Where to Stay in Seoul: 6 Favorite Areas and Hotels for First-Timers

Updated August 2026. Originally Published April 2025.

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Seoul, you’ll see how many choices there are in South Korea’s largest city. After spending a week exploring Seoul, I’m sharing my experience on why Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok Village are really great choices, alongside a few other areas to consider.

When I was researching for this trip, I must have spent a proper week just getting a basic understanding of Seoul’s neighborhoods. The city is huge, truthfully, overwhelming in size and options when it comes to deciding where to base yourself. So, as I did more digging, I got a sense of each neighborhood, what I wanted to do, and which location would set me up for successful exploring.

Picking a place in Seoul came down to two factors: Could I walk to a few attractions, and could I get to the rest of the city easily? The two locations I picked were exactly that. When it comes to where to stay in Seoul, I still see Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok Village (or nearby Insadong/Ikseon-dong) as the two best options.

Both of these locations put you within footsteps of major sights, great food, and things to do. This cuts down on having to transfer everywhere. And then, when you do want to explore more of the city, from, say, Myeongdong, you have the best access with the local subway or even a short taxi.

If you take a look at my Seoul itinerary, you’ll see how easy it is to access everything over the trip from these spots. Read on for my guide to the best hotels and neighborhoods to stay in Seoul.

Short on Time? Here are My Top Picks for the Best Places to Stay in Seoul:

1. Myeongdong, best for a first-time trip
   L’Escape Hotel ($$ / Where I Stayed), LOTTE Hotel Seoul ($$), Hotel 28 Myeongdong ($$), L7 Myeongdong ($$), Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong ($$), or a design-forward apartment
2. Bukchon Hanok Village, best for a traditional stay
   Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok ($$ / Where I Stayed), Stay Onyou ($$), Bukchon Hanok – ‘Yul Jae’ ($$), or a private hanok villa with hot tub
3. Insadong/Ikseon-dong, best for cafe hopping and a central location
   Four Seasons Hotel Seoul ($$$), Moxy Seoul Insadong ($$), Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong ($$), Hanok Hotel DAAM ($), or a traditional hanok with jacuzzi
4. Itaewon / Namsan Park, best for families and resort-style hotels
   THE SHILLA Seoul ($$$), Grand Hyatt Seoul ($$$), Mondrian Seoul Itaewon ($$), Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon ($), or a designer apartment
5. Seongsu-dong/Seoul Forest, best for a local neighborhood experience
   The Classic 500 Pentaz ($$), Hotel POCO ($), or a wood-accented apartment
6. Gangnam, best for business travelers
   Josun Palace ($$$), Park Hyatt Seoul ($$$), L7 Gangnam ($$), Shilla Stay Samsung ($$), or a penthouse with city views

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

Planning a trip to Seoul? Don’t miss my Seoul travel guide and Seoul itinerary! If you’re planning to explore more of South Korea, be sure to check out my Busan itinerary, for a gem of a city on the southern coast.

Where to Stay in Seoul Korea: Ultimate Guide for First-Timers

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A Map of Seoul’s Top Neighborhoods for Travelers

1. Myeongdong (BLACK)
2. Bukchon Hanok Village (ORANGE)
3. Insadong/Ikseon-dong (PURPLE)
4. Itaewon / Namsan Park (YELLOW)
5. Seongsu-dong / Seoul Forest (RED)
6. Gangnam (BLUE)

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How to Choose Where to Stay in Seoul

Stay Near A Subway Station

One of my best tips I can give for choosing where to stay in Seoul is choosing an accommodation near a subway station. Seoul’s subway is the best way to get from one major neighborhood to another. And you really only need to be near one, as the network is very well connected. My recommendation is to be within a 10-15 minute walk of one subway station.

Consider a Split-Stay in Seoul

For large cities like Seoul, I often recommend splitting your stay if you’re staying for a long enough time. This allows you to experience different neighborhoods and styles of accommodations. Here’s my recommendation for Seoul for a first-time visit:

• 3 Nights or Fewer: Stay in Myeongdong (or another neighborhood of choice)
• 4+ Nights: Split your stay between Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok for a traditional stay

What to Expect of Accommodations in Seoul

• Hotels: Well-rated hotels in Seoul in general are renowned for their impeccable cleanliness, often very tech-forward amenities, and modern design. When I was researching where to stay, I personally found the hotel rooms in the major city center area to be more compact, maybe akin to something you’d find in any major city internationally. Amenities like included Wi-Fi and breakfast are often included in your paid rate as well.
• Hanoks: Hanoks are traditional Korean homes that go back to the 14th century. These homes are usually made of wood and have a more rustic feel. The beds are almost always mats on the ground (unless otherwise stated). Some even include meals as part of the stay to experience traditional Korean cuisine.
• Airbnbs: You have everything from traditional homes like hanoks to modern apartments right in the city center neighborhoods. Most offer self-check-in, which is a lovely perk for travelers. As a heads up, Seoul has begun requiring Airbnbs to be licensed. January 1, 2026, was Airbnb’s booking cutoff for unregistered listings. The Airbnb listings will have their license information within their description (all included Airbnbs in this list are licensed).

What Is the Best Area to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors?

My top recommendations for a first-time trip are to base in Myeongdong, or consider a traditional hanok stay in the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village. Myeongdong offers access to the rest of Seoul, while still offering many things to do right in the heart of the neighborhood, from markets to shopping, and then walking distance to distinct historical sights. My second choice after Myeongdong would be Insadong.

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Where I Stayed in Seoul

After countless hours of research, I decided to start the trip in Bukchon Hanok Village at a charming, old-world bed and breakfast called Rakkojae Seoul. For the end of the week in Seoul, I changed to the stunning L’Escape Hotel in the heart of Myeongdong.

I absolutely loved having the two stays, as each was quite different from the other and offered unique experiences in their own neighborhoods. The stay at Rakkojae felt historic and offered a glimpse into old-world Seoul and traditions. Whereas the more glamorous and luxe stay at L’Escape felt more modern and part of Seoul’s changing culture. It was amazing to have two different locations, which gave the most convenient way to explore the city.

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1. Myeongdong: Best for a First-Time Trip

I ended my trip in Seoul with two nights in Myeongdong (also written as Myeong-dong) and L’Escape Hotel, wishing I had spent the majority of the trip there. It’s where the city’s beating heart is, with towering skyscrapers, markets underneath the buildings, and incredibly well-located. You’re within walking distance of two incredible markets, a few historic sights, and the best subway stations. Compared to the other neighborhoods, I love staying in Myeongdong because it’s so easy to explore all of Seoul from here — you’re close to Seoul Station, with several subway stops nearby.

Travel Tip: Is Myeongdong now overrated? I’ve heard many arguments about Myeongdong being overrated, and while it is action-packed and full of skyscrapers, it is arguably one of the most central locations to base yourself in Seoul. It’s also one of the best connected, being served by Line 4 (light blue) on the Seoul Subway network.

The Pros of Staying in Myeongdong

The major appeal of Myeongdong is accessibility. If you’re someone who plans to explore a lot of Seoul, you’ll love that you can get just about anywhere quite fast. You also have all of the conveniences of the major downtown area: great restaurants, night markets, shopping, and local cafes. Many local Koreans come to Myeongdong to eat, gather with friends, and shop, so it is much more than just travelers coming.

The Cons of Staying in Myeongdong

The only downside I can think of may be the crowds that gather on Myeongdong Shopping Street (which is why I don’t recommend booking a hotel on that strip) and perhaps the noise. The noise, though, is largely determined by your hotel building. Ours was blissfully quiet, so it is possible not to experience that. My recommendation for choosing an accommodation in Myeongdong is to pick something on the streets off of Myeongdong Shopping Street, and not directly on it.

Best Hotels in Myeongdong by Budget

Luxury Hotels

1. L’Escape Hotel (Where I Stayed) — I spent two nights here and just adored the very chic and intimate stay. You feel like you’re in Paris, with French decor and spacious suites. I was highly impressed with just how large the base room category was, with even a soaking tub. The included breakfast with our room rate was also quite lovely.
2. LOTTE Hotel Seoul — From the LOTTE brand in South Korea, they have a higher-end hotel in the neighborhood (more elevated than their city hotel around the corner). The hotel has an indoor pool with skyline views, a business center, and even a children’s playroom. The suites and rooms are some of the largest in the neighborhood as well.
3. The PLAZA Seoul — Across from Deoksugung Palace, the PLAZA is one of the few 5-star hotels that is just a touch out of the main Myeongdong streets. It’s a quiet stay, featuring luxury amenities, and still walkable to many sights.
4. Aloft Seoul Myeongdong — Those familiar with the Aloft brand will feel right at home; this property is highly rated, and its location is perfect for exploring. For family travelers, you’ll appreciate the room configurations and fun amenities for kids.

Mid-Range Hotels

1. Hotel 28 Myeongdong — A lovely boutique hotel that won’t break the bank, Hotel 28 is one of the best-rated hotels here. The rooms are more industrial with a touch of minimal design, yet spacious for a city hotel.
2. L7 Myeongdong — One of the many comfortable L7 hotels in the city, this one is conveniently located right by Myeongdong Station, and many rooms have views of Namsan.

Budget Hotels

1. Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong — Close to the main subway station, this boutique budget hotel is one of the better options in the neighborhood to be under $100/night. It’s modern, clean, and has good reviews for helpful staff.
2. Moxy Seoul Myeongdong — A young, trendy budget-friendly hotel, the Moxy in Myeongdong has a bit more amenities on site like their bar and restaurant. Room options are great here, too, for families as they offer bunk bed accommodations.

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Design-Forward Apartment, for the best modern apartment stay
2. 1 Bedroom Serviced Apartment, for the best compact apartment stay
3. 3 Bedroom Spacious Apartment, for the best apartment for groups

Things to Do Near Myeongdong

• Visit the Namdaemun Market — This was one of my favorite stops during the trip for street food and shopping. It’s one of those places you could spend a few hours strolling through, hopping from one food stall to the next.
• Ride the Namsan Cable Car — Taking the Namsan Cable Car at sunset was worth it. It’s within walking distance of Myeongdong, and the views are incredible as you get to the top of Namsan Park.
• See the Myeongdong Night Market — The vibe here wasn’t my favorite because the crowds were so intense. But it is a very popular night market where food stalls line the main shopping street right in the heart of Myeongdong.
• Tour the Deoksugung Palace — One of the traditional palaces remaining in Seoul, famous for its incredibly long stone-wall road. I also happened to catch the changing of the guards ceremony, which occurs at Deoksugung Palace. If you can catch the changing of the guards ceremony, it’s well worth staying around for it.

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2. Bukchon Hanok Village: Best for a Traditional Stay

I began my trip in Seoul in a traditional Hanok hotel in the Bukchon Hanok Village. The location was idyllic, tucked away from the busy streets and walkable to many historic sights. I enjoyed this area for a more “traditional” stay in the historic neighborhood of Seoul. Staying in a “hanok” is a unique experience in South Korea (akin to a ryokan in Japan), and I recommend trying it once when visiting.

What is a Hanok?

A hanok is a traditional Korean home, made of wood and often has a central courtyard. Today there are many private hanoks available for rent specifically in the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village. You will find that many of the hanoks here are up the hill, so keep this in mind when you’re booking this neighborhood. Inside the hanoks, beds are traditionally on the ground with a mat and provided linens, unless the listing says otherwise. When you stay in a hanok hotel, many include meals as well.

The Pros of Staying in Bukchon Hanok Village

You’ll likely have a very quiet space to stay given there are no main thorough streets here. It is a quiet “village,” and you’re super close to the two main palaces, dozens of local coffee shops, and art museums. It’s a charming spot to stay, and that, for me, was a highlight.

The Cons of Staying in Bukchon Hanok Village

There are virtually no hotels here. The neighborhood is primarily private residences. So if you’re looking for hotel amenities, you will probably want to consider the next neighborhood below, Insadong. You will use the Anguk Station metro or Gyeongbokgung (Government Complex-Seoul) Station for public transport or rely on taxis/Uber. So if you want to use the subway to get around, I’d pick something close to the Anguk Station Metro.

Best Accommodations in Bukchon Hanok Village by Budget

Hotels

1. Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok (Where I Stayed / Michelin Guide Listed) — I spent three nights here to begin my trip, and I couldn’t rave more about the service, location, and charm of it. A traditional Hanok home, the main hanok has five rooms arranged around an inner courtyard. Breakfast is included (delightful), and you can enjoy it right in your room or even in the courtyard. I recommend eating one dinner there if you can.

Private Hanoks for Rent

1. Pine Residence, this one is spectacular in design, and the most luxurious I found during my research, with an inner courtyard.
2. Stay Onyou, for a high-end hanok with 1 bedroom with minimal design
3. Hanok J’Nor , for a larger group, this hanok hits the mark for design and space
4. Stay Nuri , for a more modern hanok that has been renovated

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Traditional Hanok Villa with Hot Tub, for the best hanok with a private garden
2. 2 Bedroom Modern Hanok House with Hot Tub, for the best quiet hanok stay
3. 2 Bedroom Modernized Hanok in Bukchon Hanok Village, for the best design-forward hanok stay

Things to Do Near Bukchon Hanok Village

• Bukchon Hanok Village — One of my favorite experiences was going for a walk through the Bukchon Hanok Village. The traditional Korean village has hundreds of well-preserved hanok houses all along these narrow lanes, and as you make your way to the top, you’ll have a great view back into the city.
• Changdeokgung Palace — As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung is a stunning palace known for its beautiful Secret Garden. You’re a few minutes’ walk from here when you stay in Bukchon; I’d recommend going here to see the Palace and then book the guided tour for the gardens.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace — The largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see if you’re interested in learning more about the country’s cultural heritage. The palace is home to the National Palace Museum and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.
• Local Cafes — This neighborhood has several popular cafes and coffee shops that I loved during my trip, like Cafe Onion Anguk, Dotori Garden Anguk, and Café Sinola.
  

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3. Insadong/Ikseon-dong: Best for Cafe Hopping and a Central Location

If you were considering Bukchon Hanok Village but wanted to be in a hotel, I’d look at Insadong (also spelled Insa-dong) and Ikseon-dong. Just right across from the two palaces, you have these two adjacent neighborhoods. Insadong is very well located, and the Ikseon-dong neighborhood is a charming hanok village with several alleyways and cafes. They’re close together, which is why I’ve grouped them.

The Pros of Staying in Insadong/Ikseon-dong

You’re centrally located in the heart of the city and within walking distance to the main grand palaces. You’ll also be in or near the trendy neighborhood of Ikseon-dong, which has well-rated restaurants and bakeries. My recommendation is to pick an accommodation somewhere between Anguk Station or Jongno 3-ga Station, as both of these will be your access point to the rest of the city.

The Cons of Staying in Insadong/Ikseon-dong

Not many that I can think of — just note that Ikseon-dong can feel busy in the evenings, so I’d prioritize a hotel on a quieter street if you’re a light sleeper.

Best Hotels in Insadong/Ikseon-dong by Budget

Luxury Hotels

1. Four Seasons Hotel Seoul — I include this in the Insadong neighborhood portion as it’s just out of the actual boundaries but close enough to be the only real luxury hotel in this part of Seoul. Like every Four Seasons Hotel, expect luxury amenities, incredible service, and beautiful suites, and having seen the photos, the views from here are fantastic.

Mid-Range Hotels

1. Moxy Seoul Insadong — Set with a rooftop bar, this very unassuming Moxy hotel is one of the highest rated in the city for its location, amenities, and service.
2. Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong — Nine Tree’s Insadong location is one of the best designs for dollar stays in the neighborhood. Floor-to-ceiling windows have panoramic views of the city, and you’re close to it all.

Budget Hotels

1. Hanok Hotel DAAM — For a Hanok-style hotel that is right in Insadong, this is the one to book. It’s rather affordable and you’ll have the hotel amenities paired with the traditional stay of a hanok.
2. Sunbee Hotel Insadong — For a cheaper, local stay, the Sunbee Hotel comes highly rated for rooms under $100/night. It’s simple yet clean, and the rooms are spacious.

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Traditional Hanok with Private Jacuzzi, for the best luxury hanok
2. 2 Bedroom Modern Hanok with Private Jacuzzi, for the best affordable hanok
3. 1 Bedroom Contemporary Apartment Hanok, for the best spacious hanok with great walkability

Things to Do Near Insadong/Ikseon-dong

• Ikseon-dong Hanok Village — The main historic Ikseon-dong Hanok village is a big highlight of this area. It has several small alleyways and pockets of cafes and shops.
• Gwangjang Market — You’re not all that far from one of Seoul’s best-known traditional markets, so this is an easy thing to get to in under a 15-minute walk. I booked this Gwangjang Market Night Market Food Tour, and it was one of my favorite things I did in Seoul.
• Insa-dong Culture Street — The street is lined with antique shops, art galleries, traditional tea houses, and street vendors. It has a more commercial feel, but worth a stroll once.

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4. Itaewon/Namsan Park: Best for Families and Resort-Style Hotels

A mainstay neighborhood for expats, happening nightlife, and trendy shops/cafes, Itaewon is somewhere you’ll likely get to at some point. I enjoyed the neighborhood a lot; I could make a case for staying here if one of the hotels appeals to you. It has that tucked-away feel, away from the major skyscrapers, and sits just on the other side of Namsan Park. There are also a handful of great luxury hotels that feel more like resorts off of Namsan Park that are worth considering, which is why I think this could be a great base. If you’re traveling as a family, the adjacent Gwanghwamun is a flatter, stroller-friendly pocket that could be a good option on this side of town.

The Pros of Staying in Itaewon

You’d be close to Namsan Park, Leeum Museum, and lots of DMZ tours pick up here. You’d have tons of restaurants, coffee shops, and things to do at night. If you choose one of the Namsan Park hotels, you’ll have a quiet retreat, resort-style stay.

The Cons of Staying in Itaewon

The actual Itaewon neighborhood does get a rap for being kind of the “nightlife” and bar area of the city. I don’t think it’s necessarily a bad thing (since that is everywhere), but it’s worth considering. One downside is that public transportation is a touch limited here; you’ll likely need to get a taxi now and then. Your final consideration is the elevation — the top end of Itaewon is hilly and very steep to walk up; I’d opt to stay closer to Itaewon Station where it is more flat.

Best Hotels in Itaewon by Budget

Luxury Hotels

1. Grand Hyatt Seoul — The luxury hotel choice for this side of town, you can’t miss this large hotel that sits on the hill overlooking the neighborhood.
2. Banyan Tree Club & Spa — Tucked right over the hill from Itaewon (10-minute drive), the Banyan Tree is one of the best “destination-style hotels” in Seoul. You’re set right in the forest of Namsan Park, and you’ll feel a world away from the city yet right in it.
3. THE SHILLA Seoul — This is one of the hotels I would like to stay at for my next trip to Seoul. The SHILLA is an incredibly luxurious hotel in the Namsan Park area and offers a lovely escape in the city.

Mid-Range Hotels

1. Mondrian Seoul Itaewon — This hotel has chic, clean rooms, spacious suites, and some of the best value for the dollar when it comes to an elevated hotel. I was surprised at how well-priced this one was for the city.

Budget Hotels

1. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon — For a hotel that won’t break the bank, this is your best choice for a clean and modern stay in the neighborhood.

Airbnbs

1. 3 Bedroom Designer Apartment near Namsan Park, for the best designed luxury stay
2. 4 Bedroom Villa with Jacuzzi in Itaewon, for the best bright house for larger groups
3. 3 Bedroom Contemporary Apartment near Namsan, for the best affordable, walkable stay

Things to Do Near Itaewon

• Visit War Memorial of Korea — The War Memorial of Korea is a significant historical landmark that commemorates the sacrifices made during the Korean War and the country’s military history.
• Leeum Museum of Art — My favorite museum while in Seoul was the Leeum. Beautiful space, great exhibits; it’s worth a few hours to go through it all.
• N Seoul Tower — You’re close to the N Seoul Tower, which is great to visit at sunset by way of the Namsan Cable Car or by going for a walk up the park.
• Itaewon Neighborhood — The main draw is the neighborhood and all of its cafes, restaurants, and shops.

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5. Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest: Best for a Local Neighborhood Experience

After spending a full day in Seongsu and Seoul Forest, I couldn’t believe more people weren’t recommending this neighborhood as an option to explore Seoul when I did my first research for where to stay in Seoul. Known as the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” it’s a trendy neighborhood full of incredible shopping, unique cafes, and lovely restaurants. I spent the better part of a day in Seongsu and can wholeheartedly recommend that there is a lot to enjoy here. It’s also home to Seoul Forest, one of the largest green spaces in Seoul.

The Pros of Staying in Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest

You’re in the thick of the trendy and happening area of Seoul. You’ll never run out of places to eat, drink coffee, and shop. It has a fun energy, really for those who want to be in the mix.

The Cons of Staying in Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest

The main downside is you’ll always be taking a 25-40 minute train into the city. I think Seongsu is really for perhaps a second visit to Seoul, or rather for a portion of your trip, rather than the entirety. One other consideration is that the hotel options are very limited, so you may consider the adjacent Gangnam neighborhood mentioned below.

Best Hotels in Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest by Budget

Luxury Hotels

1. The Classic 500 Pentaz — For an elevated stay, this is your best option in Seongsu. The residence-style hotel with grand rooms is also great for families and groups. The hotel also has an expansive outdoor pool with beautiful views and an on-site restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels

1. Hotel POCO — This is my top pick for the Seongsu area. Set right in the heart of it, this boutique hotel has minimal aesthetics with clean and spacious rooms.

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Wood-Accented Apartment, for the best cozy stay close to everything
2. 2 Bedroom Light-Filled Apartment, for the best elegant apartment stay
3. 2 Bedroom Quiet Apartment, for the best clean apartment stay

Things to Do Near Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest

• Seongsu Neighborhood — The neighborhood itself is the driver for me in this area, I loved my time here. It’s a true creative hub filled with repurposed warehouses, boutique cafes, art galleries. So fun to explore for shopping and eating!
• Seoul Forest Park — A large, tranquil green space in the heart of the city.
• D Museum — A contemporary art museum; I happened to catch their living life exhibit when I was there and enjoyed the space.

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6. Gangnam: Best for Business Travelers

While I didn’t spend a lot of time in Gangnam, it is quite popular for business travelers and those who want to be in a luxury hotel. It’s famous for the Coex Mall, top restaurants, and upscale neighborhoods.

The Pros of Staying in Gangnam

You’d have your choice of luxury hotels here. There are plenty of restaurants and shopping, and you’d be close to Seongsu.

The Cons of Staying in Gangnam

There is nearly no sightseeing in Gangnam, so you will have to traverse the city to explore. You’re also quite far from Incheon Airport. My takeaway is that it is a bit more commercial and has a business feel to it. If you plan to stay here, Apgujeong Station is the one that connects the best into the city, and then Gangnam Station puts you in the heart of Gangnam.

Best Hotels in Gangnam by Budget

Luxury Hotels

1. Josun Palace — Right in the heart of Gangnam, Josun Palace is the most stylish hotel in the area. It’s super high-end in terms of design, amenities, and service. No detail is overlooked at this luxury hotel.
2. Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas — Set close to the COEX Convention Center, this luxury hotel is another good choice in Gangnam. It’s definitely geared more towards business travelers.
3. Park Hyatt Seoul — With amazing views of the Han River, the Park Hyatt has a Japanese-inspired design to it. With minimal luxury rooms, a Japanese izakaya vinyl bar, and an indoor pool, the Park Hyatt is a great choice.

Mid-Range Hotels

1. L7 Gangnam — L7 Gangnam is a trendy, lifestyle-focused hotel that caters to both business travelers and tourists. It’s part of the L7 brand, which is known for offering a modern, stylish, and youthful atmosphere.
2. Shilla Stay Samsung — Shilla Stay Samsung is a more business-oriented and upscale hotel within the Shilla Hotel chain, which is one of Korea’s premier hotel brands known for its luxury services and quality.

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Penthouse with City Views, for the best overall stay
2. 2 Bedroom Quiet Apartment near COEX, for the best calm stay close to shopping and transit

Things to Do Near Gangnam

• Bongeunsa Temple — Located in the heart of Gangnam, Bongeunsa Temple is a serene Buddhist temple that offers a quiet retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Starfield Coex Mall — Starfield COEX Mall is one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, offering an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It also houses the COEX Aquarium, the Starfield Library with towering bookshelves, and a variety of cultural spaces.

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Areas in Seoul I Would Skip for a First Trip

Hongdae

I’m sure you’ve seen many articles mention the young college neighborhood of Hongdae. And while you can certainly score a cheap hotel there, you’ll pay for it in needing to be on a 25-50 minute train to get anywhere in Seoul. I’m not including Hongdae for two reasons. First, its location is incredibly inconvenient for exploring the main sights of Seoul. And second, the vibe is not the best. The area feels young, party-going, and just a touch touristy. I spent a long morning walking around Hongdae, and I feel there are better neighborhoods to base yourself in.

Euljiro and Jongno 3-ga

There is an area of Seoul between Euljiro and Jongno 3-ga that gets recommended a lot as a good base. And my recommendation is not to base here, not because it’s poorly located, but because you can actually stay more centrally located by going further into Myeongdong or up into Bukchon Hanok Village. Both Euljiro and Jongno 3-ga are a bit more separated, and having been there at night (this is where the famous 24-hour ramen convenience store is), it didn’t feel really great come dark here.

Jamsil (Lotte World)

For family travelers, many have the Lotte World theme park on their itinerary. And while you can base in the Jamsil area or near Lotte World, I don’t recommend it. I think it is better to visit as part of a day trip, rather than actually staying there.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Seoul Accommodations

What is Seoul, South Korea Like as a Traveler?

The city is large, bustling with energy, and full of neighborhoods that blend into one another. You have a mix of choices here as a traveler when it comes to just how you will experience it. I remember how contrasting it was at times, from a quiet morning spent walking the historic alleyways of Bukchon Village to the bright skyscrapers of Myeongdong.

Each neighborhood has its own unique personality and feels wildly different from the others. It’s a big part of why where you pick makes a big impact on how you experience Seoul. And being such a large city, you’ll see that the size of it plays a role in deciding where to stay. You have this futuristic megacity, all developed over ancient roots.

Then amidst the tall buildings and historic palaces, you have this uber-creative culture with over-the-top cafes, interactive art museums, and high-energy spaces. It’s fascinating, and as a city that seems to never sleep, something is always going on at all hours in Seoul.

How Big is Seoul Really?

To say it simply, the city is BIG. There are 25 districts and no single city center or downtown (in the way most cities, like San Francisco, do). More than 9.5 million people live in Seoul city proper and 26 million in the broader Seoul metro area, which is divided by the Han River. I think the words I like to describe Seoul are vast and dense.

The craziest part is that Seoul is actually smaller than New York City, but it’s much more dense in terms of population. The city is built up and underground. So you can find several-floor malls below subway stations. Then walk up to the ground floor, and have a multi-floor skyscraper above it. This blew me away the most!

Travel Tip: The 25 districts are all named with the ending “-gu” whereas the neighborhoods end in “-dong”. For example, when you’re visiting the neighborhood of Seongsu-dong, you’re in the Seongdong-gu district.

Is Myeongdong or Hongdae Better to Stay In?

You absolutely can’t compare Hongdae to Myeongdong. In short, Myeongdong is a much better base to stay in, as it’s central and feels like the heartbeat of Seoul. Hongdae lends itself to more partygoers and has a bit of a kitsch feel to it.

Should I Split My Stay Between Two Neighborhoods?

There are a few reasons I’d recommend splitting your stay in Seoul. I did on my first trip and enjoyed getting different experiences while in the city. My recommendation is to only split your stay if:

1. Your trip is 3 or more nights
2. You want to experience a traditional hanok but not spend a whole week in one
3. You want to experience different neighborhoods.

Is It Worth Staying in a Hanok in Bukchon?

I think so, as it’s a culturally unique experience in South Korea experience — think of it as staying in a ryokan in Japan. The traditional architecture, mat style beds on an ondol-heated floor, and serene architecture give you a great experience of traditional South Korea.

Is Gangnam a Good Area for a First Trip to Seoul?

I personally don’t think Gangnam is a good area for a first trip. It’s quite far south from the main sights and lends more toward high-end shops and business travelers.

How Close Should My Hotel Be to a Subway Station?

As close as you can be! I’d look to be under 15 minutes’ walk to a subway station if you plan to explore greater Seoul city, as this is how you’ll most likely get around.

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