Looking for the best areas to stay in Seoul? Here’s your ultimate guide to the best neighbourhoods and recommended hotels in 2024, perfect for first-time visitors who want to maximise their experience.
Seoul has exploded in popularity in recent years. We first experienced its charm back in 2015. Since then, we’ve witnessed the city’s transformation firsthand, with its unique blend of ancient and modern captivating an ever-growing audience. From historic royal palaces and serene temples to cutting-edge skyscrapers and bustling street food markets, there’s so much to do in Seoul!
But with so many distinct neighbourhoods, choosing the right area to stay in Seoul can make or break your trip – especially if it’s your first time visiting the South Korean capital.
Over the years, we’ve spent several weeks in South Korea and have had ample time to stay in and explore its different neighbourhoods.
That’s why we put together this guide to introduce you to the best areas to stay in Seoul, outline their pros and cons, and provide you with a list of recommended stays in each neighbourhood to help you decide on accommodation for your trip.
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Short on time? Here are the best areas to stay in Seoul by interest:
➞ Best area for nightlife: Hongdae
➞ Best area for shopping: Myeongdong
➞ Best area for sightseeing: Insadong
➞ Best area for history lovers: Bukchon Hanok Village
➞ Best area for a central location: Insadong
Our recommended best overall area for first-timers: Insadong, closely followed by Myeongdong
Find your perfect Seoul stay with our interactive map below, which allows you to compare various accommodation options in the city. Simply enter your travel dates to see real-time prices and availability.
5 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul (with Hotel Picks!)
With its ten million residents, Seoul is a huge city, and you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to its many neighbourhoods.
To help you make an informed decision on where to stay in Seoul, we have picked different areas that we think are the best options for tourists. Obviously, there’s no single “best” area for everyone visiting Seoul as it depends on your interests and travel style, but some neighbourhoods cater better to first-time visitors than others.
Seoul offers various accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles. From luxury hotels and boutique hotels to traditional guesthouses, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Seoul.
So, let’s jump into the best areas and the recommended stays!
1. Myeongdong
Best area for: shopaholics, foodies, nightlife, and first-time visitors who want a central location.
Pros
- Central location
- Shopper’s paradise with a wide range of stores
- Great area for foodies
Cons
- Can be very crowded and busy, especially on the weekends
- Less traditional vibe as it caters heavily to tourists
Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s shopping and entertainment areas. It’s centrally located and has easy access to public transportation and many popular attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul’s main palace) and Bukchon Hanok Village.
The area’s main street is a pedestrian paradise lined with shops, restaurants, and street food stalls. It’s particularly famous for its cosmetics and skincare stores, offering an extensive selection of Korean beauty (K-beauty) products that have gained global popularity.
In addition to shopping, Myeongdong is a hub for foodies. You can find a variety of street food stalls serving Korean delicacies, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). And numerous restaurants offer Korean barbecue, fried chicken, noodles, and more.
At night, Myeongdong is beautifully illuminated by neon signs. It’s a popular spot for nightlife, offering entertainment options like karaoke rooms, bars, and live music venues.
Recommended Hotel Stays in Myeongdong
Hithere City Myeongdong ($) – This hostel boasts a central location, modern and stylish rooms, and a rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong ($$) – Experience comfort and convenience at this well-established hotel chain right in the heart of Myeongdong. The rooms of the 4-star hotel are very clean and spacious.
Stanford Hotel Myeongdong ($$) – This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent amenities (including a fitness centre), and a prime location within walking distance of Myeongdong’s main attractions and transportation hubs.
Lotte Hotel Seoul Executive Tower ($$$) – For a luxurious stay in the heart of Myeongdong, consider the Lotte Hotel Seoul Executive Tower. This 5-star hotel offers top-notch amenities, spacious and elegantly designed rooms with panoramic city views, and direct access to the Lotte Department Store.
Check availability and pricing for accommodation in Myeongdong
2. Insadong
Best area for: sightseeing, first-time visitors looking for a central location, and those seeking traditional Korean experiences (shopping, tea houses, crafts).
Pros
- Best place to experience traditional Korean culture firsthand
- Beautiful traditional architecture
- Variety of shops and cafés
- Central location
Cons
- Limited hotel options
- Can be quite noisy
- Prices tend to be a bit more expensive due to its popularity
Insadong is situated in the heart of Seoul, within walking distance of Seoul’s most famous landmarks and attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Myeongdong shopping district.
It’s the place to experience traditional Korean culture. The narrow streets are lined with shops selling everything from hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) and handicrafts to ceramics and tea. There are also numerous art galleries and antique shops.
Top tip: One of our favourite places in Seoul is Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, which is just a short walk away from Insadong. This old neighbourhood with narrow alleys is full of themed cafés and restaurants in well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks). It’s one of Seoul’s hippest areas!
Insadong is probably best known for its traditional tea houses and many Korean restaurants where you can sample local delicacies.
Recommended Hotel Stays in Insadong
Moxy Seoul Insadong ($$) – This trendy hotel right in front of Jongno 3(sam)-ga Subway Station offers modern rooms and a rooftop bar, perfect for enjoying Insadong’s lively atmosphere.
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong ($$$) – Experience comfort and style at this modern hotel with a convenient location near Insadong’s shops and restaurants.
ibis Ambassador Seoul Insadong ($) – This reliable hotel chain is conveniently located in Insadong and offers comfortable stays for budget-conscious travellers.
Check availability and pricing for accommodation in Insadong
3. Hongdae
Best area for: nightlife enthusiasts, live music, youthful energy, budget-conscious travellers, and those interested in the arts and indie scene.
Pros
- University area with a youthful and creative atmosphere
- Many indie music clubs, trendy cafés, and unique shops
- Perfect for nightlife
- Ideal choice for street art exploration
- A lot of options for budget-conscious travellers
Cons
- Can be noisy, especially at night, due to the bustling nightlife
- Crowded streets
- Limited green spaces and parks compared to other areas of Seoul
- Some parts of the neighbourhood feel very touristy and commercialised
- Not as close to some major historical attractions.
The Hongdae area centres around Hongik University, Korea’s top art school. It’s a dynamic and youthful neighbourhood in Seoul known for its strong focus on art and music.
When you walk around the area, you’ll see a lot of street art murals, trendy shops, and independent art galleries.
Hongdae is also a great spot for foodies! It offers a mind-boggling variety of food options. You can indulge in classic Korean dishes, grab a bubble tea, or savour international cuisine. There are also plenty of street food stalls!
Top tip: Seoul is known for its themed cafés, and Hongdae has many of them! You’ll find everything from cat cafés and board game cafés to cafés with sheep (yes, you read that right!).
The area is also famous for its nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs catering to different tastes. Whether you’re into electronic dance music, hip-hop, or live music, you’ll find a venue to suit your vibe.
During the day, Hongdae is an excellent spot for shopping and people-watching. You can explore independent shops selling fashion, accessories, and handmade crafts.
Plus, Hongdae offers a variety of good places to stay at a reasonable price.
Recommended Hotel Stays in Hongdae
Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae ($$) – This modern hotel provides comfortable accommodation and a terrace with stunning city views, perfect for exploring Hongdae’s nightlife and artistic scene.
RYSE, Autograph Collection ($$$) – This stylish hotel boasts a unique design and upscale amenities, ideal for travellers seeking a luxurious stay in the heart of Hongdae.
Dream House ($) – Budget-friendly travellers will appreciate this clean and comfortable hotel that is located on a quiet side street away from the busy main road.
4. Bukchon Hanok Village
Best area for: staying in a traditional Korean house, experiencing Korean heritage, and those interested in Joseon-era history.
Pros
- Charming alleys lined with hanok (traditional houses)
- Offers a unique cultural experience
- Beautiful backdrop for photos
- Centrally located
Cons
- Limited number of restaurants and cafés
- Limited number of accommodation
- Can be crowded with tourists during the day
- Hanok guest houses tend to be more expensive than a standard hotel in other areas
Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming traditional Korean area located in central Seoul. You’ll find more than 900 hanoks (Korean traditional houses) there that date back to the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), meaning some of them are over 600 years old.
Many hanoks have been converted into cultural centres, traditional craft workshops, and tea houses, so you can experience Korean traditions firsthand.
The village is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, making it a great place to explore Seoul’s historic sites.
This area is perfect for you if you want a truly unique stay. You can stay in a Hanok guest house. Be prepared that it can be more expensive than a standard hotel room in other areas of Seoul due to their limited availability and historical significance. There are guesthouses with shared amenities that can be more affordable, but private rooms with modern amenities will come at an extra cost.
Recommended Hanok Stays in Bukchon
Bukchonae ($) – This budget-friendly hanok offers a taste of traditional Korean living with modern amenities and a shared kitchen.
Byeolharu ($$$) – This luxury hanok is a one-bedroom villa with spacious rooms and modern amenities, while still retaining the traditional charm of a Hanok house.
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5. Itaewon
Best area for: international cuisine, a multicultural atmosphere, and a diverse nightlife scene.
Pros
- Haven for international restaurants and shops
- A large expat hub with an international feel
- Perfect for nightlife
Cons
- Not as centrally located as some other neighbourhoods
- Some streets can feel less safe at night
- Can be a bit noisy due to the lively nightlife scene
If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Itaewon is one of the best places! It’s packed with bars, clubs, and pubs, catering to all tastes and musical preferences.
Itaewon is also a haven for international cuisine. Dubbed “Seoul’s International District”, you’ll find restaurants representing cuisines from all over the world, from Mexican and Indian to Ethiopian and French.
You can meet people from all over the world here as Itaewon has a large expat community. This gives the neighbourhood a multicultural and international feel.
Recommended Hotels in Itaewon
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon ($$) – This modern hotel boasts a rooftop bar with stunning city views and offers a trendy atmosphere in the heart of Itaewon.
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul ($$$) – This 5-star luxury hotel overlooks the scenic Namsan Mountain and is close to N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower). As one of Seoul’s top hotels, it offers spa treatments, big rooms, and both indoor and outdoor pools.
Seoul Cube Itaewon ($) – This is a great budget-friendly hotel in Itaewon. The hotel rooms are clean, comfortable, and centrally located.
Other Popular Neighbourhoods in Seoul
Here are some other neighbourhoods in Seoul that offer a different flavour of the city. While they’re great choices for return visitors to Seoul, we don’t think they’re the best fit for first-timers. Here’s why…
1. Gangnam
This district, famously immortalised by the K-Pop megahit “Gangnam Style” in 2012, is known for its upscale shops, luxury apartments, and trendy restaurants. It’s a great place to experience the glamorous side of Seoul.
Still, it can feel less traditionally Korean and more homogenised (meaning more similar to other modern, developed areas around the world) than other neighbourhoods in Seoul.
Top tip: For shopaholics, Gangnam offers many department stores and shopping malls. One of our favourites is Starfield COEX Mall, which has a stunning (Instagrammable) library and even a huge aquarium!
In addition, Gangnam is situated south of the Han River, so you’re also less centrally located compared to places north of the river, like Myeongdong or Insadong. As a first-time visitor, you might miss out on some unique cultural aspects and easier access to historical sites in more central locations.
While there are a lot of upscale star hotels in Gangnam, you’ll also find budget-friendly options there, such as guesthouses and smaller hotels. And if you’re seeking the best hotels in Seoul for a work trip, Gangnam is an excellent option for business travellers due to the abundance of hotels with a business centre!
2. Jamsil
Home to the iconic Lotte World amusement park and Lotte World Tower, Jamsil is a fun area for theme park enthusiasts and families. However, it can get really crowded and lacks the historical charm of other central locations.
While Jamsil is excellent for entertainment, first-time visitors might be better suited to areas with easier access to historical sites and cultural experiences.
Top tip: Lotte World’s amusement park offers a fun day out! And if you’re looking for stunning city views, head up to the observatory of Lotte World Tower (especially during the summer months when the skies are clear).
Plan Your Seoul Trip
Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:
How to Get From the Airport to Your Hotel in Seoul’s City Centre
We recommend taking the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to a hotel in central Seoul.
This convenient and affordable option offers two train types: the AREX express train (faster, takes approximately 43 minutes) and the AREX standard, all-stop train (slower, takes approximately 53 minutes). Both trains arrive at Seoul Station, a major transportation hub in the city centre.
Tickets for AREX can be purchased at the airport station using ticket machines or at convenience stores inside Incheon airport. Alternatively, you can also buy an AREX ticket in advance on platforms like Klook (which we did).
Of course, other options exist, like taking an airport limousine bus, a taxi, or a private airport transfer. However, these options either take significantly longer or are more expensive than the AREX train.
Areas in Seoul: FAQ
This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the best places in Seoul, helping you choose the perfect place to stay for your interests and travel style.
What is the best neighbourhood in Seoul?
There’s no single “best” neighbourhood in Seoul! It depends on your interests. For culture enthusiasts, try Insadong. If you’re a shopaholic, then Myeongdong will be a great choice. And if you’re a night owl, consider Hongdae or Itaewon for their nightlife scene (they’re also both budget-friendly!).
What is the hippest area in Seoul?
For a trendy vibe, explore Ikseon-dong Hanok Village with its themed cafés and restaurants in well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks). You can browse unique shops and galleries in narrow alleys, then sip lattes in sunlit courtyards. Other cool and hip neighbourhoods include Hapjeong, Seongsu and Hongdae.
How many days do you need in Seoul?
For a first visit to Seoul, we recommend at least 4-5 days to explore the must-sees, cultural experiences, and delicious food. If you can spend 6+ days there, you can see more of South Korea’s capital or add day trips, such as visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) or the Korean Folk Village.
We’ve been to Seoul several times and continue to discover new things each time we visit.
How tourist-friendly is South Korea?
South Korea is very tourist-friendly! It has a low crime rate, and Koreans are welcoming towards tourists. Plus, it has excellent infrastructure and offers a variety of experiences and accommodation options. Having visited the country several times, we can attest that South Korea is a fantastic destination for tourists of all ages and interests.
What is the best time to visit Seoul?
The ideal times to visit Seoul are in April and May, and from September to November, when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal. Summer (June to August) can be hot, humid, and rainy due to the monsoon season. December to February brings frigid temperatures, but the city can be beautiful with snowfall.
In our opinion, October is the perfect month to visit Seoul. During this time, you can expect below-average rainy days, a high number of sunshine hours, and mild weather (average daily high temperatures of 18°C / 64°F).
If you’re keen to visit Seoul during Korea’s famous cherry blossoms, then plan to go around early April. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on weather conditions but aim for the first week of April to catch the peak bloom.
Wrap-Up: Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Seoul
Are you ready to book your trip to South Korea’s capital? We hope our guide has helped you identify the best area to stay in Seoul!
In a nutshell, here are Seoul’s top neighbourhoods for first-time (and even repeat visitors):
- Culture Enthusiast: Immerse yourself in Korean traditions by staying in Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village.
- Shopping Fanatic: Myeongdong is a shopper’s paradise with tons of stores and street vendors.
- Nightlife Seeker: Hongdae or Itaewon are known for their vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music.
- Centrally Located: Myeongdong and Insadong are both great central areas, with easy access to many attractions.
- Unique Experience: Consider a stay in a hanok guesthouse in Bukchon Hanok Village for a traditional Korean experience.
Our favourite area remains Insadong. It’s centrally located, close to the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces (our two favourites among Seoul’s five royal palaces), offers delicious food, and is close to several fantastic themed cafés!
If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below.
Check out our other South Korea posts:
- 17 best things to do in Seoul
- 20 interesting facts about Seoul you probably didn’t know
- Guide to Busan’s Haeundae Sky Capsule