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Singapore is a great place for a layover, with plenty to do both inside and outside the airport. Changi International Airport is a destination in itself, with local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, art installations, and the new Jewel Changi Airport, which brings nature indoors with its 130-foot-tall Rain Vortex waterfall. However, if you want to leave the airport during your layover in Singapore, it is important to consider the time you have available, as well as visa requirements and transportation options.
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What You'll Learn
- How much time is needed to leave the airport during a layover in Singapore?
- What are the best ways to get around Singapore during a layover?
- What are the best free things to do in Singapore during a layover?
- What are the best things to do in Singapore during a long layover?
- What are the best things to do at Changi Airport during a short layover?
How much time is needed to leave the airport during a layover in Singapore?
Singapore is one of the best cities in the world for a layover, with its safety, cleanliness, compactness, and unbeatable food scene. Changi International Airport (SIN) is also a destination in itself, with its local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, art installations, and the new Jewel Changi area, which brings nature indoors with its indoor waterfall, walking trails, butterfly garden, and more.
However, to explore the city outside the airport, it is recommended that you have a minimum of 6 hours to spare during your layover. This takes into account the time needed to deplane, go through immigration and customs, and travel to and from the city. The airport is about 30 minutes away from downtown Singapore by taxi or the MRT (subway system), which costs around $17-$30 and $1.50 respectively.
If you have at least 5.5 hours, you can take advantage of Changi's free 2.5-hour guided tours, which run seven times daily and stop at major landmarks like Kampong Glam and Gardens by the Bay. There is also a free walking tour around Jewel Changi Airport twice a day. For longer layovers, consider a Changi Stopovers package, which includes a hotel stay, a complimentary SIM card, and a free one-way airport transfer.
To make the most of your time, it is recommended to leave your luggage at the airport, especially any heavy bags, as they will be cumbersome to carry while exploring the city. Additionally, ensure you have a valid visa, if required, and proof of onward travel.
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What are the best ways to get around Singapore during a layover?
Singapore is one of the best cities in the world for a layover. It's safe, clean, compact, and boasts an unbeatable food scene. Changi International Airport (SIN) is also a destination in itself, with local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, art installations, and the new Jewel Changi area, featuring nature-inspired attractions like the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
If you do decide to leave the airport during your layover, it's important to consider the time you have available. It takes about 30 minutes to reach downtown Singapore, so it's recommended to have a minimum of 6 hours to explore the city. The time taken to deplane and go through immigration and customs can vary from 30 to 60 minutes. If you need to re-check your bags, it's best to budget at least 2 hours for a connection.
Public Transport:
The subway system, called MRT, is the fastest and cheapest way to get around Singapore. A Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) offers unlimited travel for one, two, or three days at a reasonable price.
Taxi:
Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you're short on time. A 20- to 30-minute ride to Marina Bay from the airport will cost around $17-$30.
Free Airport Tours:
Changi Airport offers free guided tours, including bus tours that take you to major landmarks like Kampong Glam and Gardens by the Bay, as well as walking tours of the Jewel Changi Airport. These tours are a great way to see the city without the hassle of navigating public transport.
Changi Stopovers Package:
For longer layovers, consider the Changi Stopovers package, which includes a hotel stay, a complimentary SIM card, and a free one-way airport transfer. Singapore Airlines passengers with stopovers longer than 24 hours can also take advantage of the Singapore Stopover Holiday packages, which offer additional benefits like complimentary rides on the SIA Hop-on Bus and free admission to attractions.
Explore on Your Own:
If you prefer independence, you can explore Singapore independently. Popular places to visit include the National Gallery, St. Andrews Cathedral, East Coast Road for food, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and the Night Safari.
Remember to consider the time required to return to the airport, clear security, and board your connecting flight when planning your layover activities.
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What are the best free things to do in Singapore during a layover?
Singapore is one of the best cities in the world for a layover. It is safe, clean, and compact, with unbeatable food and lots to explore. However, it is recommended that you have a minimum of six hours between flights if you want to leave the airport and enter the city.
If you do decide to leave the airport, there are plenty of free things to do in Singapore. Changi International Airport offers free 2.5-hour guided bus tours of the city, which run seven times a day and stop at landmarks such as Kampong Glam and Gardens by the Bay. There is also a free walking tour of the airport itself, which takes place twice a day and showcases the airport's state-of-the-art features, including the new Jewel Changi area. This area has been likened to a botanical garden, with nature brought indoors through the world's tallest indoor waterfall, walking trails, a butterfly garden, and a hedge maze.
If you would prefer to explore the city independently, the MRT subway system is the fastest and cheapest way to get around. You can purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP), which offers unlimited travel for one, two, or three days. There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and street food options, such as in Chinatown, where you can find great food for around $5.
For those with a longer layover, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, which offers kid-friendly activities and is located near Marina Bay Sands. You can also take a taxi to Marina Bay Sands, which is particularly beautiful at night.
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What are the best things to do in Singapore during a long layover?
Singapore is one of the best cities in the world for a long layover—it's safe, clean, compact, and has a great food scene. The Changi International Airport is a destination in itself, with local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, art installations, and the new Jewel Changi area. The airport also offers free guided tours, including a walking tour of the Jewel Changi Airport, the Heritage Tour and the City Lights Tour.
If you want to leave the airport, Singapore's biggest attractions are a short drive away. It's recommended that you have a minimum of 6 hours to spare if you want to leave the airport, and you should check with the airport and your embassy to see if you can exit and what is open. Here are some of the best things to do in Singapore during a long layover:
- Gardens by the Bay: This is a definite highlight of any layover in Singapore. You could easily spend the entire day here, exploring kid-friendly activities and nearby attractions like Marina Bay Sands.
- Marina Bay Sands: This is a great area to visit, with five-star accommodations and business hotels. You can check out the bar at Marina Bay Sands and see the Gardens by the Bay and other attractions lit up at night.
- Chinatown: If you're looking for great food at affordable prices, head to Chinatown. You can find meals for as little as $5.
- Night Markets: If you have a long layover, check out one of Singapore's night markets.
- Little India: Explore the eclectic mix of cultures, cuisine, and traditions in this vibrant neighbourhood.
- Singapore Zoo: If you're travelling with kids, the Singapore Zoo is a great option, with free-roaming orangutans.
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to get into the city, consider purchasing a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP). This stored-value card enables unlimited travel for one, two, or three days.
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What are the best things to do at Changi Airport during a short layover?
Changi Airport is a destination in itself, with plenty of things to do during a short layover. The airport is well-known for its beautiful terminals, with top-notch amenities and unique attractions. Here are some of the best things to do during your short layover:
Explore the Gardens
Take a relaxing walk through the many themed tropical gardens located within the airport's terminals. Visit the Cactus Garden in Terminal 1, the Dreamscape in Terminal 2, and the Butterfly Garden in Terminal 3, which features over 1,000 butterflies from 40 different species. The Sunflower Garden, Enchanted Garden, Crystal Garden, and Water Lily Garden are also worth exploring.
Free Movie Theatre
Catch a film at the free 24/7 movie theatre located in Terminal 3. With different genres of films available, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy some entertainment during your layover.
Local Delicacies
Indulge in a culinary journey at Changi Airport's diverse dining facilities, offering a wide range of cuisines. Sample classic Singaporean and Chinese fare, as well as Indian and Malay delicacies. For a more leisurely dining experience, visit sit-down restaurants or enjoy a refreshing beer at the Tiger Den.
Shopping
Browse the hundreds of airport shops, ranging from high-end boutiques to affordable options. You can also purchase souvenirs and explore the latest fashion trends at Orchard Road, located near the airport.
Art Installations and Nature
Admire the art installations and nature-inspired attractions within the airport, such as the Jewel Changi area, which features a 130-foot-tall "Rain Vortex" and walking trails.
Transit Hotels
If you need a quick rest, Changi Airport offers transit hotels where you can sleep, eat, and shower without leaving the airport. Some hotels, like the Aerotel Singapore Transit Hotel, even feature a rooftop pool.
While Changi Airport has plenty to offer during a short layover, if you have a longer layover (over 5.5 hours), you may consider exploring downtown Singapore. The city is known for its safety, cleanliness, and diverse food scene. Remember to allow enough time to make your connecting flight and consider the time required for immigration and transportation to and from the city.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in Singapore. However, it is recommended that you have at least 6 hours of layover time to go through immigration and back. You will need a valid visa to exit the airport and enter Singapore.
Singapore Changi Airport offers free guided tours of the city for passengers with long layovers. You can also explore Singapore independently by taking the train or a taxi to the city. Some popular attractions include St. Andrews Cathedral, East Coast Road, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and Gardens by the Bay.
Yes, the airport itself is a destination with local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, art installations, and the Jewel Changi Airport, which features a botanical garden with the world's tallest indoor waterfall. The airport also offers duty-free shopping, dining, free foot massages, play areas, and 24-hour paid lounges.
