Best Hotels in North Korea – Top Luxury & Budget Stays
North Korea (DPRK) offers one of the most controlled and unusual travel environments in the world. Accommodation options vary from large state-run hotels in Pyongyang to more modest regional hotels used on multi-city tour itineraries. Because tourism is tightly supervised and all visitors must travel with authorised guides, understanding what to expect from DPRK hotels is essential.
Our Selection Criteria
We selected the most dependable hotels available to foreign tourists based on reported guest experience, comfort and amenities, location (capital, resort region), and overall reliability. While “luxury” standards differ significantly from global benchmarks, these properties represent the best options for organised tours.
Best Stays in North Korea
Yanggakdo International Hotel (Pyongyang – Yanggak Island)
Located on a small island in the Taedong River, Yanggakdo International Hotel is one of the largest and most well-known hotels accessible to foreign visitors. Standing around 170 metres tall, it features panoramic views of Pyongyang, a revolving restaurant on its upper floors, several restaurants, bowling alleys and entertainment spaces. Movement within the property may be supervised, and some floors are inaccessible to guests.
Koryo Hotel (Pyongyang – Central District)
This twin-tower landmark is centrally located near Pyongyang Railway Station and is considered one of the top “luxury-tier” hotels available to visitors. Opened in the 1980s, it offers spacious rooms, restaurants, a bar, and facilities designed for official delegations and foreign tourism. Standards differ from international 5-star hotels, but it remains one of the more comfortable options in the capital.
Hyangsan Hotel (Mount Myohyang Region)
One of North Korea’s highest-rated resort-style hotels, Hyangsan Hotel lies about 160 km north of Pyongyang in the scenic Mount Myohyang area. Known for its distinctive architecture and renovated interiors, it offers spa facilities, modern rooms with balconies, and a peaceful natural setting. It is commonly included in itineraries that visit the International Friendship Exhibition.
Hotel Comparison Table
| Hotel Name | Region / Area | Star-Rating (Approx.) | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yanggakdo International Hotel | Pyongyang – Yanggak Island | ★★★★★ (local standard) | Book Now |
| Koryo Hotel | Pyongyang – Central District | ★★★★★ (local standard) | Book Now |
| Hyangsan Hotel | Mount Myohyang Region | ★★★★–★★★★★ | Book Now |
Tips Before You Book
- Expect unique guest conditions: Internet access is extremely limited, WiFi may be unavailable, and some hotel areas may be restricted. Power and hot-water reliability can vary, especially in older properties.
- Choose Pyongyang for comfort: Hotels in the capital offer the best infrastructure. Rural hotels may be scenic but come with fewer amenities and longer travel times.
- Tour operator handles booking: Independent hotel bookings are not allowed. All arrangements are made through your authorised DPRK tour operator, who assigns hotels based on itinerary and availability.
- Understand local pricing: Many services are charged in foreign currency (EUR, USD, RMB). Luxury standards differ significantly from international equivalents.
FAQs
Which region has the best hotel options in North Korea?
Pyongyang has the most reliable and comfortable hotels, including Yanggakdo and Koryo Hotel. Outside the capital, options are more limited but include notable properties like Hyangsan Hotel in Mount Myohyang.
Are luxury hotels in North Korea comparable to international 5-star hotels?
No. While some DPRK hotels offer large facilities, revolving restaurants and impressive architecture, service standards, maintenance, amenities and guest freedom differ greatly from typical global luxury hotels.
Are there budget-friendly hotels in North Korea?
Budget stays exist, but all accommodation is part of controlled tour itineraries. Provincial hotels can be basic and may lack amenities such as stable electricity or hot water.
Summary
North Korea’s accommodation landscape is unique and entirely tour-managed. From the major state-run hotels in Pyongyang, such as Yanggakdo and Koryo Hotel, to the resort-style Hyangsan Hotel outside the capital, foreign tourists generally stay in a small set of approved properties. Choosing the highest-standard hotel available within your tour package can make your visit more comfortable, but expecting simplicity and restrictions will ensure a smoother experience.
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