Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is positioned approximately 20 km from the heart of the city center, and is one of the world’s busiest airports by passenger traffic, welcoming over 65 million travelers a year. More than 100 airlines operate flights out of the airport’s four terminal buildings, connecting the city-state with almost 50 countries.
There’s an abundance of things to do in Singapore Airport during a layover, so much so that many passengers, including those with more than a 12-hour layover in Singapore, opt to stay in the airport and make the most of the amenities. However, the city center is just a short trip away, meaning you can easily see some of the main attractions during your stopover if you prefer.
Tips for a Short Layover
- To get a quick overview of the airport, consider booking onto the Changi Airport tours, which usually last for around 1.5 hours.
- Enjoy some quiet time during your layover in Singapore in any of the free rest areas, all of which boast comfy lounge chairs.
- Many people ask, ‘Is a 1-hour layover in Singapore enough? ‘, but this is usually only sufficient if both your flights are booked together with the same airline. Even so, it’s recommended to give yourself some extra time.
Tips for a Long Layover/Overnight Layover
- Among the best ways to pack in all the city’s hotspots within a short timeframe is to join one of the guided stopover tours organized by Changi Airport for passengers with layovers between 5.5 and 24 hours long.
- Take it easy in one of the many pay-per-use lounges dotted throughout each terminal.
- If you’re wondering, ‘Can you leave Changi Airport on a layover?’, keep in mind that you need to have all of the required travel documents, based on your nationality, to do so.
Things to Do Near/Around Singapore Airport
Anyone who’s unsure about what to do in Singapore for a layover might be interested in partaking in a guided stopover tour, but the city is also quite easy to explore at your own pace, especially if you have ample time. Among the must-visit spots that are easily accessible during a layover in Singapore are Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Chinatown and Merlion Park.
You can book a private Singapore Airport transfer or a Singapore Airport taxi for a direct ride to the city center, but taking the public transport is a great alternative. Your best bet is to hop on the CG train line to Tanah Merah, where you’ll then switch to the EW line to Raffles Place or Tanjong Pagar. From here, you’ll be able to easily venture to the city’s many tourist spots.
Things to Do at the Airport
Singapore is known for its incredible airport, but if you only have a little time, such as just a 2-hour layover in Changi Airport, what is there to do? With a short layover, you should have enough time to grab a bite to eat or coffee in a local or international eatery, utilize the free WiFi, and maybe even stop by some of the countless retail outlets in the on-site mall.
Those with a bit more time on their hands to explore the airport, when they’re not making the most of the fantastic dining and shopping opportunities, can take their pick from a wide range of activities. This ranges from unique experiences at the Butterfly Garden, visits to one-of-a-kind art installations, strolls to the Heritage Zone, and trips to the cinema.
Discover more about the things to do in Singapore during a layover using our Singapore Airport Guide.
Things to Do With Kids
If you’re stressed about keeping your little ones occupied during a 10-hour layover in Singapore (or longer), there’s no need to fret! In fact, Changi Airport is arguably one of the world’s most family-friendly airports, with everything from tranquil gardens and thrilling canopy walks to interactive exhibitions and playgrounds to enjoy. Not only that, but you’ll also find slides, climbing frames, and mazes, which are fun for both young and old visitors.
Hotels and Lounges/Transiting Through the Airport
Anyone hoping to catch up on sleep during a long or overnight layover in Singapore will be spoiled for choice. Not only does each terminal have a free rest area, but it also has plenty of VIP lounges. Some are reserved for those flying on specific airlines with select tickets, while others are open to the public for a fee, such as the Plaza Premium and Ambassador Transit lounges.
If you want a little more privacy, take your pick from the numerous on-site hotels, including the Aerotel and Ambassador Transit Hotels. Alternatively, you can book into one of the other hotels located just a quick ride from the airport, such as the Dorsett and Dusit Thani Laguna.
Practical Information
Visa Required: Visa requirements vary depending on the nationality of a passenger, though there’s no need for travelers to get a visa unless they plan to leave the airport. If you want to leave the airport, you may or may not need a visa, or might have the option of getting the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF), which is valid for 96 hours.
Average Flight Connection Time: Although 1 hour is usually sufficient for transiting in Singapore Airport, it’s advisable to leave at least 2 hours between flights.
Minimum Time Needed to Leave the Airport: 5.5 hours
How to Connect Flights
Whether you have a short or long layover in Singapore, you’ll need to adhere to the transit requirements. At present, only passengers who have their arriving and outgoing flight booked under a single ticket and have their luggage checked through can proceed directly to the transit area, meaning they won’t be required to get a visa or entry permit. Here, you can check the information screens to locate the correct gate for your next flight.
In the event that your second flight is with a different airline or booked with a separate ticket, you’ll need to clear immigration, collect your checked baggage, and check in again. Depending on your nationality, you may need to get a visa if you exit the transit area or venture out of the terminal, so ensure you’ve gotten any documents you need ahead of time. In some cases, you can apply for the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF), which is valid for short stays of 96 hours or less.
