Are you wondering where to stay in Seoul? After living in Korea for five and half years, I am your Seoul travel expert. In this guide, we’re going to break down the best places to stay in Seoul, the districts of Seoul, and wonderful Seoul accommodations for every price range.

One of the amazing parts of traveling to Korea is that there are so many cheap places to stay in Seoul. You can book luxury hotels in Seoul for reasonable prices you wouldn’t get elsewhere.

Blog Posts You Might Like

Quick Guide On Where To Stay in Seoul

  • Gangnam – Perfect for luxury travelers and business travelers.
  • Hongdae – Best for budget travelers, night life, and cheap food.
  • Insadong – For the traveler who loves culture and wants a unique Korean experience.
  • Itaewon – For the tourist who prefers foreign food and not being without home comforts.
  • Jamsil – Jamsil is perfect for families and low key travelers.
  • Myeongdong – Best Seoul neighborhood for first-timers, Korean food, skincare, and clothes.

Planning Your Seoul Trip (2024 Update)

Many rules have changed post-Covid. I visited Seoul after all the crazy restrictions and here’s the 411. As of January 8th, 2024, masks are required in medical settings. Face masks are no longer mandatory in indoor public places such as public transport.

Required documents to visit Korea as a tourist:

  • K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization, applied 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea. From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries are exempt from a K-ETA.
  • Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival): visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code. All travelers are allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration. The system is suspended from 1/1/2024-1/2/2024.

Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

  1. Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
  2. Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
  3. Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
  4. Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
  5. Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.

If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different travel insurance plans World Nomads offers here.

How To Get Around Seoul

The best way to get around Korea is by public transportation. You can purchase a T-Money card at any convenience store and load it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use with your purchase.

I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours. 

How To Stay Connected in Seoul 

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone. Book a physical sim card here if your phone isn’t unlocked.

Apps You Need To Download For South Korea 

Your 5 days in South Korea itinerary will be so much more complete with apps to make your life easier. These were the apps I personally have used to make my day to day life easier.

  1. Naver Maps – This is your one and only warning. GOOGLE MAPS DOESN’T WORK IN SOUTH KOREA.You need to use Naver Maps which is available in English. 
    Naver Maps for iPhone | Naver Maps for Android
  2. Kakaotalk – If you want to connect with some cool people you’ve met in your travels, Kakaotalk is the best way to do so. 
    Kakaotalk for iPhone | Kakaotalk for Android
  3. Kakaotaxi – This app makes it easy to call a ride. The starting fee for taxis is about 3,000 won. 
    Kakaotaxi for iPhone | Kakaotaxi for Android
  4. KakaoMaps – This is very similar to Naver Maps so just choose one. I recommend downloading both because sometimes you’ll get address links for this app too. 
    KakaoMaps for iPhone | Kakaomaps for Android
  5. Kakaometro – Have you noticed there’s a trend here with Kakao? They’ve made some pretty amazing apps and this is also great for navigating the subway. Similar to Subway Korea, you’ll get train times, arrival information, and train transfer data. 
    Kakaometro for iPhone | Kakaometro for Android
  6. Subway Korea – This is one of my favorite apps for navigating the subways. It will give you the times the train will come, what time you’ll arrive at your destination, and which car to sit in for easy transfers. 
    Subway Korea for iPhone | Subway Korea for Android

Seoul Accommodation Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where should I stay in Seoul for the first time?

If you’re a first time traveler to Seoul, the best place for you to stay would be Insadong or Myeongdong. Both districts cater specifically to tourists and you’ll be able to find a lot of restaurants, cafes, sites, and shops.

2. Should I stay in Gangnam or Myeongdong?

Both areas offer really amazing things to do. Gangnam is more luxurious and has lots of shopping and Bongeunsa Temple. Myeongdong is also for the shopaholics, K-pop lovers, and K-beauty addicts.

3. Is Seoul expensive?

While Seoul is a huge city of almost 10 million people, it’s not as expensive as you might think it is. Seoul is much cheaper than Tokyo and if you know where to look, you can find amazing bargains on hotels, shopping, and food.

4. What should I look for when booking Seoul accommodation?

Look for a hotel for easy access to subway lines. You’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Where To Stay in Seoul

Now it’s time to decide where to stay in Seoul. With a population of 9.7 million people, and a huge city, you may be overwhelmed. This blog post is going to go over the six best Seoul neighborhoods to stay.

You’ll even get a bonus section of beautiful hanok homes to stay in for the ultimate traditional Korean experience.

In my opinion, the best area to stay in Seoul are either Jamsil or Gangnam… But it honestly depends on your personality and what you want most from your Korea trip.

Seoul Neighborhoods

Every area of Seoul has its own distinct charms and personality. In some ways, it reminds me of my hometown, Chicago. In recent years, one of he most popular neighborhoods to stay in is Hongdae and Myeongdong. You honestly don’t have to venture far because everything is at your doorstep.

Itaewon is also a good option for a broader selection of food, hidden gems, and fun places to party.

Gangnam

Gangnam is the Beverly Hills of Korea. This is the most ritzy, luxurious, and high-end district of Seoul. The best hotels are in Gangnam. Shop at high end boutiques and large department stores, and dine at fine restaurants. I personally think this is the perfect place to stay in Seoul. It is the best choice for luxury travelers.

Luxury Accommodation in Gangnam

  • Andaz Seoul Gangnam – Andaz Seoul Gangnam is a 5-star hotel with a restaurant, fitness centre, bar, and shared lounge. They have a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free WiFi.
  • Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas – Centrally located in Gangnam, the luxurious Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas offers spacious rooms. It is a 5-minute walk from the Samseong Subway Station (Line 2). Take a swim at their indoor pool.
  • Park Hyatt Seoul – The Park Hyatt Seoul comes with an indoor heated pool, a top-floor gym, and spa, as well as free WiFi. The property is a short walk from Samseong Subway Station (Line 2).

Mid-Range Accommodation in Gangnam

  • Four Points by Sheraton in Gangnam – The Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Gangnam has great double rooms and offers a comfortable stay. It’s near Cheongdam-dong which is well known for luxury shopping and eateries.
  • AC Hotel by Marriott Seoul – AC Hotel by Marriott Seoul Gangnam is a great location because it is close to the Yeoksam Subway Station. The hotel connects guests to the city with large rooms and amenities that combine timeless luxury with mod European design.

Budget Accommodation in Gangnam

  • Hotel Uri& – Hotel Uri is a 5-minute walk from COEX mall and convention centers. There are going laundry facilities on site for guests’ convenience.
  • Urban Place Gangnam – Urban Place Gangnam is located a 10-minute walk from Gangnam metro station. Each room is equipped with a kitchen including a stovetop and kitchenware. There is a flat-screen TV and work desk. The private bathrooms have a toilet with an electronic bidet.

What To Do in Gangnam

There are so many fun and unique things to do in Gangnam. It is my favorite place in Seoul after Jamsil. For a complete guide on what to do at Gangnam click here.

  • CoEx Starfield Mall Library – This huge shopping mall offers many foreign and Korean brands.
  • K-Star Road – Apgujeong Rodeo Drive displays K-pop bears representing popular K-pop bands.
  • King Studio – If you love K-pop, record your own K-Pop song at King Studio.
  • Gangnam Style Hands – PSY’s iconic song, Gangnam Style was the first ever to hit one billion views on YouTube. You can find the statue outside of the CoEx Mall.
  • Seven Luck Casino – Koreans are not allowed to gamble but all foreigners are free to do so. I’ve only been once, but it’s a good time.

Hongdae

Hongdae is a great option budget accommodation in Seoul. The train will take you directly here from Incheon International Airport. Hongik University is located here so you can find many cheap restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.

On the weekends you can hear live music and watch college students busking. The main shopping street is also excellent for cute and cheap accessories. It is a good choice for first-time visitors to Korea.

Luxury Accommodation in Hongdae

  • Ryse Autograph Collection – RYSE, Autograph Collection has very comfortable rooms. It is located in the bustling Hongdae district near Exit 9 of Hongik University Subway Station.

Mid-Range Accommodation in Hongdae

  • L7 Hongdae – Located in Mapo-Gu district of Seoul, L7 Hongdae by LOTTE features various facilities including a restaurant, a fitness center and a bar. Free WiFi is available. They have a seasonal rooftop pool at an extra cost.
  • Amanti Seoul Hotel – This hotel is conveniently located near Exit 1 of Hongik University Subway Station. Amanti Seoul also has a seasonal outdoor pool. WiFi is available in public areas.
  • Hotel The Designers Hongdae – The Designers is a 3-minute walk from Hapjeong Subway Station. They offer stylish accommodations with free WiFi and an Italian restaurant. Their Hummingbella restaurant offers a breakfast buffet in the morning. Each room has air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a refrigerator. There’s also free toiletries and a hairdryer.

Budget Accommodation in Hongdae

  • Cocoa Guesthouse Hongdae – This cheap hotel is located a 10-minute walk from Hongik University Station and has free breakfast. The area is known for its indie arts culture, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Kimchee Seoul Guesthouse – Kimchee Hongdae Guesthouse is the best hostel and one of the top picks among budget travelers. It is a convenient 15-minute walk from Hongik subway station. Just an FYI, Kimchee Guesthouse is a popular place to stay in Seoul and has awesome reviews.

What To Do in Hongdae

The Hongdae area is a perfect spot if you love vibrant night life, unique experiences, and cheap dining. For a full guide on what to do in Hongdae, click here.

Traditional Hanok Houses

I highly recommend doing a traditional Hanok stay in Seoul. The Bukchon Hanok Village is one of best places to stay in Seoul if you’re looking to experience traditional Korean culture. First time visitors will also love this experience.

  • Byeolharu Luxury Hanok House – This traditional Korean house is located near Bangsan Market, Myeongdong Cathedral and Changgyeonggung Palace. You even get a private bathtub!

Insadong

Insadong is the the perfect location if you’re looking to experience Korean traditional culture. You’ll find delicious traditional Korean food at really cheap prices. Buddhist temples such as Jogyesa are located here along with many art galleries.

Luxury Accommodation in Insadong

  • Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – The Four Seasons Hotel is located near Gwanghwamun Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sejong Art Center, and the Cheonggyecheon Stream. It has incredible Seoul city center views and features 5 in-house dining.

Mid-Range Accommodation in Insadong

  • Moxy Seoul by Marriott – Located in front of from Jongno 3-ga Subway Station, Moxy Seoul Insadong offers modern rooms with flat-screen cable TVs and free internet. Guests can also choose from a range of dining options and restaurants located in Ikseondong district.
  • Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong – Located nect to Jogyesa Temple, Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong features air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, and currency exchange for guests.
  • Orakai Insadong Suites – Centrally located in Seoul, they offer luxurious self-catering apartments with a well-equipped kitchenette and satellite TV. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness center and sauna.

Budget Accommodation in Insadong

  • Grid Inn Hotel – Grid Inn Hotel is located near Jongmyo Shrine. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Free WiFi is available throughout the entire property.
  • Hotel Cullinan – Cullinan Hotel is a contemporary hotel placed in the heart of the city. Guests enjoy elegantly furnished rooms equipped with personal computers and free internet access.
  • Hotel the Designers Jongno – Chic and modern non-smoking rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi are featured here. They have a 24-hour front desk, the hotel is just a 3-minute walk to Cheonggyecheon Stream.

What To Do in Insadong

Insadong is an excellent spot for souvenir shops. For a complete guide everything you need to do in Insadong, click here.

  • Changdeokgung Palace – Known as the prince’s palace, the main attraction is the Secret Garden.
  • Deoksugung Palace – It was the royal residence of the Korean monarchy until 1910 when Korea was annexed by Japan. It also has modern and traditional architecture inside.
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace – This is the most beautiful and famous of Seoul’s five grand places and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Insadong Traditional Street – The main street hosts traditional Korean restaurants, traditional Korean classes, and Hanbok rental shops.
  • Ikseondong – Ikseondong is a hanok village with trendy shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. For more information, check out the Ultimate Guide to Ikseonsong here.
  • Jogyesa Temple – This is a beautiful Buddhist Temple in Seoul and is done up with thousands of colorful lanterns for Buddha’s Birthday.

Itaewon

Itaewon was once known as the best spot for foreigners. It’s a great place to stay for access to foreign food. You’ll find a lot of Itaewon hotels that cater to every budget. For expats, Itaewon is one of best neighborhoods in Seoul to live.

Luxury Accommodation in Itaewon

Mid-Range Accommodation in Itaewon

  • Hamilton Hotel – Just in front of Itaewon Subway Station (Line 6), Hamilton Hotel offers modern rooms with free internet in Seoul’s Itaewon District. This hotel is located central to everything in Itaewon and especially the main strip. It’s also famous for hosting no children pool parties every summer.
  • Mondrian Seoul Itaewon – Set in Seoul, 0.7 mi from The National Museum of Korea, Mondrian Seoul Itaewon features air-conditioned accommodations and a bar. Offering a restaurant, the property also has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, as well as an indoor pool and a fitness center. The accommodations offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.

Budget Accommodation in Itaewon

  • Good Stay Itaewon – Providing free WiFi, Good Stay Itaewon is located in Seoul, 2.3 mi from The National Museum of Korea and 2.4 mi from Namdaemun Market. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a shared bathroom. The accommodations provides a shared kitchen and a shared lounge for guests.
  • Hotel Yaja – Hotel Yaja Yeongdeungpo offers uniquely designed guest rooms with hot tubs, located just a 10-minute walk from Singil Subway Station (Line 1 and 5). (Just so you know, this is considered more of a love motel in Seoul so you’ll see a lot of couples in here). If you’re looking for an adventure on a budget, enjoy yourself at Hotel Yaja.
  • Itaewon Inn – Well located in the Yongsan-Gu district of Seoul, Itaewon Inn is set 0.9 mi from The National Museum of Korea, 1.4 mi from I’Park Mall and 1.9 mi from Namdaemun Market. Featuring a shared kitchen, this property also provides guests with a terrace. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. This is a Seoul hostel.

What To Do in Itaewon

For a complete guide to everything you need to know about Itaewon, click here.

  • All That Jazz (Korea’s oldest Jazz bar) – Open since 1976, this is one of the hottest jazz bars in Seoul and hosts live jazz performances.
  • Namdaemun Market – Since 1964, Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional free market in Korea with shops selling various goods at affordable prices.
  • Namsan Tower – One of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, you definitely should visit the N Grill restaurant at the top and place your lock of love or friendship there.
  • PLANT Vegan Cafe & Restaurant – This is one of my favorite restaurants in Seoul and I frequented it quite often. Everything on the menu is delicious.
  • War Memorial of Korea – If you’re a history buff, don’t miss this museum. It was built to teach people sad but important lessons from the Korean War and hope for a peaceful reunification.

Jamsil

Jamsil is one of my absolute favorite places in Seoul. I lived a 40 minute bus ride from the area and I know it like the back of my hand. I love the vibe, restaurants and cafes. There’s so much to do in Jamsil and I really recommend staying in this area as a family because people are nicer and it’s much quieter compared to the rest of Seoul.

Luxury Accommodation in Jamsil

  • Signiel Seoul – Located between floors 76 and 101 of Lotte World Tower, Signiel Seoul features panoramic views of Seoul in all rooms. This five-star hotel features a champagne bar, Michelin-starred restaurant, and indoor swimming pool. It is directly connected to Jamsil Subway Station.

Mid-Range Accommodation in Jamsil

  • Lotte Hotel World – Located beside the world’s largest amusement park, 5-star Lotte Hotel sits atop Jamsil Subway Station. It features a well-equipped fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and 3 dining options. Free WiFi and free parking are available.

Budget Accommodation in Jamsil

  • Jamsil Delight Hotel – Located near Lotte World Tower & Lotte World Mall, Delight Hotel Jamsil provides accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. This property also provides guests with a terrace.
  • Rosana Boutique Hotel – Located next to Seokchon Lake, Rosana Business & Boutique Hotel has modern yet cozy windows with free wired internet. A Continental buffet breakfast is served every morning.

What To Do in Jamsil

  • Lotte World – Lotte World is the biggest indoor amusement park in the world.
  • Lotte World Tower | Seoul Sky – You cannot miss the fifth biggest building in the world and their see through glass floor observation deck with amazing views of the Han River.
  • Olympic Park – At Olympic Park you can picnic, go to concerts, and enjoy the Rose Garden Plaza.
  • Seoulism Cafe – This is one of the most iconic cafes because you can get an amazing picture with the Seoul sign and Lotte Tower.
  • Seokchon Lake – This lake is super popular in spring for the cherry blossoms and autumn for the foliage.

Myeongdong

One of the main draws to Myeongdong is the central location. It is also very near to Seoul Station which will take you directly to Incheon Airport. Myeongdong is a good place in the heart of Seoul.

If you’re planning on going on a tour, many tour pick ups will stop in Myeongdong. Myeongdong is the best location in Seoul for tourists. The area caters to every need and people there speak many languages including Chinese, Japanese, and English. If you’re a K-pop or K-drama lover, Korean beauty lover, and love to shop, I cannot recommend Myeongdong enough.

Luxury Accommodation in Myeongdong

  • JW Marriott Seoul Dongdaemun Gate – Located in the center of Dongdaemun, Seoul’s retail district, JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul Hotel is next to Dongdaemun Subway Station.
  • Westin Chosun Seoul – Westin Chosun Hotel Seoul is a 5-minute walk from Myeongdong. Located behind the Lotte Department Store Sogong Branch, this luxurious 5-star property offers an indoor pool, a spa and free parking on site.

Mid-Range Accommodation in Myeongdong

  • Hotel Skypark Central Myeongdong – Hotel Skypark Central Myeongdong is located 800 feet from Euljiro 1-ga Station. They are an eco-friendly carbon-neutral hotel. It is less than a minute’s walk from the Airport Limousine Bus Station.
  • Royal Hotel Seoul – Located in the central area of Myeongdong, Royal Hotel Seoul features 310 guestrooms including 19 suites. Free WiFi and private parking are available.

Budget Accommodation in Myeongdong

  • 57 Myeongdong Hostel – 57 Myeongdong Hostel is conveniently located 500 feet from Exit 5 of Myeongdong Subway Station (Line 4) and offers private rooms with WiFi and city views.
  • Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong – Offering free WiFi access, Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong is located 0.8 mi from Myeongdong shopping district. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and a complimentary tea and coffee at the 11th floor lounge.
  • Namsan Forest in Myeongdong – Renovated in May 2018, Namsan Forest in Myeongdong is within a 5-minute walk of the shopping meccas of Myeongdong and Namdaemun. The property houses studios with a full kitchen and complimentary WiFi access.

What To Do in Myeongdong

For a complete guide on all the things you can do in Myeongdong, click here.

  • Myeongdong Shopping Street – Right outside Myeongdong Station, you’ll find many stores, street vendors, and street food. It’s a vibrant and exciting place for tourists.
  • Style Nanda Hotel – This is a super cute cafe with six floors. Style Nanda is inspired by a lot of 1950s decor and each floor brings you a dreamy feel. The themes of each floor are storage, lobby, spa, rooms, pool and laundry and pink pool café.
  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza –
  • Myeongdong Cathedral – This Catholic Church has been around since 1898 and is especially spectacular around Christmas time with all the illuminations and trees.
  • Namsan Tower – You’re also in close proximity to N Seoul Tower. I highly recommend paying it a visit. You can book your Namsan gondola tickets here.

Where to stay in Seoul South Korea should be as easy as pie now. With all these amazing hotels to stay in Seoul, you can’t go wrong with with anything you choose. You just have to really know who you are as a traveler and what you really love to do when going abroad.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

Free Seoul E-Book

Do you love South Korea?

Enter your name and email address and click the button below to receive your Easy Seoul Travel Guide so you can travel like a local!

Related Posts

| 0 comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.