Alright folks, so you’re ready to take the train to Busan… other methods of transport are available! Well, I’m here to let you in on a secret, this place is bloody wonderful and before that damn movie, I had it all to myself (kinda)!
Ahh Busan, one of my favourite places in the world. It’s Korea’s second most popular city and it most definitely sings to its own tune. Throwing off the shackles of the capital it offers a much more laid-back feel whilst still being bustling enough to have a real buzz about the place.
Sitting by the coast it offers a unique combination of neon-soaked streets with a salty sea breeze. This city is a delight to explore and for those wanting to immerse themselves in the quirkiness of Korean culture with a more down-to-earth vibe than Seoul, will be left mezmerised.
As a relatively sprawling city, choosing where to stay in Busan can be overwhelming. The best areas to stay in Busan depend on what you’d like to get out of your time here.
In this guide, I’m going to break down the top places to stay in this enchanting city and what makes each unique. To take it one step further, I’ve outlined the “can’t miss” activities in each area, so you’ll know exactly what to do when you hit the ground in Busan (you’re welcome, friend).
Photo: Peter Savinov
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Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Busan.
Nampo Hound Hotel Premier | Best Hotel in Busan
The Nampo Hound Hotel Premier is a comfortable hotel in Busan city centre. It is just a few minutes walk from notable landmarks and attractions, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. This three-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms and provides bottled water. It’s also super close to Busan Tower.
Inside Busan Hostel | Best Hostel in Busan
This modern hostel is one of the best places in Busan to stay. It has an incredible location at the heart of the city and offers easy access to Busan’s top tourist attractions such as Democracy Park. Rooms are clean and well-equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning and private bathrooms. It’s one of the best hostels in Busan for sure.
Apartment with ocean view | Best Airbnb in Busan
This apartment is located just a bit further than Nampo, but it’s very well connected to the metro lines. This Airbnb in Busan is so close to the ocean that you can even see the water from your window. The view is even cooler at night when the city starts to light up. You’re close to many shops as well as restaurants, street food markets and a subway station.
Nampo
Nampo is our number one pick for the best neighbourhood in Busan to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time. This busy and bustling neighbourhood is located in central Busan.
Gwangalli
Gwangalli is a beautiful neighbourhood situated outside of the city centre. It’s just a short subway ride from the heart of the action and is where visitors can experience the tropical paradise that South Korea is famous for.
Haeundae
If you’re someone who likes to stay at the centre of the action, Haeundae is the neighbourhood for you! Situated on the northeastern edge of the city, Haeundae is our best recommendation for where to stay in Busan for nightlife.
Seomyeon
The Seomyeon neighbourhood is located in the centre of the city. This vivacious and vibrant area is known for its good selection of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and attractions.
Sasang
Sasang is one of the most overlooked neighbourhoods in Busan with most visitors opting for Busan accommodation closer to the city centre. But, for families, that can be a huge mistake!
First of all, something you should know straight away is that Busan is a massive city. But don’t let that put you off one of South Korea’s most exciting places to visit. Having said that, being a large city it might be hard to decide where to stay in Busan, but thankfully I’m here to help.
It is located in southeastern South Korea and is the second most populous city after Seoul. Many South Korea visitors include Busan on their itineraries. An economic, cultural and educational centre, Busan is a dynamic and engaging city that enchants visitors with its rich history, beautiful beaches, energetic nightlife, and exquisite food.
This guide will explore the best places in Busan to stay based on what you want to do.
Nampo is located in the centre of the city. This lively and vibrant neighborhood is home to shopping, restaurants, nightlife and Busan Station. It’s where you’ll find the most popular and famous tourist attractions in the city, which is why it’s my number one choice for the best area in Busan to stay for your first visit.
Travel north from here and you’ll arrive in Seomyeon. One of the coolest places to stay in Busan, Seomyeon is where you’ll find the best street food and hottest hangouts.
Gwangalli is a busy and bustling neighborhood in eastern Busan. This hip and happening seaside district offers a relaxed vibe and atmosphere and is where you’ll find a good selection of affordable accommodations. It’s also my top pick for where to stay in Busan if you’re looking to hit the beach. Be sure to head to Gwangalli Beach whilst here!
On the eastern edge of the city is Haeundae, the best neighborhood to stay in Busan for nightlife. This vivacious district is home to the best bars, clubs and pubs in Busan and offers a range of after-dark fun.
And finally, on the western side of the city is the lively yet relaxed neighborhood of Sasang. My best recommendation for where to stay in Busan for families, Sasang is a district packed with natural attractions, outdoor activities, and plenty of delicious things to eat.
Once you’ve booked your stay, plan your trip using this Busan itinerary!
Busan’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best places to stay in Busan.
1. Nampo – Where to Stay in Busan for Your First Time
Nampo is my number one pick for the best neighborhood in Busan to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time.
This busy and bustling neighborhood is located in central Busan. It is known for its neon lights, mouthwatering restaurants and as the home of the city’s unmissable street food scene. If you’re someone who likes to eat well, Nampo is the perfect neighborhood for you!
Photo: LWYang (Flickr)
But there’s more to Nampo than lights and fire. This vibrant neighborhood is also packed with history and culture. Here you can step back in time and experience South Korea’s rich and tragic history, as well as explore its culture and chaos – basically, a lot of the places to visit in Busan are located nearby in what is essentially the city center.
Nampo Hound Hotel Premier | Best Hotel in Nampo
The Nampo Hound Hotel Premier is a comfortable hotel in Busan city centre. It is just a few minutes walk from notable landmarks and attractions, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. This three-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms and provides bottled water. It’s also super close to Busan Tower.
Hotel Foret Premier Nampo | Another great Hotel in Nampo
This four-star hotel is in a central location in Nampo, the best neighborhood in Busan to stay in for sightseeing. It is close to popular attractions like Busan Tower and is a quick walk to Gukje Market. They provide air-conditioned rooms with a pillow menu and plenty of modern amenities.
Inside Busan Hostel | Best Hostel in Nampo
This modern hostel is one of the best places in Busan to stay. It has an incredible location at the heart of the city and offers easy access to Busan’s top tourist attractions such as Democracy Park. Rooms are clean and well-equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning and private bathrooms.
Apartment with ocean view | Best Airbnb in Nampo
This apartment is located just a bit further than Nampo, but it’s very well connected to the metro lines. The Airbnb is so close to the ocean that you can even see the water from your window. The view is even cooler at night when the city starts to light up. You’re close to many shopping opportunities as well as restaurants, street food markets and cool attractions.
Things to See and Do in Nampo
- Browse the shops at Gukje Market and do a market tour.
- Climb to the top of Busan Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Delve deep into the history of the city at the Busan Modern History Museum.
- Explore the lively and vibrant BIFF Square.
- Indulge in delicious local delicacies, like spicy tteokbokki, ggom jangeo, and ssiat hotteok with a cooking class in Busan.
- Shop, snack and sample your way through the bustling Jagalchi Market.
- Treat yourself to a few new items from Gwanbokro Culture and Fashion Street.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Gwangalli – Best Place to Stay in Busan on a Budget
Gwangalli is a beautiful neighborhood situated outside of the city centre close to Diamond Bridge. It’s just a short subway ride from the heart of the action and is where visitors can experience the tropical paradise that South Korea is famous for. In Gwangalli you can enjoy the pristine white sand beach and sun-filled days while meeting relaxed and social expats and locals.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
This hip and happening ‘hood is also my top pick for the best area in Busan to stay in if you’re on a budget. Tucked throughout this seaside district is a great selection of backpacker hostels and good-value hotels. From cheap and cheerful to stylish and modern, there’s something for travellers of all tastes in Gwangalli, including those looking for the laidback beach experience.
Kent Hotel Gwangalli by Kensington | Best Hotel in Gwangalli
Kent Hotel Gwangalli by Kensington is set in Gwangalli, one of Busan’s best neighborhoods. This charming four-star property is close to the beach and allows for easy access to restaurants, shops and bars. It is comprised of modern rooms with a range of contemporary features.
No 25 Hotel Gwangan | Another great Hotel in Gwangalli
The No 25 Hotel Gwangan is an excellent option for Busan accommodation if you’re wanting something luxurious. Rooms have modern décor, great views, air conditioning and bottled water. Guests can also enjoy dining at the nearby restaurants and cafes.
Bexco Hostel B&B | Best Hostel in Gwangalli
Bexco Hostel B&B is my favourite hostel in Gwangalli. It features comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free wifi and shared bathrooms. This bright and airy hostel is conveniently located near Busan’s famous beach as well as popular shopping, sightseeing and dining. Breakfast is also included with your reservation.
Apartment with Panoramic Views | Best Airbnb in Gwangalli
This beautiful little studio is way more than you’d expect for the nightly price. Modern design, clean and with a comfortable bed, you’ll be more than happy during your stay. You’re only moments away from the beach. There are also lots of great nightlife, drinking and eating options around you since the area is very popular amongst travellers. Experience it yourself – it’s worth it!
Things to See and Do in Gwangalli
- Indulge in local dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi and japchae.
- Rest, relax and soak up some rays on Gwangalli Beach.
- See an interesting collection of art at Doshi Gallery.
- Watch the exciting and lively light show that illuminates Gwangandaegyo (Diamond Bridge) or take in the bridge from below on a boat tour of the coast.
3. Haeundae – Best Area to Stay in Busan For Nightlife
If you’re someone who likes to stay at the centre of the action, Haeundae is the neighborhood for you!
Situated on the northeastern edge of the city, Haeundae is my best recommendation for where to stay in Busan for nightlife. The city’s dedicated entertainment district, Haeundae, is packed is lively bars, exciting clubs, incredible restaurants and laid-back pubs. So, whether you want to dance the night away or sip a glass of wine by the seaside, Haeundae has everything you could possibly want – and so much more!
Haeundae is also one of the best places to stay in Busan if you’re looking to shop until you drop as it has vibrant city markets, busy high street boutiques and high-quality shops to explore. There’s even Haeundae Beach to chill out at afterwards too which is within walking distance of most properties.
Felix by STX Hotel & Suite | Best Hotel in Haeundae
This four-star hotel can be found in one of the best areas to stay in Busan. It is just steps from Haeundae Beach and Market and is surrounded by great bistros, bars and cocktail lounges. Rooms are well-equipped with air conditioning, kitchenettes and private balconies, it’s ideal for luxury travelers wanting to enjoy the nearby attractions.
MA Hotel Haeundae | Another great Hotel in Haeundae
The MA Hotel Haeundae gets my vote for the best hotel in Busan. It is centrally located in Haeundae and is an excellent base for travellers looking to drink, dance and party. This hotel is just 60 meters from the beach and is also around the corner from a metro station.
Canvas Hostel | Best Hostel in Haeundae
This excellent property is located at the heart of Haeundae, the best area in Busan to stay in for nightlife. You’ll find plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants nearby, as well as options for sightseeing and shopping. This property provides comfortable dorms with privacy curtains and a variety of modern features.
Haeundae Ocean View House | Best Airbnb in Haeundae
Come back home from a great night out and enjoy the clean, timeless and modern of this incredible Airbnb. Want your own space and a comfy bed to cure your hangover? No problem! The area around you is ideal if you want to experience the nightlife, with lively and busy streets, great food options and amazing bars. There are also awesome panoramic views from the apartment.
Things to See and Do in Haeundae
- Take a Sky Capsule along the coastline in Blueline Park.
- Excite your senses with a flurry of flavours by trying local dishes like dwaeji gukbap, milmyeon, and samgyeopsal.
- Drink draught beer at Peter’s Pub or take an organised pub crawl.
- Try local street food and seafood at Haeundae Market.
- Work on your tan at Haeundae Beach, the most famous beach in South Korea.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Seomyeon – Coolest Place to Stay in Busan
The Seomyeon neighborhood is located in the centre of the city. This vivacious and vibrant area is known for its good selection of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and attractions. It offers a great mix of nightlife and history, as well as shopping and culture. And, although it can be a bit touristy, Seomyeon wins my vote as one of the coolest places to stay in Busan.
Seomyeon is home to some of the hippest hangouts in the city. Visitors may be attracted by its bright lights and lively atmosphere but it’s the neighborhoods’ delicious food and intriguing landmarks that keep them coming back for more!
Ibis Ambassador Busan City Centre | Best Hotel in Seomyeon
The Ibis Ambassador is conveniently located in Seomyeon. It is a short walk from world-class shopping and there are plenty of dining, nightlife and sightseeing options nearby. This wonderful hotel provides comfortable beds, modern rooms, and a myriad of excellent features.
Busan Business Hotel | Another great Hotel in Seomyeon
This fantastic three-star hotel has a great location in Busan. It is close to world-class shopping and is ideally situated for sightseeing, dining and hitting the town at night. This hotel boasts a range of features, like an on-site coffee bar, and guests can enjoy free wifi throughout their stay.
Kimchee Busan Downtown Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Seomyeon
This charming property provides comfortable Busan accommodation in the coolest neighborhood in town. It has dorms and private rooms each with comfortable beds and modern features. There is also a shared kitchen at this safe and cosy guesthouse.
High Rise Room | Best Airbnb in Seomyeon
If you’re looking forward to exploring one of the coolest areas in Busan, you might as well just find a place to stay right in the middle of it. This little apartment is 1min away from the Seomyeon station. There you can find shops, sick street food options, attractions and very lively streets (especially at night). The apartment is on one of the top floors so you’ll even have a spectacular view of the city.
Things to See and Do in Seomyeon
- Browse the shops and stalls at Shinsegae Centum City, the largest shopping complex in the world.
- Explore the Bujeong Market where you’ll find a great selection of traditional foods, spices, treats and more.
- Go for a stroll through Busan Citizens Park.
- Pick up a souvenir or two from the Seomyeon Underground Shopping Center.
- Shop until you drop at Lotte Mall Dong Busan, the biggest and best mall in Busan.
- Sip, sample and shop your way along lively, vibrant and thrilling Jeonpo Café Street.
- Take a day trip out to Oedo Botania Island.
5. Sasang – Best Neighborhood in Busan for Families to Stay In
Sasang is one of the most overlooked neighborhoods in Busan with most visitors opting for Busan accommodation closer to the city centre. But, for families, it’s the perfect area to stay.
Located on Busan’s western edge, Sasang is a lively residential neighborhood, and my top pick for where to stay in Busan with kids. This area is brimming with parks and nature reserves making it the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to rest, relax or explore the green heart of the city.
Serene river walks, peaceful hikes and seasonal cherry blossom spotting are just a few of the great activities that Sasang has to offer.
Premium AVA Hotel | Best Hotel in Sasang
The Premium AVA Hotel is one of my top picks for where to stay in Busan with kids. This modern hotel has comfortable rooms with free wifi and flat-screen TVs. There’s also a great selection of on-site amenities, like a Jacuzzi and a sauna.
Zam 101 | Another great Hotel in Sasang
The Zam 101 is a convenient base for exploring Busan. It is located in Sasang and is a short drive from popular attractions like BIFF Square and the Jagalchi Market. This modern property offers air-conditioned and comfortable rooms with coffee makers, flat-screen TVs and bottled water. Guests can also enjoy a variety of amenities nearby including a metro station.
The Stone Bridge Hotel Sasang | Best Motel in Sasang
This hotel is ideally located in Sasang. It is close to public transit, the airport and the train station and is well-connected throughout Busan. This hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms with excellent features at an affordable price. There’s also free wifi and on-site parking.
Entire home | Best Vacation Home in Sasang
Family holiday in South Korea? Heck yeah! If you want to bring your relatives with you, this Airbnb is the perfect home for you and your folks. Fitting up to 10 people, you can be sure that you’ll never have a boring minute at this place. There are lots of bus/metro stops around you, so it’ll be super easy to get around and explore the rest of the city.
Things to See and Do in Sasang
- Aim for a strike at PBA Bowling.
- Enjoy a day of sun, sand and surf at Dadaepo Beach.
- Go cherry blossom spotting and snap those every-so-popular pics for the gram.
- See an excellent collection of art, sculpture, design and more at the Museum of Contemporary Art Busan.
- Spend a day exploring Sasang Neighborhood Park, a relaxing urban green space with a children’s park, slides, bouncing bubbles and plenty of things to climb.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Gamcheon Culture Village and enjoy the stunning scenery and charm.
- Visit Samrak Ecological Park.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Busan
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Busan and where to stay.
What To Pack For Busan
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel 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
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where to stay in Busan for first-timers
Nampo is my choice for the best area to stay for first timers. It’s well connected to public transport and close to many of the main attractions in the city centre. Check out the Nampo Hound Hotel Premier.
What is the best accommodation in Busan
For me, I love staying at MA Hotel Haeundae because I love to be by the coast whilst in Busan, it makes the city feel much less busy and more relaxed.
What is the best place to stay in Busan
It depends what you’re after. If you’re on a budget then Canvas Hostel is ideal for backpackers. If you’re looking for something a bit fancier then check out Kent Hotel Gwangalli by Kensington.
Which are the top towns in Busan, South Korea?
Nampo is ideal if you want to be at the heart of things in the city center. If you’re looking to be by the coast without being in the middle of nowhere then opt for Haeundae. If you want somewhere quieter, then check out Sasang.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Busan
Whilst the healthcare in South Korea is world-class, it will cost you a fortune if you’re unfortunate enough to have to experience it. So make sure you have some decent travel insurance before your trip.
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.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Busan
Busan is an incredible city with so much to offer visitors. I just fell in love with it’s laid back vibe that was anything but sleepy. It has a bustling heart but knows when to take a break by the coast, it can be high energy without burning you out. Busan for me is the heart and soul (not Seoul) of modern Korea.
In this Busan neighborhood guide, I’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a recap:
Canvas Hostel is my favourite hostel because it has comfortable and air-conditioned rooms with towels included. It also has an unbeatable location near to the metro, and there’s plenty of shopping, dining and sightseeing nearby too.
Another option is the Kent Hotel Gwangalli by Kensington. This fantastic hotel is in Busan’s entertainment district and offers easy access to bars, clubs and restaurants. It has modern rooms with stylish décor and a selection of great services.
While South Korea can be very safe, it’s super important to make sure you get travel insurance!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around South Korea.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Busan.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Busan to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Busan is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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