The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary To Busan I Wish I had On My First Visit

Planning your first trip to Busan? This 2-day itinerary to Busan is exactly what I wish I had when I first visited.

Busan might be Seoul’s laid-back little sister, but don’t underestimate her. This coastal city has a completely different energy with colourful hillside villages, fresh seafood markets and beaches where you can kick off your shoes after a day of exploring.

I visited Busan for three days on a solo trip as part of a two-week journey through South Korea. After visiting Seoul many times for work as a flight attendant, I wanted to finally see the country on my own terms. I spent five days in Seoul, then took the KTX bullet train to Busan for three days.

What made me fall in love with Busan was Gamcheon Village. The colourful houses looked like they were straight out of a fairy-tale book, and the fact that the city is by the sea gives it such a relaxing vibe.

I still remember having seafood pasta and a glass of wine at a beachside restaurant, watching people stroll past with the sound of the waves in the background. It was one of those moments where I thought, “This is why I travel”.

Busan is full of unique spots to explore. In this itinerary, I’ll show you all you need to know about Busan and how to see the highlights in just 48 hours.

If you’re planning a longer trip to South Korea, check out my 10-day South Korea itinerary or my 5-day Seoul itinerary to combine Busan with the best of Seoul.

Best time to visit Busan

Here’s a quick breakdown of what each season is like in Busan. The weather can shift depending on the time of year, so it’s good to plan ahead.

For details on seasonal events and festivals, check the Korean Tourism Organisation’s Busan travel guide.

Spring in Busan (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit. The weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing, with cherry blossoms adding extra charm in late March and early April. Expect bigger crowds, especially at popular spots like Gamcheon Village.

Summer in Busan (June to August)

Summer in South Korea is no joke. It’s hot, humid, and honestly, pretty uncomfortable, especially in Seoul. That said, if you’re heading to Busan, this is the best time for beach days. Beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli are at their liveliest.

Fall in Busan (September to November)

Autumn is my personal favourite. The air is cool and fresh, and it’s less crowded than in spring but still lively. I visited Busan in mid-September, and the weather was perfect. It was pleasantly warm during the day, and the sea breeze made it comfortable even in the afternoon sun. In the evenings, I could sit by the beach or walk around in just a t-shirt and shorts.

Winter in Busan (December to February)

Winter is snowy in South Korea, but Busan is milder than Seoul. That said, I feel that winter is not the best time to visit Busan because it’s a coastal city. It’s a better destination to enjoy when the weather is nice, warm and sunny, especially if you want to make the most of its beaches.

How many days do you need in Busan?

Two days in Busan are enough if you want to see the highlights. You can visit Gamcheon Culture Village, explore the markets, stroll along Haeundae Beach, and walk across the famous Gwangan Bridge for its stunning views of the city.

If you have time, I also recommend taking a ride on the Haeundae Blueline Train, a scenic coastal train where you can sit back and enjoy the sea views.

I recommend spending three days in Busan. That way, you can dedicate two full days to exploring everything Busan has to offer and save one day to relax.

Sitting by the beach with a Cass beer and Korean fried chicken was one of my favourite parts of my trip, and having that extra day made it feel like more of a holiday than just a quick city stop.

Is Busan expensive?

Busan is at a similar price level to Seoul. Just like in Seoul, you can make your trip as affordable or as expensive as you’d like. There are cheap eats, street food stalls and convenience stores if you want to keep your budget low.

Busan also has plenty of trendy cafés, bakeries and restaurants that can be a little pricier, so it depends on what you are in the mood for.

I mostly ate street food and visited a few restaurants when I felt like sitting down for a proper meal. My favourite was a seafood pasta I had at a restaurant near the beach. It was not the cheapest meal of the trip, but it was worth every bite.

Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense. Prices are similar to Seoul, and you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per night for a basic double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning in central areas.

Getting around in Busan is also affordable. The subway works just like in Seoul and is very budget-friendly, but it is not as extensive. I often used taxis or Uber because they were faster, and it was nice to enjoy the air conditioning on a hot day.

It was not that expensive either, and for me it felt like a more efficient way to get around compared to multiple subway transfers.

How to get around in Busan

Busan’s public transport system is affordable and easy to use, but it is not as extensive as Seoul’s. There are only a few subway lines, and while the city is well connected, transferring between them can add extra time to your trip. You are more likely to take the bus here, even though it takes longer.

Sometimes I was just too lazy to sit on the subway for forty minutes, especially when a taxi ride could get me there in twenty.

How to Use the T-Money Card in Busan

Just like in Seoul, all you need is a transportation card such as a T-money card or a Cashbee card. You can buy them at convenience stores and top them up when needed. They work on both buses and the subway, and you simply tap in and out. It is the easiest and cheapest way to get around if you are sticking to public transport.

Taxis and Uber

I often used taxis or Uber because they were faster, private and much more comfortable, especially on hot days when the air conditioning made all the difference. It was not that expensive either, and for me it was worth paying a little extra to save time.

If you are travelling on a tight budget, public transport is reliable and cheap, just like in Seoul. But if you want to make the most of your time in Busan, especially on a short trip, taxis are a great option.

How to Travel to Busan

KTX Bullet train

South Korea’s train system is super smooth and easy to navigate, with great connections between major cities.

I took the KTX bullet train from Seoul to Busan, and it was honestly the easiest, most stress-free way to travel. The journey takes just 2.5 hours from city to city—no airport queues, no long waits, just hop on and go.

It’s not the cheapest option (I paid around $120 for a return ticket), but if you book early ( I was pretty last minute), you can score better deals. And honestly, it’s worth every cent for the comfort and convenience.

By Airplane

You can also fly from Seoul to Busan; it’s a very quick flight, and if you book early, tickets can be quite affordable. It might save you a bit of time compared to taking the train, thanks to the short flight duration.

However, even though it’s a domestic route, there’s still the usual airport hassle like check-ins, security, boarding, and waiting around. Personally, that’s the part I prefer to avoid.

While flying might look faster on paper, all the extra steps at the airport can make the whole experience feel less convenient.

There are daily flights with multiple airlines like Jeju Air and Jin Air, and they will set you back around $50.

Is Busan safe for solo female travellers?

Busan is safe for solo travellers, including women travelling alone. South Korea is generally a very safe country with low crime rates, and Busan is no exception.

I felt completely safe walking around alone during the day, in the evening and even late at night. People mostly keep to themselves, and I have never had any uncomfortable experiences. The only area that felt a little sketchier was around Seomyeon subway station, especially late in the evening. It is not unsafe, but it has more of a party vibe, with bars, more people drinking, and the streets feeling slightly dirtier compared to other neighbourhoods.

Busan does feel slightly different from Seoul. People seemed more reserved, but everyone I interacted with was polite when I asked for directions. Overall, I never felt unsafe and would recommend Busan to any solo female traveller.

Where to stay in Busan

Choosing where to stay in Busan can be a little trickier than in Seoul. The subway network isn’t as extensive, so getting around usually means switching lines (which takes more time) or hopping on a bus.

Busan Station area

A super convenient choice, especially if you’re arriving by KTX train. You’re right near your arrival point, and it makes getting back to the station for departure super easy too.

This area is also close to Songdo Beach, Nampo-dong, and the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village. You’ll find plenty of shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars nearby, making it a great base for sightseeing and relaxing in the evenings.

Nampo Hound Hotel Premier

Nampo Hound Hotel Premier is a stylish and comfortable hotel just 3 km from Songdo Beach and only a 5-minute walk from Gukje Market. The hotel has a garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar, and some rooms even come with a balcony and city views. It’s a great mid-range option in the heart of the city.

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Seomyeon area

If you want more youthful energy, Seomyeon is another fantastic area to consider. It’s the bustling downtown district, full of shopping streets, trendy cafés, beauty stores, local restaurants, and nightlife.

I stayed here in Busan because it’s also well-connected via subway, so it’s a good spot for getting around the city. You’re less likely to switch subway lines because they all start in Seomyeon.

Hotel Kyungsung

Hotel Kyungsung is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Seomyeon. It has a cosy, modern design with rooftop access, friendly staff, and a great location close to shops and restaurants. It’s perfect if you want something comfortable, stylish, and central without a huge price tag.

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Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is easily the most famous beach in Busan, and once you get there, you’ll understand why. It has a lively, fun atmosphere, loads of cafés, restaurants, and activities, plus a wide stretch of beautiful sand that’s perfect for beach walks or just soaking up the sun.

It’s located on the eastern side of the city, so it’s a bit farther from Busan Station. But if you’re all about those beach vibes, Haeundae is a fantastic place to base yourself.

Ramada Encore by Wyndham Haeundae

Ramada Encore is a modern and affordable hotel right in the middle of Haeundae. It’s just a short walk from the beach and close to the market and subway station. Clean, comfy, and super convenient. It’s a great pick for beach days without breaking the budget.

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The perfect 2-day itinerary to Busan

Day 1: Gamcheon Village, Nampo-dong, Gwangalli

If you ask me, Gamcheon Culture Village is one of the most unique and beautiful spots in Busan. This colourful hillside neighbourhood is packed with street art, rainbow-painted houses, and narrow little alleys that are just made for wandering.

It’s a total dream for photographers and such a fun place to explore on foot. I spent a few hours here just strolling around, taking photos, and stopping for an iced tea at a cute little café with a view.

After, head down to Nampo-dong for lunch. This area is known for its amazing seafood, so if you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat. I had an incredible meal with grilled fish, spicy soup, and rice. Simple, classic, and so delicious.

When you’re ready, you can walk along the scenic Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, or check out the immersive Arte Museum Busan nearby if you’re in the mood for something artsy and cool.

Head over to Gwangalli Beach for a relaxed first evening. It has a lovely laid-back atmosphere. Take a sunset stroll along the beach, enjoy the sea breeze, and grab a drink or dinner with a view of the beautiful Gwangan Bridge lighting up after dark.

Day 2: Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is by far the most popular area in Busan, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. With a beautiful big beach, loads of cafés, restaurants, bars, and a super laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of place where you can easily spend the whole day.

Start your morning by chilling on the beach or taking a dip if the weather’s warm. Then hop on the Haeundae Blue Line Sky Capsule for a scenic ride along the coast; it’s a fun and easy way to take in those gorgeous sea views.

Make sure to stop by Busan X the Sky, one of the tallest observatories in Korea. The view from up there is next level, especially on a clear day.

After that, take a walk along the Haewoljeong Observation Deck for even more beautiful views, and when you’re ready to relax, head to Café Rooftop Cheongsapo. It’s the perfect spot to sip a drink while soaking up those peaceful ocean views.

The main street from Haeundae Station to the beach is full of energy, with lots of shops, street food stalls, and cosy cafés to explore. I loved just wandering around and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s such a feel-good part of the city.

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Suggested Day Trip to Gyeongju UNESCO

If you have an extra day in your itinerary, I recommend considering a day trip to Gyeongju. I did not have time to visit during my trip because I had to head back to Seoul, but I honestly regret not going. I have heard from other travellers that it is one of the best day trips you can take from Busan.

Gyeongju is often called “the museum without walls” and is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of ancient temples, tombs and beautiful traditional architecture. It is very different from the coastal vibe of Busan and would give you a nice change of scenery before heading back to Seoul.

You can easily get there by KTX train or bus in about an hour. You can either book a guided day tour from Busan, which is a great option if you want to see the highlights without worrying about transport, or you can visit it yourself and even stay the night before heading back to Seoul.

Is 2 Days in Busan Enough?

Busan is the perfect city to add to your South Korea itinerary if you want a mix of city life and beach vibes. Two days are enough to see the highlights, but if you can, spend three days so you have time to relax by the beach.

I loved the change of scenery in Busan. From busy and hot Seoul to a relaxed and breezy beach vibe in Busan. The colourful houses in Gamcheon Village, the fresh seafood and sitting by the beach with a glass of wine made this trip feel slower than my usual work trips to South Korea.

If you are planning a longer trip, check out my 10-day South Korea itinerary and my 5-day Seoul itinerary.

Did this 2-day Busan itinerary help you plan your trip? Leave me a comment below or send me a message on Instagram @jetlagsarah. I love hearing how your trips go, and your feedback also helps other solo travellers find the best tips.

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