Darren YeohFor many travellers, the last day of your trip is almost always a little bit awkward. On the one hand, you want to see as much of the city as you can with what little time you have. Yet, at the same time, you’re constantly worried about getting to the airport in time to catch your flight. Thankfully, the next time you’re in Seoul, you won’t have to worry about this dilemma thanks to the Airport Railroad (AREX)! Not only will you be able to comfortably make your return flight, but you’ll also have plenty of time to explore Seoul to your heart’s content. Read on to find out how!
What is the Airport Railroad (AREX)
Image credit: Airport Railroad
The Airport Railroad (Or AREX for short) is a train route connecting Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station. It is the quickest way to get from the arrival gate to the heart of the city. Two types of commuter trains operate along the AREX route: the Express Train and the All stop Train. While the All stop Train makes stops at several other locations along the route, including Gimpo International Airport, the Express Train runs nonstop between Incheon International Airport and Seoul Station, allowing you to get to the city (or to the airport) in just 43 minutes (from Terminal 1)!
What to expect when using the AREX
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Apart from being the fastest way to travel between the airport and the city, the AREX also offers specialised services and amenities to passengers, ensuring utmost satisfaction and comfort. One of the best things about travelling using the AREX is the early flight check-in service (including baggage drop) at the City Airport Terminal of Seoul Station. At the terminal, passengers travelling on international flights can check in anytime they want on the day of their departure and go through immigration procedures, allowing them to head to their departure gate via a designated entrance at the airport when they arrive without having to wait in line.
Image credit: Airport Railroad
On board the train, which comes with a pre-assigned seating system to avoid any inconvenience, you can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, free bottled water, and the services of a cabin crew to attend to your needs. Make your trip an even more convenient experience by purchasing your AREX tickets in advance here!
Hotels near Seoul Station
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If you want to maximise your time in Seoul, especially on your final day, we recommend staying near Seoul Station. There are also a ton of options to choose from, ranging from well-known brands like Four Points by Sheraton Josun and Ramada Hotel and Suites, Namdaemun, to cosy wallet-friendly stays. Not only will you be able to access the AREX quickly, but you’ll also be able to stay near the heart of the city and go wherever you want since the station is connected to subway lines 1 and 4, as well as the KTX.
Attractions near Seoul Station
Image credit: Seoul Tourism Organization
One of the best things about staying near Seoul Station is the unrivalled access to some of the city’s most popular destinations. Even if it’s you’re last day in the city, you’ll still be able to enjoy the sights of Seoul without hassle. After checking in for your flight and dropping off your luggage at the City Airport Terminal at Seoul Station, you can then proceed to check out some of the city’s top locations before embarking on your journey home. From Seoul Station, you can visit the famous N Seoul Tower and Namsan Cable Car, which are just a couple of stations away via subway Line 4.
Image credit: Seoul Tourism Organization
Alternatively, if you’d like to spend your last day soaking up the cultural vibes of Seoul, you can head to the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village by transiting at Jongno 3-ga Station, which is just three stops away from Seoul Station. Foodies and shopaholics, on the other hand, can hop on a quick subway ride to Myeongdong or Gwangjang Market, both of which are just two stops away.
Image credit: Seoul Tourism Organization
Once you’re done with your last day of exploring, you can head back to Seoul Station, and board the Express Train to the airport for your flight home. So even on your last day, you have the freedom and flexibility to check out some of Seoul’s best attractions.Also read: 10 Best Airbnbs in Bukchon for Your Next Seoul Searching Trip in South Korea
How to use the AREX at Seoul Station
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Using the AREX to travel between Seoul Station and Incheon International Airport is easy! Just follow these steps:Step 1: Purchase a ticketYou can purchase an AREX ticket via an automatic ticket machine at Seoul Station or online.Step 2: Check in for your flight and drop off your luggageAfter purchasing your ticket, head to the check-in counter and check-in for your flight and drop off your luggage. Once you have checked your luggage, you will collect them at your final destination airport.
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Note: Check-in service for flights departing Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 closes three hours before departure while check-in service for flights departing Terminal 2 closes three hours and 20 minutes before departure. The check-in counter at the City Airport Terminal opens from 5:20am till 7pm (check-in services close at 6:50pm, so do check in before that). Step 3: Departure immigrationConveniently, right next to the check-in counter at Airport City Terminal at Seoul Station, you will find an immigration counter where you can proceed with departure immigration. Just ensure you have your flight ticket and passport with you!
Image credit: Airport Railroad
Step 4: Board the Express Train to Incheon International Airport After clearing immigration, you can then proceed to board the Express Train and depart to Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 or 2. Once there, use the designated entrance on the third floor to proceed to your departure gate.
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Good news, travellers! The regular fare for the Express Train is KRW11,000 for adults. However, if you book via this link, you can enjoy a special discounted fare of KRW9,500 for travel from now till 31 Dec 2024! So book your tickets here before your next trip to Seoul! |
Brought to you by Airport Railroad (AREX)
