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 Busan has to offer, here’s our pick of the best hostels and guesthouses – bookable with Culture Trip.
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.
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.
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.
The 11-room Blueboat Hostel Haeundae, done in shades of grey, offers men- and women-only dorms; children older than seven are welcome, too, which isn’t the case at every hostel in the region. It also 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Just a 10-minute walk from the buzzing downtown area of Nampo-dong, Busan Party Guest House is a great base to explore this part of the city. It’s close to Gukje Market, Jagalchi Market and Biff Square, a street-food haven. While the decor isn’t stunning, the hostel is very clean and affordably priced. Breakfast is available for a small fee and features home-made, hearty items.
Phoebe Taylor contributed additional reporting to this article.
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