Hotels in Dongdaemun-gu

Discover Dongdaemun-gu: Where Urban Elegance Meets Nature's Embrace

Discover Dongdaemun-gu, a vibrant district in the heart of Seoul that effortlessly blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. Wander through the bustling Dongdaemun Market, where you can find everything from trendy fashion to traditional crafts. Explore the serene landscapes of the Culture Park or the historic beauty of Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby forests and rivers offer a refreshing escape from the city buzz. With its unique mix of lively markets, stunning architecture, and tranquil green spaces, Dongdaemun-gu is a must-visit for any traveler seeking the essence of Seoul. For the best hotel rates in Dongdaemun-gu, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Dongdaemun-gu

Dongdaemun-gu offers vibrant attractions for travelers. Lotte World is perfect for families with its amusement park and indoor activities. Myeongdong Street is a shopping haven known for street food and cosmetics, ideal for first-time visitors. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station combines shopping with easy access to transport. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from luxury to budget-friendly options, with modern amenities and proximity to local attractions, making them great choices for any traveler in Seoul. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Dongdaemun-gu:

1. Near Lotte WorldOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for families and entertainment seekers, featuring the famous Lotte World amusement park. It's a hub for those looking to mix fun with convenience. Consider staying at Lotte Hotel WorldOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel offering extensive business amenities and facilities for children, including a playground and children's club. Another excellent option is Signiel SeoulOpens in a new window, also a 5-star hotel, where you can indulge in a full-service spa and indoor pool after a day of adventure. For a more budget-friendly choice, check out Hotel LakeOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel located in the shopping district, ideal for those looking to enjoy local retail experiences.
2. Near Myeongdong StreetOpens in a new window: Renowned for its shopping and street food, Myeongdong is a must-visit for travelers seeking a lively atmosphere. All-In-One GuesthouseOpens in a new window is a cozy 3-star guesthouse that caters to families with child-friendly amenities like an arcade game room. For business travelers, Hotel WantedOpens in a new window offers a 3.5-star experience with multiple meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider Incheon Pentastar HotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel providing various dining options and entertainment features, ensuring a pleasant stay.
3. Near Lotte Outlets Seoul StationOpens in a new window: This area combines shopping, entertainment, and business, making it ideal for diverse travelers. Ganghwa Haenaru PensionOpens in a new window, a 3-star pension, offers a unique beach-themed experience with direct beach access, perfect for relaxation after a busy day. Alternatively, Daebudo Geugotegamyeon PensionOpens in a new window is another 3-star pension featuring karaoke and LCD TVs for entertainment, suitable for those wanting to unwind in a fun atmosphere. Both options provide a comfortable base while exploring the surrounding attractions.

Things to do in Dongdaemun-gu for first time

Dongdaemun-gu is a captivating destination perfect for a three-day visit, offering a blend of lush parks, serene rivers, and green forests. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while also indulging in vibrant shopping experiences that showcase the area’s rich culture and lively atmosphere. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Dongdaemun-gu:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lotte World, one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and unique attractions. After a fun-filled morning, head to the Seoul Central Mosque, the largest mosque in South Korea, for a cultural experience and a chance to learn about the local Muslim community. Conclude your day at Apgujeong Rodeo Street, known for its trendy boutiques and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for shopping or indulging in a delicious meal.
• Day 2: Start your day exploring Myeongdong Street, a bustling shopping district famous for its street food and cosmetics shops. Afterward, make your way to Seoul Plaza, where you can relax and soak in the city vibes, then visit Sungnyemun Gate, one of the oldest and most important gates in Seoul, rich in history and architecture, providing great photo opportunities.
• Day 3: Your day begins at N Seoul Tower, where you can take a cable car ride and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Next, immerse yourself in the traditional culture at Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can wander through preserved hanoks and experience the charm of Korea's past. Wrap up your itinerary with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can explore stunning architecture and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.

5 tips to find a great Dongdaemun-gu hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Dongdaemun-gu is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For international travelers looking for budget-friendly options, it's advisable to book flights at least five months in advance to secure great value for money. To fully experience the key attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Notable sites in Dongdaemun-gu include scenic parks and historical landmarks, making it a great destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Dongdaemun-gu, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To explore these offers, simply head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions. This way, you're more likely to catch exciting opportunities to save on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Dongdaemun-gu.
4. Consider your location: Keep your location in mind when booking on Hotels.com for your vacation. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Dongdaemun-gu and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Dongdaemun-gu

Here are some popular dishes in Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea:

• Bulgogi: This popular dish features marinated beef that is grilled or stir-fried to perfection. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and garlic, giving it a sweet and savory flavor. In Dongdaemun-gu, you’ll find bulgogi served in various forms, often enjoyed with a side of rice and fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping, enhancing the communal dining experience.
• Bibimbap: A colorful mixed rice dish topped with a variety of vegetables, beef, a fried egg, and gochujang (red chili paste). It’s a meal that promotes personalization, allowing diners to mix ingredients to their liking. In local restaurants, bibimbap is served in a hot stone pot, creating a delightful crispy rice crust.
• Korean BBQ: An interactive dining experience where you grill your own meat at the table. This social meal often features marinated meats like samgyeopsal (pork belly) and galbi (beef ribs), accompanied by an array of banchan (side dishes). It’s a great way to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Seoul while savoring authentic flavors.

Best time to go to Dongdaemun-gu

Dongdaemun-gu experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 27.3°F (-2.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.4°F (25.8°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and September are the peak travel months in Dongdaemun-gu, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.