The Perfect Day Trip to Busan from Seoul

Day Trip to Busan from Seoul: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely! With Korea’s high-speed KTX trains, you can reach Busan from Seoul in just over two hours, making it the perfect coastal escape when you’re short on time. In one day, you’ll experience seaside temples, colorful villages, local markets, and beach sunsets.

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or epic ocean views, here’s everything you need to plan the perfect Busan day trip.

How to Get from Seoul to Busan

KTX (Korea Train Express): is the overall best option. It was easy, comfortable seating and plenty of food options in the train station to bring onboard!

Overview:

• Duration: ~2 hr 15 min
• Cost: estimated around ₩59,800 (~$45 USD one-way)
• Book: Korail website or at Seoul Station
• Depart from: Seoul Station → Arrive at: Busan Station
• Tip: Take the 6–7 AM train to make the most of your day!

❌ Avoid buses or driving—those take 4–5+ hours one way.

Where to eat

Cafes & Food Spots

• Taejongdae Ocean Flying Theme Park
  • Cliffside restaurants with ocean views, perfect for seafood lunch.
• Workingholiday Brunch Cafe Bakery
  • Trendy brunch café with Western-style breakfast, pastries, and coffee.
• Kanda Soba (Haeundae Branch)
  • Cozy noodle shop serving authentic soba and udon dishes.

Markets

• Jayeondo Sogeumppang
  • Famous bakery known for its buttery, chewy salt bread (sogeumppang).
    • Tip: Go early—sells out fast!
• Haeundae Traditional Market
  • Bustling local market with street food, snacks, seafood, and souvenirs.

Things to Do in Busan

• Jagalchi Fish Market
  • Korea’s largest seafood market—browse, eat, or photograph the fresh catch.
• Haeundae Blueline Park (Mipo Station) *A MUST
  • Ride the scenic Beach Train or colorful Sky Capsule along the coastline.
• Relax at Haeundae Beach
  • Swim, walk the boardwalk, or sunbathe with locals and tourists.
• Observation Deck (near Jagalchi Fish Market)
  • Overlook Busan harbor and city skyline from a rooftop perspective.

Return to Seoul

Catch the 7:00–8:00 PM KTX back to Seoul from Busan Station. Most trains run until 10 PM. Right across from the station and also located inside the station is an Olive Young. We stopped in for some skincare shopping. I recommend stopping at a 7Eleven or the stands in the station for drinks and snacks for your journey back to Seoul.

Have you traveled to Busan? What are your travel recommendations?