Airport The futuristic Incheon International Airport, also known as IIA or ‘The Winged City’ opened in 2001. It’s the nation’s international gateway and an excellent facility all round. Seoul’s older Gimpo Airport is the hub for domestic flights.

Car Any first-time visitor who decides to drive in Seoul is either very brave or very foolish. But if you’re driving into town from IIA, the Chayuro expressway will take you into northern Seoul and the Olympic expressway to southern Seoul. For car hire, try Kumho Rent A Car (Tel: 797 8000) or Avis (Tel: 862 2847).

Taxis A black mobeom (deluxe) taxi to or from the airport will cost around €54. A basic grey taxi will cost in the region of €32. Note that, when taking a taxi to/from Incheon International, the customer is expected to pay the toll fees, which will be added on to the metered fare. On a good day it takes around 40 minutes to get from IIA to northern Seoul by road, but Seoul’s traffic needs to be taken into account when planning your journey. The journey to and from most parts of southern Seoul (there is a check-in facility and shuttle buses at the COEX complex) will take somewhat longer. To be safe, allow 60-90 minutes to get to or from the airport. Airport buses can be quicker than taxis, as they have their own dedicated lanes on the expressways. There are various limousine/express buses that can take you to different parts of Seoul and to all the major hotels. Prices range from €4 to €5.40.

Trains A rail link from the airport to Seoul Station is due to be completed in 2007.