Where to Stay in Seoul for Solo Female Travellers (The Best Neighbourhoods With Hotels)
Seoul is one of the safest cities in the world, but if you’re travelling solo, where you stay can completely shape how empowered, confident, and relaxed you feel during your trip. Knowing where to stay in Seoul is essential for setting the right vibe for your trip.
I’ve been to Seoul over fifteen times. Sometimes for work, for solo adventures, and I’ve stayed in great neighbourhoods. If you’re visiting for the first time, picking the right area matters.
You want to feel safe, be close to the subway, and have cafés, food stalls, and street life around you, so you never feel isolated.
I still remember the first night I arrived solo in Seoul. I flew in late and took the AREX train to Seoul Station. It was already glowing with city lights, but I was jetlagged and couldn’t be bothered to transfer to the subway. So I flagged a taxi straight to my hotel in Myeongdong
The easiest decision ever after a long travel day. I didn’t go out that night. I just unpacked, settled in, and permitted myself to rest. That quiet comfort set the tone for the rest of my trip.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Seoul for solo female travellers, based on my personal experience navigating this city alone. I’ll share what I look for when booking a hotel, the neighbourhoods I keep coming back to, and my solo hotel ritual so my hotel feels like home.
You’ll also find specific safe hotel recommendations, solo-friendly spots, and tips to feel confident from the moment you check in.
If you’ve ever worried about feeling lost, stuck in the wrong part of town, or unsure how to make your solo stay feel special. I got you! If you’re looking for more practical advice on solo travel in Seoul, I’ve written a full solo female travel guide to Seoul.
What Makes a Great Solo Stay in Seoul?
Before I ever book a hotel, I always research the neighbourhoods first. I want to stay somewhere that’s conveniently located, so I can walk to restaurants, coffee spots, shops, or even just take a quiet evening stroll without needing a subway or taxi.
When I’m choosing a hotel as a solo traveller, here’s what I always look for:
- A safe, walkable neighbourhood with plenty to do nearby
- Close to a subway station (this is a must in Seoul)
- Clean rooms with decent lighting and a bolt or latch on the door
- A reception desk (24/7 is a bonus, but not a dealbreaker for me)
- Bonus: keycard-access floors for extra security
- A mini fridge, a vending machine, or a nearby 7-Eleven
- Good reviews from other solo travellers—at least an 8+ rating on Booking.com
- And yes, I sometimes email the hotel directly to ask about their safety features and the possibility of early check-ins and check-outs.
It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. I’ve stayed in pretty small rooms in Japan, and they were still perfect for a solo stay. As long as it’s clean, quiet, and safe, I’m happy. All you need is a comfy bed and a shower.
Sarah’s quick Booking.com filters:
- 8+ review score
- Free cancellation
- Close to a subway
- Positive reviews of solo travellers
- Room with a fridge
- Private bathroom (always)
- No weird, windowless rooms that feel sketchy
Whenever possible, I also try to book boutique hotels, design-forward stays, or local guesthouses—especially if they’re women-owned or family-run. Not only does it feel more personal and special, but I also support the local community. These places often have so much more charm and warmth than a big-name hotel chain.
I’m not looking for over-the-top luxury. I’m looking for places that feel intentional, safe, and just a little bit unique. The kind of hotel where you can come back after a solo day exploring and feel instantly at ease. If I can’t find something like that within my budget, I expand to other hotels.
Quick Comparison: Best Seoul Neighbourhoods for Solo Female Travellers
If you’re short on time (or just want a quick answer), here’s how I compare Seoul’s top areas for solo stays. These are all neighbourhoods I’ve personally explored or stayed in, and they each offer something different depending on the kind of solo trip you’re craving.
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Best For | Why Women Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myeongdong | Lively, central, touristy, affordable | First-timers, shopping, skincare, street food | Central, busy in a good way, great for walking alone. Street food every night. |
| Gangnam | Trendy, upscale, modern | Stylish cafés, shopping, river walks | Classy and calm, still fun, great bars and cafés. |
| Hongdae | Youthful, energetic, artsy | Nightlife, indie shops, photo booths | Lots of solo-friendly things to do at night. Great for extroverted solo travellers. |
| Insadong | Cultural, calm, traditional | Great food and vibe, but it can feel too loud or chaotic for some solo travellers. | Peaceful charm, slower travel pace, perfect for mindful solo travel. |
| Itaewon | Diverse, international, social | Global food, nightlife, expat community | Great food and vibe, but it can feel loud or chaotic. |
Myeongdong 명동 – The Ultimate First-Timer Favourite
If it’s your first time in Seoul—whether you’re travelling solo or not—Myeongdong is my top recommendation. It’s right in the middle of the city and incredibly easy to navigate, with several subway lines nearby and loads to do within walking distance. As a solo traveller, that convenience makes a huge difference.
Myeongdong is known for its energy. By day, it’s all about skincare shops, cafés, and shopping. But in the late afternoon, the food carts roll out, the shopping street fills with people and lights, and you suddenly have a street food market at your doorstep.
What I loved most about staying here was that I never felt alone. I could go out for dinner, grab some tteokbokki or pork skewers from a cart, pop into Olive Young for a late-night skincare haul, and walk back to my hotel feeling completely safe.
It’s also one of the more affordable central neighbourhoods in Seoul, which makes it even better if you’re travelling on a budget but still want comfort, connection, and easy access to everything.
Gangnam – Stylish, Safe, and Near the Han River
If you’re looking for something a little more refined, laid-back, and spacious than the buzz of central Seoul, Gangnam is an excellent choice—especially around Sinsa Station. This is where I stayed on one of my solo trips, and I loved the vibe.
My hotel room was on the smaller side for my budget, but beautifully decorated with minimalist design and a bed set up in a more traditional, low-floor style. It felt calming, stylish, and just a little bit different.
Gangnam has plenty of great restaurants and bars, and the wine bar scene here is especially good if you’re looking for a solo dinner with a glass of something nice. If you stay further north—towards Apgujeong—you’ll find yourself close to the Han River, where you can take scenic solo walks, grab a convenience store picnic, or just enjoy a peaceful sunset by the water.
Apgujeong itself is one of the trendiest parts of the city. Think upscale cafés, designer boutiques, and modern Korean dining spots. It’s more polished, but still welcoming. I’ve always felt safe and at ease exploring this area solo.
Hongdae – Young, Vibrant, and Full of Energy
While I haven’t stayed overnight in Hongdae, I’ve spent a lot of time wandering its streets, grabbing drinks, and soaking up the atmosphere, and it’s one of the liveliest areas in Seoul. If you’re looking for a younger, more energetic vibe, this is the place to be.
Hongdae is packed with restaurants, street food, shops, bars and clubs. It’s a great choice if you want to go out in the evening and not worry about catching a taxi or subway home. There’s always something happening here, especially in the evening.
I’ve watched street performers busking, taken cute photo booth pictures with friends, and popped into trendy boutiques that sell the kind of Korean fashion you see all over Instagram.
Even though it’s known as a student area, that doesn’t mean it’s only for students. I’ve had great solo evenings here at cosy wine bars and stylish restaurants that cater to an older crowd.
It’s not as quiet as places like Gangnam or Insadong, but it’s a fantastic pick if you want a social, expressive, and music-filled neighbourhood that’s easy to enjoy solo.
Insadong – Calm, Cultural, and Perfect for Slower Solo Travel
If you’re drawn to the more traditional, slower-paced side of Seoul, Insadong is a beautiful place to stay, especially as a solo traveller. It’s quiet but not boring, peaceful but still full of character. Think charming tea houses, narrow streets lined with craft shops, and galleries that give you a glimpse into Korean art and history.
What I love about Insadong is that it feels like the opposite of sensory overload. You can take your time here. Wander past old hanok buildings, stop for a traditional tea ceremony, and browse handmade ceramics.
It’s also within walking distance of Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, which makes it a great base if you want to explore cultural highlights without jumping on the subway.
Even though it’s not packed with nightlife or fashion stores like other areas, there are still some great local restaurants, BBQ places and coffee shops. It’s a good choice if you’re in a reflective headspace, or just want your trip to be a bit more mindful and connected to Korea’s traditions.
Itaewon – International, Social, and Full of Global Flavour
If you want to be somewhere that feels a little more international, without losing Seoul’s local charm, Itaewon is a good choice. It’s one of the few neighbourhoods in Seoul where you’ll find foreign restaurants, Western-style cafés, and international pubs.
I’ve always liked visiting Itaewon when I was in the mood for something different—whether that was a night out, a non-Korean meal, or just a more diverse crowd. It’s especially good for solo travellers who want to meet people easily, or who just feel more comfortable starting in an area that’s very foreigner-friendly.
You’ll find a mix of nightlife here, from relaxed pubs to full-on clubs. The area isn’t huge, but there’s enough to keep you busy for a night or two of food, drinks, and dancing. If you’re a solo traveller who enjoys going out, Itaewon offers a very social energy where it’s easy to blend in.
Geographically, it’s located just north of the Han River, which makes it fairly central and easy to reach from most parts of the city. It’s also close to places like Namsan, so you’re still well connected even if the vibe feels different from the rest of Seoul.
Best Safe Hotels in Seoul for Solo Female Travellers
When I book a hotel solo, I always look for three things: a walkable location, clean, safe and comfortable rooms, and great reviews from other solo travellers. Bonus points if it’s a boutique hotel in Seoul or a locally owned guesthouse with a bit of personality.
Here are some hotels I’ve either stayed in myself or saved for future stays and would confidently recommend, based on their location, vibe, and how they fit the needs of solo female travellers. It’s important to know how to stay safe as a solo female traveller.
Myeongdong
Perfect for first-timers who want everything within walking distance—food, shopping, and late-night street snacks.
L7 MYEONGDONG by Lotte
A solid pick in Myeongdong is L7 Myeongdong by Lotte. It’s located just a few minutes from Myeongdong Station, on the opposite end of the main shopping street—so you’re still right in the heart of it all.
This hotel leans a little more upscale, with spacious rooms, larger bathrooms, and even a rooftop bar with great city views. There’s also a laundry room, which is always a win for longer stays.
Hotel Lemong
Hotel Lemong deserves a spot on this list of Seoul’s most charming boutique-style stays. It’s a great pick if you want a comfortable, well-situated hotel that feels a little more personal.
Located just a short stroll from Myeongdong Cathedral, this 3-star stay puts you close to Jongmyo Shrine, Gwangjang Market, and Myeongdong Station, so getting around—or heading out for food and culture—is super easy.
There’s a cosy shared lounge, a small garden area, and the whole place has a quirky, kitschy vibe that I love. If you’re into unique interiors and want something a bit more fun than a standard hotel, this is a great place to stay.
Gangnam
Patio 7 Hotel
I stayed at Patio 7 Hotel, a small, stylish design hotel tucked away in Gangnam. The rooms are compact but clean and come with a private bathroom. I especially loved the layout of the bed area—it felt cosy and well thought out.
One of the highlights? There’s an on-site wine shop and bar, where you can grab a bottle or enjoy a glass before heading out. It’s a great pick for wine lovers who want to stay close to Gangnam’s best spots while enjoying a boutique vibe.
Cappucino Gangnam
Hotel Cappuccino is a trendy, eco-conscious lifestyle hotel with a stylish rooftop bar, sleek design, and a strong focus on sustainability. It has an on-site restaurant, bar, and a 24-hour front desk—everything you need for a smooth solo stay.
The rooms are compact, but ideal for solo travellers. With its modern vibe and great location, it’s a unique place to stay in Gangnam that feels both cool and conscious.
Hongdae
L7 HONGDAE by LOTTE
L7 Hongdae by LOTTE is a modern, stylish hotel right in the heart of Hongdae. It has everything you’d expect—a restaurant, a bar, a gym, and of course, free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
One of the standout features? The rooftop pool (open seasonally), where you can take in the city views. You’re going to love the pool in the hot summers in Seoul. The rooms are big and comfortable, and it’s an excellent option if you wish to stay in the middle of Hongdae.
Insadong
Bukchonae
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a traditional Korean home, Bukchonae should be at the top of your list. I tried to book it during one of my trips, but it was fully reserved—hopefully, you’ll have better luck! It’s definitely on my list for next time.
The location is amazing—just steps from Bukchon Hanok Village, and within walking distance to Insadong, Myeongdong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace. Plus, there are plenty of cosy cafés and restaurants nearby.
It’s a bit more of a splurge, but with such beautiful interiors and glowing reviews from other travellers, it looks like a truly special way to experience Korean culture.
AMID Hotel Seoul
AMID Hotel Seoul is a super convenient option if you want to be close to both Insadong and Myeongdong. You can walk to either in about ten minutes.
Some rooms have great city views. There’s a small gym if you like to get in a quick workout, and the 24-hour reception is a big plus—especially if you’re arriving late or need help with luggage, currency exchange, or recommendations.
Itaewon
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel in Itaewon blends style and comfort perfectly. It’s just a 3-minute walk from Itaewon Station, making it super convenient if you want to stay in a lively, international part of the city. The location is ideal if you love food variety and nightlife, or just want to be near Namsan Tower and other central sights.
As of 2025, the hotel has been going through a gradual renovation, with guest rooms being updated to feel even more stylish and relaxing. Depending on availability, you might get one of the newly refreshed rooms.
My Solo Hotel Routine (What I Do First + How I Settle In)
Depending on what time I arrive and how I feel after the flight, I always email the hotel in advance to ask if early check-in is possible. If I’m landing early in the morning, the last thing I want is to be jet-lagged and dragging myself around the city until 3 p.m. I have no problem paying the extra fee if it means I can go straight to my room and reset.
I unpack right away. Lay out my packing cubes and organise everything so the room feels structured. Then I take a shower, maybe a short nap (never more than 90 minutes), and I keep that first day slow and easy. I always have my solo female travel safety essentials with me.
I’ve done my research in advance, and I already have a few pins saved on Google Maps for a cute coffee shop, a local food spot, or a wine bar I want to try. I’ll head out for a walk, grab a bite, and just explore the neighbourhood around me. That first walk always helps me settle in.
One thing I recommend is finding a local coffee shop nearby. Somewhere you can return to each day. Or, if you’re like me and you love a glass of wine or a cocktail in the evening, try a place on your first day, and if it feels right, make it your go-to spot.
That small routine, getting your coffee or winding down with a drink, can become a grounding ritual that brings a sense of normalcy and comfort, even in a brand-new place.
And if you can’t find a cute café right away? There’s always Starbucks. The point is to create a familiar rhythm that helps you feel like you, even in a different timezone.
This kind of routine has become part of how I travel. It helps me feel calm, safe, and more connected to the place I’m in while giving me the space to ease into solo travel on my terms.
FAQ’s about where to stay in Seoul
Is it better to stay near a subway station in Seoul?
Yes, staying near a subway station makes getting around Seoul much easier and safer—especially if you’re out solo in the evening. I always prioritise hotels within a 10-minute walk of a station. It saves energy, cuts down on unnecessary taxi rides, and makes it easier to explore different neighbourhoods without stress.
Can I stay in a guesthouse or hanok as a solo traveller?
Absolutely! Guesthouses and hanoks can be amazing options for solo travellers, especially if you want a more cultural or personal experience. Just make sure they have good reviews, clear safety measures, and ideally private rooms.
Is Seoul a good city for solo travel if I don’t speak Korean?
Yes, Seoul is good to navigate solo without speaking Korean. Most signs are in English, and many cafés and restaurants are used to foreign visitors. Apps like Papago and Naver Maps also make it easier to get around and communicate.
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The Best neighbourhood to stay in Seoul depends on you
Where you stay can shape your entire experience in Seoul. Especially when you’re travelling solo. Whether you’re craving the energy of Myeongdong, the calm of Insadong, or the trendy vibes of Gangnam, Seoul truly has a neighbourhood that fits your travel style and comfort level.
I still remember the quiet excitement of my first solo walk through Seoul after checking in. No pressure to rush, no one to wait for. Just me, a new destination, and my saved pins on Google Maps. That’s the beauty of solo travel: you get to write the rhythm of your own day.
Now that you’ve figured out your home base, the next step is building your perfect solo route. Check out some of my favourite guides to keep planning your Seoul adventure:
- The Best 10-Day South Korea Itinerary: Seoul and Busan
- The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary To Seoul: See, Eat, and Explore It All
- 22 Solo Things To Do In Seoul For An Unforgettable Trip
- The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide To Seoul: My First-Timer Guide
If you’ve enjoyed this post, I’d love to hear from you. Leave me a comment below—or drop a comment on my latest Instagram post and let me know what neighbourhood you’re thinking of staying in. And if you have any questions about solo travel in Seoul, I’m always happy to help.
