The Best Hotels in Busan

Exploring Busan

South Korea is home to a fascinating array of tourist destinations, but none more popular than the coastal gem, Busan. This massive city is home to almost four million people, and is South Korea’s second largest destination in population and size. The city is famous for several features, including Korea’s best beaches, the world’s largest department store, and Korea’s largest port.

The city rests in the southeastern corner of the Korean peninsula, and currently hosts several universities, which means a large and dynamic student population. Tourists will be able to find major international hotel chains, budget accommodation, hot spring resorts and several other lodging options within Busan. The city is often regarded as the most entertaining destination in South Korea, and after spending a few days here, tourists will certainly see why.

Sights nearby

The coastal city of Busan is home to a tremendous range of attractions, from shimmering beaches to tranquil, mountain temples. Tourists can choose from a variety of hotels too, as most landmarks are within minutes from an ideal hotel option.

Haeundae Beach
The main beach in Busan, and arguably the most visited beach in South Korea, is Haeundae Beach. This long, golden-sand beach is the pinnacle of the city’s landmarks, catering for many thousands of swimmers during the summer, particularly between July and August. International hotel chains, such as Park Hyatt Busan and Novotel Ambassador Busan, are great options when staying at Haeundae Beach. The winter months are generally less crowded, except when the beach plays host to several festivals and events, including the Busan Polar Bear Swim and Film Festival.

Busan Aquarium
Located adjacent to Haeundae Beach is South Korea’s largest aquarium. Referred to as Busan Aquarium, this site is home to a staggering 35,000 marine animals, including more than 250 different species. The aquarium contains a long, 80-meter tunnel, viewing tank, and ‘hands on’ touch tanks. Otters, piranhas, jellyfish and more greet thousands of tourists each year. Busan Aquarium is the perfect spot for a family outing.

Busan Tower
Busan Tower is one of the most important attractions in the city. It soars above the cityscape, and is currently one of the tallest structures in Korea, providing excellent views. There is an elevator up to the top of the skyscraper, yet visitors can also climb the stairs. Yongdusan Park surrounds the tower, and several hotels are within walking distance to the site.

Eating and drinking and shopping nearby

Busan is a lively university city, so it boasts a thriving night life scene. There are thousands of places to drink, but the best districts for tourists are Nampodong, and the areas around Pusan National University and Kyungsung University. The more expensive spots around Busan are the four- and five-star hotels located near the beachfront, in an area called Haeundae. The bars and clubs here are always busy, despite being more expensive than downtown Busan. High-end accommodation is also where visitors will find the city’s premier restaurants. Don’t forget to sample local Korean and seafood though, which Busan is famous for. Several department stores operate within the downtown area, including Shinsegae Centum City, the world’s largest department store. To save money on luxury items, travellers should take their passport and boarding pass to Paradise Hotel Pusan, where a duty-free market operates.

Public transport

Busan, being the second largest city in South Korea, is linked to a large air facility, Gimhae International Airport, and is home to an efficient public transport system, which includes light rail, subway, and bus networks. Tourists are advised to purchase a Hanaro Card, which allows travel upon all public transport options. Destinations are displayed in both Korean and English, so tourists will not have an issue when travelling by public transport.