Not Your Typical Attractions! My Personal Top 15 In Busan!
To tell you the truth, I was supposed to share a top 10 of my favorite attractions in Busan, but as always, I got carried away, because it was just too hard to choose from the hundred or so places I visited in the city. That’s why I’ve put together this top 15.
Forget the popular attractions here, as my personal list focuses more on outdoor activities and natural beauty than on iconic landmarks.
Of course, you’ll probably find a few well-known attractions on here, as even I have to admit that sometimes they’re popular for a reason, but if you want to see more of the city beyond its most famous main sights, here’s my personal top 15.
Save it for later!
1. Beomeosa/Geumjeongsan
At the top of the world or at least at the top of this list is Beomeosa Temple; and since, for me, one doesn’t go without the other, I had to add Geumjeongsan mountain.
There’s something unique about Beomeosa: I’m not sure if it’s its beauty, its peacefulness, or its location at the base of the mountain, but it’s one of the temples in South Korea that makes me want to keep coming back.
And what about Geumjeongsan? This mountain and its hike may not be the most challenging ones I’ve done in the country, but its history and jaw-dropping panoramy definitely make it one of my favorite mountains in Korea.
So yes, while hikes often seem to be overlooked in many “top 10” (or, in this case, top 15), for me, the path leading to the peak of Geumjeongsan more than deserves its shared spot at the top.
↪ See also: my guides on Beomeosa Temple: A Unique Place To Visit In Busan & Hiking Geumjeongsan Mountain: One Of The Best Trails In Busan!
2. Dadaepo Beach
Is there a more beautiful beach than Dadaepo beach? Not in my opinion!
Its large stretch of sand, artsy sculptures, nearby coastal trail, and blazing sunset make it the most underrated beach in Busan.
Sure, it’s not the closest one (being at the end of line 1), but if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet time to the sound of the waves, for me, nothing beats this beach!
3. Igidae Coastal Trail
Busan is brimming with natural treasures, and coastal trails, mainly because, yes, you’ve guessed it: the city’s location on the coast.
So even though visiting a labyrinthine village is fun and exciting, do yourself a favor and opt instead for a scenic trail featuring rocky cliffs, a breathtaking coastline, and mesmerizing colors.
A not to be missed trail in Busan!
↪ See also: The Best Hikes And Walking Trails In Busan!
4. Gukje Market
Fact: I’m a traveler, but I’m also a foodie who loves discovering new cultures by trying all kinds of local specialties, even the most unsatisfactory or those icky-looking ones.
That’s why my top 15 had to include at least one market, and since this is probably the one I’ve visited the most, it had to be Gukje Market.
Here, not only will you find all the most popular Korean street foods, but you can also shop for appliances, clothing, or even souvenirs.
A treasure trove of antiques and memories!
↪ See also: My 15 Favorite And Must-try Street Foods In South Korea!
5. Haeundae Blueline Park
This is one of the attractions I feel deserves its place among Busan’s most popular attractions.
The sky capsules gliding overhead, the wooden boardwalk running along the coast, and the dazzling sea and lush green trees, make the Blueline Park a must-see.
Here, you’ll quickly forget the restlessness of the city and enjoy a peaceful time in nature.
* Pro tip: you can hop on the beach train on your way back to enjoy a scenic experience, or, if possible you can try to book the sky capsule (at least a month in advance), as it’s one of the nicest and most romantic experiences you’ll have in Busan!
6. Gamcheon Culture Village
I know that this well-known rainbow village, often makes it to the top of the list of many people, and while it certainly is a beautiful spot, I think 6th place suits it better.
Whether you’re looking for a nice viewpoint of Busan, discover unique artworks, get lost in its alleys, or shop for souvenirs, don’t forget to stop by Gamcheon!
* Pro tip: for a more tranquil experience, add Hocheon Village to your itinerary or visit the lovely Huinnyeoul Culture Village!
7. Samgwangsa
Another temple, but what a temple! Particularly known for its Lotus Lantern Festival, Samgwangsa often passes under the radar of many visitors to Busan, who prefer to visit the more famous temple by the sea, Haedong Yonggungsa.
Sure, this temple isn’t perched on a cliff or right by the sea, but its various buildings which house artifacts, majestic paintings, and mythological history, are well worth a visit.
Just as beautiful as day as by night, here’s a temple that deserves to be known by everyone.
8. Jangsan
I couldn’t put together a top 15 list and forget a hike that’s become one of my favorites in the city!
I’m a simple girl, really, and if someone tells me I’ll get to enjoy panoramic views and healing walks in nature, you can count me in.
Since it’s the third highest mountain in Busan, there’s no need to tell you what kind of stunning scenery you can expect if you go hiking on Jangsan.
And with so many mountains in Busan, let me tell you how hard it actually was to rank some of them here.
↪ See also: my guide to Hiking Jangsan: Guide To One Of The Most Beautiful Panoramic Views In The City Of Busan!
9. Hwangnyeongsan
Known as a romantic spot, Hwangnyeongsan has quickly gained popularity as a spot to admire sunsets and night views.
But honestly, this mountain offers not only breathtaking views of the city but also a picturesque background and beautiful flora, no matter the season.
↪ See also: The Best Places To Watch The Sunset In Busan!
10. Taejongdae
Named after King Taejong Muyeol, the coastal park is perhaps less notable for its history than for its natural beauty.
Designed as a geopark by the UNESCO thanks to its preservation of geological heritage, culture, history and awareness of sustainable development, Taejongdae is the ideal place for anyone wishing to admire the endless blue sea and spend a relaxing afternoon in Busan.
11. Gwangalli Beach
While Dadaepo exudes a serene atmosphere, Gwangalli is its liveliest counterpart.
Between the restaurants lining the waterfront, the busking performances, and the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Gwangalli beach is the place to be if you’re looking for an event-filled weekend.
The neighborhood is also one of the best for Busan-themed souvenirs!
Note: don’t miss the “Gwangalli M Drone Light Show”, held every Saturday on the beach.
↪ See also: 8 Souvenir Shops You Won’t Want To Miss In Busan!
12. Hwamyeong Eco Park
Often forgotten although they’re among the most beautiful and easily accessible locations you’ll find in any city, here’s a park that should be on every visitor’s list to Busan.
Ranking 12th on my top 15, it’ll probably take the top spot on my list of Busan’s parks! Not only can you spend an entire day at Hwamyeong Eco Park reading, jogging, picnicking, and relaxing, but this park is beautiful all year round.
Come in the spring for the tulips, in the summer for the lotus fields, in autumn for the silver grass and kochia, and in winter for quiet, invigorating walks.
↪ See also: 10 Best Parks To Chill And Unwind In Busan!
13. Ahopsan Forest
Tired of the concrete jungle and want to see a magical forest in Busan? Visit Ahopsan Forest!
There are no fairies, gnomes, or elves here, but there’s definitely an enchanting and peaceful atmosphere, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city!
And if you want to visit a unique place that has been preserved for hundreds of years by the Moon clan, you know where to go!
14. Geumgang Park
A dense forest, hidden temples, rock formations, and stunning scenery: this is what awaits you at Geumgang park, another little-known gem in Busan.
The park, extending over a surface of more than 3 000 000m² is characterised by an abundance of hiking trails leading to temples and other peaks, as well as natural beauty.
Not to mention that it’s also the perfect place to visit during cherry blossom season and to see the vibrant fall foliage.
* Pro tip: not in the mood to hike all the way up? Take the cable car and enjoy an effortless ride to the top of the mountain.
15. Seunghaksan
Let’s round off this top 15 list with one final hike: the one leading to Seunghaksan peak.
At less than 500 meters of altitude, Seunghaksan isn’t only perfect for hikers of all skill levels thanks to its many hiking trails, but also for its picturesque beauty.
Located outside the city center, here’s a hike tailored for adventurers looking to escape the city chaos.
* Pro tip: come between mid-October and early November to see the silver grass fields.
↪ See also: Seunghaksan – Hiking Guide To A Must-See Mountain In Busan!
And that’s a wrap on my personal top 15 attractions in Busan! I hope this list inspires you to go beyond the usual tourist spots and discover another beautiful side of the city!
Off to Busan!
Explore more of the city with these two itineraries: 3 Days In Busan: The Ideal Itinerary For Discovering This Beautiful Coastal City or Busan Itinerary: 6 Days In South Korea’s Beautiful Coastal City!
What are the 10 most popular attractions in Busan?
Do you want to know what I think of the 10 most popular attractions in Busan (listed on two different websites)? Check out Are Busan’s Top 10 Attractions Really Worth Visiting?
