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How to Get to Daejeon

How to Get to Daejeon

Daejeon South Korea Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Daejeon does not have its own international airport. The majority of foreign visitors arrive via nearby major airports. Many direct flights connect ICN to major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Check airline websites for specific paths from your location.

Airports

  • Incheon International Airport (ICN): Main international gateway.
  • Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Mainly domestic, limited short-haul international.
  • Cheongju International Airport (CJJ): ~40-60 mins north of Daejeon by bus, domestic and restricted overseas.

Airport Facilities & Pricing

ICN has wide-ranging facilities (dining, duty-free, lounges, hotels, spas, currency exchange, SIM/Wi-Fi rental). GMP facilities are smaller scale. CJJ possesses basic facilities.

Flight Pricing

  • Peak Seasons (Spring, Autumn, Holidays): Airfares typically rise.
  • Shoulder and Low Seasons: More competitive flight prices. Consider flight deal services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
  • Airport Limousine Bus: Direct intercity buses from ICN (Terminals 1 & 2) to Daejeon Bus Terminal Complex. Travel time approx. 2.5-3.5 hours.

From ICN to Daejeon by KTX

Take AREX train from ICN to Seoul Station. Transfer to a KTX train to Daejeon Station. Total travel time approx. 2-2.5 hours.

From GMP to Daejeon

Take subway/bus to Seoul Station, then KTX to Daejeon. Alternatively, direct long-distance coaches from GMP to Daejeon.

From CJJ to Daejeon

Regular bus service connects CJJ to Daejeon Bus Terminals. Travel time approx. 40-60 minutes.

Train Connections & Services

High-Speed Rail

  • KTX (Korea Train eXpress): Connects Daejeon Station to major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu.
  • Travel time from Seoul to Daejeon: approx. 50 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Foreign tourists can purchase a Korail Pass for unlimited train travel.
  • Daejeon serves as an important hub on the Gyeongbu Line.

Other Train Services

  • ITX-Saemaeul & Mugunghwa-ho: Slower, more economical train services.
  • Connect Daejeon to various cities.
  • Alternative options for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Extend travel to smaller towns.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Express Buses

Companies like Korea Express, Kumho Express, and Dongbu Express connect Daejeon to major cities.

Intercity Buses

These buses connect Daejeon to little cities and towns all over the region.

Terminal Locations

Buses depart from Daejeon Complex Terminal and Daejeon Government Complex Terminal.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving Considerations

South Korea an excellent network of well-maintained expressways and national roads.

Requirements for Rental

  • Age: At least 21 (some companies 26+).
  • Valid national driver's license (1+ year).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP).

Navigation & Road Safety

GPS networks are highly recommended. Naver A guide and Kakao Map apps provide great turn-by-turn navigation in English.

Driving Tips

  • Road Conditions: Generally excellent.
  • Traffic: Heavy in and around major cities during rush hours/holidays.
  • Parking: Available but can be expensive in city centers.

Driving Laws & Culture

Road conditions are generally excellent. Driving culture can be aggressive, so defensive driving is advisable. Speed limits are enforced strictly by cameras.

Regulations

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Drinking and driving is prohibited.
  • Follow all traffic laws carefully; speed cameras are common.

Border & Sea/River Arrivals

This section is not applicable as Daejeon is an inland city.

Information Not Applicable

  • Direct crossing borders by land into South Korea are not generally available for tourists.
  • Ferry services and cruise ports are not relevant for Daejeon, an inland city.
  • River transportation for intercity or international arrivals/departures is not applicable.

Departure Information

  • Exit Fees/Taxes: No separate exit fees or taxes for departing travelers. Leaving the airport taxes typically included in air ticket price.
  • Departure Procedures: Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1-1.5 hours before domestic.
  • Station Departure: Train/Bus Station: Get THERE 15-30 minutes before departure.
  • Airport Facilities (ICN, GMP, CJJ): Check-in, baggage drop, security, immigration, duty-free, restaurants, lounges. ICN additionally has VAT refund kiosks.
  • Daejeon Station (KTX): Waiting areas, convenience stores, restaurants, cafes, ticket windows.
  • Daejeon Coach Terminals: Waiting areas, convenience stores, ticket counters, some dining.

Planning Your Journey

Air Travel Tips

Booking flights during shoulder or low seasons might offer better value. Always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements for South Korea before booking.

Getting the Best Deals

Seamless Airport Transfers

Plan your pickup from Incheon or Gimpo to Daejeon for a smooth start to your trip. KTX trains offer speed, while limousine buses give direct convenience.

Connecting to Daejeon

  • KTX from Seoul Station for speed.
  • Airport Limousine buses for direct travel.
  • Consider Cheongju Airport (CJJ) for regional flights.

Cost-Effective Travel

Buses are generally more economical than KTX for travel between cities.

Rental Car Freedom

Explore surrounding areas at your own pace with a rental vehicle from DiscoverCars.com.

Easy Navigation

Utilize Naver Map or Kakao Map for excellent driving directions.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Departure Tasks

Before heading to the airport or station, perform a final check of your belongings and documents. Ensure all souvenirs are packed securely.

Final Review

  • Confirm passport and tickets are accessible.
  • Reconfirm flight or train/bus times.
  • Process any VAT refunds at the airport.

Timing Your Departure

Arrive at the airport with plenty of time for check-in, security, and immigration. For train/bus schedules, a slightly shorter arrival time is usually sufficient.

Recommended Arrival

  • International flights: 2-3 hours in advance.
  • Domestic flights: 1-1.5 hours prior.
  • Train/Bus: 15-30 minutes prior.

Airport & Station Services

Check-in & Baggage

Dedicated counters for check-in and baggage drop-off. Self-service kiosks are also available.

Shopping & Dining

Extensive duty-tax-free shopping, diverse restaurants, and cafes at major airports.

Lounges & Amenities

Comfortable lounges, spas, and other amenities, especially at Incheon International Airport.

Smooth Departures

Ensuring you have all your documents ready and allowing sufficient time for airport or station procedures will contribute to a relaxed departure from Daejeon.