The Ultimate Busan (Korea) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Busan, South Korea? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

The second largest metropolitan city in South Korea, with a population of around 3.5 million.
Located on the south east edge of the country, it is one of the world’s largest ports (by container volume).
It is best known for its natural beauty, from its beaches to its wildlife reserves.
Nicknames: Santorini on the South Sea, Korea’s Macchu Picchu, Lego Village.

Currency: Won (KRW).
Spoken languages: Korean.
Best time to visit: from April to August for fine spring weather followed by hot, long summer days and the festivals that come with them.
Arriving via airport: Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is well-connected to the city with several bus lines, limousine buses and an express bus taking passengers to major stations in the city centre.
– Standard taxis now ₩18,000–25,000 to central areas like Seomyeon (45 mins).
– Deluxe taxis (black) charge ₩30,000–45,000
– Use Kakao T app to book standard taxis and avoid overpaying.

Best Busan hostel for solo travelers: Kimchee Haeundae (close the beach, a short walk from the metro station, and a welcoming atmosphere – perfect for meeting new friends).
Haeundae is the most popular, attractive and often crowded seaside in Busan, considered to be Korea’s best beach. Wide boulevards are lined with accommodation ranges and dining and entertainment options.
Gwangalli’s scene is more relaxed while the waterfront is just as scenic, whereas the central Seomyeon offers Busan’s frenetic commercial energy in the form of shopping and leisure perfect to absorb the Korean subculture.

The Hanaro Card is a smart, contact-less card used for paying transportation fares by pre-loading. It can also be used to pay for toll fares.
Busan’s metro system is color-coded and consists of four lines. Destinations are called out in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. Fares: Single-zone: ₩1,600, Two-zone: ₩1,800.
Local buses are efficient, cheap and easy to use. Base fare increased to ₩1,550 (regular), ₩2,050 (seated).
– Use transportation cards for ₩100 discount.
Taxis:
– Standard: ₩4,800 for first 2 km, ₩100 per 132m.
– Deluxe: ₩7,500 for first 3 km, ₩200 per 140m.
– Night surcharge (11 PM–4 AM): 20–30% extra
– Use Kakao T app to book.
Recommended apps: KakaoMap for navigation (more reliable than Google Maps here).

Drinking age is 20, and last call is 4 AM.
Kyungsung is a warm, friendly area favored by the student population.
Nampo-dong is a prolific with bars and nightclubs open till the early hours and favoured by the young and trendy set.
Geumjong-gu is excellent for its lively music scene and cheap drinks.
Great bars for solo travelers: The Wolfhound (Irish pub), HQ Gwangan 4F, Beer Shop 비어샵, and 베이스먼트 basement.
Foreigner-friendly night clubs: Output, Nonmorde, Yaman, and partynextdoor.
Tip: Some bars/restaurants refuse solo diners. Try Gwangjang Market street food or group-friendly spots like The Wolfhound.
Getting back after clubbing? Pre-download Kakao T for safe late-night rides. Avoid deluxe taxis (3x cost).

Beomeosa Temple located at the foot of Mt. Geumjeongsan is one of the greatest temples in Korea, built around 1300 years ago.
Busan Modern History Museum reflects the role of the city in the Korean War.
Yonggungsa Temple stands out along the shoreline of Haedong, and is one of the few Buddhist temples not located in the mountains.
Busan Tower (in Yongdusan Park) offers panoramic views of the city and is surrounded by parks and historical sites.
Day trip ideas from Busan:
– Gyeongju (famous for its historical sites). KTX tickets from ₩59,800 (2 hrs). Rent bikes (₩10,000/day) to explore UNESCO tombs.
– The picturesque beaches of Haeinsa Temple.
– Taejongdae: Use Bus 88 from Seomyeon (₩1,550) for cliffside hikes and lighthouse views.

Dalmaji Hill is a romantic climb above Busan’s famous coastline, a serene getaway from which to admire the city and its magnificent views.
MoonTan Road is all the more enchanting at night when it is lit up, regaling the forested walk a surreal atmosphere.
Taejongdae Park was used as grounds for archery practice by King Taejong Muyul. Its white lighthouse is a must-visit for the stunning panorama.
Jagalchi Fish Market is a feast for the senses, a market that’s renowned for its fresh catch.
Youngdo Coastal Run: Scenic 8km route linking Namhang Bridge and ports. Free sunrise views at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Wake up early!

Must-try local dishes are dong-nae pajeon (seafood and green onion pancake) and daegu tang (cod soup). Both are widely available at eateries throughout the city.
Solo-friendly meals: Jagalchi Market stalls (₩10,000–15,000 for seafood pancakes) or Gukje Market bibimbap (₩8,000).
Bokguk is a stew made with the highly poisonous puffer fish. It originated in Busan over 40 years ago and can be sampled at dedicated restaurants.
Cheap breakfast: Most eateries open after 10 AM. Grab kimbap (₩2,500) or fish cakes (₩1,000) at CU/GS25 convenience stores.

Busan is not all about the beaches. Its fantastic mountain ranges have easy to moderate hiking trails. Some of its best temples are secluded atop remote locations.
Cash is King: Many markets/taxis prefer cash. Withdraw ₩50,000–100,000 at airport ATMs.
Avoid Myeongdong: Overpriced shopping. Opt for Seomyeon or Nampo-dong for affordable streetwear
The Busan International Film Festival (usually in October) is one of the world’s best.
Dangerous areas: Busan is a safe city, with the occasional trouble coming from drunken brawls in the nightlife areas.

Recommended trip duration: 2-3 days