Busan is easily Korea’s most popular city after its capital, Seoul, featuring stunning beaches, scenic ocean views, and amazing food!
I’ve had the privilege of visiting Busan on multiple occasions, and it is perhaps my favorite place in all of South Korea. The atmosphere is incredibly warm and energetic, and as a foreign tourist, you feel welcomed due to its multicultural vibe and reputation as a global hotspot.
Scenic Bus Tours
Perhaps the best way to see Busan, especially if you’re short on time, is to do a city bus tour! They’re super affordable and suitable for your schedule, as you can get on and off at any point. What I love about the bus tour is that you get to see rare views of Busan’s many beaches and coastal areas, which are nestled between scenic mountain ranges.
The Famous Haeundae & Gwangalli Beaches
Haeundae Beach is easily Korea’s most famous beach and an absolute must-visit for international tourists. One of the “must-do” activities at Haeundae Beach is the Sky Capsule, which takes you on a ride above the ocean in a small carriage on an elevated railway track. Right next door is the equally stunning and slightly less crowded Gwangalli Beach, which is home to a vibrant seaside atmosphere full of restaurants, cafes, boat cruises, and more!
Boat Cruises
Personally, I enjoyed the boat cruise the most at Gwangalli Beach.
It was a fun way to see the entire coastline of Busan while also passing through some cool islands and rocky formations.
The atmosphere is also really upbeat and exciting as the boat rattles up and down against the waves of the East Sea (a.k.a. the Sea of Japan).
Beachside Cafes & Restaurants
From Korean BBQ to Korean fried chicken and even a range of international cuisines, Busan’s seaside restaurants and cafes have you covered! A personal favorite is Holly’s Cafe which offers delicious Korean desserts such as bingsoo and provides seating with stunning views of Gwangalli Beach!
Vibrant Night Life
At night, Busan is a different animal! The famous Gwangalli Beach lights up in brilliant blue colors and creates an enchanting effect on the water. It only gets better when there is a full moon that reflects its sparkly lights on the ocean, setting the scene for a truly magical stroll along the shores along the coast of the Sea of Japan.