Where to Stay in Seoul

Choosing where to stay in Seoul can be difficult. For the first-time visitor, it can be overwhelming. Jade House of Journey Count lived for a year in South Korea and shares her picks of the best neighborhoods, why they are a good choice for visitors and what you can do in each.

If you are exploring South Korea, one of Asia’s most underrated destinations, chances are you are probably starting off in the pulsing capital city of Seoul.

Korea’s capital offers an incredible introduction to this diverse country, with something for all types of visitors. This guide will introduce you to the best neighborhoods in Seoul so that you can find an area that fits your travel needs.

After living in South Korea for a year and exploring every corner of the country, I’ve come to believe that it is one of Asia’s most underrated destinations. And the capital, Seoul, is one of the region’s coolest cities.

Korea’s capital offers an incredible introduction to this diverse country, and we travelled there often to explore new areas and show our own visitors around.

Seoul’s Best Neighborhoods

Insadong – in the heart of Seoul, close to most major attractions
Myeongdong – a hub of modern Korean culture close to Namsan tower
Hongdae – a bustling university neighborhood known for its bars and restaurants
Gangnam – this iconic area is home to skyscrapers and luxury chain hotels
Bonus: Hanok Homes – a unique accommodation experience in Seoul

Seoul Districts

Seoul has 25 gu or “districts” but you’ll find that even if I suggest staying in Insadong, maybe Myeongdong might be a good option too. Don’t limit yourself.

As you can see from the map, Seoul neighborhoods are quite random but encircle the Hang River. Choosing where to stay in Seoul is easy once you get the hang of how the city works.

Suggested Seoul Neighborhoods

where to stay in seoul neighborhoods — Where to stay in Seoul: Neighbourhoods

There is something for everyone, from art, history and shopping, to outdoor exploration and some of the best dining options in the country.

This guide will give you an idea of the area that would best fit your travel style and desires, find the best neighbourhoods to stay in and will encourage you to use Seoul’s wonderful public transport system to explore the whole city.

1. Insadong

What to do in Seoul Gyeongbukgung palace

Insadong is the most convenient neighborhood for first timers to Seoul as it sits between the cities most popular attractions.

As the unofficial art district, it is also a great place to start getting a feel for Korean culture, with plenty of traditional architecture and handicraft shops among the new and shiny franchises.

The place is also abundant with cool independent cafés and teahouses to relax in between sightseeing.

Suggested Hotels in Insadong

Luxury

Orakai Insadong Suites – Beautiful self-catering apartments with excellent amenities in the heart of Insadong.
- Check out Availability & Prices: Trip Advisor/ Booking.com

Mid Range

Beyond Stay – A traditional Hanok house with small but quaint rooms in a quiet area. Rooms include A/C and Free WiFi throughout the hotel.
- Check out Availability & Prices TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Budget

Yellow Brick 0 A lovely guesthouse with bright rooms and a rooftop garden. Every room has A/C and a flat screen T.V. A simple breakfast is available from 07:00 – 10:00.
- Check out Availability & Prices – Trip Advisor/ Booking.com

Search More Hotels and AirBnBs in Insadong

Things to see and do in Insadong

Gyeongbukgung Palace – Insadong is well placed to visit Gyeongbukgung palace. If you only visit one of Seoul’s many palaces, make it this one.

University students offer free tours to foreigners around the Gyeongbukgung subway exit as a chance to practice their English. They’re all incredibly helpful and friendly and will give you a more educated insight into the stunning buildings and gardens within the palace.

If you decide against a guide though, just keep meandering north until you come to Hyangwonjeong, the royal pavilion which sits upon a man-made lake at the rear of the palace. The views here are especially beautiful in both autumn and spring, as golden leaves or petals float across the water.

Before you leave be sure to check out the museum within the compound, and the pagoda which rests upon it, alongside the reconstruction of a traditional street from the past.

Changdeokgung Palace Places to stay in Seoul

Changdeokgung Palace – East of Gyeongbukgung is another of Seoul’s majestic palaces which features beautifully manicured gardens. These palaces are an incredible insight into Korea’s past and have been kept in fantastic condition, certainly worth a few hours of wandering with a camera in hand.

Bukchon Hanok Village – Between the two palaces is the charming Bukchon hanok village. All buildings within this area are in-keeping with traditional architecture, and the place has been kept alive throughout multiple occupations. Climb the steep roads and take in the city vistas, and consider stopping for tea at one of the little houses along the way.

Suggested Tours

Cultural Heritage Tour – This morning tour introduces you to some of Seoul’s top cultural attractions, including the Bukchon Village.

Full Day Top Attractions – Visit Gyeongbuk Palace, the Blue House, Bukchon Village and more on this full day tour.

Traditional Calligraphy Experience – Experience Seoul’s creative heart with a calligraphy class in Insadong.

Getting There

Insadong-gil, the main street running through the neighborhood, is close to Anguk station on subway line 1 and Jongno 3-ga on subway lines 1, 3 and 5.

2. Myeongdong

Located between Insadong and Namsan Mountain is Korea’s shopping mecca Myeongdong.

Neon lines the streets and food stalls waft their smells along the pedestrianized paths in this bustling neighborhood, a complete contrast to the historic center.

If you are looking for hustle and bustle and great shopping the this is the place to stay in Seoul.