How to get from Changi International Airport to downtown Singapore? how to get from Singapore airport to downtown (how to get from Changi airport to city centre), How many popular airport transportation options are there? Let’s find out 5 best way to get from Changi airport to city (best way to get from Singapore airport to city centre) in this article!
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Are you excited to prepare for your trip to Singapore and wondering how to get from Changi Airport to your destination? Don’t worry, Singapore has a myriad of super convenient and efficient airport transportation options.
Whether you prefer a door-to-door shuttle service, take the MRT or catch a bus, there’s sure to be a method that suits your needs. In this article, we’ll explore each option to help you make the best decision for getting around Singapore.
Where is Changi Airport in Singapore? How Far is it from the City Center?
Singapore Changi Airport is located in the east of the city, about 20km from the center, equivalent to 25 – 30 minutes by car. This is Singapore’s largest airport and also one of the busiest aviation hubs in Asia, with an area of over 1,300 hectares.
Changi currently has 4 main terminals including Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4, along with the Jewel shopping and entertainment complex directly connected to Terminal 1. The terminals are connected to each other by Skytrain and free internal buses, making it easy for passengers to move between areas.
Singapore NETS FlashPay Travel Card
For flights departing from Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang), most will land at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, depending on the airline. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Vietnam Airlines or Vietjet Air often use these terminals. After landing, passengers will go through immigration procedures and have many transportation options to get to the city center such as the subway (MRT), taxi, Grab or shuttle bus.
Let’s find out the details of each service from Changi Airport to the city center below!
How to get from Singapore airport to city centre: Changi Airport Transfer Service in Singapore
If you are visiting Singapore for the first time and want to start your trip smoothly, an airport transfer service is definitely worth considering. Instead of having to struggle to find the MRT, queue up for a taxi or navigate between terminals with bulky suitcases, it will be convenient if there is a car waiting for you as soon as you step out of immigration.
Depending on your needs, you can choose a standard 4-seater car, a large family car or even a minibus for a large group, all of which can be easily booked via Klook. If you are traveling with children, you can also add a child safety seat for added peace of mind. All drivers are professional locals, familiar with the routes and experienced in serving international guests, so you can just relax and enjoy the journey.
Singapore Changi Airport Transfers
Booking is also flexible: from a year in advance to just 1 hour before your trip, meaning you can be proactive even if your schedule changes. With clear pricing and no additional charges, this service is especially suitable for families, large groups or anyone who wants to prioritize convenience and a seamless experience from the first minute at Changi Airport.
Traveling by MRT in Singapore
Traveling by MRT from Changi Airport to the center of Singapore is an economical and easy-to-use option, especially suitable for first-time visitors to the lion island. The Changi Airport MRT station is located right at the basement of Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, directly connected to the East-West Line (green) subway system.
If you land at Terminal 1, just walk or take the free Skytrain to T2 or T3 within a few minutes. Terminal 4 does not have its own MRT station, so you need to take the internal bus to T2 first. From Changi Airport Station, you will board a train headed towards Tanah Merah and change trains here to continue your journey to the city center such as Bugis, City Hall, Raffles Place or Tanjong Pagar.
The total travel time usually takes about 35 – 50 minutes depending on the destination, and the cost ranges from 1.9 to 2.8 SGD, which can be paid by EZ-Link card, contactless credit card or Apple Pay. Trains run regularly from 5:30 am to about 11:45 pm, each trip is 5 – 7 minutes apart, so you hardly have to wait long. This is the ideal choice if you are traveling alone or with little luggage, wanting to feel the rhythm of Singapore’s urban life from the very first minutes.
Note: Currently, the MRT line connecting Changi Airport with Tanah Merah is being upgraded to integrate into the Thomson – East Coast Line network. Therefore, there may be one-way or temporary service interruptions at certain times.
Travellers are advised to check the SMRT official website or MyTransport.SG app for updates before travelling, and consider alternative options such as shuttle bus, Grab or taxi if arriving late at night or when the MRT is not operating.
Singtel 5G/4G Singapore SIM Card (SG Airport & City Pick Up)
One downside to taking the train is that you will have to carry your luggage and travel from the station to your hotel. It may be suitable for solo travellers or those with light luggage who want to experience the local public transport system. Don’t forget to buy a NETS FlashPay travel card to explore the Lion City!
How to get from Changi Airport to city centre: Traveling by Public Bus from Changi Airport – Singapore
Another option for those who want to save money when traveling from Changi Airport is to use the public bus. Singapore has an extensive and efficient bus system, connecting directly from the terminals to many central areas such as Orchard, Marina Bay or Chinatown.
Popular bus routes from the airport include 36, 24, 27, 34, 53, 110 and 858, operating from 6am to around 11pm every day. The bus stops are located on the basement floors of Terminals 1, 2 and 3, while Terminal 4 has a pick-up point at Car Park 4B.
Bus fares range from SGD 1.60 to SGD 2.50, depending on the route, and you can pay with an EZ-Link card, NETS FlashPay or contactless credit card. Buses in Singapore are air-conditioned, have comfortable seats, and an automatic English stop announcement system, making them very tourist-friendly.
Singapore Car Rental with Driver to Universal Studios Singapore/Marina Bay Sands by Zenith
However, as buses stop at many stations and follow fixed routes, the total travel time to the city center can take between 60 and 90 minutes. This is a suitable option if you are not in a hurry, have little luggage, and want to experience the city in a slower and more economical way.
Similar to the MRT, if you are traveling with family, a group, or have a lot of luggage, taking the bus will be quite complicated. For those who do not mind a slightly longer travel time and want to save money, taking the bus from Singapore airport is a great option.
Take a Taxi/ Ride-hailing Service from Changi Airport to the City
For a quick and direct journey, you can also choose a taxi from the designated taxi stands at Changi Airport. However, do note that a late-night surcharge of S$8 to S$10 applies for trips between 11:30pm and 6:15am.
A taxi from Changi to the city centre usually costs between S$20 and S$30. However, for those planning a point-to-point trip, it is best to book an airport transfer in advance, which is guaranteed, cheaper than a taxi and can also accommodate more passengers.
Alternatively, you can use online ride-hailing apps like Grab to take advantage of promotions.
Tip: Singapore Changi Airport is famous for its size and variety of terminals. Sometimes, you need to move to other terminals to catch a ride or simply shop or go through immigration. The Changi Airport Skytrain is a free and efficient way to get around the airport.
Jewel Changi Airport Attraction Ticket in Singapore
By considering the different transportation options at Changi Airport, you can choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you choose airport shuttle, taxi, MRT or bus, getting from Singapore airport to your destination has never been easier.
Guide to Moving Between Terminals at Changi Airport
Changi Airport has 4 main terminals: Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4. Moving between terminals is very convenient, making it easy for passengers to transfer flights or explore amenities such as Jewel.
From Terminal 1, 2 and 3, you can use the free Skytrain, which operates from around 5am to 2:30am the next morning, with a frequency of 4-7 minutes/trip. The Skytrain connects the terminals directly through the security check area and the public area, suitable for both transit passengers and those picking up and dropping off.
Terminal 4 is not directly connected by Skytrain, but there is a Free Shuttle Bus service to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The bus operates throughout the day in the public and transit areas, depending on your itinerary. The travel time from T4 to other terminals is usually around 10 – 15 minutes.
If you want to go to Jewel Changi, which is adjacent to Terminal 1, you can walk across the bridge or take the Skytrain from T2/T3. Please check the signage and flight information carefully to avoid the wrong terminal, especially if you are transiting or changing airlines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transportation from Changi Airport
Should I choose MRT, bus or taxi to get from the airport to the city center?
It depends on your budget, luggage and schedule. MRT is suitable for people traveling alone, with little luggage and wanting to save money. Buses are cheap but take longer. Taxis and technology cars like Grab are fast, convenient, and suitable if you are traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Where is the MRT station in Changi Airport?
The Changi Airport MRT station is located in the basement of Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. If you arrive at Terminal 1, you can use the free Skytrain to get to these two terminals. From Terminal 4, you need to take the internal shuttle bus to Terminal 2 first.
How can I pay for the MRT or bus tickets?
You can use EZ-Link card, NETS FlashPay, or contactless payment with credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and e-wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay. No need to buy individual tickets.
Can I book the airport shuttle service in advance?
Yes. Airport transfers in Singapore (like those on Klook) allow you to book from 1 hour to 1 year in advance. The shuttle will be waiting at the airport and take you to your destination, which is convenient if you are traveling in a group, have children or have a lot of luggage.
How to get between terminals at Changi?
Terminals 1–2–3 are connected by the free Skytrain. Terminal 4 is separate and requires an internal bus to get to T1 or T3. These services are clearly signposted and operate almost all day.
What should I do if the MRT is temporarily closed?
In the event that the MRT is closed for renovation, you can take the shuttle bus instead, or switch to a taxi/Grab. It is recommended to check for updates via the MyTransport.SG app or the SMRT website before traveling.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Singapore you can refer to
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer
- Singapore Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Open-Top)
- Sentosa FUN Pass
- [Klook Exclusive] Universal Studios Singapore™ 1 Day Ticket
- Gardens by the Bay Ticket Singapore
- S.E.A. Aquarium™ One-Day Ticket
- ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands Ticket
- Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass
- Jewel Changi Airport Attraction Tickets in Singapore
- Singapore Flyer Tickets
- Skyline Luge Singapore: Skyline Luge & Skyride
- Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck or Sampan Ride
- Adventure Cove Waterpark™ One-Day Ticket
- Science Centre Singapore, Butterflies Up-Close, Omni Theatre
- Singapore River Cruise
- Madame Tussauds Singapore Ticket
- Wings of Time Show Ticket in Singapore
- LiHO TEA in Singapore
- Singapore Travel Card (NETS FlashPay)
- Universal Studios Singapore Tickets
- Klook Pass Singapore
- 4G Prepaid Sim Card (Changi Airport Pick Up) for Singapore
- 4G WiFi (SG Airport Pick Up) for Singapore
Are you finding more top things to do in Singapore: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: The ultimate Singapore travel guide.
