Hotels in Jongno-gu

Journey Through Time: Explore the Enchantment of Jongno-gu's Cultural Treasures

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, Jongno-gu is a vibrant blend of history and modernity. This cultural gem boasts stunning attractions like the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and the historic Sungnyemun Gate. Stroll through serene temples, explore fascinating museums, and admire monuments that tell the story of Korea’s rich heritage. The area’s lively streets are dotted with charming cafes and shops, making it perfect for leisurely exploration. Whether you’re immersing yourself in art at the Seoul Museum or savoring local delicacies, Jongno-gu offers an unforgettable experience at the very center of Seoul's dynamism. For the best hotel rates in Jongno-gu and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Jongno-gu

Myeongdong Street is a vibrant shopping district perfect for first-time visitors, offering street food and cosmetics. Lotte World features an amusement park and an indoor shopping mall, ideal for families. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station combines luxury shopping with convenient access to transportation. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to upscale hotels in each area, catering to various preferences and budgets, typically starting from affordable rates. Each location provides a unique experience for travelers exploring Seoul. Here are some of the best hotels in Jongno-gu that our travelers love:

1. Near Myeongdong StreetOpens in a new window: Myeongdong Street is a vibrant shopping district in Seoul, renowned for its bustling atmosphere, trendy shops, and street food. It's an ideal location for travelers seeking a shopping theme experience, with convenient access to public transportation and major attractions. Hotels in this area include K-Grand Hotel MyeongdongOpens in a new window, a charming 2.5-star guesthouse that provides a cozy atmosphere within a mile of the shopping hub. Another option is Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Seoul MyeongdongOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable stay with excellent amenities tailored for shopping enthusiasts. Additionally, Mizo HotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that combines affordability with a fantastic location, making it perfect for those who want to explore the vibrant life of Myeongdong.
2. Near Lotte WorldOpens in a new window: Lotte World is one of Seoul's premier entertainment destinations, featuring theme parks and shopping malls. This family-friendly area is perfect for those looking for a fun-filled vacation. Among the accommodations, Hanwha Resorts YangpyeongOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star resort offering various dining options and recreational activities, ideal for families. Another choice is Sanasa Red Clay HouseOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star pension providing a comfortable stay with accessible dining. Lastly, Gapyeong San Are PensionOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star pension, offers cozy accommodations and entertainment options, making it an excellent spot for visitors to unwind after a day of excitement.
3. Near Lotte Outlets Seoul StationOpens in a new window: Lotte Outlets Seoul Station is a fantastic place for shoppers and business travelers, blending entertainment with easy access to city amenities. The area features great accommodations, including Ganghwa Haenaru PensionOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star pension that offers direct beach access for relaxation. Another option is Daebudo Geugotegamyeon PensionOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star pension that provides fun entertainment options like karaoke, ensuring a lively atmosphere for guests. This area is perfect for those who want to balance shopping and leisure while enjoying the vibrant city life.

Things to do in Jongno-gu for first time

Three days in Jongno-gu offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in a vibrant blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through lush parks, explore serene temples, and engage in shopping experiences, all while surrounded by the dynamic energy of central Seoul. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Jongno-gu:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the bustling Myeongdong Street, where you can enjoy street food, shopping, and the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, take a short walk to Seoul Plaza, a great spot to relax and take in the city's energy. Finally, visit the historic Sungnyemun Gate, a beautiful landmark that showcases Korea's rich heritage and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
• Day 2: Start your day with a thrilling visit to Lotte World, where you can experience exciting rides and attractions. After an adrenaline-filled morning, make your way to the serene Seoul Central Mosque for a moment of reflection and to admire its stunning architecture. Wrap up your day by exploring Apgujeong Rodeo Street, known for its luxury boutiques and trendy cafes—perfect for some evening shopping and dining.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a trip to N Seoul Tower, where you can take in panoramic views of the city. Next, visit the iconic Myeongdong Cathedral, a beautiful spot for contemplation and appreciating its Gothic architecture. To round off your itinerary, head to Seoul City Hall, where you can learn about the city's history and enjoy the surrounding plaza, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.

5 tips to find a great Jongno-gu hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Jongno-gu is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates are at their lowest. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best prices. For a budget-friendly experience, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully explore the area’s main attractions, such as historic temples and fascinating museums. Jongno-gu offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Jongno-gu, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find competitive prices and valuable offers on nearby hotels as your travel dates approach. To maximize your savings, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to catch flash sales and exclusive promotions, giving you the best chance to snag a great deal on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Jongno-gu.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods while weighing the cost against the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Jongno-gu. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Jongno-gu

Here are some top-rated dishes in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea:

• Bulgogi: This beloved Korean dish features marinated beef grilled to perfection, often served with a side of lettuce for wrapping. The marinade usually consists of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper, giving it a sweet and savory profile. Bulgogi is a social dish, often enjoyed at gatherings, where diners can share the experience of cooking the meat right at the table.
• Bibimbap: A colorful and nutritious rice bowl, bibimbap is topped with an array of vegetables, beef, and a fried egg, all drizzled with spicy gochujang sauce. This dish is a canvas for personalization, allowing diners to mix and match ingredients to suit their taste, embodying the concept of harmony in Korean cuisine.
• Korean BBQ: A must-try culinary experience, Korean BBQ involves grilling various marinated meats at the table. Diners can customize their meal with an array of side dishes, known as banchan, creating a lively and interactive dining atmosphere that emphasizes communal eating.

Best time to go to Jongno-gu

Jongno-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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Jongno-gu are April, July, and September, 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, February, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.