Seoul’s palaces are the city’s historic heart, built by the Joseon dynasty from the late 14th century onwards. Here’s how to visit them, what they cost and which to prioritise.
Seoul palaces at a glance
| Palace | Adult fee (approx.) | Closed | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gyeongbokgung | 3,000 KRW | Tuesday | Geunjeongjeon throne hall, Gyeonghoeru pavilion, the National Folk Museum |
| Changdeokgung | ~3,000 KRW (+ the Secret Garden tour) | Monday | A UNESCO site, the Huwon (Secret) Garden |
| Changgyeonggung | ~1,000 KRW | Monday | A glass greenhouse, linked to Changdeokgung |
| Deoksugung | ~1,000 KRW | Monday | A mix of Western-style buildings, evening openings |
| Gyeonghuigung | Free | Monday | A quiet, less-visited palace |
The Gyeongbokgung fee and hours are from Girl on a Zebra (2026). The other fees are approximate, and a planned price rise has been put on hold, so check each palace’s official page before you go.
Gyeongbokgung opening hours
- November to February: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00)
- March to May and September to October: 9:00–18:00 (last entry 17:00)
- June to August: 9:00–18:30 (last entry 17:30)
- The Changing of the Guard at Gwanghwamun: 10:00 and 14:00, about 20 minutes, and not on Tuesdays.
Free entry in hanbok
Wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) gets you free entry to the main palaces. Rental shops around Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon rent them by the hour, and many include hair styling. It also makes for beautiful photos. Compare hanbok rentals and palace tours.
The Secret Garden (Huwon)
Changdeokgung’s rear garden can only be visited on guided tours, with limited English-language slots. Book online in advance in spring and autumn, when the garden is most beautiful.
Night openings
Gyeongbokgung and Changgyeonggung hold special evening openings in some seasons, with limited tickets. Places for foreign visitors are capped and sell out fast, so watch the official announcements.
Tips
- Do Gyeongbokgung on a weekday morning, then walk to Bukchon and Insadong. See our Seoul itinerary.
- Free English guided tours run at set times at the main palaces.
- Visit the National Palace Museum next to Gyeongbokgung. It’s free.
More Seoul guides
- Seoul travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Seoul
- Seoul itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Seoul
- K-ETA and Korea entry requirements
- Incheon Airport to Seoul
- Best time to visit Seoul
FAQ: Seoul palaces
Which Seoul palace is the best?
Gyeongbokgung for scale and the guard ceremony, and Changdeokgung for its UNESCO status and the Secret Garden.
Is Gyeongbokgung free in hanbok?
Yes. Visitors wearing a hanbok enter free.
How long do you need at Gyeongbokgung?
Plan on about 2 hours, or 3 with the National Folk Museum inside the grounds.
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