Deoksugung Palace (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Deoksugung Palace?
What makes it 87% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can join free English guided tours, rent a cheap audio guide, and move freely through compact grounds; benches and cafés give easy breaks, so the palace suits independent travellers.
Positives:
- Flexible Solo Exploration: Free tours, audio guides, and self-guided programs let you set your own pace.
- Interactive Programs: Unique options like wearing a guard uniform make your visit memorable.
Challenges:
- Crowds at Ceremonies: Guard parades draw large weekend crowds—plan for limited personal space.
- Limited English Signage: Some information panels are in Korean only; rely on guides or audio devices.
What is Deoksugung Palace?
- A 15th-century royal palace and one of the five grand palaces constructed by the Joseon dynasty in central Seoul
- A complex of hanok-style halls, elegant pavilions and manicured courtyards exemplifying traditional Korean palace architecture
- A distinctive architectural fusion showcased by the Western-style Seokjojeon Hall set amid classical Joseon structures
What is so special about Deoksugung Palace for solo trip?
- Attend the colorful Changing of the Royal Guard.
- Join a free English tour or use an audio guide.
- Experience hands-on programs like Chief Gatekeeper.
- Explore Seokjojeon Hall’s empire history exhibits.
- Relax in a royal tea pavilion with traditional snacks.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for the guard ceremony, a guided tour, museum visit, and café break without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Deoksugung Palace
Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony:
Colorful parade at Daehanmun Gate with traditional music and costumes.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to secure a front‐row view.
Free Guided Tour:
One‐hour English tour covering palace history and architecture.
Tip: Meet at the ticket booth 10 minutes before the 10:30 or 13:30 start.
Audio Guide Rental:
Self-guided MP3 player with English narration.
Tip: Pick up at the booth by 16:00 and return by 17:00.
“I Am Also a Chief Gatekeeper” Program:
Brief training then join the 14:00 guard ceremony in uniform.
Tip: Arrive by 13:00 to claim one of two daily spots.
Seokjojeon Hall (Korean Empire History Museum):
Exhibition of Emperor Gojong’s restored rooms.
Tip: Reserve your free English session on-site at 11:50 or 14:50.
Jeonggwanheon Café:
Royal tea pavilion serving traditional drinks and snacks.
Tip: Try the rice cookies with green tea for a light refill.
When is the best time to visit Deoksugung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
In April, cherry blossoms line the Stone-wall Road for photogenic walks. In October, autumn foliage adds fiery colors to the palace grounds.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Deoksugung Palace (Seoul)
Bhanu Pravadanvita
I really liked the art gallery inside. The palace was good, you can chill a whole day and have a picnic, ensure you take some water with you.
Rowena Alvarez
Deoksugung Palace has a beautiful mixture of western and Korean architecture. We went here in the evening so we missed out on the museum. It is smaller compared to the other palaces but I liked how this palace isn't too crowded.
Hso
In my opinion, if you can only visit one palace in Seoul, this is the one you should choose. It’s less crowded compared to others and even has a museum on-site. A really enjoyable experience!
Shawn Pendley
Very nice palace and green space. We didn't see the changing of the guards or see it at night, and I've heard it is beautiful then, but it's lovely on a warm spring day with the sun shining too. Great for kids and families, but we also saw lots of couples strolling the grounds. There is not a great deal of historical information provided here at each building compared to other places -- it's just ...
Mia Vera
Deoksugung Palace wraps history in quiet elegance right in the center of Seoul. The soft stone paths the graceful rooftops and the blend of old and modern architecture make it feel like a gentle pause in time. It is not the biggest palace but it has heart and beauty. A peaceful place to wander reflect and take in the city from a calmer angle..
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace admission | KRW 1,000 |
| Audio guide rental | KRW 3,000 |
| Seokjojeon Hall entry | KRW 1,000 |
| Café drink | KRW 6,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 11,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Deoksugung Palace
- Visit on Weekdays: Smaller crowds on weekday mornings mean more room at exhibits and ceremonies.
- Wear a Hanbok: Show up in traditional dress to enjoy free palace entry and better photo ops.
Map of Deoksugung Palace
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Deoksugung Palace (Seoul)?
About Deoksugung Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-771-995110 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities