Where to Stay in Seoul: Best Neighbourhoods for Every Traveller

If you’re planning a trip to Korea, choosing where to stay in Seoul can feel almost as overwhelming as planning the rest of your trip. With huge shopping districts, buzzing nightlife areas, quiet café neighbourhoods, historic streets and sleek modern areas all spread across the city, there isn’t really one best area to stay in Seoul.

The best Seoul neighbourhood for you depends on what you want from your trip.

Want to be within walking distance of Korean skincare shops, street food and K-pop stores? Myeongdong could be perfect. Planning to spend your evenings drinking soju and dancing until the early hours? You’ll probably prefer Hongdae. Looking for cute cafés and a slower pace? Try Yeonnam. And if luxury hotels, designer shopping and beauty treatments are more your thing, Gangnam might be calling your name.

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Seoul and staying in and around several of these neighbourhoods, and I’ve learned that where you stay can have a surprisingly big impact on your experience of the city.

So rather than giving you one generic list of the “best” neighbourhoods, I’ve broken down what each one is like, and who I think it suits best.

Quick answer: Which Seoul neighbourhood is right for you?

If you’re looking for…	Best neighbourhood
Your first trip to Seoul	Myeongdong
K-Culture Shopping	Myeongdong or Hongdae
Nightlife and youthful vibes	Hongdae
Cute cafés and a slower pace	Yeonnam
Luxury and high-end shopping	Gangnam
Traditional Korea and culture	Insadong
Food, bars and local atmosphere	Jongno / Euljiro
Trendy cafés, pop-ups and fashion	Seongsu
Families and Lotte World	Jamsil
Romantic, pretty streets and hanok cafés	Ikseondong
International food and nightlife	Itaewon

How to Choose the Best Seoul Neighbourhood for You

Seoul is a huge city, but you don’t need to stay right in the middle of everything to have a great trip. The subway makes it easy to get around, and many of Seoul’s neighbourhoods are attractions in their own right.

Instead of worrying about finding the single “best” area to stay in Seoul, think about what you want your neighbourhood to offer. Do you want shops and street food on your doorstep? Cute cafés and quiet streets? Bars and nightlife? Traditional architecture? Luxury shopping? Family-friendly attractions?

Here’s what you can expect from the most popular areas.

Myeongdong: Best for First-Time Visitors and Shopping Girlies

If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, Myeongdong is one of the easiest areas to stay in Seoul. It’s right in the heart of central Seoul, with almost everything you could need within a few minutes’ walk, from Korean skincare and K-pop shops to street food, restaurants, currency exchanges and luggage storage.

Why stay in Myeongdong?

Myeongdong is particularly good for first-time visitors who want a convenient, tourist-friendly base. English, Japanese and Chinese are widely spoken around the neighbourhood, and there are plenty of hotels across different price points. It’s also a convenient base for exploring some of Seoul’s biggest attractions; take the nearby bus or cable car to N-Seoul Tower or the subway to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

It’s also one of the best places in Seoul for stocking up on Korean beauty products, snacks, souvenirs, K-pop merchandise and street fashion. Basically, if you’re coming to Seoul with an empty suitcase and plans to fill it with Olive Young purchases, Myeongdong is going to make your life very easy.

Despite being one of Seoul’s busiest tourist areas, I don’t find Myeongdong overwhelming at all and in my experience it’s comfortable to explore alone. It’s lively, but the streets are easy to navigate, and you can quickly escape the main shopping streets when you want somewhere a little quieter.

Myeongdong is also surprisingly lovely at Christmas, when the shopping streets are covered in lights and the famous Shinsegae Christmas display draws huge crowds. Myeongdong Cathedral is particularly pretty at this time of year too.

Things to do in Myeongdong

• Explore Myeongdong Shopping Street
• Try the street food
• Stock up on Korean skincare and makeup
• Browse K-pop shops
• Visit Myeongdong Cathedral
• Head up to N-Seoul Tower
• Visit one of Myeongdong’s cat cafés

Where to eat and drink in Myeongdong

Myeongdong has a huge range of restaurants and cafés, from quick Korean meals to cute coffee shops. Some of my favourites include:

• Myeongdong Kyoja – famous for its kalguksu and dumplings, plenty of solo seating but may need to book ahead during busy periods
• Yeji Sikdang – a long-running Korean restaurant known for hearty, traditional one-pot meals, ideal for eating solo
• Urban Plant – a leafy cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and aesthetic rooms, great for taking pictures for Instagram etc
• Café The Fabulous – a pretty cafe with views over Myeongdong and fantastic tiramisu
• BISTRO 74 – a cosy spot for drinks and casual, brunch-style food

For more of my favourite places to eat and drink, including pins and addresses, check out my complete Myeongdong guide.

Where to stay in Myeongdong

You’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels in Myeongdong. Some options worth looking at include:

• OYO Hostels – a good option for budget travellers
• Migliore Hotel Seoul Myeongdong – affordable with plenty of luggage storage
• L’Escape – for a more luxurious stay

Is Myeongdong right for you?

Stay in Myeongdong if you want convenience, shopping, street food and easy access to Seoul’s biggest attractions, particularly if this is your first trip to Seoul.

If you’re looking for somewhere quieter or more local-feeling, though, you might prefer a neighbourhood like Yeonnam or Seongsu.

Want more Myeongdong recommendations? Read my complete Myeongdong guide.

Hongdae: Best for Nightlife Girlies, Students and Backpackers

If you want to stay somewhere that’s lively from morning until late at night, Hongdae is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul. Located around Hongik University, the neighbourhood is known for its youthful atmosphere, incredible nightlife, busking, affordable accommodation and seemingly endless cafés, restaurants and shops.

Why stay in Hongdae?

Hongdae is a brilliant all-rounder for younger travellers and anyone who wants plenty happening right outside their hotel. It’s tourist-friendly without feeling quite as dominated by tourists as Myeongdong, and you’ll find everything from Korean fashion and K-pop shops to anime stores, beauty shops, convenience stores and late-night restaurants.

It’s convenient whether you’re arriving at Incheon Airport or Gimpo Airport, as the Airport subway line stops at Hongik University Station. From there, much of Hongdae is within walking distance, making it one of the easiest areas to stay in Seoul if you don’t want to deal with a complicated journey after a long flight.

The vibe

Hongdae is youthful, energetic and fun. The main streets can get very busy, particularly at weekends, but honestly, that’s part of the experience.

You’ll see buskers and dancers performing in the streets, groups heading out for the night and plenty of people grabbing food or drinks after dark. There’s always something going on.

Despite the nightlife, I also find Hongdae a really easy area to stay as a solo traveller. There’s plenty of activity around you, even in the evenings, which can feel reassuring when you’re exploring Seoul alone.

Things to do in Hongdae

• Watch the famous Hongdae buskers
• Explore Hongdae Shopping Street
• Browse the quirky independent shops around the neighbourhood
• Visit AK Plaza mall
• Check out one of Hongdae’s animal cafés
• Experience Hongdae’s nightlife

Where to eat and drink in Hongdae

One of the best things about Hongdae is the sheer amount of choice. You’ll find Korean restaurants, Japanese food, cafés, bars, international chains and plenty of late-night options.

Some of my favourite Hongdae cafés, restaurants and bars:

• BEBAB – a foreigner-friendly bibimbap restaurant that also offers vegetarian and vegan options
• Renge – my favorite ramen restaurant in Seoul, tiny but very solo friendly
• Burgerry – a burger restaurant on the main road that stays open until the early hours, an ideal post-clubbing snack (but enjoyable sober too!)
• Thanks Nature Cafe – a cafe where you can pet sheep that has surprisingly delicious desserts
• Malic – if you’re a coffee-enthusiast, come here, although you might have to wait as it’s very popular

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Hongdae guide.

Where to stay in Hongdae

Hongdae has a particularly good range of affordable and mid-range accommodation, as well as some more upscale hotels.

For a quick starting point:

• Hi There Guesthouse – a budget-friendly and social hostel
• L7 Hongdae – modern and convenient
• RYSE, Autograph Collection – a stylish, higher-end option

Is Hongdae right for you?

Stay in Hongdae if you want nightlife, affordable accommodation, excellent transport links and a youthful atmosphere. It’s particularly good for solo travellers, students, backpackers and anyone who wants to walk out of their hotel and immediately have something to do.

If you’d rather stay somewhere quieter at night, look at nearby Yeonnam instead.

Want more Hongdae recommendations? Read my complete Hongdae guide.

Yeonnam: Best for Café Girlies and a More Relaxed Seoul Experience

If Hongdae sounds fun but you’d rather not sleep right in the middle of the action, Yeonnam could be your perfect Seoul neighbourhood. Just across the road from Hongdae, Yeonnam offers easy access to the same transport links and attractions while having a much calmer, more residential atmosphere.

Why stay in Yeonnam?

Yeonnam is particularly appealing if you’re a return visitor to Seoul or simply prefer staying somewhere that feels a little more local. The neighbourhood is packed with independent cafés, restaurants, boutiques and little streets that are fun to explore without needing a specific destination in mind.

It’s also very convenient for getting around Seoul, with Hongik University Station within walking distance.

The vibe

Yeonnam is still lively, particularly around Gyeongui Line Forest Park, but it doesn’t have quite the same student-and-nightlife energy as Hongdae. 

It’s the kind of neighbourhood where you can spend an afternoon café hopping, wandering through little shops and stopping for dinner without feeling like you need to tick anything off your sightseeing list. 

Things to do in Yeonnam

• Walk along Gyeongui Line Forest Park
• Go café hopping
• Browse independent shops and boutiques
• Try some of Yeonnam’s restaurants
• Walk into Hongdae for busking and nightlife
• Explore Yeonnam’s colourful side streets

Where to eat and drink in Yeonnam

Yeonnam is one of my favourite areas in Seoul for cafés and independent restaurants. There’s also plenty of cosy wine bars in the area which I love.

Some of my favourite Yeonnam cafés and restaurants:

• Heod – a brunch cafe serving savory dishes and some of the best french toast I’ve had in Seoul
• Plant Yeonnam – a foreigner-friendly vegan restaurant
• Yann Couvreur – a cafe with incredible pastries on Yeonnam’s main road, you can;t miss it
• Hoam Cafe – a Vietnamese-style bingsoo cafe with amazing coconut coffee
• Yeonnam-dong Cherry Blossom House – an ideal cafe to see cherry blossoms along the Gyeongui Line park (it gets insanely busy during blossom season so get there early)

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Yeonnam guide.

Where to stay in Yeonnam

Accommodation in Yeonnam tends to feel a little more intimate and neighbourhood-like than the larger hotels you’ll find in central Seoul.

For a quick starting point:

• Twin Rabbit Guesthouse – a good option for a more affordable, social stay
• Y Stay – a more local-feeling, apartment-style option
• Amanti Hotel Seoul – a good choice if you prefer a regular hotel

Is Yeonnam right for you?

Stay in Yeonnam if you want easy access to Hongdae without staying right in the middle of its nightlife. It’s particularly good for café lovers, return visitors, longer stays and travellers who prefer a calmer neighbourhood.

If you want Seoul’s nightlife right outside your door, though, I’d choose Hongdae instead.

Want more Yeonnam recommendations? Read my complete Yeonnam guide.

Gangnam: Best for Luxury Girlies and Beauty Lovers

Want to experience Seoul’s glamorous side? Gangnam is the neighbourhood for you. This huge area in southern Seoul is home to luxury hotels, designer shops, beauty clinics, high-end restaurants and some of the city’s most impressive modern architecture.

Why stay in Gangnam?

Gangnam is a great choice if you want a modern and upscale Seoul experience. It’s particularly popular with travellers visiting Seoul for Korean beauty treatments, with huge numbers of dermatology clinics, aesthetic clinics and beauty businesses throughout the area.

It’s also a good base if shopping and dining are a major part of your trip. You’ll find everything from department stores and designer boutiques to trendy cafés, restaurants and bars.

Which part of Gangnam should you stay in?

Gangnam covers a surprisingly large area, and the different neighbourhoods within it have quite different vibes. If you know you want to stay in Gangnam but aren’t sure where, here’s a quick breakdown:

Gangnam Station and Gangnam-daero – best for convenience
If you want to be right in the middle of the action, stay around Gangnam Station. You’ll have excellent subway connections and plenty of restaurants, cafés, shops and nightlife right outside your door. It’s busy, but it’s one of the easiest parts of Gangnam to use as a base.

Sinsa – best for cafés, fashion and boutiques
Sinsa has a more stylish, neighbourhood feel, with independent boutiques, trendy cafés and restaurants clustered around Garosu-gil and the surrounding streets. It’s a great choice if you want somewhere fashionable without staying right in the middle of Gangnam’s busiest streets.

Apgujeong and Cheongdam – best for luxury and beauty
For high-end shopping, designer boutiques, beauty clinics and fancy restaurants, look towards Apgujeong and Cheongdam. This is the part of Gangnam I’d choose if you’re particularly interested in Korean beauty, fashion and Seoul’s more glamorous side.

Yeoksam – best for a quieter stay
Yeoksam is a little more business-focused and residential than the areas around Gangnam Station, making it a good option if you want the convenience of Gangnam without being right in the centre of the action. You’ll still have plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby and easy access to the rest of Seoul.

The vibe

Gangnam is busy and energetic, but the atmosphere is quite different from neighbourhoods like Hongdae or Myeongdong. You’ll see office workers heading to work, shoppers browsing department stores, beauty tourists going between appointments and Seoul’s more affluent crowd going about their day.

If you want traditional Seoul, this probably isn’t the neighbourhood for you. But if you want skyscrapers, shopping, cafés, beauty treatments and a taste of modern Korean luxury, it’s hard to beat.

Things to do in Gangnam

• Shop around nearby Apgujeong and Sinsa
• Visit Starfield Library at COEX
• Explore COEX Mall
• Try a Korean beauty treatment
• Walk around Dosan Park
• Visit Bongeunsa Temple
• Take a photo at the Gangnam Style statue

Where to eat and drink in Gangnam

Gangnam has an enormous choice of restaurants, cafés and bars, ranging from casual Korean restaurants to high-end dining. Some of my favorite cafes and restaurants include:

• Monday to Sunday – a casual but sophisticated restaurant serving brunch-like foods such as pasta, tteokbokki and kimchi fried rice (the desserts are amazing too)
• Goshen – a restaurant and bar in Cheongdam favoured by local celebrities – the prices are high but the cocktails are great
• Ceci cela – a European-style cafe famous for its carrot cake
• Seondeok Kalguksu – restaurant specializing in kalguksu, Korean knife-cut noodles. Perfect for solo travellers that want to try Korean food
• Panier de Mooni – a social media famous cafe with aesthetic pastries that actually taste great too

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Gangnam guide.

Where to stay in Gangnam

Gangnam is one of the best areas in Seoul if you’re looking for higher-end hotels, with plenty of stylish options around the district.

For a quick starting point:

• Hotel Cappuccino – modern and relatively affordable for the area
• Andaz Seoul Gangnam – stylish luxury option
• Josun Palace – a splurge-worthy choice for a seriously luxurious stay

Is Gangnam right for you?

Stay in Gangnam if luxury hotels, shopping, beauty treatments and modern Seoul are high on your list. It’s particularly good for beauty lovers and anyone who wants to experience a more glamorous side of the city.

If you’re more interested in palaces, traditional architecture and Seoul’s historic neighbourhoods, I’d stay north of the river.

Want more Gangnam recommendations? Read my complete Gangnam guide.

Insadong: Best for Culture Girlies and Traditional Seoul

If you want to experience a more traditional side of Seoul while still being close to many of the city’s biggest attractions, Insadong is a fantastic neighbourhood to stay in. This historic area is filled with traditional tea houses, craft shops, galleries, hanok buildings and cultural attractions.

Why stay in Insadong?

Insadong is particularly convenient for sightseeing. From here, you’re within easy reach of attractions including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple and Jongmyo Shrine, making it a great base if you’re planning to spend a lot of your trip exploring Seoul’s historic sites.

It’s also a lovely place to pick up traditional Korean souvenirs, from ceramics and artwork to handmade crafts and tea.

The vibe

Insadong feels much slower and more traditional than neighbourhoods such as Hongdae or Gangnam. The main streets can get busy with tourists during the day, but wander down the smaller side streets and you’ll find quiet tea houses, galleries and traditional buildings.

It’s a lovely area if you want your Seoul trip to have a strong focus on culture, history and traditional experiences, rather than modern shopping and nightlife.

Things to do in Insadong

• Explore Insadong-gil
• Visit Jogyesa Temple
• Have tea in a traditional tea house
• Browse galleries and craft shops at Ssamziegil
• Rent a hanbok
• Shop for traditional Korean souvenirs
• Walk to Bukchon Hanok Village
• Visit Seoul’s nearby palaces

Where to eat and drink in Insadong

Insadong is a great place to try traditional Korean food and drinks, particularly if you’re interested in dishes and experiences you might not find in Seoul’s more modern neighbourhoods.

Some of my favourite Insadong restaurants, tea houses and cafés:

• Cafe Onion – a famous hanok-style cafe with great pastries and coffee
• Onmigwan Anguk – a Korean restaurant with both one-person dishes and sharing dishes
• Osegyehyang – a restaurant serving vegan versions of typical Korean dishes, the best vegan Korean food I’ve found so far!
• Hanok Tea House – a tea house serving traditional teas and desserts
• The Hanok Smith Likes – a quiet hanok restaurant serving Italian food; affordable, cosy and delicious

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Insadong guide.

Where to stay in Insadong

You’ll find a good mix of hotels and serviced accommodation around Insadong. Some options worth looking at include:

• Hanok Hotel DAAM – an affordable hanok hotel with dorms and private rooms
• AMID Hotel Seoul – a more standard hotel in the heart of Insadong
• Hotel Sunbee Insadong – a higher end hanok hotel

Is Insadong right for you?

Stay in Insadong if culture, history, traditional food and sightseeing are high on your Seoul wishlist. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors who want to explore Seoul’s historic attractions while staying somewhere with plenty of character.

If shopping, nightlife and trendy cafés are more important to you, I’d look at somewhere like Myeongdong, Hongdae or Seongsu instead.

Want more Insadong recommendations? Read my complete Insadong guide.

Jongno & Euljiro: Best for Foodies and Local Seoul Vibes

If you want to experience a side of Seoul that’s a little more gritty, chaotic and local-feeling, look towards Jongno and Euljiro. These central neighbourhoods are a fascinating mix of old and new Seoul, where traditional markets and decades-old businesses sit alongside trendy bars, cafés and restaurants.

Why stay in Jongno & Euljiro?

This is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional Korean restaurants and market stalls to lively pocha, cocktail bars and trendy new restaurants.

It’s also incredibly central, making it easy to reach many of Seoul’s major attractions while giving you a very different experience from staying in the more polished tourist areas like Myeongdong.

The vibe

Euljiro is famous for its Newtro atmosphere, where old industrial buildings, printing shops and traditional businesses sit alongside, or have been transformed into, trendy bars, cafés and restaurants. Jongno has a similarly fascinating mix of historic Seoul and modern nightlife, and the area becomes particularly atmospheric after dark.

If you like the idea of wandering down an unassuming alleyway and finding a tiny bar or restaurant you’d never have spotted from a main street, this is your kind of Seoul.

Things to do in Jongno & Euljiro

• Eat your way around Gwangjang Market
• Explore Euljiro’s atmospheric alleyways and hidden bars
• Try a traditional Korean pocha
• Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Visit Jongmyo Shrine
• Explore Gwanghwamun Plaza and nearby palaces

Where to eat and drink in Jongno & Euljiro

Some of my favourite Jongno and Euljiro restaurants, markets, bars and cafés:

• C’s Home – a hidden wine bar with a cute, cosy atmosphere, my favorite in Euljiro
• Om – a delicious Indian restaurant near the Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Art x Shift – a cafe and gallery where the cakes and drinks are as pretty as the prints (I recommend the Lavender Einspanner!)
• Seoul Express 88 – customize your own affordable 1-person meal, an ideal way to try Korean-Chinese food as a solo traveller
• Mooin 24 Hours Ramen Convenience Store – a self-serve instant ramen store, ideal for budget travellers, solo travellers and anyone who wants a unique experience!

Where to stay in Jongno & Euljiro

There’s a good range of accommodation around Jongno and Euljiro, from affordable guesthouses and simple hotels to stylish higher-end options.

For a quick starting point:

• Amare Hotel – a comfortable budget hotel with spacious rooms
• Hotel Lemong – a boutique-style hotel
• Hotel The Bonatik Sewoon – a higher end hotel with family suites

Is Jongno & Euljiro right for you?

Stay in Jongno or Euljiro if food, nightlife and experiencing a less polished side of Seoul are more important to you than being surrounded by the city’s biggest tourist attractions. It’s particularly good for foodies, return visitors and travellers who want to experience a more atmospheric side of Seoul.

If you’d prefer somewhere that’s easier to navigate and more obviously geared towards first-time visitors, nearby Myeongdong might be a better choice.

Want more Jongno and Euljiro recommendations? Read my complete Jongno and Euljiro guide.

Itaewon: Best for International Foodies and Nightlife

If you want to experience a different side of Seoul, Itaewon is one of the most interesting neighbourhoods to stay in. Located in Yongsan, this lively area is known for its international restaurants, bars, nightlife, independent shops and multicultural atmosphere.

Itaewon feels quite different from neighbourhoods like Myeongdong and Hongdae. You’ll find Korean restaurants and cafés alongside food from all over the world, as well as a more alternative mix of shops, bars and nightlife.

Why stay in Itaewon?

Itaewon is a particularly good choice if international food, nightlife and a more diverse side of Seoul are high on your list. It’s also a great option if you’ve visited Seoul before and want to stay somewhere that feels a little different from the usual tourist neighbourhoods.

Itaewon Station is on Line 6, making it easy to connect with other parts of Seoul. You’re also close to attractions such as N-Seoul Tower, the National Museum of Korea and the high-end Hannam neighborhood.

The vibe

Itaewon has a reputation for nightlife, and that’s definitely part of its identity, but there’s much more to the neighbourhood than just bars and clubs. It’s one of the few areas in Seoul where you’ll hear a real mix of languages on the streets and find restaurants serving food from all over the world. It also has a slightly more relaxed and alternative feel than the polished shopping districts of Gangnam or Myeongdong.

If you’re someone who likes exploring neighbourhoods without needing everything to feel perfectly curated, Itaewon could be a great fit.

Things to do in Itaewon

• Eat your way around Itaewon’s international restaurants
• Explore the neighbourhood’s bars and nightlife
• Browse independent shops and boutiques
• Visit Seoul Central Mosque
• Explore the nearby National Museum of Korea
• Explore surrounding neighbourhoods like Hannam and Haebangchon
• Visit N-Seoul Tower
• Explore the colourful streets and alleyways around Itaewon

Where to eat and drink in Itaewon

One of the best things about Itaewon is the sheer variety of food. You’ll find Korean restaurants alongside Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, American, Italian and other international cuisines, as well as plenty of cafés, bars and dessert spots.

Some of my favourite Itaewon restaurants, cafés and bars:

• Petra – incredible Middle Eastern halal food
• Nekkid Wings – a fusion of Korean and American fried chicken
• Coreanos – Texan-style Mexican food with a Korean twist. You just have to try it.
• Sauce – a Western-style bar that also does amazing bottomless brunch
• Wildduck & Canteen – a cute wine bar on the vibey Haebangchon main street

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Itaewon guide.

Where to stay in Itaewon

Itaewon has a good selection of hotels and guesthouses, with options ranging from affordable stays to stylish higher-end hotels.

For a quick starting point:

• H Hostel – a highly rated hostel with dorms and private rooms 
• Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel – a modern, comfortable hotel
• Mondrian Hotel – a hotel with fantastic amenities on the outskirts of Itaewon

Is Itaewon right for you?

Stay in Itaewon if international food, nightlife and experiencing a more diverse side of Seoul are high on your list. It’s particularly good for foodies, solo travellers, repeat visitors and anyone who wants something a little different from Seoul’s more traditional tourist neighbourhoods.

If you’re looking for a quieter neighbourhood or want to be surrounded by traditional attractions, I’d look at somewhere like Insadong or Yeonnam instead.

Want more Itaewon recommendations? Read my complete Itaewon guide.

Seongsu: Best for Trendy Girlies and Repeat Visitors

If you’ve already ticked off Seoul’s biggest tourist attractions and want to see what’s currently on trend in the city, Seongsu should be high on your list. This former industrial neighbourhood has become one of Seoul’s trendiest areas, packed with pop-ups, concept stores, cafés, fashion brands and restaurants.

Why stay in Seongsu?

Seongsu is a particularly good choice if you’re a return visitor who wants to experience a different side of Seoul. New pop-ups, shops and exhibitions appear constantly, so there’s always something new to discover, even if you’ve visited before.

It’s also right next to Seoul Forest, and the subway makes it relatively easy to get around the rest of the city.

The vibe

Former warehouses and factories have been transformed into cafés, galleries, shops and restaurants, giving Seongsu a completely different feel from historic neighbourhoods like Insadong. It’s also one of my favourite areas in Seoul for fashion, design, cafés and Korean lifestyle brands. If you like discovering the latest Korean brands and seeing what everyone seems to be obsessed with this month, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy.

The only downside? The area can get very busy, particularly at weekends, and some of the most popular pop-ups attract long queues.

Things to do in Seongsu

• Café hop through Seongsu and Seoul Forest’s ‘Cafe Alley’
• Hunt down the latest pop-ups
• Shop Korean fashion and lifestyle brands
• Explore Seoul Forest
• Visit the SM Entertainment building
• Walk along the Han River at Ttukseom Hangang Park

Where to eat and drink in Seongsu

Seongsu is one of the best neighbourhoods in Seoul for cafés, bakeries and trendy restaurants.

Some of my favourite Seongsu cafés, restaurants and bakeries:

• Paper Plate – New York style pizza that you can buy by the slice
• Solsot – a Korean-Japanese fusion restaurant that always has a queue (so get there early)
• Jayeondo Salt Bread Seongsu Branch – If you only visit one bakery in Seoul, make it this one; it’s a famous hole-in-the-wall serving some of the best salt bread in Korea
• Cafe Onion – The Seongsu branch is the epitome of ‘industrial warehouse cafe’. You might have to queue for this one too
• Rain Report – a fun concept-cafe with water features that make great photo spots

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Seongsu guide.

Where to stay in Seongsu

Seongsu has fewer hotels than some of Seoul’s major tourist neighbourhoods, but there are still some fantastic choices if you want to stay in this part of the city, especially if you want apartment-style accommodation.

For a quick starting point:

• Monac Seoul – an apartment right next to Seoul Forest
• Hotel Poco – a comfortable hotel in the heart of Seongsu
• Aloft by Marriott – a high end hotel just over the river, one subway stop or a short bus ride away from Seoul Forest

Is Seongsu right for you?

Stay in Seongsu if you’re a café, fashion and shopping girlie who wants to experience Seoul’s trendier side, or if you want easy access to a green space in the middle of the city.

If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time and want to be within easy reach of the city’s classic attractions, though, I’d choose somewhere more central like Myeongdong or Insadong.

Want more Seongsu recommendations? Read my complete Seongsu guide.

Jamsil: Best for Families 

If Lotte World is high on your Seoul itinerary, Jamsil is one of the most convenient places to stay. This modern neighbourhood in southeastern Seoul is also home to Lotte World Tower, Seokchon Lake and Lotte World Mall, giving you plenty to do without needing to travel across the city.

Why stay in Jamsil?

Jamsil is particularly good for families and travellers who want a quieter, more spacious base. If you’re planning to spend a full day at Lotte World, staying nearby means you can head back to your hotel afterwards rather than trekking across Seoul when you’re exhausted. It’s also a short subway ride away from family-friendly attractions such as Children’s Grand Park and COEX Aquarium.

It’s also particularly beautiful in spring, when the cherry blossoms around Seokchon Lake are in bloom – for more information on the best time to visit the lake for blossoms, check out my guide to cherry blossom season.

The vibe

Jamsil feels modern, spacious and relatively residential, especially compared with busy central neighbourhoods like Myeongdong and Hongdae. It’s not where I’d stay if nightlife and late-night cafés are your priority, but it’s a comfortable and well-connected base with plenty of restaurants, shops and green spaces nearby. There’s also easy access to Olympic Park if you’re attending a concert or sporting event there.

Things to do in Jamsil

• Spend the day at Lotte World
• Visit Seoul Sky at Lotte World Tower
• Shop at Lotte World Mall
• Walk around Seokchon Lake
• Explore Olympic Park or catch a concert, festival or sporting event at Olympic Stadium

Where to eat and drink in Jamsil

You’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés around Lotte World Mall and the surrounding streets, from quick Korean meals to more upmarket dining.

Some of my favourite Jamsil cafés and restaurants:

• Baekiyonbang – a famous Japanese restaurant (their salmon-based rice bowls and noodles are their specialty!)
• Mongchon Dakgalbi – a renowned dakgalbi restaurant known for their herbal dakgalbi sauce (although you can order regular dakgalbi here too!)
• My Seoul Bites – a cute cafe with outdoor seating and lake views
• Teddy Beurre House – a cute themed cafe inside Lotte World Mall
• Bontemps – a cafe in the quiet backstreets of Jamsil serving delicious donuts

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Jamsil guide.

Where to stay in Jamsil

Jamsil has a good range of accommodation, including several excellent options if you’re planning a trip to Lotte World.

For a quick starting point:

• Seoul Olympic Parktel – ideal if you want to stay near Olympic Stadium
• Rosana Hotel – a modern mid-range option
• Signiel Seoul – for a seriously luxurious stay

Is Jamsil right for you?

Stay in Jamsil if you’re travelling with children, visiting Lotte World or simply prefer a quieter, more spacious neighbourhood.

If this is your first trip to Seoul and you want to be closer to the city’s historic sights, shopping and nightlife, I’d choose somewhere more central.

Want more Jamsil recommendations? Read my complete Jamsil guide.

Ikseondong: Best for Romantic Girlies and Hanok Cafés

If your ideal Seoul afternoon involves wandering down pretty little streets, drinking coffee in a traditional hanok and stopping for dinner somewhere atmospheric, Ikseondong is going to be right up your street.

This tiny neighbourhood in central Seoul is known for its beautifully restored hanok houses, many of which have been transformed into cafés, restaurants, bars and boutiques.

Why stay in Ikseondong?

Ikseondong is one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in central Seoul, and its traditional-meets-modern atmosphere is what makes it so special. Its central location also makes it easy to combine with nearby Insadong, Jongno and Seoul’s historic palaces, so you can spend the day sightseeing before coming back to Ikseondong for coffee, dinner or drinks.

The vibe

Ikseondong’s narrow lanes are particularly magical in the evening, when the restaurants and cafés light up and the hanok buildings take on an entirely different atmosphere. It’s undeniably touristy, but it’s also one of those places where the popularity makes sense. The combination of traditional Korean architecture and modern cafés, restaurants and boutiques creates a very distinctive Seoul experience.

If you’re someone who enjoys wandering without much of a plan and stopping whenever somewhere catches your eye, you’ll probably love it here.

Things to do in Ikseondong

• Wander through the hanok-lined streets
• Visit a hanok café
• Browse independent boutiques
• Have dinner or drinks in a hanok
• Take photos around the neighbourhood
• Visit nearby Jongmyo Shrine
• Explore nearby neighbourhoods Insadong and Jongno

Where to eat and drink in Ikseondong

Ikseondong is packed with cafés, restaurants, bars and dessert spots, and half the fun is discovering somewhere that catches your eye while you’re wandering around.

Some of my favourite Ikseondong cafés, restaurants, bars and dessert spots:

• Nakwon Station – a cafe known for its railway station design (and the cake here is amazing)
• Cheongsudang – a beautiful hanok garden dessert cafe
• Ikseon Aetteut – a fusion Korean restaurant with some individual seating, perfect for solo travellers
• Ikseon Preference – a popular Western restaurant inside a gorgeous hanok
• Hoho Restaurant – a Japanese tonkatsu restaurant awarded a Blue Ribbon (Korea’s answer to Michelin guide) for six consecutive years

For more recommendations, as well as pins and addresses, check out my complete Ikseondong guide.

Where to stay in Ikseondong

Ikseondong has fewer large hotels than some of Seoul’s bigger neighbourhoods, but there are still some good options nearby.

For a quick starting point:

• KIMSTEL Jongno – a comfortable hotel with basic facilities
• Ibis Ambassador Seoul Insadong – a comfortable, modern hotel
• Orakai Insadong Suites – luxurious apartment-style accommodation between Insadong and Ikseondong

Is Ikseondong right for you?

Stay in Ikseondong if you love beautiful cafés, traditional architecture, cute streets and atmospheric evenings. It’s particularly good for couples, solo travellers who love café hopping and anyone looking for a photogenic base in central Seoul.

If you’re travelling with kids or want somewhere with a huge choice of hotels and practical amenities, I’d look at somewhere like Myeongdong or Jamsil instead.

Want more Ikseondong recommendations? Read my complete Ikseondong guide.

Still Not Sure Where to Stay in Seoul?

If you’re still torn between a few neighbourhoods, don’t overthink it! Seoul’s excellent public transport makes it relatively easy to explore different parts of the city, so there isn’t one neighbourhood you absolutely have to stay in.

Instead, think about what you want your trip to feel like. Do you want to wake up surrounded by cafés and boutiques, be within walking distance of nightlife, or step outside your hotel into historic Seoul?

And remember, you don’t necessarily have to choose just one. If you’re staying in Seoul for a week or more, splitting your stay between two neighbourhoods can be a fun way to experience completely different sides of the city.

Ready to plan the rest of your Seoul trip? Check out my other Seoul travel guides for itineraries, things to do, where to eat and practical tips for getting around the city.

Happy Travels!