South Korea has proven itself to be a hub of creativity and culture, as demonstrated by the global success of artists like Psy, films like Parasite, and the hit show Squid Game. One of the main highlights of this vibrant nation is its capital city, Seoul, a blend of modernity and tradition. Here, towering skyscrapers coexist harmoniously with traditional temples, bustling fashion districts, trendy rooftop bars, charming teahouses, and serene public parks.
When it comes to accommodation, South Korea offers a diverse range of options. From lavish five-star international hotel chains to elegant boutique accommodations and hidden gem guest houses, there is something to suit every traveler's needs. Each hotel boasts its unique style and amenities, catering to both leisure and business travelers. For those looking to stay in a particular district, say, near the artistic heart of the city, you can find a curated selection of accommodations on https://www.seoulhotelspage.com/en/near-mapo-gu-dr284094/.
To explore the best that Seoul has to offer in terms of lodging, from high-end luxurious resorts to affordable, cozy establishments, visiting tophotels.com can help you discover the perfect place for your stay in this dynamic city.
If you're seeking luxury, look no further than the internationally renowned hotels in South Korea. These establishments epitomize extravagance, complete with opulent interiors and top-notch facilities. Additionally, design enthusiasts will find delight in the boutique hotels, characterized by their innovative and artistic aesthetics.
English isn’t widely spoken in South Korea so travelling around the country still feels like an adventure and a brilliant public transport system makes it a breeze to scoot from the capital to beach hotels on Jeju Island, to Busan’s Miami-like resorts, to quaint hot spring retreats and to mountain hideaways set inside vast national parks.
Our travel journalism is written and edited by independent experts to inform, inspire and advise our readers about the best choices for your holidays. We also feature properties and itineraries from a specially selected list of trusted operators. These buttons and adverts are clearly signposted, and provide direct links through to external sites. If you click and buy a product, we may earn revenue.
Park Hyatt Seoul (Booking.com)
1. Park Hyatt Seoul
Best for Gangnam style
Located in the heart of Gangnam, known for its trendy and upscale atmosphere, the Park Hyatt Seoul offers a luxurious five-star experience. The stylishly designed rooms provide breathtaking views of the surrounding high-rise buildings adorned with vibrant LED screens showcasing K-pop icons. Take in the futuristic scenery while indulging in delectable meals at the rooftop restaurant, lounging by the granite infinity-edge swimming pool, or pampering yourself at the Ocelas Spa relaxation rooms.
Spa: Yes
Pool: Yes
Price: £££
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Gangnam, home to numerous entertainment venues, shopping centers, and cultural sites. With its central location and sleek design, the Park Hyatt Seoul offers a perfect blend of comfort and style for a memorable stay in South Korea's capital city.
Four Seasons Seoul (Booking.com)
2. Four Seasons Seoul
Best for culture
Just across the road from Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine and Bukchon Hanok Village, this cosseting luxury hotel combines the warmth of traditional Korean hospitality with every cool contemporary comfort. The public spaces are both opulent and inviting — decked out in smouldering bronze tones, with white-gold armchairs and beautiful floral displays — and there’s a restaurant for every night of the week (look out for the artefacts unearthed below the Market Kitchen). The room to book is the Palace View Executive, which comes with club lounge access and views of the royal complex.
Spa Y
Pool Y
Price £££
Hilton Gyeongju
3. Hilton Gyeongju
Best for cherry blossom
This large international resort is set on the shores of picture-perfect Lake Bomun, which is ringed with 9,000 king cherry trees. In April, they burst into bloom creating a vision of pink, attracting crowds from across South Korea, who come for picnics, parties, concerts and the annual Gyeongju cherry blossom marathon. Rooms aren’t terribly exciting but all have balconies with park, mountain and lake views. Elsewhere, there’s an indoor swimming pool, squash courts, a jogging trail and a clutch of bars and restaurants.
Spa Y
Pool Y
Price ££
The Shilla Jeju
4. Experience Luxury and Adventure at The Shilla Jeju
Indulge in the pristine beaches: Located on the breathtaking volcanic island of Jeju, The Shilla Jeju offers the perfect retreat for beach lovers. Situated just a ten-minute walk away from the Jungmun beach, guests can immerse themselves in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying the sun-kissed sandy shores.
A Haven for Leisure: As you step into this Hamptons-inspired low-rise resort, you will be greeted with three lagoon-shaped swimming pools catering to different needs. Whether you are seeking a family-friendly pool, a serene pool for adults, or even an indoor pool for the winter months, The Shilla Jeju has it all. Apart from the pools, the resort is adorned with beautifully landscaped gardens and offers a plethora of leisure facilities, including a renowned Guerlain spa and a casino exclusively open to foreigners.
With its prime location, The Shilla Jeju also provides access to a wide range of nearby activities, allowing guests to explore the island's natural wonders. From invigorating mountain treks to horse riding, mountain biking, and even sailing adventures, there's something for every adventurous soul.
Make the most of your stay: While embracing luxury and relaxation, you can pamper yourself at the onsite Guerlain spa, indulge in the various pools, and engage in exciting outdoor pursuits. The Shilla Jeju offers an unforgettable experience, making it the ideal choice for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure.
Spa: Yes
Pool: Yes
Price Range: £££
Signiel Seoul
5. The Extravagant Signiel Seoul
Perfect for those seeking a lavish experience
Situated between the 76th and 101st storeys of the soaring 123-floor Lotte World Tower (currently the highest edifice in Korea at a staggering 555 meters), a sojourn at the Signiel Seoul rewards you with jaw-dropping vistas of South Korea's vibrant capital city. Its interiors are just as awe-inspiring, characterized by ultra-premium rooms adorned in shades of cream and lilac along with floral touches; a state-of-the-art Evian spa complete with steam rooms, saunas, and hydrotherapy pools; an innovative French eatery led by renowned chef Yannick Alleno, and a bar boasting the most extensive collection of champagnes in the entire nation.
Spa Available
Pool Available
Price High-end
Grand Hyatt Seoul
6. The Grand Hyatt, Seoul
Top Choice for Families
The Grand Hyatt, located in the heart of Seoul, is the perfect haven for families. It's just a brief, leisurely stroll to the Namsan Botanical Gardens, and the property comes complete with impressive amenities such as a summertime outdoor pool and a winter ice-skating rink. The rooms are generously spaced, offering sprawling views of the Han River and including the convenience of roll-away beds. Each of the six restaurants presents a children's menu and kids under the age of four can enjoy meals at no charge. Moreover, kids under twelve receive a generous fifty per cent off their meals.
Interestingly, the Grand Hyatt stands out as an environmentally friendly hotel. It has implemented several measures aiming to reduce water consumption, energy usage, and waste production, reflecting a broader effort of sustainability in its operation. Also, the hotel offers easy accessibility -- it's just a 10-minute walk away from Namsan Park, a popular spot for hiking, panoramic city views, and picnicking!
Soothing Spa: Available
Pool: Available
Rate range: Moderate
Park Hyatt Busan (Booking.com)
7. Park Hyatt Busan
Perfect for those seeking a waterfront escape
Nestled in the upscale Haeundae Marine city waterfront, with breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and the iconic Gwangang Bridge, the Park Hyatt Busan offers a sleek and modern retreat reminiscent of Miami's stunning architecture. The sky garden on the 30th floor serves as a unique check-in spot, leading guests to elegant rooms adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious granite bathrooms. To unwind after a day at Haeundae beach, indulge in the Lumi Spa's seven private rooms tailored to rejuvenate your body and soul, offering a harmony of spa treatments blending both traditional Korean techniques and European influences.
Enhance your stay with luxurious spa and pool experiences
Boasting a world-class spa facility, the Park Hyatt Busan pampers guests with a tranquil retreat to melt away stress and tension. From Korean-inspired treatments to European-style indulgences, the Lumi Spa promises an unparalleled spa experience. The hotel also features a refreshing pool, allowing visitors to cool off and enjoy the relaxing ambiance. With its exceptional services and mesmerizing waterfront location, the Park Hyatt Busan invites travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty of South Korea's coastal charm.
Facilities:
Spa: Yes
Pool: Yes
Price: £££
Signiel Busan
8. Signiel Busan
Best for its infinity pool
Located in the LCT Tower soaring above Busan’s Haeundae beach and Mipo Harbour, this upscale design led hotel offers smart modern rooms with sea view balconies, restaurants overseen by chef Bruno Menard and a wealth of facilities, including a Chantecaille spa, sky gardens and a forest-themed children’s lounge with a library and activity zones. The scene-stealer is the curvaceous sixth-floor infinity pool shooting out towards the crescent bay. It’s spectacular by day and even more impressive at night with the harbourfront city twinkling out front.
Spa Y
Pool Y
Price £££
Kensington Hotel Seorak
9. Kensington Hotel Seorak, Sokcho
Perfect for: Exploring the Majestic Mountains
The Kensington Hotel Seorak in Sokcho offers a unique blend of English decor and a prime location in the breathtaking Seoraksan National Park. As a designated Unesco biosphere protection site, this park showcases magnificent mountain peaks, dense pine forests, mesmerizing granite cliffs, mystical caves, cascading waterfalls, serene rock pools, and ancient Buddhist temples such as Sinheung-sa, which traces back its origins to the seventh century.
Upon returning to the hotel after a day of adventure, you have the option to stay in a traditional Korean-style ondon room with toasty heated floors and cozy futons, or choose a western-style bedroom with a luxurious ensuite bathroom. The choice is yours, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
For those seeking relaxation, the hotel offers a soothing spa experience, perfect for rejuvenating your senses. Additionally, you can take a refreshing dip in the pool to cool off during the warmer months.
With its picture-perfect location, array of amenities, and cultural experiences, the Kensington Hotel Seorak invites you to indulge in the wonders of South Korea's natural beauty and hospitality.
Lotte Hotel World
10. Lotte Hotel World, Seoul
Looking for a family-friendly hotel in Gangnam, Seoul? Lotte Hotel World is the perfect choice! With exclusive access to Lotte World Aquarium and Lotte World Adventure, it's like having South Korea's version of Universal Studios right at your doorstep. Make sure to check out their package deals that include tickets to these exciting attractions!
Experience a stay like no other in one of their 469 stylishly decorated rooms, featuring calming wheat and oatmeal tones. For a truly unique experience, consider booking one of their character-themed rooms that pay tribute to the Lotte World Adventure mascots. Imagine having a wine-drinking pig, karaoke-singing hippo, or a Spanish pirate as your room inspiration!
When you're not exploring the theme parks, there are plenty of amenities to keep you entertained. Take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, relax in the Finnish saunas, practice your golf swing at the driving range, and indulge in some retail therapy at the shopping arcade.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to create lasting memories with your family at Lotte Hotel World in Seoul!
Spa: N
Pool: Y
Price: ££
Banyan Tree Club and Spa Seoul
11. Banyan Tree Club and Spa, Seoul
Best for a spa break
Situated on the maple-covered slopes of Mount Namsam, this urban resort brings soothing respite from the action-packed capital. Housed in a mid-century tower designed by Kim Swoo Geun (the architect behind the curvaceous Seoul Olympic Stadium), it has sleek modern interiors and a multitude of leisure facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a golf driving range and an ice-skating rink. The spa is one of the best in the city with a wide range of Asian wellness treatments and therapies.
Spa Y
Pool Y
Price £££
JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square
12. JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square in Seoul
Top choice for shopping enthusiasts
Located exclusively in the Dongdaemun area, renowned for bustling shopping centres, indoor markets, independent fashion designers, and the charming Chunggyeecheon Stream, is the only luxurious hotel - JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square. Spend the day shopping to your heart's content, then retreat into the modern elegance surrounding you. Enjoy the LEED-certified indoor pool, rejuvenate at the L'Occitane spa, and head up to the rooftop Griffin Bar, sparkling under the twinkling fairy lights at dusk, before settling into your serene room.
Did you know? The infection prevention measures at the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square have received global recognition, ensuring your safety during your stay. Additionally, its proximity to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza makes it a favorite among design and architecture enthusiasts.
Spa Available
Swimming Pool Available
Price bracket Mid-high
RYSE Hotel
Description of RYSE Hotel, Seoul
Rising in popularity among the younger crowd, RYSE Hotel in Seoul is a trendy boutique hotel situated in the vibrant Hongdae district, just a stone's throw away from Hongkik University. As part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, this hotel exudes urban chic with its sleek rooms adorned in shades of steely blue and grey, showcasing captivating local artwork on the walls. Adding a touch of nostalgia, you'll find retro board games in the cupboard, creating an inviting and playful atmosphere.
Aside from the striking cityscape views, RYSE offers a range of unique amenities and experiences. For sportswear enthusiasts, there is a shop selling limited edition items, catering to the latest trends. If you're a music lover or a collector of vintage vinyl, the well-stocked library will surely catch your attention. You can also immerse yourself in niche magazines or get a workout at the 24-hour gym.
Food and beverage options at RYSE are diverse and exciting. The hotel features a grill restaurant, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Additionally, there are two bars to choose from, each offering its own distinct ambiance. The rooftop bar serves up delicious cocktails, accompanied by DJ sets, perfect for a night of entertainment under the stars. Meanwhile, the speakeasy bar boasts its own unique spirits, providing a one-of-a-kind drinking experience.
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, RYSE also offers spa facilities for your indulgence. And if you fancy a refreshing swim, there's a pool available as well.
In terms of pricing, RYSE Hotel falls within the mid-range ££ category, offering excellent value for your money considering the luxurious amenities and unique experiences it provides.
If you're a fan of stylish accommodations, vibrant neighborhoods, and immersive local culture, RYSE Hotel in Seoul should be at the top of your list when planning your visit to South Korea.
Nest Hotel (Booking.com)
14. Nest Hotel, Incheon
Perfect for those who appreciate unique design
Nest Hotel, located in Incheon, is not your average airport hotel. Surrounded by picturesque fields of swaying reeds and tidelands, the hotel draws inspiration from the artistic cubist movement. As you step into the light-filled lobby, you'll be captivated by its soaring ceilings, expansive glass walls, and exposed concrete beams that perfectly frame the surrounding scenery.
The rooms at Nest Hotel seamlessly blend modernity with elegance, featuring polished walls, hardwood floors, and angular furniture. Each room also boasts a private balcony, inviting you to enjoy the tranquility of nature. For your convenience, the Kunst Lounge offers a charming coffee shop and a well-stocked library, while the all-day dining restaurant, Platz, provides a captivating backdrop with panoramic views of the striking landscape.
If you're in need of relaxation, the hotel's spa, known as 'N', will cater to your every need. You can also take a refreshing dip in the pool to unwind after a long day of exploration in the Incheon area.
With its exceptional design, stunning surroundings, and impeccable amenities, Nest Hotel offers a truly unforgettable experience for travelers seeking something out of the ordinary.
Grand Hyatt Jeju (Booking.com)
15. The Majestic Grand Hyatt Jeju, Set Amidst the Splendors of Jeju Islands
Most Suited for: Stunning downtown luxury
The Grand Hyatt Jeju holds distinction as Hyatt's biggest Asian-Pacific property and is housed within one of the towering dual structures of the ultra-modern Jeju Dream Tower. This downtown location is enveloped by the fashionable districts famous for novel dining and shopping experiences, namely Jeju Dongmum Market and Nuwemaru Street, yet it's just a 15-minute journey to the serenity of the beach. The hotel boasts 1,600 spaciously welcoming rooms that feature panoramic windows stretching from floor-to-ceiling, affording guests unsurpassable vistas of the bustling city, the tranquil sea, and the imposing Halla Mountain, South Korea's pinnacle peak. The facility also incorporates a colossal infinity pool, a luxurious spa replicating a traditional bathhouse complete with ice and salt therapy rooms, as well as 14 exceptional eateries that serve a range of cuisines including Korean barbecue, hot pot, and Italian, in addition to an international buffet. Despite its magnitude, the Grand Hyatt ensures bespoke and intensely attentive services for its guests.
Spa: Yes
Pool: Yes
Price: Premium