From the Airport to the City
A practical guide to arriving at Incheon or Gimpo Airport and getting into central Seoul by train, bus, or taxi.
Which airport will you arrive at?
Most international flights land at Incheon International Airport (ICN), about an hour west of Seoul. A smaller number of flights, mainly from nearby Asian cities, land at Gimpo Airport (GMP), which is much closer to the city centre. Check your ticket to see which one you are flying into, because the journey into Seoul is very different for each.
Getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul
The fastest option is the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) train, which takes about 43 minutes to Seoul Station. The cheaper all-stop AREX train takes about an hour and also stops at Hongik University Station, which is useful if you are staying in Hongdae. Airport limousine buses run to most hotels and take 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic, and a taxi costs much more but is the most comfortable option if you have heavy luggage.
Getting from Gimpo Airport to Seoul
Gimpo is already inside Seoul, so the subway is quick and cheap — Line 5 or Line 9 will take you into the city in 20 to 30 minutes. Taxis are also reasonably priced from Gimpo because the distance is short. If you are arriving late at night, check the last train time, because the subway stops running around midnight.
First things to do at the airport
Before leaving the airport, pick up a T-money card from a convenience store and load it with cash — you will need it for the subway and buses. If you plan to use data on your phone, buy a SIM or eSIM at the airport, where staff can help you set it up. Finally, exchange a small amount of cash at the airport for your first day, and use a bank or exchange office in the city for better rates later.
What to do if you arrive late at night
Trains and buses stop running around midnight, so a late arrival usually means a taxi or a late-night airport bus. Late-night buses are limited, so check the route to your hotel in advance. If your flight lands very late, some travellers book a hotel near the airport for the first night and move into Seoul the next morning.