Where to stay in Seoul in 2024: Best areas and hotels

I know it’s a bit of a cliche to say about a city, but Seoul is one of those places that feels like a collection of villages (or possibly towns) where every neighbourhood has its own feel.

When you’re trying to choose the best area to stay in Seoul, each of the ones I’m going to recommend has great things going for it. The question is which is the best for you.

The South Korean capital is an expansive metropolis and, although it’s very easy to get around by public transport, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived somewhere new when you pop out of the subway.

Every district brings something different to the table. From the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village to the stylish streets of Gangnam, no two neighbourhoods are the same.

Seoul is regularly praised as an incredibly safe destination, and I agree that there really isn’t a dodgy area to stay in Seoul. That being said, there are several factors to consider when deciding which neighbourhood is right for you, like convenience and budget.

Here are my top suggestions for the best places to stay in Seoul:

• Myeongdong: Located in the heart of the city, Myeongdong is especially appealing for foodies and shopaholics.
• Insadong: Ideal for visitors hoping to immerse themselves in culture, Insadong is close to many attractions and is filled with authentic shops and eateries.
• Seoul Station: Seoul Station is best suited to travellers planning a wider trip around South Korea, as it boasts fantastic transport links.
• Hongdae: This university neighbourhood is the place to go for vibrant nightlife, quirky shops, and budget-friendly accommodation.
• Gangnam: Gangnam has lavish hotels, upscale restaurants, and world-class entertainment, making it ideal for travellers with a higher budget.
• Bukchon Hanok Village: Experience another side of Seoul in this traditional but centrally-located village.

Before I go into more detail about the best areas to stay in Seoul, have a look on the map and you’ll see where they’re all located.

Looking at the map, you’ll see that it’s about three kilometres in a straight line from Seoul Station to Changdeokgung Palace. If you can’t make up your mind on where to stay in Seoul, I would recommend just choosing somewhere along that route.

That’s because the two main areas for visitors to Seoul – Myeongdong and Insadong – are between those two landmarks, and it’s where you’ll find many of the best things to do in Seoul.

But, with all that being said, let’s jump…