Introduction
To help you book the best hotel in Seoul that fits your needs, travel style, and budget, we have already done the research for you.
For each destination, we spend hours categorizing and filtering hotels to each specific area and budget tier, reading and analyzing the reviews in detail, and comparing the reviews between qualifying hotels.
We specifically also study the negative reviews. It is important to determine whether it was a once-off bad experience of one guest or whether it is a recurring problem also mentioned in other reviews.
We also evaluate the enthusiasm with which reviews were written. You could have two hotels, both with a 9.3 guest rating, but most of the reviews of the one might be along the lines of “It was good”, whereas most of the reviews of the other might be explaining how wonderful it was, how it was the best hotel experience they have ever had and why they would return to this hotel or why they are already on a repeat visit. Both hotels have 9.3, but surely the enthusiastic 9.3 should weigh heavier.
Last but not least, we consider the convenience of the location, the amenities provided, the proximity to public transport, and the value for money offered.
Only after this lengthy process, our selection is made.
Making it Easy for You to Choose
We have selected four geographical areas, each with its own character and benefits, making it easy for you to choose the area where you want to stay. In each area, we have selected one hotel in each of four budget tiers, to easily allow you to make a choice according to your specific travel style and budget. Hotels were only selected after careful consideration, as explained above, from qualifying hotels holding a guest rating of 9/10 or higher as at time of writing.
About the Guest Ratings
Trip.com guest ratings (as at time of writing and updated periodically) are quoted for each hotel selected, but for a hotel to have been considered for selection, it should have had a guest rating of 9/10 or higher on both Trip.com and Expedia and it should have demonstrated broadly positive review trends across other major booking platforms. Guest ratings change from time to time and might, therefore, be different from the one quoted, at the time you do your booking.
The Four Budget Tiers
- Economy (under US$180 per night): Reliable hotels offering comfort, excellent location and exceptional value for money.
- Premium Economy (US$180-US$280 per night): Quality hotels providing a step up in comfort and design with better amenities.
- Business Class (US$280-US$450 per night): Full-service hotels perfect for both leisure and business travelers seeking high-end facilities, stylish interiors, and premium service.
- First Class (above US$450 per night): World-class luxury with signature addresses at premium locations and with exceptional amenities.
While the tiers above remain the same for each destination, the nightly price ranges for each tier may differ from destination to destination. The price ranges above are for this destination specifically and were valid at the time of writing. Due to the fact that hotel rates fluctuate constantly depending on factors such as season, demand, and promotions, the price ranges might be different or a specific hotel might have moved outside the price range at the time when you do your booking. The budget tiers and price ranges are, therefore, to be used as a general guide to provide an overall sense of value and positioning.
The Four Geographical Areas
- Myeongdong / City Hall – central Seoul, shopping district, transport hub, walkable, first-time visitors
- Gangnam – modern Seoul, upscale, business district, luxury hotels, wide boulevards
- Hongdae / Mapo – nightlife, youth culture, creative district, budget-friendly, vibrant
- Jongno (Insadong / Bukchon / Gwanghwamun) – traditional Seoul, cultural landmarks, hanok village, palaces, historic
1. Myeongdong / City Hall
Being the most central part of Seoul, staying here allows you to move around the city efficiently while having everything within walking distance. Here you will find lively streets filled with retail and street food, with the area closest to City Hall being calmer and more business-oriented. If you are a first-time visitor, this area will work well for you.
Economy: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.2/10
Location:
- 58 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04526, South Korea
- 350m from Hoehyeon Metro Station
- 480m from City Hall Metro Station
- 1.2 km from Seoul Train Station
- 15.5 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Sweeping views of Namdaemun Market from the rooftop terrace
- Outdoor hot pool, sauna, and gym
- Free private parking and complimentary shuttle to nearby attractions
- Currency exchange
- English, Chinese (Mandarin), Korean, and Japanese spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Fully equipped with a kitchen, washing machine, and refrigerator
- Consistently excellent service
- Central location, bus stop right outside the hotel
- Modern, clean rooms with many amenities
- Excellent restaurant and bar
Premium Economy: Hotel28 Myeongdong
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.3/10
Location:
- 13 Myeongdong 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04534, South Korea
- 230m from Euljiro 1(il)-ga Metro Station
- 410m from Myeongdong Metro Station
- 1.8 km from Seoul Train Station
- 16.1 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Steps from Myeongdong Street
- 9 Minutes by foot from Seoul City Hall
- Fitness Centre
- Free onsite self parking
- English, Chinese (Mandarin), Korean, and Japanese spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Excellent breakfast, excellent bed
- Excellent service, absolutely amazing staff
- Centrally located, modern accommodation
- Modern and functional room with free minibar
- Excellent location, clean and hygienic, and very good service
Business Class: The Westin Josun Seoul
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.4/10
Location:
- 106 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04533, South Korea
- 300m from Euljiro 1(il)-ga Metro Station
- 320m from City Hall Metro Station
- 1.6 km from Seoul Train Station
- 15.8 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Indoor pool, sauna, fitness centre, spa, and massage room
- Roundtrip airport shuttle and limo/town car service
- EV charging station, free public parking, and valet parking
- Currency exchange and childcare service
- English, Chinese (Mandarin), and Korean spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Good location and great service
- Delicious breakfast buffet and dinner
- Proactive and courteous service
- Exceptional hospitality
- Very clean room, spotless bedding, very comfortable bed
First Class: The Shilla Seoul
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.5/10
Location:
- 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04605, South Korea
- 350m from Dongguk University Metro Station
- 540m from Yaksu Metro Station
- 2.1 km from Oksu Train Station
- 18 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Complimentary shuttle service
- Free onsite self parking
- Outdoor pool, sauna, spa, and gym
- Currency exchange
- English, Korean, Chinese (Mandarin), and Japanese spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Exceptional service and world-class hospitality
- Wonderful breakfast buffet with a vast selection
- Very comfortable room
- Top-notch cleanliness
- Excellent value for money
2. Gangnam
This is modern, upscale Seoul with wide boulevards and an international atmosphere. Compared to central Seoul, Gangnam feels more spacious and structured, with a distinctly modern identity. If you are looking for a more refined, upscale stay in newer hotels and a less hectic environment, this will be a good choice.
Economy: Dormy Inn SEOUL Gangnam
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.1/10
Location:
- 134 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06124, South Korea
- 440m from Eonju Metro Station
- 450m from Sinnonhyeon Metro Station
- 4 km from Oksu Train Station
- 21.2 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Sauna
- Onsite self parking
- Within a 5-minute drive of Starfield COEX Mall and COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Close to metro station
- Onsite restaurant and conveniently located near food streets
What Guests Loved:
- Bus stop to Incheon Airport right in front of the hotel
- Clean and offering excellent amenities
- Excellent service, friendly reception staff, varied and delicious breakfast
- Perfectly clean room
- 7-Eleven next door and free ramen as a late-night snack
Premium Economy: L7 GANGNAM by LOTTE HOTELS
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.1/10
Location:
- 415 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06160, South Korea
- 270m from Seolleung Metro Station
- 810m from Samseongjungang Metro Station
- 4.8 km from Oksu Train Station
- 23.1 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Located at the centre of Gangnam
- Lifestyle hotel that reflects the sensual culture of the city
- Free public parking
- Gym
- Currency exchange
What Guests Loved:
- Very clean room, excellent service
- Very convenient location, right next to the subway station and airport bus station
- Many convenience stores nearby
- Great service, clean room and convenient location
- Comfortable environment and convenient surrounding facilities
Business Class: The Westin Seoul Parnas
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.1/10
Location:
- 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06164, South Korea
- 300m from Bongeunsa Metro Station
- 420m from Samseongjungang Metro Station
- 406 km from Oksu Train Station
- 23.4 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Located close to COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre
- 3 Onsite restaurants
- Indoor pool, sauna, and gym
- Free public parking
- English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese (Mandarin) spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Extremely convenient location
- Directly connected to COEX Mall
- Beautiful hotel, polite staff, breakfast offering a wide variety of choices
- Clean, new, and well-equipped room
- Subway station nearby and many delicious restaurants in the vicinity
First Class: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.6/10
Location:
- Teheran-ro, 231, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06142, South Korea
- 500m from Yeoksam Metro Station
- 700m from Seolleung Metro Station
- 4.6 km from Oksu Train Station
- 22.3 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Heated indoor pool
- Free parking and valet parking
- Currency exchange
- EV charging station
- Fitness Centre and sauna
What Guests Loved:
- Absolutely exceptional, from the meticulous service to the stunning environment
- Large, clean room
- Great location, top-notch gym, incredibly comfortable bed
- Well-equipped room, elegant environment, excellent service
- Excellent facilities and an artistic decor
3. Hongdae / Mapo
Centred around Hongik University, this area is known for its nightlife, independent shops, live music, and street performances. Accommodation tends to be more affordable, making it one of the best areas for value.
Economy: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.3/10
Location:
- 144 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04050, South Korea
- 450m from Hongik University Metro Station
- 820m from Sangsu Metro Station
- 4.3 km from Seoul Train Station
- 10.8 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Sophisticated urban retreat
- Within a short walk to metro station, local markets, parks, art galleries, and entertainment district
- Premium bedding
- Gym
- Currency exchange
What Guests Loved:
- Welcoming and super friendly staff
- Perfect location – only a short walk from Hongdae’s busiest shopping district
- Convenient transportation
- Friendly hotel staff who can speak fluent English
- Comfy and clean bed
Premium Economy: RYSE, Autograph Collection by Marriott
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.3/10
Location:
- 130 Yanghwa-ro, RYSE, Autograph Collection, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04038
- 590m from Hongik University Metro Station
- 740m from Sangsu Metro Station
- 4.4 km from Seoul Train Station
- 10.7 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- 24-hour Fitness centre
- Onsite self parking, valet parking, and EV charging station
- Pillowtop beds with premium bedding
- Currency exchange
- English, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin), and Korean spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Central location and lots of eateries around
- Tasty food and clean room
- Excellent location
- Spacious, clean, and quiet rooms
- Friendly, smiling staff fluent in English
Business Class
No Business Class hotel in this area currently meets our rating standard to be considered for inclusion in this guide.
First Class
No First Class hotel in this area currently meets our rating standard to be considered for inclusion in this guide.
4. Jongno (Insadong / Bukchon / Gwanghwamun)
This is the cultural and historic heart of the city and offering a completely different experience from the more commercial areas to the south. The atmosphere here is more traditional, with narrow streets, historic architecture, and a strong sense of heritage.
Economy: The Prima Jongno
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.3/10
Location:
- 46, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03145, South Korea
- 330m from Jonggak Metro Station
- 430m from Anguk Metro Station
- 2.6 km from Seoul Train Station
- 16.1 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Onsite self parking
- Beds with down comforters and premium bedding
- Gym
- Currency exchange
- English, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese, and Korean spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Very convenient location
- Very clean room with fantastic view of Jongno
- Clean, new towels and bed linen
- Comfortable beds
- Top breakfast – hot and cold dishes
Premium Economy: NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL INSADONG
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.1/10
Location:
- 49 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03145, South Korea
- 300m from Anguk Metro Station
- 500m from Jonggak Metro Station
- 2.8 km from Seoul Train Station
- 16.1 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Within a 15-minute walk of Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
- Onsite self parking
- Gym
- EV charging station
- Currency exchange
What Guests Loved:
- Great location, convenient, friendly staff
- Clean and well-maintained room
- Unbeatable central location
- Spacious rooms, beautiful view
- Lots of restaurants nearby
Business Class
No Business Class hotel in this area currently meets our rating standard to be considered for inclusion in this guide.
First Class: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
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Trip.com Guest Rating: 9.3/10
Location:
- 97 Saemunan-ro, Dangju-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03183, South Korea
- 140m from Gwanghwamun Metro Station
- 570m from City Hall Metro Station
- 2.1 km from Seoul Train Station
- 15.4 km from Gimpo International Airport
Hotel Highlights:
- Full-service spa, health club, indoor pool, massage room, and gym
- Free onsite self parking, valet parking, and EV charging station
- Currency exchange
- Shuttle service
- English, Chinese (Mandarin), and Korean spoken
What Guests Loved:
- Clean and tidy room, meticulous service, fantastic pool and gym
- Excellent breakfast with a wide variety of choices
- Excellent decor, very friendly staff
- Right next to a subway station
- Floor-to-ceiling windows offering a great view
Planning the Next Stop on Your Itinerary
If your itinerary includes other destinations in Asia, you may also want to explore our guides on Where to Stay in Tokyo and Where to Stay in Singapore or visit our Destinations page for more exciting destinations across the globe.
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Our Editorial Methodology
Every hotel featured on HelpYouBook is selected using the same editorial methodology and quality standards. Our destination guides are designed to make comparing destinations easier by applying a consistent curation process, geographical areas, and budget tiers throughout the site.
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