Seoul hotels

Set within lush greenery overlooking Namsan Mountain, the Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is one of the best hotels in Seoul for a serene retreat. All guestrooms come with mountain and city views, but I suggest going for a Pool Deluxe Room, where you can soak in your own private relaxation pool.

If your room doesn’t have its own pool, don’t panic – the hotel has several to choose from, including an indoor pool, the main outdoor pool and mini-pool-style hot tubs.

I particularly love the hotel’s wellness amenities, which include an indoor golf range, an outdoor basketball court, tennis courts and a fitness center with a rock-climbing wall. In the winter, you can even skate at the on-site ice rink.

Just down the street from Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Folk Museum of Korea, this is one of the best hotels in Seoul if you want to be in the heart of the action. It’s also a great spot for families – I was thrilled with the glamping setup the hotel staff organized in my room for my toddler, complete with a mini tent, balloons, sweet treats and a mini robe.

Adults won’t be glamping at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul though. This luxury property’s guestrooms blend modern comforts with local design features, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, traditional Korean textiles and mini iPads to access the hotel’s services.

The hotel also features three indoor pools (including a children’s pool), a Korean sauna and a kids’ club that opens on the weekends.