The best boutique hotels in Seoul, South Korea featuring show-stopping art, design, and architecture
Discover why we've fallen head-over-heels for these hotties.
From the best design hotels in Hua Hin to heritage hotels in Singapore and palace hotels in India, there’s no denying that we love to explore Asia. With its blend of rich history with modern pop culture, and the fact that the city has four very distinct seasons, Seoul is undoubtedly one of our favourite places to travel. So if you’re making your way to the South Korean capital, be sure to book in at one of the best boutique hotels in Seoul.
The best boutique hotels in Seoul, South Korea
1. Ryse
Ryse (main image) embodies the vibrant, art-laden streets of the area where it is situated: Hongdae. Made for creatives, lovers of all things cultural, and global nomads, each of the room types offers carefully designed spaces filled with contemporary fittings and edgy art pieces.
Side Note Club on the 15th floor is a haven for hip hop fans and the Print Culture Lounge offers an extensive selection of unique books, magazines, and vinyl. There’s also a pop-up store and a curated lifestyle shop to busy yourself at while you’re not exploring the city.
Found out more about Ryse
2. Hotel28 Myeong-dong
Blending art with traditional Korean culture, Hotel28 Myeong-dong is the place to stay if you’re looking for a central base in Seoul. Located in the heart of a colourful shopping district that is steeped in history, you’ll be in the middle of all the action when you stay here.
Each guestroom is tastefully decorated in a modern minimalist style with added luxuries such as BAF certified premium goose down duvets. There’s a popular restaurant on-site, a rooftop garden to enjoy, plus The Library is filled with a diverse range of books to fuel the imagination.
Discover more about Hotel28 Myeong-dong
3. L7
The L7 brand has hotels in Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeong-dong, each of which are curated for lovers of travel and the arts. Trendy design is the order of the day at each property, with each hotel having its own distinct look and feel.
We love the Hongdae space which includes a beautiful rooftop swimming pool and sun-filled lounge that acts as communal space for travellers to share stories or relax with a book from the library.
Learn more about L7 Hotels
4. L’Escape Hotel
Designed by Jacques Garcia, L’Escape is a Parisian getaway in the heart of Seoul unlike any other. The hotel channels the very best of the Belle Époque period, with rich colours, patterns, symmetry, and luxe finishes the order of the day. Antique-look furniture was inspired by eighteenth-century French châteaux, and world-renowned parfumier Alienor Massenet has created the romantic signature scent of the property.
What we love about this boutique hotel in Seoul is the attention to detail that permeates every space. Spectacular floral displays by London-based flower and art director Tony Marklew can be enjoyed throughout the year, making for the perfect Instagram moment. Sip on specialty cocktails at the bar (we love the peacocks!) or enjoy a meal at the French or Chinese restaurant during your stay.
Find our more about L’Escape
5. Hotel Crescendo
Designed with urban nomads in mind, at Hotel Crescendo you can expect sophisticated aesthetics and modern comforts. Minimal black and white interiors are punctuated with pops of blue alongside gold and brass finishings for that perfect blend of vintage contemporary.
428 Restaurant serves traditional Korean dishes created with European techniques for a totally unique dining experience that will make your stay even more memorable, and don’t miss a drink at the rooftop bar. We recommend booking one of the Signature Terrace rooms as they come with a lush bath tub (perfect for post-Seoul explorations) and views of Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Park.
Learn more about Hotel Crescendo
6. Bongeunsa Temple
If you have a few days in Seoul, you won’t regret spending part of your stay at the absolutely gorgeous Bongeunsa Temple. Centrally located, the temple has been around for over 1200 years, and a stay here will give you insight into the history of the temple and its importance in the revitalisation of Korean Buddhism.
Guests can take part in Yaebul chanting sessions, and learn more about Seon meditation, specific to this lineage. The experience is unlike any other, and a wonderful way to dive into the culture of the country.
Find out more about staying at Bongeunsa Temple
7. Glad Gangnam COEX Center
Sleek vibes with lots of monotones are on show at Glad Gangnam COEX Center, with interior design by Hanseok Kim and Kukhyun Yoon. Lovers of art and design will enjoy the exhibitions that take place throughout the hotel, bringing an ever changing look to the property.
Choose from a range of stylish guestrooms where minimalism is the name of the game. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants, sweat it out at the gym, or imbibe really good wine from the wine shop.
Learn more about Glad Gangnam COEX Center
8. Metro Hotel
In the heart of the action in Myeong-dong, Metro Hotel is a wonderful option for those looking for a stylish hotel in Seoul. Scandi minimalism is the order of the day when it comes to the interiors here plus you can expect uber comfy beds.
We think this is the ideal spot for long-term guests too as there’s an on-site coin-operated laundry, a PC corner with printers, a fitness room, and even a relax room equipped with free massage chairs. Enjoy a meal on the terrace or explore the copious amounts of dining hot spots just outside your door.
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9. Douglas House
Nestled amid a forest on the Hangang River, Douglas House is where you want to go to escape the hustle of the city. Designed by acclaimed architect Kim Swoo Geun in 1963, the property brings nature inside with woods and natural materials used throughout.
Enjoy breakfast at Douglas Lounge which includes a fully kitted kitchen or escape to the Library for quiet moments of contemplation. Don’t forget to pencil some time in to explore the garden and enjoy cocktails and snacks at Douglas Hour between 7-9pm everyday.
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10. Hotel Cappuccino
This trendy lifestyle hotel in Gangnam is a great option for stylish travellers looking to explore all that Seoul has to offer. Room configurations include everything from King bed options to bunk beds that are perfect for friends or family travelling together.
Take in the views of the city from the terrace as you enjoy the seasonal dishes on the menu along with a long-list of wines from around the globe. Local Seoul-ites with pooches will love the dog-friendly offers available too.
Find out more about Hotel Cappuccino
11. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
If you’re looking to stay in buzzing Itaewon, then Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel is a great option. Decorated in a contemporary style with murals and art pieces by local artists, guests will enjoy the design-led interiors here.
Foodies will love the fact that there’s an Egg Slut on the first floor, perfect for after a big night out at the neighbouring bars. There’s also a fitness centre and a selection of meeting rooms onsite in case you need to do work things.
Learn more about Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
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