The Great World

Changi Airport isn’t just an entry point to Singapore; it’s a destination in itself, consistently ranked among the world’s best airports. This sprawling complex is more than a transit hub; it’s a microcosm of Singapore’s efficiency, innovation, and hospitality. For travelers, understanding how to navigate from Changi Airport to various parts of Singapore is crucial. This guide offers an extensive look into Changi Airport and the myriad ways to travel from there to explore the Lion City.

Changi Airport: A World-Class Gateway

Changi Airport, with its four operational terminals, is renowned for its architectural magnificence, top-notch facilities, and exceptional services. Each terminal has its unique attractions, like the Butterfly Garden in T3, the tallest slide in an airport in T3, and the enchanting Kinetic Rain sculpture in T1.

• Terminals and Facilities

Terminals 1-4: Each terminal has its unique features and amenities. From beautiful themed gardens to art installations and play areas for children, the terminals are designed for passenger comfort and enjoyment.

• Jewel Changi Airport: Home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, Jewel is a stunning glass-and-steel structure housing gardens, shopping and dining outlets, a hotel, and entertainment facilities.

Connectivity Inside Changi

• Skytrain: A free automated people mover, Skytrain, connects the terminals both landside and airside.
• Shuttle Buses: Free shuttle services are available for inter-terminal movement.

Traveling from Changi Airport to Singapore City

The distance between Changi Airport and central Singapore is about 19.2 km. According to Google Maps, the total travel time by road is estimated to be 17 minutes in favorable traffic conditions.

You have 5 options:

• Mass Rapid Transit (MRT):

The subway is a fast, time-saving means of travel. This option is suitable for guests traveling on their own, with few people, or without a lot of bulky luggage.

Convenient and Economical: The MRT is one of the most cost-effective ways to travel into the city.

How to Access? The Changi Airport MRT Station is connected to Terminals 2 and 3, easily accessible from T1 and T4 via Skytrains. If you land at other stations but want to use the MRT, you need to move to T2 station. Here, you follow the sign “Train to City” to get to the MRT station.

Routes and Transfers: the East-West Line (Green Line) serves the airport. A transfer at Tanah Merah station is necessary to continue to the city or other destinations.

The day’s first train departs Changi Airport station at 5:31 AM on weekdays and on Saturdays, at 5:59 am on Sundays and holidays. The day’s last departs from the airport at 11:18 PM.

Changi Airport MRT Frequency

Peak hours (8 AM – 9Am; 12:30 PM – 2 PM; 7:30 PM – 10:15 PM): 7 – 9 minutes/trip

Different time frame: 12 – 13 minutes/trip

Cost and Time: Affordable and takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the city center.

Tips: Purchase an EZ-Link card for convenience. You can download the Moovit app to look up the train route corresponding to your destination.

• Buses:

Can be a scenic way to see the city.

Routes: Several public bus services run from Changi to various parts of Singapore.

Cost and Time: Economical, though travel time is longer than MRT. In detail:

Route

36A: Changi Airport – The Regent S’pore

36B: Lagoon View – Opposite Mandarin Gardens

Fare: 2.5 SGD/way

Travel time: About 1 hour

Frequency: 8 – 12 minutes/trip

Hours of operation:

Weekdays: 06:08 – 22:52

Saturday: 06:07 – 22:52

Sundays and holidays: 06:06 – 23:53

Tips: Check bus routes and schedules in advance. Use an EZ-Link card or have exact change.

• Taxis

This is the most comfortable and fastest means of transportation chosen by many tourists. Especially customers traveling in large groups, families with children, and the elderly.

Availability: Taxi stands are located at each terminal and are available 24/7. Apps like Grab are widely used for private hire cars.

Cost: More expensive but direct. Fares vary depending on the destination and time of day.

There are 2 popular forms of taxi at the airport with different costs between peak and off-peak hours.

Regular taxi: 20 – 35 SGD and Premium taxi: 30 – 50 SDG. In addition, depending on the time frame, you will be charged a surcharge when taking a taxi: 5 SGD (from 5 PM to 0 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday); 50% on the final price (0 AM – 6 AM); 25% on the final price in at other times.

Tips: Ideal for group travelers or those with heavy luggage.

• Airport Shuttle:

This is a form of transportation between Changi airport and 160 hotels in the city center.

Cost and Booking: Reasonably priced; can be booked at airport counters. For detail:

Fare:

Adults (12 years old and up): 10 SGD

Children (under 12 years old): 7 SGD

Travel time: About 25 minutes

Operating hours: 7am – 11pm daily

Frequency: every 15 – 30 minutes/trip

• By Private Hire Cars and Ride-Hailing Apps

Convenience of App Booking: Services like Grab are widely used in Singapore and can be a convenient alternative to taxis.

Pick-up Points: Designated pick-up points are available at all terminals.

Options: Available at the airport. International driving permits are usually required.

Considerations: Singapore drives on the left. Be mindful of tolls and parking.

Tips for Smooth Travel from Changi Airport

1. Plan According to Your Schedule: If you’re in a hurry, taxis or private hires are the best option. For budget travel, consider the MRT or buses.
2. Stay Informed about Transport Schedules: Especially if traveling late at night or early in the morning, as some services may not operate 24/7.
3. Use Travel Apps: Apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can provide real-time directions and transport options.
4. Consider Buying an EZ-Link Card: If planning to use public transport frequently, this card is a convenient way to pay for buses and MRT rides.

Changi’s excellent connectivity means that Singapore’s key attractions are easily accessible:

• Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay: A quick MRT ride away.
• Sentosa Island: Accessible via MRT and Sentosa Express from HarbourFront Station.
• Orchard Road: Famous for shopping; a few MRT stops away.
• Cultural Districts: Neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam are accessible via MRT.

Changi Airport is the beginning of your Singapore adventure. Whether you choose the efficiency of the MRT, the comfort of a taxi, or the economy of a bus, navigating from Changi to your destination is part of the seamless Singapore experience. As you set out from Changi, you’re not just traveling; you’re embarking on an exploration of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

This guide provides an in-depth look at Changi Airport and the various transportation options available to travelers, ensuring a smooth transition from arrival in Singapore to exploring its many wonders. Wish you have a memorable Singapore’s trip!