Where to stay

First-timers and beach holidays

Busan's signature beach, with the widest choice of hotels, the aquarium, the beach train and plenty of nightlife. The easy default for a first visit, and the priciest in summer.

Sunsets, the bridge and cafe nights

A calmer beach than Haeundae, framed by the lit Gwangan Bridge, with a dense cafe-and-bar strip behind the sand. The best base for evenings by the water.

Transit, shopping and value, no beach

The central transfer hub and downtown: underground shopping, department stores and food alleys, with the metro to everywhere. The most convenient and often best-value base if you will be moving around.

Markets, street food and old-town walks

The old downtown around BIFF Square, Gukje Market and Jagalchi, walkable and street-food dense, next to Yongdusan and Busan Tower. Great for market mornings and old-Busan atmosphere.

A quieter, slower beach base

A laid-back surf beach up the coast from Haeundae, with a mellower crowd and lower prices. The pick if you want the sea without the Haeundae crowds, at the cost of being further from the centre.