Even after many trips, this amazing, progressive city never fails to surprise me — from heritage boutiques to futuristic high-rises, these are my favorite hotels I’ve personally stayed in and loved for their unique style, vibe, and innovation…
1. L7 Hongdae by LOTTE
I discovered this super-cool lifestyle hotel with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking Hongdae’s neon-lit streets, plus Instagram-worthy art at every turn. Its sleek, urban-chic design with bold pops of color and funky details perfectly captured the neighborhood’s creative vibe and gave it a youthful, artsy energy!
My guest room had gorgeous white linens, floor-to-ceiling city views, a smart TV, mini fridge, rainfall shower, eco-friendly Malin+Goetz toiletries, and playful color accents. I couldn’t resist the hooded robe and slippers — a quirky, cozy nod to Hongdae’s streetwear culture!
I swam in the rooftop pool, sipped sunset cocktails, dined at Floating, the casual Italian-style restaurant, and unwound in the Blue Roof Lounge flipping through art books and listening to vinyl (I opted for Love X Stereo – 37A!). Being just two minutes from Hongik University Station also made it effortless to explore the buzzing nightlife, quirky cafés, and nightly street performances.
My favorite highlight…
- Sipping on a strong Neon Nights cocktail— a vivid purple gin-based cocktail with yuzu and tonic, inspired by Hongdae’s glowing street signs while flicking through Seoul Street Art Volume Three in the cozy lounge bar!
2. Moxy Insadong
I was very taken with this fun spot! I found it was a design-forward hotel with neon signs, selfie-worthy murals, a 24/7 bar, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Seoul’s palaces and N Seoul Tower — all right in Insadong’s artsy alleys and tea houses. Its industrial-chic decor mixed exposed concrete, neon accents, quirky murals, and playful furniture which created a lively, youthful vibe — it was an energetic, photo-ready base!
My room had a comfy bed, floor-to-ceiling windows, a 49-inch smart TV with Netflix, mini fridge, walk-in rain shower, and cheeky wall art. The LED guide-lights under the bed which created a soft, cinematic glow at night were a highlight for me though!
I hung out at the 24/7 Moxy Bar with its cocktails and games, worked out in the modern gym, and watched the sunset from the rooftop terrace before stepping straight into Insadong’s galleries, tea houses, and street food stalls, with Jogyesa Temple just a short walk away.
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on a ruby-red omija-cha with chewy honey-glazed yakgwa in the nearby traditional Tteuran Tea House’s peaceful hanok courtyard, surrounded by rustling bamboo!
3. Henn na Hotel Myeongdong
I discovered this was a techie’s paradise! Multilingual robots handled check-in, my room unlocked with facial recognition, and high-tech touches! Its sleek, minimalist decor with clean lines, soft neutral tones, and subtle tech accents matched the futuristic, efficient yet playful vibe – it was a gadget-filled stay!
My guest room had a cute, playful design, smart TV, mini fridge, a futuristic LG Styler closet, modern bathroom with bidet toilet, and a facial-recognition lock. My favorite quirk was being able to control lights, temperature, and TV by voice which a fun, photo-worthy experience!
I was checked in by robot staff, used facial recognition to enter my room, and my clothes were even refreshed before heading out! Being just two minutes from Myeongdong Station also made late-night street food, skincare shopping, and K-pop buzz easy.
My highlights…
- Finding a chilled Bong Bong Grape Juice, cute Pepero Sticks and glazed Honey Butter Chips in the mini-fridge!
4. Andaz Gangnam
I stayed at this luxury boutique hotel in Gangnam and was instantly struck by its art-filled interiors inspired by colorful Korean bojagi patchwork and its stunning infinity pool overlooking the city. The geometric patterns, warm wood accents, and statement lighting also gave it a polished yet welcoming feel — the whole place felt very chic and cosmopolitan!
My guest room had floor-to-ceiling windows with Gangnam views, a super luxurious king bed, Nespresso machine, minibar with local treats, and colorful bojagi-inspired décor. I especially liked the open-concept spa-like bathroom with sliding glass panels, letting me soak while taking in the city skyline!
I swam in the infinity pool overlooking Gangnam, sipped cocktails in the lobby bar, indulged in Korean-inspired treatments at AO Spa, and dined at Jogakbo with its three interactive zones — Bites & Wine, Seafood Grill, and Meat & Co. Also being located right in Gangnam meant trendy boutiques, K-pop spots, and gourmet restaurants were just steps away from me!
My favourite highlight…
- Indulging in a Bojagi Balance Ritual in their upscale spa — I was wrapped in warm silk bojagi cloths and massaged with herbal oils which left me smelling of mugwort and citrus!
5. L7 Myeongdong by LOTTE
I found this to be a trendy, design-forward hotel with a playful rooftop terrace, selfie-worthy art, and an awesome location in Myeongdong. Its industrial-chic decor with exposed concrete, neon accents, quirky murals, and playful furniture gave it a youthful, creative vibe. The atmosphere felt wonderfully lively and social!
My guest room had a comfy bed, quirky art wall, smart TV, mini fridge, rain shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing Myeongdong’s neon streets, making it feel like a mini photo studio!
I gazed out at rooftop terrace views of N Seoul Tower, grabbing late-night drinks at the 24/7 DJ bar, soaked my feet at the 21st-floor foot spa, and snapped Insta-worthy mural photos. Being right in the heart of Myeongdong made street food runs, K-beauty shopping, and nightlife just steps away!
My highlights…
- The bold Seoul Skyline mural in my room — a graphic, black-and-white cityscape with dotted with neon color that made the space feel like a mini art gallery!
6. Vista Walkerhill
I discovered this was a chic riverside retreat with floor-to-ceiling Han River views, a rooftop Sky Yard for yoga and cocktails, a glass-walled infinity pool, and immersive art that make it feel like a luxury wellness playground above the city. The lobby, anchored by an 800-year-old olive tree, had sleek wood and stone finishes, statement lighting, and curated art that created a serene, gallery-like atmosphere.
My guest room had mountain views, smart tablet control, a spa-like bathroom with rainfall shower and soaking tub, and minimalist décor. I especially adored the in-room aromatherapy diffuser with customizable scents!
I floated in the infinity pool, participated in sunrise yoga in the Sky Yard, sipped on rooftop cocktails, and explored the hotel’s VISTART art program. Its peaceful hilltop location also felt like a peaceful oasis while still close to downtown Seoul (although I have to admit I did need a taxi reach central Seoul quickly).
My personal highlights…
- Starting my day with the uplifting citrus scent of yuzu in the diffuser, then switching to calming hinoki and mugwort at night, turning my room into a zen-like Korean spa retreat!
7. Gangnam Boutique Hotel Sohsul
I found that every room at Gangnam Boutique Hotel Sohsul was uniquely styled — some with private spa pools or cinema setups — blending boutique design with high-end tech. The sleek wood paneling, soft mood lighting, and mirrored accents made it feel intimate, quirky, and just a little indulgent!
My room had a large bed with high-thread-count linens, 3D smart TV, mini fridge, spa-style shower, soundproof windows, and warm lighting that made it feel cozy and upscale. I really enjoyed soaking in the spa tub, watching a private movie on the projector, and relaxing in the intimate lounge spaces that gave the whole stay a private, exclusive vibe.
Staying in a quieter corner of Gangnam also meant peaceful nights but just a short walk to shopping streets and subway stations, so I could reach the buzz of the district in minutes.
My highlights…
- Watching the gripping Korean film Parasite on my in-room projector while sipping a crisp, ice-cold Cass Fresh beer — it was the perfect Seoul night in!
8. SR Hotel Sadang
SR Hotel Sadang stood out to me for its convenient spot by Sadang Station, sleek rooms with spa-style bathrooms, and a stylish rooftop lounge that felt like a hidden hangout in southern Seoul. Its funky, contemporary decor with dark wood accents and minimalist furnishings created a calm, chic atmosphere.
My room had a sumptuous bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, a stylish bathroom with rainfall shower, and large, bright windows that let in a lot of light. The glass-walled bathroom with large soaking tub added a spa-like, photogenic touch.
I unwound in the rooftop lounge while gazing at city views and ended the day in the intimate Korean restaurant. Being steps from Sadang Station made it effortless to hop on Lines 2 and 4 and reach everywhere from Gangnam’s shopping streets to Seoul’s historic palaces.
My favorite highlights…
- Enjoying steaming vegetable mandu stuffed with cabbage, zucchini, and mushrooms dipping them in spicy gochujang sauce and washing it down with a nutty corn silk tea at the onsite restaurant!
9. Hotel Anteroom
This art-hotel in Garosugil/Sinsa felt to me like staying in a gallery, with minimalist white walls, polished concrete floors, custom wood furniture, and rotating exhibitions of local paintings and sculptures that turned the space into a living art installation. The vibe was creative, modern, and quietly sophisticated!
My room had a low platform bed, minimalist wood furniture, a smart TV, a mini fridge, rain shower, and curated art that made it feel like a private gallery.
I browsed the lobby exhibitions, sipped on strong coffee at the minimalist café, and chatting with staff who pointed me to hidden galleries nearby. Dining at I PHO U, the hotel’s Vietnamese café by two-Michelin-starred Chef Yim Jungsik, was also a standout! Being in the heart of Garosugil meant boutiques, cafés, and galleries were on my doorstep, with the rest of Seoul just a short subway ride away.
My personal highlights…
- Dining on their hearty vegetarian pho — steaming broth scented with star anise, piled with tofu, bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of zesty lime!
10. L’Escape Hotel
This hotel instantly transported me to Belle Époque Paris with its velvet-draped lounges, jewel-toned chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and antique-style furniture that made the whole place feel like a romantic Parisian salon. The rose-scented air and soft background music set a glamorous, slightly theatrical mood the moment I walked in.
My room had a gorgeous canopy bed with silky linens, a vintage writing desk, and bold floral wallpaper that felt like a chic Paris apartment. My favorite detail was the freestanding clawfoot tub by the window.
I spent my afternoons sipping on pink champagne in the velvet lounge, browsing the hidden library, and enjoying Parisian-style afternoon tea. Being in the heart of Jung-gu made it easy to wander to Myeongdong’s shops and hop on the subway to explore Seoul’s palaces and nightlife.
My highlights…
- Curling up in their velvet library with a copy of the introspective Elegance of the Hedgehog and sipping on a delicate rose tea, its floral aroma perfectly matching the Parisian salon vibe!
11. The Conrad
I discovered this sleek, ultra-luxury hotel with floor-to-ceiling river views, a soaring glass atrium lobby, award-winning dining, and one of Seoul’s most impressive spas — all set inside the futuristic IFC complex on Yeouido Island. Its contemporary design mixed marble floors, warm wood, and striking art installations, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
My room had panoramic Han River views, a luxury king bed adorned with Frette linens, a chic marble bathroom with a soaking tub right by the window, a walk-in shower, Nespresso machine, and a bright work station.
I spent my stay relaxing at the Conrad Spa, swimming in the sleek indoor pool with city views, and savoring inventive dishes at its acclaimed restaurants. Being inside the IFC complex made it easy to shop, dine, and hop on the subway to explore Seoul’s top sights.
My personal highlights…
- Going for a Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial in their modern spa — a cool mist of oxygen and hyaluronic serum left my skin plump, glowing, and refreshed!
12. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
This hotel stood out for its bold, Insta-worthy pop-art décor — colorful murals, quirky sculptures, neon art, and playful furniture that made it feel like a modern art gallery in the heart of Itaewon.
My room featured a comfy bed, pop-art accent wall, glass-walled rain shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Itaewon’s lively streets — the mural-lined bathroom was a photogenic highlight.
I explored the lobby’s art installations, relaxed in the cute café, and stepped right out into Itaewon’s buzzing nightlife. Being in Itaewon meant international dining, eclectic shops, and bars were right outside, with easy subway access to the rest of Seoul. I have to just mention in the heart of Itaewon meant it was lively at night — as a light sleeper I was glad I requested a higher floor!
My favorite highlights…
- Sipping on a velvety Terarosa Coffee each morning while gazing at the neon-lit streets of Itaewon at night, with colorful signs, boutique façades, and people rushing around below!
13. RYSE, Autograph Collection
I discovered this was a cool stay with an edgy, design-forward vibe, rotating art installations, a vinyl library, and creative spaces that felt part boutique hotel, part hipster gallery in the heart of Hongdae. The industrial-chic design with exposed concrete, floor-to-ceiling windows, neon signs, and bold art gave it a sleek, youthful energy.
My guest room had big windows, a large bed, curated art, a cool Marshall speaker, and a spa-style rainfall shower — but the vinyl turntable with its curated records was my favorite touch. I have to says though my room was stylish but not huge, but it was fine for my short stay.
I browsed the art, relaxed in the lounges, and ended nights with cocktails at Side Note Club, the trendy rooftop bar. Being in central Hongdae also meant instant access to street art, indie boutiques, live music bars, and the neighborhood’s buzzing nightlife.
My favorite highlights…
- Playing the dreamy Café del Mar – Dreams Volume 4 on vinyl on the matte black turntable!
14. Ambassador
I found that this hotel was a Seoul classic, mixing mid-century heritage with unique modern luxury, panoramic Namsan views, and a glass-roofed indoor pool.
Its marble floors, warm wood accents, and curated Korean art created a refined, gallery-like atmosphere that felt very chic and elegant! My room had floor-to-ceiling Namsan views, a luxurious bed with high-thread-count linens, and a Korean art panel behind the bed that made it feel like a mini-gallery.
I dined at the fine The King’s live buffet which had seasonal dishes and an open kitchen, enjoyed refined Korean cuisine at The Chef’s Table, unwound with yoga and screen golf, then swam under the glass roof before relaxing in the spa. Being near Namsan Mountain meant peaceful park walks while still just being minutes from Myeongdong’s shops and Seoul’s palaces.
My personal highlights…
- Tackling a balancing Tree Pose during their welcoming morning Hatha Yoga class in the light-filled studio — it the perfect way to start the day!
15. La Casa Hotel
I was wowed by this stylish boutique stay in trendy Sinsa, designed like a live-in Casa Living showroom with Scandinavian-inspired interiors, curated designer furniture, and a cozy, home-away-from-home vibe just steps from Garosugil’s cafés and boutiques. The light wood floors, soft wool throws, and minimalist décor made it feel warm, laid-back, and effortlessly stylish.
My room had a beech-wood bed with white linens, a smart TV, minibar, rain shower, and a funky designer bookshelf filled with art books that made it feel like a chic apartment.
I spent mornings biking around Garosugil, relaxed in the cozy library lounge, and gorged on a hearty Korean breakfast in the airy Casa Living café. Staying here meant I could also step straight out to the area’s trendy cafés, boutiques, and galleries. I have to say though I found Garosugil was busy weekends, so I head out early to avoid crowds.
My highlights…
- My breakfast of freshly made avocado toast topped with crisp radish and black sesame seeds and a dish of sweet Korean persimmons and pears, in the airy Casa Living café!
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