seoul day trip to busan

Best Day Trip to Busan Itineraries (+ Hour Breakdown)

If you’re planning a day trip to Busan, here’s the perfect One Day in Busan itinerary, including the top places to go in Busan, costs if any, how many hours to spend at each place, and how long it takes to get around.

I’ve visited Busan a few times so far and consider myself a super-tourist 🦸🏻‍♀️ visiting as many places as I could.

Here are my recommended sites to help you make the best of your day trip to Busan.

If you’re new to South Korea, read my South Korea travel guide .

🎥 Watch my Busan vlog:

Table of Contents

Is One Day in Busan Worth it?

Busan is the 2nd largest city in South Korea with lots of sites to visit. While I recommend staying for more than one day in Busan, a day trip to Busan is still worth it!

Especially if you’re on a time crunch in South Korea, and want to see more cities other than Seoul, Busan is a great choice.

🚌 Another city I recommend visiting in South Korea: Gyeongju

If you end up visiting Busan again or decide to stay longer, make sure to read my Best Busan Itinerary for 2-5 Days (+ Hour Breakdown) .

Busan Day Trip From Seoul

If you’re doing a Busan day trip from Seoul, here are a few things you need to know:

Best ways to get from Seoul to Busan:

• KTX train : 2.5 hours, 60,000 won ($45 USD). Prebook your round-trip tickets online to save time .
• Express Bus : 4 hours, 42,000 won ($32 USD). Prebook your round-trip tickets online to save time .
• Plane : 1 hour, 40,000 won ($30 USD). Prebook your round-trip tickets online to save time .

Last Busan to Seoul Times:

• The last train back to Seoul is 10pm.
• The last express bus to Seoul is 11pm.
• The last flight back to Seoul is 8pm.

What you take will depend on your budget, but in general, take the earliest flight, train, or bus from Seoul to make the most of your day trip to Busan.

Driving? 🚙 Rent a car in South Korea for as cheap as $28 USD a day

Easy Day Trip to Busan Tours

If you’re looking to make your day trip to Busan or layover as convenient as possible with transportation provided, book a Busan day trip tour.

Some tours also provide round-trip transportation from Seoul and other cities so you don’t have to worry about catching the last train or bus in time.

Here are top-rated tours to see the most popular sites in Busan:

Small Group Full Day Busan Tour (Viator tour)

Busan One Day City Tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule, Yacht (20K+ booked)

Busan Private One Day Tour (best if traveling with a group)

Private tour, 1Day Busan city tour by (KTX from Seoul provided)

🚌 Browse through more Busan tours here

Route 1: Best Day Trip to Busan Itinerary (Mix of Everything)

This Busan day trip itinerary is for: People who want to see the most popular places in Busan with limited time.

Mid-Morning (2-3 hours)

Gamcheon culture village.

The Gamcheon Culture Village is one of the main must-see sites for tourists visiting Busan. There are different origin stories online, but this served as a village for refugees of the Korean War.

Walk around for different viewpoints, famous art alleys, and local shops.

Then grab lunch nearby.

🚕 Ride to Gamcheon Culture Village : 10 minutes by taxi from the train station, 17 minutes from the airport.

Get there by taxi using Kakao T app or Uber ( works in Busan ).

🎫 Entrance : free

🚌  Prefer a guided tour? For $39.99 USD, book a tour of Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan Skywalks and Yonggungsa Temple

Read my full post on visiting  Gamcheon Culture Village  and things to do there.

Afternoon (2-3 hours)

Busan tower or observatory.

Choose from two amazing views of Busan: the Diamond Tower aka Busan Tower or Lotte Mall’s Rooftop Observatory (Gwangbok location) .

(You can also go to both since they’re within walking distance of each other.)

🚕 Ride to Busan Tower or Lotte Mall from Gamcheon Culture Village : 22 minutes by taxi.

🎫 Entrance : Busan Tower is $8 USD ( prebook here ) and free for the Lotte Mall Rooftop Observatory ( 13th floor ).

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is one of the most popular  beaches in Busan with white sand. You can watch street performers along the promenade leading to the beach, and look at the growing number of street art there.

Eat street food at Haeundae Market while there or head to the next location to grab a bite.

🚕 Ride to Haeundae Beach from Busan Tower : 16 minutes by taxi.

Evening (2 hours)

Gwangalli beach.

Gwangalli Beach  is the best beach in Busan to visit at night. Walk down the cement path or along the beach on the sand.

You can also catch music performances at night. The beach is bordered by bustling buildings and restaurants.

Related post:  Things to do at Gwangali Beach at night

🚕 Ride to Gwangalli Beach from Haeundae Beach : 5 minutes by taxi, or 16 minutes by train.

⏱ Head back to the Busan train station (10 minutes by taxi) or to the airport (20 minutes by taxi).

⛴ For an extra experience, book a river cruise around Gwangalli Beach or night tour of Gwangalli Beach + other popular sites at night 🌌

Route 2: Best Day Trip to Busan Itinerary for Coastal Views

This Busan day trip itinerary is for: People who want to see the most beautiful coastal views. This does mean you skip the Gamcheon Culture Village , but these sites are amazing as well.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village

Huinnyeoul Culture Village is another colorful culture village in Busan, this time by the sea, and is located in southern-central Busan.

There are lots of shops, cafes, and colorful mural art. You can also walk downstairs along the coast at the Jeoryeong Coastal Walk and Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel.

📖  Read my full Huinnyeoul Culture Village post and what to do there .

🚕 Ride to Huinnyeoul Culture Village : 5 minutes by taxi from the train station, 18 minutes from the airport.

Then grab lunch nearby (Vegan or vegetarian? Here’s my favorite vegan restaurants in Busan .)

Songdo Bay Station

At Songdo Bay Station is a long walking path called the Songdo Skywalk that leads to a deck with views of the sea and the  Songdo cable cars  above going to the Yonggung Suspension Bridge.

While you do need to buy a  Songdo Bay Station ticket  to ride the cable car, the actual Songdo skywalk deck across the street is free.

🚕 Ride to Songdo Bay Station from Huinnyeoul Culture Village : 5 minutes by taxi

🎫 Sondo Cable Car tickets (prebook here) : $12 USD, Songdo Skywalk: free

Haeundae Beach is one of the most popular beaches  beaches in Busan . You can watch street performers along the promenade leading to the beach, and look at the growing number of street art there.

🚕 Ride to Haeundae Beach from Songdo Bay Station : 18 minutes by taxi.

Millak Waterside Park

Optional : Head to the Millak Waterside Park before or after Gwangalli Beach , which is walkable nearby.

There’s sets of steps to sit and relax on and look at the waterside and bridge views.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Day Trip to Busan

• If you’re really in a time-crunch, book a guided day trip to Busan tour instead that provides transportation to easily get you to popular sites in Busan.
• Take the earliest flight, train, or bus for a Busan day trip from Seoul or other cities. Book these in advance.
• While the subway is frequent in Busan, when you can, take taxis using the Kakao T app or Uber app in Busan to get you around. Prices are relatively cheap.
• If you have more time or want to mix things up, look through my 13 Free Things to Do in Busan to add or change your itinerary.

The Best Way to Spend a Day Trip to Busan

Ultimately, how you spend your day trip to Busan will depend on your interests, but the most popular sites in Busan are the most visited for a reason!

With limited time, try to visit the sites that most interest you, but also enjoy your one day in Busan without treating it like a checklist (like I often do).

Take your time and enjoy your day trip to Busan, and I hope you’ll be able to visit Busan again!

Book Before Your Busan Trip: 🏥 Secure travel insurance for your South Korea trip 🎫 Get the Visit Busan Tour Pass for access to 30+ Busan attractions 🌌 Take a Busan Night Tour and see popular sites at night 🚊 Prebook your ride from the Busan airport or Busan station 🎫 Browse through dozens of available Busan tours

Related Posts

13 Free Things to Do in Busan (Popular + Underrated Spots!)

Is Busan Safe? (Personal Experience as a Solo Female Traveler)

The Best Busan Itinerary for 2-5 Days (+ Hour Breakdown)

Uber in Korea: Where it Worked & Where it Didn’t (+ Costs)

5 Best Beaches in Busan (+ Events to Look Out For)

5 Things to do in Gwangalli Beach at Night

Don’t Miss This Free Busan Observatory Deck at Lotte Mall

The Must-Visit Huinnyeoul Culture Village by the Sea in Busan

Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan: Travel Tips & How to Get Here

Roseanne Ducut is a solo female traveler and Filipina from the Bay Area, California. She writes practical and culture-rich travel guides and encourages solo female travelers to take #yolo trips. A veghead for over 15 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.

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• How to go to Busan from Seoul: Taking a Seoul to Busan day trip

One of the things I hate about only having short windows to travel is that I don’t get to explore a country as thoroughly as I would like. All the same, I try to make sure I escape the confines of the city I’m visiting, and see some of the rest of the country during my stay.

I spent a week in South Korea, and it was nowhere near enough. Based in Seoul, I spent many happy days exploring the city with its skyscrapers, palaces, neon lights and temples, as well as venturing up to the North Korean border and the DMZ (or demilitarised zone) that separates the two halves of the peninsula. But there was still the lure of the rest of South Korea. Fortunately, it is an easy day trip from the capital to visit Busan, the second city of the country located on its far southern coastline. If you want to know how to go to Busan from Seoul, it’s really very easy.

The rail system in South Korea is pretty great, and regular high-speed services make it easy to travel the whole way across the country in just 3 hours. I actually love to do these long train trips, where I can sit with a book and watch the world go by. So, ticket in hand (booked online with Korail before I left home and collected at the station the day before), I turned up at Seoul’s central station early on a Wednesday morning.

Seoul’s main station is a shiny chrome monster, and I was swallowed into its belly as I descended the many escalators to the underground track. I wasn’t overly surprised that Korea’s trains are clean and comfortable, and easy to navigate. I settled into my window seat and hooked up to the wifi, and soon we were on our way south.

The Seoul to Busan train line cuts straight across South Korea on a diagonal, past towns and villages and lush green landscapes dotted with mountains. One of the reasons I love these journeys is the chance to watch the country roll by outside my window, which is exactly what I did as I sat with coffee and a book in my window seat. Watching the world go by, the journey gave me at least a partial insight into the geography of this lush and hilly country.

And then we were in Busan. To be honest, I had only a rough idea of what to do in Busan, and very few concrete plans for the day other than to take the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus and see where it took me. Picking it up outside the station, I followed the bus’s two routes around the city, which took me past all the top Busan attractions. My first stop-off was Taejongdae, where I took a walk along the clifftop with views out across the sea, watching the tankers as they approached the country’s biggest port. I then followed the route around the coast to the Jagalchi fish market.

One of the most popular places to visit in Busan, the Jagalchi market is a huge, 3-storey affair, and offers everything that you could possibly want from a Far East fish market. Huge tiled halls are filled with stalls selling every possible variety of seafood, both alive and not-so-much, presided over by armies of older Korean ladies who made for fantastic photo opportunities at every turn. There were stalls selling dried fish products and, on the top floor, a large restaurant area. Travelling alone and without a word of Korean (apart from hello and thank you), my first reaction was to take one look at the food court, with its floor cushions, round metal chopsticks and Korean-language menus, and run screaming for the nearest McDonalds. But throwing caution to the wind, I sat down at a friendly looking table and, through a variety of hand signals and much pointing at the pictures in the menu, ended up with a fabulous plateful of spicy Korean fish, chillies and kimchi, the traditional fermented cabbage so popular in the country. I’m still not totally sure what half of it was, but it was delicious – even the kimchi.

Resuming my bus tour, I headed next for Haeundae Beach, one of the many popular spots in Busan for catching a few rays and enjoying the water. In true east Asian style, the emphasis was on innocent fun; on an August afternoon the Busan beach was packed, and so was the ocean. Pausing to take photos at the beach-side selfie machine (instantly emailed to my phone for social media sharing!), I wandered the sands and watched local life. A group of middle-aged ladies out in the sea caught my attention – fully clothed and soaking wet, they were playing in an inflatable ring and having the time of their lives. Surely the way to enjoy a day out with your friends, whatever your age.

The final stop on my Busan tour was the UN Memorial Cemetery. One of the goals of my time in Korea was to learn more about both its present and its past, and this little slice of the country is the resting place of hundreds of foreign servicemen who lost their lives in the Korean War of the 1950s. As the North Korean army swept down the peninsula before being finally beaten back to the 38th Parallel, for a time only this corner remained under Allied control, and the cemetery has sections for American, Canadian, British, Australian and many other different troops. It was a sobering place to wander and consider my countrymen, who gave so much for the peninsula and for standing up for what is right. The cemetery is clean, peaceful and respectful, and is well worth a visit.

Heading back to the station, I boarded the train back from Busan to Seoul reflecting on the many aspects of my day out. I didn’t see all of Busan by a large margin; it boasts magnificent temples, shopping and more beaches than you can shake a stick at, as well as several major museums including the Busan Museum of Art and the National Maritime Museum of Korea. If you have time, it is well worth staying for a night or two . But if you are on a tight schedule, a day trip to Busan from Seoul is absolutely possible – and absolutely worth the effort.

One of the delights of a visit to Korea is to experience the incredible food. If you’re a foodie, check out this great post from Viola at The Blessing Bucket to whet your appetite! 10 Delicious Foods to Eat in Seoul Korea

Visiting Asia? Get some more inspiration for your trip!

• Fun things to do in Taipei: The ultimate Taipei bucket list!
• The farmyard in Bajawa: adventures on Flores, Indonesia
• Taipei to Taroko Gorge: Taiwan’s marble mountains

Eagle hunter: In the mountains of Kyrgyzstan

• Central Asia: rebuilding a heritage
• Turkistan and Otrar: Kazakhstan’s Deep South
• Bukhara to Tashkent: Night trains in Uzbekistan
• Swimming with manta rays in the Maldives
• 5 Reasons You Will Love Taiwan

Want to take your own Seoul to Busan day trip? Pin this post to remind yourself later where to go in Busan!

Jill Bowdery, Reading the Book Travel

I'm Jill, and I'm a British blogger who has been travelling for two decades, visiting more than 70 countries on 6 continents. I love to travel both solo and with groups, and to discover the cultures and peoples of the countries I visit. And I love to share a good story or two along the way!

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I wish I had read this post 2 months ago!! I swear you would have inspired me to jump on that train to Busan from Seoul. I also spent 1 week in Seoul but just didn’t get the time or inspiration to go South. Great to virtually travel to Busan via this post 🙂

Jill Bowdery

Glad you enjoyed it! It’s definitely worth a return trip… 😉 Such a shame we can’t see everything, but it would take forever!

First of all, thabk you so much for bringing back good memories. I lived in Korea for a year and remember Busan well. I alsi love Jeju but a week is so not enough. But thank god for the awesome train network there!

Oh I know a week is just too short – I never made it to Jeju, but I was still running around like a mad thing! I’m still amazed by how few Europeans/Americans seem to think of Korea for a travel destination – it’s a fascinating country. I’d love to go back and explore more!

Such an amazing day it must have been! I haven’t been to Korea and somehow, seeing your photos has given me the inspiration to visit sooner than I imagined. I love how there’s so much to see just from a day trip and even if a day wasn’t enough, it is still pleasantly beautiful with everything accounted for. Will definitely bookmark this for me to come back to!

This brought back so many lovely memories! We must have been there around the same time, as I also visited August of this year! I still remember the smell of the city, seeing the beach and so many people enjoying their time there! My favorite probably was the Gamcheon Village there, as it really was a wow moment to see those buildings (I visited Amalfi this year too – and I see the resemblance!)

Thanks for sharing this. I think most people only visit Seoul and don’t know about other cities in South Korea. I definitely want to go see Busan!

Ooh that food looks good. I love kimchi! SK looks so good – I have been to Japan a few times and there are some similar aspects bit it looks different enough to warrant a visit.

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The Perfect Korea Itinerary With Seoul, Busan & Gyeongju (2024) – One Week Travel Guide

September 4, 2023 by Bino 14 Comments

South Korea has become somewhat of a rising star in the tourism scene in recent years owing in part to the proliferation of Korean TV shows and pop music. The cities of Seoul and Busan undoubtedly appeal to folks who like seeing pretty and cute things and it’s probably not surprising that the visitor demographics here dis-proportionally lean towards females. If you are thinking of visiting South Korea and would like to have a practical itinerary to cover both Seoul and Busan, allot at least 5 or 6 days. If you are also visiting Jeju, you’ll need to add 2 or 3 more.

The two major cities of Seoul and Busan are the most intuitive places to explore during a trip to South Korea – Seoul for its cosmopolitan vibe and traditional culture and Busan for its seaside chic. This travel guide aims to show you how these cities can be done in as little as a week.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Seoul City Center

Tip: Google Maps does not work well in South Korea especially in navigating walking directions and public transport route. Instead, download Naver Maps which even shows you the bus timings and fares. This is especially helpful since most of the public buses around South Korea don’t come with English signs.

If this is your first time exploring the tourist attractions in Seoul , start the day with a tour of the palaces. Seoul has 5 palaces but the ones really worth exploring are Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugong.

gyeongbokgung

A recommended path to take is one that starts at Gyeongbokgung . If you visit wearing a hanbok (Korea’s traditional costume – you can check out here for hanbok rentals ), the admission fee is waived. While here, make sure to go to the far back where the Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, which is built on an artificial island, is located. Many visitors miss it due to the distance but it is well worth a photo stop especially during autumn when the surrounding foliage turn bright red and yellow. Other highlights in the palace complex include the Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru.

bukchon hanok village

From here, you can make an exit at the side gate and walk around ten minutes to reach Bukchon Hanok Village . Back in the day, almost the entirety of Seoul was made up of these traditional single-storey housing. Nowadays, you can only find them in small pockets with the main area being here. It’s a nice place for a stroll especially if you come here with a rented hanbok  with the age-old buildings serving as perfect backdrops for selfies.

marinated raw crab at keunkiwajip

One of the highly recommended places for lunch nearby is the Michelin-starred Keunkiwajip (62 Bukchon-ro 5 Gil, Open daily except Monday 11AM to 3:30PM, 5PM to 10PM) for its marinated raw crab. This place is usually very busy and my recommendation is to come here early otherwise it may take you around 30 minutes to get a table.

the view from jeongdong observatory

After lunch, head to Changdeokgung , the largest of Seoul’s five palaces. The highlight here is the sublime secret garden – another popular autumn viewing spot. Admission is free during the last Wednesday of the month or if you are wearing a hanbok. Alternatively, you can also check out Deoksugung which is near Seoul’s city hall. Make sure to drop by Jeongdong Observatory (free, 9AM to 9PM during weekdays, until 6PM during weekends) for a nice bird’s eye view of the city – with both traditional and modern buildings complimenting that view.

Devote the evenings for shopping. Many of Seoul’s shopping districts are open relatively late especially during weekends. Popular night haunts include Myeongdong with its range of street fashion and toiletries, Hongdae with its youth-oriented clothing brands as well as Dongdaemun for wholesale/bazaar-type apparel stores that open until way past midnight.

dongdaemun design plaza

If you do decide to go to Dongdaemun, a stop right by the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (open daily except Mondays, 10AM to 7PM, til 9PM on Fridays and Saturdays) is a must. Tours of the interiors are offered but the place is just as worth visiting for its imposing steel exterior. It is especially atmospheric at night when the structure is floodlit and the grass fields adjacent to it have these electronic flowers that are also lit up.

Day 2 – Southern Seoul & Gangnam

Tip: If you plan to visit multiple palaces, museums and the N Seoul Tower, you may wish to consider getting the Discover Seoul Pass. In total, there are 36 attractions that you can visit free of charge. You can buy here for a 15% discount.

Start the day at Seoul’s upscale Gangnam – a district filled with high-end boutiques, plastic surgery clinics and well-heeled city folk. It is known in some circles as the Beverly Hills of South Korea. A popular cafe to check out in this area is Cafe Dior (464 Apgujeong-ro, Open from 11AM to 8PM daily). Cafe culture meets fashion in this well-appointed cafe.

From the cafe, Garosugil is just a short ride away. The shopping street is filled with plenty of luxury brands as well as big-name stores such as a dedicated Apple Store and more. The street is especially attractive in autumn when the gingko trees by the pavements turn yellow.

After having your fill at Garosugil, head further east to Galleria , a luxury shopping mall in Gangnam. The highlight here is the basement deli and food court which is filled with plenty of traditional Korean eats. The place is a well-curated affair with many of Korea’s best independent snacks / food places brought together. Even the food court here is recommended for its kimchi soup, bibimbap as well as seafood stews.

starfield library by geoff henson

After a short lunch at Galleria, head to Starfield Library (free, open daily from 10AM to 10PM) at Starfield Coex Mall. The venue is known for its humongous 2-storey tall bookshelf which has been featured aplenty in social media. There are over 50,000 books and magazines here but I doubt if most people who come here are actually bookworms.

pandoro from cafe onion

If you have time to head to just one cafe during your time in Seoul, let that place be Cafe Onion (open daily from 8AM to 10PM, from 10AM on Saturdays and Sundays). Housed in a seemingly rundown industrial building, the place has attracted visitors from far and wide for its instagram-worthy aesthetic and delicious pastries. While here, don’t miss the Pandoro, a towering Italian bread filled with powdered sugar.

view from n seoul tower

Late afternoon is a great time to check out Namsan Seoul Tower (daily 10AM to 11PM, til midnight on Saturdays). Located in a forested area in the middle of the city, it’s a great place from where you can appreciate Seoul’s skyline. If you are wondering if it’s worth going up the tower versus just appreciating the view from the parking lot, my take is yes – the higher view is certainly much more photogenic. During spring and autumn, the higher view also allows you to appreciate the colorful foliage around Namsan itself. The admission fee to the tower is 16,000 Won but you can get a 22% discount by booking N Seoul Tower tickets here .

Day 3 – DMZ Tour

One of the most intriguing activities you can do during your trip to Korea is to join a tour of the demilitarized zone (DMZ). Korea is officially the only divided country in the world with both North Korea and South Korea as separate member states of the United Nations. The Korean War was one of the biggest military conflicts of the 1950s and it was concluded through an armistice agreement signed in 1953. However, it never progressed beyond that with no peace treaty signed despite multiple efforts. Technically, hostilities have not ended and there are occasional periods when access to the demilitarized zone is closed whenever there are tensions in relations between the 2 Koreas.

The Korean Demilitarized Zone is the 250 kilometer border between North and South Korea plus a buffer measuring about 4 kilometers wide. During peace time, it is possible to visit the Korean DMZ from both North Korea and South Korea and I have had the pleasure of visiting from both sides. Since this guide is about visiting South Korea, I will instead present my perspective of visiting the DMZ from South Korea. But if you are curious to see what it was like to visit the DMZ from the North Korean side, check out my North Korea DMZ experience here .

the joint security area of the dmz

There are many DMZ tours being offered but the most exciting kind, in my view, is the tour that includes stepping into the JSA or the Joint Security Area (you can book here ). Do note that tours that include this facility are often more expensive than other DMZ tours but it’s all worth it because you’ll get to step into North Korean soil , albeit for a few seconds. Whenever there are heightened tensions between the 2 Koreas, access to this facility becomes restricted so it’s best to check for the situation before booking. Alternatively, you can book those DMZ tours that don’t come with access to the JSA. 

korean soldiers in the dmz

A typical tour of the DMZ that includes the JSA takes about a day. Along the way, there are stops such as the Third Tunnel of Aggression and Dora Observatory – a viewpoint from where you can see North Korea through binoculars. There’s also a customary Korean lunch followed by a visit to the JSA itself. One of the reasons why this tour takes longer is because security is tighter and you’ll be subject to inspections when entering the Panmunjom facility. Expect to be back in Seoul by around 5 to 6PM.

Day 4 – Excursions From Seoul / Seoul’s Neighborhoods

If you are thinking of visiting Nami Island , allocate a full day for the excursion. You can choose to do it yourself but for convenience, you may want to take a direct bus which can do Nami Island combined with  Petite France . They will also handle the day’s itinerary for you. Whichever option you choose, you’ll find that taking a shuttle bus there is indeed a lot easier than the DIY route.

If a day trip to Nami Island does not appeal, you can also venture to some of Seoul’s other interesting neighborhoods. Here’s a rundown of districts worth checking out:

hiking in suseong dong valley

• Buam-dong – Still relatively unexplored by foreign visitors but Buam-dong is quickly gaining ground for its art and design hubs and independent cafes interspersed with natural areas. Highlights here include Changuimun (the original city gate), the cafes Club Espresso and Lumberjack as well as Whanki and Seoul Museums . Nearest metro: Jahamun-gogae
• Seochon – Personally, my favorite among Seoul’s less known districts, Seochon was where the nobles used to live back in the Joseon Dynasty. You will find a lot of clothing boutiques here as well as the Sejong Village Food Street but the real gem is the Suseong-dong Valley where locals typically go for nature walks. Nearest metro: Gyeongbokgung
• Itaewon – A very foreign-centric district as American soldiers typically come here during their leisure time. Today, it’s home to plenty of international restaurants, cafes and boutiques.

Day 5 – Busan

Take a morning train ride to Busan (you can purchase train passes here ) – South Korea’s second largest city. Depending on which train you take, the overall journey ride will require 2.25 to 2.50 hours so it’s definitely possible to do Busan as a day trip if you’re pressed for time, albeit a rushed one.

Many of Busan’s main tourist attractions are located not too far from Busan Station (where trains from Seoul stop). A few blocks south is 40 Steps , a 450 meter street lined with statues and other photo opps, including a 40-step stairway. The area has been refurbished recently and is supposed to reflect life in Korea in the 1950s and 1960s.

Tip: While many of Busan’s attractions are in the city center, the bulk of the good hotels are located farther out. This is especially true for seaside hotels. The good news is that there are left luggage lockers inside Busan Station for you to leave large bags while you go exploring in town.

inside jagalchi market

From here, Jagalchi Market (nearest metro: Jagalchi Station) is a short hop away. The thought of eating freshly cut octopus with their tentacles still wriggling probably stands as one of the most iconic travel images concerning South Korea and that is exactly what this bustling seafood market is known for. Less adventurous eaters have other options as well. There’s a wide array of fish, crab and other shellfish available which can be chosen for cooking and served to be eaten at the dining tables upstairs.

gamcheon cultural village

Next up on one’s Busan checklist is Gamcheon Culture Village . Some call it Korea’s Santorini which I think is a bit of a stretch. It shares more similarities with the blue city of Jodhpur however as many of the houses are painted in similar shades of light blue. You can spend around 1 to 2 hours here depending on interest level. You’ll find shops and murals scattered around the village as well as cafes and museums. There is also an elevated view point here which is a popular spot for wedding shoots and panoramic photos of the village.

If you are in Busan only for a day trip, you can end here and return to Seoul. Otherwise, head to the below.

Day 6 – Busan Outskirts

seokbulsa temple

If you are up for some hiking, check out Seokbulsa Temple located around Geumjeongsan, a mountain range not far from the city center. If you are coming as a group, it might make sense to take a taxi up and ask the driver to wait for you. Admission to the temple grounds is free of charge and visitors come here for the Buddha niches carved on the rocks. It is not considered a major temple in Korea but I have to say these carvings are among the most impressive I’ve seen in the country.

Tip: Within the general vicinity of Haeundae is Dalmaji-gil which has plenty of art galleries, cafes and restaurants. If you are in Busan during the weekend, check out the Dalmaji Art Flea Market from 2PM to 9PM. You can find handicrafts, teapots, bags and other creations by local artists.

After a morning hike, it’s time to cool off by the coast. Busan’s appeal to Koreans lies in its relatively milder weather and beaches. If you are in Busan during the summer months, you might find Haeundae Beach (nearest metro: Haeundae Station) relatively packed with weekenders from Seoul. While it’s definitely a popular tourist spot in Busan, I would not say Haeundae Beach is a must-see especially if you come from a tropical country. If you are in the area, I would instead suggest checking out the Busan SEA LIFE Aquarium near the beach or Busan Cinema Center (nearest metro: Centum City Station) with its metallic exterior and wave-like roof and mini-light show. It is an especially wonderful spectacle at night.

yonggungsa temple

Another place to visit in the eastern part of the city is the Yonggungsa Temple . While Korea has no shortage of temples, what makes this place stand out is its scenic seaside location. The temple is literally perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the coast which makes it one of Busan’s most photogenic spots. To get here, take the metro to Haeundae Station then transfer to bus 181.

Day 7 – Gyeongju

anapji pond in gyeongju

Another reason to visit Busan is that it serves as an excellent base from which to explore Gyeongju , the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town has a plethora of historical sites that can easily take up one whole day of exploring. Highlights in Gyeongju include:

• Bulguksa Temple – Considered one of the main temples of Korea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist Art. The Dabotap pagoda which is found in the temple grounds is featured in the 10 Won coin.
• Seokguram Grotto – Probably the closest Korea has to an “Indiana Jones” type of archeological site, visitors go inside a cavern to witness a large stone sculpture of the Buddha. Of all the places in Gyeongju, it is probably the Seokgruam Grotto that impressed me the most. It’s too bad photography is not allowed inside.
• Cheomseongdae Observatory – An ancient astronomical observatory built during the Silla period in the 7th century.
• Tumuli Park – A large area filled with mounds representing the tombs of the former kings of the Silla period. This was how Korea’s royalty was buried back in the day and you can find other burial mounds scattered all over Korea (including North Korea).
• Anapji Pond (Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond) – Particularly photogenic when visited in the evening while the structures are floodlit, today Anapji Pond exists in a garden-like state with cherry blossoms in the spring and pavilions that are immaculately reflected by the still waters from the pond.

To get to Gyeongju from Busan, you can either take the bus (around a 40 minutes ride) from the bus terminal or alternatively, you can book a guided day tour to Gyeongju that takes you through the tourist attractions listed above.

Getting to Seoul From Incheon International Airport

The Airport Express (AREX) train is my preferred way of getting from Incheon International Airport to the city  as it’s relatively fast, inexpensive and there are frequent departures. Do note that if you are flying with Korean Air, you get a discount on train tickets so it’s wise to keep your boarding pass. Alternatively, you can also book online here to get a 25% discount for the AREX ticket to Seoul.

Another way to get to the city is by one of the airport buses which take almost 1.5 hours but the plus point is that it drops you off at varying locations around Seoul. If your hotel is near one of the airport bus stations, then it may make better sense to travel by bus.

Getting to Busan From Incheon International Airport

There used to be a direct KORAIL train from Incheon International Airport to Busan but it has been discontinued. If you can’t fly in/out of Busan to your home city directly, your best bet is to take the AREX to Seoul Station (~ 1 hour) then take a direct train from Seoul Station to Busan Station (~2.5 hours).

Getting to Busan From Seoul (City Area)

From Seoul to Busan (and vice versa), you have a couple of options including train, plane, bus or car rental. These are the pros and cons of each of these options:

• Best overall: South Korea’s KTX trains are best overall in getting between Seoul and Busan . The trains are fast, with the shortest ride being around 2 hour 15 mins. Economy class tickets cost about 59,800 Korean Won. Busan’s main station is in the city itself, not far from Jagalchi Market. You can purchase rail passes here .
• Fastest: Flying is theoretically the fastest. The plane ride lasts just less than an hour but you’ll need to factor in getting to the airport an hour before. Once you reach Busan, you’ll also need to factor in that Busan’s Gimhae Airport is in the outskirts and you’ll again need some form of transport to get to the city center.
• Cheapest: If you are on a budget and don’t mind being on the road for a couple more hours, you can take the bus. A bus ride between Seoul to Busan takes just over 4 hours and costs about 30,000 Korean Won. Buses will drop you off at Busan’s Central Bus Terminal which is at the northern edge of the city. There is a metro station here – Nopo – which can take you to the city center for a cheap price. However, if you plan on avoiding the metro due to heavy bags, etc; you’ll have to note that it’s quite a long cab ride to the city and you may end up paying an extra 20,000 Korean won or more for the taxi trip.
• Car rentals: Car rentals have gained in popularity in the pandemic era as some folks prefer to minimize interactions with strangers during their trip. South Korea is a relatively easy place for driving. Just make sure you have your international license. You can check out car rentals in Korea here .

Travel Tips for Seoul and Busan, South Korea

• Travel Insurance: In this age of uncertainty, it may be prudent to get travel insurance for your trip. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion running until 29th Feb that comes with FREE Apple AirTag (worth S$45) that may even be worth more than the cost of the insurance itself. 
• Navigation: As mentioned previously, I can’t stress the help that Naver Maps provides in navigation and even bus schedules. Make sure to download the English version of this app.
• Changing Money: In Seoul, one of the best places to change money is this money changer in Myeongdong near the Chinese Embassy. The full address is: 26 Myeongdong 2-gil, Chungmuro 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea and they are open daily from 9AM to 9PM. Otherwise, you can also get pretty good rates from the branches of the big banks. In Busan, you can similarly exchange foreign currency at the big banks or in the area around Jagalchi Market.

Where to Stay in Seoul and Busan

shilla stay gwanghwamun

Seoul – If you prefer to stay somewhere closer to the shopping district, you can check out the Stanford Hotel Myeongdong . The hotel is located just next to Euljiro-1 station. Rooms are clean and value-for-money. The property is also relatively new. For somewhere closer to sightseeing spots, I can’t recommend mid-priced Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun enough. The hotel is within walking distance to Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon Hanok Village. I absolutely loved being able to conveniently return to the hotel in the afternoons for some siesta time as I took breaks between sightseeing. Rooms are of modest size with understated chic decor, taking inspiration from the iconic The Shilla Hotel. You can also check the best prices for other Seoul hotels here .

Busan  – The southern city is generally considered by locals as a resort destination and that is likewise apt for visitors in order to serve as a bit of contrast to the hustle and bustle of Seoul. While in Busan, I recommend the highly instagrammable Hilton Busan located in the city outskirts. The curve-y interiors reflect the seaside location of the hotel. Just a word to note – you might get too comfortable here that you wouldn’t want to leave the hotel anymore. For a cheaper option, you can check out Baymond Hotel located a short walk from Haeundae Beach. You can also check the best prices for other hotels in Busan here .

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July 12, 2019 at 11:27 am

Great and very informative post. I visited South Korea earlier this year around May 2019. But i only ventured through the capital city Seoul. However, I am more keen to explore the ancient side of the country during my next visit Busan and Gyeongju. I am thinking of starting my visit in Busan, to Gyeongju and then back to Seoul for few days before flying out, but am confused if that’s possible because my port of entry will definitely be Incheon airport from Kuala Lumpur and so as my port of exit. Is there anyway i can fly directly into Busan from Kuala Lumpur and make Seoul as my port exit? Or I have to arrive at Incheon airport go through the immigration and then make my way to Busan?

July 12, 2019 at 11:33 am

Yes, if you are coming from KL, believe AirAsia flies to Busan direct.

May 10, 2022 at 2:38 pm

This is an excellent itinerary! Thanks for sharing! am heading to Seoul in late June & will be spending 2 weeks there. I would like to include 2 days stay in both Busan & Sokcho & will likely travel to these two places on weekdays, to avoid any weekend crowd. Can you advise whether it is best to travel from Seoul-Sokcho-Busan-Seoul or visi versa? I noted travelling time between Busan & Sokcho by express bus is 6 hours?? Is it safe to purchase any bus tickets etc only when we fly into Seoul? Do you have any inputs or recommendation? Thank you so much!

May 10, 2022 at 2:42 pm

Thanks for your kind words. Sorry haven’t been to Sokcho itself but regarding buses – I usually only buy on the spot.

November 17, 2021 at 2:58 pm

Hi, I will be flying to Seoul with family for 15 days in late December thanks to Singapore-South Kores VTL. Would like to get your advise on the following: 1) Are we able to visit Jeju or is quarantine still required? 2) We were thinking of renting a car to visit some outskirts of Seoul. a) Is it possible to drive to Busan? b) Are there any areas which we should avoid by car? c) Is it easy to drive in South Korea & find parking too? Hope to hear from you soon! 3) Any good recommendations for authentic Korean food?

November 17, 2021 at 3:09 pm

Hi, Thanks for dropping by. I am not sure about Jeju. It’s best to check with relevant authorities.

On driving to Busan – yes it’s possible but it will be a few hours’ drive.

Driving in South Korea is quite easy – but note they drive on the opposite side of the road as compared to SG.

For parking, most tourist attractions will have parking areas so no issues. If you are in the city center, might be a bit tougher but you can find those indoor parking lots or shopping mall parking spaces. Don’t park on the street unless it’s clearly marked for parking.

For food, you can check out the ones I listed in this article 🙂

December 19, 2021 at 11:35 pm

Hi! It is possible to drive from Seoul to Busan but it will take roughly 6 hours to get there, mostly because of the traffic, but also because the speed limit is set at 110 km/hour. As far as parking is concerned, most hotels and restaurants have their own parking, but within the city going by public transportation is much easier. Coming from Eastern Europe and having lived in Hong Kong for a while, and after 1 year of living in South Korea I would say driving is easy, just a bit crazy crowded, especially as you get closer to Seoul (no matter the direction). Hope this helps!

April 8, 2022 at 11:28 am

Hi B, thankyou so much for sharing your trip, such an amazing journey. reading your post makes me also want to visit there 🙂 hope i can visit there too for next vacation

January 28, 2023 at 8:57 pm

I spent a week in Busan and a week and Seoul and can just recommend it. I really enjoyed Busan a little more than Seoul. I love the sea and the coastline and beaches there are so beautiful.

January 31, 2023 at 11:36 pm

I came across your website. I found it most interesting. I wish to travel to South Korea in April. I want to visit Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju Pohang, Itaewon, and Jeju island. I wish to be brave and travel on my own. Female in her sixties but young at heart. are there lots of accommodation for the single traveller.

May 7, 2023 at 5:55 pm

Thank you, this is really great! I have a question about Busan – in your itinerary its just 2 nights which makes sense to me, but you suggested hotels that seem quite far from the station. Was it not stressful to get all your luggage to the hotel, then back to the sightseeing etc?

May 7, 2023 at 7:38 pm

That’s a great question! As Busan’s hotels are quite spread out, to save time, I would suggest leaving your luggage at the lockers inside Busan station while exploring the sights.

September 9, 2023 at 10:57 am

Hi, You itinerary is great. I wanted to ask why didn’t you add the DMZ tour to this. What are your thoughts

September 9, 2023 at 7:51 pm

Thanks for the idea. Just added my experience of the DMZ tour 🙂

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One Day in Busan day trip – The Perfect 1 day itinerary

Busan is a city much unlike the rest of South Korea. Situated on the south-east coast of the country, this bustling metropolis is a city centre right alongside a coastline of beautiful beaches. It’s a place that many Koreans visit for their summer holidays. In our opinion, it feels much like a bigger version of Barcelona in Spain, Miami in the USA, or Da Nang in Vietnam.

As South Korea’s second most popular tourist destination, a trip to the country simply isn’t complete without a stop in Busan. Seoul is full of rich history and endless attractions. Busan has a more relaxed holiday appeal. It’s great for shopping, food, beaches and fun activities. It’s also an impressive place to see. Its towering skyscrapers, islands and long bridges are an attraction in itself.

Many people visit Busan on a day trip from Seoul or another city. It’s very quick and easy to get to due to the high speed rail network, so you can easily pop to the south coast for a fun day out. In this Busan day trip guide, we share the top things to see and do in one day to ensure you make the most of your visit. It’s action-packed but full of places you can’t miss!

How to get to Busan from other South Korean cities:

When visiting Busan for a day trip, you’re likely travelling from Seoul, Daejeon, Gwangju, Jeju or another South Korean city. Busan has its own airport so you can fly there from Seoul and a few other cities. However, we’ve found that the very best method of transport is the high speed train, also known as the KTX. Bullet trains are amazingly fast and efficient in Korea. You avoid the transit times of getting to and from the airport and it’s almost always a quicker option.

For a Busan day trip, the train is the most convenient option. You’ll get a lot more time to explore Busan and have flexibility on the time you’ll return to your departure city.

Here are the journey times to Busan by train from popular destinations:

From Seoul: 2 hours 20 minutes

From Daejeon: 1 hour 25 minutes

From Gwangju: 1 hour 50 minutes

Is one day enough time to explore Busan?

Busan is a city home to 3.6 million people . It’s a way bigger place than you can imagine and you’ll soon see its huge scale when you arrive. As such, it has a seemingly endless number of things to do. Koreans are great at imagining unique and entertaining attractions and Busan is full of them. Beaches, theme parks, markets, ski slopes, hiking trails, art exhibits and music festivals are just some of the things to do in Busan. There’s also the historic and cultural attractions, including the must-visit Haedong Yonggungsa temple.

You can easily stay in Busan for a week and not see everything. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t see a lot in one day. In a Busan day trip, you can still experience some of the city’s best attractions and get a taste of city life by the beach. Arrive into Busan early and leave late to make the most of your visit. Continue reading for a sample one day in Busan itinerary.

How to get around in Busan

Public transport is very good in Busan. There’s a well-connected metro route, as well as frequent public buses that cover all attractions in the city. You also have local taxis that can be flagged down and rideshare apps such as Kakao T, or the car rental option. Uber is also available in Busan, but it’s often more expensive that taxis.

As time in Busan is limited for your 1 day Busan itinerary and you want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time, getting around by taxi is the best option. Taxis are quite affordable in South Korea and you can find them all over Busan. Catching the metro and walking is the budget-friendly option if you don’t want to use taxis all day.

Our 1 day Busan itinerary           

Busan songdo marine cable car.

As soon as you arrive in Busan, we recommend heading to the seaside, to an attraction known as Songdo Marine Cable Car. This short but scenic cable car ride takes you across the bay to Songdo Sky Park. The views of Busan’s beaches, bridges and skyscrapers from the cable car are a great welcome to the city! You’ll instantly see how picturesque and vast it is.

Once you arrive at Songdo Sky Park, there are a handful of things to see. Check out the art exhibits, grab a snack from a street food stand or go for a walk through the park. It has a number of giant dinosaur sculptures! The highlight of the park is an elevated viewing deck that hangs off the side of a cliff. Brave the metal walkways for a nice view of the coastline.

Once you’ve explored Songdo Sky Park, you can return to Songdo Station on the cable car.

Songdo Cloud Trails

Once you step off the cable car, it’s worth heading downstairs to a series of walkways known as the Songdo Cloud Trails. They’re right next to the cable car station. The Cloud Trails is a unique set of raised platforms that stretch out over the sea, providing a beautiful seaside backdrop as you walk.

Find Busan tours on Get Your Guide

Gamcheon culture village.

Gamcheon Culture Village is unlike the rest of Busan and is a must-visit attraction for any 1 day in Busan itinerary. Nestled to the west of the modern city centre, this traditional village is built on the hillside. Constructed in the 1920’s to provide homes to the working class, it’s known for its many coloured buildings, stacked up against each other to form a vibrant neighbourhood. Today, it’s still a residential neighbourhood, but it’s also a popular tourist attractions.

Head to Gamcheon Culture Village and walk the narrow streets on foot. It has a number of nice photo opportunities, viewpoints and cafes.

Busan Old Town street food stalls

By this time on your 1 day in Busan day trip, it’s probably approaching lunchtime. We’re sure you’ll be desperate to try Busan’s foodie delights! For a tasty lunch-on-the-go, we recommend visiting BIFF Square . The original home of Busan International Film Festival, this central hub and the surrounding streets have numerous street food stands, each with a bright red and yellow colour. You’ll find plenty of delicious Korean dishes, plus a few dishes local to the area. Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup with Rice) is a local favourite.

Take time wandering around the street food market, grabbing a drink in a café or doing a spot of shopping. This area is host to a plethora of fashion stores, gift shops and market stalls.

Haeundae Blueline Park train and coastal walk

Busan is a city with attractions that centre around its gorgeous coastline. One of the best ways to see the coast is using the highly popular Haeundae Blueline Park line. The train and colourful ‘Sky Capsules’ take you along a scenic coastal route that looks out at the sea. It’s a relaxing experience with beautiful scenery and is a welcome break from all the walking.

If you’d prefer to get some exercise, you can choose to walk the coastal path instead of boarding the train. The path and train line stretch all the way to Songjeong Station to the east, with plenty of viewpoints and photo spots along the way. Be sure to book tickets for the Blueline Park train in advance. They can sell out on busy days!

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

The absolute must-see attraction on your Busan 1 day itinerary is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. It’s one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in the country, famous for its cliffside location. Hadong Yonggungsa sits a little further along the coast from the Blueline Park Songjeong Station, so you can easily get to the temple by taxi from the station.

Wander around the temple grounds to discover ornate buildings, Buddhist shrines, a colourful array of lanterns and numerous statues and viewpoints. The temple was built in 1376 and is one of South Korea’s most historic and cultural attractions.

Haeundae Beach

Busan has many beaches, but none of them are quite as famous as Haeundae Beach. As the main destination for festivals, music concerts, award ceremonies and more, Haeundae Beach is a bustling place to visit no matter the time of the day. By this time on your Busan day trip, it’s likely approaching late afternoon/early evening. This is the perfect time for a sunset stroll along the Haeundae Beach promenade.

Explore the beach area at your leisure and soak in the atmosphere. There’s always an event happening at Haeundae and the sunset views make it a nice place to start your evening.

Gwangalli Drone Show and Gwangalli Beach

You’re likely getting tired after a long but fun day in Busan. For evening dinner and entertainment, we recommend heading along to Gwangalli Beach. This popular tourist resort area has a long sandy beach with a stunning view of Busan’s bridges and city skyline. It also has an endless array of restaurants, serving up everything from Italian and Mexican cuisine, to some excellent local food.

Gwangalli Beach is the best place in the city to catch the Busan evening drone show, which takes place every Saturday. It’s a 10-minute light show where hundreds of drones light up the evening sky, forming a series of shapes and objects to the sound of music. It’s a cool site to see if you’re visiting on a weekend. If you’re not visiting Busan on a Saturday, there are plenty of nice bars, cafes and a walking promenade to check out.

Our top tips for visiting Busan on a day trip

• Arrive into Busan as early as possible to make the most of your day. There’s a lot to see and do in a short period of time!
• Try not to rush around too much or include too many items in your Busan day trip itinerary. It’s best to see attractions properly and enjoy your day rather than tiring yourself out. Adjust your itinerary to suit the duration of your visit.
• Grab a lunch or dinner on-the-go to save money and spend more time exploring the local attractions.
• Use taxis to maximise the number of attractions you can see during your day trip. Public transport is excellent but it might take you longer to get around.
• Bring snacks with you or stock up at the train station before setting off on your Busan adventure.
• Use Google Maps to pin offline attractions, restaurants and other points of interest. That way, you’ll never get lost. You should also download the Korean alternative to Google Maps, Kakao Maps. This app gives you accurate directions for driving, walking and public transport.
• Book attraction tickets in advance, especially for attractions such as the cable car, Sky Capsule and beach train. You’ll spend less time queuing and are guaranteed entry. Some attractions sell out on busy days.
• Visit on a weekday over the weekend for less crowds.
• Avoid visiting in the summer months to experience less crowds, traffic and waiting times. Busan is a very popular summer holiday destination for Koreans.
• Research restaurant options before arrival and have a few options planned out in each area you visit. This will increase your chance of having a good meal and you won’t waste time searching on the spot.

Thanks for reading our Busan day trip itinerary and guide! We hope we inspired you with the best places to visit in a short amount of time and you can now plan your own day trip. Busan is an amazing South Korean city to visit no matter your interests and we’re confident you’ll leave with great memories. If you have any questions about travelling Busan or any of the items we’ve included in our guide, be sure to post a comment below. 😊

Check out our other South Korea travel guides for more inspiration.

BY RICKY MARSHALL

An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.

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Comments (2)

For a 2 day stay in Busan, any recommendation for accommodation? Area? Air B&B’S

Hello Karin,

Here are some suggestions:

– If you want to see the old city and be near the markets, stay near Seomyeon. This area is best as it’s in the heart of the city centre. – Hyundae beach and Gwangan beach are great if you want to relax and have a beachy holiday, but still want to be near public transport to older attractions. – Hotels near the train station are also handy, especially if you’re coming by train.

Unless you’re renting a car, it can be difficult to get around in Busan, so your best bet is to stay as locally as possible. Staying in Seomyeon will allow that and make getting around much easier for you 🙂

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THE BEST Day Trips from Seoul to Busan

Day trips from seoul to busan.

• Seoul to Gapyeong-gun
• Seoul to Paju
• Seoul to Yongin
• Seoul to Chuncheon
• Seoul to Busan
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Korea at a Glance 7days 6nights

2. Busan Trip with a Local 2 Days 1 Night

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Incheon Open Day Tour

Full Day Tour at Incheon Gangwha Island

SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

How to get to Busan from Seoul (/Incheon Airport)

How long does it takes from Seoul Station to Busan Station on KTX Bullet Train ?

2hrs 15 mins to 3 hours based on the departure train.

Seoul to Busan KTX Train Network Map on Gyeongbu Line

What is the KTX Bullet Train Fare from Seoul to Busan?

Economy Class (with reserve seat) : ₩59,800 (adult) / ₩29,900 (child age 6-12)

First Class (with reserve seat) : ₩83,700 (adult) / ₩53,800 (child)

Economy Class (non-reserve seat): ₩50,800 (adult) / ₩25,400 (child)

How much is the KORAIL PASS for Tourist Only?

For foreigners with two or more adults travelling together on a round trip to Busan (i.e. Seoul to Busan and Busan back to Seoul ), you may like to consider purchasing the cheaper KORAIL PASS - 2 Day Select Pass (Saver Pass) at ₩ 121,000 per pax.

A return economy ticket with reserve seat from Seoul to Busan costs: ₩119,600 (₩59,800 x 2 ways). Though there is only a basic saving of ₩ 700  per pax with KORAIL PASS , you can have unlimited stops on your travel dates without additional charge. Popular stops between Seoul and Busan along Gyeongbu Line include Suwon Station (for Suwon Hwaseong Fortress ), Singyeongju Station (for Gyeongju , ancient capital of Silla Dynasty ) and  Ulsan Station .

Also, with KORAIL PASS , you can make advance seat reservations and get your e-ticket online easily! This is particularly useful if you are travelling during peak season or public holiday. KORAIL PASS allows up to 2 seat reservations per person, per day with additional train segments on non-reserved seats.

Where to buy the KORAIL PASS & Get your Instant Train Ticket Online?

1. You can purchase the KORAIL PASS on KORAIL official website  or easily on KLOOK   (recommended for better support on your reservation, if required)  Once you have purchased your pass online, you will receive the e-pass via email.

​​Korea Rail Pass: KTX Bullet Train (BUSAN⇌SEOUL)

★tourist exclusive: 2, 3, 4 or 5 days / instant pass issuance / online seat reservation

2. Next, to book your preferred train schedule (date/time) and select your seat, go to ' Rail Tickets ' section of KORAIL website to book your train ticket to Busan . You will receive your e-ticket via email as well.

3. Print out both your KORAIL e-pass and e-ticket (to present together with your passport on board the train when inspected). Yes, that's all you need!

KTX (around 2.5hrs) is the fastest and direct bullet train from Seoul to Busan compared to the slower Mugunghwa (5hrs+) and  ITX Saemaul (4hrs+) trains.

Ticket reservation available one month in advance based on your travel date.

No KORAIL PASS or Ticket redemption required in Seoul / Busan at all (since end 2017). Just book online and board the train!

How to get from Incheon Airport to Busan?

Infrequent bus services operate from Incheon Airport to Busan (5.5hrs, ₩44,900 - ₩46,000).

There is no direct train from Incheon Airport to Busan . A train transfer is required at Seoul (Station) to Busan (Station) . The AREX Express Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul is not covered by the KORAIL PASS . Non-stop AREX Express Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul takes 43 mins from Terminal 1 and 51 mins from Terminal 2 , ₩9,500. AREX Train (non express) that stops by 13 subway stations takes 58 mins (T1, ₩4150) and 66 mins (T2, ₩4750).

AREX Incheon Airport Express Train 1 Way Ticket (ICN airport ⇄ Seoul Station)

Airport T1: 43 mins / T2: 51 mins

Recommendations:

If you plan to return to Seoul after Busan , you may like to consider to check in your accommodation at Seoul first. This way, you can leave your luggage in Seoul and travel to Busan on a lighter overnight pack later.

Other Related Useful Information

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets

➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.

Lotte World Adventure Busan 1 Day Pass

1st theme park in Busan!

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Beach Train

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Culture Villages

Skyline Luge Busan Ticket

✚panoramic view sky rides

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule

Haeundae Busan X the Sky Observatory (98-100F)

largest observatory in Korea

Gyeongju Old Capital Day Tour

Bulguksa Temple, Gyochon Village, Woljeong Bridge, Daereungwon, Wolji Pond++

Busan Premium Yacht Tour (optional private tour)

polaroid photography, snacks & refreshment

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider.

🌸SPRING HOT PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences in Busan

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Korea's biggest spring festival

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29 Mar - 7 Apr 2024

local favourite destinations

Jinhae Pink Cherry Blossom Festival Day & Night Tour (from Busan)

22 Mar - 5 Apr 2024

largest spring festival in Korea!

Chasing Cherry Blossoms/Spring Flowers Day Tour

25 Mar - 7 Apr 2024

3 best cherry blossom & spring flowers sites

Busan Cherry Blossom & Spring Flowers Day Tour

25 Mar - 8 Apr 2024

4 destinations in Busan

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom & Spring Flowers Day Tour

24 Mar - 7 Apr 2024

7 destinations in Gyeongju!

Other KoreaToDo Travel Tips that you may like:

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Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

All the insider's travel tips in Korea

Seoul & Busan Travel Guide | 7-Day Itinerary

Seoul and Busan are two of the most popular destinations in South Korea, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient history and modern urbanism. Seoul , the capital of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, while Busan , located on the southeastern coast of the country, boasts stunning beaches and scenic landscapes. In this blog, we’ll provide a suggested 4-day itinerary for exploring Seoul and a 3-day itinerary for exploring Busan.

Seoul 4-Day Itinerary

Check Out Hassle-Free Tours to Explore Seoul!

• Seoul City Tour Bus Ticket
• Seoul Highlights: Must-Visit Spots 1-Day Tour
• Mastering Seoul in 1 Day Group Tour
• Seoul Private City Tour – 1 Day Private Van Tour from Seoul/ICN
• Seoul Custom Private City Tour – Pick up from Incheon Airport

Day 1: Historical and Cultural Sites

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   경복궁(@gyeongbokgung_palace_official)님의 공유 게시물

Start your day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace , the largest and most famous palace in Seoul. You can catch the changing of the guard ceremony at the palace gate. Don’t forget to stop by Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream as well!

[Top Things to Do at Gyeongbokgung Palace]

• Gyeongbokgung / Deoksugung Palace Half Day Tour
• Korean Palace Tour
• Seoul Walking Tour: Gyeongbokgung, Seochon Village & Tongin Market
• Modern Hanbok Rental & Photoshoot at Gyeongbokgung Palace

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   범군(@ksb0423)님의 공유 게시물

In the afternoon, head to Bukchon Hanok Village , a traditional Korean neighborhood with well-preserved houses from the Joseon Dynasty. The village is located in the heart of Seoul and offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life.

[Top Things to Do at Bukchon Hanok Village]

• Bukchon Hanok Village Walking Tour
• Traditional Knot Ornament Making Experience in Bukchon Hanok Village
• DIY Mother-of-Pearl Experience in Bukchon Hanok Village
• Seoul Kimchi Making Class in Bukchon Hanok Village

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   도넛정수 익선(@donutjungsu_ikseon)님의 공유 게시물

Next, explore Insadong, Samcheongdong, and Ikseondong, three historic neighborhoods in Seoul, each with its own unique character and charm.

Insadong is located in the heart of Seoul and is known for its traditional Korean arts and crafts. The neighborhood is lined with galleries, antique shops, and tea houses, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

[Top Things to Do in Insadong]

• Make Your Own Stamp in Insadong
• Make Your Own Korean Stamp Seal in Insadong
• Write Your Name in Korean on a T-shirt in Insadong
• Insadong Half Day Walking Food Tour
• Korean Calligraphy & Hanging Scroll Making Class

Samcheongdong is a quaint and charming neighborhood, known for its traditional architecture, narrow alleys, and boutique shops. Visiting the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA) is highly recommended to art lovers.

Ikseondong is a hidden gem in Seoul, located just north of Insadong. It’s a historic neighborhood that has recently been revitalized with trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops. The neighborhood’s traditional Korean houses (hanok) have been beautifully restored, making it a popular destination for photographers and Instagrammers. Ikseondong is also known for its nightlife, with many bars and street foods opening up in the area in recent years.

[Top Things to Do in Ikseondong]

• Insadong & Ikseondong Hanok Village & Food Tour

Day 2: Modern Seoul

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   Trazy – Korea’s #1 Travel Shop(@trazy_korea)님의 공유 게시물

Start your day at Lotte World , an amusement park that features indoor and outdoor rides and attractions. You can also stop by  Lotte World Aquarium , which is inside the Lotte Mall. In the evening, head to the  Lotte World Tower , the tallest building in South Korea, for stunning views of the city at night. Don’t forget to walk around Seokchon Lake Park and enjoy cafe hopping at  Songnidan-gil Street !

[Top Things to Do in Jamsil]

• Lotte World Discount Ticket
• Lotte World & Aquarium Combo Discount Tickets
• Lotte World Indoor Ice Rink Discount Ticket (+ Folk Museum)
• Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Discount Tickets
• Korean School Uniform Rental near Lotte World
• Acrylic Painting Class with Drinks Class in Jamsil

[Kid-friendly Places in Jamsil]

• KidZania Seoul Discount Ticket
• Super Wings Kids Cafe in Jamsil

Then visit COEX Mall , one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, spanning over 85,000 square meters and featuring over 300 stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. It’s also adjacent to the COEX Aquarium , which is a popular tourist attraction. The Starfield Library, a famous Instagrammable library located in the COEX Mall, is a must-visit destination for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

[Top Things to Do in Samseongdong]

• COEX Aquarium Discount Ticket
• VAUNCE Trampoline Park Seoul Samseong Center Discount Ticket

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   오한솔 · HANSOL OH(@hansol_foto)님의 공유 게시물

End your day by exploring the Gangnam district , the heart of modern Seoul with high-end fashion shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

[Top Things to Do in Gangnam]

• Neon Sign Making Class in Gangnam & Hongdae
• K-pop Dance Lesson in Gangnam
• Make Your Own K-pop Recording in Gangnam
• [Trazy Local Host] Seoul Food & Nightlife: Discover Hidden Gems of Gangnam

Day 3: Food and Culture

Begin your day with a traditional Korean breakfast at Gwangjang Market , one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Korea, with a history dating back to the early 20th century. The market is particularly famous for its bindaetteok, a type of savory Korean pancake made with ground mung beans, meat, and vegetables, which is often considered a quintessential Seoul street food.

[Best Ways to Explore Gwangjang Market]

• Seoul Night Group Tour: Gwangjang Market + Changgyeonggung Palace + Naksan Park
• Night Food Tour in Euljiro
• Insadong & Gwangjang Market Food Tour

Next, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) , a futuristic landmark designed by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. You can stop by Dongdaemun Market, which is famous for its wide selection of clothing, accessories, and textiles at affordable prices.

[Best Ways to Explore Dongdaemun]

• Seoul at Night: Special City Night Private Tour
• Seoul Travel Snap Photoshoot

In the evening, head to Myeongdong , a bustling shopping district that is famous for its street food and shopping. You can try some Korean delicacies like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Also, visit N Seoul Tower, the landmark of Seoul, and admire a panoramic view of the city.

[Top Things to Do in Myeongdong] 

• Cookin’ NANTA Show Seoul Discount Ticket
• Park Jun Beauty Lab Hair Salon in Myeongdong
• O HUI & Whoo Spa Beauty Care Package
• Women’s Mud Massage & Sauna Experience in Myeongdong

[Best Ways to Enjoy N Seoul Tower]

• N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket
• N Seoul Tower Namsan Cable Car Weekdays Round-trip Ticket
• 2024 N Seoul Tower Wine Fair (Mar 23)

Day 4: Day trip to the DMZ

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   Rebeca Hernandez(@rebeca_p_hernandez)님의 공유 게시물

On the last day, take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) , which is the border between North and South Korea. The DMZ is a heavily guarded and fortified area that serves as a buffer zone between the two countries. You can take a guided tour of the area and learn about the history of the Korean War.

[Best Ways to Visit DMZ]

• DMZ Half Day Tour – Experience One of the Deepest Tragedies in Korean History
• DMZ Tour with DMZ Gondola from Seoul
• DMZ & Ganghwa Island 1 Day Tour from Seoul
• DMZ & Suspension Bridge 1 Day Tour from Seoul (Join-in/Private)
• DMZ + Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Full Day Tour
• DMZ Tour + Q&A Session with a North Korean Defector
• Paju / Gimpo / Cheorwon DMZ 1 Day Tour from Seoul
• DMZ Private 1-Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul ↔ DMZ Shuttle Bus

After your day trip to DMZ, visit one of the Han River Parks , which are located along the banks of the Han River, which flows through the heart of the city. These parks provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and offer a variety of activities and attractions for locals and tourists alike.

[Find Out Fun Activities on Han River]

• Han River E-land Ferry Cruise (Day & Night)

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   이성우 📷 도시 여행 사진가 , 인테리어 , 건축 , 야경 사진(@korea_nightview)님의 공유 게시물

Celebrate your last night in Hongdae , a neighborhood known for its youthful energy, creative atmosphere, and lively nightlife. The area is particularly popular among young people, artists, and musicians, and is a hub for the local indie music scene.

[Top Things to Do in Hongdae]

• Make Your Own Custom Ring/Bracelet/Necklace in Hongdae
• Make Your Own Cosmetics (Skincare products/Lipsticks) near Hongdae
• Seoul Nightlife Tour: Pub Crawl

[Best K-beauty Services in Hongdae]

• Hair & Joy Hair Salon  
• OU Hair Salon
• The Days Hair Salon
• OU Nail Salon
• Hey Object Nail Art

Busan 3-Day Itinerary

Check Out Hassle-Free Ways to Travel to Busan from Seoul!

• Korail Pass (KR Pass) Unlimited KTX & Train Rides
• Express Bus Ticket Reservation: Seoul ↔ Busan/Daegu/Gyeongju/Jeonju/Gwangju/Sokcho/Gangneung
• Visit Busan in 1 Day from Seoul (Round-trip KTX tickets included)

Check Out 1 Day Tour Packages in Busan!

• Busan City Tour Bus Discount Ticket
• Busan City 1 Day Tour (+ Yacht Tour/Sky Capsule/Beach Train option)
• Busan Day & Night Full Day Group Tour
• Busan 1 Day Private Tour (Van/Minibus/Big Bus)
• Busan Highlights: Must-Visit Photo Spots 1 Day Tour
• Busan Instagram Spots 1 Day Small Group Tour

Day 2: Markets and Landmarks

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   먹사빠(@muksabba)님의 공유 게시물

Begin your day by exploring Jagalchi Market , the largest seafood market in Korea. Jagalchi Market is known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, squid, octopus, clams, and more. It is located near other popular attractions in Busan, such as Gukje Market and BIFF Square.

[Special Tours & Activities at Jagalchi Fish Market]

• Jagalchi Fish Market & Korean Food Market Tour with a Local Chef in Busan
• Private Korean Food Master Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Busan

[Check Out More Cooking Classes in Busan]

• Traditional Korean Food Cooking Class in Busan
• Busan Local Food Cooking Class & Market Tour with a Local Chef

Next, visit the Busan Tower , a symbol of Busan’s urban development. The tower is located in Yongdusan Park, which also features an observatory, a museum, and a cultural center. You can witness a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the city.

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   감성교차로🌐(@gamsungcross)님의 공유 게시물

Finally, explore the Gamcheon Culture Village , a colorful village built on a hillside. Known as the “Manchu Picchu of Busan”, the village was originally a shantytown, but in recent years it has been transformed into a popular tourist destination and a hub for the local arts scene.

[Best Ways to Explore Gamcheon Culture Village]

• Busan Walking Tour: Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Seafood Market & Yongdusan Park
• BTS Pilgrimage Tour in Busan: Follow the Footsteps of Jimin, Jungkook & V

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   ᴊɪʜʏᴜɴఇ(@__e.zzi)님의 공유 게시물

In the morning, take a scenic walk along the Taejongdae cliffs , a beautiful natural landmark overlooking the ocean. The park features several hiking trails, a lighthouse, and a beautiful beach.

Then head to Oryukdo Sunrise Park and Oryukdo Skywalk , two popular attractions located in the Nam-gu district of Busan. Oryukdo Sunrise Park is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Oryukdo Skywalk is a glass-bottomed walkway that extends out from a cliff and offers visitors stunning views of the ocean and surrounding coastline.

  Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기   Busanpedia – Every corner of Busan, Korea(@busanpedia)님의 공유 게시물

End your trip in Busan at the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple , a seaside temple with stunning views of the ocean. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, which combines traditional Korean temple design with elements of the natural surroundings, such as the rocky cliffs and the sea.

Check Out More Itinerary Blogs on Trazy!

• Seoul Trip 5-Day Itinerary
• Seoul Trip 10-Day Itinerary
• Jeju Island Trip 3-Day Itinerary
• Busan Trip 3-Day Itinerary
• Seoul & Jeju Island Triop 7-Day Itinerary

Seoul and Busan offer visitors a wide variety of experiences, from exploring historical and cultural sites to relaxing on beautiful beaches. For more travel tips on your Korea trip, check out Trazy.com , Korea’s #1 Travel Shop !

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All about seoul to busan route, extend your travel plans, about our website, stations & tickets.

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TRAVELING ELSEWHERE?

2 Day Busan Itinerary For First Timers (+Interactive Map)

So you’re headed to the vibrant coastal city of Busan?! If you’re a first-time visitor eager to make the most of your short time in this dynamic destination, you’re in the right place. I’ve crafted the perfect 2 day Busan itinerary that will take you on a journey through Busan’s top attractions, must-visit neighborhoods, and hidden gems.

I first visited Busan on a trip to South Korea and Japan and it was one of my favorite cities of the trip! I think it is such an underrated destination so if you’re on the fence, this is your sign to book your ticket – you won’t regret it!

There is just so much to do and see here – from stunning beaches and a fantastic shopping scene to epic markets and scenic temples.

With so much to see and so little time, careful planning is essential. Below is my perfect 2 days in Busan itinerary that will give you a taste of the best sights!

Busan Travel Essentials

• Now, staying connected is a must, right? Pick up a  4G SIM card with unlimited data  (KT) or  4G SIM  (SKT) at  Seoul or Busan  airport. But if you prefer to connect multiple devices, rent a  4G Pocket WiFi . Reserve in advance to save time!
• Grab your  T Money Card from the airport  to make getting around South Korea a breeze. Your T Money card is your ticket to Korea’s subways, buses and taxis. Easily top up your card at the subway station machines. 
• Buy a  discounted KTX pass  for unlimited high-speed train rides. It’ll whisk you from  Seoul to Busan  in under 2.5 hours. Now, that’s the way to travel!
• Book your airport pickup  in advance for a fast and comfortable journey to your accommodation
• Google Maps ,  Rome 2 Rio  and  Kakao Maps  will be your best friends for getting around South Korea

2 Day Busan Itinerary: Day 1

Get ready for a jam-packed first day in Busan!

Make sure to wear comfy shoes!

📍 Gamcheon Culture Village

Kickstart your day with one of my favorite spots in Busan!

Starting from Seomyeon, hop on the Busan Metro Line 1 at Seomyeon Station, headed for Toseong Station.

Take exit 6 , clearly marked for Gamcheon Culture Village, and turn right onto the main road. 

Follow the road uphill, passing Busan University Hospital, until you spot the first bus stop—a spot usually busy with other tourists. Numerous buses depart from here, but to head to Gamcheon Culture Village hop on Bus 2, Bus 2-2, or Bus 1-1 .

Don’t forget your trusty T Money Card, you cannot pay cash on the bus!

When you arrive take loads of photos from various viewpoints, wander through the alleys, and seek out stunning quirky murals that paint the village. 

The best plan for exploring Gamcheon is no plan!

📍 Location: Gamcheon Cultural Village Visitor Center 203, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan 🗓️ Visitor Centre Opening Hours: March-November 9 am -6 pm, December-February 9 am – 5 pm 💲 Free Entrance!

📍 Jagalachi Fish Markets

After a few hours at Gamcheon, catch Bus 1-1 back to Toseong Station . Board Busan Metro Line 1 from Toseong Station to Jagalachi Station.

When you arrive, soak in the bustling atmosphere, savoring the freshest seafood from sashimi to grilled fish. Don’t pass up the chance to try the market’s renowned hoe (raw fish). This is the perfect spot to grab some lunch!

Make it a point to explore both the indoor and outdoor sections of this expansive market. And remember the indoor markets are closed on Tuesdays!

📍 Location: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea 🗓️ Opening Hours: Weds-Mon 5 am -10 pm. Closed on Tuesday. 💲 Free Entrance!

📍 BIFF Square and Busan Tower

From Jagalachi Fish Market, take a short walk to BIFF Square , a hub for shopping and entertainment. Window shop, absorb the lively atmosphere, and delve into the film-themed attractions that characterize the square.

If you aren’t a fan of seafood, you can grab a bite to eat here, I recommend Egg Drop for a flavor-packed egg sandwich!

Next, head towards Busan Tower, a short walk from BIFF Square.

The views are absolutely worth it. See the colorful cultural villages, the ocean, and the uniform apartment buildings from a bird’s eye view.

📍 Location: Busan Tower, 37-55 Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea 🗓️ Opening Hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm 💲From 12,000 won

📍 Lotte Department Store or Seomyeon Shopping!

To finish off the first day of this 2 day Busan itinerary, you’ve got 2 options – both involving shopping!

Cause what trip is complete without a little window shopping?

Option 1: Lotte Department Store

Indulge in a retail therapy extravaganza at the Lotte Department Store, where you’ll find fashion, cosmetics, gourmet delicacies, and more.

Lose yourself in the endless aisles of luxury brands and trendy boutiques, and don’t forget to grab dinner at one of the many restaurants within the store.

📍 Location: 772 Gaya-daero, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea 🗓️ Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs 10:30 am – 8 pm, Fri – Sun 10:30 am – 8:30 pm 💲Free Entrance

Option 2: Shop and Dine in Seomyeon

My personal pick as I love Seomyeon.

Wander around the streets lined with shops, boutiques, and markets catering to every style and budget.

After an afternoon of shopping, unwind with a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants. Korean BBQ perhaps?

⭐ Love my travel guides and itineraries? I’m here to design a custom itinerary tailored to your travel dreams! Fill out the contact form below, and let’s plan your dream trip! ⭐

⏬ Custom Travel Itineraries Enquiry Form ⏬

➡️  Learn more about my custom travel itinerary services here .

2 Day Busan Itinerary: Day 2

Day 2 of your Busan adventure brings a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty as you explore Haeundae Beach and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. 

Here’s how to make the most of your day.

📍 Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a unique coastal temple perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. 

The temple is a little further out from Seomyeon but you have a few options to get here.

The first option is to jump in a 20-minute taxi for a quick and easy ride.

The second option is public transport which will take a little over an hour. I recommend catching Line 2 from Seomyeon Station to Haeunde Beach and then catching Bus 1001 from Haeunde Beach to Dongbusan Tourist Complex . From there it’s about a 10-minute walk to the temple.

When you arrive, explore the temple’s beautiful architecture, visit the pagoda, and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean.

Don’t forget to make a wish at the Wishing Pond.

📍 Location: 81 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea 🗓️ Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs 10:30 am – 8 pm, Fri – Sun 10:30 am – 8:30 pm 💲Free Entrance

📍 Haeundae Beach

Hop back on Bus 1001 to head back to Haeunde Beach, it’s time to relax and soak in some vitamin D!

Spend some time lying in the sun, swimming, and exploring the beachfront cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Grab some lunch and rest your feet.

📍 Location: 264, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan 💲Free

📍 Haeunde Blueline Skypark

Walk around 15 minutes to Haunde Blueline Skypark for a fun little adventure!

The Sky Capsule is a cute way to see the views of the Haeunde Coast as you travel from Haeundae Blueline Mipo Station to Cheongsapo Station.

📍 Location: 3 Dalmaji-gil 62beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea 🗓️ Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 am – 8:30 pm 💲2 Person Sky Capsule One-Way: 30,000 Won

📍 Gwangalli Beach

The final stop on our 2 day Busan itinerary is Gwangalli Beach in the evening.

When the sun sets, the Gwangan Bridge lights up, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable last evening in Busan.

Grab some dinner with a view of the beach at Clam Gwangalli for a Spanish feast or Sol Tap House for a beer and pizza.

📍 Location: 200-21 Gwangan 2(i)-dong, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea 💲Free

2 Days in Busan Interactive Map

Bookmark the below map of this 2 day Busan itinerary so you can pull it out on the go!

Is 2 days in Busan enough?

While spending 2 days here allows you to cover many of the city’s highlights (especially with my ultimate 2 day Busan itinerary!), it may not be quite enough to explore every corner.

However, with careful planning and prioritization of attractions, you can still enjoy a fulfilling visit to Busan within this timeframe.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, eating your way through the markets, or visiting the stunning temples, 2 days in Busan can offer a taste of what the city has to offer, leaving you eager to return for more adventures in the future.

❗  Don’t forget your travel insurance! I highly recommend  World Nomads  for its affordable and comprehensive cover

Where to stay in Busan

Deciding between Haeundae and Seomyeon in Busan posed quite a dilemma.

In the end, I opted for Seomyeon because of its central location and convenient access to both Lines 1 & 2 on the metro.

If you’re all about packed itineraries like I am, Seomyeon is the way to go.

To my surprise, the city truly exceeded my expectations with its abundance of trendy spots, restaurants, and shops scattered throughout. Staying here turned out to be a fantastic choice!

However, if leisurely beach strolls or sunset cocktails are more your speed, Haeundae might be the better fit.

Top 3 Recommended Stays in Busan

• ⭐  Shire Hotel Seomyeon (Where I stayed) : The perfect affordable hotel near the metro
• Lotte Hotel Busan : The best luxury hotel in Seomyeon
• Felix by STX Hotel & Suite Haeunde : Mid-range hotel near Haeunde beach with all the amenities

How To Get To Busan

Getting to Busan is super easy, with multiple options.

• By Air: Gimhae International Airport (PUS) serves domestic and international flights. Airport limousine buses, taxis, and the Gimhae Light Rail Transit (GLRT) provide easy access to downtown Busan.
• By Train : Take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul to Busan , with a journey time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Mugunghwa and Saemaeul trains offer slower but more economical options. Busan Station is centrally located for onward travel.
• By Bus: Inter-city buses operated by companies like KOBUS offer comfortable and affordable transport from cities across South Korea.
• By Car : If you prefer complete flexibility you can rent a car and drive to Busan via well-connected national highways like the Gyeongbu Expressway (Route 1) or the Yeongdong Expressway (Route 50). Parking facilities are available throughout the city.

Want to explore more of South Korea? Check out my 10 day South Korea itinerary!

How To Get Around For Your 2 Days in Busan

We’ve briefly touched on how you’re going to get around on this 2 day Busan itinerary but I wanted to dive a little deeper so you can have a smooth, hiccup-free experience.

Riding the Busan Metro

Navigating Busan’s Metro system is both convenient and easy to navigate. Trust me, if I can do it, so can you!

With well-connected subway lines covering major attractions and neighborhoods, you can easily hop on and off to reach your desired destinations.

And all the signs are available in both Korean and English so you can ditch Google Translate!

I recommend purchasing a T-money card for a more seamless and cost-effective journey. Purchase yours from a convenience store or pre-purchase it and pick it up at the airport .

Taking a Taxi in Busan

For a more flexible and direct mode of getting around consider taking a taxi in Busan. I suggest downloading Kakao Taxi App , I found this the easiest way to grab a taxi.

There aren’t any Ubers in South Korea, instead, Kakao is the way to go. And I found the prices to be quite cheap!

So if you have an early morning flight to catch or are really tight on time trying to squeeze in loads of attractions, don’t be afraid to jump in a taxi.

Renting a Car

If you prefer the freedom to explore Busan and its surrounding areas at your own pace, you might be considering renting a car.

➡️ Rent your car on DiscoverCars

With well-maintained roads and highways, navigating Busan by car is relatively easy, allowing you to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems.

Although… Busan is notorious for haveing some pretty aggressive drivers , plus as it is a city of 3.5 million so expect some traffic. I would only recommend renting a car if you are a very confident driver or are planning to head out of the city on day trips.

For 2 days in Busan, sticking to a combination of taxis and public transport will be your best bet.

FAQ’s: 2 Days in Busan

Moving onto some commonly asked questions about spending 2 days in Busan!

As always if you have more questions, feel free to pop them in the comments below.

Is Busan or Jeju better?

Well, that depends on your preferences!

Busan offers a vibrant city atmosphere with stunning beaches, bustling markets, and rich cultural experiences.

On the other hand, Jeju Island is home to breathtaking natural beauty, including picturesque landscapes, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches.

I’d go for Busan if you’re after loads of activities with a balance of both city and beach. Or if you’re after a peaceful retreat that is all about getting out in nature, Jeju Island won’t disappoint.

Which is more beautiful Seoul or Busan?

Seoul and Busan are actually quite different!

Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is known for its modern skyscrapers, ancient palaces, and bustling street markets.

While Busan has a wonderful balance of scenic beaches, lush mountains, and cityscape.

Whether you prefer the dynamic energy of Seoul or the coastal charm of Busan, you’re sure to find beauty in both cities.

How many days should you spend in Busan?

Ideally, you should spend at least 3-5 days to fully explore its top attractions – trust me Busan is worth it!

This allows you enough time to visit iconic landmarks such as Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, and Jagalachi Fish Markets, as well as indulge in delicious local cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Of course, if you have more time to spare, there is so much more to see. Trust me you won’t get bored here!

Check out my 5 days in Busan itinerary!

Which month is best for Busan?

Busan is beautiful year-round! Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are popular choices, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season, with hot and humid weather perfect for beachgoers.

Busan in Winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for enjoying winter festivals and cozying up with hot drinks.

DO YOU HAVE THESE ITEMS FOR YOUR TRIP?

✔️ Flights: Book your flights on Skyscanner 

➡️ Car rental: Rent your car on DiscoverCars

✔️ Travel insurance:   I recommend World Nomads

➡️ Accommodations:   Book your stay at booking.com

✔️ Activities:   Arrange your adventure trips and tours

The Wrap-Up: 2 Day Busan Itinerary

For first-timers keen to make the most of their short stay, I hope this 2-day Busan itinerary will provide you with unforgettable taste of this standout destination.

From stunning beaches to great street-eats and scenic temples, Busan truly has something for everyone.

Happy trip planning!

Keep reading about South Korea travel!

Is Busan Worth Visiting: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Busan Seoul or Busan: Which City Should You Visit? Seoul or Tokyo: Which City Should You Visit? Busan 5 Day Itinerary: South Korea for First Timers Day Trip From Seoul to Busan – 1 Day Itinerary Is South Korea Safe For Female Travellers? A Complete Travel Guide The Ultimate South Korea Itinerary 10 Days! How Many Days in Busan Do You Need? The Perfect 4 Day in Busan Itinerary 16 Best Things to Do in Busan in Winter 2024 (+ Interactive Map!)

Olivia McDonald is the avid traveler and creator behind Defining Decade, a travel blog tailored for those navigating their 20s. As an Australian with a rich background in the travel industry, she brings her passion for exploration to life through Defining Decade. Having travelled to 20+ countries, primarily in Asia and Oceania, Olivia shares authentic stories and practical tips on her blog. Whether you work full time, are a digital nomad or an aspiring entrepreneur, Olivia will show you how to travel more in your 20’s.

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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!

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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!

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.

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

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

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

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

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 .

Blue Backpackers Hostel is one of our favourites in Busan but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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.

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!

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.

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 .

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Zen Moments in Korea

The best day trips from Busan – a complete list for 2024

There are so many perfect day trips from Busan that you will find it hard to choose only one or two when you have limited time in the city. After we visited Busan for 3 days we decided to go back and spend almost two weeks exploring its surroundings and the city in depth.

We know that many of you won’t have so much time available for Busan, thus choosing the right day trips is very important. That’s why we put together this comprehensive list of great destinations, easily reached in one day from Busan.

Whenever we choose a day trip, we don’t want to spend too much time on the road, and we also want to have plenty of things to do and see at the destination.

So if you are planning to spend a longer South Korean vacation, here are our favorite day trips from Busan, together with all the information you will need – how to get there, and what to do & see.

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our  disclosure page here .

A few useful tips for when you visit South Korea

• Book your AREX Airport Express Ticket ,
• Take the Airport Limousine Bus ,
• Book a private transfer ,
• or read everything about getting from Incheon to Hongdae , Myeongdong , Bukchon Hanok Village , or Gangnam .

Communication and transportation

• Book your SIM Card & T-Money Card with airport pickup
• See if you would rather buy a SIM card or pocket wifi for your trip
• Or get an eSIM card directly in your email, and learn everything you must know about getting around Seoul

Getting around South Korea

• Rent a car in advance – choose an international website where you can use your credit card. Read everything about driving in South Korea
• Travel by fast train and book a multiple-day Korea Rail Pass

Other useful tips & links

• Lugg a ge delivery service – have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel and take the all-stop train. It might be cheaper than taking a taxi.
• Luggage storage service
• Don’t travel without insurance – this is a World Wide Travel Health Insurance + Covid suitable for almost anyone, and easy to book. On top of that, they also provide luggage insurance in case your luggage gets lost or damaged. Get the best offer here!
• Accommodation guides : where to stay in Seoul , Busan , and everywhere in between
• Should you get the Discover Seoul Pass ? See our analysis and alternatives for saving on your trip

The best day trips from Busan – a complete list

Ahopsan forest (아홉산숲).

To be fair we had seen a bamboo forest in Boseong only a few months before, but the one at Ahopsan is bigger and much more impressive.

Ahopsan Forest is a beautiful and tranquil spot that covers an area of over 6,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Its lush vegetation includes trees like the Korean pine, fir, oak, and maple as well as various shrubs and wildflowers.

Ahopsan Forest also has many species of birds such as woodpeckers, owls, and eagles that can be seen flying around its sky-high canopy.

In addition to its diverse wildlife population, there are several trails for visitors to explore including one that leads up Mt. Yeongneung where you can take in stunning views from the top of this majestic mountain peak.

At the forest’s entrance, there is a small and simple cafe, surrounded by bamboo trees, offering a stunning view of the mountains.

We started our visit with a coffee and some local rice sweets on their beautiful terrace. Hidden next to the cafe there is also a tiny traditional hanok house, called Gwanmiheon (관미헌). The house is still inhabited, so respect the family’s privacy and keep quiet.

Of course, Ahopsan has been the filming set for many local movies and K-dramas such as Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo  or the movie Kundo.

There is a small entrance fee (5000 won when we visited), and they only allow a limited number of people inside at every hour. People don’t speak English and you get a map of the forest which is also only in Korean. However, we didn’t find it hard to visit.

Address:  부산광역시 기장군 철마면 미동길 37-1/ 37-1 Midong-gil, Cheolma-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan

How to get to Ahopsan Forest

Because we drove from Seoul to Busan for our long vacation, we had our car and we went for roughly one hour from Busan to Ahopsan Forest.

From Busan Central Bus Terminal you can take bus 2-3 from Exit 2 and travel for around 45 minutes to Midong Village .

Maybe our favorite village in South Korea, Gyeongju is easy to visit on a day trip from Busan.

We have a comprehensive guide for visiting Gyeongjy from Busan !

Gyeongju is a city in South Korea that has been described as “a museum without walls”.

It was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla, which ruled over much of the Korean Peninsula between 57 BC and 935 AD.

Today, Gyeongju is known for its many historic sites and attractions, ranging from royal tombs to Buddhist temples ( Bulguksa Temple , a bit outside of the city). These cultural relics have helped make Gyeongju one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from around the world who come to see some of Asia’s most impressive archaeological sites.

The city also boasts a vibrant local culture with plenty of opportunities to enjoy a variety of delicious regional dishes. As a matter of fact, in Gyeongju we had some of the best food in Korea – and we had plenty of delicious food there.

On top of it, restaurants are hosted in really nice traditional hanok houses, where you can feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

In the city, you can also find a cafe street, where you can hide from the rain as we did, or enjoy the view on a sunny day.

Other activities worth trying in Gyeongju

Traditional Soju Making Experience  – you don’t have to be a huge soju fan to learn how to make it. After all, this is the main drink in Korean culture, and it is always interesting to learn about local traditions.  See more about the experience here!

Paint Traditional Folk Illustrations on Folding Fans  – this is an experience worth trying when you would like to paint your own fan with traditional symbols. Learn about Korean traditional folk painting, and bring home a souvenir you have worked for.  See more here!

Want to learn how to make some of your favorite Korean dishes? Take a  cooking class  in the charming setting of Gyeongju! Start at the local traditional market, choose the best ingredients, then learn to cook 3 to 4 traditional dishes. The best part? You get to eat it all at the end!  See more here!

If you are considering  renting a hanbok  during your stay in South Korea, the Palaces in Seoul and Gyeongju offer the best setting for unforgettable pictures. Read everything you need to know from  our experience  and  book your hanbok here !

How to get to Gyeongju

The distance between Busan and Gyengju is  less than 100 kilometers  (between 86 and 96 depending on the route), and you can easily drive there in  a little over one hour .

Getting there by train (KTX)

KTX train will take you to  Singyeongju Station  from Busan Station in roughly  35 minutes .

There are many train options throughout the day, and the only downside is that you will have to take public transportation to get to the tourist area in town.

The train ticket is very affordable, and you won’t have to worry about finding a parking space.

Book your train ticket here!

Getting there by bus

With only a few bus options throughout the day, this might be the cheapest option for getting from Busan to Gyeongju.

Go to  Kobus.co.kr  and search for the date you will like to plan your trip.

Getting there by organized tour

A great option when you don’t want to worry about timetables, having to think about itineraries and top attractions, or anything in between.

Ideal for people visiting the city for the first time, and for those who are not so familiar with South Korea.

A guide will join you on a 9-hour journey to Gyeongju and its most important attractions: Bulguksa Temple, Wolji Pond, and Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Make sure to book in advance, because this is a popular day trip from Busan.

Oedo Island or Oedo Botania (외도 보타니아)

Oedo Island, located in Hallyeohaesang National Park between Tongyeong and Geojedo Island, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

The island is surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and fishing.

Oedo Island also has many interesting historical sites to explore, such as the remains of a fort from the Joseon Dynasty era or the ancient burial mounds that were built over 1,000 years ago.

Nearby, you can also take part in cultural activities like traditional Korean pottery classes or visit nearby attractions like Geoje Art Village or Haegeumgang Theme Park.

How to get there

Address : 17, Oedo-gil, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do 경상남도 거제시 일운면 외도길 17

The island is only accessible by ferry and you won’t be able to stay the night, since there are no hotels.

From Busan Bus Termina, take the bus to Jangseungpo Terminal. From there, take a taxi to the ferry dock. Ferries leave at regular intervals, and the ticket price includes access to the island as well.

An easier alternative would be to join an organized tour from Busan. You won’t have to worry about transportation, timetables, or directions. Additionally, you will be joined by a local English-speaking experienced guide that will tell you everything you must know about the European-style gardens.

Yeosu is a vibrant port city located in South Jeolla Province, South Korea.

It is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery, as well as its rich culture and history.

Yeosu has long been an important port city in the region, with a long-standing fishing industry that dates back centuries.

The city also offers many attractions such as museums, monuments, parks, temples, and more.

Eat at one of the restaurants along the port, take the Yeosu cable car to Dolsan Park and admire the scenery, walk around the Expo, visit Aqua Planet , go to an ocean view cafe, walk over to Odongdo Island (오동도) , head to one of the many beaches.  

Additionally, it’s home to several universities and research facilities that make it one of the most dynamic cities in the country.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Yeosu has something for everyone and is one of the greatest day trips from Busan.

How to get from Busan to Yeosu

Rent a car and drive along the coastline from Busan to Yeosu. Driving in South Korea is easy, roads are very well maintained and you can easily explore the southern part of the peninsula.

Driving is the fastest option and you will be there in roughly two hours, with a distance of roughly 180 kilometers dividing the two.

If you choose to drive, you can also stop at the Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve, Suncheon Bay National Garden, see the German village, Dongpirang Mural Village, and other places along the way.

In our view, the train takes a little bit too long for it to be an option for a day trip from Busan. However, if you would like to visit Yeosu and stay the night, taking the train could be an option to consider.

You will need to change the train once in Suncheon Station, and head to Yeocheon Station. All in all, the train ride takes around 3 hours (without taking into account the time needed for the change).

The bus is always a good idea, even though it is slower than driving there yourself. You can take if from Busan Central Bus Termnal, and the ride is around 2.5 hours long.

By organized tour

There aren’t many options, but if neither of the above is an option for you, an organized tour with a group of maximum 7 or 14 people is a great option.

You can choose Yeosu as the destination, and the van option.

Namhae Island (Namhaedo)

Namhae Island is an idyllic paradise located off the southern coast of South Korea.

The island is home to stunning beaches, lush forests, and picturesque views, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Namhae Island offers something for everyone – from hiking trails through the beautiful countryside to exciting watersports on its many beaches.

It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy some of the best seafood in South Korea

The main attraction on the island is the Boriam Temple , a Buddhist temple set on the top of the mountain, offering breathtaking views (on a sunny day). As we visited after a rainy night, the temple was surrounded by heavy fog. Even so, it is worth going, especially since the hike to the temple is extremely enjoyable.

The Namhae German Village is another top attraction. It is a residential area built and inhabited by Koreans who left in the 60’s and 70’s to work in Germany. Tucked on the top of a hill, overlooking the ocean, here you will not only have the chance to stroll through a German village in the middle of South Korea, but also taste some German beer and sausage.

Drive around the island and admire the rice teraces, spend some time at one of the many beaches (Sangju being the most famous one), or visit the American Village in Namhae. All these make it a perfect destination for a day trip from Busan.

How to get to Namhae Island

The easiest way is to drive there from Busan, also because there are no trains heading to the island.

Namhae Island is roughly 2.5 hours away from Busan.

Boseong Tea Plantations

One of our favorite trips in South Korea, Boseong should definitely be on your list.

The Boseong tea plantations are a sight to behold. Located in the heart of South Korea’s Jeollanam-do province, these terraced hillsides create an emerald landscape that stretches for miles.

The region is renowned for its rolling hills, which are blanketed with lush green tea bushes and bright yellow wildflowers. These beautiful landscapes have made the Boseong area one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations.

Visitors come from all over the world to experience the breathtaking views and learn about local tea culture and history.

Just by the entrance there is also a small bamboo forest worth seeing, especially if you haven’t been to Ahopsan.

Also, just outside of the tea plantations, you must stop at the small local restaurant serving traditional food with a green tea twist.

How to get to Boseong from Busan

The only possible way to get to Boseong from Busan (to the main tea plantation in Boseong, Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation) is to drive there.

The plantation is in a remote area and we almost missed it. Look for it on Naver and see the best route from your hotel in Busan .

It is the fourth largest metropolitan area and has a population of over 2.5 million people.

Daegu is known for its vibrant culture, strong economy, and excellent educational institutions.

The city also boasts of numerous festivals throughout the year which attract tourists from all around the world.

Tourists can explore some of Daegu’s many attractions such as historical sites, parks, museums, art galleries, shopping malls and restaurants serving traditional Korean cuisine.

Visit the Donghwasa Temple, explore Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Museum, shop at Dongseongno Market, take in the view from Duryu Park Landscape Garden, go for a stroll at Gyeongsang Gamyeong Park, or go on a hop-on-hop-off tour .

How to get from Busan to Daegu

Daegu is less than 100 kilometers away from Busan, thus driving there should be fast and easy.

Also, KTX links the two important Korean cities. The train ride is anywhere between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Suncheon is a city located in South Jeolla Province, South Korea.

It is known for its stunning natural landscape and traditional culture, and it has become a popular tourist destination with visitors from around the world.

Suncheon Bay National Garden offers breathtaking views of lush forests, wetlands, and waterfalls while the nearby Suncheon Bay Observatory provides an incredible 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The city also boasts several historical sites such as the Songgwangsa Temple (송광사 (순천)) which showcases ancient Buddhist architecture.

How to get there from Busan

The distance between the two cities is of 155 kilometers and you can drive, take the bus or the train.

Tongyeong is a beautiful coastal city located in the south of South Korea. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged cliffs, lush green forests, and picturesque beaches.

Tongyeong is also home to many famous festivals throughout the year like the Mireuksan Mountain Festival and Chilseok Festival.

You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as biking along trails or sailing around islands dotting the coastline. Also, you can take a cable car on top of Mount Mireuksan, go for a stroll in Nammangsan Park , and do more activities in nature.

This is a destination for nature lovers, and not only.

How to get from Busan to Tongyeong

The best way to travel from Busan to Tongyeong is by car or bus, with a distance between the two of less than 2 hours.

If you don’t want to worry about driving or taking the bus, we suggest you book a guided tour from Busan .

Taejongdae Resort Park (태종대 유원지)

The park overlooks the sea with stunning views and offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy.

It’s also home to many species of birds, making it an ideal spot for bird watchers. Taejongdae boasts lush forests and picturesque coastal scenery that make it one of the best places in Busan to explore nature up close.

Head to Taejongdae Observatory and Yeongdo Lighthouse for some of the best views, take a picture with the “Light Beyond Limitation” statue, visit one of the temples, eat some seafood at one of the food stalls, or take the Danubi train and get to see a big part of the park in a shorter time.

How to get to Taejongdae Resort Park from Busan

The easiest way is to take the bus from Nampo subway station exit 6. Either one of the buses 8, 30, and 113 will take you there in roughly 40 minutes. Get off at Taejongdae/Taejongdae Hot Springs (태종대/태종대온천) bus stop.

You can also go on a Busan Drama & Movie Filming Place Day Tour + Taejongdae Cruise .

Haedong Yonggung Temple (해동 용궁사(부산))

Haedong Yonggung Temple is a unique and beautiful temple located in Busan, South Korea.

Built on the rocky shore of the East Sea, it stands out from other temples by its stunning views of the ocean.

The temple was built in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty and has survived many wars, natural disasters, and renovations over time. It features several traditional Korean buildings that are decorated with intricate carvings and vibrant colors.

Inside these structures, you will find statues of Buddha as well as many other Buddhist artifacts such as scriptures and paintings.

Visitors to Haedong Yonggung Temple can also experience a variety of cultural events held there throughout the year including festivals, music performances, martial arts demonstrations, and more.

If you happen to be in Busan for New Year’s Eve, come here for sunset and make a wish.

Address : 86, Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan 부산광역시 기장군 기장읍 용궁길 86

The temple is close to the city, but you will still need to travel by public transportation to get there. Bus 181 leaves from Haeundae subway station and will take you to the temple in around 45 minutes.

Another way of visiting the temple and learning about its history and present is by joining one of the many tours that include it on their itinerary. Busan top 5 attractions day&night , the East Busan day tour , or a private day tour , will all take you there.

The vibrant port city is located on the southeastern coast of the country, and it has served as an important hub for trade and commerce since its founding in 1938.

It is home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including Ulsan Grand Park, which was once part of a royal palace complex during the Joseon Dynasty.

The city is also renowned for its industrial heritage; it boasts one of the largest shipbuilding yards in Asia as well as some of South Korea’s most advanced automotive factories.

Beyond these economic achievements, Ulsan offers visitors plenty to explore and experience – from traditional markets filled with local delicacies to stunning temples tucked away among lush green gardens.

Explore Daewangam Park, Ulsan Grand Park, or Taehwagang River Grand Park. Climb the Ulsan Bridge Observatory and take in the view, spend some time at the beach, check out the Ulsan Hyundai Motors Plant, or visit Seoknamsa Temple. There are so many things to do and see in Ulsan you might need more than one day.

How to get from Busan to Ulsan

The easiest way to get from Busan to Ulsan is by KTX. The ride takes around 30 minutes, and there are plenty of trains throughout the day.

Geoje is home to several large industrial complexes such as the world’s largest shipyard, Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), which produces some of the most advanced ships in the world. Other industries include engineering, electronics, and petrochemicals.

The city also has many tourist attractions such as Haegeumgang Island and Oedo Botania Garden which attract visitors from all over Korea year-round due to their unique scenery and cultural heritage.

Visit Gujora Beach, have a coffee and take some pictures at the Oedonursery Cafe, go for a walk and climb Gyeryongsan, or take a picture with the famous windmill.

How to get from Busan to Geoje

The fastest and easiest way is to drive there, but there is also a bus departing from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal and arriving at Geoje Gohyun Bus Terminal. The drive will be of around 1 hour.

Hadong Agyang Village – 경남 하동 악양 [슬로시티])

A small village surrounded by mountains and split in two by a river, come here during the persimmon harvest, or to taste some local tea.

From Busan Bus Terminal, take the bus and get off at Agyang Bus Terminal.

Eden Valley Sky Resort

Eden Valley Ski Resort, situated in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnamdo, is the furthest south ski resort in Korea. With Busan just a short distance away, it’s no surprise that the ski resort is frequented mostly by Busan locals and people from surrounding areas.

The resort features a variety of ski slopes for all levels of skiers, ranging from beginner to expert. All the ski lifts and cable cars are brand new and highly efficient, ensuring that you get up the mountain quickly and safely. Furthermore, it also has snow-making machines available on some slopes in case of low natural snowfall.

Nestled atop the majestic Sinbulsan Mountain, Eden Valley Ski Resort offers breathtaking views at a staggering 1,209 meters of elevation.

With 7 magnificently groomed slopes for all levels of experience, beginners can take advantage of two novice slopes and three intermediate runs, while experienced skiers can challenge themselves on two challenging advanced trails.

With three lifts accommodating up to 6 persons at once, you’ll be able to enjoy the slopes with ease!

How to get from Busan to Eden Valley

Address : 1039 Dae-ri, Wondong-myeon, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do

Drive there or take bus Nnumber1000 near Yangsan Station (Busan Subway Line 2) exit 1 and get off at Eden Valley Ski Resort Bus Stop.

Or go on an organized day tour from Busan with sky lessons included .

Tsushima Island (Japan)

Yes, you read that right, because of its location between South Korea and Japan, you can easily visit this island on a short ferry ride from Busan.

Remember this island is in Japan so you need a visa if you are required one to visit the country.

It is an important part of both countries’ histories and has been fought over many times throughout history.

The island has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient shrines, temples, tombs, and other historic sites scattered across its landscape.

Today it remains an important point for trade and travel between Japan and South Korea.

Tsushima Island also offers visitors stunning natural beauty – from beaches to mountains to forests – making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in East Asia.

Take in the stunning view from Mount Eboshi-dake and visit the Wildlife Conservation Center in Saozaki Park.

Take the ferry, the ride takes around 1.5 hours.

Igidae Costal Trail

The Igidae Coastal Walk is a breathtakingly beautiful 3.6 km long trail along the coast of Busan.

The trail offers spectacular views of the ocean and nearby islands, as well as plenty of flora and fauna to explore. Along the way, visitors will find several cultural heritage sites such as an old fortress wall, traditional Korean homes, and temples that were built hundreds of years ago.

For those looking for more active pursuits during their visit to Busan, there are also plenty of opportunities for swimming or fishing in the area’s waters.

The coastal walk links Dongsaengmal Trail – Global Gathering – Nongbawi Rock – Eoulmadang – Oryukdo Quay and the full walk takes around 2.5 hours.

Take subway line 2 from Kyungsung University, exit 3 and take bus number 22 straight to Igidae Coastal Walk.

Other Busan FAQ

Where is busan.

Busan is a city located in the southeast of South Korea on the Korean Strait.

It is South Korea’s second-most populous city after Seoul, with a population of over 3.5 million inhabitants.

Busan has become a major international port city, and its metropolitan area is home to some of the largest ports and businesses in South Korea as well as numerous cultural attractions.

How to get to Busan?

If you are traveling from Seoul, you will have plenty of options to get to Busan.

You can read the  complete guide here , including getting there by plane, bus, train, or car.

The fastest  way to get from Seoul to Busan is by  KTX  – you take the train from Seoul Station and you get to Busan Station in around 2.5 hours.

The cheapest  way to travel from Seoul to Busan is by bus. However, taking the bus is an option when you have more time to spend in the city because the ride takes around 6 hours.

Flying  from Seoul Gimhae Airport to Busan Nahmea Airport is also an option. The airport in Seoul is closer than Incheon, and in Busan, you have a direct subway line that will take you to the city. However, you need to factor in the extra waiting time at the airport. The flight time is less than one hour.

By Ingrid & Alex

Ingrid A former financial professional, I have been passionate about photography since an early age. My fascination with Korean culture was one of the reasons Alex accepted a business role in Seoul. Alex A former corporate business executive, I am a historical fiction writer. My business career allowed us to live in Seoul and explore South Korea for one year. We fell in love with the country, its culture, food, and people, and we strongly believe you will love it too! Because we know how difficult planning a trip can be, especially to South Korea, we are here to help you out and ensure you have an awesome time there.

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• Dates & Pricing

South Korea: Seoul to Busan Bike

Ten days, nine nights. a mix of traffic-free cycle paths and rural side roads through bustling cities, traditional villages, and ancient heritage sites..

“I like the fact it’s so easy to book a tour and the tours are so well organized” - Ryan N.

Ask a question

Why this trip.

• A mix of established bicycle paths and side roads. Experience the renowned Four Rivers Bike Path , rural misty mountain routes, scenic national parks, and the ocean-views of the Blue Road.
• Stay at Hwangnamguan Hanok Village - a traditional Hanok Hotel.
• Relax your muscles in the hot springs of Suanbo and Solgi.
• Feast on king crab when you reach the ocean city of Pohang .
• Immerse yourself in the 2000-year-old historical Gyeongju City.
• Relish the hustle and bustle of markets in Seoul and Busan where the contrast of ancient to modern collide.

ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:

A fairly relaxed ride on primarily level terrain, with some hilly sections. Expect long stretches of bike paths winding along rivers and the East Sea. The route is largely on separated bike paths and quiet secondary roads, with the option to van transfer to avoid mountain climbs.

Daily Distance:

• 1: Introductions to Seoul
• 2: Seoul to Yangpyeong ~79 km
• 3: Yangpyeong to Yeoju ~32 km
• 4: Yeoju to Suanbo ~83 km
• 5: Suanbo to Andong ~122 km or ~103 km
• 6: Andong Sightseeing/Rest Day
• 7: Andong to Cheongsong ~52 km
• 8: Cheongsong to Pohang ~99 km
• 9: Pohang to Gyeongju ~48 km
• 10: Farewells

(Click image to enlarge)

Activity Levels

The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.

This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.

Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.

This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.

The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.

There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.

Atlantic Provinces

Start:  Kensington Yeouido Hotel, 15:00, Day 1. The Airport Railroad Express Train (AREX) is the fastest option to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul. In 45 minutes you will be at Seoul Station with the option to bus, taxi, or subway closer to your lodging. Optional pickup from Seoul Station also available.

Finish:  Gwangmyeong Station, Busan 13:00, Day 10. Board a KTX train direct to Incheon Airport in a mere 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Meal inclusions : Listed for guided trips only, please see dates & pricing section for accurate inclusions per support level.

Please contact us to arrange alternate meeting and departure plans, if necessary.

Introductions to Seoul

Meet your support person at your hotel for introductions to your bike and an introductory meal. If you arrive early, enjoy an independent stroll around Seoul. Explore the Myeongdong Shopping District, grab a coffee at a classic cat cafe, visit the renowned K-Star Road, or take in the rich history of the country at the Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Meal Inclusions: Dinner

Seoul to yangpyeong ~79 km.

Set off on your journey out of the city of Seoul. Ride the Cheonggyecheon Stream Bike Path, passing through the heart of the city along the Han River Bike Path which you will follow for the next few days. Relax and enjoy the traffic-free urban scenery as it slowly fades, and you bike further into rural Korea. Yangpyeong is frequented by day-trippers escaping Seoul for weekend trips. On your way through, visit Dumulmeori, the picturesque point where the Bukhangang and Namhangang Rivers meet.

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Yangpyeong to yeoju ~32 km.

Today you will continue on the Han River and Namhan River Bike Paths. You’ll notice fewer cars and cyclists as you approach the mountains. Your resting place for the night is situated just outside of Yeoju, where you will find plenty of dinner options.

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch

Yeoju to suanbo ~83 km.

Continue along the Namhan River Bike Path. This section of the route includes cycling along an old abandoned railroad track, through a series of tunnels, and across an iconic bridge with the beautiful view of the South Han River. The Saejae Bicycle Path starts in Chungju, where you will be challenged with an ascent to your hotel. During this stretch, you will be greeted by resting areas every kilometer to stop and recharge in the fresh mountain breeze with views of the surrounding Baekdu-daegan mountain range. This area is well known for its historical hot springs which have been used for 30,000 years to treat a broad range of ailments. Stop and enjoy the public foot bath in the centre of Suanbo or visit one of the many jjimjilbangs in the community.

Suanbo to Andong ~122 km or ~103 km

This morning’s plan entails two steep and challenging climbs. First, you will tackle “Saejae Pass” which translates to “a pass so high even the birds cannot cross”. Soon after, you will have one more climb at Ihwaryung. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to rest and take in the view, so give yourself enough time to climb this stretch. Those who would prefer to skip this morning’s hill climb can transfer to the peak at Mungyeong. Whichever option you pick, make sure to stop for a café break at the top of the mountain before enjoying the fun, easy-going downhill route that lasts the rest of the day. Follow through Mungyeong Saejae Park as you weave beside streams and rivers, across farmland and paddy fields. Today’s ride ends in the bustling city of Andong where you will be staying for two nights. Tomorrow you’ll have the opportunity to rest and take in this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site where traditional cultural practices have been preserved for two millennia.

Andong Sightseeing/Rest Day

Meet your support person for a morning of sightseeing in the city and surrounding areas. You have the chance to immerse yourself in the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, the neighbouring Buyongdae Observatory, where you can get a birds-eye-view of the village, and the Bongjeongsa Temple (built in 672 and believed to be the oldest wooden building in the country). Spend time within Andong Old Market - be sure to try the fusion dish Andong jjimdak, which has been adapted from ancient recipes and the more recent popularity of spicy stewed chicken.

Andong to Cheongsong ~52 km

Continue your journey with a spectacular section biking alongside Andong Lake, one of the largest artificial lakes in South Korea, with plenty of opportunities for rests and snack breaks. The ride ends with a series of quiet, scenic mountain roads as you descend into Cheongsong for the night. Your lodging this evening includes access to the luxurious Solgi hot springs.

Cheongsong to Pohang ~99 km

Leave the mountains behind as you head toward the peaceful coastal town of Pohang, situated on the East Sea of South Korea. This may be one of the most memorable stretches of the route. Relaxed riders will have the option of boosts over any difficult stretches with the support van. Stop at Cheongsong’s Ice Park at Eoreumgol (Ice Valley) for a coffee break before cruising down to the coast at Yeongdoek for a snow crab feast for lunch. The route continues along the coast for the rest of the day as you enter the city of Pohang, from where a lovely bike path leads to your hotel at Yeongildae Beach.

Pohang to Gyeongju ~48 km

The final cycling day is on the Pohang/Gyeongju bike path that leads into Gyeongju. We recommend starting the journey early to allow time to experience the historic city of Gyeongju in the afternoon. Known as “the museum without walls”, Gyeongju is home to historical treasures such as the Seokguram grotto, Bulguksa temple, and Yangdong Folk Village - all designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tonight’s accommodation was once used as a guesthouse for foreign visitors and central officials during the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties. Expect a comfortable, traditional experience, with mattresses and bedding that are provided for sleeping on the floor.

After breakfast, a short transfer will take you to Shin-Gyeongju train station to catch a speedy 30-minute KTX bullet train to Busan, where you can visit the Gamcheon Culture Village with its colourful houses, painted murals, shops and cafes, or the Jagalchi Seafood Market, the largest in Korea, is a must-see! If you’ve loved visiting the temples along the tour, stop in at Haedong Yonggungsa, a beautifully rare find along the shore line.

All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.

Download Itinerary

Select a date below to reserve, or start a new date, 2024 dates:.

Please contact us for your preferred date

2025 DATES:

2024/25 guided dates & pricing coming soon please let us know you are interested, select your support level :.

BOOK GUIDED

Small groups or private tours, fully supported with drivers/guides and vehicles, all lodging and most meals included. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “ What to Expect ” page.

BOOK SELF GUIDED

Semi-supported, independent tours including welcome briefing, lodging, luggage transfers and necessary vehicle transfers. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “ What to Expect ” page.

Guided: TBA (per person, double occupancy)

Includes 10 days, 9 nights, 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 5 dinners, luggage handling, full time vehicle and guide support, maps and route instructions, hybrid bicycle rental

Self-Guided: TBA (per person, double occupancy)

Includes 10 days, 9 nights, 8 breakfasts, luggage transfers, maps and route instructions, hybrid bicycle rental

Single Occupancy: TBA

Bike rentals:, hybrid-fitness: included, please see above for accurate pricing and inclusions, unless we have proposed a customized trip for you and those details are provided in your custom proposal..

1. Choose an advertised date to join a small group, or see our Join a Group page to see where groups are already forming.

2. Pick your own dates. We will confirm quickly, and are happy to talk with you as you make your choice. If you would like a private guided date, this usually comes at a surcharge depending on the details, please get in touch for more information. If you prefer self-guided, we usually only require two participants to initiate a new date at the advertised price, and can sometimes reduce prices for you if you have four or more.

The best time to enjoy this tour is Spring or Autumn .

Spring: April to early June is the best time for mild weather and cherry blossoms, usually around 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F) Autumn: in September to late October temperatures are cool but comfortable, 19°C to 25°C range (67°F to 77°F)

GET TO THE START

Fly to Incheon International Airport (ICN) a day before your tour starts. The AREX (Airport Railroad Express Train) will transport you from the airport to Seoul Station. From here, you can take the subway from Platform 6 to Haeun Centre Lotte Young Plaza which is a short walk from your lodgings for the night.

Riding finishes in the evening of the seventh day in Gyeongju. The final day is a non-cycling day where a KTX bullet train will be taken into Busan for an additional day of sightseeing and one more night of lodging.

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Travel Tips

Digital nomad guide: South Korea

By Jisong Seo

Jisong is a South Korean contributor born and raised in Seoul. Having lived and worked in Lisbon and London, she brings a unique perspective bridging the countries' cultures, languages and latest trends. Her interests also include food, history and travel.

Published on Apr 05, 2024

Are you on the hunt for your next workcation destination? This year, South Korea has quickly become one of the most exciting new options. 

Whether you want to channel the famous Korean work ethic, live out your K-drama fantasies or learn more about the real country, here’s why Korea might be the place for you.

With the recent introduction of 2-year digital nomad visas, coming to work in South Korea just makes sense. Of course, it has lightning-fast internet, a thriving cafe culture, and 24/7 buzz. When you match the conveniences and safety of the country with the rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored, it feels like the perfect place to set up your working life abroad.  

Feeling inspired?

South Korean Soul

Let’s go through the small print.

The new trial visa guarantees you (and your family) two years’ stay, as long as you are employed by a foreign registered company. To be successful, applicants must be 18 or older, have worked in their current field for at least a year, and make an annual income of KRW 84.96 million won (about USD $62,751). 

You will also need to have personal medical insurance providing coverage of at least KRW 100 million won (about USD $73,860) for hospital treatment and repatriation during your stay. Many Korean local governments run workcation programs with subsidies, such as free shared spaces, accommodation, and travel vouchers. 

So, if you’re ready for a Korean workcation, keep reading to find the best places to get set up!

Image source: Contiki

Seoul is an obvious choice if you want to enjoy the fast-paced, bustling life of a metropolitan city. Although Korea designated a new administrative capital, Sejong, the majority of businesses are still based in Seoul, along with over 20% of the population – that’s a lot of people to network with! 

Perhaps the best selling point for a digital nomad is the city’s convenience and facilities, combined with its nightlife. Whatever time zone you are working in, you will be able to find a place from which to eat, drink, and work. 

Seoul’s cafe culture provides a wide range of options with what feels like a cafe on every corner. There are often designated zones for study and work, which run for 24 hours with unlimited coffee top-ups. You can even enjoy specially-themed places to work: from a Harry Potter-themed cafe that takes you to the Ministry of Magic for your day of work to a surprising range of animal cafes. It’s not just cat cafes in Seoul, but ones with sheep, turtles and even racoons. The perfect rogue guests on your video calls. 

If that’s not enough and you need a pick-me-up, convenience stores are always open for your instant noodle fix. And there are plenty of places for downtime or work lunches. Head over to the Han River to enjoy Chimaek (Korean fried chicken + beer) or sit around a table in a Korean BBQ restaurant for those important business meetings.

Hidden wonders: 12 interesting facts about Seoul

Jeju island.

Not about that city life?

The volcanic island Jeju, located off the southernmost part of the country, is famous for its warm climate and picturesque scenery. Surrounded by palm trees and rock structures, it has a very different atmosphere from anywhere else in the country, which is why it is a popular workcation spot for Koreans themselves. 

It’s the place to be if you enjoy outdoor activities, as you could easily fit in some hiking, cycling, swimming, and surfing after work. 26 ‘Olle trail’ courses take you around the perimeter of the island, including sandy beaches and volcanic hills. UNESCO-listed lava caves and naturally made sea cliffs provide magnificent views everywhere you go and are part of the reason it attracts ten million tourists every year.

Like everywhere in Korea, its food is important too. You can try excellent traditional markets and restaurants in every town for local black pork or freshly caught seafood. Henyeo, the famous free-hand divers, are often found on beaches selling their catch of the day too.

Although it does not have the convenience of Seoul, Jeju has designated workstations across the island offering ocean views, fast internet, and hot desks. Due to its popularity, accommodation is not as cheap as you might think. But if you’re after an authentic experience, you could try a traditional stone-walled house made of basalt, found in the island’s smaller towns.

Image source: N Riazi / unsplash

If you like the sound of the two options so far, Busan might just be the best of both worlds.

Like in Seoul, you can enjoy all the conveniences, nightlife and a beautiful cityscape, which gave it the nickname the ‘Hong Kong of Korea’. The difference is that just minutes after work, you can be hitting the waves. You’ll be able to choose from a different beach every day: from Haeundae (popular with the younger generation) to Gwanganri (with the most bars and restaurants along the coast) and surf paradise, Songdo.

Serving as a refuge and temporary capital during the Korean War, the city became a melting pot of different cultures. Traditional markets are the best place to see this in action, with Kukje market, where American army rations were traded, Jagalchi Seafood Market and Kkangtong Night Market, all popular destinations for locals and tourists.

For cinema lovers, there is another reason to live in Busan. The biggest film festival in Asia (BIFF) is hosted by the city. Busan Cinema Centre is open to the public and offers complimentary film showings throughout the year. And if you time it right, you can go celeb spotting around the city in autumn. 

As for work, Busan is the second-largest city in the country with 7 million residents, the most high-rise buildings and the biggest trading port in Korea. As a result, it appeals to many businesses, especially financial institutions and IT companies. Most importantly, the city has a workcation programme supported by the local government that provides co-working space and accommodation for free. 

Mastering the basics: essential Korean phrases for your first visit

Keen to get off the beaten path and explore the ‘real Korea’? Then head to Gyungju, which is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the country. 

Having been the capital of Shilla Kingdom for 1,000 years, the city has an abundant cultural heritage. Many of its attractions are UNESCO-listed, the highlights being Seokguram & Bulguksa Temple, the only man-made granite grotto in the world, and Cheomseongdae, the world’s oldest observatory in its original form.

In the centre, you can find royal palaces, tombs and Buddhist temples from the year 700, which you can explore during the day, or on an illuminated night walk. Meanwhile, across the Woljeong bridge, you can get a real taste of Korean history at the traditional Hanok village. 

In fact, there’s so much history in Gyungju that there are still many uncovered heritage sites around the city, limiting the building of new developments. Compared to Seoul and Busan, there are fewer conveniences and things to do as a result. However, cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds are unbeatable advantages of living here. Seoul is not too far away as well — just over 2 hours on an express train.

Image source: getty images / unsplash

Gangwondo province is the only Korean state divided between the North and the South – where you’ll find the city of Yangyang. Due to its unique features and proximity to the border, army bases, farms and resorts surround the area.

Located in the Taeback mountainous range, which slopes down to the East Sea, Yangyang has many holiday resorts that offer activities like golf, water sports, and skiing in winter. 

Within a 10-minute driving range, you can enjoy the sea, mountains and the city, and anywhere you go, breathtaking views will welcome you. The beach here is known as a mecca for Korean surfers due to its clean water and monster waves. Famous Buddhist temples have been built for a long period in the mountains too – the best spot for a digital detox and finding your zen.

Yangyang borders major cities in the region, such as Sokcho and Gangneung. In 20 minutes, you can get to Gangeung for a beautiful ocean view with the best quality coffee – with famous baristas and coffee roasting companies based along the shore.

What’s more, it’s easily reachable from Seoul. Thanks to the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympic Games, a motorway was built to the Gangwon area reducing the drive to just two hours.

20 best things to do in South Korea on your first trip

Want to explore a taste of South Korea before you make your own submission to become a digital nomad here? Jump on Contiki’s South Korean Soul trip .

South Korean food: top 10 dishes you need to try on your next visit

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13 Quick Weekend Trips You Can Take From Seoul

F or any traveler thinking of visiting South Korea , Seoul is the number one destination on their list. With an astonishing number of shops, cafes, restaurants, and wild nightlife, it's hard to grow tired of a city that offers so much. But sometimes it's nice to get out of the city and change up the scenery. South Korea is only 100, 210 km². To put that in perspective, it would take nearly ninety-nine South Koreas to make up the landmass of the United States. NINETY-NINE! The country's landscape is notable for its rolling mountains and abundance of beaches. Luckily for both visitors and residents, South Korea is a small enough country where a quick four-hour road trip could actually bring you to the other side of the country.

UPDATE: 2023/05/18 12:31 EST BY KHYATI DAND

More Weekend Trips From Seoul

Staying in Seoul doesn't mean that one must confine themselves to the attractions of the Korean capital. With plenty of picturesque islands, smaller cities, and historic towns a skip away, visitors can easily hop onto a bus or a train for a weekend getaway. Which is why, this list was updated to include more weekend trips from Seoul that travelers can embark on.

Related: 20 Reasons South Korea Should Be Every Traveler's Next Destination

Chuncheon, which quite literally means spring river, is the capital of Gangwon Province. Located on a basin formed by two rivers, Chuncheon's name is quite apt, for it's a city that's surrounded by shimmering lakes and mountains. The city is famous for its outdoor activities, a spicy chicken dish called dak-galbi, and thriving nightlight thanks to a young population of university-going students that reside there.

• Seoul to Chuncheon: Approximately an hour by bus

At first sight, Ansan seems like nothing but an industrial city with little to attract tourists and visitors from Seoul. But Ansan sits on the coast of the Yellow Sea and parts of the Yellow Sea Islands lie within its jurisdiction, including the stunning Daebu Island. With easy connectivity to the capital, visitors can enjoy a quick seaside trip to Ansan from Seoul. Even better, the tidal wave constantly shifts in Ansan, revealing new coastal paths to walk on every day.

• Seoul to Ansan: Approximately 30 minutes by cab

Seoul may offer all the thrills of a big city but to truly explore South Korea's history, one must venture outside its borders. Ganghwado is home to several prehistoric sites, including various dolmens or tombs that are World Heritage Sites , fortresses, temples, and churches. Because Ganghwado sits on the edges of South Korea's border, visitors may even catch a glimpse of North Korean villages that are located less than two kilometers away on a good day

• Seoul to Ganghwado: Approximately 50 minutes by cab

Related: South Korea For History Buffs: Exploring 10 Locations Rich In Culture & Heritage

Muuido is a small island that is just two hours away from Seoul by public transportation. If you're coming from Incheon Airport, the island is actually directly west of the airport. This island is a great place to relax. There's tons of seafood and clean beaches. Muuido is known for its little huts that are available to rent along the beach. At low tide, you can even walk to Silmido island from Silmi beach! Gather a few friends for a quick weekend away from the city. So close to Seoul it could easily be a quick day trip.

• Seoul to Muuido Island: Approximately two hours by bus

Nami Island

Nami Island is easy to get to and is about an hour away from Seoul. With transportation direct through the subway line or the KTX (Korea's highspeed train), you can find yourself on Nami Island after a quick nap on the train. Famed for its charming tree-lined pathways, the island has been featured on a couple of K-dramas, such as Winter Sonata. Nami Island is beautiful during any season. Rent a bike during Spring or Summer and cruise along the bike paths. Or visit during the Autumn season to witness the beautiful fall foliage.

• Seoul to Nami Island: Approximately an hour by train

Being the second largest city in the country, it is no wonder that Busan is one of the top places to visit in Korea . There are so many things to see and do. Busan has the world famous Jalgachi Fish Market. Walk in and savor the smell of fresh seafood as vendors try to sell you their catch of the day. Once you decide between any of the fresh catches, be it salmon, king crab, mussels or lobsters, the vendors will escort you to the second level where restaurant stalls are ready to prepare your food. Sling back a couple of shots of soju before heading out to experience the nightlife. If clubbing isn't your scene, then the beach is where you'll want to be. Buy a few fireworks then launch them at Haeundae beach and watch them explode in the night sky. While you're in Busan, you won't want to miss Gamcheon Cultural Village either -- a fun colorful village on the hills of Busan.

• Seoul to Busan: Approximately three hours by train

Related: Try These 10 Unique Activities In Charming Busan, South Korea

For some adventuring, Sokcho is the perfect place to go. Here you'll find one of Korea's most beautiful mountains, Seoraksan Mountain. Seoraksan is 1,708 meters above ground and offers gorgeous views any time of the year. It's the third tallest in the country. With all these mountains, its no wonder that hiking is a popular weekend activity in Korea. If you plan well, you'll be able to hike during the fall to see the leaves change to bright reds and orange. The trip from Seoul is about three hours by car and four hours by public transportation.

• Seoul to Sokcho: Approximately two hours by bus

The Gyeongju Historic Area has 52 registered sites under the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. This place is packed with history. Most sites are free to visit as they're out in the open for anyone to explore. While there are dozens of tourist sites to see, some of the most visited locations would be the Gyeongju Royal Tomb of King Naemul. Biking past it, you probably wouldn't realize you've been zipping through the park past royal tombstones as the tombs look like massive green mounds popping out of the ground, these are called tumuli.

• Seoul to Gyeongju: Approximately two and a half hours by train

Jeonju is another historical town that famed for their Jeonju Hanok Village, magkeollis (a light rice wine) and bibimbap. In Jeonju, it is a must to sample the bibimbap, a staple in Korean cuisine which is made up of rice and a variety of colorful vegetables all served in a hot stone bowl, and often topped with meat and an egg. Visiting this town is like stepping back in time. Tourists, both domestic and international, come to walk through the old village and wear hanboks (traditional Korean clothing). Stop by Wansan Park to take in all the nature. The park is filled with all kinds of flowers and beautiful aromas.

• Seoul to Jeonju: Approximately two and a half hours by train

Jindo Island

Jindo is a unique little island found in the southwestern part of Korea. It is famously known for the festival in the month of February during the Lunar New Year. During this time of year hundreds of tourist flock to Jindo Island to witness the parting of the seas leaving a narrow pathway to walk between the two bodies of water. It's a pretty extraordinary sight to see. Jindo Island is about 4 1/2 hours from Seoul, six hours if you are driving. Apart from the mysterious sea dividing, Jindo is also famously known for its dog Jindo Gae, the jindo dog.

• Seoul to Jindo Island: Approximately four and a half hours by train

Just four and a half hours from Seoul is Korea's largest green tea fields in Boseong. Aim to visit in May when the green tea leaves are at their greenest. During this time, Boseong also hosts its Green Tea Festival with tea exhibitions and shops. Try their famous teas or even sample their green tea infused pajeon (fried Korean pancake). If you are visiting during the holidays, Boseong also has their Tea Plantation Light Festival for visitors to see the rolling fields light up in beautiful twinkling colors.

• Seoul to Boseong: Approximately four and a half hours by train

Suncheon Bay is a great romantic weekend getaway . But you don't need a significant other to enjoy the beauty this bay has to offer. Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve is home to an overwhelming number of bird and tree species. The reeds grow tall and sway for 570 acres. For a complete sea of green, summertime would be the best time to visit. For more yellow colored reeds, then autumn is your best bet. Come with your camera and be prepared to take some incredible sunset photos.

• Seoul to Suncheon: Approximately three and a half hours by train

There's no need to book a flight to Kyoto to walk amongst towering bamboo trees in Japan's Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. South of Seoul, is Korea's very own bamboo forest. Damyang is a little over a three hour trip from Seoul. Although the forest is blissful and gorgeous in every way, there are not too many tourists to be found in this area making it the perfect spot for photographs. As you explore the path with soaring bamboo shoots overhead, you'll eventually stumble upon a hammock. Hop on and gently swing as you take in the tranquil green forest and appreciate the heights.

• Seoul to Damyang: Approximately three and a half hours by bus

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Tourists stand in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace in this undated file photo provided by Manila Bulletin. Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

My family isn’t called the “Dinosaur family” for nothing, mainly due to our huge appetite for good food. Our noses always lead us to the best food anywhere in the world. One “dinosaur” saw a food vlog of Mark Wiens, yes, the famous travel and food blogger, on the best Korean dishes to try. After watching almost 20 of Weins’ vlogs about Korean food and salivating in the process, we decided to follow Wiens’ lead, packed our bags, and flew to Seoul for a one-of-a-kind food trip.

Samgyetang at Gangwonjeong, Yongsan, Seoul, is seen in this undated file photo provided by Manila Bulletin. Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

With more than 10 million followers on YouTube, Wiens hit the spot with almost all of the dining places he recommended—from Seoul, Jeonju, Gunsan to Busan — for the best Korean BBQ, dak-galbi, street food, chicken ginseng soup or samgyetang, gamjatang, galbijjim, kimchi, and everything mashisoyo (맛있어요) (delicious)!

We arrived in Seoul on March 23 just in time for dinner, and Wiens’ recommendation was the hearty pork bone soup called gamjatang at Sigol Gamjakuk (602-32, Eungam 4-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul South Korea). At first, it looked unappetizing with all the ingredients — bones, potatoes, chili, outer cabbage leaves, and perilla leaves — piled on top of one another in a big pot. But once you dip your spoon into the broth and start peeling the layers of the gamjatang, particularly the fall-off-the bone goodness of the meat, you discover heaven in a broth, and start asking “Why did I just meet you now?” or “Where in the world have you been hiding?” with hearts literally flying off from your eyes. Seriously, the gamjatang is such a comfort food I could probably eat it every day and never grow tired of. Uncannily, we Filipinos have a similar dish we call nilagang baboy, pork meat (ribs, belly or hock) boiled in water in a big pot with onions and leeks and peppercorn until tender and when half cooked, we add chunks of potato, carrots, cabbage, and a dollop of seasoning (fish sauce or salt).

A dish of hanwoo is seen in this undated file photo provided by Manila Bulletin. Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

On Day 2, the hungry, roving dinosaurs chose galbijjim (braised beef short ribs) for lunch at Andamiro in Ganghwa. We also tried and loved the air-dried, steamed, and fried fish iconic to the area. We brought our huge appetite to Andamiro after the uber exciting Cable Car and Luge rides at Ganghwa Seaworld. We burned off the calories somehow as we trekked uphill to the Ganghwa DMZ Peace Observatory. We literally found our next stops as the icings on the cake.

Joyangbangjik Café (12, Hyangnamu-gil 5beon-gil, Ganghwa- eup, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon) is an Instagrammable unique café that was built in 1933 as a textile factory and turned into a wonderland of junk, good coffee, and pastries.

Our choice for dinner on Day 2 was Jeju black pork BBQ at Childonga. The pork, flown in daily from Jeju Island, tasted like steak. It was quite tender and flavorful. This meal was truly daebak (awesome)!

The next day, we went to the Korean Folk Village (90 Minsokchon-ro, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) and it felt like we got off a time capsule and found ourselves back in the Joseon period. Inside the village are booths that sell some of the best Korean street food — tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), boiled white corn, twisted donut with red bean filling, and tanghulu (rock sugar-coated fruits). For lunch, we had galbi (grilled ribs) in Dongsan.

Dinner was something else. It was fine dining at Samcheonggak of more than 11 courses, an impressive spread traditionally enjoyed by royal and aristocratic families. The Samcheonggak is located on top of a hill near the presidential Blue House. And if its walls could speak, this place is replete with secret deals among high-ranking government officials and negotiations between South and North Koreans.

A woman sells traditional rice snacks at Gwangjang market, Jongno District, Seoul, in this undated file photo provided by Manila Bulletin. Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Our lunch the next day was dak-galbi at Mr. Dakgalbi by the pier to Nami Island. A huge paellera is used in cooking dak-galbi with mounds of chopped cabbage, rice cakes, and other veggies with chicken, the star of this dish. It is a hearty meal in one go and a must-try when in Korea.

We also made a brief stop at the Gwangjang Market for more of the best street food — hotteok (sweet pancakes), sotteok sotteok (rice cake and sausage skewers), kkwabaegi (twisted donuts), and my favorite, pajeon (scallion pancake).

We reserved the best for last — hanwoo or Korean prime beef grilled to perfection at Insaeng, a restaurant near the Majang meat market. It was meat overload but there was no way we could stop, either ourselves or the grill because the meat’s marbling was just perfect and, once grilled, would practically melt in your mouth. Now I know why beef is one of the best gifts Koreans give to their families. Hanwoo, simply put, is one of the best!

Because we over-imbibed on meat and other food for four straight days, our last meal in Seoul was samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Gangwonjeong. The meat of the spring chicken was so tender and fall-off-the bone and the combination of rice and ginseng make up for a truly comforting meal.

Persimmon and Oreo shakes at a cafe inside the Garden of Morning Calm in Gapyeong are seen in this undated file photo provided by Manila Bulletin. Courtesy of Manila Bulletin

On our drive to Incheon International Airport, we just had to stop by C27 (Incheon Yeongjongdo Ocean View Cafe C27 Downtown), a seaside café named after the 27 cheesecake varieties it serves. Yes, all 27 kinds of cheesecake in a beautiful setting where a scene of Crash Landing on You was filmed — Captain Ri Jeong Hyeok and Cho Cheol Gang sneaking their way into South Korea through a secret underground tunnel. The beach is called Yeongjongdo Seonnyeo Bawi in Incheon and you can see this from C27, which is a marvel in itself as it’s a café that practically takes you around the globe.

We only managed to do the food crawl in Seoul. Thanks to our food tour guide Song Youngkwan (+821099155052) and Ikami Travel Walk’s Vilma Guillera (+639178080533), who put together the food trail. Next, we shall conquer Busan, Jeonju, and Gunsan.

The Korea Times posted this article by Manila Bulletin, its Global Media Partner. — ED

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