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A Day in Busan: Coastal Views, Street Food, and Hidden Spots

If you're heading to Busan and only have one full day to explore, don’t worry — this city packs a punch.

I spent a day wandering through coastal paths, fish markets, and temple hideaways, and somehow ended it all with hotteok in hand, watching the sunset by the beach.

Here's exactly how I made the most of one day in Busan — and how you can, too.


🌊 Morning: Huinnyeoul Culture Village


I started my day with coffee in Yeongdo, heading straight to Huinnyeoul Culture Village — easily one of Busan’s most underrated spots. Perched on a coastal cliff, this peaceful neighbourhood reminded me of Santorini, but with a Korean twist. Think: pastel walls, local galleries, ocean air.

🛣️ How to get there: Take Line 1 to Nampo Station, then Bus No. 6. Get off at Huinnyeoul Village.

I arrived around 9am, and it was still super quiet — just a few locals walking dogs. If you’re into calm seaside walks and photo-worthy staircases, this place is for you.


🍢 Late Morning: Jagalchi Market


I wandered back toward Nampo-dong and stopped at Jagalchi Market — Korea’s biggest seafood market. It’s busy, loud, and a bit chaotic... in the best way.

I found a tiny stall where an ajumma grilled eel skewers over charcoal. She handed one to me and said, “Just try.” It was salty, rich, and absolutely perfect.

💡 Pro tip: Explore the alleys behind the main market — cheaper food and fewer tourists.


🏙️ Afternoon: Jeonggongdan Temple & Yongdusan Park

I skipped the Busan Tower and wandered behind the escalator, where I stumbled upon Jeonggongdan Temple. The smell of incense, the soft chanting — it was exactly the kind of peace I didn’t know I needed.

I sat quietly and just listened. Below me, the city hummed, but up here, everything was still.


🍜 Late Afternoon: BIFF Square Street Food



BIFF Square was calling my name. Street food heaven — and yes, a little touristy, but totally worth it.

Here’s what I ate:

  • 🔸 Hotteok – filled with seeds and syrup
  • 🔸 Fish cake skewers from Samjin Eomuk
  • 🔸 Tteokbokki with squid chunks
  • 🔸 Fried mandu from a cart run by an elderly couple

If you’re visiting Busan, don’t skip BIFF. Just bring cash and an empty stomach.


🌅 Evening: Gwangalli Beach for Sunset


I ended my day at Gwangalli Beach. The Gwangan Bridge lit up right on time as the sun dipped behind the skyline.

Families picnicked. Kids played. I sat with an iced Americano and watched the city exhale.

🎧 My “chill travel” playlist was the perfect soundtrack to a perfect moment.


💬 Final Thoughts

Busan gave me more than I expected in just a day — small, quiet moments that stuck with me.

If you're planning a visit, my best advice?
Don’t rush. Wander. Get lost. Talk to a vendor. Watch a sunset.
That’s when Busan shows its best side.

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