Los Angeles is one of the most visited cities in the United States, and for great reason. It’s home to diverse art and culture, beautiful scenery, excellent weather, and some of the coolest hotels. In this article, we’ll share the most unique hotels in LA for your getaway or staycation.

There’s something for everyone, from trendy to minimalist and laid-back to luxurious hotels. We’ve compiled a list of the best boutique hotels across the city, including Venice Beach, Downtown LA, Santa Monica, and Hollywood.

Keep reading for the best hotels in Los Angeles and what each one has to offer, from a local’s perspective.

Read More: Five Days in LA: A Complete Travel Guide

Best Boutique Hotels in Venice Beach

While visiting the iconic Venice Beach, you can have an authentic California experience at one of LA’s best beachfront hotels.

1) Hotel ERWIN

Hotel ERWIN is a colorful and fun hotel with comfortable beachfront rooms. It also features Venice’s only rooftop bar that offers picture-perfect sunset views. For decades, Hotel ERWIN has been a go-to boutique hotel for locals, vacationers, and day trippers.

2) The Venice Beach House

Since 1911, Los Angeles travelers, including celebrities, have been enjoying a unique stay at The Venice Beach House. The preserved beachfront hotel has unique suites and sprawling gardens to offer a tranquil destination for guests. It’s the perfect accommodation for a peaceful getaway, and you can also hold events in various idyllic spaces at The Venice Beach House.

Fun fact: The Venice Beach House is a historical Craftsman landmark and has a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Read More: How to Spend 24 Hours in Venice Beach

Best Boutique Hotels in Downtown LA

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious or unique cozy hotel, there are plenty of incredible options in Downtown LA.

3) The Westin Bonaventure Hotel

Enjoy the best of Downtown Los Angeles at The Westin Bonaventure Hotel. It’s an elegant and cool hotel in the heart of LA, where you can find a fitness studio, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurants. Many travelers most appreciate Bonaventure’s rooms that offer stunning city views. 

4) The Hoxton

If you’re looking for lively boutique hotels in downtown Los Angeles, The Hoxton is one of the best. People from all over, including LA locals, enjoy this centrally located hotel with tranquil rooms, two restaurants, and a rooftop pool. The Hoxton also has space for private dining, parties, and events.

5) The Wayfarer

As one of downtown LA’s newest hotels, The Wayfarer offers a trendy setting within walking distance of some of the best Los Angeles attractions. The Wayfarer is also known for its rooftop space to enjoy delicious cocktails and picturesque views, an eclectic underground bar with live shows, and a cafe in a lobby setting ideal for mingling.

6) Miyako Hotel

For a unique stay in downtown Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo district, check out Miyako Hotel. This modern, Japanese-inspired hotel offers a fun and comfortable getaway. It’s also within walking distance of local restaurants, markets, and nightlife.

Read More: Best Books Set in Los Angeles

Best Boutique Hotels in West Hollywood

The world-famous West Hollywood is a must-visit at least once. And here are a couple of the best boutique hotels in the area. 

7) Andaz West Hollywood

Sleep where legendary rockers stayed in the mid-60s. Andaz West Hollywood is an iconic hotel where you can enjoy the highest rooftop pool in LA, which offers stunning views, private cabanas, and a full-service bar. The location is ideal for exploring the best neighborhoods, including Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica.

Read More: A Native Angeleno’s Guide to the Best 9 Bookstores in LA

8) Chateau Marmont

Chateau Marmont is one of the coolest hotels in Los Angeles. It’s modeled after a castle and has an incredible heated outdoor pool surrounded by gardens. Guests can book luxury bungalows or suites that feel like Old Hollywood. Chateau Marmont also has an on-site restaurant and upscale cocktail bar.

Best Boutique Hotels in Santa Monica

Santa Monica State Beach and Pier are some of the most fun places to hang out in Los Angeles. These nearby hotels both offer a unique experience.

9) Shutters on the Beach

One of the best boutique hotels in LA with ocean views is Shutters on the Beach. It’s conveniently situated on Santa Monica State Beach and a short walk to the iconic pier. Shutters on the Beach is an elegant hotel with a nice restaurant, a casual beachfront cafe and bar, a spa, and a seasonal outdoor pool.

10) Palihouse Santa Monica

Another boutique hotel we love is Palihouse, also located a short walk from Santa Monica’s beach and pier. It’s an eclectic, Mediterranean Revival-style hotel with a lobby cafe and bike rentals. Guests can choose from various beautifully decorated rooms.

Best Boutique Hotels in Hollywood

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back and fun hotel or a more upscale experience, you can find it in Hollywood.

11) Banana Bungalow Hostel

For affordable and fun accommodation in Hollywood, Banana Bungalow is ideal. There are funky retro hotel and hostel rooms to choose from, and you’re close to popular attractions. Banana Bungalow hosts various events and activities, perfect for travelers excited to meet new people.

12) Petit Ermitage

Petit Ermitage is known as one of the most unique hotels in LA. The rooms each have their own personality, and the hotel’s rooftop has a heated saltwater pool, bohemian bar, and cabana dining. Petit Ermitage also has movie nights and other fun events on the rooftop. This is a wonderful place for a special getaway or staycation.

13) The Hollywood Roosevelt

The Hollywood Roosevelt is an iconic luxury hotel on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Guests love its location in the heart of LA, upscale vibe, and history. Many famous people have stayed at this 1920s hotel, including Marilyn Monroe. At The Hollywood Roosevelt, you can appreciate a delicious restaurant, fancy bars, an outdoor pool, and a game room with bowling.

14) Magic Castle Hotel

Hollywood apartments turned into spacious and bright hotel rooms, the Magic Castle Hotel offers many amenities, including dining areas, an outdoor pool, and laundry service. It’s the ideal accommodation for a comfortable stay in Disney, and it’s just a 7-minute drive from Universal Studios.

Read More: 11 Best Food Tours in LA

Best Boutique Hotel in Koreatown (KTown)

One of the coolest hotels in Los Angeles happens to be in the exciting, and very walkable, Koreatown neighborhood. 

15) The LINE LA

The LINE LA is a fan-favorite boutique hotel in the center of Koreatown, making it easy to explore restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. This hip hotel is in a mid-century building and has bike rentals, an outdoor pool, and a lively restaurant and bar.

Best Boutique Hotels in Mid City LA

Mid City is one of Los Angeles’ quietest areas, and its hotels offer relaxation while being close to many things to see and do.

16) Short Stories

Enjoy a tranquil retreat at one of the newest boutique hotels in LA. Short Stories is the perfect location for a tranquil retreat, only steps away from dining, shopping, and museums. The rooms feature custom, impressive decor. Short Stories also has a pool, a restaurant, and scheduled wellness activities.

17) Palihotel Melrose Avenue

On the edge of Mid City is Palihotel, an intimate and fun hotel in the heart of the vibrant Melrose Shopping District. Palihotel features cozy guest rooms, a lounge, a cafe, and an outdoor courtyard space.

Best Boutique Hotel in Culver City

Culver City is ideal if you hope to stay close to great dining, the arts, and nature.

18) The Culver Hotel

Classic meets contemporary at The Culver Hotel. Guests love the artsy design, European atmosphere, and close proximity to Downtown Culver City. The Culver Hotel has historic rooms, a cafe with seasonal dining, classic cocktails, and live music.

Best Boutique Hotels in East LA

You can also head to East LA for nature and a couple of the most unique hotels in LA.

19) Cara Hotel

The Cara Hotel and its restaurant offer one of the most charming and warm atmospheres in Los Angeles. Guests love the breezy and comfortable atmosphere and enjoy exploring nearby locations, including Griffith Park and Silverlake.

20) Silver Lake Pool & Inn

If you’re looking for a hip hotel and urban oasis in East LA, Silver Lake Pool & Inn is an excellent option. It’s surrounded by trendy bars and coffee shops. It’s also just a few miles from the Griffith Observatory and Echo Park Lake. The hotel also features an Italian restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool.

Best Boutique Hotels in Disney

If you’re planning a Disneyland experience in Los Angeles and want to stay at a memorable accommodation, we recommend these unique hotels.

21) Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for an elegant stay close to Disney, consider Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. This hotel has a luxurious restaurant and bar with a fireside lounge, a relaxed cafe, various pools, and a spa. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa’s lobby also offers direct access to the Disney California Adventure Park and the Downtown Disney District.

Los Angeles is filled with cool hotels close to many fun and memorable things to see and do. We hope you found the perfect hotel for your staycation or LA getaway. If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing.

Hidden in a quaint village by the name of Hawarden in North Wales, six miles from the beautiful city of Chester, Gladstone’s Library is a lot of wonderful things: the only residential library in the UK, the UK’s only prime-ministerial library, and the best place, in our humble opinion, to spend a weekend on the whole bloody island.

We spent two nights at this hotel/library/paradise hybrid, exploring the grounds, reading Gladstone’s books, relaxing by the fire, and chatting with likeminded people about politics and history, enjoying perhaps the best weekend of our lives.

Gladstone’s Library: The Incredible History

William Gladstone was an amazing man. Son to a slave-trader, Gladstone dove straight into British politics out of university, serving in the Conservative Party. In a rare political shift, Gladstone became more liberal through the course of his life, eventually forming the Liberal Party, and then serving as Britain’s Prime Minister four times (to this day, he is the UK’s longest-serving PM). Gladstone moved dramatically away from everything he had come from, famously opposing the Opium War with China, fighting to rein-in unfair landlords, crusading for home rule in Ireland, and aiding Bulgaria in their fight against the Ottoman Empire.

Aside from all he did for liberal politics, Gladstone also owned and read 22,000 books in his lifetime (this averages at five books per week). He spoke several languages, including Latin, and annotated his books in detail. He was an avid reader of theology and history, specifically, and before his death he built a big shed library to house all of his books. After his death, in accordance to his wishes, this shed was dismantled to make room for the incredible Gladstone’s Library which still stands today.

Why Gladstone’s Library is Better than Disneyland

For lovers of literature, those who want nothing more than a quiet retreat for a weekend away, or those who simply enjoy the atmosphere of being around books, sitting with a glass of red by the fireside on a wing-backed chair, and talking politics, there is no better place than Gladstone’s.

The atmosphere in this place is staggering. The library is open to the public, and many local people and students some to find a quiet place to study. The rooms are quaint and homey, and purposefully lacking in TV, placing an emphasis on quiet reading and writing. Although you do get a lovely Roberts Radio to listen to.

The building itself has a stately home design, making one feel like they are living through a season of Downton Abbey. The staff are kind and helpful; they love their jobs, and I can see why. It’s a place of friendliness and chatter; the kind of place where you’ll strike up a conversation with a stranger in a way you never would out in the cold real world.

To give a personal example, we were due to start a tour of the library when a man named Gordon, who had until a few years back been Gladstone’s in-house chaplain, came to tell us a little of the building’s history. He met us again at dinner and told us everything we could ever hope to know about the man himself, William Gladstone. After retiring to the common room for coffee, Gordon introduced us to a visiting professor of British History from Tennessee who sat with us for hours, discussing American and British history, the class system, and the state of Brexit and Trump’s America. It was a wonderful experience that could only have happened at this wonderful place, the kind of place that invites these kinds of experiences.

Read More: 11 Stunning Places to Visit in Wales

Festivals and Events at Gladstone

Beyond your average weekend away, Gladstone’s also offers various events like writer’s retreats, festivals, and lessons from Writer’s in Residence. The upcoming Hearth Festival on 2^nd February invites four novelists to speak and give intimate advice to budding writers who wish to attend and learn from the best. These festival takes place in the common room, surrounded by books and bordered by a fireplace on opposite walls. The festivals and events at Gladstone’s are so much more intimate than your typical festival experience, putting comfort and friendliness at the forefront of the experience.

If you’d rather a busier literary event then look no further than Gladfest in September (6th – 8th), rooms will book fast for this one if you’re hoping to stay as there will be writers in residence.

Food and Drink

There’s a restaurant on-site ‘Food for Thought‘ which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is open for snacks and coffee throughout the day.  They even offer a beautiful afternoon tea and Sunday lunch (which need to be pre-booked). There’s plenty to choose from and it is all homemade and very reasonably priced. Eating in the restaurant with the other guests feels very cozy and wholesome, far more than anything we’ve ever experienced in a hotel before; and many of the customers are regulars from the village who want to come and enjoy the atmosphere.

If you’d like to eat out, there are some lovely cafes, a pub, and restaurants in the village that are within walking distance and you get to walk back to this stunning grade-1 listed building all over again!

Come and Stay Here

The care and love given to books and those who love them is staggering at Gladstone’s Library. To walk amongst his private collection of 22,000 books gives you goosebumps. Staying for a night or two or three means having access to such a wealth of knowledge, and a place to forget your stresses, read some books in utter peace and calm, and maybe even find the inspiration to write a story of your own.

You can book a room at Gladstone’s Library here. We’ll definitely be going back.

For more bookish fun in Wales, visit Hay on Wye – the beloved book town!

The hotel is striking from the moment you approach it, stretching across sixteen 17th century canal houses on Herengracht and Singel, the heart of old Amsterdam. It’s the epitome of romantic, with a view of the canal and colourful houses opposite.

It’s no surprise that the hotel was named one of the top five independent hotels in the world for art lovers when you step inside and start to notice the artwork.

These are the first glimpses that make up the collection of 800 works by COBRA artists displayed here. These pieces include sculptures and paintings by artists such as Corneille Eugene Brands and Theo Wolvecamp.

This alone would make the Ambassade Hotel a worthy choice until you look left and catch a glimpse of The Library Bar which houses over five thousand signed books. This is not simply an impressive collection but a memento of every author who has stayed at the hotel.

You’ll even find a shelf of books where the hotel has been specifically mentioned showing how important this space is to the literary community and what an impression it makes.

The bar itself is a perfect place to while away the evening after exploring historic Amsterdam or indulging in a fabulous three-course dinner at the Brasserie Ambassade.

Read More: Beautiful Bookshops in Amsterdam

Staying at the Ambassade Hotel is a unique experience and can easily be considered an Amsterdam attraction in its own right. Find out what to expect from your stay at the Ambassade Hotel and what they offer specifically for art, literature, and history lovers.

A Cultural Haven in the Heart of Amsterdam

The location of the Ambassade Hotel is ideal for exploring the nearby museums of Amsterdam, in fact, you can reach almost anywhere within twenty minutes of walking or a shorter cycle.

Next to the famous Nine Streets area brimming with boutique shops, art galleries, and vintage stores, there’s no better location for exploring, and for those looking to do some book shopping, you’ll find Amsterdam’s best bookshops within a few minutes.

You’re also on the doorstep of the romantic Jordaan District known for wonderful modern art galleries, speciality shops, and restaurants.

Places to visit in Central Amsterdam

Anne Frank House – One of those unmissable places to visit, here you’ll wander around the former space where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis and learn about the events that lead up to her death. With interviews, excerpts from her diary and her original diary on display.

Woonbootmuseum – An unusual and unique visit, the Houseboat Museum lets you experience life on a houseboat set within a traditional cargo ship.

Gallery Vassie – A leading authority in the European fine art photography scene, this is a must-visit for lovers photography. The museum features a diverse collection of work from both key historical and established photographic artists.

Oudemanhuispoort – A must on any book-lover’s Amsterdam itinerary! ‘Old Man House’ is an ancient passage filled with stalls selling used books was once visited by Vincent Van Gogh. Make sure to take a peek at the beautiful courtyard through the windows.

Don’t forget to pick up some delicious waffles while you’re wandering

For those who want to enjoy a cultural and historical overview of Amsterdam, the hotel also offers tailored art and history tours with a guide.

My guide, Michael, took me on a walking tour around the centre of Amsterdam meaning that I saw the highlights of the historical centre of the city.

Like all good guides, Michael shared his vast and encyclopedic knowledge of the area and pointed out things that I certainly would have missed. These cultural insights are priceless and the fact that this can be booked as part of your stay is incredibly convenient.

Staying at The Ambassade Hotel, Amsterdam

Staying at the Ambassade Hotel is undoubtedly luxurious, the kind of place to stay for a special occasion or if you simply want to treat yourself.

The service is top quality and the staff are genuinely interested in making your stay perfect, they’re also incredibly helpful if you want to know more about Amsterdam and are happy to book excursions and attractions for you.

The room is large with beautiful views and unique art above your bed. It’s perfect whether you want to relax, take a bath, or spend a few hours writing at your desk.

There are plenty of added extras you can request to meet you when you get there from champagne on arrival to chocolate in the room.

If you’d like a relaxing experience while you’re here then don’t miss the opportunity to try floating or experience a relaxing massage at Koan Float which is just a few doors up from the hotel.

A Fine Dining Experience

Breakfast is served every morning in the beautiful Brasserie Ambassade which includes a continental breakfast with fresh coffee, tea, and juice as well as a choice from the menu.

I couldn’t resist having eggs both days which were perfectly scrambled and poached and served alongside a range of sides like mushrooms or bacon. You can enjoy more COBRA art as you eat your breakfast and enjoy a morning view of the canal.

It’s also very worth having at least one dinner there as the menu is full of wholesome French classics and light dishes that are made with fresh produce. Even the table bread and butter were particularly moreish and difficult to resist.

I’d highly recommend the duck confit which it one of my favourite meals and didn’t disappoint and the salmon and avocado starter which was perfectly balanced in flavour.

With flares like vibrant pink beetroot powder garnish, the refined meals at Brasseries Ambassade are as pleasing to the eye as the stomach. You can view their menu online and make a booking even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

The Library Bar 

A snug library bar with leather chairs surrounded by shelves lined with thousands of books sounds too good to be true, but, thankfully, the Ambassade Hotel Library Bar is available for anyone who wants to visit and enjoy the experience.

Like any good bar, the drinks menu is extensive with everything from coffees to cocktails, and a whiskey menu with options from Japan, Taiwan, Ireland to name but a few. Tables are also set up with backgammon and chess for a classic game of wits post-drink. 

The hotel is a favourite among Dutch publishers who consistently book rooms for their authors here which explains why the cross-section of contemporary international literature displayed here is so dynamic and enlightening.

The guest book is well worth taking a look at with notes from writers such as Salman Rushdie, Isabel Allande, and John Le Carre.

As you might expect you’ll find select pieces of COBRA Artworks in the library and sitting unassumingly behind a glass case you’ll also see a gift from Rex Cowan who is known for salvaging  Dutch East India Company shipwrecks.

The oxidized wine bottle was salvaged from The Flying Deer Ship built in 1729 and still contains its contents.

Literary Salons

Of course, the bookish experience doesn’t stop there. The hotel holds monthly literary salons where authors are interviewed or topical themes discussed in an intimate setting.

The experience is then followed up in the bar where you can get your book signed or mingle with everyone involved.

The salons are free but you must reserve in advance as seats are claimed fast. A musical salon is also held three times a year in partnership with the Amsterdam Sinfonietta.

Samsara Publishing

The hotel also manages a publishing company named Samsara where you can pick up a number of books in Dutch and some in English.

One of the highlights is the introduction to COBRA artists which really helps you understand how special the hotel is from an artist’s perspective.

The hotel is also planning to open a bookshop named Samsara Books & Art which will be located right around the corner of the hotel.

Being able to browse their books as part of your hotel experience is an exciting new addition to an already special literary hotel.

My stay at this special literary and art hotel is one that will stay with me for life, I’m very grateful for my chance to stay there and thank the Ambassade Hotel for hosting me for two nights.You can make a reservation with the Ambassade Hotel on their website.

This historic building, established back in 1911, sits on the edge of the ocean, just a short walk south of the famous Muscle Beach, and yet it has all the homely charm, aesthetics, and comfort of an English country cottage.

Venice Beach is one of the best places to stay in LA, especially for first-time visitors. It’s a small area that’s easy to explore on foot, with everything good to be found on the boardwalk. And that includes Venice Beach House.

Found on the US National Register of Historic Places, this hotel in Venice Beach is the absolute best experience first-time visitors to Los Angeles could ask for.

The wonderful thing about Venice Beach that makes the area so unique is that it encompasses all the exciting tropes you associate with LA: the seafood, the surf, the soft sand, volleyball, basketball, beachfront villas, tall palm trees; it’s all here in this friendly and lively part of LA.

And The Venice Beach House offers visitors the perfect location to explore all of this.

A ten-minute walk from The Venice Beach House takes you to all the best dining establishments, the Venice Beach Canals, Muscle Beach, the famous Venice Sign. If you’re planning to spend a weekend in Venice Beach, this hotel gives you easy walking (or cycling) access to everything that makes Venice Beach awesome.

Read More: How to Spend 24 Hours on Venice Beach

The Venice Beach House Hotel

Comprised of just nine luxury suites, The Venice Beach House is a fine and charming establishment. Beyond what you can see and reach from the hotel, The Venice Beach House building itself offers enough luxury and tranquility for the ultimate weekend in Venice Beach.

When you first arrive, you’ll find a reception and lounge area that, if you’re a fanatical book-lover like we are, will be the room you’ll want to base your own library off of. Leather wingback chairs surrounded by shelves of vintage hardback books; a wooden staircase; a breakfast nook that looks out onto the garden through a large bay window.

Everything about this room is poetry. And it’s where you can enjoy your breakfast every morning as the early morning sun rays pass through the window and calmly illuminate this rustic and warm space, soothing you for a morning of exploring Venice Beach.

Speaking of breakfasts, what you get here at The Venice Beach House is a healthy and varied breakfast unlike anything we’ve ever had in a hotel before, anywhere in the world.

During our stay, we enjoyed fresh bananas and oranges, as well as pulpy orange juice, coffee, matcha green tea, and homemade banana bread and chia pudding to top it all off.

This breakfast fuelled us up for a full day of wandering and exploring Venice Beach. It was a healthy, happy breakfast of champions.

What makes The Venice Beach House such a heavenly place to stay in LA is how it frames your day in Venice Beach. Since this part of Los Angeles is best explored when the sun is high, The Venice Beach House quietly encourages you to enjoy your morning and your evening in such soothing tranquility.

With a hearty breakfast that sets you up for a day of walking and exploring, it’s only right that your evenings are wrapped up in a place of quiet calm, where you can unwind to the sound of the ocean waves in a spacious room of antique wood furniture, exposed brickwork, book-lined shelves, and a large TV.

The rooms of this Venice Beach hotel are all entirely different, so whichever one you stay in will be a wholly unique experience. The Pier Suite, for example, offers an ocean view, offering you a Venice Beach sunset, while the Aimee Mcpherson Suite grants guests a serene garden view of plants and greenery.

During our stay, we were provided the Aimee Mcpherson suite, and what an experience it was! Our own private ground floor entrance around the side of the porch, with a stable door to really add that rustic charm.

Through that door is a small entrance area where you’ll find the bathroom, lavishly decorated with vintage faucets and a hot shower.

Beyond that are two more rooms: a lounge area with large wooden wardrobes in a dark and warm wood, as well as a sofa and chairs to relax and read in, and the main bedroom area with an enormous double bed (best night’s sleep we’ve ever had).

The bedroom has a window that looks out onto the garden and spans the entire width of the room. On another wall is a massive TV mounted between two nooks decorated with old books and vinyl records. The TV has Netflix and Hulu, so feel free to log into your account while you’re staying here.

The suites at The Venice Beach House allow you to take a load off after a day of getting to know Venice Beach. These are not rooms to just sleep in.

This is not just a roof over your head while you stay here. This is an experience in and of itself. The Venice Beach House is a beautiful, soothing, warm, and welcoming place to stay in Venice Beach.

The atmosphere of this hotel is so wonderfully calming and tranquil. And that isn’t only thanks to the mightily fresh and healthy breakfast, or the aesthetics of books, antiques, and historic architecture. Nor is it down to how spacious, rustic, and comfortable the rooms are.

It’s also down to the welcoming and positive atmosphere that your hosts provide. You’ll meet and get to know the most sweet, kind, and charming hosts at The Venice Beach House. These are good people who want to know about you and your travels. You’ll make friends and feel welcome.

The only danger with The Venice Beach House is that it really does feel like home so quickly. You’re provided with the luxury of feeling relaxed, taken care of, and completely rested.

You’ll want to live here forever and never return home. It’s a small paradise right at the edge of the water. For visitors from the UK especially, the English cottage vibe and architecture provide a home away from home.

We have never felt as welcome, relaxed, and charmed by a hotel as we have by The Venice Beach House, and we cannot imagine a better Venice Beach experience than staying here. With earnestness and enthusiasm, we encourage every visitor to Venice Beach to book a suite and enjoy a stay at The Venice Beach House.

Read More: 5 Days in Los Angeles (Complete LA Itinerary)

Central destinations are usually preferred due to it often taking over an hour to reach the suburbs on the train. However, as Tokyo is a city that has no discernible centre but is instead broken up in to clearly defined districts, each with their own flavour and character, this only adds to the confusion.

Rest assured, wherever you stay in Tokyo you’ll find no shortage of things to do. With accommodation options that range from the traditional ryokan style with onsen to relax in, to the infamous capsule hotels that offer a private hostel experience, to the most luxury of luxury stays, finding the best place to stay in Tokyo has never been easier.

This truly is a city with something for everyone.

Here are the best hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs to enjoy your time in Tokyo as well as a complete Tokyo area guide (with recommended hotels).

Where to Stay in Tokyo — Unique Hotels

Here are some of the most exciting hotels in Tokyo to suit people on a budget to people wanting to splash out a little, find out more about each district below.

HOTEL UNIZO Tokyo Ginza-Itchome

A new hotel in Tokyo Hotel Unizo is ideal for female guests as they offer an exclusive tea lounge just for ladies and include aroma oil samples to use in your room.

Ginza is a modern shopping area with lots to offer and this hotel is right in the heart of it. The rooms come with an in-built air cleaner and humidifier and a business centre for guests to use making this a lovely space to work from.

A perk is the mobile phone provided in the room that can be used around Tokyo during your stay.

The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon

If you’re looking for an epic view of the Tokyo Skytree and a convenient central location, then The Gate Hotel is perfect for you.

The open-air terrace, which guests can dine on if they choose to, means you can enjoy that magical skyline to its fullest. This is one that’s ideal for cityscape photographers. You can also walk to Senso-ji Temple within five minutes. There’s a 24-hour French cuisine restaurant and bar to enjoy during your stay.

Hotel Koe

This is a space for people who love their hotels to be designer and modern, in the concrete and stripped down kind of way. The first floor of Hotel Koe houses a bakery-restaurant (with European offerings) and an events space.

The second floor has a boutique apparel shop for some unique shopping and then the hotel and lounge itself are on the third floor. The staff are particularly friendly and helpful and will help you find some off-the-beaten-track places around Tokyo.

Situated in the heart of Shibuya you can pay a visit to the Hachiko statue on your way out. This is easily one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo.

Andon Ryokan

Tokyo’s first designer ryokan (a traditional style of Japanese hotel), this charming space exists to be photographed.

The traditional sliding paper screens and wooden doors have been replaced tastefully with glass and metal which is far more impressive than it sounds.

You’ll find Japanese antiques scattered throughout the hotel which clashes beautifully with the modern design and you still roll out your futon on your tatami mat floor so there are still elements of the traditional.

There are plenty of classes on offer for the curious guest including Japanese flower arranging, tea ceremonies, and origami lessons. After a day of exploring Andon Ryokan even has a pleasant whirlpool hot tub to enjoy.

Trunk (Hotel)

One of the more contemporary and stylish places in Tokyo, the Trunk Tokyo Hotel has become synonymous with creative types due to the excellent coffee shop and bar downstairs where you’ll find plenty of writers and artists hanging around at the end of the day.

It’s also just seconds walk from Cat Street, Shibuya’s hipster central where you’ll find plenty of boutique stores, art gallery, and artisanal coffee shops. There’s real character to Trunk hotel added to by the staff who are very passionate about what they and their area.

Where to Stay in Tokyo — Hostels

Tokyo’s offers so much variety in terms of hostels, I’d describe the hostels in Tokyo as actually fun, always clean and well-maintained, and wonderfully private.

Book and Bed

This delightful hostel became famous the moment it was advertised that you could sleep on a bookshelf. Bibliophiles flocked to this hotel (including us!) for perfect bookish pictures and meeting like-minded people.

There’s a lot to offer here, number one being privacy: the bookshelves and cheaper bunks are more like capsules and have curtains.

You’ll also find a book waiting on your pillow and hundreds of books in many languages to sift through before you head out for the day.

The shower and bathroom of Book and Bed and their facilities are high-quality. There are even some basic food making facilities. There are also some nice tables and a shared space to work in.

Check out our full review here

Hiromas Hostel in Kanda

There’s a great community vibe at this Tokyo hotel and for a small fee they offer on-site washi paper making workshops which are far cheaper than the usual workshops aimed at tourists. The rooms at Hiromas are simple and air-conditioned, and there’s a laundry are for guests to use.

The shared lounge is an open space and great for working or relaxing in. It’s based in the Chiyoda district and within walking distance of some of the main tourist spots like the Imperial Palace, Edo Castle, and Kitonomaru Park.

They also have a hostel in Akihabara if you’d like to stay in the wonderful nerd district.

Nine Hours Shinjuku-North

Capsule hotels are very popular options for hotels in Tokyo and make for a unique experience without breaking the budget. While many may picture something akin to a tiny box, it’s nothing like that at all.

The Nine Hours capsules are air-conditioned with plenty of room to sit up and move around and give you the privacy of a hotel room on hostel prices.

The staff at Nine Hours are extra friendly and this particular choice can’t be beaten for location being in the centre of Shinjuku near the buzzing Korea town area which brings a lot of unique things to do in its own right.

Tokyo Ginza BAY HOTEL

Another capsule hotel, this one is ideal for solo travellers who’d like to keep things gender segregates as the male and female capsules are on different floors with separate showering facilities.

You can also rent double capsules for two men or women traveling together. The capsules and shared areas in Tokyo Ginza have Wi-Fi and they offer a free luggage storage service.

This capsule hotel gives the appearance of a luxury stay and the capsules themselves are air-conditioned, roomy, and particularly comfortable.

The Millennials Shibuya

The Millennials is just 400 metres away from the famous Shibuya crossing making this a fantastic Tokyo hotel spot for getting around from and getting those famed pictures.

What’s really nice about this hotel is that the beds in the rooms recline so that the room can be used a day lounge making it ideal for working and socialising in. Breakfast is included in the price and is a delicious buffet with Japanese and Western choices.

Where to Stay in Tokyo — Luxury Hotels

Nowhere does luxury like Tokyo, here are some of the finest hotel experiences in the city.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Right in the heart of the Shinjuku skyscraper, this hotel offers incredible views over Tokyo’s skyline.

Some of the perks of Keio Plaza include a free shuttle to the popular Tokyo Disney and even more popular Disney Sea and they also offer Hello Kitty themed suites for families and fans alike making this a great choice for families.

One of the more reasonably priced luxury hotels in Tokyo, some of the facilities include onsite convenience stores, 21 different dining options, swimming pools, and a business centre.

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho

One of the highlights of The Prince Gallery is the Sake bar, Teppanyaki Restaurant, and Sushi Restaurant on site in their Washouku restaurant.

If you want a luxury hotel stay right in the heart of Tokyo, then The Prince Gallery Tokyo Hotel is the place for you. The hotel also has a spa and wellness centre.

ANA Intercontinental Tokyo

Our personal favourite luxury hotel in the city, it’s an eco-certified hotel and a haven for foodies, featuring 10 on-site dining options like the Michelin-star French eatery Pierre Gagnaire or the Club InterContinental MIXX bar lounge on the 35th floor with an amazing view over Tokyo which features signature and award-winning cocktails and excellent bar meals.

ANA also holds regular special food-related workshops and special events like the Ruby Chocolate Afternoon Tea.

They also have an outdoor pool, a 24-hour health club and a modern business centre. Cream of the crop in Tokyo.

Hoshinoya Tokyo

This beautiful luxury ryokan will give you the complete traditional Japanese experience with a few perks that you wouldn’t normally find in a traditional hotel here in Japan.

You’ll be asked to remove your shoes when arriving at Hoshinoya so that you can walk on the tatamis mats that cover the hotel, it’s very authentic and provides a real feel of Japan.

The perks of staying in a ryokan is the onsen (hot spring) and the one here has a glass roof for stargazing in the evening which is a nice touch.

They have a restaurant serving traditional Japanese foods, a snack bar in the lounge where you can have onigiri (traditional rice balls) and coffee and you can even enjoy a daily juggling show in there with complimentary sake. This is definitely a great choice if you’d like to treat yourself but stay authentic.

Where to Stay in Tokyo — Airbnbs

There are less Airbnbs in Tokyo than in other cities due to strict regulations with regards to who can and can’t rent out a room. That being said, there are still some great options around. Don’t forget to use our discount link!

Hidden Gem in the Heart of Shibuya

A private house in the centre of Shibuya, It’s unusual to stay in a house in Tokyo as most people live in tiny apartments.

You can enjoy the dinging, shopping, and tourist attractions of the city and come back to a traditionally designed house with a quiet courtyard to relax away from the hustle and bustle. A true escape in the heart of the city.

Traditional Ryokan Style in Central Tokyo

Have an authentic ryokan style in the heart of Tokyo. This Airbnb has modern facilities but with a traditional Japanese sleeping arrangement on the tatami floors.

It’s in a very convenient location and the host provides portable Wi-Fi which makes traveling the city very convenient. It’s particularly great for families due to the large sleeping area.

Incredible Stay in Ginza

A modern alternative to the traditional Japanese living arrangement, you can experience the height of Japanese luxury.

This designer apartment features a bathtub with a cityscape view of the buildings and trains of Ginza. It’s also in a very convenient location for traveling around Tokyo.

Our Favourite Neighbourhoods in Tokyo

Tokyo is a capital city that’s very much made up by its neighbourhoods. No two are alike and each area has a totally different vibe, and speciality making Tokyo one of the most interesting capitals to explore.

While it is what makes Tokyo special among cities, it does make it difficult to conquer as a visitor and it can be difficult to know where to start and more importantly where to stay.

Luckily, it’s very easy to get around Tokyo on public transport and one of the highlights of taking a trip here is getting lost and seeing what you find.

These neighbourhoods are a great starting point for any visitor to explore. Start here and see where you end up.

Check out our Tokyo City Guide with a Three Day Itinerary or our Guide to Tokyo’s Best Daytrips.

Shibuya

Famous for its crossing – the crossing everyone thinks of when they picture Tokyo – and the statue of Hachiko the dog, found just outside several of the station’s exits.

Shibuya is the cosmopolitan capital area of the city, full of local foods and international brands, as well as bars, clubs, and smokey izakaya pubs. The crossroads is a sight to behold, and best viewed from the Starbucks ideally located above it.

Taking a photo with Hachiko, Japan’s most famous dog, is also a must. Shibuya is also a hub for independent cinemas, like Yebisu Garden Cinema, most of the films shown in these cinemas have English subtitles but check before you buy.

Our favourite hotel in Shibuya:

Trunk Tokyo Hotel – One of the more contemporary and stylish places in Tokyo, the Trunk Tokyo Hotel has become synonymous with creative types due to the excellent coffee shop and bar downstairs where you’ll find plenty of writers and artists hanging around at the end of the day. It’s also just seconds walk from Cat Street, Shibuya’s hipster central where you’ll find plenty of boutique stores, art gallery, and artisanal coffee shops.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is most famous for its Kabukicho area, a vibrant and varied world of museums, restaurants, cafes, and stores. Here can be found the world famous Robot Restaurant, as well as the Samurai Museum, and some of the city’s best ramen and curry restaurants.

There’s something for everyone in Shinjuku; the area is lively and bustling with people from all walks of life shopping, working, and exploring. In many ways, Shinjuku is a kind of shrunken microcosm of all great things Tokyo.

Ginza

Ginza is a popular shopping district featuring local department stores and famous brands, with buildings dating back to the Edo period. Chuo-dori, or ‘central street’ is the main shopping avenue of Ginza where you’ll find famous products from all over Japan and stores with artwork by Japanese artists.

A highlight of the area, aside from the shopping, is the Kabukiza Theatre, a famous Kabuki theatre where you can enjoy the traditional Japanese performing art and if you’re not up for an entire show you can go for a cheaper, shorter alternative ‘hitomaku-mi’ which is a single act.

Dine at Ippudo for some delicious ramen after or try some Michelin star sushi at Sushi Aoki. 

Our Favourite Hotel in Ginza:

Tokyo Ginza BAY HOTEL: A capsule hotel, this one is ideal for solo travellers who’d like to keep things gender segregates as the male and female capsules are on different floors with separate showering facilities. You can also rent double capsules for two men or women travelling together. The capsules and shared areas in Tokyo Ginza have Wi-Fi and they offer a free luggage storage service.

Akihabara

Akihabara is what many people imagine when they picture the Tokyo so culturally popular and vibrant in the ‘90s. This ‘Electric Town’ is a hub of Japanese geek culture, full to bursting with stores and cafes focussing on anime, manga, and video games.

Here you’ll find themed anime cafes as well as maid cafes, and multi-storeyed stores overflowing with toys, plushies, books, and games which celebrated the brightest and most colourful of Japanese modern pop culture.

A must visit for gamers is the world-famous Super Potato arcade and game store full of nostalgia and retro vibes.

Asakusa and Ueno

Considered to be northern Tokyo, and the ‘old quarter’ this is where you can see a lot of the Edo style architecture, take rickshaw rides, and enjoy some of the more traditionally tourist things to do like wear a Kimono.

This is the perfect area for taking a walking tour of to soak up all the history, you’ll find the gorgeous Senso-Ji temple Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, the old merchants quarters and many nostalgic olde-worlde bars.

You’ll also find the Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world, just fifteen minutes’ walk from the temple. The area has a rich history full of theatre and red-light districts. Ueno Park is the largest park in Tokyo and has a multitude of shrines, statues, and museums including Tokyo National Museum.

Our Favourite Hotel in Asakusa:

The Gate Hotel – If you’re looking for an epic view of the Tokyo Skytree and a convenient central location, then The Gate Hotel is perfect for you. The open-air terrace, which guests can dine on if they choose to, means you can enjoy that magical skyline to its fullest. This is one that’s ideal for cityscape photographers. You can also walk to Senso-ji Temple within five minutes.

Harajuku

Harajuku is known for being the youthful, fashionable hub of Japanese alternative culture. While, it definitely is that, and great for people watching as a result, it’s so much more.

Exploring the back streets and the Omotesando stretch, you’ll find the most artisanal cafes in Tokyo, rooftop bars, and all of the vintage and thrift stores you could want.

The main touristy shopping area Takeshita Street is a sight to behold, known for quirky clothing, extravagant crepes at Marion, colourful cotton candy at Totti Candy Factory.

This is also where you’ll find the infamous Kawaii Monster Café to carry on the crazy food journey. Nearby are the tourist hotspots of Meiji Shrine and Meiji-jingu park.

Roppongi/ Akasaka

This area is known for its nightlife, collection of Western restaurants and being the location of the iconic Tokyo Tower. You’ll find the most English spoken in this area with most restaurants and cafes being catered towards visitors.

Roppongi Hills is another highlight of the area, it’s where the Tokyo Film Festival and many other special events are held every year and is a mall, museum, and amazing piece of architecture worth exploring.

A lovely area to wander around, you’ll also find a number of the city’s animal cafes here including the infamous Harry’s Café where you can pet and even adopt hedgehogs.

Shimokitazawa

This bohemian area is full of small music venues, theatres, cafes, and vintage shops so is perfect for getting lost in and people-watching.

With a youthful vibe that’s more laid back than many other areas in Tokyo it’s perfect for people who love hole in the wall eateries, street art, handmade items, and hipster cafes (a great choice of café being Bear Pond Espresso Roasters).

It’s a paradise for shoppers with boutiques and thrift shopping a popular choice being Haight & Ashbury you’ll find plenty of second-hand items in this area making it fantastic for authentic souvenir shopping.

A must-visit for dessert or Studio Ghibli fans is Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory ran by Miyazaki’s cousin with many Ghibli themed items and gifts to take home.

Where to Stay in Tokyo FAQs

• Are there unsafe areas of Tokyo?
  No, Tokyo is a very safe city and as such you won’t find any ‘dodgy’ areas so you don’t have to worry if you find a cheaper than average hotel. Of course, practice basic safety wherever you are.
• Where is the most convenient places to stay for tourists?
  Check that you’re near a subway station and you can get anywhere in Tokyo. Ideally, if you’re near the Yamanote Line (green circular line) which goes to all the major tourist hotspots you’ll be fine. Shinjuku and Shibuya are ideal areas.
• What’s the cheapest area of Tokyo?
  There aren’t many cheap areas of Tokyo but areas next to the major areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku such as Ikebukuro and Kichijoji tend to be cheaper. As Tokyo is easy to get around on the subway you don’t have to worry about being too far.
• What’s are the busiest and quietest areas of Tokyo?
  Shibuya is by far the busiest area so avoid being in the centre of all that if you hate crowds, followed by Shinjuku and Harajuku. Anywhere outside the major hubs will
• How do I get a Tokyo subway card?
  You can pick up a Suica or Pasmo card in any subway station by using designated ticket machines. There’s no advantage to choosing Suica rather than Pasmo or vice versa, they’re just different companies.
• How do I take a taxi in Tokyo?
  It’s very expensive to take a taxi in Tokyo so avoid at all costs and there are no cheap rideshare apps at the moment but if you really do need one (like if you missed the last train as we did once) then just hail one down. If you’re on a quiet street, head to your nearest subway station and they tend to hang around there.

Pin for later!

You wake up in a hotel room to the thrum of traffic and the sound of laughter on the streets below. You head downstairs and grab a coffee from Ediya, the blue-and-white coffee shop on the corner.

Ahead of you, there are vendors selling sweet eggy bread, tubs of spicy rice cakes, quirky glasses frames, and socks – lots of socks.

Along the way, you pass posters adorned with the pretty faces of K-pop idols, and in the distance, you hear a live performance from a group of boys hoping to have their faces upon these walls someday soon.

This is the one city, after all, where you can tour the streets with a handsome oppa. You couldn’t be anywhere else but Seoul. So let’s talk about where to stay in Seoul when you visit.

Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea

Regardless of where you stay, there’s always this same unabashedly happy theme to Seoul’s streets. The people are smiling, music is playing, and coffee is being drunk.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t good places to stay and bad places to stay in Seoul. In fact, there are five perfect districts that offer you the best Seoul experience you could ask for.

In this vast city of 10 million people, let’s take a look at the five coolest neighbourhoods and where to stay in Seoul when you visit.

Read More: 11 Unique and Interestings Hotels and Hostels in Seoul

Where to stay if you want a party: Hongdae or Itaewon

Check out Seoul’s best party districts and how to get home safely after.

Where to stay for culture lovers: Insadong

Visit the Jimjilbang for a cultural sauna experience.

Where to stay for the best shopping in Seoul: Gangnam

Here are some of Korea’s cutest cafes and some of their best tattoo artists.

Where to stay if it’s your first time in Seoul: Myeongdong

A Korean BBQ is a must – here’s how to enjoy BBQ like a local.

Itaewon Neighbourhood Guide

If you’re interested in being central when looking at where to stay in Seoul, Itaewon is the geographical heart of the capital, right in the centre of it all. Ironically, the heart of Seoul is the least quintessentially Korean district.

Itaewon used to be defined by its US military base, and so is still to this day the ‘foreign capital of Seoul’.

You’ll find as much English spoken here as Korean. Usually, that can be a turn-off for visitors looking to experience the real culture of a city, but not so much in Seoul. Koreans are friendly, international people, and many of them thrive in Itaewon.

It’s a lively place full of the city’s best bars and international restaurants. It has two great English-language bookstores: Itaewon Foreign Language Bookstore, as well as shops that sell bigger clothes for bigger foreigners.

It’s an easy way to ease into Korean life, but you don’t lose much of what makes Seoul what it is by staying there and exploring Itaewon to its fullest.

Where to stay in Itaewon

Enjoy the Views at Art Hotel:

Just outside of the craziness of Itaewon but close enough that you can enjoy all of the action, this lovely hotel has a rooftop garden where they grow organic vegetables.

Get colourful at Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel:

This brightly decorated hotel pushes the boundaries in contemporary hotel design and places you right in the heart of Itaewon.

Read More: The Ultimate 3-Day Seoul Itinerary

Myeongdong Neighbourhood Guide

For a taste of modern life when searching for where to stay in Seoul, Myeongdong is your best bet.

Myeongdong is the district that best encompasses the soul of Seoul. It blends the old and the new of Korean culture to make for an open and exciting place that’s full of charm, laughter, and dynamism.

On the weekends, buskers stake their claim to little sections of the promenade that have been carved out specifically for them.

Some of these buskers will be K-pop idol hopefuls, busting out choreographed dance moves to the whoops and cheers of enthusiastic onlookers. Others will be soulful crooners with acoustic guitars. Not too far from them are the street food stalls.

These vendors sell a selection of traditional Korean snacks, including these delicious bite-size sweet lumps of eggy bread called, funnily enough, gyeran bbang (egg bread).

You’ll also find chicken sticks, spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki), and sweet bread (hotteok). To finish it all off, this is the best place in Seoul to buy Korean beauty products, which is half the reason many people visit and want to stay in Seoul.

Where to stay in Myeongdong

Enjoy a Classy Stay at Sejong Hotel:

Named after Korea’s famous King, this elegant hotel is just five minutes walk from all the shopping action of Myeongdong. There’s also an on-site art gallery and a garden for a calm retreat once you’re done in the city.

Embrace the Colours at Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir:

If you’re hoping to enjoy some of Seoul’s quirkiness while you’re there then this adorable hotel with rooms packed with Line themed toys is the ideal choice.

There’s also a roof garden with amazing views out onto the city making this one of the best places to stay in Seoul.

Hongdae Neighbourhood Guide

Hongdae gets its name from Hongkik University, so it’s unsurprising that the big student presence can be found here. If that’s what you’re after as you think about where to stay in Seoul, Hongdae is it.

Lots of students mean lots of bars, boutique shopping, cute independent cafés, and an electric atmosphere on the street level every day of the week. Hongdae is a fun kind of labyrinth; you can get lost easily, and that’s okay.

Go with the flow. Follow the other fish along the streams of pathways, duck into a café or a little boutique clothing store when you see an opening and enjoy the rush that Hongdae gives you.

Hongdae is also home to some adorable animal cafés, the coolest of which definitely being the Meerkat Café (don’t worry; they’re very very well looked after).

Also, when you stay in Hongdae, make sure to check out the Trick Eye Museum. It’s an interactive museum of big displays and 3D paintings – along the walls, standing in the open, and even across the floor.

When you go in, you’ll use the WIFI to download a free camera app that interacts with the art and causes it to move and come to life, making for a laugh-out-loud experience from start to finish.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square

Where to stay in Hongdae:

Embrace Your Inner BTS at Kpopstay:

This is a real gem, it’s a budget hotel with crisp, minimalist design and genuinely lovely bunks. Kpop pictures adorn the walls and TVs play Kpop in the common areas at all times.

Whether you like Korea’s biggest export or not, this is one of the best budget hotels in the city.

Enjoy the Photogenic Orbit Cafe & Guesthouse:

This adorable hotel is decorated in whites and pinks and serves a fantastic homemade breakfast each day. Excellently located near all the action of Hongdae, Orbit is honestly a pleasure to come back to.

Insadong Neighbourhood Guide

If you’re excited to explore the traditional culture and the history of Seoul, you need to pick Insadong when thinking about where to stay in Seoul.

Insadong is a living, breathing slice of Korean history. Its most famous area is the Bukchon Hanok Village, which is a maze of streets lined with traditional Korean homes with wooden walls and slate roofs.

In the village, you’ll find that some of these homes have been turned into cafés, bakeries, and artisan jewellery stores.

Delightfully, none of this destroys the aesthetic of the village itself. Make your stay in Seoul special by renting a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) to wear as you explore the village and conduct your own personal photo shoot.

Beyond the Hanok Village, Insadong is also a quietly bustling district of traditional tea houses that serve a range of healthy, healing brews with vintage snacks, and even a few Buddhist vegetarian restaurants which serve the actual cuisines prepared and eaten by Buddhist monks in Korea’s temples.

Not too far from Insadong, you’ll also find Seoul’s most famous landmark: Gyeongbokgung Palace, and in front of that the statues of King Sejong (the genius who created the Korean Hangul alphabet) and the naval military legend Yi Sun-sin (who fought off the Japanese during the Joseon Dynasty).

Where to stay in Insadong:

Go Traditional at Anguk Guesthouse:

If you’re here to experience the history and culture of Seoul (a wonderful choice) then why not stay in a traditional building.

Anguk Guesthouse is artistic, memorable, and above all beautiful. Traditionally, Korean sleep on heated floors but you’ll also find standard sleeping options here.

For a Modern Stay Go For Grid Inn Hotel:

Found right in the heart of Insadong, you can enjoy a contemporary living space on a budget within easy reach of the temples and hanok village Seoul is so famous for.

Gangnam Neighbourhood Guide

There’s so much to say about Gangnam — one of the coolest districts to consider when thinking about where to stay in Seoul —but we’ll do our best.

Although not the most central district, it’s still perhaps Seoul’s most famous neighbourhood, thanks to a little known pop song that cheekily poked fun at the upper-middle-class atmosphere of the area.

Gangnam is Seoul’s most impressive area from an aesthetic standpoint, particularly if you’re looking for the big skyscrapers and modern side of Seoul as opposed to the more traditional spots.

This is the biggest party district outside of Hongdae, although does tend to attract the older partygoers and you’ll find no shortage (seriously they’re everywhere) of cosmetic surgery and general beauty enhancement spots. Whether you want cheap laser hair removal or a nose job, you’ll find it here.

Gangnam massively resembles Manhattan, with towering skyscrapers that are resplendent on a summer’s day, and wide avenues that stretch on into the distance.

Gangnam is an area of fancy restaurants, Seoul’s best nightclubs, and the highest quality cinemas, hotels, and bars around. If you’re looking to stay in the more luxurious part of Seoul, you can’t do better than Gangnam.

Don’t forget to go out for some Korean BBQ, wander the backstreets and go shopping in the nearby Lotte World Mall. It’s worth bearing in mind that this is the most expensive part of the city and finding a budget hotel isn’t easy.

Where to stay in Gangnam

Hang With the Girls at Cheongdam Guesthouse:

If you’re a female traveller and are looking for a budget spot to stay at in Seoul then you’re in luck! This gorgeously designed hostel is in the heart of Gangnam and only accepts female guests. It even attracts famous k-pop guests due to its ideal location.

Enjoy the sleek Hotel Newv:

New in name, this is one of the more recent additions to the Gangnam hotel scene, it’s sleek, elegant and in a perfect location. You’ll even find a sauna and yoga classes to embrace some good habits while in Korea.

Read These Seven Books Before You Visit South Korea

We hope this neighbourhood guide has given you some insight into where to stay in Seoul when you visit!

Read More: 11 Unique and Interestings Hotels and Hostels in Seoul

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Panglao and Bohol, Philippines

I traveled to Bohol as a solo female and felt very safe at all times and it was such a relaxing time away from my busy life in Seoul.

I was definitely getting put off by people telling me that Philippines wasn’t safe and that was so far from the case. People in the Philippines and especially Bohol and Panglao are incredibly friendly and willing to help.

In fact, I went back to the Philippines just two months later because I missed the vibe there so much and this time visited Coron which turned out to be another paradise-like trip. I left a piece of my heart in Bohol however, and I’ll definitely be returning one day.

Here are my top tips for visiting Bohol and Panglao Island.

Read More: Books by Filipino Women Writers

How to Get To Bohol

I took a direct flight from Seoul, but normally you’ll have to change in Manila or Cebu. The Tagbilaran airport is very close to the city and is only a short tricycle ride away from Panglao or the normal places to stay in Bohol.

There is an ATM at the airport if you need one. Also, if you leave from the same airport be sure to keep some cash for the exit charge. I had to go back out after the security check just to get more cash. It’s 500 pesos.

There’ll be tricycles at the airport but make sure you haggle them down a bit or even better, sort yourself something in advance if you can’t be dealing with all that when you get off your flight (which I often can’t).

It takes about 40 minutes from the airport all the way to Alona Beach and it’s wonderfully scenic on the way, A taxi will cost around 500 pesos and a tricycle 250-300. You can usually get your hostel to prebook you a taxi too.

From Cebu airport, you can take a short taxi ride (about 30 mins) to the pier and take a boat (2-4 hours and 350-800 pesos depending on whether you get the fast or slow boat).

Where is Panglao?

Panglao is a really small island (even by Philippines standards) attached to the much larger island of Bohol, yet it deserves a lot of attention by itself.

There is so much to do on Panglao, and it’s definitely not only the famous Alona beach, there are stunning beaches all over the island. It’s a great base for exploring the whole island especially if you want things to get up to in the evenings.

Even though things are changing fast in Panglao, it’s very easy to identify the few places where mass tourism is concentrated and avoid them, to discover secret beaches, small villages, and friendly and incredibly hospitable people.

Off the coast of Panglao stands the Balicasag island, a marine reserve offering incredible diving opportunities, as well as breathtaking views. This is the perfect spot for some unique pictures.

Read More: A Digital Nomad Guide to The Philippines

What to Do on Panglao Island

You’ll immediately hit recommendations for Panglao Alona beach, it’s advertised right and left as a beautiful beach, a place not to be missed etc.

The truth is that Alona is one of the least interesting of the many beautiful beaches you can find in the Philippines. Overcrowding has caused this beach to seem a little shallow, a little dirty, and just not what most people are after.

The thin beach is occupied by bar tables, low-cost weddings, and ropes to moor the boats on which you’ll stumble over time and again. It’s worth having a look and it’s a good place to get food, have a cocktail, and spend the evening while keeping your days free for exploring elsewhere.

However, Alona is the starting point for many excursions, including those for diving on the coral reef – the Panglao backdrops are very popular with divers.

Just head over to Alona beach to the east to find White Beach and Bikini Beach. And then just explore the coast of Panglao by scooter (going around the resorts) and Bohol to find beautiful and deserted beaches.

Other beaches include:

Kalipayan Beach, Dumaluan Beach, and Momo Beach.

They’re quieter, cleaner and have plenty of bars and restaurants nearby to enjoy., If you want to see unique unexplored and less touristic places don’t forget to ask the friendly locals, they’re so proud of their home and happy to help! You will be amazed by how many beautiful hidden gems you can find.

Visit Hinagdan

Something locals highly recommend is to visit Hinagdan – a small cave with hundreds of stalactites hanging over a natural pool lit by a single ray of sunshine – first thing in the morning to enjoy the pure bliss and the lonely hours without the crowds.

You can enjoy the experience of diving into the cool waters of the pool inside the cave, while the cute bats flutter above you. The cave is located in the northeastern part of the island of Panglao, near the village of Bingag and the Mithi Resort.

Where to Stay on Panglao Island

Mithi Resort and Spa is a seriously gorgeous place to stay. It’s a beautiful resort with a private beach and island. A real touch of luxury: you can stay in cottages with sea views, enjoy the bars, pools, and spa.

Although, if you’re on a budget, Natura Vista is just around the corner and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there. Kind staff and fresh-from-the-garden food, they’ve even got a hot tub.

They organise tours, pickups, everything you need and the bonus — they share the same beach as Mithi Resort above! You’ll find shared and private rooms but there aren’t many rooms so it all feels quiet and tranquil and it’s much easier to chat with people if you want to.

There is a rope line between the two but Natura Vista’s public beach is deserted aside from local fisherman. It’s absolutely stunning so you get the best of both worlds.

For a touch of luxury on a budget:

You can walk for five minutes from Natura Vista to Mithi and enjoy one of their massages. I chose the Japanese Bamboo Massage since it was on sale.

90 minutes of pure heaven including a flower footbath before, use of the sauna and steam room, a beautiful massage with an ocean view, and some tea. You can also eat at their fantastic restaurant.

Lovely as they are, they even let me walk along the private beach back to Natura Vista shortening the walk back to almost nothing. Such kind people. It’s definitely somewhere I’d love to stay if I had a higher budget.

Staying at Natura Vista really made my trip to Bohol special, and I highly recommend them. It’s also a fifteen-minute walk from the caves mentioned above, it’s a delight to have so many options within walking distance. They also offer on-site bike rental and will organise tuc-tucs to take you to the busier beaches. They can book an on-site massage for you. (They’re cheaper than the Mithi ones).

Don’t Miss Bohol Bee Farm

When you’re on Panglao, you have to visit the Bohol Bee Farm. This was one of my favourite stops on my trip and I wished I’d gone more than once. You can actually stay here and I’d definitely recommend it just for the quality of the food and the convenience.

The resort has a coffee shop, restaurant, an amazing shop filled with their homemade products, natural beauty products, tea, condiments and snacks (the mango spread is incredible and you can also get dried mangos which are better quality than the ones you buy on the island, at the same price).

I was so annoyed because I was running out of cash and I forgot my bank card (assuming they didn’t have an ATM, which they did) and the shop was way better than I had anticipated.

It’s full of handmade bee products, homemade spreads, cakes, tea, and the best dried mangoes I ate on the island. They also make homemade ice-cream there in all kinds of great flavours (avocado, ginger, mango etc.) and you can have a gluten-free cone. Yay!

How About Bohol?

Panglao is the perfect base to discover the island of Bohol from. Notably, in Bohol you can visit the Chocolate Hills and the tarsier, a rare and curious primate.

Make sure you go to the official tarsier sanctuary in Corella rather than the Loboc one as these creatures are highly sensitive and the Corella sanctuary is far more humane.

This island of Bohol requires at least two or three days to be fully explored: the best way to explore is by staying in Panglao and travelling by scooter to Bohol during the day. Tours, buses, and tricycles are readily available if you don’t want to rent a scooter.

The two islands are connected by bridges at two different points: we highly recommend you avoid the bridge that connects Bohol to the city of Tagbilaran, or at least be careful as the traffic can get a bit mad around there.

If you’re going by scooter then you can easily ride along the coast and find a multitude of waterfalls, secret lagoons to dive in, caves, and more. This is the kind of place where, if you just wander at your leisure, you’re going to find so much more. The roads are very quiet outside the city so its well worth it.

In spite of its relatively small size, the Bohol island represents a very captivating place from a historical and naturalistic point of view. Fortunately, this earthly paradise has been kept away from the excesses of mass tourism so far.

River Cruises in Bohol

Another tourist attraction is the Loboc River Cruise; a standard part of any tour package. It’s very enjoyable (albeit expensive, an extra 500 pesos on top of your tour fee) and the view is great but the food isn’t the best considering the price.

You’re entertained by local singers and dancers along the way and overall it’s a just really unique experience.

What to see and do while in Bohol

Traveling along any stretch of the coastal road you will immediately realise the wealth of inlets, bays, and beaches on the island.

Most of them are found near Tagbilaran City, the capital, located on the south-west coast, but more-or-less everywhere you can admire breathtaking views, stretches of coastline covered with white sand, and coral lagoons.

Bohol is dotted with waterfalls, magnificent caves, and an intricate tropical forest inhabited by dozens of animal species.

Tagbilaran City

Tagbilaran City isn’t the greatest of cities but it does have its charm: there are plenty of fruit stalls, restaurants, and some quaint coffee shops.

Seven kilometers away from Tagbilaran City stands the Church of Baclayon, also known as the “Church of the Immaculate”, the oldest stone basilica in the country, having been built in 1595.

Currently, the building houses an interesting museum set up with a rich collection of religious relics, sacred vestments, and ancient texts of sacred hymns engraved in Latin on animal skins.

North of Tagbilaran City:

In Maribojoc stands the Punta Cruz Observation Tower, one of the best examples of colonial architecture on the island, while a few kilometres further on is the Church of Calape, known throughout the archipelago for the image of the Virgin whom many consider miraculous, as well as sacred.

Nearby, moving away from the coast, it is advisable to go from Antequera, a lovely village with a Sunday market where you can buy typical low-cost craft products made using a large number of rushes, blades of grass and reeds.

Conclusion

Panglao and Bohol have many things to offer and plenty of attractions besides the crystal-clear sea waters and the astonishing beaches.

It’s one of my favourite places I’ve visited in Asia and one of my top recommendations for a trip to the Philippines.

Spending some time here will definitely help you to connect with the most traditional and less common paths, cultural elements, and rich history of this wonderful place. I went to Bohol for an escape from my hectic city life and I came back happier, and far more relaxed.

Luckily, Copenhagen is pretty small, as cities go. So, whichever neighbourhood you choose to stay in, you’re usually not more than a thirty-minute walk from wherever you want to be.

So the stress of nailing the perfect place to stay is nullified a bit by knowing that you’ll never really get it wrong.

That being said, in a city with few discernible landmarks and incredible diversity in its neighbourhoods, knowing a lot about the best areas before you go is key for having a great time in Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen (Guide)

So, let’s take a look at all the best neighbourhoods and where to stay in Copenhagen.

Although accommodation in Copenhagen is notoriously expensive, we’ve tried to include some budget as well as boutique options.

Quick Copenhagen Neighbourhood Tips:

Best Budget Location: Nørrebro

Hippest Neighbourhood: Vesterbro

Prettiest Neighbourhood: City Centre/Indre By

Most Relaxed Neighbourhood: Østerbro

Copenhagen City Centre/København K (Indre By)

It’s easy to assume that Copenhagen Central Station is the beating heart of the capital, but actually, you’ll find that Nørreport is the station with all the best museums, bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby.

So if you’re looking to be in the real heart of everything, including Strøget – Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping avenue – you’ll want to get a hotel near Nørreport Station.

Just one street to the West of Nørreport Station you’ll also find Torvehallern, a food hall full of the freshest and finest food from Denmark and beyond.

Wander East from Nørreport Station, down Strøget, and you’ll arrive at Nyhavn (New Haven), the most famous and photographed part of the city, and the picturesque places where Hans Christian Andersen lived for most of his life.

Read More: To learn more about Andersen’s Copenhagen, check out our Bookish Guide to Copenhagen

Where to stay in Copenhagen City Centre

Hotel Kong Arthur — An eco-friendly family-run hotel that offers a central location and a cosy Scandinavian vibe.

This hotel is the definition of hygge! There’s also an on-site sauna and relaxation area.

Hotel Skt. Annæ — A historical 17th-century building tucked just around the corner from Nyhavn, although central you’ll find that this a quiet hotel to relax in.

Wakeup Copenhagen — For a more budget option that’s still in a centrally located area then you can’t go wrong with this minimalist hotel that employs sharp design and a good experience with lower prices.

Christianshavn

The artificial island of Christianshavn was created way back in the 17th Century to protect the city against attack (mostly from Sweden).

Charming cobbled streets and old Dutch-style buildings are still found everywhere in Christianshavn today.

The area is perhaps most famously home to Noma, the restaurant that’s been awarded World’s Best Restaurant more times than any other.

But, since you may find it hard to get a table or afford a meal at Noma, definitely check out Raffens Street Food.

This is a ramshackle hipster area on the edge of the water full of shipping containers that are home to fantastic restaurants and eateries serving up food from all across the world – from Indian street food to traditional Mexican cuisine.

Definitely one of the most hip neighbourhoods in Copenhagen and one of the best places to stay in Copenhagen.

Where to stay in Christianshavn

Bedwood Hostel —This gorgeous hostel set in a 1756 historic warehouse features rustic interiors that make for and is run by two passionate travellers dedicated to creating a cosy hostel experience.

It’s also a stone’s throw from Nyhavn and the train station. They also offer bike rentals which is perfect for the incredibly cycle friendly Copenhagen.

Generator Copenhagen — A hostel that also features private rooms is in a great location just ten minutes walk from Stroget shopping street.

They also offer a bar and games room on site. The interior is well-designed and the staff are friendly.

Read more: Check out our Copenhagen three-day itinerary

Vesterbro

Despite the way it looks, still reminding visitors of its rougher, seedier past, Vesterbro – commonly known as the Meat Packing District of Copenhagen – has been gentrified completely.

This popular Copenhagen neighbourhood boasts great local restaurants and quaint little cafés to discover.

When you visit Copenhagen’s hipster district, definitely check out WarPigs, a brewery pub with 22 local ales brewed on-site.

There’s also Gorilla, a super chill and down-to-earth restaurant of mostly Mediterranean cuisine. It’s the perfect place to stay in Copenhagen if you love an alternative atmosphere.

Where to stay in Vesterbro

Axel Guldsmeden — A beautiful boutique hotel with four poster beds, Balinese furnishing, a tapas restaurant and a spa on site.

They’re super environmentally friendly and located close to the central station and Tivoli.

Woodah Hostel — Ideally located for foodies and particularly special for people who love yoga (they offer discounts at all the local yoga spots), this cosy hostel is a great option.

They also exchange work for free stays when available.

Andersen Boutique Hotel – A family-run boutique hotel close to everything you could possibly want to in Copenhagen.

The staff are particularly attentive and dedicated to giving guests the most local experience possible in Copenhagen.

Central Hotel & Cafe — A quirky option, this is a hotel with only one room situated above the cafe. it is gorgeously decorated and you get a fantastic breakfast.

Perfect for anyone looking for a unique stay. Unsurprisingly, it books up well in advance so keep that in mind. You can only book on their website.

Norrebrø

Often dubbed the Williamsburg of Copenhagen, this should tell you everything you need to know about this very chill, ultra hipster neighbourhood of Copenhagen.

Artisan coffee shops, art venues, cheap and cheerful eateries, vintage fashion and furniture shopping can all be found and enjoyed in Norrebro. The district is delightfully multicultural, with a youthful student air.

One of the most joyous restaurants – and still one of our favourites in all of Copenhagen – is Sliders: a little burger place that offers fantastic mini burgers soaked in truffle oil.

There’s also Restaurant Kaptajn, which doubles as a chill wine bar. For chic designer clothing and jewellery, check out stores like Fünf, Ladyfingers, and Native North.

Where to stay in Norrebrø

Globalhagen Hostel / Cafe Mellemrummet — Super friendly and ideally located next to all of the vintage stores and restaurants, this twenty roomed hostel and cafe is run by volunteers dedicated to fighting poverty in the city.

Ibsens Hotel — Near the city lakes and the shopping district, you’ll find an onsite cafe, a library room and living room with a fireplace to feel right at home in.

The rooms are modern and the views are great. For atmosphere, this is one of the best places to stay in Copenhagen.

Read More: Visit these incredible tattoos and studios in Copenhagen

Frederiksberg

Frederiksberg is a swanky and upmarket neighbourhood of Copenhagen which is actually an independent municipality.

Here you’ll find a far less hipster and more sophisticated place to stay in Copenhagen. All the high-end shopping and wide open green spaces are here.

If you prefer your holidays to be a little more fashion and a little less dynamism, Frederiksberg is the place for you.

Most renowned originally for its zoo but these days Frederiksberg is often visited for its gardens, which are crisscrossed by canals.

If you want to take a boat down the water, you can contact Svendsen’s Boat Service and they’ll be happy to oblige.

Where to stay in Frederiksberg

Hotel Sct. Thomas, København — Tucked between Frederiksberg and Vesterbro you’ll get the best of both worlds at this elegant hotel that won’t break the budget.

Østerbro

This is one of the best places to stay in Copenhagen if you want to feel like a local. And one of the more middle-class locals as well.

It’s a quiet, family-focussed neighbourhood of classical houses on historic streets.

The most iconic and photographed monument in Østerbro is the statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid, which overlooks the water on the harbour.

If you stay in Østerbro, you can also visit the Citadel, originally built by one of Denmark’s most infamous kings: Christian IV.

Where to stay in Østerbro

Rye115 Hotel — With lots of nearby cafes to indulge in and harbourside walks, this is an idyllic place to stay near The Little Mermaid statue.

Slotsholmen

Meaning ‘The Castle Islet’ in English, Slotsholmen is an island within the harbour of Copenhagen and was originally the site of Copenhagen’s first ever castle.

Today, that castle, built in 1167, is no more, and in its place stands the striking and epic Christiansborg Palace.

As well as visiting Christiansborg Palace itself, you can also check out the best cultural and historic buildings and monuments of Denmark, including the chancery, the Danish Parliament, the national archive, and the royal library.

Slotsholmen is undoubtedly one of the more historic and best places to stay in Copenhagen.

Where to stay in Slotsholmen

Hotel Danmark — They have a complimentary wine hour between 5-6pm, need I say more? This is a wonderful location if you love museums.

They also provide one of the best breakfasts in the city, all organic and locally sourced. It’s also a protected listed building dating back to 1792.

Instead, you can get a good night’s sleep in a real bed and be steps away from the natural wonders at the same time.  Whether you’re going as a couple for a bit of quiet time, looking for a family holiday that keeps the kids entertained, or hanging out with mates, a glamping holiday offers everyone a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

Glamping is one of the best ways to enjoy a safe but adventurous staycation in the UK. Find out below everything you need to know to enjoy the best possible glamping experience.

What to expect when Glamping

It’s easy to assume that glamping is more similar to traditional camping than a luxury hotel room, but this isn’t always the case. While some glamping sites will offer different facilities, you’ll always have toilet facilities, comforters, and – more often than not – heating, electricity, and running water. 

If it’s your first time glamping, it’s a good idea to bring extra layers to keep you warm, safe and dry. While it should be fairly snug inside your glamping pod, there’s no guarantee that it’ll be that cosy outside so having all the essentials — wellies, raincoats, wool socks — with you is always a good idea. The beauty of glamping is that you can wake up from a good night’s sleep with the great outdoors right on your doorstep. 

Read More: 19 Unusual Places to Stay in the UK

If you’re looking for somewhere where you can take a step back from your busy life and relax, or simply enjoy exploring the outdoors, then you’ll more than likely enjoy glamping. It’s a great way to get back to nature and appreciate its beauty. 

How to Find the Right Glamping Place

There are hundreds of glamping sites scattered across the country. Whether you’re looking for cosy cabins, lavish tipis, even treehouses, you’re bound to find the perfect place. We recommend doing a bit of research beforehand to ensure that your glamping sites offer you everything you need – different sites will offer different amenities. 

White House Glamping is a top UK glamping site. Situated in the heart of Herefordshire, you’re steps away from some of the most beautiful scenes of the West Midlands. The river Wye, a Herefordshire landmark, runs through the farm where guests can walk alongside to find the secret pebble beach. 

The site itself offers 5 luxury tipis all equipped with comfortable beds, a private outdoor eating area, a fire pit, a camping stove — even a BBQ! With numerous day activities nearby from canoeing down the river Wye, exploring the rural market towns to hiking, White House Glamping makes a peaceful and luxurious glamping treat.

Glamping Packing Essentials

While most glamping places do provide you with all the essentials you need for a comfortable stay, there are a few things you should bring with you. We recommend packing: 

• Waterproof clothing: We’re talking about big socks, wellies, walking boots and rain-proof coats. Walking is a big activity when glamping and you’re going to want to explore every inch of the rural countryside. Make sure you’re prepared for all weather conditions – this is the UK, after all. 
• Food and drink: Most places will be self-accommodating; this means that you will have to sort out your own meals. While there are, as you can imagine, a vast array of delicious pubs, it’s a good idea to stop at the supermarket and get some snacks and food to whip up at the site. 
• A few extra layers: Yes, most accommodation will offer heating, bedding and blankets, but it’s best to bring a few layers with you – just in case! After we’re still in Britain and you’re still technically ‘camping’. 
• Sunscreen/Umbrella: You’re likely to be outside for the majority of your trip, but unfortunately, you never know where the weather will take you, so don’t forget to bring the little things like sunscreen, umbrellas or hats. Better safe than sorry!
• A map: Many glampsites have wifi so you can look for directions; however, once you start exploring you’ll encounter a few areas with pretty bad to no signal. It’s best to print out the directions or bring a map with you just in case. 

Read More: 15 Unique Travel Gifts

Our Top Tips For The Best Glamping Holiday

1. Research your accommodation 

Different glamping sites offer different experiences, depending on the location and the owner. In some places, all you’ll have to bring is clothes and food; however, others may require you to bring bedding, heating and a camping stove. All glamping sites will have a list of what they offer, so we recommend taking some time to research the different locations and choose the one that best suits your needs.

2. Choose a great location

First things first, you need to decide where you want to go glamping. The last thing you want is arriving at your destination and finding out that it’s in the middle of nowhere with nothing to do. Find somewhere that’s close to some big walks, market towns – maybe even a beach! They don’t have to be within walking distance, but at least a short car drive away so that you have options; especially if you have kids. 

3. Don’t forget marshmallows 

Marshmallows are essential for a successful glamping holiday. Sit around the fire pit, tell some ‘spooky’ stories and roast some marshmallows – or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, bring some biscuits and chocolate with you to make some delicious s’mores! 

4. Soak up your surroundings

It’s easy to cram absolutely every activity in a short period of time whenever you go on holiday, but the best thing to do when glamping is sitting back and relaxing. Enjoy the views, take time to explore the countryside before you get back to your hectic lifestyle. 

5. Bring a torch! 

Your accommodation will have lighting indoors; however, not all glamping sites will have lighting outside. Make sure to bring a torch with you in case you need to access the toilet facilities in the middle of the night!

Fun Glamping Activities

In the spirit of adventure, there are a few activities that you must look out for on your glamping holiday. As you’ll be staying in nature, the best way to experience it is to explore it. Take a lookout for some top activities in the local area such as:

Canoeing

There’s nothing quite like relaxing on the waters. Spending a day drifting down the local river is a great way to see the countryside as well as being very relaxing. Don’t forget to take a picnic to enjoy halfway through (or find a pub to end up at!).

Hiking

Lace-up your boots and explore the local footpaths. We’re very fortunate to have footpaths all over the UK to tap into. There are plenty of resources and tools to help you plan this such as AllTrails which offers maps to top walking routes in your area all from a handy app.

Fishing

For the fishers (and even those who’ve never fished before) out there a glamping holiday is a perfect opportunity to spend some time with the rod. Look for local lakes or rivers that offer fishing, some glamping sites even have it on-site.

Your Glamping Trip 

There you have it: everything you need to plan your glamping holiday. The beauty of a glamping trip is that you don’t even need to go far. Very often, there is adventure just on your doorstep with some interesting and unique glamping spots. The only question that remains is: when are you going?

To get from Copenhagen to Malmö, you can either go by bus or by train, so there’s no reason not to spend 36 chill hours in Malmö or even take a Copenhagen to Malmö day trip if you’re short on time.

If you’re staying in Copenhagen and you want to visit Sweden, get a good feel for the nation’s atmosphere, architecture, style, and cuisine, you can do it all within 36 hours with a quick overnight stay from Copenhagen. If you’re wondering what to pack for all this travelling from Copenhagen to Malmö then check out this packing guide.

The city of Malmö is a compact place, where everything is within walking distance. National Geographic even named it one of their Best Trips of 2018.

The architecture is stunning; the cuisine is varied and imaginative; the castle is the oldest in Sweden and the people are so bloody lovely and helpful. And, we promise, you can experience all of it in just 36 hours or even on a Copenhagen to Malmo day trip if you’re short on time. A great resource for more information is Visit Sweden.

How to Get From Copenhagen to Malmö

If you’re staying in Copenhagen, get yourself to Copenhagen Central Station (København H), (or even from the airport) and take a short walk behind the station to the Flix bus stop.

These Flix buses head out from Copenhagen to Malmö throughout the day (we suggest you book tickets online a day or so in advance), they’re super cheap, and the whole journey across the bridge to Sweden takes around an hour – that’s it.

There’s Wifi, a bathroom, and a USB to charge your devices. You’ll get dropped off in the beating heart of Malmö, and from there you just need whatever’s left of your day and half of the next day to see all the best parts of Malmö. You can also catch the train which is shorter in time but more expensive.

Where to Stay in Malmö

Once you get from Copenhagen to Malmö, there are plenty of great hotels to choose from, but after doing some research we settled on the Story Hotel Studio Malmö. They’re located right on the waterfront just north of the city centre and provide a fantastic, reasonably-priced 4-Star experience.

The rooms are cosy, with this stripped-down hipster wood-and-concrete aesthetic, and a massive TV with an Apple TV device which allows you to use Miracasrt and stream from your phone for some hotel Netflixing (add the chill at your own discretion). They also have hotels in Stockholm and Sundbyberg.

The hotel’s fourteenth floor is a rooftop restaurant in a Japanese aesthetic which serves sushi and cocktails in the evening. It also has a breakfast buffet for all guests which includes a lot of damn good fruits, meats, cheeses, and croissants. The cocktails you can get all have a Japanese twist in both name and ingredient (mixed with Japanese whiskeys and sake).

The most stand-out thing about this particular hotel is its aesthetic. When you enter, the lobby seamlessly blends with a downstairs café and an upstairs bar, with a huge tiered seating area that looks to be inspired by a university lecture hall.

There’s also a ping-pong table placed squarely in the centre of the room if you want to play in front of an audience. And there’s a hair salon in the building; if you stay at the hotel you get 10% off anything you get done there. One of the big plus points is the free use of bikes meaning you can explore the city efficiently since Malmö is a cycle-friendly city.

Oh, and you can also choose between a city-view and an ocean-view room, both of which are lovely. We went for a city-view because it still gave us a lovely view of the bay and the water beyond it. Best of both worlds. You can book on their website.

What to Eat in Malmö

The cuisine in this small Swedish city is so incredibly varied, it’s hard to know where to start! One of the things the city should be most proud of is its traditional international cuisines. If you want to taste real authentic East Asian or Middle Eastern food in the heard of Scandinavia, Malmö makes it easy.

So Much Vietnamese Food!

In the centre of the city’s central shopping district (Gamla Staden), is a street – Engelbrektsgatan – which is lined with three excellent Vietnamese restaurants: Nam Do, Mrs Saigon, and Nguyen’s Sandwiches. Nam Do serves traditional Vietnamese hot pots, dumplings, Pho, and omelettes.

Mrs Saigon, a little way down, mostly focuses on Pho and other noodle-based dishes. And Nguyen’s Sandwiches next door specialises in Bahn Mi: mouthwatering Vietnamese sandwiches made with French-style baguettes.

Egyptian Street Food

Koshari House is located in Davidshall, a district just south of Gamla Staden (only a 5-minute walk). It’s named after a traditional food in Cairo called Koshari, which, like so many foods which eventually become international delicacies, was originally a dirt-cheap street food.

Koshari itself is a feast of carbs which blends rice, pasta, and lentils, tomato sauce, and fried onions. You’ll also find fantastic Tameya (falafel), Foul (a delicious and healthy dish of cooked fava beans), Warak Inab (stuffed vine leaves) and numerous other Egyptian delights. Easily one of the best Egyptian restaurants outside of Cairo.

Raw Food

Making delicious, healthy, affordable meals out of raw food is a huge trend in Malmö today. There are tons of restaurants around the city that use raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, spices, and dough to create some of the most unique and mouth-watering meals. And most of them are vegan.

The best place to try everything I’ve just described is The Raw Kitchen in Davidshall, but there are several others to check out, including Raw Food House.

Saltimporten

Food halls and canteen style eating is a concept the Scandinavian countries do so well, we first came across this street food meets communal, homey eating style in Oslo and then continued to find similar spots in Copenhagen.

Often cited as the best lunch in Malmö, Saltimporten offers a two-course lunch menu, using local ingredients and is cooked to artistic perfection. A popular hang out with the young and hip crowd of Malmö and sweeping harbour views, this is a perfect place to go for a unique dining experience in Malmö. Their homemade bread is to die for.

AB Smaland – Shop and Cafe

Founded by a native of Smaland, an area of Sweden just East of Malmö, this store is all about upcycling and recycling furniture. It’s a delightful shop where you can buy wooden furniture that’s come from all over Sweden and even further afield.

It’s charming and warming just to walk around amongst all of these antiques that have been saved from forgotten places. If you’d rather not buy a chair or a table, though, the other reason to visit is their café. Smaland serves some incredible pastries and the best coffee we tasted in all of Malmö.

So, don’t pass it up if you’re not keen on lugging home some furniture. Stay for the coffee and one of the most delicious cinnamon buns (see picture above) we’ve ever tried.

Tip: Need another wholesome cafe in Malmo? Try Atrium.

Where to Shop in Malmö

The problem of shopping when you’re on holiday is that high-street shopping can be done anywhere, so you want something truly unique to a place. And Malmö certainly has that! Check out some of the books, jewellery, clothes, and furniture for sale in Malmö.

SF-Bokhandeln

SF (or science-fiction) is a big deal in Sweden. There’s a huge nerd culture of cosplayers, board game enthusiasts, gamers, and lovers of genre fiction. So, of course, Sweden also has the best sci-fi bookstore we’ve ever seen.

SF-Bokhandeln is similar to the Forbidden Planet stores dotted around the UK, only better. They sell a huge selection of nerdy merchandise, sci-fi and fantasy novels (all in English), comic books, and board games (also all in English).

Arsenik Butik

Sweden is known across the world for its heavy metal, and as a lover of black and death metal myself, I was hardly surprised to find an amazing boutique store full of hand-made jewellery and vintage vinyl in Malmö.

Arsenik Butik sells rings and necklaces with a goth/metal twist which have been hand-made, as they explained to us, by a local women who sells through the store. So if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind jewellery from Malmö, this is where to go! If you’re after more vintage shopping, then your next stop should be Love Street Vintage.

Go Chocolate Crazy at Malmö Chokladfabrik

You’ll find this brand of chocolate dotted around Malmö and even if you can’t head to their museum (yes, they have a museum and boutique shop complete with tastings) at least pick up a bar of their wonderful chocolate. It’s organic, fair trade, made in Malmö and there’s a flavour for everyone.

We tried their delicious Candy Stripe raspberry flavour as well as their cardamom flavour. Honestly, we’re still dreaming about this chocolate.

What to See in Malmö

Malmö is a surprisingly small city but it is jam-packed full of wonderful architecture and deep, deep history. Here are the best things to see and experience during your overnight stay in from Copenhagen to Malmö.

Malmö Castle

Also known as Malmöhus Renaissance Castle, this incredible building is the oldest castle in — not only Sweden — but all of Scandinavia. You can go all the way from Copenhagen to Malmö and not visit the castle!

Malmo Castle was built by Eric of Pomerania, king of the unified nations of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden in 1434. Eric of Pomerania is the same man who built Kronborg Castle, just over the water in Denmark!

The castle still stands in perfect renaissance condition 600 years later, and inside the castle is a museum. The museum explores the local history, natural history, and technology of Malmö and is well worth an hour of your time! Don’t forget to explore the grounds around the castle as there are some beautiful flowers and this picturesque windmill.

Malmö City Library

First and foremost, this is a gorgeous building. It was opened in 1905 and is a pleasure to explore inside and out. This mix of old and new architecture (the new extension was designed by Danish architects Henning Larsen) can be seen depending on where you are.

From one side, you have a renaissance building which looks not unlike a grand palace. From another (and best seen from this inside-out) is an enormous glass structure which reaches several stories up and overlooks the palace gardens and lake which surround it.

Malmö City Theatre

This wonderful theatre is a place of pride and joy for many locals. It’s one of the leading theatres in all of Sweden, and it has its own ensemble cast who perform most of the plays they host all year round. They put on about 15 plays a year, and you can happily go and see one if whatever’s on at the time takes your fancy!

The theatre’s director, and many of its actors, are renowned across Sweden as some of the greatest people working in Swedish theatre today.

Ribersborgs Kallbadhus

Jumping into cold water really isn’t something we look forward to as Brits who generally prefer escaping to warmer climates, however, the open-air bath is very impressive and is definitely a Scandinavian experience worth trying if you think your heart can take it.

For 65 SEK (towel rentals are a little extra) you can use the sauna and then take a refreshing jump (nude, no bathers allowed) into the sea.  Luckily there’s a lovely cafe to recover in after. Even if you don’t fancy the jump, it’s a gorgeous view and a cycle-friendly area so get down there if you have time.

This isn’t all you can get up to on your Copenhagen to Malmö day trip but it’s certainly a good start. It’s a wonderful city to explore on foot or by bike and if you’re looking for a short trip within Sweden or from Denmark, or even just looking for a city break that’s a bit different then Malmö is ideal.

For other day trips from Copenhagen, make sure you travel to:

• Kronborg Castle – Home of Hamlet
• The Fairytale Town of Odense

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Copenhagen then check out:

• The Ultimate Bookish Guide to Copenhagen
• An Arts and Culture Guide to Copenhagen