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The Best Hostels and Guesthouses to Book in Busan, South Korea

Busan brims with vibrant neighbourhoods, including the coastal gem of Haeundae
Busan brims with vibrant neighbourhoods, including the coastal gem of Haeundae | © Sean Pavone / Alamy Stock Photo

Busan, the second-most populous city in South Korea, has a little bit of everything: beaches, mountains, temples, great food and a happening art scene. Attractions are spread across the city’s neighbourhoods, from vibrant Haeundae to hipster haven Seomyeon. To help you save money and enjoy all that the area has to offer, here’s our pick of the best guesthouses and hostels in Busan – bookable with Culture Trip.

Busan Backpackers

Hostel

Two hammocks and shaded seats around a table on a roof terrace at Busan Backpackers, with views of buildings beyond
Courtesy of Busan Backpackers / Expedia

On the main drag in the old historic town of Nambumin-dong and sitting between Songdo Beach and Jagalchi Market, a world-famous fish market, Busan Backpackers is quick to emphasise that it isn’t meant for the partiers of the backpacking crowd. Instead, it’s perfect for travellers looking to absorb as much culture as possible. This hostel has bicycle and scooter rentals, an on-site cafe and laundry services.

Guesthouse Dear Moon

Hostel, Guesthouse

Several bunk beds in a dorm at Guesthouse Dear Moon, with a walkway through the middle
Courtesy of Guesthouse Dear Moon / Expedia

Within walking distance of Gukje Market and Jagalchi Market, this hostel lies in the relatively central, transit-accessible area of Jung-gu. The shared kitchen, shared lounge and currency exchange will ease your stay. For a break from the city, relax on the cute rooftop terrace plastered with bright green astroturf and shady places to sit.

K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo 1

Guesthouse

Single bed and TV overlooking Busan at K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo
Courtesy of K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo 1 / Expedia

With 41 airy, well-lit ensuite rooms – some with ocean views – K-Guesthouse Premium Nampo 1 is just steps from Gwangbokro Culture and Fashion Street in Gwangbok-dong. It’s also within proximity of Yongdusan Park, a popular green space home to many attractions, including the World Model Ship Exhibition Hall.

Blueboat Hostel Haeundae

Hostel

Social area at Blueboat Hostel Haeundae, with dining table, sofa, computer and kitchenette with washing machine
Courtesy of Blueboat Hostel Haeundae / Expedia

One of the most family-friendly hostels in Busan, the 11-room Blueboat Hostel Haeundae welcomes children over the age of seven, which isn’t the case at every hostel in the region. It also offers men- and women-only dorms, has a shared kitchen and is a short stroll from Haeundae Beach. A subway station, bus stops and the traditional Haeundae Market are also close by.

The Wendy House

Hostel, Guesthouse

The Wendy House aims to provide waterfront relaxation on a budget. Near Gwangalli Beach and the Diamond Bridge – connecting the Haeundae and Suyeong neighbourhoods and featuring a popular light show – this guesthouse offers an array of water sports for the traveller looking for more than just a quick dip. It’s also close to Thursday Party, a popular Western-style bar.

Kimchee Busan Downtown Guesthouse

Hostel

Four bunks beds in a Kimchee Busan Downtown Guesthouse dorm, with a soft seat in the middle of the room
Courtesy of Kimchee Busan Downtown Guesthouse / Expedia

The Kimchee Busan Downtown Guesthouse offers both private and dormitory rooms, including women-only options. If you’re feeling sociable, there’s a shared kitchen, a ping-pong table in the common room, and darts and karaoke for an additional charge, and you’ll also find live sports events on the TV. This hostel is in the Beomcheon neighbourhood, just minutes away from a subway station.

TraveLight

Hostel

Industrial-chic dining area at TraveLight, with several tables and chairs
Courtesy of TraveLight / Expedia

TraveLight doesn’t mince words with its name, and the accommodation follows suit. Dutifully clean bunk beds, sparse guest rooms and a common room that feels like an industrial kitchen will keep you satisfied and comfortable. Women-only dorms, complimentary breakfast daily and the blissfully cool air conditioning don’t hurt either. The true gem here, though, is the location, sitting on the main strip of Seomyeon, the most central and vibrant part of the city with great transit access. Hostels in Busan don’t get much more conveniently placed.

Pop Guest House

Hostel, Guesthouse

Social area at Pop Guest House, with several childrens party games on a table in front of a TV and computer
Courtesy of Pop Guest House / Expedia

This 14-room guesthouse is done in bright, funky blues and pinks, true to its name. It lies in Jung-gu, a 10-minute drive from the Songdo Skywalk and the nearby beach. The Fisheries Science Museum and Busan Museum are also close by. Soundproofed windows are in all the rooms, which come with beds or floor futons. Elsewhere, the patio and bar provide a nice break from the city.

Good Day Mate

Hostel

Rustic dining area at Good Day Mate, with two tables and several chairs
Courtesy of Good Day Mate / Expedia

This guesthouse is within walking distance of the popular Haeundae Beach and is great for transiting to destinations across the city. Done in concrete, brick and glossy hardwood, Good Day Mate offers a range of private rooms. While it’s on the smaller side, it has a lot to offer, including 24-hour security, a laundromat and luggage storage.

Phoebe Taylor contributed additional reporting to this article.

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