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4 Best Ways To Get From Seoul Incheon Airport to Seoul

Be it for a meeting with an important client or for a trade exhibition, every year millions of business travelers flock to Seoul looking for a convenient way to get from Seoul Incheon airport to Seoul city. Knowing the best way to navigate around the city, however, can be a headache. Is there a train running during the night? Does the bus service have a safe place to store luggage? Do the taxi drivers speak English? Below you will find answers to these questions along with a comprehensive guide to the 4 best ways to get from Seoul Incheon Airport to Seoul city center or Seoul Station. 

This blog will tell you how much time will you exactly spend for your journey from Incheon airport to Seoul using Seoul AREX subway, buses, taxi or private car. You will also learn how to buy subway or bus tickets from the main Seoul stations, the ticket costs for buses, subway, taxi fare and many more useful tips.

• Where Are You Heading To?
• Seoul Airport Transfer By Subway
• Seoul Airport Transfer By Bus
• Seoul Airport Transfer By Private Car
• Seoul Airport Transfer By Taxi

Where Are You Heading To?

When deciding on which Seoul airport transfer to choose from, it is important to first know which part of the city you are headed to.

• Downtown Seoul – While the connecting districts of Jung and Jongno may be known as the historic centerof Seoul, in modern times it can be said that Gangnam is the city’s true downtown. Located south of the river, the district is at the core of business in the city as well as a major commercial and nightlife center.
• Seoul Station – Seoul station is located north of the river in Jung district. The capital’s most important train station is connected to the local subway line while servicing high-speed trains to the rest of the country, including destinations such as Busan, Daegu, and Suwon.

What Are The Seoul Airport Transfer Options?

There are a number of options when deciding on your airport transfer from Seoul Incheon Airport. Some are ideal for those traveling on a budget while others are more tailored for the business traveler who values comfort and convenience.

1. AREX Subway – Great for the budget-conscious traveler, the AREX subway offers a cheap mode of transport for a Seoul airport transfer. The subway is an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers, but not suitable for those with heavy luggage.
2. Bus – Undoubtedly the cheapest option for a Seoul airport transfer, the bus is the transport of choice for the likes of backpackers and students.
3. Taxi – For those who do not wish to use public transport for their Seoul airport transfer, taking a taxi is an alternative. Although certainly offering more privacy and more comfortable than the subway or bus, there are still some risks of disruption to your journey.
4. Private Car – Booking a private car provides the greatest degree of comfort and convenience. The service is ideal for business travelers who are on a tight schedule, for larger groups who need to book larger vehicles, and families with heavy luggage.

1. Seoul Incheon Airport Transfer By AREX Subway

• Cost: Approx.9,000WON (9USD)
• Operating Times: 05:30 – 23:39 (All Stops Train), 05:28 – 22:48 (Express Train)
• Comfort & Convenience: 7/10

What is the AREX Subway opening hours?

Unfortunately, the AREX subway does not run 24 hours a day. The AREX Subway has two types of train. One is the AREX Subway Express train and the other is the AREX Subway All Stops train. Both trains run from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Each train has different operating times.

Seoul Incheon Airport Terminal 1 to Seoul Station:

05:28 – 22:48 (Express), 05:30 – 23:39 (All Stops)

Seoul Incheon Airport Terminal 2 to Seoul Station:

05:20 – 22:40 (Express), 05:23 – 23:32 (All Stops)

Those who are arriving on a late night flight are advised to look elsewhere for their Seoul Incheon airport transfer. Even for those whose flight is expected to arrive earlier in the day, it may be wise to make other plans for their airport transfer, as any sort of delay to their flight could see the plane landing after the AREX subway has stopped.

► Can I take the AREX Subway to my final destination in downtown Seoul?

The AREX Subway Express train runs straight from Seoul Incheon Airport Terminals 1 and 2 to Seoul Station, which takes 45 minutes. The AREX Subway All Stops train has 10 stops from Seoul Incheon Airport to Seoul Station, which takes 55 to 60 minutes. As can be seen in the route map below, if business travelers need to arrive at another destination, they are required to transfer to other subway lines.

► If not, how can I get to my final destination from my stop on AREX Subway?

If you are required to make a line transfer during your journey from Seoul Incheon Airport there are some factors that should be considered first.Many of the stations are huge with multiple levels and platforms. Additionally, the transfers between lines can often involve long walks. What might look like a convenient trip with a couple of changes on a subway map, in reality, can involve several long walks.

► How can I buy a ticket for the AREX Subway?

The subway may be cheap, but they are not so straightforward to pay for your journey. The subway stations in Seoul are mainly set up for local commuters using travel cards. First, you must find a ticket machine. Second, you must locate your station on the map of 291 stations. Third, you must make sure you have the local currency and the correct amount for your fare.

► Can I buy a travel card for the AREX Subway?

If you prefer to use a travel card than a ticket for your journey from Seoul Incheon Airport to downtown, there are three options which are ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

* T-Money card – The main transportation card in Seoul can be used on the subway, bus, and also, taxis. The T-Money card can be purchased in any subway station and most convenience stores.

Cost: 2,500WON (Approx. 2USD)

* M-Pass card– The M-Pass card is specifically meant for tourists. Available to use on most subways and buses, the tourist pass can be used up to 20 times per day. When arriving at Seoul Incheon Airport, head to the tourist information center on the 1st floor of Terminal 1.

Cost: Prices range from 1-Day Pass at 10,000WON (Approx. 9USD) to 7-Day Pass at 59,500WON (Approx. 54USD)

* Seoul City Pass Card – The Seoul City Pass acts as a combination of the T-Money and M-Pass cards. Holders can travel for free up to 20 times a day while also enjoy discounts on tour buses. The card is sold at tourist information centers and convenience stores including those located on the 1st floor of Terminal 1.

Cost: Prices range from 1-Day Pass at 15,000WON (Approx. 14USD) to 3-Day Pass at 35,000WON (Approx. 32USD)

► Can I use the AREX Subway if I have a heavy suitcase with me?

The AREX Subway suffers from limited luggage space and it can be hard to find a safe and secure place to leave suitcases. Travelers are recommended to always sit in sight of their valuables and those with multiple items of luggage are advised to look at an alternative airport transfer method.

► Can I use AREX Subway during rush hour?

If the Seoul subway system was not daunting enough already for business travelers, it is even more overwhelming during rush hour. During the morning and evening commutes, the most popular subway lines can become dangerously overcrowded. If you are not watching closely, it can be very easy to miss your stop. Even if you are watching, it can be hard to force yourself past the other passengers on the subway as well as those on the platform trying to get on.

Journey by AREX Subway:

Seoul Incheon Airport To Seoul Station or Seoul City Centre by AREX Subway - Journey Time:

Seoul Incheon Airport offers the AREX subway, an express service which allows passengers to travel into the city by train. From there, travelers can continue on to their final destination in Seoul by using the city’s subway system.

Advantages of Subway:

• Cost-effective – At approximately 9,000WON, using the AREX subway is one of the most cost-effective Seoul Incheon airport transfers available.
• English friendly – When using the AREX subway, travelers will find important information available in Korean and English. Most will be able to get by without having to communicate with any staff or locals.

Disadvantages of Subway:

• Not 24 hours – Unfortunately, the AREX subway does not run 24 hours a day. The first and last train from the airport is 05:15 and 22:40. Those who are arriving on a late night flight are advised to look elsewhere for their Seoul Incheon airport transfer. Even for those whose flight is expected to arrive earlier in the day, it may be wise to make other plans for their airport transfer, as any sort of delay to their flight could see the plane landing after the AREX subway has stopped.
• Luggage constraints – Although the AREX is clean and convenient, it does suffer from limited luggage space. During busy periods, it can be hard to find a safe and secure place to leave luggage. Travelers are recommended to always sit in sight of their valuables and those with multiple items of luggage are advised to look at an alternative airport transfer method.

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2. Seoul Incheon Airport Transfer By Bus

• Cost: Approx. 5,000WON (5USD)
• Operating Hours: From around 04:30 to 21:00
• Comfort & Convenience: 6/10

►Where can I get the bus from Seoul Incheon Airport?

There are ticketing offices available in both Terminals 1 and 2 of Seoul Incheon Airport for travelers to purchase tickets. In Terminal 1, offices are located in the Arrivals Hall near Exit 4 and 9. In Terminal 2, they can be located in the Traffic Center (B1).

►How long does the bus from Seoul Incheon Airport take?

While the local city bus is the cheapest option for travelers for their Seoul Incheon Airport transfer, it is still inevitably slower than the other modes of transport on offer. For example, it takes almost double the time by bus to get to downtown as it would take if driven by private car.

►How do I pay for the bus from Seoul Incheon Airport?

When taking the bus, all locals will use the local T-Card transportation card. If you do not have this card, then you will be required to count out the correct change in the local currency, which can be quite stressful when you are unfamiliar with the notes and there is a queue of locals behind you waiting to board the bus.

►Is there space for luggage on the bus from Seoul Incheon Airport?

While the bus for the Seoul airport transfer should have sufficient space for luggage, the space is located beneath the bus. This means that you will be unable to see that your luggage safe and secure at each stop along the way to your destination. It is strongly advised to keep any valuables on your person where possible.

►Does the Seoul Incheon Airport bus have a route map?

Typically, route maps are not displayed on buses in Seoul, makingit is easy for a visitor to miss their stop on a bus from Seoul Incheon. Along with announcements being made in Korean, and the buses stopping for only a short time, it is not surprising that many visitors can miss their stop.

►Does the Seoul Incheon Airport bus driver speak English?

Bus drivers in Seoul do not speak English. This can make it difficult for travelers from Seoul Incheon Airport to check they are boarding the right bus, to know which stop to get off at, and also to ask for help if any problems arise during the journey.

Journey by Seoul Bus:

Seoul Incheon Airport To Seoul Station or Seoul City Centre by Bus - Journey Time:

For travelers looking for a cost-effective Seoul Incheon airport transfer, a bus is a viable option.

Advantages of Bus:

• The cheapest form of travel – At approximately 5,000WON the bus is the cheapest option for a Seoul Incheon airport transfer, making it popular with passengers who are traveling on a budget.

Disadvantages of Bus:

• Luggage concerns - While the bus for the Seoul airport transfer should have sufficient space for luggage, the space is located beneath the bus. This means that you will be unable to see that your luggage safe and secure at each stop along the way to your destination. It is strongly advised to keep any valuables on your person where possible.
• The slowest form of travel – While the Seoul airport transfer bus service is the cheapest option for travelers, it is still inevitably slower than the other modes of transport on offer. For example, it takes almost double the time by bus to get to downtown as it would take if driven by private car.

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3. Seoul Incheon Airport Transfer By Private Car

• Cost: Check online for competitive rates
• Operating Hours: 24/7
• Comfort & Convenience: 9/10

►How can I travel in privacy from Seoul Incheon Airport?

By booking a private car for your journey from Seoul Incheon Airport to downtown, you can travel in complete privacy and comfort. Use that time to catch up on emails, make some calls, or take a rest before a busy day of meetings.

►Is there a Meet & Greet service at Seoul Incheon Airport?

Arriving at Seoul Incheon Airport can be an overwhelming experience as passengers are surrounded by people heading to get a bus, those going to the AREX subway, and the long queue at the taxi rank. If you arrange an airport pick-up in Seoul, however, you will be met by a driver at the airport, who will then take you directly to the doorstep of wherever it is you wish to go in Seoul.

►Can I get an English speaking driver to pick me up from Seoul Incheon Airport?

By booking a private car for your airport pickup in Seoul you can guarantee you will be traveling with a driver who speaks English. They will be on hand if any change to the travel plan is required and to handle any question you may have about your journey.

►Is it possible to book a private car for Seoul Incheon Airport from a choice of vehicles?

There are a number of options to book a car in Seoul, with all services boasting a large fleet of car types. Whether you wish to travel in style with a Mercedes S-Class or require a 7 seater like the Hyundai Grand Starex, you can find the vehicle for you when you rent a car for your Seoul airport transfer.

►Can I pay for my airport transfer from Seoul Incheon Airport by card?

With a private car service from Seoul Incheon Airport, you do not need to worry about withdrawing WON at the airport, understanding the value of the local currency, or hassling about with travel cards. Payment for the private car is handled directly between the company and the customer, usually via online payment.

Journey by Private Car:

Seoul Incheon Airport To Seoul Station or Seoul City Centre by Car - Journey Time:

Be greeted at the airport by your English speaking driver and travel in privacy and comfort in your private car to the doorstep of your destination. An airport pick-up is the ideal choice for travelers who are on a tight schedule.

Advantages of Private Car:

• Airport pick-up and drop-off - Arriving into Seoul Incheon Airport can be an overwhelming experience as passengers are surrounded by people heading to get a bus, those going to the AREX subway, and the long queue at the taxi rank. If you arrange an airport pick-up in Seoul, however, you will be met by an English speaking driver at the airport, who will then take you directly to the doorstep of wherever it is you wish to go in Seoul.
   
• An impressive range of cars - There are a number of options to book a car in Seoul, with all services boasting a large fleet of car types. Whether you wish to travel in style with a Mercedes S-Class or require a 7 seater like the Hyundai Grand Starex, you can find the vehicle for you when you rent a car for your Seoul airport transfer.
   
• English speaking driver – By booking a private car for your airport pickup in Seoul you can guarantee you will be traveling with a driver who speaks English. They will be on hand if any change to the travel plan is required and to handle any question you may have about your journey.

Disadvantages of Private Car:

• More expensive than most, but good value – While a private car is more expensive than other options, the advantages far outweigh the money being spent. It is definitely the fastest and least stressful way to complete your Seoul airport transfer. By renting a private car, you will save a significant amount of time and be able to keep to your schedule without any time being wasted.
   

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4. Seoul Incheon Airport Transfer By Taxi

• Cost: Approx. 95,000WON (95USD)
• Operating Hours: 24/7 (Limited availability between 00:00 – 06:00 and 20% surcharge between 00:00 and 03:59)
• Comfort & Convenience: 7/10

►Where is the taxi rank at Seoul Incheon Airport?

Taxi ranks at Seoul Incheon Airport can be located outside of Terminal 1. Simply exit through Gates 4 and 8 at Arrivals on the 1st floor and cross the street to the taxi ranks. Once found, however, there is still the issue that the queues at taxi ranks can become long during peak hours and passengers can spend as much time in the queue as it takes to drive into Seoul itself.

►Can I get a taxi for more than 4 people at Seoul Incheon Airport?

The vast majority of the taxis waiting at Seoul Incheon Airport are standard size and cannot accommodate groups of more than 4 people. Large groups who wish to take a taxi will be forced to split into groups and take separate taxis. Separating the group when arriving in a new country is best avoided if possible.

►Do taxi drivers in Seoul speak English?

Generally speaking, taxi drivers in Seoul do not speak English. There is a slim chance that some will be familiar with the major landmarks, but the majority of destinations will be unknown in English to most drivers. 

►Do I need to show the address of where I am going to take a taxi in Seoul?

One way to work around the language issue with the driver is by providing the address of your destination written in the local Korean language. This is not a foolproof solution, however, as even with the address there is no guarantee the driver will be familiar with the location. If you become lost then you will require a working local SIM card for your phone and the contact number of someone at your destination who can speak both English and Korean to explain.

►How much should I pay for a taxi from Seoul Incheon Airport to downtown Seoul?

To pay for your taxi from Seoul Incheon Airport to downtown Seoul you will need to have WON. Typically, Seoul taxi drivers will not accept card or foreign currency. Even if you do have WON, it is important to familiarize yourself with the value of the currency to make sure you do not overpay. Furthermore, it is useful to be familiar with Seoul so you know if the fare is correct for the distance of the journey.

Journey by Seoul Taxi:

Seoul Incheon Airport To Seoul Station or Seoul City Centre by Taxi - Journey Time:

For those in a rush or do not desire to ride public transport, travelers can hail a taxi at the airport to take them to where they need to be in Seoul.

Advantages of Taxi:

• Travel in privacy - After a long flight, most travelers will not wish to be queuing up and surrounded by others on public transport for their Seoul airport transfer. One of the taxi’s most compelling advantages over public transport is that it allows passengers to complete their airport transfer in privacy.

Disadvantages of Taxi:

• Long queues - In theory, a taxi should be faster than public transport, but at Seoul Incheon Airport, the taxi ranks can at times become long during peak hours and passengers can spend as much time in the queue as it takes to drive into Seoul itself.
• Low English level - Generally speaking, taxi drivers in Seoul do not speak English well. There is a chance that they will be familiar with the major landmarks, but the majority of destinations will be unfamiliar to them in English. 

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Make your Seoul airport transfer stress-free and contact our 24/7 team at Bookings@SeoulCarService.com with questions or to get a quote. We're excited to offer you a $10 discount on your 1st service with our company, simply use this promo code  10CARBLOG: