If you’re visiting Seoul but don’t want to miss out on Busan, you’re in luck — taking a day trip from Seoul to Busan is absolutely doable!
Yes, it’ll be a long day, but if you plan well, you can easily explore Busan’s highlights and make it back to Seoul the same night. During our trip, Busan turned out to be one of the biggest surprises — a vibrant, colorful city full of charm, coastal views, and unique attractions.
Whether you have limited time in Korea or just a long layover in Seoul, this guide will help you plan a Seoul to Busan day trip efficiently.
Best Way to Travel from Seoul to Busan
Why You Should Take the Train
There are three main ways to get from Seoul to Busan: by train, car, or plane.
- Flights may seem fast, but airport transfers, check-in times, and security checks make flying more time-consuming than it appears.
- Driving takes about 4 hours one way, meaning you’ll spend 8 hours on the road — not ideal for a day trip.
- The best choice? KTX High-Speed Train.
The KTX (Korea Train Express) takes just 2.5 to 2.45 hours from Seoul Station to Busan Station, making it the quickest and easiest option.
💡 Pro tip: Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for directions in Korea. Google Maps doesn’t work well here.
Recommended Train Times for a Busan Day Trip
- 5:27 AM departure (arrives 8:15 AM in Busan)
- 6:57 AM departure (arrives 9:38 AM)
- 7:27 AM departure (arrives 10:02 AM)
A one-way ticket costs around ₩59,800 (~$43 USD). You can buy tickets at the station or via navigation apps, but check in advance if your foreign card works.
✅ Always confirm train times on Naver Map before your trip.
How to Spend One Day in Busan — Sample Itinerary
Busan is spread out, and public transport alone might slow you down. For a seamless experience, consider booking a Busan day tour that covers the top attractions and includes transportation.
Recommended Busan Day Tour Stops:
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple — A stunning seaside temple with peaceful morning views.
- Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory — Walk on a glass-floored skywalk overlooking the coastline.
- Lunch at a local seafood restaurant (not included in the tour price).
- Haeundae Blueline Park — Ride the scenic Sky Capsule along the coast.
- Huinnyeoul Culture Village — An artsy village with ocean views and boutique cafes.
- Gamcheon Culture Village — The famous colorful hillside village that’s a must-see.
What Time Should You Arrive in Busan?
Most tours start around 8:10 AM near Busan Station (Exit 2).
To make it on time, we recommend the 5:27 AM KTX from Seoul.
If you’re running late, communicate with your tour provider — some guests took a later train and met up with the group later in the morning.
Returning to Seoul
Trains back to Seoul run until 10:00 PM, arriving around midnight.
Be sure to check your return schedule and leave buffer time after your tour ends.
Final Thoughts — Is a Seoul to Busan Day Trip Worth It?
Absolutely!
Though it’s a packed schedule, seeing Busan in a day is possible and rewarding. With highlights ranging from ancient temples to coastal villages, Busan offers a taste of South Korea’s diversity beyond Seoul.
A guided day tour maximizes your time and minimizes stress, letting you enjoy the best of Busan in just one day.
Ready to plan your trip?
Book your KTX tickets early, reserve your Busan day tour, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure from Seoul to Busan in one day!