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Planning a trip to Busan? You’re in for a treat!
South Korea’s second-largest city is a vibrant mix of sandy beaches, bustling markets, and neon-lit nightlife, with each neighborhood offering its own unique atmosphere. After exploring Busan inside and out, we know that where you base yourself can truly shape your trip.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the four best areas to stay—plus our top hotel picks in each. Whether you want to shop ‘til you drop in Seomyeon, relax on Haeundae’s golden sands, take in Gwangan Bridge views from Gwangalli, or savor street food in Nampo, there’s a spot here that’s ideal for you. Let’s find the perfect base for your Busan adventure!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Busan is Seomyeon! This is the heart of the city, so you’ll be centrally located to the best sights, shopping, dining, and transportation.
We recommend staying at the Arban Hotel. It offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!
Where to Stay in Busan Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Busan
Busan is a very spread-out city, so factoring in your timeline and plans will be helpful when choosing where to stay. If you only have a few days, a central location like Seomyeon will make it easy to get around quickly. If you have more time, staying further out, such as in Haeundae, gives you a different pace and atmosphere.
Fortunately, the city’s subway system is efficient, and you can get around by train easily, with most major areas connected. That said, choosing your base wisely can save you time and make your trip smoother, whether you’re here for the beaches, street food, shopping, or coastal walks.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Busan’s best areas and a great hotel pick in each:
- Seomyeon – The beating heart of Busan, Seomyeon is lively, central, and well-connected, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want quick subway access to beaches, markets, and shopping. Arban Hotel offers spacious, modern rooms just steps from Seomyeon Station, with a rooftop garden and bar.
- Haeundae Beach – Busan’s most famous beach, Haeundae is ideal for those after sun, sand, and a lively resort-town atmosphere with plenty of dining and nightlife. With ocean-view luxury and family-friendly perks like a kids-only floor and an indoor pool, Grand Josun Busan is a standout stay in Haeundae.
- Gwangalli – Known for its soft sand and dazzling night views of Gwangan Bridge, Gwangalli offers a laid-back beach vibe that’s especially popular with locals. Just a two-minute stroll from the shore, Hotel Marine View pairs modern comfort with sweeping ocean views, with many rooms featuring private balconies or terraces.
- Nampo – A bustling hub of markets, street food, and cultural landmarks, Nampo is the spot for travelers who want to dive straight into local life. Just steps from Gukje Market and Jagalchi Fish Market, Nampo Hound Hotel Premier features comfortable rooms with balconies for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Important Tip
Multiple Busan trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Busan accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Busan
Seomyeon
The beating heart of Busan, Seomyeon is a lively, central district that makes a fantastic base for first-time visitors. Perfectly positioned between Busan Station and the city’s major beaches, it offers quick access to the subway’s main lines, so you can explore every corner of the city with ease.
The area is famous for its bustling shopping streets, vibrant nightlife, and endless dining options. From underground malls packed with Korean fashion to cozy cafés and barbecue joints, there’s always something to discover here.
It’s also home to Seomyeon Medical Street, known for its concentration of cosmetic clinics and skincare shops, and Jeonpo Café Street, a must-visit for coffee lovers. While Seomyeon doesn’t have major tourist landmarks, its central location means you’re never far from Busan’s highlights—Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli, and Jagalchi Market are all easy subway rides away.
Seomyeon is also a great choice for travelers who want to experience Busan’s urban side before heading to the coast. It’s a place where you can mingle with locals, try street food like tteokbokki or hotteok, and get a real feel for the city’s energy. This is the kind of neighborhood where you can shop all afternoon, eat until midnight, and still find somewhere to grab dessert afterward!
Pros
- Extremely central with excellent subway connections
- Endless dining, shopping, and nightlife options
- Lively atmosphere day and night
Cons
- Can feel crowded and chaotic during peak hours
- Limited traditional sightseeing within the neighborhood
- Noise from nightlife may bother light sleepers
Lotte Hotel – $$$
If you want to stay in the middle of it all and still enjoy five-star comfort, Lotte Hotel Busan is hard to beat. Just a short walk from Seomyeon Station, this upscale property is connected to the Lotte Department Store, a massive duty-free shop, a cinema, and an underground shopping arcade—you could spend a whole day here without stepping outside!
Rooms are spacious, modern, and designed with comfort in mind, and certain room categories include complimentary access to the indoor pool, fitness center, and sauna. Dining options are plentiful, from a lavish breakfast buffet at La Seine to Japanese, Chinese, and Korean specialties at the on-site restaurants.
Whether you’re in Busan for sightseeing or a special occasion, this hotel delivers on location, luxury, and service. Rooms typically range from about $120–$550 USD per night, depending on your room choice and the season.
See rates and secure your luxury stay at Lotte Hotel Busan here!
Arban Hotel – $$
Right in the heart of Seomyeon, Arban Hotel is the kind of place that makes exploring Busan effortless. You’re just a 5-minute stroll from Seomyeon Station, surrounded by cafés, street food stalls, and the city’s best shopping—Lotte Department Store is practically next door!
Rooms are spacious, spotless, and modern, with extras like bathtubs, big comfy beds, and speedy Wi-Fi. Guests rave about the rooftop garden, a quiet little escape with city views, and the Skylounge bar—perfect for a nightcap after wandering the neon-lit streets.
There’s even free parking (a rare perk in this part of the city!) and a buffet breakfast that changes daily. With rooms and suites going for around $80–$400 USD per night, it’s a fantastic value in one of Busan’s most central and vibrant neighborhoods.
Check prices and availability for Arban Hotel here!
Urbanstay Seomyeon – $
For budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and convenience, Urbanstay Seomyeon is a gem. Just a 3-minute walk from Seomyeon Station, you’ll be steps from Busan’s shopping streets, street food stalls, and nightlife. Each studio is bright, modern, and comes with a fully equipped kitchen—perfect if you like the option to cook.
You’ll also have a washing machine, work desk, and speedy Wi-Fi, making it great for longer stays or working on the go. The property offers handy extras like bicycle parking, luggage storage, and a minimarket on-site, plus paid parking for those driving in.
With rates around $45–$140 USD per night, it’s an excellent value for such a central location. Whether you’re staying a night or a week, Urbanstay makes it easy to feel right at home in the heart of Busan.
See availability and book Urbanstay Seomyeon here!
Related Read: If you’re visiting Seoul, see our Where to Stay in Seoul blog for top areas and hotel recommendations!
Haeundae Beach
Haeundae Beach isn’t just the most famous beach in South Korea—it’s a full-blown seaside experience! Stretching for 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) along the city’s northeast coast, it’s the place to go if you want sun, sand, and a lively holiday atmosphere.
While it’s about 40 minutes from Busan Station by subway, the area is very well-connected, making it easy to combine beach days with city sightseeing. This neighborhood is perfect for travelers who love the energy of a resort town.
Dongbaekseom Island, with its scenic coastal trails, and The Bay 101 yacht club are just a short walk away. And, in summer, the beach is packed with umbrellas and swimmers, while cooler months bring events like the Haeundae Polar Bear Swim and Busan International Film Festival. And yes, watching people willingly run into icy water in January is just as entertaining as it sounds.
Haeundae is also foodie heaven, with everything from fresh seafood markets to trendy brunch cafés. At night, the atmosphere shifts to bustling bars, beachside dining, and colorful lights reflecting off the water. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a full vacation, Haeundae delivers beach-town charm with urban convenience.
Pros
- South Korea’s most famous beach with plenty to do year-round
- Great mix of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife
- Well-connected by public transit
Cons
- Can get extremely crowded in summer
- Higher prices for beachfront accommodations
- Further from Busan’s central attractions
The Westing Josun Busan – $$$
If you want luxury with unbeatable beach access, The Westin Josun Busan has you covered. Perfectly positioned between Dongbaekseom Island and Haeundae Beach, you can walk out the door and be on the sand in minutes or take a scenic stroll along the island’s coastal trails.
Rooms and suites feature the brand’s signature Westin Heavenly® Beds, contemporary design, and stunning views. Guests staying in executive rooms enjoy Club Lounge access, complete with private check-in and complimentary refreshments. The property also boasts multiple restaurants serving everything from global cuisine to local specialties, plus an indoor pool and a fully equipped gym.
Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a pampered beach escape, this five-star stay delivers on both comfort and convenience. Rooms generally range from around $200–$800 USD per night.
Check availability and rates for this luxury stay here!
Grand Josun Busan – $$
Just steps from Haeundae Beach, Grand Josun Busan blends upscale comfort with family-friendly touches. Rooms are bright and stylish, with options for sweeping ocean views, and families will love the dedicated kids-only floor complete with themed rooms, welcome gifts, and child-sized amenities.
Guests can unwind at the indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center, or enjoy an indulgent breakfast at the Aria Buffet Restaurant. Suites offer extra perks like access to the Gran J Private Lounge with daytime coffee and evening drink service. The location is hard to beat—you’re within walking distance of Dalmaji Hill, The Bay 101, and plenty of beachfront dining.
If you’re planning a family getaway or a beach escape with friends, Grand Josun delivers a comfortable stay in the heart of Busan’s most famous coastal district. Rooms typically range from about $150–$500 USD per night, with suites also available.
See current rates for Grand Josun Busan here!
Marysol by Haeundae beach – $
If waking up to ocean views is a must, Marysol by Haeundae beach delivers without stretching your budget. Set right on the beachfront, you can step out the door and have your toes in the sand in seconds. Rooms are simple but modern, featuring air conditioning, private balconies, and essentials like a tea and coffee maker and flat-screen TV.
Opt for a sea-view room and enjoy morning coffee with the sound of waves in the background. The property also offers a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and a buffet breakfast with local specialties—perfect fuel before a day of exploring Dalmaji Hill or lounging by the water.
With plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance, this is an ideal base for travelers who want a prime location at an affordable price. Rates usually range from around $55–$180 USD per night.
See availability and book Marysol by Haeundae Beach here!
Related Read: Once you have a hotel, check out our best things to do in Busan to fill up your bucket list!
Gwangalli
Located in the Suyeong-gu district, Gwangalli is famous for its half-mile-long (0.8 km) stretch of soft sand and its unbeatable view of the iconic Gwangan Bridge. By day, the beach is perfect for swimming, water sports, or simply lounging with a coffee from one of the many cafés lining the shore. By night, the bridge comes alive with dazzling LED light shows, creating one of Busan’s most romantic backdrops.
This neighborhood is a great fit for travelers who want the energy of a beach town but with a slightly more laid-back vibe than Haeundae. It’s especially popular with locals, giving you a more authentic slice of Busan life. You’ll find plenty of trendy restaurants, seafood spots, and bars along the beachfront, plus easy access to the city via Gwangan Station.
Nearby attractions include Millak Waterside Park, known for its open-air dining and sunset views, and the bustling Millak Raw Fish Town for fresh sashimi with a view. Whether you’re here for a date night, a family beach day, or just to see the bridge lights, Gwangalli offers a charming blend of seaside relaxation and urban fun.
Pros
- Stunning views of Gwangan Bridge, especially at night
- Relaxed beach atmosphere with plenty of cafés and bars
- Popular with locals, offering a more authentic vibe
Cons
- The beach can get busy on weekends and holidays
- Not as many luxury hotel options as Haeundae
- Limited major sightseeing within walking distance
Kent Hotel Gwangalli – $$$
If you want front-row seats to Gwangalli Beach’s famous sunsets and Gwangan Bridge light shows, Kent Hotel Gwangalli delivers. Located right on the sand, this stylish hotel offers modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows—many with direct ocean views. Inside, you’ll find thoughtful touches like a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and plush bathrobes.
Choose an ocean-view room for the best experience, or opt for city views if you prefer watching Busan’s skyline come alive at night. The on-site bar is a great spot to unwind with a drink after a beach day, and the buffet breakfast makes mornings easy. You’re also just steps from Gwangalli’s lively dining scene and a short walk to Millak Raw Fish Town.
With rates typically between about $70–$330 USD per night, it’s a solid choice for couples or anyone who wants a prime beach location without sacrificing comfort.
See room options and reserve this Gwangalli stay here!
Hotel Marine View- $$
Just a two-minute stroll from Gwangalli Beach, Hotel Marine View pairs modern comfort with sweeping ocean views. Many rooms feature private balconies or terraces overlooking the water, while all come with soundproofing, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and plush bathrobes for a cozy stay.
Mornings begin with a buffet breakfast offering both American and local dishes, best enjoyed before heading out to explore nearby attractions like the Busan Museum of Art or Haeundae’s lively waterfront. After a day at the beach, unwind in the hot tub or relax in the outdoor dining area as the sea breeze rolls in.
With its unbeatable location, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to Gwangalli’s dining and nightlife scene, Hotel Marine View is a standout choice for travelers seeking beachfront convenience in Busan. Rooms typically range from around $60–$250 USD per night, with ocean view rooms available at a higher rate during peak season.
Check availability and book your stay at Hotel Marine View here!
Elmomento Gwangan – $
If you want a beachfront stay with all the comforts of home, Elmomento Gwangan is a fantastic pick. Located steps from Gwangalli Beach, this modern property offers rooms with private kitchenettes, washing machines, and balconies—many showcasing panoramic ocean views. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the terrace or unwinding after a day in the city, the sea is always in sight.
The spacious, soundproofed rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and thoughtful extras like a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, and flat-screen TV. With private check-in, an on-site minimarket, and paid parking, convenience is part of the package. You’ll also be within easy reach of Kyungsung University, the Busan Museum of Art, and lively seafood restaurants at Millak Raw Fish Town.
Rates usually range from about $50–$200 USD per night, making this an affordable option for couples or longer stays.
Check rates and book this budget-friendly stay here!
Jung-gu (Nampo)
Nampo, in Busan’s Jung-gu district, is the city’s bustling heart and one of the best spots for first-time visitors who want to dive straight into local life. It’s a hub of shopping streets, street food stalls, and cultural landmarks, all within walking distance of Busan Station (about 1.2 miles/2 km).
This is where you’ll find BIFF Square, the birthplace of the Busan International Film Festival, now lined with movie-themed installations and food vendors serving hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes) and spicy tteokbokki.
Just a short stroll away is Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market, where you can watch fishmongers in action or sample the catch of the day in one of the upstairs restaurants. Gukje Market, another local favorite, offers everything from vintage goods to traditional snacks. Nampo is also the gateway to Yongdusan Park, home to Busan Tower and panoramic city views.
The area’s lively atmosphere makes it ideal for travelers who want a central base packed with food, culture, and easy transport links. It’s busy year-round, but that’s part of its charm—there’s always something happening, whether it’s a seasonal market, street performance, or festival.
For a stay that puts you in the middle of Busan’s energy, Nampo is hard to beat!
Pros
- Walkable access to top attractions like BIFF Square, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Gukje Market.
- Excellent street food scene with plenty of budget-friendly dining options.
- Great public transport links, including proximity to Busan Station.
Cons
- Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends and during festivals.
- Limited beachfront or scenic ocean views compared to coastal neighborhoods.
- Some older buildings and accommodations may feel dated.
Stanford Hotel Busan – $$
For a stay steps from Jagalchi Market and the heart of Nampo’s action, Stanford Hotel Busan is hard to beat. Just a five-minute walk from Jagalchi Subway Station, this modern hotel offers rooms with city or sea views, each equipped with a flat-screen TV, fridge, safety deposit box, and a bathroom complete with bathrobe, slippers, and an electronic bidet.
Guests can start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet at Café Stanford before exploring BIFF Square, Gukje Market, or hopping on the subway to Busan Station, just three stops away. The 24-hour front desk provides luggage storage, currency exchange, and concierge services, while free Wi-Fi and optional on-site parking make your stay seamless.
Rooms generally range from around $50–$250 USD per night, offering solid value for such a central, well-connected location.
Check availability and reserve your stay at Stanford Hotel Busan here!
Nampo Hound Hotel Premier – $$
If you want to stay close to Gukje Market and Nampo’s bustling shopping streets, Nampo Hound Hotel Premier is a convenient and comfortable choice. Rooms come with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, work desks, and private balconies overlooking the city, making it easy to relax after a day of exploring.
The on-site restaurant serves Korean dishes in a modern setting, and there’s also a terrace, garden, and minimarket for added convenience. Families will appreciate the spacious rooms and family-friendly atmosphere, while couples will love the easy access to nearby cafés, boutiques, and street food stalls.
Top attractions like Songdo Beach and Busan Port are just a short taxi ride away, and Gimhae International Airport is about a 35-minute drive. Rates typically range from about $45–$300 USD per night, making this a budget-friendly base for exploring central Busan.
See room options and book this convenient stay in Nampo here!
GnB Hotel – $
For an affordable stay in central Busan, GnB Hotel delivers comfort, convenience, and value. Every room features city views, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers—small touches that make a budget stay feel more upscale. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant, relax in the café, or take advantage of the business center and conference facilities.
The location is a winner—just an eight-minute walk to Toseong Subway Station, putting you within easy reach of Busan Station in under 15 minutes. Gukje Market, BIFF Square, and the bustling shopping streets of Nampo are all nearby. Standard room rates can start as low as about $40–$180 USD per night, with roomier suites and apartments also available.
Check current deals and book your stay at GnB Hotel here!
Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your trip? Check out our ideal 3-day Busan itinerary to discover the top city sights, restaurants, day trips, and more!
Top Activities to do in Busan, South Korea
Now that you’ve found the ideal area and perfect place to stay for your trip to Busan, you can start filling in your itinerary! There is so much to do in this sprawling city that it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help narrow it down, here are our favorite things we did in Busan:
- Explore the city with a private guide – If you’re short on time, this private city tour is the way to go! We loved that it was customizable, so we could tailor it to fit our interests, and it allowed us to see Busan’s highlights and learn a lot as we went.
- Take a day trip to Gyeongju – Gyeongju is a UNESCO-listed city, dating back to the 2nd century, and we couldn’t miss visiting! We joined this full-day tour, which took care of transportation and took us to historic sights like Bulguksa Temple, Yangdong Folk Village, and more!
- Go on a food tour – We love Korean food, but sometimes we aren’t sure exactly what we’re eating! This market food tour took us to a fish market, then to our host’s home for dinner. It was an excellent way to learn about Korean cuisine and experience a local side of the food culture!
- See Busan at night – This nighttime tour showed us a different side of Busan. Our guide took us all over the city as it began to light up, from Hwangnyeongsan Mountain to a cruise in Suyeongman Bay, complete with fireworks! It was such a unique way to experience Busan.
- Take a cooking class – What better souvenir to take home than learning the art of Korean cooking? This cooking class was one of the most fun things we did in Busan. We mastered bibimbap, seaweed soup, and Korean pancakes, all thanks to the help of our amazing host!
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.
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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!
Busan is such a unique place to visit, but choosing the right area to stay can really make or break your trip. Not to worry, though, if you stick to these areas and hotels, I know you’ll have a fantastic stay. Each offers something special, so you can experience just what makes Busan so amazing!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other South Korea blogs. Or, if your travels take you further, see all of our Asia blogs! We have more resources, whether you’re looking for city itineraries, top things to do, or more where to stay guides. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
Where to Stay on Jeju Island, South Korea: 6 Areas & Hotels
How to Spend THREE to FIVE Days in Seoul, South Korea: 3 to 5 Day Itinerary
Where to Stay in Gangnam, South Korea: 4 Best Areas & Hotels