Singapore Airport to City: MRT, Taxi and Buses

Changi’s transfer question has an unusually cheap answer: the MRT covers the trip downtown for about the price of a bottle of water.

MRT: the default

Changi Airport MRT station is in the basement between Terminals 2 and 3. Take the train two stops to Tanah Merah, cross the platform to a city-bound East West Line train, and you are at City Hall in about 35 minutes door to door. The fare is about SGD 1.50 to 2.20 with a contactless bank card or stored-value card (paper standard tickets cost slightly more). Trains run from about 5:30 am, with the last airport departure around 11:18 pm on weekdays.

From Terminal 1, take the free Skytrain to Terminal 2 or 3 first; from Terminal 4, the shuttle bus to Terminal 2. Passengers staying at Dorsett Changi City ride the same line just one stop, to Expo.

Taxi and ride-hail

Taxis leave from ranks at every terminal, reaching the downtown core in roughly 20 to 30 minutes outside peak hours. Fares are metered with airport and late-night surcharges; ride-hail apps (Grab and others) quote a fixed price up front, which makes them easier to budget after the MRT stops running.

Hotel shuttles

Village Hotel Changi runs a free shuttle to and from Terminals 1 and 2 through most of the day and night, and the Crowne Plaza needs no transfer at all: it connects to Terminal 3 by covered walkway. For hotels inside the airport itself, see the terminal guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I take the MRT from Changi to the city?

Changi Airport station is below Terminal 3, also walkable from Terminal 2. Ride two stops to Tanah Merah, cross the platform to a city-bound East West Line train, and reach City Hall in about 35 minutes total. Pay with a contactless bank card or stored-value card, about SGD 1.50 to 2.20.

What time is the last MRT from the airport?

Around 11:18 pm on weekdays; service starts about 5:30 am. Landing later than that means a taxi or ride-hail.

How long is a taxi to downtown Singapore?

Roughly 20 to 30 minutes outside peak traffic. Fares are metered with airport and time-of-day surcharges; ride-hail apps quote a fixed price before you book.

Information last verified: August 13, 2026