Seoul Hotel & Travel Destination Guide

Cheaper Hotel Rates - Your ultimate source for Cheap, Discount Seoul Hotel Rates & Detailed Travel Information

Country Code: KR
Source: Fastcheck Arrival Guides

Population:
10.3 million

Currency:
South Korean Won

Opening hours:
In the main, you will find the shops are open from around 9.00-20.00. There are also several night markets that are open throughout the night. Banks are open Mon-Fri 09.00-17.00

Tourist information:

Korea Tourism Organization
Address: 40 Cheongyecheonno,
Jung-gu, Seoul 100-180
Opening hours: 9:00-20.00 everyday
Tel: Travel Information: +82 (0)2 1330(24 hours)
http://english.tour2korea.com/

Seoul

Seoul is a city of contrasts in which the ancient and the modern harmoniously coexist. In one sense a hi-tech 21st century city, awash with neon lights and the sights and sounds of a 24 hr metropolis, whilst at the same time a city retaining the majesty and graceful ambience of the ancient dynasties that once ruled. Like the river Han on which it sits, Seoul is constantly moving as it strides boldly into the future whilst simultaneously managing to keep one foot firmly entrenched in its historical past.

Seoul City

The Jongno-gu area of Seoul is one of the most fascinating districts, symbolising the duality of Seoul as both ancient and modern. Here the historic palaces and the old quarter of Insadong sit aside Daehakno or University St, which is the centre for alternative art and is brimming with galleries, theatres, restaurants and bars.

This dichotomy between the ancient and the modern is also seen in the district of Gangam, where skyscrapers tower above the delicate architecture of Gyeongbukgung Palace. As the city’s commercial centre Gangam is more workmanlike than other areas of the city. However, like Myeongdong the city’s
financial district, Gangam is also becoming known for its restaurants and bars.

Missing home? Then head for Itaewon the international hub of Seoul, where expatriates, tourists and locals gather. It is known for its legendary nightlife where Western style pubs and nightclubs proliferate. Failing that a spot of retail therapy in the Namdaemun and Dongdaemun areas should cure all!

Things to See and Do in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace
If you only have time for one palace visit make sure this is the one! Built in 1395 this is a stunning example of traditional Korean palatial architecture.
Address: 1 Sejong-no, Jongno-gu
Underground: Gyeongbokgung Station>
Phone: +82 (0) 2 732 1931
Internet: www.gyeongbok.ocp.go.kr

National Folk Museum Of Korea
Excellent collection of Korean folk artefacts.
Address: 1-1 Jongno-gu,
Underground: Gyeongbokgung Station
Phone: +82 (0) 2 1330
Internet: www.nfm.go.kr

Namsangol Hanok Village
Restored Korean village with re-enactments and folk performance on Saturdays.
Address: 84-1 Pildong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu,
Underground: Chungmuro Station
Phone: +82 (0) 2 2264 4412
Internet: www.hanokmaeul.org/

Seoul Tower
Great views of the city!
Address: Yongsan-dong 2 -ga San 1-3, Yongsan-gu
Underground: Myeongdong Station, then Namsan cable car
Phone: +82 (0) 2 772 1621
Internet: www.nseoultower.com

Hangang River Ferry Cruise
Cruise along the Han River. The night cruise is spectacular! Check website for departure points
Address: 85-1 Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu
Phone: +82 (0) 2 3271 6900
Internet: http://english.tour2korea.com/
(Destinations-Seoul-Hangang River Ferry Cruise)

Bukhansan Mountain National Park
Escape the bustle of the city and retreat to
the tranquillity of the mountains. Check
website for transport.
Address: Dobong-gu District, Ui-dong, Gangbuk-gu,
Phone: +82 (0) 2 909 0497 8
Internet: www.npa.pr.kr/bukhan/index.asp

Eating in Seoul

Using the distinctive flavours typical of Asian cuisine, a meal in one Seoul’s local restaurants is sure to enliven even the most jaded of Western palates. Look out for Bibimpab a mix of vegetables, rice and hot pepper paste, topped with a cooked egg, Kalbi barbequed beef ribs marinated in a spicy sauce and Kimchi Chinese cabbage infused with various spices.

Asia Live
Variety is the spice of life at this restaurant. Dishes from all over Asia
Address: 159 Samsung-Dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-732
Phone: +82 (0)2 3430 8620

Hanwoori
A traditional Korean restaurant specializing in meat dishes. Excellent Bibimpab
Address: 91-18 Nonhyundong Kangnamgoo, Gangnam-gu, 135-010
Underground: ShinSan Station,
Phone: +82 (0)2 512 3104
Internet: www.hanwoori-resturant.co.kr

Ondal
Serving authentic regional fare with magnificent views of the Han River. Don’t miss the Kalbi.
Address: 21 Gwangjang-dong, Sheraton Grand Walkerhill Hotel,
143-708
Phone: +82 (0)2 450 4518

Samwon Garden
The largest restaurant in Korea, also serves excellent Korean food.
Address: 623-5 Shinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-120
Underground: Apgujung ,
Phone: +82 (0)2 548 3030
Internet: www.samwomgarden.com

Laputa
Lobster is the speciality of this quality seafood restaurant. Accompanied by a spectacular view of the city.
Address: Jinseoul Building 18-20th Floors, 996-1 Daechi-dong,
Gangnam-gu, 135-280
Underground: Samsung Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 538 6901

Top Cloud
Sophisticated atmosphere with breathtaking views of the city. Serves selection of grilled meats.
Address: Jongno Tower 33rd Floor, 1-1 Jongno 2-ga, Jugno-gu,
110-122 , Underground: Jonggak Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 2230 3000
Internet: www.topcloud.co.kr

Dimatteo Pizza
Authentic Italian cuisine with selection of Italian wines.
Address: 1-141 Dongsoong-dong, Chongno-gu, 110-791,
Underground: Hyehwa Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 747 4444

La Scala
The best French restaurant in Seoul with an extensive menu and live classical music.
Address: 169-6 Samsung-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-091
Underground: Samsung Station,
Phone: +82 (0)2 555 3851
Internet: www.lascala.co.kr

Nodle Restaurant
Floating restaurant on the Han River. Steak specialties
Address: 85-1 Yeouido-dong, Yeoungdngpo-gu, 150-010,
Underground: Yeouinaru ,
Phone: +82 (0)2 785 4411

Cafes in Seoul

Chagram
With a name meaning “river of tea” expect to face a deluge.
Address: 1-94 Dongsoong, Jongno-gu 110-510
Underground: Haehwa Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 3672 5711

Kaonnuri
Traditional café with live Korean music performances.
Address: 33-14 Jangchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, 120-180
Underground: Shinchon Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 337 0791

Samhwaryong
Set in a beautifully restored old house.
Address: 163-16 Haehwa, Jongno-gu, 110-530
Underground: Haehwa Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 763 9966

Laputa
Fast Internet connections and good selection of drinks
Address: YBM Sisa Building, 826 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-080
Underground: Gangnam Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 508 8261-3

Cascade
Café in the Sheraton Hotel affording great views of the river.
Address: 21 Gwangjang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, 143-708
Underground: Gwannaru Station
Phone: +82 (0)2 3705 9146

Seoul Bars and Nightlife

After a hard day’s sightseeing unwind in one of Seoul’s many bars. Try some of the local beers or if your brave enough some of the local liquors!

Seoulites work hard and therefore it naturally follows that they like to play hard. So when the sun goes down the city swings into party mode with the music pumping, bodies gyrating and the drinks flowing!

Chong Hak Dong
Traditional Korean bar! Try the dong-dong ju (rice wine).
Address: 31-11 Dongsoong-dong, Jongno-gu, 110-510,
Underground: Hyehwa Station

Compass Rose
Live Jazz every evening.
Address: 87 Sokong-dong, Jung-gu, 100-070
Underground: Kimpo Airport

Butterfly
Persian rugs and pillows that you can lose yourself in! Nice pre-club bar.
Address: Seogyo dong, Mapo-gu, 409
Underground: Hongik University Station.

Alexander
Marvel at the in-house magician as you enjoy a drink.
Address: Nr Hongik University Gate
Underground: Hapjeong Stn.

Heaven
Reggae bar serving up a cool atmosphere. Mixed crowd.
Address: Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu
Underground: Hongik University

M2
Dance club with superior sound and light display. International guest DJ’s
Address: Seokyo Dong 367-11, Mapo Gu
Internet: www.ohoo.net
Club Nb
If you like hip-hop this is the place to come. Keeps jumping until 08.00!
Underground: Kangnam Station
Internet: www.clubnb.com

Living Room
Super cool club with contemporary artwork and designer furniture!
Address: W Seoul Walkerhill Hotel, 21 Kwangjang Dong - A,
Kwangjin Gu, 143708
Phone: +82 (0)2 465 2222

Club Drug
The premiere punk club in Seoul draws a young and riotous crowd!
Address: 86-35, Sangsu-dong, Mapo-gu,
Underground: Hongik University
Phone: 82 (0)2 326 3085

Old Rock
Haunt for the mature clubber plays a good mix of classic and contemporary rock.
Address: Hong Dae area.
Underground: Hongik University

Shopping in Seoul

If shopping is your thing then Seoul provides one of the best shopping experiences on the planet with choices ranging from ancient marketplaces to sleek high-end designer malls!

In the centre of Seoul you will find Namdaemun Market an open-air shopping extravaganza that has been trading for centuries! Here you can buy anything from a pig’s head to a Louis Vuitton replica handbag (Hoehyeon Station). Not far from Namdaemun is Dongdaemun another bustling market area where once again just about anything can be found. Both stay open until about 05.00.

Other markets worth a visit include Gyeong-dong Oriental Medicine Market providing all sorts of miracle cures (Chegi-dong Station) and Noryangjin Fish Market if only to watch the traders (line 1, Noryangjin Station).

If you prefer your shopping experience a little more ordered try the Doosan Tower shopping mall across from Dongdaemun Market. Other high-end shopping areas include Myeong-dong that throngs with fashionable boutiques, whilst Munjeong-dong is renowned for its discounted high fashion outlet stores.

If you’re after a piece of Korean art or antiquities to take home then head for the winding alleys of the Insa-dong neighbourhood.

Seoul Hotels

Luxury Seoul Hotels

Grand Hilton Seoul
Sumptuously decorated rooms and jaw-dropping views.
Address: 201-1 Hongeun-dong, Seodaemun-ku, 120-710
Underground: Hongjae Station

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JW Marriot Hotel Seoul
Luxurious rooms with either mountain or river views.
Address: 19-3 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, 137-040
Underground: Banpo Station

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Good Value Seoul Hotels

Hotel Niagara
Spectacular views of the river! Traditional or regular rooms and use of a Korean sauna.
Address: 259-2 Yomchang-dong, Kangso-gu, 157- 040
Underground: Dangson
Phone: +82 (0)2 653 2233

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Ibis Myeong-dong Hotel Seoul
Hotel Ibis Myeong-dong is located in the heart of Seouls trendiest shopping district, with major department stores, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs nearby. The hotel features 280 contemporary style rooms with LCD television, a restaurant, sauna, gym, business centre, coin operated laundry and car park. Major banks and businesses also have their headquarters in the area
Address: 59-5 Myeong-dong 1Ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 100021
Underground: Myeong-dong

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Basic

Sunbee Hotel Seoul
The hotel is located in centre of Seoul, close by Insa-dong Seoul’s world-renowned cultural district. It is easy access to Royal Palaces, Namdaemun & Dongdaemun markets and Myeong-dong.
Address: #198-11, Gwanhun-Dong, Jongro-Gu, Seoul
Underground: An-guk Station

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