Seoul isn’t just about K-pop, shopping, and amazing street food. If you’re visiting South Korea, you CAN’T skip its breathtaking historical palaces!
These places feel like stepping into a time machine straight to the Joseon Dynasty era. And trust me, wearing a hanbok (Korean traditional dress) while exploring makes the experience 10x more magical!
So, if you’re planning a trip and wondering “Which palace in Seoul should I visit?”, here’s your ultimate guide to 5 must-visit palaces in Seoul.
Famous Palaces in Seoul Korea You Must Visit
Let me take you through the best palaces in Seoul that you should definitely add to your itinerary.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace – The Main & Biggest Palace in Seoul
📍 Location: Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5)
💰 Entrance Fee: KRW 3,000 (FREE if you wear a hanbok!)
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
If you visit just one palace in Seoul, make it this one! Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most important palace from the Joseon Dynasty.
It’s also home to the famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony, which happens every hour from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Why You Should Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace:
- It’s the biggest palace in Seoul and has jaw-dropping architecture.
- You can visit the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum inside.
- Take stunning hanbok photos in front of Gwanghwamun Gate.
- BTS even filmed here for Run BTS! 🤩
2. Changdeokgung Palace – The Most Beautiful Palace in Seoul
📍 Location: Anguk Station (Line 3)
💰 Entrance Fee: KRW 3,000 (Secret Garden: Additional KRW 5,000)
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason! Changdeokgung is famous for its Secret Garden (Huwon), which is insanely gorgeous, especially in autumn. It was the favorite palace of many Joseon kings because of its natural beauty.
Why You Should Visit Changdeokgung Palace:
- The Secret Garden is breathtaking, especially in fall 🍁.
- It’s less crowded than Gyeongbokgung, so you can actually enjoy the peaceful vibes.
- K-dramas like Moonlight Drawn by Clouds were filmed here.
3. Deoksugung Palace – The Palace with a Modern Twist
📍 Location: City Hall Station (Line 1 & 2)
💰 Entrance Fee: KRW 1,000
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
If you want to see a palace that’s a mix of traditional Korean and Western architecture, Deoksugung is the one! Unlike other palaces, this one has European-style buildings inside, making it super unique.
Why You Should Visit Deoksugung Palace:
- It has a cool mix of Korean and Western architecture.
- You can enjoy a night stroll because it’s open until 9 PM.
- It’s right in the middle of modern Seoul, next to busy streets and skyscrapers.
- A popular dating spot! (Perfect if you’re traveling with your boo 😉).
4. Changgyeonggung Palace – The Hidden Gem
📍 Location: Hyehwa Station (Line 4)
💰 Entrance Fee: KRW 1,000
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
This palace is less touristy, so if you want a calm and peaceful place, Changgyeonggung is perfect! Originally built for the queens and concubines of the royal family, it has a more relaxed and cozy vibe.
Why You Should Visit Changgyeonggung Palace :
- Fewer tourists = great for peaceful walks.
- It has a beautiful glass conservatory (Daeonsil) built in 1909.
- The cherry blossoms here in spring are stunning 🌸.
5. Gyeonghuigung Palace – The Least Crowded Palace in Seoul
📍 Location: Seodaemun Station (Line 5)
💰 Entrance Fee: FREE
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Gyeonghuigung is often overlooked because it’s not as grand as Gyeongbokgung, but that’s exactly why you should visit! It’s super quiet, making it perfect for solo travelers or photography lovers.
Why You Should Visit Gyeonghuigung Palace:
- FREE ENTRY! (Great for budget travelers).
- It’s a great place to take uninterrupted photos.
- The Seoul Museum of History is right next door.
Tips for Visiting Palaces in Seoul
- Wear a hanbok! You get free entry to all palaces + you’ll feel like a K-drama star.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos. 📸
- Want a unique experience? Try the Changdeokgung night tour!
- Planning to visit multiple palaces? Get the Integrated Palace Ticket for KRW 10,000 (valid for 3 months).
Final Thoughts?
Visiting a palace in Seoul Korea is like stepping back in time. Each palace has its own charm, from the biggest palace in Seoul (Gyeongbokgung) to the hidden gems like Changgyeonggung and Gyeonghuigung.
And if you’re a K-pop fan, imagine walking in the same places as your idols—it’s such a surreal experience! 😍
So, which palace is on your Seoul bucket list? Let me know in the comments! 😉
FAQ About Best Palace in Seoul Korea
What are the 5 palaces of Seoul?
Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung, and Gyeonghuigung.
How many palaces are in Seoul?
There are five grand palaces from the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul.
Palace in Seoul price?
Entry fees range from KRW 1,000 – 3,000, but free if you wear a hanbok! Gyeonghuigung is always free.
Which palace is the best to visit in Seoul?
Gyeongbokgung is the most famous and biggest, but Changdeokgung is best for nature lovers.
Why is Gyeongbokgung Palace famous?
It’s the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, the biggest in Seoul, and home to the iconic Changing of the Guard Ceremony.
Is Gyeongbokgung Palace free?
No, the entrance fee is KRW 3,000, but free if you wear a hanbok.
Is Gyeongbokgung worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s the most important and biggest palace in Seoul, rich in history, and great for hanbok photos.
How do I get to Gyeongbokgung from Myeongdong?
Take Subway Line 3 (Orange Line) from Myeongdong Station to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5. Takes around 10 minutes.
