9 of the Best Stays in Seoul, From Revamped Workshops to Robot Hotels

Résumé détaillé

The South Korean capital is a city of layers. Tiled 14th– and 15th- century palaces sit beneath glass-and-steel towers, and traditional markets rub shoulders with some of Asia’s…

From sleek new openings to design-led boutiques, Seoul’s hotel scene reflects a city where centuries-old traditions meet an ever-evolving creative culture.

The South Korean capital is a city of layers. Tiled 14th– and 15th- century palaces sit beneath glass-and-steel towers, and traditional markets rub shoulders with some of Asia’s most forward-thinking restaurants. It’s a restless place, constantly reinventing itself — and its hotel offering is no different. From elegant guesthouses that draw on traditional Korean craftsmanship to contemporary addresses tapping into the city’s thriving design scene, these stays are as eclectic as the South Korean capital itself.

This hotel is within easy reach of some of Seoul’s best restaurants, boutiques and nightlife, but the temptation to stay in is high. The mid-century modern rooms have a loft-like feel, with exposed brick and warm timber. Many come with split-level sleeping areas and balconies overlooking the outdoor pool. There are four restaurants, including Poissons for upscale seafood and a Japanese izakaya (traditional pub), Salon de Ananti Kenji. The indoor pool is an atmospheric place, with swimmers doing lengths under the redbrick arches and glass chandeliers. There are also live jazz performances in the lounge bar on Fridays, and regular movie nights in the lobby. Rooms: From: 550,000 KRW (£305).

An apartment hotel designed with families and larger groups in mind, Gudo Collective offers flexible room layouts and customisable bunk-bed set-ups that can accommodate up to eight guests. Rooms have a distinctly Korean feel, with low-set beds, pale timber, clean lines and uncluttered interiors creating a calm, pared-back feel. Some come with private spa baths or saunas, while practical touches such as in-room laundry make longer stays that little bit more convenient.

Occupying the upper floors of Seoul’s tallest building, 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, a stay at Signiel is naturally all about the view.

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