3 Days Busan Itinerary: Couchsurfing, Temples and Coastal Walks

(Part of my 30-Day Backpacking Trip in South Korea)

Day 1: “I’m Now in Busan.”

By the time I finally reached my Couchsurfing host’s place in Busan, I posted a quick Facebook update: “I’m now in Busan.” Just a casual check-in… or so I thought.

Moments later, I got a surprise message from Dave, a cousin I hadn’t seen in ages, who had just arrived in Busan that same morning. He was joining a ship the next day, and somehow, against all odds, our schedules aligned for a spontaneous meet-up.

While waiting for his reply, I squeezed in a load of laundry at the house because real backpacking includes detergent and timing your socks, not just pretty views.

We finally met at Busan Metro Station, Exit 1, and jumped straight into exploring. First stop: Texas Street, a colorful, multicultural stretch near the station packed with food and character. We ended up eating kalbi, and wow! Grilled, savory, comforting. Exactly what tired travelers need.

Next, we headed to Gwangan Bridge. At night, fully lit, it stretches across the bay like a ribbon of stars. Even with our energy running low, the view made everything feel worth it.

Near-Metro Disaster (Because of course)

We almost missed the last metro. A classic travel moment. We got lost near Geongjeon Station, and once we realized how late it was, it turned into a full sprint against the subway clock.

Just when we said goodbye, I realized something crucial: he forgot to give me my tripod.

Cue the K-drama scene. I ran back, dodging people, heart racing, praying his metro hadn’t arrived yet. Luck was on my side; it hadn’t. Tripod recovered. Crisis avoided.

We parted (again) quickly, laughing, grateful that everything somehow worked out. It wasn’t perfect, but those are always the nights you remember most.

Funny twist: when I got back home, my host arrived after me. For a moment, I felt like I was the local welcoming committee.

From sugary donuts in Andong to neon lights and near-metro disasters in Busan, this day was everything I love about travel: unexpected connections, slight problems, kindness from strangers, and things going wrong but still turning out right.

Day 2: Wind, Waves, Temple Lunch and Tea

I started the day slow and sweet. Breakfast was simple but perfect: Lotte chocolate cake and coffee. Sometimes that’s all it takes to feel human again.

This turned out to be one of those magical travel days where I didn’t spend a single won. My host, J. Choi, joined me for the entire day. Kind, generous, and super chill. We basically did a full Busan tour, and he insisted on covering everything.

Beomeosa Temple

We took the metro, then a bus, up to Beomeosa Temple, tucked into the hills at the edge of Busan. The wind was already picking up, but the moment we arrived, the place felt calm and grounding.

Lunch at the temple was a total surprise: free vegetarian food. Simple, earthy, fresh, and honestly delicious. We queued, ate together with everyone else, and washed our own dishes. It felt humble, communal, and grounding. Like stepping into a slower rhythm of life.

Igidae Coast

Next stop: Igidae Coast (bus ride, not metro). By the time we arrived, the wind was violent. The kind where you have to brace your whole body.

We planned to walk the Igidae Skywalk, but it was closed due to rain. Disappointing, sure, but the dramatic waves, dark clouds, and wild coastline were already stunning enough.

Midday Crash and Comfort Food

Back home, I crashed hard and took a nap.

Later, my host cooked dinner: pork kimchi stew and doenjang jjigae. Absolute comfort food. Warm, rich, deeply satisfying. I ate a lot. No regrets. It was the kind of meal that hugs your insides after a cold, windy day.

Night Out: Shisha, Strong Drinks and Regret

We went out to Blue Monkey, a bar with shisha and Long Island Iced Teas. Not the smartest combo after a heavy meal and a long day. I ended up with a migraine and had to ask if we could leave early.

Before that, though, I found myself in random conversations with drunk strangers. Some funny, some weird, all very “Busan after dark.”

Even with the wind, migraine, and closed skywalk, the day was still a win. Free temple lunch, meaningful conversations, stormy sea views, and that incredible home-cooked dinner made it unforgettable.

Day 3: Sea Breezes, Skywalk, and A Bumpy Exit

I finally slept in. My body needed it.

I woke up around 9:30 AM, but didn’t actually leave the breakfast table until noon. My host and I got deep into conversation. Travel stories, language barriers, and photography. I finally showed him my photos.

Breakfast was classic Korean comfort food: instant jjajangmyeon, kimchi, leftover doenjang jjigae, and surprisingly fancy deviled eggs.

Igidae Skywalk

After the foggy fail yesterday, we returned to Igidae Coast, and this time the skywalk was open. Totally worth it. Endless ocean views, jagged cliffs, and Gwangan Bridge in the distance. Still windy but manageable, and breathtaking.

Haeundae Beach

Next stop: Haeundae Beach. It was alive. Families, couples, performers everywhere. We watched a street juggler, walked along the shore, and I ended up playing with Korean kids digging in the sand and daring each other to run into freezing water. Pure joy.

Late lunch was beef with bean sprouts and rice at a local spot that once hosted an MBC drama shoot. I didn’t recognize the show, but I’ll take the connection.

Off to Jeju

By 5 PM, it was time to head to the airport. Metro transfers took forever, panic slowly crept in, and I was convinced I’d miss my flight.

I made it. Barely.

Next stop: Jeju Island

.