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The 15 best things to do in Busan

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

Photograph: Shutterstock

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

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

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

Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local experts.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best things to do in Busan

1. busan tower.

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

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

2. Kim Jae Sun Gallery

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

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

3. Gamcheon Culture Village

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

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

4. Jagalchi Fish Market

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

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

5. Haeundae Beach

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

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

6. Gwangbokdong Food Street

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

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

7. Haedong Yonggung Temple

What is it? A beautiful beachside Buddhist temple.

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

8. Cimer Spa

What is it? A seriously spectacular hot springs destination.

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

9. Nampodong Market

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

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

10. Samjin Eomuk

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

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

11. Radium Art Center

What is it?

An art gallery jam-packed with fascinating creations.

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

12. Galmegi Brewing Co

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

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

13. Choryang Milmyeon

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

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

14. Taejongdae

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

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

15. AnGa

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

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

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30 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BUSAN [KOREA GUIDE]

What to do in Busan? Is Busan Worth Visiting? Where to go shopping in Busan?

Do you want to visit Busan and wonder what to do in South Korea ‘s second-largest city? Or you are in Seoul and simply debating: should I go to Busan? Whether you are already convinced or still hesitant, here are our top suggestions for the best things to do in Busan!

From sandy beaches to popular markets, including temples, parks, and cultural spaces, there is something for everyone in Busan!

In this post, we listed all you need to know about Busan.

We absolutely love this place. Enjoy your trip to Busan!

Busan (부산광역시) is the second largest city in South Korea, after Seoul. It is located at the southern end of the Korean Peninsula. Previously, Busan was referred to as Pusan. This spelling is still sometimes found in South Korea.

Busan’s port is ranked among the 10 largest commercial ports in the world! Very impressive.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS ABOUT A VISIT TO BUSAN

– There are several landmarks to visit in Busan which are absolutely stunning. Busan even has the most beautiful temple in South Korea ! Excited? Oh yes, you should be. – As there are many attractions in Busan, we recommend at least 3 days for your trip, 4 days being ideal. – In terms of climate, Busan is one of the few cities in South Korea where the temperature rarely drops below zero. Unlike Seoul where negative temperatures are very common in winter. – If you plan to visit Busan and enjoy the beach, then it is best to go between June and September.

Here is a glimpse of what you can expect during a visit to Busan:

What to do in Busan?

1. haeundae, the most popular beach in south korea.

Haeundae Beach is the most famous place in the city of Busan. This sandy beach, sometimes overcrowded in summer, is one of South Korea ‘s most popular swimming spots. At the foot of very tall buildings, in a lively district full of cafes and restaurants, Haeundae is a pleasant place to relax while enjoying the sea.

Also, if you are looking for a place to stay during your trip, we highly recommend staying in Haeundae. We recommend Shilla Stay Haeundae which for us has the best value for money, check it out here . There is more about hotels in Busan later in this post…

In Haeundae don’t miss Dongbaek Park, which is located at the foot of the huge luxury hotel Westin Chosun Busan Hotel. This park is also called “Camellia Island”. There are very nice views of Haeundae Beach and the Gwangangdaegyo Bridge. It takes an hour to go around it.

How to get to Haeundae?

Take metro line 2 at Seomyeon station, get off at Haeundae, exit 5. Then walk for 15 minutes (800 meters). Travel time from Busan station: approximately 1 hour. ( LOCATION )

Here is our full post about Haeundae for more detailed information.

2. Hop on the beach train or Blue Line Sky Capsule

The best way to admire Busan’s beautiful coastline is to hop on the Sky Capsule. This attraction is accessible from Haeundae, just a few minutes walk from the beach.

Formerly, the Donghae Nambu Line ran along the coast from Busan to Pohang. While most of this railway has been assimilated into the Donghae Line, there is a small section that has been renovated into the Haeundae Blueline Park. The attraction opened in October 2020.

You have 2 options, the Sky Capsule or the Beach Train:

The Sky Capsules are individual trains that seat 4 people. It drives along the coastline, with a beautiful view of the sea. The ride lasts for about 30min. You will have plenty of time to take amazing photos. The Sky Capsules are all very colorful, adding to the charm of Busan. This whole train experience has a European vacation feel. It’s such a magical adventure.

The last stop is at Cheongsapo. From there you can continue by foot all the way to Songjeong Beach, another famous beach in Busan.

The Beach Train is also a really nice experience. The starting point is the same as the Sky Capsule. The train runs all the way to Songjeong with different stops along the way including the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, one of the famous skybridge of Busan. More about it later.

Taking the Sky Capsule is one of the best things to do in Busan!

More info about the Haeundae Blueline Park:

How to get there: Jangsan Station (metro line 2), exit 7. Go straight for 600 meters. Cross the road in the direction of Haeundae Wonjo Halmae Gukbap at the five-way intersection and walk for an additional 140 meters. ( LOCATION )

Website: bluelinepark.com

Cost: Capsule: 30,000 Won for 2 person

3. Check out Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory

After stopping with the Sky Capsule, continue your journey along the coast and you will be able to reach Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory. This skywalk opened in August 2017 and is located at the end of the beautiful Cheongsapo fishing village in Haeundae .

Cheongsapo Daridol is a skywalk, which means a transparent glass platform above a cliff. The entrance is free. The only thing you need to do is to wear some sort of slippers to avoid damaging the glass.

The view from Cheongsapo Daridol Skywalk is stunning .

This is the third ocean observatory in Busan, after Oryukdo Skywalk (15m long) and Songdo Skywalk (104m long). A bit more about these 2 later in this post. ( LOCATION )

4. Enjoy a catamaran tour, one of the best things to do in Busan

As we absolutely love boats, we were so excited when we heard we could go on a boat tour in Busan. The catamaran started near Haeundae Beach , which was really convenient. The tour was absolutely stunning.

The catamaran tour last for 1 hour. You can enjoy the view of the majestic Gwangandaegyo Bridge, also called Diamond Bridge, Gwangalli Beach, Haeundae Beach, and simply have a relaxing time on the water.

There are free drinks on the boat for you to enjoy. We picked the timing just before sunset, and it was absolutely fabulous. We highly recommend this tour if you are in Busan.

The departure is from Suyeong Bay Yachting Center, which is just a few minutes ride from Haeundae. You can book directly here . Booking in advance is recommended as this attraction is very popular in Busan…

5. Songjeong Beach, the best place for surfing in Busan

Songjeong is a lovely beach located near Haeundae . You can access it by taking the Beach Train or Sky Capsule (+20min walk along the coast) or by a short taxi or bus ride.

Songjeong is the surfer paradise in Busan. There are many surf shops along the beach and is one of the most popular places for surfing in Korea. We wrote a full guide about surfing in Korea here .

Songjeong is much less crowded than Haeundae and has plenty of restaurants and cafes. We really enjoyed spending some time there and we also went surfing on a rainy day. We loved it!

To book your surf lesson with a discount, you can purchase your pass on Trazy: here .

( LOCATION )

6. Spend a romantic evening at Gwangalli Beach

Almost as famous as its neighbor Haeundae, Gwangalli Beach is best visited at nightfall, when the Gwangandaegyo Bridge (Diamond Bridge) that crosses the bay lights up with a thousand lights. With the luxurious skyscrapers in the background, like those at the Marine City luxury residential complex, Gwangalli is magical. It is a must-see place for a pleasant romantic evening.

We actually enjoyed a drink at night on a terrace enjoying the view of the Bridge. There were lots of people walking along the beach and fancy cars passing by roaring their engines. We must have spent a few hours just watching around. This is a must-see in Busan!

To get there

Take metro line 2 at Seomyeon and get off at Gwangan, exit 5. Then walk 15 to 20 minutes for 1 km.
Take the # 41 bus from Busan Station and get off at Seoho Byeonwon stop. Then walk 5 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: between 45 and 50 minutes.

7. Discover Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi market is one of the major landmarks in Busan and the largest fish market in South Korea .

Easily accessible by metro, you really have to go and see this market located on the edge of the port. It is huge, so be ready to see lots of fish.

It is best to go early in the morning, as this it the time when the market is most active. Koreans like to have breakfast in the market, with fish of course. You can also go there for lunch, there is a large hall with several food stalls on the upper floor of the indoor building with a great view of the sea and port.

The market spans several streets and buildings. There is a covered part but the biggest area is outdoors. They have of course fresh fish, but also dried fish, also popular in Korea.

Enjoy a meal, while you are visiting Jagalchi for a great Korean traditional experience. We ate one of our best meals in Busan there, with 2 grilled fish and 1 Korean seafood pancake for only 20,000 won. Incredible!

Jagalchi is located in the Nampo-dong district, where you can also find BIFF Square, Gukje Market, and Yongdusan Park, which are also the main attractions of Busan. More on it later in this post.

Discover Jagalchi Market and other Busan’s most famous markets during this Busan history and market food tour with local chef. With this tour you will also try some local popular street foods and get insider food suggestions for the rest of your vacation.

READ: FULL GUIDE FOR A VISIT TO JAGALCHI MARKET IN BUSAN

8. Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, the “most beautiful Temple in Korea”

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers an exceptional setting. For many, it is the most beautiful temple in South Korea .

The charm of this temple is its location by the sea. This Buddhist temple was built in 1376. It is a rather unique site in Korea. You will have the opportunity to contemplate the statue of the great golden Buddha.

To access the temple, you will have to walk along an alley of statues symbolizing Buddhist astrological signs. This temple is dedicated to the goddess of mercy.

The temple was destroyed during the Japanese invasion before being rebuilt around 1930.

We really enjoyed our visit of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. With the waves crashing on the cliffs right by the temple and being surrounded by nature, this place is really gorgeous.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is not very far from Haeundae . Take bus 100 from Haeundae and it will take about 45min. By taxi count less than 20min.

Full post here about Haedong Yonggungsa.

9. Get lost in Gamcheon Cultural Village

Gamcheon Culture Village was one of our highlights during our trip to Busan. It is a pretty colorful village on the outskirts of Busan, with small houses leaning against a mountain.

Gamcheon has long been a refuge for the poor. It was not until the 1990s that it benefited from a huge renovation project: artists painted the walls, and others installed works of art. Today, the village attracts many tourists, who appreciate its picturesque side and the lovely views of the coastline.

Before heading out into the steep lanes, be sure to pick up the Gamcheon map at the tourist information center, and plan on good walking shoes as there are many stairs. Count a bit more than 1 hour to visit the village. We also enjoyed a coffee at one of the many coffee shops in Gamcheon .

Discover Gamcheon Culture Village better

Enjoy nine of Busan’s main attractions, including Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa, Songdo Skywalk and more during the Small Group Full Day Busan Tour . You will learn a lot about the city’s culture and history from your guide. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

How To get there

From Busan station, take bus number 87 and get off at Kkachi Saegil Ipgu. Walk about 10 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: 30 minutes. ( LOCATION )

READ: FULL GUIDE FOR VISITING GAMCHEON VILLAGE

10. Visit Oryukdo Skywalk and Igidae Park

A former military zone, the Igidae Park is now the playground for hikers who wish to walk between land and sea on coastal and forest trails.

At the end of the trail, enjoy your reward at the Oryukdo Skywalk, a platform whose transparent “u” shaped floor extends above a cliff 30 meters high.

This is a thrilling experience.

If you enjoy nature and watching the sea, then we highly recommend a trip to Igidae. If you do not have time for a hike, then simply head to Oryukdo Skywalk directly, and enjoy the platform only. It is worth the trip and it’s free.

For a north-south route, take metro line 2 to Kyungsun University-Pukyong National University station (Kyeongseongdae-Bugyeongdae), exit no.3 or 5. Then take a bus no.20, 22, 27, 39 or 131, and get off at the Igidae ipgu stop. Finally, walk about 25 minutes towards the park. Travel time from Busan station: about 1h15. ( LOCATION )

11. Go to BIFF Square, one of the main things to do in Busan

BIFF Square: time to immerse yourself in the crowds of the Nampo-dong shopping district. The main square of the district has helped to make Busan an international cultural city.

Indeed, this square host the Busan International Film Festival ( BIFF ) – considered the most important in Asia – and has developed as the cultural center of the city, with its many cinemas, theaters, and, like Hollywood, handprints of renowned artists on the floor.

This is also the place to be for some amazing street food, and feast on ssiat hotteok, one of Busan’s specialties.

BIFF is located just a few minutes walk from Jagalchi Market , hence you can combine a visit of both places.

From Busan station, take bus 17, 26, 27, 61, 87 1003 or 1004. Get off at Busan Depateu stop. Walk 5 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: approximately 20 minutes. ( LOCATION )

12. Take the Songdo Cable Car

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For 15,000 to 20,000 won, you can enjoy one of Busan’s newest attractions: Songdo cable car that takes you in ten minutes from Songdo Beach to Annam Park.

As you travel in the cabin, you will have an incredible view of Busan Harbor and the Songdo Coastal Path. If you have chosen a cabin with a glass bottom, you will be able to see the ocean beneath your feet ;-).

Finally, you can continue the visit by exploring Annam Park, which offers pretty hiking trails and even a dinosaur park! And why not have a picnic there? There are many food stalls.

Take bus number 26 from Busan station, and get off at Annam Dongjumin Senteo stop. Walk along Songdo Haebyeon-ro Street and Songnim Park to the cable car (approx. 10-minute walk). Travel time from Busan station: 35 minutes. ( LOCATION )

13. Stroll at Songdo Skywalk

Songdo Skywalk is the third skywalk in Busan. This one is the longest as it extends from Songdo Beach and overhanging on top of Turtle Island. It is a very exciting sight in Busan and one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the sea and its natural surroundings.

You can also enjoy a great view of Songdo Skywalk from Songdo Cable Car which is about 50 meters above sea level. ( LOCATION )

14. Have a drink at Bay 101

The Bay 101 is not far from Dongbaek Island. It is now a trendy spot at the foot of the luxurious skyscrapers of Marine City. Cafes and restaurants attract the trendy youth of Busan . The marina and the Yacht Club are also in the surrounding area.

After our catamaran tour, we enjoyed some delicious fish and chips and beer right by the sea. Such a lovely evening.

If you are a fan of cinema, do not miss the Haeundae Cinema Route, 500 meters away.

Take the line from Busan Station to Seomyeon Station. From there, take line 2, and get off at Dongbaek. Expect around 15 minutes to walk. Travel time from Busan station: 1h10. ( LOCATION )

15. Shop at the Seomyeon district

The very central Seomyeon district is at the crossroads of metro lines 1 and 2, making it an ideal place to stay.

It is also the main place if you want to go shopping in Busan .

Seomyeong also has many restaurants and cafes. The atmosphere is very lively, especially in the evening. Head to Seomyeon Food Alley to enjoy some great street food at some of the many stalls.

16. Hike at Taejongdae Park

On foot or by train, it is quite easy to explore Taejongdae Park , which is often crowded on weekends. Go to its observatory first . Then continue with a visit to its famous lighthouse, which offers lovely views of the coastal shoreline (and to the Japanese islands of Tsushima on a clear day), as well as a rocky beach below.

The small Taejongsa Buddhist temple completes this pleasant walk of around 2 hours.

Taejongdae Park is often overlooked by first-time travelers to Busan. If you are wondering what to do in Busan on a beautiful sunny afternoon, then we highly recommend going to this park.

The park is located by the sea and expect a magical view from the top of the cliffs . This is our favorite park in Busan.

Take metro line 1, get off at Jungang station, exit 6. Then take the No. 30 or No. 8 bus and get off at Taejongdae. Walk 5 minutes.
You can also take the No. 101 bus from Busan Station and get off at Taejongdae stop.
If you don’t want to walk in the park, the Danubi Toy Train (3,000 won per person,) stops at the observatory, lighthouse and temple. Take a ticket, and wait for your number to be called before boarding the train. Travel time from Busan station: between 35 and 40 minutes.

17. Explore the charming Huinnyeoul Culture Village one of the best things to do in Busan

Although not mentioned in most guidebooks, Huinnyeoul Culture Village is one of our favorite places in Busan . This coastal village is full of colors, gorgeous cafés facing the sea, and many colorful houses with beachy vibes.

We actually preferred Huinnyeoul Village to Gamcheon Village as it’s directly by the sea , whereas Gamcheong is on the side of a mountain.

This coastside village is super beautiful not only due to the ocean scenery but also because it has a ton of beautiful murals, that make perfect Instagram shots! They have a small museum to introduce all the movies and dramas that were filmed here, so a must-visit if you are in Busan!

18. Visit Beomeosa temple

Built on the edge of Geumjeongsan Mountain since the 7th century, Beomeosa is an important Buddhist temple of the Jogye dynasty. It is famous for the beauty of its buildings and its landscapes.

Beomeosa is particularly beautitful in Spring with all flowers in full bloom . In the fall, you can take a rocky forest path to reach the hermitages located on the heights.

The trail is surrounded by flamboyant vegetation that mixes the whole palette of yellows, oranges and reds. Stunning!

Take metro line 1, get off at Beomeosa station, exit no. 5 or 7. Then walk 5 minutes to the terminal of bus no. 90, and get off at the Beomeosa Maepyoso stop. Travel time from Busan station: about 1h15. ( LOCATION )

19. Get to know more about the city at Busan Modern History Museum

If you want to know the history of Busan, this free museum, housed in a former building from the Japanese colonial era , will provide you with an informative and interesting insight into the city and its port activity.

Watch the filmed documentary before entering the collection rooms, which feature many relics from modern history.

The museum is small, you can walk around it in less than an hour.

Take the # 81 bus from Busan station, get off at Gukje Shijang, and walk about 3 minutes, retracing your steps for less than 200 meters. Travel time from Busan station: 15 minutes. ( LOCATION )

20. Eat local delicacies at Gukje market

You can find everything at the Gukje market! Thousands of stalls gather in this place filled with history, clothes, dishes, and books: it’s a real fair for new or used products. An essential walk to feel the Korean culture.

Do not hesitate to get lost in its countless alleys , you will go from surprise to surprise. And you won’t go hungry: it’s easy to grab a quick bite to eat.

Take the # 81 bus from Busan Station, get off at Gukje Shijang, and walk for about 5 minutes. Duration from Busan station: 20 minutes. ( LOCATION )

21. Honor soldiers from all around the world at the UN Memorial Cemetery

This United Nations cemetery is a place of meditation where Korea honor the soldiers of all nationalities who died during the Korean War between 1950 and 1953. The moving visit to the cemetery complements that of Seodaemun Prison in Seoul .

Other than the historical part, the UN cemetery of Busan is also a nice place to visit, with lots of green spaces.

Take the # 134 bus from Busan station and get off at Yuen kongwon stop. Walk for 500 meters.
Take metro line 2 to Seomyeon and get off at Daeyeon station, exit 3. Walk straight for 20 to 25 minutes (1.3 km). Travel time from Busan station: 45 minutes.

22. Busan Cinema Center

Busan and cinema are a long love affair. Since 1996, the city is hosting the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), the most famous Film Festival in Asia.

The Busan Film Center was built in 2011 to celebrate this success and is now a symbol of it. It is a building with futuristic architecture, which offers outdoor and indoor spaces.

Its two roofs are equipped with LEDs. You have to see it at night when the light show gives it a magical aspect.

Take metro line 1 to Seomyeon, then transfer to metro line 2, and get off at Centum City stop. Take Exit No.12 and then walk for about 15 minutes heading towards Suyeonggang River and Centum Marina Park. Travel time from Busan station: approximately 1 hour.

23. Spend a day at Shinsegae Centum City, the largest shopping mall in the world!

Recorded in the Guinness World Records for a while as the largest shopping center in the world, this gigantic complex is a city within a city! In case of rain, this is a great spot to spend a day in Busan.

There are countless shops, restaurants, and cafes. There is a children’s play area, an ice rink, an art gallery, bookstore, cinema on three floors, food court in the basement, and above all: SpaLand Centum City . A huge spa, not to be missed if you want to experience Korean hot baths, for only 15,000 won for 4 hours.

( Shinsegae Mall Website )

Take metro line 1 to Seomyeon, then line 2. Get off at Centum City (Senteom Siti), exit 12. Walk 5 minutes. ( LOCATION )

24. Enjoy the view at Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park

The highlight of the Nampo-dong district is Yongdusan Park accessible by an escalator from Gwangbok-ro shopping street. There you will find a traditional pavilion, many statues, and even a floral clock.

But the best thing to do there is to climb to the Busan Tower Observatory to appreciate the superb view of the city and its famous port. A perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

25. Have fun at Sea Life Aquarium

A perfect place especially if you have children. The aquarium is designed specifically for kids. Fun and educational, it offers interactive activities and even a mermaid show.

You can touch some marine animals there, and marvel at the large pool where sharks, rays, and turtles roam. The aquarium is located on Haeundae beach , which is very convenient if you are staying there.

You can purchase discounted tickets here .

Take the metro line, get off at Seomyeon. Then take line 2 and get off at Haeundae, exit n ° 5. Walk about 10 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: 1 hour. ( LOCATION )

26. Discover Geumjeong fortress

There is no fort in Geumjeong , just a 17 km long stone wall with four gates. It is, however, a perfect place for hiking, usually reached via the cable car from Geumgang Park.

Choose this mode of transportation to enjoy the breathtaking views of Busan’s buildings and its stunning mountains. But if you are good walkers, join the fortress from the Beomeosa temple. The trail is 9km long but with quite some steps..

Take metro line 1, get off at Dongnae station, exit no.3. Then take bus number 77 and get off at Geumgang’won ipgu. Walk for 500 meters to reach the cable car.
Take metro line 1, get off at Oncheonjang station, exit no. 5 and walk for approx. 25 minutes. to the cable car. Travel time from Busan station: 50 minutes.

27. Chill at Dadaepo Beach

Dadaepo Beach is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful beaches in Busan due to its natural surroundings. Surrounded by a pine forest, it offers a magnificent and very large sandy beach, as well as a pretty coastal path easily accessible via a footbridge.

It is a family beach, which will leave you with great memories if you have the chance to witness a magnificent sunset.

In Dadaepo there is also a fountain and an incredible show with sound and light in the evening. This is the highlight of the visit, so don’t miss it if you are going to Dadaepo!

Take metro line 1, get off at Dadaepo Beach terminus (Dadaepo Haesu Yokjang), exit n ° 2. Walk about 10 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: 40 minutes. ( LOCATION )

28. Get spiritual at Samgwangsa temple

This temple, enclosed in a narrow valley, is one of the most visited Buddhist places of worship in the run-up to the Buddha’s birthday festivities . Indeed, it is then adorned with thousands of colored lanterns, all illuminated in the evening.

Even if you have lost your childhood soul, you will not be able to resist the beauty of this event. It’s just magic.

Take the # 81 bus from Busan station, get off at Samgwangsa Ipgu, then walk for about 10 minutes. Travel time from Busan station: 45 minutes. ( LOCATION )

29. Enjoy the Museum Of Contemporary Art (MOCA Busan)

This museum, which is a link between Man and Nature, was created on Eulsukdo Island, a refuge for migratory birds. It is to the French botanist Patrick Blanc that we owe the “Vertical Garden” which adorns the facade of the building, inaugurated in June 2018.

MOCA aims to be an experimental space: the contemporary works on display use a variety of media, such as LED light, sound, and plants. The idea is to immerse the visitor in a place where the arts and nature coexist.

Take bus # 1001 from Busan station. Get off at Sahagucheong (Dangni yeok) stop and take bus number 58-2, 58-3 or 520, then get off at Busan Hyeondae Misulgwan. Travel time from Busan station: 45 minutes. ( LOCATION )

30. Eat Busan famous fish cake

Samjin is the most famous fish cake in Korea. The shop was established in 1953 , which also makes it the oldest fish cake producer in Busan. It has more than a few outlets in the city including a museum and store in Busan Station.

In 2017, Samjin opened its first outlet in Singapore.

Try it! It is so delicious. We recommend you visit the main branch in Busan. Here is their website .

Where to stay in Busan?

Busan is a very large city. Therefore, to avoid wasting time commuting between main sights, we recommend choosing a hotel conveniently located and depending on what you wish to visit and do during your trip.

As such we recommend 2 main locations, the first one is Haeundae Beach . There you can not only enjoy the beach but also the nearby attractions, such as Bay 101, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Songjeong Beach, taking the Sky Capsule, or visiting Gwangalli Beach.

Our second recommendation if you wish to focus more on the city and see Jagalchi Fish Market, BIFF, Oryukdo, Taejongdae etc. then staying at the Seomyeon shopping district wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Here is the list of our favorite hotels in Busan:

Shilla Stay Haeundae

In terms of location, value for money, and quality of the facilities, our favorite hotel in Busan is Shilla Stay located in Haeundae. Directly facing the most famous beach in Korea, the view from the room or the rooftop pool is absolutely stunning.

You can also enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast every morning. The hotel also has different restaurants on the first floor with Japanese food, Korean food and a bar serving all kinds of draft beer.

Overall we highly recommend staying here if you go to Busan.

Paradise Hotel Haeundae

For the ultimate luxury experience by the beach, we love the Paradise Hotel in Haeundae . This hotel is pricier than Shilla Stay, but it’s a really gorgeous place. We especially love the pool, which directly faces the sea.

We felt just like in Bali for a moment 🙂 Besides, Paradise Hotel also has a casino with a fair amount of slot machines, blackjack tables and roulettes.

Fairfield by Marriot in Haeundae

For a more affordable option in Haeundae , we recommend a stay at Fairfield by Marriot . The hotel is in the prime location of Haeundae, just a few minutes from the beach. The rooms are very neat and clean.

This hotel doesn’t have a pool, so if you do not intend to relax by a pool during your stay in Busan, then we highly recommend Fairfield by Marriot.

IBIS Hotel in Seomyeon

For first-time travelers to Busan who wish to maximize their time visiting the city, then we recommend a stay at Ibis Hotel located very near Seomyeon the most entertaining area of Busan. From there you can easily reach Jagalchi Market or Gamcheon Village.

The hotel has good value for money and serves a delicious breakfast.

There are other Ibis in Busan, and also 1 in Haeundae, so make sure you book the correct one.

How to get to Busan?

Several options are possible to get to Busan in South Korea , from aborad or from Korea.

From abroad

First of all, you should know that Busan Airport is an international airport, served by many companies. It is, therefore, possible to arrive or depart from Korea to/from Busan.

Indeed, Busan is located completely opposite Seoul. Arriving in Seoul and leaving from Busan would be a very good option to maximize your time in Korea and avoid unnecessary trip. Even though the country is not huge, it still saves time and saves money.

To find such a flight, all you have to do is use the “multi-destination” option on a price comparator like Skyscanner, click here to find out .

From South Korea

To get to Busan in South Korea from the rest of the territory, several options are possible.

From Seoul, it is possible to reach Busan by plane (just under an hour’s flight, click here for the best prices) but the best option is by train. By KTX (Korean Fast train), it takes 2:30 and there are many departures every day. The price of the Seoul-Busan KTX is around 60,000 won. You can check the schedule and book here .

Best places to eat in Busan

When it comes to culinary delights, Busan offers a plethora of options to satisfy your taste buds. From fresh seafood to traditional Korean dishes and international cuisines, the city has a vibrant food scene that caters to all preferences.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Busan:

Jagalchi Fish Market:

As Korea’s largest seafood market, Jagalchi Fish Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Explore the vibrant market stalls, where you can choose live fish, crabs, clams, and other seafood delicacies. Many restaurants located within the market will cook your selected seafood on the spot, ensuring a fresh and delicious dining experience.

Gwangbokdong Food Street

Located near the Nampo-dong area, Gwangbokdong Food Street is a popular destination for street food enthusiasts. Explore the bustling street lined with food stalls and sample a variety of Korean street snacks such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), sundae (Korean blood sausage), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and fish cakes.

Busan Milmyeon

Busan is famous for its milmyeon, a local specialty dish consisting of wheat noodles in a spicy and tangy broth topped with vegetables and often accompanied by boiled pork. This restaurant is a renowned place that has been serving this delicious dish for decades, offering a true taste of Busan’s culinary heritage.

Samjin Eomuk:

If you’re a fan of fish cakes, make sure to visit Samjin Eomuk, a famous fish cake restaurant with multiple branches in Busan . The restaurant offers a wide variety of fish cakes, ranging from the classic eomuk (fish cake on skewers) to eomuk soups and stews. Enjoy the unique flavors and textures of these savory treats.

Dongnae Halmae Pajeon

Pajeon, a savory Korean pancake, is a popular dish in Busan, and Dongnae Halmae Pajeon is renowned for serving some of the best. The restaurant is known for its traditional-style pajeon made with a variety of ingredients such as green onions, seafood, and kimchi. Pair it with makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, for a complete culinary experience.

Haeundae Market

Located near Haeundae Beach, Haeundae Market is a bustling traditional market where you can find an array of food stalls and small eateries. Indulge in local favorites such as gimbap (rice rolls), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and eomuk (fish cake) soup . The market also offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, which can be prepared on-site.

Jeolyeong Sikdang:

For a taste of authentic Korean cuisine, Jeolyeong Sikdang is a popular restaurant serving classic dishes with a modern twist . From bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) to bibimbap (mixed rice bowl) and kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), the restaurant offers a range of flavors that showcase the essence of Korean cooking.

These are just a few of the many fantastic dining options available in Busan. Whether you’re exploring traditional markets, savoring street food, or indulging in fine dining, Busan’s culinary

Other useful information about Busan

Getting around busan.

To get around Busan in South Korea, the public transportation is sufficient most of the time. For example, the metro or Bus allows you to reach Jagalchi market , Haeundae district or even Gamcheon .

Occasionally, depending on what you plan to do in Busan, you may need to take a taxi which are relatively affordable.

Busan City Tour

A very convenient way to see most of Busan in a short period of time is to hop on the Busan City Tour Bus. This is also the most budget-friendly option. There are 3 different lines, which allow you to visit all of Busan’s main sights. Check it out here for more info.

Best Time to visit Busan

Like anywhere in Korea, the best time to visit is Spring and Autumn. However, the good thing about Busan contrary to Seoul, is that Winter is not that harsh, and summer more breathable as the city is located along the sea with many great beaches to get refreshed. For more info about the best time to visit South Korea , check out our full guide here.

✈️ Planning your trip to Busan and looking for cheap flight tickets? Find and buy them right now!

Always stay connected with an e-Sim card

Did you know that you don’t need to buy physical sim cards anymore? Simply purchase an e-Sim card before your trip to Korea. You can do so here.

Other things to see outside Busan

Geoje is an island in South Korea and one of our favorite places in the country. Geoje is located 1.5 hours from Busan. Much less known than Seoul or Busan, Geoje particularly surprised us with its natural beauty.

Surrounded by the blue sea and mountains all around, it is a great place to visit after your trip to Busan for a more secluded and peaceful experience.

In Geoje, expect gorgeous beaches, great hikes, amazing fresh seafood, stunning cafes and so much more. We wrote a full post here about Geoje.

You can easily reach Geoje by bus from Busan. There is a long bridge going directly to the island of Geoje.

Oedo Island

Oedo Island, officially called Oedo Botania, (in Korean: 외도 보타니아) is a botanical maritime garden located on a small rocky island, 4km from the coast of Geoje Island ( check out our full post about Geoje here ). It takes about 20min by boat from Gujora after passing the island of Naedo. Oedo is also accessible by boat from other areas of Geoje.

In 1969, Lee Chang-Ho was the first to arrive on this island to escape bad weather as he was fishing. Since then, he and his wife have created this tourist attraction with all their heart and soul for 30 years.

The garden covers an area of 264 km², is filled with camellias and other exotic plants such as cactus and palm trees. Full post about Oedo here.

You can also book a 1-day tour from Busan with Trazy, which is very convenient as everything will be organized for you. Check it out here.

In conclusion about the best things to do in Busan

With this information about Busan in South Korea , you should be ready to prepare for your stay and visit this amazing city. There would still be other places of interest in Busan that could be mentioned here.

However, visiting Busan is often a stopover of a few days on a trip to Korea. If you are wondering what to do in Busan and you plan to stay there for 2 or 3 nights, you already have plenty to do during these days …

You will probably even have to make a choice because many of these places mentioned in this blog could be a bit far from the center of Busan.

If you are planning to visit Busan in the near future and have any questions that this post does not answer, please send them to us by adding a comment below. we respond quickly to the various comments posted on the blog!

For more posts related to South Korea, check out this link here .

SOUTH KOREA : best things to do in South Korea
HAEUNDAE : the most famous beach in South Korea
GAMCHEON CULTURE VILLAGE
JAGALCHI , the largest fish market in Korea
HAEDONG YONGGUNGSA , the most beautiful temple in Korea
TAEAN : amazing national park on the west coast of Korea
NAMHAE : the hidden gem of South Korea on the south coast
MOKPO : a port city in the south, worth a visit
SEOUL : Full guide for the best things to do in the city
JEJU : All you need to know before you go to Jeju
BOSEONG : best green tea planation in Korea

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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11 BEST Places to Visit in Busan (2024)

Situated on the south-east coast of the country, Korea’s second city has everything you could dream of from a vacation. When you travel to Busan, you’ll find rugged mountains, gorgeous beaches, and a world-famous film festival.

All of this, and we haven’t even got started on the city’s culinary scene yet! Busan’s markets are teeming with more species of fish than you can imagine. You can eat at those, or head to the city’s restaurants. From street food to tent cafes, to high-end gourmet establishments, there’s definitely something to suit all tastes.

After dark, the twinkling lights of the city’s skyscrapers and the Gwangan Bridge make for an incredible time to explore Busan!

In this post, we’ll take a look at the best places to visit in Busan. We hope that you’ll find our list useful when it comes to giving you Busan vacation ideas and planning your trip!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Busan:

These are the best places to visit in busan, faq on the best places to visit in busan.

Nampo is our number one pick for the best neighbourhood in Busan to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time. This busy and bustling neighbourhood is located in central Busan.

Browse the shops at Gukje Market.
Climb to the top of Busan Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Explore the lively and vibrant BIFF Square.

If you were wondering about accommodation, we’ve got you covered. Check out where to stay in Busan before venturing into the excitement below!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

#1 – Haeundae Beach – One of the most incredible free places to go in Busan

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Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of South Korea
One of the most popular hotspots in Busan
Don’t miss watching a sunset from here – they’re amazing!

Why it’s awesome: One of the most popular hotspots in Busan for tourists, travellers, and locals alike, you will definitely want to spend some time on Haeundae Beach! It’s hard to believe that such a beautiful beach could be right on the edge of a city, but that’s exactly what you get here. If you’re backpacking, you might end up staying here as there are a number of cool hostels in this area. There are also plenty of international restaurants if you haven’t plucked up the courage to try proper Korean food yet! Backpackers in South Korea love the food and you will too.

What to do there: It’s impossible to be bored on Haeundae Beach. Of course, you have the regular stuff like sunbathing and swimming, but there’s way more to this stretch of sand than that. During the day, you’ll find art exhibits and music events, while it really comes alive at night. Some of the city’s best nightlife is along the streets by Haeundae Beach so you’ll want to come here for a night out! Incredibly, you can see the coast of Japan from this beach on a clear day.

#2 – Gamcheon Culture Village

A formerly run-down neighbourhood, revived by community artists
Stop off at souvenir shops, art galleries, and cool cafes
One of the coolest points of interest in Busan

Why it’s awesome: Sometimes referred to as Korea’s Santorini, Gamcheon Culture Village is where you’ll want to go to get an alternative perspective on this Asian country. It’s hard to say it’s a traditional and authentic side of South Korea, but it’s certainly a cool one. Admire the old-style Korean architecture which has been restored and decorated by local artists. This colourful area is chock-full of places to duck into if the weather gets too hot and you need a break. Definitely one of the best places in Busan to spend a day!

What to do there: Bring a pair of comfortable shoes as you’re going to spend a lot of time wandering the alleyways of Gamcheon Cultural Village. There are tons of surprises throughout the streets, and you’re likely to come across a cute café or a tiny art gallery. It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home! Make sure you bring a camera, or at least your phone. The colourful houses, which look like they’ve just been dropped on the hillside, make for some great Insta shots!

#3 – Haedong Yonggung Temple – One of the best religious places to see in Busan

Considered one of the most beautiful temples in the whole of South Korea
One of the few temples in South Korea that overlooks the ocean
Easy to get to from the city centre

Why it’s awesome: Dating back to the 14th century, Haedong Yonggung Temple is worth visiting as much for is history as it is for its serene and sublime location. It was built by Naong, a Buddhist teacher during the Goryeo Dynasty. Most temples in Korea are either in cities or up in the mountains. It’s very rare that you’ll get one so near the ocean, so that is a reason to visit in itself! This is without a doubt one of the most recognisable landmarks in Busan.

What to do there: The good news is its really easy to get to from the centre of Busan, and even more so from Haeundae Beach. So, if you’ve maxed out your sunbathing and swimming time, make this your next stop. During Buddha month, this is an incredible place to be, especially at night, as the temple is adorned with many lanterns. If you find the walk to the temple tricky, you can always stop for food on the way. Lining the steps up to the temple there are lots of street food kiosks selling street food, so you’ll have no trouble keeping your energy up!

#4 – Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park

120-metre tower with city views
Park packed with attractions – one of the best places in Busan for a day out
One of the major landmarks in Busan

Why it’s awesome: If you liked the sound of the city views from our best luxury hotel in Busan but your budget doesn’t stretch to staying at the Park Hyatt, we’ve got an alternative for you. Yongdusan Park houses one of the tallest attractions in Busan, the 120-metre tower. From here you’ll get great views of the city, as Yongdusan Park is actually pretty high up. Yes, Yongdusan translates as ‘dragon’s head mountain!’

What to do there: After you’ve taken in fantastic views of the city and snapped a few pictures, there’s plenty more to do on ground level in the park. See the traditional Korean Bell housed in a building at the foot of the tower. Then, head to the Museum of World Folk Instruments to see beautifully preserved examples of instruments. If those aren’t quite enough, be sure to check out the Flower Clock, the Bronze Dragon Statue, and the Locks of Love!

#5 – Jagalchi Fish Market

The biggest fish market in the whole of Korea
See species of fish you’ve never even dreamed of… then eat them!
Houses some of the best places to eat in Busan

Why it’s awesome: Yes, it’s impressive that Jagalchi Fish Market is the biggest of its type in Korea, but there’s a lot more to get excited about than just that. Centuries-old methods have been passed down families to the vendors who work there today, who know a thing or two about how to prepare their fish. You’ll see more species than you knew existed being prepared in a variety of different ways. Get to the market at 5 am to see it at its most vibrant and exciting!

What to do there: If you’ve managed to get to the market at the crack of dawn, well done you! Your reward is seeing the organised chaos of the middle-aged and married Korean women who work at the market. They’re known as the jagalchi ajumma. It’s hardly surprising that such a huge fish market is home to some of the best places to eat in Busan. Make sure you buy your fish off these women, before taking it upstairs. The restaurants on the top floor of the market will happily prepare your catch for you, exactly to your taste!

#6 – Jangsan Mountain – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Busan

How to see Busan from the surrounding mountains
A moderate to difficult hiking trail
Especially beautiful in October and November

Why it’s awesome: Sometimes you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and really get some fresh air. Going hiking is a great way to do that, and in a city surrounded by mountains, it would be rude not to! There are a number of cool hiking spots, but one of our favourites is Jangsan Mountain. The mountain is split into lots of hiking trails suitable for different levels of fitness and experience. It takes about 2 hours to get to the top of the 634-metre high mountain!

What to do there: If you ask the locals what they like to do on a weekend, a fair few would recommend Jangsan Mountain! If you don’t feel confident in getting to the top of the mountain, then select one of the routes that will take you halfway up. It’ll still give you stunning views of the city. The mountain is dotted with silver grass fields, which sparkle in the sun. This effect is most noticeable and prettiest during October and November. So, don’t miss one of the best places in Busan for hiking if you’re visiting during those months!

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic .

#7 – Shinsegae Centum City – A great place in Busan if you love to shop

The largest department store in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records
You can buy pretty much anything you want in here
Head to one of the biggest spas in Busan

Why it’s awesome: Shoppers, listen up. Not only is this one of the best places in Busan for retail therapy, it’s possibly one of the best in the world! That’s because it’s the largest department store in the world. At least according to the Guinness Book of Records anyway! It was originally Korea’s first department store, built-in 1930. However, since then, it’s expanded into the mega centre that it is today. Needless to stay, it’s one of the fashion hotspots in Busan!

What to do there: It’s not all about shopping though. There’s lots to see in the shopping centre, including Busan Cinema Centre and the city’s Museum of Art. There’s even a golf course where you can practise your swing! If you’re tired from trailing around the centre, don’t miss Spa Land in the department store. Originally it was meant to be a water park, but when hot springs were discovered during the centre’s construction, that plan changed. Now, 20 spas with a number of themed rooms for you to relax in!

#8 – Hurshimchung

One of the oldest spas in the Dongnae District
More than 40 baths to choose from
One of the hotspots in Busan – literally!

Why it’s awesome: While you’re in Busan, you’ll want to experience the city’s jjimjilbang culture, right? There are over 450 spas in the city so it can be hard knowing which one to choose. Although it won’t offer you the most intimate experience, Hurshimchung (also spelled Heosimcheong) is one of the most popular. There’s space here for more than 3,000 people, but don’t worry, you won’t all be in the same water! There are more than 40 baths here, so you should be able to find your own spot to relax and disconnect from the world!

What to do there: The name of these spas means “cleaning one’s mind”. So, try out a few of the different baths and see which one does that best! You can try the Cave Bath, Outdoor Bath, or Longevity Bath. Maybe the last one will extend your trip to Busan, who knows! The Dongnae District has been synonymous with spas for more than 2,000 years, and there are a couple of others to check out here if Hurshimchung isn’t the one for you. Dongnae Outdoor Footbath is another spa with curative waters that are great for your skin.

#9 – Gwangbokdong Food Street – A must-see for foodies in Busan!

A narrow street with food stalls and restaurants
More of the best places to eat in Busan
A total feast for the senses

Why it’s awesome: A whole street full of traditional Korean food ? And you’re asking us why it’s awesome… Well, we’d better tell you anyways. The narrow streets of the Gwangbokdong District are home to this hidden gem – a food street that has every type of Korean food you could hope for and imagine. There are also a few spots to buy clothes here, but let’s not pretend – it’s the food we’re here for!

What to do there: Wander down this narrow street before trying as many restaurants and food stalls as you can. It truly is a feast for the senses, so take in the sights of stall owners preparing their dishes, the smells of garlic and chilli frying and oil, which will really whet your appetite. Be adventurous! One of the best things to eat are tasty Korean dumplings. Just be aware – quite a lot here contains fish!

#10 – Gwangan Bridge

One of the most beautiful nightscapes in the country
The longest bridge in Korea
One of the most emblematic points of interest in Busan

Why it’s awesome: Nightlife in South Korea isn’t all about going to bars and clubs (although you’re guaranteed a good time if you do that). No, sometimes it’s just finding a beautiful spot to watch the city lights twinkling. One of those places is Gwangan Bridge. Whether you want to watch the 100,000 lighting effects from afar or stroll across the bridge which connects Haeundae-Gu and Suyeong-Gu, you shouldn’t miss this off your Busan itinerary!

What to do there: As well as watching the magnificent light shows, this is just one more place you can experience the city’s incredible seafood-centric cuisine. On the bridge itself, you’ll find more of the best places to eat in Busan, whether you want to go fancy with fine dining, or just chill out with some street food!

Need help figuring out what to do and see? Use our Busan itinerary to gain some insider tips and knowledge!

#11 – Busan Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Busan

Why it’s awesome: We’ve included a lot of outdoor, shopping, and culinary activities on our list of the best places to visit in Busan, but not too much in the way of history and culture. However, there’s still plenty of it in the city, and the Busan Museum is the best place to learn about Korea’s past. It was renovated and re-opened in 2002 and is packed with fascinating exhibits to help you learn more about this incredible country.

What to do there: Check out the ancient artefacts that date back to long before any borders were drawn around Korea. This museum will guide you through the country’s history all the way to the Japanese occupation and the years after World War II. You can get involved with a Busan must do at the museum too – a tea ceremony. This is the perfect end to a day where you’ll explore Busan’s biggest and most comprehensive history museum!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Busan

What are the best places to visit in Busan?

Gamcheon Culture Village is probably the most iconic sight in the city. The multicoloured hillside town is known as Korea’s Santorini.

What is the best area to stay in Busan?

Nampo is a great shout as it’s at the heart of the city and an ideal spot for first time visitors.

What is the best time to visit Busan?

Truthfully, Busan is great all year round. Summer is great for hititng the beach but can be busy. Winter can bring snow but Autumn and Spring are beautiful, mild and quiet!

What are some free things to do in Busan?

Hang out on Haeundae Beach, known as one of the most stunning beaches in the whole country it’s incredible how close it is to the city!

Final Thoughts

So, that’s all from our list of the best places to visit in Busan. We hope you’ve found this list useful, informative, and you’re reading to make the most of your vacation in South Korea’s 2nd city.

There are so many Busan vacation ideas on our list that you might actually struggle to fit them into a short trip. So, you can see just how much this incredible city offers to tourists. Whether you want to sample the culinary scene, learn about Korean history, or visit natural attractions like the beach and the mountains, you’ll find something for you. One thing’s for sure – your Busan itinerary is going to be pretty packed!

Just remember to keep our list of the best places to visit in Busan at hand. It’ll take any stress out of planning your vacation. We hope you have a great time!

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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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Top 15 Things To Do In Busan (South Korea)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 27, 2019 - Last updated: June 10, 2024

Busan is the second largest city in South Korea with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing.

If you are a traveler who has been searching for a new place to experience, a trip to Busan in South Korea is strongly recommended.

Busan has dozens of attractions and activities available.

Even with a typical one week stay full of adventures, it is unlikely that you will see half of what Busan has to offer.

From the mountains to the coastlines and everything within the city itself, Busan is definitely a city that requires multiple trips just to be able to experience it all.

The city of Busan is composed of so many different areas that there’s no way you will be bored for even a minute during your visit.

You barely have to go half a mile before finding yourself in a completely new neighborhood.

You can relax on the beach, go for a walk in the park or check out some South Korea food vendors.

Whether you are interested in history, being out in nature or sightseeing, there are plenty of things to do in Busan.

If you are wondering about what to do in Busan, here are the top suggestions (along with travel tips and travel hacks ).

Table of Contents

1. Enjoy The Scenic Hikes Of Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park is along the coastline of Yeongdo, Busan and consists of rocky beaches.

There are dozens of trails to hike that give you the chance to see woodlands along with Buddhist temples.

These trails will take you up to the clifftops for scenic and breathtaking views.

There is a known legend that aside from the people who are local to the area, gods and goddesses also like to take in the views and surrounding scenery.

They like to sit on Sinseon Rock near the lighthouse while being mesmerized by the sea.

Even for those who are not big fans of hiking, these views must be incredible if gods and goddesses approve of them.

If you enjoy the clifftop views (who wouldn’t?), you can head up to the lighthouse for more incredible views.

Yeongdo Lighthouse

If you were not already taking photos while on the clifftops, this is the place to do it. Aside from picture-worthy views, lighthouses can be fun to check out.

Hiking these trails is a good way to get a bit of exercise.

For those who do not have the time or ability to go hiking, there is a Danubi train that will take you to see all of the main attractions.

Address: 24 Jeonmang-ro, Dongsam-dong, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea

2. Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village

Visiting the Gamcheon Culture Village is among the top things to do in Busan.

If you are interested in unique things to do in Busan, Gamcheon Culture Village should definitely be in your plans.

This village is located in the hills high above Busan and has pastel painted shops and stores.

Every surface of the village has been decorated with interesting street art and murals.

Stop by a restaurant or cafe for a bite to eat and witness whatever theme has been set for that particular place.

Several restaurants have their own unique theme which gives you a reason to come back and check out different places.

Gamecheon is seen as a mural village of South Korea. This means that it was once in a run down condition.

The locals decided that they were getting tired of the neighborhood looking so run down and worked to turn the village into the rainbow tourist attraction it is today.

They offer a map of the village that will take visitors on a scavenger hunt.

This scavenger hunt involves collecting postcards and stamps to see various notable artwork on display.

Address: 203, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea

3. Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach

This beach in Busan is one of the most popular in South Korea due to the few miles of its sandy coastline.

Haeundae Beach is a popular beach that both tourists and locals like to visit. Relax and get a tan or enjoy an outing with family and friends.

Once you are tired of lounging and soaking in the sun, you can head up the boardwalk. Seek some shade while drinking a cup of coffee or eating lunch.

There is a market near Haeundae station which sells reasonably priced Korean food.

The Busan Aquarium is also nearby for the enjoyment of marine life.

If you are a night owl, Haeundae is a popular destination for partying, drinking and karaoke.

Address: 264, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

4. Sunset At Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach is seen as a quieter and more peaceful alternative to Haeundae Beach.

It has views of Gwangandaegyo bridge that people who are local to Busan cannot help but adore.

Sunset is considered the best time to visit Gwangalli Beach. Relax after a day filled with fun by staring at a sky of red and orange. There is not a better way to end a day in Busan.

If you stay after dark, the bridge will be lit up with red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple twinkling lights.

You don’t have to be obsessed with rainbows to be mesmerized by such a breathtaking view.

Aside from the sunset and bridge, an evening trip to the beach may include musicians and performers.

Staring at the beauty of the bridge while enjoying street performers is a perfectly valid reason to not go to bed.

Address: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea

5. HurShimChung Spa

HurShimChung Spa

South Korea is well known for having excellent spas and beauty centers. Visiting a spa on a trip to South Korea is a must and Hur Shim Chung Spa is located in Busan.

Hur Shim Chung Spa is among the oldest in South Korea and is hence one of everyone’s favorites. They provide visitors with an authentic spa experience.

It is best to start off with their Korean body scrubs that are known to be rejuvenating.

There are pools and saunas provided with herbs and fragrances that provide various ailments.

Just like Gwangalli Beach’s sunset, a spa like Hur Shim Chung Spa is a perfect way to relax after seeing the sights of Busan.

Address: 23 Geumganggongwon-ro 20beon-gil, Oncheon 1(il)-dong, Dongnae-gu, Busan, South Korea

6. Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market

Busan is a port town, so it has the largest fish market in South Korea. If you decide to visit the Jagalchi Fish Market, you would be well advised to wear shoes.

You should basically put on whatever footwear that completely covers your feet.

The fish at Jagalchi Fish Market are fresh and are brought in immediately after being caught. They are then sliced, chopped and prepared to be served and eaten.

If you are planning to try octopus, there is a chance it will still be alive when you eat it. Do not be surprised or hesitant because that is not unusual in Busan or South Korea.

Fresh fish can be bought in a stall and taken to a tented restaurant to be prepared. Hang out under a tent with a local while enjoying your seafood with a beverage called soju (alcohol).

If you want to be able to see the various seafood being brought in and prepared, you should set an alarm to be sure you are up early.

Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

7. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Go north to the outskirts of Busan to visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple . This Buddhist temple is located on top of a cliff.

Most temples in South Korea are located up in the mountains. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of the few temples located near the sea.

The temple site has been around since the thirteen hundreds. A Buddhist teacher built the site because he was told to while having a vision.

The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple has had to be rebuilt after being destroyed multiple times throughout the previous centuries.

Despite this, it is currently seen as a beautiful temple because of its structure and its setting.

This temple is said to have numerous reports of strange and unusual incidents occurring throughout the years.

Also, by praying to the Buddha statue outside of the pagoda, you will be free of diseases.

To top it all off, there is a market that sells unusual treats of South Korea if you are brave enough to try them.

Address: 86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-eup, Gijang, Busan, South Korea

8. Go Haggle At Gukje Market

Gukje Market

At this point in the list, it is obvious that Busan, and South Korea in general, have a good amount of different markets.

These markets sell a variety of items from food to accessories. When you go visit Busan, odds are you will end up visiting a few markets.

Your trip to Busan should include at least one visit to Gukje Market .

They basically have everything. So if you happen to need or want a particular item, you are bound to find it.

This market has been around since the Korean war when refugees were in Busan.

If you get a chance to check out Gukje Market, it is recommended that you also go see Kkangtong and Bupyeong Markets nearby.

Address: 25 Gukjesijang 2-gil, Gwangbok-dong, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

9. Try Some Busan Cuisine

Korean pork rice soup (Dwaeji-gukbap)

Trying the food that is local to the area is a part of experiencing a foreign country.

Busan cuisine is not something that is likely to appear on the shelves of Wal-Mart when you go back home.

Who knows if and when you will be returning to South Korea or Busan specifically, so why pass it up?

Trying new food might be one of the things to do in Seoul , but do not be afraid to go off the beaten path.

Dwaeji Gukbap is the most famous of Busan and is a definite dish to try.

It is a stew that is made with a broth from boiled pork bones. It has pork and vegetables in it along with some seasoning.

Twin Pork Soup Restaurant and Wonjo Halmae Gukbap both in the center of Busan are considered the best places to visit for this stew.

While visiting food markets, try to find some Ssiat Hotteok which is the Busan version of pancakes.

With that being said, why would you not try them? And with them being so available, they should not be hard to find.

Address (Twin Pork soup): 887-1 Daeyeon 1(il)-dong, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea

Address (Wonjo Halmae Gukbap): 27 Gunam-ro 21beon-gil, U 1(il)-dong, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea

10. Stay At The Temple Of Beomeosa

Temple Of Beomeosa

Any temple in Busan is worth a visit, especially the Temple of Beomeosa .

Just as most temples in South Korea are, the Temple of Beomeosa is up in the mountains surrounded by serene and peaceful seclusion.

The history of the temple goes back over a thousand years and the temple has the most important site in South Korea.

The Beomeosa Temple has a Korean Temple Stay program to participate in for those who are interested.

By participating in this program, you will spend a few days living in the temple along with all of its accommodations.

You can either meditate while enjoying the South Korea mountain scenery or shadow monks to learn about their daily lives.

Address: 250 Beomeosa-ro, Cheongnyongnopo-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea

11. Shinsegae Centum City Department Store

Shinsegae Centum City Department Store

Busan has the biggest shopping center in the world. Shinsegae Centum City actually has the title of the largest shopping center in the world to make it official.

Shinsegae is well known throughout South Korea. It is like a department store, only much larger and spread out across fourteen floors.

There are no taxes while shopping for some people and anyone who loves to shop is sure to have a field day at Shinsegae Centum City.

Address: 35 Centumnam-daero, U-dong, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea

12. Shop At Nampo-dong For Korean Products

Aside from Shinsegae, another go to shopping area is Nampo-dong. The Nampo-dong district has plenty of apparel stores and boutiques to check out.

The stores in this district have unique items you will not be able to find anywhere else.

No matter how much or how little money you are willing to spend, you will find something for a price you can agree to.

The Nampo-dong district also has restaurants that serve different kinds of cuisine.

Interesting shops to visit and new food to try are all the reasons you need to go and visit the Nampo-dong district.

Address: 2-6 Nampodong 5(o)-ga, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

13. Hiking The Geumjeongsan Mountain

Geumjeongsan Mountain

Geumjeongsan Mountain has woodlands, hot springs, rock formations and Buddhist temples.

All of this makes Geumjeongsan Mountain one of the best places for hiking in Busan and South Korea.

If you have a good amount of free time or love to be in the middle of the great outdoors, you should definitely go for a hike along the Geumjeongsan Mountain.

The Temple of Beomeosa is actually located on Geumjeongsan Mountain which means you can stop for a short visit while on a hike.

This mountain is not too difficult of a hike and reaching the top will reward you with the amazing sky view of Busan down below.

The ruins of what was once the Geumjeongsan Fortress is also a sight that is worth seeing.

Address: 38, Dongmun-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea

14. Oryukdo Skywalk In Igidae Park

Oryukdo Skywalk

Igidae Park is one of the “off the beaten track” things to do in Busan. This coastal walk will take you past the Gwangan Bridge and Haeundae Beach.

A walk down this trail will allow you to see plenty of Busan, possibly including some attractions you have already visited or plan to visit.

It is a way to get some exercise and do some sightseeing.

The south end of the park has a spot that looks out to the five Oryukdo islands. If you want to visit Oryukdo via a ferry, you can walk along the sky bridge that has a glass bottom.

It can be a cool and somewhat nerve-wracking experience which makes it an opportunity that should not be passed up.

While visiting Igidae Park, you can also visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple that is nearby. Both attractions are close enough to be able to visit in one day.

Address: 137 Oryuk-doro, Yongho-dong, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea

15. Busan Modern History Museum

桂鷺淵 / Katsura Roen [CC BY-SA 3.0]

The Busan Modern History Museum has a few exhibition halls where you can learn about the history of Busan and the Korean War.

This museum offers a history class you can take if you happen to be fascinated with the information available in the museum or about the city of Busan.

Regardless of how much you are into history, it can be a fun activity to participate in.

Address: 104 Daecheong-ro, Daecheongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Explore South Korea

And if Busan has so much to experience as the second largest city in South Korea, then just imagine what Seoul, the largest city in South Korea has to offer.

If you are interested in Seoul, check out this article on the things to do in Seoul .

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8 Enchanting Places to Visit In Busan For An Incredibly Fun Getaway In 2024!

24 Jan 2023

Busan is the second largest city of South Korea, situated in the southeastern tip of the Korean peninsula. Also known as the “City Of Tomorrow”, it is a hidden gem of South Korea. It is a hub of great beaches, religious temples, majestic cliffs for adventurous hiking or be it wandering in the colorful alleys of a World Heritage village. This city has an array of attractions that will make you fall in love with South Korea even more. We have shortlisted awesome places to Visit in Busan to make your trip super exciting and fun!

Top 8 Places to Visit In Busan

Busan is undoubtedly one of South Korea’s greatest travel destinations with exotic beaches, local seafood delicacies, and beautiful tourist attractions. Here is the list of 8 best places to visit in Busan to give you a snippet of what awaits for you.

Haeundae Beach
Gamcheon Culture Village
Sea Life Busan Aquarium
Haedong Yonggungsa
Taejong Dae
Jagalchi Fish Market
Nampodong Market
Gwangalli Beach

1. Haeundae Beach

Image Source Busan is popular for its exotic beaches and Haeundae tops the list of best beaches in Busan. Located at the edge of the city, this beach is best for chilling and relaxing and soaking in the sun or you can try thrilling water sports like snorkeling, skiing, and surfing. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Busan. You can head to this gorgeous beach on weekends and enjoy a calm time with your friends and family. There are many restaurants near this beach serving authentic and delicious fresh seafood, you can satisfy your taste buds by trying the delicious seafood while enjoying a mesmerizing view of the sunset.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Family

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2. Gamcheon Culture Village

Image Source Gamcheon Culture Village is the quintessence of beauty and chaos, all round into one. This former slum area is known for its steep streets, twisting alleys, and brightly painted houses. This is a major tourist attraction Busan. The picturesque lego-like houses painted in vibrant colors will aw-struck you. This area is perfect for Instagram worthy pictures and even unique photo shoots. It is also known as the open art museum of Busan. This area is flocked by both travelers and as well as Koreans to see the colorful alleys and get lost in the streets to explore the village to its fullest.

Suggested Read: Banpo Bridge: All You Need To Know For Your Visit To South Korea’s Marvelous Attraction

3. Sea Life Busan Aquarium

Image Source Located in the Haeundae Beach, Busan, Sea Life Busan is a ginormous aquarium displaying about 250 species and up to 35,000 marine animals viewed through acrylic windows or from an underwater tunnel. It is a paradise for marine lovers. Best to visit with your family and if you are traveling with kids, this place is perfect for you to visit. There are around 40 exhibits in this Aquarium including Penguins, Piranha, otters and sea jellies. Add this place in your list of places to visit in Busan and explore the marine life closely.

Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!

4. Haedong Yonggungsa

Image Source Nestled on a beautiful cliffy coastline in northeastern Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa is the only Buddhist temple which overlooks the sea as most of the Buddhist temples are located on mountains. It is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in South Korea, popular for its calm are serene environment it is the best place to enjoy a relaxing time with yourself. It was built during the Goryeo Dynasty and is the oldest temple of Busan. You can head to this divine place with your family and seek blessings for good health and prosperity of your loved ones.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country

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5. Taejong Dae

Image Source Taejong Dae is a natural park of Busan, with majestic cliffs facing the open sea on the southernmost tip of the island of Yeongdu-gu. It is a popular tourist spot in Busan with an amusement park, an observatory, a lighthouse, and a cruise ship terminal. It is one of the top places to visit in Busan during summer For thrilling adventures, you can hike to this cliff and get stunned by the amazing views around you!

Suggested Read: 28 Best Places To Visit In South Korea: Perfect Recipe For An Exotic Vacation

6. Jagalchi Fish Market

Image Source If you are traveling to Busan, this famous market should be on your priority list to visit. Busan is located on the coastal area so it is no wonder that there is an abundance of fresh seafood in the city. Jagalchi Fish Market is the biggest one-stop center for fresh seafood and a variety of different marine species, you name it and you have it! Not just raw seafood but there are food stalls in the market selling delicious fish soup, raw octopus, fried fish and what not! Visit this fascinating market and enjoy fresh seafood directly delivered from the sea.

Suggested Read: Korean Food Guide: 15 Tasteful Korean Dishes For An Epicurean Delight!

7. Nampodong Market

Image Source Craving some Korean delicacies? Do not worry, we have a perfect place for you. Nampodong Market is the 3rd largest market of South Korea, which has an abundance of lip-smacking Korean dishes, trending fashion clothing shops and some unique thrift shops and souvenirs. Get down on Nampo station and the market is just a few minutes walk away. Indulge in shopping and munch on some great street foods from the stalls. You will surely have a fantastic time exploring this vibrant market.

8. Gwangalli Beach

Image Source Gwangalli beach is located in the west of Haeundae beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Busan, curved in a half-moon shape with fine sand. If you want to escape the crowded Haeundae beach then this is the best Beach for you to spend a calm time relaxing and getting a nice tan under the sun. There are tons of cafes and restaurants lined up on adjacent alleys where you can satisfy your hunger with mouth-watering Korean Barbecue. Enjoy a day here relaxing and chilling with your friends and family!

Further Read: 5 Places Worth Exploring On Korea Tour-Land Of Morning Calm

No doubt, Busan is a perfect destination for one serene travel experience when you are vacationing in South Korea . From the vibrant village where everything is a treat to your eyes, magnificent beaches, heavenly delicious seafood to majestic cliffs of Taejong Dae, you will have a whole new experience in this gorgeous city. Go through our list of places to visit in Busan to getter a better idea of what to explore here.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit In Busan

What is famous in Busan?

Busan is the largest port city of South Korea and features gorgeous beaches, lush green nature reserves, serene hot springs, and a lot more. The city also hosts the famous international film festival every year.

Is Busan a beautiful city?

Busan is amongst the best places to visit in South Korea and serves to be a perfect travel destination. Its tranquil beaches, scrumptious delicacies, and stunning attractions attract travelers from across the world.

Is it safe to visit Busan during Covid?

You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.

What food is famous in Busan?

You can try the following dishes while holidaying in Busan for a gastronomy retreat - Seafood, Milmyeon, Street Noodles, Ssiat Hotteok, Eomuk, Dwaeji Gukbap, Kimbap, Pojangmacha, Jokbal, Buchimgae, Kimchi and other Banchan, Tteokbokki, and Bingsu.

Which are the best restaurants in Busan?

The following are the top restaurants in Busan: 1. Merciel - French & European 2. Boksoondoga F1963 - Asian & Korean 3. Vin d’el Olive - Italian & European 4. La Bella Citta - Italian 5. Bollywood Indian Restaurant & Bar - Middle Eastern, Indian & Fusion 6. Bombay Brau Gwangbok - Indian, Asian & Arabic 7. Hello India Al Waha - Arabic, Indian & Lebanese

What can I do in Busan?

You can plan to visit the popular tourist attractions in Busan such as Busan Tower, Kim Jae Sun Gallery, Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Ajumma, Haeundae Beach, Gwangbokdong Food Street, Haedong Yonggung Temple, Nampodong Market, Samjin Eomuk, etc.

Where can I go shopping in Busan?

The following are the best places for shopping in Busan - Shinsegae Centum city, Busanjin Market, Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market, Lotte duty-free shop, Biff Square, and Bosu-Dong Book Alley.

Is there any adventure activity to do in Busan?

Yes, there are numerous adventures to indulge in Busan such as hiking to Beomeosa temple, Keumjeonsan, exploring the Korean marine national park - Hallyeohaesang, etc.

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South Korea

64 Fun Things to do in Busan, South Korea

11 Pinterest

While Seoul might get majority of the South Korean recognition, a coastal adventure around the port city of Busan should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list — a beautiful melting pot of ocean-centric-meets-traditional.

Nestled amid the Geumjeongsan Mountain, there’s the beach never far from sight and plenty of nature to breathe in the fresh air.

Like most destinations in Asia, temple explorations are a must among the things to do in Busan , coupled with plenty of zany activities and tourist attractions.

Journey on the sky capsule parallel to shorelines, pop into quirky museums and stroll along glass-bottom walkways leading out over the ocean. Witness cherry blossoms in bloom, visit traditional tea houses or go beyond your comfort zone and try acupuncture.

BTS or K-drama tours are no-brainers if searching for unique experiences or learn how to make Korean fried chicken like a pro.

K-pop isn’t the only cultural sensation here … Did you know that Busan is a designated Creative City of Film listed by UNESCO?

Lending itself as the perfect base for exploring South Korea’s coastline, its tiny, colorful villages, from art-centric destinations to sleepy fishing towns, are dreamy day trips.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

Busan tours

1 – Marvel over Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Cue cherry blossoms blooming in spring, arched bridge crossings over the ocean, intricately detailed and colorful ceilings and a setting that transforms with the hours …

Most Buddhist temples constructed in nature are tucked away deep within mountain ranges or still-standing within city wall perimeters.

However, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is unlike any around — especially in Korea — straddling the water’s edge on the East Coast, chiseled into the rocks and overlooking the East Sea.

The tale goes that a god of the sea (the Great Goddess Buddha of mercy who resides in the ocean, riding a dragon) appeared to a local monk named Naong in a dream. The epiphany concluded that if the people built a temple in this exact location, their woes and hardships would soon fade away.

Built in 1376, sadly, the original structure was destroyed during the Japanese Invasion, but thankfully, was restored in the 1930s. Standout features of the current site include a three-story pagoda topped with four lions, the giant Yacksayeorae Healing Buddha and the Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha).

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple tours

2 – See jellyfish and sharks at Sea Life Busan Aquarium

If you’re here on a family vacation, Sea Life Busan Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Busan with kids; its layout geared toward children more so than anything.

Headed up indoors, the aquarium is split into various zones, with plenty of nifty gadgets and interactive zany features.

Designed as a submarine, marvel over our ocean’s greatest predators inside the Shark Zone; get educated on conservation efforts at the Turtle Rescue Zone; spot the tiny creatures in person at the Seahorse Kingdom; and experience three oceanic themes at the Sea at Night Zone.

Listen to one of the informative talks or witness feeding times with cute penguins, small-clawed otters and sharks.

One of the aquarium’s latest features is the Brickman Wonders of the World, where over 50 global landmarks and attractions have been recreated in LEGO® brick form!

3 – Take in the views from Busan Tower (Diamond Tower) at Yongdusan Park

Sky-scraping 120 meters into the sky, the Busan Tower (now known as the Busan Diamond Tower) was explicitly built for residents and tourists to lap up the views of the coastal city and the ocean.

The structure was erected in 1973 and was modeled after Gyeongju’s Dabotap stone pagoda, found at the Bulguksa Buddhist temple.

To locate the tower, make your way to Yongdusan Park where the Yongdusan Mountain masks as a backdrop. As scenic as ever, it’s one of those places never missed during walking tours in Busan .

Undergoing a modern revamp back in 2021, there are five floors to explore inside, and one of the best times of day to check out the Diamond Tower is when it’s illuminated at night.

The first floor is the entrance to the observatory and its ticket office; the second is an exhibition hall titled ‘Black Wonderland in Busan.’

Whizz up to the third level, where the cafe is located and order a cup of coffee made by a robot! The fourth and fifth floors are the dedicated observation areas.

Busan Tower tickets

4 – Ride the Songdo Marine Cable Car from Songdo Bay Station

Perched 86 meters above the ground (at its highest point), feel like a Vega Gull soaring over the ocean when flying along Songdo Marine Cable Car’s 1.62-kilometer-long cable line!

Beginning from Songrim Park (on the eastern side of Songdo Beach), the 15 to 20-minute journey ends in Amnam Park. From start to finish, you cross over Songdo Beach, Yeongdo District, the Namhangdaegyo Bridge and the Songdo Coastal Road.

Feel one with the ocean — literally — with the epic crystal cruise option (a special gondola designed with a glass-bottom floor, giving off an authentic feel of floating mid-air).

At both Songdo Bay Station (departure) and Songdo Sky Park (where the ride concludes) are relative attractions.

Comprising four floors, head up to the Bay Harbor Roof Garden and Bay Terrace at Songdo Bay Station. At Songdo Sky Park, there’s an Ocean Terrace, and the Sky Harbor Observatory decked in art sculptures.

Renamed the Busan Air Cruise in 2017, the city’s historic airborne transport ride has been operational since 1964.

Songdo Cable Car tickets

5 – Look down on the Oryukdo Skywalk

Get extra cheesy (Korea is one of those countries that makes corny look cute) and live out your very own Titanic moment at the end of the Oryukdo Skywalk as it peers over the ocean.

Aptly named, the walkway extends past the cliffs, providing stunning vistas of the group of Oryukdo Islets. The 15-meter horseshoe-shaped glass platform was built in the area known as Seungdumal, considered a divider between the South and East Seas.

An impressive structure indeed, the observation deck’s construction is solidified with iron columns and the 24 transparent floor panels utilize 12-millimeter thick glass panes.

To reach the skywalk, you’ll first follow a set of beach steps leading downwards and then a relatively flat, designated open path. Become mesmerized by your surroundings with pops of verdant coastal growth everywhere and panoramic blue hues.

It’s no surprise that Oryukdo is a National Cultural Heritage Scenic Site.

6 – Meditate at Beomeosa Temple

When life gets overbearing or you need a spiritual recharge, perhaps a retreated stay at the ancient Beomeosa Temple is all you require.

Meditation has always been its foundation, deemed a place of zen to ‘purify your mind.’

Delving into its historical importance, it was one of the first temples in the country to practice Seon Buddhism, i.e., Korean Buddhism, and widely premised on the ideas of “Meditation in Zen.”

Beomeosa Temple has its origins centuries before this, established in 678 CE by the great Korean master, Uisang. Many other revered monks have followed in his scholarly footsteps at the temple, and it houses three National Treasures classified as Buddhist cultural assets.

These include a three-story stone Pagoda, the Main Buddha Hall (Dae Woong Jeon) enshrining the Sakyamuni Buddha and the One Pillar Gate, also called the Il Ju Gate, dating to the year 1614.

Suppose you’re serious about its Templestay Program. In that case, your days at the monastery consist of quiet meditation, traditional Buddhist ceremonies and prayers, Dharma talks, sound healing, tea ceremonies, temple tours and more.

Beomeosa Temple tours

7 – Day trip to Gyeongju

Folk villages, a national park, trendy teahouses, cherry blossom festivals and pivotal religious sites — Gyeongju (the former ancient capital of the Silla Kingdoms from 57 BC to 935 CE) is a treasure trove!

An amalgamation of traditions, natural wonders and modern interests, don’t miss exploring this World UNESCO Heritage Site-laden area roughly one hour from Busan.

You best believe ancient customs are preserved, which you’ll notice at destinations like the Yangdong Folk Village and Gyochon Traditional Village. Visit historic attractions such as the 15th-century Bulguksa Temple and the primordial Cheomseongdae astronomical observatory from the 7th century.

Check out the Hwangnidan-Gil Street, pop into Gyeongju World theme park and visit the Bomun Tourist Complex with its picturesque lake.

Housing 30 royal tombs, a trip to the Daereungwon Burial Mound is not to be missed.

Gyeongju day trips from Busan

8 – Drink in the views from Taejongdae Resort Park

Once a former military base during the Japanese occupation, it’s hard to imagine Taejongdae Resort Park as anything other than the scenic viewpoint it is today.

Closed off to the public until 1967, it was then converted into the country’s 17th official Cultural Heritage Scenic Site and is now an official geopark with some wonderful attractions inside.

Watching the waves roll in from the Observatory, the scenery to admire is fantastic, with the smell of the ocean encircling you. When the weather is performing, you can even spot Japan’s Tsushima Island in the distance, plonked between the Korea and Tsushima Straits.

Guided by pathways and staircases, around the plaza are the Taejongsa Temple and the 35-meter-high Yeongdo Lighthouse (equipped with a natural history museum, maritime library, cinema, gallery and an outdoor hall).

A neat way to explore the park is via the Danubi train, pit stopping at the Observatory, Lighthouse and Temple.

Experience a live concert by candlelight in Busan

Catch live performances on piano, violin and cello of classical music and tributes to your favorite timeless composers. Candlelight concerts take place in scenic venues across the city that don’t typically host concerts and events for an unforgettable backdrop to live renditions of your favorite tunes. Revel in a live music concert surrounded by the ambiance of lit candles!

See price and reviews

9 – Snap pics inside the Trick Eye Museum

Fool your friends back home or your social media followers with all of the illusions of the Trick Eye Museum .

Promoting a completely sensory experience, its aim is for visitors to become a part of the artworks inside — spread out across five thematic areas.

These are the Aqua, Masterpieces, Adventure, Ghost and VR Zones.

Hold hands in front of the moon, fall under the jaws of a massive shark, ride a winged unicorn and give the Mona Lisa a quick squirt of juice.

Well, not really, but the way the three-dimensional paintings are designed gives off the mirage. This art technique, known as “Trompe-l’oeil, ” tricks viewers into thinking otherwise.

Plastered across the floors, walls and even the ceiling, you quite literally step into the painting, completing its objective and becoming a part of the piece!

10 – Hang out at Busan Citizens Park

Walk in the same footsteps as V, a member of the K-Pop sensation BTS, at Busan Citizens Park.

Fun fact: Kind of like a one-man Hollywood Boardwalk of Fame, inside the park is the V Road; along the pathway, a floor placard with the singer’s name on it after he was spotted strolling through the park on this very stretch.

With all the makings of the perfect urban park, added with a dash of oriental charm, it’s hard to imagine it was once a US military camp (Camp Hialeah) up until 2006!

Reformed and open for public enjoyment in 2014, meander past pretty streams cobbled with water features, cross waterways via wooden boardwalks or arched bridges, hang out on the park greens and see how many artworks you can count, from sculptures to repurposed features.

For example, the “Pillars of Memory” installation is recycled wooden power poles formerly used by the US Army.

It’s an excellent park for a family outing, equipped with numerous playgrounds as well as the Pororo Library.

11 – Pose for pictures around Gamcheon Culture Village

Instagram dreams are made of these … Just wait until you catch sight of the dozens of pastel-colored houses flittering down the coastal hillside in Gamcheon Culture Village, then it’s easy to understand why.

Would you believe that Gamcheon is less than 100 years old? From the start of the 1900s until the 1950s, the government designated this particular locale on the coast for the working class and later refugees.

Circa 2009 and the area got a facelift, repainting the organized terraced group dwellings in soft shades. This was part of a public community art project, metamorphosing Gamcheon into an art-inspired culture village.

The town is further brightened with street art, sculptures and murals thanks to local artists and students.

A great place to start is at the Gamcheon Culture Village Information Center (hint, pick up an alleyway guide map), and there are creative workshops to join in town too, for example, pottery or woodwork.

Gamcheon Culture Village tours

12 – Explore the East Coast during a day trip

“We’re all going on a summer holiday” is one line you won’t be able to stop singing as you grab your boards, pack your bikinis and veer out to the East Coast for the day.

The surf’s certainly up in this part of Busan, with Songjeong Beach on your doorstep — a famous surfing hotspot where there are also surf schools.

There’s more to the coastline than just its beaches, but most landmarks and activities do center around the East Sea.

The city’s revered oceanside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is on the East Coast, as well as the 35-meter-tall Daritdol Skywalk and Daebyeonhang Port.

Parallel to Songjeong Beach is Gudeokpo village. It draws in the crowds with its insta-worthy cafes, such as Old Mug – a specialty coffee shop. Don’t miss the daily Gijang Market or popping into Busan’s one and only IKEA.

Running between Mipo and Songjeong, board the Beach Train and lap up the scenic journey.

East Coast day trips from Busan

13 – Investigate the Busan Museum

Don your inspection glasses and delve into the Busan Museum’s 45,000 cultural artifacts for a deeper understanding of the city’s past.

Scope out treasures like a 17th-century scroll of a map of the known existing world countries up until that point (compassed by Ferdinand Verbiest), known as the Kunyu Quantu; or the uncovered Ryu Seong-ryong document, penned by Ryu Seong-ryong and dating to the 16th century.

Many displayed items are listed as cultural assets, but not all are showcased simultaneously. Instead, the institute regularly rotates its collections, showcasing various archived relics at different times.

Founded in 1978, ten permanent exhibition rooms were added to the grounds during a museum upgrade in 2002. The two prominent buildings to do most of your investigating are the Dongae Exhibition Hall and the Busan Exhibition Hall, plus, the outdoor garden acts as another open-air display cabinet.

14 – Embark on boat tours

From sunset river cruises to yacht expeditions to sailing exploits out on Busan Bay, there are boat tours to suit all tastes in Busan; it all depends on what you’re interested in.

Departing from Suyeonggang River, enjoy the best of both worlds as you veer along the waters, beneath bridges and passing by Gwangalli Beach.

A second option is boarding a public sailing yacht at The Bay 101 (an upmarket waterfront with a yacht club) for an oceanic adventure. The route extends to Dongbaek Island, Haeundae Beach, under Diamond Bridge, past Gwangalli Beach, Waterside Park, Marine City and eventually back at The Bay 101.

Instead of joining a public group tour, opt for a private boat tour onboard a luxurious sailing yacht, or experience it all under the stars during night boat cruises.

boat tours in Busan

15 – Go swimming at Haeundae Beach

Run along the shoreline of powdery white, pillow-soft sand and dive into the small waves washing up on the bay down at Haeundae Beach.

Boasting a sandy stretch of 1.5 kilometers, families, couples, groups of friends and solo travelers are spotted lounging about, building sandcastles, beach picnicking or frolicking in the waves in front.

As one of the city’s most frequented beaches, dozens of hotels, restaurants and shops line the area surrounding the locale, and it overflows with crowds on weekends and during the holidays.

The Sea Life Busan Aquarium is situated down at the beach too, and there are other noteworthy city landmarks and attractions around the corner, like Dongbaekseom Island, Haeundae Market and the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center (BEXCO).

16 – Whizz along the Haeundae Sky Capsule

The only thing you’ll be capturing in time is the memories made during a ride above Haeundae Beach onboard the rainbow Haeundae Sky Capsule .

Think of it like a cross between a gondola ride and a suspended railway, chugging along a two-kilometer line from the Mipo Station to Cheongsapo Station (roughly ten meters of this is a full-on aerial route).

The Sky Capsule forms part of the Haeundae Blueline Park, an initiative set out to give the abandoned Donghae Nambu Line a new purpose.

Hop inside an electric two, three or four-seater cart and marvel at the vistas en route. The journey is a one-way feature; if you want to zoot back on the line, you must purchase a separate ticket.

Also part of the Haeundae Blueline Park is its Haeundae Beach Train, this one driving on ground zero. The round-trip travels from Mipo to Cheongsapo through to Songjeong.

Sky Capsule tours

17 – Visit the National Maritime Museum

While the oceans surrounding Korea may not get as much recognition as others, that’s not to say they haven’t played a pivotal role in the country’s development. Become educated and acquainted with Korea’s oceanic endeavors and adventures at the National Maritime Museum .

Inside the super modern building, don’t expect to just find regular formal museum displays; instead, there are face-to-face exhibitions where the animals that you learn about swim right past you.

On the second floor you’ll discover the Children’s Museum, the Special Exhibition Hall and the Central Hall.

Up on floor three is the Permanent Exhibition Hall, covering the history and cultural topics with marine artifacts and relics. The various sections within this space include the Maritime Culture, Maritime history and figures, Ships, Maritime Life and Maritime Experience expos, as well as the Aquarium.

Revolving around the subject ‘Sailing to the ocean’ learn about the economic and productivity of the ocean at the Marine Industry Hall on level four. Also here is the Marine Science Hall, Marine Territory Hall and the 4D Theater.

18 – Spend the day tripping over to Oedo Island

Botany enthusiasts, how many times can you say you’ve visited a private island garden?

Unlike any other botanical garden in sight, the only way to reach this Eden of rare plants is via boat … the entire Oedo Island is the star of the show!

Privately owned since the 60s, the garden isle is the brainchild (and hardwork) of a local couple, who have been using their green fingers to set up and grow the perfectly manicured grounds (now containing 3,000 plant species – some native, others from around the world, especially places with a tropical climate).

A pathway leads you around the island, fueling your fire with varying gardens, for example, the Cactus Garden, the Flower Garden, the Venus Garden and the Stairway to Heaven.

To get here, first travel to Geoje Island (arrive here by car, taxi or catch a local bus). Once in Geoje, catch a 20-minute ferry to Oedo Botania (its official name). Either on the way there, or back, it’s worth popping into Maemi Castle.

The stone fortress replicates the medieval castles of Europe, transporting you across lands in an instant, but fascinatingly, was only constructed in 2003.

Oedo Island day trips from Busan

19 – Join magical cherry blossom tours

Japan isn’t the only country where sakura sightings are possible. Around the outlying areas of Busan, you too can experience the magic flurry of pink and white cherry blossoms blooming in season, brightening up roads, hillsides and villages.

Without veering outside the city, Oncheoncheon Park is the most famous spot in Busan for witnessing rows of Japanese cherry trees flourishing in towers on either side of its Oncheoncheon Stream. Strolling through the park in spring, thousands of petals litter the pathways, and it’s one of the most romantic places to be.

If you have the time to spare, there are cherry blossom tours traversing to villages, mountains and countryside settings where the sakuras come out to play in the dozens.

These include destinations such as Jinhae-gu, Gamcheon Culture Village, Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, Dalmaji hill and Hwagae’s Shimni Beotkkot road.

Sakura season in Busan is from the end of March toward the middle of April.

cherry Blossom tours in Busan

20 – Stroll along Songdo Cloud Trails

If you wanted to, you could easily spend an entire day trampling along the oceanic pathways and park trails in Busan — there are so many picturesque options! Plus, it’s an awesome way to get to know your surroundings, and is often included in city tours.

The 365-meter skywalk worming in a gentle curve above the ocean at Songdo Beach is another walking track to add to your list.

Known as the Songdo Cloud Trails (and also referred to as the Songdo Skywalk), feel as if floating on the undulating waves below you, strolling a boardwalk where you can see the water below your feet.

Sections of the path either have a glass panel covering it instead of wood or are sheltered off with barred steel with open gaps in between.

The gondolas of the Busan Air Cruise fly overhead and the trail links up to Geobukseon Island, nicknamed Turtle Island.

city tours in Busan

21 – Discover ancient relics at the Bokcheon Museum

Did you know that before the city was established as Busan, its history predates long before then, traced as far back as the Gaya confederacy and part of Korea’s ancient Three Kingdoms?

An area once part of the Silla kingdom, dig up facts such as these and more at the informative Bokcheon Museum — an archeological institute to explore the city’s vast eras through its excavated discoveries from the Bokcheon-dong burial ground.

Become giddy with excitement witnessing 169 pivotal artifacts in person, ranging from weapons to ruins to earthenware to armor — and yes, this does include seeing real-life tombs!

Two exhibition rooms, as well as an outdoor section, form the primary spaces.

Investigate prehistoric tombs, Tombs of the Three Kingdoms Period, Ancient tomb culture in Busan and the Bokcheon-dong Ancient Tombs inside Exhibition Room 1.

Earthenware, Ironware, Armor and Accessories from the Bokcheon-dong Ancient Tombs, as well as the Bokcheon-dong Ancient Tombs and a video and photo zone, are allocated within Exhibition Room 2.

Bokcheon Museum tickets

22 – Venture through BIFF Square

Pukka street food, nearby cafes selling cutesy desserts, a handful of cinemas and interesting stores — lively BIFF Square is always abuzz, especially during the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) season.

Since 1996, the 428-meter-long street (extending from the Buyeong Theater in Nampo-dong to the Chungmu-dong overpass) has been deemed the city’s “movie district,” the area now known as BIFF Square.

Running for two weeks during October, the streets are overtaken with fans, ceremonies and premieres when it’s the film festival. A unique activity during this time is paper hand-outs of famous actors and actresses!

Walking around, the smells from the street food vendors are more than enticing! Must-try local snacks include the famous Ssiat Hotteok (a sweet pancake filled with seeds, nuts and sugar and is typical to Busan), elongated chicken satay sticks, Korean fritters (jeon), fried mandu (Korean dumplings) and supersized soft-serve ice-cream cones.

23 – Journey to traditional Andong on a day trip

Ever wondered what Korea looked like 500 years ago? Travel back in time, feeling like you’re in a dreamscape, in traditional Andong, preserving customs and traditions in the unseemingly untouched town.

Straddling the Nakdong River in the North Gyeongsang Province, travelers journey here for its open-air museums and a taste of authentic Korean living.

Walk in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II herself, who visited Andong during a visit to Korea in 1999.

UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village is a fab starting point where you’ll spot classic curved tiled roofs, wooden exteriors, thatched structures and flourishing farmlands.

Traversing around town via bicycle is a terrific way to get to know Andong, stopping off at local markets or pulling over to run through flower fields.

See Korea’s longest wooden footbridge (Woryeonggyo Bridge), Bongjeongsa Temple and the Confucian Culture Museum.

Andong day trips from Busan

24 – Salivate over food tours

Korean food is simply delicious — hello, Korean fried chicken?! The country is known for its mix of hearty dishes, comfort foods and zingy flavors laced with kimchi!

Sample its array of ingredients and cuisines typical to Busan during food tours.

Presenting the opportunity to mingle with local vendors and cooks, local markets are among the most authentic places to start! Many of the food tours cover these foodie havens.

Accompanied by a qualified chef, open up all of your senses during visits to the Jagalchi Market (the largest fresh seafood market in Busan) and the traditional Bupyeong Kkangtong Market — over 110 years old!

Seomyeon Market and Gukje Market are two other locales selling all sorts other than just food, but they have excellent street food offerings.

Tours also favor Gwangbokdong Food Street for must-try bites like jjukkumi (stuffed grilled baby octopus), dwaeji gukbap (a pork bone broth soup) and jokbal (braised pigs’ trotters).

Foodie tip: Established in 1953, a visit to Busan isn’t complete without a pit stop at Samjin Eomuk to sample their famous fish cakes!

“ Jal meokkesseumnida (잘 먹겠습니다 ).”

food tours in Busan

25 – Pop into the Busan Modern and Contemporary History Museum

From its history to its contents, the Busan Modern and Contemporary History Museum is fascinating!

As one of the original buildings erected during the uprising of Western influences in Korea circa the early 20th century, it has been repurposed over the decades. Once home to the American Cultural Center, from 1999 onwards, it has operated as a museum.

Recently, the former Bank of Korea building next door has fallen under its ownership. Both spaces now make up the cultural complex, known as the Busan Modern and Contemporary History Museum Annex.

Dedicated to the retelling of the city’s history and information about its seat as Korea’s maritime capital, relic displays, video formats and detailed timelines help do so.

This is all divided between four floors: two permanent exhibition halls (on floors three and four), a cultural space for children (on floor two) and a special exhibition hall.

26 – Kids, pretend to be an adult at Kidzania Busan

Do you have a budding firefighter on your hands? Or maybe your child wants to be a news anchor when they grow up? What about something in the creative field like a florist, or perhaps they’d like to be a baker, banker or a farmer instead?

Put on your imagination caps and let the little ones have a whale of a time playing dress up at Kidzania Busan !

The unique playground encourages children to try their hand at various types of jobs, with spread-out zones incorporating more than 160 titles. Get dressed up in the applicable uniform and then jump straight in.

Modeled as the perfect kid-sized setup, the varying zones encourage interactive fun and learning while role-playing.

For example, learn how to open up your own bank account or the skills it takes to become a world leader.

27 – Take the day to visit Namhae

Appreciate life in the slow lane, away from the craziness of city-living around sleepy, nature-induced Namhae — Korea’s fifth biggest island.

Cue the flower fields, rice paddies, oceanic topography and dramatic sunrises! It has featured in K-Dramas and Korean variety shows — it’s that pretty!

Located within the Hallyeohaesang Marine National Park, even though it’s an island, it’s easy to reach via car, taxi or local bus. For those with private vehicles, a drive around the island is sublime and considered one of the country’s top 100 scenic routes.

A mixture of beaches, forests and mountain vistas, there’s a magical sort of feel in the air.

One-of-a-kind places to visit are its German Village (random, yes, intriguing, you bet), the European-inspired Seomi Garden, the Gacheon Daraengi Village built on the hillsides of Seolheulsan Mountain and the elevated Boriam Temple for some of the best views in the house.

Namhae day trips from Busan

28 – Have fun at Vaunce Bounce Trampoline Park

Defy the forces of gravity at the Vaunce Bounce Trampoline Park — a destination offering much more than just trampolining.

Battle against your siblings or mates during a round of dodgeball or escape realities when playing one of the digital games.

There are, of course, your classic free- jumping zones as well as a dunk area and jump walls!

Colorful ceilings and walls add a spot of funkiness, and you’ll completely forget about time.

Other activities include ziplining, climbing walls, a sky course and a jungle gym, dubbing it one of the excellent things to do in Busan for all ages.

Vaunce Bounce tickets

29 – Shop at Shinsegae Centum City

Introducing the largest department store in the world to shop until you drop — fact — among 12 floors of retail, it’s Shinsegae Centum City .

Officially awarded by the Guinness World Records, another factor luring shoppers to the iconic shopping complex is its duty-free offerings!

More than just a shopping outlet, there’s even an ice rink, golfing range and a spa inside!

Let’s break it down, floor by floor.

Basement level one is where fashion accessories, handbags, and the food market are found.

Levels one and two comprise the famous international brands, as well as cosmetics and fancy watches.

Level three houses the local women’s fashion labels; level four is where to shop for youthful, casual wear and lingerie (and the ice rink is located on this floor); level five is for menswear; and level six is where kid’s wear and golf-related items are found (as well as the Shinsegae Gallery & Academy).

Stock up on home appliances, including home fashion and electronics, on floor seven and for furniture and interior lifestyle goods on level eight. The remaining floors consist of the restaurants, the Trinity Club & Spa and the Golf Range (on level 11).

30 – See the art inside the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Busan

Highlighting the current times instead of the past, the MOCA, or the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art , showcases the world of modern acquisitions, favoring contemporary art — whether talking medium or subject.

With a particular focus on work centered around new media, nature and humans; the floors are set with installations, video pieces are projected onto the walls and canvases hang classically.

Featured artists from its permanent collections include Ham Yang Ah, Paul Pfeiffer, Daejin Choi and Jeong Jin-yoon.

Investigate three floors of exhibition spaces, and there is also a novel Kid’s Book Picture Island corner with its Book Grimsome reading space and shelves lined with books across nine genres.

To get to the MOCA, head to Eulsukdo Island — a 20-minute journey from Busan’s center.

31 – Feel like a real contestant at Running Man

Hooked on the Korean game show ‘Running Man?’ With over 600 episodes under its belt since first airing in 2010, the game show is based on a set of out-the-box challenges that need completing in order to win.

Winners take home prizes; losers are punished!

A permanent cast leads the television series, but celebrities are often new contestants. Tom Cruise has even appeared in an episode before!

One of the most unique things to do in Busan — we really mean it — is the Running Man experience in Busan. The show is, after all, a Korean hit!

This attraction is based entirely on the variety show, and everything takes place indoors, all rooms themed with Running Man’s iconic yellow and blue palette.

You’ll have various missions to complete, employing fan-favorite elements like the 12-step stage! It’s the next best thing to the real deal!

Running Man tickets

32 – Go wanderlusting on a day trip to Tongyeong

Colorfully creative and oozing its own unique culture, the portside city of Tongyeong has got much going for it, often compared to Italy’s Napoli thanks to its overall vibe and harborfront location.

From beautiful viewpoints to woo over to the kaleidoscopic city walls brightened in murals (there’s an entire neighborhood, Dongpirang Seopirang Mural Village, where every alleyway has an artistic stroke or flick of paint), become enthralled by this coastal gem.

Naturally, lunching on the freshest seafood should be at the top of your agenda. Specialty dishes from this region include dodarissukguk (a flounder and mugwort soup), chungmu kimbap (a wrapped rice roll with baby squid) and catfish soup (물매기탕).

A vital port city for centuries, in the last decades it has risen to fame in the musical pursuits, as many famous musicians and composers were born in Tongyeong, like Isang Yun.

Enjoy a cable car ride up to Mireuksan Mountain, — or make the summit on foot — feel the thrills riding the Skyline Luge Tongyeong, go island hopping to nearby isles or dive into the cultural side of things at the Tongyeong Traditional Craft.

Tongyeong day trips from Busan

33 – Ride rollercoasters at Lotte World Adventure Busan

It’s time to get your adrenaline on at Busan’s first theme park, i.e., Lotte World Adventure Busan .

Wonder Woods, Joyful Meadows, Underland, Royal Garden Zone, River Village of Tinker Falls and Rainbow Springs are the park’s six thematic zones with 17 rides and attractions.

If you’re after the Big Boys, feel your tummies drop on rides like the Giant Swing and the Giant Digger rollercoaster (both located in the Underland zone) or on the Giant Splash watercoaster with its 44-meter drop (part of the Wonder Woods zone).

Little humans especially love the Lotus Magic Forest Parade and the Magic Fairy Band performance, and park attractions such as the magical Talking Tree and whimsical Lorry Castle.

The Cookie Train (found in the Joyful Meadow Zone) and the Spinning Swing down at the Rainbow Springs Zone are more family-friendly options.

Lotte World Busan tickets

34 – Take a walk through Democracy Park

Commemorating three pivotal moments in South Korea’s history, Democracy Park was built as a celebration (and reminder) of the countryfolk that fought for South Korea’s independence and, ultimately, its democratic state.

Highlighting the 4.19 Democratic Revolution (April Revolution) of 1960, the Busan–Masan Uprising (also referred to as the Bu-Ma) of 1979, and the June Uprising of 1987 (known as the June Democratic Struggle); a massive rocket-ship-looking monument was erected at the top of the park’s hill.

To reach it, climb a set of stairs or there is a lift that veers up its side.

Plenty of art, photographs and sculptures lend a hand in storytelling and recounting the events, and the Always Unfolding Room is the park’s permanent exhibition hall.

Entering the grounds, look out for the two traditional jangseung — a wooden Korean totem pole reserved for the entrances of villages and other boundaries to ward off demons and evil spirits.

35 – Stop by the Busan Museum of Art

Oftentimes, museums can feel a tad predated and stiff, visitors intimidatingly moving from one gallery to the next. The Busan Museum of Art has a completely different vibe; warm and inviting, with its very own dedicated Children’s Gallery.

Hosting both rotating and permanent exhibitions, discover the artworks within its three spaces: the Main Building, the Children’s Gallery and the Space Lee Ufan annex.

(Established as an art museum in 1998; the latter two buildings opened as part of the institute in 2011 and 2015.)

Its perennial collection celebrates locally acclaimed artists, with works from the 1960s until today. Displays cover a mixture of various art mediums, from paintings to installations to photography, and subject matter is a far cry from the mundane.

Its ever-changing curated expos feature international artists from the modern art world, and the museum hosts community events such as art competitions.

Art workshops (for adults or children) are offered here too.

36 – Embark on autumn tours

As time passes and the seasons change, so do the landscapes surrounding Busan. One of the most spectacular periods is fall, when the environment evolves into showers of bright reds, oranges and yellows.

Just before the gingko and maple trees begin to shed their leaves in the winter, their foliage becomes the setting of a painting. These two species are typical to the region, and there are a few locations to marvel over the jaw-dropping settings during autumn tours around Busan.

The ideal timing for these excursions is between September and November; however, October to early November is when the colors really flourish.

Top sites for witnessing these golden forests are just outside the city, so tours typically last the day.

Naejangsan National Park, Jirisan (also called Mount Jiri), Palgongsan Natural Park, Gyeongju and Daegu are a few favored examples.

autumn tours in Busan

37 – Unwind at the spas

South Korea travel tip: The phrase ‘jjimjilbang spa’ refers to a classic Korean bathhouse, typically set up with natural springs or hot tubs, Korean kiln saunas, massage therapies and showers. If you’re a mega fan of a spa day, enjoy the most authentic experience at one of these spas in Busan.

Honing in on these ancient principles, Spa Land Centum City (located within Shinsegae shopping mall) fuses traditional practices with a stylish setup, retaining all of the charm of a customary jjimjilbang.

Done up in woods and natural materials and with tons of natural light filtering through, the spa is designed across two levels. It includes 18 hot spring baths, various popular sauna and steam rooms (like a Finnish sauna, a Roman sauna and a charcoal steam room), and natural hot springs filled with two types of healing waters (either rich with calcium chloride or sodium chloride).

A facility boasting five floors or relaxation, spend the day at Hurshimchung Spa — one of Asia’s largest spas fed by a hot spring. Inside feels like an imperial bathing house from Grecian times, with its cylindrical open skylight, golden fountains and grand baths.

The hours slip by inside the unique, glowing Paradise Hotel Spa Cimer . Discover a water plaza, aqua club, cave spa, virtual spa, two outdoor pools and an indoor infinity pool within the Aqua Spa Zone. The Jjimjil spa zone is equipped with different types of saunas (including a Nokjusan elvan), a salt room, foot bath and a fitness room.

38 – Appreciate the vistas from Millak Waterside Park

Busan is synonymous with the ocean, renowned as South Korea’s coastal hotspot.

Border-lining Gwangalli Beach to Haeundae Beach, Millak Waterside Park is an ideal spot for appreciating aquatic beauty across Sooyoung Bay, especially for travelers who don’t enjoy getting sandy.

A promenade runs parallel to the ocean, with the Gwangandaegyo Bridge slithering in front of it in a crescent moon curve.

Come nightfall, the waterfront boardwalk takes on a completely new appearance, especially the garden section when the city buildings’ lights reflect around you, bouncing off neon shades.

You’ll often spot couples and younger crowds gathering here with plates of fresh sashimi – available from the street food court.

A section of the walkway opens up onto the bay — the perfect reprieve to cool off on a hot summer’s day.

39 – Hike (or drive) to Beacon Fire Station on Hwangnyeongsan Mountain

Thankfully, there’s no more use for the Beacon Fire Station lookout point (utilized during wartime for creating fire signals).

Cleverly placed on Hwangnyeongsan Mountain — spanning the city of Busan from its center — back in the day, fires were lit from here to warn the city of any invaders, particularly during the Joseon period (1392 to 1897).

With its stable positioning, there are plenty of easy urban trails up the mountain, including the one leading to the Beacon Fire Station observation deck. You can drive to the summit, too, if you aren’t keen on the trek.

For hiking enthusiasts, the entire trail route up and down the mountain is 7.5 kilometers, taking roughly 2.5 to three hours to complete — depending on your pace.

En route to the top and before the Fire Beacon, Hwangnyeong Mountain View Lounge is another excellent viewpoint, boasting spectacular vistas over the city, ocean and ranges.

40 – Explore Ulsan

The towering bamboo fronds inside Taehwagang River Grand Park appear straight out of a (Korean) fairytale, enchanting travelers with day trips to Ulsan just for the experience of walking through the bamboo passage.

Thrust onto the global map as the home of the largest shipyard and the third-largest oil refinery in the world, plus housing the largest car assembly plant (owned by Hyundai); there’s much more to the industrial city than meets the eye.

Travel time is less than an hour by car (roughly 45 minutes) or one hour via the subway.

Frolick past iridescent flower beds in manicured rows at Ulsan Grand Park and cross over the ocean from one rockery to the next on a narrow suspended bridge at Daewangam Park.

Chill out on Ilsan Beach, join a whale-watching cruise or become educated on the importance of these majestic sea mammals at the Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Village.

Other offbeat activities to get involved in include visiting the Oegosan Onggi village, Boksoondoga rice winery or the Ulsan Hyundai Motors Plant.

41 – Join a cooking class

Master the art of Korean cuisine, learning how to cook like a pro with any one of these cooking classes in Busan.

With a qualified Korean pro chef leading the way, a private masterclass is for the serious home cooks, preferably with some experience around a kitchen, as the menus are a little complicated. With three options on the table, choose between a Real Kimchi Master Class, a Delicious Korean BBQ Class or a Korean Seafood Feast Class.

Less like a pressure cooker, there are more relaxed cooking classes, lasting around three hours. Be guided on how to create bibimbap (a Korean rice bowl), for example, cherried with a traditional dessert and tea-tasting.

You’ll even get a certificate at the end!

Certain culinary lessons kick off with a visit to one of the local markets to shop for your ingredients used during cook-time.

cooking classes in Busan

42 – Leave Daegu E World with a smile

A theme park worth traveling for; dance around on classic carousels as cherry blossoms open up their pink petals, or squeal with delight as you embrace the other whimsical rides and attractions at Daegu E World .

Located two hours from Busan, it’s the type of destination you spend the entire day at, with time passing by before you know it. This kind of theme amusement park is like the ones you see in movies, making you believe that fairytales come true!

Four charming lands (Fantasy World, Magic World, Adventure World and Dynamic World) encapsulate the attractions, and at Tower 83, discover the Sky Drop and Skyway rides.

Stumble upon classics like bumper cars, the Ghost House, flying elephants and the twirling sweetie cups, or for mega thrills, hit up the Camelback or Boomerang coasters.

Entertaining guests are daily shows and performances, or enter the Magic World 3D Cinema. If you’re here at the right time of year, don’t miss its evening E-World in the Stars fireworks display!

Daegu E World tickets

43 – Walk in the footsteps of the icons during BTS tours

Calling the ARMY! Girls go gaga for the BTS boys, donning their celebrity crushes’ faces on keychains, school book covers and pencil cases.

The 90s equivalent to the Backstreet Boys — but possibly even more famous — be left singing “Smooth like butter” for daysss after BTS tours around Busan; the hometown of two of the seven band members of this K-Pop sensation.

Who’s your favorite heartthrob from the Grammy-nominated group? There’s V, Jin, Jimin, Suga, Jungkook, J-Hope and RM, and Jungkook and Jimin were born in Busan.

BTS (short for the Bangtan Boys) missions bring fans to locations relating to the two Busanian-bred boys, like their former elementary, middle and high schools (for example, Busan Arts High School), MAGNATE (a cafe operated by Jimin’s dad) and Gopchang Salon Yeontangui (a restaurant owned by Jungkook’s uncle).

Heck, there is even a supersized mural of Jimin and Jungkook at Gamcheon Cultural Village.

Longer day tours travel outside the city to towns and places visited by other members too. These include Taejeon Elementary School and Gangbuk High School in Daegu which Suga attended, Daesung Elementary School where V graduated and the Misulgwan-ro Daegu Museum of Art which RM visited.

BTS tours in Busan

44 – Buy books from Bosu Book Street

What is it about the smell of books — whether old or new — that’s just so darn delicious? Rummaging through worn pages just for the whiff of time-worn ink on paper … Bibliophiles, uncover rows of novels, paperbacks, manga and more down at Bosu Book Street (보수동 책방골목 문화관), spending hours flitting from one vendor to the next.

The entire road is dedicated to the selling of books (kind of like the streets in Hanoi, Vietnam), and is a hotspot for picking up second-hand copies.

Stacked in piles on the floor, tiered above table tops and filtered on shelves, the entire atmosphere exudes a sort of vintage charm.

Held every October, don’t miss out on the Bosu-dong Culture Festival, offering exciting workshops for bookworms, for example, make your own book or create your own book cover.

Situated in the Jung-gu district, the alleys really come alive at this time of year.

45 – Wander around Hynyeoul Munhwa Maul

Go with the ebb and flow of the waves in coastal Hynyeoul Munhwa Maul, also known as the Huinnyeoul Cultural Village.

Have your breath taken away during Golden Hour as the sunlight ensweeps the cliff sides and over the ocean. Just ten minutes via the metro from Nampo station, it’s an idyllic village to stay in for travelers in search of a quiet oasis outside of the city bustle.

Dubbed the “Santorini of South Korea,” back in 2011 the entire village underwent a remodeling in aid to draw in the tourist crowds, its ordinary outdated houses given a facelift using a blue and white palette.

Alleys intertwine on the hill running parallel to the coast, these dotted with cute cafes, restaurants selling seafood and little souvenir boutiques.

A perfect destination to explore on foot, snap pics of plenty of street murals and art as you walk through the village. From here, there are five different sets of stairs leading visitors to the Jeoryeong Coastal Walk.

46 – Day trip to historic Suncheon

Does the scenery of Suncheon seem familiar to you? If you’ve watched the BBC’s South Korea: Earth’s Hidden Wilderness documentary, perhaps you recognize Suncheon’s mud flats which made an appearance.

Savored for day-trippers who are obsessed with Mother Nature, this unique destination has a tropical Asian feel to it for sure, coupled with time-worn buildings and structures.

Two green meccas to fall in love with are the Suncheon Bay National Garden (brimming with over 800,000 flowers and 500 tree species) and the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve where the tidal flats are located, creating distinct patterns across the marshy terrain.

There are two important Buddhist temples here too: Songgwangsa and Seonamsa.

For unprecedented experiences, time travel to the Naganeupseong Folk Village or the Suncheon Drama Film Set where plenty of K-dramas have been filmed.

Suncheon day trips from Busan

47 – Relax at the traditional Korean tea rooms

Centuries ago, if you wanted to enjoy tea-time in Korea, you’d visit a traditional tea house, typically set up inside a wooden hanok (the phrase for a Korean house).

Still retaining age-old charm, these classic tea rooms are found around Busan for the ultimate authentic tea-drinking hour.

Treat yourselves to an entire tea course (either the sun, moon or lover’s table) at Bibibidang , or simply enjoy a single brew using the finest leaves and ceremonial ingredients, such as 15-year fermented yellow tea or wolfberry tea.

Every nook and cranny is an IG moment at Suwol Gyeonghwa (수월경화) with its warm and inviting interiors and stunning views to boot — plus, every drink is beautifully presented!

When an establishment is frequented by generational locals, you know they must be doing something right. Loved by elderly crowds, Nae Go Hyeong Jun Tong Chat Jib (내고향 전통찻집) is closest to the real deal.

48 – Try out Taekwondo classes

Contrary to (some people’s) popular belief, Taekwondo originates from Korea, and not Japan or China, as you may think. Learn more about the martial arts form when partaking in Taekwondo classes led by a sabom (a qualified teacher).

You may not receive your white belt (the first training level in Taekwondo), but after the one hour and 20-minute class, you’ll leave with a new skill set and know the basics of Defending Yourself 101.

A touch of theory is involved, becoming acquainted with its history and ranking systems.

Although the martial art has been practiced for centuries in Korea, it really came to the forefront of international recognition during the 1950s.

Dressed in a proper dobok uniform, your master guides you through the hands-on lesson, showing you various techniques and maneuvers — utilized as a form of meditation, as well as self-defense.

Taekwondo classes in Busan

49 – Be inspired at Samgwangsa Temple

Travelers with an affinity for Southeast Asia will have had their fair share of temple explorations, but how many times have you ever visited a sanctuary completely camouflaged in thousands of colorful lanterns?!

During its Lantern Festival, Samgwangsa Temple morphs into a rainbow as masses of paper lanterns are added to every open space within its grounds, from the floors to pagoda walls, even up its staircases.

The setting gets even prettier at night when the candle lit lanterns are flamed up, glowing psychedelically. It’s simply breathtaking!

Unbelievably so, this Buddhist temple is one of Busan’s newer additions, founded in 1986, tucked away between the lush hills of Baegyangsan Mountain.

Architectural attributes to see are the Daeungbojeon Hall filled with Buddha statues, a 53-headed Buddha Pagoda and the massive Jigwanjeon Hall.

The sanctum also has a Templestay program and offers an interesting Temple Food Course.

50 – Play at unique Poo Poo Land

One way of turning a “taboo” topic into a subject we feel comfortable with confronting, is transforming it into a fun and relatable activity, just as the masterminds behind Poo Poo Land have done.

Weird and wonderful, the interactive playground is among the most bizarre things to do in Busan, or anywhere in the world for that matter — but hey, traveling is all about trying new things!

Swirly poo-shaped emojis are supersized — some even lit up; 3D illusions encourage you to become a part of the poop-themed artworks, like stepping inside a urinal; there are different types of toilets decorating the spaces, and every element is themed accordingly.

Meet mascots Ssari (your poop friend) and Mari (the pet toilet paper), get camera-happy at the photo zones based on poop, and make it out of the digestive maze.

51 – Use your brains at the Breakout Escape Room

Growing up, did you want to become a detective? Blowing up globally in the last decade, see if you’ve got the skills it requires to Sherlock Holmes your way out of a situation at Breakout Escape Room .

Located in Haeundae-gu, there are a few escape room options, adding new themed games every few months.

Locked inside a room with 60 minutes on the clock, solve a set of clues and keys, one at a time, cracking your eventual escape. If you’re a seasoned escapee, try to beat the last high score time-wise!

‘Tesla’s Legacy’ and ‘For Rembrandt’ are examples of the escape room choices, varying in difficulty and skills.

52 – Choose exciting K-drama tours

Hooked on K-dramas, i.e., the nickname given to Korean dramas — or soapies in the Western world, a telenovela in Latin American culture?

Thanks to streaming services like Netflix, plenty of Korean series and movies have aired globally, enticing many new audiences. Super fans who simply can’t get enough, embark on epic K-drama tours!

As seen in television shows or films, visit attractions, landmarks and other locales featured in K-dramas, led by an expert in the field.

Itching to know more? Visit the likes of Ahopsan Forest (from the drama The King: Eternal Monarch ); Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, where the crime series My Name was shot; Apple TVs Pachinko features numerous places around Busan; the 2013 movie The Attorney was filmed in Huinnyeoul Culture Village; and the famous market from the flick International Market was shot on location in Nampo-dong.

k-drama tours in Busan

53 – Get professional pics from photo tours

Immortalize your Busan holiday forever with quirky photo tours.

Forget about carrying around your fancy camera or that selfie stick; instead, let a professional photographer do the work for you.

Join a small group tour, veering to iconic Busan attractions and picturesque settings, like Ahopsan Forest, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Cheongsapo.

Capturing candid moments on film, your photographer follows you around as you explore each destination — like a personal paparazzi! Stop to pose, the pro guiding you on the perfect angles, lighting and everything else that goes into creating the perfect picture.

Discover the city’s west side, or venture around the East Coast. There are even photo tours at night if you wanna have the city lights as a backdrop!

Extra romantic and great for couples or honeymooners, consider a private photo session over a mixed small group for an intimate camera roll.

photo tours in Busan

54 – Chill at Gwangalli Beach

Marvel freaks and geeks, here’s a cool movie trivia fact for you to take home; selected for scenes for the comic entertainment house’s Black Panther , certain parts were filmed at Gwangalli Beach (the car chase between Black Panther (with Okoye and Nakia in toll) and Klaue).

Chosen by Marvel, and loved by locals and tourists visiting the city, this 1.4-kilometer stretch delights with its soft sands and calm waters.

You can swim at Gwangalli, but it’s preferred for watersports or hanging out and working on your tan.

Gwangandaegyo Bridge greets you in the distance, and with the metro city buildings in the background, the bay has the same vibe as if sitting on a beach below the San Francisco Bridge or across from the Brooklyn Bridge at New York’s Pebble Beach.

Stay in time for sunset and then sit back and enjoy the evening Gwangan Bridge light show.

Clocked in your TLSea? Along the waterfront are a handful of restaurants and bars.

55 – Watch a movie at Busan Cinema Center

Indexed by UNESCO as an official ‘Creative City of Film,’ the futuristically-shaped Busan Cinema Center lives up to its titled reputation; the grandiose arena dedicated to the opening and closing ceremonies of the International Busan Film Festival — and then some.

Equipped with multiple theaters, a conference hall and its own editing studio, this contemporary cinematic complex took three years to build, opening up in 2011.

Its impressive Cinemountain is a sight to behold, housing four theaters within its geometric boundaries. Haneulyeon Theatre is Busan Cinema Center’s main 841-seater theater and the classics and golden oldies are screened at the Cinematheque. The remaining two host local film screenings and previews.

Cinema nouveau fans, for independent movie selections, BIFF Hill’s Indieplus theater is the place for it.

The 4,000-seater outdoor BIFF Theater is utilized for screenings, shows and other events, but really comes alive during the Film Festival ceremonies!

56 – Stroll along Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory

Appearing in the shape of a snake’s head from a bird’s eye view, the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory is one more skywalk to add to your sightseeing list.

The deck was in fact, built to resemble a blue dragon – you say potato , I say potahto .

Slinking along for 72 meters above the waves in the quaint fishing village of Cheongsapo, the stretch just before you reach the head of the pathway is glassed over in the middle with a see-through path.

Erected 20 meters above the ocean, it feels as if you’re walking on water for this section of the Observatory.

Before entering the skywalk, shoe covers are mandatory in order to preserve the glass floor, and when the tides are high and rough, expect sea sprays!

Conveniently ride the Haeundae Beach Train here or trample along a 20-minute coastal trail from Seongjeong Beach.

57 – Learn new moves during K-pop dance classes

K-pop culture is second to none in Korea; it is, after all, the birthplace of the movement — which some consider a lifestyle.

Abbreviated for ‘Korean popular music,’ it’s not just the melodies that are important, but the singer’s dance moves too.

K-pop groups like Black Pink and BTS have members who are lead vocalists, or lead dancers. Learn how to break it down like Lisa or J-Hope during K-pop dance classes!

Choreographed by professional dancers inside a dance studio, be shown classic moves that K-poppers fancy — perfect for creating a new TikTok dance!

58 – Get merry at the Daegu Chimac Festival

Only in Korea would you find a chicken and beer festival — yup, you read that right! Okay, so there’s even a specific term for the combo in Korea; pairing so perfectly, chicken and beer served together is called ‘chimaek,’ hence the name of this annual festival.

The event usually takes place for one week, from the end of August into the beginning of September, celebrating more than just chimaek.

Cue the EDM parties come nightfall; street performances liven the mood even further; there are photo zones, street murals, various types of bars, and even a DJ music box!

Set up in Duryu Park, the different stages, tents, stations and bars are spread throughout, utilizing the park’s large grassy lawn, outdoor music hall, parking lots and street curbs.

59 – Heal the natural way with an Oriental Medicine experience

Tickling the fancies of Ayurveda followers and believers in natural medicine routes, a 1.5-hour Oriental Medicine experience will leave you feeling like a completely new person!

Incorporating ancient practices and healing techniques, Korean Traditional Medicine is based on TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), traced back in time over a thousand centuries.

For those in need of a detox, an energy boost, a stress reliever or pain easer, this could be the answer you’ve been searching for.

Acupuncture, cupping and Chuna manual therapy are what to expect, but not before a consultation with your qualified practitioner.

Each person and their body is different, so this step in the process is vital!

60 – Dine at the best restaurants

From local eateries for the yummiest Korean food to fancier dining options for date night, here are some of the best restaurants around town.

Put on your heels and red lipstick when booking a table at the Dining Room — on the 32nd floor of the Park Hyatt hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there’s an a la carte menu as well as set course options.

In the mood for a French affair? A fabulous spot for couples; appreciate the classic dishes, fine wines and incredible ocean views at Merciel.

For the best samgyetang (Korean ginseng chicken soup) in the city, arrive early to Jang Su Sam before it’s all sold out!

It’s a crime to visit Korea and not experience a proper Korean BBQ. Oh Banjang (오반장) is a hotspot. Famous among local patrons, enjoy the real deal here, tables equipped with Korean grills where you do the cooking.

Boasting a traditional ornate setting and vistas to swoon over, Mugunghwa delivers modern plates of Korean cuisine bursting with flavor.

In countries like Korea, you can bet there are unique and imaginative restaurants. Two whacky options are Harry Potter-themed Potid cafe and Ciné de Chef (a restaurant with a cinema inside the Shinsegae mall).

61 – Go to an event at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center

Conveniently located close to metros and designed with all facilities that appeal to business folk, BEXCO, short for the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center , is the city’s primary events and expo hub.

Six years in the making, the center opened in 2001, boasting two massive exhibition spaces, an auditorium and its Nurimaru APEC House.

Within the seven-story Exhibition Center 1 (BEXCO’s main building) are restaurants and cafes, like Starbucks, The Party Buffet and Chakhanjibbab Korean restaurant; five halls and meeting rooms. Exhibition Center 2 is loaded with six exhibition halls and a coffee shop.

The Auditorium is a separate building five stories high, designed with a main stage and 4,002 seats for large-scale performances and conferences.

Also on-site are the Convention Hall and the cylindrical-shaped Nurimaru APEC House, reserved for meetings and sizy banquets.

62 – Join night tours and go sightseeing

As the sun goes to sleep and the stars come out to play, Busan takes on a new appearance, the city lights radiating glows, neon rainbows and lighting shows in full swing.

If your day is already fully booked with excursions, night tours are an excellent way to sightsee landmarks and monuments with less crowds, reveling in the city’s lively evening atmosphere.

Marvel at Gwangandaegyo Bridge’s light show, and see the Busan Cinema Center complex sparkle and lights dancing off the water down at The Bay 101 . BIFF Square, Yongdusan Park, Songdo Cable Car and Hwangnyeongsan Mountain observation points are other locales frequented during night tours.

Opt for an expedition to the city’s night markets, trek six kilometers along Mangyangro mountainside street or book a romantic evening boat cruise on the bay topped off with a fireworks show.

night tours in Busan

63 – Catch a game at Busan Asiad Main Stadium

Launched as the city’s house of sports, the Busan Asiad Main Stadium was initially constructed for the 2002 Asian Games and also hosted matches during the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Today, football (or soccer) remains at the forefront of its sporting highlights, but the multi-purpose stadium is used for athletic events too.

When it’s match day, cheerleaders amp up the crowds, mascots high-five spectators and the stadium becomes an ocean of blue — the K League 1 professional football team’s national color.

Even if you’re not the biggest sports fan, appreciate the stadium’s impressive architecture.

The Busan Asiad Main Stadium is located inside the Busan Sports Complex and is part of a major sporting compound. Many other stadiums and sports facilities are on the same grounds, such as gymnasiums, a swimming pool, a baseball field and indoor training facilities — spread between the Gangseo Sports Park and Gudeok Sports Complex.

64 – Meet new friends during pub crawls

You’ll be on your merry way after a social pub crawl through Busan’s spirited streets.

Ranging from 1.5 hours to five-hour crawls, how much time do you have to spare is the first question to ask yourselves, or rather, how much drinking do you really want to do?

Shorter beer outings cruise around to three dynamic bars — shots, shots, shots included at each! Friday-crawlers are taken around Seomyeon, and Saturday drinkers to Haeundae.

If your drinking game is strong, set aside the evening for a pub crawl tour, ending off at a hip and happening club with banging K-pop beats!

All that’s left to do is show off your moves and dance the night away … Geonbae (건배) !

pub crawls in Busan

How to get to Busan?

Are you flying directly into the city? For travelers with young children, large groups or anyone wanting to eliminate the hassle of dealing with taxi drivers in a foreign country, consider pre-booking convenient airport transfers in Busan .

After your arrival, once you’re all sorted and ready to exit the gates, your private driver will be waiting for you, ready to whisk you off straight to your accommodation in comfort and style.

Useful to know: the airport is on the west side of Busan.

For those arriving in the port city by boat, there are private transfers from the port to your hotel, as well as shore excursions in Busan if you’re just visiting for the day.

Where to stay in Busan?

Rest easy each night when checking into some of Busan’s top 5-star hotels!

Just 150 meters from the beach, the contemporary and stylish Signiel Busan is exceptional.

Straddling Haeundae beachfront beneath a cliff in a secluded section of its bay, the views, interiors and service from The Westin Josun Busan live up to its 5-star expectations.

Seeking the epitome of luxury? Park Hyatt is where you’ll receive its world-class celebrity treatment!

With not one but two outdoor pools, an indoor swimming pool, an oceanfront location and plenty of sea views, what’s not to love about the Ananti Hilton Busan ?

You’ll feel as if stepping into a dream at the gorgeous Grand Josun Busan . Modern interiors, family-friendly rooms, oceanic vistas and bright bedrooms — guests have a hard time leaving.

best hotels in Busan

Visiting Busan on a budget?

Just because you’re traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on sightseeing! Save a few extra pennies here and there with a smart (and convenient) Busan Pass .

Pay for the pass upfront and automatically gain free entry to the city’s tourist hotspots, such as Busan Tower, Running Man, the Trick Eye Museum, Poo Poo Land and more (calculated so that you get overall super discounted rates)!

With over 30 attractions included, purchase a one-day, two-day or three-day pass.

Where to go next?

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again; Busan is an ideal destination to make base camp while you venture around the southern Korean Peninsula.

If you want to see it all but don’t know where to begin, book one of the epic multi-day trips from Busan .

Round trips can be done over the course of two days or even four; the longer the adventure, the further the roaming.

Explore Busan’s East Coast, then Gyeongju, and the extensive multi-day tours also travel to Geoje Island (or some include a Templestay experience).

Got more time to spare? A trip to South Korea’s capital is a no-brainer, and the things to do in Seoul are one of a kind!

Catch the KTX bullet train and reach Seoul in just over 2.5 hours.

Final thoughts

From ocean vibes to traditional Korean roots, toppled with all sorts of weird and magical pursuits, this coastal city is calling your name!

Have you visited before? What were some of your best travel memories or favorite things to do in Busan? Share with us in the comments; we love hearing from our readers.

As always, happy travels!

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Busan Pay mobile app and prepaid card / Courtesy of Busan Metropolitan City

Busan will launch Busan Pay, Korea's first foreigner-only mobile currency service, to boost local tourism, the city government announced Tuesday, the day before the service's introduction.

Busan Pay features the city's local currency payment, a public transport mobile application and a prepaid card.

Any foreign national can use Busan Pay by registering a dedicated prepaid card on the mobile app.

The Busan Pay app can be downloaded on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, and prepaid cards are available at kiosks in Gimhae International Airport, Busan Station and major tourist information centers around the city.

Dongbaekjeon payment, Busan's local currency named after camellias, the city's official flower, can be charged with overseas credit cards through a mobile app and offers numerous cashback benefits.

Busan Pay can be used to make payments at large shopping malls and duty free shops without cashback benefits.

Notably, the app and Busan Pay website provide tourism information in English, Japanese and Chinese on major tourist destinations, restaurants and tour guides.

Also, Busan Pay features the Visit Busan Pass, which the Busan Metropolitan City and the Busan Tourism Organization launched in February to offer discounts to lesser-known and must-visit restaurants and tourist attractions.

The pass, available only to foreign visitors, is valid for either 24 or 48 hours after purchase, costing 49,000 won ($38) and 69,000 won, respectively. It offers free rides on city tour buses, coastal trains and free entrance to over 30 tourist attractions and facilities, including Songdo Marine Cable Car and Lotte World Adventure Busan.

The pass also offers discounts at 77 foreigner-friendly facilities, including restaurants and souvenir shops that city officials listed based on a two-year study of foreign independent travelers' preferred itineraries in the city.

Busan Pay also features mobile QR tickets for the city railway, which are available in one-day and three-day passes.

Busan Pay cards can be used as transportation cards for buses and taxis and are issued at designated Busan Bank branches.

Also, the city offers a one-on-one inquiry service foreign language call center dedicated to Busan Pay and its app.

The city plans to gradually link foreign language menu information service to Busan Pay later this year.

"Busan Pay is expected to contribute to the development of the Busan tourism industry by providing not only local currency payment but also various services to foreign visitors. The city will develop it to establish itself as a convenient tourism platform without language barriers," said Shin Chang-ho, the head of Busan Metropolitan City's Digital Economy Innovation Office.

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Haeundae and Songjeong Beaches Now Open

Summer season begins.

Haeundae Beach and Songjeong Beach opened on June 1. During the month of June, Haeundae Beach is only partially open in the 300 meters between the Tourist Information Center and the Event Plaza, and Songjeong Beach is only available along 150 meters in front of the Tourist In-formation Center, and the permitted sea swimming times are from 9am to 6pm.

Safety facilities such as lifeguard towers and buoys have been installed, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure the safety of vacationers.

From this year, visitors can check the availability of the beach according to weather conditions on the Haeundae-gu website ( www.haeundae.go.kr ). Following the partial opening in June, the beach will be fully open for the months of July and August.

What's New at the Beach this Year?

Standardized payment for beach equipment rental

Haeundae-gu operates its own payment system for beach equipment rental. It will be regulated and standardized for payment prices and Haeundae will reinvest the rental revenue into beach facility maintenance and programs for vacationers.

Relax in the 'Beach Cabana'

In July and August, Beach Cabana, an 8-meter-long awning-shaped shade structure, will be installed on the pedestrian path in front of the Haeundae Beach Tourist Information Center.

Enhanced guest safety

There will be different colored lifeguard towers to make it easier to identify their location in an emergency.

To ensure the safety of visitors, 100 civilian lifeguards have been recruited and more night patrols and early morning safety officers have been added.

Summer leisure by the sea 'Promotion Zone'

The Haeundae Beach Promotion Zone will be in operation for the first time this year and is a 150-meter section of white sand. During the months of July and August, the zone will feature a variety of attractions and activities such as photo zones, game experience zones, beach film festivals, and muscle zones, as well as resting areas such as shaded areas for visitors to relax at.

Improvement of the foot-washing facilities

The three footbaths in front of the public restrooms have been converted from water pools to running water so that visitors can wash their feet easier and more efficiently.

Songjeong Surf Zone: 250 meters again this year

Following last year's success, Songjeong Beach's surfing section will once again be 250 meters in length. This will be in operation during the full opening of the beach in July and August, and surfboards will not be allowed outside of this area.

Source: Haeundae City News June 2024

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Busan launches Korea's first foreign tourist-friendly mobile payment service

B usan will launch Busan Pay, Korea's first foreigner-only mobile currency service, to boost local tourism, the city government announced Tuesday, the day before the service's introduction.