How to get around in Busan
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I'm visiting Busan soon and want to know the best transportation options. Are taxis expensive? I'm on a budget.
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In Busan, you have several ways to get around: taxis, the subway, and buses. For tourists, taxis and the subway are the easiest options, as the bus system can be a bit more complicated.
Taxis
Taxis in Busan are an affordable choice for short trips and can be more convenient than the subway, especially if you're in a hurry or carrying luggage. The base fare starts at 4,000 KRW, with an additional 1,000 KRW per kilometer. A 5 km ride costs around 8,000 KRW, while a 10 km trip is about 14,000 KRW.
To get a taxi, Uber works well in Busan and is widely used in Korea.
Subway
The Busan Metro is a budget-friendly way to travel, with fares starting at 1,800 KRW per adult. The network is extensive, making it easy to reach major districts and attractions. You can buy single tickets or get a rechargeable transit card, available at all stations.
Busan Station is a key transportation hub, offering connections to the KTX train, which links Busan to major cities in Korea, such as for a quick trip from Busan to Seoul by high-speed train.
Walking
Busan is a walkable city, especially in popular areas like Gwangbok-ro and Haeundae-gu, where you'll find plenty of hotels, great restaurants, and things to do.
Plan Your Routes
For navigation and public transport schedules, use Google Maps. However, for walking and driving directions, Google Maps is unreliable in South Korea due to local restrictions. Instead, use NAVER Map, which provides accurate and up-to-date routes.
To use these apps, make sure you have an internet connection at all times with a Korean tourist SIM card.
For a balance of cost and convenience, use the subway for long distances, then take a taxi or walk for short trips!