Where to Stay in Seoul

Seoul is one of the most advanced cities in the world, yet it keeps South Korean tradition alive. In Seoul, you’ll be able to find charming art galleries, Buddhist temples, and traditional teahouses among modern architecture and high-rises.

It’s a massive city with a population of 10 million, so deciding where to stay can prove overwhelming. There are a number of diverse neighborhoods, each offering their own unique features and atmosphere.

In this guide, we’ve listed the best places to stay in Seoul for any travel style and budget. Whether you’re a history buff, love culture or are just curious, there’s somewhere for everyone.

So, let’s get started!

Looking for a specific place to stay in Seoul? These are our highest recommendations for accommodation in Seoul.

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With free breakfast and an awesome rooftop terrace, this is one of the coolest hostels in Seoul. All rooms come with a fridge, TV, safe and private bathroom, and there’s a public kitchen and BBQ for guest use. The centre of Myeongdong is a short walk away, and you’ll be right next to the subway for easy access to the rest of Seoul.

With city views, free wifi and ensuite bathrooms, you can’t go wrong with this hotel in Seoul. Located in the Hongdae area, there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and the subway is a short walk away so you can easily travel further afield. Onsite, you’ll find a swimming pool and fitness centre.

This stylish Airbnb in Seoul is suitable for three guests, and is the perfect base for exploring the area. The flat boasts stunning views over the city, and has a kitchen area and laundry facilities. It’s located right next to the Gangnam and bus station, and there are plenty of cafes and shops close by.

Modern Apartment Near Gangnam Station is one of our favourites in Seoul but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

If you want a budget night’s accommodation in Seoul, head to Hongdae where the young population hang out. In this part of town, expect the unexpected.

Itaewon is an area catered to foreigners. This may not sound highly cultural but it’s actually a fascinating place to explore. Its long history began before the Second World War when Japanese colonialists were pushed out by American soldiers who lived and partied in the area.

Myeongdong is a cocktail of sights, tastes, experiences and noise… so much noise! It’s one of Seoul’s busiest districts and subsequently, it’s home to almost anything you could dream up.

Known as the cultural heart of Seoul, you’ll want to explore Insadong whether you base yourself in the area or not. The vibe is a little different to the hectic neighborhoods of Myeongdong and Gangnam so it’s popular with families who want to escape the hustle and bustle (relatively – it’s still Seoul) and experience the culture.

Seoul is bursting with vibrant neighborhoods and districts. Most people will have heard of Gangnam by now – this world-famous area shot to fame thanks to that dreaded but catchy tune. It lies at the heart of Seoul and really is something to sing about, boasting eateries and some of the best things to see in the city.

If you’re traveling on a budget, then Hongdae is the ideal place to stay in Seoul. It’s full of street art and popular with younger travelers, thanks to its booming nightlife scene.

Itaewon is a fascinating place to visit. It was originally one of the few places in the city you could buy Western items, which subsequently attracted a crowd of young, hip expats. Nowadays, it’s a hub for food and famous for its nightlife.

If you’re a lover of fashion and all-things hipster, check out Myeongdong. It’s without a doubt one of Asia’s hippest places to hit the shops, and is our pick for the coolest place to stay for anyone backpacking Seoul.

Insadong is ideal for history lovers and families. Here, you can get to grips with Seoul’s rich history and find temples, shrines and palaces in abundance. It’s also the best place to pick up traditional Korean handicrafts – so make sure you visit with an empty suitcase!

Seoul is packed with quirky neighborhoods, history and entertainment. When you’re looking for where to stay in Seoul, you’ll be overrun with options. Let’s get into more detail with our top picks…

With the population in Seoul pushing 10 million, it’s a sprawling city that will require a little more than your legs to explore fully. Luckily, there’s an efficient subway system and a network of affordable and reliable taxis so you can get around easily.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

Money was injected into the area by the 1988 Olympics and it became a playground for those with expensive tastes. Nowadays it’s plateaued and most visitors traveling South Korea can afford to make the best of the impressive neighborhood.

Cosy and colourful, Kimchee Gangnam Guesthouse is one of the coolest hostels in Seoul! Located in the heart of Gangnam, Kimchee is within walking distance to tons of hip restaurants and bars, so you’ll never need to leave this electric neighborhood.

It’s one of the best places to stay in Seoul for meeting other travelers and coming to grips with the city.

Right around the corner from the subway plus to make traversing the city a breeze. Combine that with some nearby convenice store and cheap food places plus cosy beds and you’re looking at one happy camper! Uhh… hoteller.

This stylish Airbnb is suitable for three guests, and is the perfect base for exploring the area. The flat boasts stunning views over the city, and has a kitchen area and laundry facilities. It’s located right next to the Gangnam and bus station, and there are plenty of cafes and shops close by.

Modern Apartment Near Gangnam Station is one of our favourites in Seoul but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

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If you want budget accommodation in Seoul, Hongdae is the place to come. It’s where to stay for those more-digestible student prices, combined with the rowdier and eclectic nightlife.

In this part of town, expect the unexpected. Hongdae’s trendy reputation developed when Hongik University opened up in the 1990s. It’s a prestigious art school, and the surrounding area strongly reflects this. It’s artsy and is full of clubs and bars.

You won’t find a better base than this friendly backpackers in Seoul. With a mix of traditional Korean rooms and funky, modern spaces, you’ll get a real feel for the culture.

The friendly owner Mary, will welcome you to her abode and provide you with everything you need – including computer access in every room (perfect for researching your sightseeing stops).

This hotel boasts giant open spaces and a swimming pool! Despite the peaceful feeling, you’ll actually be just moments from the main shopping street of bustling Hongdae.

All rooms come with a TV, fridge and kettle, providing a comfortable base in the heart of the action.

This Airbnb is ideal for travelers looking for more private accommodation, and provides all amenities needed for a comfortable stay. It’s modern, clean and stylishly decorated to provide a contemporary home-like feel. The flat is a short walk from the metro station, bars and restaurants.

Cozy Studio for 4 is one of our favourites in Seoul but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Catered to foreigners, Itaewon is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul for travelers. This may not sound highly cultural, but it’s actually a fascinating place to explore.

Its long history began before the Second World War when Japanese colonialists were pushed out by American soldiers who lived and partied in the area. So, it’s really been the top choice of where to stay in Seoul for a long time!

This trendy flat sleeps two guests, and includes a full kitchen, laundry facilities and internet access. The apartment is within walking distance from the best nightlife in the area, so you’ll never run short of things to do no matter how long you stay.

Not only does G Guesthouse offer an optimum location in Itaewon, it also has easy transport links to Gangnam, Myeongdong and Hongdae.

The guesthouse offers has a free breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and barbeque facilities. Additionally, there’s a rooftop where you can catch views over the city.

Breaking the chain of corporate hotels, this unique spot brings a little colour to the already vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon. Rooms come with wifi, TVs and drink making facilities, and there’s a gym and restaurant onsite.

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Myeongdong is a cocktail of sights, tastes, and experiences! It’s one of Seoul’s busiest districts and subsequently, it’s home to almost anything you could dream up.

Music blasts from every store, food tents sell well-priced Korean goods, and skyscrapers tower above you. A day wandering the area may be exhausting but it’s an awesome place to experience the real Seoul and meet the locals who will undoubtedly want to chat.

Even if you don’t stay here, a trip to Myeongdong should feature on everyone’s Seoul itinerary.

This Airbnb in Myeongdong is clean, stylish, and full of all amenities needed for a comfortable stay. There’s a full kitchen area, laundry facilities, and free wifi throughout the property. It’s in a safe and central area, surrounded by some of the best bars and restaurants in Seoul.

Recently opened and well reviewed, Myeongdong Rooftop Hostel is gorgeously designed and has stunning rooftop views to match! This top-notch hostel in Seoul offers free breakfast and is a convenient 5 minute walk from the Myeongdong metro station.

As well as a comfortable double room, GLAD offers a tasty morning breakfast and access to all your usual amenities. There’s free wifi, a bar and a fitness center on site.

The hotel is close to the metro and within walking distance to numerous attractions, cafes and bars.

Known as the cultural heart of Seoul, you’ll want to explore Insadong whether you base yourself in the area or not. This district is all about traditional wooden tea houses, ancient temples, little art galleries, and cosy corner cafes.

The vibe is a little different to the hectic neighborhoods of Myeongdong and Gangnam, so it’s popular a location for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle.

This colorful and welcoming flat in Seoul sleeps four guests, and includes a kitchen and laundry facilities. It’s in a central location and provides easy access to both Insadong and Myeongdong. The apartment is also a short walk from the subway, so you can easily get to the best places to see in Seoul.

The location is paramount at this backpacker hostel. You’ll be just a moment’s walk from the main shopping street meaning you won’t need to carry your souvenirs around all day!

Guests rave about the friendly feel and there’s even a roof terrace for socialising. Deluxe family rooms are available for those travelling with kids.

This hostel is a cool, airy base that makes a refreshing contrast to the ancient streets of the district. Coffee lovers will be thrilled to find a speciality roastery on the ground floor, while history fans will relish the chance to visit the spectacular nearby temples.

Grid Inn is favored for its comfy beds, and also comes with free wifi and aircon.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Seoul and where to stay.

Myeongdong is our favourite place to stay in Seoul. There’s loads of cool things to do and see here, it makes for a great adventure. It is undoubtedly a unique place, filled with unique things.

We recommend Hongdae. It is one of the cheapest areas of Seoul in general so it’s a good place to stretch the budget. We love hostels in Hongdae Guesthouse.

Gangnam is our top pick. This place has slowly grown into the iconic place it is today and we think it deserves all the credit it gets.

Here’s the 3 best Airbnbs in Seoul:

– New Central Apartment– Cosy Deluxe Apartment– Banana House

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Seoul is a vibrant part of South Korea that should feature on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re into culture, nightlife, art or anything else – Seoul is the place to go.

If you’re still not sure where to stay in Seoul, you can’t go wrong with Myeongdong Rooftop Hostel. It’s a welcoming place where you can get stunning views of the city.

If you’re after something more upmarket, the L7 Hondae provides comfort and class for a reasonable price, or Hanok 24 Guesthouse, a great pick for hotels in Seoul. There are some awesome Airbnbs in Seoul for those visiting for longer.

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