You might have heard of Busan from the epic horror movie Train to Busan, but this charming coastal destination offers far more than fictional flesh-eating zombies. Known as South Korea‘s second-largest city, Busan is a must-visit due to its amazing beaches, street food, temples, and more! Planning your trip might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—this handy travel guide will tell you what to do in Busan, so you can focus on the important stuff, like planning your OOTDs.
What to See in Busan?
Here are some must-visit attractions to add to your Busan itinerary:
Gamcheon Culture Village
Busan’s colorful hillside community, Gamcheon Culture Village, is like a living museum of street art. Once a humble neighborhood, it has transformed into an artistic maze of pastel-colored houses, winding alleyways, and quirky art installations. Walk the narrow streets and explore galleries, cute cafes, and boutique shops selling handmade crafts. Soak in the local culture while capturing those Insta-worthy moments!
Speaking of Insta-worthy, book a Busan Night Tour via KKday to experience gorgeous night views of Gamcheon Culture Village, Bokcheon Temple, Cheonmasan Observatory, and Hwangnyeongsan!
Haeundae Beach
No trip to Busan is complete without visiting the world-famous Haeundae Beach. This 1.5-kilometer stretch of golden sand is perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. It’s also surrounded by luxury hotels and high-end restaurants. Visit in the summer to experience beach festivals or even check out Busan’s International Film Festival, which takes place nearby!
Going with your friends or family? Then, book a private yacht via KKday at a special price so that you can visit Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach in style!
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Haedong Yonggungsa is a seaside temple, said to be ‘The Most Beautiful Temple in Korea,’ and it’s one of the few built along the coast. It’s dedicated to the sea goddess of mercy and features statues, a three-story pagoda, and a golden Buddha. As you cross the stone bridge, try your luck by tossing a coin into one of the small cauldrons held by the statues below. If it lands in one of the bowls, your wish is said to come true—good luck!
For added convenience (and savings!), book a Busan Day & Night Tour via KKday, where you can visit not only Haedong Yonggungsa Temple but also Taejongdae, Gamcheon Culture Village, and more. It even includes a charming Haeundae River Night Cruise!
Nampo-Dong
Nampo-Dong is a beloved local haunt in Busan that offers traditional markets and modern attractions. At the heart of the area is BIFF Square, where street food stalls and handprints of famous actors celebrate Busan’s film heritage. Nearby, Jagalchi Fish Market offers fresh seafood, while Gukje Market is perfect for finding everything from local snacks to unique souvenirs.
Want something to remember your Busan trip forever? Book a retro photoshoot via KKday, where you can put on traditional vintage clothing and enjoy a professional black-and-white photoshoot at Greeda Studio in Gukje Market.
Where to Stay in Busan?
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your travel experience. Here are the top areas to stay in, each offering its own distinct vibe:
Haeundae District
If you’re after a glamorous seaside stay, Haeundae District is your go-to area. Known for its beach and high-rise hotels, this is the best place for those seeking upscale accommodation. Stay at one of the luxury hotels like Paradise Hotel Busan or Grand Josun, both offering stunning views of the beach and top-tier amenities.
Seomyeon
If you want to stay in Busan’s entertainment and shopping hub, look no further than Seomyeon, which puts you in the middle of the city’s buzzing energy. This district is full of department stores, boutiques, cafes, and street food markets. It’s also a central location, making it easy to hop on the subway to explore the city’s attractions. Hotels here range from mid-range options to budget-friendly places.
Book a discounted stay at Busan Business Hotel via KKday. Added bonus: It’s only a 3-minute walk to Seomyeon subway station!
Nampo-Dong
Nampo-Dong is home to famous attractions like Jagalchi Fish Market, BIFF Square, and Gukje Market. It’s also close to Busan Tower. Nampo-Dong has plenty of guesthouses and boutique hotels, like Stanford Inn Busan. You’ll also find plenty of traditional Korean food stalls here, perfect for sampling local food.
Save money by booking a stay at Stanford Inn via KKday. It’s conveniently located only 1-minute away from Jagalchi Station.
How Long to Stay in Busan?
Busan is a city with a lot to offer, and the ideal length of stay depends on what you want to experience. However, for most travelers, 3 to 4 days is the sweet spot to get a good feel of the city. For those with limited time, a 2-day trip can still cover the main highlights, though it will feel a bit rushed.
Bonus Tips for your Busan Visit
Use Public Transportation
Busan has an efficient subway system that connects most tourist spots, and the buses are easy to navigate. You can also snag a Visit Busan Pass at a lower price via KKday than the official site! Enjoy free entry to over 40 tourist attractions in Busan and discounts at more than 160 locations for dining, shopping, experiences, and accommodations.
Plan Your Trip Around Festivals
If you’re visiting Busan in the fall, make sure to check out the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals. For those who love fireworks, the Busan Fireworks Festival in November offers a spectacular display over Gwangalli Beach. Make sure to book a seating reservation for the Fireworks Festival via KKday since the spot tends to fill up quickly!
Don’t Miss Out on the Street Food
Busan is famous for its yummy street food, particularly in Nampo-Dong and Seomyeon. Try local specialties such as ssiat hotteok (a sweet pancake filled with seeds), eomuk (fish cakes), and fresh seafood from Jagalchi Fish Market. In fact, you can join a KKday food walking tour led by a professional Korean chef. Enjoy tastings of 3+ local delicacies, including live octopus, sweet pancakes, and spicy tteokbokki!
Remember the Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Busan is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is chilly but manageable, especially if you’re interested in winter festivals.
Want to make the most of your Busan trip? Then, add these cool Busan experiences to your itinerary at discounted rates via KKday!
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- Gyeongju One-Day Tour: Hwangridan-gil, Daereungwon, Bulguksa, Gyochon Village, Donggung Palace, and Wolji Pond
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- Busan X the Sky Admission Ticket (Haeundae L City Observatory)
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