The Open Road Travel

With South Korean media making waves around the globe, the capital, Seoul, has found itself at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists. Today, we will be looking at exactly where to stay in Seoul to get the best feel for the city.

With a history stretching back thousands of years, Seoul has a wealth of culture and tradition to dive into. From modern museums to ancient temples and historic palaces, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy, no matter how long you stay.

I will take you through the best areas to stay in Seoul to enjoy the best of what South Korea’s capital has to offer. Even if you have no prior knowledge of Seoul, by the end of this post you will be much more familiar with each of the top neighbourhoods and which best suits you.

The area now known as Seoul has been home to humans for at least 6,000 years. The natural resources of the Han river and the defensive position amongst the mountains made the area prime real estate for ancient settlers.

Over the millennia, Seoul has developed into one of the most densely populated cities in the world. A population of 10 million people in an area of just 605.21 km² makes for an average of 16,000 people per square kilometre.

Following the Korean war of the 1950s, South Korea underwent rapid socioeconomic development. In a period of just a few decades, it rose to become one of the global centres of business and technology.

Seoul’s swift development is evident in its distinct architectural styles. Traditional houses and historic neighbourhoods are nestled side by side with glistening skyscrapers and hypermodern apartment blocks.

Seoul’s climate varies greatly from season to season. The height of summer gets very hot and humid, whilst the depth of winter brings plummeting temperatures and snow.

If you are more comfortable with milder temperatures, the best time to visit Seoul would be either spring or autumn. Spring and autumn are both beautiful, with cherry blossom and gingko trees respectively filling the city with colour.

If you visit from the end of April to the beginning of May, you can also catch the annual celebrations for Buddha’s birthday. Various locations around the city, particularly the historic temples, get adorned with colourful lanterns during this time.

You might also want to think twice about visiting in June or July, since this is when monsoon season is typically in full swing.

Seoul’s a big city, with tons of distinct districts. It might seem overwhelming at first glance to try to pick where to stay in Seoul. To take the stress out of the decision, I’ve narrowed it down to the six best areas to stay in Seoul.

Known around the world thanks to Psy’s global hit ‘Gangnam Style’, Gangnam is one of Seoul’s most affluent and fashionable locales. Gangnam is where the rich and famous live and play. If you are looking for a location for your luxury city break, Gangnam is ideal.

By day, Gangnam is a wonderland of high-end shops and designer boutiques. It’s perfect for indulgent shopping sprees. Along with bustling streets lined with well known brands, there are also plenty of shopping centres and malls to explore.

Possibly the best mall in the entire city is located in Gangnam. CoEx Mall is Seoul’s best-known shopping and leisure centre. The huge complex is packed with cinemas, restaurants, exhibition spaces, an aquarium, and, of course, hundreds of shops.

At night, the area continues to draw crowds to its chic bars and nightclubs. If you want the chance to party with famous actors and K-pop stars, a night out in Gangnam is your best bet.

If you prefer more laid-back evenings, you won’t be disappointed with the impressive selection of restaurants in the area. Cuisines from all over the world are represented with a Korean twist.

Shining skyscrapers and modern luxury aren’t all that Gangnam has to offer though. The historic Bongeunsa Temple is located right across the street from CoEx Mall. Dating back to the 8th century, Bongeunsa is one of the top attractions in the city.

From late April through early May, Bongeunsa is lit up with hundreds of paper lanterns in celebration of Buddha’s birthday. If you plan to visit around that time, you should definitely consider staying close to the temple to make the most of the festivities.

Stay In Gangnam If:

• You are planning a luxury vacation
• You have a bigger budget to play with
• You want to stay at the heart of Seoul’s most fashionable nightlife district

Josun Palace Hotel is the height of elegance and luxury. Every inch of the five-star hotel is meticulously styled to exude class and sophistication.

That refined taste continues in the spacious rooms. Airy, comfortable, and with exquisite views of the city, you may find yourself wanting to spend more time in your room than you expected.

All rooms are equipped with flat-screen televisions, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. There’s also 24-hour room service for prime convenience. In addition to your comfortable room, you will also have a stylish bar and restaurant to relax in.

Guests can also take advantage of a luxurious indoor pool area and well equipped fitness suite. All of these facilities boast the hotel’s impressive city views. Josun Palace is located right at the heart of Gangnam.

You will be staying just a few minutes’ walk from CoEx Mall Bongeunsa temple. Just 300 metres from the nearest metro station, and with several more just a few minutes’ away, you will have no trouble exploring the rest of Seoul, too.

Itaewon is known to be the most multicultural neighbourhood in Seoul. Popular with expats from across the globe, Itaewon is also a hotbed for foodies.

Foods from around the world, obviously including Korean cuisine, are represented in the many small restaurants dotted around the area.

Of course, the caveat to this global community is that it doesn’t offer the most authentically Korean experience. If it is your first time in South Korea and getting a feel for the culture is a priority, you would be better off stopping by Itaewon than staying there.

Itaewon is one of Seoul’s coolest nightlife hubs. The area is home to many of the city’s trendiest bars and pubs, staying lively well into the night. If having plenty of options for evening entertainment right on your doorstep is a priority, then Itaewon is perfect for you.

One of Seoul’s top after-dark attractions is located to the south of Itaewon. Banpo Bridge is one of the most iconic images of the city.

Hundreds of water jets running along the sides of Banpo Bridge transform the otherwise unassuming traffic bridge into a functional fountain. Multicoloured lights add an even more ethereal element to the show, casting rainbows over the Han river.

Stay In Itaewon If:

• Vibrant nightlife is a priority for you
• Easy access to LGBTQ friendly nightlife is important
• Staying somewhere with a distinctly Korean atmosphere is not a concern
  

The Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel is a quirky property with tons of character and charm. You will have no trouble spotting the building with its distinctive, colourful façade.

The rooms are styled entirely in white, bar colourful statement pieces and a striking mural on one wall. The murals differ from room to room, making each room unique.

The white styling and glass bathrooms ensure that the rooms feel bright and spacious. Each comes equipped with a flat-screen television and complementary Wi-Fi. Tea and coffee makers and mini-fridges are also included in each room.

The hotel’s restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, so all guests should find something to their tastes. Guests can also enjoy the use of the onsite fitness suite and laundry service.

Itaewon’s main metro station is just 300 metres down the road, so you will have easy access to transport links around the city.

If you want to stay somewhere packed with traditional Korean culture and surrounded by top attractions, Insa-dong is ideal. The main area of Insa-dong is known for its tiny tea shops and stores selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Insa-dong is at the centre of Seoul’s arts scene. For decades, the main street has been the place to go to pick up traditional art supplies and you can still find several shops selling brushes and artisan paper.

Insa-dong’s heritage continues with local artists keeping studios and galleries around the area.

Aside from its bustling main street, Insa-dong is the perfect base from which to explore some of Seoul’s best sights. Many of the city’s most famous attractions are just a short walk away.

The historic Bukchon Hanok Village is just a few minutes’ walk north of Insa-dong. The traditional houses and quaint streets offer a stunning glimpse back in time.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is just to the west, whilst Changgyeonggung Palace is only a little further away to the east. Dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries respectively, both are more than worth a visit.

The lovely Cheonggyecheon stream runs just south of Insa-dong. If you find yourself needing to escape the press of the city for a minute, a walk along the Cheonggyecheon offers the perfect reprieve.

The 10km long stream is home to fish and turtles, lined with art installations and monuments, and frequently hosts events and festivals.

Stay In Insa-Dong If:

• It is your first time visiting Seoul
• You want to be within walking distance of many of Seoul’s top attractions
• Immersing yourself in Korean culture is a priority
  

Sophisticated Nine Tree Premier encapsulates Insa-dong’s fusion of tradition and modernity. It blends natural elements and traditional features with contemporary style, creating an elegant tranquillity that flows through the entire property.

The rooms are minimalist, focusing on comfort with tasteful touches. Flatscreen televisions, air-conditioning and hotel wide wi-fi are included with each room.

A chic onsite bar is available for guests to relax in and mingle, enjoying drinks with stunning views. Additional facilities include a fitness centre, business centre, laundry room, and communal lounge areas.

Nine Tree is nestled right at the heart of Insa-dong, just a short walk from the main shopping street. Just 50 metres from Jogyesa Temple, many of the rooms and facilities boast stunning views of the historic landmark.

Hip Hongdae is one of the coolest areas in Seoul and is especially popular with the local student population.

If you enjoy street art, you will have plenty to admire, with numerous murals splashed around the neighbourhood. Seoul’s Trick Art Museum is right at the heart of Hongdae too.

Hongdae is also the centre of Seoul’s quirky café culture. You can find all kind of gimmicky coffeeshops in here.

Whether you want a latte with your own face printed on the foam, or you want to enjoy your cappuccino alongside cats, puppies, or even sheep, Hongdae offers a range of one-of-a-kind dining and drinking experiences.

The main street is one of the trendiest shopping locations in Seoul. You will find plenty of vintage stores and fashionable boutiques spilling out onto the street.

With many of the stores blaring thumping music, the area maintains a party vibe even before the various bars open.

One of the minor downsides to Hongdae is that it is a little bit away from the main city centre. You can hop on the metro and be at the top tourist attractions in minutes, but there is little within walking distance of the neighbourhood.

Stay in Hongdae If:

• You want to stay in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Seoul
• You don’t mind not being right in the centre of the city
• You have an appreciation for street art
  

L7 by Lotte fits perfectly in the young and funky atmosphere of Hongdae. It focuses on functional comfort elevated with stylish elements, statement pieces, and tasteful splashes of luxury.

The rooms are chic and colourful, with modern bathrooms. Each comes equipped with satellite, flat-screen televisions, tea and coffee facilities, mini-fridges, and air-conditioning.

Guests can enjoy relaxing in the stunning rooftop pool area. Aside from its striking city views, the area is furnished with sun-loungers, bean-bags, and rocking chairs.

Other communal areas include the onsite restaurant, bar, lounge area complete with pool and foosball tables, a fitness centre, and laundry room.

Myeong-dong is Seoul’s most iconic shopping district. The area is packed with big-name clothing brands and department stores. If you like to spend your city vacations browsing the local fashions, Myeong-dong will be your paradise.

Several of Korea’s best-known make-up and skincare brands have stores in Myeong-dong. They’re known for handing out generous samples, so this is a great chance to try some popular k-beauty products without breaking the bank.

Of course, wandering the packed streets can work up an appetite. So, thankfully, there are plenty of cool bars, restaurants, and cafes to take a break in. You will also see plenty of street-food stalls all around Myeong-dong offering convenient and delicious local snacks.

Shopping is not all that Myeong-dong has to offer. The neighbourhood is located right at the heart of Seoul and surrounded by attractions.

The Cheonggyecheon stream runs along the north end of Myeong-dong. Meanwhile, the historic Deoksugung is just a short walk to the west and Namsan mountain looms over Myeong-dong from the north.

If you want to head up to N. Seoul Tower and take in some stunning panoramic views of the city, its easiest to head out from Myeong-dong. The cable car terminal which will take you up the mountain is located in the district.

Stay In Myeong-Dong If:

• Browsing the shops is how you prefer to spend your vacation
• You want to stay in a conveniently central location
  

Hotel28 is a spectacular contemporary hotel with a quirky boutique twist. The hotel celebrates the film industry with film memorabilia displayed in communal areas and movie inspired artworks decorating the rooms.

The rooms themselves are sophisticated, decorated in neutral palettes with playful splashes of colour. Open-plan bathrooms make the already chicly minimalist rooms feel even more spacious.

Each room boasts a flat-screen television, high-tech bidet toilet, and air purifier. Free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, and toiletries are also included in your stay. A rooftop lounge area gives you a place to relax, mingle, and enjoy views over the surrounding area.

The onsite restaurant provides a buffet breakfast, whilst the bar and onsite coffeeshop provide even more options to socialise. There is also a fitness centre and a library for your enjoyment.

If you want to keep your accommodation costs down without straying too far from the city centre, Sungin-dong is an ideal neighbourhood to consider.

It’s just far enough from the main tourist areas to be more affordable, but still within walking distance of some popular attractions.

There are several historic and cultural sites within Sungin-dong. Dongmyo Shrine dates back to 1601 and is dedicated to a revered military leader from the 3rd century.

The popular Seoul Folk Flea market is just to the east. It boasts an eclectic array of shops and stalls that makes for the perfect place to bargain hunt for some unique souvenirs.

The Cheonggyecheon stream runs along the south of the neighbourhood. Aside from being a lovely attraction in itself, it also provides a straightforward route through the city to other popular locations.

The Dongdaemun design plaza is just a short walk southwest. The striking, hypermodern building is one of the most iconic structures in Seoul.

Often hosting markets both inside and out, along with various exhibitions and events, you should definitely swing by the design plaza.

Two of the remaining gates of the ancient city wall are also located either side of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Perfect for fitting a bit of history in with your shopping.

Stay In Sungin-Dong If:

• You have a smaller budget for accommodation
• You don’t want to stay too far away from the city centre
  

The Lumia is the definition of stylish functionality. The rooms expertly combine minimalism and comfort, providing a space with everything you need to relax and unwind, without excess clutter.

Each room includes a flatscreen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Tea and coffee making facilities and a mini fridge are also standard.

Just 100 metres from the beautiful Cheonggyecheon stream, historic Dongmyo shrine, and Seoul Folk Flea Market and less than a kilometre to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, there’s plenty to do within walking distance of the Lumia hotel.

There are also two metro stations within 200 metres of the hotel, so you will have no trouble getting around the city.

Seoul is packed with incredible attractions for you to discover. Now that you are more familiar with what each of the top neighbourhoods has to offer, you should have a good idea of where the best areas to stay in Seoul are for your personal wants and needs.

Whichever area you settle on staying in, you are sure to be surrounded by plenty to see and do.

With a comprehensive bus and metro network, Seoul has one of the best public transport systems in the world. It’s super affordable too, so no matter where you wind up choosing to stay, you will have no trouble getting around the whole city.