Safest Places to Stay in Busan, South Korea (From A Solo Traveller) + A Map
If you’re planning a trip to the stunning, unique coastal city of Busan, South Korea, and wondering where are the safest places to stay in Busan, you’re in the right place.
As a seasoned solo female traveler myself, who recently traveled to Busan I know just how important it is to find accommodation that not only offers comfort and convenience but also prioritizes safety and security.
During my travels to Busan, I explored the various neighborhoods and discovered some hidden gems that are perfect for solo female travelers seeking a safe and welcoming environment.
From the popular beachfront districts to lively cultural hubs and trendy cities, Busan has it all! I’m here to break down the best options for your stay so you can confidently book your trip today!
Let’s get started!
Wondering is Busan even worth visiting? Read my honest opinion!
Overview: Safest Places To Stay in Busan
Lotte Hotel Busan (Seomyeon)
Indulge in affordable luxury at Lotte Hotel, just a short walk from Seomyeon Subway Station. Enjoy top-notch service and amenities like an on-site duty-free store, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of dining options!
| Best For Budget Travellers | Guesthouse Dear Moon (Nampo Dong) |
| Best For Luxury Seekers | Park Hyatt (Haeunde) |
| Best For Beach Lovers | Shilla Stay Haeundae (Haeunde) |
| Best for Cultural Enthusiasts | Nampo Hound Hotel Premier (Nampo Dong) |
| Best for Convenience | The Shire Hotel (Seomyeon) |
| Best for a Romantic Stay | AG405 Hotel (Gwangalli Beach) |
Busan Travel Essentials
- Grab the Visit Busan Pass exclusively available for international travelers, and save money! Enjoy free access to 40+ attractions, tour buses/trams, and discounts for tours & restaurants.
- Now, staying connected is a must, right? Pick up a 4G SIM card with unlimited data (KT) or 4G SIM (SKT) at Seoul or Busan airport. But if you prefer to connect multiple devices, rent a 4G Pocket WiFi. Reserve in advance to save time!
- Grab your T Money Card from the airport to make getting around South Korea a breeze. Your T Money card is your ticket to Korea’s subways, buses, and taxis. Easily top up your card at the subway station machines.
- Buy a discounted KTX pass for unlimited high-speed train rides. It’ll whisk you from Seoul to Busan in under 2.5 hours. Now, that’s the way to travel!
- Book your airport pickup in advance for a more cost-effective journey. Gimhae Airport is far from the city center and Uber’s aren’t available, plus a taxi will cost you big bucks.
- Google Maps, Rome 2 Rio, and Kakao Maps will be your best friends for getting around South Korea
1. Haeundae Beach: Safest Place To Stay in Busan for Beach Life
When it comes to finding one of the safest places to stay in Busan for beach life, Haeundae Beach is a no-brainer. Located on the eastern side of Busan, this iconic stretch of coastline is not only famous for its soft sand and clear waters but also for its reputation as a safe destination for everyone.
From beachfront cafes and restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes to colorful beach bars and live music performances, there’s always something happening here.
When it’s time to hit the beach, there are well-maintained facilities, designated swimming areas, and lifeguards on duty during the peak summer season.
Plus, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, finding a safe and comfortable place to stay near Haeundae Beach isn’t too difficult.
However, it’s so important to note that Haeundae is located quite far away from the other major sights. Expect to travel around 45 minutes to a 1 hour via metro to reach Nampo-Dong (to visit Jagalachi Fish Markets), Gamcheon Cultural Village, and Seomyeon.
So if you have a jam-packed itinerary with loads of sights to squeeze in, it may add a lot more travel to your day.
But if you want to beach bum, kayak, sip cocktails and take things at a slower pace Haeundae is perfect.
✔️Check out my guide on the Best Free Things To Do in Busan!
Highlights of Haeundae
Drawbacks of Haeundae
Budget Stay In Haeundae – Kimchee Haeundae Guesthouse
⭐ 7.5 out of 10 (707 reviews)
Only 500m from Haeundae Beach, what I love about Kimchee Guesthouse is the range of rooms available. Choose from female or male-only dorms, single, double, and triple private rooms all for a very affordable price.
All rooms are air-conditioned, which is essential for summer, and have free Wi-Fi.
Hang out in the downstairs area to get some work done or meet other travelers.
➡️ Click here to book your stay at Kimchee Haeunde Guesthouse
“What an incredible place! Location is amazing. Facilities are great. Bathroom in the dorm room with everything that you need. Super comfy beds and amazing staff” – Nayla
Mid-Range Stay in Haeundae – Shilla Stay Haeundae
⭐ 8.1 out of 10 (1672 reviews)
Shilla Stay Haeundae, located just 230 meters from Haeundae Beach and 200 meters from Busan Aquarium, offers a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of Haeundae.
The hotel features soundproofed rooms with views of the sea or city, equipped with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV, en suite bathroom with electronic bidet, and complimentary WiFi.
Enjoy access to the fitness center, 24-hour front desk services, and on-site restaurant and bar.
➡️ Book now at Shilla Stay Haeundae
“Absolutely great value for money – Spectacular ocean view, easy access to transports, the beach and very comfortable beds! They even provide free drinks and snacks in the fridge! The shampoo and lotions were also of a very good quality!” – Chris
Luxury Stay in Haeundae – Park Hyatt
⭐ 8.9 out of 10 (975 reviews)
Park Hyatt Busan, situated in the heart of Haeundae district next to Busan Marina and just 2 km from Haeundae Beach, offers luxurious 5-star accommodation.
With elegant rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and French oak flooring, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and Busan Marina.
The hotel boasts a 20-meter indoor pool, a Spa & Fitness center with seven treatment rooms, and shuttle services to the train station and airport.
Dining options include the Dining Room Steak & Seafood Grill, Living Room Italian restaurant, and the Lounge for casual gatherings.
With its sophisticated design and exceptional amenities, Park Hyatt Busan provides the ultimate luxury experience in Haeundae.
➡️ Click here to book your stay at Park Hyatt
“Amazing views of the Busan bridge from the room. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly. The rooms are very confortable and the breakfest in the hotel is delicious. Our stay was wonderful in Park Hyatt!” -Ion
2. Seomyeon: One of the Safest Places To Stay in Busan For Convenience (Where I Chose!)
Situated in the heart of the city, Seomyeon is a trendy city that offers a perfect blend of safety, accessibility, and convenience. I chose to stay in Seomyeon due to its unbeatable location and fantastic shopping, nightlife, and food. And let me tell you I was very happy with my choice!
As a major commercial and transport hub, Seomyeon offers excellent connectivity to other parts of the city and beyond. With Seomyeon Station serving as a major interchange for Busan Metro Lines 1 and 2, getting around the city is a breeze.
This is perfect if you are only here for a few days and want to explore all of the city!
I also found Seomyeon offered a wider range of accommodations compared to Haeundae with some very affordable hotels with great amenities – it’s great for budget travelers. Plus, with its abundance of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment venues, you’ll never be far from the action.
But, it’s worth noting that Seomyeon can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. So if you prefer a quieter more relaxing stay, you may want to consider staying in a more residential neighborhood away from the city center.
Staying in busan for 5 days? Check out my 5 day Busan Itinerary!
Highlights of Seomyeon
Drawbacks of Seomyeon
Budget Stay In Seomyeon – Seri Inn Guesthouse
⭐ 8.9 out of 10 (69 reviews)
With private rooms and small dorms (4-bed male and female) this guesthouse is a fantastic choice for backpackers and budget travelers.
It has an unbeatable location only 300 meters from the city center and 400 meters from Seomyeon Station.
The property has a lift (perfect for getting luggage to your room) and a shared kitchen, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
It’s all you can need for an affordable stay in a fantastic location!
➡️ Book your stay at Seri Inn Guesthouse here
“The location is very close to the Seomyeon subway station, which is highly convenient. The staff is extremely friendly and speaks English fluently. The rooms are also very clean, and it gives the impression that the owner is a very attentive person. Although there is no breakfast provided, occasionally there are some snacks available for self-service in the lobby. Before leaving, the owner even gave me some homemade food to take away, which I truly appreciated.” – Wei Ju
Mid-Range Stay in Seomyeon – The Shire Hotel (Where I stayed!)
⭐ 8.2 out of 10 (82 reviews)
Let’s talk about where I stayed in Busan as a solo traveler – the Shire Hotel in Seomyeon.
This mid-range accommodation ticks all the boxes—comfortable, convenient, and budget-friendly—making it a top pick for travelers looking to maximize their Busan experience without overspending.
For just AUD 50 per night, I secured a private room and bathroom—talk about a steal! Situated right in the heart of Seomyeon, you have easy access to a plethora of shops, convenience stores, and dining options. Seomyeon station is a mere 10-minute stroll – perfect for getting around the city.
The hotel amenities include bathrobes, slippers, toiletries, and even 2 complimentary coffee vouchers. However, it’s worth noting that the hotel’s infrastructure shows its age, with some noticeable signs of wear and tear – just don’t look too close and you’re fine!
➡️ Click here to book your stay at The Shire Hotel
“Great location, friendly staff, super easy check in & check out.” – Samuel.
Luxury Stay in Seomyeon – Lotte Hotel Busan
⭐ 8.6 out of 10 (1287 reviews)
Prepare for a taste of luxury at the glamorous Lotte Hotel Busan, where you’ll be treated like a VIP with top-notch service. Better yet it’s much more affordable luxury so don’t knock it until you check the prices here!
Conveniently located just a 5-minute stroll from Seomyeon Subway Station, Lotte Hotel offers a unique perk – direct access through an underground shopping arcade from Seomyeon Subway Station.
What’s on the agenda for your stay? How about indulging in an on-site duty-free store featuring over 200 luxury brands, a department store, and even a movie theatre for your entertainment needs?
And if that’s not enough, take a dip in the indoor and outdoor pool, unwind at the sauna, or break a sweat at the fitness center at the Fitness Club.
The rooms are spacious with free WiFi, cozy goose-down blankets, and complimentary toiletries for your comfort.
Feeling hungry? Head to La Seine for a buffet breakfast or explore the hotel’s diverse restaurants offering Japanese, Chinese, and Korean cuisines to satisfy your cravings.
And don’t forget to drop by The Lounge on the ground floor for desserts and cocktails to round off your day in style.
➡️ Click here to book your stay at Lotte Hotel Seomyeon
Beautiful hotel with a great location, very close to the subway station. Professional, polite, smiling staff helping you with everything and literally everywhere. Super clean, spacious, clean room with everything you need. Exceptional view! Breakfast at the club lounge was excellent. Luxury hotel, great hospitality, absolutely recommended.” – Katalin.
3. Nampo Dong: The Best Area To Stay For Culture and Food
Next, we have Nampo Dong, located in the southern center of the city, offering a vibrant fusion of culture, history, and food.
As someone who loves to immerse myself in the local culture and try the cuisine, Nampo Dong was a very appealing. Plus it is one of the safest places to stay in Busan, perfect for solo travelers!
From historic landmarks like the iconic Jagalchi Fish Market and Yongdusan Park to modern art galleries and traditional tea houses, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences here.
You can wander down to Biff Square for some great people-watching, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Or head over to the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village just a short bus ride away.
Now let’s talk food! From fresh seafood stalls at Jagalchi Fish Market to sizzling barbecue joints and cozy cafes serving up traditional Korean fare, the food scene in Nampo-Dong is top-notch.
It’s worth noting that Nampo Dong is not as central as Seomyeon, which may require slightly longer travel times to reach certain attractions in other parts of the city.
Highlights of Nampo-Dong
Drawbacks of Namp0-Dong
Budget Stay In Nampo-Dong – Guesthouse Dear Moon
⭐ 9.2 out of 10 (316 reviews)
Guesthouse Dear Moon is a budget-friendly accommodation offering female-only and mixed dorms and a private family room. Conveniently located just 400 meters from Gukje Market and 1 km from Gwangbok-Dong, this guesthouse provides easy access to some of Busan’s top attractions.
Enjoy the shared kitchen facilities, air-conditioned rooms, full-day security, and currency exchange services for added convenience.
If you want to soak up the sunshine, the guesthouse offers a picnic area where you can relax and unwind outdoors.
➡️ Click here to book your stay at Guesthouse Dear Moon
Mid-Range Stay in Nampo-Dong – Nampo Hound Hotel Premier
⭐ 8.5 out of 10 (813 reviews)
Next on the list of the safest places to stay in Busan is the 3-star Nampo Hound Hotel. Just 3 km from Songdo Beach, and 500m from Gujke market this hotel offers guests a comfortable and convenient stay.
The hotel features a garden, private parking, a shared lounge, an on-site restaurant, and a terrace.
Rooms at Nampo Hound Hotel Premier are air-conditioned with amenities such as a desk, kettle, fridge, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet.
For an unforgettable stay, don’t miss out on the double room with a balcony, to enjoy unspoiled views of the city.
➡️ Book your stay at Nampo Hound Hotel Premier now!
“Great value for money! Perfect location, a few minute from the metro station and very convenient for some of the main attractions in the city.” – Ornella
4. Gwangalli Beach: Safest Place To Stay in Busan for Beach Sunsets
Lastly, we have Gwangalli Beach, located to the west of Haeundae Beach. This is one of the safest places to stay in Busan for a picturesque, quiet stay along Busan’s coastline.
With stunning sunsets and epic views of Gwangan Bridge beach-loving travelers should consider a stay at Gwangalli.
Unlike the big crowds at Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Here you can enjoy taking a walk along the promenade as the sun sets, enjoying an early morning swim, or simply lounging on the soft sand.
But don’t expect Gwangalli Beach to offer as many accommodation options or amenities compared to Haeundae or Seomyeon. I also found the area to lack a diverse nightlife and dining scene.
Highlights of Gwangalli Beach
Drawbacks of Gwangalli Beach
Mid-Range Stay in Gwangalli Beach – Hotel Marine View
⭐ 8.8 out of 10 (84 reviews)
Hotel Marine View stands as one of the top mid-range accommodation choices in the Gwangalli Beach area of Busan. Located just 200 meters from the picturesque Gwangalli Beach, this hotel offers a gorgeous stay.
Certain units have balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning sea views, allowing you to soak in Gwangalli Beach right from your room.
You can even enjoy a spa bath as you look out the window onto the ocean!
Each room has air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
For added convenience, start your day with a buffet or American breakfast offered at the hotel.
➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Marine View By Clicking Here
“The view was so pretty. The bathroom bathtub was large, so I took a Lush bubble bath, and the room and bathroom were very clean. I even had a styler so I could sterilize my clothes!” – Juyoung
Luxury Stay in Gwangalli Beach – AG405 Hotel
⭐ 8.8 out of 10 (225 reviews)
AG405 Hotel is all about luxury, conveniently situated just a few short steps from Gwangalli Beach. It features beautifully furnished guestrooms overlooking sweeping sea views.
Featuring large windows with sea views, the elegant air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a TV, ample workspace, and comfortable beds or futons, depending on what you choose.
A luxurious bathtub and free toiletries are included in the en suite bathrooms – perfect for romantic stays. Located a 20-minute walk from Suyeong Subway Station and a 10-minute drive from the popular Haeundae Beach.
Breakfast is available on weekends at the hotel’s restaurant and there is a variety of dining options just 5 minutes away by foot.
➡️ Book your luxurious stay at AG405 Hotel Now
“This was a really lovely hotel with a large room and I had an excellent view of the bay and across to the skyscrapers of Haeundae. The staff were great. The room was spotlessly clean and the bed was super comfortable. The room rate was entirely reasonable for the quality of the hotel. The restaurant upstairs has a lovely view and is quite upmarket.” – Deeceezz
Map of The Safest Place To Stay in Busan
The pins on the map below show the locations of each of the safest places to stay in Busan covered above as well as a few other hotels to check out.
Need a hand planning your trip to South Korea? Check out my 10 Days in South Korea Itinerary
Safest Way to Get Around Busan
No matter where you choose to stay in Busan, you will still need to get around the city to visit all the major attractions as the city is quite big.
Below are the safest ways I recommend you navigate the city.
Metro
Alright, let’s talk about the trusty Busan Metro!
This underground system is a real lifesaver when it comes to navigating the city safely and efficiently. With clean, modern trains and user-friendly stations, the metro is perfect for getting around quickly and conveniently.
Plus, it’s known for its safety and reliability, so you can travel with peace of mind knowing you’re in good hands.
And don’t worry about translation issues, most signs have an English translation available.
Buses
Next up, we’ve got the good old-fashioned bus system. While it may not be as speedy as the metro, buses are still a great option for reaching destinations that aren’t directly served by the subway, such as Gamcheon Culture Village.
Just hop on board with your T Money Card (buses don’t take cash!), find a seat, and enjoy a more scenic ride. Most buses do have screens with the next destination so you know when to get off.
I also used Google Maps and asked the driver for help to get around safely and smoothly.
And with CCTV cameras and emergency buttons on board, you can rest assured that your journey will be safe and secure.
Taxis
Last but not least, we have taxis. While they may be a bit pricier than other modes of transport, taxis are worth considering, especially if you’re in a hurry or traveling late at night.
Busan taxis are known for their cleanliness and reliability, and drivers are generally friendly and helpful. Plus I found them much more affordable in comparison to other major cities!
Just be sure to use a reputable taxi company, Kakao Taxi is the most common and the one I used, and always check that the meter is running to avoid any surprises.
FAQs: Safest Places To Stay in Busan
Moving onto some commonly asked questions about the safest places to stay in Busan.
Which part of Busan should I stay in?
Choosing where to stay in Busan can be a tough call! It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to be right in the heart of the action with easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife, Seomyeon is your go-to spot.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more laid-back vibe with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach, Haeundae might be more your style.
No matter where you stay, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do in Busan. And the metro is super easy to navigate to jump around the city.
Is it better to stay in Seomyeon or Nampo?
Seomyeon is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling shopping streets, and convenient transport links, making it a great choice for those who want to be in the thick of the action.
On the other hand, Nampo offers a more laid-back atmosphere with its charming alleyways, historic sites, epic food markets, and scenic waterfront views. Whichever neighborhood you choose, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Busan.
Is Busan safe for solo female travelers?
Absolutely! As a solo female traveler, I felt very safe and welcomed in Busan. Of course, it’s always important to be careful and use common sense, just as you would in any other city.
Stick to well-lit and populated areas and trust your instincts. If in doubt reach out to a trusted authority like a policeman or a store manager for assistance.
Where do foreigners live in Busan?
Foreigners in Busan live in a variety of neighborhoods throughout the city. Some popular areas among ex-pats include Haeundae, with its beautiful beachfront location and vibrant international community, and Seomyeon, known for its convenient transport links and fun city center.
Other neighborhoods like Gwangalli and Nampo also attract a diverse mix of residents from around the world.
You can’t really go wrong in Busan, each neighborhood offers something unique!
The Wrap-Up: Safest Places To Stay in Busan
Those were the safest places to stay in Busan! I hope you feel more confident and excited about planning your upcoming adventure.
Remember, choosing the right neighborhood and accommodation can make all the difference in your experience.
From the gorgeous beaches of Haeundae to the street markets of Nampo Dong, Busan offers such a diverse range of stays. Whether you prefer the convenience of city life in Seomyeon or the tranquility of beachfront relaxation in Gwangalli Beach, there’s a perfect spot for you.
Safe travels, and happy trip planning!
Read more about traveling in Busan!
- Is Busan Worth Visiting: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Busan
- Seoul or Busan: Which City Should You Visit?
- Busan 5 Day Itinerary: South Korea for First Timers
- Day Trip From Seoul to Busan – 1 Day Itinerary
- Is South Korea Safe For Female Travellers? A Complete Travel Guide
- The Ultimate South Korea Itinerary 10 Days!
- How Many Days in Busan Do You Need? The Perfect 4 Day in Busan Itinerary
- 16 Best Things to Do in Busan in Winter 2024 (+ Interactive Map!)
- 2 Day Busan Itinerary For First Timers (+Interactive Map)
- 17 Free Things to Do in Busan, South Korea (+ Hidden Gems!)
