Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest of Seoul’s five Joseon-dynasty palaces and the easiest day trip in the capital area. Built in 1395, it sits at the foot of Bugaksan mountain behind Gwanghwamun Gate, and it pairs perfectly with the hanok alleys of Bukchon and Samcheong-dong.
Trip type: Day Trip from Seoul · Best for: history, hanbok photos, first-time visitors · Travel time from central Seoul: 15–30 minutes by subway
Why Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
The throne hall Geunjeongjeon, the floating Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the quiet Hyangwonjeong pond show how Korea’s kings lived and ruled. The royal guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun is free to watch, and visitors wearing hanbok enter Gyeongbokgung Palace for free.
How to Get to Gyeongbokgung Palace by Public Transport
- Subway: Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5 (connects directly to the palace), or Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2.
- Fare: 1,550 won base fare per ride with a transit card (about 3,100 won round trip within Seoul).
- From Incheon Airport: AREX to Seoul Station, then Line 1→3 or a short taxi.
Gyeongbokgung Palace Trip Costs per Person
| Item | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Subway round trip | about 3,100 won |
| Palace admission | 3,000 won (free in hanbok; free on Culture Day, last Wednesday) |
| Hanbok rental (optional) | 15,000–30,000 won for 2–4 hours |
| Lunch + café | 15,000–25,000 won |
| Estimated total | about 20,000–60,000 won |
Fares assume a T-money or other transit card (Seoul-area subway base fare 1,550 won). Costs are estimates in Korean won.
Suggested Day Itinerary
- 09:00 Arrive at opening; walk Geunjeongjeon and Gyeonghoeru.
- 10:00 Watch the guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun (10:00 and 14:00, check schedule).
- 11:30 National Folk Museum inside the grounds (free).
- 13:00 Lunch in Samcheong-dong or Tongin Market.
- 15:00 Stroll Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong.
What to Eat
Try samgyetang near Gyeongbokgung Palace (around 18,000–20,000 won), the coin-lunchbox at Tongin Market (about 6,000–10,000 won) or hand-made noodles in Insadong (10,000–13,000 won).
Tips Before You Go
- Closed on Tuesdays; open 09:00–18:00 (hours vary by season).
- Combine with Changdeokgung, Jongmyo and Deoksugung on an integrated palace pass if you plan several palaces.
- Arrive early on weekends to avoid tour groups.
FAQ
How long do I need at Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Two to three hours for the palace and museum, a full day if you add Bukchon and Insadong.
Is Gyeongbokgung Palace free in hanbok?
Yes. Visitors wearing hanbok enter free of charge.
Planning more trips? See our Korea travel guides, including Bukchon Hanok Village and Jongmyo Shrine.
Source: Royal Palaces and Tombs Center
Featured image: Gyeongbokgung Palace pavilion roofline in Seoul. Photo: Hhk1201 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0). Prices, fares and hours were checked in October 2026 and can change; confirm on official sites before you go.
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