The Best Hotels in Busan, South Korea

If you’re looking for an Instagrammable spot, head a few kilometres northeast of the centre to the Hilton Busan where you’ll find a stylish Gaudí-esque lobby on the 10th floor. The photo opportunities don’t stop there, with rooms serving up dreamy ocean views, several infinity pools to slink between and a smart spa. The Sweet Corner is another ‘gram-friendly spot with a curated mix of delectable fresh bakery favourites, including macarons, pastries and seasonal fruits artfully displayed.

If you’re planning on hitting the expansive Hurshimchung Spa, you might want to book a room at Hotel Nongshim. The property is connected to the spa and offers a 50% discount to this Disneyland of hot springs. When you’re not playing in the spa, swing by the Nae Dang Korean Beef restaurant for a more tranquil, old-style hanok (traditional Korean house) setting and dining experience. And if you fancy some European fodder, there’s a Mediterranean-inspired eatery on the premises as well. Rooms run from deluxe to royal suites – although chances are if staying here, you’ll be spending most of your time in the hot springs.

For a prime position next to Busan’s bustling harbour, book into this spot. This 27-floor hotel caters to business and budget travellers who want to stay downtown next to cool spots, like the humming Jagalchi seafood market, or be close to Busan Station. The rooms are well proportioned and great value for money. Choose a room with harbour views if possible, as the Busan Harbor Bridge looks particularly pretty come nightfall. Amenities include an on-site restaurant, fitness centre and banquet facilities.

Fancy some traditional Korean architecture? If so, swing by the pagoda-style Commodore which rests atop a hill looking out over the eastern part of the city and the harbour beyond. You’ll feel right at home here with cosy furnishings in the rooms and soft lighting. Step things up a gear by booking the royal suite that has a separate lounge area, conference room and bar. On the dining side of things, there are three restaurants, and two of them feature ornately painted ceilings. The indoor pool is another highlight.

Situated along the coast on Haeundae Beach, the slickly designed guest rooms at the Paradise Hotel & Casino provide sweeping views of the shoreline. If you enjoy gambling, this place is a dream come true with some 144 game tables for baccarat, blackjack and roulette, and slot machines in 18 game sections. If gambling isn’t your thing, don’t worry, as the state-of-the-art spa is the other star attraction. Here, you will find an infinity pool, sauna, submerged bar and tranquil treatment rooms. Make time also to check out the hotel’s dining options, which include international, modern Chinese, and gourmet Japanese cuisine.

Impressive views of the sea and the Gwangan Bridge illuminated at night are on the menu over at the upscale Park Hyatt. With three eateries featuring distinctive atmospheres, this hotel is also a fine choice for foodies. The Dining Room has great Western and Asian dishes, with open kitchens allowing curious diners to take a glimpse at the cooking process. Meanwhile, the Living Room is a modern Italian restaurant located on the 31st floor. After you’ve had your fill, roll into a perfectly appointed room or suite.

Located in the heart of the cosmopolitan city, close to the metro, Aventree Hotel makes for a great base for exploring tourist attractions like the Busan Tower. The rooms have a modern and fresh feel with large windows allowing for plenty of natural light. Make sure you get up in time for the bountiful breakfast buffet, with an impressive spread of Korean and international cuisine to sample.

Lotte is one of the most famed hotel groups in the world, and the Busan hotel is its star. Busan Hotel maintains the reputation of the group by providing immaculate services and offering luxurious experiences. This upscale spot also impresses with its wide range of facilities including a casino, duty-free shops, a fitness club, swimming pools and a diverse collection of restaurants to skip between. There are 650 rooms, and some of the swankier suites offer superb harbour and city views. The fine-dining Momoyama restaurant on the 43rd floor is also worth visiting for the vistas, and if you have a penchant for sushi, pull up a seat here.

Nestled on the edge of the celebrated Haeundae Beach, Sunset Business Hotel is a marvellous place to stay for an idyllic, sun-soaked holiday. Travellers can revel in the exclusive views of the sunset over the striking beach and enjoy the on-site dining options. Korean hospitality is reflected in the amiable and warm atmosphere. Light-filled rooms with cream interiors and wood floors are a staple at this spot. Some accommodations come with balconies and relaxing hot tubs.

This vibrant price-friendly hotel is a top spot for leisure or business, with a convenient location close to Haeundae Beach and the main convention centre. There are 177 modern guest rooms with light wood furnishings and plush beds. There is free wifi running throughout, and other amenities include a roomy restaurant serving international cuisine, a bar, gym and two meeting rooms.

Located amongst numerous restaurants and food stalls, travellers staying at the Industrie Hotel can enjoy a food marathon of authentic Korean cuisine and appetising street food. After a day of touring, you may be surprised when you finally step into your room – where is the bed? Actually, this is a smart trick to save space: a fold-up bed is hidden at the back of the sofa. You simply pull it down and return it afterwards.

This hotel is a top destination, combining world-class luxury and exceptional ecotourism. Oozing indulgence and comfort, the Westin Chosun offers activities ranging from Dongbaek tours to snorkelling to clay art workshops. A fantastic selection of fine-dining restaurants can also be found on the property, making it a great choice for foodies.

This luxury hotel boasts a total of 260 rooms in the LCT Tower, a landmark in Haeundae, along with a sweeping infinity pool with a glorious view of the beach and Gwangandaegyo Bridge. With three Michelin stars, chef Bruno Ménard directs the entirety of the culinary experience of this hotel, from afternoon tea sets to in-room menus to full-service dining.

This hotel is located in the hipster Seomyeon area, a vibrant shopping district perfect for neighbourhood-hopping and finding a great place to eat nearby. Rooms are stylish without too much overeager flair, whilst some suites come with private jacuzzi tubs outside, tucked into a hidden enclave for privacy. Free parking is a bonus if you have a car rental.

Located in the Busanjin neighbourhood, Arban Hotel is praised for its prime location. It’s connected to a shopping centre, with Seomyeon Street just a five-minute walk away and other attractions, like Lotte Department Store and the Seven Luck Casino close by. The narrow on-site restaurant is covered in light wood finishings and furnishings whilst glass windows slide open to reveal a tranquil, grassy courtyard.