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Options For Free Incheon Airport Transit Tours (2024)

Updated: Feb 14, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

When planning a trip that includes a layover at Incheon International Airport , you were probably excited to learn about the free transit tours offered by the government. These tours offer a chance to explore Korea's history, culture, daily life, and even go shopping opportunities without too much time or effort on your part.

Right now the nearly dozen government-run transit tours range from short 1-hour jaunts to longer 5-hour excursions, giving you plenty of options to choose from, depending on your layover duration. With themes like entertainment, hands-on experiences, nature walks, and traditional Korean sites , there's an option for every interest, most of which are kid-friendly.

As you prepare for your trip, also keep in mind that you can only join one tour per layover, and you'll need a valid visa or an approved K-ETA to join a transit tour, regardless of your reservation status.

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Korea Visa Information

About incheon airport transit tours, free cultural transit tours in seoul, free dmz transit tours from incheon, free tours for shopping in korea, paid layover tours from incheon airport, transportation and access, apply for a k-eta.

Before joining an Incheon Airport transit tour , you must have a valid visa or an approved K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization), even if you make a reservation online. The good news is that there's a temporary exemption of K-ETA for travelers coming from 22 countries/regions between April 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024, making a layover tour even easier for many visitors.

To apply for a K-ETA , follow these simple steps:

  • Visit the K-ETA official website and create an account.
  • Fill out the required personal information and travel details.
  • Pay the processing fee (if applicable) and submit your application.
  • Check your email for the K-ETA approval notification within 48 hours.

Remember that transit tours are subject to seasonal availability and run on set schedules, so make sure to check the eligibility criteria and any restrictions for your chosen tour. When planning for a shorter layover (under 4 hours), keep in mind the duration of the tour and the time it takes to get through customs at the airport.

peaceful korea transit tour

Korea Transit Tour Overview

During your layover at Incheon Airport, tour offerings both within and away from the airport can give you a taste of Korean history, culture, and daily life. Available options include a short 4-hour Glimpse into North Korea Tour, as well as various full-day tours from Incheon Airport to Seoul.

To reserve a spot on a transit tour, you can visit the official transit tour website and pick out one that works for your schedule and sign up right then. Keep in mind that you will still have to complete the K-ETA process to enter Korea for these transit tours, so this does not take the place of a visa or K-ETA.

Also note that even if the booking system says that a tour is sold out, you can always just join the exact same tour when you arrive, as they allot less than half the available spaces to the online booking system. Each tour is covered in more detail below, as well as on the official site linked above.

Free Shuttle Bus

As part of the transit tour offering, Incheon Airport also provides a complimentary shuttle bus service for passengers. To board the free shuttle bus, simply show your tour reservation and ticket to the driver.

Remember to double-check the shuttle bus schedule and plan your tour accordingly to ensure you have enough time to enjoy your layover tour before returning to the airport. During your time outside the airport, please also make sure to explore responsibly and always follow local rules and regulations.

peaceful korea transit tour

Gyeongbokgung & Insadong

Immerse yourself in Korea's rich history by visiting the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and the vibrant cultural district of Insadong. At Gyeongbokgung ( gung means palace, so the full name is technically just 'Gyeongbokgung'), marvel at the traditional architecture and witness the changing of the guards ceremony.

Surrounding the palace grounds, which are the largets in the country, the neighborhood of Insadong offers an authentic Korean experience filled with art galleries, tea houses, and traditional souvenir shops.

Hanji Experience Workshop & Sinpo Market

Get hands-on with the traditional Korean craft of Hanji , a unique type of paper made from mulberry bark, in a workshop where you can create your own souvenirs. Later, experience local flavors at Sinpo Market, known for its delicious Korean street food ; this option tends to be rather popular with kids.

peaceful korea transit tour

Yonggungsa Temple

Especially beautiful in the spring and fall, discover the picturesque Yonggungsa Temple, nestled amongst the lush greenery and tranquil mountains surrounding the city. The temple grounds house a remarkable stone pagoda and large Buddha statues that are a must-see for any visitor, and certainly inspire return trips for many.

Jeondeungsa Temple

Alternately, visit Jeondeungsa Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple with over 1,000 years of history and arguably just as beautiful grounds to wander. This tour leaves time for visitors to appreciate the serene atmosphere, traditional architecture, and discover the fascinating stories behind the temple's artifacts.

Hyundai Motor Studio & Yeongjongdaegyo Observatory

It may seem a bit random, but Korea's manufacturing sector is what pulled the country up out of poverty in the latter half of the twentieth century, so companies like Hyundai have been integral to Korea's economic growth.

Car enthusiasts in particular will enjoy a visit to Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, where you can learn about Hyundai's car manufacturing process and immerse yourself in the automotive industry's rapid advances. Finish the tour by taking in the city's panoramic views from Yeongjongdaegyo Observatory, particularly impressive around sunset.

peaceful korea transit tour

Nuri Park & Dokgae Bridge (DMZ)

This DMZ tour takes you to the symbolic Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri Park and the colorful Dokgae Bridge, both representing the hope for peace and reunification between North and South Korea. The park is adorned with colorful flags and captivating sculptures, while the bridge is covered in ribbons inscribed with wishes for peace, and on sunny days you can even see into North Korea.

Third Tunnel & Dora Observatory (DMZ)

This is a different, more historical and battle-focused experience at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. This particular tour covers some of the strategy and realities faced by soldiers on both sides of the war.

It includes a visit to the Third Tunnel and the Dora Observatory, from where you can catch a glimpse of North Korea through binoculars, and a remarkable drive through the countryside to arrive at the DMZ.

peaceful korea transit tour

Paradise City Art-tainment

Art and fashion lovers will enjoy visiting Paradise City Art-tainment, a complex that combines art and entertainment. It's not a venue as frequented by Seoulites, but you could easily pass an afternoon there exploring the various exhibitions, installations, and performances that blur the lines between reality and imagination.

Hongdae Street

This pick takes you to stroll through the bustling streets of the Hongdae neighborhood, named for the local arts university and known for its youthful energy, street art, and vibrant music scene. When you need a break from shopping, you can stop to savor delicious Korean food on the cheap and experience the dynamic culture in one of Seoul's most popular neighborhoods.

Hyundai Premium Outlet & Triple Street

This is the most straightforward shopping tour of all of the options. It allows you to indulge in some retail therapy at Hyundai Premium Outlet, with both luxury and affordable brands, and Triple Street, a trendy shopping complex with a unique mix of stores and cafes.

peaceful korea transit tour

If none of the free transit tours from Incheon Airport interest you or fit your schedule, there are a number of paid tours you can reserve ahead of time. These are also better for larger groups (6 people or more), as some of them can be customized or even just chosen to fit everyone's tastes.

Viator Private Seoul Layover Tour

For those with DIY tastes, Viator offers a private layover tour to Seoul which includes a guide, transportation fpr the duration of your tour, and visits to top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Namsangol Hanok Village.

Admission fees are included in the price of the tour, but if you want to go to any other stops nearby, you must coordinate it in advance. 

DMZ and Observatory Tour

Viator also offers a more intense but even more short DMZ tour with a trip to the famous tunnels dug by North Korea. It takes you to explore the Korean Demilitarized Zone more hands-on, though Viator also offers a version of the DMZ tour with a North Korean defector .

This particular DMZ tour takes you to several of the most important sites during the war, including the Third Tunnel and the Dora Observatory, though it does not take you to the JSA. Note that stops are also carefully regulated, so no schedule changes are permitted. 

Gondola DMZ Tour

Viator also offers a more family-friendly DMZ tour with a Gondola ride and a trip to the DMZ Museum rather than crawling around in the actual tunnels.

This particular tour of the DMZ also takes you an observatory in Paju, the town along the border, where you cna buy North Korean-made products and look at the DPRK through a telescope, though more bespoke DMZ tours are also available .

Private Seoul Tour w/ Meal

Somewhat comparable to the tour from Viator, GetYourGuide also offers a private layover tour from Incheon Airport that generally includes a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace and a few nearby attractions. However this option includes a traditional Korean meal, and is generally more customizable than other options, meaning it can be tailored to your or the group's interests. 

Korean Folk Village Tour

Another option through GetYourGuide is the Korean Folk Village tour, which takes you to a living museum where you can experience traditional Korean life. This tour includes a visit to the museum's various exhibits and performances, and shows you a stark contrast to the many skyscrapers dotting the city. 

peaceful korea transit tour

Seoul Metro (Slower)

If you're planning to strike out on your own for your layover, taking the Seoul Metro to the city center is your best bet. This is both because it's cheaper and because it won't be as affected by traffic as the other options, with the exception of the Airport Railroad (caught from the same place).

Both Terminal 1 (제1여객터미널) and Terminal 2 (제2여객터미널) at Incheon Airport have access to the metro lines, with Terminal one ever-so-slightly closer to the city. The travel time from the airport to Seoul is approximately an hour to an hour and a half, depending on where you're headed, and the time between trains is around 10-12 minutes.

Airport Railroad (Faster)

The Airport Railroad (AREX) is another convenient way to get to Seoul from Incheon Airport, though it's slightly more expensive than the regular metro. It has two types of trains: the express train and the all-stop train, both of which are still faster than the regular trains.

The express train directly connects the airport to Seoul Station, with a travel time of approximately 43 minutes, while the all-stop train stops at sevral stations and takes just under an hour to reach Seoul Station. Both types of trains can be boarded at boarding gates in Terminals 1 and 2, so buy your train or metro ticket carefully.

Airport Limousine (Slower)

You can also choose to take an Airport Limousine bus to reach your destination in Seoul, which is actually how I first went into the city when I moved to Korea. It sounds bougie, but they're not actually limos; they're nice buses which offer a comfortable ride to designated stops throughout the city.

The tickets are affordable and the stops include several popular tourist areas and major hotels. While the distance and travel time may vary depending on your destination, you can expect a journey of approximately 60 to 80 minutes unless there's traffic (I'd recommend taking the metro if you'll be leaving the airport between 4pm-6pm).

Taxi into Seoul (Expensive)

If you prefer a more direct and private mode of transportation, you can always take a taxi into Seoul. There are taxi stands located outside both terminals, and depending on the distance and traffic conditions, a taxi ride into the city can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour.

Keep in mind that this option is generally the most expensive among all methods of transportation from the airport, and many locals now exclusively use the Kakao Taxi app to call for rides, so some of the taxis may be claimed quickly. Just look for the red sign in the taxi window.

In addition to these transportation options, if you need to get between the terminals, there's a shuttle train service that operates from 4:45am to 11:30pm, with roughly 6 to 8 minutes between trains.

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15 Things to do on a Layover in Seoul: Incheon Transit Tour

Incheon international airport, Seoul layover

Home > South Korea

Flying can be a draining experience, especially when faced with long layovers. However, an often overlooked gem during a layover in Seoul Airport in South Korea is the opportunity to explore and enjoy Seoul for a few hours without even having to worry about the cost. The Incheon Transit Tour offers free and paid Seoul layover tours of the city for passengers with extended layovers, making it a fantastic chance to break up the monotony of air travel and immerse oneself in the vibrant Korean culture.

Layover in Seoul

During my time in Seoul, I was amazed at how easily accessible these tours were. The Incheon Transit Tour makes for perfect opportunity to get a taste of Korean history, culture, and daily life, all without breaking the bank. And who knows, it just might inspire you to book your next trip to South Korea ! From breathtaking ancient palaces to bustling city streets, the tour allows you to see the highlights of Seoul, making your layover in Seoul much more enjoyable than simply waiting in the airport.

Incheon Transit Tour Overview

Tour options.

Incheon Airport offers free transit tours for visitors on a layover in Seoul. These tours provide a great opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings without having to worry about planning your own itinerary or sitting at the airport not having much to do. There are several options available, ranging from short 1-hour tours to longer 5-hour experiences. Some of the popular tour options include visiting cultural and historical attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong, or exploring the bustling streets of Myeongdong and Gangnam. I highly value these tours, as they help make the most of my layover in Seoul.

Here is a list of the 15 tours in the Incheon Transit Tour offer:

K-culture zone: hanbok experience, hangeul craft (airport tour) – 30 min, free.

Free Experience Korean culture without leaving the airport at K-Culture Zone. Try on traditional Korean costumes, known as hanbok, and learn about the country’s unique writing system, Hangeul, while crafting your own souvenirs such as bracelets and scrolls.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 (4F East Transfer Lounge) 09:00~16:30

Past and Present: Cheongwadae (Blue House), Tongin Market – 5 hr, Free

Explore the historical landmarks of Cheongwadae and Tongin Market on this 5-hour tour. Cheongwadae served as the official residence and office of the president of the Republic of Korea, and now serves as a museum for art and history exhibitions. Tongin Market is a marketplace for delicious food and fresh ingredients.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 08:00~13:00 (Mon)

Seoul Layover Incheon Transit tour

Tradition: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insa-dong – 5 hr, $3

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first palace of the Joseon dynasty, and Insa-dong, a neighborhood filled with old yet invaluable items. Gyeongbokgung Palace was restored in 1867 after it was burnt down during the Japanese invasion of Korea. Insa-dong is a maze of alleyways filled with galleries, traditional crafts shops, ancient art stores, traditional tea houses, cafes, and more.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 08:00~13:00 (Tue~Sun)

Seoul Layover Incheon Transit tour 1

Peaceful Korea: Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri Park, Dokgae Bridge: 5 hr, $4

Visit Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri Park and Dokgae Bridge, important places in Korean history. Imjingak Park was created in 1972 to comfort those who were not able to return to their homeland following the division of Korea. Dokgae Bridge was the only bridge that connected the north and south prior to the Korean War.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 09:00~14:00 (Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun)

Seoul Layover Incheon Transit tour 2

DMZ: The Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory 5 hr, $4

Explore the Third Tunnel, a cave dug by North Korea to invade South Korea, and the Dora Observatory, situated within the DMZ. The Third Tunnel is often called the Seoul Tunnel due to its proximity to Seoul. Dora Observatory guards the northernmost post of the western front and offers a view of North Korea.

Schedule: Terminal 1, 2 09:00~14:00 (Tue)

Future: Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, Yeongjongdaegyo Observatory 5 hr, $5

Visit Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, the largest automobile theme park in Korea, and Yeongjongdaegyo Observatory, which boasts endless mudflats with skies where planes take-off and land.

History: Jeondeungsa Temple 5 hr, $2

Visit Jeondeungsa Temple, which was established in 382 and gained state protection by the Joseon royal family as it started to store The Annals of the Joseon Dynasty from 1678.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 09:00~14:00 (Thu)

Street: Hongdae Street – 4 hr, Free

Explore Korea’s foremost youth street filled with countless cafes, clubs, graffiti, fashion streets, underground music, and art festivals. This 4-hour tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport.

Schedule: Terminal 1,2 14:00~18:00.

Hongdae Seoul

Experience: Hanji Experience Workshop, Sinpo Market – 3 hr, $0-20

This 3-hour tour takes you to Sinpo Market, which was created during the late 19th century and is known for its sweet and sour fried chicken with spicy sauce. You can also visit the Hanji Experience Workshop and make your own traditional Korean hanji. The cost of the tour is $0~$20, and it starts from Incheon Airport.

Schedule: Terminal 1 15:0018:00 (Tue, Sun).

Shopping: Hyundai Premium Outlet, Triple Street – 3 hr, Free

If you love shopping, this 3-hour tour is perfect for you. Visit Hyundai Premium Outlet, which features a wide array of luxury and trendy brands, and Triple Street, a booming shopping street with many things to see, eat, and enjoy along with cultural facilities. The tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport.

Schedule: Terminal 1 15:00~18:00 (Mon).

Temple: Yonggungsa Temple – 1 hr, Free

This 1-hour tour takes you to Yonggungsa Temple, which is said to be a temple constructed by the Buddhist priest Wonhyo Daesa during the Silla dynasty. The temple was the temporary residence of Heungseon Daewongun for ten years before King Gojong’s coronation. The tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport.

Schedule: Terminal 2 08:00~09:00.

Entertainment: Paradise City Art-tainment – 1 hr, free

If you are looking for entertainment, this 1-hour tour is perfect for you. Visit Paradise City, the first resort complex in northeast Asia that provides enjoyment and cultural experiences such as convenient accommodation, casinos, art gallery, clubs, and more. There is also an art gallery that exhibits more than 2,700 works by famous artists from across the globe, such as Yayoi Kusama and Damien Hirst. The tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport. 

Schedule: Terminal 1 1F 3C every 05, 35 minute, Terminal 1 1F 14C every 10, 40 minute, Terminal 2 1F 2A every 45 minute

Landscape: Yedanpo Trail and Haneul Garden – 2 hr, Free

This 2-hour tour takes you to Yedanpo Trail, located near Incheon Airport, where you can enjoy a comfortable walk in the park and breathe in the fresh air. You can also visit Haneul Garden, a place where you can enjoy the beautiful sky and the vast flower garden. Seasonal flowers will bloom beneath you while airplanes cross the blue skies. The tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport.

Schedule: Scheduled to operate in the second half.

Songdo: Songdo Central Park and Tri-bowl – 2 hr, Water Taxi $4

This 2-hour tour takes you to Songdo Central Park, the first-ever park to use seawater. Visitors can not only enjoy a comfortable walk in the park but also experience water taxi rides, canoeing, moonboats, and more. You can also visit Tri-bowl, one of Songdo Central Park’s landmarks, which has a unique flat ceiling and a round floor. The cost of the tour is $4, and it starts from Incheon Airport.

Seoul Layover Incheon Transit tour 3

Cave Theme Park: Gwangmyeong Cave – 4 hr, Free

This 4-hour tour takes you to Gwangmyeong Cave, formerly known as Siheung Mine, which was constructed starting in 1912 with the purpose of resource exploitation by the Japanese. It was used as a warehouse for salted shrimp for 40 years since it was closed in 1972. Gwangmyeong Cave became Korea’s greatest cave theme park in 2011 after the city of Gwangmyeong transformed it into a historical and cultural tourist spot attracting 1.4 million annual visitors. The tour is free of cost and starts from Incheon Airport. Schedule: Scheduled to operate in the second half. (Note: Gwangmyeong Cave is closed every Monday and may be replaced with a different course.)

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for participating in the Incheon Transit Tour may vary slightly depending on the tour option. Generally, passengers with a layover of at least 6 hours at Incheon Airport are eligible. The passengers must be in transit to a third country or their country of nationality, and not just entering South Korea as their final destination. The tour spots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to reserve a spot as soon as possible upon arrival at the airport.

Visa Requirements

Incheon Transit Tours are designed to accommodate a wide variety of nationalities. For many travelers, a visa may not be required to participate in these tours, as long as they remain within the designated tour areas. Passengers who are eligible for visa-free entry or transit through South Korea can take advantage of the Incheon Transit Tour without having to obtain an additional visa. Remember that the exact visa requirements will depend on your nationality and the tour you choose, so make sure to double-check the requirements before planning your visit.

Seoul autumn

Booking and Registration Process

Reservation methods.

To secure a spot on the Incheon International Airport Transit Tour on your layover in Seoul, it’s important to make a reservation in advance. There are a few options available for making reservations:

  • Online: The preferred method is to register online through the official website or email.
  • Transit Tour Desk: Alternatively, you could book a tour at Incheon International Airport’s Transit Tour Desk located near Gate 8. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bear in mind that most of the tours will be available to people with 6 or more hour long layovers in Seoul. So if you have a 5 hour layover in Seoul or a 3 hour layover in Seoul, the best thing to do is probably just the hanbok experience inside the airport.

Passport Control and Immigration

To take part in the Incheon Transit Tour oj your layover in Seoul, you will be required to pass through passport control and immigration. As a participant of the Transit Tourism Program, passengers from most countries can enjoy visa-free entry to South Korea. However, it is vital to check if your country qualifies for this exemption before booking the tour.

When you arrive at Incheon International Airport and proceed through immigration, you should carry your transit tour reservation confirmation as proof of participation. After going through customs and immigration, you can then proceed to the starting point of the tour, ready to explore Seoul!

I hope you enjoyed this free guide to everything you need to know about the Incheon transit tour and how to best spend your layover in Seoul. For more information visit Incheon Airport’s website.

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Janis Paster

Saturday 4th of November 2023

On Friday, November 17 I arrive in Seoul by plane @ 7:25 am. My flight to LAX the same day @ 2:30 pm Is it possible to have a private car tour of the city for about 2 hrs and arrive back to the airport around 11:30. I’m flying delta Airlines operated by Korean airlines

Monday 13th of November 2023

Seoul is a big city and traveling by car can mean being stuck in traffic a lot. Even coming from the airport can sometimes take 2 hours. So I would probably try and go to Incheon instead, maybe see the Paradise plaza? It's a really cool yellow building often featured in kdramas :)

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Incheon Airport Transit Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Beautiful architecture building Gyeongbokgung palace in Seoul South Korea

How To Book Your Free Korea Transit Tour

Incheon Airport near Seoul in South Korea continues to impress on an international level and win awards year after year for being among the best airports in the world. This is largely due to the convenient and tasteful design, impeccable service and plentiful facilities. For example, there is a Korean culture center, a museum showcasing Korean artifacts; plus: if you have a long layover in Seoul , you can even book a free Korea transit tour – and here’s how!  

If you have a long layover and want to leave the airport and explore Seoul on your own accord, check out these helpful articles:

25 Free Things To Do In Seoul
Seoul Travel Essentials You Can Pick Up From Incheon International Airport
8 Views of Bukchon 북촌 8경 – The Best Photo Spots in Bukchon Hanok Village Seoul

Things To Know Beforehand

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Free Korea Transit Tours at a Glance

There are a total of 9 different transit tours available leaving from Incheon Airport and taking passengers back to the airport after the tour has ended, ranging from 1 to 5 hours in tour length. Check out all tour options below.

Tradition Tour – 5 hours

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung was the first royal palace built in the Joseon Dynasty and is considered one of the greatest tourist attractions in South Korea today.

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This is a very popular part of Seoul and also one of the oldest districts in the city. There is a lot to do in Insadong : You will find dozens of antique shops, folk art galleries and small shops selling traditional items in this neighborhood.

peaceful korea transit tour

Shopping Tour – 5 hours

If you are a shopping lover, Myeongdong is a must-go-to destination, filled with shopping centers, boutiques and duty-free stores. This is also a great place to stock up on Korean skincare and make-up products!

peaceful korea transit tour

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun is one of the largest traditional markets in South Korea. This is the perfect place to try Korean snacks, drinks and purchase some traditional items, such as handcrafted paper art or small souvenirs.

peaceful korea transit tour

Temple 1 Tour – 4 hours

Jeondeungsa Temple

Considered to be the oldest temple in Korea, Jeondeungsa Temple was built in the ate 4th century when Buddhism was first introduced to Korea. The main buddha hall of the temple is a national treasure and a must-see when visiting.

peaceful korea transit tour

Deokjinjin Fortress

This fortress was a strategic defense point for the outer castle wall during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Deokjinjin Fortress was also an important site for several battles, such as the French Invasion (1866) and the American Invasion (1871).

peaceful korea transit tour

Temple 2 Tour – 4 hours

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa is the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and considered the center of Korea’s modern Buddhist movement. Various important Buddhist festivals take place at Jogyesa Temple during the year.

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Cheonggyecheon Stream

Once a small watercourse hidden by an overpass, Cheonggyecheon Stream is an important part of downtown Seoul today. With a 600-year-old history, the Seoul government decided in recent year to undertake a massive urban renewal project.

peaceful korea transit tour

Industry Tour – 4 hours

Gwangmyeong Cave

This cave used to be a gold mine from 1955 to 1972. Today, it’s considered a historic place preserving the modernization of Korea after its independence from Japanese colonialization. 

peaceful korea transit tour

Entertainment Tour – 2 hours

Paradise City Art-Tainment

As the first Korean-style resort complex in Northeast Asia, Paradise City has a lot to offer. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment and culture experiences, including casino games, a club, an art gallery and retail facilities. The art gallery showcases over 2,700 artworks from world-renowned artists, including Yayoi Kusama and Damien Hirst.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Paradise City (@paradisecity_seoul) on Jul 16, 2019 at 7:23pm PDT
Incheon City Tour – 2 hours

Songdo Hanok Village

The term hanok refers to traditional Korean houses made of wood. The Hanok Village in Songdo features several stores, restaurants and a hotel.

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Songdo Central Park

A green oases in the middle of futuristic skyscrapers in Songdo, this park is a great place to experience Korea’s mix of old and new.

peaceful korea transit tour

Triple Shopping Street

This splendid shopping walkway offers a lot of things to see, things to eat and things to enjoy. Do some shopping and try local Korean food.

peaceful korea transit tour

Sea & Shopping Tour – 2 hours

Incheon Airport Maglev Train

Fancy a ride on the world’s first urban maglev train? You can try it out right at Incheon Airport. An experience you don’t want to miss!

peaceful korea transit tour

Eurwangni Beach

Because of its beautiful white sand and gentle slant, this beach is a popular place to hang out throughout the whole year and famous for camping and shellfish.

peaceful korea transit tour

This discount store and hypermarket is a great place to shop for local food, groceries, household supplies, appliances and much more with a global refund scheme for tourists.

peaceful korea transit tour

Seaside Tour – 1 hour

Eurwangni Beach or Masian Beach

This tour either stops at Eurwangni or Masian Beach near the airport. Both beaches are popular among locals to hang out throughout the whole year and famous for camping and shellfish BBQ.

peaceful korea transit tour

Take Advantage of Free Korea Transit Tours

Whether you have a short or a long layover, it’s definitely worth checking out one of the free Korea transit tours at Incheon airport. This gives you a chance to see a little bit of South Korea during your long-haul flight. 

Travel Insurance for South Korea

I’m always surprised how many people travel without travel insurance . For me , it’s as essential to travel as buying a plane ticket, backpack or accommodation, and I never go without it.

Although Korea is very safe, unexpected disasters, accidents or other kinds of damage can always happen.

Adequate insurance not only provides you with medical coverage (if you get sick or break your leg), but also covers things like your camera full of epic shots getting damaged or stolen, your flights getting cancelled, or you getting caught up in a natural disaster.

In short, it’s an insurance against potential issues that arise when you’re traveling and can save your life (or at the very least, a lifetime of debt).

You can also select more than one country, if you’re going on a multi-country trip.

BOOK | I recommend booking World Nomads travel insurance

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Explore Korea On A Free, Visa-Free Transit Tour

October 7, 2019 October 7, 2019 by KKday

peaceful korea transit tour

Seoul is such a big, vibrant city—why stop at the airport? Now, travelers passing through Incheon International Airport don’t need to suffer long layovers bored out of their minds. Instead, it’s possible to squeeze in a quick sightseeing session with the Free Transit Tour Program .

  Hoards of international travelers pass through Incheon International Airport for connecting flights on their way to other destinations. With these travelers already at the country’s doorstep, Incheon International Airport and the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) are taking the opportunity to pull back the curtain and showcase the top attractions in South Korea.

With the Transit Tour program, tourists who are in the airport for a layover can explore South Korea for free, even without a visa, for a day. Choose from a variety of tours present different sides of the country, each one lasting from one to five hours.

1-Hour Tours: Visit Yonggungsa Temple or Paradise City

peaceful korea transit tour

Step out of the airport for the Temple Tour or the Paradise City Tour, which are only an hour-long and perfect for travelers who only have a short time to kill.

It’s a quick trip to the 1,300-year-old Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist temple with an 11-meter Maitreya statue. Stroll along the expansive grounds and see the pair of ancient zelkova trees, which is said to be as old as the temple itself.

On the other hand, Korea’s new multi-complex resort Paradise City is the place in Incheon to indulge in world-class entertainment facilities, including a casino, spa, and a kids’ zone. Marvel at over 2,400 artworks in the art gallery, which displays works from renowned artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Damien Hirst.

2-Hour Tour: Discover Incheon’s Old and New Attractions

peaceful korea transit tour

If you’ve got a little more time, sign up for a tour that takes you on a two-hour journey of Korea’s past and present. Wander around Songdo Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood where streets are lined with houses featuring the traditional hanok architecture.

Then, head to Triple Street to explore the premium shops, restaurants, and cafés at this shopping hub.

4-Hour Tours: History, Adventure, and K-Culture

peaceful korea transit tour

Travelers who can spare a longer tour can embark on a more comprehensive four-hour tour during their layovers.

See another historic temple in the country, the beautiful Jeondeungsa Temple , which dates back to the late 4th century when Korea was first introduced to Buddhism. Visit Deokjinjin, a fortress that defended the Ganghwa Straits during the Goryeo Dynasty and various invasions.

Another four-hour tour is a trip to the Gwangmyeong Cave , a unique attraction at a former gold mining site before it was shut down in 1977. While it’s still believed to contain gold deposits, the cave is now a popular tourist spot as a cave theme park with unique experiences, cultural events, and even a wine bar.  

For fans of Korean entertainment, the K-Culture tour stops by the hip Hongdae , where many of the urban, music, and entertainment hotspots are found. It’s known as one of the havens of indie performers in Seoul with a fantastic selection of vintage shops, clothing stalls, clubs, and restaurants. Drop by the World Cup Stadium to tour the largest football stadium in Asia.

5-Hour Tours: Tradition and Shopping

peaceful korea transit tour

With a five-hour tour, travelers can more fully immerse themselves in the Korean culture. Get to know the traditions of the country by traveling to the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace , the first and largest royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty in 1395. Then, head on over to the neighborhood of Insa-dong to delight over antique shops and folk art galleries.

Meanwhile, shopaholics will enjoy the tour that takes them to popular shopping districts such as Myeong-dong and Namdaemun Market.

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My Experience with a Free Transit Tour at Incheon Airport

Anya Kartashova

September 17, 2019

Gyeongbokgung palace and the Blue House , Seoul, South Korea

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One of my recent trips took me to Incheon International Airport (ICN) which is the primary airport serving Seoul, South Korea. I flew from Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Salt Lake City through Seoul and San Francisco. Unfortunately, my layover in Seoul was clocking in at nine hours, which is rather long even if you stop in at every Priority Pass lounge available. Fortunately, Incheon Airport provides free tours of local attractions to travelers who have daytime connections at the airport.  

peaceful korea transit tour

Gyeongbokgung palace and the Blue House , Seoul, South Korea

What Kind of Free Transit Tours Are Offered?  

No matter your sightseeing preferences, you’re likely to find a transit tour that suits your needs. Whether it’s Korean culture you’re interested in, ancient temples or shopping, there’s an activity for you.

Tours depart between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. and vary from one hour to five hours in length. Depending on when and how long your layover is, I recommend picking a tour that fits your schedule best. Sure, it’s nice when your theme preference and the layover hours coincide, but perhaps going on a tour that’ll get you back in time for your flight is better than missing out on the experience altogether.

Transit tours depart from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. To check out tour themes and schedule, head to   this page .

Who Can Take a Free Transit Tour at ICN?

  • Those who’re eligible to enter South Korea without a visa can take one of the free transit tours. U.S. citizens don’t need a visa, but if you have another country’s passport, check the entry requirements with   Passport Index .
  • Travelers who have a connection at Incheon between two other countries within 24 hours of landing. In other words, Seoul can’t be your final destination.
  • Flyers whose connection is during the day and is long enough to leave the airport, clear immigration and come back in time to catch the onward flight.  

How to Sign up for a Free Tour at Incheon Airport

To sign up for one of the free transit tours, simply head to the   website  and pick an activity you want to enjoy. It’s also possible to reserve a spot right at the airport, but because these tours operate in small groups, there’s a good chance that your preferred tour will fill up by the time you land at Incheon Airport.

I reserved a tour for my mom and me two days before our arrival at ICN, and most spots had been filled, including the tour we would’ve wanted to join had it been available. Instead, we chose another tour that interested us and displayed two open spots.

My Experience with a Free Adventure Tour

The tour my mom and I chose is listed as “Adventure” on the website. It’s a four-hour outing that took our group of 10 to the Gwangmyeong Cave located on the outskirts of Seoul.

peaceful korea transit tour

Photo by Anya Kartashova

After clearing immigration, we found the transit tour information desk in Terminal 1 and checked in with the woman working at the tour desk. She glanced at our passports, scanned both our inbound and outbound boarding passes and told us to wait for the tour to begin.

A mini-van with a handful of other tourists picked us up right outside the terminal and drove for an hour from Incheon Airport before dropping us off at the cave’s entrance. On the drive there, our female guide told us a few things about Seoul and Korea in general but she let us sleep for most of the trip. We had just flown in on a redeye flight and didn’t mind the rest.

The Gwangmyeong Cave is a former gold mine exploited by the Japanese up until the end of World War II that closed in 1977 and reopened as a tourist attraction in 2011. In it, we found light tunnels, aquariums full of exotic fish, a laser show, a haunted house and even a winery.

peaceful korea transit tour

Exploring the cave requires walking up and down several flights of stairs. Some level of fitness is implied, but don’t expect anything crazy.

Overall, visiting the cave was a great way to pass the time while waiting for a flight. It totally won over sitting in a lounge, even a nice one. I’d like to remind you that tour was completely free, including the guide, round-trip transportation and even the entrance fees (about $5 per person).

peaceful korea transit tour

Vivid images dance to music during a laser show inside the Gwangmyeong Cave. | Photo by Anya Kartashova

What Other Airports Offer City Tours?

Not flying through Incheon Airport any time soon? No worries. Several other airports across the globe offer similar transit experiences to passengers.  

Istanbul Airport: Turkish Airlines and Istanbul Airport offer   a sightseeing tour  called Touristanbul to passengers with a connection of at least six hours. Depending on the time of your transit, you can choose from six different tour options, during which you’ll visit certain landmarks. The catch is, you must be flying with Turkish Airlines to take advantage of the free city tour—both inbound and outbound flights. The tours include free transport, meals and museum fees.  

peaceful korea transit tour

Hamad International Airport:   Although   this tour  isn’t free, it still gives you an opportunity to visit Doha, Qatar, during your layover. If you have five hours and 75 Qatari Rials (about $20), you can visit the cultural village of Katara, an artificial island The Pearl, Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif, an old marketplace. It’s also possible to venture out to the desert during a longer layover.

peaceful korea transit tour

The Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island with luxury apartments, marina and hotels build outside the coastline of the capital Doha in Qatar

Narita International Airport: The Narita Airport Transit & Stay Program offers free guided excursions run by volunteers. Although the tours themselves don’t cost anything, you’ll need money to cover transportation and food costs. A dozen   tour options is listed on the website —fit for all types of travelers. You can visit a number of temples, cycle across rice fields or partake in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. All tours provide times (most take three to four hours) as well as the minimum budget needed.

Singapore Changi Airport:   Transiting through Changi Airport and have at least five and a half hours to spare? Then feel free to join the   Free Singapore Tour . Two options are available: Heritage Tour and City Sights Tour, but each passenger can pick only one excursion.

The Heritage Tour takes you to Colonial District, Central Business District, Merlion Park, Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam. The City Sights Tour includes stops at Singapore Flyer, Esplanade – Theaters on the Bay, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.  

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport:   Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Tourist Service Center offers   two free tours per day  to those transiting through the airport. Each excursion is four hours long, and to be eligible to participate in one of the free tours, your layover must be at least seven hours long.

The morning tour takes you to the Qingshui Zushi Temple, Sanxia Old Street and Yingge Ceramics Old Street. The afternoon outing visits the Ximending shopping district and Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings. Pick one and enjoy your layover in Taipei.

peaceful korea transit tour

Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul ,Korea

Final Thoughts

City tours run by airports are a great use of a long layover. It’s a way of turning a dreadful and unpleasant wait in the terminal into an opportunity to visit a new city. My short stop in Seoul made me want to book a proper visit to the country as soon as possible.

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Now Take A Free Transit Tour of Seoul From Incheon Airport

Free transit tour from Incheon Airport

Incheon Airport in Seoul, Korea, has restarted its transit tour programme from the beginning of this year

One of the largest and busiest airports globally, Incheon International Airport in Seoul is also Korea’s largest airport. Which means it sees a whole lot of flyers passing through it on their way to other parts of the world.

From January 1 this year, Incheon Airport has relaunched its popular transit tour programme. Passengers transferring through the busy airport are invited to enjoy a little bit of Korea’s capital, with a free tour of Seoul that departs from the airport terminals. In their waiting time between flights, passengers can choose from seven different options, and tour the major attractions of enchanting Seoul on round-trip tour buses. The tours are led by professional guides. 

Free transit tour from Incheon Airport

Instagram/ @ktoid

To the previous three tour options, four new choices have been added. These include Past and Present , which takes tourists to Tongin Market and Cheong Wa Dae; Peaceful Korea to the Bridge of Freedom and Imjingak Pyeonghwa Nuri Park; History , where visitors will access Jeondeungsa Temple and the Deokjinjin Fortress on Ganghwado Island nearby, and Tradition, which tours Insa-dong and the Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

 Free transit tour from Incheon Airport

Image: Shutterstock What Do I Need To Take A Tour?

You need a South Korean visa or a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization to join a transit tour. Registration on a first-come, first-served basis, can be done at the Information Desks at Terminals 1 and 2. More details about the programmes can be found on the Incheon Airport website .

It seems that you need a transit time of about eight to 10 hours to comfortably take the tours. 

Main image: Shutterstock Also Read : 8 Classic And Cool Things To Do In And Around Varanasi

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Excellent Transit Program

Korean Air turns waiting into a wonderful experience. At Incheon International Airport, take full advantage of our Excellent Transit Program, a grouping of services and opportunities designed to turn "boring" into a wonderful experience.

peaceful korea transit tour

Transit Tours

Free tour programs to get a taste of Korean history, culture, and daily life

peaceful korea transit tour

Grand Hyatt Incheon

Luxuries and services to help transfer passengers refresh and relax

peaceful korea transit tour

Rail & City

Non-stop train service between the airport and inner-city Seoul

peaceful korea transit tour

Peace in Temple

Buddhist culture experience program offered in English for foreigners

peaceful korea transit tour

  • Passengers staying at Incheon International Airport for four hours or longer
  • Entrance fees and meal expenses to be paid by participating passengers (tour guide and bus fees included)
  • Same-day registration processed (reservation recommended as registration is closed on first-come first-served basis)
  • Transfer Desk, 2nd floor of Terminal 2, Incheon International Airport
  • Tel. +82-32-741-3139, 3140
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Transit tours observe the regulations of the Korean immigration authority.
  • Passengers who are denied entry cannot participate in transit tours. For visa- and immigration-related inquiries, please contact the Ministry of Justice. Visit Korea Immigration Service under Ministry of Justice  Open in a new window
  • Passengers who are nations not eligible for visa-exemption agreement must have confirmed onward ticket for a flight departing within 24 hours. However, for passengers using the free transit tour programs, no-visa entry is permitted through the prescribed procedures. Please collect the confirmation slip and receive guidance on immigration procedures at the transfer desk on the second floor of Incheon International Airport.
  • Partner firms and passengers hold all liability for any problems arising form or related to the services/products provided.

peaceful korea transit tour

  • Price: KRW 89,000 (VAT included)
  • Price: KRW 121,000 (VAT included)
  • Board at Gate 2A, 1st floor of Terminal 2 (arrival area), Incheon International Airport
  • Business Hours: 05:30 – 22:00
  • Tel.  +82-32-745-2222

Airport Railroad

peaceful korea transit tour

  • Fare discount from KRW 9,000 → KRW 8,000
  • Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1/Terminal 2) ↔  Round trip  Seoul Station (express train)
  • All fare of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is same
  • Tel. +82-1599-7788

International Seon Center

peaceful korea transit tour

  • 10% discount on Temple Stay and Temple Life programs
  • Tel. +82-2-2650-2200
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Seoul Layover tour

Seoul Layover Tour from Incheon airport

From: US$ 82

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  • Reviews (10)

Tour Description

Seoul layover tour.

  • Private Seoul Layover
  • Pick-up & drop-off from Incheon airport included
  • Enjoy Seoul’s best highlights and discover the most famous Modern and traditional landmarks
  • Try unique Korean dishes or street food made in Korea

Minimum travelers 1      Duration  1 Day

* The tour duration will be adjusted depending on your flight time.

You’re having a layover in Incheon and would you like to visit Seoul? Then this is the perfect layover to discover or rediscover the amazing capital of South Korea. This one-day Seoul layover tour is one of our most popular tours! The itinerary can be changed depending on the flight time, so please contact us first. We will customize the best itinerary for you!

Description

Our tour guide will meet you at Incheon airport first. After a 1 hour drive, we will arrive in Seoul, a city with modern and traditional culture. We will see the  Royal Guard Changing Ceremony in front of the palace .  During the Joseon Dynasty, the royal guards performed the given task by guarding the Gwanghwamun Gate, the entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace where the king ruled the country. Since 1469, the ceremony has taken place and its record has been consulted for the present reenactment ceremony.  The reenactment of the original ceremony began in 1996 and it catches the eyes of passersby, especially foreign tourists, when guardsmen perform the changing of guards in traditional costumes at the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace in downtown Seoul, so you can experience this traditional event in Seoul every day except Tuesday. After the 20mins ceremony, we go ahead to see the beautiful palace. Built in  1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the “Northern Palace” because its location is the furthest north when compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeongheegung (Western Palace). Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and remains the largest of all five palaces, with beautiful buildings such as Gyeonghoeru and Hyangwonjeong Pavilions which are both on top of ponds.

*Royal Guard Changing Ceremony & Gyeongbokgung Palace are closed on Tuesday. We will visit Changdeokgung Palace instead.

Walk along the  Bukchon Hanok Village , which   sits between the two palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung, and Changdeokgung, as well as the Jongmyo Shrine. Unlike other Hanok villages, Bukchon was not created for tourists but is actually a living village inhabited by Seoulites. The village is home to hundreds of traditional houses called ‘Hanok’ that date back to the Joseon dynasty. Today, many of these Hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, or tea houses, providing an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse in Korean traditional culture.

You can choose to have lunch in a restaurant or local market after a half-day tour, or just skip the lunch and visit Insa-dong . Insa-dong is located in the heart of the city is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries, traditional restaurants, traditional tea houses, and cafes.

Have a relaxing and peaceful time at Jogyesa Temple , which is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea, and is also famous for being located in the city. The first thing you will see at the temple are the trees since these locust trees and Baeksong trees are about 500 years old. It’s stated that the main temple was built in 1938, and it is particularly beautiful with all the different colors painted on it, and inside the building is the statue of Seokgamoni.

This is a 7-8 hour private tour that includes a 2 hours round-trip transfer between Seoul city & Incheon airport. The tour itinerary and attractions can be changed depending on your flight time. You can contact us before you make the reservation if you need a custom private tour.

Seoul Layover Tour

Seoul Layover Tour – Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

Seoul Layover Tour

Seoul Layover Tour – Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoul Layover Tour

Seoul Layover Tour – Bukchon Hanok Village

Read our ”Seoul Layover Tour” Blog:

Seoul Layover Tour | Info Sheet,Tour Offers and Reviews!

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  • English speaking driver-guide
  • Private transport with Incheon airport Pick-up & Drop-off
  • Car parking fee, toll fee
  • Admission fees as itinerary
  • Meals, drinks
  • Observatory tickets of N Seoul Tower (Optional)
  • Cable car tickets of N Seoul Tower (Optional)
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • The tour duration and itinerary can be changed depending on your flight time.
  • It takes around one hour for one way transfer between Incheon airport and Seoul city.
  • This is a private tour with private transport, you will not be joined by other travelers.
  • Incheon Airport Pick up
  • The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony & Gyeongbokgung Palace (Changdeokgung Palace on Tuesday)
  • Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Jogyesa Temple
  • Drop off at Incheon Airport

10 reviews for Seoul Layover Tour from Incheon airport

Lauren – November 13, 2022

This tour was great! My mom and I got in at 5am and when we arrived, I already had a message from our tour guide, Eric, telling us he was here and was waiting whenever we were ready. After a quick change of clothes, we met Eric. Since the currency exchange wasn’t open until 6:30am, Eric waited until we were set and then took off for Seoul. On the way, Eric was amazing telling us all about the history and cultural aspects of Korea. We arrived at the palace and Eric took care of everything, walking us through the palace and giving us our own personal tour. After the palace, we went exploring. I love how I was able to tailor the tour to what we wanted to do. Eric was also available to translate for us at the market, but also asked if we wanted to explore on our own and we met at a certain time. We were able to do everything we wanted in an eight hour tour. I highly recommend this tour!

Leelee152 – July 21, 2019

The airport layover tour is fabulous! Our tour guide Jay was waiting for us when we arrived and worked hard to make sure we had a wonderful time. He was attentive to the slightest detail and we had a great time! The tour is flexible so that you can see what you want to and gives you a great experience in Seoul. Highly recommended!

gil b – June 8, 2019

We took a late afternoon-evening tour with Andrew from Onedaykorea tout tumkr. We had a wonderfull time. Espacially recommended the Didi Hadid building.

Kumpet4 – May 30, 2019

We ( My daughter, sister and I) had 8 Hr layover tour in Seoul on 5/10/2019. I contacted Yan Wong ( One Day Korea agent) and told her what I wanted to do in Seoul and she presented me with a wonderful itenerary. Yan Wong is a wonderful agent, very helpful, friendly, she responded very quickly and she gave me confidence that I made the right choice by choosing One Day Korea. We did Gyeongbokgung Palace, Buckchon Hanok Village , Seoul Tower, Pass by the Presidential Blue House and Gwangjang Market. We LOVE everything we did and we had A WONDERFUL time! Our guide Justin Is AWESOME! We LOVE Justin cause he made us feel save ( so protective ) comfortable, has so much knowledge, friendly, helpful and a good photographer. I would recommend One Day Korea to everybody. This Travel agent is so reliable, trustworthy and the most important they make you feel “ Save”.

Kim E – April 7, 2019

I have used this company 2 times in the past 2 years for a tour day during a layover in Seoul with both my daughter and husband. We had the best experiences both days, and saw so much in a day on both trips. The guides are kind, courteous and very knowledgeable about the history and culture of Korea, including the Korean War, and made the day so worthwhile and memorable. They will also tailor a trip to your group’s interests, age and timeframes. Thank you for 2 great trips and the lovely photos!

jairomed – April 8, 2018

This was a great tour to get to know the best of Seoul in one day. We had 12 hours layover and we chose to take this tour given the flexibility with the time and the fact they can customize the tour to your interests. We ended up taking the 6 hour tour to account for transportation from the aiport and back. Our tour guide was Jay, very knowledgeable and very nice all around person. He was very flexible with the schedule; and was very realistic with what we could accomplish during the tour. We ended up very happy with what we did and were able to have a taste of Korean culture for a day. The choice for restaurant was spot on, with great food, fast service and traditional, very tasty Korean food.

derm_traveller – February 20, 2017

We had 24 hours in Seoul because of airport connections, and wanted to maximize our time. We had Jonathan take us around the city. Saw the high spots (literally the Seoul Tower) as well as markets, temples and old neighborhoods. Other than being 20 degrees F (it was winter) and windy, it was a great day.

Eitan P – November 1, 2016

My friend and I had a one day layover in Seoul. Our One Day Korea guide, Smith, provided us with a great tour of the city and was extremely knowledgeable about the city sites and history. It would not have been possible to pack in so many sites without the tour service. I would recommend One Day Korea to others traveling in Korea.

Ed N – June 30, 2016

Our guide, Bryan, who spoke very good English, worked very hard to meet our needs and requests. Our driving was filled with cultural exchange conversation . . . nice! He got us to and from the Incheon cruise port on time into Seoul which is critical to cruise touring . . . can’t miss that ship. He also accommodated our request to recommend a very good local food for lunch which was excellent. We sadly got rained out for the Palace and Changing of the Guard (obviously not his fault), but we visited National Museum as backup which was a stellar facility. I do not want to leave out the office folks (Yan) who worked out the advance touring details with great experience and expertise well before our actual visit. Yan made this easy for us too! I do not say this often, but would give this company a 6 over a 5 if that was an option.

Tara – December 2, 2015

We only had about 8 hours in Seoul and one day Korea helped us to make the most of it. Terry was picked up right on time by the van and we had a good range of cultural visits in Seoul, we will never forget this trip. Highly recommended.

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  • Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays, we will visit Changdeokgung Palace instead.
  • The Royal guard changing ceremony may be canceled due to bad weather.
  • You can take the cable car to the N Seoul Tower, but it depends on you. We usually take our car to the top of the tower instead of using the cable car or walking.
  • Adults & children pay the same price. Infants under age 3 are free of charge without a seat.
  • This is a private tour and private transport, other travelers will not join together.
  • Please let us know if you will carry the luggage during the tour before booking.
  • The tour duration and itinerary can be changed depends on your flight time.
  • We will send you a voucher and meeting point information once your booking confirmed.
  • All payment will not be refunded for any cancellation or adjustment related to personal reasons, circumstances of tourist attractions, traffic or weather past 24 hours before the tour start.
  • Tour can be automatically canceled and get no refund if you are late for more than 1 hour without any notices.
  • The itinerary can be adjusted and the facilities and attractions can be suspended depending on the circumstances of the tourist attractions, such as weather or traffic without any prior notices.
  • If you arrive late for the designated tour time or appear at the wrong place, the lost time is not supplemented to the total tour time.
  • Please note that there may be traffic jams during weekends, holidays or travel high seasons. In these cases, there will be no additional charge.
  • Itinerary can be changed upon driver/guide agreement to the guest’s proposal, in this case, additional car parking fees will be added.
  • If you request to extend your tour time (Not related to traffic), we will charge an additional cost.
  • OnedayKorea will not be responsible for any injury, illness, damage, loss accident, or expense including their consequential loss or economic loss which are caused by whatever sports or activities.

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If you’ve got a few hours to spare in Seoul’s busy Incheon Airport, you might want to take advantage of a great feature here. Incheon Airport has free transit tours of Seoul.

Depending on how long you have to spare, you may be able to take a tour (or multiple tours) of popular attractions around Seoul, the capital city of South Korea.

There are plenty of things to do on a layover in Incheon, but if you have the time, I highly recommend a transit tour or Seoul.

From casinos to caves, shopping markets and ancient temples – there’s something for everyone on Incheon Transit tours.

What are the Seoul transit tours from Incheon?

Seeing parts of Seoul on a guided transit tour from Incheon Airport is simple and a great way to see specific sights of Seoul with a knowledgeable guide to fill you in on the history and significance of some great sights.

The short and sweet of a transit tour from Incheon is:

  • Once landed and done any immigration or baggage collection processes, you head to the Transit Tour Information Desk , located in both terminals of Incheon International Airport.
  • This is where the tour will meet and leave from. If you haven’t booked a tour online, remaining reservations on the transit tours from.incheon are on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • You may have a little free time before your tour leaves. You can freshen up, change or exchange money if needed. Otherwise, check out my.guide to Incheon International Airport.
  • Your guide will then instruct you to follow and you’ll be lead to a coach-style bus.
  • Depending on how long you have, some tours may be too long in duration for your layover. Make sure you double-check with desk information staff.
  • Depending on what tour you decide On, you may have a decent amount of transit time until you reach your destination. While the casino is only a 5-minute drive away, getting into Seoul can take about an hour due to traffic.
  • That’s all you need to worry about on your transit tour from Incheon. Your coach shuttle bus will take you from the airport in Seoul, to the transit tour sights in Seoul, back to Incheon Airport.
  • Many of the tours will give you time for lunch, but you will need to bring some money – also if you want any souvenirs make sure you bring some local currency.

For more information on specific tours, you can read all about the tours offered in Incheon International Airport.

What are the different guided transit tours from Incheon Airport?

Currently, 9 desperate tours are offered from Incheon Airport into various places around Seoul.

Each tour from Incheon into Seoul goes to separate places around Seoul and none of the tours overlap attractions. Meaning if there’s something on offer below that you must-see , you have very limited options of the tours you can take.

Some of the Incheon transit tours are available at multiple times throughout each day to make planning the best transit tour for you a little easier.

Below, I’ll give a quick rundown on each of the 9 tours from Incheon Airport.

Entertainment

Paradise City Art/Entertainment

2 hours long -, leaves at 7am

There’s a whole range of activities and sights in this Korean-style resort. From a casino, to an art museum with over 2700 exhibits on display. There’s a wide range of activities to do in Paradise City in Seoul, from various entertainment to cultural experiences, there’s something for every Incheon Airport layover tour visitor.

Incheon City

Songdo Hanok Village – Triple Shopping Street – Central Park

2 hours long – leaves at 9am, 3pm and 5pm

This tour holds a little bit of everything. Traditional mixes with modern skylines at Songdo Hanok Village, with Songdo Central Park being within close proximity, it’s a uniqe mix of old, new and green. Lush greenery is flanked by skyscraping towers that stretch into the sky. Triple Shopping Street is more than just stores, the culture of Korea is showcased in cultural points of interest.

Gwangmyeong Cave

4 hours long – leaves at 9am

This 4-hour tour visits an old gold mine. Gwangmyeong Cave was closed in 1972, even though gold deposits still exist throughout the cave system. This cave embodies modern industries of Korea established after gaining independence from Japan.

Jeondeungsa Temple – Deokjinjin

4 hours long – leaves at 8am

Built in the late 4 th century, Jeondeungsa is Korea’s oldest temple. Home to a beautiful  Daewoongjeon (Main Buddha Hall), this temple is a beautiful attraction on a Seoul Transit Tour. The second stop on this tour is to Deokjinjin. One of the most important and strategic points in the outer castle wall. This section of the wall was vital in protecting the  Ganghwa Straits during the Goryeo Dynasty.

Cheonggyechon Stream – Jogyesa Temple

4 hours long – leaves at 2pm

Your first stop on this tour, Cheonggyecheon Stream is historically important to Korean history, dating back 600 years. The final stop on this temple transit tour of Seoul from Incheon is Jogyesa Temple. Being the center of the Korean Buddhist movement it’s a great stop on Incheon International Airport’s transit tour itinerary! Make sure to check out the 500 year old white tree that lives here! The temple also holds an annual lantern festival in celebration of Buddha’s birthday

Myeong-dong – Namdaemun Market

5 hours long – leaves at 1pm

Myeong-dong Is hone to plenty of shops, including duty-free outlets and street food opportunities, it’s one of  Seouls most popular shopping districts. Your final stop, Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in Korea. If you can think it, chances are you can find it here!

Traditional Sites

Gyeongbokgung Palace – Insa-dong

5 hours long – leaves at 8am and 10am

Gyeongbokgung Palace was restored in 1867, and was originally built in 1395. It was burned down in 1592 during an invasion by the Japanese. To end this Incheon Airport layover tour, you’ll head to Insa-dong. Filled with antique stores and folk art, this popular neighborhood is a great place to visit from Incheon Airport.

Incheon Airport Maglev Train – Eurwangi Beach – Lottemart

2 hours long – leaves at 1pm

Incheon Airport’s Maglev Train is your first stop on this tour, linking the Transportation Center of the airport and Younyu Island. Eurwangi Beach is second, with beautiful white sands and plenty of water sports, it’s a popular attraction in Seoul. Finally, Lottemart is one of Seoul’s largest supermarket discount stores. Plenty of Baggins to be found here!

Eurwangi OR Masirang Beach

1 hour-long – leaves at 8am or 11am

A short beach visit to either Eurwangi Beach, with water sport and white sand, OR to Masirang Beach, pine trees and wetlands as well beautiful sand are all mixed together.

How do I book a transit tour from Incheon Airport?

It’s super easy to book a transit tour from Incheon Airport. All spots are divided up between online bookings and first come first served in person bookings.

To book your Incheon International Airport transit tour, you need to make your way to the basement floor, or B1, on either the 1 st or 2 nd terminal. Look for the Transit Tour Reservation Desk, this is where transit tours in Incheon  Airport are booked from.

Who is allowed to take a transit tour from Incheon Airport?

Anyone that is allowed to enter Korea is allowed to take a free tour from Incheon Airport.

You must have a connecting flight from anywhere outside of Korea, and a flight exiting Korea within the next 24 hours to be eligible for a transit tour of Seoul. This is the typical definition of a layover.

How much does the transit tours into Seoul from Incheon Airport cost?

The tours from Incheon International Airport are free for the most part. The guide and transport are all complimentary. However, any lunch or souvenirs you want to buy will have to be paid for by you.

There are ATMs in Incheon Airport you can withdraw money From, or exchange currency as well. You should allow a little bit of time to get access to Korean Won to Make sure you’re ready to leave when the tour is ready to begin.

What to expect from a transit tour from Incheon into Seoul

During my layover in Seoul I was lucky enough to take a transit tour from Incheon Airport.

I didn’t need a visa to enter Korea, so I didn’t need a visa to take Incheon International Airport transit tour. After arriving in Seoul, and customs were cleared, my partner and I rushed to the basement of terminal 1, to the transit tour desk in Incheon. (Remember, these tours operate on a first come first served basis, and they are popular!).

We were able to get aboard a 5 hour tour of Seoul. Before the tour left from Incheon Airport we had a few minutes to freshen up and exchange some U.S. Dollar to Korean Won. We set off at 9am sharp, so don’t be late back to the meet up point to depart for your transit tour.

Led out onto a modern coach and set off towards our first destination on this tour of Seoul. It takes around an hour to get into the city due to traffic. So sit back and relax and take in the sights of outer Seoul.

First stop on this city transit tour of Seoul

Almost an hour later, the coach rolled to a stop at Bukchon Hanok Village. This 600-year-old network of alleyways and residential areas is a beautiful insight into ancient Korea and what the country would have looked like.

This narrow streets weave around giving a great view of surrounding suburbs. Please be respectful as this area is just That, people live here, and a group of 25-30 tourists can be quite loud. There are plenty of signs dotting the doors and alleys where your voice will echo through the narrow alleys.

As you look over the rooftops of the ancient Bukchon Hanok Village, there are a few notable things to keep an eye out for:

  • There is a man selling traditional-style pansies made from pumpkin. He even gave out small samples and photos to anyone for free.
  • The roofs of many ancient Korean houses have small little round discs attached to the edges of the ruling. These little decorated discs are known as Wadangs, and if you would like to paint your own, visit a culture center inside Incheon International Airport.
  • It is a common sight for the traditional style dresses, Hanbok’s, are common around these ancient streets as tourists pose in photos.

The second stop on Seoul’s city transit tour – Gwangjang Market

The trip to Gwangjang Market doesn’t take long at all, and you’re there before you know it.

This busy market is a great place to shop for a souvenir of your short trip to South Korea, and also to try some local food. There’s plenty of stalls selling a variety of food, clothing and snacks.

Bibimbap is similar to a salad and one of the most well-known dishes in Korea. It’s served with rice and super filling. There are plenty of stalls selling this popular meal for around 5,000₩. There’s also wonton soup and dumplings if you’re looking for some more tasty things to eat.

All up, you get around an hour to explore the narrow paths of Gwangjang Market. Be careful, scooters/motorbikes are allowed to ride through the congested alleys.

If you’re looking for something else and all shopped out, one of the exits of Gwangjang Market leads to a peaceful river for a quiet walk.

The bus left a little late as it we needed a replacement shuttle bus, there was some issue with the brakes of our original bus. It was a little stressful in making sure we had time to make our connecting flight. The replacement bus was well organized and only set us back around half an hour – in the end, I’d rather be safe, so I was glad to wait around.

In the end, the tour was supposed to finish at 2pm, and my partner and I made our connecting flight at 430pm easily. Even had time for a FREE hot shower at Incheon Airport!

Can I take more than one tour from Incheon Airport?

Yes, you can take as many transit tours as you want from Incheon International Airport. As long as you have enough time in your layover and the tours have spots on then, you can jump on to as many guided tour as you want!

So, is visiting Seoul on a transit tour worth it?

Yes. If you only have a limited amount of time in Seoul, taking a transit tour from the Incheon International Airport is a great way to get a feel for this vibrant city.

Depending on what time you arrive and how long your layover is, your transit tour options from Incheon may be limited, but there are plenty of fun and interesting options to choose from.

If you have the time in Seoul on a layover, and want to go visit a few parts of the city, take a transit tour from Incheon Airport is super easy and worthwhile!

Have you visited any parts of Seoul on a guided transit tour from Incheon Airport? I’d love to hear what you thought of the experience below! Any questions or comments? Drop a comment below as well!

Enjoyed this article? Well here’s what you should do next:

  • Share this post to social media to help others enjoy the tours from Incheon Airport
  • Sign up to Horizon Unknowns Newsletter for tips and tricks on how to travel better! You’ll also get a free 8-page travel checklist to help you travel better.
  • Read more travel-related articles below!

Keep reading about travel:

  • How to enjoy a culture shock
  • Why you need travel insurance
  • Here are plenty of travel tips!

Thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

Ben – Horizon Unknown

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