How to Get from Changi Airport to Singapore City Center

If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning (or just about to take) a trip to the Lion City aka Singapore! And if your destination is the vibrant city center, you’re in for a treat. But first, let’s get you there from Changi Airport.

This guide will walk you through the different ways to make the journey—whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, or just saving a few bucks. I’ve visited Singapore multiple times and used all these options, so I’m writing from experience!

From the smooth ride of a private transfer to the more colorful experience of public transport, I’ll break down the options to help you choose what’s best for you.

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First: What’s the Central Area (City Center) Cover?

The Central Area (city center, downtown, etc.) is the main part of Singapore and where you’ll probably spend most of your time as a tourist. It’s the main commercial center of the city. It covers the following areas: the Downtown Core, Marina East, Marina South, the Museum Planning Area, Newton, Orchard, Outram, River Valley, Rochor, the Singapore River and Straits View.

That said, this guide will work for going to any location in Singapore! Just the travel time and costs will differ depending on how far you’re going. You may have to make more transfers, for instance.

Private Transfer

• Cost: SGD 45-65
• Duration: 20-30 minutes
• Best For: Tired travelers, families with kids, or anyone who values comfort and convenience.

You’ve just stepped off a long flight, probably bleary-eyed and craving a shower. The last thing you want is to navigate public transport with heavy bags in tow. Enter: the private transfer!

When you book a private transfer, a driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall with a sign showing your name. You don’t have to think about which exit to go to or which line to catch: all you need is to get to the arrival hall to meet your driver. Plus, you can book a larger car and make sure you have enough space for your luggage– a great option for families or travelers who have multiple suitcases.

The drive from Changi Airport to Chinatown is smooth and scenic (Sinagpore has VERY good roads). Before you know it, you’ll be dropped off right at the doorstep of your hotel, ready to start your Singapore adventure. If you’re looking for a reliable private transfer service, book your ride here to ensure a smooth start to your trip.

Pros:

• Ultimate convenience
• Comfortable and private
• Direct to your hotel with no hassle

Cons:

• More expensive than other options
• You miss out on the local flavor of public transport

Rideshare (Grab)

• Cost: SGD 20-30
• Duration: 25-35 minutes
• Best For: Solo travelers or small groups who want convenience without breaking the bank.

If you’re familiar with rideshare services like Grab (Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber), then you’ll know what to expect here. After clearing customs, connect to the free airport wifi (or turn on your eSIM), open the Grab app on your phone, input your hotel’s address, and wait a few minutes for your driver to arrive.

While not as plush as a private transfer, Grab cars in Singapore are clean, air-conditioned, and reliable. The drivers are generally friendly and chatty, and if you’re curious about the city, they’ll happily give you some insider tips.

One thing to note: Changi Airport has designated pick-up points for rideshares, so you’ll need to follow the signs to the appropriate area (usually just a short walk from arrivals). It’s a minor inconvenience, but nothing too daunting. Plus you get to wait in the air conditioning until your Grab arrives!

Pros:

• More affordable than a private transfer
• Still pretty convenient
• Get to chat with a local driver

Cons:

• Minor wait times and a short walk to the pick-up point
• Not as luxurious as a private car
• Subject to surge pricing during peak hours

A Note re:Singapore’s Public Transit

It’s important to keep in mind that Singapore’s public transport system doesn’t run 24/7.

The MRT typically operates from around 5:30 AM to just after midnight, with the last trains departing around 11:30 PM to 12:30 AM, depending on the line. Similarly, most public buses run until about 11:00 PM, with some services extending slightly later.

If your flight lands late at night and you find yourself at the airport after these hours, your best options will be to take a Grab or a private transfer. Both of these services operate around the clock, and I’ve even gotten a Grab myself from the airport around 1:00 am with little wait time.

Public Transit: Bus

• Cost: SGD 2-3
• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
• Best For: Budget travelers and those with time to spare who want to see more of the city.

If you’re not in a rush and want to experience Singapore like a local, taking the public bus is a charming (if slow) way to get to Chinatown. It’s by far the cheapest option at less than $2 USD per ride, and offers a scenic route through the city’s neighborhoods, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Singapore.

To catch the bus, head to the basement level of your arrival terminal where you’ll find the bus stops. Look for Bus 36, which will take you through the East Coast and into the city center. The bus is clean, air-conditioned, and relatively spacious– at least outside of the commuting hours.

But here’s the catch: the journey is long (over an hour) and you’ll need to transfer buses or walk a bit once you reach the city center. That said, if you’ve got time, it’s a peaceful way to ease into the rhythm of the city.

What I love about taking the bus is how you get to see the real Singapore, passing through residential areas, restaurants, and schools. It’s a moving snapshot of the city’s diverse culture! Plus, the bus route takes you through some picturesque parts of town that you might miss otherwise, especially if you’re going to take the metro everywhere.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Scenic and immersive experience
• See parts of the city off the tourist trail

Cons:

• Slow and requires a transfer
• Not ideal with heavy luggage
• Can be crowded during peak hours

👉 Planning on using the Metro and/or bus a lot during your Singapore trip? For unlimited rides on public transport, consider getting a Singapore Tourist Pass. Learn more and purchase it here.

Public Transit: Metro

• Cost: SGD 2-3
• Duration: 40-50 minutes
• Best For: Travelers who want a fast, efficient, and cheap way to get to the city center.

Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is VERY nice: clean, fast, and incredibly easy to navigate. If you’re staying in the Central Area, the MRT offers a fantastic balance between cost and convenience, whisking you from the airport to the city in under an hour.

From Changi Airport, follow the signs to the MRT station, which is located in the basement of Terminals 2 and 3. You’ll need to take the East-West Line (green line) towards Tanah Merah, where you’ll make a quick transfer to another train heading towards Outram Park or Chinatown station.

The MRT ride offers a taste of Singapore’s orderly, yet hectic, lifestyle. Once you’re on the metro it’s super chill, but getting on an off during peak hours can be exciting because of all the crowds.

The trains are air-conditioned, and there’s plenty of space for luggage—though it can get crowded during rush hour. And if you’re a fan of people-watching, the MRT is perfect for observing the daily routines of Singaporeans.

Pros:

• Fast, efficient, and cheap
• Direct route to city central
• Easy to navigate, even for first-timers

Cons:

• Requires a transfer at Tanah Merah
• Can be crowded, especially during rush hours
• Not ideal for those with lots of luggage (though luckily all the metro stations have escalators or elevators)

Final Thoughts

So, which option should you choose? It really depends on your priorities:

• If comfort and convenience are your top priorities, go for the private transfer. Yes, it’s the priciest option, but you’ll arrive at your hotel feeling relaxed and ready to explore. For a hassle-free journey from the airport to your hotel, consider booking a private transfer in advance here.
• If you want something more budget-friendly without sacrificing too much convenience, Grab is a solid choice. It’s reliable, relatively quick, and much cheaper than a private transfer.
• If you’re on a tight budget and want to take in the sights along the way, consider taking the public bus. Just be prepared for a longer journey.
• If you’re looking for the best balance between cost and efficiency, the MRT is your best bet. It’s quick, cheap, and gives you a real taste of Singaporean life.

No matter which option you choose, getting from Changi Airport to the city center is a breeze. Singapore’s transport system is designed with travelers in mind, and the city’s compact size means you’re never too far from your destination.

What to Do Next

Now that you’re in Singapore, check out my other Singapore posts for ideas on what to do next:

Singapore Guide 2024: where to go, what to see, what to eat and more!

11 Foods to Try in Singapore: you don’t have to be a foodie to try some good local food! Here’s what I recommend tracking down during your trip.

What Are Hawker Centres, Anyway? for those who have never heard of a hawker centre and don’t know how awesome they are!

Singapore Tours & Activities: discover hidden gems and learn the history of Singapore with a local guide.