Jisu J.Considered one of the world’s best airports, Incheon International Airport (ICN) consistently tops global airport rankings and is renowned for its exceptional passenger experience. From free hospitality services and a 72-hole golf course to stunning indoor gardens, Incheon Airport offers an oasis amidst your travel journey.
If you ever get stuck on a layover at this award-winning airport, here are some personal recommendations on what to do at Incheon International Airport to make the most of your time!
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Things to do at Incheon International Airport
1. Feel the Korean traditional culture
Image Credits: Huffington Post, Seoul Searching Blog
Seoul is a city that has both a traditional and modern vibe, but if you can’t make it down there, the gateway to Korea, Incheon International Airport has got your back. Apart from all the uber-cool-looking modern architecture that makes up the airport, the airport sports a cultural museum where visitors can make handicrafts and peruse 5,000-year-old UNESCO artefacts while watching a traditional musical performance.
2. Rest at the spa
Image Credits: Visit Korea
After sitting in a plane for several hours, who wouldn’t have cravings for a nice massage? Spa on Air, Incheon International Airport’s in-house spa, offers various massage options along with a sauna, shower booths, private sleeping rooms, meeting rooms and snack bars. Even more to that, the sauna is open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to lounge around as long as they want. Head to Spa on Air for a Korean jimjilbang (bathhouse) experience.
3. Impeccable golf courses
Image Credits: Nicklaus Design
A five-minute, free shuttle bus ride will take visitors to SKY72 Golf Club, a 72-hole golf club considered part of the airport facilities where you can go out and hit some balls on a nice sunny day. You can choose from an 18-hole golf course, driving range and golfing lessons as you like. We also recommended to make bookings in advance.
4. Time for some gambling
Image Credits: Paradise Casino Incheon
As a foreigner visiting or residing in Korea, you are eligible to enjoy the privileges afforded to non-residents by visiting Paradise Casino Incheon, conveniently located just two minutes away from the airport via shuttle bus.
This casino caters exclusively to foreign visitors and offers a diverse range of table and card games, including blackjack, baccarat, and roulette, as well as approximately 40 slot machines. The casino features a unique ambiance with special heating and air-conditioning systems designed to create a forest-like atmosphere. A complimentary shuttle service is available to transport guests between the airport and the casino.
5. Pay a visit to indoor eco-gardens
Image Credits: choikya
Who would have guessed an airport to have indoor gardens, not one but seven? From flowers to cactuses and water plants, Incheon International Airport boasts various gardens with different themes around each wing of the airport. Always open, free of charge and eco-friendly, you might want to pay a visit to these gardens to get away from the uber-modern vibe of the airport.
6. Take pictures at the Sky Garden
Image Credit: Korea Tourism Organisation | Official Website
Other than the indoor gardens, there’s a Sky Garden located adjacent to Incheon International Airport. This spot transforms into a breathtaking spectacle every fall. Fields of pink cosmos, silver grass, and pink muhly sway in the autumn breeze, creating a stunning scene. Recently, orange cosmos has been added, enhancing the vibrant display.
Besides, come and watch planes take off and land against the colourful backdrop – it’s truly magical. The best part? Admission to the garden is free!
7. Watch a movie at the cinemas
Image Credits: Incheon International Airport Corporation
Incheon International Airport holds two cinemas, both under Korea’s culture giant CGV. Worried about the language barrier? No worries. The cinemas have films and TV shows in seven languages. Catch the latest flick that you haven’t finished on the plane, or try a Korean movie since you’re in Korea after all.
8. Brush up on some ice skating
Image Credits: Jonathan Pang
Although the ice rink doesn’t exactly have ice, this so-called ice rink enables you to skate and spin like a world champion on synthetic ice. Only 5,000 won, equivalent to around five bucks, will get you skates, gloves and a helmet, so ladies and gents, it’s time to lace up your skating boots and hit the ice. Located in the first basement, the rink is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
9. Shop till you drop
Image Credits: Incheon International Airport Corporation
Welcome to Korea, the heaven for shopaholics, especially Asian ladies out there. Boasting a total of 90 duty-free shops, Incheon International Airport even has shopping guides for every floor. You could expect to find anything from kimchi and dried seaweed to drugstore cosmetics to high-end luxury items. Apologies to your wallet in advance.
10. Foodie paradise
Image Credits: sunkyoun0394
There’s no need to worry when hunger strikes. You’re in Korea, the home to bulgogi, bibimbap, Korean barbeque, fried chicken, tteokbokki, and you-name-it awesome Korean food. Fulfil your K-food fix by pigging out at restaurants in the airport. You can choose from a vast range of restaurants, from fast food joints to fancy restaurants.
11. Go on airport transit tours
Image Credits: k2453889
If you’re more of an adventurous person who wants to go out of the airport and explore the country even on a short layover, check out these free transit tours offered by the airport. Offering a total of seven different tours according to the layover time, you could get a glimpse of the city in just a couple of hours.
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So, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time flyer, Incheon International Airport offers an unexpected respite during your journey. With its world-class amenities and commitment to passenger comfort, you can be sure to enjoy your layover and arrive at your final destination refreshed and ready for your next adventure!
