Hotels in Hongdae

Artistry and Adventure: Unveiling the Vibrant Soul of Hongdae

Discover the vibrant heart of Seoul at Hongdae, a lively district teeming with youthful energy and creativity. Renowned for its bustling streets filled with eclectic shops, trendy cafes, and street performances, Hongdae is a haven for art lovers and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Explore the nearby Hongdae Park for a relaxing escape, or visit unique museums that celebrate contemporary culture. The area’s proximity to iconic sights like Changdeokgung Palace adds a touch of history to your adventure. Whether you're indulging in delicious street food or dancing the night away, Hongdae promises an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of modern South Korea. For the best hotel rates in Hongdae, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Hongdae

Myeongdong Street is a bustling shopping district, perfect for first-time visitors seeking vibrant street food and cosmetics. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station offers a mix of shopping and dining, while Lotte World provides thrilling amusement park experiences. Accommodations in these areas range from budget hostels to upscale hotels, with competitive room rates. Options like the Nabi Hostel in Hongdae and various hotels near Lotte World cater to diverse preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Hongdae:

1. Near Myeongdong StreetOpens in a new window: If you're looking to indulge in shopping and vibrant street life, Myeongdong Street is the place to be. This bustling district is known for its trendy shops, delicious street food, and lively atmosphere. For accommodations, consider K-Grand Hotel MyeongdongOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star guesthouse within a mile of Myeongdong. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a shopping-themed vacation experience. Another option is Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Seoul MyeongdongOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable stay and is also located in the heart of the shopping district. For a budget-friendly choice, Mizo HotelOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, provides essential amenities and a great location for exploring the area.
2. Near Lotte Outlets Seoul StationOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for families and those seeking entertainment and business opportunities. The Lotte Outlets offer a variety of shopping options and dining experiences. Ganghwa Haenaru PensionOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star pension that features direct beach access, catering to travelers who enjoy a beach-themed vacation. Daebudo Geugotegamyeon PensionOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star pension, provides fun entertainment options like karaoke, ensuring a lively stay.
3. Near Lotte WorldOpens in a new window: Known for its amusement park and entertainment facilities, Lotte World is a great spot for families and thrill-seekers alike. Hanwha Resorts YangpyeongOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star resort, offers a variety of dining options and recreational activities, making it a solid choice for those looking for fun onsite. Sanasa Red Clay HouseOpens in a new window and Gapyeong San Are PensionOpens in a new window are both 3.0-star pensions that provide comfortable accommodations and entertainment amenities like cable TV and LCD TVs, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Things to do in Hongdae for first time

Three days in Hongdae is perfect for immersing yourself in its vibrant arts scene, where live music, theater, and art exhibitions abound. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in nearby hills, exploring parks, or wandering through bustling flea markets, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere that defines this energetic neighborhood. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hongdae:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Seoul by visiting Myeongdong Street, a bustling shopping district famous for its cosmetics shops and street food stalls. After indulging in some delicious snacks, make your way to Seoul Plaza to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and take some memorable photos. Conclude your day with a visit to the historic Sungnyemun Gate, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and reflect on the city's rich history.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony. Following your palace visit, stroll over to Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses (hanoks) are preserved amidst the modern city. Finally, immerse yourself in the culture at the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center, where you can participate in hands-on activities and learn more about Korean heritage.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a trip to N Seoul Tower, perched high atop Namsan Mountain, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Afterward, head down to Gwanghwamun to explore the iconic Gwanghwamun Gate and nearby attractions, including the statue of King Sejong the Great. Wrap up your itinerary at Seoul City Hall, where you can admire its modern architecture and enjoy the surrounding area filled with shops and cafes.

5 tips to find a great Hongdae hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Hongdae is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers looking for great value for money, it's advisable to book your flight at least six months in advance to secure cheaper fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for discovering the area's main attractions, including its vibrant art scene and unique museums. This way, you can fully enjoy everything Hongdae has to offer without overspending.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Hongdae can be a fantastic way to snag a great stay at a reduced price. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you capitalize on potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may differ due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Hongdae.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near key attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Hongdae and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Hongdae

Here are a few popular dishes in Hongdae, Seoul, South Korea:

• Bulgogi: This marinated beef dish is grilled to perfection, showcasing tender, flavorful meat that is often served with rice and a variety of side dishes, known as banchan. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists, reflecting Korea's love for barbecue and communal dining.
• Bibimbap: A colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an assortment of vegetables, a fried egg, and spicy gochujang sauce. This dish is not only visually appealing but also allows diners to mix ingredients to their liking, making it a personalized culinary experience.
• Korean BBQ: Experience the thrill of grilling your own meat at the table, accompanied by an array of dipping sauces and fresh vegetables. This interactive dining style fosters social connections, making it a must-try in the vibrant atmosphere of Hongdae.

Best time to go to Hongdae

Hongdae experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 27.3°F (-2.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.4°F (25.8°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Hongdae are July, October, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to frequent rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and September are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.