How to make the most of your layover in Seoul

Seoul is right next to the border with North Korea and gives you a sense of modernity and tradition. This makes the capital of South Korea an ideal layover destination. Just a short trip from Seoul Incheon Airport, the city offers iconic sights like the Gyeongbokgung Palace and fascinating neighborhoods like Myeongdong and Hongdae.

The city is known for its unique fusion of historical landmarks and cutting-edge technology. It's also known for its delicious cuisine, especially Korean BBQ and kimchi. It has famous shopping districts, amazing views along the Han River, and upbeat nightlife.

It’s easy to explore this booming metropolis thanks to its excellent public transport. Even during a short layover, Seoul is a city you must visit: on your own, with friends, or with family.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Incheon International Airport is large and jam-packed with quiet places to rest up and fun things to explore. Let us make your stay at the airport easier with some key things you should watch out for before you leave the airport. Like the fact that you need a visa before you hop on one of the transit tours.

Visa requirements in Seoul

If you're from a visa-exempt country like the US, all you need is a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) to leave Incheon Airport. You'll need to apply online for it and get a 90-day stay, except for work. If you’re not from a visa-exempt country, you'll have to get it at a South Korean embassy.

Minimum layover times in Seoul

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 1.5 hrs
   If you're staying in the same terminal, reaching a far gate could take nearly an hour. So, plan for extra security checks. The airport is large and you’ll have to walk to the gate because there are no shuttles inside terminals.
3. International flights: 2-3 hrs
   A shuttle train goes every 5 minutes and can take you between terminals. The ride is 20 minutes, but exiting the terminal and getting to a gate will take time. Check out this nifty transfer guide if you need help. When you transfer between terminals, you have to go through security checks, passport control, and show any items you bought or brought to customs.
4. In-airport long layover: 4.5 hrs
   If you have some time between connecting flights, this Seoul airport has some ways you can spend it. Concourse is connected to Terminal 1, and it's where you can find places to shop, eat, and rest up for your next flight. The lounges are a great place to grab a bite or a drink in a quiet place. You can also shower or go for a massage in one of the many facilities. There are also some concerts, the Korean Culture Experience Center, and the Korean Cultural Street at the airport. They have a lot of art exhibits too, like the Dreaming Space dome, Flying to the Future sculpture, and Walking into the Air statues. The airport also offers free tours of trendy spots in Seoul with a tour guide!
5. Out-of-airport layover: 6 hrs
   Looking for something more than a transit tour? If you want to explore by yourself, Seoul has some culturally rich places and traditional spots for local cuisine. If you want to get to the city center train station, hop on the express train to Seoul Station which takes about 50 minutes. You can also rent a car at the airport for better exploration options.

What to do in Seoul during a layover

When a free tour isn't for you, some of our recommendations might help you decide where to go and what to visit. Whether you're solo backpacking, briefcase job hunting, or luggage vacationing with the fam, you're always carrying extra weight. Find a Bounce partner near the airport and leave your baggage behind! Go on your merry way and explore Seoul for a few hours during your layover.

Morning layover in Seoul

Life in Seol starts early, so you have plenty of things to do during a morning layover! Check out our list of places you can visit and grab a bite:

1. Start your layover at Gyeongbokgung Palace and catch the changing of the guards ceremony at the gate of the royal palace.
2. Stop by a nearby Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Spots like Imun Seolnongtang serve seollongtang, a comforting, milky ox bone soup.
4. Café Onion has fresh local and traditional pastries for a morning kick.

Afternoon layover in Seoul

If you have a few more hours to explore, here are more spots that are a must-see:

1. Head over to Bukchon Hanok Village which has streets lined with traditional Korean houses.
2. The Insadong neighborhood of the village has art galleries and antique shops.
3. While you're there, Gogung has a mixed rice dish with veggies and meat called bibimbap. For dessert, you can also try hotteok, sweet Korean pancakes with nuts and sugar. 

Evening layover in Seoul

The more the merrier! If you have even more time for an evening in Seoul, here are some top picks:

1. Spend your evening at Myeongdong, a shopping and food street that's brimming with options.
2. Take a short walk to Namsan Seoul Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
3. Try Korean BBQ for dinner at Wangbijib in Myeongdong Street.
4. End off with patbingsu, a shaved ice dessert topped with red beans and fruit at Sulbing cafe.

Overnight layover in Seoul

For an overnight stay, we have some options where you can party, rest, and sleep:

1. Hongdae has a lot of clubs, bars, and street performances for a bit of excitement before bed.
2. If you want something calmer, you can have a picnic by the Han River like a local.
3. Incheon Airport Hotel is ideal for convenience, and it’s located near both terminals.
4. Grand Hyatt Seoul is an upscale hotel with luxurious amenities.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Seoul

Here are some tips about Seoul so you can make the most of your short stay:

• The weekend is a classic Saturday and Sunday.
• Korean is the primary language, but you can also hear some English in popular tourist spots.
• Seoul uses the South Korean Won (KRW) which you can exchange at the airport.
• The city is very safe, but if you ever need help, dial 112 for the police and they should be there in a few minutes.
• Expect to spend at least 30.000 KRW for a room, 5.000 for a cheap meal, and 5.000 for attractions.

The most valuable tip: travel light! Whether you're on a business trip or a vacation with family, you're bringing a lot of stuff. So, before you head out into the city, find a Bounce partner nearby and leave your stuff with us. Explore and have fun without any baggage weighing you down.