Singapore Changi International Airport, one of Asia’s largest hubs, is located approximately 20 km east of the city center. You have five transportation options to get from Singapore Airport to the city center: taxi, private transfer, metro, public bus, and shuttle bus.
Singapore Airport taxis and pre-booked Singapore Airport transfers are the most convenient options to get from Singapore Airport to the city. They ensure comfortable 24/7 service from the terminal to the door of your hotel or apartment.
Public transportation is cheaper but it’s slower. The metro and bus provide connection to several parts of the city but it requires some research upfront to find the nearest metro or bus stop to your destination. The final option is the shuttle bus, which combines door-to-door services and a low fare so it’s a good alternative if you’re traveling on a budget.
5 options to go from Singapore Airport to city center
OPTION | PRICE | TIME | AVAILABILITY | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer | €35 | 25min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| It's best to set the pickup time 20-30 minutes after your flight arrival. This will allow enough time to go through passport control and baggage claim without rushing to the exit. | ||||||
Taxi | €15 | 25min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| Taxis in Singapore are rather cheap compared to other cities around the world; they're a great value-for-money option for short or long-distance rides, even if you're traveling on a budget. | ||||||
MRT Train | €2.90 | 40min | 05:31–23:18 | Convenience | Read more | |
| The EZ-Link card can be purchased or topped up in multiple locations around Singapore, such as SingPost stores and 7/11 Stores around the city. | ||||||
Public Bus Line 36/36A | €3 | 90min | 06:00–22:52 | Convenience | Read more | |
| Between the metro and the bus, the metro is a cheaper and more convenient option, with a larger network around the city. | ||||||
Airport City Shuttle | €14 | 40min | 07:00–23:00 | Convenience | Read more | |
| Taking the shuttle bus from the airport to the city is the best value-for-money option for solo travelers and small groups. | ||||||
Taking a taxi from Singapore Airport to the city center is one of the best transportation options to leave the airport and reach the door of your accommodation directly. Singapore Airport taxi service is available 24/7 and you’ll find different types of taxis, sedans, premium taxis, and limousines, lined up in front of the terminal. Simply follow the signs guiding you to the rank where, with a bit of luck, you may secure a ride quickly if there’s not a long line.
What's the cost of a taxi from Singapore Airport to city?
Singapore taxi fares are calculated with a taximeter and the main factors affecting the price are distance to destination and time of day. Also, different rates apply for different taxi types; a premium or limousine taxi will be more expensive than a standard sedan taxi.
Also, several fees are added to the final fare, including airport surcharge, midnight surcharge, and peak-hour surcharge.
That being said, the average taxi price from Singapore Airport to the city is around €15 (SGD 22) during the day and €22.50 (SGD 33) at night.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Singapore Airport has four terminals and there is a dedicated taxi stand in the Arrivals areas of each terminal. There are signs inside the Arrival Hall of each terminal guiding you there and you should easily spot the line of taxis once you reach the exit.
Convenience
The low taxi fare from Singapore Airport to the city makes it a good value-for-money option to reach your hotel or apartment any time during the day. However, although taxis are available around the clock, Singapore Airport is one of the busiest in the world so you can expect long queues at the ranks during peak hours.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreThe MRT is a quick and convenient way to get around Singapore. However, there is no direct line from Singapore Airport to the city but you have two options to reach your destination in about 40 minutes.
You can take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station up to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4), then transfer to the East-West Line towards Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33); you can disembark at Raffles Place or another station close to your accommodation.
Alternatively, you can take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station up to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bukit Panjang MRT Station (BP6/DT1); you can disembark at Downtown or whichever station is nearest your hotel or apartment.
How much is the metro from Singapore Airport to city center?
The fare for MRT tickets is collected based on the distance traveled. The fare from Singapore Airport to the city is around €1.45 (SGD 2.07) if you disembark at Downtown or Raffles Place stations.
There are several payment options to use the MRT. You can purchase an EZ-Link card from the Changi Recommends store and from the Passenger Service Centre or TransitLink Ticket Office at Changi Airport Station.
Alternatively, you can pay using a contactless bank card (Mastercard and Visa Credit/Debit Cards) or a mobile wallet, like ApplePay. Keep in mind that these options may incur foreign transaction fees.
Another good idea to avoid the hassle is to purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass via EZ-Link’s website; it offers unlimited travel on MRT trains and buses for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
The first train from Changi Airport departs at 05:31 Monday to Saturday and at 05:59 on Sundays. The last train departs at 23:18 daily.
Where do I get the metro from?
The Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) is in the basement of Terminals 2 and 3; you will find signs directing you there, saying ‘MRT trains to city’ or ‘train to city’.
Singapore Airport has four terminal buildings. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are easily accessed by taking the Skytrain, which runs from 05:30 to 02:30 daily, or by walking across the connecting bridges. Terminal 4 is completely separate from the rest but there is a complimentary shuttle bus service to take you there.
Convenience
The metro is a great value-for-money option for travelers who wish to get from Singapore Airport to the city on a budget. However, the changeover can be a hassle if you’re not used to moving around by public transport when abroad, and carrying your luggage around doesn’t make things any easier. You should consider other options if you have lots of luggage, want to get there as soon as possible, or you’re traveling with young children.
Timetables
Changi Airport Station
Train information
MRT fare calculator
From Changi Airport to Downtown/Raffles Place
MRT network map
Trace your route
Useful Tips
Another way to leave the airport by public transport is to take public bus line 36 or 36A to Singapore city center. This is a slow option as it makes several stops along the way but it can take you to central parts of the city, including Marine Parade Rd, Somerset, or Orchard Rd. The bus also makes many stops at MRT stations where you can change modes of transport to reach your hotel or apartment.
How much is the bus from Singapore Airport to city center?
Travel fares are charged based on the total distance traveled. A single adult fare for the bus from Singapore Airport to the city is €1.50 (SGD 2.60).
You can pay the driver in cash for a standard ticket but note that the driver does not give change, so have the exact amount on you. Alternatively, you can purchase an EZ-Link card at the ticketing offices in the Arrivals area at the airport.
Other payment methods are by a contactless bank card (Mastercard and Visa Credit/Debit Cards) or a mobile wallet, like ApplePay. Keep in mind that these options may incur foreign transaction fees.
Finally, another good idea to avoid the hassle is to purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass via EZ-Link’s website; it offers unlimited travel on MRT trains and buses for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
Bus route 36 is available from 06:00 to 22:52 daily. Bus route 36A is available from 06:00 to 23:58 Monday-Friday and on Sunday and to 00:04 on Saturday.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop at Singapore Airport is available at the basement bus bays of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. If you are in Terminal 4, the bus stop for routes 36 and 36A is next to Car Park 4B. Follow the signage that reads “Bus to City” throughout the airport.
Convenience
The bus from Singapore Airport to Singapore is a cheap option and can connect you to several parts of the city. However, it’s the slowest option and during peak hours it can be very crowded onboard. For a faster or more comfortable ride to the city, it’s best to choose another option.
Timetables
Public bus route maps
Route 36/36A
Journey fare calculator
Bus service number 36/36A
Useful Tips
The Airport City Shuttle is a great value-for-money option, combining a low fare and direct transportation to over 100 hotels around Singapore’s city center. You can book as many seats as you need or the entire shuttle which can accommodate up to 9 passengers. The travel time can be longer than that of an airport taxi or private transfer depending on the number of passengers on board and how many stops are required along the way.
What's the cost of the shuttle bus from Singapore Airport to the city center?
The fare for the shuttle bus from Singapore Airport to the city is €7 (SGD 10) per adult and €5 (SGD 7) for children under 12 years old. You can also book the entire shuttle for €42 (SGD 60).
You can purchase your ticket online or from the City Shuttle Counters located in all four terminals:
Shuttle buses operate from Singapore Airport from 07:00 to 23:00 daily.
Where do I take the shuttle bus from?
The shuttle bus departs from the Ground Transport Concierges (GTC) of each terminal at Singapore Airport. Follow the signs inside the terminal that read ‘City Shuttle/Limousine Ground Transport Concierge’.
Convenience
Leaving the airport with the shuttle bus is the best option if you want to enjoy door-to-door transportation but for a lower fare than that of a taxi or private transfer. However, the limited luggage space means it’s not for you if you’re traveling carrying multiple pieces of luggage.
Timetables
City Shuttle hotel list
City Shuttle online booking
Useful Tips
A private Singapore Airport transfer to the city center is the most convenient transportation option to reach your hotel or apartment directly. With a trusted operator like Welcome Pickups, you will not only skip the queue at the taxi rank and save time but also enjoy personalized services:
The best part is that you can arrange everything before your trip and ensure a seamless arrival. After a long flight, you can sit back and relax and chat with your driver who can provide tips on the local culture and recommend places to eat so can make the most out of your stay.
What's the cost of a Singapore Airport transfer to city center?
The fare for a private transfer is fixed so you don’t need to worry about metered rates and different taxi types. After filling in all the necessary details during the booking process, like the drop-off address and the number of passengers and luggage, you will get a quote for the most suitable vehicle for you and your travel party.
That being said, the fare of a sedan transfer from Singapore Airport to the city costs €35 (SGD 50) during the day and €50 (SGD 72) during the night. For larger groups, you can book a minivan for €52 (SGD 75)/€68 (SGD 98) or a minibus for €70 (SGD 100)/€86 (SGD 141).
These fares are fixed, including all taxes, airport fees, and tolls, and don’t change even if you get stuck in traffic during rush hour.
Private transfers are available 24/7 at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN).
Where do I get a transfer from?
Your driver will have your flight information and wait for you in the Terminal’s Arrivals Hall where your flight will arrive. Once you clear passport control and baggage claim, head to the public area and look for your driver holding a sign with your name on it. You can also download the Welcome Traveler app on your mobile to see a photo of the meeting point. After a warm meet and greet, your driver will offer to help with your luggage and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle in the parking lot.
Convenience
Even though regular airport taxis are a good choice, Singapore Airport transfers to the city center ensure much smoother service for a stress-free experience. Instead of joining the queue at the airport taxi rank, you can have a driver waiting for you as soon as you land. Everything, including the payment, will be taken care of in advance, leaving nothing to chance on the day of your arrival.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 3 passengers
€35Starting from 11.7 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 5 passengers
€52Starting from 10.4 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 9 passengers
€70Starting from 7.8 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How far is Singapore Airport to the city center?
The distance from Singapore Airport to the city center is approximately 20 km to the west and driving there takes around 25 minutes in average traffic conditions.
How long does it take to get from Singapore Airport to city center?
It takes around 25 minutes to get from Singapore Airport to the city center by car or taxi, around 35 minutes by metro, and 1 hour and 30 minutes by bus.
How much is a taxi from Singapore Airport to city center?
Singapore taxis are metered and the fare depends on distance, time of day, and type of taxi. Also, several fees, like airport surcharge, midnight surcharge, and peak-hour surcharge, are added to the final fare. The average taxi cost from Singapore Airport to the city ranges from €15 to €22.50 (SGD 22 to 33) for up to 4 passengers.
Maria Papakonstantinou
Maria is a seasoned travel writer and avid traveler with a knack for research and itinerary planning. Specializing in airport transport and destination guides, she blends personal experience with local insights to help make every journey seamless.
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