Trying to figure out where to stay in Seoul is a headache. Most first-timers get stuck here because the city is just massive. It really comes down to this: do you want to shop all day, or party all night?
I’m not going to give you a list of 50 places. I narrowed it down to the top 4 hotels that are actually convenient and clean. No fluff, just the spots that work.
| District | Top Pick | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gangnam | Shilla Stay Gangnam Yeoksam | Luxury, Business |
| Hongdae | L7 HONGDAE by LOTTE HOTELS | Nightlife, Budget |
| Myeongdong | NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL INSADONG | Shopping, First-timers |
Table of Contents
Gangnam — Shopping, Nightlife, K-pop
I step out at Gangnam Station, and it hits me—the sheer, loud energy. The air smells like street food and exhaust, a constant hum of people rushing, music blaring from shops.
It's a full-on sensory overload, intense and almost overwhelming, but that's the whole point. You come here for the chaos, the relentless pace, the feeling of being right in the thick of it all.
🚇 Getting There: 80 min by Airport Limousine Bus #6009. Nearest station: Gangnam Station (Line 2, Exit 11).
📍 Nearby: COEX Mall & Starfield Library · Bongeunsa Temple · Garosu-gil · K-Star Road · Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Shilla Stay Gangnam Yeoksam
💡 Editor’s Verdict: This place is right in the thick of Gangnam's nightlife, so you won't be bored. It's perfect if you and a friend want to hit the town every night.
- ✅ Front desk [24-hour]
- ✅ Hygiene Plus
- ✅ 560 meters to public transportation
Hongdae — Youth, Nightlife, Shopping
I love Hongdae because it just hits you, a wall of noise and bodies spilling out from the subway. The smell of street food and cheap perfume mixes with K-pop blasting everywhere.
It's a total sensory overload, chaotic but never boring. Yeah, it's loud, but that's exactly why I keep coming back.
🚇 Getting There: 48 min by AREX All Stop Train from Incheon International Airport (ICN) Terminal 1. Nearest station: Hongik University Station (Line 2, AREX, Gyeongui-Jungang Line, Exit 9).
📍 Nearby: Hongdae Shopping Street · Hongik University Street Art Mural Alley · KT&G Sangsangmadang · Gyeongui Line Forest Park (Yeonnam-dong) · Trick Eye Museum
L7 HONGDAE by LOTTE HOTELS
💡 Editor’s Verdict: That rooftop pool with skyline views is seriously epic for chilling out. You should totally stay here if you're looking for a fun, lively spot with good vibes.
- ✅ Located in heart of Seoul
- ✅ Great View
- ✅ Sparkling clean
Myeongdong — Shopping, Food, Beauty
I hit Myeongdong for the sheer, unfiltered chaos. The smells hit you first – street food, cosmetics, everything.
It’s loud, a constant hum of people and hawkers, but that’s the point. I love how it never stops.
🚇 Getting There: 70 min by Airport Limousine Bus #6015. Nearest station: Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 6).
📍 Nearby: N Seoul Tower · Namdaemun Market · Myeongdong Cathedral · Lotte Department Store Main Branch · Namsangol Hanok Village
NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL INSADONG
💡 Editor’s Verdict: It's got a cool rooftop garden and is super close to Gyeongbokgung Palace. This is your spot if you're into culture and want a more relaxed vibe.
- ✅ Great View
- ✅ Highly recommend the temple view room.
- ✅ Excellent room comfort & quality
Ramada By Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun
💡 Editor’s Verdict: You'll get some sick panoramic city views from this place, seriously. It's solid if you and a friend wanna be right in the middle of the fashion district.
- ✅ Check-in [24-hour]
- ✅ Hygiene Plus
- ✅ 480 meters to public transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
Seoul boasts an excellent public transportation system, primarily the subway, which is extensive and easy to navigate with English signage. Purchase a rechargeable T-money card (티머니 카드) at convenience stores or subway stations for seamless travel on subways and buses.
Popular choices include Myeongdong (명동) for shopping and central access to attractions, Hongdae (홍대) for its vibrant nightlife and youthful atmosphere, and Gangnam (강남) for upscale shopping and trendy cafes. Each district offers a unique vibe and convenient access to public transport.
Tipping is generally not customary or expected in South Korea, including at restaurants, cafes, and for taxi drivers. Service charges are sometimes included in hotel bills, but otherwise, feel free to simply pay the exact amount.
While many younger Koreans and staff in tourist-heavy areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam speak some English, it's helpful to learn a few basic Korean phrases. Translation apps are invaluable, and major subway stations and attractions have English signage and announcements.
Seoul offers excellent public Wi-Fi, especially in cafes and subway stations. For consistent connectivity, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi egg (포켓 와이파이) or purchasing a local SIM card (유심 카드) upon arrival at Incheon International Airport (ICN).
Final Tips
Hope this helps you pick a spot in Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong! Each area has its own unique charm, so you'll have a great time no matter what. Just go with your gut! Oh, and my advice: Book early if you're coming in spring/fall – those seasons are super popular and places fill up fast. Enjoy your trip!
