SEOUL
South Korea
QUICK TAKE
Seoul is Asia's most underrated major city for visitors. The food is extraordinary, the design scene rivals Tokyo, and the nightlife runs until dawn. The metro is perfect, English is increasingly common, and the neighborhoods have distinct personalities worth exploring. K-culture is real, but the city has depth beyond it.
WHERE TO STAY
FOR THE FIRST-TIMER
STAY IN
Myeongdong or Jongno
WHY
Myeongdong is central, walkable to palaces and shopping, with easy airport access. Jongno puts you near the historic sites and has excellent Korean restaurants that locals frequent. Both areas let you hit the highlights without complex logistics.
OUR PICK
L7 Myeongdong or Bukchon Maru Hanok Guesthouse
~$150-300/night
FOR THE DESIGN/FOOD OBSESSIVE
STAY IN
Seongsu-dong or Hannam-dong
WHY
Seongsu is Seoul's Brooklyn — converted factories, specialty coffee, concept stores. Hannam has the Michelin-starred Korean restaurants and gallery scene. Both neighborhoods are where young creative Seoul hangs out. The aesthetics are impeccable.
OUR PICK
Hotel Cappuccino or Signiel Seoul
~$180-350/night
FOR THE NIGHTLIFE/K-CULTURE SEEKER
STAY IN
Gangnam or Hongdae
WHY
Gangnam has the high-end clubs, K-pop entertainment companies, and that glossy Seoul energy. Hongdae is younger, louder, and more indie — live music, street performers, bars until 6am. Different vibes, both deliver if you're staying out late.
OUR PICK
Park Hyatt Seoul or Ryse Autograph Collection
~$120-280/night
SKIP THESE
- × Itaewon (currently)
The former expat hub is struggling post-tragedy and feels uncertain. The restaurants have moved to Hannam; the energy has shifted elsewhere.
- × Hotels near Seoul Station only
Transit hub, not a neighborhood. You'll spend your trip on the metro getting to anywhere interesting.
- × Dongdaemun tourist hotels
The market is worth a visit, but the area is chaotic and the hotels are dated. Stay elsewhere and metro over for the late-night shopping.
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TEXT US YOUR DATESLast updated: January 2025 · Prices are approximate