Known for its beaches, mountains, and seafood, South Korea’s second city offers a first-class range of attractions to suit all travelers. A flight out of Seoul will get you to this beachfront metropolis in just over an hour. You can enjoy the white sand of Haeundae, Korea’s largest beach (one of six official beaches), all year round in Busan. Don’t leave without visiting the renowned Jagalchi Fish Market, where hundreds of fishmongers hawk squirming, swimming wares to both travelers and locals. For street food options, stroll through Gwangjang Market, and for panoramic views of the city, head to the top of Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park.
Summer’s heat and humidity draws the warm-weather crowd to Busan’s beaches, bars, and festivals, while winter sees dry, icy-cold days, ideal for hitting the slopes at nearby Eden Valley Ski Resort. Alternatively, the shoulder seasons of May and September offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and moderate temperatures with enough sun to keep the beaches lively.
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South Korea’s premier seaside city is most famous for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple—one of the few seaside temples in the country. Busan also boasts the sandy Songjeong and Haeundae beaches, backed by the city skyline; the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village; and a thriving film culture, celebrated during the annual Busan Film Festival.
...MoreTo experience the best of Busan’s culture and nature, spend between three and five days. You'll have the chance to see top city sights such as Jagalchi Fish Market, Beomeosa Temple, Yongdusan Park, and Gamcheon Culture Village, plus visit further-afield attractions including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Taejongdae Resort Park.
...MoreThe best time to visit Busan is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October). Like Japan, South Korea experiences cherry blossom season—the blossoms peak from late March to early April. Busan buzzes in June, when students and locals flock to the city for summer to party and enjoy the beaches.
...MoreBusan boasts an all-star cast of beaches, museums, temples, and markets. Top Busan attractions include the seaside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple; rainbow-colored Gamcheon Culture Village; Songjeong and Haeundae beaches; Busan Museum of Art; Busan Tower; and Taejongdae Resort Park.
...MoreThe old name of Busan is Pusan. The South Korean government changed the name of Busan to Pusan to make it sound more appealing when pronounced in English.
...MoreThe best area to stay when visiting Busan depends on what aspect of the seaside city you want to experience. Stay in central Seomyeon for easy access to top attractions; Haeundae is within easy reach of the beach; Nampo is best for shopping and eating; and budget-friendly Kyungsung has a hipster vibe.
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