Last updated on December 6th, 2025
Let’s explore where to stay in Seoul with this accommodation guide, featuring the top neighborhoods and hotels to stay in the city.
Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a vibrant destination that offers something for every type of traveler -whether you’re interested in culture, history, art, gastronomy, modern architecture, or traditional ancient palaces. It’s no wonder you’re already considering planning a trip to Seoul!
When planning your visit, one of the key considerations is where to stay in Seoul. With numerous districts and neighborhoods to choose from, finding the ideal location can be a bit challenging. Each area in Seoul has its own unique flavor and offers different experiences, ranging from dining and shopping to nightlife and accommodations that cater to all budgets. Rest assured, your search for the perfect stay is over because I’m here to help you find the best places to stay in Seoul.
In this Seoul Accommodation Guide, we will highlight the seven best areas to stay in Seoul, along with the hand-picked hotel recommendations for each area, suitable for all preferences and budgets!
Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in Seoul
Are you excited to pack your bags and visit Seoul? I totally understand! If you’re short on time and can’t read the entire post about accommodations, here’s a quick and easy guide to the best places to stay in Seoul that we highly recommend for travelers.
The top five neighborhoods to stay in Seoul are Myeongdong, Insadong, Gangnam, Hongdae, and Itaewon.
- Myeongdong – This area is perfect for first-time travelers who want to be in the midst of the action, with plenty of things to see and do. Hotel Recommendation: LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong.
- Insadong – This is Seoul’s cultural heart, featuring many attractions scattered around the neighborhood. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sightseeing and cultural experiences. Hotel Recommendation: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul.
- Gangnam – Recognized as one of Korea’s wealthiest areas, Gangnam boasts sleek skyscrapers and is perfect for travelers seeking luxury. Hotel Recommendation: L7 Gangnam.
- Hongdae – Known as Seoul’s youth district, this area, centered around Hongik University, offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere throughout. Hotel Recommendation: L7 Hongdae by Lotte.
- Itaewon – Known for its nightlife and hilly slope, Itaewon offers a unique experience for visitors. Hotel Recommendation: The Shilla Seoul.
During my past visits to Seoul, I’ve stayed in various parts of the city. Although Seoul is vast, its efficient subway system makes getting around easy, no matter where you choose to stay. However, for first-time visitors, we highly recommend Myeongdong. Staying in this area keeps you at the heart of the action, placing you within walking distance of many important attractions, landmarks, and activities in the city. Plus, Myeongdong suits all types of travelers, including families, couples, and backpackers.
Seoul Accommodation Tips: To find the best hotel accommodations in Seoul at competitive prices, I suggest comparing rates on Agoda.com and Booking.com.
Myeongdong
Myeongdong is the best area to stay in Seoul for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of the action and have plenty of things to do and see. Considered the heart and soul of the city, Myeongdong is an excellent spot for exploring. It also serves as the main transportation hub in Seoul, with all major tour buses, airport shuttles, and day trip tours having a main pickup stop in Myeongdong. Its central location makes it easy to access all of the major attractions.
In addition to its convenience, Myeongdong is a vibrant shopping district filled with endless stores, restaurants, and cafes. It’s also just a short walk away from iconic landmarks like Namsan Seoul Tower, where you’ll enjoy the best panoramic views of the city, and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Regarding accommodation, Myeongdong offers a wide range of options, from luxurious 5-star hotels to hostels and guesthouses that are perfect for backpackers. If you feel like Myeongdong is the right area for where you stay in Seoul, here are the top hotels I have selected for you:
Best Hotel in Seoul – Myeongdong
Lotte Hotel Seoul (Top Range) – This iconic 5-star hotel in Seoul offers a luxurious experience, with upscale referring to every aspect of the stay. Its prime location is perfect for sightseeing and accessing local attractions. The surrounding area features numerous excellent restaurants, tea houses, and cafes.
LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong (High Range) – This hotel is an outstanding choice, situated within walking distance of shopping districts, street food, and public transportation. Very popular for travelers when looking for where to stay in Seoul.
Hotel28 Myeongdong (Mid Range) – Located in the Myeongdong area, this boutique hotel features a cinematic theme. It is conveniently connected to public transport and offers plenty of nearby dining options.
57 Myeongdong Hostel (Budget Range) – This budget-friendly hostel boasts an excellent location that is easily accessible. It provides friendly staff, great views, and offers good value for money.
Insadong
If you’re traveling with your family and prefer a more relaxed atmosphere to stay in Seoul, the Insadong district is the perfect choice!
Insadong is an excellent place to stay in Seoul if you’re looking for a peaceful, sophisticated, and culturally rich experience. This area is one of the city’s most traditional and cultural districts, making it very tourist-friendly. Be sure to visit famous cultural sites in Seoul, including the iconic palaces, Jogyesa Buddhist Temple, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gwanghwamun Square while you’re in the neighborhood. These attractions are ideal for sightseeing and culture enthusiasts.
Additionally, the streets of Insadong are lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea houses. Take some time to explore the area’s numerous cafes, art galleries, antique shops, and traditional teahouses. Although Insadong is primarily a residential area, it offers plenty of interesting experiences for all types of travelers.
If you decide to stay in Insadong while visiting Seoul, here are the best accommodation options I’ve selected for you:
Best Hotel in Seoul – Insadong
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul (Top Range) is the ideal place to stay if you want to explore the attractions of Seoul. It boasts an excellent location, just steps away from Gwanghwamun Plaza, and the royal Gyeongbokgung Palace is only a 10-minute walk from this luxurious five-star hotel. Overall, everything was perfect for a lavish stay in Seoul.
Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong (High Range) is situated in the heart of Seoul, offering a fantastic location with easy access to shops, restaurants, transportation, and tourist spots. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is very friendly.
Moxy Seoul Insadong (Mid Range) features adults-only rooms equipped with great facilities. The rooms are clean and provide everything you need. This hotel is ideally located for young guests who enjoy nightlife activities.
Gangnam
If you are a business traveler visiting Seoul or looking to stay in the most upscale hotels in the city, the Gangnam district is the ideal area for you.
Gangnam is home to some of Korea’s wealthiest residents and is known for its sleek skyscrapers, including the Signiel Seoul, one of the tallest buildings in the world. The area boasts high-end shopping options and gourmet restaurants. Additionally, the famous library in the Starfield Coex Mall is located in Gangnam. This neighborhood is also perfect for those interested in boutique shops, shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife.
Staying in Gangnam places you in a prime location for experiencing the modern side of Seoul!
Best Hotel in Seoul – Gangnam
Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas (Top Range) is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Seoul. Located in the heart of Gangnam, the hotel offers a fantastic location with numerous activities and attractions nearby. Its design, amenities, and service are all top-notch, and the level of service provided is impeccable.
L7 Gangnam by LOTTE (High Range) is a trendy, lifestyle-focused hotel that caters to both business travelers and tourists. The property is aesthetically pleasing and very comfortable. Its convenient location is only two blocks away from metro access, making it easy to reach any destination in Seoul. There are also numerous restaurants in the vicinity.
Best Western Premier Gangnam Hotel (High-Mid Range) is a practical option in the area. While it may be slightly dated, the rooms are exceptionally clean. The hotel’s location is great, just about a 7-minute walk from the train station. The staff is he
Hongdae
Are you interested in staying in a fun, youthful vibe in Seoul? If so, Hongdae is a great choice!
Hongdae is a university district centered around Hongik University, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere throughout the area. It is well-known for its nightlife, street art, and music scene. You’ll discover a variety of vibrant shops, trendy cafes, and the latest fashion trends, along with street performers ranging from aspiring K-pop stars to talented dancers. Additionally, staying in this district means you’ll have access to numerous restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops at all times, which is a fantastic bonus.
Furthermore, Hongdae offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are many guesthouses and boutique hotels that feature a creative and artsy flair.
Best Hotel in Seoul – Hongdae
L7 Hongdae by Lotte (High Range) – This hotel provides a full-scale experience with stylish rooms, a stunning rooftop infinity pool, and artistic touches throughout the building. Its fantastic location next to Hongik University Station (Exit 1) places it in the heart of Hongdae, just a 3-minute walk from the airport limousine bus stop. It is a popular choice for accommodations if you are looking for where to stay in Seoul Hongdae area.
Bobo Hotel Hongdae (High-Mid Range) – This is a well-regarded mid-budget hotel in Hongdae, offering clean and comfortable rooms. While it may not be the most impressive option, it is practical for a good night’s sleep.
Huayuanhouse HQ in Hongdae (Mid-Budget) – Located in Hongdae, this hotel features compact, basic, and clean rooms. Its excellent location is just a 5-minute walk from Hongdae Station and is surrounded by many restaurants. The affordability of this option ensures a comfortable stay during your visit to Seoul.
Itaewon
Itaewon stands out as the city’s international hotspot and has transformed into Seoul’s cultural melting pot. The neighborhood is a mainstay for expats, offering a multicultural atmosphere. At night, Itaewon becomes a lively district, with the main street buzzing with nightclubs, bars, and restaurants.
Itaewon is also known for its hilly slopes, which can make getting around Seoul take longer. However, accommodations in Itaewon tend to be more affordable, with many budget options available.
Best Hotel in Seoul – Itaewon
The Shilla Seoul (High Range) — This is one of the top hotels in Seoul. The Shilla Seoul is an incredibly luxurious hotel located in the Namsan Park area, offering a lovely escape in the city. Everything about this hotel is perfect. The beds are very comfortable, and the staff is friendly, respectful, and professional.
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon (Mid Range) — If you’re looking for a hotel that won’t break the bank, the Imperial Palace is your best choice. It provides a clean and modern stay in the neighborhood.
H Hostel Itaewon (Budget) — For a more affordable option in Seoul, H HOSTEL Itaewon offers simple yet clean rooms. It is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the metro station, with shops for nearly everything within walking distance.
Overall: Best Area and Hotel to Stay in Seoul
All in all, regardless of where you choose to stay in Seoul, the city’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to navigate. We always recommend booking accommodation close to a subway station, as this will enhance the convenience of your visit.
In short, our top hotel recommendation in Seoul is Hotel28 Myeongdong, a charming cinema-themed hotel located in the heart of Myeongdong. Its location is not only convenient but also well-connected to public transport, with plenty of dining options nearby. If budget is not a concern, consider staying at LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong. It’s an excellent choice where everything is fantastic. A very popular among travelers looking for where to stay in Seoul.
Lastly, this Seoul accommodation guide is part of of visit to Seoul. Continue reading for more travel inspiration:
- Seoul Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog for First-Time Visitor
- Day Trip to Nami Island Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
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