layover tour incheon airport

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  Incheon airport guide Moving between terminals

Incheon airport guide

Moving between terminals Method

You can use the free shuttle bus to get to the terminal quickly.

※ You may utilize the Airport Railroad to transfer between Terminals. (Time: 6 min, Fee: 900 KRW)

Transit Tour

Transit tour information.

If you satisfy any of the following conditions, you can join the transit tour without a visa. Passengers from visa exempt countries are still need to obtain K-ETA except the countries/regions which got temporary exemption. (https://k-eta.go.kr)

• 1) Visa Free Entry by designation ※ For more specific visa information, Please check this website : https://www.visa.go.kr/
• 2) Transit Tourists Travelling to a Third Country Persons who hold a visa (or permanent residency) to the United States(including Guam and Saipan), Canada, Australia, New Zealand or one of the 32 European countries who transit through Korea to enter the abovementioned countries or persons who stayed in and departed from one of the abovementioned countries and transit through Korea bound for the country of origin or a third country.
• 3) Visa Free Entry for foreign transfer passengers

※ To join the Transit tour, you need under 24hours of layover time. Passengers who have over 24hours of layover cannot join the tour.

※ To register the Transit tour, passport and both arrival&departure boarding passes will be required.

• The passenger arrive at concourse must reach registration desk at terminal 1 & 2 for yourself by using the shuttle train at the basement.
• Tour program may be modified without pre-notification.
• The Space will be shared by the on-line reservations and new registrations by the rule of first come first served upon arrival.
• Korea immigration does not allow multi entry during one single trip to Korea.

Transit Tour Information Desk Location

• 1F Registration desk : <After immigration clearance> Between Exit 1 and 2, Desk number 19, 20
• 2F Information desk : Near immigration(East side)
• 3F Information desk : Near gate 25 and 29

• 1F Registration desk : <After immigration clearance> Near Exit 3, Next to Tourist information desk
• 2F Information desk : In the transfer gate, Near security check
• 3F Information desk : Near gate 231 and gate 268
• 4F Information desk : At the Free Transfer lounge

Q. How to sign up the tour?

All passengers including passenger booked by on-line must show up to main registration desk on the 1st floor with travel documents at latest 30 min before tour starts.

Q. In order to show up right time, what are important tips?

Please avoid transferring to the departure on the 3rd floor but rush to registration desk on the 1st floor. (after the immigration process)

Q. Does the wait-listed passenger still have good chance to join the tour?

The no-show seats pre-occupied by on-line reservation will be released 30 min before tour starts.

Q. How do I return to airport if I lost the group at last meeting place?

If passenger got lost because of the late show up to last meeting point, rush back to the airport not to miss the flight. And entire liability goes to the passenger.

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Things to Do On a Layover at Incheon Airport (2024)

Last Updated: Feb 28, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 85 Comments

As a traveler, one of the most common dilemmas is an unplanned extended layover. It’s happened to me more than once, and what was supposed to be just a quick, hour-long stay turned into a 7-hour distressful wait. This is not what I want for you on your Seoul layover.

If you find yourself experiencing a layover at Incheon Airport, fret not, but be aware that you will need to fill out a K-ETA and Q-Code before arriving at Incheon Airport. You're still going to have a great time because there are tons of things to do in Incheon Airport to have fun while awaiting a flight.

Read on to learn how to make your layover in Incheon Airport a worthwhile experience!

Basics of Travel in South Korea

Before a layover in incheon airport (tips), what to do inside incheon airport, how to sleep at incheon airport on a layover, what to do on a layover in seoul.

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

If only visiting Korea on a layover, you only need the following two documents, in addition to your passport and boarding pass.

Visa or K-ETA : This is the document required by Korea for you to go through customs and/or leave the airport. If you visited Korea before September 2021, even if you didn't need a visa back then, you will need a K-ETA now.

Check the official site to sort out whether you need a Korean visa or K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). These are good for 2 years, and you must apply at least 72 hours before your departure.

Note that from April 2023 to December 2024, citizens of 22 countries will temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit the Republic of Korea: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, the UK, and the US (including Guam).

Q-Code : This is part of the covid tracking system Korea has implemented since the end of 2019. Even though they no longer require you to be vaccinated or take a covid test, they still want to be able track you down if you at some point do test positive for covid. You can fill this out when you arrive.

If you don't want to leave the airport on your layover, for example if your bags are checked on, you don't need either of these documents, though I'd recommend a K-ETA, regardless.

I'm sure that if you find yourself stuck in an airport after a long flight, the first thing that comes to mind is food. It's good then that Incheon Airport boasts a range of restaurants with affordable food you can try.

From fast food to local and traditional delights, you can find these stalls throughout the airport, and most of them are open 24 hours. Lounges also frequently offer one-day access to their buffet tables. 

If you're craving something a bit fancy, there are also a few restaurants which serve gourmet cuisine. For those in the mood for relaxation, passengers can visit any of the airport’s facilities without issue– and you'll be happily surprised to learn that this airport has features not seen in an ordinary airline terminal. 

Exciting activities to do in Incheon Airport include watching a movie in their CGV theater, touring the golf course, or gliding in their massive ice skating rink.

A layover at Incheon Airport may mean that you arrive in Incheon during the wee hours of the morning. Since the airport accommodates flights 24/7, it's pretty natural to expect that there are sleeping zones for weary travelers from around the world.

Within the terminals you can keep your eyes peeled for the designated Nap or Relax Zones to sit in their comfortable reclining chairs, padded benches, and even beds. 

All of this is free for transit passengers who aren’t rechecking bags in Seoul, a fact which often surprises visitors. Because this is Korea , generally these are quiet spaces which encapsulate you from the world. There’s plenty of space where you can park your things, especially on a weekday or during the day.

You needn’t worry about thieves, either, because Incheon Airport has a state-of-the-art security system. You can even safely take a shower after getting your much-needed sleep, though there is a time limit for shower use.

While the standard airport seats are quite comfortable for a short rest, some of you may need more privacy to rest optimally. Incheon Airport Transit Hotel is a good choice that provides a pleasant place you can use all to yourself. 

What they offer is a relatively spacious room with a comfortable bed and full amenities, right in the airport. If you feel like taking a long, heated bath to relax your muscles before slipping into bed, all of their rooms have a shower area which provides this comfort.

You can choose from a range of Korean, Western, and Chinese cuisine to be brought to your room whenever you get hungry, provided by their 24-hour service.

But if you’re on a tight budget or happen to just be getting off the airport metro station at either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, Darakhyu Capsule Hotel provides a reasonable space you can sleep in, rented by the hour.

Each capsule is padded with a luxury mattress, and you can adjust the temperature according to your liking. Moreover, a hub next to the bed lets you conveniently charge all your gadgets while connecting your music to the capsule's surround-sound Bluetooth speaker.

Did you know that you can leave the terminal for awhile during a layover in Seoul? Incheon Airport offers this exciting deal for visitors where you can tour for up to 5 hours and witness some of Seoul’s most famous sights.

Just visit their website and choose what you wish to do before leaving on your trip. Recent tour options include stopping by the Songdo Hanok Village and the Triple Shopping Streets for some retail therapy. Please note that all tours are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19 (except tours inside the airport).

Joining these tours also allows you to preview what it’s like to visit Seoul’s markets, with the goal of enticing you back for a longer trip to Korea. Here you can have the chance to interact with locals and get to know their way of life.

You can even purchase fascinating items like Hanji, a type of Korean traditional paper, or Dojang , a type of Korean traditional stamp, for any friends back home who might want a piece of Korean culture. 

If historical sights are more of your thing, you can visit two of Korea’s famous traditional palaces right in Insadong. What’s convenient about this particular perk to a Seoul Layover is that the tour shuttles leave and drop off at terminal registration desks, which saves you time in getting back to catch your connecting flight.

If you want to do things on your own, you might want to try a real Jimjilbang (Korean spa) experience relatively near Incheon Airport. Siloam Spa is located near the Seoul station and offers relaxing massage that instantly relieves you from fatigue.

Then you can ride the subway directly to Dongdaemun Design Plaza , a breathtaking architectural marvel designed by radical deconstructivist designer Zaha Hadid.

You should now have a good idea of what to do in and outside Incheon Airport if you're in Incheon Airport on a layover right now. I hope you will be able to try a few of these suggestions before you depart for your next destination.

Nevertheless, all of these are just a small portion of the experiences you could have on a Seoul layover— there are countless other places inside and outside of Seoul that provide even more rewarding experiences.

More South Korea

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Reader Interactions

November 23, 2022 at 9:08 pm

Can we go outside Incheon airport with a Canadian passport? I'm planning on wandering outside the airport after our transit tour.

November 25, 2022 at 11:38 am

Yes, you can go outside the airport, but you'll need a K-ETA before getting to Korea.

February 10, 2023 at 9:18 pm

Thanks for taking the time to write all this out & share updated info!

February 10, 2023 at 9:49 pm

My pleasure!

February 17, 2023 at 8:07 am

Do I need a visa to have 3 hours layover in Incheon airport? I am not planning to go out of the airport though. I only have short hours.

February 20, 2023 at 12:43 am

Nope! You won't need a visa or a K-ETA if only transiting and not re-checking bags.

March 01, 2023 at 4:45 pm

Hello! Can a Philippine passport holder apply for K-ETA and use for this transit tour?

March 02, 2023 at 12:23 am

No, unfortunately a Philippine passport holder will need to apply for a visa to avail of the transit tours.

March 10, 2023 at 3:21 am

If my bags are checked through to my final destination, can I still take a Transit Tour outside of the airport?

March 10, 2023 at 11:24 pm

Yes, but you will need to apply for a K-ETA a few weeks before your trip, and set up your Q-Code within 72 hours of your flight.

March 11, 2023 at 7:43 am

Hi, thanks for this guide. I'm flying to Cebu from Tokyo via Incheon airport with 9-hour layover using different airlines. I'm not planning to go out of the aiport while waiting for my next flight, will I need a transit visa or the K-ETA? Appreciate your confirmation. Thank you.

March 12, 2023 at 9:18 pm

Hi, Gie! Unfortunately you will need a K-ETA or transit visa ONLY IF yo have bags that need to be re-checked, since you'll be flying on different airlines. If you only have carry-ons, you're fine since you won't be exiting the terminal.

March 17, 2023 at 2:25 am

@Max, thanks a lot for the confirmation. So you mean even if I have different airlines for the connecting flights, I can still check in my next flight without visa as long as I don't have bags to check in which would require me to pass through immigration. Is that correct?

March 17, 2023 at 10:53 am

Yes, that is correct. You'll just show them your boarding pass to get on to your next flight and they'll wave you through the Q-Code line, which is before immigration. Just be sure to check in for your next flight before you leave, or do it as soon as you land and get on airport wifi, if need be.

Sam Purewall says

March 14, 2023 at 6:18 pm

I am traveling to Thailand from Canada with a layover at Incheon Airport for 2hours. I will have a checked in bag & backpack. I do not plan to leave the airport - do I need to apply for a visa or K-ETA?

March 14, 2023 at 9:15 pm

That's correct. As long as your bags are checked along to your final destination (you'll have to double-check with the airline), then you won't need to apply for a K-ETA or Q-Code.

March 18, 2023 at 11:31 pm

Hi, I and my wife are Indian citizens, traveling to the US on tourist visa. We have a 10 hour layover at Incheon airport. How can we go out and do some sightseeing during this time?

March 19, 2023 at 1:27 pm

I'd say you could spend 4 or so hours in the city and still get back on time for your flight; all you need to do is each apply for a K-ETA, which you can do now, and apply for a Q-Code within 72 hours of your flight to Korea. There are also some government-run tours available now, as of January!

March 20, 2023 at 7:35 pm

I'm travelling from phil by jin air and hve a 4 hrs layover in korea going to US. From incheon airport terminal 1 need to transit to terminal to for change plane, which is delta airlines. I have bags to recheck but not planning to outside the airport. Do i still nees K-eTa?

March 20, 2023 at 8:12 pm

Yes, unfortunately you'll need either a K-ETA or a transit visa, since you'll need to go through customs to recheck your bags & change terminals.

March 21, 2023 at 2:49 pm

We are Canadians transferring at Incheon airport. During the 15 hours layover, can we pass the customs/immigration and stay in a hotel nearby the airport without bringing our checked-in luggage with us because the luggage will be directly transferred or checked in to the flight to our destination? Thanks.

March 21, 2023 at 11:38 pm

Yes, you can leave through customs with a K-ETA applied for in advance, but unfortunately you'll have to double-check with the airline whether or not they'll check forward a bag for a layover of such a duration.

March 22, 2023 at 7:49 am

Hi, we are Filipinos and we have a flight from US to Philippines and we have a 13hr layover in Incheon. We are planning to go out and explore a little bit. Do we need a visa/K-ETA? Thanks btw for the information.

March 22, 2023 at 3:22 pm

No problem! But yes, to leave the airport & go through customs, you'll need a transit visa.

March 22, 2023 at 11:04 am

I'm Burmese citizen going to US by Korea Airline and have 10 hours layover time. Can I joint transit tour and what do I need to prepare? Any Visa need?

March 22, 2023 at 3:23 pm

Yes, you can join a tour, and just need to sign up ahead of time, but you will also need a transit visa.

March 23, 2023 at 6:37 am

@Max, Can I get transit visa on arrival? Or do I need to apply before? Thanks for your information.

March 23, 2023 at 2:17 pm

You'll need to apply beforehand! 🙂

March 26, 2023 at 10:18 pm

Please elaborate when you stated that "All of this is free for transit passengers who aren’t rechecking bags in Seoul". We are traveling from the US to the Philipines soon. We fly with one airlines, have an overnight layover in Incheon, then fly out with another airlines. Does that mean we have to recheck our bags, and if we do then does mean the airport amenities are not free? Thank in advance for your response.

March 27, 2023 at 12:30 am

Yes, you do have to re-check your bags if flying with two different airlines (assuming you have checked bags rather than only carry-ons). All of those amenities are still free for such passengers, but you won't likely get much use out of them, because if you need to re-check your bags then you won't be able to re-enter the airport terminals until at most 3 hours before your flight (when most desks will open for bag check). If you flew on two different airlines but DIDN'T have any bags to reclaim and re-check, then you could avail of the free nap zones regardless because you wouldn't need to go through customs to reclaim your bags.

Tuujuu says

March 28, 2023 at 12:45 pm

Hello! I am flying from Canada to Mongolia. I’m planning to go out and sightseeing while waiting for my next flight, will I need a transit Visa or the K-ETA? I am a Mongolian passport holder. Appreciate your help. Thank you.

March 28, 2023 at 6:35 pm

Yes, you will need one of those two-- you can visit the K-ETA site to see, but it looks like you will need a visa in order to leave the airport for a transit tour.

Katie Mac says

March 29, 2023 at 10:22 pm

I have a long layover in ICN (22 hours) and would love to leave the airport to do some sightseeing and shopping for make up and cosmetics. If I have one bag already checked to my final destination, can I check a new baggage when I come back from my shopping haul during my layover?

March 30, 2023 at 2:51 pm

That's more a question for your airline (even as to whether you can check a bag for such a long layover), but I suspect that if you have the ability to check two bgs, you can check a second one later on, before going through security.

March 31, 2023 at 10:11 am

I just saw where US citizens (and 21 other countries) are not required to get a K-ETA effective April 1, 2023. Is that correct?

April 02, 2023 at 12:35 am

Hi, Alan! Yes, this is a new and temporary policy, I think to help boost tourism post-covid. From April 2023 to December 2024, US citizens will temporarily not need a K-ETA in order to visit Korea. I'll update the post, thank you.

April 04, 2023 at 11:45 pm

a Philippine passport holder can avail this program? if yes, is visa needed?

April 05, 2023 at 7:28 pm

Yes you can, but yes, a visa is needed ahead of time.

April 17, 2023 at 12:19 am

To my understanding passengers with long layover can leave the airport without a visa?

April 17, 2023 at 12:42 pm

Only if you're from one of several countries for which they've temporarily suspended the need for K-ETAs: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam).

Jona Galandeynes says

April 13, 2023 at 2:02 pm

I have a Philippines passport and a US immigrant (green card) and I have a 10 hours layover can i go for a city tour? Do I need a Visa?

April 13, 2023 at 2:29 pm

Hi, Jona! You can go on a city tour, but unfortunately, you do also need to go to your nearest Korean consulate in the US to apply for a visa beforehand (as opposed to needing to go to the Philippines to apply).

April 14, 2023 at 3:41 pm

@Max, Thank you. Can I also apply when I'm in the Philippines? Do you know how much?

April 15, 2023 at 12:58 am

Yes, you can. It's actually free for Filipinos to get a South Korean tourist visa!

April 16, 2023 at 11:57 am

Hi! I will be travelling from the Philippines to NYC with a 2 hour lay-over in Incheon via Korean Airlines. My bags will be checked though, I just want to confirm, I do not need any visa right?

April 16, 2023 at 11:58 am

Correct, if your bags are checked-through then you don't need a visa, as you'll stay in the terminals the whole time.

April 16, 2023 at 8:35 pm

I have a US passport , and fly in to ICN as a standby passenger , but have lay over night to fly the next morning. I like to spend time excursion. When I tried to do K-ETA , they said that I don't have to , is it right.?

April 16, 2023 at 8:59 pm

Correct! Yeah, you no longer need a visa or K-ETA with an American passport, at least until the end of 2024.

April 17, 2023 at 12:23 am

What if I am holding Philippine passport and a US B1/B2 visa? Do we still need a visa? In 2018, I was grateful to be given a chance to visit Korea due to my long layover without a Korean visa but just by presenting my Filipino passport and a US B1/B2 visa.

April 17, 2023 at 12:56 pm

Yes, unforunately since covid they've changed their policy, including suspending the temporary visas for transit passengers to/from the US. If you're in the US, though, you can apply for a transit visa form th e US (wherever the nearest consulate is).

April 16, 2023 at 8:58 pm

Ive heard the terminal 1 Transit hotel is closed. Is it possible to go from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 for the transit Hotel there. My wife would need a Visa to enter Korea but we only have a 20 hr layover and no Visa for her.

April 16, 2023 at 9:02 pm

Yeah, it is temporarily closed, possibly until as late as August, but you may still be able to rent a room at the airport hotel. Unfortunately there's no way to go between the terminals unless you have a K-ETA or K-ETA Exemption/visa.

April 17, 2023 at 1:31 pm

Hi there! i'm traveling from Vietnam to the US and have a 8 hour layover in Incheon. I'd like to leave the airport and tour the city during my layover. It looks like I don't need a K-ETA visa, but it's recommended. So do i need a KETA or no? Also, any suggestions on what a family of four with two small children could do during the 8 hour layover?

April 17, 2023 at 9:28 pm

Hi, Kate! If you have US passposrts, nobody in your family needs a K-ETA or visa until 2025. I'd recommend joining one of the free city tours if you have little kids (organized transport & activities).

April 17, 2023 at 6:07 pm

if I come into ICN and not sure what terminal we will be in , and I like to RSVP for "Steet(Hongdae Street)" . is the 2 terminals is very far from each other if I end up pick the wrong one.

April 17, 2023 at 9:29 pm

Hi, Tana! The terminals are about 10 minutes apart, so not too hard to travel between the two.

May 02, 2023 at 6:11 pm

Flying from SFO to MLA thru Korean Airlines with layover in Incheon, can you direct me where is the Free Nap zone at airport Terminal 2? Thank you

May 04, 2023 at 10:24 am

Sure! Rather than describe it, here's a link to a map: https://www.airport.kr/ap/en/trn/trnServiceDetail.do?SN=1945

Enjoy your trip, Elena!

May 03, 2023 at 12:32 am

I am a US citizen planning to transit in Seoul for 21 hrs in August 2023. Are the city tours offered for transit passengers still running? Does anyone know a website with these details of these tour schedules?

May 04, 2023 at 10:28 am

Yes, the transit tours resumed rather recently, so there's not a ton of info available yet, and not all tours are available each day, but check out the options here: https://www.airport.kr/ap_cnt/en/trn/tour/trcose/trcose.do

Aileen says

May 14, 2023 at 8:47 pm

Thanks for all the useful info!

Me and my husband plus our 2 kids(9&4) will have an 11 hrs 40 mins layover this coming July at Incheon. Our plane will land at 5am. From what I see, the tour time we want to join in runs from 8am-1300. Our flight to USA is at 4:40pm. So we have like 3hrs 40mins remaining before the flight, will this be enough time to re-enter the airport etc. so we dont miss our flight? We will be on Korean Airlines Manila to Incheon to USA so I assume we do not need to recheck our bags (but I’m not 100% sure).

Another question. If we are going to do the transit tour, is there a place at the airport that we can leave our hand carry luggages? Where there be a fee? Thank you in advance! Appreciate it!

May 14, 2023 at 10:09 pm

You're very welcome! Yes, that should be plenty of time to get back to the airport and to the terminal, especially if you have your bags checked through. And yes, you can put your hand-carry in the luggage storage, but there is a fee depending on the volume and length of storage; there are a couple of options in the Incheon arrival terminal.

May 21, 2023 at 1:18 pm

Hello, I've been searching hours through countless websites, I hope you can help me. I am a Philippine passport holder flying to Canada with student visa permit and I will have a long lay-over in Seoul ICN. (Less than 24 hours) I booked two separate flights that means I need to claim my baggage. Do I need a visa just to claim my baggage even If I do not have plans to go out if the airport.

May 21, 2023 at 3:11 pm

Unfortunately, from everything that people have told me from their experiences, that does mean that you'll need to apply for a transit visa from your local Korean consulate. You can look into the K-ETA and see if there's a visa/green card section, but everyone who's commented back said that they were unable to just get into the country with only a visa or green card from a K-ETA-exempt country like Canada.

June 01, 2023 at 11:00 pm

For clarifications. As a Philippines passport holder, I can go out without a tourist Visa? If it's only for a few hours? I just need to fill-out K-ETA? Sorry for all the questions. Thank you in advance.

June 01, 2023 at 11:14 pm

No, unfortunately Philippines passport holders cannot apply for a K-ETA and still need to acquire a transit visa for Korea, even if it's for a short layover.

Meghan says

June 18, 2023 at 7:40 am

hi! i have a long layover and wanted to explore. What should i write on my arrival card for address since i’m only going out to explore? also was it easy going back in to the airport after going out??

Thank you so much 🙂

June 19, 2023 at 2:51 pm

Whenever I have a layover in Seoul, I find a reputable hotel and use their address and phone number. If you have a super long layover and they ask why you ‘booked a hotel,’ just tell them you wanted somewhere to rest. They really won’t question you further, and in over half a dozen layovers at INC, I've never had them ask to see my booking.

And it's generally quite easy going back into the terminal after exploring on a long layover in Incheon, but keep in mind that you'll need at least 2 hours and for some places 3 hours for the roundtrip from Incheon Airport to Seoul proper, plus arriving back at the airport another hour or two before your flight (whether re-checking a bag or not). So I'd recommend having at least a 6-hour layover if you're going to leave the airport, or if the timing lines up, joining a government-run tour for a 4-5 hour layover (since they provide the transport).

Enjoy your trip!!

Gregg H says

July 31, 2023 at 8:10 pm

I have a 14-hour layover and want to visit the Skygarden and Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul. One question I haven't seen asked is what to do with luggage. Delta will not hold by bags for that long. Are there lockers for rent at the airport? What options do I have? Thank you.

August 01, 2023 at 3:01 pm

Yes, there's a luggage holding/storage company in the arrivals section of both terminals; they charge by the hour, so you can keep your stuff there as long as you need. I'll add that info to the post, thank you.

August 01, 2023 at 4:29 pm

@Max, thank you for the quick response. Good to know that there are lockers at the airport. I later saw that there were Bounce locations near Seoul Station (plus lots of other places) and I was prepared to haul my luggage on the train into town.

August 09, 2023 at 5:23 pm

Hello, I am a Philippine passport holder but a Permanent resident of Canada. I have two connecting flights. From Calgary to Vancouver, Vancouver to Incheon, then Incheon to Manila. There is a 14-hour layover in Incheon and I am planning to explore Seoul during the layover. Do I fall on transit tourist traveling to a third country without a visa or I still need to apply for a tourist visa? Thank you in advance.

August 10, 2023 at 2:17 pm

Hi, Tyn. So from my research, you kind of fall under both-- you'd be eligible for a B2 visa as a permanent resident of Canada, but I'm not exactly sure how you can apply for the visa or if it's automatic upon arrival. Check out this official page for more info.

August 13, 2023 at 9:57 pm

Hi, I have a 15-hour layover from 05:40 to 20:40. Does it take long to check back to Incheon airport? Also, how much time would I have to travel to Seoul?

August 14, 2023 at 2:05 pm

I would leave AT LEAST an hour each way to get to/from Seoul, and a safe buffer is 3 hours early to your flight (in case the return tot he airport hits any snags), so since your layover is during the daytime, you should have 9 or 10 hours to enjoy the city. It's pretty straightforward to check back in at Incheon, but lines can be quite long on weekend evenings, so I may even leave a 3.5 hours buffer for arriving back to the airport before your flight, as traveling around Seoul at rush hour (4pm-6pm) will be its own kind of busy. Definitely leave your bags at the airport lockers (paid), if you have big bags!

February 19, 2024 at 2:43 am

HELLO. I AM FLYING BACK TO US WITH A 15 HR LAYOVER IN INCHEON. FIRST, U STILL OFFER FREE TOURS OUTSIDE OF THE AIRPORT? SECOND, ACCORDING TO THE POST, IF I AM FROM US, FROM APRIL 2023-DEC 2024- I WON'T NEED A K-ETA TO GO OUTSIDE RIGHT? LASTLY, Q CODE AND K-ETA ACCESSIBLE ONLINE TO APPLY 72 HRS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL

ONE MORE THING, WHERE DO I SIGN UP FOR THE FREE TOURS OFFERED?

February 22, 2024 at 1:12 pm

Hi, yes you will be able to visit Korea without issue using a US passport before the end of 2024, and there are still free tours outside the airport for layover visitors; you can read more about those in this article .

Kirsten Li says

February 21, 2024 at 4:23 am

Hi, I hold a Chinese passport and fly from Vancouver to Hong Kong via Seoul. I have 15h stopover, so if I wanna go out and have some sightseeings (not the day tour provided by the airport), do I need a K-ETA? Thank you!

February 22, 2024 at 1:13 pm

Kirsten, yes you would need a K-ETA to exit the airport, and possibly a tourist visa.

February 21, 2024 at 9:01 pm

I'm a Philippine passport holder and will have a layover from Vancouver to Incheon and then from Incheon to Manila. I need to re-check my baggage at Incheon but I am not planning to leave the airport. My flight is on the same terminal. Do I need to have a visa?

February 22, 2024 at 1:15 pm

From what the Korean consulate told me, yes you will need a visa to go through security to re-check your bags.

U.S. Passport Travel Requirements says

April 03, 2024 at 2:18 pm

Nice post. It's very well thought out and quite informative. Keep it up.

April 03, 2024 at 8:23 pm

Thank you for the kind words! Much appreciated.

Josh Ashraf says

April 27, 2024 at 2:06 pm

I appreciate your piece of work, thanks for all the informative articles.

April 28, 2024 at 4:11 pm

My pleasure, Josh! I'm glad you found it helpful.

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

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.

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)

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)

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)

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.

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.

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.

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 :)

14 Amazing Incheon Airport Layover Tips 2023: Make Time Fly

Most people hate the idea of a long layover at an airport when they’re travelling between countries. I can certainly understand why as most airports are boring and have few things to do. If you have an Incheon Airport Layover, however, then you’re in luck. There are so many things to do, see, buy, eat, and experience at Incheon Airport during a layover that you’ll wish you had more time!

From free tours into the city, to casinos, saunas, cinemas, and even free cultural events, there’s so much to do during an Incheon Airport layover!

Find out why Incheon Airport has been ranked as one of the world’s best airports for so long and uncover some of the secrets of turning an Incheon Airport Layover into a holiday in itself.

I want to share with you 14 amazing Incheon Airport layover secrets with you to help you make the most of your layover. Whether you’re in the airport for a few hours, or even a whole day, you’ll find loads of great things to do. You might be surprised that an Incheon Airport layover can turn into a real dream!

For those who are travelling into Seoul, then you will definitely want to check out my really useful guide to getting from Incheon Airport into the city, whatever time of day you’re travelling.

How To Get From Incheon Airport To Seoul

Read on to find out all the awesome things you can do at Incheon Airport during a layover.

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What to Do on a Layover in Incheon Airport (Seoul)

Updated: Feb 14, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 166 Comments

Incheon Airport, also known as Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN Airport), is the largest airport in South Korea . It consistently ranks as one of the best in the world, and if you're reading this, you're probably facing a layover in Seoul soon (or even right now).

So below are my top tips for surviving an Incheon Airport Layover, after 4 years living in Asia and several transits through Incheon— not to mention 3 years living in South Korea !

• 🗺️ About Incheon International Airport in 2024
• ✈ What to Do In Incheon Airport?
• 🚈 Changing Terminals in Incheon Airport
• 🧳 Overnight Layover in Incheon Airport (Rechecking Bags)
• 😴 How to Sleep at Incheon Airport (Layover)
• 🚕 Things to Do on a Layover in Seoul (Long or Short)
• 🛫 Seoul Incheon Airport FAQ

🗺️ About Incheon International Airport in 2024

Incheon International Airport is located west of Incheon’s city center, on an artificially created island about an hour and 8 minutes away by rail (AREX) from Seoul City proper. Terminal 1, shaped like a traditional Asian Torii Gate, handles Asiana Airlines and international flights.

The concourse in the middle handles other international flights; and Terminal 2, which is shaped like a claw, handles Korean Air, Delta Airlines, KLM, and Air France flights (see below for more info).

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

For those only visiting Incheon on a layover , you only need to present a Q-Code and K-ETA if you have a checked bag that you need to pick up & re-check in Incheon Airport (for example, if you booked those two flights separately).

If you are arriving at the airport for your layover on the same ticket with a checked bag, it will be checked onto your destination for you & you don't need to show proof of arrival visa.

✈ What to Do In Incheon Airport?

There are tons of things to do in Incheon International Airport. There’s free WIFI access, a variety of eateries, stores to shop in, various recreational facilities, sources of entertainment, and cultural experiences for travelers.

Visitors only in Seoul for a day should make full use of Incheon International Airport’s amenities. There are nursing rooms for mothers to take care of their infants and play areas to preoccupy kids, as well as multiple prayer rooms for private worship.

Multiple pharmacies are on-site, as well as clinics ( Inha University Hospital ) which assisted in the mandatory COVID-19 testing during the pandemic. If you need to freshen up, free showers are available . Transit passengers are provided free bath kits, but otherwise these can be purchased for a small fee.

For those who want to, the Incheon Airport terminals can be a great place to shop. There are many Duty-Free stores, luxury brand goods, and popular South Korean souvenirs for sale, such as hand fans and pottery. Cosmetics are also big in Korea, and the Seoul, Korea airport offers a decent selection.

Incheon International Airport is also big on art and architecture, much like the rest of Korea . There are many modern interactive fixtures laid about including seven gardens within the terminals to visit, each with their own design and theme.

These are the Pine Tree Garden, Flowering Tree Garden, Rock Garden, Flower Garden, Cactus Garden, Water Garden, and the Four Gracious Plants Garden. If you want to know more about the state-of-the-art operation of Incheon’s International Airport, consider visiting Terminal 2’s PR Observation Deck .

There they offer multimedia experiences and displays to express the airport's history and inner workings. One particularly interesting virtual tour is the 360° VR view of the baggage handling system. For those with more of an athletic interest, there is a skating rink called Sky Forest at the Airport Transport Center.

There is no entrance fee, but you will need to rent skates unless you happen to have a pair of your own on hand. Also near the transport center is a CGV Movie Theatre that features screenings that are up to date with worldwide releases.

For people who would like to take an exercise break there is the Digital Gym as well various spa and massage services. The Digital Gym features an interactive visual workout that is fit for a variety of ages.

Spa on Air Incheon in Terminal 1 can provide some relaxation from flights, but the shared spaces can become quite busy. If you’d like a more extended break, you can rent a private sleeping space for a higher fee. But keep in mind that Seoul International Airport also has a great assortment of places to eat.

There’s a food court called Korean Food Street that offers a small variety of typical Korean dishes all sold in one place. In addition, there are several local cafes and Korean food chains that are popular with Koreans, as well as a couple places to make a cup of ramen .

For the not-so-adventurous, western food chains also make their presence known in Incheon International Airport, the most notable one being Shake Shack . Convenience stores are easy to locate, for those looking for snacks and drinks. Food is also provided for by the many lounges if you are a pass holder and have access to them.

I often end up in Terminal 2 with Korean Air and Delta Airlines, and the pickings are more sparse than in Terminal 1. I highly recommend the Earl Grey ice cream at Viola Cafe in both Terminals 1 & 2, which makes the ice cream right in front of you using dry ice.

Finally, consider also visiting the Culture Experience Center for an insight into Korean domestic life. If you’re lucky you may come across a South Korean cultural procession walking the Korean airport grounds in their traditional garb.

🚈 Changing Terminals in Incheon Airport

When you arrive at Incheon Airport, it will be at either the Concourse, Terminal 1, or Terminal 2. Each of the terminals has a separate subway stop (for your return flight), though the airport also provides a shuttle between the concourse & terminals that takes 5-10 minutes each way.

Most of the airlines fly from & to Terminal 1 or the Concourse (which redirects to Terminal 1). But the newer Terminal 2 is host to nine popular airlines: Korean Air, Delta Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, KLM Royal Airlines, AeroMexico, Xiamen Airlines, China Airlines, Aeroflot Russian Airlines, Air France.

To change terminals in Incheon Airport, you need to head down to level B1 (regardless of terminal) and follow the signs for the 'Shuttle Train.' There will be one additional security check as you transfer terminals, but it's less thorough than the ones done on new passengers, and any checked bags you have will continue with the airline.

🧳 Overnight Layover in Incheon Airport (Rechecking Bags)

If your bag isn’t being checked onwards by your airline and your layover is overnight, then you’ll need to claim & re-check your bag(s) 3 hours or fewer before your flight. When you land, you’ll also have to do all of the regular exit procedures for Incheon— go through security, scan your Q-Code, and pass through customs— then claim your bag and go to the capsule hotel in your chosen terminal (see below).

If you need to change terminals : you can stay in either terminal to sleep, or if it’s before midnight when you grab your bag, you can continue your journey by taking the Seoul Subway (AREX train) between the terminals. This will cost about 600KRW (45 cents USD) and you can pay with a credit card.

If you’re totally exhausted, you can head directly to the capsule hotel in your Terminal 1 (there are signs) and head to the other Terminal in the morning when the subway reopens around 5:30am. But for an overnight layover I highly recommend booking your room ahead of time  here for Terminal 1  or  here for Terminal 2 .

Most of the shopping in Incheon Airport, especially duty free, is open from 6:30am-9:30pm every day. So if you have a late enough flight, you’ll probably have time to check out some stores before you leave. Just keep in mind that duty free employees will check your final destination and may limit any alcohol or tobacco purchases based on the rules in that country.

😴 How to Sleep at Incheon Airport (Layover)

Waiting for a flight can be tiring. Depending on the length of the layover, Incheon International Airport has different options available for travelers looking to get some rest.

Incheon Airport Nap Zone

As long as you don't mind, passengers are allowed to sleep on the benches and seats they find themselves waiting in if they can get comfortable. However, I recommend finding a designated Nap Zone and securing a lounge bed. 

They’re located on the 4 th floor of Terminal 1, near gates 25 and 29; in Terminal 2, near Gates 268 and 231; and in Concourse near Gate 118. In Terminal 2, there are shower rooms at the start and end of the nap zone (priced at $6 for transit customers and $13 for everyone else, with shower rooms open from 5:00-23:00).

If you plan to nap, make sure you keep an eye on your belongings or secure them in a locker to avoid theft.

Incheon Airport Hotels

For greater privacy within the airport, there’s the option of booking a room at a Transit Hotel or Capsule Hotel . Rooms are available from 6 hours, half a day, and full-day blocks. Booking is open 24 hours, but is only available for transit passengers.

Alternatively, DarakHyu Capsule Hotel in Terminal 1 offers shorter stays starting at just 3 hours, albeit smaller rooms (they also have a DarakHyu Capsule Hotel in Terminal 2 ). Outlets are available to keep devices charged and some rooms even have their own showers. Another option is to book a hotel outside the airport terminals.

Rail and shuttle transport are frequently available to take you to and from the Seoul, Korea airport. Grand Hyatt Incheon and Paradise City Hotel & Resort for example are quite close to Terminal 1, and the commute will only take three minutes once you’ve made it onto the transportation of your choice (Seoul metro is recommended)

🚕 Things to Do on a Layover in Seoul (Long or Short)

What makes Incheon International Airport stand out is the variety of activities and attractions available for travelers who find themselves there on long layovers. Apart from the hours you can spend on the entertainment and recreational facilities within the airport in Seoul, I also recommend immersing yourself in South Korea's culture and environment through the Free Transit Tours .

Incheon International Airport offers transit travelers tours for passengers to have a structured layover in Korea, and fully experience what South Korea has to offer. After getting approval stamps from immigration & customs, transit passengers can take trips to heritage sites and even Seoul proper.

There are specific tours for different interests, and they can vary in length. For example, the Changdeokgung Palace tour allows visitors to try wearing a Hanbok (a traditional Korean garb), and it can take up to 5 hours. 

Transit travelers on layovers in Incheon Airport are advised to keep in mind their boarding time and make sure to have ample time to get back to and check in their flight at the terminal. Two stops away from the airport by rail is Paradise City Resort .

They have a casino, a few amusement-park rides, and multiple spas, as well as hotel room accommodations .  South Korean nationals are not allowed to gamble, so be prepared to present your passport and identification if you want to play.

For golf lovers there is Sky72 Golf Club . Both the golf course and a driving range are available for use. Golf club sets can be rented, and they have unlimited ice cream in sheds along the course (seriously). There are also many attractions and landmarks in Seoul city proper, like COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, theaters and museums, N Seoul Tower, and others.

However, unless there is ample time available on your Incheon Airport layover, you might find yourself exhausted chasing attractions before your flight. Considering all your options, a long layover at South Korea’s Incheon International Airport is highly desirable.

The only real consideration is that the pandemic is still somewhat ongoing, even though the mask mandate has been lifted (except in hospitals). It's likely that the effect on tourism may reflect in temporary closures of specific stores, establishments, services, or attractions.

Therefore it’s best to plan your visit ahead of time, and always check hours online beforehand.

🛫 Seoul Incheon Airport FAQ

Yes, you can stay overnight in the airport's nap zone or in the Incheon Airport hotel.

Yes, if you have a layover at Incheon Airport you can leave Incheon Airport with a valid K-ETA or visa (if required).

Incheon Airport is home to dozens of activities, from the Culture Experience Center and the Digital Gym to the various spa and massage services. There is also a skating rink at the Airport Transport Center, seven gardens within the terminals, and a PR Observation Deck in Terminal 2.

You only need a visa for a layover overnight in Korea if you plan to leave the airport. As long as you plan to sleep in the terminal's nap zone or hotel, you can stay in Incheon Airport without a visa or K-ETA.

The ideal layover in Incheon is about 12 to 16 hours, which gives you a 8 to 12 hours layover in Seoul to explore the city, and a 4-hour buffer to leave and return to the airport.

Depending on where in Seoul you want to go, you can take the AREX (Airport Express) from Incheon Airport to Seoul in 45 to 60 minutes.

More South Korea Travel and Life

Reader Interactions

May 16, 2024 at 8:29 am

Hi I have a 14 hour overnight layover in Incheon airport with my kids. Is there anything to see culturally or do we have the time to go out with a K-eta to see something before going back for the flight? We get there at 5:30 pm and leave 9:30 am the next day.tnx!

May 17, 2024 at 9:56 am

That's a bit late in the day to be able to do much culturally, but you could go into the city (I'd recommend Hongdae, as it's closest form the airport) and enjoy a nice dinner and then a walk around the more lively area of the city before going to bed pretty early (you'll want to wake up around 5:30am to be able to get on the train by 6am). I'd recommend finding a hotel in Hongdae so that you're closest to the metro and can get back to the airport by 7am or at the very latest 7:30am. You're unlikely to find a tour you're able to start that late at night, once you get through security and get your bags.

April 15, 2024 at 12:31 am

Little nervous and would like confirmation. I am flying Air Premia airlines from Newark to Seoul connecting to Korean Air to Osaka. Is it difficult getting from terminal 1 to terminal 2 after I need to claim my checked baggage? How long should it take? I arrive at 4:55am and my flight to Japan is at 9:35am.

April 15, 2024 at 12:35 pm

While there are no guarantees, assuming a normal flight or even a delay of up to one hour, you will be completely fine changing terminals within that 4.5-hour time frame. The signage to get between terminals from the arrivals area (where you'll pick up your luggage) is very clear, and the two places are about a 10 minutes' walk apart. You can ask for help at any of the information desks, if you're ever unsure. The train ride between terminals is another 10 minutes, and you'll never wait more than 10 minutes for the next train, at that hour. Even budgeting a whole hour to get through security and customs (almost unheard-of at that hour), and another full hour to get between terminals, you'll be completely fine.

March 25, 2024 at 2:43 pm

Good article. I am flying Vietnam airlines from Hanoi to Seoul connecting to Delta to Atlanta. Is it difficult to go from terminal 1 to terminal 2 ? How long should it take? I have both airlines on the same ticket. Thanks.

March 26, 2024 at 1:34 pm

Hi, CJ! The train between terminals is well-marked and easily accessible, and while it takes about 7 minutes, I'd budget 15 in case you need to wait + some time to get to the train. I'd give myself at least an hour between landing and the next flight's takeoff for that transfer, as long as my bags were checked on to my final destination (which they would be, if those two are on the same booking), but most of that time will just be for boarding. Enjoy Vietnam!~

February 28, 2024 at 11:47 pm

Hi Max, I, am Australian and my family and I are transiting through ICN in June and have a 14 hour overnight layover. I have booked a hotel in the airport area but outside the terminal, do we need a K-ETA or are Australian citizens currently exempt for this entry requirement.

March 01, 2024 at 2:19 pm

You are correct! Australians are exempt from the requirement through the end of this year.

March 05, 2024 at 1:44 pm

Hey there, I just passed by this article and saw your message. As I have read the information above, an Australian citizen does not need to request a Visa to enter Korea either on layover or tourism.

**Copied the advice he provided above**:

K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization, applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].

March 05, 2024 at 6:33 pm

That's correct! 🙂

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16 Things to do on a layover at Seoul Incheon Airport

Consistently voted one of the world’s top airport experiences, you may wish your layover here is longer! In fact, some travellers purposely plan to spend a whole day or overnight here to check out all the cool technology, food, and in-airport amenities like gardens, a golf course, and movie theatres. Make the best of your time here with these 16 things to do on a layover at Seoul Incheon Airport.

1. Explore the food scene

2. Hang out in a lounge

3. Go shopping

4. Take a shower

Freshen up with a shower! Shower facilities in both terminals are available for free. Use your own towel and toiletries, or pay a small fee for a toiletry kit.

5. Relax at a spa

Take your pampering one step further with a spa or massage treatment. Prana Spa and Skin Care/Massage has several locations and offers manicure/pedicure services and a range of express and full-service massage options.

6. Take in the art

The airport offers a whole range of art shows plus regularly scheduled live music performances.

Feeling lucky? Take a gamble at the Paradise Golden Gate Casino, located at the Hyatt Regency, just 3 minutes away from the main terminal. Free shuttles head back and forth from the hotel every 15 minutes.

8. Visit the (virtual) gym

The brand new Terminal 2 is a high-tech place, particularly evident in its digital gym. Its virtual challenges offer a real-world workout made up of jumping, stepping, dunking, and other exercises designed to get your blood pumping. Located near Gate 231.

9. Wander the gardens

Seven gardens offer some relaxation and calm in the bustling airport environment. Most are indoors, with various themes: cactus, flowers, rocks, water, and plants. The Wildflower Garden is located outdoors. A little farther from the main terminal is the Sky Garden, a landscaped area with flowers, courtyards, walking paths, and an observation deck that provides a welcome respite from the airport.

10. Hit the links

Practice your golf game! The Sky72 Golf Club offers an 18-hole putting course and a 330-yard driving range, open daily from 5:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. You can find the golf club in the International Business Area (where else?).

11. Take in Korean culture

Even if you’re just passing through the airport, you can take in some Korean culture. The airport offers a range of cultural experiences, including a museum and a Traditional Cultural Center. Explore a typically Korean approach to relaxation at the Rest and Relaxation Center, which highlights handicrafts, folding screens, and local artwork that promotes peace and tranquillity. For cutting-edge innovation typical of 21st-century Korea, visit the IT Experience Center.

12. Catch a movie

Relax and catch up on the latest movies. The CGV Movie Theatre, located pre-security in the Transportation Center, runs feature-length films daily between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.

13. Stretch your legs on the ice rink

Have some fun and exercise with a visit to the year-round ice rink in the pre-Security Transportation Center. Access is free, though you’ll need to pay to rent skates – unless you just happened to bring yours along! Open daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

14. Join a sightseeing tour

Go sightseeing on your own

If you want to check out Seoul but a guided tour isn’t your thing, you can do it yourself. The airport’s location means it takes about an hour to get downtown, so we only recommend this if you’ve got a layover of at least 6 hours!

Store any bags you don’t want to drag along inside the main terminal lockers. Then, hop on the AREX Railroad Express, which connects to the city center’s metro lines or one of several buses that connect to various points in Seoul. Taxis and fixed-rate shuttles are available, but depending on the time of day, these may have to contend with severe traffic.

First-time visitors to Seoul should head directly to the iconic Gyeongbok Palace, which today serves as a museum and gardens for traditional Korean folk culture. From here, stroll to the president’s home at the Blue House or visit the National Folk Museum. Explore the city’s huge arts scene at Insadong Arts District, known for its galleries, tea hours, and traditional house restaurants. Pick up local goods or sample traditional and modern food at the huge Namdaemun Market. For more tips and ideas, see our Seoul Incheon Airport Layover Sightseeing article.

Free WiFi is available throughout the airport so that you can catch up on your online life during your layover. Free internet stations are available if you travel without a mobile device.

These are just a few things to do on a layover at Seoul Incheon Airport. Visit our Seoul Incheon Airport Guide for more information about the services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.

• Seoul Incheon Airport Guide
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• Seoul Incheon Airport Reviews
• Seoul Incheon Airport Sleep Guide
• Things to do at Seoul Incheon Airport
• Seoul Incheon Airport Layover Sightseeing
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• December 18, 2021
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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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Incheon airport layover private tour - incheon/seoul/dmz, how to book.

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Meet Location

• Incheon International Airport (in front of the arrivals gate)
• Round-trip transportation
• English-speaking guide (driver)
• Entrance fees
• Other personal expenses

*Airport pick-up: 1 hour afer arrival. *Airport drop-off: 3 hours before departure.

Please keep in mind

• All participants must bring a valid passport to enter the DMZ.
• Entrance fees, meals and other personal expenses are NOT included in the price.
• If the tour exceeds the default tour hours, you must pay 20,000 won per additional hour to the guide on the day.

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Layover In Seoul – The Ultimate Guide 2024

The one thing you won't be suffering from if you're on a layover at the Incheon International Airport is boredom. This airport that serves the South Korean city of Seoul has some world-class amenities that if you're on a short layover will make you wish you were on a long one.

The fact there is so much to do at Incheon Airport is a bonus as the facility, which is built on reclaimed land out in the Yellow Sea, is a good hour by bus or train from the center of Seoul. Even the free shuttle service between the two terminals takes a time consuming twenty minutes, so keep that in mind if your Seoul connection departs from a different one to where you landed. Incheon is an airport that you'll want to explore, so deposit your bags with a Seoul luggage storage service and you'll be prepared for what may quite possibly be the most entertaining layover of your life.

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6 to 8 hour layover in Seoul

You won't need to worry about missing out on Korean culture if your short layover is only six to eight hours long. If you fly in on an international flight, you'll be in Terminal 1 which is crammed with so many incredible activities you'll struggle to fit them all in. In the center of the public space in Terminal 1 is a massive stage where there are live music and cultural performances every day and that’s just for starters. 

• It's not the only place in the airport where you can catch music and drama performances either. There are frequent mini classical and Korean music concerts as well as incredible artworks at various points throughout the complex so even just wandering around will be entertaining on a level you wouldn't expect in an airport. Keep a wary eye on the time as you'll find yourself so absorbed you could end up missing your ongoing flight.
• Head up to the public area on concourse 4F and you'll feel as though you've stepped out of the airport and onto a Korean street. The Korean Cultural Street exhibition contains several traditional wooden houses as well as digital displays on the country's flora, fauna and culture.
• On an eight hour afternoon layover you'll have time to catch the bus to Terminal 2 to watch the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony.
• If you don't have spare time enough to get to Terminal 2, you can still grab a souvenir photo with the Royal family when they do their ritual walk, accompanied by an entire entourage, on concourse 3F.
• Timings of some of the performances vary so check what time they happen on the airport's official website to make sure you don't miss any that happen on your layover.

10 hour layover in Seoul

A ten-hour layover at Incheon Airport is still cutting it fine for heading into Seoul to go sightseeing. If you feel you really must go to see the DMZ, the demilitarized zone between north and south, the best way to do it is on a six-hour private tour that collects you from and drops you back at the airport. You'll have just enough time to squeeze that, and all the check-in procedures for your connecting flight, into your stopover, though time will be tight.

• A visit to the DMZ usually includes the Dora Observatory from where it's possible to see straight over into North Korea as well as walk through an infiltration tunnel.
• On a ten-hour layover, you'll have enough free time to be able to catch either the train or bus into Seoul and meet up with a guide who runs a traditional Korean food cooking course. During the three-hour class you'll be taken to a local market which is always a great experience, learn how to cook the ingredients purchased at the market, then get to eat what you've made which is a win-win situation all round.

12 hour layover in Seoul

When you have a twelve-hour layover at Incheon Airport, you'll have enough time on your hands to brave going sightseeing solo. Drop your bags in a luggage locker then catch either the bus or the train into the city and make going up to the Lotte World Tower observation deck or riding the Namsan cable car a priority. Why? Do either of those and it'll save you hours wandering around the streets as you can see just about all of the city when you're high up.

• Steep yourself in the South Korean atmosphere by heading to the bustling Myeong-Dong area where you can shop, see the historic Myeong-Dong cathedral and fill up on amazing street food.
• Have a relaxing moment by going to a tea house in the InsaDong district for a cup of tea the South Korean way.

24 hour layover in Seoul

Even a twenty-four hour Seoul layover can be considered short because there's so much you'll want to cram into your free time, it'll be hard to choose what not to do. If you want to see some of the South Korean countryside, plan a trip out to Mount Seorak and Nami Island to go hiking the trails there.

• The best way to get to Mount Seorak is on a small group minibus tour that includes the ferry ride to Nami Island and a cable car ride up the mountain. Calculate you'll need around eleven hours or so for this activity.
• Combine sightseeing with your favorite hobby of photography by touring the city with a photographic guide. They'll take you to all the main sights or you can choose specific places that interest you.
• Have dinner at a Korean show house where you'll be served a sumptuous meal of traditional food followed by a performance of Korean music and dance.

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What to do in Incheon Airport during a layover

Layovers can be the worst when traveling long distances which is why you should try and make the most of them. While traveling, it can be difficult when you are hungry and exhausted to be in a good mood. I travel often to visit family in the Philippines and many of the times I have a layover at Incheon Airport. It can be overwhelming and exhausting and I’ve figured out some great ways to enjoy a layover in Incheon. In this Incheon Layover Guide, I wanted to include some of the things I do to stay refreshed.

Go on the free Incheon Airport Transit Tour

This one is probably one of the most important ones. Often times people who are traveling do not realize they can take advantage of a free city tour . Now, this is only available to people who have a layover ranging from 5 to 10 hours. It is best to book these tours online and in advance. There are several different types of tours you can take from Incheon Airport. Below is a list of some of the free tours you can enjoy during your layover at Incheon Airport. 

• Paradise City Art-Tainment
• Songdo Hanok Village & Central Park Songdo & Triple Street
• Gwangmyeong Cave
• Jeondeungsa Temple & Deokjinjin
• Cheonggyecheon Stream & Jogyesa Temple
• Myeong-dong & Namdaemun Market
• Gyeongbokgung Palace & Insa-dong
• Incheon Airport Maglev, Lotte Mart, Eurwangni Beach
• Eurwangni or Masirang Beach

Take a free shower

So I have done a guide on Singapore’s Airport, but unfortunately, one of the things I disliked about that airport is the fact that they do not have any free showers to use. You have to pay to use a shower and usually rent a hotel room in order to use it. At Incheon Airport, they offer free showers and include towels to use (although I usually bring my own travel towel). You might not think it is a big deal, but after traveling for hours, taking a shower is the best way for me to feel relaxed, awake and refreshed again.

Terminal 1 Locations

• Near Gate 25 on 4F, Terminal 1
• Near Gate 29 on 4F, Terminal 1
• Center of 4F, Concourse

Terminal 2 Locations

• Near Gate 268 on 4F, Terminal 2
• Near Gate 231 on 4F, Terminal 2

Get a Massage

After you have taken a shower, what to do in Incheon airport is you can enjoy some time and get a massage at one of the lounges upstairs. If you can’t find it, try and find an information desk and they will let you know where to go. This is a great way to get all those kinks out after a long flight in a small space. 

Enjoy the sleeping lounges

You might need to get some rest after a long flight that you probably were not able to sleep on. There are a few areas where you can easily take a nap. 

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What to do in Incheon Airport | Restaurants and Food

• Eat delicious Korean food – There are quite a few delicious restaurants at the airport. You won’t be able to enjoy Korean barbeque, however, you can enjoy a few classics like kimchi jjigae, kimbap, ramen, and more. 
• Paris Baguette – Eat breakfast at Paris Baguette and drink delicious coffee. 
• Nolboo Budae Jjigae – One of my favorite places to eat at in Korea is Nolboo for Budae Jjigae. I’m excited that they have it at the airport so that I can get it as much as I can during my layovers or waiting for my next flight. Budae jjigae is a spicy Korean soup that is filled with spam, hot dogs, veggies and more. It is also known as Army soup where Korean’s used meat available from the American military troops during the war. 

Pay to use the airport lounge

If you want comfort in style with seating, including snacks and drinks, and a free shower, I suggest you pay to use one of the business lounges. 

Incheon Airport Transit Hotel

Sleep at one fo the many transit hotels at Incheon Airport. Enjoy a relaxing time to catch up on sleep or get over that jetlag from traveling so much. 

• Transit Hotel (T1 East) – Near Gate 11 on 4F, Terminal 1
• Capsule Hotel Darakhyu(T1) – Center of Transportation Center 1BF, Terminal 1
• Transit Hotel (T2) – Near Gate 252 on 4F, Terminal 2
• Capsule Hotel DarakHyu(T2) – East of Transportation Center 1BF, Terminal 2

Take advantage with the Incheon Airport Duty Free Shopping

Incheon’s airport is filled with many stores you can easily shop at. It’s practically like an indoor mall with so many different types of stores and all duty-free. You can buy some designer handbags, makeup, skincare products, and more all in one area. 

• Buy Korean skincare products and use them – With so many duty shops available within the Airport, I highly suggest you buy or stock up on some Korean skincare products. There are lots of sheet masks you can purchase which are great for long haul flights. Usually, during long haul flights, your skin gets very dry and there are many products you can purchase to help keep your skin nourished and hydrated. 

Watch a movie at CGV located in Incheon Airport

Located outside of security, you can easily catch a film of your liking. The movie theater is open from 9:00 am – 11:00 pm and has 2 movie theaters available.  

Location: Center of Transportation Center 1BF, Terminal 1

What to do outside of Incheon Airport during a layover

Luggage storage at incheon airport .

If you decide to exit the airport, I highly suggest you store your main luggage at the luggage storage facilities. Some are free including the one inside terminal 1 upstairs. Make sure you keep your boarding pass and passport with you prior to exiting the airport. 

Go to Cimer Spa in Paradise City

Cimer spa is a very beautiful spa close to the airport. You can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Cimer Spa and enjoy a day by the pool, using the dry heat sauna, steam room, take a shower, spas and more. It is a great way to enjoy a relaxing layover without too much stress about your next flight. 

Explore Seoul – How to get from Incheon to Seoul

Express Trains depart every 20 to 40 minutes from Incheon Int’l Airport and take approximately 40 minutes. All Stop Trains leave frequently and take around 60 minutes to get to Seoul Station.

Public Transportation

• Railroad Express (AREX)

Private Transportation

RELATED: One Day in Seoul

Visit Gyeongbukgung Palace

If you are short on time and just want to see one of the famous palaces in Korea, you can head on over the Gyeongbukgung Palace. Nearby is also the Cheongdukgung palace which you can swing by if you have more time. If you want a less crowded experience, I’d suggest you visit Cheongdukgung palace instead. This is a popular tourist attraction in Seoul and can be experienced during the free airport transit tour . 

You will need at least 4-5 hours to experience the palace including travel time. Travel time could be about an hour by vehicle if there is traffic and longer by subway unless you take the Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station then transfer by subway to your final destination at Gyeongbukgung station.

Go to Myeongdong for Street Food and Shopping

Myeongdong is a popular location to grab Myeongdong street food , go shopping and even more. You can experience some of the shopping cultures in Korea here. It will be a great starting point if you just want to wander around and waste some time trying out some of Korea’s popular street food. By subway, it could take about an hour or longer to get to Myeongdong station so keep that in mind when traveling here. 

RELATED: Myeongdong Shopping Street

Visit Hongdae and explore some of Seoul’s popular Cafes

If you have read my things to do in Hongdae post, then you know that Hongdae is one of my favorite places to visit in Korea. It’s fairly close to the airport and you can easily access it by Subway and exit Hongik University station exit 9. There are a lot of things to do here from eating, shopping, and go to some of Seoul’s popular cafes. 

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DISCLAIMER : Oftentimes you will find that I’ve included links to certain hotels /tours/products/services. If you purchase anything through these links, I’ll receive a commission. It won’t cost you anything extra, but it will help keep this blog up and running.

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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Joy Tour Korea

Private and small group tour

DMZ tour pick-up and drop off at Incheon airport

from US$130 per person & up

(Private tour, per person price varies by group size)

Entry Korea policy (updated , April 1, 2023)

Tourists holding passports from visa-free countries as listed below, No need any extra application for entry.

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)

• Enjoy a smooth and flexible DMZ tour while your layover at Incheon airport.
• Match your schedule between your arrival and departure.
• Valuable opportunity to understand 2 Korea’s situation.
• See north Korea and feel tension in military area.
• Guide will take care all of your concerns, even no need exchange money.
• Private transfer without hassles.

What to expect

Our driver guide will pick you up at Incheon airport, arriving Imjingak peace park  to start DMZ tour .

 After ticketing, you and your guide will take a shuttle bus to enter dimilitarized zone, you will stop at:

(1) Dorasan Observatory for 40 minutes to see North Korea city, guard post etc.. 

(2) move to 3rd tunnel (stay 1 hour) to walk down to see infiltration tunnel dug by North Korea during cold war, which was prepared to pass 10,000 north Korean army in an hour to attack south Korea, watch video to learn about Korea war. 

(3) visit Unification village (20 minutes) which ever was South Korean propaganda village for take a break and souvenir shop available, then return to Injingak peace park. 

（4）After tour, return to Incheon airport.

• Admission fees
• Bottled water
• Driver/guide
• Round-trip private transfer
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Private tour
• Gratuities (0%-10%)

Departure point:

Incheon airport 

7:00a.m- 8:00a.m  from Tuesday to Sunday ( Monday & national Holiday  closed)

Cancelation policy:

• Cancellation fee of 0% is charged if cancelled 3 days or more before the tour date.
• Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 2 days or less before the tour date.

Please note before booking: 

It will take alternative tour: (In the event the DMZ closed by army due to security issue, or the ticket sold out due to limited availability). 

If regular DMZ tour impossible: (change to visiting Odusan Observatory, Freedom Bridge, Korean War Abductees Memorial, Imjingak Peace Gondola).

Similar tours...

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