4 Best Hotels in Myeongdong, Seoul

An excellent value for both business and sightseeing, the Ibis Ambassador is a reliable hotel choice in this location. While the rooms won't win any design awards, they are pleasant and comfortable, and the staff is quite warm and helpful. The hotel's real selling point, however, is its location in the center of Seoul's downtown shopping area, also a short taxi or subway ride from museums and Seoul's historic neighborhoods. For guests who just want a place to sleep, the standard rooms are fine, but if you want to spend some time relaxing in the hotel it is worth upgrading to a slightly larger room. It follows the Ibis formula to the letter, so if you've stayed at one before there are no surprises.

A good base for sightseeing, shopping, and nightlife, the Lotte Hotel is just a few steps away from Euljiro 1-ga Station. While the rooms have a classic, Western luxury hotel feel, some of the furnishings do need to be updated. Two noteworthy highlights include its direct access to the Lotte Department Store and the free use of the pool (unusual in Seoul). Savvy visitors can often find excellent discounts, which makes the Lotte a good deal for what it is—a quality, conveniently located, high-end tourist hotel. Conventions and weddings are often held here and groups often buy out rooms in packages. 

Centered in the heart of Seoul's downtown, Metro Hotel is a comfortable, no-frills tourist hotel and one of the best values in the area. Although simple, rooms at the Metro Hotel are clean, comfortable, and large for the price. The customer service speaks to the Metro's long history and is a step above most other comparable hotels (and even some higher-end ones). Their complimentary kids room is nice for families. The Metro is an excellent choice for both business travelers and for sightseers who want somewhere comfortable to come home to.

Established in 1979, The Shilla Seoul has built its reputation from a time when there were few high-end hotels in the city; now it contains La Yeon, a two Michelin-starred restaurant, and all the trappings of a true luxury hotel. Although some rooms have scenic views of Namsan mountain, the location is less than ideal for sightseeing, although most tourist areas are just a short cab ride away. The hotel sets itself apart from other brands of similar caliber by incorporating Korean design into the lobby and rooms, with each room being slightly different from the next.