Busan is a city I adore, and creating a 3-day itinerary for it was no small task because there’s simply so much to see and do!
From vibrant beaches to cultural gems and mouthwatering food, narrowing down the options was a delightful challenge.
This 3-day itinerary highlights some of the city’s best and is designed to ensure you make the most of your quick trip.
One of the unique aspects of Busan is how spread out it is, so travel time between attractions can add up.
I’ve done my best to group activities by location to help you manage your time effectively while experiencing the variety Busan has to offer.
Let’s dive in and discover all the fantastic adventures that await
3-Day Itinerary for Busan
Day 1: Songdo Beach, Jeonpo Cafe St in Seomyeon & Gwangalli
Highlights of Day 1: Coastal Views, Café-Hopping & Beach Nightlife
- Morning: Songdo Beach, Cloud Trails, and Busan Air Cruise
- Afternoon: Jeonpo Cafe Street and Shopping in Seomyeon or Alternative
- Evening Options: Gwangalli Beach or Seomyeon Nightlife
Morning: Songdo Beach, Cloud Trails, and Busan Air Cruise
Depending on your arrival time, you could kick off your journey at Songdo Beach, Busan’s first public beach. It’s a great spot to begin your 3-day itinerary, offering a relaxed vibe and stunning views.
I highly recommend strolling along the Cloud Trails—this breathtaking walkway gives you panoramic views of the ocean that are perfect for photos.
Soar above Busan’s stunning coastline on the Busan Air Cruise, a scenic cable car ride that glides over Amnam Park and the striking Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views and capture unforgettable moments from above. Book your ride now for an unforgettable experience!
Afternoon: Options Jeonpo Cafe Street and Shopping in Seomyeon or visit Samgwansa Temple or Busan Citizen’s Park
Next, head to the Seomyeon area, a dynamic hub of shopping, food, and culture. If you enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, wander through Jeonpo Cafe Street, which I personally love for its trendy coffee shops and cool, aesthetic vibes—it’s the perfect spot to relax and people-watch.
For shopaholics, the Seomyeon Underground Mall and Seomyeon Shopping Street are must-visits. I think Seomyeon Shopping Street gives off a vibe similar to Seoul’s famous Myeongdong but with a relaxed Busan vibe.
If shopping isn’t your thing, or if you’re looking for something different, I recommend a peaceful visit to Sangwansa Temple or a leisurely stroll through Busan Citizen Park. Both spots offer a calming retreat from the bustling city.
Evening Options: Gwangalli Beach or Seomyeon Nightlife
As the day transitions into evening, you’ll have two equally tempting options. If you’re looking for a perfect way to unwind, head to my favorite spot, Gwangalli Beach.
The nighttime views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge are absolutely breathtaking. There’s no better way to enjoy it than with dinner at one of the area’s beachfront restaurants. I always find the atmosphere here so relaxing, and the views are unforgettable.
Alternatively, return to Seomyeon and dive into the variety of food offerings at Food Alley. After you’ve had your fill, experience the neighborhood’s vibrant nightlife, from karaoke bars to late-night cocktails. I love the energy in Seomyeon—it’s always buzzing, no matter the time of night.
Day 2: Haeundae Beach and Centum City
Highlights of Day 2: Temples, Beaches, and Korean Spa
- Morning: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in the Morning
- Afternoon Options: Haeundae Beach Activities and Seafood
- Evening Options: Museum 1, Shinsegae Mall, or SpaLand
Morning: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in the Morning
Start day 2 of your 3-day itinerary bright and early with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of Korea’s most unique seaside temples.
I recommend arriving early—not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll also fully appreciate the serene atmosphere and stunning coastal views without the large crowds.
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Afternoon Options: Haeundae Beach Activities and Seafood
Continue to the next stop, Haeundae Beach, one of Busan’s most iconic destinations.
On the way to the beach from the subway station, there’s a fishcake restaurant I recommend called Goraesa Oemuk. It’s the perfect quick bite before you hit the beach. I love the variety of different fish cakes here.
You can grab a snack from the nearby traditional market or one of the many restaurants lining the street to the beach.
Once at Haeundae Beach, take the beach train or sky capsule to Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory for stunning panoramic ocean views.
Along the walk to the observatory, enjoy some freshly grilled seafood with an unbeatable ocean view. I’d definitely recommend trying it if you’re still hungry. The restaurant staff is always ready to help if you’re unsure how to cook it. Afterward, you can hop back on the train or capsule to return to Haeundae Beach.
Alternatively, you might enjoy a scenic stroll on the picturesque Dongbaeksom Island before relaxing on the beach.
Or, if you’re in the mood for something different, take in the underwater wonders at Sea Life Busan Aquarium or soak up panoramic views from Busan X the SKY, home to the world’s highest Starbucks.
Evening Options: Museum 1, Shinsegae Mall, and SpaLand
As evening approaches, consider visiting Museum 1 for a dose of contemporary art and culture. I really enjoyed my time there.
If shopping is on your agenda, Shinsegae Mall, the world’s largest department store, offers endless options, and trust me, it’s enormous!
I always make it a point to visit Spa Land Busan, a luxurious Korean jimjibang, at Shinsigae Mall. I definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a top-tier spa experience. Click HERE to book your tickets now!
Check out my guide to Spa Land Busan for what to expect!
There’s a restaurant and a ramen bar, so you can enjoy a meal while you relax. Otherwise, you can have dinner at one of the mall’s food hall or explore nearby eateries.
Day 3: Gamcheon Village , Nampo Area & the Huinnyeoul Coast
Highlights of Day 3: Cultural Villages and Culinary Delights
- Morning: Gamcheon Cultural Village
- Afternoon: Nampo Area, Yongdusan Park, and Huinnyeoul Village
- Evening: BIFF Street or Jagalchi Market for Food
Morning: Gamcheon Cultural Village
Start the final day of your 3-day itinerary in Busan at Gamcheon Cultural Village, a colorful hillside neighborhood filled with vibrant murals and quirky art.
Visiting in the morning lets you wander the maze-like streets, enjoy the views, and snap photos with shorter lines at the popular selfie spots. I’ve found it’s the best time to explore and get selfies at the popular spots!
Afternoon: Nampo Area, Yongdusan Park, and Huinnyeoul Village
Next, head to the bustling Nampo area. Stroll along Gwangbokro Shopping Street, filled with a mix of local boutiques and big-brand stores, or visit Lotte Mall for a more modern shopping experience.
Don’t miss Yongdusan Park, home to the iconic Busan Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its picturesque harbor.
From Nampo, head to Huinnyeoul Village, a quiet seaside neighborhood that feels like a peaceful retreat after the vibrant energy of Gamcheon.
I love taking a leisurely stroll in the village and along the Jeoryeong Coastal Walk to the Huinnyeoul Coastal Tunnel, a popular selfie spot with tranquil ocean views.
The village’s quaint cafes and art spaces make it a hidden gem worth exploring.
Evening: BIFF Street or Jagalchi Market for Food
For your final evening in Busan, return to the Nampo area to indulge in its famous street food at BIFF Street. From savory tteokbokki to seed hotteok—my favorite—the variety of flavors will delight your taste buds. I always make it a point to visit BIFF for street food.
Alternatively, head to Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, to savor a fresh seafood feast at one of the market’s many restaurants.
Wrapping up your 3-day trip in the Nampo area is convenient, as Busan Station, for the KTX train, is just two stops away from Jagalchi Station on the subway.
Where to stay in Busan
Finding the right place to stay in Busan depends on what you want to do. Here are some convenient hotel recommendations near subway stations to make getting around easy. For a more detailed guide on the best areas to stay, check out my Where to Stay in Busan post.
Nampo Station
📍K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo 1 Offers a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay in the heart of Busan’s bustling Nampo-dong. This guesthouse provides cozy, well-equipped rooms with free Wi-Fi and a communal kitchen for added convenience. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to explore local markets, restaurants, and iconic spots like BIFF Square and Jagalchi Fish Market.
Busan Station / KTX Station
📍Busan View Hotel Busan Station A convenient 3-star hotel located near Busan Station, offering easy access to transportation and popular attractions. Enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access to shopping, dining, and sightseeing in Busan.
Seomyeon Station
📍Lenith Hotel Seomyeon A convenient, budget-friendly 3-star hotel located just 5 minutes from Seomyeon Station. Guests can enjoy a light breakfast and easy access to nearby attractions, including Seomyeon Food Alley and Lotte Department Store.
Gwangan Station
📍The Van Stay A stylish and budget-friendly accommodation in Busan, just a 7-minute walk from the Gwangan subway stop and 7-minute walk to Gwangalli beach. Perfect for travelers looking for a cozy yet modern stay, this hotel offers well-designed rooms with essential amenities, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere.
FAQ
I recommend folks visiting for the first time stay in the Seomyeon area, as it’s central to all the sites you’ll be visiting. If you fall in love with Busan like I did and plan on returning, I recommend either Haeundae or Gwangalli Beach. You can read more in my Where to Stay in Busan Guide
Public transportation is efficient in Busan. In most places, you’ll need a combination of the subway and the bus.
Otherwise, consider using a taxi if you are a little crunched on time. They can be requested through the Uber app and are relatively cheap.
The most convenient way is to take the Korea Train Express (KTX) high-speed train, which is considered the fastest and most efficient option, typically taking around 2 and a half hours from Seoul Station to Busan Station.
Buses from Seoul to Busan primarily depart from the Gyeongbu Line Bus Terminal, located at the Express Bus Terminal Station (served by Seoul Subway Lines 3, 7, and 9). A general express bus ride takes approximately 4.5 hours and costs about 25,400 KRW
Some folks fly from Gimpo to Gimhae airport. Or take an intercity bus from Express Buss Station, which can take 4 to 5 hours.
There is plenty to do in Busan! Check out the Things To Do in Busan Guide for some fun activities.
Absolutely! The beaches in Busan are 100% worth visiting! As someone who loves the beach, I can’t get enough of Busan’s stunning coastline. Each beach has its own unique charm, from the vibrant atmosphere of Haeundae Beach to the relaxed vibe at Gwangalli. The golden sands, sparkling waters, and gorgeous views make them a paradise for beach lovers. Check out our Top 5 beaches in Busan Guide for more information.
Busan is generally considered very safe for tourists. The city has low crime rates, and locals are often helpful to visitors. However, it’s always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure.
Wrap Up
Busan’s charm lies in its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and vibrant city life, making it the perfect destination for a 3-day itinerary.
From the peaceful temples and stunning beaches to bustling markets and delicious street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic city.
Organizing activities by location means you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the city’s unforgettable sights and experiences.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, Busan promises a journey filled with memories you’ll cherish. I hope this itinerary inspires you to fall in love with this incredible coastal city, just as I have.