Explore the grand palaces and hanok villages

Seoul's five royal palaces are its historic heart, and they're almost free. Gyeongbokgung, the largest, hosts a colourful changing-of-the-guard ceremony and looks magnificent against the mountains behind it. Nearby, the Bukchon Hanok Village is a maze of preserved traditional wooden houses, free to wander, with lovely views over the old city. A lovely budget tip: rent a traditional hanbok costume and your palace entry becomes free. Go early to beat the crowds. We'll suggest which palaces to prioritise and how to combine them with the hanok streets.