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Planning a trip to Busan? You’re in the right place!
Busan is a dynamic coastal city where ancient temples meet neon-lit markets, and seaside walks turn into firework-lit cruises. After exploring Busan’s top tours, food spots, and scenic neighborhoods, we’ve crafted the ultimate three-day itinerary. With this, you’ll make the most of your time and avoid tourist traps and spending all day on subways. Yuck!
From colorful villages and hands-on cooking classes to beachside trains and night cruises, this guide is packed with firsthand tips and personal favorites to help you experience Busan the way we did, full of flavor, fun, and unforgettable views. Let’s dive into three days of discovery in one of South Korea’s most exciting cities!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Busan was this full-day city tour. We explored Gamcheon Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, BIFF Square, and the Songdo Skywalk. Zero planning, all highlights!
Itinerary Overview
Getting around Busan is super easy thanks to its reliable and affordable public transportation. The subway is the quickest way to reach major attractions, and buses are also a great option, especially for areas the subway doesn’t cover. Just be sure to grab a T-money card or Korea Tour Card when you arrive at the airport. It’s the easiest way to pay for bus fares when getting around Busan, and it means you don’t have to worry about carrying cash.
Also, be aware that Google Maps doesn’t work properly in South Korea, so it’s a good idea to download Naver Map before your trip. It’s the best app for navigating public transport, giving you accurate directions for subways, buses, and walking. And if you’re ever in a rush, taxis are widely available and reasonably priced.
Day 1: Kick things off in Busan with a full-day tour of its highlights alongside a local guide. In the evening, wander through the lively BIFF Square and nearby markets for street food and a taste of local nightlife.
Day 2: Start your second day with a hands-on Korean cooking class where you’ll learn to make authentic dishes with a local chef. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Haeundae Beach, ride the scenic Haeundae Blueline Park coastal train, and end the day with a delicious Korean BBQ dinner at Show Me the Gogi.
Day 3: On your final day, choose your own adventure with either a peaceful morning stroll through the colorful Huinnyeoul Culture Village or a hike and traditional tasting in the mountains. In the evening, see Busan sparkle on a nighttime scenic tour with a cruise and fireworks show.
Day 1
Full day – Discover Busan with a local guide
If you want to make the most of your three days in Busan, this full-day tour with a local guide is the perfect way to do it. Running from 9 am to around 5 or 6 pm with hotel pickup included, it’s one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to see the city’s highlights without the stress of planning or navigating.
The tour covers all the must-see spots—colorful hillside homes in Gamcheon Culture Village, the serene Haedong Yonggungsa Temple perched above the sea, and the lively markets around BIFF Square. We loved BIFF Square most, wandering past quirky street snacks and K-drama filming locations. Our guide brought every stop to life, sharing fascinating stories and helping us understand everything as first-time visitors.
You’ll also swing by Jagalchi Fish Market and the Songdo Skywalk, which weaves out over the ocean and offers some (you guessed it) fantastic photo opportunities. One of the major highlights for us was the stop at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Watching the waves crash against the cliffs as we stood at this 700-year-old site felt like one of those rare “wow” moments you don’t forget.
This tour is a no-brainer if you want to experience the best of Busan in a single day. With over 1,100 five-star reviews here, it’s also one of the most loved tours in Busan and ended up being our favorite experience of the entire trip!
Check availability and book this full-day city tour here!
Evening – Biff Square and the Markets
Since BIFF Square was the last stop on our city tour, we decided to stick around and explore it more on our own, and we’re so glad we did! This lively pedestrian street is famous for its ties to the Busan International Film Festival, but it’s just as well-known for its street food stalls, neon signs, and buzzing atmosphere.
Since you just got a little tour of it, chances are you saw some places you might want to grab a bite. We recommend asking your guide what they like since you have them there. The area is surrounded by some of Busan’s best markets, including Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, Gukje Market, and the nearby Jagalchi Fish Market, perfect for a choose-your-own-adventure dinner.
We recommend being a little daring and trying some local specialties like hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), or even grilled eel if you’re feeling bold! You can also walk over to Yongdusan Park to see Busan Tower lit up at night for a great end to the evening. This area truly comes alive after dark and is a fun way to soak up the local vibe.
Related Read: Don’t wait too long to book a hotel! Our guide on where to stay in Busan has all the areas and places we recommend!
Day 2
Morning – Korean cooking class in Haeundae, Busan
One of the most delicious things we did in Busan was this hands-on Korean cooking class. And if you love food even half as much as we do, it’s a must! The class runs from 10 am to 1 pm and begins with a quick visit to a local market to pick up fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to see a more authentic, everyday side of Busan before diving into the cooking.
What we really loved about this experience was how warm and personal it felt. Our Host, Min, greeted us with a big smile and instantly made us feel at home. She shared stories about growing up in Korea, the history behind each dish, and even a few tips on how to make the food taste more “mom-style.”
Before we started cooking, we slipped into traditional Korean aprons once worn by palace chefs and sampled key sauces that form the backbone of Korean cuisine. Learning how these flavors come together—and then getting to recreate them—made the class feel even more special and authentic.
We made bibimbap, japchae, and several banchan (side dishes), and we even got to try making kimchi from scratch, which was surprisingly fun and a little messy! Sitting down together afterward to eat everything we made was such a wholesome moment. We left full, happy, and with a new appreciation for Korean food.
You can book this hands-on Korean cooking class here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Check out Haeundae Beach
After the cooking class, hop on the subway for a quick 23-minute ride to Haeundae Beach, one of the most iconic spots in Busan. This wide stretch of sand is famous for its city-meets-sea vibe, with the Busan skyline rising dramatically behind it.
We spent about an hour here just soaking in the views and strolling along the waterfront. It’s a great spot to relax and digest after your big lunch, and if the weather’s nice, you’ll see plenty of locals and tourists lounging or playing beach games. Even though it’s popular, the beach is clean and surprisingly peaceful, especially outside of the peak summer season. We think it’s absolutely worth taking a trip to see, and as a bonus, it’s near your next activity, Haeundae Blueline Park.
Late Afternoon – Haeundae Blueline Park
Haeundae Blueline Park is one of the most unique experiences we had in Busan and totally worth carving out a few hours for. The park follows a scenic stretch of coastline, and the highlight is the Sky Capsule, a colorful little pod that glides slowly along some tracks with sweeping ocean views on one side and green hills on the other. It’s cute, fun, and we loved how it gave us a different perspective of Busan’s coastline in a unique way.
If you’re visiting during a non-peak time (anytime besides sunset), you can just buy tickets when you arrive, which is what we did. We recommend taking the 40-minute train ride from Haeundae Beach and starting at Cheongasapo Station since it’s less crowded, and you’ll have an easier time getting tickets. From there, ride the capsule back to Mipo Station, since it’s closer to your dinner spot for the night.
After your jaw-dropping ride (which takes about 30 minutes), give yourself time to stroll along the Green Railway Walk. It’s an easy seaside path with plenty of photo ops, and chances are the sun will be starting to set. All in all, we spent about 2–3 hours between the Sky Capsule and Green Railway Walk, and it ended up being one of the most photogenic parts of our trip. It’s a little effort to get there, but it’s so worth it!
Dinner – Show me the Gogi Haeundae
After your scenic ride through Blueline Park, head to Show Me the Gogi in Haeundae, just a short walk from Mipo Station, for a well-earned Korean BBQ feast. This top-rated spot is popular with both locals and visitors, and it totally lived up to the hype.
We loved grilling our own meats right at the table and wrapping them in lettuce with garlic and ssamjang (fermented sauce). We ordered a mix of pork belly and marinated beef, and everything was perfect. The staff were super helpful, showing us the best way to grill the meat and build the perfect bite. It’s a fun, laid-back dinner that’s ideal for ending a full day of sightseeing!
Day 3
Morning – Cultural village or hiking
Option 1: Huinnyeoul Culture Village
If you’re looking for a slower, more artsy start to your last day in Busan, this first option is a great pick.
Huinnyeoul Culture Village, located on Yeongdo Island, is about an hour by train from central Busan, and this hillside neighborhood is packed with charm. Think colorful murals, tiny art galleries, cute cafés, and narrow streets that wind along the coast. It was originally built as a refugee settlement after the Korean War, and over the years, it’s transformed into a creative space that still holds deep historical roots you can see at every corner and shop.
We spent a few hours here just wandering around, popping into shops, and soaking up the ocean views. The whole village has a peaceful, lived-in feel that sets it apart from the more touristy areas, and we loved how every corner seemed to hide another mural or tiny coffee spot. If you’ve got extra time and feel like extending your art-filled morning, hop on the train across the island to the ARTE MUSEUM Busan.
This interactive digital art museum is one of the highest-rated attractions in the area and arguably one of the best art museums in all of Korea. With immersive exhibits that blend sound, light, and motion, it was an absolute treat to experience, and we would recommend it to anyone, even if they aren’t an overt art lover.
Option 2: Hiking and rice wine tasting
If you’re craving something a bit more active and off the beaten path, this hiking and rice wine tasting tour is a fantastic way to spend your final morning. The experience runs from 9 am to 1:30 pm and meets at a train station just north of central Busan, making it easy to reach but far enough to feel like you’ve escaped the city.
The hike itself winds through peaceful forest trails with occasional panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. It’s not overly difficult, but definitely enough to get your heart rate up! Our guide, Hug-You (yes, you read that right), was simply wonderful and brought that passionate energy to the experience that has you talking about everything you learned long after the tour is over.
Hug-You was definitely the highlight, but the traditional Korean makgeolli (rice wine) tasting at a local restaurant in the mountains was a very close second. We tried several varieties of the slightly sweet, milky rice wine alongside delicious Korean side dishes, all while learning about the brewing process and cultural significance.
It was the perfect mix of nature, culture, and local flavor, and such a refreshing change of pace from the busy city streets. Wrapping up our trip with this tour felt like the perfect farewell to Busan, leaving us both energized and connected to local traditions!
Book early here to secure this unforgettable Busan experience!
Afternoon/Lunch – Jeonpo Cafe Street
No matter how you spend your morning, head to Jeonpo Cafe Street in the afternoon for a vibe you can’t get anywhere else in Busan. This trendy neighborhood is packed with quirky, beautifully designed cafés, boutique shops, and colorful murals, making it a fun place to stroll, sip, and soak up Busan’s modern, young, and creative side.
We spent a couple of hours here hopping between coffee shops and browsing for souvenirs, and honestly, we could’ve stayed longer. It’s a great place to grab a light lunch or sweet treat, but before you leave, be sure to stop at Bao Haus, a Taiwanese fusion spot known for its award-winning bao buns (they will ruin bao buns for you). It’s the perfect early dinner before your evening tour, and these bao buns were one of the standout meals for us during our Busan trip.
Evening – See Busan on a night tour with a cruise and hillside views
To end your trip on a high note, this Busan night tour with a cruise and a fireworks show is the perfect finale. Hotel pickup starts around 6 pm, and from there you’ll explore the city after dark, stopping at beautifully lit spots like The Bay 101 and scenic viewpoints overlooking the skyline.
For us, the highlight was definitely the boat cruise. Seeing the city lights reflect on the water while cruising along the coast was already stunning, but then the fireworks started, and it honestly felt like the perfect send-off. It wasn’t a huge show, but it added just the right amount of magic to the evening. We got to spend plenty of time on the water, and the boat was comfortable and included a restroom.
Another picture-perfect stop was Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, located in the heart of Busan and offering those perfect nighttime cityscape views. We got to spend about an hour here, and it was nice because we got to really sink into the views and appreciate them, not just take a picture and leave.
It’s a long night, and we got back to our hotel around 10 pm, but this was the perfect picturesque sendoff to Busan and a wonderful evening. And we clearly aren’t the only ones who loved it—check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is a can’t-miss Busan experience!
Book this Busan adventure here and make your last night unforgettable!
Related Read: Need even more activities for your trip? Our list of the best things to do in Busan will fill up your bucket list!
Where to Stay in Busan, South Korea
Now that you have the perfect three days in Busan mapped out, it’s time to find that perfect stay. Busan is a city with hotels ranging from world-class luxury to sleek and modern, but nothing that will break the bank.
We’ve gone through the trouble of sorting through the best there is and have something for everyone, depending on your budget and needs during your stay. Check them out below!
The Westin Josun Busan – $$$
Located right on the edge of Haeundae Beach, The Westin Josun Busan offers stunning ocean views and direct beach access. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel features amenities like an indoor pool, spa, and several on-site restaurants. It’s also within walking distance of Dongbaek Island and the Haeundae Blueline Park, making it an ideal base for sightseeing and relaxing.
Rooms start around $600 USD per night, and you can check availability online here.
NewCZ Centum Hotel – $$
Located near Seomyeon in the heart of Busan’s shopping and nightlife scene, NewCZ Centum Hotel offers cozy apartment-style stays at an excellent value. The rooms are stylish, quiet, and well-equipped, making it a great option if you want to be close to cafes, restaurants, and public transport. We’ve stayed here multiple times and can’t recommend it enough!
Rooms start around $400 USD per night, and you can check the availability online here.
Gwangalli-Planet16 – $
Gwangalli-Planet16 is a modern, high-rise hotel located just steps from Gwangalli Beach, offering unbeatable views of the Gwangan Bridge, especially when it lights up at night. The rooms are clean, bright, and minimalist in style, with many featuring panoramic ocean views. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a beachfront stay with easy access to cafes, bars, and the coastal promenade without breaking the bank.
Rooms start around $175 USD per night, and you can check the availability online here.
For more options, see all the best hotels in Busan on Booking.com here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
There’s so much to see and do in Busan, and we hope this three-day itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip! Following this plan gave us the perfect mix of highlights, local culture, and tasty experiences, and it left us feeling like we truly got to know the city beyond the usual tourist spots.
If you’re planning a longer adventure, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you out. Check out our other South Korea blogs here for expert travel tips, itineraries, and food recommendations that will make your trip unforgettable. Or here are a few of our favorites that we think you’ll love to help you get started!
10 Best Things to do in Seoul, South Korea
Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea: 7 Best Areas and Hotels
How to Spend THREE to FIVE Days in Seoul, South Korea: The Best 3 to 5 Day Itinerary