Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The city is a bustling hub of culture, technology, and fashion, and each neighborhood has its own distinct charm and appeal. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best areas to stay in Seoul, including the bustling streets of Myeongdong, the traditional allure of Insadong, the upscale vibe of Gangnam, the youthful energy of Hongdae, and the cosmopolitan flair of Itaewon. Whether you’re looking to shop till you drop, immerse yourself in history, experience K-pop culture, or savor global cuisine, Seoul’s neighborhoods offer something for everyone. We’ll delve deeper into the unique features of each area, helping you choose the perfect place to base yourself during your stay, ensuring you have the best possible experience. Let’s dive into these vibrant districts and discover where to stay in Seoul!
EXPLORE TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN SEOUL
1. Stay near some of Seoul’s most famous landmarks and best attractions in MYEONGDONG
Centrally-located Myeongdong is a logical choice for first-time travelers to Seoul. The district contains sights like Myeongdong Shopping Street and Myeongdong Cathedral, but most importantly, it is the home of Myeongdong Subway Station, which takes passengers directly to nearby N Seoul Tower and Bukchon Hanok Village … and about any other attractions in Seoul!
AGODA EXTRA: Not only does South Korea have one of the fastest Internet connection speeds in the world, but the government works diligently to enhance the public’s access to the World Wide Web. Wi-Fi is available for free in most subway stations and in more than 1.2 million locations in the country.
More attractions in Myeongdong
Best food and drink: Namdaemun Market
Best shopping: Lotte Department Store
Best entertainment: Myeongdong NANTA Theatre
Check In to Hotel Skypark Myeongdong II, Step Out to Myeongdong Cathedral
2. Experience authentic Korean food and culture during a tour of INSADONG
Tradition reigns supreme in Insadong. Wrought with tea houses, museums and art galleries, Insadong invites travelers to experience authentic Korean culture at attractions like Jogyesa Temple and Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art. Accommodations range from charming hostels to 5-star hotels, and most guest houses in Insadong are just a short walk from Sunday night street performances, regular art exhibitions and local festivals.
Top attractions in Insadong
Best food and drink:
Shin Old Teahouse
Best shopping: Insadong Ssamjigil
Best entertainment: Tapgol Park
Check In to J World 5, Step Out to Jogyesa Temple
3. Book a 5-star hotel, and get the best deal on plastic surgery in GANGNAM
With a reputation built on K-Pop and glamor, Gangnam beckons the posh with a giant array of nightlife spots and cosmetic surgery clinics. And the shopping and dining in Gangnam is spiffy, too! Reminiscent of Times Square NYC, clubs and restaurants cater to all-nighters, and some of the city’s most elite shopping takes place at Apgujeong Rodeo Street. Daytime attractions include Lotte World theme park and the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs (Seonjeongneung). Bongeunsa Buddhist temple also is in Gangnam.
Top attractions in Gangnam
Best food and drink: Yeongdong Traditional Market
Best shopping: Goto Mall underground shopping center
Best entertainment: Once In A Blue Moon
Check In to Weve House, Step Out to Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs (Seonjeongneung)
4. Buy local art from students, and picnic on the Han River in HONGDAE
If you’re a fan of street art, flea markets and always-thumping nightlife, consider staying in Hongdae. The area is packed with college students from Hongik University Seoul Campus, resulting in a unique selection of urban art galleries, theaters and trendy cafés. Follow the weekend crowd to Hongdae Free Market in Hongik Children’s Park to browse through scores of local art and handicraft displays. You’ll also find the Love Museum, one of the city’s most risqué attractions. While this red-hot art gallery is full of fun and quirky works, it is recommended for adults only. For family fun, check out Trickeye Museum Seoul, or picnic alongside the Han River.
Top attractions in Hongdae
Popular food and drink: Ttobogetji Tteokbokki
Best shopping: Hongdae Shopping Street and KT&G Sangsangmadang
Best entertainment: The Henz Club
Check In to Marigold Hotel, Step Out to Hongdae Free Market
5. Journey through art galleries and a military museum in Seoul’s expat hub of ITAEWON
Situated on the banks of the Han River, Itaewon is the main residential area for Seoul’s expat population and the former home of Yongsan Garrison, headquarters to the U.S. military forces stationed in South Korea. The base moved in 2018, but the atmosphere of Itaewon remains as diverse as ever. The area contains dozens of antique and second-hand stores, not to mention an assortment of international dining hubs, nightclubs and museums. Oh, and let’s not forget N Seoul Tower. Lovers of contemporary art enjoy a few hours at D Museum, and the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art. The War Memorial of Korea details Korea’s wartime escapades and showcases an outdoor display of military equipment.
Top attractions in Itaewon
Notable food and drink: Itaewon Market
Best shopping: Yongsan Electronics Market
Best entertainment: Club Soap Seoul
Check In to Hotel ITW, Step Out to Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art
