Roberta Aguirre
Changi Airport in Singapore is considered a destination in itself, with attractions such as the $1.3 billion addition, Jewel Changi, which features a movie theatre, rooftop Sunflower Garden, Mirror Maze, tube slide, indoor nature trails, orchid gardens, and a dramatic waterfall. The airport also includes local and international boutiques, two hotels, a cinema, and art installations. For those with long layovers, it is possible to exit the airport and enter Singapore during your layover period. Singapore is open to all transit travellers with no specific regulations or requirements, however, travellers from eligible countries may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit, permitting a stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the transit area during layover | Possible, but depends on passport and visa requirements |
| Transport options to the city | MRT (metro), bus, taxi, or private hire car |
| MRT cost | Approximately $1.50 each way |
| MRT timings | 5:30 am to 11 pm |
| MRT duration | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Taxi cost | $17 to $30 |
| Taxi duration | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Visa requirements | Citizens of eligible countries, including India, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit |
| Immigration process | Fill out a form stating the short duration of the stay |
| Luggage storage | Available at all terminals |
| Attractions near the airport | Jewel Changi, which includes a movie theater, rooftop Sunflower Garden, Mirror Maze, tube slide, indoor nature trails, orchid gardens, and more |
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What You'll Learn
- Transit travellers from eligible countries can get a 96-hour Visa Free Transit
- Singapore Airlines offers free city tours for passengers with long layovers
- Changi Airport is a destination in itself, with nature, shopping, and dining
- It takes 30 minutes to reach downtown Singapore from the airport
- There are various transport options to get from the airport to the city
Transit travellers from eligible countries can get a 96-hour Visa Free Transit
Changi Airport in Singapore is open to all transit travellers with no specific regulations or requirements. However, travellers intending to clear arrival immigration to enter Singapore is not considered a transit traveller.
Transit travellers from eligible countries, including India, China, Georgia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and selected nationals from the People's Republic of China, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit. This permit allows a stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore. To be eligible, travellers must possess a valid onward ticket departing within 96 hours and enter Singapore by any mode of transport but must depart by air or sea. Additionally, they must hold a valid visa or long-term pass with a minimum validity of one month from the date of entry into Singapore.
Entry eligibility for the 96-hour Visa Free Transit is determined by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry. Assessment criteria include meeting the prevailing entry requirements and possessing the specified types of travel documents. It is important to note that extension requests for stays under the Visa Free Transit Facility are strictly not allowed. Should travellers require a longer stay, they must apply for a visa extension.
During their time in Singapore, transit travellers can explore various places outside the airport, such as the western side of the country or the Changi Jewel near the airport. They can use the metro to move around, but they should be mindful of the time required to clear security upon their return to the airport.
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Singapore Airlines offers free city tours for passengers with long layovers
If you're transiting through Changi Airport in Singapore, you may be able to exit the airport during your layover. Transit travellers from eligible countries, including India and the People's Republic of China, holding valid onward air tickets, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit, permitting a stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore. Entry eligibility is assessed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry.
Singapore Airlines offers free city tours for passengers with layovers of between 5.5 and 24 hours. These tours are a collaboration between Singapore Airlines and the Changi Airport Group and are conducted in English. There are four unique tour itineraries to choose from, each featuring curated sightseeing routes with two brief photo stops at iconic landmarks. The tours last 2.5 hours and include the City Sights Tour, the Heritage and Culture Tour, the Singapore River and Marina Bay Sands Tour, and the Sentosa Discovery Tour.
The City Sights Tour takes you on a captivating exploration of Singapore's bustling downtown, showcasing iconic landmarks and the stories behind them. The tour starts at Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, or 7:00 PM. You'll be guided to City Hall, the Civic District, Jubilee Bridge, Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, and Marina Bay Sands.
The Heritage and Culture Tour offers a blend of history, architecture, and nature. You'll explore the award-winning Gardens by the Bay, with its 500,000 plants and Avatar-like Supertrees, and step into Singapore's past by visiting cultural gems like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. This informative walking tour, offered daily in English, takes place between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
The Singapore River and Marina Bay Sands Tour traces Singapore's transformation from a historic trading port to a futuristic city. You'll explore the iconic Singapore River and admire the striking architecture of Marina Bay Sands, with panoramic views of the skyline.
The Sentosa Discovery Tour uncovers Singapore's southern coast and the transformation of Sentosa from a British military base into a vibrant leisure destination.
To join these tours, you need to pre-register through the Changi Airport Group's official website, or visit the booth at T2 Transit, Level 2, Departure Transit Hall (Near Gate F50), or T3 Transit, Level 2, Departure Transit Hall (Near Gate A1-A8) when you arrive at Changi Airport. Singapore Airlines passengers can also pre-book the tour via the booking page. It's important to note that passengers with non-transit hotel bookings are not eligible for the Free Singapore Tour.
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Changi Airport is a destination in itself, with nature, shopping, and dining
Changi Airport is more than just a place to catch a flight. It is a destination in itself, with nature, shopping, and dining experiences that will leave you wanting more. The airport has won numerous awards, including the Skytrax 2025 World Airport Awards for the World's Best Airport, World's Best Airport Dining, World's Best Airport Washrooms, and Best Airport in Asia.
For nature lovers, Changi Airport offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of travel. The airport is adorned with lush plants, tall palms, blooming bougainvilleas, and lush bushes, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere. The indoor garden, Dreamscape, in Terminal 2, features over 20,000 plants from more than 100 species. The airport's newest nature-themed oasis in Terminal 1's Quick Bites area offers a unique dining experience amidst fig trees, topiary spheres, and cascading mosses.
When it comes to shopping, Changi Airport delivers a world-class experience. From the glamorous Moroccan-inspired Bacha Coffee in Terminal 3 to the exclusive deals and benefits offered with the Changi Rewards card, there is something for everyone. The airport also houses well-known stores such as Lotte Duty Free in Terminal 1 and a variety of shops in Jewel Changi Airport, where you can find exclusive rewards and shopping experiences.
Dining at Changi Airport is a culinary adventure. Whether you're craving Kaya Toast, Wanton Mee, Laksa, or Pad Thai, the airport has you covered with a variety of local food options. The Archipelago Bar, a dual-concept café, offers a unique combination of beer and Thai cuisine. For those looking for a quick bite, Terminal 1's Quick Bites area provides a delightful culinary experience surrounded by lush greenery.
Changi Airport is easily accessible, with direct links to about 160 cities by approximately 100 partner airlines. For those with longer layovers, the airport offers early check-in through Jewel Changi Airport, allowing passengers to start their airport adventure up to 24 hours in advance. With so much to offer, Changi Airport is a destination that should not be missed.
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It takes 30 minutes to reach downtown Singapore from the airport
If you're transiting through Changi Airport in Singapore, you may be able to exit the airport during your layover. It depends on your nationality and passport. If you are from a country that qualifies for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit, you may be permitted to stay in Singapore for up to 96 hours. This includes countries like India and the People's Republic of China.
Once you clear migration, you can leave the airport and head into downtown Singapore. Taking a taxi or ride-share is the recommended option for visitors, especially if you are arriving at Terminal 4. A taxi ride to the city centre, such as City Hall, will typically take around 30 minutes and cost between S$25 and S$45, including the airport surcharge. You can also use ride-sharing apps to book a private hire car from companies like Grab, Gojek, Zig, Tada Mobility, or Ryde.
If you prefer to take public transportation, you can take a bus or train (MRT) to the city centre. However, these options will generally take longer than a taxi. The bus is a straightforward option, and Bus 36 passes through popular tourist areas like Orchard Road, Bras Basah, and City Hall. To pay for the bus, you will need exact change or a stored-value EZ-Link card, which you can purchase at the airport.
Taking the MRT train involves a transfer at Expo or Tanah Merah on the East-West Line to reach the city centre. This option may add a significant amount of time to your journey, especially if you have multiple luggage pieces.
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There are various transport options to get from the airport to the city
Changi Airport in Singapore offers several transport options to get to the city. The most convenient option is to take a taxi from the designated taxi stands in the arrival areas of Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4. The ride to the city centre typically takes around 30 minutes and costs between S$25 and S$45, with additional airport and peak-hour surcharges.
Another option is to use the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), which is similar to a subway or metro system. The MRT station is easily accessible from Terminals 2 and 3, while those arriving at Terminal 1 can reach it via a sky bridge. If you arrive at Terminal 4, you'll need to take a shuttle bus to Terminal 3 to access the MRT. The MRT line from the airport serves three stations: Changi Airport, Expo, and Tanah Merah, where you can change to other lines. Note that the last train departs the airport a little past 11:15 pm.
You can also opt for a bus to reach the city, but this option may take up to an hour and a half due to traffic, especially during peak hours. You can pay for your bus fare in cash or use a stored-value EZ-Link card, which can be purchased at Changi Recommends stores and the Passenger Service Centre.
Additionally, ride-sharing services like Grab, Gojek, Zig, Tada Mobility, and Ryde offer convenient travel options from the airport. These can be booked via mobile applications, and you can head to the Arrival and Ride-Hailing pick-up points at the terminals.
Finally, if you prefer more freedom, you can rent a car at the car rental counters in the Arrival Halls.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can exit the airport during your layover. Singapore is open to all transit travellers with no specific regulations or requirements. However, you will need to clear immigration and customs, and you will need to ensure you have enough time to get back to the airport and pass through security again.
It takes about 30 minutes to reach downtown Singapore from the airport, so it is not recommended to leave the airport unless you have a minimum of 6 hours between flights.
You can take the metro (MRT) which costs about $1.50 each way and takes 30-45 minutes, or you can take a taxi, which costs between $17 and $30 and takes 20-30 minutes.
