Most travellers would enter South Korea via Incheon Airport. Ever wondered why the closest international airport to Seoul, South Korea's capital, is not in Seoul? Well, in the past, Gimpo International Airport is the airport to get to Seoul. However, due to the rising number of travellers entering South Korea after the Seoul Olympics held in 1988, they have expanded and built the Incheon International Airport.
Now, Incheon Airport is the largest airport in South Korea and is the main airport to enter South Korea. The Incheon Airport is also one of the largest and busiest airport in the world and has won several awards such as the cleanest airport in the world and has maintained its spot in the top 10 World's Best Airport annually. To cater to the upcoming 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, Korea has readied its second terminal to welcome its guests.
That being said, to get from Incheon International Airport to Seoul is merely an hour ride away.
AREX Airport Express
AREX is the airport rail that takes travellers from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station. There are two types of trains, the express train (43 minutes) as well as the all-stop train (56 minutes). The price of the express train vs the all stop train is 8,000 won vs 4,150 won.
We do recommend travellers with lots of luggage to take the express train as you will get reserved seats, free wi-fi, and reach Seoul Station much faster than the all-stop train. During peak hours, the all-stop trains can also get VERY crowded as locals also take these trains to commute from home to work and vice versa. However, do note that the frequency of the express train is much lower as compared to the all-stop train.
To take the AREX Airport Express, follow the signs at the airport that will lead you to the ticketing counter and to the trains. After getting your comfortable seats, feel free to enjoy the free wifi and the beautiful scenery before you reach Seoul!
Pro Tip: Grab your AREX tickets online before your trip for a fuss-free travel experience!
Airport Buses
Airport buses are another convenient option to get straight to your destination. As the AREX only goes to Seoul Station, which meant that travellers often have to change to a metro to get to their destination, the airport buses would probably bring you closer to your accommodation.
However, do note that the buses are more expensive than the AREX, costing from 8,000 to 16,000 won depending on the route and type of bus. Two types of buses are available, the deluxe limousine and the standard limousine. It also takes about 80 minutes, much longer than the AREX airport express.
To take the airport bus, head to exit 4 or 9 to find the ticketing counter. Just let them know your destination and the ticketing staff will advise you accordingly.
Taxis
Taxis are also another way to get to your destination but do note that it can be very costly since Incheon is relatively far away from Seoul.
Private Cars
This is not a cheap option but is great if you are travelling with kids and do not wish to go through the fuss of carrying your luggages, caring for your children, and transferring trains all at the same time. Book private transfers online at $138 SGD at least 3 hours ahead!
Self Drive Rental Cars
Another great way to travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul City Centre is by renting a car. This is especially great if you would like to go to the suburban areas in South Korea or outside the city centres. We love self-drive travel trips because we'll get to enjoy the best of the city without any crowds!
We hope this post is useful for your next trip to Seoul!
This post is part of our South Korea Travel Series, read also our other blog posts on:
Seoul:
Jeju:
Busan:
Daegu:
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