Where to Stay in Seoul: Neighborhood Guide and Accommodation Reviews for All Budgets

If you're visiting Seoul for the first time, staying in Myeongdong or Jongno puts you at the pulsing center of the city's historic core. These neighboring districts offer that perfect blend of old-meets-new Seoul that I fell in love with during my first solo trip back in college.

Myeongdong is shopping paradise (seriously, prepare your wallet) with streets lined with cosmetic stores, fashion boutiques, and street food vendors that come alive after dark. The energy here is electric, though it can feel overwhelmingly touristy. For accommodations, you'll find plenty of mid-range options like Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong, which offers clean, comfortable rooms starting around $120/night with the bonus of an incredible rooftop bar view.

Just north, Jongno offers a more authentic slice of Seoul with its proximity to palaces, traditional hanok villages, and excellent local restaurants. I stayed at Makers Hotel last year and loved how it balanced modern design with traditional Korean elements. The rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed, and at around $90/night, it's excellent value considering the prime location.

Budget travelers should check out Myeongdong Rooftop Hostel, where dorm beds run about $20-25/night. The communal rooftop space is perfect for meeting fellow travelers over a bottle of soju while enjoying views of Namsan Tower lit up at night.

One unexpected gem I discovered was bringing my portable white noise machine which proved invaluable in these central neighborhoods where street noise can continue well into the night, especially during festivals or on weekends.

If you're the type who wants to experience Seoul's legendary nightlife and creative pulse, look no further than Hongdae and neighboring Sinchon. As a university hub, this area crackles with youthful energy that's infectious whether you're 22 or 62.

My first time staying in Hongdae was a revelation. Street performers compete for attention on every corner, quirky cafés serve Instagram-worthy desserts, and underground clubs pump music until sunrise. It's chaotic in the best possible way. For mid-range travelers, L7 Hongdae by LOTTE offers stylish rooms from $110-140/night with soundproofed windows (trust me, you'll appreciate this feature on weekends).

I've found Hongdae particularly appealing as a solo traveler because it's nearly impossible to feel lonely here. The area's hostels are legendary for their social atmosphere – I still keep in touch with friends I met at Hongdae Guesthouse years ago. Dorm beds typically run $18-25, while private rooms are around $50-70.

Sinchon offers a slightly more laid-back vibe while still providing easy access to Hongdae's attractions. The Shinchon Ever8 Serviced Residence has become my go-to when I want apartment-style accommodations with a kitchenette, starting around $85/night.

One thing I learned the hard way: this area gets LOUD on weekends. If you're sensitive to noise, bring a good pair of noise-canceling earbuds or request a room on a higher floor away from the main streets. I never travel without mine now, especially when staying in vibrant districts like this.

While the area is known for budget to mid-range options, you'll find few true luxury accommodations here – but that's part of Hongdae's charm. You're here for the experience, not for white-glove service.

Yes, that Gangnam – made famous by Psy's viral hit – is indeed Seoul's upscale playground. If you're looking to splurge or simply want to experience the polished side of Korean culture, this is where you'll want to base yourself.

I first stayed in Gangnam during a business trip three years ago and was immediately struck by how different it feels from the rest of Seoul. Wide boulevards, gleaming skyscrapers, high-end boutiques, and immaculately dressed locals create an atmosphere that's more reminiscent of Tokyo or Manhattan than the traditional neighborhoods across the Han River.

For true luxury, Park Hyatt Seoul offers rooms starting around $300/night with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing spectacular city views. The minimalist design incorporates natural materials like oak and granite that create a serene escape from the bustling streets below. Their indoor infinity pool on the 24th floor has become one of my favorite places to unwind after a day of meetings.

More budget-conscious travelers can still experience Gangnam by booking at Hotel Cappuccino, a stylish boutique option starting around $120/night. Their rooftop bar is popular with locals and tourists alike, making it easy to strike up conversations.

Neighboring Apgujeong is Seoul's answer to Beverly Hills, complete with the famous 'Rodeo Drive' shopping street. Here you'll find L'Escape Hotel, a French-inspired boutique property that transports you straight to Paris with its romantic design. At around $180/night, it offers luxury touches without the five-star price tag.

One investment I made that proved invaluable for Gangnam stays was a good travel steamer. In a district where appearance matters, it helps keep my limited travel wardrobe looking crisp, especially when trying to blend in at upscale restaurants or bars.

Despite its reputation for luxury, Gangnam does offer some surprising budget finds. Goshiwons (small studio rooms) can be found for around $30-40/night if you're willing to sacrifice space for location.

There's something magical about waking up in a traditional Korean hanok (wooden house) with its elegant curved roof and peaceful courtyard. Staying in Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village offers exactly this experience – a chance to step back in time while remaining minutes from modern conveniences.

During my second trip back to Korea, I splurged on three nights at Rakkojae Seoul, an exquisitely restored 130-year-old hanok with traditional ondol floor heating and antique furniture. At around $250/night, it's not cheap, but the cultural immersion is worth every won. Sliding paper doors, sleeping on traditional mattresses on the heated floor, and morning tea in the courtyard created memories I still treasure.

For mid-range options, Vine Hotel offers modern rooms with traditional Korean design elements starting around $110/night. Its location at the edge of Insadong puts you steps away from traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops selling handcrafted items you won't find in department stores.

Budget travelers should check out Insadong Hostel, where dorm beds start at $20 and private rooms at $60. What it lacks in luxury, it makes up for in location and friendly staff who can guide you to hidden local spots.

During my calligraphy workshops in Seoul, I've often stayed in this area and love how quiet the streets become after the day-trippers leave. There's something profoundly moving about practicing brush strokes in the morning light while staying in the same kind of home where Korean calligraphy masters once lived.

One thing to note – traditional hanoks often have thin walls and firm sleeping arrangements on the floor. If you have back issues, consider bringing a travel sleeping pad for extra comfort without sacrificing the authentic experience. I always pack mine when staying in traditional accommodations.

Keep in mind that navigating the narrow alleyways of Bukchon with large luggage can be challenging. Pack light or be prepared for a workout getting to your accommodation!

As someone who sometimes craves familiar comforts while exploring my birth country, I have a complicated relationship with Itaewon. This neighborhood, along with neighboring Yongsan, has historically been Seoul's international district due to its proximity to the US military base (now relocated). The result is a fascinating cultural fusion that feels distinctly different from the rest of Seoul.

Itaewon has undergone significant gentrification in recent years. What was once primarily a foreigner-friendly party zone has evolved into a sophisticated area with boutique hotels, craft cocktail bars, and global cuisine ranging from authentic Indian to Nashville hot chicken.

For accommodation, Grand Hyatt Seoul sits atop Namsan Hill offering spectacular views and five-star luxury starting around $250/night. Their outdoor pool area is legendary during summer months. For something more intimate, Hotel Crescendo offers stylish rooms from $120-150/night within walking distance of Itaewon's best restaurants.

Yongsan's recent development has brought sleek new options like Glad Hotel Yongsan, where industrial-chic design meets Korean hospitality starting around $130/night. The rooftop bar offers craft makgeolli (Korean rice wine) with city views that are hard to beat.

Budget travelers should check out G Guesthouse, a friendly hostel with dorm beds from $18 and privates from $50. The communal rooftop barbecue dinners are a great way to meet fellow travelers.

As a cycling enthusiast, I appreciate that many accommodations here offer bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore the nearby Han River Park's extensive bike paths. Last visit, I spent a memorable afternoon cycling along the river after grabbing a coffee at one of Yongsan's trendy cafés.

If you're planning extended sightseeing days, I recommend bringing a quality day backpack that can transition from city explorations to outdoor activities. Mine has been invaluable for carrying water, snacks, and my calligraphy supplies while navigating Seoul's diverse neighborhoods.

My relationship with Yeouido began during a business trip three years ago, but I quickly discovered this island on the Han River offers more than just Seoul's financial district. The juxtaposition of gleaming skyscrapers against the serene river creates a unique atmosphere that's especially beautiful during cherry blossom season when the riverside paths explode with pink blooms.

For business travelers, Conrad Seoul offers sophisticated luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing spectacular river views, starting around $220/night. Their executive lounge access is worth the upgrade if you need to catch up on work in a comfortable setting. Nearby, Glad Hotel Yeouido provides stylish rooms from $130/night with a more boutique feel.

Across the river in Mapo district, you'll find more affordable options closer to Hongik University and the artsy Sangsu area. I stayed at Stanford Hotel during my last visit, paying around $100/night for a comfortable room within walking distance of both the river and lively local restaurants.

Budget travelers should check out Mapo Guesthouse, offering clean private rooms from $50/night and dormitory options from $20. Their rooftop space is perfect for evening relaxation after a day of exploration.

What makes this area special is the easy access to Han River Park, where locals exercise, picnic, and socialize. Renting a bicycle to explore the riverside paths has become one of my favorite Seoul activities – there's something magical about cycling past the city's illuminated bridges at dusk.

If you're visiting between April and October, I highly recommend booking accommodations with river views. There's nothing quite like watching the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain show from your hotel room while enjoying some delivery fried chicken (a Korean institution!).

For longer stays, I've found properties in this area often offer weekly rates that can significantly reduce costs. Some also include kitchenettes, which helped me save money by preparing simple breakfasts before heading out for the day.