Seoul has been a growing travel destination for Australians over the last few years. With its curated blend of tradition and modernity, the city is becoming a household name for culture, fashion, technology and entertainment. Similarly, the perfect accommodation in Seoul also blends the contemporary with the traditional, with the best Airbnbs in Seoul offering historical Korean hanoks with modern amenities.
Enjoy the pulsating energy of the hot shopping districts like Gangnam, Hongdae and Myeongdong to experience the best in fashion, entertainment and nightlife, or wander by the ancient palace of Gyeongbokgung or the traditional Hanok villages that capture Seoul’s ancient charm. Seoul’s efficient public transportation system also makes it easy to explore the city. With its vibrant neighbourhoods and the finest restaurants, there’s plenty to do in South Korea’s capital, but where are the best places to stay in Seoul?
Where you stay in Seoul sets the vibe for your whole city experience. Whether you are seeking an authentic experience by staying in a traditional hanok, or want a little more privacy in a contemporary home space, below we have rounded up six of the best Airbnbs Seoul has to offer for your next trip to South Korea.
Our top Airbnbs in Seoul
- Bukchon hanok heritage house (here’s why)
- Traditional Korean Hanok (here’s why)
- Gold Marble Suites (here’s why)
The best Seoul Airbnbs to book in 2025
Location: Jongno-gu
Sleeps: Seven
This Airbnb is the one to book for a group seeking an authentic Korean experience on their Seoul visit. Winner of the Seoul Best Stay Award, this private hanok gives guests the opportunity to explore a traditional Korean stay with a modern twist. With three-bedrooms and three-bath, you will be staying in the very centre of Seoul, close to many local attractions and are only a short six-minute walk from Anguk Station.
“My family loved staying at this beautiful traditional home. It easily accommodated five adults with space for one more. This stay was walkable to great cafes, close to public transportation and also a number of popular sights. Overall this was a great stay and worth the value,” says one five-star reviewer.
Reasons to stay:
- Sauna
- Healing room for meditation
- Jacuzzi
- Six-minute walk from Anguk Station
- 15-minute walk to Gyeongbokgung palace
Location: Jongno-gu
Sleeps: Two
This hanok retreat is the sister stay to the Bukchon heritage house. Perfect for couples, this classic homestead offers complete privacy in the heart of the city. This Airbnb has also been used as a filming location for various Korean broadcasts and entertainment programs. With your own meditation tea room, outdoor spa and luxury amenities, disconnect in your own urban refuge after visiting Gyeongbokgung palace, or explore the residential Bukchon Hanok village.
“This hanok stay was a honeymoon treat for my husband and myself and it was so far above and beyond our expectations!” notes one five-star review. “The location offered a quiet retreat from the hustle of Seoul, but the full vibrant life of the city was still just around the corner. Ten out of five stars, absolutely!”
Reasons to stay:
- Private hot tub
- Fully-fenced private backyard
- Six-minute walk from Anguk Station
- 15-minute walk to Gyeongbokgung palace
Location: Mapo-gu
Sleeps: Four
This unique industrial space offers modern living in one of the most bustling cities. Two bed and two bath, this Airbnb has multiple floors offering spatial living for up to four guests. There are numerous dining and entertainment options near you, such as in the vibrant neighbourhood of Hongdae. Other sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and other historic sites are just a subway or taxi away, offering the opportunity to explore both the arts and entertainment scene as well as Seoul’s enigmatic history.
On the location, previous guests were thrilled by its comfort and convenience. “We love this spacious house tucked away in a quaint and cool area in Hongdae, and at the same time walkable to all the cool spots and amenities,” said one reviewer. Another reviewer said: “The location is relatively quiet, with lots of nice cafes and restaurants. The nearest bus stop is about 5 minutes on foot, and about 10 minutes to the subway. Absolutely no problem. We recommend the place and would love to come again.”
Reasons to stay:
- City skyline view
- Near Yeonnam Park
- Private hot tub
- 15-minute walk from Hongdae shopping street
- 15-minute walk to Hongik University Station
Location: Jongno-gu
Sleeps: Four
This beautifully remodelled hanok is a perfect combination of traditional design and modern amenities with exclusive use for up to four guests. Its convenient central location gives you access to the best local restaurants and cafés, and is only a five-minute walk to Anguk Station.
“I wish I could give this place 50 stars. This was such a beautiful space. Everything from the furniture to the decor was so thoughtfully designed and tastefully curated. This place felt like a vacation for our vacation. The host is very responsive and helpful,” said one guest who gave five-stars.
Reasons to stay:
- Courtyard view and private backyard
- Private hot tub
- 50-inch HDTV with Netflix
- Five-minute walk to Anguk Station
Location: Gangnam
Sleeps: Five
Located in the heart of Gangnam lies a contemporary three-bed, three-bath stay for up to five guests. It’s superior location, close to COEX Mall, Apgujeong Rodeo Street, and Cheongdam-dong, this stay is for those who are interested in a more modern side of Seoul. From luxury shopping to fantastic nightlife, there’s plenty to see and do this side of town.
“The location is unbeatable, with easy access to the subway and bus stations, making it incredibly convenient to explore all that Seoul has to offer. I visited trendy cafes, restaurants, and shopping areas, which were all within walking distance. I highly recommend this place,” says one five-star reviewer.
Reasons to stay:
- One-minute walk to COEX shopping mall
- Five-minutes from Samsung Station
- 20-minute drive to Bukhansan National Park
Location: Jongno-gu
Sleeps: Two
If you’re up for little relaxation and rejuvenation on your trip to Seoul, this hanok in Jongno-gu has its own bamboo moss garden, hot tub and is in a stunning central location for a romantic getaway for two. This stay is also in close proximity to Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace.
“This was one of the most beautiful stays we’ve had in all of our Korea trips. The attention to detail, the perfectly curated peace, the host went above and beyond. The space itself was spotless and literally a dream home for those who love quiet, clean, and cozy homes. Everything inside and out of the home was such high quality and the neighbourhood itself was near so many great restaurants and cafes. We will most definitely be back!” said one guest who gave it five-stars.
Reasons to stay:
- Bamboo moss garden
- Shared hot tub
- Proximity to Bukchon Hanok Village
- Proximity to Anguk Station
What is the best area to stay in Seoul?
The best area to stay in Seoul depends on the purpose of your trip. Whether you’re after some luxury shopping, or want to get immediately swept up in the culturally significant sites, there are many beautiful districts to stay, eat, shop and inspire.
If you are after a traditional home stay in one of South Korea’s hanoks, then we recommend staying close to Bukchon Hanok Village, one of the capitals most historical areas. This quiet and residential area will also find yourself within a reasonable distance to Gyeongbokgung Palace via public transport. Most hanoks on Airbnb have been updated with modern technology, but still offer a quiet and private sanctuary to come home to after a long day.
If you want some more vibrant evening activities, Myeongdong – often considered the Times Square of Seoul – is the perfect offering as it has everything from restaurants, tourist attractions and food stalls such as the Myeongdong Night Market. Myeongdong station is often where group tours depart from, offering a convenient central location to embark on your travels. Another central location is Insadong. With its art galleries, teahouses and lesser-known temples, its another great stay to learn about Korean tradition while still being central enough to visit every corner of the city.
For shopping, street food and nightlife, we recommend Hongdae for its youthful edge. Other popular neighbourhoods include Dongdaemun and Gangnam – with the latter being well known as one of the top luxury shopping districts.
To make the most out of your trip, find accommodation that is close to public transport or within a reasonable walking distance from the sites you wish to visit the most. Seoul has an efficient subway system that can make travel easy.
Which is the best month to visit Seoul?
While Seoul has something exciting to offer all year round, the best month to visit is spring (April, May June), and autumn (September, October, November). Often, the summertime can be blistering hot and congested with tourists, while in winter the weather drops considerably and the city can be subjected to dry winds and snow. However, the winter conditions often means that travel can be cheaper, so keep your eye out on the best travel deals that time of year.
In spring, admire the cherry blossoms in Namsan Park or experience the Yeon Deung Hoe Lotus Lantern Festival that occurs in May. In Autumn, witness beautiful foliage, cooler weather, and enjoy the city’s festivities such as the Hanwha Seoul International Fireworks Festival, or travel north to Seoraksan National Park early Autumn to see the leaves change colour.
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