Top 5 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for Easy Transportation & Sightseeing
SEOUL
Seoul is a city where neighborhoods vary greatly in atmosphere and accessibility, so the area you choose as your base can significantly influence how smoothly your trip unfolds. Especially when you have a short itinerary, staying in a well-connected area allows you to explore more efficiently. This guide introduces some of the best areas to stay in Seoul, focusing on convenient transportation and nearby attractions. When deciding on the best areas to stay in Seoul, choosing a district that fits your itinerary will make the overall experience more efficient and enjoyable.
Myeongdong
Myeongdong is considered one of the best areas to stay in Seoul because it offers easy access to major attractions and public transportation.
Myeongdong is one of the most common first stops for travelers exploring Seoul. Shopping streets, restaurants, and city services are concentrated in one place, making it easy to navigate even on the first day. Most importantly, major destinations connect easily from this area, so your travel pace stays relaxed.
Transportation Advantages
- Subway Lines 2 and 4 within walking distance
- Frequent airport bus stops
- Simple and intuitive subway transfers
Nearby Attractions
- Myeongdong Cathedral
- Namsan Cable Car entrance
- Namdaemun Market
- City Hall & Seoul Plaza
From Myeongdong, you can reach other major locations within 20–30 minutes, which makes it ideal if you want to cover multiple districts with minimal transit time.
Jongno & Insadong
Jongno and Insadong are among the best areas to stay in Seoul if you want to experience historical sites and traditional streets within walking distance.
Jongno and Insadong offer some of Seoul’s most authentic cultural experiences. Palaces, museums, and traditional neighborhoods are clustered in this area, and much of it can be enjoyed on foot.
Transportation Advantages
- Easy access to Lines 1, 3, and 5
- Stations such as Gwanghwamun, Jonggak, and Anguk within close distance
- Excellent bus connectivity
Major Spots Nearby
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Changdeokgung Palace
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Insadong cultural district
- Cheonggyecheon Stream
- National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Seoul branch)
It’s an area where morning palace visits, afternoon walks through traditional alleys, and evening riverside strolls naturally fall into place.
Hongdae
Hongdae is one of the best areas to stay in Seoul for travelers seeking a lively neighborhood and easy access from the airport line.
Hongdae is not just a sightseeing area—it’s a lively lifestyle district. This is where street performances, small galleries, independent cafés, and creative shops are naturally part of everyday scenery. Staying here gives you access to Seoul’s younger, artistic side.
Transportation Advantages
- Direct access to the Airport Railroad (no transfers required)
- Linked with Line 2 and the Gyeongui-Jungang Line
- Quick travel to central Seoul and Gangnam
Nearby Areas to Enjoy
- Hongdae Walking Street
- Sangsu & Hapjeong café clusters
- “Yeonnam-dong” park walkway (Gyeongui Line Forest Road)
The neighborhood stays lively late into the evening, making it ideal for flexible itineraries and travelers who enjoy exploring spontaneously.
Gangnam & Samseong
Gangnam and Samseong are often recommended as the best areas to stay in Seoul when transportation convenience and urban attractions are top priorities.
Gangnam is known for its highly organized street layout and excellent accessibility. Restaurants, department stores, entertainment facilities, and pedestrian-friendly spaces are all well structured, making navigation easy. Samseong Station, in particular, offers indoor access to many attractions—perfect for rainy or chilly days.
Transportation Advantages
- Main intersection of Line 2 and Shinbundang Line
- Central transfer point for many routes
- Easy late-night movement due to late-operating shops
Nearby Attractions
- COEX Mall
- Bongeunsa Temple
- Cheongdam & Apgujeong shopping zone
Here, you can experience Seoul’s modern side without complicated transfers.
Songpa & Jamsil
Songpa–Jamsil remains one of the best areas to stay in Seoul especially for families who want short walking distances between attractions.
For family-focused trips, especially with children, Songpa is one of the most efficient areas to stay. Major activity spots are grouped close together, reducing long walks or transport time.
Transportation Advantages
- Lines 2 and 9 meet at Jamsil Station
- Many bus routes toward the Han River
- Walkable zone connecting most activities
Key Attractions
- Lotte World Theme Park
- Lotte World Aquarium
- Seoul Sky (observatory at Lotte World Tower)
- Seokchon Lake walkway
Schedules are easy to plan, and outdoor and indoor activities can be combined seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
The part of Seoul you choose as your travel base changes how your trip flows:
- Efficient sightseeing → Myeongdong
- Cultural and historical depth → Jongno & Insadong
- Local lifestyle and youth culture → Hongdae
- Easy transfers and modern facilities → Gangnam & Samseong
- Convenience for families → Songpa & Jamsil
Once you decide on your area, the itinerary forms naturally—and traveling becomes significantly smoother and more enjoyable.
Choose the area that best matches your travel style and explore Seoul at your own pace!
If you want more updated route, maps, or travel tips, check the official Seoul Travel website 👇
🔗 https://english.visitseoul.net