Enjoy extraordinary journeys with us
When you fly from Istanbul to Seoul with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport provides a modern and efficient starting point for your international travels from Istanbul. Located on the Asian side, this departure point ensures a relaxed experience thanks to friendly staff focused on outstanding passenger service. When planning your journey, remember that IST is one of two Istanbul airports, so ensure you are at the correct one.
For transport, regular buses connect the airport to the nearest Metro station and the city centre, typically taking 30-45 minutes. Taxis are widely available, but consider asking your hotel concierge to book an official metered taxi for you, or use SAWKOOP taxis for fixed-price transfers. Parking is available in the four-storey car park next to the main terminal, which offers 4,700 spaces.
Allow ample time for your departure, as security checks are particularly tight; aim for one and a half to two hours before boarding to complete check-in and security. Within the main terminal, you will find 112 check-in desks and 24 online check-in counters, along with several VIP and business/first-class passenger lounges. Comfort is key here, with spacious waiting areas, mother and baby rooms as well as prayer rooms. Stay connected using the airport Wi-Fi, available for a fee, or use the fixed internet kiosks. Before you board your flight, explore the shopping area, which houses several high-quality outlets selling watches, perfumes, leather goods and accessories.
Begin your Korean exploration in Incheon, a historically significant and economically vital powerhouse of South Korea. You will immediately sense the city's seamless blend of modern progress and deep cultural identity, beautifully preserved in its traditional architecture and stunning parks. This welcoming location is one of South Korea’s best-kept secrets, offering a wealth of attractions and excellent facilities for your visit. You can explore Incheon's Chinatown, the only official one in South Korea, which sits right next to the tranquil Liberty Park. This expansive green space is a stunning open area that offers a welcome escape from the city’s vibrant energy. For a fantastic panoramic spectacle of ultra-modern architecture, you should make your way to the North Asia Trade Tower, a prominent landmark in the rapidly expanding Songdo International City.
If you desire a more traditional flavour, you can take a local ferry to the beautiful Incheon Islands. Here, life moves at a far more sedate pace, and you will discover relatively quiet beaches and peaceful hiking trails, which are perfect for a refreshing outdoor leisure experience. Amongst the best islands to visit are Daecheongdo, Ganghwado, and Muuido. Back in the city, the Arts Centre in Guwol-dong is a must-see, offering frequent performances of traditional Korean plays, dancing and theatre. This cultural venue is also conveniently located within a thriving retail district, allowing you to combine cultural browsing with shopping for unique souvenirs.
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Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Istanbul
Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Seoul