Top Travel Destinations in Busan

Busan, the first international tourist city in South Korea, boasts a unique blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty, including mountains and seas. As a city rich in history, it offers a glimpse into Korea's modern and contemporary past, making it a truly special destination. Here are 14 must-visit spots for anyone planning a trip to Busan.

A visit to Busan isn’t complete without experiencing this must-see location. Whether it’s the vibrant summer water activities or the myriad of year-round attractions, there’s always something to enjoy. From various performances and festivals on the beach to the scenic Dongbaek Coastal Walk and the Aquarium, every visit promises fun. At night, the high-rise buildings along the beach light up, creating a stunning skyline best viewed from The Bay 101 or Marine City.

The lush forests, striking rock formations, and sea views make Taejongdae truly romantic. Highlights include Yeongdo Lighthouse, which has been shining its light since 1906, offering panoramic views of Marine City, Oryukdo Island, and Tea Kettle Island, and Haenyeo Village below, where fresh sashimi is served by the sea. Taejongsa Temple is famous for its beautiful summer hydrangeas.

The Danubi Train operates from 09:20 AM to 05:30 PM, providing a convenient way to explore Taejongdae. Tickets can sell out before the end of the operating hours, so it's wise to plan your visit with plenty of time to spare.

Village with colorful rooftops and picturesque scenery. Originally a settlement for refugees, it has been revitalized by students, residents, and artists who have breathed new life into the area. The village is filled with murals and sculptures, creating perfect photo spots. One of the most popular is the statue of the Little Prince and the fox, offering a charming view of the village. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the guesthouses made from renovated vacant houses.

This beach offers a wealth of activities day and night. During the day, enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, banana boating, and other water activities. The surrounding area boasts numerous coffee shops, restaurants, and the famous Bulgogi Street. At night, the lights of Gwangan Bridge create a stunning nighttime view. Additionally, the Busan New Media Art Museum features outdoor installations by world-renowned artists, showcasing light and video artworks.

Cultural arts village perched along coastal cliffs, famous as a filming location for the movie The Attorney. The village is adorned with murals and sculptures, and the expansive sea views offer perfect photo opportunities. Popular spots include "Jinwoo’s House," where famous lines from the film are written on the wall, and the staircase with a large heart painted on it. There are also charming coffee shops with ocean views where you can take a relaxing break.

Beloved retreat for Busan residents. This park is easily accessible via an escalator from Fashion Street. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the towering Busan Tower, the flower clock adorned with seasonal blooms, and the Citizen’s Bell, which marks the New Year in Busan. Busan Tower features an observation deck and themed exhibits offering stunning views of Busan Port, Yeongdo Bridge, Bongnaesan Mountain, and Marine City.

Often hailed as Korea’s most beautiful temple, it offers a stunning backdrop where the mountains meet the sea. Every corner of the temple provides picturesque views perfect for your camera. For a sweeping ocean view, climb the stairs next to the main hall. The dramatic rock formations are best appreciated from the coastal walking trail. Don’t miss the 108 steps, which are said to grant longevity if ascended with devotion, and the Yongmun Bridge, where tossing a coin while making a wish is believed to ensure its fulfillment.

The 4.7 km trail stretching from Dongsaengmal to Oryukdo Sunrise Park offers a scenic walk through lush forest paths and stunning coastal cliffs. Along the trail, you'll encounter several noteworthy spots, each boasting remarkable views. Eoul Madang is famed as a movie filming location, while Oryukdo Sunrise Park is renowned for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The sea caves and potholes, designated as national geological heritage sites, add to the trail’s charm.

Take a thrilling walk on the Sky Walk once you arrive at Oryukdo Sunrise Park.

Busan's iconic traditional market, bustling since Korea's liberation in 1945, gained fame through its appearance in the film Ode to My Father. The popular photo spot "Kkotbunine," portrayed as Hwang Jungmin's store in the movie, remains a favorite. Gukje Market offers a wide range of items from toys and clothing to kitchenware, and is brimming with delicious street food. On the 2nd floor, the creative Youth Mall keeps visitors entertained with its innovative items.

This charming bookstore alley, with over 60 years of history, showcases its age through weathered signs and faded books. You can find secondhand books at 40-70% off prices, making it a great spot to hunt for rare, out-of-print volumes, old books, or magazines. Each October, the Bosu-dong Bookstore Street Cultural Festival is hosted, featuring author talks, film screenings, performances, and various activities—making it a perfect time to visit.

It may look like an ordinary baseball stadium, but it’s where Busan’s love and passion for the game truly shines. The lively cheering, exciting events, and performances make it easy for anyone to get caught up in the stadium’s charm. Enjoying a beer or chicken during the game is part of the fun.

If you're a baseball fan, head to the central plaza after the game. You might catch a glimpse of the players as they leave the stadium.

The road from Busan Station on Subway Line 1 to Kkakkomak Cafe. It preserved Busan's modern and contemporary history everywhere as “Ibagu” means "story." Visitors can experience various aspects of life at that time, including Baekje Hospital, the country's first modern general hospital, Namseon Warehouse, which was used as a modern logistics warehouse, and 168 stairs from the well to the village. Take a break at a restaurant selling old lunch boxes and a Makgeolli restaurant with a friendly atmosphere.

Ibagu Station, where the monorail runs, has luggage storage.

Birthplace of the Busan film industry and the Busan International Film Festival. Now the festival has been moved to Haeundae, but it has been revitalized as a street food paradise. Delicious foods filled the streets, ranging from Ssiat Hotteok, which has been steadily loved, to Bibim Dangmyeon and Tteokbokki. It is also fun to find the handprinting of famous filmmakers on the floor of the square.

The Busan International Film Festival is held every fall, and an eve event is held at the BIFF Square.

Korea's top migratory bird habitat, Eulsukdo Island boasts pristine natural surroundings. It has become a popular destination for its diverse offerings, including ecological learning, music concerts, and contemporary art exhibitions. Eulsukdo Island is a year-round delight: a picnic spot in spring and summer, a pink muhly grass photo opportunity in autumn, and a bird-watching paradise in winter.

There is a free bicycle rental shop in Eulsukdo Island. (ID is required for renting)