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Busan

South Korea · Coast · KRW · 35.179600, 129.075600
Family friendly 6.9/10 · Rank 843 of 2 709
Best season: May-June, September-October (mild weather)

Best for

For all types of travellers: beach lovers, history, city life, shopping and nightlife.

Best season

May-June, September-October (mild weather)

Daily budget
$85.00 (≈ 7 650 ₽ · ≈ 113 050 KRW)
For 7 days
$595.00 (≈ 53 550 ₽ · ≈ 791 350 KRW)
Busan is South Korea's main port and beach resort, where modern skyscrapers on Haeundae Beach stand alongside the ancient Haedong Yonggungsa Temple on the cliffs. The bustling Jagalchi Fish Market and the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village with its pastel houses create the unique character of the country's second-largest city. It is the perfect destination for food lovers and beach enthusiasts.
Summer
31.0°C
Winter
-0.5°C
Sea
26.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, sea-loving.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful beaches (Haeundae, Gwangalli)
  • Rich culture and history
  • Delicious cuisine and seafood
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Active nightlife

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • Dangerous rip currents
  • High cost
  • Traffic jams and noise
  • Typhoon season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
23.6°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
29.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
31.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
4.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
8.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
-0.5°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
24.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
26.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
summer (July-August)
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
fine golden and white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden/white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
good
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are rip currents at Haeundae, jellyfish and strong sun. Lifeguards on equipped beaches. It is recommended to monitor rip current warnings.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are found on rocky bottoms around Busan. Protective footwear is recommended when swimming.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Temperate water coral formations, including soft corals and gorgonians, are found in Busan waters. Risk of cuts on contact.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish occasionally appear along the coast, authorities strengthen safety measures in summer

Sharks — details

  • Small shark species inhabit Busan waters and do not pose a danger to humans. No attacks have been recorded.
Attractions

Haeundae Beach

Busan's most popular beach with fine golden sand, palm trees and developed infrastructure. Ideal for swimming, walks and water sports.

Gwangalli Beach

Scenic beach with views of Gwangan Bridge. A popular spot for night walks, cafes with sea views and fireworks.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Unique Buddhist temple on a cliff by the sea, founded in the 14th century. One of Busan's main attractions.

Gamcheon Culture Village

Colourful hillside village with brightly painted houses, murals and narrow streets. Known as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan'.

Jagalchi Fish Market

Korea's largest seafood market, where you can try fresh sashimi, crab and other delicacies right at the pier.

Yongdusan Park

City park with Busan Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and the port.

Best areas

Haeundae

Main beach area with hotels, restaurants and nightlife.

Gwangalli

Area with the beach, bridge views and cafes.

Nampo-dong

Lively area with markets, shops and attractions.

Gamcheon

Colourful area with brightly painted houses and murals.

Must-try food

Fresh Sashimi (Hoe)

Assorted fresh fish served with soy sauce, wasabi and herbs. A must-try at Jagalchi Market.

Jajangmyeon

Noodles with black bean sauce, a popular Korean-Chinese dish. Costs around 7,000 won in Busan.

Gimbap

Rice rolls with vegetables, fish or meat, wrapped in seaweed. Average price in Busan is 3,543 won.

Tteokbokki

Rice cakes in a spicy sweet sauce. A popular street snack.

Busan Fish Soup

Hot soup with fish and vegetables, popular at seaside restaurants.

Where to go next

Gyeongju

Ancient Silla capital with temples and tombs, ~1.5 hours by train.

Daegu

City with markets and mountains, ~1.5 hours by train.

Jeju Island

Popular resort island, ~1 hour by flight.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Кимхэ (PUS).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free for most countries (up to 90 days), K-ETA required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-June, September-October (mild weather)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 33 250 KRW
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$48.00
≈ 4 320 ₽ · ≈ 63 840 KRW
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$90.00
≈ 8 100 ₽ · ≈ 119 700 KRW
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$220.00
≈ 19 800 ₽ · ≈ 292 600 KRW
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 13 500 ₽ · ≈ 199 500 KRW
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 8 100 ₽ · ≈ 119 700 KRW
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 10 640 KRW
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 33 250 KRW
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 315 ₽ · ≈ 4 655 KRW
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.00
≈ 360 ₽ · ≈ 5 320 KRW
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.20
≈ 108 ₽ · ≈ 1 596 KRW
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 630 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.50
≈ 405 ₽ · ≈ 5 985 KRW
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.50
≈ 585 ₽ · ≈ 8 645 KRW
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 46 550 KRW
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.50
≈ 135 ₽ · ≈ 1 995 KRW
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$7.00
≈ 630 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 600 ₽ · ≈ 53 200 KRW
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$18.00
≈ 1 620 ₽ · ≈ 23 940 KRW
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 46 550 KRW
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 400 ₽ · ≈ 79 800 KRW
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 59 850 KRW
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 19 950 KRW
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
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Frequently asked questions
Busan: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-June, September-October (mild weather). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Busan: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Busan: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-0.5°C, during the day — up to +8.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Busan: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +26.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Busan: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on summer (July-August). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Busan: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "fine golden and white sand" surface, golden/white sand, good water. The most popular beaches: Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Busan: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Busan: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Main dangers are rip currents at Haeundae, jellyfish and strong sun. Lifeguards on equipped beaches. It is recommended to monitor rip current warnings.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Busan: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $85.00 (≈ 7 650 ₽ · ≈ 113 050 KRW) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Busan: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $25.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $48.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $90.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $220.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Busan: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.20. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Busan: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $35.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $7.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Busan: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Haeundae Beach — Busan's most popular beach with fine golden sand, palm trees and developed infrastructure. Ideal for swimming, walks and water sports.; Gwangalli Beach — Scenic beach with views of Gwangan Bridge. A popular spot for night walks, cafes with sea views and fireworks.; Haedong Yonggungsa Temple — Unique Buddhist temple on a cliff by the sea, founded in the 14th century. One of Busan's main attractions.; Gamcheon Culture Village — Colourful hillside village with brightly painted houses, murals and narrow streets. Known as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan'.; Jagalchi Fish Market — Korea's largest seafood market, where you can try fresh sashimi, crab and other delicacies right at the pier.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Busan: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fresh Sashimi (Hoe) — Assorted fresh fish served with soy sauce, wasabi and herbs. A must-try at Jagalchi Market.; Jajangmyeon — Noodles with black bean sauce, a popular Korean-Chinese dish. Costs around 7,000 won in Busan.; Gimbap — Rice rolls with vegetables, fish or meat, wrapped in seaweed. Average price in Busan is 3,543 won.; Tteokbokki — Rice cakes in a spicy sweet sauce. A popular street snack.; Busan Fish Soup — Hot soup with fish and vegetables, popular at seaside restaurants.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Busan: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Haeundae — Main beach area with hotels, restaurants and nightlife.; Gwangalli — Area with the beach, bridge views and cafes.; Nampo-dong — Lively area with markets, shops and attractions.; Gamcheon — Colourful area with brightly painted houses and murals.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Busan: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free for most countries (up to 90 days), K-ETA required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Busan: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Кимхэ (code PUS). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $35.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Busan: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KRW. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $85.00 (≈ 7 650 ₽ · ≈ 113 050 KRW). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Busan: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Busan: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Busan: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Gyeongju — Ancient Silla capital with temples and tombs, ~1.5 hours by train.; Daegu — City with markets and mountains, ~1.5 hours by train.; Jeju Island — Popular resort island, ~1 hour by flight.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.9/10
Overall rank: 843 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 582

Best season

May-June, September-October (mild weather)

Useful information

Currency: KRW
Coordinates: 35.179600, 129.075600