Busan - Discovering South Korea

Travelling to Busan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Busan, a pretty good destination in South Korea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Busan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Busan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Korea, here's everything to know about Busan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Busan

Busan is a city in South Korea located on the southeastern part of the country on the coast of the Korea Strait. It is the second-largest city in South Korea, and one of the most important port cities in the world. Busan has a population of approximately 3.5 million people, and is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Busan include Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, and the Jagalchi Fish Market. The city is also home to several museums, temples, and parks, and serves as the gateway to numerous national parks in the region.

What to visit in Busan

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Busan, South Korea: 1. Haeundae Beach: This is Busan's most famous and popular beach. It is known for its white sand, turquoise water, and stunning views. Visitors can enjoy various water sports and activities or simply relax on the beach.
2. Gamcheon Culture Village: A picturesque village located on the foothills of a mountain, it's known for its colorful maze-like alleys and buildings. It's a great place to stroll around, take photos, and shop for local souvenirs.
3. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: This is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on a cliff by the sea. It's known for its stunning architecture, beautiful views, and serene atmosphere.
4. Taejongdae Park: A natural park with beautiful cliffs, walking trails, and sea views. Visitors can see the Busan Port from a lighthouse, ride a cable car, and take scenic boat tours.
5. Jagalchi Market: Busan's largest seafood market, where visitors can find a wide selection of fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes. It's a great place to explore and try out new foods.
6. Gwangalli Beach: Another beautiful beach in Busan with clear water, white sand, and panoramic city views. It's a popular spot for water sports, night walks, and dining by the beach.
7. Beomeosa Temple: A historic Buddhist temple nestled in a forested mountain area. Visitors can learn about the temple's history, admire the architectural design, and enjoy the calming atmosphere.
8. Busan Tower: A towering landmark in the center of Busan, it offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor. Visitors can take the elevator to the top deck and enjoy the view while having a cup of coffee.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Busan has to offer, and they provide a great mix of cultural, natural, and modern experiences that travelers can enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Korea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Busan.

When to go on holiday to Busan

The best time to visit Busan is during the months of September to November, when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds have dispersed. Spring is also a great time to visit, with the city coming alive with cherry blossoms towards the end of March and early April. However, it's important to avoid the months of July and August, when it gets very hot and humid, and there is a high chance of typhoons.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Busan

There are several ways to get to Busan, South Korea: 1. By Air: The most convenient and fastest way to get to Busan is by air. Busan International Airport (PUS) is located about 13 km west of the city center, and it serves both domestic and international flights from major airlines such as Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Air Busan.
2. By Train: If you're coming from Seoul, you can take the KTX (Korea Train Express) high-speed train to Busan. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and the train departs from Seoul Station and arrives at Busan Station.
3. By Bus: Bus is another option to getting to Busan. Korail (Korean Railroad) operates several buses daily from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal to Busan Central Bus Terminal. Alternatively, there are also many private bus companies that offer routes to and from Busan from major cities across Korea.
4. By Car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can rent a car and drive to Busan. The journey from Seoul to Busan takes approximately 4.5 hours, and is connected by major highways. I hope this information helps.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Busan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Busan

Here are some typical foods of Busan (South Korea) and their short description: 1. Milmyeon: It is a cold noodle dish made with wheat flour noodles served in a tangy broth made with beef, dongchimi (radish water kimchi), vinegar, and chili pepper.
2. Eomuk: It is a fish cake made with ground white fish and various vegetables such as onion, carrot, and garlic. Eomuk is often served in soup or on skewers to eat on the go.
3. Pork Soup: It is a clear broth soup made with chunks of pork, radish, bean sprouts, glass noodles, and green onions. It is a comforting dish and is often served in large bowls with rice on the side.
4. Ssiat Hotteok: It is a sweet pancake filled with a mixture of cinnamon, honey, and sesame seeds. It is a popular street food in Busan.
5. Dongnae Pajeon: It is a savory pancake made with green onions and seafood such as oysters, shrimp or squid. It is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
6. Sashimi: It is a dish of raw sliced fish or seafood served with soy sauce and wasabi. The fish is typically caught fresh and served on the same day.
7. Daegu Maeuntang: It is a spicy fish stew made with sliced cod, chili peppers, garlic, and soybean paste. It is served with fresh vegetables such as green onions and soybean sprouts.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Korea here.

Is Busan an expensive destination for tourists?

Busan can be an expensive destination for tourists, but it also depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be relatively high compared to other cities in South Korea. However, there are ways to make your trip more budget-friendly such as staying in hostels or guesthouses instead of hotels, taking advantage of public transportation, and eating at local street food stalls instead of fancy restaurants. Overall, it is possible to visit Busan on a budget, but you may need to plan carefully and be mindful of your expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Busan

There are several areas in Busan that are great for finding accommodations depending on your preferences and itinerary. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Haeundae Beach: This is one of the most popular areas in Busan, known for its beautiful beach, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. It's also well connected to other parts of the city through the metro system.
2. Seomyeon: This is the central business district of Busan, offering easy access to shopping, restaurants and nightlife. It is also a hub for transportation, so it's an ideal location for those planning to explore other parts of the city.
3. Nampo-dong: This is a historical neighborhood that's popular for shopping and street food. It's also adjacent to the Busan International Film Festival Square and other cultural attractions.
4. Gwangalli Beach: This beach area is less crowded than Haeundae, but offers great views of the city and a variety of restaurants and cafes. It's a great option for travelers looking for a calmer atmosphere.
You can check hotel prices at Busan here:
Booking.com

Is Busan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Busan is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Busan is relatively low compared to other major cities around the world. However, like any other city, it is advisable to take basic precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding dimly lit areas at night, keeping your valuables secure, and being mindful of your belongings in crowded places. It's always a good idea to research potential hazards and areas to avoid before traveling to a new destination. Overall, Busan is a beautiful and welcoming destination for travelers from around the world.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Korea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Busan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Busan the most?

Busan is a great travel destination for a variety of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. Here are some reasons why: - Couples: Busan has many romantic spots for couples, such as Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, and Yongdusan Park with its beautiful views of the city. The city is also known for its hot springs, which are a relaxing activity to enjoy with your partner.
- Young people: Busan is a vibrant and dynamic city, with a great nightlife scene. The streets of Seomyeon, Gwanganli, and Haeundae are packed with bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Additionally, Busan has many outdoor activities like surfing, swimming, and hiking, which are perfect for adventurous young travelers.
- Families: Busan has many child-friendly activities, such as the Busan Aquarium and Busan Tower, which provide great views of the city. There are also many parks, such as the Children's Grand Park, that offer outdoor activities for children. Finally, Busan has many beaches that are perfect for family fun in the sun.
Overall, Busan has something for everyone and is a great destination for any type of traveler looking to experience a unique culture, beautiful scenery, and exciting activities.

How to get around Busan

The most popular modes of transportation in Busan are the subway, buses, taxis, and rental cars. The subway system is well-developed and covers most areas of the city, while buses provide a more extensive network of routes. Taxis are also readily available, but they can be more expensive than other forms of transportation. Rental cars are a good option for those who want to explore the surrounding areas outside of Busan.

What to see around Busan

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Busan, South Korea: 1. Geoje Island: This beautiful island is located off the southwest coast of Busan and is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
2. Tongyeong: Tongyeong is a picturesque port city located on the southeastern coast of South Korea. It has beautiful beaches and a historic fortress.
3. Gyeongju: Gyeongju is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known as the "museum without walls". It has ancient ruins, temples, and tombs from the Silla dynasty.
4. Jinhae: Jinhae is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom festival and is only a short distance from Busan.
5. Ulsan: Ulsan is the largest industrial city in South Korea, but it also has beautiful beaches and a variety of cultural attractions, including the Bulguksa Temple.
I hope this information helps you plan your day trip from Busan!
For every travel information about South Korea you can click here.

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