Looking for where to stay in Seoul with your family? After 2+ years living in Seoul with my wife and son, I can honestly say which areas are best for your family, and which ones aren’t!
So this isn’t the same list you’ll find on every other blog.
Choosing the right area in Seoul is important because the subway ride between neighborhoods can take 30 to 45 minutes. That’s why you want to stay somewhere in Seoul with easy access, especially if you have kids!
Here are the 8 best areas to stay in Seoul, along with my hotel recommendations. Gamsahamnida! (Thank you in Korean):
Quick Overview
| Area | Best For | Vibe |
| 1. Myeongdong | First-timers, shopping, families | Busy, central, everything within reach |
| 2. Insadong & Ikseon-dong | Culture, couples, weekend trips, families | Traditional, cozy, walkable |
| 3. Gwanghwamun | First-timers, short trips, families | This aea is mainly for convenience. |
| 4. Itaewon | International food, nightlife, LGBTQIA+ | Diverse, energetic, multicultural |
| 5. Haebangchon (HBC) | Locals, amazing restaurants, hidden gems | Quiet, local gems, authentic |
| 6. Hannam-dong | Upscale shopping, couples, romance | Fashionable, trendy, expensive |
| 7. Seongsu-dong | Pop-up events, couples, longer stays | Creative, not touristy, pop-ups |
| 8. Hongdae | Budget travelers, nightlife, young crowd | Loud, artsy, student energy |
| 9. Gangnam & Yeouido | Business, K-pop fans, malls | Modern, glossy, spread out |
As you can see, all the best areas are quite spread out!
Where to Stay in Seoul with a Family
Each district has a completely different vibe, which is one of the things I love about this city! Pick the right one, and you’ll barely need the subway:
Before diving into this extensive blog post, I built a quiz to help you find out which area is the right one for you in Seoul!
1. Gwanghwamun
Gwanghwamun is a huge square in front of the palace. It’s not the most fun area to stay because there aren’t really any local shops, art galleries, traditional Korean houses, and so on, but if you’re purely going for convenience, Gwanghwamun is a good choice! And it’s not so crowded and hectic as central Myeongdong.
While Myeongdong might be at the center of the more vibrant part of the city, Gwanghwamun is in the actual center. And with your family, this is such a convenient place to stay. The square is an open, wide space where kids can run around without having to watch out for cars or motor scooters (like you would in most other places). Gwanghwamun Station is just as wide and spacious and there is alot withing walking distance:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Deoksugung Palace
- Cheonggyecheon River Stream
- Namdaemun Market
- Myeongdong (Apple Store, Lotte Department Mall)
- Insadong
- Seoul Plaza (Lots of activites all year around)
What's nice besides the convenience is that there are big events regularly, like huge inflatable castles where kids can play, water slides in the summer for kids, and there was a Squid Game event and so on. Keep an eye out for events and more info here on the official Gwanghwamun website.
Pros and cons of Gwanghwamun
Pros
- Super convenient
- Spacious and lots of room
- Easy to get to
- Everything in walking distance
- Easy ot get taxis
Cons
- It’s a modern part of the city, so there are fewer authentic Korean houses, but walking around for 10 minutes to the Palace, and you’re right there in Korean culture.
Where to stay in Gwanghwamun
There’s basically only one great option for staying as a family at Gwanghwamun: Hotel Koreana. They have family rooms, and it’s a great value. It’s not the most fancy and modern hotel, but we had a great time staying there, and the location is perfect.
🏆 Best for familiesThey have family rooms with bunk beds and kids play areas
2. Myeongdong — Central and Vibrant
Annyeonghaseyo! (Hello in Korean) When people ask me where to stay in Seoul for the first time, I usually point them to Myeong-dong. It’s not the most authentic and culturally rich neighborhood, and it can be crowded, but the location is really good.
And everything is flat, subway stations are right in the center, and you’re close to markets, palaces, and malls.
I’ve spent a lot of time here with my son and wife, and it’s great for families. Stroller-friendly because it’s flat and there is plenty of space to walk (unlike Itaewon with lots of narrow and steep hills), and there are plenty of places to go inside in case it rains.
What I like about this area
The shopping street has everything from affordable Korean skincare to international brands. The Apple Store is on one side, the Lotte Department Store on the other. Underground at the subway station, you’ll find even more affordable shops.
Deoksugung Palace is a short walk away. The changing of the guards ceremony there is actually more fun than the one at Gyeongbokgung. It’s daily at 11:00, 14:00, and 15:30 (no shows on Tuesdays).
Seoul Plaza is there too. In winter, they set up an ice skating rink; in summer, it becomes an outdoor library with pillows for lying around. There are quite a few events throughout the year.
Namdaemun is my favorite outdoor market in Seoul! You can find anything here, and it’s fun to explore all the narrow streets. They’ve got great camera gear, clothes, street food, fake brands, bags, you name it. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Myeongdong.
Pros and cons of Myeongdong
Flat terrain makes it easy with a stroller or luggage. Central subway access. Loads of shopping and food. Close to palaces and Seoul Plaza activities. Staying in Myeongdong isn’t for Myeongdong per se, it’s just the most central you can stay in Seoul.
On the flip side, Myeongdong gets very crowded later in the day. The vibe is more commercial than authentic. Not the place to “feel like a local.” (That’s what HBC and Seongsu are all about)
Where to stay in Myeongdong
Best value: Koreana Hotel — This is the hotel I often recommend. The most central hotel in Seoul, almost everything is within walking distance.
Mid-range: L7 Myeongdong by Lotte — Modern, well-located, good rooms.
Splurge: Lotte Hotel Seoul — Classic luxury right in the heart of Myeongdong with direct access to Lotte Department Store.
Tip: When booking a hotel in Seoul, check the breakfast reviews. I've stayed at a hotel that advertised "breakfast included,” and it turned out to be instant noodles and a water boiler… At another, more expensive hotel, it was just white bread, cereal, and bananas… So please check that before making your booking.
3. Insadong & Ikseon-dong — Central &culture
Insadong is more like the arty/traditional heart of Seoul. Myeongdong is the commercial center, and Insadong is where you go for a bit more local feel while still being central in the city. The main street has art galleries, local shops, and street artists. But the cool part is in the surrounding areas.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village is right next to Insadong, and it’s such a cute and cozy spot in Seoul. Tiny alleyways with cozy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, all built into traditional hanok houses. I wrote a full Ikseon-dong itinerary if you want to read more.
This area is also within walking distance (about 20 minutes) of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, so you can explore much of Seoul on foot.
Why I like this area
It’s flat, walkable, and less hectic than Myeongdong. Jonggak Avenue of Youth is nearby with an incredible number of bars and restaurants. Gwanghwamun Square is close to Cheonggyecheon Park, a river walk that runs through the city.
Bukchon Hanok Village is within a 20-minute walk and is also a nice area to stay, but I would just stay there for 1 or 2 nights for the experience, not an entire week-long trip.
Pros and cons of Insadong
- Central location with walkable access to palaces, parks, and traditional areas. Great for couples, weekend trips, and anyone who wants the cultural side of Seoul. Flat streets with shade in summer. (The walk to Bukchon Hanok Village is a bit uphill, though.)
- On the downside, the area can feel quieter at night than Itaewon or Hongdae. Less international food variety.
Where to stay in Insadong
Budget: Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong — Clean, solid, great location for the price.
Mid-range: Moxy Seoul Insadong — Fun, modern design hotel.
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul — Top-tier luxury, walking distance to the palace.
Tip for families: Check out Gwanghwamun Square for kids' events. In the summer, they sometimes set up an enormous inflatable water track.
4. Itaewon — International Vibes & Nightlife
I lived in Itaewon for the most part of my time living in Seoul, and it holds a special place. Travelers and expats come here from everywhere, international restaurants with food from every continent, and a huge nightlife scene.
Itaewon is also the most LGBTQIA+-friendly area in Seoul. There are gay and trans bars here that I haven’t seen anywhere else in the city. Seoul has a large Christian (and quite conservative) population, and you might occasionally see protests against LGBTQIA+ rights, but don’t let that ruin your trip. The community around Itaewon is lively and welcoming. My brother actually performed as a DJ in one of the bars, and the vibe was super chill and friendly.
Why I Like This Area
The food. Vatos Urban Tacos mixes Korean and Mexican dishes. Local Bagel Villa has incredible coffee and bagels (I’ve been there so many times). Corner Pizza Joint plays old-school hip-hop. Sultan Kebab was the first kebab restaurant in Seoul. And for Korean BBQ, Maple Tree House has great service, and they have baby chairs, which not every restaurant does.
For coffee, Cafe FOYER is my absolute favorite in all of Seoul. The interior and the view from the second floor are phenomenal, and it’s never too crowded. Best in summer when the big windows are open. Other great spots: Loner for its living-room vibe, Hemian Coffee Bar for its lovely terrace, and Kenya Kiambu Coffee for an amazing view of Namsan Tower.
The hidden alleys below the subway station are beautiful, where you will find even more bars and coffee shops. Watch my complete walkthrough video to get a good sense of the area.
Check out my full Itaewon itinerary and 4K video walkthrough for all my restaurant, bar, and cafe favorites.
Pros & Cons of staying in Itaewon with your family
Pros
- Mixing with Koreans and foreigners is much easier here than anywhere else! And Koreans love kids, super easy to start friendly random conversations.
- Good variety of international food. Close to Hannam-dong, HBC (see above) and Namsan Park. So if not everyone in your family likes Korean food, you can really get anything you want here.
- Great nightlife. If you want a guided experience, a Pub Crawl with a local guide is a fun way to see the nightlife.
Cons
- The main street looks a bit dated, though, with graffiti and some empty shops.
- The subway connection requires transfers to get to most places.
- The hills are brutal in summer… (especially when pushing a stroller uphill!)
- Streets can be noisy at night if you’re near the clubs.
- Small streets up the hill have two-way traffic that makes no sense…
Where to stay in Itaewon
Budget: Hamilton Hotel — Nothing fancy, but affordable and right at the center of Itaewon next to the subway station. Noisy at night due to the clubs.
Mid-range: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon — Best value in the area. Modern, well-designed, outdoor pool (hard to find in Seoul), but it’s a 3-minute walk to the better part of Itaewon.
Splurge: Grand Hyatt Seoul — Not really a ‘hidden gem’, but this hotel deserves a special mention. The location is between Itaewon’s edge and Namsan Park, the quietest and most beautiful part of Itaewon. Outdoor and indoor pools, lovely gardens, a spa, and even ice skating in winter. My wife and I went here two times for a romantic Christmas lunch, and I highly recommend it. The terrace overlooks the entire city.
5. Haebangchon (hbc) — Hidden Gems & Locals
This is one of those neighborhoods most tourists never discover, and that’s exactly what makes it special! Haebangchon (locals call it HBC) is on a hillside just above Itaewon. It’s a residential area with an incredible cafe scene, authentic Seoul vibes, and practically zero tourist crowds.
I go here when I want to experience the Seoul that locals actually live in. It feels like a different city compared to Myeongdong. HBC is one of the best hidden areas of Seoul. Even if you’re not staying here, I highly recommend going here in the evening for dinner. Download Catch Table, look up a nice restaurant, and make a reservation.
Tip: Sometimes you have to buy at least one bottle of wine, or two drinks, or pay a certain amount to lock in the reservation (which will be deducted from your bill later on).
What makes Haebangchon special
The restaurant scene is excellent. Neighbors Cafe, Sate, Chome, Wild Duck Canteen, and Vinvin are my favorites. The street goes uphill past typical Korean houses, small restaurants, and local shops.
Sinheung Market
This market used to be an old fish market, but it’s been completely transformed into a hip area with cafes and restaurants. It’s all the way at the end of where HBC starts, and it’s a part that most tourists never see. It’s quite a walk up, takes about 30 minutes to get there,
Getting here is easy. Noksapyeong Station (Line 6) is the closest station, and then it’s an uphill walk. And I mean uphill. The steep walk is part of the charm, but it’s something to know before you go. In summer, those hills are tough!
Watch the complete walkthrough video from Noksapyeong Station to Sinheung Market. This is during the day, but in the evening, Haebangchon is much more alive!
Tip: If you want to take a taxi to Sinheung Market, the K-Ride app makes it easy to link your credit card and book a taxi.
Pros and cons of Haebangchon
Authentic local atmosphere. Great cafes with delicious (and original) food at normal Seoul prices (4,000 to 8,000 won for coffee). Quiet and not touristy at all. Walking distance to Itaewon for food and nightlife.
The steep uphill walk is tough all the way to Sinheung Market. Not ideal with a stroller or if you have mobility issues. Sidewalks are narrow. Most cafes close relatively early. Limited hotel options compared to other areas.
Where to stay near HBC
There aren’t many hotels in HBC itself since it’s a residential area. Your best bet is to stay in nearby Itaewon (10 minutes away on foot) and visit HBC during the day. The Grand Hyatt is technically close to HBC as well.
Plan 2 to 3 hours for a good visit, including time for cafes and exploring.
6. Hannam-dong — Coffee Shops & Fashion
Hannam-dong is one of the cutest and most Instagrammable spots in Seoul. It’s right next to Itaewon. Hannam-dong is basically split into two vibes. There’s the quiet residential area with embassies and luxury apartments, and then there’s the newer, trendier side with boutiques and cafes.
Watch my full walkthrough video to get a real sense of what Hannam-dong is like during the day
Why I like this area
The cafe scene is next level. Dior Cafe, Cafe Onion, and pop-up cafes. Expect to pay 8,000 to 15,000 won for coffee, but the interiors are stunning and the streets are very colorful. Shopping-wise, you’ll find Gentle Monster, Aesop, and independent Korean designer boutiques, thoise kind of things.
The Leeum Museum of Art (Samsung-owned, free entry) is genuinely world-class, really worth a visit if you’re the slightest interested in art! I’ve been here two times, totally worth it.
And close to the museum, you will find even more cute cafes ( I always wonder how many of these cafes/coffee shops exist in Seoul?!)
Pros and cons of Hannam-dong
Beautiful, clean streets with an upscale vibe. Amazing shopping and cafes. Close to Itaewon. Leeum Museum is a must-visit.
Expensive. Fewer options for dinner in the evening than in HBC. Hannam-dong is more of a place to get lunch or just coffee.
Where to stay in Hannam-dong
Splurge: Grand Hyatt Seoul — Yes, it’s technically between Itaewon and Hannam-dong, and it’s the perfect base for both. See the Itaewon section for my full review.
Mid-range: Stay in Itaewon and walk to Hannam-dong in 10 minutes. Hotels in Hannam-dong itself are limited and expensive.
7. Seongsu-dong — Hypes, Shops & Long Stays
Welcome to Seongsu! Seongsu-dong is such a cool area.
We often go here on the weekend just to be amazed by all the pop-up stores, brands, and funny/cute/hyped things you can buy there!
If you want to feel like a local, don’t mind some crowds on the weekend, this is the place. A good friend of mine lived here for 2.5 months and loved it.
What I like about Seongsu
They say the vibe is Brooklyn meets Seoul, but I’ve never been to Brooklyn, so I wouldn’t know! What I do know is that Seongso is an area with a mix of creative shops, pop-up events, and hidden stores.
Broader sidewalks and roads than most of Seoul make it nice for walking together as a couple, with a stroller, or with a group of friends. (This is something that HBC and Itaewon don’t have; sidewalks are pretty narrow and not stroller-friendly in those areas)
Common Ground is a cool shopping area made from shipping containers. Seoul Forest Park is nearby for a quiet walk. Pop-up stores change weekly, so there’s always something new. You’ll also see these mascots walking around promoting new products.
The area changes fast. What’s hot today might not be next month, but that’s what makes it interesting.
Pros and cons of Seongsu
- Not touristy or crowded (except there are crowds during weekends). Brooklyn/industrial vibe with lots to discover. Great for street photography. Pop-up stores keep it fresh.
- Further away from the city center (30-45 minutes, depending on traffic) than Myeongdong or Insadong. Easy to get lost in the alleys (but that’s kind of fun). Fewer historical sights, though.
Where to stay in Seongsu-dong
Splurge: Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole — Best hotel in the area, modern and well-located.
Mid-range: The Classic 500 Pentaz Executive Residence — Good for longer stays.
Great area if you’re staying longer in Seoul. You’ll feel like a local, the area has plenty to keep you busy, and you’re still connected to the rest of Seoul by subway. If you’re on a 5-day trip or instance, I would just go here for a day.
8. Hongdae — Younger Crowds & Nightlife
Hongdae is Seoul’s university district, with young crowds, street performances, music venues, bars everywhere, and budget-friendly accommodations. If you’re young, love nightlife, and want to spend your money on experiences instead of hotels, Hongdae is your spot. I mention the young crowds part here in particular because many bars and clubs have an age limit. I’m already not allowed in several clubs…
Bascaiily it’s like this if you’re under 30 go to Hongdae, if you’re over 30 go to Itaewon for the nightlife.
What to expect
The area around Hongik University Station is loud and busy, especially on weekends. Street art, small clubs, bars, and modern urban culture everywhere. In my experience, most Hongdae bars are dance bars rather than big clubs. If you want massive clubs, Gangnam might be better. But for variety and vibe, Hongdae wins.
Pros and cons of Hongdae
- Cheap accommodation in central Seoul. Great nightlife. Young, creative energy.
- Noisy, especially at night. Very crowded on weekends. Not ideal for families or couples looking for a quiet place.
Overall, it’s mostly for students, which makes sense since it’s in the university area.
Where to stay in Hongdae
Budget: Look Home GuestHouse — Great location. Rooms are small but you’ll spend all your time outside anyway.
Mid-range: RYSE, Autograph Collection by Marriott — Stunning design hotel. One of the best-looking hotels in Seoul.
Splurge: Hotel L7 Hongdae by Lotte — Seasonal rooftop pool, near everything.
9. Gangnam & Yeouido — Business & Shopping
Gangnam became famous from that song, but beyond the meme, it’s Seoul’s modern business district. Tall buildings, upscale malls, clubs with a K-pop vibe. If you’re in Seoul for business or want the glossy, modern side of the city, this is it.
Yeouido is next door, across the Han River. It’s quieter and less vibrant, but the Hyundai Mall there is one of my favorite malls in Seoul. Pop-up stores every week, a good mix of brands, and it just feels well-designed.
I do have to say honestly that, although Gangnam is such a famous name, it’s not the most fun area to stay in Seoul. It’s mostly high-rise apartments, expensive cars, malls, and not much authenticity. It’s a great area to explore for a day, perfect for shopping, but I wouldn’t stay here an entire trip.
Mall guide
- Hyundai Mall (Yeouido): My favorite. New pop-ups weekly. Worth a visit even if you’re not staying in the area.
- Shinsegae Department Store (Gangnam): Mostly expensive brands, nice mall overall.
- Central City: Next to Shinsegae, has an indoor plant market.
- Coex Mall: It’s fine. The Starfield Library (bookshelves reaching the ceiling) looks cool in photos, but in person, it’s quite small and was a complete disappointment to me. Don’t go there just for the library.
- I Park Mall: Great mall, I shop here often, but it’s not in an area where I’d stay for several days
Tip: The Moon of Seoul in Yeouido is a hot air balloon 150 meters above the city. Great for a date! Unless he or she os afraid of heights ;-)
Pros and cons of Gangnam
- Modern, clean, well-connected. Great for K-pop fans and business travelers. Close to Lotte World. Yeouido Park is beautiful in autumn.
- Less character than other neighborhoods. Spread out, so you’ll be taking taxis or the subway more. Gangnam has hills too. Not the best area for experiencing “real” Seoul.
Where to stay in Gangnam
Mid-range: L7 Gangnam by Lotte — Modern, good subway access.
Splurge: Park Hyatt Seoul — Top-tier luxury in the heart of Gangnam.
Where Not to Stay in Seoul
Perhaps just as important, where you shouldn’t stay! Or at least, where I don’t recommend staying:
Seoul Station Area
I know it sounds convenient because of the airport express, but the area itself is not great. It’s a bit run-down, with constant protests, signs, and loudspeakers, and there’s not much to do or see. Myeongdong is literally a 10-minute walk away and a completely different world. Save yourself the disappointment and stay there instead.
Dongdaemun
It’s famous for shopping, but it’s the kind of shopping that’s for wholesale buyers. The DDP (that big round silver building) looks cool from the outside, but the area surrounding it is not somewhere you want to stay an entire week. Just visit it during the day once,
Rock-bottom Budget Hotels/hostels
South Korea has had some hotel fires in the past, and, if I’m being honest, some older budget hotels aren’t always well-maintained. The difference between a $60 and a $90 room in Seoul is often better fire safety, newer wiring, and a building that’s actually been looked after. I’d rather spend a bit more and sleep well, in every sense.
Gangbuk/northern Suburbs
Some booking sites will show you cheap hotels north of the city center. They’re cheap for a reason. You’ll spend 45 minutes on the subway just to reach anything worth seeing, and the areas have nothing for tourists. Seoul is already spread out enough without adding unnecessary travel time.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
After years of living in Seoul, here are all my practical tips for a smooth stay:
Hotel Doesn’t Matter, but Location Does!
After staying in several hotels across Seoul, I’ve concluded that the hotel matters way less than the area. You’ll be outside exploring all day anyway. Focus on the neighborhood, not the room with a view. Going to Seoul is different from booking a resort in Okinawa, for instance.
Breakfast
The one thing I would check: breakfast reviews. The quality varies wildly. I’ve had “breakfast included” that was literally just instant noodles…
Getting Around Seoul
Seoul has a great subway network. Subway announcements are in Korean and English, and the T-money card works on everything, even taxis!
But taking the subway can take more time than you expect. Stations are big, transfers require long walks, and if you need an elevator, you’ll sometimes take three of them to reach the right platform. This is why picking the right area matters.
Best Apps
- Naver Map: The best navigation app for Seoul. Google Maps and Apple Maps don’t work well here, which surprised me. Naver also helps you navigate the subway and find places.
- K.Ride: Connect your credit card, order a taxi. Choose between regular or fancier cars.
- Papago: Google Translate is terrible at Korean. Papago is much better. Show the Korean translation on your phone or play the audio.
- Catch Table: The go-to app for making restaurant reservations in English, you really need this one!
Unlike China, there are no apps or websites blocked in South Korea. You won’t need a VPN.
Tip: Check out my free things to do in Seoul guide for 31 budget-friendly activities. And for a deeper look at daily life, transport, and costs, read my living in Seoul guide.
Dining Tips
Seoul has an incredible dining-out culture. Korean BBQ, kimchi, noodles, Japanese, Vietnamese, you name it. Many areas get very crowded during lunch (12 to 2 PM) and you’ll likely wait in line.
Tipping is not a thing in South Korea. Not expected at restaurants or anywhere else, yay! 😉
Money
Korean Won (KRW) is the currency. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Small shops and street vendors may want cash.
Tip: Use bank ATMs, not the ones at convenience stores! The convenience store ATMs charge much higher fees.
Apple Pay works almost everywhere.
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and on the subway (though it’s not perfect). For proper connectivity, get a local SIM card at the airport or a convenience store like 7-Eleven. They sell 5 or 10 day cards for around 30,000 won (about 20 dollars). Airalo eSIMs also work well.
Seoul Safety
Seoul is one of the safest cities I’ve lived in. I’ve never experienced or heard of a tourist trap. The only thing I’ve read about is a taxi driver overcharging, so always book through an app.
Read my full Seoul safety guide for more details.
Street Names Explained
You’ll see street names ending with certain words:
- -daero: Boulevard
- -ro: Road
- -gil: Street
- -dong: Neighborhood/area
Seasonal Tips
Summer: Stay somewhere flat. Insadong is flat with shaded, narrow streets. Myeongdong works too. Itaewon, Gangnam, and Hannam-dong have steep hills that are brutal in the heat and humidity.
Autumn: The best time. Itaewon’s north side and Namsan Park are full of trees turning yellow and red. Seongsu-dong is close to Seoul Forest which is gorgeous. Yeouido Park is also beautiful.
Winter: Snow in Seoul is magical. The area around the Grand Hyatt and Namsan Park looks incredible. Many malls and indoor activities make any central area a good choice. Also, during the winter, the air quality is often much better and there is barely any rain. Plus, visitors to the Palace wear winter Hanboks, which makes the palace look like a scene from the movie Frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most foreigners stay in Seoul?
Itaewon is known as the area where most foreigners stay in Seoul. Itaewon is a diverse mix of Korean culture and various foreign cultures.
Is it better to stay near Seoul Station or Myeong-dong?
Myeong-dong is much more lively than Seoul Station. Seoul Station, while at the center of the city, is not a great area: it’s a bit dirtier, there’s not much to do, and there are protests. You’ll have to walk a bit or take a subway to other more fun places.
Is Yeouido a good place to stay for a trip to Seoul?
Yes, Yeouido is a great choice for a trip to Seoul. It has a beautiful park like Yeouido Hangang Park, financial districts, and is close to Gangnam and attractions like the Seoul Moon.
Are there any upscale accommodations in Gangnam?
Yes, Gangnam offers many upscale hotels and boutique accommodations. But I can highly recommend the Grand Hyatt in Itaewon.
How far is Seoul Station from the main attractions?
Seoul Station is centrally located, which means it won’t take long to reach many sites in Seoul. But, Seoul Station is not the best area to stay in my opinion.
What’s the hippest neighborhood in Seoul?
If you’re looking for the most happening scene, you should check out Hannam-dong or Seongsu-dong. Hannam-dong is more fashionable, while Seongsu-dong is a bit more “Amsterdam” or “New York” hip.
Final Thoughts & Tips
Seoul is one of those cities where you could spend two weeks and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface. Every neighborhood feels like a different city. Myeongdong is commercial and busy, HBC is quiet and local, Itaewon is international, and Seongsu-dong is local but super alive.
That’s what I love about living here. Two years in and I’m still discovering new cafes, new streets, new spots that nobody’s written about yet.
My advice: don’t overthink the hotel. Pick the right neighborhood for what you want to do, book something clean with good breakfast reviews, and spend your time outside.
And if you only take one tip from this entire guide: download Naver Maps!
Check out my full guides on things to do in Seoul, living in Seoul, and Seoul safety for the complete picture. See you in Seoul!
Btw check out my 3-day itinerary the make the most of your trip to Seoul!
