Must-Visit Attractions in Busan
As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is renowned for its stunning coastline, vibrant local culture, and warm hospitality. It seamlessly blends nature and history while offering the conveniences of a modern metropolis. Here’s a carefully curated guide for international travelers, featuring must-visit attractions, practical tips, and itinerary inspirations to help you unlock the unique charm of Busan!
Coastal Scenery
Haeundae Beach
Why Visit?
Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach, boasting fine white sand and crystal-clear waters—perfect for a relaxing stroll, sunbathing, or photography.
📍 Address: U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan (부산 해운대구 우동)
🚆 Transportation: Take Subway Line 2 to Haeundae Station (해운대역), Exit 5, then walk 550m (about 10 minutes).
Highlights
☀ Daytime: Enjoy sunbathing or try water sports such as surfing and windsurfing.
🌙 Nighttime: Take a romantic stroll along the beach and admire the lights reflecting on the waves.
Tips
1️⃣ No entrance fee, but renting beach chairs, umbrellas, changing rooms, or showers may require an additional charge.
2️⃣ Peak season (especially summer) can be crowded—children should be accompanied by guardians to prevent getting lost.
3️⃣ Waste must be sorted properly—failing to do so may result in a fine.
Songdo Cable Car
Why Visit?
The Crystal Cabin offers a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea and sky, while the nearby Songdo Yonggung Cloud Bridge is perfect for sightseeing, strolling, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
📍 Address: 171, Songdohaebyeon-ro, Amnam-dong, Seo-gu, Busan (부산광역시 서구 암남동 송도해변로 171)
🚆 Transportation:
- From Gimhae Airport: Take the Airport Light Rail to Sasang Station (사상역), then transfer to Bus No. 161 and get off at Busan Tourism High School (부산관광고교). Walk 850m (about 13 minutes).
- From the city center: Take Subway Line 1 to Jagalchi Station (자갈치역), then transfer to Bus No. 96 and get off at Amnam-dong Community Center (암남동주민센터). Walk 550m (about 9 minutes).
Highlights
Cable Car Ticket Prices (Round-trip recommended)
🎟 Air Cruise (Standard Cabin): KRW 17,000 (Adults) / KRW 12,000 (Children)
🎟 Crystal Cruise (Glass Floor Cabin): KRW 22,000 (Adults) / KRW 16,000 (Children)
Tips
✔ The Crystal Cabin is great for sightseeing and photography, while those with a fear of heights may prefer the Standard Cabin.
Cultural Exploration
Gamcheon Culture Village
Why Visit?
Dubbed the "Santorini of Busan" and the "Machu Picchu of Korea", this vibrant village is a fairy-tale world filled with colorful houses and artistic murals.
📍 Address: 1-14, Gamcheon-dong, Saha-gu, Busan (부산 사하구 감천동 1-14)
🚆 Transportation:
- Subway Line 1 to Toseong Station (토성역), Exit 8, then walk 1.3 km (about 22 minutes).
- Alternatively, take an Uber from the station (approx. KRW 5,000).
Highlights
🏞 Gamcheon Village Downhill Path: Enjoy panoramic views of the entire village.
📸 Instagram-worthy spots: Take stunning photos with the Little Prince Statue and Rainbow Stairs!
Tips
1️⃣ The village has steep slopes, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended.
2️⃣ As a residential area, visitors should be mindful of noise and respect local residents.
Busan International Film Festival Square (BIFF Square)
Why Visit?
A mecca for movie lovers, this place combines street food and a retro shopping experience, creating a vibrant cinematic atmosphere.
📍 Address: 1467, U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan (부산 해운대구 우동 1467)
🚆 Transportation: Take Subway Line 2 to Centum City Station (센텀시티역), Exit 6, and walk about 630 meters (about 11 minutes).
Highlights
🎬 Look for famous film directors’ handprints (such as Korean director Ahn Soo-young and Japanese director Takeshi Kitano).
🍽 Must-try snacks: Hotteok (호떡) for around KRW 2,000, vegetable dumplings (야채군만두) for around KRW 5,000, and spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki).
Tips
1️⃣ As the venue for one of Asia’s most important film festivals, BIFF Square is a must-visit for film enthusiasts.
2️⃣ The outdoor venue at BIFF Square is just as lively as Haeundae Beach, offering an energetic atmosphere.
Gastronomic Enjoyment
Jagalchi Market
Why Visit?
As Korea’s largest seafood market, you can enjoy the freshest sashimi, spicy octopus, grilled eel, and a variety of other seafood dishes here.
📍 Address: 37-1, Nampo-dong 4-ga, Jung-gu, Busan (부산 중구 남포동4가 37-1)
🚆 Transportation: Take Subway Line 1 to Nampo Station (남포역), Exit 2, and walk about 480 meters (5 minutes).
Featured Seafood
🍣 A variety of seafood: King crab, snow crab, long-legged crabs, abalone, octopus, live octopus, oysters, geoduck, sea urchin, shellfish, shrimp, fish, and even some unfamiliar underwater creatures.
🐙 Dare to try live octopus “산낙지” (You’ll still feel the octopus’ legs moving in your mouth after you swallow!).
Tips
1️⃣ Most vendors have limited English, so it’s helpful to use gestures or a translation app like Papago.
2️⃣ Markets and small stalls only accept cash, so make sure to withdraw enough cash from the bank before you go.
Conclusion
Busan is not only home to captivating natural scenery, but also blends traditional and modern charms, making it one of the must-visit cities in Korea. Whether you’re into beach vacations, food adventures, or cultural experiences, Busan has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Busan!
