Busan to Gyeongju Trains

The KTX high speed train is the fastest way to travel from Busan to Gyeongju. Trains take 27 to 34 minutes and start at $4.24. The bus takes longer, at about 50 minutes to 1 hour, but it drops you in downtown Gyeongju near the city's main attractions. Both options make Busan Gyeongju an easy day trip.

The train from Busan to Gyeongju takes between 27 and 35 minutes. KTX trains typically take 27 to 34 minutes. The fastest trip is 27 minutes, and most departures arrive in 27 min to 34 min.

The distance from Busan to Gyeongju is approximately 48 miles, or about 77 km. On the KTX high speed train, that distance takes less than 35 minutes.

There are about 21 KTX departures daily from Busan. Departures run from early morning to late evening, so it's easy to fit a train from Busan into your travel plans.

The KTX train, Korea's high speed rail service operated by Korail, runs on the Gyeongbu Line between Busan and Seoul. It stops at Singyeongju Station on the way. KTX high speed trains offer comfortable seats, luggage space and a smooth journey.

Trains depart from Busan Station, located in Dong-gu. Busan Station is the southern terminus of the Gyeongbu Line and one of the city's most impressive transport hubs, with a bright, modern concourse filled with natural light. It's easy to reach by Busan Metro Line 1, and the station has cafes, shops and a lively atmosphere.

KTX trains arrive at Singyeongju Station, which is located outside the Gyeongju city center. From the station, local buses and taxis take you to downtown Gyeongju, Bulguksa Temple and other major sites in about 20–30 minutes.

The Gyeongju train ticket price starts from $4.24 for KTX trains. The train ticket price depends on the departure time, seat class and how early you book. Tickets for weekends and holidays can sell out, so plan ahead.

You can book train tickets on the Rail Ninja website or app. Choose your date and departure, compare KTX train schedules, and buy tickets in minutes. Rail Ninja is designed for international travelers, with English support and simple online payment.

Buy tickets a few days ahead, especially for weekends, holidays and cherry blossom season, when trains fill up quickly. Booking early helps you save time on the day and secure the departure you want.

Yes. Buses depart every 30 minutes from Busan Central Bus Terminal. Bus travel from Busan to Gyeongju takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour, and bus tickets cost around US$6–8 for the journey.

Busan Central Bus Terminal is located next to Nopo Station, the northern end of Busan Metro Line 1. It's easy to reach from the city center by subway.

Buses arrive at Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal near the city center. The express bus drops passengers off in downtown Gyeongju, so you're within easy access of the city's main attractions.

The Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal is right next to the Express Bus Terminal downtown. It serves regional routes across the region, and its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Gyeongju.

• Train: Choose the KTX train if you want the fastest trip, at 27 to 34 minutes. Keep in mind that Singyeongju Station is outside the city center.
• Bus: Choose the bus if you want to arrive downtown, close to the historic sites.

Yes. Driving from Busan to Gyeongju takes around 1 hour. A car is useful if you plan to visit sites spread around Gyeongju, but the train and bus are cheaper and easier for most travellers.

Yes. With a train journey of under 35 minutes, Busan to Gyeongju is an easy day trip. You can explore the historic city in a single day, visit its royal tombs and temples, and return to Busan in the evening.

Gyeongju has many ancient Silla Dynasty historical sites and temples, and it's known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Top places to visit include:

• Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple.
• Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, beautiful at night.
• Woljeonggyo Bridge, whose brilliant nighttime illuminations reflect off the water.
• Gyeongju National Museum, which houses extensive archaeological collections from the Silla kingdom.
• Daereungwon royal tombs, in the heart of the city.
• Gyeongju Tower, with a hollowed-out glass facade shaped like a traditional Silla pagoda.
• Gyeongju World, a large amusement park with a variety of thrill rides.
• Bomunho Lake Tourism Complex, popular for walking and cycling during the spring cherry blossom bloom.

Guided tours are also available if you want to see the highlights quickly.

Before or after your trip, explore Gamcheon Culture Village, Haeundae Beach and Jagalchi Fish Market. These are some of the best places to experience Busan's warm, welcoming atmosphere.