Gyeongbokgung Palace (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can join free English tours, rent an audio guide, wander the vast grounds, and take photos unhindered, but must cope with heavy crowds and midday heat.
Positives:
- Free guided services: Enjoy English tours at no extra cost—ideal for solo travelers.
- Compact museum trio: Palace and two adjacent museums offer air-conditioned exhibits.
- Photography-friendly: Quiet corners at the pond and pavilion make solo shots easy.
Challenges:
- Closed Tuesdays: The palace and free tours are closed; plan around this day.
- Large grounds: Sites are spread out—be ready for up to 3 km of walking.
- Audio guide stock: Units are limited; arrive early if you need one.
What is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
- A 14th-century royal palace complex in central Seoul that served as the main seat of the Joseon Dynasty
- An expansive ensemble of traditional Korean architecture, including Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Throne Hall, and meticulously arranged courtyards and pavilions
- A cultural landmark housing the National Palace Museum of Korea and landscaped gardens that exemplify Korean palace design
What is so special about Gyeongbokgung Palace for solo trip?
- Free English-language guided tours at set times
- Self-paced audio guide for deeper exploration
- Iconic photo spots by the pond and pavilion
- Free entry to two museums with palace ticket
- Daily Royal Guard Changing reenactments
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a guided tour, museum visits, and photography around the grounds.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Gyeongbokgung Palace
Join the free English guided tour:
Meet at the information center at 11:00, 13:30, or 15:30 for a 90-minute storytelling walk through the main halls.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early; tours fill fast on weekends.
Rent an official audio guide:
Pick up a KRW 3,000 audio unit at the ticket booth for a self-paced history tour.
Tip: Charge it fully at the booth; follow the numbered route on the palace map.
Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony:
See the Joseon-era guard reenactment at Gwanghwamun Gate at 10:00 or 14:00.
Tip: Stand to the right of the main gate for unobstructed views.
Explore Hyangwonjeong Pond and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion:
Wander to these photo-worthy spots for classic palace reflections.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and capture reflections on the water.
Visit the National Palace and Folk Museums:
Use your palace ticket for free entry to both museums and daily English tours.
Tip: Start at the Folk Museum at 10:30 to catch the first English tour.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Use Subway Line 3: Exit 5 at Gyeongbokgung Station for a direct path to the main gate.
- Time your visit: Attend the 11:00 tour then catch the 10:00 guard ceremony in reverse order.
- Download the map: Save the palace map PDF to your phone for offline direction.
Reviews of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Pedro Vera Obrador
Very beautiful and big complex, it can take hours to explore everything. 3000 won per adult, you can buy the ticket at the vending machine or also at the desks. Change of guards a couple of times every day.
Eren Korkmaz
It is a key attraction in Seoul for sure, and that is why it is full with tourists in traditional Korean attires for photo ops. The palace itself can be seen in 1 hour or so, but the garden is simply huge. So you might consider to dedicate some buffer time if you want to explore the whole landmark. There are free lockers available which was very practical to leave all the burden and walk around ...
Lissy “LuLu” Webber
Amazing! This place is closed on Tuesdays. Ceremonies happen 1000 and 1400. I would recommend to rent a traditional outfit and take cute pics. (If you are wearing the clothing it’s a free entry.) If you buy tickets it has to be with a card. Watching the traditional ceremony was definitely worth the visit and there is so many amazing buildings and history.
Nickola Wilson-Chung (Wilson)
Wonderful palace that needs to be seen in person. The beautiful architecture and designs are amazing. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes because the palace grounds are very spread out. Highly recommend seeing this historic place if you're able to visit Seoul, Korea.
Ed Tom
A must in Seoul ! Other early in the morning to avoid crowd! Dress up in Korean costume and you get in for free! Plan to be there for 2 hours to see all the chambers and the garden!!! Yes, it is cheesy to dress up in costumes but everyone es to to be a princess! Yes, I was tempted but decided to dress up modern to compare with the past and be unique rather than blend in..
When is the best time to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
Spring brings cherry blossoms around the pond. Summer can be hot—visit museums midday. Fall foliage peaks in October. Winter mornings are crisp and less crowded.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace admission (adult) | KRW 3,000 |
| Audio guide rental | KRW 3,000 |
| Solo hanbok rental (optional) | KRW 10,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 16,000 |
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
Map of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Gyeongbokgung 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 2-3700-3900Explore Popular Things to Do
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