Busan
Korea’s vibrant port city where urban energy meets the ocean breeze. From bustling beaches and seaside temples to fresh seafood markets and sky-high observatories, it’s a city that never stops moving yet always feels alive.
Things to do here
2 experiences our team has visited
Busan · Gamcheon
Gamcheon Culture Village
Climb the pastel staircase lanes of Gamcheon Culture Village, the hillside district whose painted houses and art installations made it Korea's most-filmed neighbourhood — drama sets, music videos and all.
Busan · Gwangalli
A Sky Written in Light: Gwangalli Drone Show
Watch more than a thousand drones draw seasonal images over Gwangalli beach with the Gwangan Bridge as backdrop — a 12-minute show, free, from the sand.
Places to see
The landmarks worth the stop
Busan Tower
The 120-metre observation tower in Yongdusan Park above Nampo-dong, with views over the port, the bridges and Yeongdo Island. Best in the early evening, when the harbour lights come up and the tower's own light show begins.
Songdo Cloud Walk
A curving skywalk that loops out over the water at the eastern end of Songdo Beach, with glass panels underfoot. It links to Geobukseom Island and makes a short, breezy stop on the way round Busan's western shore.
Dalmaji Road
The cherry- and pine-lined pass that climbs from Haeundae Beach towards Songjeong, dotted with cafés and galleries looking out to sea. Dalmaji means moon-viewing, and the hilltop is exactly where Busan goes to watch it rise.
Haeundae Beach
Busan's signature beach — a 1.5-kilometre curve of white sand backed by hotels and the city skyline. Beyond high summer it is a place for a morning walk, a coastal train ride to Songjeong and sunset drinks along the promenade.
Gamcheon Culture Village
A hillside maze of pastel houses, murals, and art installations overlooking the sea — once a refugee settlement, now Busan's most photographed neighbourhood. Follow the fish-shaped trail markers to hidden viewpoints and craft studios.
BIFF Square
The lively heart of Busan's film district, birthplace of the Busan International Film Festival. Handprints of film stars dot the pavement between street-food stalls famous for ssiat hotteok — seed-stuffed sweet pancakes.
Haeundae Market
A compact traditional market one block from Haeundae Beach, beloved for grilled eel, fish cakes, and winter street snacks. The perfect detour between beach walks for a taste of everyday Busan.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
One of Korea's rare seaside temples, set directly on the rocks of the northeast coast. Arrive early to hear chanting over the waves — the sunrise views from the stone bridge are among Busan's most memorable scenes.
UN Memorial Cemetery
The only United Nations cemetery in the world, honouring the UN forces of 22 nations, with soldiers from 11 countries laid to rest here after the Korean War. Its quiet lawns and memorial halls offer a moving counterpoint to Busan's beach energy.
Busan Air Cruise
A 1.62-kilometre cable car gliding 86 meters above the sea at Songdo Beach, with crystal-floor cabins for the brave. The ride links the beach to Amnam Park's coastal cliffs and walking trails.
Gwangalli Beach
A 1.4-kilometre crescent of sand facing the lit-up span of Gwangan Bridge — Busan's favourite evening spot. Cafés and seafood restaurants line the shore, and weekend drone shows light up the night sky over the water.
Jagalchi Market
Korea's largest seafood market, run for generations by the famously spirited "Jagalchi ajumma" fishmongers. Pick your catch downstairs and have it served minutes later in the upstairs restaurants overlooking the harbour.
Journeys through Busan
See it inside an itinerary
Sample journey
Korea Highlights Tour (7D 6N)
Seoul (2N), Gyeongju (1N), Busan (2N), Seoul (1N)
Sample journey
Grand Korea Discovery (14D 13N)
Seoul (4N), Andong (1N), Gyeongju (day visit), Busan (3N), Jeju (3N), Seoul (2N)
Sample journey
All About Korea (11D 10N)
Seoul (3N), Suwon (1N), Wonju (1N), Andong (1N), Gyeongju (1N), Busan (2N), Seoul (1N)
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