Things To Do
in Busan

Busan, Korea's second-largest city, is renowned for its stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and vibrant port. It effortlessly combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The city is rich in cultural heritage, boasting historical sites, bustling markets, and a thriving arts scene.

Known for its seafood, lively festivals, and warm hospitality, Busan offers a unique experience that reflects the essence of Korean coastal life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Busan
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Haeundae Beach, where you can take a leisurely walk along the sandy shores and enjoy a breakfast at a nearby cafΓ©.

afternoon
:

Head to the Busan Aquarium to explore diverse marine life, followed by a visit to Dongbaek Island for stunning coastal views and a stroll through the beautiful park.

evening
:

End your day at the famous Gwangalli Beach, where you can enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant while admiring the view of the Gwangan Bridge illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Markets
morning
:

Visit the Beomeosa Temple, a serene and historical site nestled in the mountains, perfect for a peaceful morning.

afternoon
:

Explore Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Korea, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Busan Cinema Center, where you can catch a film or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Centum City.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$8
β˜•Coffee$3
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$1.20
🏨Hotel Night (Mid-range)$70
🍻Domestic Beer$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Vibrant nightlife and diverse entertainment options.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • Summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable.
  • Crowded tourist areas during peak seasons.
  • "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš” (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "κ°μ‚¬ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "ν™”μž₯μ‹€ μ–΄λ””μ—μš”? (Hwajangsil eodieyo?)" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "μ–Όλ§ˆμ—μš”? (Eolmaeyo?)" - How much is this?
  • "λ„μ™€μ£Όμ„Έμš” (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Busan

Visit one of these nice places.

Gamcheon Culture Village

A colorful hillside village known for its artistic murals and narrow alleyways, offering unique photo opportunities.

Haeundae Beach

Famous for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this beach is a perfect backdrop for stunning ocean photographs.

Taejongdae Resort Park

A scenic park with breathtaking coastal cliffs and a lighthouse, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Busan

Busan is a food lover's paradise, known for its fresh seafood and unique local dishes that reflect the city's coastal culture.

Busan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sannakji

Live octopus cut into small pieces and served immediately, typically seasoned with sesame oil.

Must-Try!

Dwaeji Gukbap

A hearty pork soup served with rice, popular for its rich flavor and warmth.

Eomuk

Korean fish cake skewers, often served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jagalchi Fish Market

The largest seafood market in Korea, offering everything from live fish to prepared seafood dishes.

Gukje Market

A bustling market where you can find street food stalls serving various local snacks and dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Busan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (April to June) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while summer (July to August) can be hot and humid with occasional rain. Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cool, pleasant weather and vibrant foliage, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, using polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal.

Public Behavior

Maintain a modest demeanor in public places; loud conversations or displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Busan is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or markets. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for medical emergencies. Always have a copy of your passport and important documents in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Busan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Korea; however, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also used, especially in smaller markets and street food vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, perfect for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional rain and typhoons.

Autumn

Cool and pleasant weather with vibrant fall foliage, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures with a chance of snow; however, the city's winter festivals offer unique experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Busan at Night

Busan's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of trendy bars, lively clubs, and cultural performances. Areas like Haeundae and Seomyeon are bustling at night, offering everything from beachside bars with stunning views to karaoke rooms where you can sing the night away. The city also hosts various night markets, where you can enjoy late-night street food and local delicacies in a lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Busan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Geumjeongsan Mountain Trail

This trail offers various routes with stunning views of the city and the sea, suitable for all skill levels.

Jangsan Mountain Trail

Known for its beautiful landscapes and relatively easy trails, this area is perfect for casual hikers and nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Busan by plane.

Gimhae International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Busan, this is the main airport serving the city, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Busan is a walkable city in certain districts, especially along the coastline and in popular tourist areas like Haeundae and Nampo. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some areas, particularly in the hills or mountainous regions, may be steep and challenging for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Busan, often attracted by career opportunities in technology and service industries.

International Students

Busan hosts many universities and language schools, leading to a vibrant community of international students.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Busan, with the Lotte Giants being the local team, drawing large crowds to their games.

Soccer

Soccer also has a significant following, with the Busan IPark team competing in the K League.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Busan can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include an extensive subway system, buses, and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. The subway is efficient for getting around the city and connecting to major attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Busan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including bibimbap and vegetable tempura.

Halal Food

Some restaurants cater to halal dietary needs, especially in tourist areas; however, it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Busan is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics offering services in both Korean and English. Emergency services are accessible, and most hospitals have international health care departments. Health insurance is recommended for travelers to cover potential medical expenses.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide