Arrival & Departure: Suwon

Air Travel to Suwon

Main Airports

South Korea's major airports facilitate access to Suwon.

Gateways

Incheon International Airport (ICN): The primary international gateway, located approximately 60-70 km northwest of Suwon.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Primarily serves domestic and some regional international routes, about 45-50 km from Suwon.
Airlines at ICN: Most major international carriers, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines.

Flight Insights

Consider flight availability, pricing, and facilities when planning.

Booking & Airport Amenities

Flight availability remains generally consistent.
Prices tend to be higher during peak seasons (Spring, Autumn, major holidays). Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
Both ICN and GMP feature comprehensive facilities: duty-free, dining, lounges, currency exchange.

ICN Bus Transfers

Airport Limousine Buses (No. 4100, 4000, 4300) go directly to Suwon, taking 70-90 minutes. Cost: KRW 12,000-15,000.

AREX + Subway

From ICN: AREX to Seoul Station, then Seoul Metro Line 1 to Suwon Station. Takes about 2 hours, costs KRW 5,000-7,000.

Taxi Option

From ICN: Taxis are available. Cost: KRW 70,000-100,000 depending on traffic. From GMP: Seoul Metro Line 1 directly to Suwon Station (90 min, KRW 2,000-3,000).

GMP Transfers to Suwon

Subway Connection

Take Seoul Metro Line 1 directly to Suwon Station.
Travel time is approximately 90 minutes.
Cost is typically KRW 2,000 - 3,000.
A T-Money card makes this journey simple.

Bus Routes

Several intercity bus routes connect Gimpo Airport to Suwon.
Check bus schedules and stops upon arrival at GMP.
Buses may offer a more direct route depending on your final destination in Suwon.
Tickets are available at the airport bus terminal.

Departure Formalities

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied on tourists departing South Korea. Flight tickets typically include all necessary airport taxes.

Timing

For international flights from ICN, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. Allow extra time during peak hours for check-in, security, and customs. For domestic flights from GMP, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.

Airport Facilities

ICN offers extensive amenities for departing travelers, including duty-free shops, diverse dining, lounges, and cultural centers. GMP also provides standard facilities.

Land Travel

Train Connections

Suwon Station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting to various rail services across the country.

Rail Options

KTX (Korea Train eXpress): Connect via subway to Seoul Station (30 min) or Gwangmyeong Station for high-speed routes to major cities.
Conventional Trains: Mugunghwa-ho and Saemaul-ho offer direct, often lower-fare connections from Suwon to many cities.
Purchase tickets at stations, Korail's website, or through apps.

Long-Distance Buses

Buses offer an affordable and direct way to travel to and from Suwon.

Bus Services

Suwon Bus Terminal: A major hub for intercity (시외버스) and express (고속버스) bus services.
An extensive network covers most major cities and towns nationwide.
Often more affordable than trains, and for some destinations, offer more direct routes.

Self-Driving in Suwon

For greater independence, consider renting a car. Understand local driving rules.

Driving Information

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country driver's license are needed.
GPS systems like KakaoMap or Naver Map apps are highly recommended for directions.

Road Conditions & Parking

South Korean roads are well-maintained, but urban traffic and parking can present challenges.

Travel Tips

Roads in South Korea are generally well-maintained and of high quality. Highways often have tolls.
Urban areas, specifically the Seoul-Suwon corridor, may experience heavy traffic.
Parking can be difficult and expensive in city centers, including around Hwaseong Fortress.

Important Driving Notes

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Strict penalties apply for drunk driving.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 23, with at least one year of driving experience.

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists due to traffic density.
A valid motorcycle license endorsed on your IDP is needed for two-wheelers.
Always prioritize safe driving practices.

Other Transport

Car Rental Options

Major international companies and local agencies operate in South Korea. Consider DiscoverCars.com for options.

Rental Company Choices

International companies like Hertz and Avis have offices.
Prominent local companies include Lotte Rent-a-Car and SK Rent-a-Car.
Booking online in advance or at airport/city offices is advisable.

Bicycle Rentals

Cycling in Suwon

Bicycle rentals are available near Hwaseong Fortress.
Cycle around the fortress walls or along the Suwoncheon Stream.
Some hotels may also provide bicycle rentals for guests.

Walking Routes

The 5.7 km Hwaseong Fortress wall circuit is excellent for walking. The area around Hwaseong Haenggung Palace is also highly walkable.

Hwaseong Trolley

A modern, bus-like trolley follows a specific route within the Hwaseong Fortress area, connecting major gates and attractions.

Fortress Train

The Hwaseong Fortress Train (Yeollchyeo) runs along a portion of the fortress walls, offering an unique experience. Cost: KRW 1,500-3,000.

Important Mobility Notes

Pedestrian & Cycling Zones

Suwon offers numerous pedestrian-friendly areas and dedicated cycling paths.

Safe Exploration

The Hwaseong Fortress wall circuit and Suwoncheon Stream paths are ideal for walking.
Dedicated cycling paths around Hwaseong Fortress make cycling safe and enjoyable.
All areas of Suwon are generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Exercise caution on busy multi-lane roads.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility infrastructure varies in Suwon. Newer public transport options generally offer better access.

Mobility Considerations

Newer subway stations and buses have elevators, ramps, and designated wheelchair spaces.
Older stations and parts of Hwaseong Fortress may have limited accessibility, with inclines or stairs.
It is advisable to check specific routes and attractions beforehand for accessibility details.

Planning Your Routes

Utilize Digital Maps

Apps like KakaoMap and Naver Map provide excellent real-time directions for public transport, driving, and walking.

Public Transport Cards

Use a T-Money card for seamless travel on buses and subways, with transfer benefits.

Peak Hours

Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) on public transport for a more comfortable journey.

Seamless Travel

The city's efficient network offers varied ways to explore its attractions.

Arrival & Departure