Solo One-Day Offbeat Outdoor Adventure in Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea

1 days

Haedong Yonggungsa temple
Buddha birthday celebration at Samgwangsa
Promenade at Oryukdo islands
Gwangalli beach
Busan harbor bridge at night

About Busan, South Korea

Discover the vibrant city of Busan, South Korea's second-largest metropolis. Known for its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and bustling markets, Busan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Visit the famous Haeundae Beach, explore the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village, or indulge in fresh seafood at Jagalchi Market. Don't miss the panoramic city views from Busan Tower or the tranquil beauty of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. With its rich history, dynamic nightlife, and delicious local cuisine, Busan promises an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're a nature lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, Busan has something for everyone.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Natural and Cultural Beauty of Busan

Morning

Start your day with a hike up to the Jangsan Mountain. Enjoy the panoramic views of Busan city and the East Sea. Don't forget to visit the hidden waterfall on your way down.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at a local restaurant. Try the famous Busan-style bibimbap or seafood pancake.

Afternoon

Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the Machu Picchu of Busan. Explore the colorful houses, murals, and sculptures that line the steep hills of this vibrant neighborhood.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center. Try the local delicacy, Dwaeji Gukbap, a pork soup with rice.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Haeundae Beach. Enjoy the cool sea breeze and the beautiful night view of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (3)

Jangsan Mountain

1
Jangsan Mountain

Jangsan Mountain is a popular hiking spot in Busan offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding landscape. It is also home to a variety of wildlife.

Attractions
Landmarks
Parks
Gamcheon Culture Village

2
Gamcheon Culture Village

A colorful and artistic village located on the hills of Busan, known for its brightly painted houses and murals.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Haeundae Beach

3
Haeundae Beach

Known as one of the most famous beaches in South Korea, Haeundae Beach attracts tourists from all over the country, especially in the summer.

Beaches

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Samgyeopsal

Samgyeopsal

Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean barbecue dish that is commonly enjoyed in Busan. It consists of thick, fatty slices of pork belly meat that are grilled on your table before being dipped in a spicy sauce and wrapped in lettuce leaves.

Dwaeji Gukbap

Dwaeji Gukbap

Dwaeji Gukbap is a hearty pork soup that is a specialty of Busan. The soup is made by boiling pork bones for a long time to extract their flavor, and is served with rice and various side dishes.

Haemul Pajeon

Haemul Pajeon

Haemul Pajeon is a savory pancake that is popular in Busan. It is made with a batter of eggs and wheat flour, and is filled with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, squid, and green onions.

Sannakji

Sannakji

Sannakji is a dish made from live octopus that is a must-try for adventurous eaters visiting Busan. The octopus is cut into small pieces and served immediately, often still moving on the plate.

Bibimbap

Bibimbap

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that is popular in Busan. It is a bowl of warm white rice topped with namul (sautéed and seasoned vegetables) and gochujang (chili pepper paste), soy sauce, or doenjang (a fermented soybean paste). A raw or fried egg and sliced meat (usually beef) are common additions.

Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan is famous for its fresh seafood. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of seafood and have it cooked on the spot in the market's many food stalls.

Hotteok

Hotteok

Hotteok is a popular street food in Busan. It is a sweet pancake filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon.

Chimaek

Chimaek

Chimaek, a combination of the words 'chicken' and 'maekju' (beer), is a popular pairing in Busan. It typically involves eating fried chicken while drinking beer.

Soju

Soju

Soju is a clear, colorless distilled beverage of Korean origin. It is usually consumed neat, and its alcohol content varies from about 16.8% to 53% alcohol by volume (ABV).

Makgeolli

Makgeolli

Makgeolli is a Korean traditional alcoholic beverage. It is a rice wine made from the fermentation of rice and water. It is often enjoyed with pajeon (Korean pancake).

Bingsu

Bingsu

Bingsu is a popular Korean shaved ice dessert with sweet toppings that may include chopped fruit, condensed milk, fruit syrup, and red beans.

Eomuk

Eomuk

Eomuk is a processed seafood product that is a popular street food in Busan. It is often served on a skewer and boiled in a delicious broth.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Busan, South Korea, is during the spring months of April to June and the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring offers the beautiful cherry blossom season, while autumn presents stunning fall foliage. Additionally, these periods avoid the hot, humid summers and the cold winters, providing the most comfortable climate for tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 10

Sat

Seollal Holiday

February 10

Sat

Seollal

February 12

Mon

Seollal Holiday

March 1

Fri

Independence Movement Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 15

Wed

Buddha’s Birthday

June 6

Thu

Memorial Day

August 15

Thu

Liberation Day

September 16

Mon

Chuseok Holiday

September 17

Tue

Chuseok

September 18

Wed

Chuseok Holiday

October 3

Thu

National Foundation Day

October 9

Wed

Hangeul Proclamation Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Busan has an extensive subway system with four lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and efficient way to get around, with English signage and announcements.

The city's bus network is also comprehensive, with local and express services that reach areas not covered by the subway. Buses are generally slower than the subway due to traffic, but they offer a more scenic ride.

Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable in Busan. They can be hailed on the street or booked through a smartphone app. Most taxi drivers don't speak English, so it's helpful to have your destination written in Korean.

Uber is not available in Busan, but there's a local equivalent called Kakao T. This app works similarly to Uber, allowing you to book rides and pay with your credit card. However, the app is primarily in Korean.

Busan has a public bike rental system called 'Bike Busan'. There are rental stations throughout the city, and you can rent a bike for a few hours or the whole day. It's a great way to explore the city's many bike paths and parks.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore the outskirts of Busan or other parts of the Gyeongsang province. However, driving in the city can be challenging due to heavy traffic and complex road systems.

Ferries operate from Busan to several islands in the area, including Yeongdo and Geoje. It's a unique way to see the city and its surroundings from the water.

Many of Busan's attractions are located close together, especially in areas like Haeundae and Gwangalli. Walking can be a pleasant way to get around, particularly when the weather is nice.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₩ KRW

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 112

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type F

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Busan, South Korea as a first time visitor

1

Busan is South Korea's second-largest city, known for its beaches, mountains, and temples.

2

The official language is Korean, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's also good to have some cash on hand for small vendors.

4

Busan has a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 46°F (-2°C to 8°C).

5

Tipping is not customary in South Korea. In some cases, it may even be seen as insulting.

6

Public transportation in Busan is very efficient. The Busan Metro is a great way to get around the city. Taxis are also readily available and reasonably priced.

7

South Korea uses the type C and F plug outlets. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

8

Busan is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

9

South Koreans have a unique dining etiquette. For example, it's considered polite to wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you do.

10

South Korea has a strict anti-smoking law. Smoking in public areas, including restaurants and cafes, is prohibited.

11

Busan is known for its seafood. Be sure to try some local specialties like raw fish (sashimi) and spicy seafood soup (haemul-tang).

12

Drinking alcohol in public places is legal in South Korea. Soju, a local spirit, is a popular choice.

13

South Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9). It does not observe daylight saving time.

14

Busan has a high standard of healthcare. Pharmacies are widely available, and many doctors speak English.

15

It's considered polite to bow when greeting someone. The depth of the bow indicates the level of respect.

16

Internet access is widely available in Busan, including free Wi-Fi in many public areas.

17

Tap water is safe to drink in Busan, but most locals prefer to drink bottled water.

18

Busan has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

19

Public restrooms are widely available in Busan, but it's a good idea to carry toilet paper or tissues with you as they may not always be provided.

20

South Korea has strict laws against drug use. Even small amounts can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment.

Basic Korean to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

안녕하세요

Annyeonghaseyo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

안녕히 가세요

Annyeonghi gaseyo

Saying goodbye

Thank you

감사합니다

Gamsahamnida

Expressing gratitude

Please

제발

Jebal

Making a request

Yes

Ne

Agreeing or confirming

No

아니요

Aniyo

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

실례합니다

Sillyehamnida

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

미안합니다

Mianhamnida

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

영어를 할 수 있나요?

Yeong-eoreul hal su issnayo?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

이해하지 못하겠습니다

Ihaehaji mothagesseumnida

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

화장실이 어디에 있나요?

Hwajangsiri eodie issnayo?

Asking for directions to the bathroom

How much does this cost?

이것은 얼마입니까?

Igeoseun eolmaimnikka?

Asking the price of something

I would like to order

주문하고 싶습니다

Jumunhago sipseumnida

Ordering food or drinks

Help

도와주세요

Dowajuseyo

Asking for help

Can I get the bill, please?

계산서를 가져다 주시겠습니까?

Gyesanseoreul gajyeoda jusigessseubnikka?

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Water

Mul

Asking for water

Beer

맥주

Maekju

Ordering a beer

Cheers

건배

Geonbae

Making a toast

Good morning

좋은 아침

Joeun achim

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

안녕히 주무세요

Annyeonghi jumuseyo

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

  • Umbrella or raincoat (in case of unexpected rain)

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face masks

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency (South Korean Won)

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Map of Busan

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if you don't want to use your phone camera)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guide book

  • Phrasebook or language app (for basic Korean phrases)

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel pillow (for the journey)

  • First aid kit

Weather Conditions

Busan, South Korea, experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, which can greatly impact your travel plans. Spring (April to June) is a beautiful time to visit Busan, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. Summer (July to September) in Busan is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's also the monsoon season, so expect heavy rains, especially in July and August. If you're visiting during this time, pack light clothing and a sturdy umbrella. Autumn (October to November) is arguably the best time to visit Busan. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C). The fall foliage is also a beautiful sight to behold. Winter (December to March) in Busan is relatively mild compared to other parts of Korea, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). Snowfall is rare but possible. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Also, remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to pack a variety of clothing options. Lastly, due to its coastal location, Busan can be affected by typhoons during the late summer and early autumn. While these are usually not severe, they can disrupt travel plans, so it's something to be aware of if you're planning a visit during this time.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

7° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Busan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's also relatively dry, so pack warm clothing and moisturizer.

February

8° / -1°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Expect clear, crisp days and chilly nights.

March

12° / 3°

March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures gradually warming up. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

April

18° / 8°

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's a great time to visit the beaches and parks.

May

22° / 12°

May is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. The city also hosts the Busan Lotus Lantern Festival this month.

June

26° / 16°

June marks the start of summer with high humidity and occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums and aquariums.

July

30° / 20°

July is the hottest month in Busan, with high humidity and frequent rain due to the monsoon season. Pack light clothing and an umbrella.

August

31° / 21°

August continues to be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons. It's a good time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

September

27° / 17°

September sees the end of summer with temperatures starting to cool down. The city hosts the Busan International Film Festival this month.

October

21° / 11°

October is a pleasant month with mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to visit the mountains and parks.

November

15° / 5°

November is cool and dry, with temperatures dropping significantly. Pack warm clothing and enjoy the autumn scenery.

December

8° / 0°

December is cold with occasional snowfall. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy the Christmas festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Busan is the second largest city in South Korea, after Seoul?

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