Disclosure: if you make a purchase through any affiliate links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

29 Best Things to Do in Busan (Popular + Underrated Attractions)

ByRoseanne Ducut

After four visits, Busan has become one of my favorite cities in South Korea. It’s famous for its beaches and coastal views, but what keeps me coming back is its mix of laid-back energy and vibrant city life.

I’ve personally visited all of these attractions, some multiple times, and they’re perfect for both first-time visitors and repeat travelers.

Here are 29 things to do in Busan, including the most popular and a few hidden gems.

I left a ⭐️ next to my favorites.

New to South Korea? Read my essential South Korea travel tips.

Book before you visit Busan:

🎟 Busan Tour Pass — perfect for short stays (access to 30+ sites)

🏨 Best discounted hotels — great locations and solid reviews

🚍 Schedule an airport pickup so you don’t stress at arrivals

🎟 Local-led tours with stops you won’t find alone (top 10)

1. Gamcheon Culture Village ⭐️

Cost: free | Google Maps

Collage of vibrant hillside scenes showcasing a colorful village with painted houses, public art, and scenic viewpoints. Statues of characters like the Little Prince and whimsical displays add playful charm throughout the narrow alleys. The area is lively with murals, heart-shaped frames, and tourists exploring the artistic streets.

Gamcheon Culture Village is a main highlight and must-see for tourists visiting Busan.

There are different origin stories online, but this served as a village for refugees of the Korean War.

A woman sits beside the iconic Le Petit Prince statue, gazing over the colorful houses of Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, with lush hills and the harbor in the distanc

Walk around for different viewpoints, famous art alleys, and local shops.

Read my full post on visiting Gamcheon Culture Village. This is one of the best things to do in Busan.

🚌 Join a full-day Busan tour with Gamcheon Culture Village, Songdo Skywalk and Yonggungsa Temple

2. Huinnyeoul Culture Village ⭐️

Cost: free | Google Maps

Huinnyeoul Culture Village, or Hynyeoul Munhwa Maul is another colorful culture village, this time by the sea and located in south-central Busan.

There are cute shops, cafes, and colorful mural art. You can also walk downstairs along the coast.

A view of an alley in Huinnyeoul Culture Village in Busan, South Korea. The scene features a mix of older, weathered buildings with murals painted on the walls, contrasting with a modern white cafe building in the background. The alleyway is narrow, with steps leading up to the entrances of the houses, and various details like pipes and doors adding character to the historic area. The overall atmosphere captures the blend of traditional and contemporary elements in this cultural district.

It’s worth the bus trip!

📖 Read my full Huinnyeoul Culture Village post and how to get there.

3. Diamond aka Busan Tower

Cost: Busan Tower is $8 USD | Google Maps

A striking view of Busan Tower Observatory in South Korea, standing tall against a clear blue sky. The tower’s sleek white design contrasts with the traditional Korean-style pavilion beside it, adding a blend of modern and historical architecture. The surrounding area features a shopping complex and a statue, enhancing the cultural appeal of the site.

Busan Tower (aka Diamond Tower) is one of the most iconic attractions in Busan, with an observation tower at the top.

You can buy tickets online to go up the observatory.

You can also visit Haeundae X the Sky (book online) on the 100th floor for more city views and things to do in Busan at night.

4. Yongdusan Park

Cost: free | Google Maps

Traditional Asian pagoda with red columns and a tiled roof in a park setting.

Visit Yongdusan Park where Busan Tower is located for great views of the city.

You’ll see statues, temples, shops, and memorials scattered throughout the park.

Access the top of the park by stairs or escalator from the main street.

5. Lotte Mall Rooftop Observatory

Cost: free | Google Maps

View of a white stairs leading to roofto pgarden on an Observatory Deck in Lotte Mall Busan

This free Busan observatory is not super well known to tourists, and is a free alternative to visiting the Busan Tower.

Go inside the Lotte Mall (Gwangbok location) and go up to level 13 for a beautiful rooftop view.

You’ll see clear views of Busan, the harbor, Busan bridge, and the Busan Tower. One of the best free things to do in Busan!

There are multiple levels that have different views including a garden and observatory deck. There’s also lots of benches to sit on.

(More photos on my Lotte Mall Rooftop Observatory blog post).

Make your trip easier with a day tour:

🎫 Busan Tour Pass for access to 30+ Busan attractions

🎫 Busan full-day sightseeing tour ⭐️ top rated

🎫 Most popular tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule, Gamcheon Culture Village

6. Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel

Cost: free | Google Maps

Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel inside Busan: The inside of the Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel in Busan, featuring a curved, rocky interior with dim lighting and a person walking along the path.

If you keep walking past the coastal walk at Huinnyeoul Culture Village, you’ll reach Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel, a long cave tunnel with wall art and photo op stations.

An artistic installation inside a cave-like setting, showcasing a luminous moon above an abstract representation of a bridge and various architectural forms. The ambient lighting accentuates the textures of the cave walls and the reflective surface below, creating a mystical atmosphere.

7. Jeoryeong Coastal Walk

Cost: free | Google Maps

View from a rocky walking path looking out into a sea on an overcast day at Jeoryeong Coastal Walk in Busan

At the end of the Huinyeoul Coastal Tunnel is the Jeoryeong Coastal Walk. It was so peaceful walking along the water.

You’ll see an occasional ajumma or ahjussi taking a walk, but overall there’s not a lot of people.

I didn’t walk too far, but you can walk all around the coast. One of my favorite things to do in Busan!

8. Songdo Bay Station ⭐️

Cost: Varies | Google Maps

A view of cable cars in the air over a path of oval stones in the middle of a sea at Songdo Bay Station in Busan

Taking a cable car ride at the Songdo Bay Station is one of the best things to do in Busan for coastal views.

I rode the cable car during the day and evening and the daytime views are better than night views as it’s quite dark from the cable car.

A mesmerizing night view of Songdo Cloud Trails in Busan, South Korea, with a cable car system stretching across the dark sky. The illuminated walkway and colorful lights reflect beautifully on the water, adding a magical glow to the scene. In the background, the city skyline and mountain silhouettes enhance the atmosphere of this coastal attraction.

I did the ride solo and chose the crystal glass option and got the cabin to myself!

Get your Songdo Bay Station ticket on Klook for a cheaper price.

➡️ Related: 8 Most Popular Things to Do in Busan at Night

9. Songdo Cloud Trails

Cost: free | Google Maps

A scenic daytime view of Songdo Skywalk in Busan, South Korea, featuring a curving pedestrian bridge with white and blue railings extending over the ocean. Above, cable cars glide across the sky, adding to the coastal charm. In the background, mountains, city buildings, and ships on the horizon complete the tranquil seascape.

While you do need to buy a Songdo Bay Station ticket to take the cable car, the actual Songdo skywalk viewing deck across the street is free.

You’ll see large sea turtle statues, and statues of the love story between a human and the Songdo mermaid.

Bronze statues of Mermaid and Human Statue reaching out to each other - Songdo Bay Station Busan

10. Songrim Park

Cost: free from other entrances | Google Maps

The image captures a scenic hiking trail at Songrim Park in Songdo, Busan, South Korea. The trail is framed by wooden railings and surrounded by lush greenery with a view of the ocean and distant mountains. A person is seen walking down the path, adding a sense of scale to this tranquil natural setting.

The Songdo cable cars leads to Songrim Park.

You can choose to explore the different trails at the park or just hang out at the start of the park where there’s food stalls and fun displays for photo ops.

A woman takes a selfie at Songrim Park in Songdo, Busan, South Korea, during sunset. She stands on a wooden observation deck with a railing, with a scenic view of the ocean, distant islands, and hills in the background. A telescope and informational sign are visible, adding to the picturesque golden-hour setting.

I ended up hiking for around for 1-2 hours. There’s lots of stairs, though it’s easy to get re-routed even with the occasional directional signage.

11. Songdo Beach

Cost: free | Google Maps

Collage of four beachside images showing scenes from a coastal boardwalk and cable car attraction. A stone turtle sculpture, colorful “SONGDO” sign, and a wooden pathway leading to the sea are featured. Overhead, cable cars stretch across the ocean under a clear blue sky.

A few minutes walk from the Songdo Cable Station is Songdo Beach, which opened in 1913.

I went on a cloudy day, but Songdo Beach was less crowded, and would be nice to relax at on a sunny day.

Beaches in Busan are open 24/7, and are some of the best free things to do in Busan.

12. Bosu Dong Book Street

Cost: free | Google Maps

An alleyway with several bookstores with books in Korean laid out on tables in Bosu Dong Book Street in Busan

If you keep walking north of BIFF Square, there’s Bosu Dong Book Street, alleys filled with bookstores lined with stacks of books.

This was created during the Korean War for a place to access books.

You can read my full post on what to see at Bosu Dong Book Street in Busan.

13. Millak Waterside Park

Cost: free | Google Maps

Bridge and city skyline reflected in water at sunset; colorful mural on waterfront stairs in foreground.

Before you head to the Gwangalli Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Busan, make sure to start at Millak Waterside Park nearby.

There’s sets of steps to sit and relax on and look at the waterside and bridge views.

Many locals go here to eat and drink on the steps.

14. Gwangalli Beach ⭐️

Cost: free | Google Maps

People sitting on benches watching young man perform on a guitar with lit up white Gwangan Bridge and beach behind him

Gwangalli Beach is especially beautiful and busier at nighttime. Walk down the cement path or along the beach on the sand.

One of the best things to do in Busan at night.

ALT text: Night view of Busan, South Korea, showing a bridge illuminated over water, a sandy beach with Korean writing, a bicycle parked on grassy area, and city lights in the background.

You can also catch music performances in the evening. The beach is surrounded by hundreds of restaurants.

Related post: Best things to do at Gwangali Beach

🌌 Take a Busan Night Tour with a cruise and fireworks

15. Haeundae Beach ⭐️

Cost: free | Google Maps

White sand beach in gray weather with red Haeundae Beach sign.

Haeundae Beach is one of my favorite beaches in Busan to visit during the day. (Gwangalli beach for things to do in Busan at night).

This beach gets quite busy, though mostly during the warmer months, with long stretches of clean sand to sit on.

Lit up colorful heart installation on ground surrounded by flowers - Haeundae Beach Busan Korea

You can watch street performers along the promenade leading to the beach, and look at the growing number of displays, though mostly present during the summer.

16. Haeundae Blueline Sky Capsule ⭐️

Cost: 7,000 won ($5.20 USD) or book a tour on Viator | Google Maps

The image shows two green capsule cars on an elevated track surrounded by lush greenery, part of the Haewol Skywalk Observatory in Busan, South Korea. Below, a pedestrian walkway with white railings leads toward the forested hillside, offering scenic views of the area. The modern infrastructure contrasts beautifully with the natural setting.

Take the popular sky capsule ride starting from the Mipo Station at Blueline Park in Haeundae to Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory.

The 30-minute ride provides panoramic views of the coastal landscapes.

It’s highly recommended to book in advance as tickets sell out each day, and it’s one of the most popular things to do in Busan.

➡️ Check ticket availability here or book a Busan tour that includes tickets.

17. Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory

Cost: free | Google Maps

The image depicts the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory in Busan, South Korea, featuring a vibrant blue, elevated walkway extending over rocky coastal waters. Supported by sturdy pillars, the walkway provides stunning views of the ocean and nearby hills, with a clear sky adding to the serene atmosphere. Below, rugged rocks meet calm, clear waters, creating a picturesque seaside setting.

Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory is a 2.5-meter-long ocean observation skywalk, designed to resemble a blue dragon.

You’ll see views of the East Sea and the surrounding coastal landscape and lighthouses.

Curved glass-bottomed skywalk extending over the ocean with waves visible beneath the transparent floor. The structure is lined with blue railings and glass panels, creating a futuristic feel. The sky glows softly with pastel hues of pink and orange during sunset.

18. Haewol Skywalk Observatory

Cost: free | Naver Map

The image showcases the Haewol Skywalk Observatory in Busan, South Korea, featuring a sleek, white suspension bridge extending over the ocean. The structure is accentuated by its modern cables and clean lines, blending harmoniously with the soft golden hues of the sunset. Below, the calm waters and rocky coastline create a serene and picturesque scene, with a clear view of the horizon.

If you walk it instead of the taking the cable car like I did, stop at the nearby Haewol Skywalk Observatory.

I arrived right before sunset and the views are beautiful.

I highly recommend timing it to visit at sunset!

19. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Cost: free | Google Maps

Ancient Chinese temple complex built on rocky coastline with traditional architecture and visitors walking on a white stone bridge.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated on a cliff, with sweeping views of the coast. You can explore the the architecture and statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the East Sea.

It can quite crowded as one of the more popular things to do in Busan. There are also food stalls near the entrance.

There’s buses that stop about a 10-minute walk from the temple.

20. Oryukdo Skywalk

Cost: free | Google Maps

The Oryukdo Skywalk in Busan is an observation deck with a 15-meter glass walkway.

The bridge is securely positioned over a cliff, and you get views of the East Sea and South Sea, as well as the Oryukdo islets.

I went in November, but I’m sure it gets quite windy in every season!

A glass skywalk extending over the ocean with visitors walking and taking photos, under a partly cloudy sky.

21. Igidae Coastal Trail ⭐️

Cost: free | Google Maps

➡️ Guide to Hiking Igidae Coastal Walk in Busan (+ Best Starting Route)

Collage of six coastal scenes featuring wooden boardwalks, rocky shorelines, and dramatic ocean views. Pathways wind through cliffs and greenery, offering scenic overlooks and rest spots with benches and sculptures. The skyline of a modern city is visible in the distance across deep blue waters under a partly cloudy sky.

The Oryukdo Skywalk is where you can start the hike down the Igidae Coastal Trail, which is what I did.

The first time it took me about 1.5 hours. I hiked it again in November 2025 and it took 2 hours. There’s current construction on a part of the walking path, so you have to take a quick detour through a paved dirt road.

Hiking here was one of my favorite things to do in Busan during my last visit.

A scenic coastal view from Igidae Coastal Trail in Busan, South Korea, overlooking the rocky shoreline and deep blue ocean waves. In the background, the iconic Gwangan Bridge stretches across the water, with a mountainous cityscape beyond. A pier with colorful tetrapods and a metal observation tower add to the coastal charm under the soft evening light.

The trails are safe and well-paved, but there are some areas where you have to take lots of stairs.

It ends at the Yongho Starlight Park with views of the Gwangan bridge (photo above).

22. Ahopsan Bamboo Forest

Cost: 8,000 won ($6 USD) | Google Maps

A woman walks through towering bamboo stalks and ancient stone pillars at Ahopsan Forest in Busan, Korea, a tranquil filming location from the K-drama The King: Eternal Monarch.

Ahopsan Forest is a bamboo forest with over 20 types of native bamboo.

There are 13 total sites to visit on the map.

It’s been used as a filming location for Korean dramas like The King: Eternal Monarch and Moon Lovers.

Most people take a taxi or Ahopsan Forest group tour to get here as it’s farther from city center.

I took the bus, and it was about 1.5 hour journey with one bus transfer.

You have to time your visit though, as buses only come once an hour (plus the time it takes to get out of the forest to the exit – I ran to make it).

🎫 Join a group tour to visit Ahopsan Bamboo Forest

23. Dongbaekseom Island

Cost: free | Google Maps

Coastal night view of the futuristic glass-domed APEC House on Dongbaekseom Island, with a rocky shoreline and the lit Gwangan Bridge glowing through a misty blue twilight.

Dongbaekseom is a small island park connected to the mainland and walkable from Haeundae Beach.

It’s known for its coastal walking path with views of cliffs, the ocean, and the APEC House.

You can explore the trail in under an hour.

I loved the views from the observatory decks, including of Gwangan Bridge and mermaid statue.

I visited in the afternoon and right before sundown to see night views at The Bay 101 (next on the list).

24. The Bay 101

Cost: free | Google Maps

Reflections of colorful skyscraper lights shimmer on the water next to yachts docked at The Bay 101 marina in Busan, framed by a wooden boardwalk and urban nightscape.

The Bay 101 is a waterfront complex right next to Dongbaek Island in Busan with restaurants, cafés, and a yacht club.

At night, it’s popular for its views of Marine City’s skyline reflected on the water.

Most people visit after sunset to take photos or enjoy a meal by the marina.

It’s a quick visit and worth visiting if you’re already exploring Dongbaekseom.

25. Dadaepo Beach

Cost: free | Google Maps

View of Dadaepo Beach from the Morundae coastal walkway, showing gentle waves, red buoys, rocky patches, and a backdrop of city buildings and green hills.

Dadaepo Beach is a wide, shallow beach in southwest Busan known for its sunsets and quiet atmosphere.

It’s also the starting point of several coastal trails.

I walked the short walkway on the west end that led to viewing decks with beautiful views of the sea.

Some kdramas filmed in Busan used Dadaepo Beach including The King: Eternal Monarch, Marry My Husband, and Doctor Slump.

It’s a bit farther from city center, but there’s a dedicated subway for the beach. If you visit, I recommend going to catch the sunset on a clear day.

26. Hocheon Square

Cost: free | Google Maps

Stunning nighttime view over the densely packed hillside homes and illuminated high-rises of Busan, seen from the Hocheon Culture Platform.

Hocheon Square is a small cultural plaza located near Keimyung University in Daegu.

Most visitors go here to the see the terrace dedicated to the kdrama Fight For My Way, where there’s displays, photo ops, and memorabilia.

However, you’ll get nice views of the city, but it’s recommended to visit at night when it’s lit up. Take the bus to get there.

Cutout bench display of a couple from the K-drama Fight for My Way, placed on a rooftop deck overlooking the lit-up cityscape of Busan at night, with a Korean speech bubble sign behind them.

27. Seomyeon District

Cost: free | Google Maps

Seomyeon District in Busan Korea: A bustling street in the Seomyeon district of Busan, Korea, lined with colorful signs, shops, and a few people walking along the path.

Seomyeon District has been called the “Hongdae of Busan.” This area has lots of newer cafes, shopping spots, and restaurants.

There’s also the popular Jeonpo Cafe Street to check out.

If you’re looking to shop in Busan or looking for more lively things to do in Busan at night, go to Seomyeon.

28. BIFF Square

Cost: free | Google Maps

BIFF Square Busan South Korea: View of BIFF Square in Busan, South Korea, featuring a modern entrance archway, colorful market stalls with red and yellow umbrellas, and people walking through the lively shopping area.

BIFF Square used to be the center for an international film festival, now it’s a popular spot for street food, souvenir shops, and markets.

There’s streets and alleys filled with stores and market stands. Located nearby is also the famous Gwangbokdong Food Street

29. Yeongju-dong Monorail

Cost: free | Google Maps

A vibrant staircase in Yeongju-dong, Busan, South Korea, painted with a colorful mural of the cityscape including landmarks like Busan Tower, leading up to the Yeongdo monorail station platform visible at the top. Stainless steel railings run alongside the steps, adding structure to the playful street art.

This site has gotten popular on social media, so I’m including it, but don’t think it’s necessarily worth going out of the way for unless you’re already visiting nearby sites or just want to explore local neighborhoods.

The monorail was built for nearby residents to go up the long set of stairs and is free to ride. Just make sure to prioritize locals first, though it’s not busy.

Don’t get lost or stray too far in this neighborhood though, as there’s lots of set of stairs and hills in the area that you’ll need to walk to get out (speaking from experience 😜).

Is Busan Worth Visiting?

A sunset view of Gwangalli Beach in Busan, South Korea, featuring the brightly lit skyline of high-rise buildings against a darkening sky. The lights from the buildings and signs reflect on the wet sand and shallow water along the beach, with people walking along the shore and the beachfront promenade.

Busan is the second largest city in South Korea, and similar to Seoul, there’s always things to do in Busan, from cultural sites, to coastal areas and beaches.

You’ll see a different side of South Korea than if you were to only visit Seoul.

A bustling, but more laid back city that’s just as interesting and easy to get around as well.

Plus there’s tons more things to do in Busan beyond this list, and most are free.

Don’t skip Busan if you’re able to visit! Just look for the sites that interest you most.

Book before you visit Busan:

More Busan Posts

Found this helpful & want to support? 🧡

If you’re planning a trip, feel free to use my affiliate links below when booking. 

I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you), which helps keep the site running.

Thanks for your support!

🎥 Watch my Busan vlog:

Top 13 Free Things to Do in Busan Korea in 2026 🇰🇷 (popular + underrated!)

Roseanne Ducut is a Filipina solo female traveler of over 10 years from the Bay Area, California. She creates ultimate travel itineraries + vlogs inspired by the rich history and pop culture in Asia. A veghead for over 17 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.