SEOUL HOTEL GUIDE
Where to Stay in Seoul
Seoul is easier to plan when you choose the neighbourhood before the hotel. Start with the places you expect to visit, the subway lines you will use, and how often you want to cross the city.
Recommended areas to stay
Myeongdong & Euljiro
A convenient central base for first-time visitors, shopping, and straightforward access to several major sightseeing areas.
Jongno & Insadong
Well placed for palaces, traditional streets, museums, and travellers who prefer a historic centre over late-night entertainment.
Hongdae
A lively choice for younger travellers, cafés, nightlife, and direct airport-rail access, with a busier atmosphere on weekends.
Gangnam
Best suited to business trips, modern shopping districts, and itineraries focused on southern Seoul.
Match the area to your trip
- First visit: Myeongdong, Euljiro, or Jongno for a central sightseeing base.
- Nightlife and cafés: Hongdae for a more energetic evening scene.
- Business: Gangnam when meetings and appointments are concentrated south of the river.
- Culture-focused stay: Jongno or Insadong for palaces, museums, and older neighbourhoods.
Transport and luggage checkpoints
Check the walking route from the nearest station, not only the distance shown on a map. Seoul stations can have long transfers, stairs, and exits on opposite sides of wide roads. If you arrive with large luggage, confirm elevator access and consider whether an airport-rail or airport-bus stop is practical for your arrival time.
For short stays, reducing cross-city travel can matter more than choosing the lowest nightly rate.
Hotel comparisons
Reviewed Seoul hotel comparisons will appear here after publication. No placeholder hotels or unverified booking links are listed.
Related guides
Neighbourhood and transport guides are in preparation and will be linked here when available.