Seoul in South Korea is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world — but much like Japan, it tends to have a higher price point when it comes to accommodation (which is unlike the rest of the countries in Asia). Rest assured, with the help of this list, I will be giving you the best value-for-money hotels in Seoul starting from cheap hostel picks up to the luxurious choices in order to make the most of your budget and time!
Seoul has 25 districts (gu) that are further subdivided into 522 sub-districts (dong); however, it helps to note that there is NO clear city centre. Nevertheless, below are the top 5 districts to choose from and I will be delegating my hotel picks on these districts per category for your convenience.
– Myeong-dong: In Jung-gu, an area best for those interested in food and shopping
– Insa-dong: In Jongno-gu, an area best for those interested in culture and historical sites
– Hongdae: In Mapo-gu, an area best for those interested in a hip and more youthful scene
– Gangnam: In Gangnam-gu, an area best for those interested in ‘hallyu‘ (Korean wave), nightlife and shopping
– Itaewon: In Yongsan-gu, an area best for those interested in food and nightlife
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[two_fourth last=”no”][special_font size=”22″ unit=”px” ]Activities to do in Seoul?[/special_font][/two_fourth]
[two_fourth last=”yes”][icon icon_size=”30″ color=”#ed2665″ spinning=”no” icon_type=”theme-icon” icon_theme=”question-circle” circle=”no” rotate=”normal” ]Come read my travel guides below:
– Itinerary & Things to do in Seoul
– Other Seoul travel tips
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[box_title class=”” subtitle=”” subtitle_font_size=”15″ font_size=”23″ border_color=”#ed2665″ animation_delay=”0″ font_alignment=”center” border=”around” animate=”” ]Best Hotels in Seoul[/box_title]
» Best Budget Hotels in Seoul «
+ (Myeong-dong) Seoul Dalbit DDP Guesthouse
» See the BEST price deal at Booking.com, Agoda or HostelWorld
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
In Korean, ‘dal‘ means moon and ‘bit‘ means shine, hence the hostel is designed with the colors of the night. Free breakfast is served here and every room even has a private bathroom.
What to love: The prime location
Closest landmark: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station
Price starts from: $15~
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+ (Insa-dong) Insa Hostel Insadong
» See the BEST price deal at Booking.com, Agoda or HostelWorld
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Located in the traditional Insadong Culture Street, you will find that the hostel is surrounded by a plethora of shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants and historical landmarks — perfect for filling up your days.
What to love: In a prime traditional location in Seoul
Closest landmark: Gyeongbokgung Palace
Price starts from: $18~
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+ (Hongdae) Zzzip Guesthouse in Hongdae
» See the BEST price deal at Booking.com, Agoda or HostelWorld
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
The hostel offers both dormitory rooms and private rooms, complete with air conditioning facilities. Picking this place is great if you’re interested in shopping and indie cafes.
What to love: The affordable shopping opportunities nearby
Closest landmark: Hongik University
Price starts from: $20~
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+ (Gangnam) Kimchee Gangnam Guesthouse
» See the BEST price deal at Booking.com, Agoda or HostelWorld
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
A 6-story hostel with elevator where you can easily access the lively streets of Gangnam’s famed Garosu-gil and Apgujeong-dong spots. (P.S. The airport limousine bus stop is also not far away).
What to love: The location and ambience
Closest landmark: Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Price starts from: $20~
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+ (Itaewon) Itaewon N Guesthouse
» See the BEST price deal at Booking.com, Agoda or HostelWorld
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Featuring a balcony and terrace, each room at N Guest House has air-conditioning and heating facilities. All rooms are fitted with clothes racks and personal lockers too for convenience.
What to love: The nearby nightlife
Closest landmark: Han River Rainbow Bridge
Price starts from: $15~
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» Best Mid-Range Hotels in Seoul «
+ (Myeong-dong) Tmark Hotel Myeongdong
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Just a 7-minute walk from the lively Namdaemun Market, Tmark Hotel has modern and stylish rooms of various types as well as buffet restaurants ready to serve any palate.
What to love: The prime central location
Closest landmark: Namsangol Hanok Village
Price starts from: $70~
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+ (Insa-dong) ibis Ambassador Insadong
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Decorated in warm earthy tones, the hotel offers amazing rooms and amenities at a reasonable price, not to mention that given its close proximity to the subway, you can reach any city highlights within minutes.
What to love: The sauna and public bath (jjimjilbang)
Closest landmark: Alive Museum Insa-dong
Price starts from: $80~
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+ (Hongdae) L7 Hongdae
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
As a part of the Lotte group of hotels, L7 Hongdae is a delightful cultural station filled with surrounding underground culture. Moreover, the hotel also provides amazing views over Han River.
What to love: The rooftop pool
Closest landmark: Hongik University
Price starts from: $100~
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+ (Gangnam) Stay Hotel Gangnam
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
One of the newly-opened hotels in Seoul, this modern lush hotel offers spacious rooms at competitive prices. With the proximity of the Yeoksam Subway Station, places like Gangnam are just a few minutes away.
What to love: Great value
Closest landmark: Yeoksam Station
Price starts from: $90~
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+ (Itaewon) Hamilton Hotel
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
In addition to guestrooms, the Hamilton Hotel has many dining and convenience facilities including a shopping center. Its rooftop swimming pool is particularly popular on weekends during the summer.
What to love: The rooftop pool
Closest landmark: N Seoul Tower
Price starts from: $100~
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» Best Luxury Hotels in Seoul «
+ (Myeong-dong) Lotte Hotel Seoul
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
This is one of the best 5-star hotels in Seoul and it is conveniently-lcoated in the heart of the Myeongdong business district. Boasting unparalleled amenities and rooms, you’ll experience the utmost luxury with Lotte Hotel!
What to love: The amenities and ambience
Closest landmark: Lotte Duty Free Shop
Price starts from: $200~
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+ (Insa-dong) Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Boasting commanding views over Seoul’s cityscape, the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel brings forth a staycation that is as luxurious and as stylish as it can be given its state-of-the-art facilities and rooms.
What to love: The location and amenities
Closest landmark: Deoksugung Palace
Price starts from: $300~
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+ (Hongdae) Best Western Premier Seoul Garden Hotel
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Centrally located in Mapo district, this Best Western hotel in Seoul is arguably one of the best value-for-money luxury hotels you will find in the city that does not skip out on elegance and comfort.
What to love: The great value
Closest landmark: Ewha Womans University Station
Price starts from: $120~
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+ (Gangnam) InterContinental Seoul COEX
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
InterContinental Seoul Coex is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the World Trade Centre. With a grand collection of guestrooms, restaurants, and bars, you’re sure to have an incredible staycation.
What to love: The Sky Lounge bar
Closest landmark: COEX Aquarium
Price starts from: $300~
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+ (Itaewon) Grand Hyatt Seoul
» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Booking.com or Agoda
» You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates
Surrounding this 5-star is the nature preserve of Mount Namsan. Apart from the usual amenities that you’ll find in luxury hotels, Grand Hyatt even has a shopping arcade, indoor + outdoor pools and ice skating rink!
What to love: Location and FREE scheduled shuttle bus to the city
Closest landmark: N Seoul Tower
Price starts from: $300~
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Overall
With a bustling city like Seoul, it’s a given that it will be packed with tons of amazing accommodation choices — HOWEVER, there are only a select few that can bring you the best value for your money and time.
So hopefully with this list, I can help you make an informed decision for your upcoming staycation. Enjoy!
AWESOME ! thanks for all your recommendations and tips, I just booked the very first hotel of your list, it looks great
what is the name of the hotel of the first pic you used? the one that has a bath tub with good view haha
Hey, it’s in Four Seasons Seoul :)
Thank you :)