Where to stay in Seoul for families with kids: 6 Best areas

Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about Seoul for first-timers (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Seoul for families with kids.

I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Seoul for families, along with a map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Seoul and recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels for various budgets.

Seoul is the vibrant capital city of South Korea, known for its rich history, modern skyscrapers, bustling street markets, and dynamic cultural scene. It’s a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology, offering visitors a unique experience. 

You can explore Soul’s past at Bukchon Hanok Village, which is a well-preserved traditional Korean village with narrow alleyways, traditional houses (hanoks), and beautiful courtyards. 

From iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower to trendy neighborhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae, Seoul has something for everyone. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, including Korean barbecue, kimchi, and bibimbap. 

Is Seoul a good place to visit with family?

Yes, Seoul is a fantastic destination for a family vacation! The city offers a rich blend of traditional culture and modern amenities, providing something for everyone to enjoy. 

Your family can explore family-friendly attractions such as Lotte World, one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks, and Everland, a massive outdoor theme park. 

There are also interactive museums like Seoul Children’s Museum and National Museum of Korea, which offer educational experiences suitable for children. You can visit historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village to learn about Korea’s rich history and traditional architecture. 

Seoul is known for being a safe and convenient city to travel in, with excellent public transportation systems and a low crime rate. Your family can feel comfortable exploring the city together.

Where to stay in Seoul for families with kids?

The best areas to stay in Seoul for families with kids include Myeongdong, Insadong, Itaewon,Hongdae, Gangnam, and Jamsil. These areas offer plenty of family-friendly accommodations for all budgets and preferences. 

Myeongdong is a great base to stay in Seoul for a family, especially if you enjoy shopping and want easy access to popular tourist spots like Namsan Tower and Namdaemun Market. It’s also centrally located and well-connected to the subway, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Seoul.

Insadong is the place to be if your family is interested in traditional culture and arts. It’s filled with antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. Your family can explore the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village for a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture.

Itaewon is a great choice if your family is looking for an international atmosphere with a wide range of international cuisine and diverse culture. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife. However, it might not be the most family-friendly option due to its party scene.

Hongdae is a fantastic base in Seoul if you’re traveling with teenagers or young adults. It’s known for its youthful vibe, street performances, indie music scene, and trendy shops. It’s also close to Hongik University, which means there are plenty of budget-friendly eateries and cafes.

Gangnam offers a more luxurious and modern experience. It’s home to high-end fashion boutiques, chic cafes, and trendy nightclubs. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, it offers a more sophisticated atmosphere.

Jamsil is a good option if you’re interested in visiting Lotte World, one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world, and the nearby Lotte World Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. It’s also close to the Olympic Park, which has beautiful green spaces and sports facilities.

During my trip to Seoul, I stayed at the mid-range Henn na Hotel. It was a great hotel in a central location, only a few minutes walk to the Exit 10 of Myeongdong Station (Line 4), shopping street and underground mall. There were many street foods and restaurants nearby. My room was very clean and comfortable.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Seoul for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Map of the best areas to stay in Seoul for families with kids
Map of the best areas to stay in Seoul for families with kids

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Seoul, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Seoul have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

6 Best areas to stay in Seoul with family:

1. Myeongdong

Myeongdong is an excellent choice for a family holiday in Seoul, especially if you’re looking for a central location, and lively atmosphere with plenty of shopping and dining options. 

Myeongdong is centrally located in Seoul, making it easy to access other popular attractions in the city. It’s well-connected by the subway and buses, making it convenient to explore other neighborhoods.

Myeongdong is known as one of Seoul’s premier shopping districts, with a wide range of stores ranging from global brands to local boutiques. Whether you’re looking for cosmetics, fashion, or souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of options here.

One of the highlights of Myeongdong is its bustling street food scene. You and your family can sample a variety of delicious Korean snacks and street food items as you explore the area. It’s a great way to experience Korean cuisine and culture.

Myeongdong is located near Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower), one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. You can take a leisurely stroll to the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation decks. It’s a great spot for family photos!

Best places to stay in Seoul in Myeongdong with kids:

Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel Seoul, 5-star family-friendly hotel in central Seoul, connected to the Euljiro 1-ga Subway Station and Lotte Department Store. Within walking distance from Myeongdong shopping district, Namdaemun Gate, Namdaemun traditional market, and lots of restaurants and shops. It has an indoor pool, free parking, a fitness center, and fabulous breakfast. 

Luxury ($$$): Westin Josun Seoul Hotel, 5-star kid-friendly hotel, welcomes children of all ages. Children 13 years and above will be charged as adults. The hotel has a prime location, a short walk from Myeongdong, City Hall Subway Station, and the Lotte Department Store Sogong Branch. It has laundry services, paid airport transfer, and connecting rooms for families.

Mid-range ($$): L7 Myeongdong, popular 4-star children-friendly hotel in a great location, close to shops, buses, trains and airport limousine bus stop.  Myeongdong street just at the back. It features a 24-hour front desk, coin-operated laundry facility, and comfortable family rooms.

Budget ($): Stanford Hotel Myeongdong, 3-star kid-friendly hotel, conveniently located close to Myeongdong Cathedral, Myeongdong Station, Jogyesa Temple and Dongwha Duty Free Shop. It has family twin rooms, which is a great option for families of 4. Subway is just 5 mins walk away.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN MYEONGDONG

2. Insadong

Insadong is a fantastic area to stay in Seoul for a family holiday, especially if your family wants to stay in the historic heart of Seoul. It is a great place to experience the traditional Korean culture and arts. 

Insadong is famous for its preservation of traditional Korean culture. You’ll find numerous art galleries, antique shops, and traditional tea houses where you can experience Korean crafts, calligraphy, pottery, and more. It’s a great place to learn about Korea’s cultural heritage with your family.

Located nearby, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a glimpse into Seoul’s past with its well-preserved traditional Korean houses and narrow alleys.  

There are also many beautiful temples, palaces, historic squares, and museums in this area to explore. They include the Jogyesa Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, and Gwanghwamun Square.

Best places to stay in Seoul in Insadong with kids:

Mid-range ($$): Orakai Insadong Suites, 4-star kid-friendly hotel in Insadong, featuring self-catering apartments with a well-equipped kitchenette and a washing machine. They have one, two, three-bedrooms apartments, which are great options for families of 4,5,6. You can find 7-11 just in front of the hotel. Easy access to major historical attractions like Jogyesa Temple.

Mid-range ($$): Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong, 4-star children-friendly hotel, set in an excellent location,  within walking distance to many cultural attractions including museums, art galleries, temples, palaces, and the Insadongs vibrant streets and markets. They also have laundry and the locker facilities.

Budget ($): Sunbee Hotel Insadong Seoul, 3-star family-friendly hotel, in central Seoul, in a walkable district, only a short walk from  Jonggak Subway Station Line 1 and Jongno 3-ga Subway Station Line 5. Also easy access to convenient stores, a supermarket and many nice restaurants. The laundry room in the basement. Has the washer and dryer, which is a bonus.

Traditional Hanok House ($$): Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse, good value for money accommodation near Bukchon Hanok Village, and several important landmarks such as Changdeokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, Jogyesa Temple and Gyeongbokgung Palace. It has family rooms, prefectures for families of 4 and 5. There are also fabulous breakfast, laundry services, and a lovely garden.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN INSADONG

3. Itaewon

Itaewon is a convenient location for families looking to experience the cosmopolitan side of Seoul with an international atmosphere while still enjoying plenty of family-friendly activities and amenities. 

Itaewon is known for its multicultural atmosphere, with a large expat population. This makes it a fascinating area to explore different cultures, languages, and customs.

Itaewon is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of international cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, Middle Eastern, or Indian food. This diversity ensures that even the pickiest eaters in your family will find something to enjoy.

Itaewon is known for its eclectic mix of shops, ranging from trendy boutiques to vintage stores and traditional markets. You can spend hours browsing through clothing, accessories, artwork, and souvenirs, making Itaewon a great place for family shopping adventures.

While Itaewon is often associated with its vibrant nightlife, your family can visit the nearby Namsan Park and hike up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the nearby War Memorial of Korea for a glimpse into Korean history.

Best places to stay in Seoul in Itaewon with family:

Luxury ($$$): Grand Hyatt Seoul, 5-star family-friendly hotel located close to both Itaewon and Myeongdong shopping district. It features an ice skating rink, buffet breakfast, comfortable family rooms, and swimming pools. Easy access to subways for further exploration.

Budget ($): Hamilton Hotel, 3-star hotel in Itaewon District, welcomes children of all ages. Children 7 years and above will be charged as adults. Easy access to Itaewon Subway Station (Line 6). It has laundry facilities, a rooftop pool, and modern rooms. Short walk from various Muslim eateries.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN ITAEWON

4. Hongdae

Hongdae is a great location if your family enjoys a lively atmosphere and artsy culture. It is a youthful and vibrant neighborhood known for its indie music scene, street performances, trendy cafes, and affordable eateries. 

Best places to stay in Seoul in Hongdae with family:

Mid-range ($$): Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae, 4-star family-friendly hotel in the center of Seoul, close to Hongik University Station and Hongik University. The hotel has modern and clean facilities with decent soundproofing rooms (Hongdae district is very lively). Close to public transportation and lots of shops. Children 12 years and above will be charged as adults.

Mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae, an IHG Hotel, 4-star children-friendly hotel in Hongdae right next door to the subway station, close to many restaurants and convenience stores. The free breakfast is an added bonus. They have good size rooms and a big lobby area.

Budget ($): JSM Studio Hongdae, 3-star family-friendly hotel, featuring rooms for family of 4 to 8 members. Accommodations come with a fully equipped kitchen. Easily accessible from terminal 1 Incheon airport by train. Lots of food and sights to see nearby.

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HONGDAE

5. Gangnam

Gangnam offers a luxurious and modern setting for a family holiday in Seoul, with a wide range of attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues to suit every member of the family. 

Gangnam is famous for its upscale shopping districts, including Apgujeong, Cheongdam, and Garosu-gil. Families can enjoy browsing/ window shopping high-end boutiques, and luxury brand shops. 

Your family can visit several cultural attractions like the Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple located amidst the skyscrapers of Gangnam, or enjoy a stroll along the tree-lined avenues of Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs, UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Make sure to check out the COEX Mall, one of Seoul’s largest underground shopping malls, which features an aquarium, a cinema complex, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The nearby Starfield Library is also a popular destination, offering a vast collection of books in a beautifully designed space.

Best places to stay in Seoul in Gangnam with children:

Luxury ($$$): Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, an IHG Hotel, 5-star kid-friend hotel, centrally located in Gangnam-gu, a few mins walk from Samseong Subway Station, the COEX Aquarium and ASEM Tower. 40 mins train ride to major attractions, like the royal palaces, Namsan tower, and Gwangjang.

Mid-range ($$): L7 Gangnam, 4-star family-friendly hotel in Gangnam-Gu, close to Seolleung Subway Station (Line 2 and Bundang Line) and Coex Mall. There are many  restaurants nearby. The hotel has a washroom/laundry facility. Rooms are comfortable for families of 4.

Budget ($): Hilton Garden Inn Seoul Gangnam, 3-star children-friendly accommodation in Gangnam, featuring a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, a 24-hour front desk, and currency exchange. Great base for the long term for a family with young children, babies, and toddlers. 

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN GANGNAM

6. Jamsil

Jamsil is a great base in Seoul for families who are interested in Lotte related attractions. Keep in mind that you’ll need to travel to get to popular tourist spots that are above the Han River.

Jamsil is home to Lotte World, one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. Families can enjoy a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas. Lotte World also features an outdoor amusement park (Magic Island) and an indoor shopping mall, offering entertainment and shopping options.

Jamsil is home to Olympic Park, a large green space built for the 1988 Summer Olympics. Families can explore the park’s walking trails, gardens, and sports facilities, including the Olympic Stadium and the World Peace Gate.

Best places to stay in Seoul in Jamsil with kids:

Luxury ($$$): Lotte Hotel World, 5-star family-friendly hotel, one of the best places to stay in Seoul with your children. The hotel is conveniently located atop Jamsil Subway Station, beside the world’s largest amusement park. Easy access to an aquarium, Lotte world adventure, Lotte mart, department store, so you don’t have to travel far. 

Luxury ($$$): Sofitel Ambassador Seoul Hotel & Serviced Residences, 5-star family-friendly accommodation, featuring family king suites with sofa bed and lake view. Close to everything including Lotte mall, lotte world & tower, to keep you entertained. 

Luxury ($$$): Signiel Seoul, 5-star accommodations set between floors 76 and 101 of Lotte World Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city. It has a Michelin-starred restaurant, indoor pool, fitness center. It is linked to Jamsil Subway Station for easy access to other parts of Seoul. 

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN JAMSIL

In conclusion, Myeongdong, Insadong, Itaewon, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Jamsil are the best places to stay in Seoul for families with kids. These areas provide a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and attractions, making them great bases for families to explore the city.

You can continue reading about Seoul and other destinations in South Korea in these articles:

There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to Seoul. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

Leave a Comment