Seoul is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic palaces.
It’s a perfect blend of high-tech living and rich cultural heritage. From bustling shopping districts to serene temples, Seoul offers something for every traveler. 🏙️🛍️🍜
✈️ In 2022, I had the opportunity to explore Seoul and was captivated by its vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. From historic palaces to futuristic skyscrapers, the city left a lasting impression. Here’s my guide to help you make the most of your time in Seoul!
🏙️ Where to Stay in Seoul: The bustling area around Myeongdong is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, while Gangnam offers a stylish, upscale vibe with modern hotels and entertainment. For those interested in history and culture, Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village provide a traditional feel with nearby temples and palaces.
🏯 Top Attractions in Seoul: Don’t miss Gyeongbokgung Palace for a historic insight, N Seoul Tower for city views, and the vibrant Hongdae area for street art and live music. Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a must for architecture enthusiasts, and the peaceful Han River parks are great for a leisurely stroll.
🍜 Food and Dining: Seoul is a haven for food lovers. Try authentic bibimbap, flavorful kimchi stew, and sizzling Korean BBQ. For street food, head to Gwangjang Market for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Itaewon also offers a diverse range of international cuisines.
🚇 Getting Around: Seoul’s public transit is extensive and efficient. The Seoul Metro connects most attractions, and the T-money card is useful for metro, buses, and even taxis. Cycling paths are also available along the Han River for those wanting a scenic bike ride.
🎎 Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples or palaces, dress modestly. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain traditional restaurants. Respect for elders and quietness on public transportation is valued.
🎉 Festivals: Key festivals include the Seoul Lantern Festival along the Cheonggyecheon Stream in autumn, Cherry Blossom Festivals in spring, and the Boryeong Mud Festival for a fun-filled summer adventure near Seoul.
< Our Favorite Hotels in Seoul >
- • All Hotel
- • 5-star: Lotte Hotel Seoul & Four Seasons Hotel Seoul & The Shilla Seoul
- • 4-star: Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun & Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong & Hotel Venue-G Seoul
- • 3-star: Hotel Cappuccino & Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul
- • Boutique: RYSE, Autograph Collection
- • Family-Friendly: The Shilla Seoul & Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
- • Near Airport: Grand Hyatt Incheon
< Best & affordable Hotels in Seoul >
1. Lotte Hotel Seoul
- Stars: ★★★★★
- Address: 30 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-771-1000
- Key Features: Indoor pool, luxury spa, fine dining restaurants
- Guest Experience: “Guests rave about the exceptional service and the hotel’s central location near Myeongdong shopping street.”
- Pros: Excellent city views, spacious rooms, premium service
- Cons: Expensive, especially during peak seasons
- Distance from Airport: 60 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Lotte Hotel Seoul
2. The Shilla Seoul
- Stars: ★★★★★
- Address: 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-2233-3131
- Key Features: Outdoor pool, luxury spa, Michelin-starred restaurants
- Guest Experience: “Known for its sophisticated decor and serene ambiance, The Shilla Seoul is a luxury oasis in the city.”
- Pros: Beautiful gardens, excellent dining options, top-tier service
- Cons: High price point, especially for suites
- Distance from Airport: 64 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: The Shilla Seoul
- Hotel Website: The Shilla Official Website
3. Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
- Stars: ★★★★★
- Address: 97 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-6388-5000
- Key Features: Indoor pool, spa, Michelin-starred restaurant
- Guest Experience: “Luxury and service come together at the Four Seasons, perfect for both leisure and business stays.”
- Pros: Central location, spacious rooms, exceptional service
- Cons: Expensive for extended stays
- Distance from Airport: 60 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
- Hotel Website: Four Seasons Seoul Official Website
4. Signiel Seoul
- Stars: ★★★★★
- Address: 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-3213-1000
- Key Features: Panoramic city views, Michelin-starred restaurant, luxury spa
- Guest Experience: “Soaring high in the Lotte World Tower, Signiel offers a sky-high experience with world-class amenities.”
- Pros: Unmatched views, opulent rooms, gourmet dining
- Cons: Far from central Seoul
- Distance from Airport: 70 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Signiel Seoul
- Hotel Website: Signiel Seoul Official Website
5. Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
- Stars: ★★★★★
- Address: 23 Jangmun-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-2076-2000
- Key Features: Luxury hotel with rooftop pool, fitness center, spa, trendy bars, and restaurants
- Guest Experience: “Popular with both international travelers and locals for its stylish design and vibrant nightlife options in Itaewon.”
- Pros: Great location, modern amenities, fantastic nightlife options nearby
- Cons: Pricey, can get crowded on weekends
- Distance from Airport: 60 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
- Hotel Website: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon Official Website
6. Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun
- Stars: ★★★★
- Address: 71 Sambong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-6060-9000
- Key Features: Fitness center, rooftop bar, meeting facilities
- Guest Experience: “Great location near Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, perfect for tourists and business travelers alike.”
- Pros: Central location, modern rooms, affordable
- Cons: Limited dining options
- Distance from Airport: 60 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun
7. RYSE, Autograph Collection
- Stars: ★★★★
- Address: 130 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-330-7700
- Key Features: Art gallery, rooftop bar, trendy decor
- Guest Experience: “A trendy and artistic hotel in the heart of Hongdae, perfect for younger travelers and those who appreciate design.”
- Pros: Stylish and unique, close to nightlife
- Cons: Not suited for quiet stays
- Distance from Airport: 53 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: RYSE, Autograph Collection
8. GLAD Mapo
- Stars: ★★★★
- Address: 92 Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-2198-5000
- Key Features: Fitness center, buffet restaurant, easy access to public transport
- Guest Experience: “Known for its excellent location, GLAD Mapo is perfect for business travelers and tourists alike.”
- Pros: Close to subway, modern rooms
- Cons: Limited leisure facilities
- Distance from Airport: 55 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: GLAD Mapo
- Hotel Website: GLAD Mapo Official Website
9. Hotel Cappuccino
- Stars: ★★★
- Address: 155 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-2038-9500
- Key Features: Eco-friendly, rooftop bar, pet-friendly
- Guest Experience: “A quirky and eco-conscious hotel in the trendy Gangnam area, perfect for younger travelers.”
- Pros: Pet-friendly, eco-conscious, trendy design
- Cons: Smaller rooms
- Distance from Airport: 70 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Hotel Cappuccino
- Hotel Website: Hotel Cappuccino Official Website
10. Hotel 28 Myeongdong
- Stars: ★★★
- Address: 13 Myeongdong 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82-2-774-2828
- Key Features: Art decor, rooftop terrace, cinema-inspired design
- Guest Experience: “Located in the heart of Myeongdong, Hotel 28 offers a chic and unique stay, great for shopaholics.”
- Pros: Central location, artsy atmosphere
- Cons: Limited amenities
- Distance from Airport: 61 km from Incheon International Airport
- Reservation: Hotel 28 Myeongdong
✈️ In 2022, I had the opportunity to explore Seoul and was captivated by its vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. From historic palaces to futuristic skyscrapers, the city left a lasting impression. Here’s my guide to help you make the most of your time in Seoul!
🏙️ Where to Stay in Seoul: The bustling area around Myeongdong is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, while Gangnam offers a stylish, upscale vibe with modern hotels and entertainment. For those interested in history and culture, Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village provide a traditional feel with nearby temples and palaces.
🏯 Top Attractions in Seoul: Don’t miss Gyeongbokgung Palace for a historic insight, N Seoul Tower for city views, and the vibrant Hongdae area for street art and live music. Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a must for architecture enthusiasts, and the peaceful Han River parks are great for a leisurely stroll.
🍜 Food and Dining: Seoul is a haven for food lovers. Try authentic bibimbap, flavorful kimchi stew, and sizzling Korean BBQ. For street food, head to Gwangjang Market for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Itaewon also offers a diverse range of international cuisines.
🚇 Getting Around: Seoul’s public transit is extensive and efficient. The Seoul Metro connects most attractions, and the T-money card is useful for metro, buses, and even taxis. Cycling paths are also available along the Han River for those wanting a scenic bike ride.
🎎 Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples or palaces, dress modestly. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain traditional restaurants. Respect for elders and quietness on public transportation is valued.
🎉 Festivals: Key festivals include the Seoul Lantern Festival along the Cheonggyecheon Stream in autumn, Cherry Blossom Festivals in spring, and the Boryeong Mud Festival for a fun-filled summer adventure near Seoul.