My wife and I are the biggest Korean fanatics. Even with two kids, we find time to binge watch k-dramas all these years. 50 series would be an under estimation. We did Seoul, but frankly, it's Singapore with a river in between, and with a different season. Last year when we started on Busan, many including us would think that Busan is a third-world fishing village or a zombie town (geddit?).
But after doing our homework, our eyes are opened. Now we absolutely fell in love with Busan, so much so we travelled there twice in two months.
If you have been reading my humble blog, you would know that we are always looking out for the best photo opportunities. And yes, that means missing out the humble malls and local roadside stalls. But time is limited, it is what it is.
We have stayed in a couple of places - Gwangalli (BAMU + AirBnb) and Haeundae (Signiel). Both are fantastic as they are beside the beach, so you can wake up to the sea breeze. Gwangalli is famous for the long stretch of cafes and bars, while Haeundae for its upscale hotels and night activities. For us, we LOVE Gwangalli, I even joked about getting a holiday house there.
BAMU (Boutique hotel with this sick view)
Signiel Busan (Upscale hotel with free flow Diptyque)
Unlike the other itineraries, I will leave out the flights but list suggestions on places to go.
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Day 1: Gwangalli
There is no better way to start than to chillax at the famous Gwangalli Beach, lined with countless beautiful cafes and bars. For breakfast/brunch, I suggest:
Working Holiday (>2000 reviews, 4.9 stars) - The vibes is strong with this, you'll be getting a lot of sentiments if you are from or love Australia. If you are craving for a Western brunch - Egg Benedict, pasta, cakes, this is the place.
La feuille - A coffee and bakery place with many queuing for their freshly baked pastries. It's those kind of shop when you walk past, the smell of bread hits you in the right spot. You must try their croissant and salt bread.
Spend the day exploring their local shops or lazing at the beach. It's a pretty long stretch, so there's lots to see. For meals I suggest:
Nasari Sipdang - Been here twice, both for the food and the view. I love their seafood soup (literally the ocean's umami in a bowl) and their seafood pancake. Extremely wallet-friendly, approx KRW40,000 for a set for two.
Day 2: South Busan
This day will be exploring the cultural villages of Busan, namely Gamcheon and Huinnyeol. By car, this place is 30-min drive from Gwangalli area.
I suggest heading to Gamcheon Cultural Village early as it is well-known photospot for fans of Little Prince. Every corner, every shop will have his presence. If you fancy, there's also hanbok rental shops so you could explore the nooks and crannies like a Korean royalty.
We been to this little cafe that is owned by an elderly couple, twice, which is designed like a classroom. It's a lovely stop for your weary legs. You could even write little post-its. If you're there, try to look for ours!
Close to the end of the path is the famous Little Prince and Fox statue, which is the reason most people are here for. Queue time varies. Take your time, get the best angles!
When you're here, don't miss out these souvenir shops where you can pen a postcard and send to anyone in the world at your chosen date! And even if you post to yourself, it's definitely a sweet surprise!
If time permits, head to Songdo Bay Station for its Cable Car, if you're up for it, take the one with glass bottom (SGD$20 via Klook). It's a beautiful round trip, where you can stop at the Sky Park for some phototaking and break time. Ride at night and it will be the glistening outline of Busan.
Huinnyeol Cultural Village is known for its cafes and sunset views. The coastal path is closed due to renovation works, but the main street is still open.
One of the most popular and prominent cafes is Having Moment, which you should definitely check the bucket list. The views and drinks are simply worth the moment.
If you wandered down the path, there is a very, very small ramen shop opened by an elderly. The space is tight but the heart is warm. Reviews state that the elderly is rude, but we thought otherwise. Come on, give the woman a break. We slurped two bowls of ramen with a full sea view.
When sunset is about to fall, get a relaxing footbath at Footbath Cafe View. Spaces are real limited, so you may need to check in advanced. What's better than to have a warm soak and massage after a day's of walking. And while enjoying nature's glory!
Day 3: Cheongsapo & Haeundae
If there's an icon of Busan, it will be the Capsule Train, taken from Cheongsapo to Mipo, or vice versa. If you're staying at Signiel, the Mipo station is just 2-3 mins walk away. For the best experience and to guarantee your slot, please book in advance especially during peak seasons. Pricing range from approx KRW$35000 (for 2 pax) to KRW$45000 (for 4 pax).
But before that, explore the charms of Cheongsapo! I highly recommend Liberta for the huge array of artisan bread and pastries. I mean, a breakfast with this view?
And the cute little shops around the area. Everywhere is photo op. Seriously.
The capsule train ride (one-way) is approximately 30 minutes, sufficient for you to see the scenic sea views and to take lots of photos inside the cabin.
At Cheongsapo, you can also stop by for the famous scenic road (you won't miss it as many will be taking their photos on the road). Just be careful of the incoming cars (and trains)!
As night falls, explore the bustling streets of Haeundae, you can check out the Traditional Market for fresh seafood and desserts at OSULLOC Tea House.
A must do is definitely watching fireworks on a yacht (via Klook). From the start point at Suyeongman Bay Yachting Center, the yacht will sail past the beautiful Gwangan Bridge and close to Gwangalli where it will set up a barrage of fireworks.
Day 4: Shopping
End your trip with a day's of shopping at their famous malls, ranging from the streets of Samyeon to Busan Lotte to Shinsegae. Souvenirs, luxury items, clothes, food, whatever you want. Just remember to check your luggage weight before flying!
If you want a fancy dinner, I highly recommend Lotte Hotel Busan Mugunghwa where we held our company dinner. They have various sets, ranging from SGD$160 to a few hundred.
Optional: Procedures!
I mean you're in the land known for aesthetics, after all.
Disclaimer: I am not an advocate for plastic surgery, but see as you deem fit. So far I've tried VANDS and YOU&I, which are around Seomyeon area, both are equally good and have staff that speaks English and Mandarin. You can check out their offerings on their websites. I did Rejuran and a teeny weeny Botox on the T-zone.
For starters, Rejuran comes in black and red version. Black is the standard, while red is the upgraded version, and is useful for reducing acne scars and wrinkles. If you're unsure, the consultants will advise you accordingly. It is administered by either hand (injections) or machine (micro needles). Hand is more targeted and controlled, and can reach a deeper level, that said, it is super painful. But bearable.
Important: As of 1 January 2026, all aesthetics treatment are non-tax refundable. :(
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Endnotes:
If you feel that Jeju is too chill and Seoul is too city, Busan is a perfect balance between these two. Surely this wouldn't be the last time we will be at Busan. Stay tuned for more updates!
If you feel that Jeju is too chill and Seoul is too city, Busan is a perfect balance between these two. Surely this wouldn't be the last time we will be at Busan. Stay tuned for more updates!