Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea

South Korea isn’t at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. However, in recent years, K-pop and Korean food have firmly put the South Korean capital on everyone’s radar. Seoul is a safe city, making it a great destination for families and solo travelers alike. There is something for everyone, with ski resorts, beaches, and vibrant urban areas to explore.

Insa-dong

If you are looking for traditional Korean culture and food, Insa-dong is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seoul. It is rich in traditional culture, food, and architecture, serving as the center of traditional Korean art.

In this area, you will find:

• Loads of shops selling traditional items such as paper, hanbok outfits, and pens, perfect for taking home as gifts.
• A pedestrian-friendly main street closed to cars on weekends, featuring stalls and booths.
• Opportunities to buy traditional Korean candy and gifts, and even have your fortune told!

If you plan on visiting any of the city’s palaces, this is the best location to stay as it is centrally located.

Myeong-dong

Seoul’s shopping scene attracts millions of tourists every month. If shopping is your primary reason for visiting, consider staying in Myeong-dong. Here, you will find a great selection of shops and boutiques, mostly targeting a youthful crowd, making the area particularly popular with Korean and Japanese students.

If you love Korean beauty and skincare, most major Korean beauty brands have flagship stores here.

Another great reason to stay in Myeong-dong is the food. The main shopping area is closed to cars, allowing the streets to be lined with street food stalls selling: