Hotels & Accommodation in Gwangju

Gwangju: A Tapestry of Nature, Culture, and Inspiration

Gwangju, South Korea, is a vibrant cultural hub steeped in history and artistry. Renowned for its rich heritage, the city is home to the poignant May 18th National Cemetery and the dynamic Gwangju Biennale, showcasing contemporary art. Nature lovers can explore serene parks like Mudeungsan National Park, offering stunning landscapes and hiking trails. The city's lively university atmosphere adds youthful energy, while traditional markets brim with delicious street food. Gwangju is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, making it an unmissable destination for those seeking an authentic South Korean experience.

Things to do in Gwangju

Gwangju is a vibrant city surrounded by stunning mountains and lush parks, offering a wealth of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking scenic trails, boating on tranquil waters, or even ice skating during winter months. With a lively arts scene and sports facilities for baseball and soccer, there’s something for everyone!

• Dolmeori BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a day soaking up the sun at Dolmeori Beach, where the sandy shores meet the gentle waves. This picturesque spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll or building sandcastles with the family. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. The beach is surrounded by beautiful natural parks, making it an ideal location for a picnic amid nature. After a day of fun in the sun, you can explore nearby monuments that reflect the local history and culture, adding a touch of exploration to your beach day. Known for its relaxed vibe, Dolmeori Beach is the perfect escape from the bustling city life, allowing you to unwind and connect with the serene environment. Don’t forget to capture the sunset; the vibrant colours painting the sky will surely be a highlight of your trip!

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Gwangju

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Gwangju is from February to April, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city’s key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural parks, a stay of at least 2 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy a range of attractions, including charming cafes, art galleries, and historical monuments. Additionally, the city offers opportunities for recreational activities like ice skating, roller skating, and attending local baseball and soccer matches, all providing great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Gwangju, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, which could help you save on your trip. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options available. By staying alert, you'll be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a Gwangju hotel. For those seeking distinctive experiences, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and, at times, better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, increasing the likelihood of saving on your booking.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but with Gwangju's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Gwangju

Gwangju experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.0°F (0.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Gwangju are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.