Staying in Myeongdong puts central Seoul within reach, but a palace visit still takes a little planning. For Gyeongbokgung, the simplest starting point is usually the subway, followed by a walk that moves north through the old city instead of doubling back.
Take the subway first
From Myeongdong Station, take Line 4 to Chungmuro and transfer to Line 3 for Gyeongbokgung Station. Follow the signs to Exit 5, then walk toward the palace entrance.
Save the station names in a navigation app such as Naver Map or KakaoMap before leaving your accommodation. Check the route again on the day, since service changes and station exits can affect the easiest walk.
Make the walk one way
After the palace, continue toward Samcheong-dong and Bukchon rather than returning to the same station immediately. The route links historic streets, cafés, and small shops, though some lanes climb and take longer on foot than they look on a map.
Bukchon is a residential neighborhood, not an open-air attraction built just for visitors. Keep voices low, follow posted access guidance, and be considerate around homes; if you are tired, take a bus or taxi onward rather than trying to cover every lane.
Check the day before
Look up Gyeongbokgung’s official visitor information before setting out for current opening hours, closure days, and entry details. A holiday or special event can change the plan, and arriving at the gate is a poor time to discover that.
Carry a transit card or another suitable way to pay for local transport, and keep your accommodation address saved in Korean for the return trip. The useful plan is not simply “visit the palace”; it is knowing how you will get there, where you will walk next, and how to get back.