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With tourism rapidly surging in the South Korean capital, there’s no doubt that Seoul’s charming yet cutting-edge metropolis has landed on your radar in recent years.
A trendsetting and expansive city, Seoul offers a vibrant flux: from modern skyscrapers to centuries-old temples dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. And with luxury hotels to match, this city of tradition, technology, K-culture, and fashion is firmly on the bucket list for globetrotters seeking high-end experiences.
If you’re visiting Seoul this year, elevate your city jaunt with a stay at one of the best hotels in South Korea’s capital, from lavish suites to poolside villas.
GT‘s top picks for Seoul in 2025
- The Shilla (here’s why)
- Four Seasons Hotel (here’s why)
- Signiel Seoul (here’s why)
- Sofitel Ambassador Hotel (here’s why)
- Fairmont Ambassador (here’s why)
- Josun Palace (here’s why)
- Park Hyatt (here’s why)
Best hotels in Jung-gu (Jung District, Seoul)
The Shilla
This award-winning Five-Star luxury accommodation bestows peaceful tranquillity alongside its time-honoured hospitality. The recently renovated hotel is located on Namsan Mountain in Seoul’s historic centre and offers world-class rooms and facilities, including a restaurant with two Michelin stars and a designer mall. With rooms boasting mountain or city views, enjoy a complimentary breakfast and a wander through the sculpture garden before heading to Myeongdong Shopping Street to discover the best in Korean skincare and fashion.
Address: 249 Dongho-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04605, South Korea
Best hotels in Jongno-gu (Jongno District, Seoul)
Four Seasons Hotel
A highly coveted hotel with prestige locations across the globe, the Four Seasons in Seoul brings contemporary elegance and world-class dining with notes of traditional Korean experiences. Located in the bustling Jongno District, the Four Seasons is surrounded by the city’s top attractions. Just steps from the must-see Gwanghwamun Plaza, the hotel is also a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sejong Art Center, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and City Hall. With 24-hour reception service, experience luxe respite at the in-house spa, golf zone, swimming pool, fitness centre, or the Korean sauna for a deluxe stay.
Address: 97, Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03183, South Korea
Best Hotels in Songpa-gu (Songpa District, Seoul)
Signiel Seoul
A powerhouse in contemporary architecture, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline in the Lotte World Tower – the sixth tallest building in the world. Buffet breakfasts, a full-service spa, and health club are just a few of the refined experiences available during your stay. If indulging your appetite is on the cards, a specially curated menu from Michelin chef Yannick Alléno will have all five senses entangled in luxury. Located near your stay are the heritage Olympic Park and Songpa Naru Park for a scenic stroll.
Address: Lotte World Tower 76F-101F 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05551, South Korea
Sofitel Ambassador Hotel
Another internationally renowned hotel overlooking the splendid Seokchon Lake, the Sofitel is in the Songpa District in the southeastern part of Seoul. With its notes of Parisian charm – from its marble lobby to its in-class hospitality – it is also the best hotel spot to encounter the cherry blossoms in full bloom along the lake for an exclusive experience come springtime. With a pool, fitness centre, and culinary experiences from France, Japan, and beyond, the Sofitel is a playful yet prestigious experience for an unparalleled stay.
Address: 209, Jamsil-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05552, South Korea
Best hotels in Yeongdeungpo-gu (Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul)
Fairmont Ambassador
Designed by world-renowned architect Richard Rogers and situated in the residential island and business centre of Yeouido, the Fairmont Ambassador in Seoul combines unparalleled luxury with optimal locality. This stay is perfect for either business or pleasure and is close to the unmissable Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, as well as coveted shopping districts and buildings. With superb wellness facilities and dining experiences, this is one of the top luxury stays in Seoul.
Address: 108 Yeoui Daero, Yeongdeungpo Gu, Seoul, 7335, South Korea
Best hotels in Gangnam-gu (Gangnam District, Seoul)
Josun Palace
A vibrant and sophisticated hotel experience awaits at Josun Palace. Plush furnishings add softness to the art deco architecture, creating an experience that aims to tickle the senses. The hotel offers an indoor pool, sauna, fitness centre, and four top-rated restaurants. Situated in the affluent Gangnam district, guests are just steps away from the bustling shopping and entertainment quarter, including attractions like COEX Mall and Apgujeong’s fashion boutiques.
Address: 231, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06142, South Korea
Park Hyatt
Taste ultimate relaxation in your private suite, a warm and polished sanctuary offering the luxury of a deep soaking bathtub and rainfall showerhead. Luxury amenities and recreational facilities are at your disposal, while the hotel’s restaurant, Cornerstone, offers home-style Italian dishes and a vast array of Italian boutique wines. Located in Gangnam, you are an arm’s stretch from shopping malls, museums, and cultural sites in this buzzing modern district.
Address: 606, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 135502, South Korea
The choice between a hotel and a guesthouse depends entirely on the type of stay you’re looking for in Seoul. The city’s finest hotels offer recreational amenities often unavailable at guesthouses or Airbnbs, including wellness and fitness centres, in-house Michelin-starred restaurants, and 24-hour concierge service. However, Seoul also boasts a wealth of guesthouse accommodations ideal for globetrotters seeking a more immersive cultural experience. For those who still want to connect with Seoul’s cultural offerings while enjoying hotel comforts, many hotels provide recommendations and guided tours to local historical sites.
The city of Seoul is made up of 25 districts, however there are a few distinct neighbourhoods that attract visitors. The quiet and residential Bukchon Hanok Village is recognised as one of the capitals most historical areas, and is close to Gyeongbokgung Palace via public transport. Myeongdong is also a popular district known for its 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. Other popular and central locations include Insadong and Hondae, both infused with a youthful nature. Gangnam is the district of style, and is 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. Luckily, the capital has an efficient subway system that can make travel easy, and most hotels are centrally located.
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