Wondering about the coolest hotels in Seoul? When it comes to cool and comfy accommodations, no other city in South Korea comes close to the capital, Seoul.
Seoul is a city that straggles between the contemporary and the ancient. It has both, the modern elements and the legacies of traditional times.
The history buffs can spend the night in a hanok as the jetsetter dozes off in a luxurious gold-accented room. The backpackers looking for hip hotels in Seoul will also be pleased with the variety of options.
To say it simply, this cosmopolitan city is home to a range of hotels from those built in traditional style to the swanky 5-stars.
Seoul is a city where trends reign supreme and it reflects in its lodgings too.
This travel guide shares 15 best hotels in Seoul to stay at.
Seoul essentials
- The best time to visit Seoul is during the months of April, May, September, and October.
- Since foreign credit and debit cards don’t always work, we recommend that you bring some extra cash.
- Consider getting the discover Seoul pass which covers 35 of Seoul’s best tourist attractions. At the same time, it also functions as a T-money rechargeable card that can be used on public transport.
- The best place to stay in Seoul is Myeongdong or Insadong. Check out our guide about where to stay in Seoul. If you want to spoil yourself by staying in a cool hotel in Seoul, click here. For an overview of Boutique hotels, click here. If you prefer Airbnbs, check out our overview of the best Airbnbs in Seoul. If you prefer a hanok stay in Seoul, click here.
- Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Korea travel SIM or portable WIFI device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.
- Visiting the DMZ is on the bucket list of many travelers. Check out the best DMZ tours here.
- If you are short on time, you might prefer to go on a city tour of Seoul instead of exploring the city on your own.
- Will you also be visiting the rest of South Korea? Learn why renting a car might be a good idea and read everything you need to know about driving in South Korea.
- Don’t forget travel insurance. If you don’t yet have travel insurance, have a look at World Nomads travel insurance.
- Here you can find all our posts about Korea. Everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.
- Tip: Be sure to become a member of our Korea Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group. The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Korea. You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.
Cool hotels in Seoul
RYSE, Autograph Collection Marriott
Awash in bright and pastel colors, RYSE is a reflection of the K-Pop trend.
It is among the hip hotels in Seoul that assure a funky stay.
Coming from Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the hotel exudes a youthful vibe and eye-popping designs in all rooms. Each one is well-furnished with a slew of amenities including dishwashers, foam pillows, Bluetooth speakers, and walk-in showers.
On-site gym, bar, and restaurants add to the fun that comes with staying at the RYSE. My choice at this hotel is the colorful harlequin Artist Suite.
What guests are saying
The RYSE is located in Hongdae, the mecca of nightlife, shopping, cafés, and activities.
The staff at the hotel is friendly and the breakfast delicious.
The rooms are getting all the praise for being comfy.
Only the windows aren’t soundproof, the AC is central, and thus can cause a little discomfort.
Conclusion
Hotel Loft Seoul
Of all the boutique hotels in Seoul, Hotel Loft is at the top of its game.
It teems with amenities like a shuttle, ironing, porter, and rental services. Housed in a classical-style building, its chic rooms come in as a pleasant surprise.
They are all typically equipped with hardwood floors, a seating area, and a stocked fridge. Private bathrooms boast a bath and an electronic bidet toilet.
At the onsite Brix Restaurant, you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine anytime you want.
What guests are saying
Guests love hotel Loft for its location close to the subway, the multilingual staff, the comprehensive services, and the spacious rooms.
However, some complain about their rooms being too dim-lit.
Conclusion
Sotetsu hotel the Splaisir Seoul – Myeongdong
The 4-star Splaisir is a designer hotel in Seoul.
While it has top-notch elegant rooms with minimal interior and plush beds, the thematic Line Friends rooms really set this hotel apart.
All rooms boast coffee and tea makers and well-furnished private bathrooms. Add to this books/DVD/music, sound insulation, wake-up call service, and a safe.
The entire property is non-smoking and includes an authentic Korean restaurant named Som-C.
There’s a spa too for skin treatments and relaxation.
What guests are saying
The Splaisir is just a short walk away from the City Hall Subway Station and Namdaemun Market, the hotel works as a convenient base to explore the city.
Some guests said that the hotel lobby can be crowded at times, making it inconvenient to use the lift.
Conclusion
Small house big door
Small House Big Door is a chic boutique hotel in Seoul that takes on a minimal and brightly-done interior. It ditches opulence for a comfy vibe that welcomes you after a long day.
Its pristine rooms are replete with a stocked fridge, air conditioning, and a working desk.
The space saved from keeping the furniture minimal is used to provide a larger-than-double bed.
Connecting rooms make a great choice for large groups.
Guests can also make use of the hotel lounge.
Dotting the property is also a hip bar, a terrace, and a restaurant.
What guests are saying
The hotel is very well located near the Cheonggyecheon stream and key sights in the Myeongdong area, a great place to stay if you love shopping.
The comfy rooms get high grades and all guests appreciate the free Americano to get the day started.
The WiFi is a little patchy though, some reviews mention that 4G was faster than the provided WiFi.
Conclusion
Hotel Cappuccino Seoul
This Gangnam pied-à-Terre houses itself in a glamorous 18-story building. It is a perfect balance between a chic hostel and an elegant condo.
Its interior décor flaunts futuristic geometric design, a brushed-steel theme, and some nice accents of perforated metal.
The hotel counts 141 rooms designed in a variety of different ways but all reflect the same urban appeal.
Facilities here include wake-up service, self-serve laundry, gym, bar, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
The café offers delicious blends by Anthracite that can be enjoyed together with some mouthwatering pastries from Publique.
What guests are saying
Located in the trendy upscale Gangnam district, this lifestyle hotel in Seoul surpasses all expectations with its well-designed rooms, friendly staff, and delicious food.
Some people, however, found the room a little small and would have preferred to set the room temperatures themselves.
Conclusion
Walkerhill Douglas House (No Kids Zone)
The Walkerhill Douglas House is a romantic getaway cupped in the forest of the Gwangjin-Gu district.
Its property is replete with a lush garden and an inviting indoor and outdoor pool.
The backpackers and holidaymakers will find amenities like hammocks, a library, and a shared kitchen at their disposal. What’s more?
The rooms here display warm woody furnishings with tropical-theme accents for a breezy vibe.
The house includes an airport shuttle, a fitness center, a business center, a terrace, and a bar too.
My favorite at the Douglas House is the Traditional Suite for its Ondol bedding and Korean style.
What guests are saying
5-star reviews are pretty common when it comes to the Walkerhill Douglas House.
Most guests leave with broad smiles.
We did learn that the food is a tad expensive food and some complain about thin walls.
Conclusion
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences
When it comes to the most modernistic and trendy hotels in Seoul, Novotel Ambassador tops the list with its urban glass exterior and business-like elite vibe.
The interior of the hotel is equally magnificent with geometric designs, warm lighting, wood furnishing, and an elegant brown-against-white theme.
All rooms here come with a working desk, concierge service, a kettle, Alexa-controlled lights, and a wardrobe.
Some even offer the luxury of a private kitchen with a microwave. American palates will love the homestyle American breakfast and a multi-cuisine restaurant keeps the foodies satiated.
Novotel’s luxurious highlights include two swimming pools, a bar, a shuttle service, and a kids club.
What guests are saying
The guests are all-praises for Novotel Ambassador.
With a great location and a wide range of modern luxuries, it wins the hearts of all guests.
Except, some found its breakfast overpriced.
Conclusion
Karashy Hotel Seoul
Karashy is a 4-star boutique hotel in Seoul that’s sited next to Exit 8 of Sadang Subway Station.
Set in a skyscraper, certain rooms offer sweeping views of the city skyline.
All rooms and suites feature a sophisticated atmosphere and are tastefully decorated with a combination of black and cream colors.
They come equipped with a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a coffee maker.
Private bathrooms boast amenities like a bath, a shower, and a hairdryer. Facilities like complimentary parking, fax/photocopy, and storage luggage are also available for the guests.
The onsite restaurant, Bel Ami, serves semi buffet-style breakfast for an extra price.
What guests are saying
The Karashy hotel boasts a friendly staff and great services.
The rooms feel spacious with comfortable beddings.
However, certain rooms can feel dimly lit and dark even during the day.
Conclusion
Hotel the Designers Samseong
Located in the urban COEX area, the Designers Samseong offers luxurious accommodation.
The rooms in its tall building display unique themes around hip music, graffiti, Great Britain, wildlife, nature, and more.
From modern art paintings to 3-D wall art, there’s a lot about the design that impresses.
The facilities inside each room include a laptop, a TV, and an en-suite bathroom with fluffy bathrobes. Airport shuttle services, a zoo-themed café, an onsite restaurant, and a buffet breakfast make the stay all the more comfortable.
I loved their Commune with Nature room where you can sleep in a plush bed sheltered by an indoor tree.
What guests are saying
The diversity of themes and the artsy interior is imposing. Its modern style is backed with all kinds of amenities.
Located in the urban area, it makes a great base for the jetsetter on a shopping spree.
The only downside is that some rooms are without windows and can feel claustrophobic.
Conclusion
Hotel 28 Myeongdong
When it comes to luxury, Hotel 28 Myeongdong is among the best hotels in Seoul. Its theme is based on movies and the style is classic industrial.
Every floor follows a different movie’s artwork. The warm lighting adds a dash of sumptuousness to the room’s interior.
They come equipped with air purifiers, a free minibar, and an espresso machine.
The bathrooms boast ensuite showers and bidet toilets.
Underlining the opulent of Hotel 28 further are its roof garden, onsite restaurant, fitness center, art gallery, bar, and library.
What guests are saying
Hotel 28 Myeongdong oozes sophistication. Its central location in Myeongdong is convenient for first-time city travelers.
With an airport limousine bus stop almost in front of the hotel, it is also very easy to get to the airport.
With a team of highly-professional staff, there is little that goes wrong at the hotel.
Conclusion
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
This boutique hotel is located in the vibrant Itaewon nightlife district and it is as colorful on the outside as it is on the inside.
Rooms in the hotel follow distinct palettes. Some are bottle green, some blue, and most white with unique wall art.
All are ultra-modern with paintings, mirror accents, and glass bathrooms.
Topping it is the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Japanese, Belgian and traditional halal dishes.
You can also eat one’s fill of the mouthwatering Belgian Godiva chocolates.
What guests are saying
The hotel is ideally located for those who want to join the nightlife in Itaewon.
It is also just a 3-minute walk to Itaewon station and a 10-minute drive to Namdaemun Market.
Guests found the room to be exceptionally comfortable with visually-appealing artwork.
Conclusion
The Shilla Seoul
Set in a massive edifice, the Shilla Seoul introduces its guests to a luscious lifestyle. Located afront of Seoul’s medieval city walls, in the heart of the metropolis, this 5-star hotel enjoys beautiful views.
The extravagant rooms here feature dark wood furnishings, yacht-style private bars, large plush beds with goose-down bedding, and marble bathrooms.
Many rooms in the hotel afford commanding views of the city or the Namsan Mountain. The premium suites kick fancy up a notch by including bathtubs with views.
The Shilla property also includes multiple onsite restaurants serving French, Continental, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisine. Spa, meeting rooms, gym, and indoor pool are a given.
What guests are saying
The rooms at the Shilla hotel are spotless, amenity-brimming, and spacious.
Some guests complain that the outdoor pool isn’t always included for all hotel guests. If you want to make use of the outdoor pool, you need to pay extra.
Conclusion
Makers hotel
Makers is a design hotel in Seoul set in a hip building in a gray tone.
A similar interior awash in the gray is used in certain rooms, the concierge desk, and the library.
Other rooms feature a bright white and brown theme.
Each room comes with a private bathroom including a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer.
A wardrobe and an electric kettle make the sojourn more comfortable.
The 2-star hotel offers facilities like concierge service, luggage storage, a continental breakfast, daily cleaning, and air conditioning.
What guests are saying
Location-wise, this hip hotel in Seoul is close to the Jongmyo Shrine, Myeongdong Cathedral, and Gwangjang Market.
The Makers hotel itself is located in an interesting old district with many cool restaurants around.
Some might feel the beds are hard or rooms are not too spacious.
Conclusion
The Signiel Seoul
Sprawled across floors 76-101 of the Lotte World Tower, this 5-star hotel affords sweeping views of the city.
Inside it resides a Michelin-star restaurant, an extensively-stocked champagne bar, an indoor pool, a relaxing sauna, the Evian Spa, and a well-equipped gym.
The hotel property is extremely accessible via the underground corridor that connects it with the Jamsil metro station.
Another highlight which makes Signiel one of the cool hotels in Seoul is the luxurious and tastefully decorated carpeted rooms.
They all come with a minibar, a refrigerator, a safe, and a coffee maker.
The attached private marble bathroom has its own share of luxuries starting with an electronic bidet toilet and separate slippers.
What guests are saying
Staying at Signiel Seoul is a bucket-list thing.
Although the tower is not too close to the tourist attractions, the incredible views and amenities offered here make the stay worth it anyway.
Conclusion
La Casa Hotel Seoul
Reminiscent of a luxurious seaside resort, La Casa Hotel is among the designer hotels in Seoul.
Despite the urban glass exterior, it exudes a quaint charm that comes from the wooden furnishings, cozy library, and warmly-lit bar.
The boutique hotel also features chic rooms designed with a wardrobe unit, iPod dock, work desk, tea/coffee makers, and spacious bathrooms.
On the elegant-looking property, you will find a gym, 4 bowling lanes, a bar, and a business center. Services like concierge and ironing are for added convenience.
Inside the hotel reside 2 restaurants, many more stylish dining options are just a 10-minute walk away in Gargosul.
The Han river is also just 3 minutes on foot from the hotel.
What guests are saying
The hotel is homely and cozy, situated in a good location, and staffed with friendly professionals. It offers nice views from its spotless rooms.
Some have complained of high parking fees.
Conclusion
Conclusion
This guide to the best-recommended hotels in Seoul is designed to inspire a comfortable and plush stay in the city.
Some are homey, some trendy, while some are traditionally built to cater to all kinds of preferences.
Which trendy hotel in Seoul is your favorite?