A fascinating fusion of craggy mountains, dense forests and glittering cities bedecked with neon lights, skyscrapers and street markets, South Korea is utterly dazzling. Famed for its futuristic cities, its technological impact and its pop-culture boom, this compact nation of 50 million is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers from around the world. The country’s accommodation options are tremendously varied — reflecting the many facets of this complex peninsula, which will delight keen foodies, culture aficionados, well-heeled shoppers and outdoorsy types alike. Our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in South Korea includes everything from hip high-rises to beautiful boutique boltholes and seaside spots aplenty.
Some of our South Korea collections:
Seoul, the country’s capital, is a city that never sleeps. Known for its vibrant music scene, late-night parties and cracking cuisine, it’s a brilliant city break choice. Explore world-class museums and galleries, tour well-preserved palaces, and jostle with eager crowds at marvellous markets. The nearby port city of Incheon is another great base, with wonderful parks, beaches and seafood. Far to the south of the peninsula is Busan, South Korea’s second city. Amongst the world’s largest ports, this impressive metropolis has its own collection of avant-garde galleries, heritage museums and particularly mouth-watering seafood to sample.
Jeju Island, Korea’s foremost domestic tourism destination, has its own distinctive language and culture. Hike through the Hallasan National Park, kick back on beautiful beaches, or dive and sail in azure ocean waters. The vast majority of South Korea is mountainous, and keen adventurers will find spectacular trekking and cycling trails, as well as winter sports resorts and tranquil landscapes of forests, waterfalls and swooping birds. Whether you’re looking to head off the beaten track or to immerse yourself in the heart of the action, the best places to stay in South Korea have it all.
The Best Places to Stay in South Korea
FOR BOUTIQUE CHIC
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Art Paradiso is a lavish boutique bolthole set within the enormous Paradise City entertainment complex near Incheon. Expect sophisticated guest rooms with velvet upholstery, marble bathrooms and metallic, moody tones. Unwind in the serene spa, kick back at the pool, or sip cocktails at glamorous bars before heading out for the evening. A hip party hotspot or romantic pad.
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Banyan Tree Club & Spa has 50 stylish guest rooms, many of which boast private plunge pools, sink-into bathtubs and breathtaking views of Seoul and Mount Namsan. An urban retreat with an excellent gym, spa and multiple eaeries. Contemporary, minimalist and very cool.
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IJE Gyeongju, a restful haven on the edge of Gyeongju, has 25 tranquil guest rooms. White and dusky pink terracotta tones create a calming ambience, with views over lovely gardens. Unwind in big cypress tubs, enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, and take part in traditional tea ceremonies. The regional restaurant is excellent. Romantic and relaxing.
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Zen Hideaway @ Jeju has an industrial feel, with exposed brick walls, eclectic mid-century furnishings and big basalt tubs overlooking the sea. With just 10 suites, this is a seriously cool boutique choice. Two swimming pools, an easy going restaurant and welcoming team complete the picture.
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Hotel HaruSida, with 11 traditional guest rooms on Jeju Island, encourages pure relaxation. Expect cosy beds on woven or wooden floors, sliding doors, and low tables for early morning cups of tea. The romantic feel continues with hot tubs on private terraces. Understated and tranquil, with a very good regional restaurant & wine bar.
For City Style
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Grand Hyatt Jeju, a glittering skycraper with 14 diverse dining options, an indoor and outdoor pool plus exceptional spa, is seriously impressive. Contemporary interiors are slick and stylish, and the expansive city views are unparalleled. One for well-heeled business or leisure travellers.
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JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square fuses modern comforts with traditional Korean influences. Suites boast expansive city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, along with indulgent marble bathrooms and king-sized beds. Hit the gym, kick back at the spa or indoor pool, and feast at a number of upscale restaurants. A stylish Seoul city break choice, also well-suited to business travellers.
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Park Hyatt Busan, a glittering high rise hotel with sweeping ocean views, sits in the lively Haeundae district. The striking glass façade hides chic, minimalist interiors with clean lines and soft white and cream tones, light natural wood and granite details. The enormous indoor pool, rooftop bar, restorative Lumi Spa and multiple restaurants make this one of Busan's top hotels.
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Mondrian Seoul has art-filled interiors and a fresh, youthful feel. Brilliant for groups of friends or romantic couples, this adult-only hotel has a swish rooftop bar, Mediterranean-inspired eatery and design-led guest rooms with funky furnishings. A seriously cool spot for sociable partygoers.
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RYSE Hotel is another group favourite in Seoul, with original artwork and contemporary furnishings in bold pink and blue-bedecked spaces. Book a private room for a group celebration, savour gourmet Korean cuisine or dance the night away with hip DJ sets at the rooftop bar. Great fun.
For Ocean Views
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The Shilla Jeju fuses 21st century style with traditional Korean aesthetics. A seaside resort on Jeju Island's southern coast, the hotel has a sleek, mellow feel. Unwind in the swimming pools and spa, before tucking in to flavoursome fare at the bars and restaurants. The rooftop terrace bar is wonderfully romantic.
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Signiel Busan has a sleek, sophisticated glamour. Expect earthy colours in guest rooms and communal spaces, plus soft, undulating shapes. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ocean, there's a stunning terrace infinity pool, and delectable dining options with Michelin-starred chefs. A fantastic kids club welcomes little ones. Set atop the city's tallest tower, this is an indulgent seaside favourite.
For Families
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The Grand Hyatt in Seoul is a family favourite, with spacious suites, inter-connecting rooms and big bathrooms. Indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness complex, soothing spa and nine dining and entertainment venues, there really is something for everyone. Winter visitors will adore the ice rink, and the tennis courts are great for a family game.
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Nest Hotel, on Incheon's Yeongjongdo Island, has a modern, minimalist feel. Understated guest rooms feature polished wooden floors, concrete elements and big bathtubs. Beds topped with white linens face the ocean, and family suites are appealingly spacious. The infinity pool invites refreshing dips, and the kids club is excellent. A chic bar, restaurant and wellness centre complete the picture.
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The Shilla, a stylish central hotel, has sophisticated interiors with dark polished wood, white walls and marble bathrooms. Families will appreciate splashing around in the outdoor pool, sharing generous suites and embarking on the programme of child-friendly activities. A wonderful option for families looking to discover Seoul.
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Hilton Gyeongju is a smart hotel overlooking Lake Bomun. Minimalist guest rooms have polished wood furnishings, crisp white linens on comfortable beds, and verdant mountain views. With three swimming pools, six dining options, squash courts and bicycles, this is a lively choice for active guests of all ages.
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Grand Josun Jeju, a bold contemporary resort with almost 250 elegant guest rooms and suites near Jeju's south coast, has an immensely luxurious feel. Family suites have playfully decorated kids' rooms, whilst grown-up spaces are clad in soothing cream and white tones. The vast wellness centre includes a wonderful spa, plus indoor and outdoor pools. Chic bars and a club will delight partygoers.
For Absolute Luxury
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JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, opened in 2023, has dazzling interiors of canola yellow and basalt grey. Designed by the acclaimed Bill Bensley, sophisticated spaces reflect Jeju Island's natural landscape. A rejuvenating luxuy escape, with gourmet cuisine and a sensational spa. Families are also welcome.
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The Four Seasons Seoul is a beautiful luxury hotel with calming, thoughtful interiors honouring Korean heritage design, and impeccable service. Set in bustling Jongno, the hotel is close to many of Seoul's top attractions. Sip cocktails at the Charles H speakeasy, smoothies at the Juice Bar after soothing wellness treatments, or dine at the trendy OUL restaurant. The Four Seasons' kids club is also excellent.
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Josun Palace, a gorgeous contemporary hotel in Seoul's upmarket Gangnam district, has a sleek, stylish feel. Think clean lines, white, golden and red tones, and floor-to-ceiling windows revealing expansive views. Chic restaurants have velvet-upholstered seats and gourmet fare, plus there's a serene spa with indoor pool. Fabulous.
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Paradise Hotel & Resort has a breathtaking 1250 elegant guest rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, expansive views and striking modern art pieces. This outstanding Incheon hotel boasts a curated collection of 3000+ art pieces, in addition to a wellness centre, bowling alley, kids' zone, multiple restaurants and a cool nightclub with visiting DJs.
FOR AN APARTMENT OR Holiday House
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Fly to Incheon International Airport near Seoul, to Busan's Gimhae International Airport or to Jeju International Airport. Travel to your destination by car or bus. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
- South Korea's cities are well-connected by public transport, and you're unlikely to need your own vehicle. If you'd like to explore further afield — or you're staying on Jeju Island — contact our online partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
- Visit during the summer months (June to August) for temperatures hovering between 22-27°C across much of the country. Expect cold winters, with temperatures getting closer to 0°C, or below freezing in the mountains where skiing is popular. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, we'd recommend travelling in the shoulder seasons of May or September.
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