Hotels in Mapo-gu

Mapo-gu: Where Culture Meets Creativity in Every Corner

Mapo-gu, nestled in the heart of Seoul, is a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Known for its dynamic art scene, visitors can explore contemporary galleries and museums showcasing Korea's rich artistic heritage. Stroll through Yeouido Park, where lush greenery meets the Han River, perfect for picnics or leisurely walks. Dive into local flavors at the bustling street markets, or experience the nightlife in trendy Hongdae, renowned for its live music and youthful energy. Mapo-gu offers an unforgettable taste of Seoul's culture, making it an essential stop for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Mapo-gu, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Mapo-gu

Mapo-gu, Seoul, is a vibrant destination for travelers. Myeongdong Street offers bustling shopping and street food, making it ideal for first-timers. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station combines shopping with convenient access, while Lotte World is perfect for family fun and entertainment. Accommodations in these areas range from upscale hotels to budget hostels and cozy aparthotels, ensuring options for every traveler’s needs. Whether seeking luxury or affordability, you’ll find a great place to stay in Mapo-gu. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Mapo-gu:

1. Near Myeongdong StreetOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant shopping scene, Myeongdong Street is a must-visit for those looking to experience South Korea's bustling retail culture. From cosmetics to fashion, the area offers a plethora of stores and street food options. For accommodations, consider K-Grand Hotel MyeongdongOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star guesthouse that is ideal for travellers seeking a family-friendly and shopping-themed experience. Alternatively, Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Seoul MyeongdongOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable stay and is perfect for those looking to indulge in the local shopping scene. Another option is Mizo HotelOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, providing a cozy atmosphere for shopping enthusiasts.
2. Near Lotte Outlets Seoul StationOpens in a new window: This area is a haven for families and business travellers alike, offering a mix of shopping and entertainment options. The Lotte Outlets provide a unique shopping experience with great deals. Consider Ganghwa Haenaru PensionOpens in a new window and Daebudo Geugotegamyeon PensionOpens in a new window, both 3.0-star pensions that offer a beach-themed vacation experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of shopping.
3. Near Lotte WorldOpens in a new window: Perfect for families, Lotte World is an entertainment park that offers fun-filled activities. The area is great for those seeking leisure and excitement. Hanwha Resorts YangpyeongOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star resort offering various dining options and onsite recreational activities, making it ideal for families. Sanasa Red Clay HouseOpens in a new window and Gapyeong San Are PensionOpens in a new window are also 3.0-star pensions that provide comfortable accommodations along with entertainment options like cable and flatscreen TVs, ensuring a fun stay for all.

Things to do in Mapo-gu for first time

Mapo-gu offers travelers a vibrant mix of culture and nature over three days, with its scenic parks and lively urban landscapes. Enjoy shopping, live music, and theater, while also engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and boating, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mapo-gu:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Myeongdong Street, a vibrant shopping district where you can sample delicious street food and explore a variety of shops. After soaking in the lively atmosphere, make your way to Seoul Plaza, a spacious area perfect for relaxation and people-watching. Here, you can also take pictures of the iconic City Hall building. Finally, stroll over to the historic Sungnyemun Gate, one of the oldest gates in the city, where you can admire its architectural beauty and learn about its significance in Korean history.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the stunning grounds. Next, wander over to Bukchon Hanok Village, a picturesque neighborhood filled with traditional Korean hanoks. This area offers a glimpse into Seoul's past and is perfect for capturing beautiful photographs. Conclude your day at the Blue House, the executive office and official residence of the South Korean president, where you can appreciate its unique architecture and scenic surroundings.
• Day 3: Start your morning with a trip to N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain. Take the cable car or hike up for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to Gwanghwamun, where you can explore the majestic Gwanghwamun Gate and enjoy the nearby historical sites. Finally, make your way to Seoul City Hall, an architectural marvel that combines modern and traditional elements. Spend some time in the plaza, where you can often catch cultural events or exhibitions, making it a perfect spot to wrap up your day.

5 tips to find a great Mapo-gu hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Mapo-gu during January, February, or November, when hotel prices are lower, making it a great value for money. For international travelers, booking your flight at least two months in advance can lead to more budget-friendly options. To truly appreciate the area's attractions, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. While there, don't miss the chance to explore the local museums, which offer enriching experiences without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're eager to explore Mapo-gu without breaking the bank, last-minute deals can be a great option. To uncover 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 stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize any saving opportunities that come your way.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Mapo-gu.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas usually tends to be more convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Mapo-gu and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Mapo-gu

Here are some popular dishes in Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea:

• Bulgogi: This beloved Korean dish features marinated beef that is grilled or stir-fried, resulting in a tender, savory delight. Often served with rice and fresh vegetables, bulgogi is a staple in Korean cuisine, reflecting the country’s rich culinary history. Enjoy it at a local eatery where you can savor the aroma as it cooks right before you.
• Bibimbap: A vibrant and wholesome dish, bibimbap consists of a bowl of rice topped with a colorful array of vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). This dish is both visually appealing and customizable, allowing you to mix in your favorite ingredients. It's often enjoyed as a shared meal, promoting a sense of community.
• Korean BBQ: A quintessential dining experience, Korean BBQ allows you to grill your own meats right at the table. This interactive style of dining encourages camaraderie, as diners gather around the grill, cooking and enjoying marinated meats like pork belly and beef short ribs, accompanied by an array of banchan (side dishes).

Best time to go to Mapo-gu

Mapo-gu 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 is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Mapo-gu, June, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to frequent rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.