It’s crazy to think that one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world is also so deeply traditional. But that’s exactly what you can expect when it comes to visiting Seoul. Ancient temples rub shoulders with brightly coloured glass skyscrapers, with bouncing bars and gourmet restaurants down below. It’s also the perfect base for travelling in Korea – nowhere is far away on the excellent transport system which often begins and ends here!
You’d expect such a megacity to be quite expensive, but that’s not always the case! However, if you’re on a strict budget, you might not want to be blowing everything on fancy hotels. So, why not check out rentals in Seoul? It is a great way to find somewhere to stay that’s got a bit more charm, character, and personality than your run of the mill hotel or hostel!
With that in mind, we’ve decided to help you out and put together this list of the 15 best Airbnbs in Seoul. We’ve taken into account different budgets, travel styles, and personalities. So, let’s start planning your perfect vacation to the South Korean capital!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Seoul
Itaewon Attractive House
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Fully equipped kitchen
- > Complimentary Toiletries
Modern Private Room
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Workspace
- > Super spacious room
Huge Family House with space for 28
- > $$$$$
- > 28 Guests
- > Complimentary breakfast
- > Airport pick up service
Cute Private Room in Shared House
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Kitchen and dining room
- > Very cute design
Cosy Apartment with River Views
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Stunning View
- > Great Location
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Seoul
We’ve had you waiting long enough! Here are our absolute favorite Airbnbs in Seoul. Check them out!
Be sure to know where to stay in Seoul before you look for homes – there are many different areas and neighborhoods that are worth exploring!
Itaewon Attractive House | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Seoul
Let’s kick off our list of the best Airbnbs in Seoul with one of the best all-rounders in town: Itaewon Attractive House! And attractive it is! It may not be anything flashy, but the light colours and soothing atmosphere is ideal to come back to after a long day of sightseeing and exploring the city! The owners have also taken plenty of care to ensure that you’re comfortable.
Not only is there a fully equipped kitchen for you to prepare your own meals and keep your costs down, but there are also complimentary toiletries to keep you clean and comfy!
Modern Private Room | Best Budget Airbnb in Seoul
If you’re on a budget but value your privacy, this Airbnb is the perfect one for you! You’ll get a private room all to yourself, which is part of the host’s home. He’s known to be super helpful and kind, and even cooks some amazing traditional food if you ask him nicely. The room is located on the second floor while the shared common spaces are on the first, which adds a bit of extra privacy. There’s a parking spot available if you travel around Seoul with your car, but the neighborhood is also extremely well connected to the public transport system. There’s a BBQ on the rooftop, which you can use for a little extra charge. Your host will provide everything you might need!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIHuge Family House with space for 28 | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Seoul
Want to stay somewhere with all of your family and friends with one of the best views of the South Korean capital? Of course you do! That’s why you need this family house with space for 28 – that’s right 28 guests! There’s a lovely garden where you can chill out to the sound of one of your many guests playing the piano, as you’re served a complimentary breakfast! When you want to go out, it’s good to know that so many of Seoul’s favourite tourist attractions are easy to get to from this cool house too!
Cute Private Room in Shared House | Perfect Seoul Airbnb for Solo Travellers
When you’re travelling solo, many people will point you in the direction of a Seoul hostel. However, we understand that’s not for everyone. This cute room gives you the chance to have a comfy and private place to sleep during the night, while there’ll be company from those who live in the shared house! As well as solo travellers, this is another good option for digital nomads, as there are plenty of spaces to work. You can also take advantage of a dining room and kitchen!
Cosy Apartment with River Views | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Seoul for Digital Nomads
Digital nomads don’t expect too much from where they’re staying, but a reliable and quick Wi-Fi connection and a laptop-friendly workspace are non-negotiable. Thankfully, this place has both of those and much more! You have access to a perfectly equipped apartment located close to the main public transport options in Seoul.
The highlight of this cute place is definitely the view. Work on your laptop and get lost in your thoughts while looking over the river below you. It’s a great spot for creative thoughts and efficient work!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Seoul
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Seoul!
Peaceful Studio in Perfect Location | Best Airbnb in Seoul for Nightlife
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past decade, you’ll definitely have heard of the trendiest nightspot in Seoul – Gangnam! So, where better to stay on your travels than in that neighbourhood? This cool Seoul Airbnb is the perfect spot to cure your hangover. Watch TV, enjoy the view, but most importantly, have a great nights sleep! There’s also a small kitchen you can use, which is fully equipped! if you need internet during your stay, you can ask the host for a portable pocket Wifi – no need to buy a sim card.
Charming city view apartment | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
There aren’t many Airbnbs in Seoul that enjoy an almost 5-star ranking! But this one does. And once you see the apartment, you’ll know why! With an unrestricted view of Seoul, this is the most romantic stay in the city, and therefore the ideal place for a couple. Just imagine having a tasty dinner and watching the sunset – while enjoying some cool aircon at the same time! The apartment offers great amenities and is fully equipped. The kitchen is small, but it’s enough to create some delicious meals. You’ll also have access to the gym, sky lounge and rooftop area.
Typical Traditional Korean House | Best Homestay in Seoul
If you’re looking to keep your costs down and have a traditional experience, then check out this awesome homestay in Seoul. You’ll be staying with a local and sharing in their quiet courtyard and wooden verandah, which will keep you chilled and tranquil under the (hopefully) blue skies! Not only do you have access to the fully equipped kitchen, but you’re also welcome to enjoy a complimentary breakfast, courtesy of your friendly host!
Art Curator’s Charming Place | Runner Up Homestay in Seoul
There are lots of homestays in Seoul, so we didn’t want to just give you one option! Also, if your budget doesn’t stretch to an entire Hanok but you want to experience a traditional Korean home, then this is the perfect alternative. Your friendly host is an art curator and you can tell – there are works from their collection scattered throughout the lovely home! And there are awesome views of both the city and the mountains from here. It really is an unforgettable experience!
Unique Luxury Hanok | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Seoul
For those with plenty of cash to splash during their stay in the Korean capital, a traditional Hanok house has to be on the itinerary. And if you’re a couple or a small group of friends, this one will make your dreams come true! Although it’s made up of traditional Korean architecture, this one has a modern twist including a laptop-friendly workspace, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. It’s the perfect mix between the modern world and the traditional Korean style. It’s kind of modern, kind of traditional, kind of minimalistic, yet incredibly comfortable. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen, where you can prepare a tasty meal.
Itaewon Vintage Sunshine House | Best Airbnb in Seoul for Families
If you have a family that’s consists of fewer people than the house above (and let’s face it, most people do), take a look at this cool Seoul Airbnb! It’s in one of the coolest central districts – Itaewon, where there are hundreds of international restaurants. So, even the fussiest kids and teenagers will have no trouble finding something they want to eat! It’s definitely worth finding somewhere that does takeaway though – that way you can bring your meal back to the flat. Why would you want to do that?
Well, to watch a movie on the 100-inch screen and projector, of course!
Special Seoul Bamboo House | Best Airbnb in Seoul for a Group of Friends
When you’re staying with your mates, you want to make sure it’s got a spot to chill and enjoy each other’s company. Also, if you weren’t impressed by the 100-inch projector in the listing above, this one goes one better. Or 20! A 120-inch beam projector means that your night in is sorted! If TV’s not what you want to watch, head out to the balcony. At night, you’ll see all the glittering lights of Seoul. This is especially magical over a few beers or bottles of wine!
Top located apartment | Best Airbnb in Myeongdong
One of the coolest areas in town is Myeongdong, so let’s take a look at a couple of options there. First of all, there’s this cool apartment with huge windows, giving awesome views of the city! There’s high-speed Wi-Fi on offer in the apartment so you can plan your day out. It’s a small space, but designed very efficiently. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, a super comfy bed with soft linen and even a washing machine. Previous guests have rated the location of this Airbnb as one of the absolute best. Technically, you can fit three people in this home, however, since it is quite small, we’d recommend it for maximum two at a time.
Leaf of Grass Hyojung House | Another Great Apartment in Myeongdong
There are some great places in Myeongdong, so we thought we’d spoil you for choice! For a couple on a budget or a solo/business traveller, Seoul apartments don’t come much better than this townhouse. The studio has a rooftop terrace which you’re welcome to use, and there’s even a charcoal BBQ available for an extra fee! Room-darkening shades mean that if you’re having any trouble getting to sleep, you can block out the bright lights of the big city outside!
Two Storied Studio in Hongdae | Top Value Airbnb in Hongdae
Let’s round off our list by checking out the Seoul Airbnbs near some of the best nightlife, restaurants, and bars in town. That’s right, in Hongdae! This two-storey studio is perfect for a family or group of friends who want to experience one of Seoul’s many beating hearts! Since there are so many restaurants on your doorstep, you’ll hardly need to use that fully equipped kitchen! A lovely touch is that you’ve got complimentary toiletries whenever you need them, so you’ll be able to feel fresh throughout your stay!
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
What To Pack For Seoul
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Seoul Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Seoul Airbnbs
So, that’s all from our list of the best Airbnbs in Seoul! We think you’ll agree that there’s a lot of variety in between those temples and skyscrapers, no matter what your budget or travel style is!
Which was your favourite? Perhaps it was the special Seoul Bamboo house? One of the excellent Seoul homestays that offer a truly local experience? Or maybe it was staying in a traditional Korean Hanok. We just hope we haven’t overloaded you with too many choices!
If that is the case, not to worry. Just take a deep breath and relax. Then, book our favourite Airbnb in Seoul – Itaewon Attractive House. It’s the perfect blend of location, great value, and an all-around great place to stay!
Now that we’ve hopefully made planning your vacation a lot easier, there’s just one thing for us to do. And that’s to wish you an incredible vacation to Seoul! We hope you have a great time!
- Check out our Backpacking Seoul guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Seoul guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Seoul too.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
