Best Family Friendly Hotels in Seoul
The South Korean capital and prior host of the Winter Olympics is a melting pot of ancient and modern culture. Here skyscrapers and ancient palaces stand side by side, as the Han River flows timelessly through the city’s heart. With K-culture (namely K-pop and K-food) very much in vogue, Seoul is an increasingly popular destination for curious millennial tourists — the Gangnam district is now a must-see spot, thanks to PSY’s dance hit. Visit in spring if you want to catch the picturesque cherry blossoms and see the flower markets at their finest, or come during the mild autumn months.
Seoul, Songpa-Gu
Signiel Seoul
(5 stars)Floors 87 to 101 of the landmark Lotte Tower (the tallest in Korea) belong to Signiel Seoul. As such, its 235 bedrooms and suites offer exceptional outlooks, as well as Italian Frette linens, minibars, pillow menus and Diptyque toiletries. The Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno heads up the hotel’s Stay restaurant, while the Korean dining room Bicena, has a Michelin star in its own right. There’s also a chic lounge and Bar 81 specialising in French champagne. Guests can swim indoors with superb views of the city, work out and take a sauna while staying at Signiel Seoul.
Seoul, Yongsan-Gu
Grand Hyatt Seoul
(5 stars)The impressive facilities at this Grand Hyatt property include a swimming pool that transforms into an ice rink come the winter season, squash and tennis courts, a kids club, a family swimming zone, multiple boutiques and a large spa. The 18 acres of grounds are dotted with animal sculptures, with the creative theme continuing inside, where Korean artists’ pieces are displayed in the public areas. 615 rooms – with picture windows, minibars and free snacks – provide ample accommodation for every type of traveller and nine dining options offering steak, seafood, sushi, tasting menus, buffets, upmarket pub grub and a bbq.