Written by our co-founder Dani

Busan stole my heart with its perfect mix of coastal beauty, vibrant markets, and laid-back charm. I could spend mornings hiking to temples or wandering colorful villages, then unwind with an afternoon at a seaside café or spa. The food scene was endless with fresh seafood, sizzling street eats, and unique café creations I still dream about. It’s the kind of city that invites you to slow down, savor, and soak in the moment while still giving you plenty to explore. 

Things to do in Busan

1. Explore Jagalchi fish market: Wander Korea’s largest seafood market, watch the vendors in action, and take your pick of fresh fish to have cooked upstairs for an unforgettable meal.

2. Stroll Huinnyeoul Culture Village: A colorful cliffside neighborhood with murals, ocean views, and even a foot bath café where you can sip tea and get a neck massage while soaking your feet.

3. Relax at Spa Land Centum City: Spend a few hours (or a whole day) in Busan’s most famous jjimjilbang, with themed saunas, outdoor baths, relaxation areas, and the option for a full Korean body scrub.

4. Walk the Dongbaekseom & APEC House trail: A scenic coastal path with lighthouse views, perfect for an afternoon stroll from Haeundae Beach.

5. Take a day trip to Oedo Island: Board a boat to explore this beautifully manicured botanical island with panoramic ocean views and lush gardens.

6. Visit Beomeosa Temple: A serene mountain temple where you can take a free guided tour, admire the architecture, and enjoy peaceful walking paths.

7. Experience Bupyeong Kkangtong night market: Sample global street food, from spicy tteokbokki to Turkish kebabs, in a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for solo travelers.

8. Enjoy Gwangalli Beach at night: Watch the Gwangandaegyo Bridge light up, see the drone show, and enjoy fireworks with food and drinks on the sand.

9. Get lost in Gamcheon Culture Village: Climb winding alleys, find hidden art installations, and take in sweeping views of Busan’s colorful hillside homes.

10. Discover Busan Citizens Park: A huge green space with themed gardens, walking trails, and quirky features like a barefoot mud path and maze

Places to eat & drink in Busan

A chilled bowl of creamy kongguksu, served with crisp cucumber, pickled radish, spicy kimchi, and a fresh green chili for the perfect summer meal in Korea.

1. Oryuk Hoegwan Yeonsan Main Branch: A hearty stop for traditional beef soup served with a generous spread of kimchi and banchan—simple, flavorful, and very local.

2. Cabinet de Poisson: A stylish seaside café offering an indulgent afternoon tea, followed by a visit to its media gallery filled with digital art and light installations.

3. Tae Tae Tae: A creative fusion spot blending Thai and Korean influences, with an omakase-style menu and plenty of vegan options.

4. Pyongyang Naengmyeon: Known for its North Korean-style cold buckwheat noodles—order the spicy version for more flavor.

5. 10% Coffee: Trendy café with expertly roasted beans and signature drinks, like their smooth salted caramel latte.

6. Butter Vill: Instagram-worthy desserts, including their signature strawberry bear cheesecake and refreshing watermelon juice.

7. Chunhachudong Yeonsan Branch: A summertime favorite for kongguksu, cold soybean noodle soup that’s light, creamy, and refreshing.

8. Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market: Perfect for grazing—try hotteok, tteokbokki, skewers, and global bites in a lively night market setting.

Need to know

Busan is easy to explore with public transit, and many neighborhoods are walkable. Sundays are quieter with more restaurants closed, so plan meals ahead. Visit popular spots early to avoid crowds, carry cash for markets, and try a Korean body scrub at Spa Land. Coastal weather changes quickly, so pack a light jacket and have a rainy-day café in mind.