How to Get to Incheon. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Arriving by Air

Major Airports & Airlines

Incheon International Airport (ICN): South Korea's largest airport and a major international hub. Most international flights arrive here. Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Closer to central Seoul, GMP mainly handles domestic flights and some short-haul international flights. Travelers simply connect between ICN and GMP via the AREX airport railroad.

Flight Options

All major international airlines fly to ICN.
Korean Air and Asiana Airlines: National carriers with global networks.
Low-cost carriers (e.g., Jeju Air) serve regional Asian routes.

Seasonal Prices & Airport Services

Flight prices typically fluctuate with demand. They tend to be higher during South Korea's peak travel seasons: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) due to pleasant weather. Also, during major holidays like Lunar New Year and Chuseok, and summer vacation months (July-August). Prices are generally lower during low season (winter, excluding holidays, and summer monsoon period).

ICN Facilities

Duty-Free Shopping & Diverse Dining.
Lounges & Transit Hotel.
Cultural Experience Centers & Gardens.

AREX Express

Non-stop from ICN to Seoul Station (~43 mins from T1).

Airport Bus

Extensive routes to Incheon & Seoul; comfortable for luggage.

Taxi Service

Available 24/7. Regular, International (English-speaking), and Deluxe options.

Transfer Options from ICN

AREX Airport Railroad Express

Most efficient travel from ICN.
Express Train: Non-stop to Seoul Station (~43 minutes).
All Stop Train: Connects to GMP, Hongdae, Seoul Station, Incheon Subway Line 1.
See an AREX train at Incheon Airport.

Other Transport

Airport Limousine Bus: Extensive routes to Incheon and Seoul districts.
Taxi: Available 24/7. Fares vary by taxi type (Regular, International, Deluxe).
Maglev: Free monorail from ICN T1 to Yongyu Station, connects to nearby hotels.
Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight searches.

Land Transportation Essentials

Train Connections

Incheon Subway integrates with Seoul. KTX (high-speed rail) is accessible via AREX to Seoul Station, connecting to major cities nationwide.

Long-Distance Buses

Incheon Bus Terminal offers frequent connections to major cities. A cost-effective way to travel, specifically to destinations not directly served by KTX.

Self-Driving

Requires home country license and International Driving Permit (IDP). Roads are well-maintained. Use Naver Map/KakaoMap for navigation. Consider DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Sea & River Passage

Ferry Services

Incheon Port serves as a major port for domestic ferry services to numerous islands off the coast, including Baengnyeongdo, Yeonpyeongdo, Deokjeokdo, and Muui Island. These ferries are used by locals and tourists for island getaways.

International & Cruise

Historically, international ferry services to China were available. Check current status.
Incheon Port serves as a cruise ship destination.
Immigration procedures at seaports match those at airports (passport, visa/K-ETA, customs).

River Transportation

While the Ara Canal (Arabaetgil) connects Incheon to the Han River, it is mainly used for leisure activities like cycling and walking, and occasional sightseeing cruises, rather than a main mode of transportation for tourists for arrival or departure.

Ara Canal Features

Popular for cycling routes along the waterfront.
Excellent for leisurely walks and enjoying the scenery.
Occasional sightseeing cruises for unique views.

Departure Timing

No specific departure taxes or exit fees are typically paid separately by travelers at Incheon International Airport. These fees are generally included in your airline ticket price. For international flights, arrive at ICN at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. This holds ample time for check-in, security, immigration, and VAT refund processing.

Check-in & Security

Use airline check-in counters or self-service kiosks.
Prepare for security by removing liquids, electronics, metallic items.
Follow signs to departure immigration; present passport and boarding pass.

VAT Refund Process

If you made eligible purchases (typically over ₩30,000 at "Tax Free" or "Tax Refund" stores), you can claim a VAT refund at the airport.

Refund Steps

Locate VAT refund kiosks or counters in the departure hall before checking luggage.
Present your passport, receipts, and purchased items (may undergo inspection).
Receive refund directly or as a credit to your card after immigration and security.

Departure Day Checklist

Double-check your flight terminal (T1 or T2).
Consider arriving earlier during peak seasons or for early morning flights.
Remember VAT refund items need to be accessible for inspection.

ICN has extensive facilities for departing travelers (shops, dining, lounges).
Allocate ample time for all pre-flight procedures.
Ensure all liquids meet carry-on rules.

Quick Tip

If you plan to rent a car, ensure your IDP is issued by the same country as your driver's license.

How to Get to Incheon