Planning to visit Busan, Korea for a quick weekend getaway? Here's a FREE ready-made 1 to 2-day Busan itinerary that I created so you don't have to. Plus, free DISCOUNT COUPONS inside to save for your travel! It covers all the information that you need such as:
✅ 15 Must-Visit Places/Landmarks in Busan
✅ Timed 1-day to 2-day Busan Itinerary with Interactive Map
✅ Access to My KakaoMap Group for Easy Navigation in Korea
✅ Dining Destinations
✅ Discounted Activities, Tours and Travel Essentials
✅ Highly-rated Hotels in Busan
Next to Seoul, Busan is my most visited place in Korea (5 times and counting!) so I'm sharing this guide and itinerary for FREE so you can enjoy Busan city too!
Travel Essentials
But before you start your trip, make sure to have these travel essentials. Book them via Klook and get up to 5% off when you use the discount code: 𝗞𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗞𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞
You can also buy your tickets at the station but during peak season, it's advisable to book it via online. Reach Busan in just under 3 hours (KTX) to 4 hours (bus), then ready to begin your adventure. If you are in a hurry and have limited time only, I recommend that you take the KTX as it will drop you off at Busan station.
Gamcheon Culture Village (감천 문화마을) in Busan is known for its vibrant, colorful houses, artistic streets, steep stairs, and twisting alleys. Often called Korea’s Santorini, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Originally built in the 1920s to relocate the poor, it grew significantly post-Korean War. In 2009, it was transformed into a cultural hub with public art, making it a unique blend of history and creativity.
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If you want to explore Gamcheon culture village while wearing a hanbok, you can actually reserve it via online. Use my code to get discounts! ⬇️
The Little Prince Statue in Gamcheon Culture Village is a charming landmark inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved character. This statue overlooks the vibrant, artistic neighborhood filled with colorful murals and quirky shops. It’s a popular spot for photos and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area. Prepare to line up if you visit here during the peak season.
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In case you want to have some drinks and snacks, here are some coffee shops that you can try in this village:
Avant Garde Cafe in Gamcheon Culture Village offers a unique blend of art and coffee in a vibrant setting. Nestled among the colorful houses, the cafe provides panoramic views of the village and the sea. It's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the artistic ambiance of this cultural hub. Don't miss the chance to try their signature drinks while soaking in the scenery.
Cafe Wooin (우인카페) in Gamcheon Culture Village offers a cozy spot to relax with panoramic views of the colorful hillside village. Located in Busan, this café is known for its artistic ambiance and delicious coffee. It's a perfect stop to recharge while exploring the vibrant murals and winding alleyways. Don't miss their signature desserts, which are as delightful as the scenery.
Nakalong is a picturesque spot in the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan, South Korea. Known as the "Machu Picchu of Busan," the village boasts colorful houses, artistic murals, and narrow alleyways. Nakalong offers a perfect vantage point to capture stunning views of the village and the sea beyond.
Blue House on the Stairs (계단위푸른집) in Gamcheon Culture Village is a charming café perched on colorful stairs in Busan’s artistic enclave. Known for its vibrant blue exterior and panoramic views of the city, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee while taking in the local art scene. The café’s unique location and picturesque setting make it a favorite among visitors looking to capture the essence of Gamcheon Culture Village. Their famous drink is the "Air Balloon" drink.
Coffee It House (커피잇집) in Gamcheon Culture Village offers a cozy retreat with stunning views of the colorful hillside neighborhood. Famous for its artisanal coffee and quaint, Instagram-worthy decor, it's a must-visit for coffee lovers and photo enthusiasts alike. The cafe’s laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxing break after exploring the vibrant streets of Gamcheon.
Gamnae Café is another business managed by the village Residents’ Council. You can some autographs of Korean celebrities such as the Running Man casts. It is located at the entrance of the alleyway that goes up to Haneulmaru. You can order coffee, juice, tea, and cookies in this café. Similar to Gamnae Restaurant, its proceeds are used for local projects in the village.
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For a unique souvenir, you can try this Hand-flipped Photobook Making Class Experience in Gamcheon Cultural Village ⬇️
Songdo Beach (송도해수욕장) in Busan is a popular destination known for its clean, sandy shores and calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The beach features a scenic promenade and a skywalk offering stunning views of the coastline. It’s conveniently located near Songdo Marine Sports Center, where you can enjoy various water activities. Easily accessible by public transportation, it’s a great spot for a family outing or a leisurely day by the sea.
Songdo Sky Park in Busan offers stunning views of the city and the coastline. Located on Songdo Beach, this park features a picturesque sky walk and an observation deck that provides panoramic views. It's a great spot for a relaxing stroll or to take in the scenery.
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You can choose your cable car ticket from Air Cruise (Normal Cabin) to Crystal Cruise (Crystal Cabin). Reserve it here ⬇️
If you wish to skip the Songdo Beach, you may opt to head straight to BIFF Square for lunch. Enjoy a vibrant mix of street food and shopping in Busan’s entertainment district.
BIFF Square (BIFF 광장) in Busan is a vibrant cultural hub renowned for its bustling atmosphere and lively street performances. It’s named after the Busan International Film Festival, which takes place here annually, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world. The square features numerous food stalls, boutique shops, and theaters, offering a taste of Busan’s dynamic city life. Don't miss the handprints of famous movie stars embedded in the pavement, a nod to the festival's celebrity guests.
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AFTERNOON
1:30 PM - Busan Tower (부산타워)
Take a 15-minute walk from BIFF Square to Busan Tower, located inside the Yongdusan Park, for panoramic city views.
Busan Tower, located in Yongdusan Park, offers stunning panoramic views of Busan and its harbor. Standing at 120 meters tall, it’s a popular spot for visitors to see the cityscape and ocean. The observation deck provides excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Yongdusan Park also features gardens, sculptures, and a traditional Korean bell, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists.
Yongdusan Park in Busan is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Located in the city center, it offers stunning views of Busan and the harbor from its hilltop. Key attractions include the Busan Tower and beautiful gardens. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and panoramic photos. It also features, sculptures, and a traditional Korean bell, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists.
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AFTERNOON to EVENING Next Stop Options:
OPTION 🅰️
4:00 PM - Blue Line Park Seaside Train (미포역)
Take the scenic seaside train from Mipo Station to Songjeong Station (vice versa or roundtrip).
Haeundae Blueline Park is an eco-friendly redevelopment of the former Donghae Nambu Line railways, stretching 4.8 kilometers from Mipo to Songjeong. Located in Busan's Haeundae Tourism Special Zone, it features the Haeundae Beach Train, a sightseeing train offering round-trip views of East Busan's coast, and the Haeundae Sky Capsule, a romantic four-seater capsule that glides 2 kilometers above sea level. This park provides a unique perspective on Haeundae's stunning coastal scenery and is a must-visit for tourists.
Gwangalli Beach, located in Busan, South Korea, is known for its stunning night views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge. The beach features a wide sandy shore, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars along the beachfront. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering vibrant nightlife and cultural events.
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For a memorable night in Gwangalli, embark on a yacht tour with a drone light show! Reserve your tickets here ⬇️
If ever you get hungry while walking at the beach, you don’t have to worry because there are a lot of restaurants within the area. From restaurants, to coffee shops and resto-bars, you can find them all in Gwangalli Beach.
OPTION 🅱️
4:00 PM - Dongbaek Island (동백섬)
Picturesque island for scenic trails and coastal views.
Dongbaek Island, named for its camellia trees, was once a small island. Over time, sand and earth from nearby streams merged it with the mainland. Today, it's a scenic area known for its lush greenery and beautiful coastal views. Dongbaek Island is a popular spot for leisurely walks and offers picturesque views of the surrounding sea.
Nestled on Dongbaek Island, Nurimaru APEC House hosted the APEC Summit in 2015. Its name means "summit of the world" in Korean, reflecting its significance. The building is designed to resemble a traditional Korean pavilion, or jeongja. Admission is free, making it an accessible spot for visitors.
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5:30 PM - Haeundae Beach (해운대해수욕장)
You can take a 20-minute walk from Dongbaek Island to go to Haeundae Beach, Busan’s most famous beach.
Haeundae Beach (해운대해수욕장) in Busan is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere. During summer, the beach is lined with colorful parasols, making it a lively spot for swimming and relaxation. The beach also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its appeal. Whether you're looking to swim or enjoy local events, Haeundae Beach offers a great experience for visitors of all ages.
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To make your trip more memorable, embark on a yacht tour or go up to X the Sky in Haeundae Beach. Reserve your tickets here and use code: KOREAFILESKLOOK for discounts ⬇️
Discover Haeundae Square, formerly known as Gunam-ro Cultural Plaza, a vibrant 490-meter-long stretch connecting Haeundae Beach to the metro station. Redesigned in 2017, this area now features a wide pedestrian zone perfect for street performances, art markets, and events like the Busan International Film Festival. Enjoy the modern touch with water fountains embedded in the ground, added in 2018, adding a splash of fun to your visit.
Although Busan is very accessible in Seoul via KTX and bus, you may opt to spend a night there. That way, you can explore more of the city on a slower pace and visit other places. Here's a sample 2-day Busan itinerary ⬇️
DAY 1 - MORNING
6:00 AM - Depart from Seoul Station (서울역)
Start your journey to Busan by catching either the KTX or Bus.
You can also buy your tickets on the station but during peak season, it's advisable to book it via online. Reach Busan in just under 3 hours (KTX) to 4 hours (bus), then ready to begin your adventure.
Gamcheon Culture Village (감천 문화마을) in Busan is known for its vibrant, colorful houses, artistic streets, steep stairs, and twisting alleys. Often called Korea’s Santorini, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Originally built in the 1920s to relocate the poor, it grew significantly post-Korean War. In 2009, it was transformed into a cultural hub with public art, making it a unique blend of history and creativity.
Add to
Details
If you want to explore Gamcheon culture village while wearing a hanbok, you can actually reserve it via online. Use my code to get discounts! ⬇️
The Little Prince Statue in Gamcheon Culture Village is a charming landmark inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved character. This statue overlooks the vibrant, artistic neighborhood filled with colorful murals and quirky shops. It’s a popular spot for photos and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area. Prepare to line up if you visit here during the peak season.
Add to
Details
See 1-day itinerary above for list of some coffee shops that you can visit in this colorful village.
For a unique souvenir, you can try this Hand-flipped Photobook Making Class Experience in Gamcheon Cultural Village ⬇️
Songdo Beach (송도해수욕장) in Busan is a popular destination known for its clean, sandy shores and calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The beach features a scenic promenade and a skywalk offering stunning views of the coastline. It’s conveniently located near Songdo Marine Sports Center, where you can enjoy various water activities. Easily accessible by public transportation, it’s a great spot for a family outing or a leisurely day by the sea.
Songdo Sky Park in Busan offers stunning views of the city and the coastline. Located on Songdo Beach, this park features a picturesque sky walk and an observation deck that provides panoramic views. It's a great spot for a relaxing stroll or to take in the scenery.
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You can choose your cable car ticket from Air Cruise (Normal Cabin) to Crystal Cruise (Crystal Cabin). Reserve it here ⬇️
Samyoung Sashimi Restaurant (삼영횟집) in Busan is renowned for its sashimi, though it also offers a variety of other dishes. The set menu includes fried fish, maeuntang (spicy fish stew), buchimgae, rice, and side dishes. The restaurant features two floors, with the second offering views of Songdo Beach. This restaurant was already featured in a KBS show so you can know that their dishes are good. Note however, that their restrooms are shared and not the most pleasant, so you might prefer the public restrooms nearby.
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If you are on a budget, you can also buy food from the convenience stores in the area.
DAY 1 - AFTERNOON
3:00 PM - Hotel Check-in
To save time searching for your accommodation, I listed some of the highly-rated (8+ rating) accommodations under $100 that you can book in these areas.
NAMPO/JAGALCHI/BUSAN STATION
Choose this area if you want to be near Busan station for convenient arrival and departure from Busan.
Step into Busan's past at the Busan Modern History Museum. Housed in a building from 1929, this museum chronicles the city's experiences under Japanese occupation and beyond. Wander through exhibits detailing Busan's modern journey, from colonial exploitation to post-liberation culture. Best of all, admission is free, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
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5:30 PM - Busan Tower (부산타워)
From the museum, take a 10-minute walk going up to Yongdunsan Park where the famous Busan Tower is located.
Busan Tower, located in Yongdusan Park, offers stunning panoramic views of Busan and its harbor. Standing at 120 meters tall, it’s a popular spot for visitors to see the cityscape and ocean. The observation deck provides excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Yongdusan Park also features gardens, sculptures, and a traditional Korean bell, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists.
Yongdusan Park in Busan is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Located in the city center, it offers stunning views of Busan and the harbor from its hilltop. Key attractions include the Busan Tower and beautiful gardens. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and panoramic photos. It also features, sculptures, and a traditional Korean bell, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists.
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DAY 1 - EVENING
6:30 PM - BIFF Square (BIFF 광장)
From Busan Tower, you can take another walk for about 15 minutes to get to BIFF Square, heart of Busan’s film and cultural scene.
BIFF Square (BIFF 광장) in Busan is a vibrant cultural hub renowned for its bustling atmosphere and lively street performances. It’s named after the Busan International Film Festival, which takes place here annually, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world. The square features numerous food stalls, boutique shops, and theaters, offering a taste of Busan’s dynamic city life. Don't miss the handprints of famous movie stars embedded in the pavement, a nod to the festival's celebrity guests.
Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, one of Busan's oldest traditional markets, dates back to the 1910s and offers a rich historical experience. Known for its diverse array of imported goods during the war, this bustling market is now famous for its mouth-watering street food like tteokbokki and eomuk, often offered as free samples. At night, from 7:30 PM to midnight, the market transforms, showcasing international cuisines, unique accessories, and live performances. It's a vibrant spot where you can savor global flavors at affordable prices, ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 won.
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DAY 2 - MORNING
9:00 AM - Oryukdo Skywalk (오륙도 스카이워크) and Oryukdo Haemaji Park (해맞이 공원)
Experience the thrilling skywalk with glass floors and stunning coastal views.
Perched atop a 35-meter coastal cliff, the Oryukdo Skywalk in Busan offers a thrilling "walking over the sky" experience with its 15-meter glass bridge. Opened in 2013, this scenic spot boasts stunning views of the East Sea and South Sea divide. The bridge, made of 24 glass plates, ensures visitor safety with its four layers of bulletproof-coated glass. This must-visit attraction is free, providing an unforgettable photo opportunity with the ocean waves beneath your feet.
Oryukdo Skywalk (오륙도 스카이워크) offers stunning views of the Oryukdo Islands and is located just opposite Seungdumal. A 15-minute hike up the hill leads to this glass-bottomed walkway, which extends over the sea for a thrilling experience. For the best photos, visit Oryukdo Haemaji Park in spring when the park is in full bloom. Don't miss this spot for its breathtaking scenery and unique perspective of Busan’s coastline.
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12:00 NN - Blue Line Park Seaside Train (송정역 or 미포역)
Take the scenic seaside train from Mipo Station to Songjeong Station (vice versa or roundtrip).
Haeundae Blueline Park is an eco-friendly redevelopment of the former Donghae Nambu Line railways, stretching 4.8 kilometers from Mipo to Songjeong. Located in Busan's Haeundae Tourism Special Zone, it features the Haeundae Beach Train, a sightseeing train offering round-trip views of East Busan's coast, and the Haeundae Sky Capsule, a romantic four-seater capsule that glides 2 kilometers above sea level. This park provides a unique perspective on Haeundae's stunning coastal scenery and is a must-visit for tourists.
Discover Haeundae Square, formerly known as Gunam-ro Cultural Plaza, a vibrant 490-meter-long stretch connecting Haeundae Beach to the metro station. Redesigned in 2017, this area now features a wide pedestrian zone perfect for street performances, art markets, and events like the Busan International Film Festival. Enjoy the modern touch with water fountains embedded in the ground, added in 2018, adding a splash of fun to your visit.
Haeundae Beach (해운대해수욕장) in Busan is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere. During summer, the beach is lined with colorful parasols, making it a lively spot for swimming and relaxation. The beach also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its appeal. Whether you're looking to swim or enjoy local events, Haeundae Beach offers a great experience for visitors of all ages.
Dongbaek Island, named for its camellia trees, was once a small island. Over time, sand and earth from nearby streams merged it with the mainland. Today, it's a scenic area known for its lush greenery and beautiful coastal views. Dongbaek Island is a popular spot for leisurely walks and offers picturesque views of the surrounding sea.
Nestled on Dongbaek Island, Nurimaru APEC House hosted the APEC Summit in 2015. Its name means "summit of the world" in Korean, reflecting its significance. The building is designed to resemble a traditional Korean pavilion, or jeongja. Admission is free, making it an accessible spot for visitors.
Gwangalli Beach, located in Busan, South Korea, is known for its stunning night views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge. The beach features a wide sandy shore, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars along the beachfront. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering vibrant nightlife and cultural events.
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Details
For a memorable night in Gwangalli, embark on a yacht tour with a drone light show! Reserve your tickets here ⬇️
The Bay 101 (더베이101) is a vibrant waterfront complex in Busan, perfect for enjoying stunning city views and fresh seafood. Located in Haeundae, it offers a mix of restaurants, cafes, and a yacht club, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day out. Don't miss the spectacular night skyline, best viewed from the outdoor terrace. It's a must-visit for both food lovers and photography enthusiasts.
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You can also embark on a public yacht tour in The Bay 101 ⬇️
If you prefer a package tour for your convenience instead of exploring Busan DIY-style, you can book any of these tours via Klook. Make sure to use the discount code: KOREAFILESKLOOK to get 5% off!
If you are staying in Busan for a few more days, I highly suggest that you visit Gyeongju city, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Korea! You can do it DIY-style too or join a package tour for your convenience.
✅ This is a packed itinerary which aims to see many locations in a day. But feel free to customize this and remove/add destination based on your preference. You can also change the day/time arrangement based on your schedule; just make sure to check the closing day/time of each location.
✅ This itinerary includes an interactive map which you can use while traveling. But because Google Map isn't that reliable in Korea, you can just copy the name of each location in Korean and paste it to your KakaoMap or NaverMap. Or better yet, access my personal KakaoMap group for FREE!
✅ This detailed Busan itinerary will always be for FREE! But you can support me and my work by:
1️⃣ Booking through my affiliate links: Hotels via Booking.com and Travel Essentials via Klook. You can also use my Klook discount code: KOREAFILESKLOOK to get up to 5% off (5x use)! This promo code can also be used for all Klook activities other than Korea. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you book through these links.
4️⃣ Subscribing to my Thatch account, sharing my travel itineraries and guides here in Thatch or your social media/travel group chats. You can also tag or or mention @koreafiles on Instagram if you get to use any of my contents here.
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