Seoul is big. Really big.
And choosing the best area to stay especially on your first trip can make or break your experience.
Do you want convenience or culture? Trendy cafés or palaces? Nightlife or peace and quiet?
In this guide, I break it all down by neighborhood, with tailored hotel recommendations and a custom map for easy planning.
Let’s get started.
Quick Comparison
| Area | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myeongdong | First-time tourists | Central, easy, tourist-ready | Crowded, commercialized |
| Hongdae | Youth & indie culture | Trendy, lively, creative vibe | Noisy at night |
| Itaewon | International & nightlife | Global food, English-friendly | Less Korean atmosphere |
| Gangnam | Luxury & business travel | Clean, upscale, convenient | Expensive, less charm |
| Jongno | Culture & history lovers | Palaces, hanoks, slow travel | Quiet at night |
Myeongdong – Best for First-Time Visitors
If you want to see a little of everything — shopping, street food, landmarks — Myeongdong is your base.
What to Expect
- Central downtown location
- Close to palaces, towers, street food alleys
- Very tourist-friendly (English menus, signs)
- Airport buses, subways, and tours easily accessible
Recommended Hotels in Myeongdong
- Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 1
Clean and affordable in the heart of the action - L7 Myeongdong by Lotte
Stylish hotel with rooftop views and perfect location - The Westin Josun Seoul
Premium 5-star near City Hall with top-tier service
Myeongdong Map
Hongdae – Best for Young Travelers and Indie Culture
For nightlife, cafés, and local energy — Hongdae hits different.
What to Expect
- Near Hongik University, full of students and creators
- Buskers, art cafés, themed bars
- Vintage shops and budget food
- Youthful, international, chaotic (in a good way)
Recommended Hotels in Hongdae
- RYSE, Autograph Collection
Artistic boutique hotel with K-pop vibes - 9 Brick Hotel
Modern comfort with cozy design touches - Amanti Hotel Seoul
Smart mid-range choice in a quieter pocket of Hongdae
Hongdae Map
Itaewon – Best for International Vibes and Nightlife
Itaewon is Seoul’s most multicultural neighborhood. Great for LGBTQ+ travelers, digital nomads, and expats.
What to Expect
- Tons of foreign restaurants, halal food, brunch spots
- Rooftop bars, weekend parties, English-speaking staff
- LGBTQ+ friendly, casual but energetic
Recommended Hotels in Itaewon
- Hamilton Hotel
Classic pick with unbeatable location - Kent Hotel Itaewon
Sleek rooms and easy access to nightlife - Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Bold design with rooftop views and vibrant vibes
Itaewon Map
Gangnam – Best for Luxury, Cleanliness, and Business
Gangnam is Seoul’s shiny side — think polished sidewalks, megamalls, and five-star breakfasts.
What to Expect
- Corporate Seoul with top hotels and boutiques
- Upscale cafés, K-beauty spas, Michelin restaurants
- Easy access to COEX Mall and airport bus
Recommended Hotels in Gangnam
- Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam
Reliable business-style stay with comfort - InterContinental Seoul COEX
Direct access to Starfield Mall and COEX Center - Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas
Ultra-luxury with fine dining and premium amenities
Gangnam Map
Jongno (Insadong/Bukchon) – Best for Traditional Culture
If you dream of hanboks, palaces, and quiet mornings — this is where Seoul slows down.
What to Expect
- Walk to Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village, temples
- Hanok stays, tea houses, calligraphy workshops
- Daytime charm, nighttime calm
Recommended Hotels in Jongno
- Rakkojae Seoul
Authentic hanok stay with traditional aesthetics - Hotel Ambassador Seoul
Modern comfort near cultural hotspots - Orakai Insadong Suites
Spacious suites with kitchens, ideal for families
Jongno Map
Final Thoughts: Which Area Should You Pick?
If you’re unsure, start with Myeongdong or Hongdae — both are central, beginner-friendly, and full of energy.
Want comfort and quiet? Go Gangnam.
Looking for culture? Jongno delivers.
Ready to party? Head to Itaewon.
Each area offers a different flavor of Seoul — and the perfect stay can make all the difference.