Top 10 best hotels in Seoul: From chic boutiques with rooftop pools and bars to traditional hanok houses

It's difficult to ignore how K-Wave is gradually taking over the world, from movies and music to technology and the beauty industry. And the centre for devotees of this cultural explosion is Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea. Millions of tourists flock here each year to stroll through mountainous national parks, gleaming skyscrapers and traditional hanok villages nearby.

Seoul has tonnes of sights and places to add to your travel itinerary, which means there are also great hotels where you can relax after your walks and recharge before your next discoveries. From cosy historic hideaways to boutique spas and rooftop bars, here are the top 10 best hotels to stay at in Seoul.

1. Banyan Tree Club and Spa, Jung-gu

A tranquil retreat. Travellers will find a spa resort located on the green slopes of Mount Namsan. It features a historic tower created in 1967 by architect Kim Swoo Geun, who designed the capital city's famous Olympic Stadium. Elegant rooms with wood-paneled walls, huge windows with city panoramas and large Jacuzzi-style bathrooms are an oasis after a tiring walk around the city. Facilities include tennis courts, golf courses and outdoor and indoor pools, but the real gem is one of the city's best spas with a range of traditional Asian treatments.

2. Ryse, Autograph Collection, Mapo-gu

One of the trendiest hotels in Seoul is surrounded by the lively atmosphere of the downtown Hongdae district. Inside, visitors will find a décor full of Instagram-worthy hues and locations, starting with the soft pink flooring in the lobby. The cosy and spacious rooms are filled with inspiring artwork and signature amenities, from RYSE robes and beauty masks to luxurious linens and a whirlpool tub in the suite. With a steakhouse, a coffee shop, and a rooftop cocktail bar with panoramic views of Seoul, spend time here listening to great music and enjoying the art of mixology.

3 The Shilla Seoul, Jung-gu

One of Seoul 's most popular hotels has gained its popularity thanks to its magnificent views of the cityscape and rural idyll surrounded by green hills. Its elegantly furnished rooms and suites were designed by renowned designer Peter Remedios, decorated in warm colours and equipped with TVs and minibars. Luxury hotels in Seoul, such as The Shilla, have an impressive range of amenities. For example, there's a chic full-service spa, a swimming pool, an indoor golf course, a gym and a rooftop garden, as well as several restaurants with Japanese, Korean, French and Chinese cuisine, a buffet, a lounge and a pastry boutique.

4. L7 Hongdae, Mapo-gu

If you are looking for the perfect base to explore Seoul, stay at L7 Hongdae in the city centre. It is located in a youthful neighbourhood that hosts a variety of cultural events, from indie artist performances to flea markets. The décor of its rooms is elegant in its simplicity, with bright accents and practical amenities. All rooms have private bathrooms with bidets and complimentary toiletries. At The Place, an Italian bistro-style restaurant with city views, try the wood-fired pastas and pizzas, and then enjoy an aromatic coffee in the café or relax at the rooftop bar and seasonal pool.

5. L'Escape Hotel, Jung-gu

One of the city's chicest hotels, the essence of which can be described by the word maximalism, lies in the heart of Seoul's historic district. The luxurious rooms are decorated in the style of the Belle Epoque, with red velvet upholstered furniture, rounded-edge bathtubs with monochrome tiles and vintage-inspired wallpaper. The impressive style is complemented by a signature fragrance created by perfumer Alienor Massenet and picturesque floral arrangements by London-based art director Tony Marklew. The hotel restaurant offers a continental breakfast in the morning and an excellent range of Cantonese cuisine.

6. Walkerhill Douglas House, Gwangjin-gu

Keeping up with the modern trends, Seoul has excellent sustainable hotels. Environmentally-conscious travellers can choose this oasis near the green shores of the Hangang River. Surrounded by forest, the stylish hotel with eco-friendly interiors and excellent service creates the perfect setting to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Start your morning here in the cosy lobby lounge, then relax by the indoor pool or settle down with a book in a hammock in the library. There are several on-site Korean and Chinese restaurants, a club lounge on the 16th floor and a deli.

7. Hotel Cappuccino, Gangnam-gu

This industrial-style hotel in the heart of Gangnam will suit all travellers with an urban lifestyle. Its rooms are equipped with bunk beds or two large beds, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and can accommodate 4 people. Cappuccino in Seoul is also among the best hotels for guests with pets accompanying them on their travels. Pet services include cosy canopy houses, special menus and treats, and a spa package including soothing baths, shampoo and pet bathrobe. There's an on-site restaurant and a bar, a gift store and a business centre.

8. Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok, Jongno-gu

Travellers looking for unusual places to stay in Seoul should check out Bukchon Hanok Village in the north of the capital. It is known for its 14th-century Hanok architecture with landscaped courtyards and curved wooden roofs. The luxurious Hanok-style Rakkojae Hotel is located in the centre of this ancient quarter and seems to transport its guests back to the Joseon Dynasty. The hotel resembles an aristocratic home with traditional details like Zen-style rock gardens, wall draperies with calligraphy, and the stay experience includes tea ceremonies, a yellow clay sauna, and a kimchi-making workshop.

9. Signiel Seoul, Songpa-gu

The vibe of social life catches up with travellers at one of Seoul's most luxurious hotels, located between the 76th and 101st floors of the Lotte World Tower skyscraper, the sixth tallest in the world. The five-star retreat has 235 luxurious rooms with breathtaking panoramas of the city. They are decorated in a classic style and feature large beds, bathrooms with toiletries and bathrobes, a minibar and a coffee machine. Guests can visit the two restaurants, which together have three Michelin stars, work out in the fitness centre, and spend time by the indoor pool, at the spectacular bar or the lounge overlooking the Han River.

10. Amanti Hotel Seoul, Mapo-gu

Amanti Hotel is located in the Hongdae neighbourhood, a hotbed of Seoul's nightlife and art scene. If you're in the mood to explore the area's many K-pop clubs, pick it among other cool hotels in Seoul. Each room has double or twin beds, a large window with city views, a private bathroom with bathtub and shower, bathrobes, slippers and complimentary toiletries. A fitness centre, a seasonal outdoor pool and a rooftop garden glowing with neon lights are provided. Sip an original cocktail here while surveying the night skyline for the perfect end to a day in Seoul.