Although usually overlooked by visitors to South Korea in favour of Seoul, Busan is a wonderful city with a unique brand of Korean urban culture and closer ties to neighbouring Japan. As a seafront city, it also has stretches of sandy beach and good excursions to islands like Geoje-do.
Busan is spread out and connected by a good metro. Haeundae (beaches) to the east, Nampodong (shopping) to the south and Seomyeon (city centre) to the north all have something to offer tourists and are the best spots to find cheap hotels in great locations. We also factor in other aspects of good hotel stays such as the amenities and cleanliness to bring our list of the best five to you. Assa!
Hotel Home
Privates from $66/ night
With plenty of creative flourishes and bursts of colour, there really is a homely feeling to Hotel Home. Situated right next to Seomyeon station where the two main metro lines cross over, this is a great option for business travellers and anybody who wishes to travel to various spots throughout Busan during their stay. Rooms are supplied with kettles, flatscreen TVs with cable access, bathrobes and a sitting area. All rooms are ensuite.
Nampodong The Last Hotel
Privates from $55/ night
When shopping without dropping is your main aim while visiting Busan, The Last Hotel is right by Nampodong, which is considered Busan’s best spot to flash the won (Korean cash). The hotel and its rooms have a suave vibe. Tariffs begin with standard rooms, which come equipped with a kettle, hairdryer, free toiletries, air conditioning and heating. There are facilities for disabled guests. There is also an onsite bar.
Business Hotel Haeundae S
Privates from $49/ night
The Business Hotel Haeundae S is a compact, no frills option that is great for those wishing to spend most of their time out and about, who want to come back to a comfortable, secure room. The location of this spot is ideal for spending time on the beach and the proximity to the metro means that downtown is within easy reach. There are plenty of in-room facilities such as a kettle, slippers, refrigerator and cable TV. Good toiletries are also provided.
Vovtel
Privates from $50/ night
Actually a fancy motel, Vovtel, like many other spots in Busan, actually blurs the lines between motel and hotel. Vovtel is really popular, in part due to its combination of innovation and modernity. There is a desktop computer in each room, an additional flatscreen TV with cable and a fridge near a seating area. Rooms are really spacious, bathrooms are equally well equipped and laid out with separate shower and spa tub that can be used as a hot tub. Breakfast is also included making this a great value option.
Lion Hotel
Privates from $57/ night
Another good option in the Seomyeon area, with spacious rooms and a bathroom equipped with a spa tub, is the Lion Hotel. Rooms are comfy without the ostentation and have their own computer and flatscreen TV besides a minibar, fridge and air conditioning. The hotel also boasts a buffet-style restaurant and free parking facilities. Lion is a suitable choice for disabled guests and the front desk is open 24 hours.