Imagine staying in one of Korea’s tallest buildings with a view of the Han River, Seoul’s skyline, and mountains. Well, that’s precisely what you’ll get when booking into the exclusive Signiel Seoul, a prestigious luxury hotel in Seoul that sits between the 76th and 101st floors of the sky-scraping Lotte World Tower in Jamsil-dong. In this complex, guests will find a selection of restaurants, a mall, a folk museum, and even an aquarium - and all this is surrounded by the beautiful Songpa Naru Park or Seokchonhosu Lake (the ideal place for a lakeside morning jog). Inside the hotel, the panorama is no less impressive with Signiel Seoul’s high-end services and facilities: carefully designed, comfortable rooms with luxurious marble bathrooms, plus a state-of-the-art gym, spa, sauna, swimming pool, and the 79th-floor guest lounge - staggering views included from any point. Savoring refined flavors at the onsite French Restaurant STAY and discovering Korean cuisine at BICENA - both previously recognized with Michelin stars - are among the indulgences available at this five-star hotel. Afternoon tea is served at The Lounge, where one can enjoy a selection of liquors and spirits with an incredible 81st-floor sky view at Bar 81. Sweet tooths will also be happy to know that the Pastry Salon on the 79th floor has the most delectable desserts and is one of Seoulites preferred. The Signiel Seoul is connected to the Jamsil metro station, allowing smooth access to lines 2 and 8.

HOTEL VIEW: HAN RIVER, SEOUL SKYLINE, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Songpa-Gu, 05551 Seoul

Guests looking for a pampered holiday in stylish and elegant accommodation need to look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Located near the Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheonggyecheon Stream, this five-star hotel in Jongno-gu caters to just about everything one needs for a comfortable and luxurious stay. From its high-end complimentary services such as the 24/7 reception & in-room dining, free parking, international newspapers, and luxury toiletries to the fantastic, elegant rooms offering panoramic vistas (worth mentioning the incredible views over the Gyeongbokgung Palace from The Palace-View Executive Suites). The signature breakfast buffet at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is a magnificent spread, and the onsite dining is stupendous, with cuisines ranging from Cantonese to Japanese, Korean and Italian (the Homemade Spaghettoni at Boccalino is legendary). As for a nightcap, enjoy the cocktail scene at Charles H. Other amenities at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul include a Korean sauna, a spa, a golf course, three pools, and a business center. The luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Seoul spares no effort to win over its guests, an idea also confirmed by the on-site facilities: three pools, a nail bar, a barbershop, a sauna, and a dedicated area for those working remotely. The little ones haven’t been forgotten, and parents will be happy to learn about the ‘Kids For All Seasons Lounge’, a kid’s pool, and babysitting services.

HOTEL VIEW: GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE, SEOUL HISTORICAL CENTRE, SEOUL CITY VIEWS

Address: 97, Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Jongno-Gu, 03183 Seoul

Undisputedly one of the best hotels in Seoul, the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, an IHG Hotel, is a no-brainer choice for those looking for a top-notch lodging experience in South Korea’s capital city. Over the years, international travelers have been flocking to this property, attracted by the hotel’s understated elegance, traditional Korean charm, and irreprehensible service, which, combined with the superlative views it offers, makes for a winning combination. There are 550 rooms and suites available at this property, with the top-floor units collecting our preference for obvious reasons. As is often the case in Seoul, this luxurious hotel is connected to an upscale shopping complex, the Parnas Mall, ensuring guests easy access to global fashion brands and eateries. A quick fun fact: the Statue of Gangnam Style, made famous by the homonymous song by artist Psy, is only a couple of minutes from the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, an IHG Hotel.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL SKYLINE, MOUNTAINS

Address: 521, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Gangnam-Gu, 06164 Seoul

There sure are plenty of reasons why The Shilla Seoul, the first luxury hotel in Seoul and, therefore, one of the most iconic hotels in the city, was awarded the title of the first five-star hotel in South Korea by Forbes (2019): elegance, refinement, outstanding services and facilities, avant-garde technology, and of course, striking views. No wonder it has already hosted international celebrities and renowned personalities such as Bill Gates, Tom Cruise, and Michael Jackson. Catering unforgettable stays, The Shilla Seoul hosts an exceptional spa overlooking the lush landscape of Mount Namsan (Asia’s first Guerlain Spa), an inner golf court, a state-of-the-art gym, a beautiful garden, a high-end mall, and six eateries with diverse, delectable cuisine, including a top-notch Korean and world-class French restaurants. With Mount Namsan and N Seoul Tower as the backdrop, Urban Island on the third floor is an idyllic wellness oasis for guests looking for the ultimate urban escape. Those into shopping can easily take a free shuttle bus to The Shilla Duty-free store, located next to the hotel’s building. If wanting to explore the city, the shuttle bus also takes hotel guests to Dongguk University station (line 3).

HOTEL VIEW: N SEOUL TOWER, MOUNT NAMSAN, SEOUL CITY VIEWS, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

Address: 249, Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04605 Seoul

Set in the bustling Myeong-dong neighborhood, the Lotte Hotel Seoul is planted in one of Seoul’s busiest intersections, only steps from Euljiro 1-ga Station and a quick ride away from some of Seoul’s top attractions and areas: Deoksugung, Namdaemun Market, Bukchon Hanok Village, Dongdaemun Market, Gwangjang Market, and Insa-dong. The hotel has two towers with 1120 well-appointed rooms and suites - from their large windows, one can absorb views of Seoul’s high-rises and the iconic N Seoul Tower (from selected ones). There’s an inviting spa, sauna, gymnasium, golf range, pool, and terrace on the hotel’s fourth floor, not to mention Lotte’s flagship department store on the lower levels. In addition, guests will also find a museum and a gallery displaying artworks from both local and international artists in the Main Tower. Indulging in the epicurean flavors at the Pierre Gagnaire à Seoul, the 35th-floor haute-cuisine, award-winning French restaurant, and feeling transported to Paris with its sophisticated and adorned décor, is an unmissable experience when staying at the Lotte Hotel Seoul. Other dining options at the hotel include Korean cuisine at Mugunghwa's, Japanese at Momoyama, Chinese at Toh Lim, and an international buffet at La Seine (live cooking performances included!). The signature cocktails at Pierre’s Bar, the live performances at Peninsula Lounge & Bar, and the delicatessen at Delica Hans are also worth indulging in.

HOTEL VIEW: N SEOUL TOWER, MOUNT NAMSAN, SEOUL CITY VIEWS, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP, CITY HALL

Address: 30, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04533 Seoul

The Intercontinental Seoul COEX is set in the Korea World Trade Centre, in Gangnam’s business district, well-suited for those traveling for work. The hotel’s location is handy for those into shopping and fine dining (at COEX Mall, which is linked to the hotel) and is only 5m from the closest metro, Bongeunsa. Samseong Station - a 15m-walk away - takes you directly to Lotte World and the Deoksugung Palace. The rooms and suites at the lavish Intercontinental Seoul COEX are comfortable and spacious, boasting vistas over the city, the Bongeunsa Temple (dating back to 794), Seolleung Park, and Han River. All accommodation options include an office area, huge windows, and a bath; guests staying in the Executive rooms have access to the exclusive Club Lounge. See the monks go about their everyday life as you workout at the ground floor gym, enjoy a relaxing Korean treatment at the Spa, try your luck at the onsite casino, and do not forget to feed your rumbling belly in one of the Intercontinental Seoul COEX’s four restaurants - such as in The Sky Lounge (on the 30th floor) with its delectable Italian menu and commanding city views. Lastly, we suggest paying a visit to the stunning Starfield Library, located inside Coex Mall, with a direct entrance just around the corner.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL CITY VIEWS, BONGEUNSA TEMPLE, SEOLLEUNG PARK, HAN RIVER

Address: 524, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Gangnam-Gu, 06164 Seoul

When in Seoul, one knows that a good shopping spree is never far away. Take, for example, the high-class Conrad Seoul, one of the city’s best hotels, adjacent to the IFC Mall and just across the street from The Hyundai Seoul department store. Yeouido Park and its urban eco forest or the river-facing Yeouido Hangang Park should do the trick for those craving a break from all the frenzy. Besides its exceptional location, Conrad Seoul is also known for its large rooms and suites, with the most revealing unforgettable views of Seoul; take, for instance, the corner suites, which dazzle guests with Seoul frames from various angles. Also, guests choosing to stay here while visiting Seoul will be spoiled for choice with the variety of on-site dining venues (last time we checked, eight); other hotel facilities include a spa, male/female saunas, a fitness center, and an inviting, year-round indoor pool.

HOTEL VIEW: HAN RIVER, SEOUL SKYLINE, N SEOUL TOWER

Address: 10, Gukjegeumyung-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yeongdeungpo-Gu, 07326 Seoul

Boasting a selection of 202 spacious, bright suites and apartments (with interconnecting options available), the Grand Mercure Ambassador Hotel and Residences Seoul Yongsan is a tip-top luxury accommodation in Seoul. The hotel is located in Seoul Dragon City, a complex housing several hotels, restaurants, bars, and conference & meeting rooms. This dragon-shaped structure also has a sky bridge - with four floors of entertainment options - connecting two of its three towers. The hotel’s impeccable service goes hand-in-hand with first-class facilities (including a sauna, fitness center, and spa), making it a wise choice for discerning travelers. From the stylish 26th-floor restaurant, you can enjoy panoramic views over Seoul’s skyline while helping yourself to a plentiful breakfast in the morning or savoring a delicious cocktail and gazing at the city’s glittering lights after the sun goes down. A stone’s throw from the Grand Mercure Ambassador Hotel and Residences Seoul Yongsan, you will find Yongsan Station (taking you everywhere in the city).

HOTEL VIEW: HAN RIVER, SEOUL CITY VIEWS, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

Address: 95, Cheongpa-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04372 Seoul

The RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul does raise the bar for five-star hotels in Seoul and lives up to being among the best lodging options in the city. This beautiful, sophistication-meets-creativity hotel is set in the hip, youthful Hongdae neighborhood. Built with globetrotters in mind and designed for art & culture lovers, guests staying here can discover independent artworks at the DIS.PLAY popup space and get inspired for their following pieces at The Print Culture Lounge library. This hotel’s contemporary rooms and suites are named after creative professional activities, namely the Editor/Creator/Director Rooms and the Producer/Artist/Executive Producer Suites. The Executive Producer Suite is our all-time favorite: a penthouse on the 20th floor with commanding views over Seoul, a kitchen, a large wooden soaking bathtub, a DJ table, a lounge area, and a bar. What else is there to do at the RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul? Hit the fitness center and work out with natural light, surrender to your sugar cravings at the Tartine Coffee Bar, pay a visit to the 4th-floor CHARR steakhouse, and meet some peers over a drink at the rooftop Side Note Club alongside hypnotic Hongdae vistas. The RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul is a stone’s throw from buzzing Hongdae Street and Hongik University Station.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL CITY VIEWS

Address: 130, Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Mapo-Gu, 04038 Seoul

Rising above the luxurious Shinsegae Department Store Gangnam, the prestigious five-star JW Marriott Hotel Seoul is all about location and convenience, placing guests within walking distance of Seorae Village (Seoul’s charming French hub with a vast selection of eateries) and the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, best known for its captivating rainbow light shows. The hotel’s refined 379 rooms, suites, and penthouses are among the best in Seoul and mimic what the Gangnam District is all about: sophisticated, glamorous, and a treat to the eyes; as for the latter, the sweeping views over Seoul, particularly from the top-floor accommodations, are truly inspiring, putting into evidence Seoul’s impressive skyline, the unmistakable N Seoul Tower and the Han River. Concerning dining, the options are multiple, ranging from the high-standard Japanese restaurant Tamayura to the manicured delicacies served at the Patisserie deli. Worry not, in case sugar levels rise, the hotel’s massive Marquis Fitness Club and its heated indoor pool will prove to be the perfect venue for burning all those extra calories.

HOTEL VIEW: HAN RIVER, SEOUL SKYLINE, N SEOUL TOWER

Address: 176, Sinbanpo-ro, Seocho-gu, Seocho-Gu, 06546 Seoul

A Korean powerhouse, the Lotte brand has been perfecting the art of hospitality for some years now. One of its most successful hotels in Seoul is the LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong, where a futuristic bowing human sculpture placed by the main entrance welcomes guests to its premises. This top-grade hotel operates on a tower with 27 floors, the top hosting the C`cafe, a buffet restaurant with tremendous views of Seoul’s skyline. The rooms and suites aren’t particularly flashy but offer everything one would demand when expecting a flawless stay, including city vistas. For additional comfort, guests can access an on-site convenience store and facilities that often come in handy, such as a fitness center and coin laundry. As pleasant as it is to stay inside the hotel, the commercial appeal of the Myeongdong area and the proximity to the Cheonggyecheon water channel that crosses the city center from west to east are enough reasons to leave and explore some of Seoul’s top attractions.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL SKYLINE, MOUNTAINS

Address: 362, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04542 Seoul

The multi-awarded Westin Josun Hotel Seoul has been around since 1914, welcoming influential people and celebrities (like Marilyn Monroe) to its premises. Luxurious and spacious, each room features an elegant décor with clean-lined aesthetics. The contemporary Junior Suites are our favorite accommodation category, with most featuring city views. A night of restorative sleep is guaranteed by the exclusive Westin Heavenly Beds, all dressed in hypoallergenic bedding. Each room has an LCD TV, a Nespresso machine, a mini-bar, a soaking tub, and the brand’s signature toiletries. Guests staying on the Executive Floor have exclusive access to the Club Lounge and its delicious breakfast and nightcaps. The City Athletic Club is an eye-catching asset to the hotel with state-of-the-art equipment, a full-service spa, an indoor heated pool, saunas, and Korean baths. As for delicious eateries, guests can enjoy a selection of cuisines (such as French, Cantonese, and Italian) across the hotel’s five restaurants. Centrally located, this upscale hotel lies close to the Seoul City Hall, the famous Deoksugung Palace, the Seoul Museum of Art, and the effervescent Myeongdong neighborhood.

HOTEL VIEW: N SEOUL TOWER, SEOUL CITY HALL, SEOUL PLAZA, MOUNT NAMSAN, HWANGUDAN SHRINE, SEOUL CITY VIEWS

Address: 106, Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04533 Seoul

The Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan is one of the four Accor Hotel Group hotels within the Seoul Dragon City hotel complex - meaning it’s a great place to stay in Seoul with staggering views across the Han River and the city’s skyline. From the hotel, guests can reach Yongsan Station through an internal passage; Itaewon and Yeouido are also short drives away. The hotel's ambiance is classy and minimalistic, with an overall décor of muted, earthy tones. Rooms have wooden floors, sleek furniture, and beds backdropped with modern Asian art wallpapers (so there’s a good chance you’ll sleep under the guardianship of a dragon). This five-star hotel in Yongsan hosts three restaurants, three bars, an indoor pool on level 4, and a business center; guests staying here are also promised complimentary parking, 24/7 room service, and access to a well-equipped fitness center and sauna when staying in selected rooms.

HOTEL VIEW: HAN RIVER, SEOUL CITY VIEWS, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

Address: 95, Cheongpa-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04372 Seoul

Sitting next to Mount Namsan and the N Seoul Tower, the Grand Hyatt Seoul is a quiet oasis in the bustling capital city of South Korea. When the city drops into a warm summer night, dine at The Poolside Barbecue (nestled in the hotel’s beautiful garden) and gaze at the glittering city lights backdropped by majestic mountains - a true sight to the eyes. There is no end to the tastes and social moments you can enjoy in the Grand Hyatt Seoul, with the diverse dining and drinking facilities onsite such as the four restaurants of 322 Sowol-ro and the famous JJ Mahoney’s entertainment center. Impressive views over the Han River, Seoul skyline, and Namsan Mountain can be seen from the expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows of the comfortable and utterly elegant rooms & suites - all decorated with sleek furniture, wooden walls, king-sized beds and equipped with an LCD TV, minibar, safe, and electronic kettle. During summertime, The Grand Camping natural play area is open for the little ones (who have the chance to get more in touch with their inner scout and enjoy fun & adventurous programs). During wintertime (December - February), the hotel’s outdoor pool turns into an ice rink, a true winter playground for all ages.

HOTEL VIEW: N SEOUL TOWER, MOUNT NAMSAN, HAN RIVER, SEOUL CITY VIEWS, MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

Address: 322, Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan-Gu, 04347 Seoul

Only steps away from the Shinsegae Department Store Main Store and adjacent to Meyong-dong busiest streets, the contemporary L7 Myeongdong by LOTTE accounts for one of Seoul’s best stays, particularly for those looking for an exceptionally well-located design hotel, where tones ranging from yellows to grays, combined with carefully placed art pieces, contribute to a joyful atmosphere. The hotel rooms have two view preferences: those facing the north have the best views of the city’s endless skyscrapers, while those facing the south offer calming panoramas of Mount Namsan and Seoul’s iconic N Seoul Tower. Perhaps the hotel’s best secret is kept upstairs, where Floating, the rooftop bar, awes guests with scenic vistas over Seoul, better enjoyed with one of the seven signature cocktails in hand.

HOTEL VIEW: MOUNT NAMSAN, N SEOUL TOWER, SEOUL SKYLINE

Address: 137, Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04537 Seoul

Located right at the intersection of Eulji-ro (one of Seoul’s busiest avenues) and Supyo-ro, the Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong fits the bill for most travelers: exceptional location just across the Euljiro 3(sam)-ga metro station; within walking distance to a vast array of shops and restaurants; well-appointed rooms with skyline and mountain views; a fine buffet breakfast served at the Evolution restaurant, with a Korean touch and robot-waiters; and a well-equipped fitness center. When staying here, we suggest getting a hold of a high-floor Deluxe King Room as these greet guests with floor-to-ceiling windows with expansive vistas of Seoul. For those who need their caffeine fix in the form of lattes and signature coffee blends, there is a ground-floor Starbucks (one of the hundreds in the city), the ideal stop before engaging on another day exploring Seoul’s attractions. In short, the Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong, might not be the flashiest hotel in the city, but it sure ticks many boxes, making it one of our favorite options in Seoul.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL SKYLINE, MOUNTAINS

Address: 36, Samil-daero 10-gil, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, 04551 Seoul

With the clear goal of replicating the Lotte experience in a four-star hotel, the L7 brand debuted in Myeongdong in 2015. Just half a decade later, it was time to witness the doors opening of the hip L7 Hongdae by Lotte. Starting from the top, the most impressive venue at this property is its rooftop swimming pool on level 22, which allows for commanding views of Seoul’s scintillating skyscrapers, which proves to be the ideal setting to pair with one of the cocktails served at the Floating bar. When selecting one of the plus 300 rooms to stay in, we recommend the Studio Suite Room, the hotel’s largest, with fifty square meters and magnetic city views. Another reason to consider this hotel as one of the best stays in Seoul is its value-for-money and exceptional location in the heart of Hongdae, perhaps the artsiest and most youthful of all Seoul’s districts. A stone’s throw from the hotel is the Hongik University Station, a hub that connects visitors to Seoul’s efficient public transportation system.

HOTEL VIEW: SEOUL SKYLINE

Address: 141, Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Mapo-Gu, 03995 Seoul