Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the vibrant cityscape of Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city. From stunning beaches and historic temples to bustling markets and mouthwatering cuisine, Busan offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern excitement. Join me on a whirlwind adventure as we explore the best of Busan in just 48 hours.
If you don’t live in Busan but want to get to all of the major sites, definitely look into getting a Visit Busan Pass in 48 Hours. You can see so many of the major tourist sites all in one go. That was one of the best “tours” that I got for this trip as it allowed me to explore Busan as much as I could.
Where to Stay?
Choosing between Gwangalli and Haeundae in Busan depends on your preferences. Gwangalli offers serene views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge, a relaxed atmosphere, and a variety of beachfront cafes and restaurants. It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter beach experience. On the other hand, Haeundae boasts the fame of one of South Korea’s most popular beaches, with a bustling atmosphere, numerous shops, entertainment options, and lively nightlife. If you prefer a more energetic and bustling environment, Haeundae may be the better choice. Consider your travel style, budget, and planned activities to make the decision that aligns with your preferences for a memorable stay in Busan.
Walk: Seomyeon Shopping District
While waiting to check in for the Airbnb, we headed to the Seomyeon Shopping District for a walk and lunch. If you still have your luggage with you don’t worry you don’t worry as you can drop your luggage off at the locker provided at Seomyeon Station. I navigate through a myriad of fashion boutiques and trendy stores, immersing myself in the district’s dynamic atmosphere. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of diverse cuisines emanating from the numerous eateries lining the streets.
I decided to indulge my taste buds in the local and international culinary offerings, choosing from the array of charming cafes and restaurants that adorn the district. From traditional Korean delicacies to global delights, Seomyeon caters to every palate. With a delicious meal in hand, I find a cozy spot to savor my lunch, taking in the energetic ambiance that surrounds me. The Seomyeon lunch trip becomes not just a culinary journey but an exploration of the district’s vibrant culture and diverse offerings.
Go: Sky Capsule at Blue Line Park
One of the top experiences on my Busan itinerary was the Blue Line Park, situated close to Haeundae Beach. A must-visit for tourists, the park offers various attractions, including the Beach Train and Sky Capsule. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can opt for the Beach Train, the Sky Capsule, or even both for an unforgettable experience. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, explore the scenic boardwalk along the coast to take in the breathtaking views.
The Sky Capsule operates as a one-way journey, so if you want a round-trip experience, make sure to purchase one-way tickets at each station. I chose to buy a ticket from Mipo Station to Cheongsapo Station, a popular route conveniently located near Haeundae. Sky Capsule prices start at 30,000won for 2 passengers, 39,000won for 3 passengers, and 44,000won for 4 passengers, providing a range of options to suit your travel needs.
* I suggest you reserve the tickets online once the ticket of the timeslot is released for your trip especially if you are visiting during the weekend. The timeslot will be released every Monday at 10 am.
As I visited during the late Autumn period, the sunset was set earlier than usual by the time we reached Cheongsapo Station many of the places were closed. However, if you plan to take the Sky Capsule at an earlier time, you can visit the street at the station and even take an Instgrammable shot at the station there. Since there isn’t much for me, I use the Busan Pass to redeem tickets for Beach Train for a ride back to Mipo Station. If you do not have a Busan Pass like me, a Beach Train pass costs 7,000won for a one-way trip, and reboarding is not allowed.
Haeundae Blueline Park (Mipo Station)
Address: 13 Dalmagi-gil 62 beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (부산 해운대구 달맞이길62번길 13)
Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 7 pm (Last train depends on season, view here)
Naver Maps Link
Go: Busan X the SKY
Utilizing the Busan Pass, I opted to experience BUSAN X the SKY observatory, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Blue Line Park. Opened to the public in July 2020, BUSAN X the SKY boasts cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and souvenir shops spread across its three floors.
The observatory offers unparalleled views of the ocean, mountain ranges, and Busan’s renowned landmarks, including Haeundae Beach, Dongbaekseon Island, Haeundae Marine City, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, and Haeundae Blueline Park (Haeundae Beach Train & Haeundae Sky Capsule). Having visited N Seoul Tower and BUSAN X the SKY, I recommend prioritizing the latter for a superior view of Busan’s landscape.
BUSAN X the SKY
Address: 30 Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea
Opening Hours: 10 am – 9 pm
Eat: Haeundae Sliced Raw Fish
Savoring sliced raw fish, or “hwe,” in Korea is a culinary delight that emphasizes freshness and craftsmanship. Typically served in coastal restaurants, the dish features impeccably sliced raw fish such as salmon and tuna, accompanied by pickled vegetables, wasabi, soy sauce, and ginger. The experience goes beyond taste, highlighting the vibrant colors and meticulous presentation that reflect Korea’s culinary artistry. Whether enjoyed by the sea or in the heart of the city, hwe is a celebration of Korea’s rich gastronomic traditions.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of my Busan adventure, where I’ll take you through the remaining highlights of the day. From more breathtaking views to delicious culinary experiences, there’s so much more to discover in this vibrant city. Get ready for another exciting chapter in the exploration of Busan’s wonders!
xoxo, Joe
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