What Area of Seoul Should I Stay In? The Ultimate Guide to Seoul’s Best Neighbourhoods
Planning a trip to South Korea and wondering what area of Seoul you should stay in? You’re not alone. With its vibrant neighbourhoods and endless things to do, choosing where to stay in Seoul can be a bit overwhelming—especially if it’s your first visit.
In this guide, I break down the best places to stay in Seoul based on different travel styles, from the trendiest districts to the most traditional corners of the city. Plus, I’ll share my personal experience staying at L7 Hongdae, one of Seoul’s coolest design hotels.
Whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, shopaholic, or night owl, there’s a perfect base for you. Let’s dive in!
Contents: Where to Stay in Seoul
Quick LinksQuick Look: Best Areas to Stay in Seoul
- Best for First-Timers: Myeongdong
- Best for Culture & History: Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village
- Best for Nightlife & Trendy Vibes: Hongdae
- Best for Luxury & Upscale Shopping: Gangnam
- Best for Local Living: Itaewon or Yeonnam-dong
1. Hongdae: For Nightlife, Cafes, and Creative Energy
If you’re looking for a vibrant, youthful atmosphere filled with indie boutiques, live music, cute cafes, and amazing Korean food, Hongdae is the place for you. It’s one of Seoul’s most dynamic neighbourhoods and ideal for those who want to experience the city’s energetic side.
I personally stayed at L7 Hongdae, a stylish and comfortable hotel right in the heart of it all. It’s super well-connected by metro and walkable to countless restaurants, bars, and late-night spots.
If you want to be able to roll home after a night out or a dinner of Korean BBQ, this is your spot. It’s also a great base for day trips and sightseeing thanks to its central location and transport links.
2. Myeongdong: For Shopping and Central Convenience
Myeongdong is one of the most popular places to stay in Seoul for first-time visitors. It’s centrally located and packed with cosmetic shops, street food stalls, and K-pop merchandise.
If you want to be close to major attractions like Namsan Tower and Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong is a solid choice. That said, it’s one of the busiest districts in Seoul, so expect crowds.
Want to plan the perfect trip? Don’t miss my 3-day Seoul itinerary packed with top sights, eats, and tips.
3. Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village: For Traditional Korean Culture
Prefer a slower pace and charming traditional vibes? Stay near Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village, where you’ll be surrounded by hanok (traditional Korean houses), tea houses, and cultural landmarks.
This area is perfect for travellers who want to experience a more authentic and historical side of Seoul. You’ll also still be close to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most iconic sights in the city.
4. Gangnam: For Upscale Vibes and Chic Cafes
Made famous worldwide by Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” this area is modern, sleek, and full of skyscrapers, malls, and designer shops. It’s perfect for digital nomads, business travellers, and anyone wanting a taste of luxury in Seoul.
You’ll also find some amazing food spots, beauty clinics, and unique attractions like the underground Starfield Library—a must-see if you’re in the area.
5. Itaewon and Yeonnam-dong: For Diversity and Local Charm
If you want to experience Seoul beyond the tourist trail, these two neighbourhoods are great options. Itaewon is known for its international vibe, with a mix of cultures, cuisines, and expats. It’s also packed with cool restaurants and bars.
Yeonnam-dong, just beside Hongdae, is quieter but equally trendy. Think leafy streets, artsy cafes, and a relaxed vibe. It’s ideal if you want to be close to the action without being in the middle of it.
Where to Stay in Seoul: City Map
Top Picks: Where to Stay in Seoul
Accommodation Options in Seoul
Stay- Budget: Seoul Cube Jongro – A compact and clean capsule-style stay in the heart of Jongno, ideal for solo travellers or minimalists.
- Budget: GangnamStay Guesthouse – A relaxed and sociable female-only guesthouse near Insadong, with warm service and a homely feel.
- Budget to Mid-range: Da-Woo House 2 – A cute and cosy guesthouse in the vibrant Hongdae area, with friendly hosts and a great location for nightlife.
- Mid-range: Moxy Seoul Insadong – A playful, modern hotel with quirky design, rooftop views, and a lively location in Insadong.
- Mid-range: Glue Hotel – Sleek, minimalist interiors and sweeping views of Seoul’s old town – ideal for creatives and couples.
- Boutique: Hanok Hotel DAAM Seoul – A stylish stay with a calm, upscale vibe in a central but quiet area near Insadong.
- Boutique to Luxury: L7 Hongdae by LOTTE – A chic lifestyle hotel with rooftop bar and pool, perfect for trendsetters wanting to explore Seoul’s hip side.
- Luxury: RYSE, Autograph Collection – An ultra-creative, design-forward luxury hotel in the heart of Hongdae with curated interiors and premium service.
Discover more handpicked stays in Seoul on Booking.com—from sleek design hotels to cosy budget guesthouses.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Seoul?
The best area to stay in Seoul really depends on your travel style:
- Want nightlife and trendiness? Choose Hongdae.
- Love shopping and convenience? Go for Myeongdong.
- Into history and culture? Stay in Bukchon or Insadong.
- Craving luxury and modern comforts? Pick Gangnam.
- Looking for diversity and local charm? Consider Itaewon or Yeonnam-dong.
No matter where you stay, Seoul’s excellent metro / subway system makes it easy to explore all corners of the city.
FAQs About Visiting Seoul, South Korea
Some of the top things to do in Seoul include exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace, walking through Bukchon Hanok Village, shopping in Myeongdong and Hongdae, and hiking up Namsan to N Seoul Tower. Foodies should explore Gwangjang Market, while culture lovers will enjoy a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and visiting the vibrant Dongdaemun Design Plaza. For a detailed 3-day itinerary, check out my guide to spending 3 days in Seoul.
Seoul is known for its dynamic blend of modern innovation and traditional culture. It’s a hub for K-pop, fashion, technology, and Korean cuisine. The city also boasts historical palaces, bustling shopping districts, and a world-renowned street food scene.
Seoul is served by two major airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP). Incheon handles most international flights, while Gimpo is primarily for domestic travel. From the airport, you can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX), airport limousine buses, or taxis into the city.
Seoul is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones, especially in areas like Insadong, Itaewon, and Hongdae. However, for longer distances, the efficient subway and bus systems are ideal and easy to navigate.
Yes, Seoul is accessible for budget travellers. Street food, budget guesthouses, and free attractions like parks and cultural sites make it easy to explore affordably. The public transportation system is also cheap and reliable.
Seoul is famous for Korean BBQ, bibimbap, kimchi, tteokbokki, and samgyetang. Don’t miss trying local favorites like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and gimbap. Food markets such as Gwangjang Market and street vendors in Myeongdong are great places to sample a variety of dishes.
The best time to visit Seoul is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, cherry blossoms or colorful foliage, and various festivals. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold but great for festive lights and ice skating.
3 to 5 days is a good amount of time to explore Seoul’s main attractions, enjoy local food, and take a few day trips. If you want to dive deeper into the city’s neighborhoods and culture, a week allows for a more relaxed experience.
Seoul is considered very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the city has a strong police presence. As with any destination, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings and take normal safety precautions, especially at night or in crowded areas.
Your clothing should match the season—layers in spring and autumn, light and breathable fabrics in summer, and warm coats in winter. Locals tend to dress neatly, so smart-casual outfits work well. Modest attire is appreciated in temples or traditional settings.
For more Korea travel tips, inspiration, and reviews, check out my full archive of South Korea blog posts.
Planning your trip to Seoul?
- 3-Day Seoul Itinerary
- Visit Bukchon Hanok Village
- Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Discover Starfield Library
- L7 Hongdae Hotel Review
Plan Your Trip to South Korea: Useful Travel Resources
Planning your next trip? These are my ride-or-die travel tools — handpicked, tested, and essential. The smart stuff I actually use to book fast, travel safer, and stress less. I don’t gatekeep when it comes to travel!
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