Navigating from Incheon Airport to Seoul can be a little confusing, with multiple transportation options available to accommodate various schedules, budgets, and comfort levels.
Being aware of all options is key, as plans can sometimes change despite our best efforts to prepare. For instance, on my last trip, I intended to take the AREX express train to Seoul, only to find it fully booked.
So, I hopped on the all-stop AREX and arrived only 10 minutes later than the express train. By familiarizing yourself with each option, you’ll be better equipped to adapt smoothly if plans change.
In this guide, we’ll walk through all the options for getting to the heart of Seoul, including trains, buses, and taxis.
Not sure how to get to Seoul from Incheon Airport? Let’s explore the options!
By understanding and planning your airport transportation options in advance, you can ensure a smooth start to your trip and make the most of Seoul’s efficient transportation network.
With choices such as taxis, subways, and buses, reaching the city center becomes both convenient and accessible.
TL;DR – Quickest Ways to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul
There are three solid options:
🚆 AREX Express Train – Fast, cheap, and goes straight to Seoul Station.
🚍 Airport Limousine Bus – Comfy with multiple drop-off points. Great if your hotel is far from a subway line.
🚖 Taxi or Uber – Easiest but most expensive. Handy late at night or with lots of luggage.
Pro tip: Grab a T-Money card and a working eSIM before leaving the airport!
1. AREX Train: The Popular Way Of Traveling To Seoul
There are two options when it comes to the airport train. Both get you to the city center in a little under or a little over an hour. One requires a reservation with luggage storage, while the other is a commuter line.
AREX All-Stop Train
The All-Stop Train on the AREX line is an affordable way to get to Seoul from Incheon Airport.
It makes multiple stops at key locations like Gimpo Airport, Hongik University, and Seoul Station.
Luggage storage on the All Stop Train is limited to two designated cars, and announcements advise passengers not to block seats with bags.
This can be challenging given the minimal storage space available. I’ve personally traveled with small luggage in front of my knees without issues.
You’ll likely see travelers with bags of all sizes on board, though if you have larger luggage, you may need to keep it in front of you or be prepared for limited space.
The train remains a convenient, budget-friendly option, especially if you cannot get a ticket to the AREX Express, which tends to sell out.
AREX Express Train
The AREX Express train offers reserved seating and dedicated luggage storage, making it a convenient choice for travelers with larger bags. It’s best to reserve a seat online in advance, especially during peak travel times.
While the all-stop train offers a more budget-friendly option and guarantees a ride to Seoul, I personally prefer the AREX Express Train, provided I can secure a ticket.
The reserved seating alleviates the concern of standing for an hour and keeping my luggage from rolling away.
The AREX Express Train departs approximately every 30-40 minutes, depending on the time of day. You can choose your departure time when purchasing your ticket.
To buy tickets, go to Level B1 in Terminal 1 or 2 at the Express Train Information Center or kiosk.
However, it’s important to note that tickets for the express train can sell out quickly, as many travelers book their seats ahead of time.
If you prefer a guaranteed seat and a faster journey, I highly recommend to click HERE to reserve your AREX Express ticket online before your trip. I recommend giving yourself at least an hour or two to get through immigration to get to the train.
2. The Airport Bus: A Comfortable Way To Get To Seoul
When deciding between the two bus alternatives, both offer dependable and cozy means of transportation from Incheon to Seoul.
While the Airport Limousine Bus provides a greater number of stops throughout Seoul, KAL Limousine Buses provides travel to particular destinations late into the night.
Both services offer a reliable way to reach Seoul, so the best choice depends on your arrival time and preferred drop-off points.
The Airport Limousine Bus
When considering how to get to Seoul from Incheon Airport, many travelers overlook the convenience of buses.
The airport offers several bus options, including the Airport Limousine Bus, which is a popular choice for those heading to major districts like Gangnam, Myeongdong, or specific hotels.
This service is not only comfortable but also provides ample luggage space, with clear signage in English.
The journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic, making it an ideal choice for those with large bags or who are staying in a different part of Seoul than near Seoul Station.
To get to Seoul from Incheon Airport, the airport bus is a convenient and comfortable option. The Airport Limousine Bus serves multiple routes, connecting the airport to popular destinations like Gangnam, Myeongdong, and specific hotels.
Tickets can be purchased at indoor or outdoor kiosks. Indoor kiosks in Terminal 1 (T1) are located near gates 4 or 9 on the 1st floor and are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Outdoor kiosks are located on the 1st floor of T1 in front of gates 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 13, and are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The kiosk at gate number 8 is open until 10:40 PM. The cost for a one-way ticket is 17000₩.
Your ticket will tell you where to catch the bus. It’s usually very close to the kiosks. If in doubt, ask the information booth or show your ticket to any bus driver.
The bus will announce the stops in Korean and English, so make sure you remember where you are getting off. I recommend having the Naver map app open to follow along.
The buses start running their routes from the airport to the city around 5 AM. Depending on the route, they finish anywhere from 10 p.m. or so. Click HERE for the website with bus number, route, and schedule information.
Buses depart every 10-15 minutes, depending on the route, ensuring frequent service throughout the day and evening. This option is especially ideal for those with large luggage or seeking a direct, stress-free ride into the city.
Please note that, per the website, each person is allowed 2 suitcases, one carry-on and one suitcase.
KAL Limousine Buses
KAL Limousine Buses offers a direct, comfortable, and flexible option, offering another convenient way to get to Seoul from Incheon International Airport.
Operated by Korean Air, these premium buses run throughout the day and even late into the night, making them a reliable choice for late-arriving flights.
Tickets are priced at 18,000₩ for adults; children are 12,000₩. Tickets can be bought in T1 at the kiosk or at the ticket office by gate 4.
The website states that you can use the card terminal located inside the bus to pay using a credit card or a Tmoney card.
I could not find an opening and closing time for the ticket kiosks. You board the bus on level 1, bus stops 3B and 4A outside gate 4.
With spacious seating and luggage storage under the bus, KAL Limousine Buses are designed for maximum passenger comfort.
They serve a few routes to key destinations across Seoul, including popular areas like Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun.
Offering frequent departures every 25-35 minutes, these buses provide travelers with a convenient and stress-free way to get to Seoul, whether they’re arriving during the day or late at night.
For more detailed information on routes and the schedule, click HERE for the website.
Book your Incheon Airport-Seoul City K-Limousine Airport Bus Ticket here for a smooth ride to your destination!
3. Taxi: A Convenient Way To Get To Seoul
Taking a taxi from Incheon International Airport is a convenient way to get to Seoul, offering flexibility and direct service to your destination.
Taxis are available 24/7, making them a great option for those with late arrivals or large amounts of luggage.
You’ll find taxi stands located at designated areas outside the arrivals hall in both Terminals 1 and 2, where attendants can assist you in selecting the right type of taxi. Click HERE for more detailed information and for Terminal 2 taxi stand info.
There are several types of taxis to choose from, including standard (regular) and international taxis, deluxe (mobeom) taxis, and jumbo taxis for larger groups or excess luggage.
Standard and International Taxi
Standard taxis are the most budget-friendly, which includes international taxis. The taxi stand for regular taxis is T1 Level 1, gates 5C, 6C, and 6D.
International taxis are similar to regular taxis, but the driver speaks English, Japanese, and Chinese.
International taxis have standard, deluxe, and large as well. There is a taxi stand on T1, gate 4C for international taxis.
Or, you can reserve online, but it does require 24 hours’ notice. There appears to be a base rate dispensing on where you are traveling to within Seoul. Click HERE for the website for more info and how to reserve.
Deluxe Or First Class Taxi
Deluxe taxis offer a more comfortable experience at a higher rate. The taxi stand for first-class taxis is at gates 7C and 8C. These taxis have a higher base rate.
Jumbo Taxi
Jumbo taxis, which can accommodate up to 9 passengers, are ideal for families or groups and come with slightly higher rates than standard taxis. The taxi stand for jumbo or oversized taxis is gate 8C.
General Taxi Information
There is a base fare, and rates are metered, with the fare from Incheon to central Seoul generally starting around 70,000₩ for standard taxis.
There are also additional late-night fees. Please refer to the website for additional information.
While taxis are a convenient way to get to Seoul, they can get a bit pricey. There are always many taxis waiting to take you to the city. The website shows real-time data showing how many taxis are waiting.
Despite its convenience, be aware that traffic will be particularly bad at certain times of the day, which will make the trip to your accommodation take a little longer.
🚖 Watch out for taxi scams, especially near the airport — some drivers may refuse to use the meter or quote inflated flat rates. Here’s how to avoid common taxi scams in Korea.
FAQ
The exchange rate for South Korean Won (KRW) to US Dollar (USD) is approximately 1 KRW(₩) = 0.000715 USD, usually rounded up to 0.00072. Please check for the most up-to-date information online, as the rates fluctuate daily.
It’s approximately 60km, or approximately 37 miles.
On the AREX Express train, it takes 43–50 minutes to arrive at Seoul Station, depending on which terminal you leave from.
On the AREX all-stop train, it takes a little over an hour to get to Seoul Station.
By limousine bus, it typically takes around 60 to 90 minutes to reach central Seoul, depending on the route and traffic.
Under normal circumstances, a taxi ride can take about 60 minutes. With traffic jams, especially during peak hours, can make the trip take up to 90 minutes or longer.
The Wrap-Up
Whether you choose to travel by bus, taxi, or the AREX train, there are several ways to get to Seoul from Incheon. Each offers a different balance of convenience, cost, and travel time. I generally prefer the AREX train, but appreciate the other options available.
Limousine buses and Arex are the most cost-effective way to get to Seoul from the airport. The AREX train offers a faster, more predictable ride into central Seoul, especially during peak hours, making it a popular choice for many travelers.
While taxis are great for those who have a large group and a lot of luggage or prefer direct, door-to-door service, they can be affected by traffic and a bit pricey.
Headed to Seoul? Start Exploring
Make the most of your time in the city:
✅ Where to Stay in Seoul – Neighborhood breakdowns for every budget
✅ Things to Do in Seoul – Landmarks, markets, and hidden gems
✅ Best Markets in Seoul – Street food, souvenirs, and people-watching gold
Save these guides now so you’re not planning on the fly with airport Wi-Fi!