[2025 Seoul Stay] Travel Guide for Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae, an IHG Hotel (Updated Feb)

🏨 Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae 📍 Hotel Location: The hotel is situated above Hongdae subway station. Right below is the AK Mall. The AK Mall isn't very big, but it has some affordable shops worth checking out, and I finally managed to buy Nars' take me home💄 at the cosmetics store on the first floor. The Airport Railroad AREX Exit 5 is right there, with a direct connection to Incheon T1 and T2, and the journey takes about an hour. If you're heading to other parts of the city, it's also convenient to walk from Exit 4 of Line 4. Right outside is the Hongdae pedestrian street, so after shopping, you can go back to drop things off and then head downstairs again – the location is beyond reproach. 🏨 Hotel Environment: The hotel lobby is on the 7th floor, and it looks quite grand and spacious. Restaurant: Located on the 7th floor, breakfast starts at 6:30. The breakfast tastes pretty good, and the dining environment is also very nice. 🛏 Room Facilities: Room: The room is very clean and tidy, but both the room and the bathroom are quite small. However, there is enough floor space to lay out a suitcase. The room does not provide toothbrushes, but there is shampoo, shower gel, and hand soap. Since it was just for shopping, I spent very little time in the hotel, so I chose the cheapest room with an interior window. 📝 Tips: The room does not have windows that can be opened. When checking in, the front desk staff reminded us that the room might be a bit hot, and since the air conditioning is central, it cannot be turned down. If it's too hot, you can turn off the air conditioning or use the electric fan in the room, or call the front desk to adjust the temperature. 💰 Price: 700++

Located a 1-minute walk from Hongik University Station in Seoul, Holiday Inn Express Hongdae is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely staycation with a great city view. Starting the 4th, a casual lunch buffet will also be open, so you can enjoy delicious food and the beautiful city view of Hongdae. Sunset Cloud inside the hotel offers spacious table seating for group lunches, meetings, or lunch dates. 🧡 📍 Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae Address: 188 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul Facilities: Check-in 15:00, Check-out 12:00 the next day, Breakfast service provided 📍 Sunset Cloud / Casual Lunch Buffet Location: 7th floor, 188 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul Operating hours: 12:00 ~ 14:00 every day, open all year round Usage fee: 19,800 won per person (including VAT), Naver advance reservation available Parking is not available, so we recommend using public transportation. Spend a special day with a great view of downtown Seoul at Holiday Inn Express Hongdae! 🏙️✨ CR：jurr.look

Korea✨ After staying in Seoul for a few days, the most attractive thing is the coexistence of past and present; it is difficult to find many century-old temples and palaces surrounded by skyscrapers in a city. Moreover, there is not much tourism here, which means we have more time to appreciate these places and temples✨ After a few days in Seoul, what impressed us the most was the coexistence of the past and the present;it’s rare to see cities with ancient temples and palaces surrounded by skyscrapers, and these attractions and temples were all the more interesting Cr:@travelsandvibes

Showing you the fastest way from Incheon Airport to Holiday Inn Express Hongdae is by taking the AREX all stop train and alight at Hongik Univ. Station Exit 5. This route is all sheltered and barrier free all the way so no issues with large luggage on wheels. Time taken will be around 70 minutes and once you get a seat on AREX, you can sit all the way so super convenient. You can skip the road traffic too if you are taking airport transfer or airport bus. I must say Holiday Inn Express Hongdae is an excellent location and I have stayed there 3 times since I resumed my travelling. #fallishere #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

I know I will return to this hotel in near future! Address - Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae Highlights - To the right of Hongik University Station Exit 5, connected to AK Plaza shopping mall Avg. Price per Person - $130/night Rating - 4.5/5 You don’t have to worry about lugging your luggage up from the train station when there’s escalator from Exit 5! A 3 minutes walk to the bustling shopping area. - Pleasant hotel staff - Really conveniently located to everything you need as a tourist - Decent breakfast #hongdae #seoul

#Ho-kangs #SeoulHotel #HolidayInnExpress 📍Hongdae, Seoul, Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae with a city view overlooking Hongdae, Seoul! You can see the scenery and night view of Seoul from the room, and you can enjoy various foods such as tteokbokki, beer, and platters at the restaurant! The room is on the small side, but it was well-lit and the rustling hotel bedding made it possible to fully relax. It is connected to the AK& shopping mall, so it is also good for shopping. Recommended as a place for a staycation in downtown Seoul!

Price paid on Trip.com: $360.29 for 3 nights Come celebrate with me at Holiday Inn Express Hongdae and a berry awesome deal at $360.29 for 3 nights for their standard queen room using promo codes. It comes with a free room upgrade and buffet breakfast everyday. This hotel is situated right at Hongik University subway station. It is the same subway line as Incheon Airport so you can reach the hotel without making any transfers. My room has a window and I can let the cold air in during my September Stay. I also got a couch right beside the window and my view is towards Hongdae busker streets. This hotel has ticked all the boxes for me and I have booked it for my 2023 summer trip to Seoul. Happy 5th Birthday Trip.com and wishing you berry best! #celebratewithtrip #happybirthday #tripdeals #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

Seoul Hongda cost-effective super hotel recommended last time Hongdae B&B, this time selected a high-cost global hotel chain, Holiday Inn Express Holiday Inn Seoul Hongdae, previously lived in Europe It brings a sense of security to the brand. Compared to the hotel, the hotel is really comfortable and convenient except for how you can live with local Koreans. The traffic is very convenient. The Incheon Airport subway line goes directly to Hongdae Station. You can see the hotel's indicator at the exit of the subway. Really, it is built at the exit of the subway station. There are lots of fun and good places to visit around. You can eat the best ginseng soup, hangover soup rice and beef bone soup in Hongdae within 500 meters. Going out is walking street, small shop Lin Li, always open the shopping mode, downstairs is the 711 and CU that do not fight 24 hours a day, a bowl of ramen in the night and a bottle of barley tea to comfort the lonely stomach. Comfortable and quiet private accommodation experience Hotel in a shopping mall, the seventh floor is the reception desk, the front desk staff will speak Chinese and English, the room is at the top, shielding Hongdae Oh, the view is wide and the light is bright. The room is not big, but the bed is very comfortable. The pillows are soft and hard, and they get high quality sleep every day. Breakfast is delicious, Western breakfast, bread, coffee, sausage, egg, bacon... There is also Chinese-style stir-fried rice, Korean-style porridge with small fish and seaweed, and kimbap rice.

#favouriteitinerary Tongkeun Galbi is a popular BBQ buffet restaurant located in the Hongdae area of Seoul, South Korea. It's well-known for offering a wide variety of grilled meats, particularly galbi (Korean marinated beef ribs), along with a selection of side dishes (banchan) typical of Korean dining. Here are some features you might expect: 1. **All-You-Can-Eat Option**: Many BBQ buffets, including Tongkeun Galbi, offer an all-you-can-eat format, allowing you to enjoy unlimited servings of various meats and side dishes for a set price. 2. **Wide Range of Meats**: While galbi is a highlight, you can typically find other options like pork belly, chicken, and various types of beef, along with different marinades and seasonings. 3. **Self-Grill**: Patrons usually grill their own meat at the table, making for a fun interactive dining experience. 4. **Side Dishes**: Expect to find a variety of banchan such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, rice, and salads to complement your meal. 5. **Atmosphere**: The ambiance in Hongdae tends to be lively, reflecting the youthful and artistic vibe of the area, which is also known for its nightlife, shops, and street performances. For the latest menu options, prices, and hours, it’s best to check recent reviews or the restaurant's official website or social media pages. Enjoy your BBQ experience! 📍Address: 서울 마포구 어울마당로 151-1151 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 💰Average Price per Person: 10,000 won -20,000 won 🕰️Business Hours: 12:00-00:00 #travel #couplestrip #korea #thingstodo #foodie

#favouriteitinerary Cinnamoroll Sweets Cafe in Seoul, located within AK Plaza, is a charming themed café inspired by the beloved Sanrio character, Cinnamoroll. The café offers a whimsical and cozy atmosphere that appeals to fans of all ages, showcasing a pastel color scheme and adorable décor featuring the signature curly-tailed puppy. Menu highlights include a variety of sweet treats such as fluffy pancakes, colorful desserts, and specialty drinks, all creatively designed to reflect the Cinnamoroll theme. Guests can enjoy Instagram-worthy dishes, often adorned with cute character designs and vibrant colors. The café also features themed merchandise, allowing patrons to take home a piece of the experience. The Cinnamoroll Sweets Cafe provides not only delicious food but also a delightful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the playful spirit of this iconic character. It's a popular spot for photos, gatherings with friends, or simply indulging in a sweet escape from the bustling city. Cinnamoroll Sweets Cafe 📍Address:5 South Korea, Seoul, Mapo-gu, Yanghwa-ro, 188 🕰️Business Hours: 11am -8:30 pm 💰Average Price per Person: 10,000- 20,000 won #couplestrip #travel #cafe

#favouriteitinerary **Visiting BUTTER Stationery Store in Hongdae, Korea** **Overview:** BUTTER is a beloved stationery store in Korea, known for its inviting atmosphere and a large cat doll that serves as an adorable mascot at the entrance. The store appeals to visitors of all ages, making it a popular spot for photo opportunities as well as shopping. **What You Can Find:** Inside, you'll discover a wide range of Korean daily necessities, including: - Stationery and art supplies - Fun toys and games - Household items - 3C accessories (computing, communication, and consumer electronics) - Home appliances - Kitchen utensils - Travel supplies, such as suitcases and T-shirts - Unique dolls, especially for doll enthusiasts There is also a special section dedicated to affordable souvenirs that capture the essence of Korean culture—perfect for those looking to bring home a piece of Korea or find a special gift for friends. **Getting There:** To reach BUTTER in Hongdae, simply take the subway to **Hongik University Station** (Seoul Subway Line 2) and exit at **Exit 1**. From there, you’ll find the store within walking distance, nestled in the vibrant and trendy area of Hongdae. Make sure to stop by for a unique shopping experience that blends creativity with Korean culture! #travel #couplestrip #seoul #youngcity

#favouriteitinerary At Bakudanyaki, you can expect a vibrant atmosphere that caters to both locals and tourists. The menu often includes various types of takoyaki with different toppings and sauces, along with options for other Japanese-inspired dishes and snacks. The presentation is typically colorful and appetizing, embodying the lively spirit of Japanese street food culture. Bakudanyaki 📍Address:190-1 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea 🕰️Business Hours: 11am - 10:00pm 💰Average Price per Person: 1- 10,000won #travel #couplestrip #seoul #seoultrip

My stay at the Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae was comfortable and practical. The hotel is located in the heart of the vibrant Hongdae district, making it easy to access many cafes, restaurants, and shops. The room was clean and modern, with a simple design that provided all the amenities you might need. Breakfast was included and offered a variety of options to suit different tastes. The service was efficient, and the staff were very friendly and willing to help. If you're looking for comfortable accommodation in a central location to explore Seoul, this hotel is an ideal choice.

Mid-march to korea and managed to catch snow on the way to Nanmi Island! It was a spectacular experience as it was my mom’s first time seeing snow. Korea is filled with many cultural experiences and landmarks. Thanks to Trip.com, I managed to snag 1-for-1 deals for T-Way flights to Korea in less than $380 for two pax with 15kg baggage! What a steal! Hotel accommodation definitely recommend Holiday Inn Hongdae. It is not just convenient (right above Hongdae Station which directly connects you to Incheon Airport), it has also all the amenities you need, room size is decent, and breakfast spread is great! Small tip: Try to book as early as you could because when I checked back closer to the dates, the room rates is >$300/night which is almost double of what I had booked!! I already can’t wait to be back soon! Thanks Trip for the great deal as always! #korea #ihghotels #holidayinnexpress #tripdeals #travelhacks

Travelling is getting so much easier and you also do not need to have cash before you travel. You can make use of all the digital currency and even this currency exchange service in Seoul. At Hoilday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae, there is a WOW PASS kiosk, and you can issue a Korean issued debit card and use it right away. You can even use it for public transportation too, just have to top up the value using a subway top up machine. You can then use any currency to exchange it into Korean won and use it as usual. Take note of the currency exchange rates and you can find the best rates for your trip. #fallishere #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

It is always nice to have breakfast included and for free. Holiday inn express Hongdae is a newly open hotel and they give complimentary breakfast for all guests, including those who book from travel app such as Trip. I keep coming back here because it is in a great location and their rooms are awesome. The breakfast is buffet style and you can cook your own noodles soup too. If you are rushing for early departure, you can request for a takeaway box and pack your breakfast. There are plenty of seats and you can even choose outdoor seatings too. #wheretogo #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

Flying domestically in South Korea is now so much easier and you can just go online and buy the cheapest ticket. I will recommend you Jeju Airlines and they have a ticket office in Hongdae, inside Holiday Inn Express hotel. So if you have any issues, you can approach them when you are in Seoul. Most of these Korean airlines are not so easy to get hold of their customer service. You also probably have to converse in Korean language. I had a minor correction for my Jeju air ticket and the staff at the Jeju air office assisted me. They also speak English too so it was easy. #wheretogo #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

Serene view on a cold snowy weather... Freezing cold temperature of -10 deg C...

A very beautiful cafe once you exit Naturalabs. This cafe is also decorated with many flowers from the display and you might miss it if you do not read korean. So I am telling you now, there is an outdoor section in this cafe. It is so beautiful with the tent-style and fairy lights. It also overlooks Hongdae. The cafe is also part of the attraction and there is a merchandise shop inside the cafe. You can buy related items from the illumination you just visited. I will recommend you to visit this attraction if you are staying in the Hongdae area. Have a seoul-prise in South Korea. #bucketlistreboot #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

Amazing place with very beautiful illuminations and it costs 20000 KRW but I used my Discover Seoul Pass for this attraction. I only paid $40 for 48 hours DSP and my first attraction already cost $20. So DSP is definitely a must-buy for tourists. Also, this Naturelabs is located in the same building as HIEX Hongdae, so I did not need to travel far. There are several zones inside Naurelabs, mainly flowers and nature. There are many animations and you can take many photos inside. Towards the end there is a mirror zone and you can see the mirror spinning around and reflecting the lights. Have a seoul-prise in South Korea. #bucketlistreboot #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

For me, Holiday inn express (HIEX) hotels are fuss-free and budget rooms. But this newly opened HIEX Hongdae is fantastic and I will definitely recommend it to you. Getting to HIEX is super easy. This hotel is right inside a shopping mall and it is connected to Hongik university station 4 and 5. There are also many bus stops around the hotel. I will tell you more about taking buses in Seoul, which is more convenient because of the shorter walking distance when you need to do transfers. I will recommend you to bring a rolling luggage because there is smooth pavement everywhere around HIEX. Their reception is on level 7. Have a seoul-prise in South Korea. #bucketlistreboot #southkorea #seoul #liveyourdreams #takethattrip