Planning a trip to Seoul? One of the trickiest parts of visiting this vibrant city is figuring out the best area to stay. I get it – as a first-timer, it can be overwhelming to choose from the many districts and neighborhoods. So, I’ve put together a guide that will break it down based on what you like to do! Whether you're a shopaholic, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, I’ve got you covered on where to stay in Seoul, with hotel options to fit every budget.
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| Jason at the Art Exhibition enjoying the painting of Seoul's Han River |
Understanding Seoul: The City’s Layout in a Nutshell
Seoul is divided into 25 districts (gu), each with its own vibe and charm. These districts are further divided into neighborhoods (dong), like Hannam-dong, Apgujeong-dong, and Seongsu-dong. While you might recognize these names from social media, you may still be unsure of where they are and what they’re known for. That’s where I come in! Let’s dive into Seoul's coolest areas, where to stay, and what kind of experience you can expect.
1. Gangnam & Apgujeong: For the Trendsetters & Shopaholics
If you're all about luxury shopping, stylish cafes, and vibrant city life, Gangnam and Apgujeong should be at the top of your list. From the bustling streets of Apgujeong to the iconic vibe of Gangnam, this area is perfect for those who want to experience Seoul’s high-end lifestyle. But if you are also planning to do some surgery or intensive skincare treatments. I am sure you don't want to walk around the city like a mummy so picking a hotel in this area is a very reasonable choice as well.
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| Starfield Library at COEX, Gangnam |
Where to Stay in Gangnam & Apgujeong:
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Cappuccino (Gangnam)
A chic, budget-friendly hotel near Gangnam Station, offering a modern vibe and easy access to the city’s best shopping and dining spots.
Mid-Luxury:
L7 Gangnam by Lotte: combines modern sophistication with a trendy, urban vibe in the heart of Gangnam. The hotel features stylish rooms with city views, a rooftop bar, and wellness facilities, offering both comfort and luxury. Its prime location provides easy access to Gangnam’s vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment hubs, making it ideal for leisure and business travelers alike
Four Points by Sheraton: offers a contemporary stay with functional design and exceptional service. The hotel’s well-equipped rooms, fitness center, and on-site dining ensure a comfortable experience. Situated in a bustling area, it provides seamless access to Gangnam’s trendy cafes, shopping streets, and nightlife, catering to both tourists and professionals
Luxury: Park Hyatt Seoul or Intercontinental Seoul COEX
For those searching for exceptional luxury, Park Hyatt Seoul offers a sleek, minimalist design, world-class service, and breathtaking city views. Situated in the heart of Gangnam, it's just steps from the iconic COEX Mall and Starfield Library, where you can enjoy an indoor shopping experience with various high-end brands, a movie theater, and even a selection of fine dining options. Nearby, the Hyundai Department Store provides additional opportunities for luxury shopping, featuring prestigious brands like Hermes, Goyard (from my experience here has the best stocks), and Chanel.
2. Insadong & Bukchon Hanok Village: For Culture Seekers
If you're after traditional Korean culture and scenic beauty, Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village are the perfect places to stay. Insadong is filled with art galleries, tea houses, and antique shops, while Bukchon offers a glimpse into Seoul’s past with its historic Hanok houses. Recently Insadong has been known for a good blend of modern and traditional Korean vibe where you can experience Hanok (traditional Korean house) with the modern interior of the restaurant and Cafe. Besides, Insadong is intertwined with Jong-no 3-ga which is famous for Po-jang-ma-cha aka. outdoor food stalls and Gay pubs or bars. (more blogs are coming)
Where to Stay in Insadong & Bukchon:
Budget-Friendly: Ibis Insadong
Affordable and conveniently located in Insadong, this hotel offers easy access to all the cultural attractions without breaking your budget.
Mid-Luxury:
Nine Tree Premier Insadong: A blend of modern luxury and traditional Korean elegance, located in the heart of Insadong where you can enjoy traditional craftsmanships and local artist galleries.
Moxy Seoul Insadong offers a vibrant and playful stay in the heart of Insadong, a cultural hub known for its traditional charm and modern flair. With stylish, compact rooms and Instagram-worthy communal spaces, the hotel is designed for young and energetic travelers. Guests can enjoy a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, complete with a 24/7 bar, social zones, and a rooftop offering city views. Its prime location provides easy access to iconic landmarks.
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
This 5-star hotel combines modern luxury with classic Korean design, located near Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong.
3. Hongdae & Itaewon: For Foodies and Night Owls
If you’re a foodie or a fan of vibrant nightlife, Hongdae and Itaewon will be your paradise. Hongdae is known for its indie vibe, street food, and late-night eats, while Itaewon is a global food hub, offering everything from Korean BBQ to international dishes.
Where to Stay in Hongdae & Itaewon:
Budget-Friendly: Hi Dear Guesthouse (Hongdae)
A cozy, budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Hongdae, perfect for travelers looking to explore the area’s food scene and nightlife without overspending.
Mid-Luxury: RYSE, Autograph Collection (Hongdae)
This artsy hotel offers a mix of contemporary design and comfort. It's a great choice for travelers who want a stylish base to explore the hip vibes of Hongdae.
Luxury: The Grand Hyatt Seoul (Itaewon)
Located in Itaewon, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and world-class amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a lavish stay in a dynamic neighborhood. Although the drawbacks seem that it is hard to get access to the subway and main shopping street Grand Hyatt provides a shuttle service from 10am - to 9 pm to Itaewon Station and Myeondong Station
4. Hannam-dong & Itaewon: For a Relaxed and Sophisticated Stay
Looking for a quieter neighborhood with a relaxed vibe but still close to all the action? Hannam-dong is a hidden gem near Itaewon. Known for its luxury residences, art galleries, and tranquil cafes, it’s the perfect spot for travelers who want a mix of peace and accessibility to the city’s vibrant life.
Where to Stay in Hannam-dong & Itaewon:
Budget-Friendly: Itaewon Inn Hostel
This no-frills guesthouse offers comfortable, basic rooms right in the heart of Itaewon, perfect for travelers looking for simplicity at an affordable price.
Mid-Luxury: Mondrain Seoul Itaewon
Hotel offers a prime location in the heart of the vibrant Itaewon district, surrounded by diverse dining, shopping, and nightlife options. With its chic, modern design and playful, artistic vibe, the hotel provides a stylish retreat for travelers. Guests can indulge in luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning city views and award-winning restaurants and bars offering a memorable culinary journey. State-of-the-art fitness and wellness facilities cater to health-conscious visitors, ensuring a perfect balance of indulgence and well-being. Attentive service and proximity to cultural landmarks such as Namsan Tower and Gyeongbokgung Palace make Mondrian Seoul Itaewon an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Luxury: The Grand Hyatt Seoul (Itaewon)
Located in Itaewon, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and world-class amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a lavish stay in a dynamic neighborhood. Although the drawbacks seem that it is hard to get access to the subway and main shopping street Grand Hyatt provides a shuttle service from 10am - to 9 pm to Itaewon Station and Myeondong Station
Looking for a quieter neighborhood with a relaxed vibe but still close to all the action? Hannam-dong is a hidden gem near Itaewon. Known for its luxury residences, art galleries, and tranquil cafes, it’s the perfect spot for travelers who want a mix of peace and accessibility to the city’s vibrant life.
Where to Stay in Hannam-dong & Itaewon:
Budget-Friendly: Itaewon Inn Hostel
This no-frills guesthouse offers comfortable, basic rooms right in the heart of Itaewon, perfect for travelers looking for simplicity at an affordable price.
Mid-Luxury: Mondrain Seoul Itaewon
Hotel offers a prime location in the heart of the vibrant Itaewon district, surrounded by diverse dining, shopping, and nightlife options. With its chic, modern design and playful, artistic vibe, the hotel provides a stylish retreat for travelers. Guests can indulge in luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning city views and award-winning restaurants and bars offering a memorable culinary journey. State-of-the-art fitness and wellness facilities cater to health-conscious visitors, ensuring a perfect balance of indulgence and well-being. Attentive service and proximity to cultural landmarks such as Namsan Tower and Gyeongbokgung Palace make Mondrian Seoul Itaewon an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Luxury: The Grand Hyatt Seoul (Itaewon)
Located in Itaewon, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and world-class amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a lavish stay in a dynamic neighborhood. Although the drawbacks seem that it is hard to get access to the subway and main shopping street Grand Hyatt provides a shuttle service from 10am - to 9 pm to Itaewon Station and Myeondong Station
5. Myeongdong & Namsan: For Adventure Seekers & City Explorers
If you're the type of traveler who loves to be in the center of it all, Myeongdong and Namsan are perfect for you. From endless shopping streets in Myeongdong to the breathtaking views atop Namsan Seoul Tower, this area is ideal for those who want to experience the pulse of Seoul.
Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s most famous shopping districts, known for its bustling street food stalls, cosmetic shops, and fashion stores. Just a short walk away, Namsan offers stunning views of the city, with the Namsan Seoul Tower being a must-visit for panoramic cityscapes. Plus, you can enjoy hiking trails through the lush Namsan Park.
Where to Stay in Myeongdong & Namsan:
Budget-Friendly: K-Guesthouse Myeongdong
A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Myeongdong, offering affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for travelers who want to dive into the shopping and food scene.
Mid-Luxury:
If you're the type of traveler who loves to be in the center of it all, Myeongdong and Namsan are perfect for you. From endless shopping streets in Myeongdong to the breathtaking views atop Namsan Seoul Tower, this area is ideal for those who want to experience the pulse of Seoul.
Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s most famous shopping districts, known for its bustling street food stalls, cosmetic shops, and fashion stores. Just a short walk away, Namsan offers stunning views of the city, with the Namsan Seoul Tower being a must-visit for panoramic cityscapes. Plus, you can enjoy hiking trails through the lush Namsan Park.
Where to Stay in Myeongdong & Namsan:
Budget-Friendly: K-Guesthouse Myeongdong
A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Myeongdong, offering affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for travelers who want to dive into the shopping and food scene.
Mid-Luxury:
Aloft Myeongdong: a vibrant stay in the heart of Myeongdong, with its modern, tech-forward design and lively atmosphere. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a 24/7 fitness center, and a hip bar, perfect for travelers who enjoy a dynamic, social vibe. Its location provides easy access to the bustling shopping streets of Myeongdong, as well as public transport links to explore Seoul’s key attractions.
Moxy Myeongdong: known for its playful and energetic style, caters to millennial-minded travelers seeking a unique and casual stay. Its cozy, Instagram-worthy spaces and communal areas create a social hub ideal for connecting with other guests. Located in the heart of Myeongdong, it is steps away from shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering convenience and a touch of fun for visitors exploring the city.
Luxury:
Luxury:
The Shilla Seoul:
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, The Shilla Seoul offers world-class service, exquisite design, and spacious rooms. Located near Namsan and Gyeongbokgung Palace, it provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and the excitement of Myeongdong.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, The Shilla Seoul offers world-class service, exquisite design, and spacious rooms. Located near Namsan and Gyeongbokgung Palace, it provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and the excitement of Myeongdong.
Lotte Hotel Seoul:
An elegant hotel that balances luxury and affordability, it is located near Myeongdong and Namsan. With spacious rooms and top-notch facilities, it’s perfect for those looking to stay close to major attractions.
An elegant hotel that balances luxury and affordability, it is located near Myeongdong and Namsan. With spacious rooms and top-notch facilities, it’s perfect for those looking to stay close to major attractions.
Conclusion: Seoul, Tailored to Your Style
Whether you’re a shopaholic, culture lover, foodie, or adventure seeker, Seoul has something for everyone. The key to choosing the right place to stay is understanding the vibe of each neighborhood and picking the one that matches your interests.
With so many options ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, you’re sure to find the perfect home base for your Seoul adventure. Happy travels, and enjoy every moment in this exciting city!
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