Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city of remarkable contrasts—dynamic, modern, and deeply rooted in history. Home to nearly 10 million people, it has risen from years of hardship to become the world’s sixth-largest economy, following New York, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Paris, and London.
Choosing where to stay in this sprawling metropolis wasn’t easy. I narrowed it down to two main areas: Gangnam, south of the Han River, known for its wealth, nightlife, shopping, and restaurants; and Jongno, the historic heart of the city. Jongno has been the political and cultural center for over 600 years. It’s home to the royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, the presidential residence, and many of Seoul’s most iconic attractions. It’s also ideal for both business and leisure travelers, offering convenient access to the city’s major sights.
I ultimately chose the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, located in the Jongno District, for its blend of luxury, convenience, and refined hospitality. The hotel is within easy walking distance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and our room even overlooked its majestic grounds.
The property features 29 floors, 285 rooms, and 32 suites. It’s sleek and contemporary, with expansive city and mountain views. The lobby, while bustling (perhaps a bit too much so), is stunning—soaring ceilings, dramatic floral arrangements by an in-house designer, floor-to-ceiling windows, and striking artwork set an elegant tone.
Amenities are exceptional. The hotel has multiple bars and restaurants, an executive club floor, and a three-story, 57,500-square-foot spa. The fitness center is one of the best I’ve seen in a hotel—state-of-the-art, spacious, and open 24/7, a feature my husband especially appreciated. There’s also a beautiful indoor pool and even a golf simulator.
The breakfast buffet at Market Kitchen was the highlight of our trip and one of the best we had during our stay. It offered an international array of cuisines with live cooking stations and even featured glass floors revealing archaeological excavations beneath. I also loved watching the robot waiters glide through the restaurant, collecting dishes—modern Seoul at its finest.
Dining options are extensive, with eight additional venues including an Italian trattoria, a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant, and an elegant Chinese dining room. A special mention goes to Charles H, the hidden speakeasy bar tucked behind an unmarked door in the basement. Intimate and glamorous, it transports you to another era and once ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars at number seven.
Guest rooms are spacious, sophisticated, and subtly infused with Korean design elements. The soundproofing is excellent—you’d never guess you’re in the middle of a bustling capital. Beds are, of course, signature Four Seasons comfort. Rooms feature large TVs, espresso machines, and minibars stocked with local Korean snacks. Bathrooms are marble-clad, with deep soaking tubs, separate showers, double vanities, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing stunning city and mountain views. Toiletries are by Diptyque.
The turndown service was particularly thoughtful—complete with Korean beauty eye masks, relaxation teas, neatly tied cable cords, and ice-filled buckets ready for use. Service overall was outstanding. While the concierge team varied in experience, all staff were warm, professional, and impressively attentive. Everyone greeted us by name—a rare touch in a hotel of this size.
With its prime location, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service, the Four Seasons Seoul proved to be a haven in the heart of the city. My only minor complaint was navigating heavy traffic when driving to and dining in Gangnam in the evenings, but it was a small trade-off for the hotel’s many advantages.
Highly recommended for those seeking an upscale and elegant stay in Seoul.
Happy travels,
Shanea
01/03/2026
