Things to do & places to visit in Busan, South Korea

Busan is Korea's second largest city. Tourists often come to this region to hike and to visit the Buddhist Temples located deep within the region's mountains. The Beomeosa Temple, founded in 678 AD, is perhaps one of the most frequented temples in the area and is always packed with worshipers and tourists. For art buffs, Busan offers several museums and historical buildings. If scenery is your thing, try visiting the Dongbaek Island, or bird watch at the Nakdong river estuary.

Busan #2 destination in South Korea 2023. The average rating score is 4.24 based on 23.4k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Seoul, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 5:11.

Busan Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

68°F - 57°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Mildly cool with a gentle breeze

Feels like

22%

Chance of rain

146.0 millimeters

Amount

13.5 mph

Wind speed

72%

Humidity

14.0

Daylight length

5:21 AM

Sunrise

7:19 PM

Sunset

50%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (15)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

4.5 Busan Gamcheon Culture Village (2.987 reviews)
- Slowly enjoying
Neighborhoods • Flea & Street Markets

Must see for sure. Pick up a map (2000₩) and collect the stamps, and after you can receive a price. It’s nice). Great place you can enjoy in Busan. You can spend here 2-4 hours with slowly walking and coffees time in one of the cafe with the great views. See more..
4.5 Haedong Yonggungsa (2.304 reviews)
- This place is amazing. A must see!
Religious Sites

Went early in the morning to the temple to beat the crowds, but many people were also visiting the temple. Took Metro from Hotel (in Seomyeon) and bus to the location. Short hike into the temple from the bus station (outside Skyline Luge Busan) The entrance was free with street food lining the path into the temple, food may be overpriced though. Much hiking around the temple is needed, hence be careful of steep stairs and slopes. Very satisfied with the experience, probably the best place to visit in Busan. See more..
4.5 Taejongdae (1.041 reviews)
- See Japan From Busan
Lookouts

Very nice place to walk and enjoy the sea breeze. Even during summer, the wind from the sea was still very cold. Recommend to bring jacket along. The needle supposedly points in the direction of Japan, of course you will not be able to see Japan from here. The walk in the park is also very nice. We enjoyed spending the day in this park. See more..
4.5 Gwangandaegyo Bridge (1.016 reviews)
- Stunning structure.
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

As most reviewers have mentioned, the best place to view the bridge is from Gwangali beach. Stunning structure and very long. Lovely setting with the skyscrapers and beach. Another good place for views is at the Park Hyatt Hotel Busan. We went for drinks and got a good table at the Living Room Bar. We also drove across the bridge. If you go to Gwangali beach, take a walk and admire the views and then grab a coffee or a bite to eat along the waterfront and enjoy the views some more. See more..
4.5 Gwangalli Beach (999 reviews)
- A beach view with the Diamond bridge.
Beaches

If you are ever in Busan make sure to stop by this laid-back beach! Since it's too cold to go for a swim. You can go for a walk or hang out at a cafe with a view of the beach. At night the Gwangandaegyo or Diamond Bridge displays a light show. Tip: You have to wear a mask at all times, no lighting fireworks, and no feeding birds! See more..
4.5 Beomeosa Temple (910 reviews)
- A peaceful temple on the outskirts of Busan
Religious Sites

We took the metro to Beomeosa Metro station and exit number 5, and headed about 150m up the road Cheongnyongyejeon-ro road, to the bus stop. We took the number 90 bus (from memory about 1,400 WON each) and this takes you right to the entrance. Note - if you walk from the metro the hill is extremely steep all the way. The temple itself is free to enter, and we arrived around 10am where we could hear and see monks doing their prayers with Buddhist people inside the temples. This was really beautiful to see and peaceful to watch. The architecture and paintings of the temples is very pretty, and you really get a feel that these temples still in use are some of the most genuine temples in South Korea. Nearby is also Cheongryeon-Am temple (<5 min walk), and this is also free and worth a visit too if you head to Beomeosa. Highly recommend including this in your Busan itinerary. See more..
4.5 Dongbaekseom (634 reviews)
- Breathtaking views - absolute must when visiting Busan
Parks

Highly recommend doing this walk for a breathtaking view of Haeundae Beach and the surrounding area. I’ve done it multiple times and it normally takes 30 minutes, but there’s so many amazing viewpoints to stop at along the way and just enjoy! It’s particularly beautiful at sunset / moon rise time in the evening. See more..
4.5 UN Memorial Cemetery (463 reviews)
- Interesting and immersive experience
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Cemeteries

Really brings history to life and lets you see how the lives of the people involved and affected by the conflict played out. The war happened more than 70 years ago by now, and most people, myself included were born in a time far removed from this period. Despite this, the museum brought the war to life for visitors. See more..
4.5 Haeundae Dalmaji-gil Road (279 reviews)
- Nice coastal walk
Points of Interest & Landmarks

We could not book the Haeundae Blue Line capsule or train so we ended up walking this coastal boardwalk from Mipo to Cheongsapo. It was an easy leisurely walk with plenty of viewing platforms for photo taking. Lovely views of the ocean with pine trees. See more..
4.5 Igidae Park (227 reviews)
- A lovely coastal walk with great views
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Parks • Scenic Walking Areas

We walked from the UN War Memorial to our start point at Igidae Seopjari, which took around half an hour or so. There is no entrance fee for the walk which is great. We did the full 4.7km walk from this start point to the Oryukdo skywalk which took around 2 hours or so in total, maybe a bit more. Most of the walk in this direction is fairly flat, but there are occasions where you walk over 100 steps upwards (from memory about 3 or 4 in total). Unfortunately for us it wasn’t too clear of a day so we couldn’t see Tsushima Island very well like we have on other days, but nevertheless the views are great and you get a good view of the coastline of South Korea. In some parts the walk can be a little bit tough on the knees but I wouldn’t say the difficulty overall is tough at all. Highly recommend if you have time for this in Busan. See more..
4.5 Dadaepo Beach (131 reviews)
- Hidden gem
Beaches

The beach is located in southwestern part of Busan in Sahagu district. You will see mostly locals here and it’s not as crowded as Haeundae beach. You can enjoy a quiet walk by the sea here and there’s a walking trail if you’re into hiking. A hidden gem in Busan. See more..
4.5 Songdo Cable Car (112 reviews)
- Fantastic, Birds Eye view of Songdo Beach and surrounding areas
Monday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers

Since launching in 1964 as South Korea's first cable car line, Songdo Cable Car has gone through a major refurbishment and relaunched as Busan Air Cruise. This mile-long line extends from Sondo Bay Station in Songnim Park southwards to Songdo Sky Park in Amnam Park. When riding the cable car, you can enjoy spectacular views of Busan's Songdo Beach, Namhang Bridge, and the craggy cliffs along the coastline. There are also art installations and other attractions to explore at both ends of the line. Take the Crystal Cruise for exhilarating views of the sea below through the glass-bottom cabin floors—though it comes with a premium over ordinary cars. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Seokbulsa Temple (82 reviews)
- Not that Wall
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Unusual stone carvings of Lord Buddha on the rock face here. They're not that old as they only date from the 1930's. I guess this is what some monk decided to do during the Great Depression. Definitely well worth making the trip to see it although I found it a little hard to orient myself to Google Maps after I got out of the Subway at Mandeok Station. I don't know if it's my age or the app or probably a combination of both. I took a cab to the trail leading to temple. The driver was kind but ain't they all? It was a nice walk back down to the station and there is a trail part of the way. See more..
4.5 Huinnyeoul Culture Village (28 reviews)
- Wonderful ocean and whale view
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas

This has become one of favorite destinations in Busan now. I have been to Busan serval times and am so surprise I did not know about this gem. Everything was nice and no complaints. The locals on the island where nice, wonderful view, English friendly enough to get what I want. I discovered that during a certain time of the year, you can see actually whales!!!! Ah I hope to go back and visit during that time, I love whales and to see them in their natural habit would be amazing. I highly recommend you visit this place on your trip to Busan. See more..
4.5 Busan Gamcheon Culture Village (2.987 reviews)
- Slowly enjoying
Neighborhoods • Flea & Street Markets

Must see for sure. Pick up a map (2000₩) and collect the stamps, and after you can receive a price. It’s nice). Great place you can enjoy in Busan. You can spend here 2-4 hours with slowly walking and coffees time in one of the cafe with the great views. See more..
4.5 Haedong Yonggungsa (2.304 reviews)
- This place is amazing. A must see!
Religious Sites

Went early in the morning to the temple to beat the crowds, but many people were also visiting the temple. Took Metro from Hotel (in Seomyeon) and bus to the location. Short hike into the temple from the bus station (outside Skyline Luge Busan) The entrance was free with street food lining the path into the temple, food may be overpriced though. Much hiking around the temple is needed, hence be careful of steep stairs and slopes. Very satisfied with the experience, probably the best place to visit in Busan. See more..
4.5 Taejongdae (1.041 reviews)
- See Japan From Busan
Lookouts

Very nice place to walk and enjoy the sea breeze. Even during summer, the wind from the sea was still very cold. Recommend to bring jacket along. The needle supposedly points in the direction of Japan, of course you will not be able to see Japan from here. The walk in the park is also very nice. We enjoyed spending the day in this park. See more..
4.5 Gwangandaegyo Bridge (1.016 reviews)
- Stunning structure.
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

As most reviewers have mentioned, the best place to view the bridge is from Gwangali beach. Stunning structure and very long. Lovely setting with the skyscrapers and beach. Another good place for views is at the Park Hyatt Hotel Busan. We went for drinks and got a good table at the Living Room Bar. We also drove across the bridge. If you go to Gwangali beach, take a walk and admire the views and then grab a coffee or a bite to eat along the waterfront and enjoy the views some more. See more..
4.5 Gwangalli Beach (999 reviews)
- A beach view with the Diamond bridge.
Beaches

If you are ever in Busan make sure to stop by this laid-back beach! Since it's too cold to go for a swim. You can go for a walk or hang out at a cafe with a view of the beach. At night the Gwangandaegyo or Diamond Bridge displays a light show. Tip: You have to wear a mask at all times, no lighting fireworks, and no feeding birds! See more..
4.5 Beomeosa Temple (910 reviews)
- A peaceful temple on the outskirts of Busan
Religious Sites

We took the metro to Beomeosa Metro station and exit number 5, and headed about 150m up the road Cheongnyongyejeon-ro road, to the bus stop. We took the number 90 bus (from memory about 1,400 WON each) and this takes you right to the entrance. Note - if you walk from the metro the hill is extremely steep all the way. The temple itself is free to enter, and we arrived around 10am where we could hear and see monks doing their prayers with Buddhist people inside the temples. This was really beautiful to see and peaceful to watch. The architecture and paintings of the temples is very pretty, and you really get a feel that these temples still in use are some of the most genuine temples in South Korea. Nearby is also Cheongryeon-Am temple (<5 min walk), and this is also free and worth a visit too if you head to Beomeosa. Highly recommend including this in your Busan itinerary. See more..
4.5 Dongbaekseom (634 reviews)
- Breathtaking views - absolute must when visiting Busan
Parks

Highly recommend doing this walk for a breathtaking view of Haeundae Beach and the surrounding area. I’ve done it multiple times and it normally takes 30 minutes, but there’s so many amazing viewpoints to stop at along the way and just enjoy! It’s particularly beautiful at sunset / moon rise time in the evening. See more..
4.5 UN Memorial Cemetery (463 reviews)
- Interesting and immersive experience
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Cemeteries

Really brings history to life and lets you see how the lives of the people involved and affected by the conflict played out. The war happened more than 70 years ago by now, and most people, myself included were born in a time far removed from this period. Despite this, the museum brought the war to life for visitors. See more..
4.0 Haeundae Beach (3.432 reviews)
- ASEAN - South Korea event
Beaches

My visit here in Busan was great as I stayed near This beach and was able to have my usual morning run and enjoyed my one hour run. Even though the weather is cold at about 4 degrees on a sunrise 6 am run, was amazed to witness the sun rising in the sky and was able to accomplished my 5 kilometer distance. Highly recommendable to see this area. Even at night, lights are great See more..
4.0 Jagalchi Market (1.662 reviews)
- A fun experience
Flea & Street Markets

The market is a very interesting local experience. Live fresh fish in all the stalls, this is a traditional market that is in all Asian towns. Blocks and blocks of aisles if vendors and fish. Inside the building must vendors will cook fresh seafood for you. We chose fresh scallops from The vendor Lucky. He and his mother in law run there little market. We had 8 scallops bbq for 30,000 won plus a beer and a coke. It was wonderful best scallops I’ve ever had See more..
4.0 BIFF Square (1.339 reviews)
- Bustling street with many food stalls
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Located near to Jagalchi Metro Station, BIFF Square is a great place to go to shop for souvenirs and have great street food. Many stalls selling Korean snacks such as tteokbokki, fish cake, sundae and mandu, all within a reasonable price. Good experience to stand by a stall to eat food in the cold weather. Recommended! See more..
4.0 Yongdusan Park (1.122 reviews)
- One of the Busan's attraction
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks

Yongdusan Park is one of the most popular attractions in Busan. This place is a must visit place. Located near to the BIFF Square area. We love the ambiance here, it is yet very peaceful and calm. See more..
4.0 Busan Metro (956 reviews)
- The operation manager in Nampo station is very professional and helpful
Public Transportation Systems

I took a metro at 6am on 27 Nov 2022 from Nampo station to international airport; but my cash was only enough to take a metro from Nampo to Sasang; It's very early morning, not passenger around i could ask for help; my atm card also could not withdraw money in the nampo station. The operation manager of Nampo station was walking to me , actually he just wanted to say hi to me and gave me a guideline to take the metro; he never knew I really needed help. after he knew what happened to me , he gave me 5000 korean won for free to buy a ticket from sasang to international airport. It's so touched; because the train was coming, i have no time to take a picture with him and asked for his name. what i knew that he was the operation manager in Nampo station. I am really appreciated to him, he is a decent and dashing gentleman. See more..
4.0 SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium (722 reviews)
- Fun Aquarium
Monday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums

Busan Aquarium is top of the list of Busan attractions and one of the leadingvisitor attractions in Korea.A unique edutainment (education entertainment)-based aquarium on Haeundae Beach in Busan with a lot of state-of-the-art facilities. See more..
4.0 Gukje Market (525 reviews)
- Vibrant, alive and full of wonder!
Flea & Street Markets

It is quite an overwhelming place, as all (most) markets are so if you're looking for somehting more relaxed it's best to go to another place. This market is vibrant, alive and full of so many things to see, buy, taste, etc. the ladies who work at the stalls are so friendly and are inviting! The market has everything from pots and pans, bathroom essentials all the way to internation medication mostly from Japan as this market has a history related to that. Try some of the delicious streetfood on offer! See more..
4.0 Shinsegae Dept. Store Centum City (414 reviews)
- Guinness Book Of Records - Largest Shopping Mall
Department Stores

This was a ridiculously large shopping mall. I know of no other mall that packs all the following into one building: a rooftop playground (known as Zooraji) filled with dinosaurs statues and playground structures, a golf driving range, an ice rink, a massive spa complex (Spaland) and tons of shopping. Besides the above, the downstairs basement floors contained the food market (consisting of another very large assortment of food and drinks) and a pharmacy. For all the people in the mall that day, the staff do a very good job maintaining the displays and the overall condition of the building. Prices in general were a bit on the pricey side so we just window shopped. The Guinness Book of World Records certificate was located next to the main information desk on the first floor. Overall a good place to keep anyone in the family occupied or entertained. See more..