Photo: The Shilla Seoul

These Are Seoul's Most Convenient and Comfortable Hotels

Seoul Epic Stays
by Molly O'Brien Anna Kim Dec 22, 2023

Seoul is the capital of South Korea, perched on the Han River in the northwestern part of the country. Travelers will encounter contemporary technology like modern skyscrapers and an extensive subway network, blended with well-preserved historical cultural landmarks such as Buddhist temples, palaces, and markets. Top attractions include Namsan Mountain, Seoul Tower, Jogyesa Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Gwangjang Market.

Traveling to Seoul? Check out Matador’s Seoul accommodations guides:

We hope you love these Seoul hotels! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

 

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  • Address: 67 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $227 per night

L’Escape Hotel is a pet-friendly boutique hotel boasting French sophistication within Myeongdong, one of the city’s busiest shopping districts. The property’s 19th-century-influenced décor and moody lighting make it a chic spot to set as home base. Design elements like deep red velvet seating and black-and-white-tiled floors create an air of opulence that’s not unapproachable.

Guest rooms are extremely luxurious, decorated in rich tones of red and dark wood furniture. Each room features a flat-screen TV, fridge, coffee machine, and a private bathroom with a bidet. Other on-site amenities include a library, an upscale gym with modern equipment, and a relaxing spa. Dine at L’Amant Secret, which serves Modern Korean Cuisine, or Palais de Chine, which serves Modern Chinese dishes with a Twist. Grab a drink at Marque d’Amour, which serves specialty cocktails in a moody, plush, romantic setting.

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Lotte Hotel Seoul

Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul

 

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  • Address: 30, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04533 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $204 per night

This property is attached to the Euljiro 1-ga Subway Station and Lotte Department Store in the Myeongdong area, meaning easy access to shopping and exploring. It’s a ten-minute walk from Namdaemun Gate and Namdaemun traditional market. On-site, visit the indoor swimming pool, relax in the sauna, or check out the fitness center and spa. There are ten different dining concepts on-site, including French, Italian, Chinese and local specialties. Guest rooms feel airy and contemporary, equipped with amenities like a desk, mini-bar and safe. Some even boast impressive views of the city.

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RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul by Marriott

Photo: RYSE, Autograph Collection
Photo: RYSE, Autograph Collection
Photo: RYSE, Autograph Collection
Photo: RYSE, Autograph Collection

 

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  • Address: 130, Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Mapo-Gu, 04038 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $208 per night

This pet-friendly property is located in the bustling Hongdae district near attractions like Hongik University, Gyeongbokgung Palac, and many local nightlife spots. The artsy guest rooms feature amenities like a flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers, private bathrooms, bathrobes and eye masks for the ultimate opportunity to rest and relax. Dine at CHARR, the property’s open-fire steakhouse — or try a cocktail with a panoramic view of the city at the rooftop bar, Side Note Club. There’s also a luxurious on-site fitness center, a business center, and a library space.

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Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul

Photo: Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Photo: Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Photo: Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Photo: Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul

 

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  • Address: 60, Jangchungdan-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04605 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $572 per night

The five-star Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul property is nestled into the wooded land at the base of a mountain, featuring large, airy rooms with a bright and contemporary design with views of the sparkling city below. It’s a great location for outdoorsy people — feeling like a breath of fresh air miles away from civilization — but in reality is just a 10-minute drive from attractions like Seoul Tower and the shopping district of Dongdaemun. This property is the brand’s first combined resort and membership club.

There are 110 rooms, which makes the hotel feel both intimate and large enough to offer a sense of individual privacy, with immaculate on-site facilities including a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools and fitness facilities including an 80-yard driving range, a tennis court, a basketball court and a soccer field. There are multiple on-site dining options, including Granum Dining Lounge, which serves pan-Asian cuisine and Festa by mingoo which serves contemporary European dishes. There are only 2-4 room units on each floor, meaning bigger and more luxurious spaces with large windows that showcase panoramic views. Except for the Banyan Rooms and Suites, each guest room features its own plunge pool.

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Seoul Garden Hotel

Photo: Seoul Garden Hotel & Suites
Photo: Seoul Garden Hotel & Suites
Photo: Seoul Garden Hotel & Suites
Photo: Seoul Garden Hotel & Suites

 

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  • Address: 58, Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Mapo-Gu, 04168 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $97 per night

This property is centrally located in Mapo district, just a 2-minute walk from the Mapo (Line 5) and a 5-minute walk from Gongdeok (Line 5 and 6, Airport Railroad and Gyeongui Line) subway stations. Comfortable and clean guest rooms include heating and air conditioning, TVs, and a mini-bar. Outside the rooms, on-site amenities include a fitness center and business facilities. Grab a quick coffee or snack at Café 1883, or dine at the all-day restaurant, La Stella. Iyoiyo Sushi Bar serves a traditional Japanese set lunch and dinner.

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Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun

Photo: Shilla Stay
Photo: Shilla Stay
Photo: Shilla Stay
Photo: Shilla Stay

 

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  • Address: 71, Sambong-ro, Jongno-gu , Jongno-Gu, 03150 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $110 per night

Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun sits in the heart of Seoul, a 10-minute walk from the Jonggak, Gwanghwamun, and Anguk subway stations. Guests will enjoy contemporary and cozy guest rooms equipped with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, and coffee and tea-making facilites. Grab a hot beverage and a pastry at the relaxed on-site café, or sip on a drink at the lounge bar. There’s also a fitness center with various types of cardio and weightlifting equipment.

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Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae, an IHG Hotel

Photo: Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae
Photo: Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae
Photo: Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae
Photo: Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae

 

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  • Address: 88, Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Mapo-Gu, 04052 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $144 per night

This property is connected to AK Plaza shopping mall, which means great access to a range of dining and entertainment options within walking distance of the hotel. Each guest room feels modern and bright and has a flat-screen TV, a kettle, a fridge, its own private bathroom, and a workspace with a desk. On-site amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and a business center. There’s also an in-house restaurant that serves American cuisine.

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Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences

Photo: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
Photo: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
Photo: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
Photo: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun

 

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  • Address: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences
  • Rates from: $207 per night

This 5-star property features 331 guest rooms and 192 residences and is set in a prime location in the center of the city in the Jung-Gu district, within walking distance of local attractions like the Gwangjang Market, the Bangsan Market, and the Pyounghwa Market. Each stylish guest room is equipped with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a kettle, and a private bathroom — and some rooms have a kitchen with a microwave.

There are two swimming pools, including an outdoor infinity pool and an indoor swimming pool, and a well-equipped fitness center with a sauna. The restaurant serves various international, Korean and Chinese dishes, and there are three bars on-site — including a rooftop bar with impressive views.

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Hotel PJ Myeongdong

Photo: Hotel PJ
Photo: Hotel PJ
Photo: Hotel PJ
Photo: Hotel PJ

 

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  • Address: 71, Mareunnae-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04548 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $88 per night

This hotel is in downtown Seoul, a 5-minute walk from the nearest subway station, and offers a free shuttle service to Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market. Rooms are modern and thoughtfully decorated, featuring amenities like free WiFi, flat-screen TVs and private balconies for getting some fresh air. Dine at P&J Restaurant, which serves tasty food in an unpretentious setting. There’s an on-site gym equipped with cardio machines and a business center with copying and printing services available.

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The Shilla Seoul

Photo: The Shilla Seoul
Photo: The Shilla Seoul
Photo: The Shilla Seoul
Photo: The Shilla Seoul

 

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  • Address: 249, Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04605 Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $331 per night

This 5-star luxury hotel is in the center of the city in the central business district, within walking distance of many attractions, but still offers a free shuttle to Shilla Duty-Free Shop and Dongguk University Station. Wi-Fi access is free and accessible throughout the property. Rooms are decorated in warm and inviting tones, featuring amenities like heating and air conditioning, a coffee maker, TV. There are multiple on-site dining options, including restaurants that serve Korean, Japanese, French, and Chinese. Relax at the full-service spa or exercise at the fitness center which includes a gym that hosts classes and features equipment like weights and cardio machines, and there’s also an indoor golf range and a walking path.

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Mondrian Seoul Itaewon

Photo: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
Photo: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
Photo: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
Photo: Mondrian Seoul Itaewon

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  • 23 Jangmun-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $177 per night

The Mondrian Seoul Itaewon is a lifestyle destination in its own right. Expressive, forward-thinking design and immersive décor make your stay here one that is full of sensory stimulation.

The 295 guestrooms have interiors designed by Singapore-based company Asylum that reflect the lively district with bold, vibrant, cutting-edge designs. The 904-square-foot Mondrian Suite is the real showstopper here, offering a dazzling view of Itaewon’s skyline, the Namsan Tower, and impressive views of the city that reflect the heart and soul of Seoul.

The hotel includes a premium fitness club, a 25-meter swimming pool, and a luxurious sauna, as well as convenient access to the Itaewon area. Try some mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine at Cleo or wind down with soothing tea or sip on a collection of bespoke cocktails at Blind Spot. If you fancy something stronger, sample a selection of the finest malt whiskeys on the rooftop terrace at Privilege bar.

It’s hard to beat the location. Itaewon is known for its cosmopolitan dining and nightlife. It’s filled with Korean BBQ, bistros, and charming hole-in-the-wall restaurants. The famous Itaewon Antique Furniture Street is a stroll away, and the nearby War Memorial of Korea museum commemorates the South Korean and United Nation soldiers who died during the Korean War from June 25, 1950, to July 17, 1953, when North Korea invaded South Korea.

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Fairmont Ambassador Seoul

Photo: Fairmont Ambassador Seoul
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Fairmont Ambassador Seoul
Photo: Fairmont Ambassador Seoul

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  • 108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $377 per night

Situated at Parc.1 complex, one of Seoul’s most prominent new addresses in Yeouido Island, the five-star Fairmont Ambassador Seoul opened last year and offers breathtaking views of the Han River and the vibrant Yeouido skyline.

For suites with the best views, the expansive Presidential Suite on the 28th floor has floor-to-ceiling windows through which you can see the National Assembly building, Han River, and Yeouido skyline. A boardroom, dining room, and state-of-the-art cycling machine are also included. There’s also the Diplomatic Sky Suite, which has two bedrooms, a spacious dining room, and a generous amount of natural light with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a marble bathroom.

M29, the hotel’s signature rooftop bar serves custom-made cocktails best enjoyed with the view. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant on the 29th floor, Mariposa, is headed by Chef Andre Lee and serves modern European cuisine.

Located in Yeongdeungpo-gu, the hotel is a few minutes drive to the National Museum of Korea, the Lotte Outlets, the YG Entertainment Building, and Namsan Park. The popular shopping destination of Myeongdong Street is also close by for some retail therapy.

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Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador

Photo: Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador
Photo: Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador
Photo: Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador
Photo: Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador

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  • 8 Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $231 per night

Named after the original name of the area, Maponaru, the boutique Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador offers unparalleled views of the Han River and Bamseom islet from its 20th-floor lobby. Located on the northern banks of the Han River, it’s less than an hour drive to and from the Incheon International Airport.

Conceptualized with biophilic interior design that connects spaces occupied by people to nature, the hotel offers a tranquil setting in the middle of bustling Seoul.

To book a room with the best views, consider staying at the Naru Suite, which has a large terrace that’s nearly as large as the suite’s interior and has majestic views of Namsan and Lotte World Tower. The beauty isn’t limited to starting at what’s outside. The hotel collaborates with contemporary local artists who are passionate about representing Korean culture through their artwork.

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Signiel Seoul

Photo: Signiel Seoul
Photo: Signiel Seoul
Photo: Signiel Seoul
Photo: Signiel Seoul

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  • 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $578 per night

Located on floors 76 to 101 of Lotte World Tower — a remarkable 1,823-feet-high structure with 123 floors — the Signiel Seoul is the country’s tallest tower and the sixth tallest in the world. All 235 rooms have exceptional panoramic views of Seoul. Guests can enjoy views of the Han River, Jamsil neighborhood, N Seoul Tower, Mongchontoseong Fortress, the Olympic Park, and the Gangnam skyline and beyond.

Its crown jewel is the Royal Suite Room, which has hosted many high-profile clients and celebrities. The lavish suite features a spacious dining room with elegant minimalistic furnishings and fabrics, and a marble jacuzzi overlooking the scenic views of the Gangnam skyline.

The hotel is located in the Songpa-Gu district, in the southeastern part of Seoul, along the Han River. It is a quiet residential area, compared to the hustle and bustle of its neighbor, Gangnam. Major attractions in the area are Lotte World, the Olympic Park, and the Samjeondo Monument.

If you’re just looking for a night out instead of a full stay, dine at STAY, a French restaurant helmed by acclaimed chef Yannick Alleno; drink Champagne on the 81st floor at Bar 81, which has the largest Champagne collection in South Korea; or grab something sweet from Bakery Pastry Salon, which has desserts like cakes and tarts handpicked by Alleno and his team.

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Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam

Photo: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
Photo: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
Photo: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
Photo: Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam

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  • Teheran-ro, 231 Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Rates from: $462 per night

At the Josun Palace, check into one of the suites to catch one of Seoul’s famous views of the upscale Gangnam district. There are also sunset views beyond the distant mountain ranges of Mount Namsan.

The hotel’s 254 rooms and suites feature interiors designed with a modern twist to a 100-year-old legacy. The extravagant Josun Grand Master Suite, a Presidential Suite located on the Heritage Club level, is one of the most sought-after rooms in part thanks to mesmerizing views of Namsan and Lotte Signiel Tower.

The hotel is known for award-winning dining concepts at its five venues, including chef Son Jong-won’s Michelin-star restaurant Eatanic Garden, which serves contemporary Korean cuisine. To let your hair down, head to the 1914 Lounge & Bar for some warm tea at noon or dress up and sip cocktails in the evening while enjoying the stunning city views from 30-foot-tall glass windows. Not to be missed is the sky-high heated pool and deck offering gorgeous views of Gangnam.

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Is there a hotel in Seoul airport?

Yes, the Incheon Airport Transit Hotel T1 is located within Incheon International Airport’s Terminal 1 departure lounge.

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