Busan Travel Guide: 8 Tourist Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Being the second largest city in the country, it has some of the best sights and attractions that you should check out. You can expect to experience everything from beautiful beaches to lively markets while you’re here at the major transportation hub.

The port city is a major transportation hub for South Korea and is often overlooked by tourists. And while it’s easy enough to find things to do in Busan, you’ll want to create an itinerary that covers all the awesome tourist spots in Busan. 

If you’re searching for a tourist spot in Busan with a good view, you can’t go wrong with Taejondae. The path going up to the observatory is surrounded by greenery and overlooks the ocean. In contrast to the beautiful landscape, you’ll encounter a Mother and Children monument which was placed on the cliffside to discourage visitors from jumping off the edge. 

Address: 24 Jeonmang-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82 51-405-2004

Opening Hours: 5 am – 12 am (Daily)

Along with Haeinsa Temple and Tongdosa Temple, Beomeosa is one of the three largest Buddhist temples in the Yeongnam region. Located on Geumjeongsan Mountain, this tourist spot in Busan possesses a gorgeous valley and spectacular mountain views. The temple’s outstanding architectural features include the Iljumun Gate, the Daeungjeon Hall, and a three-story pagoda.

Address: 250 Beomeosa-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82 51-508-3122

Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (Daily) 

The best time to visit Dalmaji Hill is during Spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The Hill is a lesser-known Busan tourist spot, but the scenery is still worth the visit. It’s nestled between Haeundae and Sonjeong Beach, so there’s no shortage of views in this local Parisian-like area. Since you’re in Busan’s Montmarte, take the chance to drop by a local café. 

Address: 1488-1 Jung 2(i)-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82-51-1330

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a Busan tourist spot that has a rich history and an idyllic location. Unlike most Korean temples, you’ll find this place of worship near the waters. The sanctum is guarded by a magnificent three-story pagoda adorned with stone lions that are symbols of joy, anger, sadness, and happiness. Before you go, pay respect to the Goddess of Mercy, or pray to the Healing Buddha. 

Address:  86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82 51-722-7744

Opening Hours: 5 am – 8 pm (Daily)

Diamond Tower, otherwise known as the Busan Tower, is a national landmark standing 120 meters tall. The Busan tourist spot is popular because of the spectacular skyline view from the tower’s observatory and its accessibility via the subway. From the top, you’ll get to see other tourist spots in Busan, such as the Statue of the Great Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the Bell of the Citizens. 

Address:  37-30 Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82-51-601-1800

Opening Hours: 10 am – 10 pm (Daily)

Stop by the Busan Museum of Art to appreciate the city’s art and culture. The cultural hub is inspiring and spacious, with collections featuring Modern and Contemporary Busan Art, Contemporary Chinese Art, as well as Vietnamese Art.  This tourist spot in Busan includes 14 exhibition halls, a library, and an outdoor sculpture park, so there’s plenty to do on-site. 

Address: 58 APEC-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82 51-744-2602

Opening Hours: 10 am – 6 pm (Tue-Sun)

To get the full Busan experience, you shouldn’t skip Jagalchi Market. It’s South Korea’s largest fish market where you’ll find both live and dried seafood. Take your pick of the freshest ingredients from the ahjumma and bring it to any of the restaurants on the 2nd floor to have it cooked for a fee. With the variety of options, it’s truly a seafood lover’s heaven. 

Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82 51-713-8000

Opening Hours: 10:30 am – 8 pm (Daily)

Gwangalli Beach’s popularity is due to its powdery sand and clear, swimmable water. Not to mention, the beautiful bay looks across the Sea of Japan and Gwangan Beach. Enjoy a filling Korean barbecue meal at restaurants nearby, walk along the promenade, or watch a performance by local musicians. Catch the Busan Sea Festival in August to get a feel of the festivities at this tourist spot in Busan. 

Address: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea

Contact: +82-51-622-4251

Opening Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (Daily)