If you’re traveling to Seoul, then the first thing you need to know is how to get there from the airport. There are two airports near Seoul, Gimpo and Incheon. Gimpo (GMP) used to be the main international airport and it’s located about 20 minutes outside of Seoul. Now, unless you’re flying in domestically or from Japan, you’ll most likely be flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN) which is significantly further from Seoul.
But don’t worry, there are plenty of options for getting to Seoul from Incheon depending on your price range and where you’re going. Here are three options if you’re visiting Seoul and we’ll give you breakdowns for each one.
Subway (Airport Express Line)
The AREX or Airport Express Line is the cheapest way to and from the airport. It stops at a few major subway stations including Hongdae Station, Gimpo Station and Seoul Station. From Hongdae Station, you can transfer onto Line No. 2 and get to Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Jamsil relatively easily. The All Stop Train is 4150 KRW to 4750 KRW depending on the distance you’re traveling.
If you’re going straight to Seoul Station and you’re in a hurry, there is an Express Train that takes about 40 minutes. Express Train tickets cost 9500 KRW and they’ll take you directly to and from Seoul Station without any stops in-between. There are assigned seats and the trains are more comfy, but you’re definitely paying for the convenience.
You can also book your AREX Express Tickets ahead to save time and money:
- KKDay AREX Tickets
- KLOOK AREX Tickets (use LEXI5OFF for a 5% discount)
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If you’re traveling light enough that you feel comfortable handling your luggage on your own, then we highly recommend taking the Airport Express Line. Especially if your hotel happens to be near a subway station.
Where is the AREX?
The Airport Express Line can be found on the basement floor (B1F) of either Incheon Airport Terminal 1 or 2. There are plenty of signs pointing the way out. You can either purchase one way tickets or use your T-Money card to pay for the trip.
If you’re going to take the Express train, then head to a manned booth near the entry gates and purchase a ticket there.
Buses and Airport Limousines
The Airport Limousines are our preferred mode of travel. Airport Limousines are essentially upgraded buses with limited seating that make a few stops before getting on the highway and bee-lining it to the airports. The prices for tickets will run anywhere from 8000 KRW to 20,000 KRW within Seoul depending on how far you’ll be going. Tickets can be purchased at electronic kiosks, online, or at a manned booth. You can also use T-Money cards to pay for your fare when you get on the bus.
For the higher price, you receive comfortable reclining seats and the bus drivers load and offload your luggage for you. The driver will hand you a ticket for your luggage. HOLD ON TO YOUR TICKET. It’s the only proof you have that the luggage belongs to you.
The Airport Limousine is recommended for anyone who is comfortable traveling in Seoul. But, most importantly, you want to make sure that your accommodations are near a bus stop. If you’re going to transfer to a subway or train, then the Airport Express Line is a better option.
Where can I get tickets?
The bus stops are on the first floor of Incheon Airport Terminal 1 and 2.The bus ticket offices are located indoors near exit 4 and 9 while the outdoor offices are near exits 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 13. In Terminal 2, the ticket offices can be found near the entrance to the AREX line on the 1st floor.
Taxi
Depending on the distance and traffic, a trip into Seoul will cost anywhere from 30,000 KRW and up. We’ve taken the taxi to Incheon Airport a handful of times and it generally comes out to 45,000 KRW (from Hongdae Station) for a regular taxi and 65,000 KRW for a larger taxi van.
It is the most comfortable and easiest way to get into Seoul, but it is generally the most expensive. If you’re traveling in a group of 4 or more, taking a taxi van can actually be cheaper than the Airport Limousines. So if you’re traveling with family or a lot of luggage, do yourself a favor and get a taxi instead.
Also, taxi scams are common. We’ve been ripped off by airport taxis more than a few times. Which is why we exclusively use Uber and KakaoTaxi at the airports. Do yourself a favor and avoid taxi drivers who are looking for fares unless you book through a trusted source.
Where can I get a taxi?
After exiting the airport on the 1st floor, cross the street to the inner circle area where there are multiple taxis waiting. You can use Uber or Kakao Taxi and have your driver meet you here.
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