The Best Boutique Hotels in Seoul
![Shilla Hotel is perfect for putting up your feet after a day exploring Seoul](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/3e8ae7ef.webp)
Towering skyscrapers and Asian pop culture sit alongside Buddhist temples and the Gyeongbokgung Palace in the South Korean capital of Seoul.
Seoul is a city old meets new; where contemporary artists meet local bazaars and high-tech subways run beneath 600-year-old royal palaces. Whether you’re admiring the fascinating history of the Bukchon Hanok Village or perusing street stalls for local bites, Culture Trip shares the best boutique hotels to stay at.
1. Bonum1957 Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel
![An stylish open plan living room at Bonum1957 Boutique Hotel, with a TV, sofa, lamp and chandelier next to a bedroom](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/1d427a9d.webp)
In the hilltop Bukchon Hanok Village of Seoul (known for traditional Korean hanok homes), Bonum1957 offers rooms that feel like small, private houses. Terraces, along with little gardens between rooms, add to the sense of private space. The high ceilings, large bathrooms and creative takes on wooden panelling and floor tiles make this a comfortable and stylish base for exploring Seoul.
2. Small House Big Door
Hotel
![A light bedroom at Small House Big Door, with white walls, a cushioned bed next to windows, a bedside table and lamp](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/67a4f610.webp)
If you’re a fan of minimalist design and quirky furnishings, you’ll be chuffed with Small House Big Door in Myeongdong. Situated near Lotte Department Store, this 25-room hotel comes with a ground-floor café, a sunken art installation gallery space, and simple, elegant rooms on the upper floors. Enjoy the complimentary espresso each morning before you hit the city.
3. Makers Hotel
Boutique Hotel
![A cosy bedroom at Makers Hotel, with a cushioned bed, desk, chair, lamp, small plants and a window with a blind](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/92baf587.webp)
The Makers Hotel, in the Jongno District, offers a chic haven in a lively area home to temples, the Dongmyo Flea Market and the street-food stalls of the Gwangjang market. Exposed brick walls, plush Chesterfield armchairs and wood tables give off an old-world vibe, somewhat reminiscent of a European cigar lounge. The small but comfortable rooms tend to be more modern than the common areas, with a fresh, clean-lined design.
4. Hotel 28 Myeongdong
Hotel
![An ensuite bedroom at Hotel 28 Myeongdong with a bed, TV, table, armchairs, modern decor and a bathroom with sliding doors](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/800d2c2c.webp)
The Myeongdong shopping district is home to the cinematic Hotel 28. Retro cameras in the foyer, portraits of South Korean film stars on the walls, sleek modern rooms, plus a small cinema and bijou Korean cinema museum define this boutique retreat. For a special night, stay in the Director’s Room, curated by South Korean film great (and the hotel owner) Yeonggyun Shin. It comes complete with a sink-into-me freestanding tub, Nespresso coffee machine and Hermès furnishings.
5. Hotel Loft
Hotel
![A stylish room at Hotel Loft with an exposed brick wall, a bath tub, tall windows, a sofa, coffee table and spiral staircase](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/db72cc5d.webp)
If you want to be on the south bank of the Han River, book Hotel Loft, near the Dangsan metro station. It features a free parking garage for folks with rented cars, plus a variety of rooms, from smaller deluxe accommodations to a penthouse suite with a barbecue. Some even come with a jacuzzi. The on-site Brix Restaurant serves Western cuisine, including Italian fare, a wine “buffet” and cuts of juicy steak.
6. Win Art House
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
![A light and modern bedroom at Win Art House, with a bed and wooden headboard, large windows, curtains and bedside tables](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/419077080.webp)
Win Art House was designed by J. Shim with a subtle use of Korean décor elements. Each room presents a unique aesthetic appeal with soft tones and modern furnishings, plus air-con and high-speed WiFi comes as standard. The lodge also features a spacious rooftop garden where organic vegetables are grown. The cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant is globally inspired and enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
7. Bongeunsa Temple
Guesthouse
![A view of Bongeunsa temple in Seoul City, with city views and trees](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/gp9ndm.webp)
8. Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel, Hotel, Lodge
![A bedroom at Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel with dark wooden walls, wooden armchairs, mirror, a table and a bed with curtains](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/3cc2cd99.webp)
9. Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Hotel
![A modern and spacious bedroom at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, with a bed, a TV, a pool and large windows showing city views](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/7f86f8cf.webp)
Designed by one of Korea’s most famous architects, Kim Swoo Geun, the Banyan Tree weaves together earthy decor with urban glamour. Over 90% of the rooms have their own private plunge pool with views across the city skyline. Admire local handicrafts in the art gallery or drop into the spa for a full-body massage. There’s also an onsite ice skating rink during the winter months, plus a golf driving range, as well as basketball and tennis courts.
10. Shilla Hotel
Hotel, Villa
![A stylish outdoor area at Shilla Hotel, with a tub, a cream cushioned armchair, seats and candles](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/e90b8632.webp)
11. Metro Hotel
Hotel, Lodge
![A light and modern bedroom at Metro Hotel, with a four poster bed, a TV, a mirror, windows and ceiling lights](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2bce0cf0.webp)
Browse more affordable options for staying in the South Korean capital by seeing the best cheap hotels in Seoul, bookable with Culture Trip.
This is an updated version of an article originally written by Naintara Gurung.