Seoul’s palaces are a rewarding way to meet Korean history and architecture. Checking closures, events and booking conditions first makes the day much easier.
Check the official opening day and hours first
Palace opening hours can change with weekday closures, holidays, events and seasons. Before leaving, check the official notice for your date, last admission and special announcements, and save the information.
Pair one palace with a nearby neighbourhood
Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung and Deoksugung are not next door to one another. Choose one palace and combine it with a nearby area such as Bukchon, Insadong, Seochon or Jeong-dong instead of rushing between tickets.
Confirm tickets and free-admission rules on the day
Prices, discounts and free-admission conditions can change. Even widely shared information such as free entry in hanbok should be checked against the relevant palace, clothing standard and that day’s official notice.
Treat hanbok rental and photography as separate plans
Check rental reservations, return time, weather and shoes separately. Inside a palace, do not block paths; follow signs when taking photographs of visitors, events or restricted areas.
Use official notices for tours, events and closures
Scheduled tours, night openings and cultural events may need advance booking or have separate conditions. Use the palace authority’s notice—not a short video or blog—to confirm reservation requirements and language availability.
Walk slowly for the season and surface conditions
Courtyards and stone paths invite long walks and can be slippery after rain or snow. Bring water and comfortable shoes, and save restrooms, breaks and your next indoor stop on the map.
GOOGLE MAPS
Save the palace and your next stop together
Save nearby cafés, museums, restaurants and subway exits with the palace on your map.
Google Maps ↗