Weekend in Busan

Central hillside park with statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a large pagoda, and a lift up to Busan Tower (paid). Good for a quick break from the shopping streets below.

Tip: Skip the tower entry fee (8,000 won) and walk up the stairs from Gwangbok-dong. The park has free public toilets and benches with a view. Best in late afternoon.

Good overview of Busan's history from ancient pottery through Japanese occupation to modern city. Clean, well-labelled exhibits in Korean and English.

Tip: The outdoor folk village annex, right next door, is also free and worth 20 minutes. Check the first Sunday of the month for free guided tours in English at 10am.

Colourful hillside village with twisting alleys, art installations, and watched-over stairways. Walk the main route and see the 'Little Prince' statue overlooking the port.

Tip: Go early (before 9am) to avoid crowds and the heat. The village shops don't open until 10am, but you get the place almost to yourself.

Flat 1.5km coastal path around a small island connected to Haeundae beach. Walk past the APEC Nurimaru House, through pine trees, and get good views of Gwangan Bridge.

Tip: Do it at sunset for the bridge lights. Start from the Haeundae end, finish at the lighthouse, then walk back along the beach. Takes 45 minutes at a steady pace.

Buddhist temple set on rocky cliffs above the sea. The main hall, stone pagodas, and ocean-facing Buddhas make for a striking coastal walk.

Tip: Take the bus from Haeundae station (route 181 or 1003) for 1,200 won. Arrive at sunrise for a quiet visit and good light without crowds.