Busan walking tour & city guide

Beaches and the coast

Haeundae is Korea's best-known beach, a long sweep of sand backed by skyscrapers. Beside it, the Haeundae Blueline Park runs a small sky capsule train and a beach train along the old coastal railway line toward Cheongsapo, with sea views the whole way.

Gwangalli Beach faces the Gwangan Bridge, which is lit up in changing colors at night, making it one of the most popular evening spots in the city. Along the coast, Haedong Yonggungsa is a rare Buddhist temple built right on the rocks above the waves.

Markets and villages

Jagalchi Fish Market is the largest seafood market in Korea. Choose your fish downstairs and have it prepared upstairs. Nearby, BIFF Square, named after the Busan International Film Festival, is famous for its street food, especially ssiat hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with seeds.

Gamcheon Culture Village climbs a hillside in rows of brightly painted houses connected by staircases and alleys, decorated with art installations. It began as a settlement for refugees during the Korean War. Seomyeon, the downtown hub, is busy with shopping and nightlife.

Getting there

The KTX high-speed train connects Seoul and Busan in about two and a half hours, making it an easy addition to any Korea trip. Summer is beach season, while spring and autumn are perfect for exploring.