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Busan to Seoul from $19: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Busan, South Korea
to
Seoul, South Korea

How to Get from Busan to Seoul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$19 by busBest price
331.34 kmDistance
2h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Busan to Seoul with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Korail
Train
Average Duration
2h  37m
Estimated price
$16-50
Recommended
route map
Distance: 331.34 km
Duration: 2h 15m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Ko Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$19-30
Company
Various
Subway
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$32-118
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
$40-58
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  15m
Estimated price
$91-182
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$125-194
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  39m
Estimated price
$137-196
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$156-379

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Fly $71 $26 $24 $54 $27 $50 $52
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Busan to Seoul

The journey from Busan to Seoul offers a fascinating contrast between the coastal city's vibrant, laid-back atmosphere and the bustling energy of the capital, where modern skyscrapers blend seamlessly with rich history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Seoul

Seoul's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and attractions for visitors.

Myeongdong
• Shopping hub with popular international brands.
• Street food stalls offering delicious local snacks.
Hongdae
• Vibrant youth culture with live music and performances.
• Trendy cafes and unique art galleries throughout.
Insadong
• Traditional cultural experiences, including tea houses and art shops.
• Great spot for finding unique souvenirs and crafts.

Best Times To Visit Seoul's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Seoul's top spots.

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Arrive early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and catch the changing of the guard ceremony.
N Seoul Tower
Visit in late afternoon to enjoy sunset views before the city lights come alive.
Bukchon Hanok Village
A morning stroll on weekends captures the quiet charm of traditional hanoks.

Seoul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Seoul experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn particularly pleasant for visiting. The weather significantly influences your travel experience, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn, enhancing the city's natural beauty.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable experience in Seoul, try Banchan (multiple side dishes) paired with a steaming bowl of bibimbap at the iconic Gogung restaurant, where the dining atmosphere buzzes with energy and tradition. This contrasts with Busan's emphasis on fresh seafood; here, the diverse flavors and vibrant local ingredients create a culinary adventure that showcases the heart of Korean cuisine.

Busan - Seoul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Busan and Seoul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+82 1544 7777
Website
https://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizbfForeign_pr16100.do?gubun=1

Train from Busan Station to Seoul Station

Average Duration
2h 37m
Estimated price
$27-50
Website
http://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfTicketSearch.do

Train from Busan Station to Seoul Station

Average Duration
5h 41m
Estimated price
$16-21
Contact phone
1800 1472
Website
https://www.srail.or.kr/main.do?language=EN

Train from Busan Station to Suseo SRT

Average Duration
2h 37m
Estimated price
$35-60
Bus
Contact phone
+82 1644 9030
Website
http://kobus.co.kr

Bus from Busan Central Bus Termnal to Seoul Express Bus Terminal(Gyeongbu)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$19-30
Contact phone
+82 1644 9030
Website
http://hticket.co.kr

Bus from Busan Central Bus Terminal to East Seoul Bus Terminal

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$19-29
Plane Show flights
Website
koreanair.com

Plane from Ulsan (USN) to Seoul Gimpo (GMP)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$45-160

Plane from Gimhae (PUS) to Seoul Gimpo (GMP)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$45-170

Plane from Jinju (HIN) to Seoul Gimpo (GMP)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$45-85

Plane from Gimhae (PUS) to Incheon (ICN)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$270-700

Plane from Pohang (KPO) to Seoul Gimpo (GMP)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$35-80
Website
jinair.com

Plane from Ulsan Airport to Seoul Gimpo Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$40-120

Plane from Gimhae Airport to Seoul Gimpo Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$29-110

Plane from Jinju Airport to Seoul Gimpo Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$45-85

Plane from Pohang Airport to Seoul Gimpo Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$35-80
Website
en.airbusan.com

Plane from Gimhae to Seoul Gimpo

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$35-110
Website
jejuair.net

Plane from Gimhae to Seoul Gimpo

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$28-110

Busan to Seoul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Busan and Seoul offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Busan to Seoul, covering a distance of 400.7 km. 💸 Experience the flexibility and freedom of traveling by car with prices ranging from $55 to $85 to reach Seoul from Busan. 🌆 Arrive in Seoul after approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes of driving. Explore the vibrant city, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and make unforgettable memories on this memorable journey through South Korea.
Average price
$55 - $85
🚆 Traveling from Busan to Seoul by train is a convenient and efficient way to explore South Korea. The direct train operates daily, departing from Busan Station and arriving at Seoul Station, with services running every 20 minutes. 🌆 Enjoy a scenic journey through the South Korean countryside as you cover the 378 km distance in approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. Korail, the operating agency, ensures a comfortable ride on the KTX Gyeongbu train. 💸 Ticket prices for the Busan to Seoul train range from $16 to $50, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to experience the seamless and rapid connection between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Busan Station
Arrival Point
Seoul Station
Useful tips for train travellers
On board the KTX (Korea Train Express), you'll find catering services that include a variety of snacks and beverages available from onboard vendors. You can order meals such as bibimbap or kimbap, available in both regular and vegetarian options. Pre-packed bento meals are also sold, perfect for enjoying during your trip.
For your trip, you can choose from three seating options on the KTX: First Class (with wider seats, more legroom, and complimentary refreshments), Business Class (a good balance of comfort and cost), and Economy Class (affordable, yet comfortable seating with basic amenities). You can book your tickets and choose your seating using the KORAIL website at korail.com
Upon arrival at Seoul Station, be prepared for the station's size and complexity. You can leave your luggage at the station’s luggage storage service located on the 1st floor near the Gate 10 area. There are also clean public restrooms available throughout the station, and showers can be found in specific locations. For quick navigation, consult the station map available at seoulstation.com
🛫 Flying from Ulsan Airport to Seoul Gimpo Airport is the quickest way to travel between the two cities, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour. Both Jin Air and Korean Air provide flights on this route. 🏨 Travelers can choose from a wide range of accommodations in Seoul to suit their preferences and budget, whether it's a luxury hotel in Gangnam, a trendy guesthouse in Hongdae, or a traditional hanok in Bukchon Hanok Village.
Departure Point
Ulsan Airport
Arrival Point
Seoul Gimpo Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight early with Jin Air or Korean Air, as flights often fill up quickly during peak travel seasons between Busan and Seoul; check their websites for the latest schedules and promotions: Jin Air and Korean Air.
• Upon arriving at Gimpo Airport in Seoul, follow the bilingual signs to the express train or subway station for a quick and hassle-free transfer to the city center; the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) is a convenient option with a journey time of around 30 minutes.
• Expect to pay approximately 60,000 to 80,000 KRW for a taxi ride from Gimpo Airport to central Seoul; consider using a taxi app like KakaoTaxi for easy payment and tracking of your ride.
🚌 Traveling from Busan to Seoul by bus is a convenient and popular option for many visitors. The direct bus service departs every 30 minutes and takes approximately 4 hours to reach the bustling capital city. 🛣️ The journey from Busan Central Bus Terminal to Seoul Express Bus Terminal covers a distance of 320 km. The comfortable ride with Ko Bus offers a smooth ride through South Korea's scenic landscapes, making the trip enjoyable and relaxing. 💰 Bus fares for this route typically range from $19 to $30, offering an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore both Busan and Seoul.
Departure Point
Busan Central Bus Termnal station
Arrival Point
Seoul Express Bus Terminal(Gyeongbu) station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Busan to Seoul.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Busan and Seoul is 331.5 km by road. By train, it takes 2 hours and 44 minutes to reach Seoul from Busan, making it the quickest option. If you prefer to fly, it takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, including the subway ride to Gimhae. Driving by car or taking a bus will take longer, with travel times of around 4 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Busan to Seoul is by bus, with fares ranging from $18 to $28. Although it's not the fastest way, the bus journey takes approximately 4 hours. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take the train via Suseo SRT, which costs between $35 and $60 and has a travel time of 2 hours and 43 minutes.
The prices for a train ticket between Busan and Seoul range from $16 to $50, depending on the class and type of train. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Seoul and Busan vary from $18 to $28, depending on the bus company and the type of seat.
To get from Busan to Seoul without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 384.6 km, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of driving from Busan to Seoul can vary, but it usually ranges from $55 to $85 for fuel expenses.
The best and most convenient way to travel from Busan to Seoul without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes and offers a comfortable and scenic ride. The ticket prices for the train range from $16 to $50, depending on the class of travel.
Yes, there is a direct link between Busan and Seoul. The most convenient option is to take the train which departs from Busan Station and arrives at Seoul Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes and operates daily. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus from Busan Central Bus Terminal to Seoul Express Bus Terminal, which takes approximately 4 hours and operates daily.
The flight between Busan and Seoul typically takes around 55 minutes. This is the quickest way to travel between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but generally, it ranges from around $50 to $150 per person.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Seoul. With over 1075 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a suitable place to stay based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Seoul start at $53, providing options for different travelers.