The best areas to base yourself, with nightly prices per room for each budget.
Near Myeong-dong (Line 4, 424)
The best first-timer base: Line 4 straight to the AREX at Seoul Station, street food every night, K-beauty shops everywhere, and walkable to Namsan.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Hongik Univ. (Line 2, 239 / AREX A03)
Young, loud and fun: buskers, cafes, clubs and cheap eats, with the AREX running direct to Incheon Airport.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Seoul Station (Line 1, 133 / Line 4, 426 / AREX A01)
Easiest for early flights and day trips: AREX, KTX, Line 1 and Line 4 in one hub.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Anguk (Line 3, 328) / Jongno 3-ga
Palaces, hanok streets and Gwangjang Market on foot. Quieter nights, more culture.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Seomyeon (Line 1, 119 / Line 2, 219)
Busan's central hub where Lines 1 and 2 meet: 12 minutes to the KTX at Busan Station, about 30 minutes to the airport, and the best nightlife and food.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Haeundae (Line 2, 203)
Wake up by the beach, close to Blueline Park and Busan X the Sky. About 45 minutes from Busan Station and Nampo.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.
Near Nampo (Line 1, 111)
Old Busan: Jagalchi, BIFF Square and Gukje Market on foot, with buses to Gamcheon and Yeongdo.
Per room per night. Split it if you share.