Moorten Botanical Garden showcases over 3,000 plant species collected from deserts across the globe, all thriving on the historic Moorten family estate. The garden is filled with intriguing varieties of cacti, succulents, ancient fossils, and striking mineral specimens. A guided tour is well worth it—led by one of the Moortens or a seasoned guide, you’ll get a closer look at rare plants and stories of the garden’s evolution.

The National Museum of Colombia is housed in a sprawling 19th century prison built in the style of a fortress. Without a doubt, this is the biggest and oldest museum in Colombia. Permanent exhibitions will introduce you to over 20,000 archaeology and ethnography samples from Colombian treasures dating from 10,000 years BC, up to twentieth century indigenous and Afro-Colombian art and culture. Fine art lovers must not miss the chance to see paintings by masters Débora Arango, Fernando Botero, Enrique Grau, Ignacio Gomez Jaramillo, Santiago Martinez Delgado, Alejandro Obregón, Omar Rayo, Andrés de Santa María and Guillermo Wiedemann.

This spectacular urban Buddhist temple (the head temple of the Jogye Order) is a highlight on any Busan itinerary. A pleasant uphill hike through quiet nature will take you to temple grounds, with beautiful ornate pavilions, Buddhist statues and worshippers, which include both temporary visitors and monks who reside here permanently. Temple grounds tend to get busy during holidays and weekends. You can either make a few hours' trip or – for full cultural immersion – book an overnight stay that includes an introduction to monastic life, complete with joining a formal dinner and pre-dawn chanting. Stays must booked in advance via the website, and there are several different programmes available. If you opt for the full experience, do mind that the (silent!) wake-up hour is at 5am.

This art museum showcases local and international artists from the 16th century to the present day. From the numismatist's dream of old coin minting machines to exquisite masterpieces from all over Latin America — this is a thoughtfully designed destination for art lovers. The galleries of this modernist building seem endless. Along the way, enjoy the courtyards, fountains and a cosy cafe.