Seoul

1. How To Get To Seoul by FlightsFor visitors coming to Seoul by air, two main international airports are serving the capital and its surrounding areas. Passengers arriving at either airport will be treated to modern terminals and facilities as well as various dining and shopping options.Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the newest and main international airport in Seoul, and the largest in South Korea. Located 49 km (30 miles) away from the city core, ICN is the regional base for over 80 local and international airlines. In terms of transfer options, visitors can use a taxi, train, or bus to reach Seoul downtown. The easier way is by taxi which can be located outside the Arrivals Hall (1F) of both terminals. But taxis can get quite expensive, as it typically takes 60 minutes to reach Seoul, and the price varies dramatically due to traffic, your destination, and the type of taxis you pick (4 types, 4 starting prices).Alternatively, Airport Railroad Express (AREX) is Seoul’s airport railway line that connects both airports to downtown. Visitors can choose Express trains or All-Stop trains from Incheon airport. The Express train (non-stop) to Seoul Station costs 9,500 won for a 40-minute journey, and the All-Stop train costs 4,150 won for a 60-minute trip. Another transfer option is by Airport Bus (outside the 1F Arrivals Hall of each terminal), there are deluxe or standard buses that vary by ticket price and the number of stops.Gimpo International Airport (GMP) operates mainly domestic flights and limited flights to several major cities in Asia. From GMP, visitors can reach downtown by AREX’s All-Stop train that can reach Seoul Station in 22 minutes, or by airport bus (no. 6021), for the price of 7,000 won, journey to the city center takes around 44 minutes. Taxis are also available and will take around 25 minutes depending on traffic.2. Transportation in SeoulSeoul has one of the world’s most efficient and clean public transportation systems. If you are good with a map, finding your way around the city and its transport systems should be easy as road and transportation signs are posted in Korean and English (and often Chinese or Japanese too). There are also many tourist information booths with English-speaking guides ready to help.The Metro system is extensive in Seoul, visitors can explore the whole city on its 10 lines. Remember to download the Metro map app or get a paper map (from information desks of larger stations) to help your way around the lines and stations. The ticket starts at 1350 won and increases with distance traveled. If you plan to use public transport frequently, then getting a refillable transportation card like T-Money or Cashbee will save your money.Seoul's public bus system is well-established and connects every corner of the city via hundreds of routes. Visitors can identify the route of the bus by its colors, e.g. blue buses travel on major roads for long distances; green buses go between major transfer points. Most bus stops, buses (outside signs), and taped stop announcements onboard are in English, but few bus drivers understand the language. Fares can be paid with cash or transportation cards.Taxis are best for short distances in Seoul, e.g. many hotels are located 10-15 minutes walking from the nearest Metro station. While some drivers can understand English, it is advisable to have your destination written in Korean. There are two types of taxis, regular and black (deluxe). The main differences between them are the model of the car and starting fare, 3,800 won for a regular taxi and 6,500 won for a black deluxe taxi.