Best Hotels in Seoul

About Seoul

If handed a map blindfolded, the odds are high that fingers land somewhere close to Seoul – not just geographically, but culturally, too. This city doesn’t beg for attention through sappy promotional campaigns or overwrought slogans; instead, it spills its character along the Han River, splashes neon on skyscrapers, and slips into alleyways where soju bars mingle with art spaces. Seoul’s architectural sensibility is, frankly, a glorious mess: hypermodern towers side-by-side with traditional hanoks, all jostling for light in a city that never really stops humming. If a guest arrives at Gwanghwamun in the morning, the pavement smells faintly of roasted sweet potatoes from pushcarts, and feet find their way toward palaces, first by accident and then by intent.

Travelers, hotel connoisseurs, and the coffee-obsessed ask for Seoul by name, hungry for the choice between luxury hotels in Seoul and its irrepressibly quirky, budget-friendly spots. The difference isn’t just in amenities – it’s how the city feels day and night: fast-paced at noon with business travelers clocking meetings at the Westin Josun, sleepy-eyed at midnight in Itaewon’s boutique lodgings with their hand-painted elevator buttons. Here’s the trick – intimacy in Seoul comes with imperfections. There’s at least one hotel per neighborhood whose lobby features a slightly off-kilter art piece or an unreasonably priced pastry, yet staff still remember birthdays. That’s the charm, and if you ask around, local experts whisper that rates spike curiously just before Chuseok and Lunar New Year, with Seoul hotel price comparison charts swinging by as much as 40%, practically overnight.

Booking the best hotels in Seoul is a matter of timing and research, using our platforms akbartravels.com helps compare top-rated options including The Shilla, Lotte Hotel Seoul, and Park Hyatt Seoul, ensuring a stay that balances luxury, location, and price.

Seoul Airport Address

• Incheon International Airport (ICN)
  • Address: 272 Gonghang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon, Republic of Korea
  • Phone: +82 1577-2600
  • Email: cs@airport.kr

Don’t let the sleek exterior fool you; inside, there’s a stretch of check-in desks where one machine always has a handwritten sign taped to it. The airport’s coffee kiosk, “Coffee@Terminal,” near Gate 40, serves surprisingly good iced yuja tea for about 4,000 KRW.

The Best Time to Visit Seoul

Here’s a local quirk: September through early November delivers weather as crisp as pickled radish, plus clearer skies for palace photos. Cherry blossom season in April brings swarms (hotels in Seoul near railway station fill up with both local weekenders and photo-toting guests). Room rates hike by at least 25% during Golden Week holidays, and one small correction – festival weeks now see more three-night minimum stays in Seoul 5 star hotel properties. Local booking agents say early June gets you the lowest Seoul hotel prize for high-end double rooms, especially when using akbartravels.com.

Seoul tour packages offer curated itineraries covering iconic palaces, bustling markets, the DMZ, and vibrant neighborhoods, often including hotel pickup, guided commentary, and optional add-ons for a seamless travel experience.

How to Reach Seoul

By Air:

Most international flights land at Incheon International, about 40 minutes west of downtown. Taxi fares range from 55,000 to 70,000 KRW (depending on traffic and driver enthusiasm). The AREX train, while pricier at 9,500 KRW, saves you at least half an hour during peak jams. Guests booking hotels in Seoul near airport sometimes request shuttle transfers-oddly, the ones at Paradise City are more punctual than at Lotte City Hotel.

By Rail:

KTX trains pull into Seoul Station with a classic low, staticky jingle as each door opens. It’s not unheard of for guests at hotels in Seoul near railway station to request broom closets to stow luggage early (around 1,000 KRW per bag for safekeeping). Don’t expect much English signage, but staff are quick to help if you point at a printed hotel name.

By Road:

Driving south into Seoul via the Gyongbu Expressway? Pack snacks – weekend traffic is unpredictable, and at least once every Saturday, a local will bemoan toll costs overtaking coffee budgets. Most major car rental desks sit clustered outside arrivals on the second floor at ICN, behind a row of lit vending machines dispensing tiny sweet rice drinks.

Things to Do in Seoul

• Stroll Gyeongbokgung Palace – See centuries of royal architecture, ponds at rest, and ceremonial guards.
• Tour Bukchon Hanok Village – Wander traditional alleyways lined with tiled-roof homes and old stone walls.
• Hike up Namsan Mountain – Reach the tower for sprawling city views and cable car rides.
• Coffee at Samcheong-dong – Sip artfully poured espresso beside antique furniture and indie galleries.
• Night market at Dongdaemun – Explore late-night snacks, neon-lit shops, and live street dance.
• Window-shop at Garosugil – Spot K-fashion, niche boutiques, and candle stores with odd shapes.
• South Gate (Namdaemun) bazaar – Browse endless socks, accessories, and food stalls.
• Eat at Mangwon Market – Munch on tteokbokki, sesame cookies, and tangy kimchi.
• Bicycle on Han Riverside – Rent a bike for river breezes and impromptu picnics.
• Catch a show in Hongdae – See indie bands, set aside formalities, and expect paint-splattered jeans.
• Gaze at Jogyesa Temple – Downtown Buddhist calm among lanterns, monks, and tourists.
• Explore Insadong – Tea shops, vintage prints, tiny calligraphy sets for gifts.
• Wander Itaewon’s main drag – Find world cuisine, English-friendly pubs, and late-night falafel.
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea – Major history fix plus outdoor tank displays.
• Snap at Olympic Park – Bundle the selfie-stick, hunt for the pink muhly grass fields.

Shopping in Seoul

• Myeongdong Street – Packed cosmetics, pop-up shops, dense energy.
• COEX Mall – Huge, one-of-a-kind aquarium plus endless high-street names.
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Wild architecture, night markets, and late designer finds.
• Namdaemun Market – Everything from shoes to kimchi; try the gimbap at Booth 158.
• Garosugil – Stylish locals, coffee stalls, and minimalist jewelry.
• Starfield COEX – Flagship stores, gourmet imports, easy subway access.
• Sinsa-dong – Small boutiques, candle stores, and street style parades.
• Goto Mall – Fussy underground market with surprisingly good sock shops.
• Lotte Department Store – Go up two floors for custom lipstick blending.
• Ewha Woman’s University area – Student-driven fashion-cheap, energetic, creative.
• Hongdae Free Market – Art wares, crafts, and busking performances.
• Common Ground – Korea’s first shipping container mall; blue facades, indie brands.
• Times Square – West Seoul retail behemoth with a mid-range electronics store.

Famous Restaurants in Seoul

• Tosokchon Samgyetang – Pouring hot ginseng chicken soup in a rustic hanok.
• Noryangjin Fish Market – Choose your catch, get it cooked on the spot.
• Jungsik – Two Michelin stars, sharp service, molecular cuisine.
• Han Chu Korean Fried Chicken & Beer – Crispy, sticky, a local favorite.
• Gwangjang Market – Fresh bindaetteok pancakes, kimchi mandu, buzzing at breakfast.
• Mingles – Modern Korean, creative plates, busy on weekends.
• Bukchon Son Mandu – Hand-wrapped dumplings, light broth, casual vibe.
• On The Grill Itaewon – Smoky barbecue, late-night, warm beer mugs.
• Vatos Urban Tacos – Spicy Korean-Mexican fusion, sometimes a wait.
• Linus’ BBQ – American-style brisket, smoky scents, small tables.
• Daedo Sikdang – Best beef ribs, waitlist at peak times.
• Jangdokdae – Homestyle cooking, slightly faded carpets, but comfort first.
• Tosokchon – Double mention for kimchi pancakes alongside ginseng soup.
• Grandma’s Onion – Artisan bakery, croissant scents everywhere.
• Tongin Market Dosirak Cafe – Fill-your-own boxed lunch, local favorite.

Popular Hotels in Seoul

• The Shilla Seoul – Legendary service, panoramic city views, classic style.
• Grand Hyatt Seoul Hotel – Hilltop luxury, gardens, celebrity sightings.
• Lotte Hotel Seoul – Perfect for business and pleasure, central to shopping.
• The Westin Josun Seoul – Oldest legacy, warm lobby, wedding parties every Saturday.
• Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul – Private pools, quiet retreats, top spa.
• Park Hyatt Seoul – Sleek, glass-walled suites, direct subway access.
• Sofitel Ambassador Seoul – Impeccable style, riverside view, fanciest breakfast spread.
• Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul – Great for travelers needing apartments.
• Grand Walkerhill Seoul – Casino nights, golf nearby, scenic river.
• Lotte Hotel World – Theme park adjacent, ice rink below, families love it.
• Fairmont Ambassador Seoul – Sky-high windows, rooftop bar, spa lovers unite.
• Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador – Modern, artistic, Han River walk nearby.
• Hotel Naru Seoul – Sits pretty on riverside, cozy rooms, attentive staff.
• Sollago Myeongdong Hotel & Residence – Newcomer, great location, quiet yet central.

Popular Resorts in Seoul

• Banyan Tree Club & Spa – Private pools, spa treatments, green escapes.
• Walkerhill Douglas House – Riverside retreat, away from city bustle.
• Grand Hyatt Seoul – Resort-like grounds, tennis, summer music.
• Lotte Hotel World – Amusement park, family rooms, indoor skating.
• Paradise City Incheon – Comfy rooms, casino, art installations nearby.
• JW Marriott Hotel Seoul – Lavish pool, river views, best buffet.
• Oakwood Premier Coex Center – Apartment-style comfort, fitness club.​
• The Shilla Seoul – Gorgeous gardens, high-end gym, timeless architecture.
• The Westin Josun Seoul – Famous business resort, great breakfast.
• Fairmont Ambassador Seoul – Modern resort, spa, rooftop sunset.
• Grand Mercure Imperial Palace Seoul – Famed restaurant, in-house sauna.
• Sofitel Ambassador Seoul and Residences – Elegant, lounge, central spa.
• Lotte City Hotel Mapo – Pool, quick transit, practical rooms.
• Orakai Cheonggyesan Hotel – Near hiking trails, upscale feel, peaceful.

Where to Stay in Seoul

If a local were giving advice over a quick bowl of bibimbap, they’d say this: for a sense of history, check into hotels in Seoul near Bukchon – the hanoks ooze charm and nearby streets supply midnight snacks. For nightlife, Itaewon’s boutique hotels strike a nice balance between comfort and access. Don’t brush past the periphery: Gangnam luxury hotels in Seoul put guests near designer shopping, top bars, and solid transport (but, yes, traffic jams still win on Fridays). Use akbartravels.com to scope out Seoul famous hotels and catch surprise deals for off-peak nights.

Places to Stay in Seoul Near Popular Attractions

• Near Gyeongbokgung Palace: The Shilla Seoul and Four Seasons Hotel – both within 15 min walk, known for epic breakfast spreads.
• Beside Namsan Tower: Grand Hyatt Seoul – funicular access, skyline views, solid rooftop bar.
• Right in Myeongdong: Lotte Hotel Seoul – minutes from street food, high-end shops, and quick transport.
• For river walks (Han River): Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador – scenic sunsets by the water.
• Close to COEX Mall: Oakwood Premier Coex Center – suits families, indoor pool, huge mall next door.
• By Hongdae’s nightlife: RYSE, Autograph Collection – creative designs, prime party scene access.
• Next to Insadong: The Westin Josun Seoul – classic comfort, easy tea shop strolls.

Budget Hotels in Seoul

Cheap hotels in Seoul aren’t just basic beds; they’re a lesson in space efficiency and creative hospitality. Local tip: Tune Hotel Myeongdong lets guests drop bags before noon, and around South Gate, K-Guesthouse Namdaemun runs late-night check-ins, perfect if flights get delayed. Prices can swing dramatically – weekday tariffs drop by roughly 10–15% before major festivals, but rates spike sharply in school holidays. The cheapest hotel in Seoul, statistically, is usually found near Mapo, where smaller hotels compete for last-minute digital bookings (don’t forget akbartravels.com for flash deals). Those wanting a fuller experience sometimes opt for hotel apartments in Seoul near Gangnam; breakfast is DIY, but savings are real.

Seoul Hotels by Star Rating

• 5 star hotels in Seoul: The Shilla, Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Fairmont Ambassador, The Westin Josun – expect plush beds, valet parking, and extravagant lobby art displays.tripadvisor​
• 4 star: Lotte Hotel World, Oakwood Premier Coex, Hotel Naru Seoul.
• 3 star: Hotel PJ Myeongdong, Shilla Stay Samsung, Lotte City Hotel Mapo.
• 2 star hotel Seoul options: K-Guesthouse Namdaemun, Step Inn Myeongdong, and Hostel Tommy – basic amenities, convenient for transit, friendly staff if you ask for local restaurant recommendations.
  Mechanism: Star ratings often dictate not only amenity quality but also staff-to-room ratio, meaning higher stars generally translate to quicker guest issue resolutions. Guests using akbartravels.com notice category-specific perks (e.g., breakfast upgrades for 5 star bookings).

Best Hotels in Seoul Based on Location

The best areas to stay in Seoul each offer unique benefits and attractions. Gangnam features notable hotels like Josun Palace, Park Hyatt Seoul, and Shilla Stay Samsung, all within a 10-minute walk of COEX and shopping hotspots. In Myeongdong, hotels such as Lotte Hotel Seoul and The Westin Josun Seoul sit right next to the bustling shopping district, perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. The Bukchon/Insadong area houses historic sites and walkable streets, with luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel and The Shilla Seoul nearby. For nightlife, Itaewon boasts hotels including Grand Hyatt Seoul and Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, placing guests close to trendy bars and restaurants. Choosing hotels in Seoul near popular sights saves time and reduces taxi fares, which can add up to about an hour a day in travel.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Seoul

Contrary to popular belief, family hotels in Seoul aren’t limited to high-end names. Oakwood Premier Coex Center provides large rooms and a play area; Lotte Hotel World is famed for connecting directly to the amusement park, saving frazzled parents at least 30 minutes on rainy days. A small correction – Grand Hyatt Seoul’s pool is outdoor only, and on windy days, kids will shiver. RYSE, Autograph Collection, offers a creative touch: paint supplies in-room on request.

Seoul Hotels Tariff

Seoul hotel price comparison reports spike in variance, especially during festival months and global events. A double room in luxury hotels in Seoul can set you back 350,000–500,000 KRW night, but budget rooms drop to 60,000 KRW if you catch off-peak booking windows. Mechanism: Pricing fluctuates first by event triggers, second by local school break periods. Swapping rates on akbartravels.com – especially for Seoul hotels – is wise if dates are even slightly flexible. Family rooms, oddly, are sometimes cheaper mid-week due to corporate booking slack.

Seoul Travel Tips

1. Flight tickets to Seoul can vary in price significantly. To secure the best fares, it’s smart to book cheap flights to Seoul well in advance, ideally 45 to 60 days before your departure to avoid last-minute price spikes.
2. Avoid the peak morning and evening subway rush hours (around 8–9 AM and 6–7 PM) to make travel more comfortable and on time; locals plan around this tight window.
3. Renting a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) is not only for special occasions-wearing one grants free entry to major palaces like Gyeongbokgung and makes for memorable photos.
4. Download the KakaoMap app instead of relying on Google Maps. It offers accurate, detailed transit routes and walking directions inside complex subway stations.
5. When shopping at markets like Namdaemun and Dongdaemun, bring exact cash or small bills. Vendors rarely give change for large notes, and cards aren’t always accepted.
6. Many Korean restaurants don’t have menu translations; snapping a photo of the dish or showing a translation app helps avoid confusion and order surprise.
7. Tipping is not customary and generally not expected in Seoul hotels or restaurants, so don’t fuss over leaving extra change.
8. At night markets such as Gwangjang, snacks can get crowded but are worth the wait. Try the bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and spicy tteokbokki.
9. Seoul taxis are relatively affordable; a typical city ride costs between 3,000 and 7,000 KRW depending on distance, but always have your destination written in Korean to show the driver.
10. Hotel check-in times in Seoul are often rigid at 2 or 3 PM, but many hotels will hold your luggage beforehand. Confirm early check-in policies directly with your hotel.
11. If you’re visiting palaces or outdoor parks, bring sunscreen and a hat-even if the weather feels mild, the sun can be surprisingly intense during spring and fall.
12. Public transportation cards like T-money are accepted on buses, subways, and even convenience stores. Extended use saves time and a small surcharge per ride.
13. Wifi is excellent in Seoul, but a pocket Wi-Fi rental or local SIM card ensures connectivity, especially outside city center hotels.
14. Prepare for cigarette smoke in some bars or older restaurants; smoking regulations are strict, but not universally enforced indoors.
15. Street food vendors sometimes close early on rainy days; head to indoor markets or hotel-area cafes if you encounter closures.

You can apply for a South Korea visa online by completing the electronic application form, submitting your documents, and tracking your progress through the official Korean visa portal or Akbar Travels Online.