Busan
Busan, South Korea’s vibrant port city, has a history shaped by both trade and conflict. Originally a small fishing village, it grew into a crucial maritime hub by the late Joseon Dynasty, serving as a gateway for commerce with Japan, China, and beyond. During the Korean War, Busan became a vital refuge and supply port, helping sustain the nation in its most challenging times. Over the centuries, the city has evolved into one of Korea’s largest metropolises, blending historic temples, traditional markets, and cultural landmarks with modern skyscrapers and beaches. Throughout it all, Busan’s deep connection to the sea continues to define its identity as a city where history, commerce, and culture intersect.
💡Busan: Good to Know
🛂 Visa: most European countries plus Canada, Australia, the US, and Japan are visa-exempt for a stay of up to 90 days, but need to fill out the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), electronic arrival card, as well as a Health Declaration
✈️ Closest Airport: Gimhae International Airport (PUS)
💬 Language: Korean, but English is fairly widely spoken in Seoul; outside the city, English proficiency can be limited; street signs, announcements, and signage on trains and buses are in English
🏷️ Price Level: Seoul is generally cheaper than living in any major US city. However, tourist areas may have prices closer to what you would expect in the US.
🍔 Big Mac Index: US: US$5.69 / South Korea US$ 4.44
💰 Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)| 1 USD = ca. 1400 KRW)
☀️Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit Busan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant
🚘 Transportation: metro, buses, and taxis
🔌 Adapter: South Korea uses type C and F plugs. No adapter is needed if you are from Europe, but it is needed when coming from the US
🛜 WiFi: widely available; “Busan_WiFi” is a free, government-provided WiFi service that can be accessed in many public spaces
🏧💰ATM and “Cash or Card”: While small food stalls take only cash, payments with cards are generally accepted; ATMs are available throughout the city
💸 Tipping: Tipping in Korea is not customary, as service charges are usually included in bills, and gratuities are neither expected nor common.
🚢 Cruise Terminal Address: 206, Chungjang-daero, Dong-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea (docked)
✈️ 🚇 🚕 Getting There and Around
🎟️ Getting around Busan is easy, convenient, and the perfect way to take in the city’s dynamic mix of seaside charm and urban energy. Many popular areas — like Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, and the bustling Nampo-dong district — are walkable and filled with sights, shops, and food stalls to explore on foot.
For longer trips, Busan’s extensive subway system is the fastest and most affordable way to get around, with clear signage in English and easy-to-use ticket machines. Buses also cover the entire city and beyond, connecting neighborhoods, beaches, and attractions.
Taxis are widely available and reasonably priced, though be aware that drivers may speak limited English. For travelers wanting more freedom, renting a car is a good option, especially for day trips to nearby coastal towns or mountain temples.
Transit cards like the Hanaro Card or CashBee Card make travel even easier, offering seamless payment on subways, buses, and even some taxis.
✈️ Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is located about 16 km (10 miles) from central Busan and offers convenient, affordable transport options into the city. The Busan–Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL) connects the airport directly to the metro system, making transfers to popular areas quick and easy.
Airport limousine buses also run regularly to major districts like Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Nampo-dong, with travel times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
Taxis are plentiful at the airport and take around 30–40 minutes to downtown Busan, typically costing ₩20,000–₩35,000. Car rentals are available as well, ideal for travelers who want to explore the surrounding region at their own pace.
🚇 Busan Cruise Port is one of Asia’s busiest cruise terminals and a major gateway for visitors to South Korea, conveniently located near the city centre and within easy reach of popular spots like Jagalchi Market, Nampo-dong, and Yongdusan Park. Many attractions are just 10–15 minutes away by car or public transport, and to travel from the Busan cruise port to Busan Station, take the free shuttle bus provided at the port to the nearest metro station, Choryang Station (Busan Metro Line 1), which is right next to Busan Station. Taxis are readily available outside for quick rides into downtown (around 10 minutes, costing ₩5,000–₩8,000) or to further destinations like Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli, while those wanting more flexibility can easily transfer from the port to the metro system for an affordable, convenient way to explore Busan.
🚌 City Tour Busan operates three bus routes covering the most important sights around the city (more info here).
⭐️ Top Sights in Busan
“Busan is the only major city in South Korea where you can ride a mountain cable car straight to a beach.”
📸 Haeundae Beach: One of Busan’s most famous beaches, Haeundae stretches for 1.5 kilometers with soft sand and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beachfront promenade is lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and street food stalls, offering stunning ocean views day and night.
📸 Haeundae Blueline Park – Sky Capsule & Beach Train: This scenic coastal park offers stunning ocean views along Haeundae Beach, with the Sky Capsule providing a panoramic ride above the shoreline and the Beach Train delivering a leisurely, picturesque journey along the coast. Perfect for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the fresh sea breeze, it’s a fun way to explore Busan’s famous beachfront.
📸 Gamcheon Culture Village: Known as the “Santorini of Korea,” this colorful hillside neighborhood features brightly painted houses, narrow alleys, and vibrant street art. It’s a favorite for photography, local crafts, and exploring quirky cafés, while soaking in the artistic and cultural vibe of Busan.
📸 Jagalchi Fish Market: Korea’s largest seafood market is a must-visit for fresh catches, from live octopus to grilled fish. Visitors can experience the lively atmosphere, try local delicacies on the spot, and interact with friendly vendors in this iconic maritime hub.
📸 Beomeosa Temple: Nestled on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain, this historic Buddhist temple dates back to 678 AD. Visitors can explore its beautiful pagodas, serene courtyards, and surrounding nature trails, making it a peaceful retreat from the city.
📸 Gwangalli Beach & Gwangan Bridge: Famous for its night views, Gwangalli Beach is perfect for evening strolls or enjoying watersports during the day. The illuminated Gwangan Bridge creates a spectacular backdrop, and nearby cafés and bars make it a lively social spot.
📸 Busan Tower & Yongdusan Park: Located in the heart of Nampo-dong, Busan Tower offers panoramic views of the city and harbor. The surrounding Yongdusan Park is ideal for leisurely walks, street performances, and seasonal festivals.
📸 BIFF Square: Named after the Busan International Film Festival, this vibrant area is packed with cinemas, street food stalls, shops, and entertainment. It’s the perfect place to experience Busan’s lively urban culture and meet locals.
📸 Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: A stunning seaside temple perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking views and a unique spiritual experience. It’s especially popular at sunrise, when the temple and waves create a magical scene.
📸 Centum City & Shinsegae Department Store: Known as the world’s largest department store, this shopping and entertainment complex offers luxury brands, an ice rink, a spa, and even a cinema, making it a hub for shopping and leisure.
📸 Oryukdo Skywalk: A thrilling glass-bottomed observation deck perched over the cliffs of Oryukdo Islands, offering dramatic views of the ocean and coastline. It’s a favorite for adrenaline seekers and photographers alike.
🍽️😋 Regional Specialties
Busan’s food scene is a vibrant reflection of its coastal location, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic urban energy. As Korea’s largest port city, it has long welcomed a blend of flavors from across the country and beyond. Today, Busan offers an exciting mix of fresh seafood, traditional Korean dishes, and modern culinary innovations—from spicy eomuk (fish cakes) and hoe (raw fish) to street food favorites like ssiat hotteok and seafood pancakes. Bustling markets like Jagalchi and Gukje, seaside restaurants, cozy cafés, and contemporary eateries thrive side by side, all infused with the city’s friendly, lively spirit. For food lovers, Busan promises a delicious and unforgettable culinary adventure by the sea.
🍽️ Hoe (Raw Fish): A Busan specialty, this fresh, thinly sliced raw fish is often served with spicy gochujang sauce and sesame oil. Enjoy it at seaside restaurants or bustling markets like Jagalchi, where the catch-of-the-day is always a highlight.
🍽️ Eomuk (Fish Cake): A beloved street food staple, Busan-style eomuk is skewered and simmered in flavorful broth. Found at street stalls across the city, it’s a warm, comforting snack perfect for chilly coastal days.
🍽️ Ssiat Hotteok: A sweet pancake filled with seeds, nuts, and brown sugar, this Busan twist on the traditional Korean hotteok is crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and a must-try for dessert lovers.
🍽️ Dwaeji Gukbap: A hearty pork and rice soup, Dwaeji Gukbap is a signature Busan comfort food with rich broth, tender pork, and savory seasonings that make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
🍽️ Milmyeon: A cold wheat noodle dish served in a chilled, tangy broth, milmyeon is perfect for hot summer days. Topped with vegetables, boiled egg, and slices of meat, it’s a refreshing and satisfying treat.
🍽️ Grilled Clams and Shellfish: Thanks to its coastal location, Busan is famous for fresh shellfish, often grilled at seaside restaurants or markets. These dishes highlight the natural flavors of the ocean and are best enjoyed with a view of the harbor.
🍽️ Hot Seafood Stews (Haemul Jeongol): A spicy, bubbling stew packed with seafood, vegetables, and tofu. Perfect for sharing, this dish embodies Busan’s vibrant maritime cuisine and is especially comforting on cooler days.
📍🗺️ Maps, Apps & Links
🚕 Uber
🚕 Kakao T