Explore Busan

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (April - June): Spring is one of the best times to visit Busan, with mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom, especially around Dalmaji Hill and Beomeosa Temple.

• Summer (July - August): Summer in Busan is warm, and it’s peak season for beachgoers, as the city boasts several stunning beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli. However, it can get crowded, especially during the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).

• Autumn (September - November): Autumn is another fantastic time to visit, with cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, particularly in areas like Taejongdae and Baekyangsa Temple.

• Winter (December - February): Winters are cold but relatively mild compared to the rest of Korea. It’s an off-peak season, so you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.

How to Get There:

• By Air:

  • Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is the main airport serving Busan, with direct flights from domestic and international destinations. From the airport, you can take a subway, taxi, or limousine bus to get to the city center.

• By Train:

  • You can take the KTX (Korea Train Express), the high-speed train that connects Seoul to Busan in about 2.5 to 3 hours. It's a comfortable and quick way to travel between the two cities.

• By Bus:

  • Several bus companies provide service from Seoul and other cities to Busan. The trip can take around 4-5 hours depending on traffic.

• By Car:

  • If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and travel along the Gyeongbu Expressway, which takes about 4 hours from Seoul to Busan.

Top Attractions:

1. Haeundae Beach:

   • This is Busan's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. In addition to lounging and swimming, you can enjoy water sports and visit nearby attractions such as the Shinsegae Centum City Mall, the world’s largest department store.

2. Gamcheon Culture Village:

   • Often referred to as the "Santorini of Busan," this colorful hillside village is filled with brightly painted houses, narrow alleys, and vibrant street art. It's a great spot for taking photos and exploring quirky art galleries and cafés.

3. Beomeosa Temple:

   • One of Korea’s most significant Buddhist temples, Beomeosa is located on the slopes of Mount Geumjeongsan. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and hiking opportunities.

4. Taejongdae:

   • A scenic park located on the southernmost tip of Yeongdo Island, Taejongdae offers stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and surrounding islands. You can take a Danubi Train that takes you around the park to the viewpoint and lighthouse.

5. Jagalchi Fish Market:

   • As one of the largest seafood markets in Korea, Jagalchi Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers. You can enjoy fresh seafood, from sashimi to grilled dishes, right at the market’s food stalls.

6. Busan Tower:

   • Offering panoramic views of the city, the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park is a great spot to see the skyline and the coastline. You can also visit the tower’s observatory, museum, and gift shop.

7. Gwangalli Beach:

   • Known for its beautiful white sand and views of the Gwangan Bridge, Gwangalli Beach is less crowded than Haeundae but equally beautiful. It's a popular spot for dining and nightlife, with many restaurants and bars lining the beach.

8. BIFF Square:

   • Located in the heart of Busan, BIFF Square is famous for the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). It’s a lively area with street food vendors, cinemas, and sculptures dedicated to the world of film.

Activities to Do:

1. Relax at the Beaches:

   • Spend your time lounging on Haeundae Beach or Gwangalli Beach. Both are great for enjoying the sea, sunbathing, or partaking in water sports.

2. Visit the Temples and Historical Sites:

   • Explore Beomeosa Temple and Dongbaek Island, home to The Nurimaru APEC House, which is famous for hosting the 2005 APEC summit.

3. Hiking:

   • If you're a hiking enthusiast, try Geumjeongsan Mountain. The trails offer beautiful views of the city, including a visit to the Geumjeong Fortress.

4. Explore Busan's Markets:

   • Visit Jagalchi Fish Market, Gukje Market, and Bupyeong Kkangtong Market to experience the local shopping culture and try local street food.

5. Take a Cruise:

   • Busan's harbor offers a variety of boat tours, ranging from short harbor cruises to longer tours that explore nearby islands and the stunning coastline.

Accommodation:

• Luxury:

  • Park Hyatt Busan: Located near Busan Marina, this five-star hotel offers luxury rooms with beautiful harbor views. It's ideal for those seeking modern amenities and world-class service.

• Mid-Range:

  • Haeundae Grand Hotel: A well-regarded hotel located near Haeundae Beach, it offers comfortable rooms and excellent facilities, including an indoor pool and spa.

• Budget:

  • Hostel The Local: For budget travelers, this hostel offers affordable dormitory rooms and a friendly, social atmosphere. It's located near the Haeundae area, offering great access to the beach.

Food and Restaurants:

1. Fresh Seafood:

   • Since Busan is a coastal city, fresh seafood is a highlight. Try the hotteok (Korean pancake filled with sweet syrup), mandu (dumplings), and of course, hoe (raw fish).

2. Milmyeon (Wheat Noodles):

   • Busan is famous for Milmyeon, a local dish consisting of wheat noodles in a cold broth, perfect for a refreshing meal in the summer.

3. Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup with Rice):

   • Dwaeji Gukbap is a signature dish in Busan, featuring a savory pork broth served with rice. It's a comforting and hearty meal.

4. Gukje Market Street Food:

   • For street food enthusiasts, Gukje Market offers a variety of local snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cake skewers), and hotteok (Korean pancakes).

5. Famous Restaurants:

   • The Kitchen at the Park Hyatt Busan offers gourmet dining with beautiful views. Alternatively, Choryang Milmyeon offers delicious and authentic milmyeon.

Local Culture:

• Port City: Busan is a vital port city with a strong maritime culture. The Jagalchi Fish Market and the Busan Port are symbols of the city’s rich maritime heritage.

• Festival Culture: Busan hosts several exciting festivals, including the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which attracts filmmakers and celebrities from around the world, and Busan Fireworks Festival, a spectacular display of fireworks over the sea.

• Korean Traditions and Modernity: Busan blends traditional Korean culture with modern conveniences. Explore its historic temples and markets while also enjoying its cutting-edge skyscrapers and shopping malls.

Booking information