Transfers to/from Singapore

Transfers to/from Singapore

Other popular activities in Singapore

More about: Transfers to/from Singapore

After a long journey to Singapore, you will probably want to get to your hotel to rest, or not waste time and start your journey immediately. Arriving without a compass could only waste your time, so to save yourself this I suggest you consider in advance how you'll get around the city after you've collected your luggage. Luckily, this is a futuristic city that is very well connected, the modern facilities of Singapore Changi Airport are only 20 kilometres from the city centre.

Specifically, the distance to travel will depend on the type of transport you choose, but the fastest option will get you there in around 40 minutes. The perfect transport depends on your budget, itinerary and the comfort you want to achieve. There are endless possibilities: The speed and cost-effectiveness of the metro, the ease of the shuttle bus, the exclusivity of private transfers, the adrenaline rush of fast tours and much more. I leave you with all the alternatives available to move between the airport and the city!

1. A private transfer, comfort and exclusivity

To get in the front door, there is nothing better than securing transfers on arrival at Singapore Changi Airport. After a long flight, it's normal to want a bit of privacy and tranquillity, but it's also understandable that you don't want to use public transport and carry your heavy luggage back and forth. Don't worry! Private transfers are a hassle-free way to arrive in the City of the Future, aboard a minivan or vehicle with all the comforts. They generally offer exclusivity during the journey of at least 40 minutes, which will take you to the city centre or directly to your accommodation.

The short window of time between the airport and the city is provided by a friendly, professional driver who knows the city and can show you sites such as the Merlion Statue, which often catches your eye at first glance. The service can include arrival and return, so you don't have to worry about public transport delays or rush hour traffic jams on your way home.

If you're looking to enjoy a quiet layover and rest before your next flight, you can wait for your connecting flight in the airport lounge. It is available to book for 3, 6 or 12 consecutive hours with different amenities.

Interesting details

  • Duration of the trip: about 40 minutes.
  • Price: from 25 euros.
  • Advantages of using this method: avoid taxi queues and share a vehicle only with your group.
  • How to book this transport: it is advisable to book online in advance by providing your flight number, name of the airline, number of people travelling, arrival time and details of the accommodation or place you want to go to. In addition, you may be asked for your email and other personal details to send the booking details and to keep in touch at the time of pick-up.
  • Recommended if... you are travelling as a family or group, have a business trip or simply prefer privacy during your holiday.

Book access to the Premium Plaza lounge at Changi Airport

2. A shared transfer, peace of mind at a reasonable price

Once you land you will need to choose a way to get around the city, if you want to avoid the stress of finding a way to get to your final destination, then you can book a shared transfer. This is a multicultural experience where you will have to share travel and luggage space with strangers. It is ideal for interacting and making some friends, or in case you only plan to be in Singapore for 2 days.

Please note that you will be met at the arrival hall, as well as other passengers who share a similar itinerary to yours. The only drawback is that if any external flight or airport process takes a long time, you will have to wait for a while. However, the group will wait for you for a reasonable amount of time if there are any problems with your flight. It is also likely that you will be relocated to another minibus in case of a long airline delay.

Interesting details

  • Duration of the trip: approximately 40 minutes, the time can be extended if a passenger is delayed or if your own flight is delayed.
  • Price: from 20 euros.
  • Advantages of using this method: you can meet new people.
  • How to book this transport: it is recommended to book online, sending your flight details and personal information.
  • Recommended if... ideal if you are travelling alone and don't want to book a whole car for yourself.

3. The train, fast and economical

The train can be a more cost-effective option, ideal for short stays or if you have little luggage. It operates daily from 5.30am to 11pm. On public holidays it is advisable to check the SMRT website to take precautions against any changes. In general, it is the most recommended public transport option.

It has a train frequency of every 10 minutes and its location is accessible, you just have to go down to the basement of Terminal 2. To find it you must follow the Train to the City signs, whose signage is quite useful. The main drawback of this service is that you have to change trains at another station, which can be tedious after a long journey.

Interesting details

  • Journey time: around 40 minutes.
  • Price: from 2 euros depending on the distance, note that the best tourist cards in Singapore often offer season tickets and discounts on local transport.
  • Advantages of using this method: It is easy to find as the station is located in the basement of Terminal 2.
  • How to book this transport: You can book online through the official operator SMRT. You can also buy your ticket at the machines, but don't get help from strangers, only from authorised staff.
  • Recommended if... you are looking for a cheaper option, without sacrificing speed.

4. The shuttle bus, a popular option

Shuttle buses are a shared option offered by the airport itself, known as shuttles. Departure is as the bus fills up, so you can wait a while before leaving for the city. Many people use it to get out of a hurry, or to see this futuristic city from a different perspective. Buses usually leave every half hour, but in high season the waiting time can be longer.

Buses of this type are generally in operation from 5.30am to midnight and are a better option than public transport. Especially if your flight arrives late at night, but you don't want to pay for a taxi or transfer on the train line. Singapore' s best tourist cards help you save on transfers, for example the EZ-Link is a rechargeable transport pass that can be purchased online. It offers discounted fares and free tickets for the underground and bus. When boarding or alighting, just swipe it through a reader - just don't forget to do so as you may be charged a fine.

Interesting details

  • Journey time: approximately 20 minutes, may vary depending on the location of your hotel.
  • Price: from 15 euros.
  • Advantages of using this method: it is quite convenient and fast, and buses leave approximately every half hour.
  • How to book this transport: you can buy your ticket directly at the ticket office. You can also book online by sending your personal details.
  • Recommended if... you forgot to book a transfer method or if you have little luggage and don't mind venturing around the city.

5. Taxi, the more luxurious alternative

If your flight coincides with a busy time or you have forgotten to book transfers, you should consider travelling by taxi. Of course, it's the most expensive option depending on the final destination. You can usually pay up to 25 euros for 20 kilometres, which is the estimated distance between the airport and the city centre. The positive point is that Singapore has working taximeters, so there is no need to haggle as in other Asian cities.

In case you plan to stay at least 3 days in Singapore, it can be a convenient way to move from one place to another. The service is available 24 hours a day, although fares can increase by up to 50% at night, which is something to consider as it may be more cost-effective to choose another method of transport. Luggage may also increase the cost, or if the taxi driver has to make stops and wait for you.

Interesting details

  • Journey time: around 25 minutes, although this may increase at peak times and vary depending on your destination.
  • Price: from 25 euros for around 20 kilometres. Please note that the price may increase at peak times, during the night, at weekends and on public holidays.
  • Advantages of using this method: they are operational at any time, and you can even get help with your luggage.
  • How to book this transport: You can book through the website or mobile phones of Singapore's most trusted companies including SMRT Taxi and Comfort Delgro. Alternatively, on arrival you can go out to the arrivals levels of each terminal to catch a taxi.
  • Recommended if... you want to get to your destination without long waiting times, but forgot to book a private transfer.

6. The rental car, the option that offers the most freedom

Singapore's public transport is up to the task, with modern facilities offering comfort, safety and efficiency. However, if you plan to spend at least 5days in Singapore it is more cost-effective to hire a car. It offers greater freedom and drop-offs can be arranged at the airport, with short- and long-term car deals available for all types of stays.

Generally, you'll be asked for your driver's licence, valid passport and a credit card in your name. Note that to drive here you must be over eighteen years of age and have an international driving licence. In addition, there are all sorts of options such as cars with more space, or perhaps a compact and compact car. Of course, it all depends on the reason for your trip and the amenities you want to prioritise.

Interesting details

  • Journey time: around 30 minutes, although if it's your first time driving in Singapore you may need to take it easy.
  • Price: from 69 euros per day.
  • Advantages of using this method: you will have the opportunity to move around the city at your leisure.
  • How to book this transport: you can do it through the websites of the main operators such as Europcar or Sixt.
  • Recommended if... you plan to spend several days in Singapore, you are with your family or on business.

7. An organised tour, for short stopovers

If you have a stopover in Singapore and don't want to miss out on the experience of a lifetime, perhaps join one of the best local tours. Among them is the option of visiting the city on an organised city break from the airport. Generally, it is necessary to have a layover of at least 6 hours. This gives you plenty of time to explore the city and get back in time for your next flight.

These types of adventures often include a tour aboard a minibus, accompanied by other people passing through the city. If you prefer, you can book a private experience for your family or group of friends. This way, you'll have an enriching itinerary with visits to Marina Bay, Merlion Park, the iconic Raffles Hotel and the former convent of the Holy Child Jesus.

Highlights

  • Duration of the trip: you will arrive in the city in less than forty minutes, depending on your stopover you can choose between a 4, 5 or 8 hour tour.
  • Price: from 150 euros.
  • Advantages of using this method: you will be able to make the most of your stopover, instead of being bored for hours at the airport.
  • How to book this transport: you can do it online, you just need to choose the date, fill in the form with your flight information and that's it!
  • Recommended if... you don't have enough to stay a couple of days in the city, but you want to check it out.

8. The 36 bus, the cheap but slow option

Go Ahead Singapore' s bus 36 connects the airport and the city, however it is the slowest option. After a long journey, you probably don't want to be stuck in traffic or circling for longer than necessary. However, it is an attractive route for the low fare of 2 euros and can be an alternative if you arrive in Singapore between 6:00 and 00:00. With routes every 15 minutes, it's a good way to take in the scenery between the two destinations.

Interesting details

  • Journey time: approximately one and a half hours.
  • Price: from 2 euros.
  • Advantages of using this method: it picks up passengers at terminals 1, 2 and 3 and makes several stops in the city.
  • How to book this transport: you can do it on the website a couple of days in advance or pay at the ticket office as cash and EZ-Link cards are accepted.
  • Recommended if... you're on a budget for your trip to Singapore.

Tips for your arrival at Singapore airport

Before arriving at the airport I advise you to bring a tourist map and all your documentation organised for immigration control. Also, check out the attractions at the airport, which even has swimming pools, butterfly gardens, massage machines and numerous shops.

Additionally, not everyone plans to tour Singapore. While that's a shame, it's not necessarily bad news. If you have a long layover at Changi Airport, it's best to find a quiet, private space to arrive at your destination refreshed. After a while you may not know what to do to pass the time. The premium lounge allows you to relax in a soothing environment with WiFi, meals, drinks, power outlets and a hot shower on request.

This way, you'll turn a long and arduous layover into a rewarding experience. You can even request a massage to loosen knots and eliminate stress. Rated as one of the best in the world, it's a huge airport with free attractions such as an outdoor cinema and garden, where monarch butterflies swarm. There's even a waterfall cascading from its glass dome, restaurants and around 300 shops.

Book access to the Premium Plaza lounge at Changi Airport

Reviews from other travellers

4.7
· 1595 Reviews
  • R
    R.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    Outstanding service. Highly recommended.
  • T
    T.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    Great service!
  • J
    J.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    In the small time window of the journey, the trip was perfect.
  • X
    X.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    My friend and I took the opportunity to hire and book this service, we ensured the efficiency of wonderful service.
  • K
    K.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    Honestly, we had a pleasant experience with this service.