Incheon is South Korea's third largest city, a growing metropolis that's home to about 3 million people. Most visitors encounter the city as a transportation hub, on the way to or from Seoul from its ultra-modern Incheon International Airport. A historic port and Chinatown, the closest beach to Seoul, and a selection of hotels, restaurants, and sights means there's plenty to do on a long layover or day-long stopover before or after your trip to the capital city.
Incheon has been Korea's gateway to the outside world since the late 19th century, when the city opened up to foreign trade. Its historic downtown and waterfront reflect this heritage, with its fine collection of Western, Japanese, and Chinese-inspired buildings from the early 20th century. So does its cuisine, especially its hybrid Sino-Korean dish jajangmyeon, or noodles in black bean sauce. Incheon also has a dash of the future, too, most notably in its Songdo International Business District, a "new city" and model of high-tech, eco-friendly urban living.
If you're spending the night, base yourself at a hotel near the airport for an easy check out prior to departure and head to the city's biggest sights and restaurants in Chinatown, or if you're staying a few days, venture to Songdo and immerse yourself in the shiny new city scene.
