Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is one of the easiest places to fall in love with while traveling the country. Just two and a half hours from Seoul by KTX, it offers a refreshing change of pace with its mix of coastline, culture, and city life. Often nicknamed the country’s “summer capital,” Busan isn’t just about beaches; there’s also a wide range of experiences waiting, from scenic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks to laid-back cruises along the shore for you to enjoy!
Check Out the Best Ways to Get to Busan from Seoul!
- Visit Busan from Seoul (Round-trip KTX tickets included)
- Korail Pass (KR Pass): Unlimited KTX & Trains Rides (2/3/4/5 days)
1. See the Highlights in Just One Day
a) Busan Hop-on, Hop-off City Tour Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget but still want to visit a wide range of attractions, consider taking the City Tour Bus around Busan, which offers an easy way to explore the city without worrying about transportation and offers both daytime and nighttime routes.
The hop-on, hop-off system allows flexibility to visit destinations at a comfortable pace. During the day, four different routes cover many of Busan’s highlights, including Dongbaekseom Island and Haeundae Beach. Stops also include popular local markets such as Gijang Market, known for its fresh seafood and regional specialties, making it an ideal break between sightseeing.
Don’t worry if you don’t have time for a day tour, as the Night Tour course is as exciting as the day! Departing from Busan Station, this course will take you to destinations best known for their beautiful night scenes, including Gwangan Bridge, Haeundae Beach, and many more!
b) One-Day Group Tour
We’ve already mentioned that Busan is packed with things to do and places to visit, but if you’re a first-timer, you might not know where to start. If that sounds like you, why not book a private tour or 1-day bus tour with us and explore all the top spots we have lined up for you? Wherever you decide to go, we’ll take you there. Our English-speaking guide will take you to your hand-picked destinations and give you a detailed explanation about the spots and possibly some useful tips to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest!
The best part is that you’ll be picked up from wherever you are and be dropped off after the tour, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost in Korea’s notoriously confusing subway and transportation system!
- Busan City 1 Day Tour (+ Yacht Tour/Sky Capsule/Beach Train option)
- Busan Local 1 Day Tour: Haedong Younggungsa Temple + Yeongdo Bridge + Haenyeo Village + Songdo Cable Car & More
- Busan Highlights: Must-Visit Photo Spots 1 Day Tour
- Busan 1 Day Tour: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple + Gamcheon Culture Village (+ Beach Train/ Sky Capsule option)
- Explore 9 Busan Highlights in 1 Day (+ Beach Train/ Sky Capsule option)
c) Private Day Tour
Busan may be packed with highlights, but planning the perfect route can feel overwhelming, especially if your trip is short. A private day tour is an easy way to see the city without the hassle of navigating it alone. With a dedicated vehicle and an English-speaking driver or guide, the itinerary can be tailored to match your interests: whether that means focusing on coastal views, cultural spots, or a mix of Busan’s most popular attractions!
Pickup and drop-off are typically included, making the experience smooth from start to finish and giving you more time to actually enjoy each stop instead of figuring out directions. It’s a convenient option if you’re looking for a more relaxed and personalized way to explore the city in a single day!
2. Enjoy a Range of Outdoor Activities
a) Water Sports
As South Korea’s vibrant coastal city, Busan offers an exciting array of watersports for adventure enthusiasts. At the forefront of these aquatic activities is Gwangalli Beach, which has become a mecca for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, speedboat rides, and many more. The highlight is that you can enjoy water activities while taking in the stunning backdrop of the iconic Gwangan Bridge.
For those seeking more thrills, Songjeong Beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach’s consistent waves attract surfers of all levels, from novices catching their first break to seasoned pros carving up the swells.
b) Yacht Tours
Ever dreamed of chillaxing on top of the deck of a luxurious yacht? Well, this is your chance to make that dream a reality! Join us on this yacht tour from Marine City and casually cruise by famous landmarks around Busan, such as Gwangan Bridge, Dongbaekseom Island, and Haeundae!
Not only is this tour one of the coolest ways to tour around Busan’s most famous tourist points, but it’s also offered at an extremely affordable price! This tour also offers you three different options to choose from: the Day, Sunset, or Night Yacht Tour. Each option has its merits, so make the optimal choice depending on your circumstances!
- Busan Diamond Bay Yacht Tour
- Busan Day & Night Yacht Tour by Y Holic (Public or Private Options)
- Busan Sightseeing Yacht Tour in Gwangalli Beach by Yacht Holic
c) Paragliding
From Busan, you can easily head over to Gyeongju and enjoy tandem paragliding! Become a bird as you glide through the air, taking in sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
There are four different launch sites: Yeongdo, Songdo, Eonyang, and Gimhae. The location is selected based on the wind conditions on the day of your flight. If you’re assigned to Yeongdo or Songdo, you’ll be gliding over the ocean; if you’re assigned to Eonyang or Gimhae, you’ll soar above scenic suburban and mountainous areas. No matter the location, you’l be treated to unforgettable views!
* Please be advised that the weight limit is up to 110kg (242lb)
3. Explore Nearby Cities
a) Gyeongju
Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls,” is a rewarding day trip destination from Busan, especially if you’re interested in Korea’s history and cultural heritage. Located about an hour away, it’s home to UNESCO-listed sites, ancient tombs, and traditional architecture that offer a glimpse into the Silla Kingdom. Joining a guided day tour makes it easy to explore key attractions such as Bulguksa Temple, Daereungwon Tomb Complex, and the picturesque Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond without the stress of planning routes or transportation.
Our tours are designed to cover several highlights in one day, with comfortable transport and an English-speaking guide who shares context and stories behind each location. Small-group tours offer a more social experience, while private tours offer added flexibility to adjust the pace or focus on specific interests.
- Explore 7 Gyeongju Highlights in 1 Day – from Busan
- Gyeongju UNESCO Highlights 1 Day Tour – from Busan
- Gyeongju 1 Day Tour (+ Busan Sky Capsule option) from Busan
- Gyeongju City 1 Day Private Tour – from Busan/ Gyeongju
- 2D1N/3D2N Busan & Gyeongju Tour Package from Seoul (Round-trip KTX tickets included)
- Busan & Gyeongju 1 Day Tour from Busan
b) Tongyeong
Tongyeong, also known as “the Naples of Korea,” is a must-visit place in the southern region. It’s a popular getaway for locals, with many people visiting at least once. From Busan, it’s relatively close, as it takes less than 2 hours by car, depending on traffic. Surrounded by 150 islands, Tongyeong offers breathtaking views from both the city and from higher vantage points in the mountains. This tour blends adrenaline-filled activities with relaxing sightseeing, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take a break along the way.
One of the highlights is a ride on Korea’s longest cable car ride, stretching 1,975 meters, giving you plenty of time to take in and photograph the stunning coastal landscape. You’ll also get to visit Dongpirang Village, known for its vibrant murals, which make it a favorite photo spot for visitors. For a bit of excitement, the tour also includes a ride on Korea’s first gravity-powered luge. Race down a thrilling 1.5 km track and feel the adrenaline kick in as you wind your way to the bottom.
Read Trazy Blog on 6 Places to Explore Tongyeong’s Enchanting Night!
c) Pohang
Pohang, a vibrant port city just a short drive from Busan, offers a fresh escape with its dramatic coastlines, K-drama filming spots, and unique attractions. Known as a backdrop for hit dramas like Hometown Cha Cha Cha and When the Camellia Blooms, it’s packed with spots for scenic walks like the futuristic Hwanho Park Space Walk and the iconic Hands of Harmony at Homigot Sunrise Square.
Our day tours make it simple to hit top sites such as Guryongpo’s preserved Japanese-era houses, bustling Jukdo Market for fresh seafood, and even nearby Tongdosa Temple for a touch of history. If you’re a K-drama fan or adventure seeker, there are themed private tours or active options blending hiking with makgeolli tasting sessions. Round-trip transport and guides keep things effortless, turning a quick trip into a memorable highlight.
- Pohang K-Drama Private Tour from Busan (‘When the Camellia Blooms’ & ‘Hometown Cha Cha Cha’ filming spots)
- Hiking and Makgeolli Tasting/ Brewing Experience in Busan, Gyeongju, or Pohang – from Busan
- Explore 5 Pohang Highlights in 1 Day from Busan
d) Boseong
Boseong, a scenic spot in Jeollanam-do, is famous for its sprawling green tea plantations that create one of Korea’s most photogenic landscapes. Around three hours from Busan, it combines lush nature with opportunities to taste fresh green tea and desserts. Our private tour pairs it with Suncheon Bay Wetland, a UNESCO site with vast reed fields, tidal flats, and rich birdlife that’s particularly striking at sunset. If you’re a nature lover seeking a refreshing contrast to urban sightseeing, you’ll love Boseong!
e) PyeongChang
PyeongChang, a peaceful mountain retreat in Gangwon-do, gained global recognition as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics and as the serene filming location for BTS’s IN THE SOOP series. You can step into the group’s relaxing world through dedicated tours from Busan, which include visits to the actual house they were in, photo zones inspired by memorable moments from the show, and nearby Jumunjin Hyangho Beach, home to the iconic BTS bus stop and sign!
It’s an ideal experience for ARMY, combining K-pop nostalgia with PyeongChang’s fresh alpine air and scenic surroundings, all without the hassle of planning the trip yourself.
f) Ulsan
Ulsan, just a quick 30-minute drive from Busan, surprises with its rugged coastlines and hidden cultural gems, making it perfect for a half-day or full-day escape. Our guided tours showcase highlights like dramatic ocean viewpoints at Daewangam Park, the symbolic sunrise spot at Ganjeolgot Cape, and ancient petroglyphs that hint at prehistoric life. Private or small-group options from Busan include comfortable transport, an English-speaking guide for context, and sometimes lunch, letting you focus on the scenery rather than logistics.
- Ulsan Ulju Coastal Highlights 1 Day Tour – from Busan
- Ulsan UNESCO Heritage & Coastal Views 1 Day Tour – from Busan
- Ulsan 1 Day Private Tour from Busan (Van/ Minibus/ Big Bus)
Discover even more of the Best Places for One-Day Trips from Busan on our blog!
4. Visit a Theme Park or Museum
a) Lotte World Adventure
Calling all thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts! Lotte World Adventure Busan is your ultimate destination for an unforgettable day of excitement. This incredible theme park offers something for everyone, with six immersive themed zones that will captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a family looking for a memorable outing or a group of friends seeking adventure, Lotte World Adventure Busan has something special waiting for you!
b) SEALIFE Busan Aquarium
Visit one of the biggest aquariums in Asia, the SEALIFE Busan Aquarium! Boasting an impressive number of 35000 aquatic species, it’s the perfect family getaway destination in Busan! Come and uncover the underwater mysteries and learn about everything from deep-sea creatures to species you can never see in Korea, like the piranhas of the Amazon!
It’s also great for families, as there’s an interactive zone where kids can touch several sea creatures, which they’re bound to love!
Another one of the main highlights is the ocean-floor glass tunnel, where you’ll be mesmerized by the variety of fish, sharks, and other marine life swimming above you as you walk through the tunnel.
Don’t miss out on the feeding time either, where you can view sharks, penguins, and otters being fed. All the shows are on at different times, so make sure you check the exact starting times of each show and get there early to secure the best seats to view the show! This is surely going to be one of the best memories with your family in Busan!
c) Running Man Theme Park
Running Man Theme Park is the perfect place to team up, tackle fun missions, and laugh your way through the day. Inspired by the popular variety show, it turns teamwork and quick thinking into a playful challenge, making it especially fun for friends and families. By the end, you’ll leave with plenty of memories, a few ridiculous photos, and probably a new favorite group activity!
d) Trick-Eye Museum
The Trick Eye Museum is a famous theme museum in Korea, where you become a part of the exhibition. Roaming around prepared backgrounds, you can choose what you like and mug for the camera as if you are inside the artwork!
e) Museum 1
Museum 1, tucked away in Busan’s Centum City near Haeundae, delivers a captivating dive into contemporary art through immersive media installations and themed exhibitions. Expect dynamic visuals on massive LED screens, interactive floors, and a mix of paintings, sculptures, and video art that make modern creativity feel approachable and engaging. It’s a great spot for a quick cultural hit, complete with photo-worthy moments that blend surrealism and reflection.
f) Museum of Movies + Cine Museum
The Busan Museum of Movies, paired with the adjacent Cine Museum, offers a lively plunge into cinema through interactive exhibits, hands-on filming studios, and themed media halls that recreate movie magic. You can explore Korean film history, edit your own trailers in a chroma-key room, or step into immersive zones like a retro 1970s Busan street, fantasy photo spots, and a romantic slide into a dessert world. The combo ticket provides discounted access to both, making it a compact, fun stop if you’re a film buff or just looking for some fun!
5. Take a Hands-on Class
a) Taekwondo
Train both your mind and body by taking part in a traditional Korean martial art class: Taekwondo. It’s a truly memorable experience, as you’ll be learning directly from skilled masters in a discipline that’s deeply rooted in Korean culture. As one of Korea’s national sports, Taekwondo is especially popular among children and young students for its physical and mental training benefits.
b) Cooking Classes
Try authentic Korean dishes filled with fresh ingredients on your dining table! During this cooking session, you will master 3 to 4 Korean cuisines, such as bibimbap, seaweed soup, and green onion pancake. Experience tasting Korean seasonal drinks as well as traditional desserts, such as tangerine tea and rice cake!
- Traditional Korean Food Cooking Class in Busan
- Busan Local Food Cooking Class + Market Tour With a Local Chef
- Private Korean Food Master Cooking Class With a Local Chef in Busan
- Korean Traditional Culture Experience 1 Day Tour in Busan: Traditional Archery (Gukgung) + Kimbap Making + Minhwa Painting
- Jagalchi Fish Market & Korean Food Market Tour With a Local Chef in Busan
Also, don’t forget to explore local markets in Busan! The three most famous local markets in Busan are Jagalchi Fish Market, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, and Gukje Market. Roam around the market stalls and get a glimpse of the everyday lives of Busan people. A local chef who specializes in Korean cuisine will guide you around the markets. By the end of the tour, you’ll go home with the knowledge of the Korean food culture and a full stomach!
Check out Trazy Blog on the Must-Experience Cooking Classes in Korea!
c) Makgeolli Classes
Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine with a light fizz and nutty flavor that you must try if you’re in Korea! Learn how to make your own makgeolli and take home a container of the makgeolli you made to continue brewing at home.
Check out Trazy Blog on the Official Guide to Makgeolli, Korean Rice Wine!
d) K-pop Dance Class
A K-pop dance class lets you channel your inner idol as you learn popular choreography from professional instructors in small groups of up to 8. After warming up and practicing, your performance will be filmed in an indoor studio (or outdoors amid Gamcheon Culture Village‘s colorful alleys), complete with free hanbok rental and an edited video keepsake.
e) DIY Souvenir Class
DIY souvenir classes offer hands-on creativity at spots like Gwangalli or Jeonpo, where you can craft personalized keepsakes such as eco-resin keychains with dried flowers or stained-glass lanterns using safe, non-toxic materials. Led by friendly instructors, these 1-2 hour sessions suit all skill levels. They’ll start with a quick demo, then you’ll design your piece, and take it home to use or display. It’s a relaxing way to unwind, capture Busan’s charm in a unique memento, and skip the generic tourist shops.
- Make Your Own Eco Resin Decor with Ocean Vibes in Gwangalli, Busan
- Stained Glass One Day Class in Busan
6. Take in Busan’s Night Views
a) Ride, Dine, and Take in Busan at Night
Hop aboard the Haeundae Sky Capsule for an unforgettable evening gliding 7-10 meters above the coastline in your own colorful pod, catching the golden sunset melt into Busan’s glittering skyline. You’ll be whisked to Cheongsapo for dramatic ocean gazes at Daritdol Observatory, then hit iconic spots like The Bay 101 or Gwangalli’s Diamond Bridge for panoramic dazzle. It’s the kind of thrill that’ll have you booking tickets just to relive the magic.
b) Have a Night & Foodie Tour
Trade the day’s bustle for Busan’s electric after-dark glow, hopping from stunning lookouts like Songdo Beach, Nuribaragi Observatory, Gamcheon Culture Village, and Hwangnyeongsan Mountain for jaw-dropping skyline panoramas. An English-speaking guide will share fun facts, photo tips, and insider stories along the way, often with an optional foodie twist featuring market bites at Jagalchi or Gukje Market. It’s a magical experience for couples or solo travelers looking to capture Busan’s Instagram-worthy nightscape.
c) Explore Busan’s Old Town & Have Authentic Street Food
Picture this: a private Sky Capsule whisking you through Busan’s historic old town neighborhoods, blending seaside sunsets with twinkling night lights. This guided tour amps up the romance with panoramic views from elevated tracks, vibrant street food tastings along the way, and prime photo ops that capture the city’s retro charm glowing against the dusk sky. Get ready for a swoon-worthy evening that feels straight out of a K-drama!
d) Hop On a Night Cruise or Yacht
Night cruises and yacht tours transform the harbor into a shimmering playground, offering breezy escapes with stunning city lights reflecting off the water as the sun dips low. Opt for a public cruise for a lively vibe with fellow travelers, or splurge on a private yacht for intimate dinners, champagne toasts, and unobstructed views. These guided outings include easy boarding near popular waterfronts, onboard snacks or drinks, and that effortless magic of gliding past the skyline, making them a top pick for dates, celebrations, or just unwinding in style.
- Romantic Yacht Tour in Busan (Join-in/ Private/ Drone Show)
- Busan Marine Yacht Tour (Join-in/ Private/ Drone Show)
- Busan PanStar Grace Cruise – Fireworks Cruise options
7. Enjoy a Beauty Day
a) Unwind at a Spa
Unwind Korean-style at Busan’s top spas like Spaland in Centum City or Club D Oasis, where expansive jjimjilbang facilities blend hot and cold baths, saunas, mineral pools, and relaxation lounges for ultimate rejuvenation. These spots offer multi-hour passes for soaking away travel fatigue in gender-separated bathing areas, followed by cozy naps in provided uniforms amid herbal steam rooms and infinity pools. It’s the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploring, blending tradition with modern comfort.
b) Find Your Personal Color
Discover your unique best color, shade, and accent look with the help of a Korea Personal Color Association-certified consultant! After analyzing your skin tone, eye color, and more, you will receive individualized feedback & recommendations on the best colors to wear, make-up shade to highlight your features, and even advice on what kind of jewelry suits you best.
- Personal Color Analysis & Skin Diagnosis at Haeundae Station in Busan
- Premium Private Personal Color Analysis in Busan
c) Get Your Nails Done
Nail salons around Busan deliver K-beauty precision with gel manicures, pedicures, and custom designs using high-quality polishes and tools. English-friendly techs handle everything from basic care to intricate art, often with add-ons like callus removal or paraffin treatments, leaving you polished and photo-ready in an instant!
Find even more beauty in Busan:
- Eyelash Perm/ Eyelash Extensions/ Eyebrow Tattoo in Nampo-dong, Busan (Beauty3975)
- Eyelash Extensions / Lift Perm in Haeundae, Busan – Choco Busy Salon
- Waxing Salon in Nampo-dong, Busan: Brazilian/ Eyebrow/ Hairline/ Full Face Waxing (Beauty3975)
- Face & Body Waxing Service in Haeundae, Busan – Choco Busy Salon
Check out Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop, to find out more awesome things to do in Busan!
