The 6 most luxurious 5 star hotels in Seoul

As one of the best hotels in Seoul, Four Seasons has a serious reputation to uphold. Expect perfection from start to finish, as this urban oasis offers city views, five in-house dining options – from a sky-high garden terrace to a Japanese fusion restaurant – as well as a spa, year-round pool and fitness centre. Everything is grand, flawless and contemporary, with seasonal experience and tours available to ensure you're making the most of your trip to the South Korean capital. 

The mood? Extreme luxury – tailored to your needs. 
Location perks? Prime locations: short walk from The royal Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sejong Art Center, Cheonggyecheon Stream and the city hall.
Time Out tip: Their 20th-floor restaurant, Alto, puts on an Italian gastronomic brunch buffet every Sunday. 

Looking for an extravagant stay? Then L'Escape Hotel might just be your cup of tea. This design-conscious hotel is all about bringing the decadence of 19th-century Paris to the heart of Seoul. And, as you can see, they've nailed it. As soon as you enter the lobby you're met with elegant, antique interiors by Jacques Garcia, comprised of rich linens, deep reds, florals, dark woods and velvets. J'adore. Along with gorgeous guest rooms and suites, this hotel offers a library, spa, fitness studio, event room and modern Korean and Chinese cuisine. 

The mood? Belle Èpoque vibes.
Location perks? You'll feel like royalty at L'Escape Hotel. Everything from the service to the intimate dining experience will transport you.
Time Out tip: Make sure you dine at Tea Salon - it's the icing on the cake of this truly decadent stay.

Located in the heart of Namsan, the view alone is reason enough to book a stay. With hands down the best panoramic view in Seoul, there’s also a trail leading straight to the mountain. The outdoor space doubles as a swimming pool in the summer and an ice rink in the winter, both consistently ranking high on Seoul’s 'best things to do' lists. The recreation centre features three tennis courts, two squash courts, a fitness centre and spa. There are six restaurants to try out, including a steak house, sushi haven and a terrace eatery with seven buffet stations.

The mood? Classy and elegant. 
Location perks? Surrounded by Namsan Mountain and Han River, resulting in striking views from every vantage point. 
Time Out tip: Every foodie's favourite three words: breakfast is included. 

Achieving a homely feel with minimalist decor and muted opulence while simultaneously promising guests the royal treatment, Park Hyatt offers the best of both worlds. The first thing that will catch you about the rooms is not the plush, white bed but the hypnotizing views of the World Trade Center nestled against the skyscrapers. This view is the hotel's strongest asset and you can catch it at all times – from the comfort of your bathroom tub, while you're swimming in the indoor pool or during a session in the top-floor gym and spa. 

The mood? Down-to-earth luxury. 
Location perks? A five-minute walk from the COEX Convention: Korea's number one nightlife and entertainment centre. Also close to the dining area of Gangnam. 
Time Out tip: Head to the in-house vinyl music bar, The Timber House, for premium cocktails and sushi.  

Ask anyone where the hippest hotel in Seoul is, and most of them would pick Marriott's Le Méridien. Opened in 2017 following a $97 million rebrand, this impressive property is everything you could want and more. Marked by its classy interior design, at 170 suites and 11-stories, this hotel is relatively smaller than other chains. However, the modest building manages to make up for its size with its grand presence. A buffet breakfast is included with most room types, and there are three restaurants, a bar and an indoor swimming pool to keep you occupied during downtime. 

The mood? Sleek and sophisticated. 
Location perks? Top nearby attractions include Changdeokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower and The National Museum of Korea. You're also close to transport links, from Myeongdong Station to Gimpo International Airport.
Time Out tip: Head to hotel bar Lumière for crafted cocktails and a selection of wine and whiskey. 

At over 1,015 rooms, the Lotte Hotel is the biggest hotel in Seoul. A stay here includes a few must-dos; first up is a round of shopping at the echoing brand, Lotte Department Store. Next, you must revel in the Haeon sheets stuffed with Hungarian duck feather. But don’t go to sleep before you've had the full beauty treatment at Sulwhasoo Spa.

The mood? Tasteful opulence. 
Location perks? Rests in close proximity to the Blue House, Euljiro, Myeong-dong and Namdaemun traditional market.
Time Out tip: If you don't have time to visit all four of the on-site restaurants, we recommend making Toh Lim your top priority; think authentic Cantonese cuisine with views of Bukhansan Mountain.