Travel Guide to the Five Royal Palaces in Seoul: All You Need to Know

Planning to visit South Korea and want to explore the Five Royal Palaces in Seoul? You are in the right place because I am here to help you.

Seoul is the capital of South Korea and one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It attracts visitors with its unique blend of modern world and historic traditions.

South Korean capital is home to five noteworthy royal palaces, each bearing unique historical significance and architectural charm. So if you want to discover the historical side of Seoul, these 5 palaces in Seoul are an absolute must.

This travel guide features everything you need to know before visiting Five Royal Palaces in Seoul. From history to practical information like opening times, entrance fees, and other useful tips.

At the end of the article, you will find ways to save money when visiting Seoul’s Royal Palaces.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Tips for visiting Five Royal Palaces in Seoul

Before we dive deeper to learn about each palace and other useful tips, here is a quick overview of Five Royal Palaces in Seoul that you should visit if you want to learn more about the history and culture of Seoul.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Changdeokung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Gyeonghuigung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace

This majestic palace in the heart of Seoul is a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore South Korea’s rich history. I have to say that this was my personal favorite and I think if you have time to see only one palace in Seoul, make it Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Originally built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and arguably the most beautiful of the Five Grand Palaces built in Seoul. Its name translates to “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” and as you step through its grand gates, you’ll quickly understand why.

Places to visit within Gyeongbokgung Palace

As you explore the site, you’ll find historical structures like Gwanghwamun, Geunjeongjeon, and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, set between a serene lotus pond. These buildings are some of the most beautiful places in Seoul.

Gwanghwamun, situated in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea, serves as the primary and largest gate of Gyeongbok Palace. Positioned at the northern end of Sejongno, it stands prominently at a three-way intersection.

Geunjeongjeon Hall stands as the central hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace, where kings presided over state affairs, hosted official functions, and received foreign envoys. In this court, esteemed officials, including military officers, gathered to show the utmost reverence to their monarchs.

King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon kingdom and Gyeongbokgung Palace, built Gyeonghoeru Pavilion on a man-made lake in the palace’s western section. Also known as the Pavilion of Joyous Meeting, it stands as Korea’s largest elevated pavilion.

To complete your experience, consider exploring the National Folk Museum of Korea within the palace grounds. It houses a remarkable collection of artifacts that further the golden age of Korea’s royal past, if not, don’t forget to photograph its iconic tower.

Changing of the Guards

Don’t miss the Changing of the Guards ceremony at the Gwanghwamun. This ritual takes place at 10 am and 2 pm every day except Tuesdays. The guards with the traditional colorful costumes will make you travel back in time and give you the chance to take some unique Seoul photos.

Other things to know before visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace

From November to February it is open from 9 am to 5 pm and from June to August – from 9 am to 6.30 pm. The rest of the year you can stay at the palace until 6 pm.

Considering the popularity of the place, I recommend that you visit Gyeongbokgung Palace before the closing time and be one of the last to leave. While the last admission is one hour before closing time, I recommend you plan 2-3 hours for this beautiful place in Seoul.

Also, you can see the Changing of the Guard at the Gwanghwamun earlier in the day without actually entering the palace.

Closed: Tuesdays
Entrance fee: 3000 KRW.
Free guided tours in English: 11 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm.
Looking for a private tour? Book this top-rated tour in Seoul that covers Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Changdeokung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace is a historical gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens, the palace is one of the must-visit places during your time in Seoul.

Built in 1405 during the Joseon Dynasty, Changdeokgung served as a secondary palace where kings could retreat and connect with nature. The palace complex includes various halls, residences, and beautiful landscaped gardens.

Explore its intricate structures like Injeongjeon, which is the main hall, and admire the elegance of its design. The palace is not only perfect for getting a glimpse of Korean culture but also for looking for some of the most beautiful places in Seoul. 

Changdeokung Palace Garden

Changdeokung Palace Garden also known as Huwon Secret Garden is another place to visit in Seoul. This secret garden is a beautiful area with pavilions and ponds where the human touch collides wonderfully with the surrounding nature. It is wonderful during spring and fall.

Inside the garden, you will find the Juhamnu Pavilion. It is a two-story structure, that functioned as a library and reading room during King Jeongjo’s reign. The second floor served as a reading room. If you ask me, this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Seoul.

You shouldn’t miss Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, Jondeokjeong Pavilion, Uiduhap Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Hall when visiting Changdeokung Palace Garden.

Keep in mind that, visitors must participate in a guided tour of the Secret Garden. So we can safely say that you won’t miss any of these locations when visiting the garden.

Access to the Secret Garden is restricted to 100 individuals per session, with online reservations available for 50 people and on-site purchases for the remaining 50 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Royal Palace Pass holders must also exchange their Secret Garden voucher for a valid ticket before entry.

Other things to know before visiting Changdeokung Palace

The opening hours are from 9 am to 6.30 pm from June to August and from 9 am to 5.30 pm from November to January. Rest of the year it is open from 9 am to 6 pm. The ticket office closes one hour before closing time.

Closed: Mondays
Entrance fee: 3000 KRW for the palace and an additional 5000 KRW for Changdeokung Palace Garden.
Free guided tours in English: 10.15 am and 1.15 pm for the palace and 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm, and 3.30 pm for the Changdeokung Palace Garden.

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace, nestled in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is a fascinating piece of history.  Built during the Joseon Dynasty in the 15th century, Deoksugung has a different vibe compared to other palaces. What makes it special is the blend of traditional Korean and Western architecture. 

As you wander through the palace grounds, you’ll come across Junghwajeon, the main hall, standing proudly with its striking red exterior. It is accessed via the Junghwamun gate.

The Junghwamun gate shares architectural similarities with the Junghwajeon hall, featuring a multi-cluster bracket structure and a hipped-and-gabled roof.

The contrast between the vibrant Korean architecture and the Western-style Seokjojeon, a stone building nearby, adds a unique touch to the experience. This structure offers insight into the openness of Korean royalty to embrace foreign influences during that period.

Another great example is a Western-style garden with a pond and fountain, this was the first European garden ever made in Korea.

Changing of the Guards

One of the palace’s highlights is the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony, a lively display of traditional costumes and choreography that transports visitors back to the Joseon era.

It takes place three times per day at 11 am, 2 pm, and 3.30 pm. The ceremony takes place every day except on Mondays, rainy days, and in extremely hot or cold weather.

Other things to know before visiting Deoksugung Palace

It is open from 9 am to 9 pm all year round. The last admission is 1 hour before closing time.

Closed: Mondays
Entrance fee: 1000 KRW.
Free guided tours in English: 10.45 am and 1.30 pm.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Changgyeonggung Palace is the oldest main hall of all the palaces in the Korean Capital and the next Seoul palace that you should add to your itinerary.

The complex was built in 1483 and served various purposes, including as a residence for queens and a venue for state affairs. The palace has faced destruction and reconstruction throughout its history, with parts of it serving different purposes during various periods. 

Despite these changes, Changgyeonggung Palace remains a fascinating destination, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Korean architecture and royal lifestyles.

Surrounded by picturesque gardens, Changgyeonggung reflects the architectural style of traditional Korean palaces. Its structures, including pavilions and halls, showcase the elegance of Joseon-era design.

Another place that you shouldn’t miss within Changgyeonggung Palace is the Grand Greenhouse. Built in 1909, it is Korea’s first Western-style greenhouse. Designed by a Japanese architect and built by a French company, the structure combines steel and wood, covered in glass. 

Changgyeonggung Palace offers a glimpse into Korea’s past, with its well-preserved structures and historical artifacts. The site’s historical importance is evident, as it played a role in various royal ceremonies and events during the Joseon Dynasty.

Other things to know before visiting Changgyeonggung Palace

It is open from 9 am to 9 pm all year round. The last admission is 1 hour before closing time.

Closed: Mondays
Entrance fee: 1000 KRW.
Free guided tours in English: 11 am and 4 pm.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

Gyeonghuigung Palace stands as a significant historical landmark with roots dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. We can safely say that this is the most underwhelming palace in Seoul consisting of its history, but it offers a different kind of experience.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Gyeonghuigung Palace is its historical significance during the Gwanghaegun era, serving as the main palace during that period.

Nestled amidst the bustling city, Gyeonghuigung Palace bears witness to centuries of Korean history. Gyeonghuigung has undergone considerable changes and destruction over the years, with only a fraction of its original structures remaining today.

Despite its turbulent past, Gyeonghuigung Palace remains an intriguing site for those interested in Korea’s cultural heritage. The surviving structures reflect the architectural styles of the Joseon era.

The reconstructed structures, though not as grandiose as some other palaces in Seoul, offer a more intimate and authentic experience. Quiet courtyards and hidden corners invite you to explore this beautiful palace in Seoul.

Other things to know before visiting Gyeonghuigung Palace

It is open from 9 am to 6 pm all year round.

Closed: Mondays
Entrance fee: free
Free guided tours in English: 11 am and 4 pm.

Things to know about Five Royal Palaces in Seoul

Want to visit Five Royal Palaces in Seoul for free?

If you are planning to visit Seoul during public holidays, you are in luck because all the palaces in Seoul are free to visit during public holidays. It comes with more crowds, but you can certainly save some money during your trip to Seoul.

Palaces are also open to the public at no cost on the final Wednesday of each month.

Wear a Hanbok when visiting palaces in Seoul

Did you know that wearing a Hanbok when visiting palaces in Seoul means that you don’t have to pay an entrance fee? This is another way to save money and explore Seoul in a fun way. Read how to rent a Hanbok in Seoul.

Get a combined ticket

If you are planning to visit Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung (including the garden), Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine during your trip, consider opting for the combination ticket.

This ticket costs 10000 KRW and can be bought at any ticket booth. It remains valid for 3 months, so you can spread out these attractions during your time in Seoul.

If you’ve already purchased a separate admission ticket on the same day, presenting your combination ticket at the ticket booth allows you to receive a refund.

Further reading for palaces of Seoul

Or read more about: Seoul | South Korea

In conclusion…

This is the end of the travel guide to the Five Royal Palaces in Seoul and I am sure that by now you are fully prepared to explore all of them. Or at least your favorite ones! Where are you planning to start?

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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