Seoul is a city that blends the past and present in ways few other places do — and nowhere is that more evident than in Jongno, the historic heart of the city. For travelers with a day or two to explore traditional Seoul, visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Insadong makes for a beautiful, culture-rich itinerary.
But how far apart are these iconic sites? Can you walk from one to the next, or is public transport a must? In this guide, you’ll get clear walking distances, realistic travel times, and local tips to help you plan your perfect half-day or full-day walk through Korea’s royal and traditional core — all optimized for foreign travelers.
Distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Changdeokgung Palace
Walking Distance: Approx. 1.2 km
Walking Time: 15–20 minutes
Public Transport Option: Bus or 1 subway stop, but walking is more scenic
These two palaces are part of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces and located within a very short walk from each other. You’ll exit the east side of Gyeongbokgung (near the National Folk Museum of Korea) and follow the path toward Samcheong-ro, passing small art galleries and cafes along the way.
What’s in between:
National Folk Museum (at the eastern end of Gyeongbokgung)
Cheongwadae Sarangchae (Blue House history museum)
Quiet streets with hanok-style tea houses
Tip: If you’re short on time, visit Gyeongbokgung in the morning (to catch the guard ceremony), then walk to Changdeokgung for a late-morning Secret Garden tour.
Distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Bukchon Hanok Village
Walking Distance: Approx. 700 meters
Walking Time: 10–15 minutes
Public Transport Option: Not recommended due to short distance and narrow roads
Bukchon Hanok Village sits northeast of Gyeongbokgung, nestled between the palace and Changdeokgung. It’s a residential area that preserves traditional Korean architecture — over 900 hanok homes — and is filled with cafes, art workshops, photo spots, and scenic alleys.
How to get there:
Exit Gyeongbokgung from the north-east side (near Samcheong-dong)
Walk up Bukchon-ro 11-gil or Gyedong-gil for the main routes into the village
Look for signage in English pointing toward “Bukchon Eight Views”
Highlights:
Free walking paths, no entrance fee
Great view spots like the hilltop between Viewpoints 4 and 5
Local craft studios where you can try pottery or traditional painting
Many visitors wear hanbok for photo sessions — available from rental shops near Anguk Station
Distance from Bukchon Hanok Village to Insadong
Walking Distance: Approx. 700 meters
Walking Time: 10–12 minutes
Public Transport Option: None needed unless weather is bad
Once you’ve finished exploring Bukchon, it’s a very short walk down to Insadong, the artistic and cultural shopping street popular with both locals and tourists.
How to get there:
Walk south along Gyedong-gil or cut through Gahoe-dong toward Anguk Station
Follow signs toward Insadong-gil — a wide, pedestrian-friendly main street
You’ll see large calligraphy shops, antique galleries, and street food vendors as you arrive
What to expect in Insadong:
Art supply stores and galleries
Traditional Korean craft shops (hanji, ceramics, woodenware)
Tea houses and dessert cafes
Vendors selling tteok skewers, hotteok, and ginseng candy
The iconic Ssamziegil shopping complex
Suggested Walking Route (All 4 Sites)
Here’s a quick guide to visiting all four landmarks on foot, in a loop:
Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace – Arrive before 10:00 a.m. to see the changing of the guard
Walk 15 min to Changdeokgung Palace – Book the Secret Garden tour in advance (late morning slot)
After the tour, head to Bukchon Hanok Village – Grab a snack or take photos in hanbok
Walk down to Insadong for late lunch, tea, or souvenir shopping
Total Walking Distance: Approx. 3 km
Total Walking Time: Around 40–45 minutes
Recommended Time to Explore Fully: 5 to 6 hours
If you take your time and include meals, rest stops, and some photo moments, this easily becomes a full-day itinerary that blends royal history, architectural beauty, local lifestyle, and shopping — all walkable.
Final Notes for Planning Your Walking Day in Historic Seoul
Start early: Most palaces open at 09:00, and mornings are less crowded
Check weather forecast: Summer heat and winter snow can make walking challenging
Wear comfortable shoes: The area has cobblestone alleys and uphill paths
Consider hanbok rental: You’ll get free palace admission and amazing photos
Stay hydrated: Convenience stores and cafes are abundant in Insadong and Samcheong-dong
Use Naver Map or KakaoMap: These are more accurate than Google Maps in Korea
For foreign travelers exploring Seoul on foot, this is one of the most rewarding cultural routes the city offers — compact, walkable, scenic, and filled with history in every direction.