Where to stay in Seoul: areas and hotels

If you're looking for where to stay in Seoul for the first time, Myeongdong or Jongno are the best choices because they are in the historic centre, next to metro stations, and a stone's throw from the palaces, markets, and most attractions. If nightlife and the city's modern side are what you're after, Gangnam and Hongdae more than meet that need.

For couples wanting something more atmospheric, Insadong, with its traditional hanoks and narrow streets filled with teahouses, is among the city's most romantic neighbourhoods. Families usually prefer Myeongdong or Gangnam, as they offer larger rooms, easy access to shopping centres and supermarkets, while those travelling on a budget will find much cheaper hostels and guesthouses in Hongdae, near the universities.

Itaewon is the most international neighbourhood, with a multicultural character, foreign restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife, ideal for those seeking something different from the typical Korean experience. Below, we analyse each area, highlighting its pros and cons, to help you choose the base that suits your trip.

City history and character

Seoul has been the capital of South Korea for over six centuries, since the Joseon dynasty designated it as its capital in 1394. At the city's heart stand five royal palaces, with Gyeongbokgung being the largest and most visited, while the neighbouring Bukchon district, with its traditional hanok houses, offers a glimpse into how the Korean aristocracy lived. The city endured devastating trials in the twentieth century, with the Japanese occupation and then the Korean War, which left it almost flattened in the early 1950s. The subsequent reconstruction and economic development, known as the 'Miracle on the Han River', transformed Seoul into one of the world's most technologically advanced metropolises within a few decades.

Today, the city harmoniously blends tradition with the future. Skyscrapers, shopping centres, and newly built districts filled with neon lights rise alongside palaces and Buddhist temples. It's worth seeing Gyeongbokgung with its changing of the guard ceremony, Jogyesa Temple, the historic Gwangjang Market for street food, and the Banpo Bridge with its spectacular fountain show in the evening. The N Seoul Tower on Namsan Hill offers panoramic views across the city and is a landmark for couples, while the Hongdae district around Hongik University buzzes with life due to its students and artistic scene.

Seoul's climate experiences distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with rain in July, while winters are dry and can drop significantly below freezing. The most pleasant times to visit are spring, in April with the cherry blossoms, and autumn, in October and November, when the red and orange leaves in parks like Namsan and Nami Island create postcard-perfect scenes. The city's gastronomy, from the street food of Myeongdong to the grilled meats in Gangnam, is reason enough to stay a few extra days.

Getting around Seoul is easy with its extensive metro network, one of the most efficient in the world, connecting almost every neighbourhood and attraction. Buses fill in the gaps, and taxis are relatively affordable compared to other major cities. A T-money card is essential for anyone wanting to get around conveniently, as it works on the metro, buses, and in many convenience stores.

Myeongdong: the classic choice for a first visit

Myeongdong is one of Seoul's most popular accommodation areas, and the reason is simple: it's centrally located, next to metro stations, with easy access to attractions, shopping centres, and all kinds of restaurants. In the evenings, its streets fill with street food stalls, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of a festival. It's an ideal choice for first-time visitors, as you can reach almost anywhere from here without many changes of transport.

The downside is that the area is very touristy and busy, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Rooms tend to be smaller compared to other districts, as is common in many central Asian cities. Nevertheless, the price-to-location ratio remains very competitive, making it popular with both families and couples who want to stay close to everything.

1. L7 MYEONGDONG by LOTTE

A modern hotel in the heart of Myeongdong, just a few minutes from the metro station. It stands out for its room design and city views. Suitable for couples and travellers who want style without breaking the bank.

• Average cost: 110 to 160 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

2. Metro Hotel Myeongdong

Located in the heart of the shopping district, next to shops and cafes. It has clean, functional rooms and an excellent location for those who want to walk everywhere.

• Average cost: 90 to 130 € per night
• Ideal for: first-time visitors

3. Moxy Seoul Myeongdong

A youthful, creative hotel with a ground-floor bar and rooms with bold design. Suits couples and friends looking for something a bit more hip.

• Average cost: 100 to 150 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and groups of friends

4. LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong

A large hotel with comfortable rooms, ideal for families, with easy access to the bus to Incheon Airport.

• Average cost: 95 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: families

Gangnam: luxury and modern life

Gangnam is Seoul's most cosmopolitan district, internationally known thanks to the eponymous song, but in reality, it's a bustling business and commercial area south of the Han River. Here you'll find luxury hotels, huge shopping centres like COEX, aesthetic clinics, and one of the city's most vibrant nightlife scenes. It's a good choice for business trips and for those who want comfort and modern amenities.

The disadvantage is that it's quite far from the historic city centre attractions, so it requires more travel time by metro to reach the palaces and Bukchon. Accommodation prices also tend to be higher compared to other areas, especially near COEX. Nevertheless, the quality of the hotels and the vibrancy of the area offset these drawbacks for many travellers.

5. Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam

A large hotel with a pool and spa, close to the metro and shopping centres. Suits families and couples who want facilities.

• Average cost: 120 to 180 € per night
• Ideal for: families

6. Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Gangnam

An elegant international chain hotel in a central Gangnam location, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant with a rooftop pool.

• Average cost: 110 to 160 € per night
• Ideal for: business trips

7. Aloft Seoul Gangnam

A modern hotel near COEX, with a youthful aesthetic and easy metro access. A good choice for couples who want to be close to nightlife.

• Average cost: 100 to 150 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

8. GLAD Gangnam COEX Center

Located right next to the COEX shopping centre and the metro, with comfortable rooms and good value for money.

• Average cost: 90 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: families

Hongdae: youthful energy and budget-friendly options

Hongdae gets its name from Hongik University and is Seoul's most youthful neighbourhood, full of cafes, street art, small bars, and a vibrant music scene. It's an ideal choice for those travelling on a budget, as it hosts some of the city's cheapest hotels and guesthouses, without compromising on quality. In the evenings, the streets fill with students and young people from all over the world, creating a more relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere compared to Gangnam.

On the other hand, the area can be noisy in the evenings, especially on weekends, which might not suit those seeking a quiet night's sleep. The distance from the historic city centre attractions is greater than from Myeongdong, though metro connections are direct. However, it's an excellent base for those wanting to experience the city's contemporary artistic side.

9. Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae

An international chain hotel in the heart of Hongdae, with comfortable rooms and easy access to nightlife and the metro.

• Average cost: 85 to 130 € per night
• Ideal for: young people and couples

10. Amanti Hotel Seoul

Located near Hongdae Station, with large rooms, a pool, and good value for the quality offered.

• Average cost: 80 to 120 € per night
• Ideal for: budget travel

11. Hotel Firststay Hongdae

A small, clean hotel near Sinchon Station, offering a quiet environment despite its proximity to the lively area.

• Average cost: 70 to 100 € per night
• Ideal for: solo travellers

Itaewon: international character and nightlife

Itaewon has historically been Seoul's most multicultural district, with a strong presence of foreign residents, embassies, and a former military base. Today it's known for its numerous international restaurants, bars, and a more liberal atmosphere compared to other areas of the city. It suits travellers looking for something different from the typical Korean experience and those seeking vibrant nightlife.

The downside is that it's not as close to historic attractions as Myeongdong or Insadong, although metro connections are good. On weekends, the area can be noisy due to nightlife, which families with small children should consider.

12. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon

A central hotel in Itaewon, with modern rooms and direct access to the area's restaurants and bars.

• Average cost: 90 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and young people

13. Hamilton Hotel

A historic Itaewon hotel with a pool, next to the metro station and the main street with restaurants.

• Average cost: 80 to 120 € per night
• Ideal for: nightlife

Insadong: tradition and romantic atmosphere

Insadong is the most traditional neighbourhood in the centre, with narrow streets full of teahouses, art galleries, and craft shops. It's close to Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, as well as the Bukchon neighbourhood with its traditional hanok houses. The atmosphere is calmer than in Myeongdong, making it ideal for couples seeking a more romantic experience in Seoul.

The downside is that nightlife is limited compared to Gangnam or Hongdae, so it's not suitable for those looking for intense evening entertainment. Hotels are usually smaller and more boutique, which many consider an advantage due to the personalised service.

14. Hotel Sunbee Insadong

A small, welcoming hotel in the heart of Insadong, with comfortable rooms and personalised service. Ideal for couples seeking a peaceful stay.

• Average cost: 85 to 125 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

15. Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong

A modern hotel next to a temple and a stone's throw from the palaces, with a good breakfast and an impeccable location.

• Average cost: 95 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: cultural interest

Area	Ideal for	Price range/night	Distance from centre
Myeongdong	first-time visitors, families	90 to 160 €	in the centre
Gangnam	luxury, business trips	90 to 180 €	15 to 20 minutes by metro
Hongdae	budget, young people	70 to 130 €	20 minutes by metro
Itaewon	nightlife, international cuisine	80 to 140 €	10 minutes by metro
Insadong	couples, tradition	85 to 140 €	in the centre

Practical information for your stay

Incheon Airport is about an hour from central Seoul, and connections are primarily made by the AREX train, which goes to Seoul Station, or by limousine buses serving most hotels in the central areas. There's also the smaller Gimpo Airport, closer to the centre, which mainly serves domestic flights and some regional international routes. If you're travelling from Greece, as with other long-haul trips, it's a good idea to check the route via a connecting hub in advance, as direct flights to Seoul are rare.

Within the city, the Seoul metro is the most convenient mode of transport, with many lines covering all the areas mentioned above. The T-money card is easily purchased at kiosks and machines in stations and can be used on the metro, buses, and taxis. Taxis are relatively economical compared to European capitals, especially if you're travelling in a group, and while many drivers don't speak English, it helps to have your destination written in Korean.

Accommodation prices in Seoul vary significantly depending on the season. In spring, in April, during the cherry blossom season, and in autumn, in October, prices rise due to high demand, with an average cost of 100 to 180 euros per night for a good three or four-star hotel. In summer, despite the heat and humidity, prices remain moderate, while winter, outside of holidays, is the most economical period, with prices starting from 70 euros in good locations. If you plan to travel in December, it's worth checking out other winter destinations with a special atmosphere for budget comparison.

For those who want to combine Seoul with another Asian destination, Tokyo is a popular choice due to its short flight distance. If you're planning such a trip, take a look at the guide to accommodation in Tokyo or the detailed guide to areas and hotels in the Japanese capital to better organise your itinerary.

If you're planning a broader trip to Asia, it's also worth checking out the guide on where to stay in Kyoto, an equally popular stop for culture and temples, the corresponding guide for accommodation in Osaka, as well as suggestions for the best accommodation areas in Bangkok, if you intend to combine more cities on the same trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best area for a first visit to Seoul?

Myeongdong is considered the most convenient choice for a first visit because it's centrally located, has direct metro access, and is close to most attractions.

Where to stay in Seoul on a budget?

Hongdae offers the most budget-friendly accommodation options, without sacrificing quality or access to the metro and restaurants.

Which area suits couples?

Insadong, with its traditional atmosphere and small boutique hotels, is one of the most romantic choices for couples.

How much does accommodation in Seoul cost per night?

A good three or four-star hotel usually costs between 80 and 180 euros per night, depending on the area and the season.

How do I get from the airport to central Seoul?

The most convenient option is the AREX train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station, while limousine buses also stop near many hotels.

What is the best time of year to visit Seoul?

Spring, especially April, and autumn, in October and November, offer the most pleasant weather and spectacular scenery.

Do I need to know Korean to get around Seoul?

Not necessarily, as metro signs are also in English, although for taxis and small shops, it helps to have addresses written in Korean.