Seoul Hotels

Seoul, the capital and largest city of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and vibrant culture. Seoul has been the political and economic center of the country for centuries. The city is known for its modern architecture, high-tech industries, and world-class universities. 

Seoul has a long history, with its origins dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The city has been the capital of Korea for over 600 years and has played a significant role in the country’s political and cultural development.

Things To Know Before Going To Seoul

• Seoul is generally safe, but take usual big-city precautions
• The emergency number is 112
• Tipping is not common at all in Seoul
• Google maps doesn’t show walking directions in South Korea
• Underground subway shopping is a big thing in the city
• Entry to Seoul’s palaces is free if you wear a hanbok
• Seoul touris offers amazing free guided walking tours
• Koreans are generally relaces about attire
• Seoul has a temperate climate with dry, cold winters and hot, wet summers

Where To Stay In Seoul?

Some popular and recommended areas include:

• Myeongdong: known for its central location, excellent transport links, shopping, restaurants, and street food. 
• Hongdae: a student neighborhood popular with youngsters, offering late-night entertainment, K-Pop street performers, and trendy shopping.
• Insadong: it’s a great spot to experience the traditional side of Seoul.
• Yeonnam-dong: a peaceful neighborhood near Hongdae Shopping Street, known for its abundance of cafés and convenience stores.
• Gwanghwamun / Gyeongbok  Palace: a convenient location for tourists interested in history and culture. 

Best Hotels In Seoul

Here is a table for the best hotels in Seoul across different categories:

Find cheap hotels in Seoul!

Best Places to Visit In Seoul

• Bukchon Hanok Village: A great place to experience traditional Korean architecture and local culture.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace: One of the most iconic and largest palaces in Korea, offering a glimpse into the country's royal history.
• Myeongdong: A bustling shopping district known for its vibrant street food, fashion, and cosmetic stores.
• Namsan Seoul Tower: An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and various attractions at the top.
• War Memorial of Korea: A large museum dedicated to the history of the Korean War and the military history of Korea.
• Hongik University area: A lively neighborhood with a vibrant arts and culture scene, including street performances, trendy shops, and nightlife.
• Seoul City Wall: A historic wall once surrounded Seoul, offering scenic walking paths and a glimpse into the city's past.
• Han River (Hangang) Parks: A great place for outdoor activities, picnics, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Han River.

Is Seoul Safe?

Seoul is generally considered a safe city to visit, including for solo female travelers.

Is Seoul Expensive To Visit?

Seoul can be an affordable destination to visit depending on your travel style and preference. A budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $700 to $1500 for a 2-night and 3-day trip to Seoul.

Seoul Currency

Official Seoul currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). 

Seoul Language

The official language of Seoul is Korean. The Korean language is spoken by over 75 million people worldwide, with 48 million speakers in South Korea and 24 million in North Korea.

Time Zone of Seoul

Seoul is in the Korea Standard (KST) zone, UTC+9. South Korea observes Korean Standard Time all year, and there are no Daylight Time clock changes.

Ideal Number of Days to Explore Seoul

The ideal number of days to explore Seoul, depending on your interests and travel style. However, most travelers recommend spending at least 3–5 days in Seoul. 

Best Time To Visit Seoul

The best time to visit Tokyo is during the spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

• Spring (March to May): Mild weather, and cherry blossoms bloom, covering the city in pink and white flowers.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with occasional typhoons.
• Autumn (September to November): Mild weather and the leaves change color, offering a vibrant display of red, orange, and yellow hues.
• Winter (December to February): Cold but dry, with winter illuminations and winter sports in nearby areas.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Seoul?

When you decide to visit Seoul, it is recommended to bring lightweight and breathable clothes for summer, including shorts, t-shirts, and dresses. For spring and autumn, pack layers like light jackets or sweaters. Winter requires warm clothing like heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and thermal socks.

Best Seoul Foods to Eat

• Pajeon: A Korean savory pancake made with green onions and a variety of seafood or meat.
• Japchae: A sweet and savory dish of stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables.
• Kimbap: A popular Korean dish made from steamed white rice and various other ingredients, rolled in gym (dried seaweed) and served in bite-sized slices.
• Bulgogi: Thinly sliced or shredded beef marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, and other ingredients, then grilled.
• Seolleongtang: A Korean broth tang (soup) made from ox bones, brisket, and other cuts.
• Samgyetang: A Korean chicken soup made with a small, whole chicken and filled with sticky rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube.
• Kalguksu: A Korean noodle dish consisting of handmade, knife-cut wheat flour noodles served in a large bowl with broth and other ingredients.
• Donkatsu: A breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet.
• Dakgangjeong: A crispy and crunchy Korean fried chicken dish.

Exploring the Electrifying Nightlife of Seoul

The city offers a variety of options for every visitor, from high-end dining in Gangnam to street drinking in Jongno. Some popular areas for nightlife include:

• Itaewon: Known for its international district, Itaewon is a popular destination for partying and nightlife.
• Gangnam: A trendy and upscale area, Gangnam is home to numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
• Jongno: A historic area, Jongno is known for its street drinking culture and lively nightlife.
• Hongdae: A trendy and artsy neighborhood, Hongdae is home to many bars, clubs, and live music venues.