Bustling BusanBusan is a port city in South Korea that finds itself nestled between the mountains and the ocean. There is so much to do here, from temples to markets and waterside relaxation. This is the perfect place to spend a long weekend, and my itinerary will show you how best to do it.AuthorsBreeGoux
DestinationsBusanItinerary

Stays

LOTTE HOTEL BUSAN
This stay is a good mid-point between the attractions on this trip. It's in the heart of the city, walking distance to a plethora of shops and restaurants, and has spacious and comfortable rooms. If you're a shopper, this hotel is connected to a department store with duty-free shops!
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Crown Harbor Hotel
If you plan on taking public transport to get around the city, then this hotel would be perfect for you. Within a five-minute walk, you have access to a train station and several different bus stops and routes. Add in the view over the harbor and this hotel is a must stay!
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Park Hyatt Busan
With a perfect location right on the water, you'll want to make sure you get a room facing the bay! This five-star hotel boasts luxury with a stellar restaurant, spacious rooms, and a well-appointed gym for travelers who can't risk missing leg day.
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Day One

Coffee Mandalay
I don't know about you, but I always start my day with coffee and a snack! Coffee Mandalay is located on the third floor of the building and offers views of the main street of Haeundae and the harbor to go with your morning brew.
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달맞이동산
This park offers serenity amidst the city which is a great way to kick off your morning. Make sure to check out the temple in the park, and, if you're visiting during Cherry Blossom season, plan to spend a little extra time here.
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Haeundae Beach
If you're the friend who says the hour long walk is "a quick and easy stroll," then you can walk all the way from Dalmaji Park to Haeundae Beach. Otherwise, you can take transport or drive over to this sandy beach to spend some time soaking in the sun and people watching.
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SEALIFE Busan Aquarium
This Aquarium offers a variety of aquatic life, a tunnel through one of their large tanks, feedings, and mermaid shows! If you want to see the feedings or the mermaid show, make sure to check the times so you don't miss out. Tickets are also cheaper when bought online in advance versus at the door, so make sure you pre-book.
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케이쏨차이(K.Ssomchai) 해운대점
Thai food that's spicy with a major kick, this place is a must eat for spice fiends. It seems like there isn't anything on the menu that will disappoint, so order to your heart's content and refuel after your morning walk.
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Gwangalli Beach
This crecsant shaped beach is the perfect place to spend the afternoon! The fine sand looks out over water so blue you'll think you're imagining how fine the color is. You can relax, hit the waves, or do some shopping at the stores that line the sand.
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[BUSAN,GamcheonVillage] Private Korean Art Painting Class
No way to flex harder than to make your own souvenir. The instructor in this art class will teach you about traditional Korean folk painting and will walk you through how to create your own!
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Day Two

Gukje Market
This market might just have everything. If you've been thinking about buying it, chances are you'll find it here! Start the day out by grabbing food from a few vendors then doing some window (or actual) shopping.
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Authentic Busan Full-Day City Highlights Tour
Sometimes a guided tour is perfect for a new city, that way you don't have to worry about maps, logistics, and if you did enough research to not miss out on anything. This tour will take you to six different amazing locations within the city.
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Busan Tower
Every city has a tall building you can go up to get a bird's eye view of everything around you, and this is Busan's! The difference between Busan's and everyone else's is that Busan Tower as a unique architechtural design as well as a stunning interior. There's more than just heights here!
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Yongdusan Park
Learn about Korea's history, see Busan Tower from the ground, and pet cats all in Yongdusan Park. This is a great place to find a spot for lunch and slow down a bit as you enjoy this mountaintop park.
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Gamcheon Culture Village
Honestly, this stop could be your entire day. This village of colorful, layered houses offers a new sight, art gallery, and shop around every corner. The streets twist and wind up the hill offering the perfect atmosphere to get lost in.
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Taejongdae
The best way to end your day in Busan is visiting Taejongdae. With a lighthouse, wooded areas to walk, and even an amusement park, come here to watch the sun go down.
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Day Three

Shinsegae Department Store, Centum City
Start your day with shopping at the world's largest department store! Grab a coffee and a snack from one of the many cafes and then explore to your heart's content. Even window shoppers will be in awe of everything on offer here. From here, there are two ways I'd recommend spending the day.
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Busan Beomeosa Temple & Hongbeopsa Temple with temple lunch
The first option is to book this experience to head a little north of Busan and experience Beomeosa Temple. This oasis, tucked away in the mountains, is a Buddhist temple that was established in 678. Many of the structures and buildings have been added on over the years, but most were built prior to the 1700s. If you're looking for something spiritual to ground you, then this is the excursion for you.
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Andong Hahoe Folk Village Day Tour From Busan
The second option is to tour Andong Hahoe Folk Village! This UNESCO-listed village will take you back in time to the Joseon Dynasty. A tour hill will have you learning the history of the village as well as watching a traditional Hahoe Mask performance. If history is your jam, then you'll want to book this excursion.
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Oryukdo Skywalk
The best way to end the final day of your trip to Busan is to watch the sunset on the Oryukdo Skywalk. Here you can traverse a glass walkway and find yourself truly between the sky and sea.
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