If you’re traveling to South Korea anytime soon, then you have to have your airport transfer plans ready. It may seem hard to navigate your way from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Seoul, but with so many transfer options to choose from, it won’t be as difficult anymore!
In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the best ways to get to Korea’s capital from Incheon Airport via bus, train, car rental, and more. With that, make sure to take down notes so you can select the airport transfer option that’s most suitable for you.
Incheon Airport to Seoul via Train 🚅
1. Airport Railroad Express (AREX) Express Train
First up is the AREX Express Train that goes back and forth between Seoul and Terminals 1 and 2 of the Incheon Airport. This is the fastest way to get to the city center as it will only take 45 minutes!
So if you follow a strict schedule right when you land in South Korea, the AREX Express Train is definitely the most convenient option for you. To make the train experience even better, the train is equipped with comfortable seating, ample luggage space, and free WiFi to ensure a smooth journey just for you.
Once you’ve purchased your AREX Express Train ticket, you can then activate it already. Simply follow any of these steps:
After activating your ticket, feel free to reserve your seats for a fuss-free experience. Here’s how:
📌 View the timetable for the AREX Express Train here.
2. Airport Railroad Express (AREX) All Stop Train
Now if you want a cheaper alternative and you’re not really in a hurry, then the AREX All Stop Train is the option for you. You’re probably wondering why it costs less than the AREX Express Train. Well, compared to the AREX Express Train, the ride aboard the AREX All Stop Train is longer, taking about an hour or so.
This train has 11 subway station stops, including Gongdeok and Hongik University Station — perfect if you have plans to explore other areas in Seoul! The AREX All Stop Train also connects to Gimpo Airport, so you can take it to travel between the two airports if needed.
Like the AREX Express Train, there’s enough luggage storage located at the end of each carriage. However, there are no luggage storage spaces above the seats. And unlike the Express Train, there is no free WiFi aboard this train and there are no seat reservations as well, so expect that it may be a challenge to find seats during peak hours.
To save time on buying tickets, you can use train cards like the WowPass, NAMANE CARD, or T-Money card to pay for your ride on the AREX All Stop Train. All three cards can be picked up directly at Incheon International Airport. Once you’ve claimed your card, make sure to top it up at the kiosks at the airport too before you board the train. You can also use the NAMANE app to load money to your NAMANE CARD.
Use your WowPass, NAMANE CARD, or T-money card for boarding the AREX All Stop Train simply by tapping it at the gate before boarding.
All three cards can also be used for retail purchases, so feel free to use your card to pay when you go shopping during your trip!
AREX Express Train vs. All Stop Train: Which one should you take? 🤔
If you’re running on a tight schedule or your accommodation is near Seoul Station, then the AREX Express Train is more convenient for you. But, if you’re not in a rush and you don’t necessarily need to go down Seoul Station, then the AREX All Stop Train is the better option for you.
You can refer to the table below for a summary of the differences between the AREX Express Train and the AREX All Stop Train*:
Train Type | Number of Stops | Travel Time (ICN - Seoul) | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
Express | None (direct to Seoul Station and vice versa) | 45 minutes | Adults: 8,700 KRW Children: 8,000 KRW |
All Stop | 11 | 60 minutes | Depends on your stop |
*Prices may slightly vary from time of writing
Incheon Airport to Seoul via Bus 🚌
3. Seoul Bus by K Limousine
Another affordable and convenient way to get to Seoul is with the K Limousine Seoul Bus — an airport bus that comes with comfy seats and scenic views while traveling on the road. There's also ample luggage space within the bus, all you have to do is hand over your luggage to the porter, hop on the bus, get some rest, and wait until you reach your destination. The duration of the trip will take about 60 to 90 minutes, also considering traffic conditions.
There are multiple routes available for the K Limousine Seoul Bus, so it’s ideal if your accommodation isn't exactly near Seoul Station. The bus also has stops at specific hotels along each route, which makes it accessible if you're staying at those hotels.
The routes for the K Limousine Seoul Bus are as follows:
Bus Number | Coverage Area | Operating Hours (First Bus - Last Bus)* |
6701 | City Hall/Gwanghwamun area | To ICN: 04:15 - 17:45 From ICN: 05:15 - 22:05 |
6702 | Dongdaemun/Namsan area | To ICN: 04:00 - 19:15 From ICN: 05:45 - 22:45 |
6703 | Gangnam/COEX area | To ICN: 04:00 - 19:05 From ICN: 07:25 - 22:35 |
6705A | Jamsil/Dongseoul area | To ICN: 04:05 - 19:15 From ICN: 05:00 - 22:55 |
6705B** | Jamsil/Songpa area | To ICN: 04:05 - 19:25 From ICN: 06:55 - 22:42 |
N6701 | Gangbuk area | To ICN: 01:05 - 03:15 From ICN: 23:30 - 03:35 |
N6703 | Gangnam area | To ICN: 23:20 - 03:20 From ICN: 23:40 - 03:40 |
*Operating hours may vary depending on the season. Please refer to the official website for the operating hours before your arrival
**Bus Number 6705B is temporarily closed
Incheon Airport to Seoul via Car 🚙
4. Private Airport Transfers
If you’re looking for a luxurious, door-to-door service between your accommodation and Incheon Airport, then chartering a private airport transfer is the way to go. There’s no queueing involved here, so rest assured that once you land, your private car and chauffeur will be waiting for you.
Klook Tip: When selecting your pick-up time, make sure to consider time spent on deboarding and getting your luggage from the baggage carousel.
Aside from the convenience and privacy that you get, you’ll also have big luggage storage all for yourself! Getting a private airport transfer is especially ideal if you’re someone who carries a lot of luggage on a trip. At the same time, it’s also perfect for those traveling in big groups.
You can choose among many car options depending on what suits your needs best — there are sedan cars for solo travelers or smaller parties, while bigger groups can opt to take a van or even a bus!
5. Taxis
Riding a taxi from Incheon Airport and straight to your hotel in Seoul will only take you about an hour or less. This option is best for those with late-night flights since taxis are available for 24 hours in Korea.
Apart from the comfort and convenience taxis offer, you can even choose your preferred taxi type. They have sedans if you’re traveling solo, and vans too if you’re with a bigger group with a lot of luggage. But since taxis use the main road like cars, expect to get charged extra for freeway fees. They also have additional late-night charges.
You can find taxi stands at the Arrivals Hall (1F) on both terminals.
📌 View routes, fares, and more here.
6. Car Rental
If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore Korea at your own pace and with your own itinerary, then you should definitely rent a car! With a car rental, you'll be in full control of your entire trip — just schedule your pick-up and drop-off dates accordingly, and you're good to go. It’s also essential to save the staff’s number so you can easily pick up and drop off your rented car.
Be sure to check ahead if your accommodation has parking or if there's a nearby parking area available before renting.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the fastest way to get to Seoul from Incheon Airport?
The fastest way to travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul is with the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) Express Train, which takes only 45 minutes between the two stations.
2. What options are available if I'm arriving at Incheon Airport late at night?
The AREX Express Train and All Stop Train stop operations before midnight, so you can opt for the K Limousine Seoul Bus which has night routes. You can also book a private airport transfer, get a taxi, or rent a car, just make sure to book ahead of time to make sure your transfers are secured and it’s one less thing to worry about!
3. What is the most convenient way to get from Incheon Airport to my hotel in Seoul?
For door-to-door service, the best way to get from Incheon Airport to your hotel in Seoul is with a private airport transfer. This way, you’ll avoid having to carry your luggage up and down stairs while you navigate the train stations. The K Limousine Seoul Bus also has stops at certain hotels in Seoul, making it highly convenient as well (cheaper too than private transfers)!
With all these transportation options ready and available for you, getting to your hotel from Incheon Airport is not actually as hard as it seems. Just choose the one that's most suitable for your trip and you’re good to go. Safe travels! 🥰
Before you go, check out these travel essentials first!
🇰🇷South Korea Essentials🇰🇷
🚄Trains & Airport Transfers
🚇Transportation & Prepaid Cards