Airport Travel in Singapore

Airport Travel in Singapore

By Dom Bewley

So you've decided to spend your vacation in Singapore. Good choice! It's a diverse melting pot of cultures that will welcome you with open arms. There's nowhere quite like Singapore, thanks to the juxtaposition between awe-inspiring modern architecture and wonderfully exotic nature. And, with a warm climate all year round, it's the perfect place to shake off those winter blues. But what about traveling in Singapore once you reach the airport? Don't worry; we've got you covered.

Scroll down, and discover our guide to airport travel in Singapore. We're going to cover Singapore's airports and the best ways to get into the city once you arrive. So stash your trays and fasten those seatbelts. And let's get into it!

Airports in Singapore

Singapore has two commercial airports, so depending on where you're traveling from, you'll be landing at either Singapore Changi Airport or Seletar Airport. Here's what to expect at each.

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Singapore Changi Airport

If you travel to Changi Airport in Singapore, you're in good hands. It has received multiple accolades throughout its 40+ year history, including Skytrax's 'World's Best Airport' award, as well as other accolades such as 'World's Cleanest Airport', which it has won on multiple occasions.

Visitors are treated to a waterfall, multiple gardens, and even places perfect for entertaining children - a godsend if you need to keep them busy if your flight home is delayed.

On top of all that, there are heaps of shopping, eating, and other entertainment opportunities there. Singapore's tallest ride is found at Terminal 2. It's wild. Both the ride and its placement!

Singapore Changi Airport is just under ten miles from the city center, almost equidistant when compared to Seletar Airport.

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Seletar Airport

While the less glamorous of the two, Seletar still serves its ultimate purpose - being an airport where planes land. Originally a military airport, it opened its doors - and its runways - to commercial flights as Singapore became an increasingly popular tourist destination. Well, one runway at least.

It may not have all the bells and whistles of Changi Airport, but it is an airport.

And, as mentioned above it is also just shy of ten miles from the center of Singapore.

So, now we've covered the airport situation, you'll want to know how to travel in to Singapore once you arrive!

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Travel from Seletar Airport in to Singapore

There are a few ways to get into Singapore proper.

You can get the 102 bus from Seletar Airport to Buangkok Station and then a train from there to Clarke Quay. It's a 58-minute journey and will set you back a measly $2.

Or, if you want to stretch your legs after the flight, you can walk to Buangkok Station instead, which takes about 35 minutes. Considering this only shaves $1 off the $2 price of getting the bus while adding about 20 minutes to your trip, only consider walking if you need to get your steps up.

Alternatively, hire a taxi and make the trip in 17 precious minutes. Of course, this will set you back around 10x more than the bus/train combo, but at $20, is it really worth the fuss?

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Travel from Changi Airport in to Singapore

You'll find similar travel opportunities if you land at Changi Airport.

The subway will get you straight from the airport into the city center in just over 30 minutes, and will only set you back $3.

Or, hop on the 36 bus and make the same journey in just under 90 minutes. It's longer, but at $1, it's also cheaper if you want to squeeze your pennies.

And, like Seletar Airport, a taxi will set you back around $20 and make the journey in under 20 minutes.

Those are your public transport options. But if you're traveling in a group, or want to plan your trip ahead to avoid any post-landing headaches, consider an airport transfer.

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Airport transfers for travel in to Singapore

These days, more and more people are relying on airport transfer services to ensure they have a smooth transition from their plane seat to their hotel bed. And it's easy to understand why. If your cell signal is patchy, or your provider doesn't allow for roaming service, you may end up tearing your hair out while working out where to go. Alternatively, the language barrier could also hinder your efforts in getting to your hotel or Airbnb.

But with airport transfer services, you needn't worry about that. It's all taken care of way ahead of time. Simply step off the plane, meet your driver, and let them worry about the trip.

If that sounds like exactly what you need, here are our recommendations for airport transfer services in Singapore.

SGMaxi Cab

SGMaxi Cab is one of the country's most reliable airport transfer services, providing travel from both airports in Singapore.

They have a wide variety of vehicles in their fleet, from small mini buses to Rolls-Royce Limos. Really, they actually provide Rolls-Royce Limos to those who want to travel in style.

Prices are reasonable, and their service is second to none. Check on their website to see what works best for you, but do bear in mind that pickups between 11PM and 6.30AM come with an extra fee. You are keeping them out of bed, after all.

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Kler Transport

If you're traveling in a larger pack, then Kler Transport might be ideal for you. They specialize in larger parties, with vehicles ranging from 13-40 people.

No Rolls-Royce options, sadly, but they do let you book last minute, which you can make up to 3 hours before you land. So even if you're reading this on your flight, go on their website and get booking!

They also request a nighttime surcharge if your trip is booked between 11PM and 7AM.

Maxi-Cab

If you've got heaps of luggage, Maxi-Cab might be the perfect service for you. While they offer the usual suite of buses with variable passenger sizes, they also offer the Luggage Van - a van designed with luggage in mind.

And, with customers able to book their trip 15 minutes before they need it, it's the speediest and most flexible service of the bunch. Check their prices and see what suits you.

And that about rounds out our guide to airport travel in Singapore! Now you'll just need to plan the vacation part of your vacation. Thankfully, Go City has you more than covered. With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you'll have access to all of Singapore's best bits for one low price.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Woman studying a map in front of a pagoda-style building in Seoul.
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Singapore to Seoul

For a heady mix of cultures, terrific and varied pan-Asian cuisine and a list of weird and wonderful attractions as long as your arm, Seoul and Singapore are second to none. Frequent direct flights between the two mean doing the Singapore to Seoul (or indeed Seoul to Singapore) double on your Asian vacation couldn’t be easier. Read on for our bite-size city guides and discover the best ways to get from one city to the other. Seoul: the Lowdown Split through its middle by the wide Han River, Seoul is a densely populated megalopolis of some 10 million people, its futuristic towers, bridges and skyscrapers set among ancient mountains and plains in the northwest corner of South Korea. Attractions here are many and varied with several ancient UNESCO sites, including the regal gardens and pagodas of Changdeokgung Palace and the royal tombs of the Joseon dynasty, which ruled over Korea for 500 years from the 14th to the 19th centuries. More modern pursuits include a visit to Seoul’s tallest building, the skyscraping 123-story Lotte World Tower, and its sprawling amusement park namesake on (and around) Seokchon Lake. Then there’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a space-age architectural marvel packed with shops, bars, restaurants, exhibitions and even a sensory playground for kids. And the achingly photogenic oasis that is leafy Nami Island, a mere 90 minutes from the city center. Seoul is dry and icy-cold in winter and very hot and humid in summer, with a monsoon season that runs between June and September. The relatively short spring and autumn seasons are therefore the best times to visit, when you can expect mild weather and clearer skies but also – as inevitably as night follows day – higher hotel rates. On the plus side, there’s accommodation here to fit most budgets, though visitors should remain conscious that a week in Seoul can be eye-wateringly expensive wherever you end up staying. As a general rule, downtown districts including Jongno or Euljiro are likely to be cheaper than Myeong-dong and Gangnam, while longer-term visitors might want to consider rented accommodation in student neighborhoods like Sinchon and Hongdae. Wherever you choose to lay your hat, you’ll find getting around Seoul a breeze thanks to its superb metro system, which has a whopping 300+ stops within the city’s relatively compact nine-mile radius. Just download the Seoul Subway Metro Map – an interactive route-planning app – pick up a T-money card (and add some credit) and you’re good to go. Handily, your T-money pass is valid for use on metros, buses and even taxis across South Korea. Save a bit of cash with Go City when you buy an All-Inclusive or Explorer pass to multiple major Seoul attractions. Singapore: the Lowdown There’s a whole world of fun awaiting in Singapore, from splashing around in the world’s biggest rooftop infinity pool (57 stories up atop the Marina Bay Sands Resort, fact fans) to gorging on chili crab and sticky pork satay in one of the wonderful hawker centers here. Then there’s the soaring Singapore Flyer observation wheel, authentic Singapore Slings at Raffles Hotel (where the iconic cocktail was invented), the Instagram-tastic Gardens by the Bay, and the island playground that is Sentosa, its myriad attractions – Universal Studios, the S.E.A. Aquarium and several of Singapore’s finest palm-lined beaches – easily reachable by monorail or cable car. In fact, getting around Singapore is remarkably straightforward in general, largely thanks to the super-efficient (and mercifully air-conditioned) mass transit system, or MRT. Six lines and close to 150 stations ensure good coverage of most of the island, but you’ll likely spend most of your time here in and around the downtown circle line which calls at many of the main attractions. Pick up a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) for unlimited use of the network for 24–72 hours or simply pay as you go by tapping in and out of stations using your contactless debit or credit card. There’s also a decent cycling infrastructure here, and plenty of green space to explore – they don’t call Singapore the Garden Island for nothing, you know! Rent a bike and cruise your way around the epic Park Connector Network and beyond. The climate in Singapore is hot, humid and wet, with temperatures in the high 80s year round. Monsoon seasons between December to March and June to September all but guarantee daily downpours, but also make for some of the most competitive accommodation rates at these times of year. We’re speaking relatively, of course: Singapore is notoriously expensive, but you may just about be able to afford a stay at luxury icons like Raffles and Marina Bay Sands during the monsoons without the need to mortgage a kidney. Cheaper alternatives are of course available, with plenty of good budget and mid-range options available in the likes of Chinatown and even around the high-end shopping mecca of Orchard Road. Save a bit of cash with Go City when you buy an All-Inclusive or Explorer pass to multiple major Singapore attractions. Singapore to Seoul by Air and Rail Direct flights between Singapore and Seoul depart several times daily and take a shade over six hours each way. Carriers serving the route between Singapore’s Changi Airport and Incheon Airport in Seoul include Korean Air, Singapore Airlines and Asiana, with a one-way trip starting from around £300. Express trains from Incheon to downtown Seoul depart every 20–40 minutes and take 40 minutes; the slower, more regular trains make several stops along the route but still only take an hour to the center of town. At half the price and five times the frequency, these are probably the better bet, assuming you’re not in a crazy hurry. And if you’re really in no rush, you could even consider making the epic voyage from Singapore to Seoul by rail. Not for the faint of heart, this method takes you up through Malaysia, and across across Thailand and Laos (with a bit of bus travel required here), then onwards through Vietnam and China before finally catching the ferry from Qingdao in North Korea to Incheon in South Korea – because you can’t cross the North/South Korea border by land. If spending several days traveling 7,000 kilometers through unfamiliar countries on public transport sounds like an utterly absurd idea, that’s because it probably is. But adventurous souls with time on their hands could make it a reality, experiencing amazing coastal vistas, jungle trails, supercities, traditional villages and a mix of wildly different cultures along the way. Or, you know, go as far as Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok and catch your onward flight from there – both also epic adventures with plenty of fun to be had along the way! Save on attractions and activities in Singapore and Seoul Save on admission to Singapore and Seoul attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
The Treetop Walks at MacRitchie Reservoir in Singapore
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Natural Attractions in Singapore

Think of Singapore and you’ll likely conjure up images of shimmering glass-and-steel superstructures; a dense forest of urban activity with soaring skyscrapers that jockey for position as they reach ever further heavenwards. But that would be to overlook the vast swathes of green space and unspoiled natural habitat that has earned this island nation the nickname ‘the Garden City’. Read on for our guide to some of the finest natural attractions in Singapore, including: Singapore Botanic Gardens The Gardens by the Bay MacRitchie Reservoir Lazarus Island Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve The Southern Ridges Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Pulau Ubin The Gardens by the Bay Yes we know: the massive durian-shaped hothouses at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay are very plainly not the work of Mother Nature. But it’s what’s inside that counts, right? And what’s inside is nothing short of a nature spectacular. Expect an absolute riot of sights, scents and sounds in the Flower Dome, where carpets of colorful blooms emit a quite dizzying array of perfumes and a thousand-year-old olive tree forms the centerpiece of the pretty olive grove. Meanwhile, the humid Cloud Forest promises sweet-smelling orchids, jungles of ferns and trailing vines and a tall, tranquil waterfall. The Southern Ridges Six miles of jungle trails and elevated walkways connect Mount Faber Park, Labrador Nature Reserve and more along the epic Southern Ridges. Tiptoe through the treetops and shutterbugs may just sneak a snap or two of some of the abundant wildlife here: red-whiskered bulbuls, banded bay cuckoos, orange-bellied flowerpeckers and other such tropical critters await. The trail also includes a section that crosses Henderson Waves, an undulating architectural masterpiece that also happens to be the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore at a whopping 36 meters above terra firma. Don’t look down! MacRitchie Reservoir Completed in 1868, MacRitchie is the oldest reservoir in Singapore and has become both a thriving nature reserve for native wildlife and huge natural playground for locals and tourists alike. Spot macaques and monitor lizards on the seven-mile hike around MacRitchie Trails or get a birds’ eye view from the Treetop Walks, a 250-meter suspension bridge that links the reserve’s two highest points. Take to the water and spend the day kayaking or lace up your running shoes and hit one of the excellent cross-country trails here. Lazarus Island Like your beaches secluded? Lazarus Island is the place for you! One of Singapore's Southern Islands, it’s connected to neighboring Saint John’s Island by a causeway. You’ll need to catch a ferry to Saint John’s and walk the 15 minutes or so to get there but, trust us, it’s well worth the effort. Bone-white sands, swaying palm trees and tropical turquoise waters that are great for swimming and snorkeling await the intrepid traveler. Get there early enough and, who knows, you may even find you have the whole place to yourself! Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Twitchers rejoice! One of the finest natural attractions in Singapore, the unspoiled Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a thriving habitat for native birds and a crucial stopover for migratory species including the long-legged Asian dowitcher and distinctive Pacific golden plover. Across more than 300 acres of mangrove forest, mudflats and ponds, you might also spot monitor lizards, lobsters, mudskippers, water snakes and big, beautiful Atlas moths. The occasional saltwater croc has even been known to put in an appearance from time to time. Take the two-hour loop trail around the reserve to get the most from your visit. Singapore Botanic Gardens This sprawling 200-acre tropical oasis on the edge of Singapore’s Orchard Road Shopping district has been around since 1859 so to describe the gardens as ‘mature’ would be something of an understatement. Admire colorful and aromatic plants in the aptly named Ginger Garden, take a stroll around Swan Lake, snap a selfie at the iconic bandstand, and enjoy the rare experience of wandering through a rainforest within the city limits of a vast metropolis. The gardens are open from 5AM until midnight so you'll have plenty of time to get lost among the vines, blooms and tree-lined walkways. Best of all, entry is free, though a fee applies for access to the thousands of eye-popping blooms inside the National Orchid Garden, the park’s star attraction. Pulau Ubin Boomerang-shaped Pulau Ubin is an island off Singapore’s northeast coast, where lush uncharted jungle is dotted with traditional kampongs and disused granite quarries, now reclaimed by nature, teem with diverse flora and fauna. Pick ripe, pungent durians along the cycle paths – and try one if you’re feeling bold enough or hungry enough to brave a bite! There’s an observation tower and looping walkway at the island’s otherwise wild Chek Jawa Wetlands, where you’ll hear the melodious call of the bulbul and, if you’re lucky, maybe even catch sight of the electric-blue flash of a kingfisher diving for its supper. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Last but most definitely not least in our rundown of Singapore's greatest natural attractions is the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, slap-bang in the middle of the island. One of very few designated reserves in the country to have remained untouched by timber merchants, it’s a sprawling green space containing some 400 acres of tropical rainforest as well as, at over 500 feet, the highest hill in the country. The reserve is, perhaps unsurprisingly, one of the finest treasure troves of biodiversity to be found in all of Singapore, with animal species including flying lemurs, crab-eating macaques, reticulated pythons and endangered Sunda pangolins to be found among the dense forests and thick undergrowth. There are many superb walking trails here, with options available for everyone from the amateur ambler to the hardened hiker. Head up to the peak for 360-degree views across Singapore and beyond. Save on attractions and activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
View of Sentosa in Singapore
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2 Days in Singapore Itinerary

Visiting Singapore for a weekend and want to sample everything this stunning island city has to offer? It’s simple to get around so you can easily have an excellent experience in just a weekend. To help you plan, we’ve compiled a 2-day itinerary to help you squeeze the most out of your time here. Palawan Beach Universal Studios Singapore Wings of Time Tea Chapter Gardens by the Bay Marina Bay Evening Cycle Tour Chinatown for Nighttime Shopping Day 1 We’ll be spending the whole of day 1 on Sentosa Island, famous for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and rich history. Formerly a British military base, it’s grown into a luxury playground. We recommend taking the cable car to the island (it’s included in your pass) as the views are spectacular. If you’re afraid of heights and want other budget-friendly options, traveling by foot or taking the Sentosa Express train are both free. Hit the beach Get your vacation off to the best start by taking a gentle stroll down Palawan beach, with stunning views of the South China Sea and the Singapore skyline. Cross the rope bridge for an iconic photo opportunity, before climbing the lookout towers to enjoy standing at the southernmost tip of continental Asia. Visit Universal Studios Singapore Time to pick up the pace and get the adrenaline pumping. Universal Studios Singapore offers a fun day out for the whole family with rollercoasters, rides, shows, and meet and greets. Whatever your tolerance for adventure - ride the world’s tallest dueling coasters, navigate white water rapids, or help Puss In Boots on the giant beanstalk, there’s something for everyone. Experience the Wings of Time Hopefully you saved a little energy to enjoy the Wings of Time - a stunning, state-of-the-art time-traveling performance featuring fireworks, water jets, and lasers choreographed to music. Time it just right and you’ll witness a dreamy sunset over the open sea before the award-winning outdoor night show kicks in. The perfect end to the perfect day is relaxing at one of the many beach bars in Sentosa, with Tanjong Beach Bar being the most popular. It’s been a long day, so treat yourself to a frosty beverage. Day 2 I hope you’re well rested, as you’ll need all your energy for a culture-packed second day. We’ll be moving around the city, from Chinatown to Marina Bay, and much more. You’ll be happy to know that public transport is top-notch. It’s affordable and reliable, by bus, MRT Subway, or taxi. You can buy a pass that gives unlimited travel for 1 or 2 days, perfect for weekend explorers Enjoy an authentic tea appreciation experience at Tea Chapter Enter the largest and oldest teahouse in Singapore at Tea Chapter. Kick off your shoes and take in the gentle yet intoxicating aromas of brewing tea. The Chinese art of tea drinking is as much about calm, relaxation, and mindfulness as it is about drinking tea. You’ll be led through an immersive tea tasting experience where you’ll learn about the history of tea and its cultural significance in Asia and the West. What a zen way to start the day. Visit Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay is Singapore’s iconic tourist attraction. Spanning over 101 hectares, the awes-inspiring gardens are divided into multiple areas and conservatories, themed around various aspects of nature. A walk through the Cloud Forest conservatory will take you up into the clouds with its striking mountain views. You’ll also see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, which stands at 30 meters high, which you can enjoy from the treetop walk. Escape the heat of the day, reconnect with nature, and take some stunning photos along the way. Enjoy a Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour One of the most memorable ways to see Singapore’s Marina Bay is by bicycle at night. The two-hour guided tour covers all the major attractions in the bay area, including the Supertree Grove and Gardens by the Bay. However, at night, everything’s illuminated, making the view spectacular. If you’re looking for a unique perspective of Singapore, while creating lasting memories and taking breathtaking photos, a nighttime cycle is a great addition to your itinerary. After the tour, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy the magical Singapore nightlife. You’ll have certainly worked up an appetite, so feast on delicious food like black pepper crab or Hokkien Mee (a traditional noodle dish with various toppings), and wash it down with a classic Singapore Sling cocktail. If you’re still eager for more cultural experiences, head across to Chinatown. Night shopping is a classic Singaporean pastime, with markets operating from 10PM until 2AM. Chinatown street market is a top spot to pick up a bargain, or just grab some Dim Sum and watch the world go by as you plan your next epic adventure. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel

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