How to get to Seoul

Seoul is the dynamic heart of South Korea, an impressive metropolis where ancient royal palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. If you are planning to travel to Seoul, you will be delighted by the variety of routes available: thanks to a well-developed transport system, you can reach the capital by plane, high-speed train, or bus from various parts of the country. In this section, we will detail how to get to Seoul so that you can choose the most convenient and fastest way to begin your journey.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the capital is by air. The main gateway for those flying to Seoul is Incheon International Airport (ICN). It is one of the largest and most technologically advanced hubs in the world, receiving a vast number of direct and connecting flights from various countries.

The second most important airport is Gimpo Airport (GMP). It is located significantly closer to the city centre and is more often used for domestic flights within South Korea (for example, to Jeju Island), as well as for flights from neighbouring Asian countries. Reaching the city from both airports is effortless: travellers have access to high-speed trains, the subway, and comfortable limousine buses.

Reaching Seoul by train from abroad is not possible due to the geographical features of the peninsula; however, the railway service within South Korea is considered one of the best in the world. If you are already in the country and planning a trip to the capital from other regions, such as Busan or Daegu, the high-speed KTX and SRT trains are the ideal choice. They travel at high speeds, allowing you to cover great distances in a matter of hours.

Most intercity express trains arrive at the main Seoul Station, located in the very centre of the city, or at Yongsan Station. Additionally, for travellers arriving in the country by air, the AREX airport express is an indispensable mode of transport. It connects Incheon International Airport with the capital's railway station, allowing you to reach your destination quickly, comfortably, and without traffic jams.

Bus services in South Korea are renowned for their comfort and punctuality, making it easy to reach the capital from neighbouring regions. A trip from Osan will take less than an hour, as the bus only needs to cover about 50 kilometres, while the journey from picturesque Wonju takes approximately one and a half hours for a distance of 100 kilometres.

Tourists travelling from the west coast, for example from Seosan, will have to travel about 130 kilometres, which usually takes two hours on a modern express bus. Most intercity routes terminate at major bus terminals, such as Seoul Express or Dong Seoul, which are conveniently integrated into the city's subway system, ensuring a quick transfer immediately upon arrival.

Travelling by car to Seoul offers freedom of movement but requires some preparation for the driver. First and foremost, foreign tourists must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) — without it, renting a car in South Korea is impossible. The quality of road surfaces in the country is excellent, but one should take into account the presence of numerous toll sections on expressways.

Routes from satellite cities are usually comfortable and scenic. For instance, the journey from Incheon to the city centre is about 30–40 kilometres and takes approximately an hour, depending on traffic conditions. A trip from neighbouring Suwon also won't take much time: you can get there in 40–60 minutes via modern highways.

When planning your trip, it is important to remember the intense traffic of the metropolis. During peak hours, entrances to the city and central streets are often gridlocked. Furthermore, navigation can have its quirks, and parking in the centre is often expensive and scarce, so many car travellers prefer to leave their vehicle at the hotel parking lot and use the subway to explore the city.

A trip to Seoul will be an unforgettable adventure if you prepare for the specifics of this dynamic metropolis in advance. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in the capital of South Korea.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The city has four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and very humid, so light clothing and an umbrella are essential. In winter, temperatures drop below freezing, so a warm down jacket will be required. The main rule for any season is to wear maximally comfortable shoes, as the city's terrain is hilly and there will be a lot of walking involved.
2. T-money Transport Card: Immediately upon arrival, purchase a T-money card at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven). This is a universal pass for the subway, buses, and taxis, which allows you to save on transfers. Additionally, the card can be used to pay for small purchases in shops.
3. Money and Payment: The national currency is the Won (KRW). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, even in small cafes. However, be sure to carry cash notes: they will be needed to top up your transport card (machines only accept cash) and for buying snacks at street markets.
4. Health and Safety: Seoul is considered one of the safest cities in the world; you can walk around calmly even late at night. Pharmacies are easily found by the sign "약", but many familiar Western medicines may be unavailable or sold only by prescription, so it is better to pack a basic first aid kit at home.
5. Connectivity and Navigation: Although signs in the subway are duplicated in English, it is better to install a translation app (such as Papago) for communicating with locals. Also, download local maps (Naver Map or KakaoMap), as global services like Google Maps work with limitations in the country and do not provide walking routes.
6. Local Etiquette: The culture of respect is very important here. Receive and hand over money, cards, or business cards with two hands (or by supporting your right arm with your left). Never leave tips in restaurants and taxis — this is not customary and may confuse the staff, as service is already included in the price.
7. Metro Rules: Subway cars have specially designated seats for the elderly, people with disabilities, and pregnant women. Tourists are strongly advised not to occupy them, even if the carriage is empty — this is considered a sign of gross disrespect for social norms.
8. Tax Free: Many shops, including cosmetic brands and department stores, offer an instant tax refund (Tax Refund) right at the checkout when purchasing a certain amount (usually from 30,000 Won). Always carry your passport with you to take advantage of this beneficial option.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid awkward situations and focus on the main thing — enjoying the unique culture, delicious cuisine, and the unparalleled atmosphere of the city.