Where to Stay in Korea – A Guide for Every Travel Style
Where to Stay in Korea – A Guide for Every Travel Style
Where you stay isn’t just about where you sleep—it’s where your mornings begin, where you rest after long walks, and where you let the day settle into memory. In Korea, accommodation is part of the journey. From minimalist hanok homes to sky-high hotels, cozy hostels to seaside retreats, the options are endless.
So before you scroll through booking sites, ask yourself: How do I want to feel during this trip? This guide helps you find a place that fits not just your budget—but your travel soul.
For the Culture Seekers & Slow Travelers
Stay in a hanok – a traditional Korean house with wooden beams, sliding doors, and a warm ondol floor.
Best areas: Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul), Jeonju, Gyeongju
Why it’s special: Waking up to quiet courtyards and soft morning light—it’s not just a place, it’s an experience.
💡 Tip: Some hanoks offer cultural experiences like tea ceremonies or calligraphy classes.
For Solo Travelers
Choose hostels or guesthouses with single rooms or female-only dorms.
Best areas: Hongdae, Myeongdong (Seoul); Seomyeon (Busan)
Look for: Personal lockers, 24-hour reception, and good walkability
💡 Tip: Hostels in Korea are often very clean, quiet, and beautifully designed—some even come with rooftop views and free breakfast.
For Couples or Romantic Travelers
Go for boutique hotels or private studios with cozy lighting and thoughtful touches.
Best areas: Itaewon, Yeonnam-dong (Seoul); Haeundae (Busan); Jeju Island
Look for: Rooftop cafés, scenic balconies, or bathtubs with a view
💡 Tip: Book in advance for weekends or cherry blossom season—these spots go fast!
For Families or Group Trips
Stay in serviced apartments or family suites with a kitchen and laundry machine.
Best areas: Jamsil (near Lotte World), Gangnam, Incheon Songdo, Jeju City
What matters: Enough beds, elevators, quiet neighborhoods, and proximity to public transport
💡 Tip: Many Korean apartments are compact—double-check layout and sleeping arrangements before you book.
For Wellness & Nature Lovers
Try eco-lodges, beach resorts, or mountain stays.
Best areas:
Jeju Island for coastal calm
Gangwon Province for forest retreats
Naksan or Gyeongju for temple stays and mountain air
💡 Tip: Look for places with access to hiking trails, hot springs, or meditation gardens.
Where to Book – Reliable Platforms
Booking.com – Great for flexibility and verified reviews
Agoda – Often has better deals for Asia-based travelers
Airbnb – Perfect for unique homes or longer stays
Yanolja / Good Choice (여기어때) – Popular local apps (most in Korean only)
💡 Tip: Always double-check reviews, cancellation policy, and location access to subways or buses.
A Gentle Reminder
- Check-in usually starts at 3:00 PM, and check-out by 11:00 AM
- Many hotels don’t provide toothbrushes or toothpaste (bring your own)
- Hanoks and traditional stays may ask you to remove shoes indoors
- Don’t forget to read reviews—photos rarely tell the full story
In the end, where you stay becomes part of what you remember. It’s not just the sights you see—but where you rested between them, the smell of fresh linen, the warmth of a floor in winter, the way morning light touched your window.
Thanks for reading. Up next in the Travel Essentials Korea series:
A 5-Day Korea Itinerary for First-Time Visitors—to help you slow down, soak in, and truly experience Korea.