Earlier this year, I found myself with a 7-hour layover in Seoul, South Korea, before my long-haul flight to San Francisco. It’s not every day you get to break up a long trip with a mini-adventure, so I made the most of my brief time in the city. Here’s what I managed to squeeze into a few hours in Seoul!
Layover in Seoul, South Korea
What can you actually do with just a few hours in Seoul? It turns out, plenty! One of the best options is to head over to Myeong-dong, which is still around an hour from Incheon International Airport via the Airport Express (AREX) train. Even with limited time, this area gives you a taste of the city’s street food, shopping, and vibrant atmosphere.
Tips for 2024 Travelers:
- No Visa Required: If you’re flying out of Seoul again within 16 hours, there’s no need to worry about a visa. Perfect for those quick layovers!
- AREX Discounts: Flying with Korean Air, Asiana, or Singapore Airlines? You can still get a discount on your AREX ticket—it’s ₩7,500 now, down from the full price of ₩9,000. Make sure to check the AREX timetable to plan your journey.
First Stop: Street Snacks in Myeong-dong
As soon as we arrived in Myeong-dong, we made a beeline for the street vendors. Our first stop? A vendor selling Gyeran Bbang (계란빵), or egg bread. Let me tell you, there’s nothing better than warm, savory-sweet bread in chilly weather. Bite into the center, and you’re rewarded with a perfectly cooked egg that melts in your mouth—delicious! I also have to give a shoutout to Hotteok (Korean pancakes)—still one of my favorite snacks in Seoul.
Where to Eat: Bibimbap and Dumplings
If you’re after a proper meal, I can still highly recommend Gogung Restaurant for their amazing Bibimbap. It’s a classic Korean dish that’s both filling and delicious. If you’re craving noodles and dumplings instead, Myeongdong Gyoza is the go-to spot. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with either option!
A Tea Lover’s Dream: O’sulloc
Matcha fans, rejoice! If you love matcha as much as I do, O’sulloc is still a must-visit. This famous tea house, originally from Jeju Island, offers everything from matcha roll cakes to matcha ice cream and matcha lattes. The best part? Every single item is just as amazing as it sounds. If you only have time for one dessert stop in Myeong-dong, make it this one!
Final Thoughts
Well, that was a whirlwind 5 hours in Myeong-dong! Even though it was a short visit, I felt like I got a taste of Seoul’s food scene and vibrant energy. If you ever find yourself with a layover in Seoul, don’t hesitate to venture out of the airport—you’ll definitely have enough time to explore and eat!
I’ll be posting more about my travels soon, so stay tuned!