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Seoul, South Korea: Hotel & Motel Planning Guide

Find accommodations in Seoul with the hotel list provided below. Search for cheap and discounted hotel and motel rates in or close to Seoul, South Korea for your upcoming personal or group trip. We list the best Seoul hotel/motel rooms. Review the Seoul hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Seoul hotels. Planning a group? Lock in Seoul Group Hotel Deals or Check out the best Seoul meeting hotels

The Seoul center point is approximately the area of Myeongdong Cathedral and the area of Namsan Park.

There's history around every corner in Seoul, South Korea. The capital city of the Korean Republic lies on the banks of the Han River and has records stretching back to 18 BC. Seoul is a technologically innovative, modern city that is seeing a cultural rebirth. Whether you're looking to embrace that past two thousand years in a historical getaway, or looking for unique amenities to match Korea's technology-obsessed culture, there's the perfect hotel accommodation for everyone in and around the city. More from this guide...

"75% of the country’s population lives in Seoul"
Author: , a Hotel Planner from , reviewed on 05-Nov-2013
Score of City:
5.0 / 5

South Korea is a very tourist friendly country, at least within the Seoul Metropolitan Area. 75% of the country's population lives in Seoul or the greater Seoul Area. If you ask a Seoulite, what is the best way to get around the city is, they will respond with: BMW (Bus, Metro, and Walk, in that order). The highly trafficked Metro routes have audio announcements and electronic signage in four languages: Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese. All metro lines are clearly color-coded and numbered, you can get lost. Nevertheless, just in case, it is important to know basic Korean words and phrases. There are millions of drivers in Seoul, the roadway systems are very modern, and tolls are collected outside the city. Several bridges go over the Han River to get in and out of Seoul. It can be quite challenging to get around the city in a car, so visitors should stick to public transportation, as the driving/traffic laws are quite different. Pedestrians do not have the right of way. Motorcycles riders are also pedestrians and often ride on the sidewalks. Two things that stand out about Seoul is, How clean and spotless the city is at all times and How safe it is, even in the wee hours of the night and in dark alleys. The only prevalent crime is pickpocketing. There are so many must see attractions but to name a few: The Blue House (South Korean Presidential Residence), the Jogseya Buddhist Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace (Royal), Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Namsan Tower, and Cheonggyecheon Stream (paved river that runs through the city).

Seoul Hotels, Motels & Accommodations

Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong - Seoul
+1-888-389-4121
59 5 Myeongdong 1ga Junggu, Seoul, 100-021 South Korea
  • Three Star Downtown hotel
  • 280 rooms in property
From$180
Very Good 4.5 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
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The Westin Chosun Seoul - Seoul
+1-888-675-2083
87 Sogong Dong Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-070 South Korea
  • Luxury 5 star property
  • 40 suites in hotel
From$270
Very Good 4.5 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Lotte Hotel Seoul - Seoul
+1-800-716-8490
30 Eulji Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-721 South Korea
  • While visiting Korea, treat yourself to a luxury experience by booking a room at the five-star Lotte Hotel Seoul. This hotel is more than just a place to rest your head, it's an experience you will never forget. Completely renovated in 2002, this hotel offers all that you could want or need in one location. There are 1,318 luxurious guest rooms, an array of restaurants to please every palate, business facilities, and recreational areas. In addition to all these features, you will also enjoy the Lotte Hotel Seoul's central proximity in the city of Seoul. Popular attractions include Namsan Park, Namsangol Hanok Village, and Insa-Dong, as well as a premier shops and restaurants.
  • Luxury Five Star Downtown hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From$300
Very Good 4.5 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Plaza
+1-800-805-5223
23 Taepyeongno 2ga Junggu, Seoul, 100-864 South Korea
  • Luxury Five Star Downtown property
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From$150
Very Good 4.5 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
The Shilla Seoul - Seoul
+1-888-965-1860
202 Jangchung Dong 2 Ga Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-856 South Korea
  • Luxury 5 star Downtown hotel
  • 7 meeting rooms in hotel
From$300
Very Good 4.5 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Oriens Hotel & Residences in Junggu
+1-888-788-5576
Samildaero 2gil 50, Junggu, 100-250 South Korea ~0.06 miles east of Seoul
  • High-end property
  • Free breakfast available
From$156
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong
+1-888-897-9207
302 Samil Daero Jung Gu, Seoul, 100861 South Korea
  • Four-star Downtown property
  • 180 rooms in hotel
From$119
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
24 Guesthouse Myeongdong Center
+1-888-311-4278
124 Chungmuro 2ga Junggu, Seoul, NONE South Korea
  • 3-star property
  • 18 sleeping rooms in hotel
From$89
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Staz Hotel Myeongdong Ii - Junggu
+1-888-469-4795
Junggusupyoro 16, Junggu, 100-013 South Korea ~0.18 miles north of Seoul
  • Midscale hotel
  • 174 rooms in property
From$88
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
L7 Myeongdong - Seoul
+1-888-734-9421
137 Toegye Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-861 South Korea
  • High end property
  • Gym / Fitness Center Available
From$158
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Tmark Hotel Myeongdong
+1-888-841-5292
15 Chungmu Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-013 South Korea
  • Four-star Downtown property
  • 288 rooms in hotel
From$75
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong
+1-888-455-5160
51 Myeong Dong 10 Gil Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-861 South Korea
  • Affordable Downtown hotel
  • Airport shuttle available
From$124
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Skypark Myeongdong I - Seoul
+1-888-965-8297
15 Myeongdong 8na Gil Chungmuro 1(Il) Ga Jung Gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Midscale hotel
  • 673 sleeping rooms in hotel
From$85
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Days Hotel by Wyndham Seoul Myeongdong in Seoul
+1-888-906-6358
107 Toegye Ro, Seoul, 100011 South Korea
  • 3-star hotel
  • Check in: 14:00
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Four Points Seoul Myeongdong
+1-888-749-6785
81 Jeodong 2ga Junggu, Seoul, 100-032 South Korea
  • High-end property
  • Hotel has 26 floors
From$147
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
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Holiday Inn Express Seoul Euljiro : 61 Supyo Ro Jung Gu
+1-888-878-9982
61 Supyo Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Midscale Downtown property
  • 224 sleeping rooms in hotel
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro : 61 Supyo Ro Jung Gu
+1-888-389-4485
61 Supyo Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Mid-scale Downtown hotel
  • 224 sleeping rooms in hotel
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Aloft Seoul Myeongdong
+1-888-389-4121
56 Namdaemunro Jung Gu, Seoul, 04535 South Korea
  • Four star Downtown hotel
  • Hotel has 19 suites
From$75
Very Good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Metro Hotel
+1-888-675-2083
Myeongdong 9gagil 14, Seoul, 100-845 South Korea
  • High-end property
  • 78 rooms in hotel
From$157
Very Good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
+1-800-716-8490
362 Samil Daero, Seoul, 100-220 South Korea
  • Expensive property
  • Check in time: 14:00
From$150
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Daeyoung Hotel Seoul in Seoul
+1-800-805-5223
20 8 Toegyero 10 Gil, Seoul, 004634 South Korea
  • Affordable property
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Crown Park Hotel : 19 Namdaemun Ro 7 Gil Jung Gu
+1-888-965-1860
19 Namdaemun Ro 7 Gil Jung Gu, Seoul, 04532 South Korea
  • Four star Downtown hotel
  • 4 suites in property
From$88
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
L'escape Hotel : 67 Teogye Ro Jung Gu
+1-888-788-5576
67 Teogye Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Luxurious 5 Star property
  • 204 sleeping rooms in hotel
From$100
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
The Westin Josun Seoul : 106 Sogong Ro Jung Gu
+1-888-897-9207
106 Sogong Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-070 South Korea
  • Luxurious 5-star property
  • Check in time: 15:00
From$226
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Bonbon by Seoulodge Myeongdong
+1-888-311-4278
Namdaemunro 9gil 8, Junggu, 100-180 South Korea ~0.64 miles northwest of Seoul
  • Midscale hotel
  • 20 rooms in hotel
From$83
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Tmark Grand hotel Myeongdong - Junggu Seoul Korea
+1-888-469-4795
52 Toegyero, Junggu Seoul Korea, 04634 South Korea ~0.64 miles west of Seoul
  • Four-star hotel
  • Gym / Fitness Center Available
From$110
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Ambassador Seoul - A Pullman Hotel
+1-888-734-9421
287 Dongho Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 04618 South Korea
  • Luxurious 5-star Downtown property
  • Fitness + Health Center
From$111
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
THE PLAZA Seoul, Autograph Collection
+1-888-841-5292
The Plaza 119 Sogong Ro Jung Gu Seoul Korea, Seoul, 04525 South Korea
  • Luxurious Five Star Downtown property
  • 9 meeting rooms in property
From$100
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun - 서울
+1-888-455-5160
9 Namdaemun Ro Jung Gu Seoul, 서울, 04526 South Korea ~0.73 miles west of Seoul
  • Expensive property
From$100
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Afirst Hotel Myeongdong in Seoul
+1-888-965-8297
131 Da Dong Jung Gu, Seoul, 04522 South Korea
  • High end Downtown property
  • 140 rooms in property
From$90
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul in Seoul
+1-888-906-6358
58 Sejong Daero Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-094 South Korea
  • High-end Downtown property
  • Fitness + Health Center
From$160
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
THE PLAZA Seoul, Autograph Collection
+1-888-749-6785
119 Sogong Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-864 South Korea
  • Luxury Five Star Downtown hotel
  • Fitness + Health Center
From$150
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Travelodge Dongdaemun Hotel
+1-888-878-9982
359 Dongho Ro Jung Gu Seoul, Seoul, 04547 South Korea
  • Mid-scale Downtown property
  • Hotel has an eco-friendly policy See policy
From$50
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Millennium Seoul Hilton : 50 Sowol Ro Jung Gu
+1-888-389-4485
50 Sowol Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 04637 South Korea
  • Luxurious Five Star Downtown property
  • Check in time: 16:00 PM
From$174
Very Good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ramada By Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun : 275 3 Euljiro 5ga Joong Gu
+1-888-389-4121
275 3 Euljiro 5ga Joong Gu, Seoul, 100-195 South Korea
  • Expensive Downtown hotel
  • Hotel has 3 meeting rooms
From$85
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Station
+1-888-675-2083
366 Hangang Daero Yongsan Gu, Seoul, 140-821 South Korea
  • 4 star Downtown hotel
  • Check in: 15:00 PM
From$108
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam Hotel in Seoul
+1-800-716-8490
160 Sapyeong Daero Seocho Gu Seoul 06578 Korea, Seoul, South Korea
  • Luxurious 5-star Downtown property
  • Hotel has 9 meeting rooms
From$150
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ramada by Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun : 354 Dongho Ro Jung Gu Seoul Republic of Korea
+1-800-805-5223
354 Dongho Ro Jung Gu Seoul Republic of Korea, Seoul, 04561 South Korea
  • 3 star hotel
  • 4 meeting rooms in property
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ramada by Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun
+1-888-965-1860
354 Dongho Ro, Seoul, 100195 South Korea
  • Affordable hotel
  • Hotel has 154 rooms
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
+1-888-788-5576
60 Jangchungdan Ro Jung Gu, Seoul, 04605 South Korea
  • Luxury Five Star hotel
From$300
Very Good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
New Seoul Hotel - Seoul
+1-888-897-9207
#29 1 1 Ga Tyaepyeong No Jung Gu, Seoul, 100-101 South Korea
  • 3-star hotel
  • Hotel has 2 suites
From$80
Very Good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Moxy Seoul Insadong
+1-888-311-4278
37 Donhwamun Ro 11 Gil Nakwon Dong Jongno Gu, Seoul, 03139 South Korea
  • 3-star Downtown hotel
  • 16 floors in property
From$100
Very Good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Manu in Seoul
+1-888-469-4795
Namdaemunno 5gajunggu 8416, Seoul, NONE South Korea
  • High-end property
  • Complimentary breakfast is offered
From$158
Very Good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
K-Guesthouse Dongdaemun 1 : 345 Donghoro Junggu
+1-888-734-9421
345 Donghoro Junggu, Seoul, 121-140 South Korea
  • Economical property
  • Hotel has 14 rooms
From$60
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Loisir Hotel Myungdong Myungdong : Chungmuro 241
+1-888-841-5292
Chungmuro 241, Junggu, 100-281 South Korea ~0.28 miles northeast of Seoul
  • Affordable hotel
  • Check-in time: 15:00
From$88
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Staz Hotel Myeongdong I Closed
+1-888-455-5160
Jungguchungmuro 9gil 20, Junggu, 100-846 South Korea ~0.47 miles north of Seoul
  • Mid-scale hotel
  • Check in time: 15:00
From$87
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong - Namdaemun-Ro
+1-888-965-8297
78 Seoul, Namdaemun-Ro, 04534 South Korea ~0.50 miles northwest of Seoul
  • 4 star hotel
  • 11 suites in property
From$64
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Floral Hotel ShinShin - Seoul
+1-888-906-6358
9343 Bukchangdong Junggu, Seoul, 100-080 South Korea
  • High-end hotel
  • Check-in: 15:00
From$157
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Tong Myeongdong Myeongdong
+1-888-749-6785
Taepyeongno 2ga 702, Seoul, NONE South Korea
  • Mid-scale property
  • Check in: 14:00
From$89
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall in Seoul
+1-888-878-9982
22 Sejong Daero 16 Gil, Seoul, 004526 South Korea
  • Affordable property
  • Hotel has 3 suites
From$82
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details

Next: See My Seoul Hotels with Pricing

Graph: Next 20 Days of Seoul Hotel Prices

Rates shown are nightly rates before taxes and do not necessarily reflect all Seoul, South Korea discounts available. The chart reflects the cheapest Seoul hotel for each day and each star rating category.

Seoul translates to “capital” in Korean and has appropriately been the capital of South Korea since 1394. However, throughout the years it has known many names. From 1392-1910, it was called Hanseong under the Chosŏn dynasty, and then changed to Gyeongseong during the Japanese rule from 1910-1948. Since the end the Korean war in 1953, Seoul has expanded rapidly and has grown into the metropolitan hub that is today.

The Best Seasons and Festivals in Seoul, South Korea

Spring is the best time of year to visit Seoul, which falls from April to June. The cherry blossoms are in bloom and the entire city starts to wake up from the long winter. This is also the time of year for many food and music festivals, which symbolize the start of farming and safe fishing throughout the warm months.

Summer tends to be a popular time for tourists, despite the hot temperatures and impending monsoon. More than half of the country's annual rain falls in July and August, which means your activities could be limited to indoor museums and restaurants. The summer months also mean an increase in hotel prices, as rooms fill up quickly to meet the demand.


Fall is also a wonderful time to visit Seoul, from September to November. The temperatures have dropped from the summer, and most of the rain has subsided. Like the Spring, many towns like to throw festivals in the fall to celebrate the end of summer, and enjoy the outdoors before winter. Among them is the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival in October. This festival remembers the ancient history of Seoul, from 18 BC to 475 AD with elaborate costumes, performances, and informational tours of historic sites from that time. If you're travelling to Korea for a crash course in 2,000 years of history, this festival can't be missed.

Fall and winter are the best months to find hotel deals in Seoul, South Korea. If you enjoy the cold, try the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, which draws 1,000,000 visitors each year. From late January to early February, revelers celebrate the snow with ice sledding, ice fishing, and even ice soccer.

Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Seoul, South Korea:

Seoul, South Korea: Prices by Star Rating Class

Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Seoul, South Korea. Browse these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective dates to stay in Seoul for upcoming travels.

Luxury Hotel Options in Seoul, South Korea

4 Star Average Prices: $107.56

For the luxury traveler, there are several hotel options in Seoul, South Korea. The Conrad Seoul is located on the other side of the Han river from downtown, but is just a train ride away from many main attractions. The Conrad has a 24-hour health club and a full-service spa and hair salon. This hotel is known for its sauna and indoor pool, for travelers who like to swim laps regardless of the weather.

The Casaville Serviced Residence Shinchon creates a more homey feel with refrigerators, microwaves, and kitchenettes in the rooms. If you're planning to stay in Seoul for several days, but don't feel like eating out all of the time, this can be useful for cooking or storing food. The closest landmark to Casaville Serviced Residence Shinchon is Yonsei University, but a quick train ride can take you into the center of downtown Seoul.

For the height of luxury, try the Ritz-Carlton of Seoul. While this hotel is ideal for business travelers, it can also accommodate families with kids. Its closest landmark is Bongeunsa, a Buddhist temple built in 794. Guests in this hotel won't want for amenities, as the Ritz Carlton offers babysitting services, fitness facilities, a hair salon, and town car service. Guests at this hotel see Seoul in style.

Affordable Hotel Options in Seoul, South Korea

3 Star Average Prices: $91.91

Believe it or not, it's easy to find nice hotel accommodation in the center of Seoul for less than $100/night! The Hotel Aropa is walking distance from the Namdaemun Market and the Deoksugung Palace, which means you can stroll past these iconic landmarks and see them in the evening when they're less crowded. This hotel has a multilingual staff to help answer any questions, and has free Wi-Fi and wired high-speed Internet.

The Doulos Hotel can be found near the city center by Jongmyo Temple and Tapgol Park, and meets at the crossroads of three major train lines. This is ideal for visitors who plan to make their hotel a home base and then travel all over the city and the surrounding areas during their stay. Known for its friendly staff, The Duolos Hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and newspapers in the lobby. Breakfast at The Duolos Hotel is about $8 for adults, and $7 for kids, making it a great place to fill up on a budget before heading out for the day.

2 Star Average Prices: $28.33

Best Discounts in Seoul, South Korea

Many Seoul Hotels offer special discounts to visitors who book their accommodation online. The JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul has one of the best locations in the city, and is walking distance to many of the palaces and temples in downtown Seoul. It also offers cancellations up to 24 hours before check-in.

The Holiday Inn Express Seoul Euljiro offer complimentary buffet breakfast offering eggs, bacon, and sausage — a rare treat in Seoul hotels. This hotel is ideal for families traveling with kids who aren't used to the unique Korean cuisine. Each room is also equipped with a refrigerator and a flat-screen television, with free Wi-Fi to share photos of your day.

Hotel BonBon by Seoulodge Myeongdong is a steal, offering affordable rooms near the city center. This hotel is truly in the middle of everything, from Myeongdong Cathedral in the East, to Deoksugung Palace in the West. This hotel is known for being incredibly clean, with hair dryers and complimentary toiletries for each guest.

Best Value Options in Seoul, South Korea

There are additional options beyond staying in hotels in Seoul. Guesthouse Korea creates a more fun and communal environment, which is ideal for younger travelers visiting the city by themselves. Guesthouse Korea offers private rooms for under $50, including a private bathroom and hair dryer. You can't find a room this affordable right next to the Changdeok Palace anywhere else!

For a more traditional route, consider the Gung Guesthouse, a traditional Hanok that lets guests completely embrace Korean culture. Instead of a bulky mattress, guests sleep on traditional floor mats. You can also enjoy a free breakfast every morning. This small guesthouse is very accommodating, with the host willing to offer directions and lend you umbrellas to keep you out of the rain.

If you're traveling with a family and looking for more modern accommodation, consider the SLA Seoul Loft Apartments. This is a boutique hotel located next to the Changgyeonggung Palace. Visitors can book the Garden Patio room, the two bedroom suite for a larger family, or the loft for a couple getting away together. Some rooms even have built-in washers to make your new apartment feel like home.

Top Day Trips from Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is surrounded by small towns and natural landmarks that are well worth visiting. Many guests book a hotel in Seoul and then take day trips into the country after exploring the city. These are a few places that every guest needs to see, if only for a few hours before returning to the bustle of the capital.

The Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon is the quintessential Korean fortress, built in 1796. Seoul's Subway Line 1 can take visitors to Suwon, and the fortress is only a short bus ride away. The fortress has almost six kilometers of stone walls, which makes a visit to this landmark a workout as well as an educational experience.

The Mangwolsa Temple is just outside Seoul and reachable by subway, but it will feel like a completely different world when you step off of the train. Located in the mountains in Bukhansan National Park, the temple is a collection of colorful buildings adorned with the sound of monks chanting their prayers. The views of the mountains and the forest will take your breath away, and will offer a brief respite from the bustle of downtown Seoul.

Both the Mangwolsa Temple and the Hwaseong Fortress are located in Gyeonggi Province, the most populated area in South Korea. Gyeonggi translates to "the area surrounding capital.”

Seoul manages to cram together centuries of history with a love of technological advances and a vibrant nightlife and food scene. Wherever you stay in Seoul, you won't be far from an important spot in the country's history, or a bite of the nation's culture.

Seoul, South Korea in a nutshell

Known as the largest city within South Korea, Seoul amps up the volume of life and excitement by offering its guests with great food, excellent nightlife and various shopping options. While it is bordered by Tokyo and Shanghai, Seoul offers tourists with cheaper options and its own interesting story during their visit. When going about Seoul, tourists will not have a hard time finding the places they want to visit as the city is divided into districts that have its own distinct classification. Tourists who want to shop may find Dongdaemun the ideal district to visit as this is the shopper's paradise in Seoul. There are hundreds of vendors found in this district that it may be hard to choose after looking about. A trip to Sinchon and Hongdae may be order when stomachs begin to churn and request for food. These are also the areas where Seoul's nightlife kicks up a notch with its bars and night clubs. When opting to do something really fun, guests can check out the amusement parks that the city also offers. Before leaving Seoul, guests may want to check out Lotte World, which boasts of being one of the largest indoor parks in the whole world.

Park Jae-sang, singer of the phenomenal global YouTube hit "Gangnam Style" told The New York Times, 'My lifetime role model and hero is Freddie Mercury of Queen. His songwriting skills, I cannot even approach, but his showmanship, I learned it from videos.

The Korean capital is central to one of the world's largest metropolitan areas populated with more than 25 million people. Hotels in Seoul are located in backpacker districts as well as posh areas with good views of the city. With a strategic location on the Han River, the global city has some of the world's largest technology companies headquartered here including Samsung and LG. The city adapts to technology extremely well and has COEX, a landmark underground shopping mall. Beautiful palaces like the restored Gyeongbok-Gung and Ghangdeok-Gung are great historical sites. Hiking locations include Samseong and Bukhan mountains. Temples like Jogye and shrines like Jongmyo and Guksadang on Mount Inwang are very popular. Hi! Seoul and ABU TV and Radio Song festivals are major international events. 

3 Budget Hotels Near Backpackers' Districts

Jongno, Sinchon, and Hongdae are places where backpackers find cheap hotels. WS Hotel - Close to Anguk Station, the hotel offers small accommodation and is adequate for the price. Private glass-paneled bathrooms are offered. A good number of restaurants and cafes are found nearby. Well-organized housekeeping services ensure rooms are clean and tidy. Places to visit nearby include Gyeongbok Palace and Jongno-3. New Chonji Hotel - The hotel is in a quiet corner near Dongdaemun Complex Mall. Last rooms with seating areas are available. Two mineral water bottles are provided daily free of cost. Washing machines are available. Saerim Hotel - It has a good location with a residential feel near the Cheonggyecheon Stream and tube station. Basic amenities can be expected at budget prices. Cheap hotels near main attractions are good choices, as they provide basic yet clean accommodation.

2 Pricey Luxury Hotels At Great Location

Seoul hotels near the heart at Jung-Gu lavish five-star hotels. The Westin Chosun Hotel Seoul “ Close to the City Hall Subway Station and Myeongdong, the five-star property has luxurious air-conditioned rooms with equipped bathrooms. The sauna room and spa are ideal relaxation spots. Popular in-house restaurants include Aria and Ninth Gate Grille serving international dishes and Hong Yuan offering Cantonese cuisine. The Shilla Seoul - Five different dining options are available. Guests can avail of free shuttle services to Myongdong and Dongdaemun shopping areas. Travelers like the hotel with Incheon airport and Gimpo Airport is less than an hour away by car.

2 Interesting Boutique Hotels 

Boutique hotels in Seoul are good alternatives to the pricey five-star hotels offering great amenities at affordable prices. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel - The hotel has funky decor and is close to the popular Itaewon area. The stylish hotel offers excellent Asian and Western dishes for breakfast. For other kinds of food, visitors can try out nearby restaurants. Hotel ShinShin - The convenient location close to the subway makes it a popular restaurant. Limousine buses leave for the airport from a nearby bus stop. Well-equipped and spotlessly clean rooms are offered. The award-winning property is among the favored Seoul hotels. 

FAQs about hotels in Seoul

What are the top reviewed hotels in Seoul?

Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong, The Westin Chosun Seoul and Lotte Hotel Seoul are the best rated hotels based on customer reviews in the last 365 days.

What are the most luxurious hotels in Seoul?

The Westin Chosun Seoul, Lotte Hotel Seoul and The Plaza are the top 3 luxury hotels near Seoul city center.

What hotels are closest to the city center of Seoul?

Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong, The Westin Chosun Seoul, and Lotte Hotel Seoul are the properties closest to Seoul city center.

What are the most popular independent hotels in Seoul?

Lotte Hotel Seoul, The Plaza and The Shilla Seoul are the best rated independent hotels (not part of a big brand).

What are the best Marriott hotels in Seoul?

The Westin Chosun Seoul, The Westin Josun Seoul and Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun are the best rated Marriott/Starwood branded hotels (based on customer reviews score).

Recent traveler guest reviews of Seoul, South Korea

Below are reviews of the city of Seoul, South Korea from an actual visitor's perspective.

"Great Place to Explore!"
Score 5.0 / 5

Seoul is great to explore with lots of see. Many people speak English so navigating and conversing is easy.

Natty M., from 13-Jan-2024
"Food is Amazing"
Score 4.0 / 5

LOVED Seoul as it is clean, modern and beautiful! The people are exceptionally friendly and complete strangers approached us regularly to see if we needed any help getting around. The taxis are very inexpensive and the public transportation is outstanding and easy to get around on, as English is everywhere. The food is amazing and the restaurants are reasonably priced. Cannot wait to be able to go back!

C D., from 08-Aug-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Seoul, South Korea shown above is 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews
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