Table of Contents
Source: Visit Busan
Busan, the cooler sister of Seoul
When thinking of travelling to Korea, everyone instantly thinks of Seoul, the bustling metropolitan city known for its city scapes, shopping, and iconic tourist spots. However, in recent years there is one city in Korea that has been on every tourist’s radar, Busan.
Busan is located around 2.5 to 3 hours from Seoul by KTX (high-speed train). It is a sea side town known for its blend of tradition and modernity. It is the second largest city in Korea after Seoul, and one of the reasons it is gaining popularity is because of its vibrant energy and unique charm with stunning nature scenery, bustling traditional markets, and artsy corners all around the city.
According to the official Visit Busan website, Busan has welcomed a record-breaking 3.64 million global travelers in 2025. Following an amazing year for their tourism, the Busan government is more than excited to welcome people from around the world.
Here are some tips for a perfect 2026 Busan trip!
When is the best time to go to Busan?
As a coastal town with a maritime climate, Busan is known for its cooler weather compared to other cities. With the best seasons to visit being spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November). During spring the average temperature is 13°C which is warm enough for strolls to enjoy the flowers in bloom all around the city. Summer (June - August) can be very hot and humid, it can also rain a lot. However, after the rainfall season most people say that it is the best season for beaches.
During fall, temperatures are relatively lower, perfect for enjoying the autumn foliage, with often clear skies. But keep in mind that there are usually large differences in temperature between day and night. Lastly, in winter , the weather is often cold and dry with winds blowing from the sea, it's the time where Busan has the least amount of crowds perfect for when you are looking for a quiet getaway.
Each season of Busan has its own charms, whether you’re looking for a relaxing stay or a fun activity filled trip, Busan is available all year long!
What to prepare for your trip?
Transportation
No need to worry about how to get around in Busan as there are several transportation modes you can choose from.
- Busan Metro: The Busan metro has a few lines connecting Busan to major cities such as Gimhae and Yangsan. It operates from 5AM to 11.59PM so travelers won’t have to worry if they are out late.
- Bus: Busan has a lot of mountain or up-hill areas, which is why travelling by bus is also one of the best options to get to your destination. There are a few types of buses such as regular city bus, or express city bus, so make sure to take the right one.
Check out the Busan Transportation Website for more information!
Payment / SIM Cards
Most stores and restaurants take cashless payments especially with the rise of tourists coming to Busan. However, when visiting spots such as traditional markets or street stalls, they often only take cash payments. Which is why carrying local currency would be helpful.
Preparing your local SIM cards or eSIM before your trip would also be helpful for looking up navigation, or if some translating is needed once you arrive. If you haven’t gotten it yet, don’t worry as airports or stations usually have stores that sell them.
VISIT BUSAN PASS
If you want a hassle free trip, the Busan government also created a multipurpose pass for global tourists to use when they travel to Busan called the VISIT BUSAN PASS. Tourists can get free passes to Busan’s most iconic landmarks, discounts at restaurants or shops, and enjoy prepaid access for transportation all around Busan. There are 2 types of passes available, the physical card or the mobile app pass. Choose which one is right for you and check out more information on the VISIT BUSAN PASS website!
Where to go in Busan?
Instagram worthy spots: Sightseeing areas
Source: Visit Busan
Gamcheon Cultural Village
Most visitors come to Busan to visit this iconic landmark in Busan which is a hillside village filled with colorful houses, art installations, and murals perfect for sightseeing and capturing the beauty of Busan.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Source: Visit Busan
This stunning 650 year old temple sitting on a cliff overlooking the sea is one of the must visit spots when you are travelling to Busan. Since it is a bit far from the city center most tourists book a guided tour to get to the temple and back.
Haeundae Beach
Source: Visit Busan
Haeundae beach is one of Busan’s most famous and packed beaches. Its stunning coastlines and contrasting skyscrapers behind the Beach make it a unique destination most people don’t want to miss.
Best of Busan bites: Restaurants and Cafes
Source: Eom Yong Baek Naver
Eom Yong Baek Dwaeji Gukbap
When visiting Busan, the one food that locals would always recommend to tourists when they visit is Dwaeji Gukbap or pork rice soup. The dish is typically rice in a rich pork broth and boiled pork served with chives and red pepper paste. Some people say the taste is quite different from Gukbap you would get in Seoul so it’s definitely worth trying if you are visiting Busan. One of the restaurants both locals and tourists usually go to is Eom Yeong Baek Dwaeji Gukbap. They have a few locations so check which one is nearest to you!
MipoJib
Source: MipoJib Naver
Another type of food that you can’t miss when you go to Busan is seafood. As Busan is a coastal town, the quality of seafood is guaranteed to be amazing. One of the places that has been gaining popularity with tourists is MipoJib. This restaurant serves a variety of dishes from seafood hot pots to raw marinated seafood. It is a must visit for seafood lovers, it’s also located conveniently near Haeundae Beach, so after hanging out by the beach, why not grab a bite at MipoJib.
Source: MipoJib Naver
Having Moment Cafe
Source: Having Moment Naver
Having Moment is currently trending on social media for its gorgeous location overlooking the sea with delicious drinks and desserts. It's a great option for relaxing after a whole day of walking around Busan, and don’t miss out on their famous Black Sesame Cream Latte and Ice Cream Latte everyone has been raving about!
Source: Having Moment Naver
Mumu Terrace
Source: Mumu Terrace Naver
Another spot people have been going crazy about is a cafe called Mumu Terrace. A quirky cave themed cafe in Busan that also has a bakery connected to it called Who’s Who Mumu. They sell a variety of fresh baked goods from sweets to savory pastries with affordable pricings. A perfect spot for a quick snack time and photo ops.
Plan your Busan trip with Daebak!
Visiting Korea doesn’t have to be always going to Seoul, there are still many mesmerizing cities left undiscovered like Busan. Come and experience the unique culture of Korea by traveling through Busan. Even if you haven’t had the chance to come to Korea, plan your trip now with Daebak!
Check out our Busan Magazine to find out more about Busan!
Also read our Jeju travel guide if you’re planning a trip to Jeju Island!