Must-See Palaces in Seoul
Hello. Hola. Bonjour. Ciao. 你好. Viator's global community has traveled the world in search of local knowledge and connections to help travelers find and experience the best things to do.
Hello. Hola. Bonjour. Ciao. 你好. Viator's global community has traveled the world in search of local knowledge and connections to help travelers find and experience the best things to do.
Hi, I'm Viator!Hello. Hola. Bonjour. Ciao. 你好. Viator's global community has traveled the world in search of local knowledge and connections to help travelers find and experience the best things to do.
Hi, I'm Viator!Hello. Hola. Bonjour. Ciao. 你好. Viator's global community has traveled the world in search of local knowledge and connections to help travelers find and experience the best things to do.
Seoul has been the Korean capital for six centuries, which means there’s an incredibly rich history to check out, especially at the grand palaces that dot the city center. To learn your Joseon emperors from your empresses and see exactly how beautiful a South Korean secret garden can be, see our top palace picks below.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in the 14th century, Gyeongbokgung Palace (also known as the Northern Palace) was once Seoul’s main royal residence and is now the largest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Set in the lively Jongno-gu district, Gyeongbokgung houses the National Palace Museum and offers the opportunity to watch the changing of guards at Gwanghwamun Gate.
Gyeonghuigung Palace
Another of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty, 400-year-old Gyeonghuigung Palace is home to the Seoul Museum of History and the Seoul Museum Annex of Art, which is full of historic Korean art.
Changdeokgung Palace
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason—built in 1405, Changdeokgung Palace was the main residence for many Joseon kings. Today, it’s known for its pond and pavilion, its beautiful stone road, its 26,000 tree specimens, and its secret garden. Explore the palace interior, or explore the grounds on a secret garden tour—with only 100 tickets available per garden tour, you’ll want to book in advance.
Changdeokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul
Deoksugung Palace
Also called Deoksu Palace, this 15th-century walled compound contains forested gardens, the excellent National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, palace buildings, and one big statue of the late King Sejong. You can find it right by City Hall Station.
Unhyeongung Palace
The Unhyeongung Royal Residence is one of Seoul’s smaller palaces, commonly used by Seoulites as a wedding venue on weekends. Admission is free, and you can try on and learn about Joseon clothing while you’re here.
Changgyeonggung Palace
Built in the mid-15th century as a summer palace for the Goryeo Emperor, Changgyeonggung Palace was later turned into a zoo and botanical garden by the Japanese. But in recent years, the palace was returned to its former glory and now the grounds are home to an array of ornate bridges and ancestral shrines. Plus, you’ll find epic views out to Seoul’s granite mountains.
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