If I was pinned down, told my rent depended on it (which this being my job it kinda does) and asked to describe Busan in three words, they would be ‘Seaside’, ‘Soulful’, and ‘Laid-Back’! It’s hard to find the words to capture this city’s colourful culture, landscape, and vibe, and yet, in jeopardy, I did.
What really struck me was that although this is the second largest city in South Korea, it doesn’t give off the overwhelming metropolis feel like Seoul does. Instead, Busan feels like a bunch of connected villages and cities, each area with its own unique ambience, aesthetic and elbow room.
And just like the city itself, there is a lot of diversity when it comes to Airbnbs in Busan. The city has some of the highest-quality accommodations I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m so excited to share them with you.
One thing I can say is that there are heaps of rentals in Busan. So many, that it can make it nearly impossible to pick the most suitable one for you.
So, with all of that in mind, I’ve put together this list of the 15 best Airbnbs in this South Korean city, so you won’t have to sift through the masses yourself (you’re welcome, friend).
Let get into it!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
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Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Busan
Chic Minimalist Hanok with Terrace Overlooking the City
- > $$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Outdoor terrace overlooking the city
- > In a residential neighbourhood of Haeridan-Gil
Guest House Dear Moon
- > $
- > 1-2 Guests
- > Breakfast included
- > Close to major stations and terminals
Two-Bedroom Hanok with Rooftop Deck and Pool
- > $$$$
- > 6 Guests
- > Private dipping pool for an additional fee
- > Rooftop deck with panoramic city and bay views
Affordable One-Bed Hanok in Walkable Area
- > $$
- > 1-2 Guests
- > Projector screen for movie nights
- > Minimalist, mid-century-inspired interiors
Quiet Two-Bed House with Workspace
- > $$$
- > 5 Guests
- > Private workspace in each bedroom
- > Bachelor pad Berlin-inspired interiors
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Busan
The Airbnbs in Busan are above-average in every way, with so many great options, it actually makes it tough to pick a good spot. From serviced apartments that rival hotel suites to traditional Korean houses called ‘hanoks’ to beachfront vans, the range of options is endless.
You can expect most properties to have basic amenities like a full kitchen, high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning/ heating, and spacious living spaces. Some unique amenities include terraces or balconies with stunning views of the city and surrounding sea, hot tubs or dipping pools, and even projector screens for a world-class movie night.
Airbnbs here are impeccably maintained with simple yet effective interiors that are easy to keep clean. You’ll notice when backpacking around South Korea that hygiene is a big part of the culture, and it bodes well for any Airbnb in this major city.
Photo by Peter Savinov
BBQs and outdoor dining spaces are common in Busan Airbnbs, as are in-unit laundry facilities and on-site parking spaces. However, some properties require an additional fee to use some of these extras, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand. Some might even charge a small fee for BBQ wood and cleaning.
Many apartments offer a hotel-like experience to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Picture high-end kitchen appliances and utensils, moody ambient lighting, 24/7 concierge services, daily cleaning, and top-of-the-range Egyptian cotton linen. Talk about luxury.
On the other hand, Busan also has its fair share of homey hanoks, which feature traditional Korean interiors and decor for a more immersive local experience.
One thing worth noting is that Busan is a big city. Before booking an Airbnb, check the location and nearby transport terminals to ensure you can access the city easily and tick off everything on your Busan travel itinerary. While each area is pretty walkable, walking from one neighbourhood to another is not always possible.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Busan
Whether you’re looking for luxury, authenticity, or just a comfortable home base in Busan, there is a bucket load of incredible properties out there. So, without further ado, I present to you my perfectly curated list of top places to stay in Busan, South Korea (if I do say so myself):
Chic Minimalist Hanok with Terrace Overlooking the City | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Busan
There is something truly mesmerising about this gorgeous Busan home. It’s the perfect mix of traditional Korean hanok and modern comforts. Take, for example, the floor-seating dining table, the minimalist wooden interiors, and the epic wetroom.
The bedroom is unique, with four bunk beds instead of a traditional master suite. Although simple, the hosts have thought of everything here, from the intricate wooden ceilings to the spacious living room and terrace with outdoor seating.
Guest House Dear Moon | Best Budget Airbnb in Busan
For once, picking the best affordable Airbnb in Busan was an easy-peasy decision. Guest House Dear Moon is far superior to what you might expect from a typical hostel in Busan. It has private and dorm room options, each designed with clever storage compartments and plug points.
The hostel is beautifully decorated and even includes a comfortable lounge area and a shared kitchen where guests can store and prepare their own food. Unlike most other hostels, this one serves a delicious breakfast each morning, which you can enjoy on the sunny terrace overlooking the city. Now that is my kind of hostel.
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View on Osprey View on REITwo-Bedroom Hanok with Rooftop Deck and Pool | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in Busan
Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy you a few nights in this incredible two-bedroom home overlooking Busan – and that’s pretty much the same thing. The home has two bedrooms on the second floor and a rooftop on the third. The rooftop terrace includes a covered conservatory area and an outdoor space, suitable for all weather conditions.
Adding to the list of luxuries, the ground floor has a small yard with a private dipping pool (which can be used for an additional fee). The interiors are minimalist, with simple shelving and wooden and neutral tones, giving the entire space an ambience of zen.
Affordable One-Bed Hanok in Walkable Area | Perfect Busan Airbnb for Solo Travelers
This Busan Airbnb is one of the coolest on the block for those travelling solo (or travelling on a budget). It is more spacious than expected, with a roomy open-concept living space and an enclosed yard. My favourite part might have been the daily bedding change and cleaning, which makes it feel like you’re in a fancy hotel.
The kitchen interiors are stylish and minimalist, with clean countertops, floating shelving, and a bespoke tiled backsplash for elegance. After whipping up a delicious meal for one, set up a movie night on the projector screen for the perfect solo evening in Busan.
Quiet Two-Bed House with Workspace | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb for Digital Nomads
The coolest thing about this Airbnb isn’t even its epic location in the city centre but its Berlin-inspired interiors. And if you’re as confused as I was, you only have to browse through the photos to appreciate the style and elegance curated by whoever designed this spot.
Everything has a place here, from the mushroom lamp to the checkered carpets and black-tiled kitchen. Each bedroom has a private workspace, perfect for those rockin’ the digital nomad lifestyle. Aesthetics aside, this two-bedroom home is within walking distance of some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and shops.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Busan
Here are a few more of my favourite Airbnbs in Busan!
I don’t know about you, but those top five Airbnbs only left me wanting more. Luckily for you, I added an additional ten of the best Airbnbs in Busan below to further satisfy your travel desires. You’re welcome!
Right then, let’s find the perfect place to stay in Busan for you!
Unique Three-Story Mid-Century House in the Fields
Whoever designed this home should be congratulated. It’s an inspiring home with 360-degree countryside views that make it feel as if you’re on a moving train. The triple-story home has everything you could wish for from a holiday rental – including a central kitchen, three comfortable suites, and a terrace suitable for BBQs and al fresco dining.
It’s not exactly the most central Busan option, but its location is part of the appeal. The home is surrounded by the countryside and seaside of Gijang Chillam, just a short drive from some of the best places to visit in Busan including Ilgwang, Imlang, and Jinha Beach.
Sunny Studio with 50s-inspired Interiors and City Views
Let’s take things back to the 50s. When floral patterns reigned supreme, polaroids decked the walls, and lace fringe curtains draped from the ceilings. This little studio is a slice of the past, boasting a retro feel with all the amenities of a modern home.
The hosts have considered everything here, including extra add-ons like slippers, medical supplies, and even sewing kits for emergencies. When you stay here, you can watch the world go by from the dining table, which has exceptional views of the city below.
Contemporary One-Bed Apartment with Rooftop Pool
I would go so far as to say this might be one of the best Airbnbs in Busan for beach lovers. The accommodation is on the luxurious side of things, located in a high-end apartment block featuring hotel-like amenities and services, such as ambient lighting, 24-hour security, and a rooftop pool.
But what we love most about this Airbnb is that it has a balcony with sea views and is just a short walk from Haeundae Beach. It’s the perfect blend between a serviced apartment and a hotel suite.
Old-School-Cool Two-Bed Hanok in the City Center
Picture this: You wake up in central Busan and head straight to the kitchen to get your coffee started. With a fresh brew in hand, you stroll into the living room and put a disc on the turntable record player, allowing the smooth beats of your favourite artists to reverberate through the space.
Records and Marshal speaker aside, this entire place exudes a sense of retro relaxation. With warm wooden walls and ceilings, minimal yet comfortable furniture, and even a projector screen to watch movies on, this is one of those traditional-style hanoks that can completely transport you through time.
Unique Beachside Caravan Accommodation with Swimming Pool
For a real change of pace, this unique rental in Busan is especially great for adventure seekers and photographic influencers. It’s a little bit out of Busan central, but its location right on the seaside in Jangan Eup quickly makes up for the drive into the city centre.
You’ll sleep in a refurbished van parked in a coastal campsite with a shared pool and communal toilet facilities. Each caravan can accommodate two guests and includes a dome BBQ dining tent. They also have a food menu that is convenient for short-term guests who can’t be bothered to do grocery shopping or cook.
Family-Friendly Four-Bed Home with Garden and Terraces
This might just be the ultimate Airbnb for those travelling as a family. It has two dining areas, one indoors and another under an extendable cover in the yard. The kitchen is simply designed yet fitted with top-of-the-range appliances that will (pause for a shock) make you want to cook on holiday.
The four bedrooms are just as simple, with comfortable beds, dressing tables that double as workspaces, and some convenient storage solutions. When it’s too hot to sit on the sunny terrace, air conditioning keeps the entire home comfortably cool.
Modern Apartment Overlooking the Ocean
This is the type of Airbnb that blurs the lines between a hotel and a self-catering rental in Busan. It’s located in a luxury high-rise building with a rooftop pool area, elevator access, and 24-hour security.
Within your private apartment, you’ll have a kitchen with an in-unit washing machine, a small balcony with sea views, and a modern living space where you can lounge about after a day on the beach. Oh, and did I mention the beach is just a five-minute stroll away?
Minimalist Modern Hanok with Outdoor Movie Screening Area
Glass is the ruling material here at this functional modern hanok, with glass walls and windows that open out into an enclosed courtyard. The separate bedroom sleeps two, but extra mattresses can be set up in the living room for an additional two guests.
The interiors are minimalist, with simple built-in couches and kitchen cabinets where every utensil and appliance has its place. When the sun sets, set up for a movie night using the projector screen in the living room.
Serviced Apartment with Hotel-Like Facilities
Towering over the city with incredible views, this high-rise Airbnb is part of the luxurious building with full-time security and a shared swimming pool. The serviced apartment is a corner property. And you know what that means? Sweeping views of the city and the sea.
When you finally manage to get out of this spacious and comfortable Busan Airbnb, you’ll be just a few minutes’ walk from some of the best beaches, restaurants, and shops in the city. It’s also a quick walk from nearby bus, train, and subway stations. Highly recommend!
One-Bed Beach Cottage with Ocean View BBQ Terrace
It might be at the bottom of the list, but this beach cottage is one of my favourites for a few reasons. One, it’s affordable. The hosts even offer discounts for stays longer than two nights. Two, it’s tucked away in a quiet fishing village out of the city centre, yet it is just a quick drive into town.
Finally, it has one of the most epic BBQ terraces on the list, with sea views you could only dream of. With a workspace indoors or a place to set up under an umbrella outside, it’s a peaceful spot with few distractions for those who have switched from travelling to digital nomading.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Busan
Yo, I know you wanna be on that train to Busan ASAP, but let’s get things moving by answering all your burning questions first.
What To Pack For Busan
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Busan Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Busan.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Busan
After reading through this list, I’d be surprised if you haven’t saved a few listings to your favourites on Airbnb, (or have a couple burned into your memory). The options aren’t just plentiful, but each property is of an exceptionally high standard. Seriously, there is something special about staying in an Airbnb in Busan.
This list includes everything from luxurious serviced apartments that offer the privacy of a self-catering rental with the facilities of a five-star hotel, to locally designed hanok homes to accommodate a family of eight. Whatever it is you are looking for; you’re bound to find a range of options to suit your budget and match your dates on this list of Busan Airbnbs.
If you’re still unsure, I’d go for my overall best-value option: Chic Minimalist Hanok with Terrace Overlooking the City. It’s the ideal place to stay to get a mix of tradition as well as modern comforts.
Wherever you end up, I hope you have an incredible time in Busan, South Korea!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
- Check out our Backpacking South Korea guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Busan guide to plan your adventure.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Busan too.
Made it this far?
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