Hotels in Busan

Busan: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Cultural Wonders

Discover Busan, South Korea's vibrant coastal gem, where stunning beaches meet rich culture. Stroll along Haeundae Beach, basking in the sun or savoring fresh seafood at bustling markets. Explore serene temples like Beomeosa, nestled in lush mountains, and wander through scenic natural parks that showcase the region's breathtaking landscapes. Don’t miss the picturesque Gamcheon Culture Village, bursting with colorful art and charm. For panoramic views, ascend Busan Tower and marvel at the city's skyline. With a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Busan offers an unforgettable escape for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Busan and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Busan

Some of the best places to stay in Busan are Haeundae, Seomyeon and Nampo-dong. Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Nampo-dong are excellent destinations in Busan for travelers. Haeundae is famous for its stunning beaches and luxury resorts, making it ideal for relaxation. Seomyeon offers vibrant nightlife and shopping, perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Nampo-dong is known for its street markets and cultural experiences. For first-time visitors, Haeundae is the best choice, with a range of accommodations from upscale hotels to budget-friendly options, catering to various preferences and price ranges. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Busan:

1. HaeundaeOpens in a new window: Haeundae is a vibrant beach destination in Busan, known for its stunning coastline and lively atmosphere. It offers direct access to beautiful beaches like Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach, making it perfect for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. The area is also home to attractions like Shinsegae Centum City, a major shopping complex. Notable hotels include Paradise Hotel BusanOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that features beach access, a casino, and natural hot springs for relaxation. Another option is The Westin Josun BusanOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel offering business services alongside beach amenities. Park Hyatt BusanOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, focuses on business and spa experiences, providing a full-service spa and pool.
2. SeomyeonOpens in a new window: Seomyeon is a bustling urban hub in Busan, ideal for travelers who enjoy city life and shopping. With proximity to Gwangalli Beach and major shopping spots like Lotte Department Store, it’s a convenient base for exploring. Lotte Hotel BusanOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel featuring a casino and business facilities, perfect for corporate travelers. For a blend of luxury and hot spring experiences, Hotel NongshimOpens in a new window offers an onsite hot spring along with business amenities. Additionally, Grand Mercure Ambassador ChangwonOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel that caters to business and golf enthusiasts.
3. Nampo-dongOpens in a new window: Nampo-dong is a vibrant district known for its shopping and dining experiences, featuring attractions like Nampodong Street and Jagalchi Fish Market. It's a great spot for those who want to immerse themselves in local culture. Among the accommodations, Samsung Hotel GeojeOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers with 24-hour business center services. Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan StationOpens in a new window and Asti Hotel Busan StationOpens in a new window, both 4.0-star hotels, offer essential business amenities and dining options, making them suitable for both leisure and business visitors.

Things to do in Busan for first time

Three days in Busan offers the perfect blend of stunning beaches, lush mountains, and serene parks. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking scenic trails, diving in vibrant waters, and shopping in lively markets. The city’s natural beauty and diverse experiences make it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Busan:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the Birthplace of Roh Moo-hyun, a site dedicated to the former president and a significant part of Korea's political history. After immersing yourself in the local culture, head to the Royal Tomb of King Suro, where you can marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn about the Gaya Confederacy. Conclude your day with a visit to Gimhae Gaya Theme Park, where you can enjoy various rides and attractions that celebrate the region's history and folklore.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Gimhae National Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the Gaya period through fascinating exhibits. Next, make your way to Seongsan Art Hall to appreciate contemporary art and possibly catch a performance. Finally, visit the Gimhae Bonghwangdong Historic Site, where you can explore the remnants of ancient tombs and gain insight into Korea's past civilizations.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Naewonsa Temple, a serene Buddhist site perfect for reflection and tranquility. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, travel to Tongdosa Temple, one of Korea's largest and most important temples, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Wrap up your day with a visit to Yangsan 153 Gidokbaekhwajeom, a traditional rice cake shop where you can savor delicious local treats.

5 tips to find a great Busan hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Busan is during January, February, and December when hotel rates are lower. Domestic travelers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for better prices, while international travelers will find great value for money by booking at least eight months ahead. To truly experience the city's charm, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to explore its beautiful beaches and temples. This way, you can maximize your trip while staying on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Busan, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a variety of options that may include refundable choices and good availability. To uncover these deals, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website. You could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you maximize your savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Busan.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Busan is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like the subway, bus, or taxi to explore the area while saving money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Busan and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Busan

Here are some top-rated dishes in Busan, South Korea:

• Bulgogi: This beloved Korean dish consists of marinated beef grilled to perfection, often served with rice and various side dishes. The marinade, typically made with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper, infuses the meat with a sweet and savory flavor, making it a must-try when in Busan. Enjoy it in a lively setting, perhaps at a barbecue restaurant where you can grill your own meat at the table.
• Bibimbap: A colorful and nutritious dish, bibimbap features a mix of rice topped with sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (spicy red pepper paste). This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a reflection of the harmony in Korean cuisine, allowing you to personalize it by adjusting the spice levels to your taste.
• Sushi: While sushi is often associated with Japan, Busan's coastal location means you can find incredibly fresh seafood prepared in unique Korean styles. Look for local variations that showcase seasonal fish, often served with rice and a variety of dipping sauces, creating a delightful culinary experience that highlights the region's maritime heritage.

Best time to go to Busan

Busan experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.7°F (3.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.3°F (26.3°C). July is usually the wettest month. June, July, and September are the peak travel months in Busan, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.