Where to Stay in Seoul with Family? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas to stay in Seoul with kids and best family-friendly hotels in Seoul for all budgets and preferences.
Seoul is indeed a kid-friendly city with a wide range of attractions and amenities to cater to families traveling with children. Firstly, the city offers a plethora of family-oriented activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for kids.
For instance, you can explore the fascinating world of Korean folklore and mythology at places like The Children’s Museum of the National Folk Museum of Korea, where interactive exhibits engage children in learning about the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, Seoul boasts numerous parks and green spaces that are perfect for family outings. Places like Seoul Forest or Olympic Park often have playgrounds, picnic areas, and even bike rentals, ensuring a fun-filled day for kids and parents alike.
Moreover, Seoul’s public transportation system is well-developed and stroller-friendly, making it easy for families to navigate the city. The subway system, in particular, is clean, efficient, and equipped with elevators and escalators, making it accessible for families with young children.
Furthermore, the city is home to a diverse culinary scene, including kid-friendly options. From Korean barbecue and street food to international cuisine, there are plenty of dining choices to suit children’s tastes.
In terms of accommodations, Seoul offers a variety of family-friendly hotels and serviced apartments that cater to the needs of families. These accommodations often provide cribs, family rooms, and even babysitting services, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.
Lastly, Seoul’s commitment to safety is reassuring for parents. The city is generally considered safe, and there is a strong police presence, making it a safe environment for families to explore.
Where to Stay in Seoul with Family?
The best areas to stay in Seoul with family are Myeongdong, Insadong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Jamsil, Itaewon, Dongdaemun, and Bukchon Hanok Village.
In general, Myeongdong is the best central location for families who enjoy shopping and trying street food. Insadong is the best area for families interested in Korean culture and arts.
Hongdae is the best base for families with teenagers or young adults as the area has a youthful and lively atmosphere. Gangnam is the best base if your family has a larger budget and wants to experience the more affluent side of Seoul.
Jamsil is the best neighborhood for families with kids who want to enjoy amusement parks and outdoor activities. Dongdaemun is for families who love shopping for clothing and accessories.
Overview of best areas to stay in Seoul for family
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Seoul for families with children:
| Best areas in Seoul with family | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Myeongdong | Myeongdong is a popular shopping district in Seoul known for its vibrant street food stalls and numerous shops. It’s a central location with easy access to public transportation, making it a convenient choice for families. |
| Insadong | Insadong is famous for its traditional Korean culture and art scene. It’s a quieter neighborhood compared to Myeongdong and offers a more traditional atmosphere with tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops. It is a good choice if you want a more cultural experience for your family. |
| Hongdae | Hongdae is known for its youthful and trendy atmosphere. It’s a hub for nightlife, street performances, and art. While it can be a fun place to stay, it may not be the best choice for families looking for a quieter and more family-oriented environment. |
| Gangnam | Gangnam is a bustling, upscale district in Seoul. It’s known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a more modern and commercial area, but it may not offer as much of a traditional Korean experience as some other neighborhoods. |
| Jamsil | Jamsil is home to Lotte World, a popular amusement park and shopping complex. If your family enjoys theme parks and entertainment, this area could be a great choice. It’s a bit farther from the city center but offers a range of family-friendly activities. |
| Itaewon | Itaewon is a multicultural neighborhood with a diverse range of international restaurants and shops. It’s a good choice if your family enjoys trying different cuisines and wants a more cosmopolitan atmosphere. |
| Dongdaemun | Dongdaemun is famous for its shopping malls, including Dongdaemun Design Plaza. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in fashion and shopping, but it may not be as family-oriented as some other areas. |
| Bukchon Hanok Village | Bukchon Hanok Village is a unique and picturesque neighborhood with well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks). Staying here can provide a more authentic cultural experience, but keep in mind that accommodations here are more limited compared to other neighborhoods. |
8 Best areas to Stay in Seoul with Family are:
1. Myeongdong
Myeongdong is a vibrant and bustling shopping district located in the heart of Seoul. It’s a popular choice for tourists due to its central location and numerous shopping opportunities.
Here’s what makes it a great choice for some travelers:
Shopping: Myeongdong is a shopper’s paradise. You’ll find a wide variety of stores, from international brands to local boutiques and cosmetics shops. If your family enjoys shopping for fashion, cosmetics, and accessories, you’ll have plenty of options here.
Street Food: Myeongdong is famous for its street food vendors. You can try a wide range of Korean street snacks, from tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to hotteok (sweet pancakes). It’s a great place to introduce your family to Korean cuisine.
Central Location: Myeongdong is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Seoul. It’s well-connected by public transportation, allowing you to easily reach other attractions and neighborhoods.
Nightlife: While Myeongdong is primarily known for shopping and street food during the day, it also comes alive in the evenings with vibrant street performances. Your family can enjoy watching talented buskers and musicians.
Accommodation: You’ll find a range of hotels and guesthouses in Myeongdong, catering to different budgets. Staying in Myeongdong gives you easy access to the shops and restaurants.
However, Myeongdong can get very crowded, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. If your family prefers a quieter environment, you may want to consider staying in a nearby area and visiting Myeongdong for shopping and dining during the day.
Overall, Myeongdong is the best area to stay in Seoul for families who enjoy shopping, trying street food, and being in the midst of the city’s energy.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Myeongdong with family:
- Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel Seoul
- Mid-range ($$): L7 Myeongdong
- Budget ($): Pacific Hotel
2. Insadong
Insadong is one of the best areas in Seoul for families who want to immerse themselves in Korean culture, appreciate traditional arts and crafts, and prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Here’s what you can expect if you decide to stay in Insadong:
Cultural Heritage: Insadong is renowned for its preservation of Korean culture and tradition. The area is home to many traditional tea houses, antique shops, and art galleries. You can immerse your family in the rich cultural heritage of Korea by exploring these venues.
Traditional Hanbok Rental: Many shops in Insadong offer traditional Korean hanbok rental services, allowing your family to dress up in these beautiful garments and take photos in the historic surroundings.
Art and Crafts: The district is dotted with galleries and shops where you can purchase Korean art, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s an excellent place to find unique and handcrafted gifts.
Tea Houses and Korean Cuisine: Insadong is famous for its traditional tea houses where you can enjoy a variety of Korean teas and snacks. It’s also a great place to try authentic Korean dishes in traditional settings.
Bukchon Hanok Village: While Bukchon Hanok Village is a separate area, it’s in close proximity to Insadong. You can easily explore this traditional Korean village with its well-preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) during your stay in Insadong.
Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Compared to some other busy districts in Seoul, Insadong offers a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It’s a pleasant place to take leisurely walks and enjoy the surroundings.
Proximity to Palaces: Insadong is relatively close to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, two of Seoul’s major historical landmarks. You can easily visit these palaces from Insadong.
While Insadong is known for its cultural attractions, it may not have as much shopping or nightlife as some other districts like Myeongdong or Hongdae. It’s a neighborhood where you can embrace the rich history and traditions of Korea.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Insadong with family:
- Luxury ($$$): Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
- Mid-range ($$): Orakai Insadong Suites
- Budget ($): Sunbee Hotel Insadong Seoul
3. Hongdae
Staying in Hongdae is a popular choice, especially for families with teenagers or young adults, as it’s known for its vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
Hongdae is located in the Mapo District of Seoul, and it’s named after Hongik University, which is in the area. It’s conveniently situated on Line 2 of the Seoul subway, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
Attractions and Activities:
Hongik University Street: This is the heart of Hongdae and is known for its lively atmosphere. You’ll find numerous street performers, shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place for shopping, people-watching, and enjoying street food.
Hongdae Free Market: On weekends, there’s a free market in Hongdae where local artists and vendors sell handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and more. It’s a fun place to explore with your family.
Cafes and Art Galleries: Hongdae is famous for its unique and quirky cafes, many of which have interesting themes. You can also find numerous art galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
Nightlife: While Hongdae is known for its nightlife, there are family-friendly activities to enjoy in the evening as well, such as visiting restaurants and cafes or attending performances like live music shows.
Keep in mind that Hongdae can get quite lively and crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends. If your family enjoys an energetic and youthful ambiance, Hongdae could be an exciting and memorable place to stay in Seoul.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Hongdae with family:
- Luxury ($$$): Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae
- Mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae, an IHG Hotel
- Budget ($): Heima Guesthouse Hongdae
4. Gangnam
Gangnam is a modern and upscale district located in the southern part of Seoul. It gained international fame thanks to the viral K-pop song “Gangnam Style” by Psy, which humorously depicted the district’s luxurious and trendy image.
Staying in Gangnam offers a different experience compared to other areas of Seoul:
Luxury Shopping: Gangnam is known for its high-end shopping, with many luxury boutiques and department stores such as Hyundai Department Store and Galleria Department Store. If your family enjoys luxury shopping, this is the place to be.
Diverse Dining Options: Gangnam offers a wide range of dining options, from upscale international restaurants to trendy Korean eateries. You can explore a variety of cuisines here.
Nightlife: Gangnam is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. It’s a great area for adults or older teenagers who want to experience Seoul’s nightlife.
Modern Architecture: The district is known for its modern and sleek architecture, including the iconic Gangnam Style Horse Statue and COEX Mall. You can explore these modern landmarks during your stay.
Business Hub: Gangnam is a major business district, so if you’re visiting Seoul for work-related purposes, it’s a convenient location. Many corporate offices are located here.
Transportation Hub: Gangnam is well-connected to the rest of Seoul via public transportation, including multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
While Gangnam offers a luxurious and cosmopolitan experience, it may not be the best choice for families with young children, as it’s more tailored to adults and older teenagers.
Families interested in luxury shopping, fine dining, and experiencing the modern side of Seoul can certainly enjoy Gangnam.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Gangnam with family:
- Luxury ($$$): Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, an IHG Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): InterContinental Seoul COEX, an IHG Hotel
- Budget ($): L7 Gangnam
5. Jamsil
Jamsil is a neighborhood located in the southeastern part of Seoul and is a great choice for families, especially those with children. It offers a mix of entertainment, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
Here’s what you can expect if you decide to stay in Jamsil:
Lotte World: Jamsil is home to Lotte World, one of South Korea’s largest and most famous amusement parks. Lotte World features thrilling rides, an indoor ice skating rink, a folk museum, and a beautiful lake. It’s a fantastic destination for family fun.
Lotte World Tower: Adjacent to Lotte World is the Lotte World Tower, one of Seoul’s iconic skyscrapers. You can visit the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city.
Olympic Park: Jamsil hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics, and Olympic Park is a beautiful green space that offers walking and cycling paths, sculpture gardens, and various sports facilities. It’s a great place for outdoor activities and picnics.
Seokchon Lake: This picturesque lake is located near Lotte World and Olympic Park. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely stroll, and you can rent paddle boats to enjoy some time on the water.
Shopping and Dining: Jamsil has a variety of shopping malls, including Lotte Department Store and Lotte Mart, where you can shop for Korean and international brands. There are also plenty of dining options ranging from Korean cuisine to international fast food.
Transportation Hub: Jamsil is well-connected to other parts of Seoul through its subway stations, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
Jamsil is particularly suitable for families with children due to its proximity to Lotte World and the various family-friendly activities in the area. If you want a combination of amusement park fun, outdoor relaxation, and shopping convenience, Jamsil is a great choice for your stay in Seoul. It offers a family-oriented and wholesome experience.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Jamsil for family with kids:
- Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel World
- Luxury ($$$): Signiel Seoul
- Budget ($): Hotel Pharos
6. Itaewon
Itaewon is another popular neighborhood to consider when looking for accommodations in Seoul, and it offers a unique and multicultural atmosphere.
Here’s what you can expect if you decide to stay in Itaewon:
International Cuisine: Itaewon is famous for its wide selection of international restaurants and cafes. If your family enjoys trying different cuisines from around the world, this is a great place to explore diverse culinary options.
Shopping: Itaewon has a mix of boutiques, vintage shops, and street markets. You can find unique fashion items, accessories, and souvenirs.
Nightlife: While Itaewon is known for its nightlife, there are family-friendly activities too. Consider visiting cafes, restaurants, or enjoying evening strolls in the area.
Namsan Park: Namsan Park is nearby and offers a pleasant escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can take a family hike or visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Transportation: Itaewon is easily accessible via public transportation, including the subway (Line 6 and the Itaewon Station), buses, and taxis. It’s a central location, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Seoul.
Cultural Diversity: Itaewon’s cultural diversity is one of its main draws. It’s a place where you can encounter people from various backgrounds and enjoy a multicultural experience.
Language: English is more commonly spoken in Itaewon than in other parts of Seoul, which can be helpful for international travelers.
While Itaewon offers a unique and multicultural experience, keep in mind that it may have a livelier and busier atmosphere, especially on weekends and evenings.
Overall, Itaewon is an exciting place to stay in Seoul for families interested in a cosmopolitan atmosphere and diverse dining options.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Itaewon for family:
- Luxury ($$$): Grand Hyatt Seoul
- Mid-range ($$): G Guesthouse Itaewon In Seoul
- Budget ($): Seoul Cube Itaewon
7. Dongdaemun
Dongdaemun is a bustling and vibrant area, known primarily for its shopping and fashion scene. It is easily accessible via public transportation, including the subway (Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station) and buses.
If you decide to stay in Dongdaemun, here’s what you can expect:
Shopping Paradise: Dongdaemun is a shopaholic’s dream. It’s famous for its numerous shopping malls, markets, and fashion outlets. You can find clothing, accessories, textiles, and more at a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly to high-end fashion.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): This iconic architectural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid is a must-visit. It hosts various exhibitions, events, and cultural activities. The futuristic design of the DDP itself is a sight to behold.
24-Hour Shopping: Many of Dongdaemun’s shopping centers and markets stay open 24 hours a day. This is particularly convenient if you enjoy late-night shopping or have a busy schedule during the day.
Wholesale Markets: Dongdaemun is home to wholesale clothing markets where you can buy items in bulk at discounted prices. If you’re interested in fashion retail or resale, this area is ideal.
Historical Sites: Dongdaemun is not only about shopping. You can also explore historical sites like Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate), which is part of Seoul’s ancient city wall.
Dongdaemun is an excellent choice for travelers who love fashion, shopping, and exploring modern architecture. It’s also convenient if you want to shop late into the night or explore the city’s history.
However, it can be crowded, especially during peak shopping seasons, so be prepared for a bustling atmosphere. If your family has teenage fashion enthusiasts, they might enjoy Dongdaemun.
Best places to stay in Seoul in Dongdaemun for family:
- Luxury ($$$): Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun
- Budget ($): Summit Hotel Dongdaemun
8. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a historic and picturesque area located in the heart of Seoul. It’s a unique area known for its Hanoks, well-preserved traditional Korean houses, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty.
Staying in Bukchon Hanok Village can provide a truly immersive and cultural experience. Here are some key points to consider:
Traditional Korean Experience: Bukchon Hanok Village offers a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture and way of life. Staying in a hanok guesthouse can be a memorable experience for those interested in Korean culture and history.
Scenic Atmosphere: The village is known for its charming and scenic atmosphere. The narrow winding alleyways, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful courtyards make it an ideal place for leisurely strolls and photography.
Cultural Activities: Many hanok guesthouses in Bukchon offer cultural activities such as tea ceremonies, traditional Korean dress (hanbok) rentals, and calligraphy lessons. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean traditions.
Cafes and Art Galleries: Alongside the traditional hanoks, you’ll find a growing number of cafes, art galleries, and shops that add a modern touch to the neighborhood. You can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the scenery.
Close to Attractions: Bukchon Hanok Village is centrally located in Seoul, making it relatively easy to access other popular attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Insadong.
Quiet Atmosphere: Unlike some of the busier and more commercial neighborhoods in Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a quieter and more tranquil environment, which can be a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Accommodations: Accommodation options in Bukchon Hanok Village primarily consist of hanok guesthouses and boutique inns. Keep in mind that hanok guest houses often have traditional sleeping arrangements on the floor, which may not be suitable for all travelers.
While Bukchon Hanok Village provides a unique and culturally rich experience, it’s essential to be aware that the area can be quite quiet in the evenings, and some hanok guest houses have specific rules and traditions that guests are expected to follow.
If you’re looking for a traditional and serene experience in Seoul and are willing to embrace the cultural aspects, Bukchon Hanok Village can be a memorable choice. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a more bustling or modern atmosphere.
BEST HOTELS IN BUKCHON HANOK VILLAGESee more:
Summary – Where to Stay in Seoul with kids?
In conclusion, Myeongdong, Insadong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Jamsil, Itaewon, Dongdaemun, and Bukchon Hanok Village are the best places to stay in Seoul for families with kids.
Each area has its own unique charm and advantages, so consider your family’s interests and needs to choose the best area for your stay in Seoul.