Discover the Best of Busan in 3 Days

Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Ingrid & Alex

Are you spending 3 days in Busan and are looking for the best itinerary? You have come to the right place because we have put together an easy-to-follow comprehensive itinerary.

It includes the answers to all your questions, from how to get to Busan, how to travel around the city, where to stay, what to do, and much more.

During our stay in Korea, we loved Busan and went back as often as we could. Its colorful streets, vibrant neighborhoods, delicious and fresh food, sandy beaches, hip cafes – all these make a city worth visiting for at least 3 days.

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3 Days in Busan: Complete Guide + Itinerary

3 Days in Busan: Complete Guide + Itinerary

Useful tools and information for when you travel to South Korea

Before moving to Seoul, we had no idea how important it is to have the right tools at our disposal. Not only because we did not speak or read Korean, but also because common things such as Google Maps do not work in South Korea.

In order to make your vacation a success, here are a few things worth knowing and having.

Stay Connected: SIM Card with T-Money for Seamless Travel

The T-money card is a rechargeable smart fare card used for public transportation in South Korea, including buses, subways, and even taxis.

It is widely used in major cities such as Seoul and Busan. The card can also be used to make small purchases at certain convenience stores and vending machines.

Having a SIM Card with a T-Money card will make your life easier and your trip more enjoyable.

Navigate Like a Local: Naver Maps vs. Kakao Maps

Instead of Google Maps, which doesn’t work properly in South Korea, you will need Naver Maps (for IOS | for Android) or Kakao maps (for IOS | for Android).

I found Naver easier to use and have it installed on my phone. The app is easier to use for non-Korean-speaking travelers, even though sometimes you might need to enter the address or location name in Hangul.

Lost in Translation? Not Anymore: Papago for Easy Translations

For translations, Papago is your savior. Use it on pictures or copy and paste the text. (download it here for IOS | for Android).

Sure, Google Translate will help you, but Papago is a local app developed only for the Korean language, so it will be more accurate.

Smooth Takeoff: Skyscanner for Flight Options

For flights, both external and internal, you can use Skyscanner to check prices and options. It is the best way to find the most affordable prices for your time and date.

What to do and see in Busan in 3 days

All the best things to see in Busan – map

Click on the map to open it.

Busan itinerary 3 days summary

Your days in a nutshell:

First Day: Explore the western part of Busan ( Gamcheon Cultural Village, and go on a Busan city tour by bus to Taejongdae, Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, and Jagalchi Market)

Second Day: Head over to the beach: Haeundae Beach, the Blue Line Train, Busan Aquarium, Sunset Yacht trip

Third-Day: Go on a day trip or head further east: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Wave on cafe & Songjeong Beach

First day of your 3 days in Busan: Western part of Busan (Gamcheon Cultural Village, Taejongdae, Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, and Jagalchi Market)

Day 1 Map

Gamcheon Cultural Village

Start your day climbing the hills at the Gamcheon Cultural Village, and snapping countless pictures on the colorful streets of this area.

How to get to Gamcheon Cultural Village

Take the bus or subway to Chungmu Market, from where you will board the Seogu 2-2 green bus. This is a small bus, that only fits roughly 20 people, thus it will be easier if you get there in the morning.

Address: 203 Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea

Getting to Gamcheon Village from Busan Station

A short history and why should you visit

In the 1920s and 30s, Korea’s government constructed the district as an area for the working class to live in. Over time, it has grown to become a bustling residence for countless individuals. Its streets are filled with stories of history, culture, and everyday life.

In 2009, after a government-led redevelopment project, the village was revitalized and now dazzles visitors with its stunning array of brightly colored buildings. Over 1 million people come to enjoy the unique atmosphere and take part in the cultural activities offered here.

The village is full of vibrant street art and murals, which have been painted by local artists. You can enjoy taking in the sights while strolling through the narrow alleyways filled with shops selling traditional souvenirs, and of course, taking a picture with the famous Little Prince statue.

While this place might not be your usual tourist attraction, it is one of the main things to do in Busan, and we strongly believe you should give it a chance.

Busan City Tour

Should you take the Busan City Tour Bus or use normal public transportation?

Of course, you will be able to get to the attractions we have added to the list for today, by using normal public transportation. However, you will have to change a few buses and understand where exactly to get off.

By choosing to go on the Busan City Tour Bus, you can select an itinerary that takes you past some of the most iconic attractions, so you can learn more about its fascinating history. Furthermore, the total price of your trip will be set and clear from the start, giving you peace of mind that there won’t be any surprises.

An idea for one of your days in Busan would be to take the Green Line bus. It will take you to all the places you want to see today: Jagalchi Fish Market, Huinnyeoul Culture Village, Taejongdae Park, Yongdusan Park, and the Busan Tower.

See route options and prices here!

Jagalchi Fish Market (부산 자갈치시장)

In close proximity to the port, the famous Jagalchi Fish Market is easily linked to Gamcheon Cultural Village by bus ride.

Located near Busan’s Nampo-dong District, this vibrant market is home to hundreds of vendors selling fresh seafood from around the world. The market is a great place to sample some local fare and get an up-close look at the bustling Korean fish trade.

The perfect time for a visit to the fish market would be during lunchtime. Be sure to plan enough time to wander around the market and take in all of its unique sights, smells, and sounds. You’ll find vendors selling a variety of fresh fish, squid, eels, shrimp, clams, crabs and other seafood delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds.

Many vendors also have tanks full of live fish so you can pick out exactly what you want and they will cook it for you.

Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Opening hours: every day, between 02:00-22:00, closed on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

If you choose to travel by Busan City Bus Tour, you can take it from there and head towards your next stop on Yeongdo Island.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village (희여울문화마을) & Jeoryeong Coastal Walk

A narrow colorful street, perched above the sea, from where the ocean will charm you with its infinite blue. Initially thought to be a lively tourist area, Huinnyeoul Culture Village quickly became laid-back, with the white and colorful buildings contrasting with the blue sea, known also as the “Santorini of Busan”.

Along the 14 intertwined streets and alleys, we found countless cafes, lazy cats, vibrant murals, and breathtaking views. This place has become extremely popular with Korean people, and you will find them strolling around and taking countless Instagram-worthy pictures.

From the streets above, you can see the Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, painted in blue, that ends with a beautiful rainbow-colored staircase, and one of the most photogenic caves in Busan.

At the entrance to Huinnyeoul Culture Village, you will find an informational map, and you can create your itinerary based on it. Or simply walk along the sea and let yourself explore every narrow and colorful corner.

Stop by the Huinnyeoul Beach Cafe (흰여울비치), a beach-themed cafe with pink exterior walls and beautiful ocean views.

Address: 부산 영도구 영선동4가 1109 (1043 Yeongseon-dong 4(sa)-ga, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea)

Taejongdae Park

The Cliffed Coast is a must-see for nature passionate, but also for those who want to go for a walk on the forested paths, or simply admire the beautiful Yeongdo Lighthouse and have access to the Taejongdae Observatory.

At the end of the coastal walk, you can visit the Taejongsa Temple – a must-visit during the month of July when the Hydrangea Festival takes place here.

Address: 24 Jeonmang-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea

Yongdusan Park, and the Busan Diamond Tower (부산타워)

The tower was built in 1973 and it stands tall at the top of Yongdusan Park in central Busan and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

Visitors to this tower can enjoy sweeping views from its observation deck located 120 meters above ground level.

The tower also serves as a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike to admire night views of Busan‘s skyline with its light show that changes colors every few minutes.

Address: 37-55 Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Book your ticket here!

Day 2 of your 3 days in Busan: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple + Blue Train or Sky Capsule+ Haeundae Beach + Sunset cruise

Today you will be taking it slow, spending time at the most popular beach in South Korea, and enjoying the ocean view from the colorful Blue Line Train and Sky Capsule and from the boat.

On our second visit to Busan, we chose to stay at Haeundae Beach and take advantage of everything it had to offer. We spent one week there and we really liked its vibe and all the things you can do in the area.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (해동 용궁사(부산)

While the country has many more temples by sea, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is the most popular with tourists.

To be honest, we never managed to visit the temple partly because of its location a bit further away from the city.

The temple was first built during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) and has been restored several times since then. It stands on a dramatic rocky outcrop overlooking the East Sea, with breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and ocean.

The main hall contains statues of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other deities as well as a large bell tower that can be heard from miles away.

Visitors to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple will find it to be an impressive example of traditional Korean architecture combined with stunning natural scenery.

Address: 86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang, Busan, South Korea

How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple from Haeundae Beach

You can travel to the temple by bus, as it is located a bit further away on the east coast.

From Haeundae Beach station, take buses 1001, 100 or 181, and get off at Yonggungsa Temple 용궁사 | National Institute of Fisheries Science 국립수산과학원.

Another option would be to take the Blue Train to the end of its line at Songjeong Beach. From here, take one of the buses heading towards the temple and ride it for only 4 stops.

No matter which way you choose to go, you will still have to walk for roughly 10 minutes until you reach the temple.

How to get from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Songjeong Station

The fastest route is by bus 181 or 100, for 4 stops.

Take the Blue Train or Sky Capsule from Songjeong Station

Songjeong Beach is popular with surfers, and it has a more relaxed vibe than Haeundae.

While you are there, and if you are interested, you can book a surfboard and surfing lessons.

From Songjeong Station you can take the Blue Line train, and change at Cheongsapo Station to the Sky Capsule that will take you to Mipo Station.

Admire the coastline from the comfort of your own small and colorful capsule.

The Sky Capsule is a unique transportation experience connecting the two villages of Mipo and Cheongsapo, located just 2 kilometers apart. The capsule travels along an elevated, suspended path at a leisurely pace of 4 kilometers per hour, making the journey from one village to the other in less than half an hour.

They only allow a maximum of 4 people inside one car, and we relayed our trip. The one-way price for 2 people in a car is 30.000 won, while 4 people will pay 44.000 won.

Make sure to book in advance, especially if you want to have this experience at a certain time of the day.

Address: 60 Songjeongjungang-ro 6beon-gil, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea

Read the full guide for taking the Sky Capsule and Blue Line Train here!

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is one of the most popular beaches in South Korea. It is known for its beautiful white sand and blue waters, which make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water activities.

The beach also boasts stunning views of the nearby mountains and islands, making it a great place to take photos or simply admire the scenery. Haeundae Beach should be included on any Busan itinerary mainly because there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment venues nearby. On top of that, there is easy access to public transportation options like buses and taxis.

The beachfront of Busan is renowned for its luxurious hotels. Many offer stunning views of the sea and have inviting infinity pools.

Paradise Hotel stands out as one of the most impressive venues, with its sophisticated décor and a prime location for picturesque snapshots.

Grand Josun Busan offers breathtaking sea views from its expansive windows and an impressive infinity pool that will make you feel like you’re floating on air.

Let’s not forget Shilla Stay – its sleek and modern design, as well as its premium services, are sure to make your stay unforgettable.

The short answer is yes if you are wondering whether you can swim at Haeundae Beach. Of course, depending on the season and weather conditions, the authorities will limit or regulate swimming.

Our favorite place in Busan was Haeundae Beach. So much so that we decided to stay there for our second trip to the city. We loved its vibrant atmosphere and the countless restaurant options. Also, the delicious street food at the market and the cafes with a sea view.

Haeundae Beach reminded us a bit of Stanley Beach in Hong Kong. The beach was our favorite morning coffee or early brunch getaway.

Read the complete list of things to do at Haeundae Beach here!

Main things to do at Haeundae Beach

Go for a walk on Dongbaek Island – just behind Westin Josun Hotel. The island has been designated as an ecological park by the government, making it an ideal destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Pamper yourself with a SPA treatment at the famous SPA 1899 located steps away from the beach. They will use some of the best Korean skincare, for an unforgettable experience. Book your treatment here!

Don’t miss the Sea Life Busan Aquarium – This state-of-the-art facility houses more than 40,000 marine animals from over 600 different species around the world. Visitors to Sea Life Busan can explore nine interactive zones that feature a variety of aquatic life from penguins and jellyfish to sharks, rays, and more! Book your ticket here!

Choose one of the restaurants along the seafront, next to the market, for dinner. They are extremely popular with locals, and always serve fresh fish – pay attention to what you receive because here is where we were served silkworms as an appetizer.

Have seafood at the Haeundae Street Food behind the main promenade. We went there for dinner and had a delicious meal with fish soup, fried fish, fried calamari, and other small traditional Korean dishes. Of course, you can also try the many types of food on a stick.

BUSAN X the SKY – climb to the top of one of the tallest buildings in Busan and enjoy the view. Book your ticket here!

Go for a sunset luxury yacht cruise

Finish off your second day in Busan with a sunset yacht cruise. This was by far one of our favorite things to do, and admiring the city as it lights up is a breathtaking experience.

For one hour, you will sail along the coastline while admiring some of the city’s most famous landmarks: Gwangalli Beach, Gwangan Bridge, Donbaek Island, and the Marine Center.

Address: 52 Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea

Book your sunset yacht cruise here!

Day 3 of your 3 days in Busan: Day trip – Gyeongju, Boseong, or another destination

On your third day in Busan, you can choose to go on a day trip to the beautiful historical town of Gyeongju or visit the tea plantations in Boseong.

We have written a comprehensive guide for a day trip from Busan to Gyeongju here, including how to get there, what to do and see, where to eat, and more based on our experience.

If, however, you prefer to explore the tea plantations on the hills north of Yeosu, you should consider a day trip to Boseong.

You can rent a car and drive there by yourself, or you can book an organized tour and forget about having to think about itineraries, schedules, maps, and so on. A tour will take you through the tea plantations in Boseong, but you will also get to see the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve.

See more about the tour here!

Visiting the Oedo Island Botanical Garden is another fun activity for a day outside of Busan. With its lush vegetation, crystal clear waters, and picturesque views, this botanical garden offers an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world. From tropical plants to exotic flowers, you can find something interesting at every turn.

As you can see, there are so many things to do and see in Busan in 3 days. You simply cannot get bored in this vibrant city, and you will fall in love with the place.

Any one of the 3 days can be replaced by a Busan Day & Night Full Day Tour.

It’s a 14.5 hours tour that will take you to see some of the most important attractions in Busan. You can choose from 2 itineraries, and it includes transportation and a guide.

See more about the tour here!

Other things to see in Busan

SPA Land Centum City

One of the largest SPAs in South Korea and one of the best to experience if you want an authentic jimjilbang. Moreover, it is hosted in the world’s largest Department Store, Shinsegae, on the banks of the Suyeonggang River, very close to Gwangalli and Haeundae Beach.

Address: Shinsegae Centum City 1F, 35, Centumnam-daero, Haeundae-gu, Busan

Book your ticket here!

Oryukdo and Igidae Coastal Walk

The walk along the coastline offers a stunning view over Haeundae and Gwangalli. Make sure to wear the right shoes, and come prepared for the many steps and bridges.

The walk is 4.7 km long.

It is stretching from Dongsaengmal Trail – Global Gathering – Nongbawi Rock – Eoulmadang – Oryukdo Quay.

Can take roughly a 2.5-hour walk.

Address: 137 Oryukdo-ro, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea

Seomyeon

A bustling area of Busan located near the city center. Home to many shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

The streets are filled with locals and tourists alike as they explore what this vibrant district has to offer. Seomyeon is known for its nightlife, with bars, karaoke rooms, and nightclubs that stay open until late into the night.

There are also plenty of places to shop during the day in Seomyeon’s numerous department stores and malls. If you want a taste of traditional Korean culture, there are several temples in the area worth visiting for an exciting experience.

SAVE OR PIN FOR LATER!

Bujeon Market (부전시장)

It’s been around since 1902 and is known as one of the oldest traditional markets in the city. The market has over 500 stalls selling everything from fresh produce, seafood, and spices to clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

You can also enjoy delicious Korean street food at numerous restaurants scattered throughout the market or take part in cooking classes offered by experienced vendors.

Address: 부산진구 중앙대로 748, 부산광역시, 부산광역시, 대한민국

Gukje Market (국제시장)

The market has an interesting history. This market used to be the place where refugees who fled to Busan set up stalls. They would make a living by selling smuggled or imported products after the Korean War.

Today, Gukje Market is one of Korea’s largest markets. It is where you can find almost anything from machinery tools to kitchenware and clothing.

Address: 부산광역시 중구 광복로35 | 35 Gwangbok-ro, Jung-gu, Busan (set in Nampo-dong)

BIFF Square (BIFF 광장)

It is the site of the world-renowned Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). The area has become an integral part of the city’s identity and culture, offering visitors an array of cultural attractions from movie theatres to art galleries and beyond.

At the center of BIFF Square stands the Busan Film Center, a multi-story building that houses various film-related facilities, including a theater and cafe.

The area also contains several shopping districts, restaurants, and bars.

Additionally, many art galleries are showcasing both modern and traditional Korean artwork.

Address: 부산광역시 중구 비프광장로 20 (남포동6가) 일대 | 20, BIFF gwangjang-ro, Jung-gu (Nampo-dong)

Extra tip: you can visit Gukje Market, Yongdusan Park / Busan Tower, Jagalchi Fish Market, and BIFF Square as a stand-alone itinerary since they are all set in Nampo-dong.

Lotte World Adventure Busan

It features a variety of thrilling rides and attractions, as well as exciting shows that will keep you entertained for hours on end. The park also offers a number of dining options, from traditional Korean cuisine to international fare.

From roller coasters to water slides, there’s plenty of excitement waiting at Lotte World Adventure Busan.

Address: South Korea, Busan, Gijang, 동부산관광로 42

Get your ticket here!

Songdo Cable Car

A great way to admire the skyline and the ocean, especially during the night. Now called Busan Air Cruise, the itinerary runs from East Songrim Park to West Aman Park.

Address: 171 Songdohaebyeon-ro, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea

Get your Busan night tour with Songdo cable car included!

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.

Book your Korea Rail Pass here!

Getting from Gimhae Airport to Busan city

After the 1-hour flight from Seoul, you can easily get to the city by subway. The purple line links Gimhae Airport to Sasang. From there, you can take any other line and get to your final destination.

If you travel by train, Busan Station is right in the city center. From there, you will be able to travel by subway or bus to wherever you need to go.

Getting around Busan

Even though the second time we visited the city we traveled by car from Seoul, we never actually used it to get around the city.

Public transportation in Busan is so reliable, easy to use, and has such a great network, that we only used the car to go on day trips outside of the city.

Using the subway and the bus will get you anywhere without having to worry about spending too much or finding parking.

Get the full information about the Busan metro system here.

Get the full information about the Busan bus system here.

Read the full guide for how to get around Busan

Where to stay for 3 days in Busan

Busan is an incredible city with plenty of things to see and do in a short amount of time. For our trips, we decided to stay in two different areas based on the attractions that were on our itinerary.

We chose an area near Haeundae Beach, which was great for exploring the nearby cafes and bars along the waterfront. It was also conveniently located near the Busan metro, and with a few transfers, we could easily get around to all of the destinations on our itinerary.

Also, on our first trip, we stayed on Yeongdo Island at one of the most picture-perfect hotels in Busan.

Accommodation in Busan is quite varied. Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose from luxury hotels, guesthouses, hostels, or even Airbnb apartments.

LaValse Hotel in Yeongdo-gu

One of the most Instagram-worthy hotels in Busan, LaValse Hotel is set on Yeongdo island.

Situated near popular attractions like the harbor, museums, and bustling shopping districts, the hotel offers guests breathtaking views of the city skyline and rolling hills beyond. With convenient access to public transportation, a quick ride on the subway brings visitors close to all major landmarks in no time.

Our standard room with ocean views was tastefully designed and featured modern decor that we found especially pleasing. The hotel offers a rooftop cafe with a delicious selection of breakfast items, as well as access to a sauna, providing an opportunity to relax after exploring the city.

The stunning views of the ocean from our room were truly mesmerizing and added to the peaceful environment of our stay. We had a wonderful experience and will definitely consider returning for another visit in the future.

The corner room at the hotel is the most sought-after, and it’s usually booked solid well in advance. For those looking for an authentic experience, they also offer a Korean-style room that involves sleeping on the floor – complete with traditional bedding and floor cushions – making it an unforgettable experience for those who decide to stay here.

Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the same amenities as all other guests, such as free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.

So make sure to book your stay with plenty of time to spare.

See availability and prices here!

Hotel Hyggelig at Haeundae Beach

Situated just minutes from the stunning Haeundae Beach.

This charming hotel provides guests with a conveniently located and affordable accommodation option.

We were mesmerized by the stunning views of the city skyline and harbor from our room with a balcony. Every morning, we watched as local fisherman sold their fresh catch at the lively fish market below us. That created a vibrant atmosphere that was absolutely enchanting.

The smell of salt water filled the air, and we felt so fortunate to have found such a special place to stay.

The rooms provide maximum comfort and convenience with all the amenities you’d expect from a modern hotel.

Just a few minutes walk from the hotel, you will find a wide array of restaurants offering delicious Korean cuisine. Multiple convenience stores are located nearby if you need to grab some essentials quickly. The Blue Train Line is easily accessible.

The hotel also hosts a cafe with a stunning rooftop.

It all comes at a very convenient price compared to other hotels in the area.

See availability and prices here!

Want a great luxury hotel option?

There are plenty of amazing luxury hotel options along Haeundae Beach.

Paradise Hotel Busan is popular with locals not only for its incredible infinity pool but also for its great location on the beach and 5* services. See prices here!

Grand Josun Busan is another great option. The beachfront hotel boasts an array of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, and a steam room.

If you are traveling with kids, you can take advantage of the dedicated kids’ floor.

The hotel offers a unique beachfront experience with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages. Be it taking a dip in the pool, relaxing at the sauna, or jogging along the beachside. See availability and prices here!

Park Hyatt Busan – Sitting slightly further away from the sandy beaches of Busan, yet within proximity of the renowned Busan Exhibition and Convention Centre (BEXCO). The hotel offers luxurious 5-star accommodation. With an exquisite eatery on the 32nd floor, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the glistening ocean below whilst dining there. See availability and prices here!

Want to stay in the middle of the city so you can see it all?

Choose to stay in Seomyeon.

Lotte Hotel Busan is a 5* hotel set within walking distance of the subway station. You will find an on-site duty-free store, an indoor and outdoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. See availability and prices here!

Browndot Business Seomyeon is a more affordable hotel option. It has spacious rooms equipped with a bathtub, perfect for relaxation after a long day of exploring the streets of Busan. See availability and prices here!

Are 3 days in Busan enough?

While spending 2 days in Busan would be too short, allowing an extra day to explore the city or to go on a day trip should give you a chance to get a better feel of its vibe.

We spent one week in Busan without getting to do it all. That being said, I think that, with the right itinerary, 3 days should be a good amount of time.

When to visit Busan

Busan is an incredibly popular tourist destination annually with its subtropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture.

Accordingly, the best time to visit Busan would be during the spring and autumn months. Between March and May, or September to November is just right.

During these months, the weather is mild, with comfortable temperatures providing the perfect relaxing vacation opportunity.

In the summertime, temperatures can get quite hot and humid in Busan. Thus, exploring outside during this period may be a bit uncomfortable.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of indoor or beach activities! Busan has numerous art galleries, museums, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. So you won’t be short on things to do.

In our opinion, the perfect time to visit Busan is during spring or autumn. Those are the most beautiful seasons in South Korea.

We visited in May and September, and both trips were perfect. However, if you want to see the cherry blossoms, you should go as early as March or early April.

On the other hand, if you want to catch the full fall foliage, plan your trip for October.

Where to eat in Busan

We tried various restaurants during our 3 days in Busan and we liked everything we had.

From the Westerner-type Mad for Garlic restaurant set in Haeundae to the Chinese hot pot Haidilao set minutes away from the train station.

On Yeongdo Island, at the raw fish market, we had eel soup with various traditional side dishes.

We had the best fish soup at Samsan Sliced Raw Fish restaurant, minutes away from Haundae Beach.

Another chain restaurant worth trying is Clam. It is a tapas restaurant and you can find it at the beach in Haeundae and at Gwangalli.

Also, next to the Haeundae Market, you can find various fish restaurants and a great Korean BBQ place. We were served silkworms as appetizers at one of the fish places, so be careful!

Other FAQ

Is Busan worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! We loved Busan even more than we liked Seoul. Primarily because of its location by the ocean and the laid-back vibe.

The streets are colorful, there are plenty of things to do and see, and the food is delicious and fresh.

How many days in Busan?

As many as you can spare out of your itinerary! If you can only spend a weekend or 3 days in Busan, that is ok.

But we spent one week in the city and would love to return at some point.

What to pack for 3 days in Busan?

For a 3-day trip to Busan, you should pack light and comfortable clothing such as shorts and T-shirts. You should also bring a raincoat or umbrella.

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, jackets, and other items that protect you from the sun. Especially if you plan to spend time at the beach.

Travel adaptors are important, along with a power bank.

Additionally, remember to bring your camera for picturesque sights and souvenirs for family or friends back home.

Other South Korea Travel Resources

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