How about you live in a contrasting city? Yes, Seoul is one of the contrasting cities that offers a lot of things.
It is an ancient place that stands beside modern skyscrapers. The streets that have traditional tea houses also have K-pop cafes.
With numerous options, selecting the best area to stay in Seoul has a significant impact on your overall experience.
When you pick a neighbourhood, it should bring you close to what matters most. Whether that’s palace hopping, K-beauty shopping, or exploring underground clubs, you don’t have to figure all of this alone. This is what the blog is going to help you with.
A Short Understanding of All the Best Areas in Seoul
The best area to stay in Seoul depends on your travel style. For a first-timer, you can go to the central tourist hubs. If you have already experienced that, then creative districts are waiting to be explored.
There are many places to visit and things to do in Seoul; you just need to find the ones suitable for you.
Each of Seoul’s neighbourhoods tells its own story. And the Han River divides the city into north and south, creating distinct personalities. In the south, you have modern Seoul, and in the north, you have historic Seoul.
Undertaking which part to stay in helps you choose wisely.
| Area Name | Best For | Highlights |
| Myeong-dong (North) | First-timers & shoppers | K-beauty spot & street food paradise |
| Hongdae (North) | Young travellers & night owls | University vibe, indie music & clubs |
| Gangnam (South) | Luxury & business travellers | Upscale shopping & modern Seoul |
| Itaewon (South) | International crowd & foodies | Global cuisine & multicultural vibe |
| Jongno (North) | Palace enthusiasts | Gyeongbokgung & hanok villages |
Why Does Your Choice of Neighbourhood Matter?
If you have travelled a lot then you know your neighbourhood choice affects your entire trip. A better area needs to be examined properly.
- It determines how much time you spend commuting versus exploring.
- Budget matters significantly. Tourist spots like Myeong-dong are more expensive than other areas.
- The local vibe in daily life. Are you here for sightseeing or to explore the authentic side of Seoul?
- Your food experience also depends on location. Jongno is renowned for its traditional Korean breakfasts. Itaewon serves international comfort foods, and Gangnam offers Instagram-worthy fusion cuisine.
However, when you research before travelling to South Korea, you can find the best location to stay in Seoul that balances a little bit of all these factors.
Best Hotels in Seoul: Budget & Luxury
This section will list some of the best places to stay in Seoul. If you don’t have time to research and are in a hurry to fly to Seoul, South Korea, and all you need is a decent place to stay, refer to the table below.
| Area | Budget Hotels & Cost per night in INR | Luxury Hotels & Cost per night in INR | ||
| Myeong-dong | Step Inn Myeongdong 1 | 3,700 | Koreana Hotel | 10,000 |
| B my guesthouse – Hostel | 4,000 | Hotel Prince Seoul | 12,000 | |
| All Stay Inn Seoul | 2,900 | Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir | 13,500 | |
| Hongdae | Stitches House – Hostel | 4,500 | L7 Hongdae by Lotte Hotels | 18,000 |
| Inno Hostel & Pub Lounge Hongdae | 3,900 | Bias K-GIRL GUESTHOUSE – Caters to Women | 11,500 | |
| Gangnam | Gangnam AN Guesthouse – Hostel | 2,900 | Glad Gangnam Coex Centre | 14,000 |
| YaKorea Hostel Gangnam | 1,400 | Best Western Premier Gangnam Hotel | 8,700 | |
| Itaewon | H Hostel Itaewon | 4,000 | Hamilton Hotel | 8,900 |
| Amazon Guesthouse | 3,000 | Mondrian Seoul Itaewon | 12,000 | |
| Jongno | Star Hostel Dongdaemun Suite | 3,100 | Hotel Sunbee | 13,100 |
| Hostel Korea Original | 2,200 | Orakai Insadong Suites | 16,200 | |
Note: Hotel room prices can vary based on the type of room and the season you choose to visit. I recommend knowing the best time to visit South Korea, so you can book in advance or take advantage of lower prices during the off-season.
Top Places to Stay When in Seoul, Korea
The areas listed below offer distinct experiences for every type of traveller. Each place balances transportation, vibe, and value. Whether you are a first-timer or returning visitor, these neighbourhoods will definitely make your days memorable.
Myeong-dong: Shopping Paradise for First-Timers
Subway Commuting when Staying in Hongdae
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Myeong-dong is Seoul’s tourist headquarters. From sunrise to sunset, you get the commercial energy.
Though it is a compact district, it transforms streets into pedestrian shopping corridors. You can find International brands and many underrated Korean fashion boutiques.
Moreover, if you are someone who is passionate about makeup and skincare, this area should be your top choice.
The accommodations here can be budget guesthouses to international chain hotels, based on your preference.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Myeong-dong, Seoul
- You have to shop in multi-floor cosmetics megastores like Olive Young, Nature Republic, and Innisfree.
- Try the best street food, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and grilled squid, from the street vendors.
- Take the cable car to Namsan Seoul Tower for panoramic city views, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Go to Myeong-dong Cathedral for spiritual solace.
- Eat famous kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) at Myeong-dong Kyoja, but expect queues during peak hours.
Hongdae: Youth Culture and Nightlife Hub
Subway Commuting when Staying in Hongdae
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The area is the youngsters’ pulse. Hongdae revolves around Hongik University culture. Basically, this part of Seoul is dominated by the students, artists, and indie musicians.
If you are a party animal, then this is the best spot to experience Seoul nightlife. Entertainment extends beyond clubs.
There is so much creativity and energy this place carries. You can see street art, dance crews show you the best K-pop choreography, and bands singing.
Not just those, there are many activities, escape room cafes, pet cafes, board game cafes, and a lot more.
Even for accommodations, the area caters to budget travellers. So, don’t think twice about choosing this place.
Note: Hongdae’s party creates sounds until sunrise on weekends. Choose accommodations slightly away from the happening place if your sleep matters. Or enjoy the 24-hour energy fully.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Hongdae, Seoul
- Explore the Saturday Free Market (March-November), where independent artists sell handmade crafts and original artwork.
- Experience live music at venues like Club FF (indie rock) and NB2 (hip-hop).
- Watch talented street performers, including dancers, musicians, and magicians, at Hongdae Playground on weekend evenings.
- Visit themed cafes like Thanks Nature Cafe or 943 King’s Cross.
- Browse vintage clothing shops, independent bookstores, and artist studios in converted warehouse buildings for a unique experience.
- Admire street art and murals covering building walls throughout the neighbourhood.
Gangnam: Luxury and Modern Seoul
Subway Commuting when Staying in Gangnam
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Gangnam embodies Seoul’s modern identity. You have a luxury brand and high-end restaurants serving beautifully plated fusion cuisine. And this area has office towers, essentially housing Korea’s most powerful corporations.
When you enter the area, the atmosphere itself feels polished and fast-paced. You will automatically change your appearance when you live here. There are status symbols that thrive in part of Seoul.
If you are a business traveller, this is the best location to stay in Seoul. Networking with people is easy, and for corporate purposes, you have a world-class infrastructure.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Gangnam, Seoul
- Explore Starfield Coex Mall’s underground complex, featuring the stunning Starfield Library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.
- Visit Bongeunsa Temple for traditional Buddhist architecture and peaceful grounds beside modern skyscrapers.
- Take photos at the Gangnam Style statue at Gangnam Station Exit 5.
- Shop at Apgujeong Rodeo Street for luxury brands or Cheongdam Fashion Street for haute couture.
- Experience premium Korean BBQ at restaurants like Byeoryangjip and Yang Good, which serve the highest-grade hanwoo beef.
- Stroll along Garosu-gil’s street, filled with boutique shops and sophisticated cafes.
Itaewon: International Dining and Multicultural Hub
| Subway Commuting when Staying in Itaewon
Itaewon Station (Line 6) provides direct access. However, the area’s hilly terrain requires some accommodations to be accessible by uphill walks or taxi rides. |
I don’t have to talk about this area. If you are a K-drama fan, you should know it by now. Let me remind you that there is a K-drama in this area, called Itaewon Class. And the lead is one of the favourites, Park Seo-joon.
Itaewon is Seoul’s multicultural area. Walking Itaewon’s main street feels unlike anywhere else in Seoul. You have a mosque and churches; there is literally a mix of every group of people. Which means this area welcomes everyone and is easy to adapt to.
If you struggle with the language or are new to Seoul, this is one of the best areas to stay. There are many English speakers here, and it’s a spot for international travellers seeking familiar comforts while exploring Korean culture.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Itaewon, Seoul
- Visit Seoul Central Mosque for architectural beauty and stunning hillside city views.
- Explore Gyeongnidan-gil street for innovative restaurants and craft cocktail bars.
- Experience diverse international dining at Linus BBQ, Plant Cafe Seoul, or Vatos Urban Tacos.
- Go to Antique Furniture Street for traditional Korean furniture and ceramics.
- Enjoy craft beer at Craftworks Taphouse, featuring Korean microbrews.
Jongno: Historic Heart and Palace District
| Subway Commuting when Staying in Jongno
Multiple subway lines are operated in Jongno. Line 1 connects Jonggak, Jongno 3-ga, and Jongno 5-ga. Line 3 connects the Jongno 3-ga station. Line 5 connects areas like Anguk and provides excellent connectivity. |
If you want to know the historic side of Seoul, Jongno is the perfect place to be. The Joseon Dynasty established its capital here. Even if you visit the area now, you can see grand palaces.
This district preserves Korean cultural heritage while adapting to modern life. There are still traditional hanok houses nestled among modern apartments, and the markets are centuries old. One of these is the Gwangjang Market, which has been operating since 1905. It remains Seoul’s most authentic traditional market serving primarily local customers.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Jongno, Seoul
- Tour Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is Seoul’s grandest Joseon Dynasty palace, with guided tours and gate-changing ceremonies.
- Photograph traditional houses in Bukchon Hanok Village while respecting residents’ privacy and quiet hours.
- Wander Insadong’s main street to discover traditional tea houses, art galleries, and craft shops.
- Sample authentic Korean street food at Gwangjang Market, including bindaetteok and mayak gimbap from long-standing vendors.
- Take a walk in the Cheonggyecheon Stream for a peaceful urban experience that illuminates the night.
- Visit Jogyesa Temple for Buddhist ceremonies and peaceful contemplation in central Seoul.
Checklist Before Deciding Where to Stay in Seoul
Choosing a place determines how fun your vacation is going to be. And to achieve that, you need to check many factors before booking a random hotel in a random area.
- Transport: Seoul’s subway system is renowned for being world-class. Make sure you know the stations are within walking distance, as it can impact daily convenience.
- Vibe: Each neighbourhood pulses with different energy. Understanding these vibes helps you find your match.
- Budget: Accommodation costs vary dramatically across neighbourhoods. Plus, you need to consider total daily spending. You can calculate meals, transport, shopping, and activities. These costs can exceed actual room rates.
Conclusion
Each of Seoul’s neighbourhoods offers distinct experiences. Your perfect area to stay depends on your travel style and priorities.
You can be a first-timer, a business professional, a luxury traveller, a history lover, or a shopaholic; Seoul offers it all.
Don’t focus too much on the perfect place to stay or the best things to do. Take it slow and enjoy the simplest things; the key point is not to rush.
Moreover, you know the transportation in Seoul is pretty easy with the Metro lines. However, if you still need help with transportation services, booking a sightseeing tour, or finding the best place to stay in Seoul, you can contact us.
We help you throughout your trip. From flight tickets to visas and taking care of you during your stay in Korea, we are here to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Areas to Stay in Seoul
Which area in Seoul is recommended the most for first-time visitors?
Myeongdong is ideal for first-timers. It offers a central location, excellent public transport, and tourist-friendly infrastructure. English is widely spoken, and major attractions are easily accessible.
Are there any budget-friendly areas to stay in Seoul?
Hongdae and Sinchon offer the best budget options. The hotel, restaurant, and local food stalls are all reasonably priced and not designed to overcharge tourists.
Which neighbourhood in Seoul is best for traditional Korean experiences?
Jongno and Insadong give you the most traditional experiences. You will find palaces, hanok villages, traditional tea houses, and authentic markets, all within walking distance.
How many days should you spend in Seoul?
3-4 days are sufficient to experience both the modern and traditional aspects of Seoul. If you have time, you can also take a long drive to some of the best beaches in Korea. However, it depends on your budget and your flexibility.
Where should you stay for Seoul’s best nightlife?
Hongdae is the nightlife capital, with the best clubs, live music, and bars that stay open until dawn. Itaewon offers a more international nightlife scene with diverse crowds.
