Best Way To Go From Airport To Singapore Centre

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airport to singapore city centre

Singapore is a clean and modern city with many cultures and great food. When you arrive, you’ll see tall buildings, green parks, and busy streets. The smell of chicken rice and satay is everywhere, and people are friendly. You can shop on Orchard Road, visit Chinatown and Little India, or enjoy the view at Marina Bay. There’s always something to do in Singapore.

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✈️ First Impressions & Landing in Singapore (For Indonesian Family Travelers)

As soon as we landed at Changi Airport, everything felt smooth and organized. The kids were excited, the airport was clean, and our luggage came out fast 🧳👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 But then came the main question: How do we get to the city? After a short flight from Jakarta or Surabaya, we didn’t want any hassle. No expensive taxis, tired kids, or too many bags to carry.

Thankfully, it’s really easy. The MRT is cheap and goes straight to the city 🚇. If you have lots of luggage, Grab is also a good option. There’s even an airport shuttle for more comfort without spending too much.

Even if the weather in Singapore is a bit hotter than Indonesia, the city is exciting. You can already imagine Marina Bay, tasty hawker food, and shopping at Orchard 🛍️🍜🌇. And if you’re still thinking about where to stay in Singapore, there are plenty of family-friendly choices.

No matter your travel style, here’s how to get from Changi Airport to the city. Quick and easy 🚖🛬

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🚖 Transport Options from Changi Airport to City Centre

Transport Option

Duration

Cost (SGD / IDR)

Convenience Level

Suitable For

Notes / Booking Tip

MRT (East West Line)

35–45 min

SGD 2 / ~Rp24.000

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Budget travelers, Solo, Light luggage

Most affordable; may require transfers depending on your destination

Airport Shuttle Bus

30–60 min

SGD 9 / ~Rp108.000

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Families, Budget-conscious

Direct to most major hotels; book at airport counters.

Taxi

20–30 min

SGD 25–35 / Rp300.000–420.000

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Families, Business, Late-night

Available 24/7; additional charges may apply for ERP or late hours

Grab (Ride-hailing)

20–30 min

SGD 20–35 / Rp240.000–420.000

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Locals, App users, Small groups

Use the Grab app for upfront pricing and convenience

Private Transfer

20–30 min

SGD 40–60 / Rp480.000–720.000

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Groups, Comfort seekers

Prebook online for a smooth arrival via Trip.com

Car Rental

Varies

SGD 80+/day / Rp960.000+

⭐⭐☆☆☆

Long stays, Road trippers

Requires local/international driving license and knowledge of local traff

🚆 By Airport Train – Getting from Changi Airport to City Centre

Singapore MRT

If you're landing at Changi Airport and want a cheap, clean, and reliable way to reach downtown Singapore, taking the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is one of the best options, especially for solo travelers and light packers.

Category

Details

🛤️ Train Line & Name

East West Line (Green Line)
Board at Changi Airport MRT Station (T2/T3 Basement)

📍 Route & Key Stops

Transfer at Tanah Merah Station → continue toward City Hall, Raffles Place, etc. Total travel time: 35–45 mins

🕒 Operating Hours

First Train: ~5:30 AM
Last Train: ~11:30 PM
Trains every 5–10 minutes

💸 Ticket Prices

From SGD 2 / ~Rp24.000. Buy at kiosk, ticket counter, or use contactless card (Visa/Mastercard/EZ-Link)Tip:
Get a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides

🧳 Best For

Solo travelers, business visitors, light packers
✅ Budget-friendly and reliable
✅ Air-conditioned and safe

⚠️ Watch Out For

No direct train after 11:30 PM
❗ Transfer needed at Tanah Merah Station
❗ Limited space during peak hours

🏨🙂 Still choosing accommodation? Explore where to stay in Singapore

🚌 By Airport Bus – Getting from Changi Airport to City Centre

singapore changi airport bus

(Source: livingnomads.com)

Taking the airport shuttle bus from Changi Airport is a great option if you're looking for a simple, affordable, and direct ride, especially useful for travelers with bulky luggage, families, or those heading to specific hotels in the city.

Category

Details

🚌 Bus Type & Operator

Changi Airport Shuttle (Private shared ride)
Operates between airport and major city hotels

📍 Route & Stops

Stops at hotels in Orchard, Marina Bay, Bugis, Clarke Quay, etc.
Direct drop-off to selected hotels only.

🕒 Operating Hours

Daily from 07:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Every 15–30 minutes

💸 Ticket Price

SGD 9 / ~Rp108.000 per adult
Buy at arrival hall counters (T1–T4)

👍 Best For

Families, groups, travelers with luggage
✅ Door-to-door service, no transfers needed

⚠️ Watch Out For

❗ No service after 11 PM
❗ May face traffic delays during peak hours
❗ Only serves selected hotels

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing – Getting from Changi Airport to City Center

taxi changi airport

(Source: straitstimes.com)

Category

Details

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

🟢 Taxi Stands are available at all terminals (T1–T4), just outside the arrival halls.
🟢 For Grab, head to the designated ride-hailing pickup points. Clearly marked at each terminal.

💡 Tip: Use Changi Airport’s free Wi-Fi to book via app. Download Grab/Gojek before arrival if needed.

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

Taxi: SGD 20–35 / ~Rp240.000–Rp420.000
Grab: SGD 18–30 / ~Rp216.000–Rp360.000

➕ Additional charges: Airport surcharge: SGD 3–5 / ~Rp36.000–Rp60.000, Midnight surcharge (midnight–6 AM):
+50% for taxis - ERP tolls may apply depending on route/time

🕒 Duration & Traffic Considerations

⏱️ Travel time: 20–30 minutes during normal hours
🚗 Can take up to 45 mins during peak hours (8–10 AM, 5–8 PM)
⚠️ Busy zones: ECP, CBD, Orchard area in evening rush hour

📱 Ride-Hailing Options

Grab – most popular option
🔄 Pros: Upfront pricing, cashless, real-time tracking, driver ratings
🚙 Special vehicles: GrabFamily (with child seat)
GrabXL (for groups/luggage)

🧳 Best For

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with young children
🌙 Late-night arrivals
🧳 Travelers with large bags
👋 First-time visitors who want a direct, no-hassle ride

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

❗ Ignore unofficial taxi touts inside the terminal
❗ Expect higher prices during storms or public holidays due to surge pricing
❗ Taxi drivers may prefer cash (though cards are widely accepted)

Top Hotels in Singapore!

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NO.1
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JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
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NO.2
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Sheraton Towers Singapore
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Airport pickup service

🚗 By Private Airport Transfer or Car Rental – Getting from Changi Airport to City Centre

Singapore Changi Airport Private Transfer

Feature

🚖 Private Airport Transfer

🚗 Car Rental

What It Is

Pre-booked car with driver meets you at arrivals.

Self-drive vehicle picked up at the airport.

Duration

20–30 minutes (depends on traffic).

20–30 minutes (same as transfer).

Availability

24/7

24/7

Cost (SGD)

SGD 50–70 (~Rp 600.000–Rp 850.000)

SGD 80–150/day (~Rp 970.000–Rp 1.820.000)

Best For

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families
🧳 heavy luggage
👥 groups
💤 tired travelers

🗺️ Adventurers
👫 couples
🚘 those exploring beyond the city

Perks

✅ No waiting
✅ Fixed fare
✅ Door-to-door

✅ Freedom to explore
✅ Ideal for side trips

Booking Tips

Book online in advance for peace of mind.

Compare deals online or book at airport

🎁 Latest Promo Code & Deals on Trip.com
Unlock the newest promo codes and enjoy special savings on flights, hotels, and activities!
📱 Stay Connected in Singapore
Singapore eSIM starting from Rp 8,507
🙋 Must-Visit Attractions in Singapore
Universal Studios Tickets! Starting from Rp 955,483
Gardens by the Bay Tickets! Starting from Rp 384,675
Night Safari Tickets! Starting from Rp 1,364,975
S.E.A. Aquarium Tickets! Starting from Rp 508,674

✨ Which Option Is Best? Tips Based on Your Travel Style

Jewel Changi Airport

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

A private transfer or taxi is your best bet. No need to carry kids and luggage through stations or transfers. Some services even offer child car seats for added safety and comfort.

💸 Budget Travelers / Backpackers

Take the airport bus (SBS Transit 36) or MRT. It’s the most affordable way to get into the city—perfect if you’re not in a hurry and want to save money for food and experiences.

🚄 Solo / Business Travelers

Hop on the MRT East West Line—it's fast, reliable, and has Wi-Fi in many areas. Great if you're traveling light and heading straight to the business districts like Raffles Place or Tanjong Pagar.

🌙 Late-night Arrivals

Choose a taxi, Grab, or private transfer. All are available 24/7, so no stress even if your flight lands after midnight.

🛣️ Road Trippers / Exploring Malaysia

Planning to visit places like Johor Bahru, Legoland, or Malacca? Renting a car from the airport gives you the freedom to explore beyond Singapore

📎 Wherever you're headed, Trip.com has you covered—from airport transfers to car rentals, and even insider picks on where to stay in Singapore.

FAQs: Airport to Singapore City

  • What is the cheapest way to get from Changi Airport to the city?

    The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the cheapest option. It costs around SGD 2 (Rp 23.000) and takes about 30–40 minutes to reach the city center.
  • How much is a taxi from Changi Airport to downtown Singapore

    A taxi ride costs around SGD 25–35 (Rp 287.000–Rp 402.000) depending on time of day and traffic. There may be airport surcharges (especially during peak hours or late night).
  • Is Grab available at Changi Airport?

    Yes! You can book a Grab from the Arrival Hall pickup point using the app. Prices are similar to taxis, but may vary depending on demand.
  • Can I get to the city late at night?

    Yes! Taxis, Grab, and private transfers operate 24/7, so you'll always have a way into the city even on late-night arrivals.
  • Is there a direct train from Changi to Orchard Road or Marina Bay?

    No direct line. You’ll need to transfer at Tanah Merah MRT station and switch to the East West Line to reach areas like Raffles Place, Bugis, or City Hall.
  • Are there any airport shuttle buses?

    Yes, there’s a shared airport shuttle service that costs around SGD 10 (Rp 115.000) per person and drops you at most major hotels in the city.
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airport to singapore city