to Taejongdae, a scenic park offering breathtaking coastal views and lush landscapes. Take a refreshing hike to the Yeongdo Lighthouse and explore the rugged cliffs, which offer a stunning vantage point over the ocean.

Transitioning to a moment of relaxation, unwind at the Spa Land Centum City, one of the world’s largest spas. Pamper yourself with rejuvenating treatments and soak in the soothing mineral-rich waters of various themed saunas.

Conclusion of Our Busan Travel Itinerary:

Busan, with its diverse attractions and dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, promises an unforgettable travel experience. From stunning beaches and cultural landmarks to delectable cuisine and serene parks, this bustling coastal gem has something for every traveler to relish. So pack your bags, follow our Busan 3 Day Itinerary Travel Guide, and embark on an exciting journey through the enchanting streets of Busan. Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide

What is the best time to visit Busan?

The best time to visit Busan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

How can I get around in Busan?

Busan has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis, making it easy to navigate the city.

Is Busan safe for solo travelers?

Busan is generally considered safe for solo travelers. However, like any other city, it’s essential to take standard precautions and stay vigilant in crowded areas.

Are English signs available in Busan?

While most major tourist attractions have English signage, it’s helpful to have a translation app or basic Korean phrases to facilitate communication.

Join Me As I Document My Travel Adventures Through Asia.

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Busan 5 Day Itinerary: South Korea for First Timers

If you’re a first-time traveller to the remarkable coastal city of Busan, you’re in for a treat! Just like my own experience, Busan is the perfect introduction to the magic of South Korea. And to help kick start your trip, here is my Busan 5 day itinerary that includes the best sights, how to get around, where to eat and so much more. 

I remember the excitement I felt as I touched down in this coastal gem, not quite knowing what to expect. Busan was my first stop on a week-and-a-half solo adventure, and it set the bar incredibly high for the adventures that followed.

Over a few incredible days, I discovered a city that had me absolutely captivated. From stunning beaches to rich culture, historic sites, delicious cuisine, and the energy of a bustling city, Busan truly offers a little bit of everything. In this blog post, I’ll take you through a meticulously crafted 5-day itinerary that will allow you to soak up the best of Busan, just as I did.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to be inspired and, most importantly, prepared for an amazing journey through this beautiful coastal city. 

If you’re looking for a taste of South Korea that’ll leave you wanting more, this Busan adventure is the perfect starting point. 

Let’s dive in! 

DO YOU HAVE THESE ITEMS FOR YOUR TRIP?

✔️ Flights: Book your flights on Skyscanner 

➡️ Car rental: Rent your car on DiscoverCars

✔️ Travel insurance:   I recommend World Nomads

➡️ Accommodations:   Book your stay at booking.com

✔️ Activities:   Arrange your adventure trips and tours

Planning Your Busan 5 Day Itinerary

Planning your Busan 5-day itinerary is an exciting but overwhelming task. Like a kid in a candy store, you can choose from an assortment of attractions, each with its own unique flavour. 

To make the most of your time in this incredible city, I recommend starting with a bit of everything. 

Begin with the stunning coastal views, let the culture wash over you, savour the local food, and embrace the lively city vibes. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a beach bum, a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves to explore new horizons, Busan has something to offer. 

And with the right plan in place, you can enjoy it all. 

So, let’s roll up our sleeves, dig into the details, and craft an itinerary that will ensure your first visit to Busan is absolutely unforgettable. 

⭐ Love my travel guides and itineraries? I’m here to design a custom itinerary tailored to your travel dreams! Fill out the contact form below, and let’s plan your dream trip! ⭐

⏬ Custom Travel Itineraries Enquiry Form ⏬

➡️ Learn more about my custom travel itinerary services here .

Busan 5 Day Itinerary Summary 

Day 1: Arrive in Busan and explore Seomyeon Day 2: Gamceheon Culture Village, Jagalachi Markets and Busan Tower Day 3: Haeunde Beach and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple  Day 4: Songdo Marine Cable Car or Oryukdo Skywalk, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market and Gwangalli Beach Day 5: Taejongdae and Spa Land

Map of Busan in 5 Days

Busan Travel Essentials

• Grab the Visit Busan Pass , exclusively available for international travellers, and save money! Enjoy free access to 40+ attractions, tour buses/trams, and discounts for tours & restaurants. 
• Now, staying connected is a must, right? Pick up a 4G SIM card with unlimited data (KT) or 4G SIM (SKT) at Seoul or Busan airport. But if you prefer to connect multiple devices, rent a 4G Pocket WiFi . Reserve in advance to save time!
• Grab your T Money Card from the airport to make getting around South Korea a breeze. Your T Money card is your ticket to Korea’s subways, buses and taxis. Easily top up your card at the subway station machines. 
• Buy a discounted KTX pass for unlimited high-speed train rides. It’ll whisk you from Seoul to Busan in under 2.5 hours. Now, that’s the way to travel!
• Book your airport pickup in advance for a more cost-effective journey. Gimhae Airport is far from the city centre and Uber’s aren’t available, plus a taxi will cost you big bucks. 
• Google Maps , Rome 2 Rio and Kakao Maps will be your best friends for getting around South Korea

Busan in Five Days: Where to Stay

Not going to lie, I found deciding on where to stay in Busan quite tricky. It was the battle of staying near the beach in Haeunde or opting for the trendy city centre of Seomyeon that makes getting around a breeze. 

I personally opted to make Seomyeon my home base as it is smack-bang in the centre of all attractions making it a convenient place to stay.

One of the top perks of staying in Seomyeon is its unbeatable proximity to public transport. Seomyeon Station, in particular, is a major interchange where Lines 1 and 2 intersect, making it a convenient starting point for your adventures.

So, if you’re anything like me and you’re all about maximizing your exploration with a meticulously crafted itinerary, Seomyeon is where you want to be.

Plus, the vibe in this part of the city is simply off the charts. You’ll find trendy spots around every corner.

That being said if you’re daydreaming of early morning beach strolls or perhaps indulging in cocktails while the sun sets, consider Haundae. It’s a bit further from the city centre and the major cultural attractions, but the trade-off is that you’ll be just steps away from one of Busan’s most famous beaches. 

The Busan 5 day itinerary I have designed for you is based on staying in Seomyeon. If you are staying elsewhere you will just need to adjust a few transport routes but the base should stay the same.

Top 3 Recommended Stays in Busan

• Shire Hotel Seomyeon (Where I stayed): The perfect affordable hotel
• HOTEL LENITH Seomyeon: Excellent mid-range hotel in a great location
• Felix by STX Hotel & Suite Haeunde: Mid-range hotel near the beach

Busan Itinerary Day 1: Arrive & Seomyeon

Your Busan adventure begins on Day 1 with your arrival in the city and your stay in Seomyeon. 

Arrive in Busan

If you’re travelling from Seoul via the KTX train, you’ll arrive at Busan Station. The KTX is a convenient and swift option, taking you from the heart of Seoul to the centre of Busan in just around 2.5 hours.

When you arrive at Busan Station, switch from the train station to the subway station and hop on Subway Line 1 towards Seomyeon Station. From there you can either walk or jump in a taxi to reach your accommodation. 

If you land at Gimhae International Airport, you have several options to reach the city centre. The most common and convenient choice is to hop on the Gimhae Light Rail. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to reach various parts of Busan, and it connects directly to the city’s subway system. 

To reach Seoymyeon from Gimhae, jump on th e Gimhae Light Rail to Sasang Station . From there hop on Busan Line 2 towards Seomyeonn Station.

Settling into Seomyeon

Check into your chosen accommodation, or store your bags so you can spend the afternoon exploring Seomyeon!

Exploring Seomyeon

Get the lay of the land by strolling through the streets of Seomyeon. This was the first thing I did on my trip to Busan and it gave me the perfect first glimpse of the trendy city of Seomyeon.

Take your time strolling through the bustling streets, exploring hidden gems, and perhaps indulging in a little retail therapy.

If you’ve had a long day and are in need of some caffeine, head to Jeonpo Cafe Street for some hip coffee roasters & arty-themed cafes. 

Now that you’ve fallen in love with Seomyeon and had your coffee fix, it’s time for a bite to eat. 

Samjung Tower For A Bite To Eat

Samjung Tower is an exciting and modern shopping complex. With its impressive 17 floors, it offers a diverse range of opportunities for shopping, dining and entertainment. 

Samjung Tower’s food court is a paradise for food enthusiasts. You can savour a variety of local and international cuisines, from Korean favourites to fast food and more. It’s the perfect place for a quick bite to eat.

Now, it’s time to head back to your accommodation to check in and freshen up for an evening in Seomyeon. 

First Evening in Busan

What better way to get stuck into Korean food than with some Korean BBQ for dinner?

Seomyeon boasts numerous Korean BBQ restaurants where you can grill your own meat at the table. 

Try places like Matchandeul Wang Sogeum Gui for a mouthwatering barbecue experience.

And if you’re up for some nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and karaoke spots to explore. Whether you’re into partying or prefer a more relaxed evening, Seomyeon has something for everyone.

Busan Itinerary Day 2: Gamcheon Culture Village & Jagalachi Fish Market

Onto day 2!

Gamcheon Culture Village

Today you are heading on a colourful journey through the Gamcheon Culture Village, one of my favourite places in Busan!

From Seomyeon, you can take th e Busan Metro Line 1 from Seomyeon Station to Toseong Station.

Take exit 6 which is signposted towards Gamcheon Culture Village and then turn right up the main road at the exit. 

The road will take you up towards the Busan University Hospital and then you’ll see a bus stop, it’s the first one you come across on this road and you will likely see other tourists there. 

There are many buses that leave from here but you need to get either B us 2, Bus 2-2, or Bus 1-1 to Gamcheon Culture Village . The buses are little green minibuses.

Make sure to have your T Money Card ready! 

Tip: Google Maps will tell you to walk 1km from the station to Gamechon Culture Village. I would not recommend it at all. The walk has very steep hills and is not worth wasting your energy conquering.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi for a quicker ride.

When you arrive, spend your time taking photos from the various lookouts, strolling the colourful alleys, and searching for gorgeous murals.

Jagalachi Fish Market

After your Gamcheon adventure take bus 1-1 back to Toseong Station. Hop on Busan Metro Line 1 from Toseong Station to Jagalachi Station.

Dive into Busan’s maritime culture at the Jagalachi Fish Market , savouring fresh seafood and absorbing the bustling atmosphere. Sample Busan’s freshest catches, from sashimi to grilled fish, and don’t miss the iconic hoe (raw fish) that the market is famous for.

Make sure to explore both the indoor and outdoor sections of the market.

BIFF Square and Busan Tower

 From Jagalachi Fish Market, BIFF Square is within walking distance.

 BIFF Square is a hub for shopping and entertainment. You can window shop enjoy the lively atmosphere, and experience the film-themed attractions that the square is known for. 

Don’t miss heading to Busan Tower (walking distance from BIFF Square) for insane views of Busan.

I was hesitant as it is a little on the pricey side, but trust me the views are like no other. You will see the colourful culture villages, the ocean and the uniform city buildings.

To return to Seomyeon, simply retrace your steps using the Busan Metro Line 1 . You can catch the subway from Nampo Station and travel back to Seomyeon Station.

❗  Don’t forget your travel insurance! I highly recommend  World Nomads  for its affordable and comprehensive cover

Busan Itinerary Day 3: Haeunde Beach & Haedong Yonggungsa Temple 

Day 3 of your Busan adventure brings a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty as you explore Haeundae Beach and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Here’s how to make the most of your day.

Haeundae Beach

From Seomyeon, you can reach Haeundae Beach by taking the Busan Metro Line 2 from Seomyeon Station to Haeundae Station. 

The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes . Once you exit the station, it’s a short walk to the beach.

Haeunde Beach is the perfect place to unwind, lay in the sun, or take a walk along the shore. You’ll also find beachfront cafes where you can grab a cup of coffee with a view of the sea.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

After your beach time, hop on bus 1001 at Haunde Station . After 20 minutes, get off at Dongbusan Tourist complex and walk 750m uphill to the temple. 

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a unique coastal temple perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. 

Explore the temple’s beautiful architecture, visit the pagoda, and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean. Don’t forget to make a wish at the Wishing Pond.

To return to Seomyeon, hop on bus 1001 at the bottom of the hill of the temple. Get off at Haunde Station and walk to the subway station. Then jump on Busan Line 2 to Seomyeon Station.

Busan Itinerary Day 4: Songdo Cable Car / Oryukdo Skywalk, Markets & Gwangalli Beach

Day 4 of your Busan adventure brings you a day filled with breathtaking views, Korean food and some shopping. 

Songdo Cable Car and Oryukdo Skywalk

You have two fantastic options this morning.

Option 1 Songdo Cable Car: To reach Songdo Cable Car, hop on Busan Metro Line 1 from Seomyeon Station to Jagalachi Station. Transfer to Jagalachi bus station and catch bus 30 to Songdo Beach.

➡️ Book your Busan Air Cruise Cable Car Ticket

Option 2 Oryukdo Skywalk: For the Oryukdo Skywalk, jump on Subway Line 2 from Seomyeon Station to Kyunsung Univ. Pukyong Nat’l Univ Station. From there you will need to take a 7-minute taxi.

Whether you choose the cable car or the skywalk, you’re in for stunning beach views. Songdo Cable Car offers a scenic ride over the sea, while Oryukdo Skywalk allows you to walk on a transparent glass walkway, giving you a unique perspective of the coastal cliffs.

Bupyeong Kkangtong Market

To reach Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, you can take a taxi from Songdo Cable Car or Oryukdo Skywalk (20-30 minutes) or if you’re on a tight budget, you can take public transport. I recommend you check Google Maps for your best options. 

The market is a lively and colourful hub for local bites.

It’s the perfect place to sample Busan’s unique dishes and explore the rich flavours of the city. Try favourites like ssiat hotteok (seed-filled pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).

Gwangalli Beach

As the sun begins to set head to Gwangalli Beach from Bupyeong Kkangtong Market. Walk 800m to Nampodong bus station and hop on bus 1003 towards Gwangan Statio n. From there walk for about 15 minutes until you reach Gwangalli Beach. The journey should take around 45 minutes. 

Gwangalli Beach is known for its beautiful Gwangan Bridge, which is beautifully lit up at night. 

Take a nice stroll along the beach and admire the stunning views. This is also a great spot for some last-minute souvenir shopping, and you’ll find various shops and stalls along the beachfront.

Busan Itinerary Day 5: Taejongdae & Spa Land

It’s your final day in Busan, sad face. Here’s how to make the most of your day, along with details on how to get to and from each attraction.

To reach Taejongdae, hop on Subway Line 1 from Seomyeon Station to Jungang Station which is a 13-minute journey. Transfer to Jungang bus station and hop on bus 88 or 66 and after 30 minutes you’ll reach Taejondae.

Taejongdae is known for its picturesque cliffs and breathtaking coastal views. The park is filled with scenic walking trails, lighthouses, and gorgeous landscapes. 

Spa Land in Shinsegae Centum City

Next up, what better way to end your busan 5 day itinerary than with a trip to the spa! 

To get to Spa Land , you can take a 20-minute taxi from Taejongdae or hop on the bus for a more scenic journey that will take a bit over an hour. Catch bus 1006 from Taejongdae bus station and hop off at Centum city station. From there it’s just a 5-minute walk to the spa. 

The spa is located within Shinsegae Centum City, one of the world’s largest department stores, so you can’t miss it.

Spa Land is the perfect place to relax and unwind after your morning exploration. As a renowned jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) and hot spring facility, it offers a wide range of thermal baths, saunas, and relaxation areas. 

➡️ Book your Spa Land ticket here

Heading Back to Seomyeon

To return to Seomyeon use the Busan Line 2 from Centum City Station to Seomyeon Station for an easy and quick journey (20 minutes).

FAQs: Busan 5 Day Itinerary

Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about your Busan 5 day itinerary. 

Is 5 days in Busan enough?

Absolutely! Spending 5 days in Busan is a fantastic choice. 

It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s diverse offerings, from stunning beaches to vibrant markets, rich cultural experiences, and delicious food.

You’ll have ample time to explore popular attractions, relax, and even have time to explore a few hidden gems.

It’s a sweet spot for first-timers to make the most of Busan without feeling too rushed.

How many days in Busan is enough?

The ideal number of days in Busan can vary depending on your interests and travel pace. 

However, I’d recommend at least 3 to 5 days to truly appreciate the city. 

In 3 days, you can cover the highlights, but in 5 days, you’ll have the opportunity to dig deeper into its culture, history, and natural sights while allowing for some relaxation. 

It’s all about finding the balance that suits your travel style.

Is Busan better than Seoul?

Both Busan and Seoul offer unique experiences, and it’s not about one being better than the other; it’s about what you’re looking for.

Busan is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal charm, and a more relaxed vibe. Seoul, on the other hand, is a bustling capital with a wealth of historical and modern attractions. I’d say that they complement each other.

If you have the time, consider exploring both cities to get a well-rounded taste of South Korea. A day trip from Seoul to Busan is a popular choice for travellers who are short on time. 

Check out my detailed comparison guide so you can make the right choice for you: Seoul or Busan: Which City Should You Visit?

Is it worth staying in Busan?

Absolutely, Busan is worth every moment of your stay. With its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, history, and warm hospitality, Busan has a lot to offer. 

Whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a vibrant city atmosphere, Busan has something for everyone. 

So, yes, it’s definitely worth it! 

How to Get to Busan from Seoul – KTX Train

Wondering how to get to Busan from Seoul or vice versa? The KTX, Korea’s high-speed train is the way to go.

I recommend booking your KTX ticket in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This allows you to choose your preferred class, seat and departure time.

And no need to worry about paying extra for your 30kg bags – just stow them away and relax!

Seoul has two major KTX departure points: Seoul Station and Yongsan Station. Both stations are well-connected to public transport, and your choice depends on your location in the city. I personally left from Seoul Station which is easy to get to via subway from my accommodation in Hongdae. 

I recommend arriving at the station at least 20-30 minutes early to ensure a stress-free start to your journey. Boarding of the train begins 10 minutes before departure if you depart from Seoul Station.

The KTX journey from Seoul to Busan takes around 2.5 hours. It’s a smooth and comfortable ride, and you can enjoy the picturesque South Korean countryside as you travel. My advice is to have a good book, some snacks, or perhaps if you’re like me whip out your laptop and get some work done. 

When you arrive at Busan Station you will likely need to walk a couple hundred metres to Busan subway station to continue on to your accommodation. Busan’s efficient transport network makes it easy to get around, but I do highly recommend planning your onward journey in advance so you know where to go when you hop off the train.

Tip: Google Maps will be your best friend for transport recommendations including what subway line to get off, how many stops, the cost etc. 

➡️ Grab your discounted KTK Pass Here

The Wrap-Up: Busan 5 Day Itinerary 

This Busan 5-day itinerary promises a wonderful mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, yummy food, and a touch of beach relaxation. 

From the vibrant colours of Gamcheon Culture Village to the serenity at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, from the exhilarating heights of Songdo Cable Car to the sunsets at Gwangalli Beach, your Busan itinerary has been carefully crafted to give you the best that Busan has to offer

Writing this post has me totally hyped to return to Busan!

You’re in for an amazing time, and I’m genuinely stoked for you! 

So, whether you’re a solo traveller like me or on holiday with loved ones, your Busan adventure is one you won’t forget!

Safe travels, fellow adventurers! 

Read more about South Korea travel :

Is Busan Worth Visiting: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Busan Seoul or Busan: Which City Should You Visit? Seoul or Tokyo: Which City Should You Visit? The Ultimate South Korea Itinerary 10 Days! Is South Korea Safe For Female Travellers? A Complete Travel Guide

Olivia McDonald is the avid traveler and creator behind Defining Decade, a travel blog tailored for those navigating their 20s. As an Australian with a rich background in the travel industry, she brings her passion for exploration to life through Defining Decade. Having travelled to 20+ countries, primarily in Asia and Oceania, Olivia shares authentic stories and practical tips on her blog. Whether you work full time, are a digital nomad or an aspiring entrepreneur, Olivia will show you how to travel more in your 20’s.

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First Timer's Busan Itinerary for 3 Days (+ Interactive Map)

Updated: Feb 18, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

For Koreans, spending a long weekend in Busan is a popular getaway, especially from Seoul . It's got the beach & ocean vistas, abundant seafood, and the most famous living village in Korea: Gamcheon Culture Village.

Planning your Busan itinerary is easier than ever, no matter where your interests lay. If you hate flying, you can take a bus or a train to Busan (unlike to the beautiful Jeju island ). The city even has an international airport, so it sees many visitors from nearby Japan and China.

But just because it's a big city doesn't mean you can make the most of 3 days in Busan. I lived in South Korea for 3 years, and I went to Busan every 2-4 months in that time. I visited during every season. Each time I had just 3 days in Busan, and each time I tested a slightly different Busan itinerary.

I tweaked it a bit until I'd had the chance to solidify some favorite activities, and try out some new ones. I always made time for chocolate shops in Busan , for example. I've found that as an expat in Korea, I have a very different perspective on the city and on my adopted country, so hopefully this insight and research helps you plan your own trip. Jal kayo!~

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Planning a Trip to Busan

Arrival & getting around busan, how to visit busan in winter, where to stay in busan, what to do & see in busan, what to eat in busan, sample busan itinerary: 3 days, practical info, busan travel tips, busan points of interest map.

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.

As the second-largest city in Korea, Busan is very well-connected to the rest of the country. Nearby cities like Gimhae, Daegu, or the historic Gyeongju are just a short bus ride away, which is why I don't recommend only visit Busan on a day trip.

South Korean public transport is world above that of the rest of Asia, except for neighboring Japan . Getting to Busan will either involve a bus, train, or airplane depending upon how far away you are. Note that if you are flying from Gimpo Airport, the airport closes each night from 12am-4:30am.

The city has its own international airport, located just next door in Gimhae, itself a large city. Coming from Incheon or Seoul to Busan, flights are extremely available and cheap. Taking the train is another popular option, and while not as fast as a flight, can be very comfortable.

The KTX or the Mugunghwa (slow train) are the only types of train you can take from Seoul Station to go from Seoul to Busan or vice versa , and the Mugunghwa actually stops at a few cities in between.

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 this route, you won't have trouble getting to your accommodation. Big cities near Busan include Gimhae, Daejeon, Gyeongju, Gwangju, Daegu, and Pohang. Getting around Busan will be easiest via the metro, and the system of buses.

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 (Google Maps is absolute crap in Korea) to follow throughout your South Korea itinerary. But be warned, it may take awhile to get across town, no matter what route you take!

Visiting Busan in winter can be an intimidating task. It can snow in Busan as early as November, and even into early March, but it's generally not a debilitating amount, as there can be in Seoul. It's important to pack your winter clothes, but know that it'll always be a bit warmer in Busan than in Seoul.

One New Year's I spend there, it was just below freezing and sunny all day, making it downright gorgeous (for wintertime in Busan). So what is there to do in Busan in the winter?

Well, there are lots of options detailed in the Busan itinerary below, but importantly, try to stay outside during the sunniest parts of the day (12pm-3pm) and inside at night. Remember that while you can visit the beaches in the wintertime, be careful not to get too close to the freezing water.

Unless, of course, you like the feeling of impending frostbite (I have made this mistake and do not recommend it). This still leaves you with plenty of options for the evenings: Busan Aquarium, Busan Tower, Busan Museum of Movies, the Museum of Art, Spa Land, and of course, shopping.

Outdoor activities for the daytime include Taejongdae and the various beaches & sky walks for pictures and sea views. I've visited all of those during Busan's winters, and lived happily to tell the tale. Don't be afraid to visit Busan in wintertime, but just remember to pack your fluffiest jacket and stock up on heattech.

You'll be glad you have it when you're wandering the outdoor market or staring out at one of the bluest seas you'll ever see in Korea (winter or not)!

With such a large city sprawled out in front of you, it can be hard to figure out which area to stay in. Luckily I've written a whole guide to where to stay in Busan , but for a bit of a primer, there are 3 main Busan neighborhoods for tourists.

The first one is Haeundae , which attracts visitors thanks to its gorgeous beaches and more laid back vibes. In spot number two is the upscale Seomyeon , situated in the downtown area of Busan and best known for its shopping & nightlife.

The Gwangalli Beach area is by no means quiet, but it is a more local and therefore less expensive place to stay in. The final Busan neighborhood I might recommend is Nampo , which is close to the main bus station and the port.

Click here to explore hotel prices in Busan.

Busan is by no means a small place. It can take a couple of hours to get from one side to the other, just like in Seoul . So to make it easier for you to plan your trip, I've divided Busan attractions by neighborhood, and added each of them to a map at the bottom of the post.

Similar to this section in my Jeju Island Guide , this part is packed with Busan points of interest! But unlike the places to stay in Busan, where you sleep is not necessarily the best place to spend your day.

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.

Things To Do In Haeundae (해운대)

Haeundae Beach (해운대해수욕장) /// free entrance /// 9am-6pm  Undoubtedly the most popular beach in Korea, Haeundae is notoriously packed in the summer, especially with families. Public schools don't let out until mid-July, however.

So if you time your visit for a weekday before peak season, you may just have a patch of sand to yourself. A good alternative if Haeundae is too crowded is Songjeong Beach (송정해수욕장) , located about a kilometer north along the coast. Note that beaches are only open for swimming from June to August.

Dongbaek Park (동백공원) /// free entrance /// 10am-5pm Sitting right at the southern tip of Busan, Dongbaek Island, where the park is located, is named after the Dongbaek trees covering the island (which is now part of the mainland).

The park is beautiful, even in the wintertime, but it also offers beautiful views of the ocean and several planned photo-ops. At certain points you can even get a faraway look at downtown Busan!

Busan Aquarium (부산아쿠아리움) /// ₩19000-25000 entrance /// 10am-7pm, 9am-9pm While aquariums tend to be more for kids, in Korea it's also a pretty popular date activity (even on Jeju Island!), so the Busan Aquarium offers lots of little activities that are fun for visitors of all ages.

Some activities geared towards adults include shark diving & feeding time, but everyone will love seeing the penguins and otters, and riding in the glass-bottomed boat. Note that hours are later on the weekends. Click here for a discount coupon for tickets.

Cheongsapo Daritdol Skywalk (청사포다릿돌전망대) /// free entrance /// 9am-6pm Although not the most conveniently-located for visitors, this relatively new tourist attraction has become quite popular over the last couple of years. The skywalk juts out proudly over the ocean and features a see-through bottom at parts.

This makes it perfect for showing off the ocean without you having to get in it, great for winter in Busan. There's also an observatory in the area, one of just 3 in the city. The skywalk is located right between Songjeong and Haeundae Beaches, so it's a nice scenic walk from either spot.

Things To Do In Nampo (남포)

Gamcheon Culture Village (부산 감천문화마을) /// free entrance /// 9am-5pm or 6pm Probably the most popular spot for photos in all of Busan, GMC as it's called has become known as the Cinque Terre of South Korea.

The calming blue houses look right out over the ocean, and are actually still people's homes. So while it's always fun to wander around and stop in the cafes, it's also important to stay respectful of the fact that this is a neighborhood in addition to a fount of Korean culture & beauty.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village (흰여울문화마을 /// free entrance /// 9am-5pm or 6pm Huinnyeoul is often called an alternative to Gamcheon Cultural Village, if you've heard of it at all. The region offers an equally beautiful view, but is much smaller and quieter, with many fewer tourists most noticeable on the weekends).

I love it for how much closer to the ocean it is, with seaside views for miles on a day with the right weather. But again, be respectful of the fact that people still live there!

Busan Tower (부산타워) /// ₩6000-8000 entrance /// 10am-11pm If you're gonna have a tower, make it a big one. Busan Tower is one of three observatories in the city, and is one of the most beautiful ones I've ever seen.

All lit up at night, the tower shines out over the garden and Buddhist temple sitting below it. Even though it does cost money to enter the observation deck and look out over the city, it is definitely worth it for the bird's-eye view.

Busan Museum of Movies (부산영화체험박물관) /// ₩7000-10000 entrance /// 10am-6pm (closed on Mondays) Perfect for the cinema-obsessed among us, the Museum of Movies' very existence is a testament to how important cinema has become to the city. Home to the annual Busan International Film Festival, Korea's second-largest city has become quite the hub for the arts.

The museum has a VR experience center, along with several exhibits on filming, production, and famous soundtracks. It's also home to the Trick Eye Museum , which if you visit on your birthday you can get in for free.

Jagalchi Market (자갈치시장) /// free entrance /// 5am-10pm This is the largest seafood market in Korea. It's actually become so famous that every October they hold the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival, and it's a pretty big event.

But even if you can't make it to the festival, seafood lovers will enjoy walking through the market and gawking looking at the diverse sea life found in Busan's waters. The entire first floor is dedicated to the market, while restaurants and the like are found on the other 6 floors above.

Things To Do In Centum City (센텀시티)

Shinsegae Centum City (신세계 센텀시티) /// free entrance /// 10:30am-8pm Just the words "Centum City" are synonymous in Busan with shopping, as the neighborhood is home to the world's largest shopping complex: Shinsegae Department Store.

So for all of us who love to surround ourselves in luxury and probably never buy anything, this makes the perfect appetizer to lunch on the top floor. Or free make-up samples; whichever your heart most desires.

Busan Cinema Center (부산 영화의 전당) /// free entrance /// 10am-5pm (closed on weekends & holidays) Home to the Busan International Film Festival, held every fall, the center has 3 buildings, each of which holds theatres of varying sizes. Due to the limited opening hours, the center is quite popular with tourists, and offers tours and lectures every day. There are restaurants and cafes on site.

Busan Museum of Art (부산광역시립미술관) /// free entrance /// 10am-6pm (closed on Mondays) This is five floors of pure culture, including paintings and large exhibits, as well as an outdoor sculpture garden.

There are both permanent and seasonal collections, as well as educational programs and seminars for visitors of all ages. The busiest days are on the weekends, so if you can manage to go on a weekday then you'll feel as if you have the place to yourself.

Spa Land Centum City (스파랜드 센텀시티점) /// ₩10000-18000 entrance /// 6am-12am Any trip to a big city in Korea isn't complete without a visit to the sauna. Even though there are saunas in my own town in Korea, if I'm going to get butt naked with strangers, I'd prefer to have a 0% chance of getting recognized in public later on.

Spas in Korea are immensely popular for a reason, however, and Spa Land is one of the most famous in the country. You can spend a whole day lounging around in hot tubs, relaxing and chatting with friends, or go get a massage and scrub down from one of the attendants.

Interesting Things To Do Around Busan

Taejongdae (태종대) /// free entrance /// 5am-12am Of all the things to do in Busan, this is undoubtedly one of my favorites. Part-resort and part-park, Taejongdae has become famous for its beautiful views and, er, colorful train.

The temples are accessible with a half-hour to an hour's walk, but even right around the entrance you can hike down and bit and reach the shore. If you want to go further, however, wait for a train to the lighthouse and observatory, and maybe grab a drink at the cafe while you wait.

Basically no matter where you go on the grounds, you're gonna find a great view. Note that while it's free to enter the grounds, you still need to pay for parking and any transportation you use to get around the grounds.

Gwangalli Beach (광안리해수욕장) /// free entrance /// 9am-6pm I'm not going to pretend that Gwanggalli is much less crowded than Haeundae, but it is said to be cleaner & quieter, and it's of equal size & beauty to Haeundae Beach.

What it doesn't have in tourist traps, its has in tranquility and quality Busan cuisine, making it much more popular with locals. Note that beaches are only open for swimming from June to August.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (해동용궁사) /// free entrance /// 5am-sunset  Most Korean temples are in the mountains, and offer tranquility and spectacular views of the life going on below. Haedong does this as well, but most distinctly it offers a view of the life going on down below in the deep blue sea instead of the countryside valleys.

Known for its stunning views and traditional architecture, this is one of very few chances to see a Korean temple on the coast. Some people come here to watch the sunrise, which is a spectacular choice considering it opens at 5am!

Haemul Pajeon (해물파전) : seafood pancake, basically, but in a potato- and egg-based batter instead of a flour-based one. This is especially popular as anju (food eaten with alcohol) , but many people come to Busan's fish markets to enjoy this type of pancake with family. Often you order one serving per person, and sit at one of the many stalls in the unusual ambience of the fish market, chatting while you eat.

Sannakji (산낙지) : possibly one of the most famous Korean foods— other than barbecue— sannakji is often called "live octopus," though it's actually just an extremely fresh version of the sea creature.

Served immediately after it's killed, sannakji are squirted with acidic fruit juices which make the tentacles continue to move around even after it's placed in front of you. It's not served alive, but people certainly act as if it were, as most people shy away from trying the fresh dish. Do you dare?

Hoe  (회) : this literally means "raw seafood," and doesn't necessarily specify which fish or dish, but the most common types are smaller white-fleshed varieties. Mulhoe (물회) is a cold raw fish soup that's a very popular way to enjoy the fish, but other fresh seafood dishes are continuing to gain popularity.

Sushi (스시) and Whelks (골뱅이)  are two more popular foods I'd recommend trying only in seaside cities like Busan, as they're very typical foods and apt to be fresher here than further inland.

Busan Jokbal (부산족발) : "pig's feet from Busan" don't sound super appetizing, but I don't think I've ever met a Korean who didn't like pig's feet in my nearly 3 years living here. Even just walking past the stands of jokbal , the combination of sweet cinnamon and honey reminds me of spiral-cut ham on Christmas.

The experience isn't exactly the same, but it is one you're unlikely to find outside of Asia. The meat is fatty and rich, so don't knock it 'til you try it.

Dwaeji Gukbap (돼지국밥) : a very hearty pork-based stew prepared by slowly boiling pork bone into a broth and adding tender pork bits. It's served with rice and side dishes; you plop the rice into the stew and then eat it with the side dishes of your choosing.

It's popular year-round, but it's a must-try in winter. There's also a beef version of the stew, called Sogogi Gukbap (소고기 국밥) .

Samgyupsal (삼겹살) : pork belly, which is the post popular meat of choice for a night out in Korea, is just one of many options for Korean barbecue.

Galbi (갈비) , ribs, usually of the pork variety, or Hanu (한우) , Korean-raised beef, are my other two recommendations for a nice night of barbecue, though are a bit harder to find than pork belly. None of these are specific to Busan, but I had to include them just in case this is your only trip to Korea!

Milmyeon (밀면) : cold noodles serves similarly to (my beloved cold noodle) Nangmyeon (물냉면) , but made with wheat flour instead of buckwheat, and with a big dollop of hot pepper paste on top.

Both milmyeon and naengmyeon are made with a meat broth and are often eaten right after barbecue, especially pork belly. In my humble opinion, this is one of the most emblematic dishes of South Korean cuisine.

Various Anju (안주) : anju is a term meaning "food eaten while drinking alcohol," and many bars will require you to order some anju to go with your liquor or beer. Most anju are foods that, if eaten together, would make up a meal in countries like the US, but in Korea they're just fried, salty foods that cut the bite of the alcohol.

Food isn't actually a meal without rice, after all. If you're a big group, look for the words "모든" or "모든안주," which means it's a mix of all or almost all the dishes they offer. It'll give everyone a variety of dishes to try with their soju (소주) and beer (맥주).

Street Foods : there are too many to name them all here, but the most popular street foods in Korea are definitely Eomuk (어묵) & Ddeokbokki (떡볶이) , which are fish cakes & spicy rice cakes, respectively, and are often served together (and are spicier in Busan than in Seoul).

Skewers (꼬치) , usually chicken skewers served with onion and barbecue sauce, are a very filling and cheap alternative for those who don't like seafood.

Hoddeok (호떡) , a cinnamon sugar-filled fried rice cake, is my absolute favorite treat and one of the few traditional sweets in Korea. Finally, Soondae (순대) is Korean blood sausage and a very popular drunk food.

A 3 day Busan itinerary could take many forms, but for such a short visit I've chosen a variety of typical Busan activities to give you a taste of the city. They've been timed such that you'll have ample time to spend at each place and get from one spot to the next.

Some activities have alternatives in case of differing weather, but most things to do in Busan are indoors or non-weather dependent, anyway. Have fun, and don't be afraid to switch the days depending on your mood.

Day 1: Relaxing & Observing

Most hostels and hotels will provide food for breakfast, but if they don't then ask for a recommendation or stop by a convenience store on the way out.

10am // Busan Cinema Center : here you can take a tour of the exhibits and walk around a bit before lunch without having to wander too far from the beach where you'll find your meal. Unfortunately if it's a weekend then the center is closed, and I'd recommend you head over to the Museum of Art instead.

12pm // Lunch at Haeundae Beach : since it's so international, you can have any type of food you want, but this would be a great time to settle in for some barbecue, like samgyupsal or galbi .

2pm // Spa Land : quite close to the Cinema Center in central Busan, this is one of the most famous spas in Korea and it includes all of the typical Korean sauna features. There are multiples hot tubs and several options for add-ons like massages or body scrubs.

You can rent a bathing suit, as well, and towels are provided; since you can spend any number of hours here, you can keep it or skip it depending upon your arrival time.

7pm // Dinner : returning to Haeundae, close to the beach there are always several vendors selling street foods like meats and seafoods, and ice cream and rice cakes. You can make a full meal out of it and try a variety of smaller servings of each dish.

Alternatively, if it's cold out you can go to a bar and have some beer and anju , making sure to save room for a piece of hoddeok (cinnamon sugar rice cake)!

8pm // Walk The Beach : if it's warm weather this is a great time to feel the sand on your toes one more time, but I'd recommend you go to a noraebang (karaoke room) if it's cold.

Noraebang is a very typical Korean past time, especially popular after a couple of bottles of soju or beer (which you can order directly to your room using the call button, even if you're in a pay-as-you-go place).

Day 2: Exploring The City

Again, most places you stay will provide breakfast, and if they don't, be sure to ask for a recommendation. If you have limited time on day 2, or have to leave early the next morning, I recommend skipping Busan tower and going straight to Taejongdae.

9am // Gamcheon Culture Village : one of the most popular spots on the island, GMC as it's known gets rather crowded around lunchtime, especially on the weekends. So to arrive and get out before the crowds, you should start your days here.

If all the uphill gets tiring, there are plenty of cafes to stop and rest in, but just remember that it is a residential area so you should stay respectfully quiet in the upper areas and earlier in the morning. 30 to 40 minutes walking or 10 to 12 minutes in a taxi to the next destination.

11:30am // Lunch @Jagalchi Market : if you're still feeling energetic, walk to Jagalchi Market and grab some well-earned food before exploring all the different sea creatures they sell at this huge market.

If you're a more adventurous eater, stop by the food stalls for lunch instead of going to the restaurants on the upper floors. Depending on where you finish in the market, it's a 10-to 15-minute walk to Busan Tower.

1pm // Busan Tower : continue exploring the city's cultural sites by walking around the grounds of Busan Tower without actually going up (save your money for later). There's a beautiful park and traditional building around, perfect to rest in on a warm day.

If you're not big on traditional architecture or it's really cold out, a good nearby alternative is the Busan Museum of Movies & the Trick Eye Museum, both of which offer a fun way to stay active and entertain kids. It's a 30-minute taxi ride or a 1-hour direct bus ride to the next stop.

3pm // Taejongdae : No matter how long it takes you to get to the grounds, it's a 5-minute walk to the park's entrance, and another 10 minutes to start seeing cliffs and beaches you can explore.

Either a bus or your own two feet can take you to the observatory and other "main attractions," but I think the whole region is just gorgeous. After walking around (or riding) or a few hours, at the entrance to the resort there are a variety of restaurant. This is the perfect time to try dwaeji gukbap !

6pm // Dinner : pick one of the restaurants outside the resort and enjoy a traditional Korean meal. Whenever you feel it in your to get moving again, you can start heading back to your guesthouse.

Day 3: Beaches & Culture

Hopefully by day 3 you've figured out your breakfast situation, and you know how to get fueled and ready for the day.

9am // Cheongsapo Daritdol Skywalk : walk right out over the ocean and start your day with a great view. First thing in the morning is when you're most likely to find this place the least crowded. Tourism is a later-in-the-day activity in Korea, so most spots won't start getting full until the afternoon, and by then you'll be long gone.

10am // Haeundae Beach : while you could also walk to Songjeong Beach from Cheongsapo, Haeundae is a bigger hub for transportation and lunch spots. Relax here a bit before looking for one of the aforementioned Busan foods for lunch, or even just resting in a cafe.

1pm // Lunch on the Beach : after a few hours of soaking up the sun or walking along the beach, duck into a nearby restaurant for a bite to eat. Most restaurants along the beach will specialize in one food or another, so choose wisely.

3pm // Haedong Yonggungsa : known as the Temple by the Sea, the large grounds of this locale are as spectacular and sweeping as pictures promise. It's well worth the trip after the beach, and hiking up and down the small paths is a worthwhile way of working off your lunch.

6pm // Dinner : after a thorough exploration of Haedong Yonggunsa, it's time for a hearty dinner and a final goodbye to Busan. Samgyupsal or jokbal are two local favorites, available year round.

Language:   Korean (surprise, surprise). Most people working in tourist sites will speak a little English, and sometimes some Japanese or Mandarin, but outside of those few sites you'll want to have a translation app on hand.

I recommend Papago, the local translation app. You may also have luck asking younger Korean people in the street, but I wouldn't count on it.

Population:  ~3.5 million people.

Currency:  Korean won (KRW), written as both ₩ or 원 (in Korean). ₩1000 won is equal to roughly $0.80USD or ₱42.

South Korea Visa:  lenient . Right now, citizens of 107 countries can get visas on arrival or visa-free travel to Korea, meaning you don’t need to apply for a visa before visiting South Korea (for between 30-90 days). Check on your country  here .

Some common countries: USA (up to 90 days), Singapore (up to 90 days), Malaysia (up to 90 days), Canada (up to 6 months), and South Africa (up to 30 days). Note that all of these citizens still need to apply for a K-ETA.

Voltage:  220v /60Hz, with two round holes for the plug (type F).

Best Time to Visit Busan

Everywhere in Korea, people are pretty much unanimous that April and October are the best months to visit weather-wise. However, I'd endorse April, May, June, September, and October as the best times to visit Busan (just buy or bring a mask for air pollution in May).

It's different for each month, but in the early spring you find the cherry blossoms and late spring brings the rest of the flowers and simply beautiful weather. The early- and mid-fall is best for cooling temperatures and fewer crowds, as well as beautiful fall leaves.

If you come in very late August or early September, you may even be able to catch a beach day after all the kids are back in schools depending on how well you coordinate your Busan trip with the government's open beach times.

• 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.

Safety Level: 9/10

Despite a few rough patches, much like the rest of Korea , Busan is an extremely safe city. It is, however, still a city, so be sure to keep an eye on your bags and try not to flash cash in crowded areas. Otherwise, you have free reign.

Public consumption of alcohol is completely legal, so keep an eye out for drunk people doing stupid things, especially on the weekends.

Sample Busan Budget: 2 Days

This budget assumes you’re spending 3 full days and 3 nights in the city, and are traveling alone using the 3 day Busan itinerary above. The prices mentioned below could be even lower if you travel with a friend and share the cost of a room, but not much lower.

Cheap travel in Busan is more than possible, especially if you're indulging in delicious Korean food. Note that the current exchange rate is roughly ₩1250KR per $1USD.

• Lodging : $100
• Transport : $30 (transport to the city from elsewhere are so varied in cost that those are not included in this budget)
• Activities : $20
• Total: $200

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 or Papago.

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.

Did this post help you plan your Busan itinerary?

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Reader Interactions

April 07, 2023 at 10:21 pm

this is a really nice and informative article about Busan! Thanks for sharing your tips and recommendations with us, it helps a lot for planning our activities here 🙂

Greetings from Seomyeon, Lisa

April 08, 2023 at 4:02 pm

My pleasure, Lisa! I'm glad it's helping, and that you're enjoying your trip. 🙂

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Busan Travel Guide: What To Do and Must-Visit Attractions

Booking a trip to South Korea and wondering what all the hype in Busan is about?

The port city of Busan is a major sea, land, and air transportation center in South Korea. Bathing beaches and coastal parks are therefore among the coastal tourism attractions of Busan.

Historical structures, museums, and art galleries are just a few of the city’s other attractions that draw visitors from all over the world.

Continue reading to learn more about what to do in Busan including some tourist popular activities to try, what Busan is known for, as well as the top 3 places to stay during your trip and more.

Why Visit Busan?

There are many reasons to visit Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city. 

After all, Busan offers some fantastic tourist attractions. For example, many tourists flock to Busan simply to experience their hiking trails. 

Overall, Busan is a city that can only be fully comprehended through experience. 

This city never sleeps, with its vibrant beaches, delectable seafood, busy marketplaces, painted village streets, and outstanding cultural attractions.

What To Do in Busan?

Whether you’re looking for a historical, cultural, or natural experience, Busan offers it all. 

Tourists can delve deep into the historical roots of South Korea by touring many museums and art galleries littered throughout the city. Temples can also offer visitors a cultural experience unique to Busan.

If you’re looking for a more secluded, peaceful trip, Busan also offers a multitude of hiking trails for hikers of all experience levels. 

So, while you may enjoy the hustle and bustle of Busan life, it is also quite easy to escape the city and experience the whole other side of South Korea .

Experiencing the Local Busan Cuisine

A crucial component of experiencing a foreign culture is eating local food.

 Who knows when or if you will return to South Korea, let alone Busan, so why pass up the opportunity to purchase Busan cuisine when it won’t likely be available on the Wal-Mart shelves when you get home?

For example, many tourists are rumored to enjoy Dwaeji Gukbap.  In this cuisine, a stew is prepared using a broth made from cooked pork bones, vegetables, and spices. 

Fortunately, the best places to try this stew are thought to be the Twin Pork Soup Restaurant and Wonjo Halmae Gukbap, both of which are located in the heart of Busan.

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

One of the best things to do in Busan includes visiting the Gamcheon Culture Village.

Gamecheon is regarded as South Korea’s mural village. This indicates that it was formerly in disrepair. 

The people sought to transform the town into the rainbow tourist destination it is today after deciding they were unhappy with the neighborhood’s run-down appearance. 

This settlement, which is perched in the hills above Busan, is now embellished with stores and businesses that are painted in vibrant pastel colors

Today, the hamlet is completely covered in intriguing murals and street art. Visitors can get a bite to eat in a restaurant or cafe while taking in whatever theme has been chosen for that location.

Visit or Hike Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park is a rocky beach park located along the coast of Yeongdo, Busan. 

With hundreds of hiking routes that provide views of forests as well as Buddhist temples, these trails are an excellent way to enjoy Busan’s spectacular clifftop vistas.

Taejongdae Resort Park, one of Busan’s most popular outdoor areas, is also a stop on various city sightseeing excursions. 

Admission to the park is free, but tourists can also buy a cheap ticket to ride a tiny train that stops at several spots of interest throughout the park.

The park also features a tiny dock where visitors can take short boat rides to see the island’s coastline from a different point of view.

Relax At Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach in Busan is one of the most well-known beaches in South Korea due to the several miles of sand that make up its shoreline.  

Haeundae Beach is, therefore, regarded as a popular destination for both tourists and residents. Relax and get a tan here or go on a trip with loved ones.

Tourists can also wander along the boardwalk once they’ve had their fill of sunbathing and resting. At the boardwalk, visitors can relax and enjoy a nice local meal.

Relax At Hurshimchung Spa

The biggest and most well-known spa in Busan is Hurshimchung. 

With roughly forty distinct baths, including the longevity bath, hinoki wood bath, cave bath, and open-air outdoor bath, this spa can accommodate up to 3,000 spa guests. 

The spa’s stunning facilities, which reflect exquisite architectural appeal and are furnished with extra-large hot spring tubs in spacious areas with skylights allowing in natural light, offer a uniquely soothing experience that can only be experienced at Hurshimchung. 

Other amenities, such as jjimjilbang saunas, are also accessible for spending quality time with your family while unwinding at Hurshimchung spa.

Witnessing The Sunset at Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach is viewed as a more tranquil and quiet alternative to Haeundae Beach. This beach also provides stunning views of the Gwangandaegyo bridge. 

After nightfall, the bridge is illuminated with glittering lights in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. 

So, if you stay after dark, the sunset, in conjunction with the lit-up bridge is a spectacle not to be missed. In addition to the sunset and bridge, an evening trip to the beach can occasionally include singers and performers.

Shop at Jagalchi Fish Market

The largest fish market in South Korea, Jagalchi Fish Market, offers both live and dried seafood. 

When compared to other fish markets in Korea, Jagalchi Market stands out for its easy access to public transportation, an enormous selection of live seafood, a pleasant atmosphere, the occasional outdoor street act, and stunning views of the ocean. 

When the outside market area is excluded, it is also considered relatively clean.

You can either go to one of the numerous restaurants on the second story and choose the meals you want, or you can buy the live seafood on the ground floor and bring it there to be prepared and cooked for an extra fee.

As an alternative, you can also sample a vast variety of fish dishes in the seafood buffet restaurant on the fifth floor of the market.

Shop at Gukje Market

Following the Korean War, refugees who fled to Busan set up stalls to sell illegal or imported goods to make a livelihood, which eventually expanded into the modern Gukje Market.

Today, one of Korea’s biggest marketplaces is Gukje Market. The market’s aisles are lined with vendors offering a variety of items, especially apparel, housewares, and mechanical tools. 

A charity store-lined alleyway also lies to the right of the market, and Kkangtong Market can be found to the left.

Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

One of the rare South Korean temples with a waterfront location is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, which is, fortunately, located in the city of Busan. It’s a unique find and a fantastic chance to escape the city and take in some breathtaking scenery.

For both locals and visitors from abroad, this picturesque area has emerged as one of Busan’s top tourism destinations. 

This temple is special and intriguing for a variety of reasons, including the rocks that surround it and the sea wind. 

Although Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is rather out of the way from the heart of Busan, it is still worthwhile to see!

Naong, a Buddhist instructor, erected the temple in 1376. It was unfortunately destroyed during the Japanese invasion, but it was reconstructed in 1930. 

In 1974, the temple was given its current name, Haedong Yonggungsa, which translates as “Korean Dragon Palace Temple.”

Before reaching the temple, you must first pass past 12 stone zodiac figures with human bodies and animal faces, which are filled with statues and pagodas and give spectacular views of the sea. 

These 12 figures, which appear to be defending the temple, will take you to this stunning 8-story pagoda. 

Explore the Wide Range of Korean Products at Nampo-dong 

Nampo-dong is a southern Busan neighborhood located miles from the city’s well-known beaches. 

Every year, tourists flock to this neighborhood to shop, dine, drink, and soak in the unique atmosphere, making it the hub of shopping in Busan.

Here you can find the finest of both old and new Korea. 

Many of the wartime-built markets are still thriving today, and travelers continue to flock to the famed BIFF Square to sample traditional Korean street food .

Where to Stay in Busan? 

Finding a place to stay is a crucial part of vacation preparation. Busan, fortunately, offers a wide range of choices. 

You can, therefore, choose whatever form of accommodation you wish to fit your budget since there are so many options available.

It is important to take note, however, that Busan is conveniently divided into three primary locations where travelers can stay. These are referred to as Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Gwangan.

Staying in Haeundae or Gwangan

The two most well-liked beachy areas of Busan are Gwangan and Haeundae. Numerous hotels can also be found in both of these neighborhoods.

 is the place to go if you want to treat yourself to a luxurious hotel stay. 

On the other hand, Gwangan is preferable if you’re seeking accommodations that are more affordable.

Overall, Haeundae and Gwangan are considered the best locations if you want to spend some relaxing days sunbathing while your kids construct sandcastles on Busan’s world-famous beaches.

Staying in Seomyeon

Stay in Seomyeon to get the most out of your time in Busan. This is the most central area of the city and the ideal starting point for your exploration of Busan. 

It’s a bustling area with lots of places to eat and shop as well as convenient access to the rest of the city.

Seomyeon offers a wide variety of food and shopping establishments as well as a vibrant nightlife. 

The city’s main attractions are also only a short bus or metro ride away, making this the ideal starting point for day trips across Busan.

What is Busan Known for?

Busan is known for many things such as historical and cultural attractions.

Historical Attractions in Busan

Are you interested in learning more about Busan’s past? 

There are several historical sites in Busan, such as venerable structures, monuments, palaces, and parks, where you can discover more about the city’s illustrious past. 

These historical landmarks and museums will offer you a tour of Busan’s colorful past.

It is advised that you join a guided tour to cover the main historical attractions if you want to experience Busan’s history in greater detail.

Cultural Attractions in Busan

Busan boasts a rich cultural history, fascinating food, a plethora of temples, beach activities, and a relatively pleasant and inviting community.

As a result, visiting Busan would be incomplete without learning about its rich history. Busan’s art and cultural events will provide you with an understanding of the city’s history, customs, and artwork.

Best of all, compared to other South Korean cities, Busan is relatively calm, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing getaway.

Final Thoughts

Busan, South Korea’s port city, is a significant sea, land, and air transportation hub. Bathing beaches and coastal parks are therefore among Busan’s coastal tourism highlights.

Other attractions that lure people from all around the world include historical sites, museums, and art galleries.

Overall, Busan is a city that can only be completely understood through personal experience. With its lively beaches, scrumptious seafood, bustling marketplaces, painted village streets, and excellent cultural attractions, this city never sleeps.

Busan has it all, whether you want a historical, cultural, or natural experience. Tourists can dig deep into South Korea’s historical past by visiting the city’s various museums and art galleries.

Temples can also provide visitors with a cultural experience that is unique to South Korea.

On the other hand, if you want to go somewhere more quiet and tranquil, Busan has a plethora of hiking paths for hikers of all skill levels.

While you may appreciate the rush and bustle of Busan life, this city also provides a rather simple escape to see a different side of South Korea.

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Busan 5 Day Itinerary: Spending Five Days in S. Korea’s Port City

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Lucky you. You’re going to spend five days in Busan! Most travelers only spend 1 or 2 days in South Korea’s second largest city, but I swear that’s not enough!

Busan is my favorite city in Korea. (I’m sorry Seoul.) That’s why on my recent trip to South Korea, I only went to Busan, and I spent five nights (six whole days actually) there, and this was my third visit to the city.

However, I’m not going to share my exact Busan 5 day itinerary with you, because I traveled like a maniac, racing around the city to put the finishing touches this list of 50 awesome things to do in Busan as well as Busan’s top-10 temples (Please, don’t travel the way I do!)

Instead I’ve cleaned my itinerary up a little and cut out the non-essentials for the sane traveler. Assuming you’re also visiting Seoul before or after Busan, here’s a recommended itinerary for Seoul !

Table of Contents

Busan Travel Essentials

– Peruse the best cooking classes in Busan here. – Buy a discount Korean Rail Pass for traveling to and from Seoul – Join this highly recommended East Coast Busan tour , or hire a private driver to get around. – Order a SIM card or WiFi device for easy pick-up when you arrive in South Korea. – Sign up for Klook fist using my referral link to get a 3833-won discount on any of the above Klook activities. – Read these things to know about South Korea before you go.

Busan in Five Days: Where to Stay

Where to stay in Busan was a really tough choice for me to make on my most recent trip. Just take one look at the map of sights below, and your see that Busan’s attractions are sprwad out in opposing ends of the city.

If you want to stay in the same hotel for your whole trip, you’ll just have to take a few longer subway rides on some days. Not a big deal.

You could however choose to spend you first 2-3 nights in the south, where most of the big sights are concentrated, then move somewhere in the north or two one of the big beaches for your last few days.

For way more details on this and my recommended hotels and best areas to stay in Busan, see my guide to where to stay in Busan , my detailed review of my favorite hotel in Busan (also find it here on booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ).

How to Plan Your Busan 5 Day Itinerary

Because Busan is so large and spread out, it only makes sense to cover one part of the city per day. The south of Busan has the highest concentration of sights, so it deserves two full days (days 1 and 2 below). Day three will take you to the beaches and coast of the northeast, while day four takes in the temples of the north.

For day 5, you may want to consider taking a day trip from Busan. However, if you want to stay in the city for your fifth day, I’ll give you some ideas for that as well!

Busan Itinerary 5 Days Outline Day 1: Gamcheon Culture Village + Taejongdae Resort Park, Oryukdo, or Songdo Day 2: Explore Nampo-dong, Gwangbok-dong, and Seomyeon Day 3: Haedong Yonggungsa + Haeundae and/or Gwangalli Beach Day 4: Beomeosa or Seokbulsa Temple + Heosimcheong Spa Day 5 : Day Trip or Centum City, museums, art galleries, and more

Busan Itinerary Day 1

Morning: gamcheon culture village.

Start your Busan trip with a colorful bang. Head to Gamcheon Culture Village, which has in recent years become one of Busan’s most popular and recognizable attractions.

This former Korean War refugee camp has been converted into a sprawling and very, very colorful arts district with views of the sea. Read all about it in my complete guide to Gamcheon Culture Village , in which you’ll find my true feelings about the attraction (mainly good, a little bad).

Budget at least two hours to stroll through the village from top to bottom, following one the paths outlined on the excellent maps sold from the tourist information center at the top of the village near the bus stop.

Along the way, you’ll pass numerous art installations, galleries, cafés, restaurants, and more. Don’t miss the 148 “Stairs to See Stairs” (climb all the way up and you may see stairs yourself!). There’s also a local market and collection of restaurants at the bottom of the village.

Another cool way to see Gamcheon Culture Village is on this Wall Painting Tour or East and West Busan Tour .

Afternoon: Take a Scenic Walk along the Busan Coast

Round out your day with some natural scenery and fresh sea air at one of Busan’s famous seaside walkways. Here are three great ones to choose from!

You’ll have to make decisions here…Beach lovers should go with Songdo Beach . Besides a decent beach for swimming, Songdo offers so much more. Songdo Cloud Trails is a gorgeous, swirling walkway over the sea.

A few steps away, you can hop on Busan Air Cruise (Songdo Cable Car), which transports passengers over the sea to Amnam Park across the bay. Alternatively, you can head to the other end of the beach and follow the coastal trail to get there yourself.

For epic views from death-defying coastal bluffs, choose Taejongdae Resort Park . This large park at the southern end of Yeongdo Island also features a couple secluded temples. Read about my experience visiting Taejongdae Resort Park here .

Last but not least, consider making the trip by bus to Oryukdo Skywalk , a horseshoe-shaped glass walkway 35 meters above the sea. The walkway offers stunning views of the Oryukdo Islands offshore.

If you love walkways over the sea, this tour includes a few of them.

Busan Itinerary Day 2

Morning: explore nampo-dong and gwangbokdong.

Ready to tackle a whole bunch of a Busan highlights in one day? Here goes! Start your morning with breakfast on Gwangbokdong Food Street . The famous thing to do here is to sit in a little stool and eat cheap, tasty milmyeon (wheat noodles) or bibimyeon (glass noodles) served by elderly Korean women in the middle of the narrow lane. A variety of other traditional Korean foods is sold along the street.

Gwangbokdong Food Street feeds into Gukje Market , logically the next stop. Gukje is South Korea’s largest traditional market, though its not so big that you’ll be lost.

Don’t miss neighboring Tin Can Alley (Bupyeong Khangtong Market) , another market that is just about as big, and which I personally found more interesting. While Gukje has a bit of everything, Tin Can Alley is all food, food, food!

Retrace your steps to the entrance of Gwangbokdong Food Street. From there, walk a block south to BIFF Sqaure (Busan International Film Festival Sqaure), Busan’s own Walk of Fame.

Hopefully you’ve worked off a bit of your breakfast by now, because you can’t miss the legendary ssiat hotteok (deep fried pancakes stuffed with seeds, nuts, brown sugar syrup, and spices) served there!

Continuing south, BIFF Market leads to enormous Jagalchi Fish Market , the largest in the country, and a testament to this city’s love of seafood. Start on the ground floor, and if you want to sample the ocean delights on offer, head up to the many restaurants on the second floor.

The streets surrounding the market are just as interesting, and there are several sister markets in connecting and neighboring buildings.

For a more intimate experience, try this Jagalchi and Gukje market tour with a local chef .

Afternoon: City Views and Seomyeon

Before leaving the Nampo-dong/Gwangbok-dong area, you can miss one of the excellent viewpoints of the city in this neighborhood. Option one is the seventh floor of Jagalchi Fish Market. Option 2, which is even better, is the rooftop of Lotte Department Store Gwangbokdong nearby.

And the winner for best view is probably Busan Tower , which pokes into the sky from the center of Yongdusan Park . You can save money by booking your Busan Tower ticket online here .

Next, take a break until sundown (or stick around one of the viewpoints to watch the sunset!) then hop on the subway to Seomyeon, Busan’s central business district.

The district comes alive with neon lights at night and is one of Busan’s best places to eat, stroll, go shopping, bar hoping or night clubbing.

If Seomyeon doesn’t sound like your thing, another option is to check out Samgwangsa Temple , which is famous for hosting the most impressive lantern display in Korea during the annual Lantern Festival. The temple is a short bus ride from Seomyeon.

Busan Itinerary Day 3

Morning: haedong yonggungsa temple.

Hopefully you didn’t party too late in Seomyeon, because the earlier you can get to Haedong Yonggungsa this morning, the better. This popular temple by the sea is unique in South Korea and understandably very popular.

The temple is quite a ways from the city center in Busan’s far northeast, and it can get quite crowded midday. It’s also a popular place to see sunrise; if you plan to do that, consider staying in the area.

For the full story on this fascinating temple, and to find out where to stay nearby, read my guide to Haedong Yonggungsa .

Save the trouble of getting to Haedong Yonggungsa by joining a tour that includes it .

Afternoon: Beach Time!

Since you’ve made the journey all the way to Haedong Yonggungsa, it’s time to reward yourself with an afternoon on the beach. You’ve got two great choices here, both on the same subway line you took to reach Haedong Yonggungsa.

Closer to Haedong Yonggungsa but further from central Busan, Haeundae Beach is South Korea’s largest and most famous beach. It’s quite a sight in any season, but expect it to be particularly packed in summer.

Haeundae District also has a great aquarium (skip the line by ordering your tickets online ), plenty of cafés, restaurants, luxury hotels, and spas. For a slice of nature, walk around Dongbaekseom Island.

The Bay 101 , a luxury yacht club, is also not to be missed, especially for its incredible night views of the city, free of charge. Bay 101 is also included on this Busan Night Tour .

Your second beach choice is equally good; Gwangalli Beach in Gwangan district is another fine, long stretch of sand with plenty of bar and restaurant choices facing the sea.

The beach’s distinctive feature is its incredible view of Gwangan Bridge, one of Korea’s longest, running over the sea in front of the beach.

Busan Itinerary Day 4

Morning: beomeosa or seokbulsa temple.

Because I love giving you choices, your fourth morning also included two great ones: Beomeosa Temple, the most important temple in Busan, or remote, off-the-beaten-track Seokbulsa Temple, which requires a moderate hike and features amazing Buddhist cliff carvings.

Both temples are located in northern Busan, and either one will take a half day to visit. Find everything you need to know in my articles on doing a temple stay at Beomeosa and how to hike to Seokbulsa .

If you really wanted to, you could visit both temples in one day, but it would be a little tiring!

Afternoon: Soak in a Korean Hot Spring

After hiking to Seokbulsa or making the trip up to Beomeosa (which also involves a lot of walking), its time to relax your muscles in one of the world’s largest hot spring spas, Heosimcheong Spa.

The gorgeous, domed spa is located near Oncheonjang subway station, the same one for Seokbulsa Temple. Like all Korean spas, this one is sex-segregated and no clothing is allowed. You can buy your tickets online here .

By the way, if you happen to coming from Seoul, check out this Seoul shopping guide !

Busan Itinerary Day 5

For your fifth day, why not take a day-trip from the city? If I could choose only one day trip from Busan, it would be to Tongdosa temple , South Korea’s largest and most important temple.

The temple is only a half hour bus ride from Central Bus Station at Nopo station (the furthest subway station going north, past Beomeosa), or you can visit it as a part of this day tour from Busan .

Another great (and longer) option would be to Gyeongju , an ancient and very beautiful city featuring amazing temples and burial mounds of ancient kings. One simple way to plan your trip is by taking this day tour to Gyeongju .

See this article for more ideas for Busan day trips from someone who lives there.

If you still want to stay in Busan city for your last day, there is plenty more to see; read on below!

One idea would be to head to Centum City Area , an collection of enormous structures somewhat between Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches. Here’s you’ll find the world’s largest department store, equally huge BEXCO, impressive Busan Cinema Center, Busan Museum of Art, Busan Olympic Park, and more.

Yet another option is to head to United Nations Memorial Cemetery and neighboring Busan Museum , where you can even try making tea or dressing up in Korean costumes for free!

See more details on all the above-mentioned locations in my huge guide to Busan’s top attractions .

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4 thoughts on “Busan 5 Day Itinerary: Spending Five Days in S. Korea’s Port City”

Can I ask Dec go a small group of 5-8 person Would cost us how much

Sorry, I am not a travel agent! 🙂

Hi, just wondering your itinerary would be older folks friendly?? What’s the best number of days to stay in Busan for first timers and if going at a slow pace? Am single parent travelling with a 10 year old and my two folks. I don’t mind driving around. If November is still safe to drive. If not snowing. Sorry loads of questions cos am planning. I actually have 20 days in all for Korea.

Hi Shirlene, and thanks for reading! I feel like this is a fairly subjective question, whether or not you are old folks/traveling with kids, depending on what kinds of things you want to see and do in Korea. Spending a full 5 days in Busan out of a total 20 in South Korea may be a bit much. You could probably condense whatever appeals most to you in this itinerary to 2-3 days, and spend those other days visiting other regions and smaller cities in South Korea; there is just so much to see in the country, I realize it’s not easy to plan that! I don’t think November should be snowing yet, it’s a little early for that. I’m actually not really an expert on all things South Korea, mainly just Busan, but please let me know if you have any further questions!

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I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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As we reflect on our family's recent journey through the captivating landscapes of Japan, we find ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude, and it is imperative to convey our heartfelt appreciation to you. Read More

We Join the gourmet japan tour and i must say me and my family were very happy and satisfied with the tour . The food were 5 Stars and our tour Guide mr Samuel was really Good. Read More

I went on the Egypt trip with my mom for the first time with Apple and I must say that the entire trip was pleasant and satisfactory. Read More

Recently went on a tour to Europe. Our tour guide, CJ was amazing! He's clearly very experienced and always took care of us as best as he could. Read More

I have travelled 3 times with Apple to China since 2019. My latest travel was to Chongqing in Nov 2023. Noted the tour guide, Brian Wong was very attentive & proactive to the travellers needs. Read More

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2024 Busan One Asia Festival unveils full lineup for its ‘Big Concert’

(Image: Busan One Asia Festival)

Busan is set to host the 2024 Busan One Asia Festival (BOF) with an electrifying lineup for the ‘Big Concert’ at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium on June 8th and 9th.

The event will feature globally renowned K-pop icons including g.o.d, Super Junior-D&E, ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and n.SSign, among others.

This year, BOF promises a spectacular fusion of generations, from iconic legends to cutting-edge idols, captivating fans worldwide. Notable acts like g.o.d and Super Junior-D&E are expected to deliver unforgettable performances while rising stars like ZEROBASEONE and BOYNEXTDOOR will showcase their fresh energy and talent.

Scheduled as part of the city’s efforts to enhance Busan’s cultural tourism, the festival aims to create a memorable experience for both locals and international visitors.

Tickets for the event can be reserved starting April 19th on the official BOF website and social media platforms.

related stories

• Air Busan to launch new route to Bohol, Philippines from May 1
• Popular hotspots around Busan in spring
• Yuchae flowers in full bloom Around Eco Village, Namhae
• 22 events to look forward to this April in Busan, Korea

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GOBankingRates

The 7 Best New and Affordable Places To Travel in 2024

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

Planning your 2024 vacation? If your wanderlust has you eager to go where you've never been, consider one of these new and affordable destinations for 2024.

Find Out: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Read More: 5 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Most safari vacations offer rustic accommodations, and a stay at Angama Amboseli does mean you'll be sleeping in a tent. But you'll also be able to gaze on the majesty of African elephants in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro. The resort celebrates the local indigenous community in its architecture and its culinary offerings.

For You: Dave Ramsey: 7 Vacation Splurges That are a Waste of Money Try This: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Busan, South Korea

While the K-pop stars BTS may have put Busan on the map, an influx of new resorts keeps it there. A new Windham property joins many beachfront resorts on the Sea of Japan. Foodies will want to consider Busan as it will welcome a new Michelin guide this year.

Check Out: I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Ocean views and a thriving maritime economy have long been associated with Nova Scotia, but this seaport now boasts an emerging technology industry. The newly redeveloped waterfront area features the Queen's Marque, with restaurants, art galleries and a five-star hotel.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

This Australian destination has rebuilt much of its lost in bushfires in 2020, and several new resorts will open this year. Cabn X is an affordable option, with small homes with a modern feel, and Southern Ocean Lodge, destroyed in the fires, has been rebuilt and is now open.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The DR has long been known as an affordable Caribbean destination, but it is now being recognized for luxury as well. Several new resorts in Punta Cana will open this year, including the St. Regis Cap Cana, the Sanctuary Cap Cana, and a new W hotel. Many resorts are all-inclusive, and some only welcome adults.

Find Out: 7 Cheap, Beautiful Places for a Winter Vacation

Quito, Ecuador

Most travelers visit Quito on their way to the Galapagos Islands, but the Ecuadorian capital has undergone a recent renaissance that makes it a destination in and of itself. An expanded subway has reduced traffic congestion and made it easier for non-locals to get around. New shops, galleries and restaurants have much to offer visitors, and its weather is mild year-round.

Transylvania, Romania

Beautiful castles and a rich history will prove that Transylvania is known for more than just vampires. Try Bethlen Estates near many historical sites, including Dracula's Bran Castle, for luxury. For a retreat experience, Matca offers walking safaris and praying with monks, all with views of the Carpathian Mountains.

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