Gyeongbokgung Palace

Step through the main gate and you're instantly transported: wide stone courtyards, painted wooden halls, and a mountain rising right behind the rooftops. Gyeongbokgung is Korea's largest and grandest royal palace, built over 600 years ago when Seoul first became the capital of the Joseon dynasty, Korea's last royal family line.

Three spots not to miss: Geunjeongjeon, the grand throne hall where kings once held court; Gyeonghoeru, a two-story pavilion floating on a lake — yes, the same building printed on the back of the 10,000-won note; and Hyangwonjeong, a small six-sided pavilion tucked into the rear garden pond.

Honest tip: arrive right at 9am opening or on a rainy day — between 11am and 2pm it fills with tour groups. The best photo is Gyeonghoeru reflected in its pond with the mountain behind it. Don't miss the free Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at the main gate (2-3 times daily). Renting a hanbok, Korea's traditional dress, is a popular local custom — and it gets you in for free.