When visiting South Korea, the first citiy that might come to mind is Seoul , but if you’re looking to enrich your experience, you should definitely consider exploring Busan. During my 8-day trip to South Korea, I decided to dedicate two days to discovering Busan, and I’m so glad I did.
Initially, I wasn’t sure whether to spend all my time in Seoul. But, after some research, I found that the train tickets to Busan were more expensive than a flight, considering the timing and availability. However, if you book in advance, you can often find great deals with airlines like Jeju Air.Now, let me share with you my perfect 2-day itinerary in Busan—which, by the way, includes many free activities!
1. Haeundae Beach Busan & Surroundings
Upon arriving at Busan Station, I headed straight to Haeundae Beach—a popular spot in the city. I had booked a hostel close to the beach, which turned out to be ideal for my one-night stay. If you’re into volunteering while traveling, this hostel also offered opportunities for that.Though it was too cold to swim, I enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the beach. The views of the ocean combined with the modern architecture in the area really make Haeundae Beach a must-see when visiting Busan.
2. Watch the City Lights & Take a Yacht Tour with Fireworks
By the end of the day, I was in awe of the Busan skyline. I had heard about a yacht tour that people were taking at night, and I initially thought it would be too expensive. But to my surprise, it was quite affordable!
The yacht takes you across the famous Gwangan Bridge before heading back. The tour includes a small but spectacular fireworks show from the boat, and you get to enjoy the city lights from a stunning vantage point.
I highly recommend this experience—even if you’re traveling solo, like I was. It’s an incredibly relaxing way to unwind after a busy day of exploring.
3. Oryukdo Skywalk (Free Activity!)
The Oryukdo Skywalk is a must-see on your itinerary in Busan. This free and breathtaking skywalk extends over a cliff and offers dramatic views of the sea below. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Busan from a different perspective.
4. Gamcheon Village
Another highlight of my trip was Gamcheon Village it is a colorful neighbourhood, with hillside houses and vibrant murals. If you’ve ever visited Comuna 13 in Medellín, Colombia, you might notice some similarities in the neighborhood’s colorful aesthetics and street art.
Gamcheon Village has a rich history. Originally, it was a poor neighborhood, but after the government began revitalization efforts, local artists transformed the area into a beautiful outdoor gallery, featuring murals that tell stories of the community and its history. The most iconic murals and statues feature The little prince and the Fox! You will see a long line in order to take picture with this famous Statue.
5. Visit the Famous Sky Train Capsule (Book in Advance!)
One of the things I was most excited about in Busan was the Sky Train Capsule. I had seen videos of it all over TikTok and Instagram, and I was eager to try it out. However, I learned the hard way that you can’t just show up and buy tickets on the spot.
When I arrived around 3:00 PM, I was disappointed to find that all tickets were sold out for the day. If you want to experience this unique ride, I strongly recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.
Conclusion: A Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Busan
There’s so much to see and do in Busan, from its stunning beaches and scenic skywalks to vibrant neighborhoods and relaxing yacht tours. Whether you’re on a short trip or planning a longer stay, these two days in Busan will leave you with unforgettable memories of South Korea’s beautiful coastal city.