Where you base yourself shapes the trip — pick a neighbourhood on a subway line and the whole city opens up. Seoul spans grand hotels, design boutiques, traditional hanok guesthouses and cheap-and-cheerful hostels.
Best base areas
Myeongdong and Jongno are the most central for first-timers; Hongdae and Itaewon suit nightlife; Gangnam is upscale and business-friendly; Dongdaemun is best for late-night shopping. Anywhere within a few minutes of a subway station works well.
Hotels & boutiques
From international five-stars to a wave of stylish design hotels, standards are high and rooms tend to be compact but immaculate. Business hotels offer great value near the main subway hubs.
Hanok guesthouses
For something memorable, sleep in a restored hanok around Bukchon or Ikseon-dong — courtyard houses with heated ondol floors and paper doors. Rooms are simple and often share a bathroom, but the atmosphere is one of a kind.
Hostels & budget
Guesthouses and hostels cluster around Hongdae and Jongno with dorm beds and private rooms. A 24-hour jjimjilbang (bathhouse) is a cheap, only-in-Korea place to nap between a late arrival and an early train.
Booking tips
Book well ahead for cherry-blossom and autumn-foliage season and the Seollal and Chuseok holidays, when rooms fill and prices jump. Confirm the nearest subway line and whether early check-in or luggage storage is available.
Fares, prices and rules can change over time — please check official sources before you travel.
