Finding the right base in Seoul 🏙️
Seoul is a city of contrasts, where ancient palaces sit next to neon-lit streets and quiet cafés hide behind busy shopping lanes. That’s why choosing the best areas to stay in Seoul can make a huge difference in how you experience the city. Stay in the right spot, and sightseeing feels easy, meals are never far away, and getting around becomes stress-free!
In this guide, we’ll break down the best place to stay in Seoul based on travel style, interests, and convenience. From first-timer favorites to culture-filled districts and trendy nightlife hubs, you’ll discover the Seoul areas to stay that travelers love most, and the hotels that make each area even better.
Myeongdong
Myeongdong shopping street is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul
Myeongdong is usually considered the best area to stay in Seoul, Korea, especially if it’s your first visit. Here, you’re surrounded by shopping streets, restaurants, and famous street food stalls. It’s also walkable and well-connected to multiple subway lines, making day trips and sightseeing simple.
From here, you can easily reach Namsan Tower, palaces, and cultural districts. The area stays lively late into the evening, so you’ll never run out of things to do! If convenience is your top priority, Myeongdong is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul, hands down.
Recommended hotels in Myeongdong
Line Hotel Myeongdong
Line Hotel Myeongdong offers modern stays in a prime shopping district
Line Hotel Myeongdong is a good choice if you value comfort while staying in a central location. The rooms are sleek, clean, and thoughtfully designed, giving you a relaxing place to recharge after busy sightseeing days.
Step outside, and you’re instantly surrounded by shops and eateries, which makes late-night snacks and shopping effortless. This hotel is especially ideal for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time in Seoul.
Line Hotel Myeongdong
- Address: 36 Myeongdong 3-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Nearby attractions:
- Myeongdong Shopping Street
- Namsan Seoul Tower
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong provides comfort in the heart of Seoul
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong gives you that polished, reliable stay in the middle of the city. Rooms are spacious by Seoul standards and feel calm despite the busy surroundings. The hotel also features convenient amenities like a fitness center and on-site dining.
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
- Address: 362 Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Nearby attractions:
- Myeongdong Cathedral
Hongdae
Hongdae is a lively area to stay in Seoul for nightlife and cafés
Hongdae is youthful, energetic, and full of personality. Centered around Hongik University, this area is famous for street performances, indie shops, trendy cafés, and buzzing nightlife. During the day, it’s perfect for café hopping and shopping; at night, the streets come alive with music and bars.
It’s also one of the most convenient areas to access the Incheon International Airport via the AREX line. If you enjoy a social atmosphere and late nights, Hongdae is a fun location to stay in Seoul.
Recommended hotels in Hongdae
L7 Hongdae by LOTTE HOTELS
L7 Hongdae by LOTTE HOTELS is a stylish base near Hongdae Station
L7 Hongdae by LOTTE HOTELS is a lifestyle hotel that perfectly matches the youthful energy of Hongdae. The rooms are modern, clean, and designed with comfort in mind, making them ideal if you want to spend most of your time exploring the city.
One of the highlights is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy city views after a day of shopping, café hopping, or nightlife. With Hongdae Station just steps away, getting around Seoul is fast and convenient.
L7 Hongdae by LOTTE HOTELS
- Address: 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Nearby attractions:
- Hongdae Street
9 Brick Hotel
9 Brick Hotel offers a cozy boutique stay near Hongdae attractions
9 Brick Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located near the center of Hongdae. It offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while still keeping you close to the area’s cafés, shops, and nightlife. Rooms are cozy and thoughtfully designed, making it a great choice for couples or travelers who prefer a calmer stay.
If you want to enjoy Hongdae’s energy without staying right in the middle of the crowds, this hotel strikes a nice balance.
9 Brick Hotel
- Address: 32 Hongik-ro 5-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Nearby attractions:
- Gyeongui Line Forest Park
Gangnam
Gangnam is a modern area to stay in Seoul with wide streets and business hubs
Gangnam represents Seoul’s modern, upscale side and is known for luxury shopping, stylish cafés, and business centers. The area is clean and safe, with excellent transport links. You’ll find large malls like COEX and lots of dining options. So if you’re looking for comfort and convenience, Gangnam is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul.
Recommended hotels in Gangnam
Park Hyatt Seoul
Park Hyatt Seoul offers luxury stays in the heart of Gangnam
At Park Hyatt Seoul, you’ll experience understated luxury with exceptional service. Floor-to-ceiling windows give you impressive city views, making rooms feel bright and spacious. Plus, the spa and indoor pool add a touch of indulgence to your stay. This hotel is perfect for if you’re looking to splurge in style.
Park Hyatt Seoul
- Address: 606 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Nearby attractions:
- COEX Mall
L7 Gangnam
L7 Gangnam is a stylish hotel near COEX Mall and subway lines
L7 Gangnam is a trendy yet affordable stay in a great location. Rooms are compact but cleverly designed for comfort. Also, its proximity to subway lines makes exploring Seoul easy. This hotel is a great balance of style, location, and value.
L7 Gangnam
- Address: 415 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Nearby attractions:
- Garosu-gil
Itaewon
Itaewon is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul for nightlife and food | Photo from guineapig33 on Flickr
Itaewon is Seoul’s most international neighborhood. It’s known for its diverse dining scene, global communities, and vibrant nightlife. Here, you’ll find everything from casual eateries to stylish lounges. The area feels welcoming and laid-back, making it popular with expats and adventurous travelers. If variety matters to you, Itaewon is a standout Seoul area to stay in.
Recommended hotels in Itaewon
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon blends design luxury with city views
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon is bold, stylish, and full of energy. The hotel has eye-catching interiors, multiple dining options, and a lively rooftop pool. It’s perfect if you want your hotel to be part of the experience, not just a place to sleep in.
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
- Address: 23 Jangmun-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Nearby attractions:
Hamilton Hotel Itaewon
Hamilton Hotel Itaewon offers a central stay near nightlife and transport
Hamilton Hotel Itaewon is known for its location right next to Itaewon Station. Rooms are simple and comfortable, ideal if you want to prioritize convenience. With lots of restaurants and bars nearby, you’ll never run out of things to do! It’s a practical choice for nightlife lovers.
Hamilton Hotel Itaewon
- Address: 179 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Nearby attractions:
- Itaewon Station
- Namsan Park
With so many great neighborhoods, finding the best areas to stay in Seoul comes down to how you want to experience the city. Pick your ideal area, book your hotel early, and plan your must-do activities. ✨
FAQs about staying in Seoul
Which part of Seoul is best to stay for tourists?
Myeongdong is widely considered the best for tourists thanks to its central location. Here, you’ll have easy access to shopping, dining, and major attractions like the N Seoul Tower. Public transport connections make it simple to explore the rest of the city.
What is the safest area in Seoul?
Seoul is generally very safe, but areas like Gangnam and Insadong are especially calm and well-lit. Public transportation is reliable even at night. Tourists often feel comfortable walking around late.
What is the best district in Seoul?
There’s no single best district, as it depends on your travel style. Myeongdong suits first-timers, Hongdae fits nightlife lovers, and Gangnam works well for comfort seekers. Each district offers a unique experience.
Where is the most central location to stay in Seoul?
Myeongdong and Jongno are among the most central areas. They’re close to cultural sites, shopping districts, and subway lines. Staying here makes sightseeing efficient and easy.
Want to know more about Seoul? Check out these guides!
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