Travel Mad Mum

10 + Fun Things To Do In Busan With Kids

We visited South Korea with our family recently during the summer holidays. We explored the beautiful cities of Seoul and Busan with kids aged between 1 and 8.

South Korea is a unique destination. I had expected it to be somewhat similar to other destinations I have visited in the region, such as  Hong Kong , Japan and  Taiwan . However, it is a unique place regarding culture, food and things to do.

Busan is a modern place with a lot of similarities to Seoul. The main difference is that it’s a city on the beach in the far south of the country.

Busan has some stunning coastal scenery. From cable cars to trains and hiking trails to winding roads, there are many ways to enjoy the landscape along the coast.

The city is also a gateway to other spots off the beaten track, such as Geoje Island, making it an ideal base for day trips to see some of South Korea’s best-kept secrets.

busan family trip

We visited Busan with kids in partnership with Audley Travel and the Korea US Tourism Organization NY Offices . Rest assured, all views expressed are entirely my own, covering both the highs and the lows.

This post is an overview of all the fun things to do in Busan with kids, how to get there, where to stay and some restaurant recommendations.

Let’s discover all the fantastic things to do in Busan with kids.

Table of Contents

Getting to Busan With Kids

First, if you are travelling from Seoul to Busan with kids, the most convenient way is on the fast train which departs from Seoul Station. It’s best to book ahead as it is quite a busy service.

The high-speed train service connects Busan with a few cities. There are four seats with a table in the centre or two seats together. Trains are air-conditioned, and uber modern with Wi-Fi, clean washrooms and plenty of luggage storage.

things to do in busan with kids

Overall, the journey between the two cities takes around two hours and is super comfortable. There are a few stops along the way, and everyone has assigned seats.

The train station at Seoul and Busan has lots of great coffee shops and corner stores to stock up on some snacks for the journey.

It’s worth noting that Busan train station is around 45 minutes to an hour’s drive, depending on traffic around Haeundae Beach, where many tourists tend to stay.

There are plenty of taxis outside the door. However, if you are travelling with a big family like me, then it’s best to pre-arrange a vehicle to ensure enough seats.

busan with kids

Audley Travel arranged our train tickets in advance, so this was great. We didn’t need to worry about anything other than showing up.

As we were on quite a long trip over the summer holiday from school, we had quite a bit of luggage with us.

So, we decided to store some bags we did not need in Seoul. A few places near the station can easily be found on Google.

Things To Do In Busan For Kids

During our five days in Busan with kids, we spent two days on a guided tour with Audley Travel. We saw some of the highlights of Busan itself on the first day. On the second tour, we went further afield to Geoje Island.

We were provided with T Cards, which were pre-loaded to explore Busan at our own pace on the other days. This allowed us to have a mix of relaxation, downtime and adventure!

1. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

One of our first stops on our guided tour was Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. It was a 45-minute drive from our hotel in Haeundae, Busan with kids.

This incredible Buddhist temple is one of the few on the coast. It’s perched on the edge of a cliff, making it truly unique since most temples are in the mountains.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple dates back to the Goryeo Dynasty in 1376, initially constructed by the great Buddhist teacher Naong.

things to do in busan with kids

However, much of the temple was destroyed during the Japanese occupation of Korea. It was later reconstructed in the 1930s.

Our kids were fascinated when we entered the temple, and it’s a must-see on any Busan family itinerary.

If you like to know about the history and cultural practices, it’s a fantastic place to visit with a tour guide. We were grateful to visit here with our Audley Travel guide. We learned so much.

busan with kids

Featuring courtyards filled with incredible overhead lanterns, a beautiful bridge crossing from one ocean rock to the next and the most stunning ancient Korean architecture -we were blown away!

We saw worshippers putting coins on statues as an offering and monks chanting inside the temple. It was so special!

busan family trip

Our kids particularly loved writing a wish on a gold leaf and tying it to the gate overlooking the ocean, which many other worshippers have done for years.

busan with kids

The Koreans at the temple were impressed by the fact we had four children and were so welcoming. They gave the kids juices, fruits and snacks, which they loved! It was one of our highlights of visiting Busan with kids.

2. Songdo Cable Car

The Songdo Sea Cable Car is often called the Busan Air Cruise. This cable car ride spans from Songlim Park on the eastern side of Songdo Beach to Amnam Park on the western side.

On the cable car ride, we were suspended above the sea with incredible 360-degree views of the city and the ocean from a height.

things to do in busan with kids

We had views of Busan Yeongdo, Namhang Bridge, the scenic Songdo Coastal Dulle Road, and the dramatic coastal cliffs that emerged along the way.

There is an option for an extra fee to take a ‘crystal’ cable car ride with a glass bottom. To be honest, it’s not entirely necessary, as the views are stunning regardless.

things to do in busan with kids

However, taking the crystal cable car entitles you to skip the queue, which might be appealing to those visiting Busan with kids.

The ride across is around 1.6 kilometres long and leads to the Songdo Sky Park, where there are several attractions to enjoy.

From playgrounds to restaurants and incredible trails through the ‘healing forest’, it’s a fantastic place to spend some time in Busan with kids.

busan with kids

As it was a particularly hot day, we needed umbrellas, and our kids loved the misting water, which they decided to soak themselves in!

3. Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge

Just a couple of minutes from Songdo Sky Park cable car station is the Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, which is an incredible experience.

things to do in busan with kids

The bridge has a fee, but it’s very much worth it! It takes you across to a small rock island. All the while, we could see the water crashing metres below our feet onto the cliff edge.

south korea itinerary for family

It’s all super secure with high railings, so walking with kids is safe. The views of the rugged coastline are beautiful, and it’s such a thrilling experience in Busan with kids.

4. Gamcheon Culture Village

Tucked away in the hills of Busan is Gamcheon Cultural Village. It’s sometimes described as the Santorini of South Korea.

Picture a steep hill full of colourful houses stacked on one another. The vibrant village has a deep-running history and culture blended with incredible art!

south korea itinerary for family

Gamcheon Village was built in the 1950s during the Korean War. The village began as a settlement for refugees fleeing the conflict in other parts of Korea.

Displaced families sought shelter in the hills of Busan, where they built makeshift homes. In the aftermath of the Korean War, Gamcheon Village faced significant challenges.

The hilly terrain made it difficult to build proper infrastructure, and the residents often lived in poverty and substandard conditions. Gamcheon village was characterized by its tightly packed houses, narrow alleyways, and lack of basic amenities.

busan family trip

The turning point in Gamcheon Village’s history came in 2009 when it was selected as a community art project site.

Local artists and organizations collaborated to revitalize the village through art, painting murals, creating sculptures, and installing colourful artwork throughout the community.

busan for kids

The transformation of Gamcheon Village into an open-air art gallery attracted attention from locals and tourists.

It has since become a blueprint for regenerating run-down areas worldwide. The colourful streets and beautiful installations make it a must-visit place in Busan with kids. Our little ones enjoyed the vibrancy of it all.

Whilst many families have moved on, a few residents remain in the village, living alongside the beautiful galleries, cafes and vibrant installations.

busan with kids

The success of the art project was due to the active involvement of the residents. Many of them embraced the changes and contributed to the ongoing development of the village.

Some opened small shops and cafes, selling local crafts and art, further boosting the local economy.

Today, Gamcheon Cultural Village is a testament to the transformative power of art and community engagement.

busan family trip

It’s a living example of how a once-struggling neighbourhood can reinvent itself through creativity, turning adversity into something positive.

Gamcheon Village is a popular tourist destination and a cherished symbol of Busan’s rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit.

5. Dongbaek Park

Nestled along the East Sea in Busan, Dongbaek Park offers respite from the city and is an ideal place to run around in Busan with kids. It’s just a short stroll from Haeundae Beach.

The park has stunning views of the ocean, with the Haeundae city skyline in the distance. The park weaves around the coastline on a peninsula before joining back up with the beach.

south korea itinerary for family

Lined with Dongbaek trees, the park’s pathways meander through diverse flora and fauna. Our kids loved collecting pine cones along the way.

We visited Busan with kids in August, which was quite hot. It’s worth noting the park changes with the seasons, making each visit unique.

Dongbaek holds historical significance, with a statue of Choe Chiwon, a renowned scholar and poet from the Silla Dynasty, at its heart.

The APEC House, where the 1995 APEC Summit took place, is another interesting landmark within the park. Inside, the blend of traditional Korean architecture and modern aesthetics was fascinating to see.

busan children's park

There is plenty of information about the APEC Summit, and the room where the leaders sat is well preserved.

After visiting the APEC House, we continued our walk along the coast. There are a couple of lookout points along the way, which are perfect for photos.

busan children's park

In parts, steps and bridges cross the ocean beneath, so if you are travelling with a baby or toddler, it’s worth bringing a baby carrier . Nonetheless, it’s a stunning walk!

Dongbaek is a beautiful spot to head for sunset, especially with the views of the city, coastline and beach.

south korea itinerary for family

We got to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Songdo Cable Car, Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, Gamcheon Cultural Village and Dongbaek Park all in one day.

It was a huge day, but it was great to utilise our tour guide to the max before relaxing and exploring Busan with kids at our own pace.

6. Club D Oasis

The next day, we were ready for relaxation so we decided to check out Club D Oasis, which is right on Haeundae Beach.

This spa and waterpark facility is ideal for families. It is a popular spot, featuring relaxing zones, slides, splash parks, and an infinity pool with incredible views over Haeundae Beach.

busan family trip

We visited on a weekend, so, Koreans were busy relaxing on their day off work.

It’s a sparkling clean facility which is super high-tech. On entering, we were assigned numbered lockers for shoes. As we dropped them off, we had another assigned locker for our belongings.

Everything was operated by a bracelet connected to our credit card ( we learned this later).

south korea itinerary for family

The changing facilities were beautiful, as were the pools and amenities.

A couple of downsides were that the staff didn’t communicate that we needed a life jacket and swim hats for everything. This seemed a little overkill since life jackets had to be rented, and swim hats were an additional cost on top of the admission.

busan for kids

There were quite limited food options, with most being things like fried chicken, ice cream and pizzas. It didn’t fit what felt like a spa, so it was hard to make a day of the entrance with the limited food.

Everything is connected to the bracelet, as mentioned, so you don’t need to carry a wallet to pay for various things in the club, which was great.

Hilariously, on exit, we could not open our shoe locker without going and finalising the bill of things we had clocked up during the visit.

busan for kids

We had this feeling a lot throughout our time in South Korea. Whether it was visiting the tea house with an entry fee or the pool at our hotel, it always felt like they were worried we’d ‘run off’ without paying for something.

Besides these little quirks of walking around in life jackets and swim hats at a spa, the kids had a blast on the slides and playing at the waterpark.

7. Blue Line Sky Capsule

The Blue Line Sky Capsules are a super iconic experience in Busan. They are in every leaflet and marketing material about the city.

Think cable cars on a train track that wraps around a cliff edge with stunning sea views. As a family of 6, we weren’t allowed to travel in one car together, despite two of our children being babies in a carrier.

busan children's park

This was one of these quirks of South Korea, rules are rules, and they usually don’t bend even though there was loads of space for us all inside.

Nonetheless, despite paying for two cable cars, we loved the relaxing few minutes of checking out the views from the cliff edge in this unique experience.

busan family trip

There are a few different routes which run along the coast. It’s best to book in advance as we found the route from Haeundae was completely booked up for our chosen times.

busan family itinerary

So, we just went a little further in a taxi to make our way back to Haeundae in the cart.

Check out Sky Capsule here.

8. Haeundae Beach

We stayed just one block away from Haeundae Beach, so naturally, we explored everything around the area.

It’s a lovely stretch of golden sand spanning 1.5 kilometres, with plenty of amenities and activities along the beach. There is even an aquarium right next to it.

busan family itinerary

There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy jet skiing, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. Not to mention, sunbathing as there are plenty of sunbeds. If paddle boarding interests you, perhaps learn which type of paddle board would be best for your day out on the water.

Strolling along the promenade at night is super interesting as many performers are singing, dancing or magicians. We saw one fire performer which was incredible to watch.

busan family itinerary

Hauendae has many restaurants, cafes and bars with a mix of Western and traditional Korean food.

9. Geoje Island

After a couple of days of relaxing at Haeundae Beach and Club D Oasis, it was time to make another day trip with our tour guide from Audley Travel.

Initially, I was a little put off by the distance to visit Geoje Island, but I’m so glad we went as it was a truly unique experience, off the usual beaten track.

We left early in the morning to catch a timed ferry to Oedo Botanic Island. The journey took a little under two hours from our hotel in Haeundae. We slept most of the way.

busan family trip

Geoje Island, also known as Geoje-do, is the main island of Geoje City in South Korea’s Gyeongsangnam-do province.

It’s the country’s second-largest island, covering 383.44 square kilometres. The island has stunning peaks such as Gara, Gyerong and Daegeum.

busan family trip

Geoje Island is renowned for its rich granite deposits and is part of the Hallyeo Maritime National Park.

The island has a rich history, with a strategic role during various periods, including naval battles and the Korean War.

Today, Geoje is a shipbuilding hub and the hometown of former South Korean presidents Kim Young-sam and Moon Jae-in. It also played a crucial role in evacuating North Korean civilians in the 1950s during the Korean War.

Oedo Botania & Haegeumgang

Oedo Botania was where we spent most of our day trip to Geoje.

A ferry leaves a few times a day from Jangseungpo Port to get there. This ferry takes a little detour on the journey, allowing passengers to see the beautiful Sea Diamond, known as Haegeumgang.

busan family itinerary

Hargeumgang is essentially a group of striking sea stacks and rock formations. These formations are famous for their unique shapes and sparkling appearance in the sunlight.

They are rugged and beautiful, and it’s one of the most worthwhile detours I’ve ever taken – that’s for sure! After circling the rocks, the ferry made its way to Oedo Botania.

Oedo Botania is a marine botanical garden within the Hallyeo Maritime National Park.

busan family itinerary

It’s Korea’s first privately developed island and was established by Changho Lee and Hosook Choi, a North Korean man, in 1963 as an orchard and pig farm.

It evolved into a lush botanical garden in 1976. Today, there are over 3,000 plant species, some native to Korea, others subtropical.

busan family itinerary

The garden features statues, a Greek-inspired pavilion, and an old schoolhouse. Highlights include the Cactus Garden, Venus Garden, Flower Garden, and the Stairway to Heaven.

busan family itinerary

There is a nice kiosk serving fresh lemonade and ice-creams close to the pavilion, and it has a lovely shaded area which looks like the perfectly manicured bonsai tree. It almost looked like a giant umbrella!

Further up the hill, is a restaurant with panoramic views of dramatic cliff edges and the beautiful blue water. It almost felt like the Amalfi Coast!

busan family itinerary

As we meandered to the port to take our ferry back to Geoje, we came across the Stairway to Heaven.

The Sea Diamond, Haegeumgang, is perfectly framed with a row of trees which the stairs descend through. It was so cleverly planned and one of the jaw-dropping parts on the island.

If you are visiting Busan with kids, I can highly recommend a trip to Geoje, based on Oedo Botania alone!

Blackpearl Pebble Beach

After visiting Oedo, we made our way to Hakdong Mongdol Beach, essentially a black pebble beach.

We stopped for a quick swim, and the water was so clear, it reminded me of Lake Tahoe in the US, seeing all of the pebbles clearly through the water.

busan family itinerary

It is a little difficult to walk on without rock shoes, but the water was so inviting, especially with the mountainous landscape.

After we had a quick dip, we headed to Windy Hill!

Windy Hill is a unique spot on Geoje Island with its striking coastal views and iconic windmill.

Honestly, we could have been transported to the Netherlands as I hadn’t expected to see a brown wooden windmill.

After lunch, we took a leisurely walk around the area, taking in the views along the way. Just below the windmill is a small wharf known as Dojango Wharf.

busan family itinerary

The windmill and surrounding area gained fame from its feature in Korean dramas such as Eves Garden and Merry Go Round.

A wooden promenade leads from the wharf toward the hill with distant views of Hakdong Village.

By this point of our day trip, we were conscious of Busan rush hour traffic and decided to make a quick exit to ensure we didn’t end up making our journey back to the hotel too long, but it was worth the visit.

10. Gwangalli Drone Show

Our final night in Busan with kids was a Saturday, perfect timing for the Gwangalli Drone Show.

It’s every Saturday evening, not just on special occasions, which is amazing. Above the waters of Gwangalli Beach, at 8 pm and 10 pm, hundreds of drones take to the sky to create an incredible visual experience for onlookers.

The beach was packed, and it’s best to arrive early! Luckily, the security team were nice and gave us a good spot to watch the show when they saw us with twin toddlers .

busan with kids

In the distance is a 7420 metre long suspension bridge which is often lit up! Busan has many bridges connecting the city, and the Gwangalli one is the second longest in the country!

As the sun dips below the horizon, the stage is set for the Gwanganli Drone Show. This remarkable display involves a fleet of synchronized drones that take to the sky, choreographed to music and programmed to create stunning patterns and animations.

busan with kids

Each drone has LED lights that can change colour, creating an incredible display.

Some patterns we saw were roller skates, a couple holding hands, a suitcase filled with things, and so much more. It was the perfect ending to our trip to Busan with Kids

Where To Stay In Busan

We stayed at Shilla Stay Haeundae which was just a few steps from the beach. The location was fantastic for heading out on foot to explore the area in Busan with kids.

We had interconnecting rooms with a double and two single beds. The hotel is a skyscraper building with many floors and, subsequently, many guests.

Whilst all the facilities were clean, nice and well-maintained, the hotel was my least favourite element of our trip to South Korea.

busan for kids

There was not enough staff to serve all of the guests. The pool facilities had quite a high charge per guest, which really adds up with children.

There was no room service in the hotel which is a little challenging with young kids especially when travelling after a long day of exploring, sometimes you need room service to save the meltdowns.

This hotel uses bed railings rather than providing cots, which might be okay for a single family, however, since we have twins, it was a challenge.

busan for kids

Overall, the hotel was clean and nice in a great location. If you are prepared and expect not to use the pool without a charge etc. then it would probably be fine.

To end on a positive note, they did have a self-service laundry, which is always a win with kids.

Nice Restaurants

There are tonnes of authentic Korean places to eat out all across Busan. However, with four fussy kids, we mostly stuck to more familiar cuisines. Our three favourite places were:

Fuzzy Navel near Haeundae Beach, which is a lively and popular spot. Whilst it had a party vibe at night, it was fine in the early evening, serving everything from pizzas to salads and burgers.

busan with kids

Namaste had authentic Indian cuisine just a stone’s throw from Haeundae Beach. They had flavorful curries, which we got takeaway from a few times.

Home Bistro is a cosy eatery near Haeundae Beach. The food here was by far my favourite as it was vegetarian with a Korean flare.

busan vegan restaurants

Overall, we absolutely loved our time in Busan with kids. There are so many incredible things to see and do.

There were definitely a few quirks and rules to navigate, which we felt more so in Busan than Seoul, but it was still very much a great trip.

busan with kids

Audley Travel offers tailor-made trips to South Korea. A 12-day trip costs from £3,900 per person (based on a family of four travelling).

The price includes return flights from the UK, transfers, accommodation (Seoul Fraser Place Central and Busan Shilla Stay Haeundae), train travel between Seoul and Busan and excursions. 01993 838200/  www.audleytravel.com/south-korea

Disclaimer : This post about Busan with kids is sponsored. Visit Korea US and Audley Travel partially hosted our trip to South Korea. All views expressed are entirely my own.

Home » Travel » Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

busan family trip

  • South Korea

Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

Accommodation and fun activities for the entire family.

busan family trip

Thinking of stopping by Busan for a couple of days while you’re holidaying in South Korea? There’s so much to see and do there that you’ll be spoiled for choice! We’ve compiled a list of family-friendly accommodation and activities that both the adults and kiddos will love.

Travel To South Korea

As of September 3, 2022 :

  • All inbound travellers are exempted from presenting a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test result during entry into South Korea
  • All travellers are still subjected to an on-arrival PCR test within 1 day of arrival
  • Application for  K-ETA  is compulsory (if your nationality is eligible) if you are going to Korea for tourism, business meetings, discussions, conferences or short-term study
  • All travellers are required to register for  Q-Code  prior to departure

More information on entry to South Korea  HERE .

Want More? Check out our other Korean guides.

Click here for 15 Kid-Friendly Ski Resorts In South Korea That Families Love!

busan family trip

FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS AND APARTMENTS IN BUSAN *Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

Since it's a port city, Busan has stunning views of the sea, which you can wake up to when staying at Park Hyatt Busan . This luxurious hotel has all the amenities you and the family may need, including an on-site restaurant, pool and spa. You can also request for room service and laundry and dry cleaning if needed. Their Park Premium Family Suite is perfect for the entire family and comes with a separate living room. You even have unobstructed views of the ocean and Gwangan Bridge in the suite!

If you want an oceanside hotel, Hotel 1 is right by the beach. The interiors of their rooms are also completely minimal, perfect for picturesque family shots. With floor-to-ceiling windows all around, you get beautiful sunlight streaming in and a spectacular view of the ocean from here. Their premium room — the biggest available room at their hotel — can accommodate four people in total.

For some peace and tranquility, book Arban Hotel , a beautiful and luxurious hotel with a rooftop garden right next to their restaurant. This means that you’ll be surrounded by greenery as you’re having breakfast in the morning — the perfect way to start the day. They’ve got a variety of different room types, ranging from Superior Double to the large Royal Suite.

Paradise Hotel Busan is a gorgeous luxury boutique hotel that’s right by the ocean. The rooms, restaurant and reception have all been furnished to look modern and upscale, and they even have a kids area where your children can play. Popular tourist attractions Gamcheon Culture Village and Haeundae Beach are also nearby.

If you prefer apartments to hotels, there are also lovely Airbnb homes that have been furnished and decorated nicely for tourists. This lovely villa is great for families because of how big the space is. It’s also very pretty inside and outside, with a pebbled front yard and minimalistic interior. There’s also a kitchen and breakfast nook where you and the kids can enjoy a hearty meal in the morning before heading out to explore Busan. At night, take a soak in their gigantic tub — the kiddos can even splash around inside during bath time.

For a cozier apartment, this private house has a slightly Scandinavian vibe mixed with light, pastel colours in some spots. There’s ample space for the whole family as this accommodation consists of three bedrooms and a rooftop garden. The neighbourhood is quieter than the typical touristy areas, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for some tranquility on your trip.

busan family trip

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN BUSAN *Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

For one of the classic Korean dishes, visit Choryang Milmyeon , where they serve delicious Korean cold noodles. It’s not only visited by tourists, but also frequented by locals themselves — so you know the the food is definitely going to taste authentic. There are two types of cold noodles you can try here: the multiple naengmeyon, a soup-based noodle dish with cold broth and bibs naengmyeon, a dry noodle dish with spicy dressing.

For the best seafood in town, visit Jagalchi Market ! It might also be an eye-opener for kids, as they get to see how a fish market in Busan operates, with all the seafood laid out at each stall. What’s fun is that you can literally choose which restaurant in the market you’d like to eat fresh seafood from and simply enjoy it there! It’ll be an interesting experience for the kiddos, especially if they love seafood dishes.

If you’d like a lighter meal, drop by Leegane Tteokbokki for some Korean rice cakes. It’s one of the most popular tteokbokki restaurants in Busan, and you can try a variety of different tteokbokki dishes here. They also serve other items like tempura, fishcakes and hotdogs — so you can mix and match and enjoy a street food feast with the family! Although they serve mainly street food here, it is a restaurant, so there’s comfortable seating where you can slowly devour your meal.

If you’re a fan of dumplings, be sure to visit Sinbalwon , a famous dumpling restaurant at Chinatown! It’s so tasty that there’s often a queue outside the restaurant, so you know it’s definitely worth it. They offer both steamed and fried dumplings on their menu, with different fillings like shrimp, pork and chives. After the meal, the family can also order a soy milk with fried dough sticks to share.

busan family trip

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAFES IN BUSAN *Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

For families who love chilling at cafes during the day, why not drop by Gemstone , a really popular cafe with a unique look. The cafe actually used to be an old swimming complex, and they kept most of the interior intact, including the tiled floors of the swimming pool and tiled walls inside the complex. Cafe tables and chairs now occupy what was once the swimming pool, so it looks really cool, and they even have seating for diners in the locker rooms.

Waveon Coffe House is also a must-visit cafe because of its spectacular views. It's a multi-story cafe located right next to the ocean, so you not only get to enjoy some tranquility as you sip your coffee, but also get to soak in a pretty view and watch the waves. They also have outside seating on the ground level, where there are mattresses and blankets that patrons can use while they're there. If you're dropping by the cafe in the evening, get cozy under the blankets as you witness a beautiful Busan sunset.

If one of the stops of your itinerary is Haeundae Beach, you might want to visit Cafe Rooftop on the way. It's located at the fishing port of Cheongsapo, just a little over ten minutes drive from Haeundae Beach itself. The space has floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you a wondrous view of the sea while you dig into your food and beverages. If the weather isn't too hot nor cold, we'd recommend sitting at their balcony area for the best view and breeze.

busan family trip

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN BUSAN *Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

One of the most popular places to visit in Busan is Haeundae Beach . It's also frequented by locals during summer, so you'll see many beach mats and beach umbrellas along the beach, as well as families having fun under the sun. If you're feeling up for it, why not bring your bathing suits so that the kids can enjoy some time in the water. If not, even simply strolling down the beach will allow you to feel a sense of calm and joy as you watch the waves and the locals enjoying their summer. If you're lucky, your visit for Busan might even coincide with certain festivals they hold at Haeundae Beach.

Located on Haeundae Beach itself is the Sea Life Busan Aquarium , an attraction that the kids will surely adore. They'll get to see and learn about a wide variety of marine animals and sea creatures, such as sharks, jellyfish, otters and penguins. They also have shark and stingray feeding for families who are interested, as well as a Glass Bottom Boat experience where you get to see marine life up close in the main tank during a ten minute ride on the boat.

Families might like to also visit Gamcheon Culture Village , a beautiful tourist attraction that was once a settlement for refugees. The whole village has since then been painted a myriad of different colors, so the place is really colorful with pretty signs located all over the area. It also houses shops where tourists can browse through and buy little knick knacks to bring back as souvenirs. Gamcheon Culture Village is a very photogenic spot, so we'd suggest visiting in the daytime so that you can take pictures of the place and also use the colorful structures as beautiful backgrounds for your family photos.

Take a slow walk together at Yongdusan Park , where you get to see and learn about the different monuments placed there, as well as enjoy nature because the area is surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. Within the park you'll also find the Busan Diamond Tower, an attraction that provides you with a stunning view of Busan from the top.

For a little rest and respite, stop by BIFF Square , a cultural tourist attraction that promotes Korean's film industry. If the family wants to simply kick back and relax for a couple of hours, visit one of the movie theatres in the area and watch a movie of your choice. It's also a leisure and shopping district of sorts, so families can also purchase a couple of skincare products or small souvenirs. When you're tired, there are many coffee places and doughnut stores you can visit for a drink and snack.

busan family trip

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The 42 best things to do with kids in Busan

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busan family trip

1 Gwangalli Beach

busan family trip

2 Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan

busan family trip

3 Yongdusan Park

4 taejongdae resort park, busan, 5 songjeong beach, 6 busan museum of art, 7 haeundae beach, 9 sealife busan aquarium, 10 oryukdo skywalk, 11 dadaepo beach, 12 biff square, 13 dongbaekseom, 15 busan citizens park, 16 haeundae beach, 17 diamond tower (busan tower), 18 songdo bay station, 19 seokbulsa, 20 national maritime museum, 21 lotte world adventure busan, 22 city tour busan(by bus) headquarters office, 24 busan metropolitan city hall, 25 songdo beach, 26 songdo cloud trails, 27 matchandeul wang sogeumgui, seomyeon, 28 busan children's grand park, 29 centum city shopping mall, 30 chungnyeolsa, 31 dadaepo sunset fountain of dream, 32 haeundae blueline park, 33 geumgang park, 34 dongbaek park, 35 igidae waterside park, 36 seoul escape room seomyeon, 37 samnak eco park, 38 songjeong beach, 39 sasang-gu, 41 ilchulbong, 42 apec naru park, top searches in busan, popular road trips from busan, what's the weather like in busan.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Busan for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Busan in January
  • Weather in Busan in February
  • Weather in Busan in March
  • Weather in Busan in April
  • Weather in Busan in May
  • Weather in Busan in June
  • Weather in Busan in July
  • Weather in Busan in August
  • Weather in Busan in September
  • Weather in Busan in October
  • Weather in Busan in November
  • Weather in Busan in December

All road trips from Busan

  • Busan to Seoul drive
  • Busan to Tokyo drive
  • Busan to Kyoto drive
  • Busan to Osaka drive
  • Busan to Fukuoka drive
  • Busan to Beijing drive
  • Busan to Hiroshima drive
  • Busan to Nagasaki drive
  • Busan to Shanghai drive
  • Busan to Jeju drive
  • Busan to Nagoya drive
  • Busan to Kumamoto drive
  • Busan to Kitakyushu drive
  • Busan to Kanazawa drive
  • Busan to Kagoshima drive
  • Busan to Sapporo drive
  • Busan to Hakone-machi drive
  • Busan to Beppu drive
  • Busan to Xi'an drive
  • Busan to Sasebo drive
  • Busan to Daegu drive
  • Busan to Matsuyama drive
  • Busan to Kamakura drive
  • Busan to Himeji drive
  • Busan to Nikko drive
  • Busan to Okayama drive
  • Busan to Hakodate drive
  • Busan to Matsue drive
  • Busan to Taito drive
  • Busan to Jeonju drive

Explore nearby places

  • Cheongdo-gun
  • Goseong-gun
  • Changnyeong-gun
  • Uiryeong-gun
  • Hapcheon-Gun
  • Goryeong-gun
  • Sancheong-gun
  • Seongju-gun
  • Chilgok-gun
  • Geochang-gun

All related maps of Busan

  • Map of Busan
  • Map of Yangsan
  • Map of Gimhae
  • Map of Changwon
  • Map of Geoje
  • Map of Ulsan
  • Map of Haman-gun
  • Map of Miryang
  • Map of Tongyeong
  • Map of Cheongdo-gun
  • Map of Goseong-gun
  • Map of Changnyeong-gun
  • Map of Uiryeong-gun
  • Map of Gyeongju
  • Map of Gyeongsan
  • Map of Jinju
  • Map of Sacheon
  • Map of Daegu
  • Map of Hapcheon-Gun
  • Map of Goryeong-gun
  • Map of Yeongcheon
  • Map of Tsushima
  • Map of Pohang
  • Map of Namhae-gun
  • Map of Sancheong-gun
  • Map of Seongju-gun
  • Map of Chilgok-gun
  • Map of Hadong-gun
  • Map of Geochang-gun
  • Map of Gwangyang
  • Map of Yeosu

Busan throughout the year

  • Busan in January
  • Busan in February
  • Busan in March
  • Busan in April
  • Busan in May
  • Busan in June
  • Busan in July
  • Busan in August
  • Busan in September
  • Busan in October
  • Busan in November
  • Busan in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Busan?

Get inspired for your trip to Busan with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

  • 1-Day Busan Itinerary
  • 2-Day Busan Itinerary
  • 3-Day Busan Itinerary
  • 4-Day Busan Itinerary
  • 5-Day Busan Itinerary

Best attractions in nearby cities

  • Top things to do and attractions in Daegu
  • Top things to do and attractions in Ulsan
  • Top things to do and attractions in Gyeongju
  • Top things to do and attractions in Tsushima
  • Top things to do and attractions in Tongyeong

Best restaurants in nearby cities

  • Where to eat: the best restaurants in Daegu
  • Where to eat: the best restaurants in Changwon
  • Where to eat: the best restaurants in Ulsan
  • Where to eat: the best restaurants in Gyeongju
  • Where to eat: the best restaurants in Tsushima

busan family trip

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  • See time and distance between all your places

Travel With Pedro

7 Top Things To Do in Busan With Your Family

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Busan with your family, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn what to do in this dynamic and vibrant city.

You have just landed at the Seoul International Airport, filled with excitement for your planned family vacation in Busan, South Korea. Welcome to Busan, the bustling city that never sleeps.

 As you make your way to Southern Busan, you can’t help but feel thrilled about what lies ahead. To make your Busan trip with your family one that lingers in your memory for ages to come, we have compiled a list of the top 7 places you should visit.

What’s more, you can visit two or more of these places in a day as all of them are easily accessible and interconnected by Asian trains .

For a wholesome experience, we recommend you take a train from Seoul to Busan . This way, you’ll get the chance to start your experience immediately by feeding your eyes on the breathtaking scenery of the Korean countryside as you journey to Busan.

Best Things To Do in Busan with the Family

1- haeundae beach .

Haeundae Beach in Busan is a true paradise for beach lovers. From the moment you set foot on Haeundae Beach, you’ll be blown away by its stunning natural beauty. With over two kilometers of soft sand and crystal clear waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind, soak up some sun, and make memories with your loved ones.

Not to mention, the beach is equipped with all the amenities you would need for a day out with the family, including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms.

Haeundae Beach in Busan, South Korea

But the fun doesn’t stop at the beach 一there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area. Take a hike to nearby Dongbaek Island, where you can explore beautiful parks and take in breathtaking views of the sea. Or, hit up the many restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area for a bite to eat or a souvenir to bring back home.

                      Where To Stay in Taipei

2- Busan Aquarium 

Here is the ultimate family-friendly attraction that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the magical world of marine life. Get ready to be amazed by the incredible collection of creatures on display.

The underwater tunnel is the highlight of the aquarium, where you can walk through and feel like you’re part of the ocean. With over 35,000 fish swimming around you, it’s a truly immersive experience that will leave both kids and adults in awe.

Busan Aquarium is not just about looking at the fish. You can also get to interact with the marine creatures through touch and feeding exhibits. Get up close and personal with starfish, sea urchins and other fascinating marine life.

The aquarium also has a special exhibit that showcases the unique marine life found in the Korean peninsula. You’ll get a deeper understanding of the incredible biodiversity of this region, and learn about the importance of conservation efforts to protect these species.

3- Beomeosa Temple

Busan is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with traditions, and nowhere is this more evident than at Beomeosa Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple offers you and your family a chance to step back in time and experience Korean culture and spirituality firsthand.

As you explore the temple’s intricate architecture and beautiful work, you’ll be transported to a world of peace and serenity. The gardens are a true marvel, with lush greenery and serene water features creating a calming atmosphere.

If you’re lucky to visit when there’s a temple festival or ceremony taking place, that is where the magic lies. The rhythmic sounds of traditional drumming and chanting fill the air, adding to the already mystical atmosphere.

You’ll get to witness the vibrant culture of Korea through the eyes of the locals, as they celebrate with food, dance and music. It’s an experience you and your family will never forget.

4- Gwangalli Beach 

With its pristine sandy shorelines, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, Gwangalli Beach is a perfect place to have an adventurous experience with your family.

During the day, you get to swim, sunbathe, kayak or even paddleboard with your beloved ones. There are also water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing you can indulge in.

At night, the beach comes to life even more with stunning light displays and live music performances, creating an unforgettable experience.

The beach surrounding is also filled with numerous restaurants serving delicious Korean cuisines, so make sure to enjoy a family dinner in one of those after a day of fun in the sun.

5- Gamcheon Culture Village 

Things to do in Busan, South Korea

Nestled in the hills of Busan, the breathtakingly beautiful Gamcheon Village is a perfect place to visit with one’s family.

As you approach the village, you’ll be greeted with a colourful collection of small houses stacked on top of each other, forming a mosaic of colours that will blow your mind away.

A scavenger hunt is a fun way for families to explore the maze of narrow streets and alleyways and discover hidden treasures. There are also the village’s shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a range of unique and delicious options.

To add a cultural dimension to your visit, you and your family can also visit the museum documenting the village’s history and transformation.

Do not forget to catch the stunning views of Busan and the sea from the hillside location. It is surely a one-of-a-kind experience.

Places to visit in Busan with family

6- Haedong Yongunda

Haedong Yonggungsa, the Temple of the Water Dragon, is a place that will transport you and your family to another world. As you step into the temple grounds, you’ll be greeted by the tranquil sounds of waves crashing against the rocks.

Combined with the aroma of burning incense will fill your nostrils, it creates a serene atmosphere that will help you forget the stresses of everyday life.

The temple itself is a masterpiece of architecture and design, featuring ornate carvings, intricate paintings, and beautifully crafted statues of Buddha and other deities. It’s hard not to feel humbled and inspired in the presence of such beauty and devotion.

One of the most captivating aspects of Haedong Yonggungsa is the Dragon Sculpture, a massive stone dragon that winds its way around the temple, as if guarding it from harm.

The dragon is said to be a symbol of strength, wisdom, and good fortune, and visitors often leave offerings at its feet in the hope of receiving its blessings.

7- Songdo Cable Car

Here is another thrilling and unique attraction you and your family will enjoy. From the moment you board the cable car, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Songdo’s skyline, the bustling harbor and the vast ocean stretching out before you.

The ride itself is a comfortable and smooth experience, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views without any stress or hassle.

As you glide high above the city, you’ll feel a sense of exhilaration and freedom, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis from a whole new perspective.

Once you reach the top, you can explore Songdo Sky Park, a sprawling green space with numerous walking paths, fountains and sculptures. You can also enjoy a meal or a snack at any of the many restaurants after taking in a movie or two at the nearby cinema.

Busan Attractions For Families: Conclusion 

Busan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by you and your families. The city is a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and a vibrant atmosphere.

All these, in addition to the welcoming locals and diverse range of activities, make it a must-visit location for an unforgettable family vacation. So back your bags and embark on a new adventure your family will cherish forever!

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Pedro has travelled to almost 120 countries and has made his nest in London. He has also lived in Spain, Australia, the US, Georgia and Turkey. A former hotel management professional, he loves exploring local cultures, is now learning his 8th language and has a soft spot for the Middle East and the CIS countries.

THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Busan

Things to do in busan with kids.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Yeonnam-dong
  • Sinchon / Ewha
  • Good for Kids
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Adventurous
  • Hidden Gems
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

busan family trip

1. Haeundae Beach

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2. Busan Gamcheon Culture Village

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3. Gwangalli Beach

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4. Beomeosa Temple

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5. Haedong Yonggungsa

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6. Taejongdae

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7. Jagalchi Market

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8. Gwangandaegyo Bridge

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9. Dongbaekseom

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10. SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium

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11. Yongdusan Park

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12. Songdo Beach

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13. Songdo Cable Car

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14. Oryukdo Skywalk

busan family trip

15. Igidae Park

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16. Hurshimchung Spa

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17. MUSEUM 1

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18. APEC Naru Park

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19. Dadaepo Beach

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20. Amnam Park

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21. Songjeong Beach

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22. Songdo Skywalk

busan family trip

23. Shinsegae Dept. Store Centum City

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24. Haeundae Dalmaji-gil Road

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25. Busan Tower

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26. Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion street

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27. The Bay 101 Yacht Club

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28. Busan Metro

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29. Sajik Baseball Stadium

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30. Busan Citizens Park

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What travellers are saying

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  • Best Time to Visit Busan
  • Events & Festivals in Busan
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  • Busan Itineraries
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Travel to Busan with Kids

  • South Korea
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Family and Kids in Busan

Looking out for what can you do with kids and family in Busan? Here are the things that you should not miss out on a family vacation with kids, toddlers, or babies. Discover the ultimate places for kids in Busan, be it water parks, theme parks, or playgrounds. Children will have fun, learn new things, get good food and will not get bored in long queues. Keep reading to know about awesome places and activities to enjoy with your kids in Busan. Plan a marvelous family trip at the budget you are looking without missing the fun!

Let's explore our list of kid-friendly attractions in Busan for perfect family outings and getaways.

1. Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach

2. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Family and Kids

3. Yongdusan Park

Yongdusan Park

4. Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach

5. Sea Life Busan Aquarium

Sea Life Busan Aquarium

Park, Aquarium, Educational Site

6. Beomeosa Temple

Beomeosa Temple

7. Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park

8. Dongbaek Island

Dongbaek Island

9. Seokbulsa Temple

Seokbulsa Temple

10. Songjeong Beach

Songjeong Beach

11. Chungnyeolsa

Chungnyeolsa

12. Centum City

Centum City

13. Busan Tower

Busan Tower

14. Samnak Ecological Park

Samnak Ecological Park

15. Igidae Coastal Walk

Igidae Coastal Walk

Kids-friendly Tours

  • Bus & Minivan Tours in Busan
  • Full-day Tours in Busan
  • City Tours in Busan
  • Night Tours in Busan
  • Half-day Tours in Busan

Through Place & Thyme

Our family adventures & yummy foods, busan with a baby and a toddler: a guide to south korea’s beautiful coastal city.

busan family trip

Are you wondering if you can tour Busan with a baby or a toddler? The short answer is YES! We visited one summer with our 2.5 month old baby and 2.5 year old son and had a great experience!

Why visit Busan?

I’ll admit I hadn’t even heard of Busan until we moved to Seoul, South Korea. BUT it’s a big deal in Korea! It’s the second most populated city in the country — Seoul is predictably the largest. For those wondering, it’s a pretty big gap…around 10 million people in Seoul vs. 3.6 million in Busan. I digress.

Busan is worth the hype. I loved it. My favorite part is the unique vibe… it’s got a relaxed and creative energy! It felt SO DIFFERENT from Seoul, and most other places we’ve visited in Korea. Some people refer to it as the “California” of Korea , and I think that’s a great comparison actually.

As you can see, Busan hugs along the southeastern coast, right on the water. The ocean has a MAJOR affect on the city’s industry, economy, and tourism.

Since the ocean is such a big part of the city’s culture, it’s hard to beat visiting in summer when you can swim in the beach! It’s hot, but the coastal breeze makes it feel pretty pleasant.

busan family trip

Note: Korea has BEACH SEASON so google that before you book. As in, you aren’t supposed swim in the water during the “off season”. There are even patrol officers that occasionally keep the water clear of swimming. You can wade a bit. Beach season varies by location, but is usually end of June to end of August.

That said… there are plenty of other great things to do in Busan! We visited in mid-August, which I’d easily do again– BUT the summer humidity was pretty brutal for touring places NOT right on the water.

It gets pretty cold in winter (the average lows are right around 0 C/ 32 F). I’m sure fall and spring are beautiful for walking along the coast and touring the rest of the city.

How to Get There (from Seoul)

We took the KTX train down from Seoul Station…but you can also drive, or take a bus (wouldn’t recommend that). Here are some pros and cons for each:

KTX Train: 30,000-50,000 won; 2 hrs 40 min- 3.5 hours+

Pros: the fastest way to get there, and young kids think it’s really exciting to ride a fast train

Cons: cost will quickly add up if you have a larger family since you’re paying per seat; you don’t have contained/convenient transportation once you GET there (relying on subways and buses)

mom and baby on KTX train to Busan

Our son loved looking out the big window and using the tray that folded down (like in an airplane!). It was just fine to stand up and walk around, and there was some space between cars to stretch our legs.

toddler riding KTX train from Seoul to Busan

Driving a Car: Gas $$ + Rental fees (if applicable); 4-5 hours + any additional stops

If you have a car you own AND young children (that you…own), this option feels like a no-brainer to me. At the time we didn’t have a car (read about how we changed our minds and bought one here), but our friends who also had young kids DID take their car down and had a good experience.

Renting a car could work, too. You just need a license or International Driving Permit. Rental cars can be $$$ but may be worth the hassle if you have multiple mobile little ones!

Pros: you can visit attractions much more easily and save time once you GET there, flexibility to leave later than planned etc.

Cons: The total time is a bit longer (4-5 hours), so perhaps less ideal for a short weekend trip; parking could be a headache at certain busy locations

Taking a Bus: 18,000-28,000 won; 4+ hours

Pros: a bit cheaper than the KTX train, you get to depart from Seoul Express Bus Terminal (which is a party at Christmastime)

Cons: bumpier, less-smooth ride, takes longer to get there

How to Get Around Busan

If you drive or bring a rental car, then the way you’ll get around is hopefully self-explanatory.

However, if you ride the KTX train or bus, then get ready for public transportation!

The T-Money card you use to get around in Seoul works down in Busan too! This was so convenient.

busan family trip

The buses and subways were easy to navigate , language and direction-wise. Obviously with little ones it’s always a bit of a hassle to ride public transit– buses especially are hard to get on and off with the strollers.

My major complaint with the public transport is just that it adds extra time on either end of all of your adventures. Because we had the time crunch of getting back to the train station to make our train, we didn’t quite have time to make it out to the gorgeous Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, which is a bit further north.

Where to Stay

We stayed in an AirBnb, which in this case was someone’s high-rise apartment that they rent out. It felt similar to the apartment we were coming from in Seoul (except we were all in the same room, so sleep was kind of a nightmare). The apartment was close to a subway stop and had two large (low to the ground) beds to sleep our family on. This was a cheaper option than some of the hotels, and since we were staying over several nights (3), the difference in savings added up.

However, if convenience and ease are a priority for the trip, there are lots of great hotels right near Haeundae Beach! I noticed there is an Ibis Hotel in Busan, and I quite like that chain for a simple, clean, affordable family hotel room.

What to Pack

Don’t forget the obvious swimsuits, sunscreen, towels, and some beach toys for your little ones (can pickup these at a HomePlus, Daiso, or on Coupang).

Be aware that Koreans typically dress in very modest swimsuits and wetsuits. You don’t necessarily need to cover more than normal, but it’s good to have the right expectation in case that affects what you wear.

beach chair and ocean view at Haeundae Beach in Busan, South Korea

You DO NOT need to bring a large beach umbrella or chair , those are available to rent for the day (at least at Haeundae Beach).

Weather Prep

BRING AN UMBRELLA! It rained a lot of the time we were there, and we somehow…laughably…remarkably…bought AND LOST two umbrellas on this weekend trip. Rainy season is April to September in Busan, so watch out.

Baby & Toddler Gear

Speaking of umbrellas, I would definitely bring an umbrella stroller or a baby carrier of some kind! There were SO MANY STEPS everywhere…maybe more than any other city we visited in Korea. There were a few different coastal boardwalks with stairs stairs stairs.

busan family trip

I also prefer to travel with a decent amount of diapers, wipes, and some favorite snacks or baby foods . Could I find all of these items pretty easily in Busan? Yes! Do I want to waste precious beach time/touring time at the local Home Plus? Not really!

What to Do & See!

There are so many ways you can spend your time in Busan! And thankfully there were plenty of things we could do together as a family, even with our young baby + quick-moving toddler. A few of the highlights of our trip included:

Jagalchi Fish Market

Wander the main floor to see LOTS of fish about to meet a terrible fate, and others that have already met it. Be ready for strong smells, and lots of movement (both humans and the sea life).

Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, South Korea

Then head upstairs a few floors where you can choose from many casual restaurant stalls. They are all near each other, but their menus vary. Feel free to roam around the open seating and look through hte picture menus until you find what looks best to you.

Ordering fresh sashimi was a highlight for my husband!

dad and son at Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, South Korea

Open 7 days/week; Hours: 10:30 am- 8 pm

Learn more on the Jagalchi Fish Market TripAdvisor page

Gamcheon Culture Village

Many people understandably have mixed feelings about how this local neighborhood was turned into a tourist attraction, but there is no denying that it’s a stunning visual site to behold. The history of the area is fascinating- you can learn the basics on this wiki article .

But to make a long story short, there was a public project in 2009 that called for residents and local artists to work together and bring new life to this area. There are painted sidewalks, stairs, cafes to stop at, and just lots of unique things to stop and notice. I enjoyed exploring here.

toddler walking up steps at Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, South Korea

The culture village contains a LOT of hills and a significant distance to walk from one end to the other, so prepare for at least 1-2 hours!

Hours: 9 am to 4 pm. Note: Be mindful of noise and wandering, because this is still a residential neighborhood AKA people are living in all of the homes you’re passing!

Haeundae Beach

You can’t come down to Busan and NOT visit this iconic beach. The whole area is fun to walk around. For some reason my toddler kept calling this Poh Poh Beach, and we still refer to it that way in our home.

Haeundae Beach is a great spot to take children in Busan, South Korea

There are plenty of shops and restaurants to check out –familiar chains and others unique to Busan– right near the water. The water & sand at this beach were wonderful, although it’s hard to beat those Jeju beaches !

Please don’t miss the boardwalk…walk. If you’re facing the ocean with the main street behind you, follow the walkway to the RIGHT and follow as it curves along the coast. This was a major highlight for me! It felt like I was in the Redwood forests looking out at rocky cliffs with fresh sea air.

busan family trip

We enjoyed this nature park, with long walks along the coast. There’s a lighthouse to see, and various other “checkpoints”, including a nice cafe. The sightseeing Danubi train wasn’t running the day we were there, but I bet young kids would love that!

young family tours Busan with a baby and toddler at Taejongdae Nature Park

The English Visit Korea Website has great info in this post about the train operating hours and other things to do within the park!

Biff Square: Street Food & Shopping District

The main reasons to come to Biff Square? To try street food & go shopping!

This area got busy in the evening, and was more in the heart of Busan, the city itself. We loved trying different street foods here!

dad and stroller at Biff Square market in Busan South Korea

What I’d Want to See Next Time:

We saw a LOT in our 3 day trip down to Busan, but there were a few things I’d make a priority if we were able to go back for another visit:

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

As I mentioned, I was very sad not to see this historic temple that’s located right up against a dramatic cliff. Various friends have sung its praises, and 16,787 google reviews do not lie!

Haedong Yonggusa Temple Busan, South Korea

SEALIFE Busan Aquarium

This is right at Haeundae Beach, and looked very cool. I think if my boys had been a little older at the time (they are now VERY VERY into animals) I would’ve made it a priority.

Learn more on their website HERE !

Food in Busan with Little Ones

Throughout the trip, we watched out for spice levels in the dishes we tried, and made sure not EVERY meal was fresh sashimi (for our toddler’s sake but also for mine!). Otherwise, we didn’t make many special accommodations for our toddler’s meals.

Our baby boy was all about his milk obviously, and our toddler was all about the huge dumplings, noodles & rice !

mom and baby in dumpling shop in Busan, South Korea

It was fun for us to take our shoes off and eat close to the ground at these low tables (pictured left, above).

I think it’s safe to say that the ssiat hotteok from Biff Square (pictured above, right) was our toddler’s favorite food of the trip. It’s basically a fry bread filled with brown sugar, nuts & seeds– the nuts and seeds are what are unique to Busan. Delicious!

We had lots of really great food in Busan, so a whole separate post can be read here !

This concludes my tips for touring Busan with a baby or a toddler!

Have you been to Busan? Do you have a favorite site or activity??

busan family trip

Have you taken your little ones? What advice would you add? I’d love to hear in the comments below!

Be sure to check out these other articles on touring around Korea, too!

5 Unique & Delicious Foods to Try in Busan, South Korea
South Korea’s Beautiful Udo Island with Young Kids
Expat Kids in Seoul: The 7 Best Places

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

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

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

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

3 Day Busan Itinerary - What to do in Busan

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

What to do in Busan (3 Days in Busan)

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

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

Best Things to do in Busan - Gamcheon Cultural Village

Planning a 3 day Busan itinerary

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

Accommodation in Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse: (Seomyeon)

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Busan

Arriving from Seoul – Train, bus or plane!

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

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

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

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

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

Nampo - Best things to do in Busan

How to get around Busan

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

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

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

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

Gamcheon Cultural Village - 3 Days in Busan Itinerary

3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan

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

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

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

Day 1 – Gamcheon Village & Nampo

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

Get lost in Gamcheon Culture Village

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

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

Gamechon Culture Village - 3 Day Busan Itinerary

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

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Gamcheon Culture Village Location

Gamcheon Culture Village - What to do in Busan

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

Explore Nampo-dong

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

Visit Markets in Nampo

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

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

Find Gwangbokdong Food Street

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Gwangbokdong Food Street

Nampo Street Markets Busan 3 day itinerary

Discover Biff Square

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

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Biff Square Location

Enjoy the sunset at Lotte Department Building

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

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Lotte Department Building Location

Lotte Department Store View busan itinerary

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

Spot Busan Tower

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Busan Tower Location

Busan Tower - 3 Days in Busan Itinerary

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

Day 2 – Temples & Beaches

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

Admire Haedong Yonggung Temple

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

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

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Haedong Yonggung Temple Location

Haedong Yonggung Temple - Busan Itinerary

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

Relax at Haeundae Beach

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

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

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

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

Haeundae Beach - Sand Festival

Browse the Haeundae Markets

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

Find the location on GoogleMaps here – Haeundae Market Location

Haeundae Market - Busan 3 day itinerary

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

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

Day 3 – Coastal Walk & Seomyeon

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

Feel the fresh air at Igidae Coastal Walk

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

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

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

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

Igidae Coastal Walk Views

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

Spend the evening in Seomyeon

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

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

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

Seomyeon at Night

3 Days in Busan Overview Breakdown

Day 1 – Gamcheon Culture Village, Nampo & Busan Tower

Day 2 – Haedong Yonggung Temple & Haeundae Beach

Day 3 – Igidae Coastal Walk & Seomyeon

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

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

More Things To Do in Busan

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

3 Day Busan Itinerary - What to do in Busan 2022

Where to stay in Busan

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

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

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

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

Gamcheon Village cats busan itinerary

Where to eat as a vegan in Busan

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

Dajeon - Vegan Korean Food in Busan

Is Busan worth visiting?

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

How many days in Busan?

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

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

Busan Weekend Itinerary

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

Should I spend more time in Busan or Seoul?

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

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

What to do in Busan - Travel guide

What to pack for a 3 day Busan Itinerary

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

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

What to do after 3 Days in Busan

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

More  South Korea  guides:

  • 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
  • Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
  • 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)

Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)

  • All our  South Korea  posts!

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

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3 day busan itinerary 3 days in busan travel guide

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

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Haha the cat! Love the steps with HP. Skyscrapers and street food. Great post!

Aww they’re so nice! 🙂 Haha the perfect action shot with the cat!

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Busan

INSIDER BUSAN ITINERARY for (2024)

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

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

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

busan family trip

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Best Time To Visit Busan

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

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

When to visit Busan

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

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

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

where to stay in Busan

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

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

Best Airbnb in Busan – Apartment with ocean view

Apartment with ocean view

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

Best Budget Hotel in Busan – Value Hotel Busan

Busan itinerary

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

Best Luxury Hotel in Busan-  Lotte Hotel Busan

Busan itinerary

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

Best Hostel In Busan – Blue Backpackers Hostel

Busan itinerary

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

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

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

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

Busan itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Jagalchi Fish Market

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

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

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

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

Jagalchi Fish Market

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Songdo Cable Car

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

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

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

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

Songdo Cable Car

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Taejongdae

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

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

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

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

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

Taejongdae

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Yongdusan Park and Tower

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

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

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

Yongdusan Park and Tower

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

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

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

Insider tip: Make the trip to Busan Tower between 8 and 10 pm to witness a spectacular display of lights that happen every 15 minutes.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Haeundae Market

  • Why it’s awesome: A short street packed with seafood, meat, fresh veg, and Korean snacks!
  • Cost: Free to roam!
  • Food recommendation: Enjoy a delectable meal from any of the vendors in the market.

Also known as the Busan Traditional Food Market, Haeundae Market showcases some of the best ingredients in Korea. Take your pick from sampling seafood, meat, fresh vegetables and Korean snacks amongst other products as you walk through the short street.

This is a great spot to enjoy a lunch or dinner before continuing on to the next adventure. The entire experience will take around an hour which means that it is a quick Busan attraction to tick off your list.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Haeundae Beach Boat Cruise

  • Why it’s awesome: Discover one of South Korea’s best beaches in the unique setting of a nighttime boat cruise.
  • Cost: Free visit, boat cruises vary in price.
  • Food recommendation: Stop at the Haeundae Market for your choice of authentic Korean cuisine

Haeundae Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Korea and for good reason. It is the perfect way to start your Busan two-day itinerary. The entire area is filled with a luxurious ambiance which only increases in intensity when you book a ride on one of the boat cruises.

Haeundae Beach Boat Cruise

A combined visit to the beach and boat cruise is a treat any time of day. However, a nighttime boat cruise is extra special, giving visitors unparalleled views of the city from the unique vantage point of the water.

Haeundae Beach is incredibly easy to access. You will arrive after a short walk from Haeundae Station, and you’ll find your toes digging gleefully in the sand. If you are visiting Busan with your significant other, this spot offers an incredibly romantic experience!

busan family trip

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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple | Gamcheon Culture Village | Gwangalli Beach | Night Tour of Busan | BIFF Square

Your two-day itinerary in Busan continues with a whirlwind list of Buscan landmarks. You’ll explore sacred temples, sandy beaches, and culturally rich villages during your second day in Busan!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

  • Why it’s awesome: A combination of a unique temple and exquisite views right on the seashore.
  • Cost: Free to visit, prices for parking facilities range from USD $3 to USD $6 depending on the size of the vehicle.
  • Food recommendation: Beans King Toast, located near the temple, it’s a cozy spot to pop in for a quick breakfast.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a real gem and a great way to start off the second day of your vacation in Busan. The temple is not only one of the city’s most scenic spots but also one of the most culturally rich.

Located on the cusp of the shore, the temple area is surrounded by jagged rocks. The sea breeze wafts through the trees, adding an increased freshness to the atmosphere.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

The temple was first built in 1376 by a Buddhist teacher and rebuilt in 1930 after unfortunate destruction due to a Japanese invasion. This history and culture of the site can be felt upon entry. This intricate history that is held within the temple grounds has created a myth-like presence.

The first sight visitors see are statues, pagodas and beautiful sea views. Passing these, visitors can move down the stairs, cross the bridge and take the time to further absorb the surroundings.

Open every day from 5 am until 7 pm and one of the most popular free Busan attractions, Yonggungsa Temple is frequented daily by locals and tourists alike. The site is accessible by both taxis and public transport.

Make sure you bring your camera with batteries fully charged, because you are going to want to save these memories!

Insider tip: If you want to experience the cherry blossoms at the temple, make sure that you visit towards the end of April and beginning of May.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gamcheon Culture Village

  • Why it’s awesome: Discover the heart of Busan’s cultural identity!
  • Cost: Free to visit!
  • Food recommendation: Make sure that you pop into Gamjatang Restaurant for an assortment of local Korean cuisine.

Gamcheon Culture Village is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Lose all sense of time and direction, and allow yourself to get lost in the beautiful labyrinth of color and culture. Anyone planning a trip to Busan needs to make sure that at their itinerary for Busan includes a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village.

The village is perched on a hill and is made up of weaving maze-like alleys packed full of incredible cultural experiences! The area is decorated with colorful murals and sculptures, brightly painted houses, and little spots of interest scattered throughout, but that’s not all!

Gamcheon Culture Village also boasts one of the most incredible views that Busan has to offer! Whether you are marveling at one of the many art installations or taking in the astounding view of the ocean, you are in for a treat!

Gamcheon Culture Village

There are countless places in the village to pick up a unique, artsy memento from your time in the cultural hub. Make sure that you take your time meandering through the streets, dipping into various spots along the way.

For easier navigation, you can always pick up a map at the information kiosk for a small fee which will help guide your adventure, highlighting some of the village’s secret spots!

Nicknamed the ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’, the spot is a vibrant day out for the whole family. The residential area is a hot tourist attraction and is easily accessible with a subway and bus combination of public transport!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Gwangalli Beach

  • Why it’s awesome: An epic view of the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge!
  • Food recommendation: Treat your tastebuds to a slightly different experience at Bollywood Indian Restaurant and Bar which offers outdoor seating to enjoy the view!

Continue your Busan trip itinerary with a visit to one of Korea’s most beautiful, white-sand beaches, Gwangalli Beach! The area surrounding the beach is filled with tasty restaurants, cafes, and bars to take a breather after a very full day of exploring. Peek your head into your spot of choice and savor the flavors and browse the products on offer!

The beach also offers a wonderful view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge which is an iconic site in Busan. At night, the view becomes even more spectacular as it is lit up! Visiting the beach is just as special during the day.

Gwangalli Beach

Considered one of the best places in Busan to spend the afternoon, the long stretch of sand is a great spot to enjoy a walk along the coast. If you are feeling extra energetic and have a bit of time, you can walk all the way to the Skywalk!

So, grab a bottle of Soju, your fellow travelers, and make your way down to the sandy bay for the ultimate hang out experience. This is a great way to catch up on the highlights of your weekend in Busan while creating more special memories!

Even better than the view of the bridge and soft sand of the beach is the ease of getting there! Simply hop onto the subway and get off at Geumnyeonsan Station (Exit 1 or 3) and make a U-turn before turning on the first street toward the beach – easy as pie! This is a wonderful spot to relax for those backpacking South Korea .

Insider tip: This is a great spot for sundowner drinks! You have a variety of bars to choose from!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Night Tour of Busan

  • Why it’s awesome: Discover Busan by night as many of the main attractions get illuminated and lit up!
  • Cost: Varying prices depending on the provider, approximately USD $26.
  • Food recommendation: HQ Gwangan offers a wonderful view of the sea, accompanied by some of the best cocktails in the city!

You simply can not travel to Busan without taking full advantage of the incredibly beautiful city by night! Many of Busan’s popular attractions are lit up at night, resulting in a dazzling experience. Some of these main attractions include Gwangan Bridge, Haeundae Beach, and a view of the city from Mount Hwangnyeongsan.

It can be quite a challenge to visit all of these spots on your own, and so a night tour of Busan is a great way to tick off the city lights in one, effective sweep. A night tour allows travelers to capture spectacular views, revel in the night time scenery and learn a lot about the history and culture of Busan .

Night Tour of Busan

In only a couple of hours, you will be able to see some of Busan’s top sights with the convenience of a guided tour. You can choose a Busan walking tour or opt for the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. Regardless of your choice, touring Busan at night is significantly easier with a group.

This is a great way to see the city differently by providing an alternative perspective. From the colorful lights of Gwangan Bridge to the twinkling skyline seen from high vantage points, a night tour promises to be a memorable experience for all!

The tour shares glimpses of unforgettable scenery. As a result, this is a great activity to do as a couple. The sparkling lights and magical atmosphere makes for the perfect romantic night out!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – BIFF Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The ultimate Korean space dedicated to Korean film and theatre!
  • Food recommendation: Nampo Samgyetang is a casual, family-friendly restaurant near BIFF Square that is the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat

The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) used to be held every year in BIFF Square. Around this time, new films and first-time directors were given a platform to showcase their skills. While the festival has now been moved to Busan Cinema Center, BIFF Square is still an area dedicated to this annual festival.

A visit to the iconic square will bring you up close to signatures of famous Korean celebrities (similar to the Hollywood Hall of Fame) as well as a variety of movie theatres, shops, and leisure facilities.

The area is constantly buzzing with excitement as it attracts countless visitors on a daily basis. BIFF Square is one of the best free Busan points of interest. It is a great area to indulge in the local and modern culture of Busan. The square is bustling with shopping alleys and tasty food stands.

BIFF Square

Nampodong, the area where BIFF Square can be found, is one of Busan’s busiest downtown areas. The street expands across 428 meters and is filled to the brim with cinemas, theaters, restaurants, and shops!

There are a few must-see spots in BIFF Square namely Star Street and Festival Street where celebs have their handprints on the floor, movie theaters that showcase the best of K-drama, BIFF archway, and tasty street food.

The best time to visit the area is in the evening when the streets are brightly lit up and full of nighttime revelers. The cultural hotspot can easily be reached by subway and promises a great night out for the whole family!

Busan itinerary

Blue Backpackers Hostel

Blue Backpackers Hostel is one of the top places to stay in Busan for travelers looking for budget and comfort. For more awesome hostel options, check out our list of the best hostels in South Korea.

  • Free Breakfast
  • 24 Hour Security

Seomyeon Shopping Street | Seomyeon Food Market | Bujeon Market | Sea Life Busan Aquarium | Hur Shim Chung Spa

Wondering what to do for a three-day itinerary in Busan? Spending three days or even a week in Busa gives you additional time to explore all of the amazing sites that overflow from your two-day itinerary in Busan!

Seomyeon Shopping Street

  • An array of fashion, cosmetics, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
  • The streets are lit up with bright, colorful lights at night, adding festivity to the mood.
  • Centrally located between Busan Station and Haeundae Beach.

If you are looking to shop ‘til you drop, then look no further than Seomyeon Street, Busan’s shopaholic paradise! You can easily spend the whole day exploring the various shops, from trendy fashion boutiques, cosmetic stores, to restaurants with delicious food.

Countless locals and tourists flock to the popular shopping street to enjoy one of the finest shopping experiences available in South Korea. The spot is centrally located between Busan Station and Haeundae Beach, making it an easy spot to stop by and experience for as long or short as you wish.

In addition to countless cafes, bars, food alleys, restaurants, cosmetics, and fashion shops; there are also several underground malls that offer a unique shopping experience.

The lively, bustling area has been closely compared to Seoul’s popular shopping district. The underground malls mean that the experience is also great for a wet day in Busan.

Looking for some extra special stores? Keep an eye out for Korea’s Olive Young that sells cute boxes of tea bags, which make for awesome gifts, and Peri Pera which sells high-class cosmetics!

Seomyeon Food Market

  • Affordable meals served by local hawkers.
  • An opportunity to taste the uniquely traditional Korean dish, Tteokbokkie (rice cakes).
  • Fill your stomach for less than USD $9!

Seomyeon Food Market is an incredible, local spot where you can find a super tasty local dish at an affordable price! While most restaurants sell the traditional Pork Soup, Kalguksu (noodles), dumplings and Pajeon (Korean pancakes) , it is also the spot where you can find the uniquely Korean traditional rice cakes known as Tteokbokkie!

Seomyeon Food Market

The street is constantly bustling with action. Although narrow, the street is easy to maneuver, with various hawkers selling their goods at every step. One of the best parts about the Seomyeon Food Market is the affordable prices of the food! You can easily eat your fill for under USD $9 per person- now that’s a steal!

If you are looking for something extra special, be sure to pop into Dog Guem What Noodle. They are known to sell some of the tastiest cold wheat noodles!

Bujeon Market

  • Discover the goods in Busan’s largest market!
  • Incredibly easy to access from Bujeon Metro Station.
  • Dive deep into an incomparable, local foodie experience.

Bujeon Market is Busan’s largest market and an incredibly popular spot for locals. Located directly opposite from the Bujeon Metro Station, the market is constantly buzzing with locals shopping for food.

The market sells everything that you could possibly imagine! From ginseng, seafood, and vegetables to the more obscure items such as Korean side dishes and even pig’s heads! This is a great stop for backpackers making their way through Asia to stock up on some essentials.

Some of the products that you can expect include both dried and wet food, nuts, seaweed, seafood, and even clothing! The area is divided into sections so that you can easily find what you are looking for. For example, all of the fruit stalls are in one street, and all the seafood in another.

There is no shortage of items to explore, so make sure that you take your time and look at everything before deciding on what to purchase. The Bujeon Market is open daily from 4 am until 7 pm which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a breakfast, lunch, or early dinner!

Insider tip: This market is a great spot to pick up ingredients and test out your Korean culinary skills!

Sea Life Busan Aquarium

  • Discover over 10,000 different species of fish, algae, reptiles, and amphibians.
  • Explore the three different underground levels separated into different themes.
  • Walk through the ocean floor simulator for a truly unique experience.

The Sea Life Busan Aquarium is a hotspot to visit for both tourists and locals alike. Conveniently and aptl, located near the Haeundae Beach, the attraction is open from 10 am until 5 pm from Monday to Thursday, and from 9 am until 9 pm on weekends and national holidays.

The admission fee of USD $25 for adults and USD $20 for children is 100 percent worth it as you get to explore three different underground levels that boast over 250 different species of fish alone. Not to mention the various species of reptiles, amphibians, and algae!

Sea Life Busan Aquarium

Make sure that you walk through the underground tunnel that resembles a walk along the ocean floor. Here, you can marvel at the incredible sea creatures swimming above you and enjoy the unique sensation of being able to breathe underwater!

A visit to Busan’s aquarium is a great outing for the whole family, promising an enriching and memorable experience for all!

Hur Shim Chung Spa

  • Relax at one of South Korea’s oldest spa and beauty treatment facilities.
  • Enjoy a uniquely Korean body scrub for a rejuvenating experience!
  • Soak in the various pools, saunas, and hot springs.

If you are spending two days in Busan (or more) then you will definitely need to unwind and relax. Where better to do this than at one of Busan’s oldest spa facilities?

South Korea has a global reputation for incredible spa and beauty treatment facilities. It would be a sin to not indulge in one of these facilities when drawing up your Busan itinerary.

A visit to a Korean spa, otherwise known as a jimjilbang, should be high up on your list of what to do in Busan, purely for the unique and rejuvenating experience it provides. Hur Shim Chung Spa is one of the oldest in the country and very popular among locals.

A visit to Hur Shim Chung Spa is arguably one of the most authentic experiences that you can enjoy in Busan. You can choose to enjoy a traditional Korean body scrub, soak in various pools, saunas, and hot springs and relax in the herb-infused waters.

This is a great activity to do if wanting to relax while making the most of your three-day itinerary in Busan.

After creating such a wonderful Busan itinerary, you probably still have one very important question at the front of your mind- is South Korea safe ?

Busan is not only a safe city to visit, but it is also a very friendly city to visit! There are very low crime rates and travelers do not need to be fearful when planning a trip to Busan.

One day in Busan will clear away any possible concerns that you may have about safety and the only thing that you will really need to focus on is learning to indulge in a new culture!

With that being said, you may come across some begging around the subway stations, but this is a rare occurrence.

Another precaution to consider is the heightened prices around popular tourist areas. You can quite easily find yourself paying more than what a product is worth!

Lastly, it is important to note that very few people speak English. This can leave you in quite a precarious position if you find yourself lost and alone after dark. Always keep important details, such as your address, written down in case of emergencies.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Busan

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

busan family trip

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Unesco Ancient Capital Gyeongju

Gyeongju is the renowned capital of Shilla dynasty. It is loved as one of the best-preserved and most beautiful UNESCO Heritage Sites in Korea. Visiting this special historic spot makes for one of the most epic day trips from Busan.

Unesco Ancient Capital Gyeongju

With the help of a local guide, this trip will provide interesting details of Korean history and its culture. Prepare to learn about the intricate history of Bulguksa Temple and Anapji pond as you get transported in a comfortable ride from Busan to Gyeongju.

The afternoon will present you with a choice of visiting Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Gyochon Hanok Village.

Oedo Island or Tongyeong

Oedo Island OR Tongyeong

Make the tough choice of choosing to visit either Oedo Island and see the Stairway to Heaven or Tongyeong and enjoy an amazing port view.

A visit to Oedo Island promises to be one of the most beautiful day trips from Busan as you visit the Stairway to Heaven and indulge in the beautiful flowers and exotic plants in the area! Famous for its marine botanical garden and wide array of flowers, Oedo Island can easily be described as Korean paradise!

Prefer a cable car ride and an incredible port view? Then a day trip to Tongyeong is perfect for your Busan itinerary! Discover interesting murals and learn about the history of the area for an unforgettable experience.

Seoul To & From Busan: KTX High-Speed Train

Seoul To and From Busan KTX High Speed Train

If you find yourself in Seoul wanting to visit the wonder of Busan, then Seoul to Busan day trip is perfect for you! The day trip to Busan from Seoul is everything you can dream of and more!

The Koran Train Express (KTX) is South Korea’s high-speed rail system and is a fast and efficient way of traveling throughout the country. Jump on board and dash through the amazing scenery of South Korea as you travel from one magnificent South Korean city to another!

The quick, three-hour trip promises scenic views of the Korean landscape from an incredibly comfortable vantage point. Why visit one Korean city in a day when you can visit two?

Premium Photography Tour

Premium Photography Tour

The premium photography Busan day tour combines the ancient and modern side of Busan to offer an unforgettable photography experience. This day trip includes a traditional lunch and photographer service as you discover various iconic sights of Busan.

From the popular Haeundae Beach to Dongbaek Island (Camellias Island), this tour allows travelers to truly indulge in diverse cultural experiences.

All the while, a professional photographer will be capturing your special moments. At the end of the trip, you will be given amazing enhanced photos to keep as special mementos.

South Korea: Jeonju, Pyeongchang and More

South Korea Jeonju, Pyeongchang and More

Busan is one of the top spots on a multi-city tour from Seoul. Choose from a four-day trip or a seven-day trip that provides a completely authentic cultural experience in cities across South Korea.

Travel to the best cities and historical sites in Korea with the guidance of a professional who is ready and willing to point out some golden nuggets of information. Prepare to witness dreamlike landscapes, indulge in traditional experiences, and discover cultural experiences with this multi-city tour.

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Busan itinerary.

How many days do you need for a full Busan travel itinerary?

Spending 2 full days in Busan will give you enough time to explore different areas.

What should you include on a Busan 3 day itinerary?

There are loads of great things to do in Busan. Highlights include the Jagalchi Fish Market, Taejongdae, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and Gamcheon Culture Village.

Where should you stay for a weekend in Busan?

Haeundae and Gwangan are where to stay if you’re after beaches and bars. Seomyeon is best if you want to be close to everything.

Is Busan worth visiting?

Busan is a must-visit for an authentic Korean experience. From beaches and parks to temples and markets, you won’t be short of things to discover.

The amazing city is bursting at the seams with things to do, and it can be tricky to decide where to start. This comprehensive Busan itinerary should have you fully equipped to make the most of your time in the vibrant and cultural Korean city!

Busan is a city loved for its authentic approach to tourism, offering travelers the ultimate ‘live like a local’ experience. From the bustling markets to the beautiful temples and the serene beaches, Busan offers something for everyone!

So, book your flight, pack your bags and make sure that you pick one of South Korea’s top hostels as your home base. Once settled, open up your Busan itinerary and prepare to have the time of your life!

After you have your accomodation booked, read our packing recommendations to make packing for your trip easier!

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

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

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

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

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

Perfect Busan Itinerary 3 days

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3 Day Busan itinerary

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

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

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

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

3 Days in Busan Summary

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

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

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

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

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

Is Busan Worth It

Busan Itinerary Tips: How To Get Around

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

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

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

Tips for getting around Busan

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

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

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

Busan attractions

Where is the best place to stay in Busan

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

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

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

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

Busan Accommodation

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

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

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

Park Hyatt Busan

Day 1 Busan itinerary: Culture and cuisine

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

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

Visit Gamcheon Cultural Village

  • Time needed: 3 hours
  • Cost: Free entrance

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to spend a 3 day Busan itinerary

How to get to Gamcheon Culture Village

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

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

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

Explore the Nampo District

  • Time needed: 2 hours

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

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

Nampo District Attractions

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

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

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

Biff Square 3 days in Busan

Take in the views from Busan Tower

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Busan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gwangalli Beach in Busan, South Korea

Day 2 Busan itinerary: Pampering and nature

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

  • Cost: 17,000 won ($13)

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

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

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

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

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

Jimjilbangs in Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

  • Time needed: 4 hours (including transport)

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 25 STRANGE THINGS ABOUT LIFE IN KOREA

How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

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

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

Haedong Yonggungsa temple in Busan Korea

End the day at Haeundae Beach

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

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

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

Haeundae Beach Busan itinerary summer

Day 3 Busan Itinerary: A bit of everything

You’ve reached day 3 of your Busan itinerary.

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

Busan Air Cruise (Songdo Cable Car)

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

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

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

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

How to get there

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

Busan at night

Igidae Coastal Walk and Orukdo Skywalk

  • Walk distance: 4.7km

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

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

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

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

Coastal walks in Busan

Taejongdae Resort Park

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Taejongdae Resort Park

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

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

Taejong Resort Park

Enjoy Seomyeon at night

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

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

Things to do in busan at night

When to plan your Busan itinerary

Korea has 4 distinct seasons!

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

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

Summer: Hot and humid

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 17 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT KOREA

Fall: The best time to visit Busan

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

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

Busan in winter: Freezing cold

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

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

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

Busan in winter

Spring: Beautiful time to visit Busan

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

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

READ MORE: THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN KOREA

Where to stay in Busan

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

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is my favorite place to stay in Busan.

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

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

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

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

Streets of Busan

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

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

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

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

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

Lotte Hotel

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

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

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

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

Nampo Hound

Gwangalli Beach

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

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

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

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

H Avenue

How to get to Busan

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

Getting to Busan by bus

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

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

Getting to Busan by Train

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

Getting to Busan by Plane

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

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

Is Busan worth visiting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jagalchi Fish Market In Nampo, Busan

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days in busan.

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

What to do in Busan?

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

Essentials and etiquette for your Busan itinerary

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

Here are a few more tips.

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

READ MORE: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN JEJU ISLAND

Final thoughts on a 3 day Busan itinerary

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

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

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

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

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Perfect itinerary for Busan South Korea travel

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

Backpacking Sri Lanka: 24 Things I Wish I Knew

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Where to stay in Busan for families with kids: 3 Best areas

Where to stay in Busan for families with kids

Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about safe areas in Busan for first-timers (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Busan for families with kids.

I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Busan for families, along with a map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Busan and recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels for various budgets.

Busan is a popular tourist destination on the southeastern coast of South Korea. It’s the country’s second-largest city after Seoul and is known for its stunning sandy beaches, bustling markets, and delicious seafood. It is home to the Jagalchi Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in South Korea.

The city also boasts several landmarks such as the picturesque Haeundae Beach, the peaceful Gwangalli Beach, the historic Beomeosa Temple, the colorful hillside Gamcheon Culture Village, and the bustling Nampodong Street.

Busan is also home to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of the most prestigious film festivals in Asia.

Is Busan a good place to visit with family?

Absolutely! Busan is an excellent destination for a memorable family holiday. Your family can enjoy fantastic beaches like Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach; visit historic temples like Beomeosa Temple and Yonggungsa Temple, or try seafood at the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market.

You can also explore the family-friendly Busan Aquarium, visit Gamcheon Culture Village with many art installations, go shopping at Lotte World, take a leisurely stroll through Yongdusan Park and take in panoramic views of the city from the top of Busan Tower.

Table of Content

Where to stay in Busan for families with kids?

  • Haeundae Beach
  • Nampo-dong/Busan Station

The best areas to stay in Busan for families with kids include Haeundae Beach, Seomyeon, and Nampo-dong/ Busan Station. These neighborhoods provide a range of kid-friendly accommodations for all budgets and preferences.

In general, Haeundae Beach is a popular choice for families who enjoy a vibrant beach holiday. This area is famous for its sandy shores and various family-friendly activities, including water sports and nearby attractions like Dongbaek Island and the Sea Life Busan Aquarium.

Seomyeon is a bustling downtown area known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it convenient for families to find things to do together. It is centrally located and well-connected to public transportation, so your family can easily get around by train.

Nampo-dong and Busan Station area offer a mix of cultural experiences, shopping streets, and easy access to public transportation. This area is home to Jagalchi fish market, Lotte department store, and Busan tower. Great overall base for shopping and for food.

During my trip to Busan, I stayed at the Lotte Hotel Busan in Seomyeon. It was a short walk to the train station, offering easy access to major sights and beaches. My room had a good sized and stunning city view. It was close to everything, including the mall, casino, underground shopping and many eateries.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Busan for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Map of the best areas to stay in Busan for families with kids

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Busan, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Busan have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

3 Best areas to stay in Busan with family:

1. haeundae beach.

Haeundae Beach is a fantastic base in Busan for families with kids due to its vibrant beach atmosphere and numerous family-friendly attractions. It’s renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and clear waters, attracting millions of visitors each year, especially during the summer months.

Haeundae Beach itself offers a wide range of activities suitable for families, including swimming, building sandcastles, beach volleyball, and watersport activities.  

This area is home to the family-friendly Busan Aquarium. It features a diverse range of marine life exhibits, including sharks, penguins, and otters.

Your family can take leisurely strolls through the lush greenery of Dongbaek Island with scenic walking trails and beautiful coastal views. 

You can check out Busan X The Sky Observation deck for stunning views of the ocean and the city. Staying here also offers easy access to Haeundae Blueline Park – Mipo Station for the sky capsule beach train to skywalk at Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory.

Haeundae Beach is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offering a wide variety of cuisine, including Korean seafood dishes, international fare, and kid-friendly options. 

Haeundae Beach also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Haeundae Sand Festival, where your family can admire intricate sand sculptures created by artists from around the world.

Best places to stay in Busan in Haeundae Beach with kids:

Luxury ($$$): Park Hyatt Busan , 5-star family-friendly hotel located in Haeundae-gu, close to Busan Marina and Haeundae Beach. The hotel has comfortable family rooms, an indoor swimming pool, free parking, and shuttle services to the airport and train station. It is only a 10-15 mins drive to the Sea life busan aquarium and Lotte World Busan. It has amazing views of Busan bridge from the room.

Luxury ($$$): Grand Josun Busan , 5-star family-friendly hotel, welcomes children of all ages and Children 13 and above will be charged as adults. It is a short distance from the Sea life Aquarium, Main Street, and Haeundae Beach with plenty of food options nearby. The hotel has lots of kid-friendly facilities including a kids-only floo and a kids program.

Luxury ($$$): Paradise Hotel Busan , 5-star kid-friendly hotel located near the sandy Haeundae Beach, within walking distance to many restaurants, shops, a metro subway, and a local market. The hotel has a kid play area,  BMW car track, a PlayStation room, and children’s coloring room.  

Mid-range ($$): Best Western Haeundae Hotel , 4-star family-friendly hotel located close to the popular Haeundae Beach, featuring a 24-hour front desk, family rooms, and laundry services. There are a lot of restaurants and shops nearby. Within walking distance from the train station and the market. 

Mid-range ($$): Felix by STX Hotel & Suite , 4-star children-friendly hotel located in Haeundae Special Tourist Zone, easy access to the Haeundae Metro Station, amd major attractions like Haeundae Beach, Dongbaek Park, Shinsegae Department Store, and Bexco. It has free parking, good breakfast, and comfortable rooms for families.

Budget ($): MAMA Guesthouse Haeundae , 3-star family-friendly good value for money guest house, close to Haeundae Beach, Haeundae Station, the street food alley, and Dalmaji Hill. Easy access to the bus number 100 to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Luge, and Lotte Mall. Rooms are compact, you can book two rooms for families of 4.

2. Seomyeon

Seomyeon is a convenient area to stay in Busan for families, especially for those who want a vibrant urban experience with convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Seomyeon is known as one of Busan’s main shopping districts, with numerous malls, department stores, and boutiques. Families can enjoy buying clothing, accessories, toys, and souvenirs.

Seomyeon offers a diverse array of dining options, including Korean cuisine, international dishes, and fast food outlets. Families can enjoy sampling various foods and flavors from around the world, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

As a central transportation hub, Seomyeon provides easy access to other parts of Busan via subway, buses, and taxis. This makes it convenient for families to explore the city without having to travel far.

Best places to stay in Busan in Seomyeon with family:

Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel Busan , 5-star family-friendly hotel in downtown Busan, 5 mins walk from Seomyeon Subway Station  Line 1 and 2. Your family can shop at the hotel’s on-site duty-free store, relax at the pools, or exercise at the fitness center. Many restaurants and convenience facilities are nearby. 

Mid-range ($$): Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Busan , 4-star family-friendly hotel, conveniently located on Seomyeon 1st Avenue, where you can find lots of shops, restaurants and bars. 10 mins walk to Seomyeon and Beomnaegol subway stations.

Budget ($):  Lion Hotel , 3-star family-friendly hotel located close to Seomyeon Subway Station. Short distance from Seomyeon Market, Lotte Mall, and Gwangalli Beach. Many eateries options nearby, great for foodies. The laundry is free to use.

Budget ($): Arban Hotel , popular 3-star hotel in central Busan, featuring family rooms, an onsite restaurant/bar, and good breakfast. Easy access to a subway station that can get you everywhere in Busan. Rooms are spacious and comfortable for families of 3.

3. Nampo-dong/Busan Station

Nampo-dong and the area around Busan Station are great locations for easy access to transportation, to enjoy shopping and dining. 

Your family can visit the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, where kids can see a variety of seafood and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Korean market. Nearby, you’ll also find attractions like Gukje Market and Yongdusan Park, home to the iconic Busan Tower.

You can explore the numerous shops selling everything from fashion to souvenirs, as well as enjoy a wide variety of street food and local delicacies. The area is also known for its trendy cafes and restaurants, providing plenty of options for family dining.

Busan Station serves as a major transportation hub, offering connections to various destinations across the country, including Seoul, Daegu, and Gwangju, making it a crucial transportation link in South Korea’s rail network.

Best places to stay in Busan in Nampo-dong with children:

Mid-range ($$): ASTI Hotel Busan Station , popular 4-star hotel conveniently located close to Busan Train Station, a short ride from Gukje Market, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Busan China Town. It has family rooms, a fitness center, and 24-hour front desk.

Budget ($): K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo 1 , 3-star family-friendly accommodation in Nampo-gil,  easy walk to Nampo Subway Station (Busan Line 1) and Jagalchi Market. The hotel has free laundry facilities , a luggage storage, shared kitchen, and excellent breakfast.

Budget ($): Dante House , good value for money family-friendly hotel located near Choryang Ibagu-gil, KTX Busan Train Station, and Busan China Town. Easy access to Busan International Ferry Terminal and Busan Port. It features rooms for families of 4, 5, and 6.

In conclusion, Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Nampo-dong/ Busan Station are the best places to stay in Busan for families with kids . These areas are popular locations for visitors to book their accommodation, offering easy access to tourist amenities and public transportation.

You can continue reading about Busan and other destinations in South Korea in these articles:

  • Best places to stay in Busan first time
  • Best areas to stay in Seoul first time
  • Best areas to stay in Jeju island without a car

There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to Busan. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

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Wapiti Travel

The perfect 2 day Busan itinerary for first-time visitors

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: April 30, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

2 Days in Busan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gamcheon village Busan, South Korea

Where to Go in Busan: Day 1

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

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

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

1. Take the Songdo Cable Car

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

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

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

Info icon

How to Get There

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

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

Gamcheon Cultural Village Colorful alleys Busan South Korea

2. Wander Around Gamcheon Cultural Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

busan family trip

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

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

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

Jagalchi Fish Market Busan South Korea

3. Explore Jagalchi Market

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

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

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

The Jagalchi Market is the perfect place to have lunch.

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

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

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

Jagalchi fish market busan

  How to get from Gamcheon Cultural Village to the Jagalchi Market

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

Busan Tower, South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Busan Museum of Movies

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

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

If you only visit one museum, pick this one.

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get from the Jagalchi Market to BIFF Square

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

Yongdusan Park Busan South Korea

Wander Around Yongdusan Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Korea - Busan - Taejongdae Resort Park

5. Visit Taejongdae Resort Park or Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

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

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

Option 1: Taejongdae Resort Park

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

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

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

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

Taejongdae Resort Park Lighthouse Busan, South Korea

How to Get from Yongdusan Park to Taejongdae Resort Park

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

Option 2: Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

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

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

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

Oryukdo Skywalk Busan, South Korea

How to Get From Yongdusan Park to Oryukdo Skywalk Bridge

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

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

Busan city skyline South Korea

6.Walk Along Seomyeon shopping street

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Seomyeon Shopping Street:

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

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

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan, South_Korea

Busan 2-day itinerary: Day 2

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

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

1. Vist the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

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

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

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

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

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

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

Haedong Yonggungsa Busan, South Korea

How to Get from Haeundae Station to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

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

Haeundae Beach Busan, South Korea

2. Enjoy Haeundae Beach and Sea Life Busan Aquarium

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

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

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

Sea Life Busan Aquarium

More Information and Booking: Sea Life Tickets

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

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

How to Get from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Haeundae Beach

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

3. Busan Museum of Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diamond Bridge Gwangandaegyo Bridge Busan at night

5.Relax in Spa Land or at Gwangalli Beach

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

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

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

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

Shinsegae Centrum City Busan, South Korea

How to Get There:

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

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

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

Check Prices and Availability: Busan Spa Land

How to Get from Busan to Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Korail offers various train passes to foreign visitors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The buses leave from Dong Seoul and Seoul Gyeongbu.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Busan

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

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

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

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

Hotels in Seomyeon

Lotte hotel busan.

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

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

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Busan

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

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

Arban hotel 

busan family trip

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

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

Hotels in Nampo-Dong

Aventree hotel busan.

busan family trip

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

Comfortable stay in a great location

Nampo Hound Hotel Premier

busan family trip

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

Wonderful rooms with comfy beds and a big bathroom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday 26th of April 2024

Hi Sylvia! Thanks for this great great itinerary. Also, it's a great and a helpful idea share how to get from one site to another for foreigners.

Mentioned That, do you know if we can use the T-Money in Busan as normal as it sounds to be in Seoul? I read Busan has a different card and it could be a little difficult to re-charge the T-money.

Also, you know if 2 person can use 1 only T-money card for transportation?

Thanks a lot!

In Busan, you can use the T-Money card for transportation, but it's not as widely accepted as it is in Seoul. Busan has its own transportation card called "Cashbee," which can be used similarly to T-Money. While you can use T-Money in Busan, you may find it slightly less convenient to recharge compared to Cashbee.

As for sharing a T-Money card between two people, it's possible to do so, but you'll need to tap the card twice if you're traveling together. Each tap deducts the fare for one person, so if you're both traveling, you'll need to tap the card twice for each journey. Keep in mind that this may be less convenient than having separate cards, especially during rush hours or when transferring between different modes of transportation.

busan family trip

11 Best Things To Do In Bustling Busan, South Korea

S outh Korea is one of my new favorite travel destinations. After discovering Seoul and delighting in Jeju Island , I flew to Busan. I planned to discover the city and then experience the fast train back to Seoul. When I arrived in Busan, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. But after a week, I discovered many new places I’d return to, and so many others I didn’t have the chance to visit. 

Here are 11 things to do in Busan, South Korea.

1. Spa Land

The skincare and spa experience in South Korea is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I indulged in a lot of fun face masks every week. A spa seemed like a must-do experience. I went to Spa Land , located in Centrum City, with some friends and loved it. It’s a relaxing way to spend at least half a day. 

Once there, I changed into a uniform of shorts and a t-shirt. When I stepped into the main spa area, I noticed most people had a towel wrapped on their head in a way that made them look like a version of Princess Leia. I asked someone for help folding my towel and soon wore one on my head too! 

The spa offers about 20 rooms from salt, to meditation, to sound waves, and more. I loved trying each room. Some were pure bliss, others I didn’t like as much. After trying every room, we enjoyed lunch upstairs. You can also book a massage service if you’d like. We finished our day bathing in different temperature-heating pools.

Pro Tip: The heated pools are single sex and you’re required to be nude. 

2. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

This was my absolute favorite activity in Busan. The temple is stunning and situated right next to the East Sea. The path to the temple contains statues of all the zodiac signs and everyone takes their photo next to the animal of their birth year. Walk down some steps and turn to the left and you’ll find a small temple and a walkway down to a golden buddha. Along that walkway, you’ll see shiny gold and red leaves with handwriting hung everywhere you look. They are wishes! Don’t miss your chance to write a wish and hang it from a tree overlooking the sea.

The main temple is on the other side and offers many meditation areas. I loved all the buddhas, including a rock covered in miniature ones in every post imaginable. It’s one of the happiest places I’ve ever been and I enjoyed a couple of hours exploring here.

Pro Tip: It’s a solid 1-hour bus ride from the center of Busan to get here.

3. Busan Tower

Busan Tower offers a combination of fun activities and 360-degree views of Busan. The main floor offers walkthrough art — the kind you participate in. There are lights, moving patterns on the floor as you walk, mirrored walls, and lots of colors. Take the elevator up to the top and enjoy the stunning view. Don’t miss the padded bench. Though I’m sure it’s not the intended purpose, we all climbed on top of it for another round of photos. Continue onwards and you can get a photo of yourself and see it animated on all the screens around you.

Pro Tip: The walk to the tower is quite steep. There is an escalator, but with Google Maps impossible to use in South Korea, make sure to ask your hotel how to get there.

4. Gyeongsang Province

While technically not in Busan — Gyeongsang is an hour-long bus ride away — this city is a worthwhile day trip from Busan and contains numerous UNESCO heritage sites. Especially if you want a break from the big city, Gyeongsang offers a village feel and lots of greenery. It’s also where you’ll find the royal tombs, which look like giant hills covered in grass. If you spend a day here, you can cover a lot of the UNESCO heritage sites such as Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Hwangryongsa Temple, museums, and more. There’s even a fancy Starbucks!

5. Oryukdo Skywalk

It’s not really daring, unless you’re scared of heights, in which case, you might want to avoid this one. The skywalk itself is on a glass bridge, jutting out over the rocks and sea beneath you. Before being allowed to walk on the bridge, you’re required to don some shoe covers so you don’t slip on the glass platform. The views around you are a treat and watching the waves slap the rocks beneath your feet is something you don’t see every day.

6. Gamcheon Culture Village 

If you walk here, the closest subway station is fairly far, and it’s a somewhat steep uphill walk to get to the village. If you have any leg or knee issues, you’ll be best off in a taxi. Gamcheon Culture Village is a walk through winding streets filled with different art mediums and designs. The buildings are colorful, there’s a whale made from tiles, a wonderful street with huge painted books that will make you feel like you’re walking through an oversized library, and many more artistic creations. The most popular site is the Little Prince statue. There’s a line to get your photo taken next to it. You’ll have to judge for yourself whether it’s too long. 

Pro Tips: Don’t come hungry. There was only one food stall and a few places to get coffee or orange juice. Once done, if you can walk down steep streets, you’ll find more fun art as you go. Not street art, but literally standing art. It’s quite fun to find unexpected treasures just walking through this neighborhood.

7. Texas Street

This is a very funny themed street in Busan. If you’re American, you’ll find it quite amusing to photograph all the Texan-inspired decorations, including a long-horned bull head on the side of a restaurant. It’s right across from the main train station.

8. Busan Museum

History was never a strong subject for me in school. While I was in Korea, I loved learning more about how the country came to be split into North and South. It literally made the history come alive for me. It also gave me a real perspective on today’s politics and crises. You can travel through much more of Korea’s history at the museum and end your visit with two fabulous activities. 

There’s a tea ceremony where you’ll learn the proper way to brew, and serve, tea to your guests. (Green tea, of course.) Then, put on a hanbok and take a photo! This was my first hanbok and I loved it so much that I dressed up again in Seoul a week later.

9. UN Memorial Cemetery And Peace Park

A short walk from the museum, you’ll find the United Nations Memorial Cemetery and Peace Garden. While the cemetery is somewhat sobering, it’s also beautifully designed. It commemorates the United Nations Command casualties from the Korean War.

A short distance away, you’ll find the more uplifting statue commemorating world peace. It’s also devoted to the soldiers that lost their lives in the Korean War.

10. Biff Square

This is another area of Busan that feels happy. You’ll walk by many restaurants on a narrow street, spilling into a cinema walk where you can see the handprints of many famous actors. It’s reminiscent of the Hollywood walk in Los Angeles.

Busan is much bigger than I realized. Travel distances to certain places can be an hour or more by bus or subway. It’s so big that a week wasn’t enough to get to all the places I wanted. On the top of my list for my next visit are the Songdo Bay Station Cable Car, Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, and Amnam Park. There’s so much to see, and with fierce preparations to become the 2030 World Expo host (they haven’t won yet, but if you go to Busan, you’d think they have), get there before it becomes an overly popular destination!

Related Reading:

  • My 7 Favorite Foods From South Korea And Where You Can Try Them
  • How To Visit South Korea’s Stunning Jeju Island
  • Almost Everything On This Island Is Painted Purple

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Heather Markel / HeatherBegins.com

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Day Trips From Busan

The 9 Best Day Trips From Busan

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While the city of Busan offers plenty of attractions, restaurants, and pristine beaches, there are also a variety of destinations close by that are great for day trips. Experience South Korea’s unique history with cultural museums, sunbathe at one of the island destinations nearby, or visit historic temples. You’ll find plenty of exciting adventures surround the city of Busan.

Oedo Island: A Botanical Garden Wonderland

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Oedo is an island off the coast of Geoje city in the Gyeongsangnam-do province of South Korea. It is situated in Hallyeohaesang National Park and is a massive marine botanical garden that locals and tourists travel from far and wide to visit. Oedo is well-known as the first island to be privately owned and developed by a local family in the 1970s and is coined as “the paradise of Korea” due to its immaculate beauty. The entire island is made up of colorful manicured gardens, flowers, beautiful sculptures, and small water features.

Getting There: The island is accessible from Geoje island, which sits off the coast of Busan. The best way to travel there is booking a tour which travels by a 30-minute ferry ride to the island.  

Travel Tip: Make sure you to catch a glimpse of Windy Hill in route to Oedo island. It’s famed for being where popular K-dramas, such as Eve’s Garden, are filmed.

Gyeongju: Home to Temples and Palace Ruins

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Gyeongju is situated just 50 miles north of Busan. The city is known as “the museum without walls” due to being home to loads of historic relics. These include ancient temples, tombs, pagodas, and Buddhist artifacts. In addition to amazing architecture and temples, the city also features the Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park (aka Daereungwon Tomb Complex) where many retreat to for relaxation near the large grassy tombs.

Getting There: Gyeongju can be reached via the train at KTX Busan Station to Singyeongju Station, with a short bus transfer to Cheonmachong. Total travel time is about an hour.

Travel Tip: If you can, check out Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond located near Banwolseong palace site in the center of the city.

Daegu: Night and Medicine Markets

Akanit Laveewan / EyeEm / Getty Images

Daegu is South Korea’s fourth largest city and an incredible option for a day trip from Busan. It is home to the Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Market which is chock full of quirky cures to common ailments. Tourists can taste delicious street food and stroll through bustling flea markets selling handicrafts and clothing. Seomun Night Market is home to Daegu’s regional food specialties as well. 

Getting There: Take the train via Dongdaegu Station to arrive at Daegu from Busan, which takes just under an hour.

Travel Tip: Make sure you try Daegu’s famed spicy dukbokki, a spicy rice cake.  

Yeosu: Host of the 2012 World Expo

Panwasin Seemala / EyeEm / Getty Images

Yeosu is a maritime city famous for hosting the 2012 World Expo in South Korea. It also features spectacular landscape views and a striking coastline that extends far and wide. Many are fascinated by not only the sea views but also the archipelago of the more than 300 islands in the area. Hyangiram Hermitage , known as the “small temple facing the sun,” is a standout attraction for tourists visiting Yeosu. It is a quaint Buddhist temple that sits atop a forested coastal cliff and offers miraculous ocean views.

Getting There: Travel to Yeosu via the Busan Sasang Bus Terminal to Yeosu Bus Terminal.

Travel Tip: Cross the bridge at Yeosu Port to visit the tiny put compelling Odongdo island famous for camellia blooms & bamboo trees.

Suncheon: Joseon Dynasty Houses and Wetlands

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Suncheon is a city known as the ecological capital of South Korea due to its untouched lands and ecosystem. Tourists can enjoy hiking between Buddhist mountain temples Seonamsa and Songgwangsa. Then, stop at Suncheon Bay’s Reed Field, an ecological park encompassing one of the world’s largest wetlands. The bay area is also home to Suncheon Bay National Garden , which is home to about 860,000 trees and flowers.

Getting There: Take the train from Sasang Station in Busan for two and a half hours to Suncheon Station.

Travel Tip: Stop at Naganeupseong in order to view the small village of thatched-roof houses that date back to the Joseon Dynasty.

Boseong: Green Tea Plantations

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Boseong is made up of lush green hilly terrain that is famed for its green tea plantations. Visitors can enjoy the most famous of these with a trip to Daehan Dawon Plantation. Additionally, you can learn about how to make green tea and sample an array of teas at the Tea Museum of Korea. End your visit with a scoop of the green ice cream served at the restaurants onsite at the museum.

Getting There: Take the bus from Busan Central bus terminal to Boseong via Suncheon.

Travel Tip: Parts of the Korean drama "The Legend of the Blue Sea" were filmed here; if you're a fan, take time to seek out the recognizable backgrounds.

Tongyeong: Spectacular Hiking Trails

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For anyone seeking either a chill seaside getaway or a more adventurous escape, a day trip to Tongyeong is the perfect choice. It is located two hours from Busan and features sparkling green seas and evergreen trees. Islands surround the town and can be accessed via short ferry rides from the central terminal. The island has a variety of levels of hiking trails with spectacular views.

Getting There: Travel by bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal for 1.5 hours to Tongyeong Station.  

Travel Tip: Take a short ferry ride from the central terminal to Somaemuldo Island, known for its famous lighthouse.

Ulsan: Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

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Better known as the industrial capital of Korea, Ulsan offers some hidden treasures for tourists who are interested in going off the beaten bath. It is home to a 15 meters high Pareso waterfall and the black pebble beach Jujeon Mongdol Beach. Bangudae Petroglyphs, which are ancient etchings engraved on rocks on the Taehwa River is another must see in Ulsan. There are over 200 carvings of animals, hunting passages, vessels and fishermen, and other prehistoric Korean ceremonies imprinted into the structure.

Getting There: Take the Busan for 1.5 hour from Busan Station to Ulsan Station.  

Travel Tip: Enjoy the catch of the day at Jujeon Mongdol Beach which serves some of the freshest fish in town.

Hadong: Agyang Village

Jong-Won Heo / Getty Images

The Hadong region is famous for its delicious organic teas which date back to over 1300 years ago. For tourists interested in the natural benefits of organic tea and how it is made, Agyang Village is the place for you. The stunning rolling green tea fields are a sight to behold, making it a fantastic Instagram worthy location.

Getting There: Take the S-Train from Busan Station to Agyang-myeon via Hadong Station.

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in the fall, make sure to check out the Toji Literature Festival which takes place there.

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The members of Goths on the Beach hang out at Wahyeon Beach on Geoje Island in South Gyeongsang Province. Courtesy of Nyree Scales

If you're a goth and like feeling depressed, have I got good news for you: The Busan band Goths on the Beach (GOTB) is coming to an end, as the two lead figures of the band are moving away.

Once you've finished wiping the black eyeliner out of your eyes, here's some actual good news: before they go, they have a lot more in store for you. This includes the release of a double album, the first half of which drops Tuesday this week, plus a final show in Seoul this weekend and more shows down in Busan before the inevitable bitter end.

Goths are often the butt of subcultural jokes, and GOTB's band name certainly seems like a punchline, juxtaposing the scene known for its depressing attitude and pale skin with all the warmth and fun of the beach. But GOTB is certainly in on the joke, as its main front members Isaac and Kim always lead energetic performances filled with quirky humor and hilarious references to the culture.

"People always seem to reckon being a goth is all about being miserable and depressed but in my experience with the scene no one takes themselves that seriously," Kim told The Korea Times. "Most everyone I know on the scene — myself included — is just a big geek who likes wearing black. When we aren't at the club we're at anime conventions, playing D&D or watching 'Lord of the Rings' on repeat."

This take is on full display in GOTB's new song, "Hot Goth GF," full of industrial beats and echoing vocals, with the chorus "Everybody wants a hot goth girlfriend."

"Goths are just nerds but a little more spooky," Kim explained.

The new song is one of many on the double album, which breaks down into " 2 Goth 2 Surfious ," an electro dance album which is freshly out right now, and "Surfin' ROK," which presents a rockier side of the band, coming out in June.

Both albums have their share of amusing novelty songs as well as more straight-up tracks. All are worth repeated listens, whether you're seeing them live or listening online. It should come as no surprise that Isaac comes from a comedy background, having hosted The Ha-Ha Hole, a monthly open mic comedy event in Busan.

In "The Duck Boat Party," Kim and Isaac address each other in character as Barbie and Ken and discuss going on a duck boat ride.

In "Deep Sinker — I Hardly Knew Her," Isaac explains the Caesar, a classic Canadian cocktail that includes clam juice, which Kim says "Sounds fucking disgusting."

"Extremely underrated drink," Isaac told The Korea Times. "I once ordered a Caesar at HQ Gwangan and their bartender handed me a pair of scissors, which was hilarious but understandable."

Goths on the Beach perform at Club UND on Geoje Island in South Gyeongsang Province. Courtesy of Nikki Bell

Goths on the Beach perform at Club UND on Geoje Island in South Gyeongsang Province. Courtesy of Nikki Bell

Many of GOTB's songs may be firmly planted in the novelty genre, but they still stand on their own as legitimately good music.

They've already released a full 11-song debut album, ambitiously titled " Greatest Hits Vol. 1 ," which came out early last year, as well as two digital singles this year, titled " Clean up the Beach " and " Sharks in the Water ." They even released a Christmas song last December.

GOTB has been exciting underground music lovers across the country since last year , which certainly isn't something they could do if they were a one-joke act.

"People want something spooky and everyone loves the beach," Isaac responded when asked about the band's strong appeal.

Kim, who has been in the goth subculture for the last 20 years, provided more background about why the goth subculture seems to be hitting so big these days.

"I think people on the scene are drawn together by a shared love of the music, alt fashion and an interest in the darker side of life," she said. "Even in the goth scene there's multiple subcultures — cybergoth, pastel goth, trad goth, mall goth, Gothic Lolita ... the list goes on."

The members of Goths on the Beach pose in an unmanned photo studio in Busan. Courtesy of Goths on the Beach

The members of Goths on the Beach pose in an unmanned photo studio in Busan. Courtesy of Goths on the Beach

Unfortunately, as life goes on, it's time for Isaac and Kim to leave.

"Korea has been a blast," Isaac said. "Music scene is A+. It’s the reason (I have) stayed here for so long."

He thanked all the Busan venues that have welcomed GOTB, as well as Communes in Daegu and UND on Geoje Island in South Gyeongsang Province. He also shouted out to the bands GOTB has encountered, including Fat Hamster and Kang New, Sindosi, Daisy Gun, OhChill and Drinking Boys and Girls Choir.

Now that the end is nigh for GOTB, Isaac and Kim are planning for the next chapter in their lives. They're getting married and then moving to Spain, where they said they plan to live close to the water. They also hope to keep the band going, albeit probably with a different local lineup there.

"Leaving is a split between being closer to family and entering Eurovision — maybe a 30/70 split," Isaac said.

GOTB will play their final Seoul show this Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the opening bands include Cloud Underground, Gorymurgy, Biuret and Holocity. They'll be at Busan's HQ Gwangan on June 14, playing with Fat Hamster and Kang New. A final show is planned for July 13. More details are likely to be announced in the weeks to come, and possibly a few additional shows.

Visit gothsonthebeach.bandcamp.com to listen or linktr.ee/gothsonthebeach for more information.

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  3. Ultimate BUSAN Day Trip Travel Guide

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  4. 11 Best Things to Do in Busan

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  5. 9 Best Things to Do with Kids in Busan

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COMMENTS

  1. Busan With Kids

    Busan is a coastal and family friendly city with fun things to do for all ages, from tots to teens. Blessed with beautiful beaches, Busan has lots of children's activities, colourful attractions, ... We did the Haeundae sailing trip one weekday at 6:30pm just after the sun had set. We had incredible views of Gwangandaegyo Bridge / Diamond ...

  2. Busan with Kids

    10. Haeundae Beach. Busan, South Korea is renowned for the beauty of its beaches, and Haeundae Beach is often regarded as the best beach in the city. Haeundae Beach is an iconic beach with soft, clean sand, family-friendly facilities (such as toilets and playgrounds), and many nearby kid friendly attractions. 11.

  3. 10+ Fun Things To Do In Busan With Kids

    5. Dongbaek Park. Nestled along the East Sea in Busan, Dongbaek Park offers respite from the city and is an ideal place to run around in Busan with kids. It's just a short stroll from Haeundae Beach. The park has stunning views of the ocean, with the Haeundae city skyline in the distance.

  4. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Busan with Kids (Updated 2024)

    Fun Things to Do in Busan with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. See Tripadvisor's 91,506 traveler reviews and photos of kid friendly Busan attractions. ... 2 Days/1 Night or 3 Days/2 Night included Pick up Day trip from Baden-Baden to Strasbourg Nassau City Tour that Visits 7 attractions in Nassau and Atlantis ...

  5. Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids

    The Family Travel Guide To Seminyak Bali *NEW 2024 10 Best Waterparks & Theme Parks In Bali 50 Things To Do In Bali With Kids, Babies, Toddlers, And Teens *UPDATED Dine. All DINE Articles ... FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAFES IN BUSAN *Family-Friendly Guide To Visiting Busan With Kids.

  6. The 42 best things to do with kids in Busan

    Songdo Beach, a manmade beach established in 1913, is a top attraction in Busan. It offers clear waters for swimming and various water sports and games. The 365-meter long skywalk with a glass bottom provides stunning views of the crashing waves below and is open until 11pm for visitors to enjoy the night scenery.

  7. 7 Top Things To Do in Busan With Your Family

    3- Beomeosa Temple. Busan is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with traditions, and nowhere is this more evident than at Beomeosa Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple offers you and your family a chance to step back in time and experience Korean culture and spirituality firsthand. As you explore the temple's intricate architecture and ...

  8. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Busan with Kids (Updated 2024)

    Fun Things to Do in Busan with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. See Tripadvisor's 91,368 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Busan attractions ... Tourism Busan Hotels Busan Bed and Breakfast Busan Holiday Rentals Flights to Busan Busan Restaurants Busan Attractions Busan Travel Forum Busan Pictures Busan Map.

  9. Things to do with Family & kids in Busan

    6. Beomeosa Temple. Perfect for kids day out in Busan. Family and Kids. Beomeosa temple (Fish Sutra temple) is one of the greatest and worshipped Buddhist temples of Korea. Located on the top of Mt. Geumjeongsan, this temple is a worth place to pay visit. This temple has been destroyed and reconstructed many times.

  10. 9 Best Things to Do with Kids in Busan

    There are plenty of things to with kids in Busan, thanks to the city's many family-friendly parks and museums. Busan Citizens Park is a space where Busan locals frequent for picnics, sports and leisure activities. Horseback riding is available at LetsRun Park Busan-Gyeongnam, and if your kids are on a break from school, check out some of the science-oriented facilities...

  11. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Busan

    Things to Do in Busan, South Korea: See Tripadvisor's 91,530 traveler reviews and photos of Busan tourist attractions. ... Family Friendly (1) Surfing Lessons (1) Ways to tour Busan. ... Day trip to beautiful Korean marine national park, Hallyeohaesang. 1. Full-day Tours. from . $459. per group (up to 8) Busan Full-Day Private Tour in English ...

  12. Your Trip to Busan: The Complete Guide

    Planning Your Trip. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Busan is from May through September. The summer months are peak travel time to the city, due to warm and sunny weather. Tourists can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and festivals during this time. Language: Korean is the official language; however, English is widely spoken ...

  13. Busan with a baby and a Toddler: A Guide to South Korea's Beautiful

    Tagged asia, beach, beach trip, busan, expat, family travel, korea, South Korea, travel, travel asia. Related Posts. How to Navigate Poor Air Quality in Seoul, South Korea January 4, 2024. ... This is a space I've created to share my experiences with expat life, family travel, motherhood, family meals, and everything in between.

  14. 3 Day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)

    One of the best things to do on your Busan 3 day itinerary is to visit Haedong Yonggung Temple! It's a beautiful temple located right on the rocks by the water. It's said to be one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea. Haedong Yonggung Temple was originally known as Bomun Temple and was built in 1376 by Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty.

  15. One Day in Busan, South Korea: Itinerary & Where to Go in 24 Hours

    Metro rides normally cost ₩1,500 each. If you're planning on taking four or more subways—which is likely with this itinerary—I'd recommend getting a 1-day Busan metro pass. The pass costs ₩5,000. You can purchase one at any of the ticket vending machines in the subway stations.

  16. Visit Busan : The Official Travel Guide to Busan Metropolitan City

    Top 8 Must-Visit Places in Busan. Gamcheon Culture Village. The gift of brilliant Busan at Hwangnyeongsan Viewing Lounge. Taejongdae Park's 100 years of history with Yeongdo Lighthouse. Walk around Hoedong Reservoir, a place that embraces eternal nature.

  17. Busan Family Trip Guide

    4 hours. USD 300.00. Book Now. Busan Guided Small Group Tour for Up to 6 Cruise Guests. Experience Busan's essence through iconic sights and culinary delights. This exclusive tour merges historical landmarks with authentic tastes, offering an intimate journey where tradition meets modern, both in scenery and flavor. Savor Busan, bite by bite.

  18. BUSAN Itinerary (How to Spend 3 Days in 2024)

    First, you take the Jagalchi Station stop which lies on Busan subway line 1 (the same as the fish market) and then head over to Chungmu Dong Gyocharo bus stop to take bus 7, 26. 71, or 96. The trip ends at Songdo Beach bus stop. The Songdo cable car is definitely one of the top places to visit in Busan in three days.

  19. 9 Best Things to Do with Kids in Busan

    There are plenty of things to with kids in Busan, thanks to the city's many family-friendly parks and museums. Busan Citizens Park is a space where Busan locals frequent for picnics, sports and leisure activities. Horseback riding is available at LetsRun Park Busan-Gyeongnam, and if your kids are on a break from school, check out some of the science-oriented facilities that are geared toward ...

  20. PERFECT Busan Itinerary: What to do for 3 days in Busan (2024)

    The trip from Seoul to Busan by bus takes just over 4 hours (depending on traffic in Seoul) and costs $20. Getting to Busan by Train. For a quicker trip, hop on the lightning-fast KTX fast train which takes under 3 hours and costs around $50. Getting to Busan by Plane. You can also fly to Busan but this is the most expensive option.

  21. Where to stay in Busan for families with kids: 3 Best areas

    This makes it convenient for families to explore the city without having to travel far. Best places to stay in Busan in Seomyeon with family: Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel Busan, 5-star family-friendly hotel in downtown Busan, 5 mins walk from Seomyeon Subway Station Line 1 and 2. Your family can shop at the hotel's on-site duty-free store, relax ...

  22. The perfect 2 day Busan itinerary for first-time visitors

    Location : Gamcheon Cultural Village Visitor Center 203, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan. Opening hours visitor center : March-November 09 am -6 pm December-February 9 am - 5 pm. Entrance is free. How to Get From the Songdo Cable Car to Gamcheon Cultural Village. Take subway line 1 (the orange line) to Toseong station.

  23. 11 Best Things To Do In Bustling Busan, South Korea

    Here are 11 things to do in Busan, South Korea. 1. Spa Land. The skincare and spa experience in South Korea is unlike anything I've ever experienced. I indulged in a lot of fun face masks every ...

  24. The 9 Best Day Trips From Busan

    Seomun Night Market is home to Daegu's regional food specialties as well. Getting There: Take the train via Dongdaegu Station to arrive at Daegu from Busan, which takes just under an hour. Travel Tip: Make sure you try Daegu's famed spicy dukbokki, a spicy rice cake. Continue to 4 of 9 below. 04 of 09.

  25. End is nigh for Busan's Goths on the Beach

    If you're a goth and like feeling depressed, have I got good news for you: The Busan band Goths on the Beach (GOTB) is coming to an end, as the two lead figures of the band are moving away.