Luxury hostels are the new thing.
Besides being somewhat of an oxymoron, they are the best place where you can get a comfy, and some say sleek, place to stay but not at exorbitant hotel prices.
Also read: 3-Day Seoul Itinerary: What to See & Do
1. Seoul Base Camp
Image credit: Seoul Base Camp
Image credit: Seoul Base Camp
Free waffles for breakfast!! I’m sold already. Seoul Base Camp operates with the concept of being a camp in the middle of the city. The owners of the hostel were leading nomadic lives before deciding to settle down and set up a hostel business together, which explains their unique concept. Their rooms are tents and their rooftop is a playground. It is walking distance to the major nightlife in Hongdae, and also one minute away from the subway exit. It’s worthy to note that the hostel is right by the Han river, so you can rent a bike and ride along the waters. For only $13 a night in a 4 bed mixed dorm, this place is a STEAL.
Nearest subway: Hapjeong Station
2. NAMU Guesthouse
Image credit: NAMU
Image credit: NAMU
NAMU Guesthouse is located in the energetic Hongik District of Seoul, so you know there’s going to be plenty of young folk everywhere. It’s cosy, has breakfast available every morning, and even special home-cooked breakfast on Sundays. It’s a quick 8 minute stroll to the nearest subway, that can take you to other places around town. For $30 a night, you can get a bed in a 6 bed mixed dorm here. And pssst… You can try on hanbok or the traditional Korean clothes in NAMU for FREE! Yes, I just capitalised the word ‘FREE’ in case you miss this super awesome deal. That should never happen!
Nearest subway: Hongik University Station
Also read: 24 Fun Things to Do in Seoul on Your Very First Visit
3. Time Travelers Party Hostel
Image credit: Time Travelers Party Hostel
Image credit: Time Travelers Party Hostel
Located in the Hongdae area, right in the heart of Seoul and near the Gyeongui Line Forest Park, you’re never too far away from either the bustle or the calm. This is the place to stay if you’re the kind of person who loves having fun with new friends; it’s a highly social place that motivates mingling and partying. The place is decorated by artworks done by the owner himself! Spoiler alert: try to locate the adorable sharks’ floor art and be as creative as you can while you take pictures with the mighty sea creatures. Beds in a 6 bed mixed dorm are priced at $24 a night. They also offer private and family room options.
Nearest subway: Hongik University Station
4. Lazy Fox Hostel
Image credit: Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel
Image credit: Hongdae Lazy Fox Hostel
The eclectic appearance of the exterior of this building draws equally eclectic people towards it, so if that’s your kind of vibe, it would be a perfect fit. There’s a kitchen, which is always useful for budget travellers, and breakfast is available. It’s right near Seoul’s main subway lines so you know mobility is easy too. The hostel is located in Hongdae, so there is plenty of ‘hipster’/eclectic clothing to be found. Beds start at $26 a night in a 6 bed male or female dorm.
Nearest subway: Hapjeong Station
Also read: Places to Hang Out in Seoul for the Young and the Old
5. Kimchee Sinchon Guesthouse
Image credit: Kimchee Sinchon
Image credit: Kimchee Sinchon
Located in Sinchon, an area full of youthful energy, you are never too far away from the neon signs of nightclubs, bars and the noraebang. The commons area isn’t just filled with couches for mingling, it also has a game room for guests that love to play games like foosball and darts! They also have a kitchen, and offer 24 hour hot showers, which would come in useful during the winter. Prices start at a competitive price of $13 in an 8 bed mixed/female dorm. P.S. Kimchee Guesthouse has its branches covering major districts in Seoul including Dongdaemun, Hongdae, Downtown Seoul and more.
Nearest subway: Hongik University Station
6. Whitetail Backpacker & Hostel
Image credit: Whitetail
Image credit: Whitetail
Ever wanted to live in a furniture catalogue? Here’s your chance, for only $19 a night (8 bed mixed dorm). Beautifully decorated interiors soothe not just your eyes but also your soul. Quality breakfast is also provided everyday, so you’ll feel at home right away. They also have computers for those budget travellers who are backpacking without one. They’re located close to the hustle and bustle of Hongdae, but not close enough to sacrifice a night’s sleep (read: not a party hostel).
Nearest subway: Hongik University Station
Also read: 10 Reasons Why You Must Visit Seoul’s Trick Eye Museum
7. Trick Art Hostel
Image credit: Trick Art Hostel
Image credit: Trick Art Hostel
The hostel is convenient and easily accessible via Airport Railway and the metro line. A family business, you can really tell they put in a lot of effort into making the place feel as homely and comfortable as possible. Also, as the hostel’s name suggests, with loads of mind-blowing trick arts incorporated within the premise, there must be at least one Instagram-worthy spot for you and your travel buddies! They offer free laundry, coffee and breakfast, and have a nice roof terrace to hang out at. $26 a night for a bed in a 6 bed mixed dorm. They also have private rooms, ranging from $51 to $77.
Nearest subway: Hongik University Station
