When it comes to choosing accomodations, I’d always go for a quieter place, somewhere closer to nature but also convenient to get to the city. Shilla Hotel is a perfect blend of both world combining traditional aesthetic with a modern touch. Established in 1973 as the hotel sector subsidiary of the Samsung Group, South Korea’s largest conglomerate, The Shilla is the national leader in premium hospitality services.
Located on Mt. Namsan, the hotel is away from the buzzing city but not too far that it hurts to walk. Being one of the leading hotel of the world, it’s chosen as a wedding venue for many high profile personalities and celebrities. If you don’t know already, this is where Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Won wedding was held. There’s a high chance that you’ll bump into Korean artists while staying here in fact I saw Ji Sung on the same hotel floor. I shied away lol …
Shuttle service is available every 30 minutes to Dongdaemun and Myeong Dong therefore fret not that you’ll miss the shopping experience while staying on the mountain. It takes 10 mins to get to Myeong Dong. There’s also a pick up service back to hotel, how convenient is that? Save the bucks to splurge on shopping spree.
Shilla Duty Free is next door for those who indulge in luxury brands, there’s a whole floor of skincare products too. After having tried a number of skincare brands, Korean skincare products are most suitable for my skin except for facial masks which I’d usually go for US brand.
Operation hour : 9:30am to 9 pm
There’re two orientation; one overlooking Mount Namsan and another facing the city.I’m booked into an executive grand deluxe room with North and East-facing windows that offer a lofty view of the city as well as the famous traditional house where weddings were held. I’m slightly claustrophobic so this room is perfect for me as it’s spacious and has large windows. (Love large reading windows).
Seoul skyline at night. Love the lights !!!
Upon checking in, I headed for Afternoon Tea at the Executive Lounge. I’m big sweet tooth and the sweets and pastries here are soooo good I need to get a diabetic check once I’m back. Happy hour serve a variety of drinks from champagne to wine and other beverages.
Executive Lounge
Breakfast : 06:30 ~ 10:00 ( KRW 48,400)
Light snack : 11:30 ~ 14:00 (KRW 36,300)
Afternoon Tea : 15:00 ~ 17:00 (KRW 36,300)
Happy Hour : 18:00 ~ 22:00 (KRW 112,600)
Directions
Limousine Bus
Take Airport Limousine Bus from Incheon International Airport to The Shilla Seoul.
(Gate 4B or 11A, Travel time: 1 hr, 30min)
Subway
Dongkuk University Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 5.
The hotel is located 5min away from the station.
Bus
Take bus 144, 301, 407 or 7212 and get off at Jangchung Gymnasium Bus Stop.
Shuttle Bus Service
Waiting area : Hotel entrance
Destination : Dongdaemun and Myeong Dong (5-10 mins distance)
Charges : Free
Service time : 10am to 8pm (every 30 mins)
Airport Transfer
Service time : 6am onwards ( every 30 mins)
Bus stop : Dongguk University Station (in front of Shilla Hotel)
Charges : KRW15,000
Address
249, Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 중구 동호로 249 (장충동2가)
Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Photo Credit : @JourneyPark (Instagram)
