The 9 Best Areas To Stay In Seoul, Korea: From Gangnam To Hongdae

The capital city of Seoul in Korea is sprawling and you could easily spend one to two hours on the subway getting across the city. When it comes to deciding where to stay in Seoul, it’s important to focus on what it is you want to accomplish while you’re here. From the traditional sites in Bukchon Hanok Village to the artsy district of Hongdae, there is a lot to choose from and plenty to do.

Here is a breakdown of the best places in Seoul to stay and what to do nearby. This guide to the best hotels in Seoul in each area of the city is sure to help you plan an exciting trip to Seoul.

Get ready for your trip to Seoul. Let me help you figure out where to stay in Seoul!

• What To Know About Seoul
• Which area of Seoul should I stay in?
• Bukchon: Best area to stay for a traditional experience
• Insadong: Best area to stay for first-time tourists
• Hongdae: Best area to stay for nightlife and music
• Yeouido: Best area to stay for families
• Myeongdong: Best area to stay for shopping and street food
• Gangnam: Best area to stay for K-beauty and K-pop
• Seoul Station: Best area to stay if you want to get out of Seoul more
• Itaewon: Best area to stay for international food and nightlife
• Dongdaemun: Best area to stay for shopping and design
• What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

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What To Know About Seoul

• Seoul is made up of 25 different districts called a “gu”(구) in Korean. Of course there are more popular gu’s for tourists to stay in though and more residential gu’s for locals so we’ll make sure you’ve got the tips for travel here.
• Seoul is cut through the center by the Han River, or Hangang. The northern half of Seoul is called Gangbuk, meaning “north of the river”, and the southern half of Seoul is called Gangnam, meaning “south of the river”. (Not to be confused with the gu’s of the same name though.) This is important to know because the northern half and the southern half are very different in terms of what you will see and do. The northern half of Seoul is generally where you’ll find the historical and traditional character of Seoul. The southern half of Seoul is where you’ll find the more modern, glitzy areas of Seoul.
• Generally, I suggest that short term tourists stay in the Gangbuk area as it has all of the main sites you’ll likely want to visit. A day spent in Gangnam/Jamsil is generally enough for short term tourists unless you have business there or are perhaps getting into the medical tourism areas, and then Gangnam would be better for you.

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Which area of Seoul should I stay in?

Choosing the best area to stay in for you is probably the biggest decision you’ll need to make when planning a trip to Seoul. No stress or anything. Seoul is huge, but if you find the right spot for you and what you want to see, your trip will be unforgettable.

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Bukchon

What Is Bukchon Known For

Bukchon, home to the Bukchon Hanok Village, is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a traditional stay in the city. Walk along streets lined with traditional Korean homes and go from quiet residential areas to palaces, temples, and there are a lot of great experiences to try here too. If you want to try a traditional stay for part of your stay, then this is a great area to start, and then move to one of the hotels in nearby Insadong.

Recommended Hotels In Bukchon

Bonum 1957

This gorgeous traditional house is a boutique stay which means it’s been updated with the amenities that you’d appreciate like beautiful bathroom facilities and the touches are a bit more high end than you’ll find in other stays. The rooms here are just beautiful and there are options for floor sleeping as well as large beds. I’ve walked through this boutique stay and it is a stunning. I’d definitely recommend it to any visitor that comes to stay.

Book a stay here on Booking.com or on Agoda.com

Stay 256

Stay in this more traditional Hanok building with a beautiful courtyard. This is a more cozy atmosphere on a street with cool cafes and restaurants. In the winter take advantage of the traditional ondol (floor) heating to warm up and in the summer, use the AC which has been added for comfort. The owner is very friendly and helps out any guests with recommendations for where to go and what to see.

Book a stay here on either Booking.com or on Airbnb.com

Chiwoonjung

This former Korean president’s historic villa has been opened to the public but keeps that traditional charm. There’s also a jjimjilbang, or traditional Korean sauna, for guests to use in the evenings. The decor is traditional and beautiful with classic Korean touches. Don’t forget to take advantage of the meal time on site and eat like a king… or a former president.

Book a stay here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

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Insadong

What Is Insadong Known For

Insadong is a part of the traditional and cultural center of Seoul. There are traditional Hanoks to stay in but there are also hotels for the visitors that want a bed instead of floor sleeping. With a Buddhist temple, the main Korean palaces, and lots of cafes and restaurants nearby, this is great if you want to easily get out and about to see things without worrying about the massive transit system.

This area is also great for tourists because most places in this area have menus, information, and directions in multiple languages for ease of use.

Recommended Hotels In Insadong

Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong

Hotel Aventree Jongno

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Hongdae

What Is Hongdae Known For

Hongdae, surrounded by three universities, tends to be where the tourists looking for busking, a young/student crowd, and lots of bars and restaurants hang. You’ll find street dancers, a vibrant music scene, and lots of shopping opportunities in Hongdae. If you’re planning to stay out nights and want to get back easily, it’s a good spot to stay.

This is on the western side of the city so not ideal if you’re looking to spend a lot of time in Gangnam or Jamsil. Easy to get downtown to the traditional sites though. Check out this guide for things to do in Hongdae to plan an amazing time there.

Recommended Hotels In Hongdae

Ryse, Autograph Collection Marriott

One of the chicest hotels in the area is Ryse, Autograph Collection. This stylish stay has an amazing staff and beautiful style and design from top to bottom. The contemporary hotel features spacious rooms with class and elegance. I have a friend that loves this place so much she stays here about once every six months even though she LIVES right here in Seoul.

Guests also get access to an on-site fitness center and library as well as 4 on-site restaurants. And don’t miss a visit to Side Note Club on the 15th floor. The rooftop bar and lounge overlooks Hongdae and hosts some excellent events with live music.

Book your stay at Ryse, Autograph Collection Marriott here on Marriott.com if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Member or check rates on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

9 Brick Hotel

If you’re looking for a brick facade, some retro hipster vibes, and friendly staff, this is the hotel for you. The most loved aspect of the hotel is the epic views that can be had from the big bathtubs. This is a fashionable stay that also feels comfortable and cozy has some European vibes. Sit beneath the beautiful chandeliers and look out through the expansive windows to see the city.

Book your stay at 9 Brick Hotel here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

L7 Hongdae By Lotte

L7 Hongdae is one of the very few spots in Hongdae that features a pool and it’s a rooftop pool at that! This 3-star hotel is very close to the Hongdae Subway Station which is also where the train from the airport arrives.

Owned by Lotte, the rooms have  contemporary styling and floor to ceiling windows for great views of the district. The hotel features the pool as well as a fitness center, restaurant, and bar. It’s one of the best places to stay in the area for sure.

Book a stay at L7 Hongdae here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

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Yeouido

What Is Yeouido Known For

Yeouido is mainly known as a business district, but I think it’s actually a very nice family-friendly central place to stay in Seoul. Yeouido has the most popular Han Riverside park in the city which also has the dock for the E-Land Han River Cruise.

From Yeouido, it’s a straight shot north to the Korean War Memorial and National Museum beyond that is the cultural downtown. Yeouido has nice broad sidewalks for walking and quite a bit of space to spread out if you are worried about being cooped up in the downtown areas.

Recommended Hotel In Yeouido

Conrad Hotel Seoul

The Conrad Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel with amazing views of the Han River and within walking distance of the Yeouido Han River Park where you can rent bikes and go for a ride. The Hyundae Seoul which is the largest department store in Seoul is just there too.

This is the place to stay on Yeouido Island for the most exquisite stay, especially if you want an amazing staycation in Seoul with plenty to do within walking distance. You won’t want to go outside at all with everything there is to do at Conrad Hotel. There are ton of places to eat and it’s connected to another mall on Yeouido Island too!

Book a stay at Conrad Hotel Seoul here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

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Myeongdong

What Is Myeongdong Known For

Myeongdong is centrally located and has great food options. If you’re a walker, you could even get up to Namsan Mountain, the Korean palaces, Gwangjang Market, and other hot spots easily on foot. If you’re not a walker, no worries, all of the transportation options here too. 

Myeongdong is also super close to Seoul Station so if you’re coming in from the airport, you can get there easily on the airport train line. Myeongdong is a well-known shopping district with all of the Korean beauty brands, department stores, and small local designs you could want. It’s a great district for tourists and is convenient to get all over Seoul.

Check out the places to stay below, but if you want more, check out this guide for where to stay in Myeongdong.

Recommended Hotels In Myeongdong

L’Escape Hotel

Small House Big Door

Hotel28 Myeongdong

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Gangnam

What Is Gangnam Known For

When most people talk about Gangnam, they’re referring to Gangnam-gu rather than the broader Gangnam which refers to everything south of the river. This is for the tourist looking for the luxury shopping, K-beauty or medical tourism opportunities, and maybe even idol spotting. There are outrageous clubs and stylish cafes.

Recommended Hotels In Gangnam

Novotel Seoul Ambassador Gangnam

We chose the Novotel for a staycation recently because of the great reviews and the indoor pool. We love a good hotel to relax in and if it has a pool for the kiddo to check out, all the better. Enjoy the beautiful lobby and this hotel that is just in a great spot to see everything in and around Gangnam and of course don’t forget to visit the pool! If you’re looking to see Gangnam’s glitz and glamour, start here.

Book a stay here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

Le Meridien Seoul

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Seoul Station

What Is the area around Seoul Station Known For

Most visitors to Seoul are going to see Seoul Station first. This is where the airport train line from Incheon International Airport will drop you at. Seoul Station has a variety of things to see nearby and is ideal especially if you’ll want to take trips to different regions of Korea. You can hop on and off the KTX easily and often here.

Recommended Hotels Near Seoul Station

Millenium Hilton Seoul

With 680 rooms and 29 suites, the hotel features views of the city in every direction from the mountain to Seoul Station. There is a fitness center and indoor 23 meter swimming pool as well as a hotel driving range and a spa to get a massage in.

Whether you’re stopping in early or late to catch a train from Seoul Station, this is one of the best places to stay in the area. This is a good central location to stay if you’ll be traveling and want to have great and easy access to multiple modes of transportation and get amazing treatment at a high quality hotel.

Book your stay at the Millenium Hilton Seoul here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan

Four Points is actually connected right to Seoul Station via an underground passage which makes travel even easier. There is a 24 hour help desk and bar so get help or help yourself while you’re staying in. The staff is extremely helpful and will guide you to the best cafes and restaurants in the area or around the city. Just ask!

Book your room at Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com.

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Itaewon

What Is Itaewon Known For

Itaewon is the well known multicultural center of Seoul. If you’re looking for plenty of foreign food options, this is a good area to stick to. You can find everything from Korean to authentic Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, American, and more.

This is a good area to stay if you’re a bit nervous to fully immerse yourself into Korea. There’s plenty of foreign language menus and information and with the Seoul Mosque in this area, this is also where our Muslim traveling friends can find the most halal food options.

Recommended Hotels In Itaewon

Grand Hyatt

Imperial Palace Boutique

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Dongdaemun

What Is Dongdaemun Known For

Dongdaemun district is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood well-known for its lively markets, fashion scene, and historical landmarks. Explore the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, find shopping for fashion-forward travelers, and indulging in the street food offerings.

Recommended Hotels In Dongdaemun

JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Hotel

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel

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What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Get a Visa: Many people can come in easily and get a tourist visa but be sure to check that you have what you need from your home country to come in to Korea and get a visa.

Travel Insurance:  World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. 

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea.

Study Korean: 90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here.

Plan Your Airport Transfer: There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city. Book your transfer in advance to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage: Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way. Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass: To get around using the subways or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card. This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis. HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass. This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. SO, if you’ll be touristy, grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max.

Korea Rail Pass: If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular Nami Island nearby the city or go as far as Andong or even Busan. The train line is the limits. Grab the card here and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards: While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can reserve both WiFi eggs and Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport.

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