Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) stands as one of the world's major transfer hubs, handling large volumes of arriving and transiting passengers. Efficiency, comfort, and convenience are hallmarks of the Singapore Changi Airport experience.
This article will focus on sharing transportation information between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and the city center. After landing, you can effortlessly reach your destination and kickstart your Singapore adventure!
Singapore Changi Airport | Transfer Between 4 Terminals
Source from Wikipedia
Terminal | Airlines |
Terminal 1 (T1) | |
Terminal 2 (T2) | Singapore Airlines (Southeast Asia & Japan/Korea), Malaysia Airlines, Air Macau, |
Terminal 3 (T3) | Singapore Airlines (Hong Kong/Europe/Americas/Australia/Africa), China Airlines, EVA Air |
Terminal 4 (T4) |
Round-trip to Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport is located in the public area, situated between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, and directly connected to Terminal 1. If you're transiting through Changi Airport, you'll need to clear Immigration to enter Singapore before accessing Jewel Changi Airport.
- From Terminal 1 to Jewel Changi Airport: The northern entrance of Jewel Changi Airport connects to Terminal 1's Arrival Hall on Level 1.
- From Terminal 2 to Jewel Changi Airport: Jewel is a 5–10 minute walk from Terminal 2 via the link bridge at Level 3 (near the MRT station).
- From Terminal 3 to Jewel Changi Airport: Jewel is a 5–10 minute walk from Terminal 3's Departure Hall (near Crowne Plaza Hotel) via the link bridge.
Changi Airport | Between Terminals 1, 2, and 3
- Via Skytrain: Round-trip travel between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 in both public and transit areas is available using the complimentary Skytrain.
- Operating Hours: 4:30AM – 1:30AM
- In Transit Area: Between T1 and T3, use the travellators connecting terminals within the Departure Transit area
- In Public Area: Between T2 and T3, use the pedestrian bridge connecting both terminals; Between T1 and T2/T3, use the link bridge at Level 3 of Jewel Changi Airport
Changi Airport | Round-trip to Terminal 4
Via Airport Shuttle Bus
Complimentary airport shuttle buses operate between Terminal 4 and other terminals in both public and transit areas.
• Public Area Shuttle: Approx. 10-minute journey
• Transit Area Shuttle: Approx. 10–18 minute journey
Note: If traveling from the transit area to Terminal 4, ensure your onward flight is confirmed for your final destination before proceeding.
Source from Changi Airport Offical Website
Singapore Changi Airport Transfer | Comparing 4 Transportation Methods
For the transportation for Changi Airport, you get four ways, here is a quick overview:
| Criteria | MRT | Bus | Taxi | Car Hire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cost (SGD) | ~2.10–2.50 | $2.24 | 20– 40 (+ surcharges) | 90– 120+/day (+ parking/tolls) |
Travel Time | 35–60 min | ~70 min (traffic-dependent) | 25–40 min (traffic-dependent) | Flexible |
Availability | 05:31–00:06 | 05:30–22:53 | 24/7 | Counters: 07:00–23:00 |
Luggage | Challenging during peak hours | Limited space | Ideal for large luggage | Maximum flexibility |
Best For | Budget travelers Light packers | Solo travelers to Orchard | Families/Late arrivals Accessibility needs | Day trips Malaysia border runs |
Singapore Changi Airport Transfer | Singapore MRT
Singapore's MRT system is the most efficient way to travel between Changi Airport and the city center! Passengers arriving at or departing from Terminals 2 and 3 can access the city directly via Changi Airport MRT Station. Those using Terminals 1 or 4 should first take the complimentary Changi Airport Skytrain (CAAS) or Terminal Shuttle Bus to Terminal 3, then proceed to Changi Airport MRT Station.
The fare of the Singapore MRT depends on the distance of the trip and the type of ticket used. Ticket prices are divided into two categories: adult tickets and senior/student tickets.
The price of adult tickets ranges from S$0.92 to S$3.10 depending on the travel distance. Passengers can also choose to use the Yitong Card to enjoy a 10% discount on the standard adult fare. Yitong Cards can be purchased and recharged at any subway station or convenience store.
The prices of senior/student tickets range from S$0.50 to S$1.55, again depending on the distance of the trip
Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2)
Category | Details |
Operating Hours | 05:31 – 00:06 |
Travel Time | • Bugis: ~39 min • Marina Bay: ~50 min • Orchard: ~51 min • Chinatown: ~52 min • Clarke Quay: ~58 min |
Frequency | Every 4–8 minutes |
Fare | ~SGD 2 to city center (varies by destination) |
Key Notes | • Serves only the Changi Airport Branch Line • Transfers required for destinations beyond Expo or Tanah Merah |
Singapore Changi Airport Transfer | Bus
Route Network
Only Bus 36 provides direct access from all terminals to downtown Singapore.
🔹 Key Destinations: Orchard Road, Suntec City, The Esplanade
🔹 First/Last Bus: 05:30–22:53 daily
🔹 Travel Time: 60–90 mins (scenic local route)
Terminal Boarding Points
Terminal | Location | Routes |
T1 | Basement Bus Bay | 36, 24, 34 |
T2 | Basement Coach Stand | 36, 27, 53 |
T3 | South Coach Stand (B2) | 36, 110, 858 |
T4 | Car Park 4B | 36, 24, 34 |
Fares & Payment
- Standard Fare: SGD $2.24 (to city center)
- Accept:
✓ EZ-Link Cards
✓ Singapore Tourist Pass
✓ Contactless Visa/Mastercard
✓ Exact cash (no change)
Singapore Changi Airport Transfer | Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Taxi and ride-hailing are always good choices for travelers with a lot luggages. Here's a quik comparison for Regular Taxis vs. Ride-Hailing Apps at Singapore Changi Airport:
Feature | Regular Taxis | Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab/Zig/Gojek) |
|---|---|---|
Pickup Points | Taxi stands outside Arrivals (all terminals) | Designated app pickup zones (follow terminal signs) |
Best For | • Late-night arrivals • Heavy luggage • Cash payments | • Long taxi queues • Upfront pricing • Card payments |
Avg. Fare to City | • Regular: SGD 20–25 • Peak: SGD 25–35 • Late Night: SGD 35–45 | • Regular: SGD 18–23 • Peak: SGD 23–33 • Late Night: SGD 30–40 |
Payment Methods | Cash (majority), some accept cards | App wallet, credit/debit cards |
Key Apps | N/A | Grab (card payments, ride tracking) Zig/Gojek (SE Asia-wide) Tada/Ryde (local options) |
Singapore Changi Airport Transfer | Car Hire
For travelers wanting the flexibility to see Singapore independently, especially outside the core, renting a car at Changi Airport (SIN) is highly recommended. It's generally less suitable for tourists staying centrally due to cost and parking issues. Book now on Trip.com and save 8% on rentals!
Key Rental Details
Category | Information |
|---|---|
Service Hours | • Counters: 07:00–23:00 (T1/T2/T3) • T3 Arrival Hall: 24/7 via kiosks |
Terminal Access | • T1: Level 1 Arrival (Avis, Eurocar) • T2: Level 1 Arrival (Hertz, Sixt) • T3: Level 1 Arrival (Budget, Enterprise) • T4: No counters (use T2/T3 shuttle) |
Requirements | • Valid driver’s license (international permit if non-English) • Credit card (debit cards not accepted) • Minimum age: 23 years |
Avg. Daily Cost | • Economy: SGD 90–120 • Includes: Collision waiver, unlimited mileage |
Parking Notes | • City center hotels: SGD 20–40/night • Attractions: SGD 3–10/hour |
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Must-Visit Singapore Attractions
1. Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is the first and only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia. Experience adrenaline-pumping rides, interactive performances and a variety of exciting attractions adapted from your familiar and favorite blockbusters and TV series. It is also the most popular destination for families in Singapore.
2. Mandai Wildlife Reserve
The Night Safari is the world's first wildlife park specifically designed for nocturnal animals. Covering an area of 35 hectares, it houses around 900 animals of about 100 species, some of which are endangered. It is one of the iconic tourist attractions in Singapore.
3. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Gardens by the Bay is a park located in the center of Marina Bay, Singapore, covering an area of 101 hectares. The park features various greenhouses showcasing diverse garden landscapes. Among them, the Optimus Prime Observation Deck is a landmark of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, offering a view of the lush environment of Gardens by the Bay and the unparalleled scenery of the Marina Bay area.
Recommended Singapore Hotels
FAQs about Singapore Changi Airport
How to spend 8 hours in Singapore airport?
Start by exploring Jewel Changi, where you can marvel at the Rain Vortex waterfall and stroll through lush indoor gardens. Relax in one of the comfortable lounges or unwind at the Butterfly Garden in Terminal 3. Enjoy a meal at diverse restaurants or do some shopping at high-end boutiques. If you need a break, take a dip in the Aerotel’s pool or watch a movie at the free cinema. Additionally, you can visit the sunflower garden or simply relax in the serene central atriums to make the most of your layover.Which Terminal is Best in Singapore Airport?
Choosing the best terminal at Singapore Changi Airport depends on what you’re looking for. Terminal 3 is a favorite for its spacious layout, extensive dining and shopping options, and attractions like the Butterfly Garden and free movie theater. Terminal 2 is great for its peaceful koi pond garden and direct access to Jewel Changi. Terminal 1 offers convenient amenities for Singapore Airlines and Scoot passengers, including the Aerotel transit hotel. Terminal 4 is perfect for those flying budget airlines and who appreciate a modern, automated experience. Ultimately, the best terminal is the one that best fits your airline and personal preferences.Can I Walk from T1 to T3 Changi?
While it’s technically possible to walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 at Changi Airport, it’s not the most practical option. The terminals are connected by the Skytrain, which is a quick and easy way to move between them, especially if you have luggage. Walking would take significantly longer and require navigating through busy areas. For convenience and speed, it’s best to take the Skytrain or use the Skybridge to transfer between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.Can I Go Out of Singapore Airport During a Long Layover?
Yes, you can leave Singapore Changi Airport during a long layover, provided you have the necessary visa and enough time to explore. Changi is just a short 20-30 minute ride from the city center by taxi or MRT, allowing you to visit attractions like Marina Bay Sands or Gardens by the Bay. Make sure to account for immigration and security checks when planning your trip outside the airport. Always check visa requirements based on your nationality and ensure your layover is long enough to enjoy a quick city tour without stressing about your next flight.