busan

BUSAN ITINERARY FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

WHERE TO STAY IN BUSAN

  1. Haeundae:
    • This area is famous for its beautiful beach and lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for relaxing by the sea, trying out water sports, and enjoying beachside cafes and bars. The hotels below are all from Haeundae Beach where we stayed and enjoyed thoroughly.
    • Highlights: Haeundae Beach, Dongbaek Island, and the Busan Aquarium.
    • Convenience: There are plenty of hotels and restaurants, and it’s well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
  2. Seomyeon:
    • If you want to be in the heart of the action, Seomyeon is the place to be. It’s a bustling area with great shopping, dining, and nightlife options.
    • Highlights: Seomyeon Underground Shopping Center, Jeonpo Café Street, and the many bars and clubs.
    • Convenience: Central location with excellent public transport links, so you can easily get to other parts of Busan.
  3. Nampo-dong:
    • This area is perfect for those who love markets and street food. It’s close to major attractions like Jagalchi Fish Market and offers a real taste of local life.
    • Highlights: Gukje Market, Jagalchi Fish Market, and BIFF Square.
    • Convenience: Plenty of shopping and dining options, with good public transport connections to explore further.

BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS TO STAY IN BUSAN

Hotels

MS HOTEL HAEUNDAE

MS HOTEL Haeundae in Busan offers modern comfort with stunning ocean views, making it the perfect base for your seaside adventures.

KENT HOTEL GWANGALLI

Perfect blend of comfort and stunning ocean views at KENT HOTEL GWANGALLI in Busan, ideally situated for easy access to Gwangalli Beach and vibrant local attractions.

NAMPO HOUND HOTEL

Cozy retreat in the heart of the vibrant Nampo-dong district, perfect for exploring the city’s bustling markets and cultural landmarks.

PERFECT 3 DAY ITINERARY FOR BUSAN

jagalzchi fish market
haeundae beach

Day 1: Discovering Downtown and Beach Fun

Morning:

  • Start your day at Jagalchi Fish Market: Dive into the local culture with fresh seafood and lively vendors. Don’t forget to try some sashimi for breakfast! If you can, it is great to have an experienced guide to take you around with this tour here.
  • Explore BIFF Square: Just a short walk away, this bustling area is full of street food, quirky shops, and cool movie-themed sculptures. Be sure to grab a Ssiat Hotteok when you are here.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Gwangbokdong Fashion Street: Perfect for a bit of shopping and people-watching. You’ll find everything from trendy boutiques to unique souvenirs.
  • Lunch at a local Korean BBQ joint: There are plenty around; just follow the delicious smoky scent.

Evening:

  • Relax at Haeundae Beach: Chill on the sand, take a dip, or join in some beach volleyball. If you have some energy, do walk along Dalmaji-gil for stunning views of the coastline and check out the beach train and sky capsule trains that run along the walkway. Tickets run out fast so be sure to book them here for attractive bundled price for top attractions!
  • Dinner with a view: Head to the traditional Haeundae market street with conveniently located street food stalls and restaurants to people watch and enjoy fresh seafood.

Day 2: Culture and Scenic Views

Morning:

  • Visit Gamcheon Culture Village: Wander through this colorful, artsy neighborhood. Snap lots of photos, and check out the art installations and cute cafes.
  • Brunch at a local cafe: The village has plenty of charming spots to grab a coffee and pastry.

Afternoon:

  • Explore Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower: Take a leisurely stroll through the park, then head up Busan Tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor.
  • Lunch at Gukje Market: Indulge in some street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Evening:

  • Take a boat cruise: See Busan’s stunning coastline from the water. There are various options, including dinner cruises.
  • Night out at Seomyeon District: This is the heart of Busan’s nightlife, with countless bars, clubs, and late-night eateries to explore.
Gamcheon Culture Village
gukje market
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Taejongdae

Day 3: Temples and Nature

Morning:

  • Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: This beautiful seaside temple offers a serene start to your day. The ocean views are simply breathtaking and one of the best locations for sunrise in Busan.
  • Late breakfast nearby: Look for a cozy cafe along the coast.

Afternoon:

  • Hike at Taejongdae: A nature park with rugged cliffs and stunning ocean views. The hike is rewarding, but there’s also a train for a more relaxed visit.
  • Lunch with a view: Enjoy a picnic or find a local restaurant in the park area.

Evening:

  • Stroll through Centum City: Check out the world’s largest department store, Shinsegae Centum City, for some last-minute shopping or a relaxing visit to their spa.
  • Dinner in Centum City: End your trip with a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area, offering everything from Korean to international cuisine.

Enjoy your trip to Busan! This vibrant city has so much to offer, and you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring all its nooks and crannies.