Long layovers may feel like a drag, especially when you’re stuck waiting at the airport for hours before your next flight. But in my opinion, they’re actually the perfect opportunity to make the most of your time by exploring the country you’re transiting through. Instead of feeling bored and stuck, why not step outside the airport and see more?

If you’re transiting through Incheon International Airport in South Korea and have a long layover, the good news is that the airport offers a free transit tour you can join. While the tour itself is free, some attractions included in the itinerary may require paid admission. I discovered this after exploring the airport’s website, and I’m so glad I did.

If you want to explore beyond Incheon Airport during your layover, keep reading for everything you need to know — plus my personal experience on this transit tour!

Everything You Need to Know About the Incheon Airport Transit Tours

Before joining the Incheon Airport transit tour, there are a few important details to know, from how to book and who is eligible to what is included and how much time you will need. This section breaks down everything you need to know so you can decide which tour fits your layover and plan your time outside the airport with confidence.

Eligibility & Requirements

Here are the eligibility and requirements to join the tour:

Eligibility

You can join the transit tour if you are passing through Incheon Airport with a layover of 24 hours or less. Travelers from visa free countries are typically eligible, along with passengers who hold a valid visa or permanent residency from select countries. General transit passengers may also be able to join depending on immigration approval. Since eligibility can vary by nationality, it is best to check the airport’s official website for the most up to date information for your country.

Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before joining the tour. Be sure to bring your passport along with boarding passes for both your arrival and departure flights. Check in at least 30 minutes before the tour starts, as spots are limited and filled on a first come first served basis. If you arrive at a concourse, you will need to take the shuttle train to Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 to check in. Keep in mind that tour programs can change without notice, and Korean immigration rules do not allow multiple entries during a single visit.

For the most accurate and complete eligibility and requirement details, I recommend checking the airport’s official website!

How to Book the Transit Tour

There are several transit tour options available depending on the time and day of your layover. Tours may include visits to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheong Wa Dae, Imjingak Peace Nuri Park, and other popular stops. To book, visit Incheon Airport’s official website and reserve your preferred tour online. Tour spots are offered on a first come first served basis, so it is best to book in advance. While there may still be a chance to join upon arrival, booking ahead is the safest way to secure your spot.

Getting to the Transit Tour

After clearing immigration, head directly to the 1st floor to find the Transit Tour Registration Desk. From the arrival level on the 2nd floor, do not go up to the departure level on the 3rd floor. Instead, go through the Ministry of Justice entrance on the 2nd floor and make your way down to the 1st floor to save time.

All transit tour passengers, including those who booked online, must check in at the registration desk at least 30 minutes before the tour starts and bring all required documents. If you get lost like I did, do not hesitate to ask airport staff for help. They were very helpful and pointed me in the right direction quickly.

Helpful Things to Know Before the Tour

Once you check in, the guide will gather everyone at the tour counter, where you can leave personal items such as carry on luggage. Don’t worry, it is very safe to leave your belongings there. When I joined the tour, it was winter and extremely cold, so they provided free hand warmers to keep and a jacket to return after the tour. This is also a good time to use the restroom before heading out. Once everything is ready, everyone boards the transit tour bus and heads off to the first stop.

Personal Highlights From My Transit Tour

When I went, I chose the tour that visits Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong. The tour lasted about five hours and started in the morning. While I was exhausted from my previous flight, I pushed through and definitely did not regret it! Here are some highlights from each stop:

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Our guide gave us a brief overview of the palace’s history before giving us time to explore on our own. Walking through the grounds at our own pace was a great chance to admire the architecture, especially with the mountains in the background (which made for amazing photos). My favorite part of the visit was watching the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony, where guards dressed in colorful traditional uniforms reenact how the palace was protected during the Joseon Dynasty, accompanied by ceremonial music and precise movements that truly bring the history to life.

Insadong

Our next stop was Insadong, a lively neighborhood known for its traditional culture, local art, and charming streets. The area was fun to explore and offered plenty to do, from browsing souvenir shops to stopping by cozy restaurants and cafes. I spent some time souvenir shopping and eventually worked up an appetite, so I, along with some of the group, ate at a traditional Korean restaurant called Bangtae Makguksu, which was highly recommended by our guide. Unfortunately, I forgot to take note of the names of the dishes I tried, but I wish I had because everything was delicious!

After exploring Insadong, we headed back to the airport, got settled, and waited for our flight.

My Overall Experience on the Transit Tour

Overall, I had a very fun experience. Even though we only had a limited time to explore South Korea, it was still a meaningful and memorable experience. Our tour guide was funny, sweet, and incredibly helpful. I learned a lot about the country and met many wonderful people from around the world who joined the tour with me. If I ever have another long layover in South Korea, I would definitely join the transit tour again!