whatdo

Busan

Busan, Korea, South is a vibrant port city known for its stunning beaches and bustling markets. It is also famous for its delicious seafood and scenic mountain landscapes. Busan is home to cultural landmarks such as the Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village.

With its blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, Busan offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors.

See More
  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices in Busan

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Highlights

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery, especially Haeundae Beach.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites like Beomeosa Temple.
  • Delicious seafood and local culinary specialties such as Busan's famous sashimi.
  • Vibrant festivals, such as the Busan International Film Festival.
  • Good transportation infrastructure, including the KTX high-speed train.
  • Mild climate, making it a comfortable destination year-round.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Cost of living might be high in popular areas.
  • Limited English signage compared to Seoul, which can make navigation challenging.
  • Public transportation may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
  • Air pollution can be an issue, especially during certain seasons.
  • Occasional heavy rainfall and typhoons in summer months.

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Beach Bliss

morning

:

Start your day at Haeundae Beach, enjoying the early morning tranquility. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and soak in the sunrise.

afternoon

:

Head to Dongbaek Island for a scenic walk along the coast and visit the Nurimaru APEC House. Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.

evening

:

Wrap up at Gwangalli Beach, watching the sunset against the backdrop of the Gwangan Bridge. Relish some local street food while enjoying the evening breezes.

day 2

Nature and Culture

morning

:

Visit Yongdusan Park and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. Don't forget to take a lift to the Busan Tower for panoramic views.

afternoon

:

Explore the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, sampling fresh catches and local delicacies. Then, visit the nearby BIFF Square for a taste of Busan's film culture.

evening

:

Take a leisurely walk along the Songdo Cable Car at sunset. Finish with dinner at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant.

Explore Day Plans

Attractions in Busan

Visit one of these nice places.

Haeundae Beach

One of the most famous beaches in South Korea, offering stunning views of the ocean and city skyline.

View

Taejongdae Park

A scenic park with breathtaking coastal views and cliffs that provide fantastic photo opportunities.

View

Gwangandaegyo Bridge

A beautiful bridge that offers captivating views of the coastline and the city, especially at night when it's illuminated.

View

Gamcheon Culture Village

An artistic village with colorful houses built on a hillside, providing unique and picturesque photo spots.

View

Is it safe in Busan

Located on the southeastern coast of the Korean Peninsula, this city is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. Safety in this area is generally considered to be high, with low crime rates compared to many other urban centers globally. Violent crime is particularly rare, and petty crimes such as pickpocketing are infrequent, though still possible in crowded tourist areas. The local authorities maintain a visible police presence, and emergency services are responsive and effective. Public transportation, which includes buses and subways, is reliable and safe for travelers. Many locals and visitors report feeling secure when exploring different neighborhoods, even at night. As with any urban location, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in less populated areas. Traffic can be heavy, and road safety should be a consideration for pedestrians, especially in busy districts. Overall, this city is a welcoming and safe destination for both residents and visitors, making it a popular spot for tourists seeking cultural experiences and scenic views.

Best Activities in Busan

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Busan.

See More

Busan's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Milmyeon

A popular noodle dish in Busan, featuring chewy wheat noodles in a tangy, cold broth with vinegar and spicy sauce. Try it at stalls in the lively Kkangtong Market.

Must-Try!

Dongnae pajeon

A savory pancake made with green onions and other fresh ingredients, best enjoyed at the Dongnae Pajeon Street where numerous restaurants serve this local specialty.

Ssiat Hotteok

A sweet Korean pancake filled with a mixture of seeds and nuts, often found at street food vendors around Haeundae Beach.

Unique Experiences in Busan

Get to know Busan better with these unique experiences.

See More

Things To Do in Busan

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Geumjeongsan Mountain

Enjoy a challenging hike with scenic views of Busan from the top of Geumjeongsan Mountain.

Beach Day at Haeundae Beach

Relax on the sandy shores of one of Busan's most popular beaches, offering water sports and stunning sunsets.

Visit Taejongdae Park

Explore the rugged coastline and cliffside paths of Taejongdae Park while taking in the panoramic ocean views.

Weather in Busan

The climate in this coastal city is classified as humid subtropical, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are relatively mild and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), while summers are hot and humid, often reaching temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Precipitation is heaviest during the summer months, particularly in July and August, due to the monsoon season, which can lead to heavy rainfall. Spring and autumn are usually pleasant, featuring moderate temperatures and lower humidity, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. The proximity to the sea helps moderate temperatures, preventing extreme conditions. Overall, the climate encourages a diverse range of flora and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Adventures in Busan

Uncover the best of Busan with these unforgettable adventures.

See More

How To Behave in Busan

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

In Busan, it is important to show respect to elders by using formal language and gestures, such as bowing.

Removing shoes indoors

It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain places such as temples and traditional Korean restaurants.

Dining etiquette

When dining in Busan, it is considered polite to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before beginning your meal.

Hidden Gems of Busan

Discover the hidden gems of Busan with these exclusive activities.

See More

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Busan, Korea, South. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or for services.

Payment

In Busan, Korea, South, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments and businesses. Mobile payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.

Nightlife in Busan

As dusk falls over the coastal city, vibrant lights transform the skyline, indicating the start of a bustling nightlife. The Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach areas become lively hubs where locals and tourists alike gather in beachfront bars and clubs. The lively alleys of the Seomyeon district, often referred to as the center of Busan, are filled with an array of pubs, karaoke bars (noraebang), and nightclubs catering to diverse tastes. For those who enjoy a more sophisticated evening, the Marine City area offers upscale lounges and rooftop bars with stunning views of the city and ocean. Traditional markets like Jagalchi Fish Market remain open late, providing unique night-time culinary experiences with the freshest seafood. Additionally, cultural enthusiasts can enjoy night tours to landmarks like the Yongdusan Park and the Busan Tower, which are beautifully illuminated at night. Live music venues, theaters, and street performances also add to the vibrant nightlife in this diverse and dynamic city.

Best Time to Visit Busan

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (April - June)

Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms, and numerous festivals make spring a popular time to visit Busan. It's also a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's natural beauty.

Summer (July - August)

Hot and humid weather with plenty of rain. Summer is beach season in Busan, with many visitors coming to enjoy the city's beautiful beaches and various water sports.

Autumn (September - November)

Cool and comfortable weather, beautiful autumn foliage, and harvest festivals make autumn a picturesque time to visit Busan. It's also a good time for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Winter (December - February)

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, but also a chance to experience Busan's winter illuminations, hot spring spas, and various indoor cultural activities.

More Adventures in Busan

Experience Busan up close with these must-do activities

See More

Accomodations in Busan

Find the best place to stay when visiting Busan.

Hotels Apartments