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 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
Activities to Do in Seoul?
Come read my travel guides below:
Itinerary & Things to Do in Seoul
Other Seoul travel tips
Best Budget Hotels in Seoul
(Myeong-Dong) Seoul Dalbit DDP Guesthouse
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In Korean, ‘dal‘ means moon and ‘bit‘ means shine, hence the hostel is designed with the colors of the night. Free breakfast is served & every room even has a private bathroom.
To love: The prime location | Landmark: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station | Price starts from: $15~
(Insa-Dong) Insa Hostel Insadong
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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.
To love: In a prime traditional location in Seoul | Landmark: Gyeongbokgung Palace | Price starts from: $18~
(Hongdae) Zzzip Guesthouse in Hongdae
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The hostel offers both dormitory rooms and private rooms, complete with air conditioning facilities.
To love: The affordable shopping opportunities nearby | Landmark: Hongik University | Price starts from: $20~
(Gangnam) Kimchee Gangnam Guesthouse
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A 6-story hostel where you can easily access the lively streets of Gangnam’s famed Garosu-gil and Apgujeong-dong spots.
To love: The location and ambience | Landmark: The location and ambience | Price starts from: $20~
(Itaewon) Itaewon N Guesthouse
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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.
To love: The nearby nightlife | Landmark: Han River Rainbow Bridge | Price starts from: $20~
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Seoul
(Myeong-Dong) Tmark Hotel Myeongdong
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Just a 7-minute walk from the lively Namdaemun Market, Tmark Hotel has modern and stylish rooms of various types.
To love: The prime central location | Landmark: Namsangol Hanok Village | Price starts from: $70~
(Insa-Dong) ibis Ambassador Insadong
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Decorated in warm earthy tones, the hotel offers amazing rooms and amenities at a reasonable price, not to mention its close proximity to the subway.
To love: The sauna and public bath (jjimjilbang) | Landmark: Alive Museum Insa-dong | Price starts from: $80~
(Hongdae) L7 Hongdae
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As a part of the Lotte group of hotels, L7 Hongdae is a delightful cultural station filled with surrounding underground culture.
To love: The rooftop pool | Landmark: Hongik University | Price starts from: $100~
(Gangnam) Stay Hotel Gangnam
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One of the newly-opened hotels in Seoul, this modern lush hotel offers spacious rooms at competitive prices to make the most of your stay.
To love: Great value | Landmark: Yeoksam Station | Price starts from: $90~
(Itaewon) Hamilton Hotel
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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.
To love: The rooftop pool | Landmark: N Seoul Tower | Price starts from: $100~
Best Luxury Hotels in Seoul
(Myeong-Dong) Lotte Hotel Seoul
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This is one of the best 5-star hotels in Seoul and it is conveniently located in the heart of the Myeongdong business district. Boasting unparalleled amenities and rooms, you’ll experience the utmost luxury!
To love: The amenities and ambiance | Landmark: Lotte Duty Free Shop | Price starts from: $200~
(Insa-Dong) Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
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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.
To love: The location and amenities | Landmark: Deoksugung Palace | Price starts from: $300~
(Hongdae) Best Western Premier Seoul Garden Hotel
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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.
To love: The great value | Landmark: Ewha Womans University Station | Price starts from: $120~
(Gangnam) InterContinental Seoul COEX
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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.
To love: The Sky Lounge bar | Landmark: COEX Aquarium | Price starts from: $300~
(Itaewon) Grand Hyatt Seoul
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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!
To love: Location and FREE scheduled shuttle bus to the city | 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 :)