Seoul’s 5 Royal Palaces: Complete Guide to Korea’s Must-See Historical Sites
Want to experience Korea’s royal history? Seoul’s 5 grand palaces are among the most magnificent historical sites in Korea, offering a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty that ruled for over 500 years.
As someone living in Seoul who’s visited these palaces countless times, I’ll guide you through each one—their unique features, what makes them special, and which ones you absolutely can’t miss during your trip.
🏯 What Are Seoul’s 5 Grand Palaces?
During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Seoul (then called Hanyang) was home to five royal palaces:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) – The Main Palace
- Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁) – The Palace of Virtuous Longevity
- Changgyeonggung Palace (창경궁) – The Eastern Palace
- Gyeonghuigung Palace (경희궁) – The Western Palace
Each palace has its own story, architecture, and atmosphere. Some are grand and imposing, while others are intimate and peaceful.
Pro Tip: You can visit all 5 palaces with a combined ticket (₩10,000 / ~$7.50 USD) valid for 1 month—a massive savings compared to individual tickets!
👑 1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: The Grand Palace
Photo by Tranmautritam on Pexels.com
Why It’s Special:
Gyeongbokgung (경복궁), meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” was the main royal residence and the largest of the five palaces. Built in 1395, it served as the heart of the Joseon Dynasty.
Key Features:
- Gwanghwamun Gate – The iconic main gate with changing of the guard ceremony
- Geunjeongjeon Hall – The majestic throne hall where kings held court
- Gyeonghoeru Pavilion – A stunning pavilion floating over a lotus pond
- National Palace Museum of Korea – Free museum inside the palace grounds
- National Folk Museum – Learn about traditional Korean life
What to See:
✅ Changing of the Guard Ceremony
📍 Gwanghwamun Gate
⏰ 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM daily (except Tuesdays)
Watch costumed guards perform the traditional gate-opening ceremony—complete with drums, horns, and colorful uniforms. It’s like stepping back in time!
✅ Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
The most photographed spot in the palace. This elegant pavilion sits on a pond filled with lotus flowers (best in July-August). Kings held banquets here.
✅ Geunjeongjeon Throne Hall
The grandest building in the palace. Stand where kings once sat and imagine royal audiences taking place.
Visitor Info:
📍 Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🚇 Nearest Station: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)
🕒 Hours:
- Mar-Oct: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nov-Feb: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Tuesdays
💰 Admission: ₩3,000 (adults) / FREE if wearing hanbok
⏱️ Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Why Visit:
Gyeongbokgung is the most impressive and complete palace. If you only have time for one palace, this is it. The scale is breathtaking, and it’s surrounded by modern Seoul landmarks like the Blue House (former presidential residence) and Bukchon Hanok Village.
My Experience:
I bring every visitor here first. The view of Geunjeongjeon Hall with the mountains behind it is unforgettable. Visit in the morning when it’s less crowded, then explore nearby Bukchon afterward.
🌳 2. Changdeokgung Palace: The UNESCO Gem
Photo by Burak on Pexels.com
Why It’s Special:
Changdeokgung (창덕궁), meaning “Palace of Prospering Virtue,” is Korea’s only palace listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1997). Unlike the formal symmetry of Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung was designed to blend harmoniously with the natural landscape.
Key Features:
- Secret Garden (Huwon) – A stunning 78-acre garden with ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees
- Injeongjeon Hall – The throne hall where kings governed
- Daejojeon Hall – The queen’s living quarters
What to See:
✅ The Secret Garden (Huwon / 후원)
The crown jewel of Changdeokgung. This secluded garden was the private retreat for royalty, featuring:
- Buyongji Pond – A lotus pond with a pavilion
- Ongnyucheon – A stream where kings wrote poetry
- Ancient trees – Some over 300 years old
⚠️ You MUST book a guided tour to enter the Secret Garden (Korean or English tours available). It’s worth it!
✅ Injeongjeon Hall
The throne hall where important state affairs were conducted. Notice how it’s positioned to face the mountains—showing the Joseon principle of harmony with nature.
Visitor Info:
📍 Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🚇 Nearest Station: Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 3)
🕒 Hours:
- Feb-May: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Jun-Aug: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sep-Oct: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nov-Jan: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Closed Mondays
💰 Admission:
- Palace only: ₩3,000
- Palace + Secret Garden tour: ₩8,000
⏱️ Time Needed: 2-3 hours (including Secret Garden tour)
Secret Garden Tour Times:
English Tours:
- 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM
Book online: english.cdg.go.kr
Tours sell out quickly, especially during cherry blossom (April) and fall foliage (November) seasons!
Why Visit:
Changdeokgung is the most beautiful palace, especially in spring (cherry blossoms) and fall (red/yellow leaves). The Secret Garden is a peaceful escape from the city—you’ll forget you’re in the middle of Seoul.
My Experience:
This is my favorite palace. The Secret Garden tour is magical—walking through centuries-old trees, seeing lotus ponds, and learning about royal life. Visit in October for stunning fall colors!
🌆 3. Deoksugung Palace: The Modern Palace
Photo by Guillaume Meurice on Pexels.com
Why It’s Special:
Deoksugung (덕수궁), meaning “Palace of Virtuous Longevity,” is unique because it blends traditional Korean and Western architecture. It’s also the smallest palace, making it perfect for a quick visit.
Key Features:
- Seokjojeon Hall – A neoclassical Western-style building (looks like a European palace!)
- Junghwajeon Hall – The traditional Korean throne hall
- Stone-wall Road – One of Seoul’s most romantic walking paths
What to See:
✅ Seokjojeon Hall
Built in 1910, this European-style building stands out dramatically among traditional Korean structures. It now houses the Daehan Empire History Museum.
✅ Junghwajeon Hall
The throne hall where Emperor Gojong held court after declaring Korea the Korean Empire in 1897.
✅ Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony
📍 Daehanmun Gate
⏰ 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM daily (except Mondays)
Shorter than Gyeongbokgung’s ceremony but still impressive!
✅ Deoksugung Stone Wall Road
The tree-lined road along the palace wall is one of Seoul’s most romantic spots—especially beautiful in autumn.
Visitor Info:
📍 Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
🚇 Nearest Station: City Hall Station (Line 1/2, Exit 2)
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Closed Mondays
💰 Admission: ₩1,000 (adults) / FREE if wearing hanbok
⏱️ Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours
Why Visit:
Deoksugung is perfect if you’re short on time or want a mix of traditional and modern architecture. It’s also the only palace open until 9 PM, making it great for evening visits.
My Experience:
I love coming here for evening strolls. The contrast between traditional Korean buildings and the neoclassical Seokjojeon is fascinating. Plus, it’s right next to City Hall, so you can combine it with downtown Seoul exploration.
🌸 4. Changgyeonggung Palace: The Peaceful Retreat
Photo by Theodore Nguyen on Pexels.com
Why It’s Special:
Changgyeonggung (창경궁), meaning “Palace of Flourishing Gladness,” was originally built as a retirement palace for former kings and queens. It’s quieter and less touristy than the other palaces.
Key Features:
- Myeongjeongjeon Hall – The oldest throne hall in Seoul (built 1616)
- Tulip Garden – 50,000 tulips bloom in April!
- Daeonsu Pond – A large lotus pond (blooms in July-August)
What to See:
✅ Myeongjeongjeon Hall
The oldest surviving throne hall in Seoul—over 400 years old! Notice the simpler, more understated design compared to other palaces.
✅ Daeonsu Pond
A peaceful pond with a pavilion. In summer, lotus flowers bloom across the water—perfect for photos.
✅ Cherry Blossoms & Tulips
- Cherry blossoms: Late March – Early April
- Tulips: Mid-April
- Lotus flowers: July – August
Visitor Info:
📍 Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🚇 Nearest Station: Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exit 4) or Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 3)
🕒 Hours:
- Mar-Oct: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nov-Feb: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Closed Mondays
💰 Admission: ₩1,000 (adults) / FREE if wearing hanbok
⏱️ Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Why Visit:
Changgyeonggung is the most peaceful palace—fewer tourists, lots of greenery, and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to escape crowds or if you’re a photography enthusiast.
My Experience:
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms and tulips—it’s stunning and way less crowded than Gyeongbokgung. You can also combine it with Changdeokgung since they’re connected!
🌄 5. Gyeonghuigung Palace: The Hidden Gem
Photo by Jakob Jin on Pexels.com
Why It’s Special:
Gyeonghuigung (경희궁), meaning “Palace of Serene Harmony,” was a secondary palace used when the main palaces were under repair or during emergencies. It’s the smallest and least visited palace—perfect if you want total peace and quiet.
Key Features:
- Sungjeongmun Gate – The elegant main gate
- Sungjeongjeon Hall – The throne hall
- Seoul Museum of History – Free museum right next to the palace
What to See:
✅ Sungjeongjeon Hall
The throne hall where kings held meetings. It’s smaller and simpler than other palaces, giving it a more intimate feel.
✅ Seoul Museum of History
Right next to the palace. Learn about Seoul’s transformation from the Joseon Dynasty to modern times—completely free!
Visitor Info:
📍 Address: 45 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
🚇 Nearest Station: Seodaemun Station (Line 5, Exit 4)
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Mondays
💰 Admission: FREE!
⏱️ Time Needed: 1 hour
Why Visit:
Gyeonghuigung is perfect if you want a quiet, crowd-free palace experience. Plus, it’s FREE! Great for a quick morning visit before exploring nearby Gwanghwamun or Insadong.
My Experience:
Honestly, most tourists skip this one—which is exactly why I like it. It’s peaceful, easy to navigate, and you’ll often have whole sections to yourself. Pair it with the Seoul Museum of History for a perfect morning.
🎫 Palace Admission & Ticket Tips
Individual Palace Tickets:
| Palace | Adult | Youth (7-18) | Free Admission |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gyeongbokgung | ₩3,000 | ₩1,500 | Under 7, Over 65, Hanbok wearers |
| Changdeokgung | ₩3,000 | ₩1,500 | Under 7, Over 65, Hanbok wearers |
| Deoksugung | ₩1,000 | ₩500 | Under 7, Over 65, Hanbok wearers |
| Changgyeonggung | ₩1,000 | ₩500 | Under 7, Over 65, Hanbok wearers |
| Gyeonghuigung | FREE | FREE | Everyone |
Integrated Palace Ticket (Best Deal!):
💰 ₩10,000 (valid for 1 month)
Includes:
- Gyeongbokgung
- Changdeokgung (palace only, not Secret Garden)
- Deoksugung
- Changgyeonggung
- Jongmyo Shrine (bonus!)
Where to Buy: At any of the included palaces
Savings: If you visit all four palaces separately, you’d pay ₩8,000. The integrated ticket adds Jongmyo Shrine for just ₩2,000 more!
👘 Wearing Hanbok: Free Palace Admission!
All five palaces offer FREE admission if you’re wearing hanbok (traditional Korean clothing).
Where to Rent Hanbok:
- Gyeongbokgung area: Dozens of rental shops near Exit 3/4
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Insadong
Rental Cost: ₩15,000-30,000 for 3-4 hours
My Tip: Rent hanbok near Gyeongbokgung, visit 2-3 palaces in one day, and save on admission fees while getting amazing photos!
🗓️ Which Palace Should You Visit?
If You Only Have Time for ONE Palace:
👑 Gyeongbokgung – The grandest and most complete palace
If You Have Time for TWO Palaces:
👑 Gyeongbokgung + 🌳 Changdeokgung (with Secret Garden tour)
If You Want to Visit ALL 5:
Day 1 Morning: Gyeongbokgung → Bukchon Hanok Village
Day 1 Afternoon: Changdeokgung (Secret Garden tour)
Day 2 Morning: Changgyeonggung → Insadong
Day 2 Afternoon: Deoksugung → City Hall / Myeongdong
Day 3: Gyeonghuigung (quick visit) → Seoul Museum of History
🌸 Best Times to Visit
Spring (March-May):
✅ Cherry blossoms (late March – early April)
✅ Tulips at Changgyeonggung (mid-April)
✅ Perfect weather (15-20°C)
Fall (September-November):
✅ Fall foliage (October-November)
✅ Cool, comfortable weather (10-20°C)
✅ Clearer skies
Winter (December-February):
✅ Fewer crowds
✅ Snow-covered palaces (magical!)
❌ Cold weather (below 0°C)
Summer (June-August):
✅ Lotus flowers (July-August)
❌ Hot and humid (25-35°C)
❌ Monsoon season (July)
Best Overall Time: April (cherry blossoms) or October (fall colors)
💡 Practical Tips for Visiting
✅ Wear comfortable shoes – Lots of walking on gravel paths
✅ Arrive early – Palaces get crowded after 11 AM
✅ Download Naver Map – Better than Google Maps in Korea
✅ Rent hanbok – Free admission + great photos
✅ Book Secret Garden tours early – They sell out fast
✅ Check Monday closures – Different palaces close on different days
✅ Bring water – Limited water fountains inside
✅ Plan 2-3 hours per palace – Don’t rush!
🚇 Getting There
All five palaces are accessible by subway:
🏯 Gyeongbokgung – Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5
🌳 Changdeokgung – Line 3, Anguk Station, Exit 3
🌆 Deoksugung – Line 1/2, City Hall Station, Exit 2
🌸 Changgyeonggung – Line 4, Hyehwa Station, Exit 4
🌄 Gyeonghuigung – Line 5, Seodaemun Station, Exit 4
Final Thoughts
Seoul’s five grand palaces are living history—each one tells a different story of Korea’s royal past. From the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung to the natural beauty of Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden, every palace offers something unique.
My recommendation? Start with Gyeongbokgung for the full royal experience, then visit Changdeokgung for the Secret Garden. If you have more time, explore the quieter palaces like Changgyeonggung and Gyeonghuigung for a more peaceful experience.
And don’t forget—wear hanbok for free admission and incredible photos! It’s worth every penny of the rental fee.
Which palace are you most excited to visit? Let me know in the comments!