Where to Stay in Seoul
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Hongdae
Abundance of affordable guesthouses, cheap eats, and free street entertainment.
See full Seoul neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Seoul
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Hongdae
The epicenter of youth culture, indie music, street art, and vibrant nightlife.
Our top picks in Hongdae
Myeongdong
A bustling hub for shopping, cosmetics, and street food.
Our top picks in Myeongdong
Modern hotel offering great value and close proximity to shopping streets.
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Insadong
A cultural enclave preserving traditional Korean arts, crafts, and tea houses.
Our top picks in Insadong
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Myeongdong | Mid-range | A bustling hub for shopping, cosmetics, and street food. | first-timersbudget |
Hongdae | Budget | The epicenter of youth culture, indie music, street art, and vibrant nightlife. | solo travelersnightlife |
Gangnam | Luxury | The affluent district known for upscale shopping, K-pop entertainment, and sophisticated dining. | luxurycouples |
Insadong | Mid-range | A cultural enclave preserving traditional Korean arts, crafts, and tea houses. | culturecouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Seoul
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Seoul
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Seoul. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Seoul
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Seoul
Myeongdong
Mid-rangeA bustling hub for shopping, cosmetics, and street food.
- +Abundant shopping options
- +Excellent street food scene
- +Central location with great transport links
- -Can be overwhelmingly crowded
- -Less authentic Korean experience
Hongdae
BudgetThe epicenter of youth culture, indie music, street art, and vibrant nightlife.
- +Thriving arts and music scene
- +Endless dining and entertainment options
- +Energetic and youthful atmosphere
- -Can be very noisy at night
- -Might feel too intense for those seeking quiet
Gangnam
LuxuryThe affluent district known for upscale shopping, K-pop entertainment, and sophisticated dining.
- +High-end shopping and designer boutiques
- +Trendy restaurants and chic cafes
- +Access to major entertainment companies
- -Can be very expensive
- -Less historical or traditional attractions
Insadong
Mid-rangeA cultural enclave preserving traditional Korean arts, crafts, and tea houses.
- +Rich in traditional Korean culture and art
- +Quaint shops and tea houses
- +Proximity to major historical sites
- -Can feel a bit tourist-oriented
- -Limited nightlife options
Daily Budget (Budget)
KRW 70000/day
Hidden Gems in Seoul
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
This charming neighborhood features narrow alleys lined with beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) that have been transformed into trendy cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. It offers a more intimate and less crowded experience than Bukchon Hanok Village.
Gwangjang Market
FREEWhile known, it's less visited by first-time tourists than Namdaemun or Myeongdong. This is the place to dive into authentic Korean street food like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (addictive mini gimbap).
Mangwon Market
FREEA vibrant local market popular for its affordable and delicious street food options, including tteokbokki, fried chicken, and various Korean snacks. It has a more laid-back, authentic atmosphere compared to more tourist-heavy markets.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Seoul
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Seoul Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Seoul on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Seoul Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Seoul with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Seoul: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Seoul's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Seoul: Scenic Excursion
Escape Seoul for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Seoul Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Seoul's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Seoul
Backpackers in Seoul: FAQ
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