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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.
So where exactly should you stay? For this I asked my most fashionable and well-travelled colleagues to give me the insight on their experience.
“For many travellers, Gangnam’s claim to fame begins and ends with a certain viral song. In reality, Seoul’s most polished neighbourhood has long been setting the style agenda. And if there were ever a hotel that embodied the area’s understated glamour, it’s Park Hyatt,” recommends Shopping Editor Phoebe Youl. “The people-watching alone is worth the reservation. From impeccably dressed locals grabbing their morning coffee to the stylish crowd drifting through the lobby.”
GT‘s top picks for Seoul in 2026
- Best for couples: Signiel Seoul
- Best for families: Conrad Seoul
- Best for business: Fairmont Ambassador Seoul
- Best for location: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
- Best for shopping: L’Escape, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- Best for wellness: Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
“Insa-dong in the Jongno District is my favourite place to stay,” adds campaign executive Olivia Lan. “There’s always something interesting around the corner. It’s also quieter than areas like Hongdae or Myeongdong, while still offering plenty of culture and art. Attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong Culture Street and Bukchon Hanok Village are all close by.”
Fashion and beauty writer Maddy Wilson is a frequent visitor to Seoul and knows exactly where she likes to stay. “Any time I travel to Seoul, I always try to stay in Hannam or Itaewon,” she says. “They are hubs for the most stylish, effortlessly cool parts of the city, where you’re just as likely to find moody wine bars as you are the latest fashion-forward brands.”
Her hotel of choice is Mondrian Seoul Itaewon. “From the rooftop bar overlooking Namsan Tower to the Pilates studio, sauna and multiple pools, it has everything I look for in a stay.”
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.
You might also like A traditional hanok with modern comforts for your next Seoul stay
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
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Enjoy five-star luxury in the form of an urban wellness hotel at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, combining the collections signature warmth with famed Korean hospitality. There are just 50 rooms and suites, with many featuring their own private plunge pool and Namsan mountain or city views. Three restaurants and a bar cover everything from refined pan-Asian cuisine at Granum Dining Lounge to casual poolside bites and cocktails at The Festa Bistro & Bar. Nestled on the forested slopes of Namsan Mountain, you’ll be just 11-minutes away from Seoul Tower, and with easy access to Myeongdong and Itaewon.
Address: 60 Jangchungdan-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
L’Escape, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Myeongdong
For luxury that leans into glamour and sophistication, there is none other like L’Escape. Located in the heart of the city near premier shopping and street food districts, this distinguished hotel is coveted for its perfect location, exquisite dining options – including Michelin-starred French cuisine – and rooms that recall the bygone glamor of 19th-century Paris. A sunlit Winter Garden, a French salon-style library, and La Maison Boutique lounge are just a few of the many chic surprises to explore.
Address: 67 Toegye-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Best hotels in Jongno-gu (Jongno District, Seoul)
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
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
Conrad Seoul
Positioned in the Yeouido Business District – Seoul’s financial hub – the Conrad Seoul is five-star luxury built for convenience. The hotel sits directly inside IFC Seoul, giving guests quick and easy access to one of the city’s premier luxury malls, a cinema, and dozens of restaurants without stepping outside. Its location also provides a backdrop to breathtaking views of the Han River and Seoul skyline. Each room is designed with all the contemporary amenities and comforts for a stay fit for both business and pleasure.
Address: 10 Gukjegeumyung-ro, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, 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 Seoul
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.
Despite its prime position in one of Seoul’s busiest districts, the hotel’s atmosphere brings an unmistakable sense of calm that feels increasingly rare in a city of nearly 10 million people — Phoebe Youl, Shopping Editor
Address: 606, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 135502, South Korea
The Westin Seoul Parnas
This Marriott address is all about balance and wellness, offering an abundance of health and recovery station for your convenience. The Cosmopolitan Fitness Club even spans two floors, featuring Technogym equipment, personal trainers, a yoga room, screen golf, putting systems, body recovery stations and more. Ideally located in the vibrant Gangnam district, The Westin Seoul Parnas offers a restorative stay, from the renovated rooms with signature Heavenly Bed through to the culinary offerings. In the morning, start your day at On:Table with a wellness shot at breakfast followed by a buffet of Korean and Western dishes before exploring the connected COEX Mall to get a little shopping in.
Address: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea
Best hotels in Yongsan-gu (Yongsan District, Seoul)
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon offers a completely unique, sensory experience; from the immersive scents throughout the hotel to the bold designs and cultural touchstones. The lifestyle hotel is full of vibrant artworks and sculptural furnishings with pops of colours that feel designer. The restaurant Cleo has a Hollywood-meets-Mediterranean vibe serving all-day Mediterranean sharing plates, though if you’re after something more relaxed, visit Privilege rooftop bar for the best single malts and wines as well as panoramic views of Seoul.
The hotel also houses a sprawling lower-level arcade filled with cafes, speciality restaurants, salons and small boutique stores, making it incredibly easy to settle in and never really want to leave” — Maddy Wilson, Shopping Writer
Address: 23 Jangmun-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, 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.
