Seoul neighbourhoods at a glance
Distances are measured from the city centre. Typical prices are the median nightly rate of hotels nearby.
| Area | Best for | From centre | Typical hotel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jongno & Insadong | History buffs, Culture seekers, Photographers | 1.6 km | €52 |
| Myeongdong | Shoppers, Beauty enthusiasts, Foodies | 0.6 km | €50 |
| Hongdae | Young travelers, Music & art lovers, Nightlife seekers | 5 km | €52 |
| Gangnam | Luxury shoppers, Business travelers, Fans of modern architecture | 8.2 km | €73 |
Jongno & Insadong
The historic and cultural heart of Seoul, where ancient palaces, traditional tea houses, and artisan workshops set a serene yet profound tone. This area is a maze of history, from royal grounds to quiet Buddhist temples tucked between modern buildings.
Around Jongno & Insadong
- Gyeongbokgung Palace & National Folk Museum
- Bukchon Hanok Village's winding alleys
- Insadong's main street for antiques & crafts
- Jogyesa Temple (especially during Lotus Lantern Festival)
Hotels in or near Jongno & Insadong
Econômico
Intermediário
SuperiorMyeongdong
A high-octane, sensory-blitz district dedicated to retail therapy, beauty, and street food. Neon signs tower over packed streets where vendors shout and perform to sell everything from cosmetics to crispy fried snacks.
Around Myeongdong
- Myeongdong Shopping Street & underground malls
- Myeongdong Cathedral
- Endless street food stalls (try the *tteokbokki*)
- Flagship stores of every major Korean beauty brand
Hotels in or near Myeongdong
Econômico
Superior
IntermediárioHongdae
The vibrant, youth-centric epicenter of indie music, urban art, and alternative fashion, fueled by the energy of nearby Hongik University. Graffiti-covered walls, live busking, and quirky themed cafes define its creative, non-conformist vibe.
Around Hongdae
- Hongdae Free Market (weekends)
- Club nights & indie live music venues
- Trickeye Museum & Ice Museum
- Yeonnam-dong's 'Gyeongui Line Forest Park' cafes
Hotels in or near Hongdae
Econômico
Intermediário
SuperiorGangnam
The sleek, affluent, and modern face of Seoul, immortalized by Psy's hit song. This is a district of gleaming skyscrapers, luxury boutiques, high-end plastic surgery clinics, and sophisticated dining and nightlife.
Around Gangnam
- COEX Mall & Starfield Library
- Bongeunsa Temple (a serene contrast)
- Gangnam Style Statue
- Upscale department stores like Galleria
Hotels in or near Gangnam
Intermediário
Superior
IntermediárioHotel prices come from Traveloka, last checked on February 4, 2026, and change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Plan the rest of your Seoul trip
Where to stay in Seoul: FAQ
What is the best area to stay in Seoul?+
For a first visit, Myeongdong is the most central of the areas we cover (0.6 km from the centre). A high-octane, sensory-blitz district dedicated to retail therapy, beauty, and street food.
Where to stay in Seoul on a budget?+
Myeongdong has the lowest typical hotel price of the areas we compared, around €50 a night. A high-octane, sensory-blitz district dedicated to retail therapy, beauty, and street food.
How much does a hotel in Seoul cost per night?+
Typical nightly prices near the areas in this guide range from €50 to €73, based on hotel prices checked on February 4, 2026. Prices change with your dates.
Which Seoul neighbourhood suits which traveller?+
Jongno & Insadong: History buffs, Culture seekers, Photographers. Myeongdong: Shoppers, Beauty enthusiasts, Foodies. Hongdae: Young travelers, Music & art lovers, Nightlife seekers. Gangnam: Luxury shoppers, Business travelers, Fans of modern architecture.