The MRT is the easiest way to get around Singapore. Trains are clean, air-conditioned, frequent and cheap, and they reach most places visitors want to go. If you have never used it before, this guide explains how to use the MRT in Singapore step by step, from paying your fare to the rules that can get you fined.
What is the MRT?
MRT stands for Mass Rapid Transit, Singapore's train network. There are six main lines, each with its own colour:
- North-South Line (red)
- East-West Line (green)
- North East Line (purple)
- Circle Line (yellow)
- Downtown Line (blue)
- Thomson-East Coast Line (brown)
Stations show the line colour and a station code, such as NS22 for Orchard on the North-South Line, which makes signs easy to follow.
How to pay for the MRT
Contactless bank cards and phones
The simplest option for most visitors is to tap a contactless Visa or Mastercard, or a phone wallet, at the gates. You pay the normal adult fare, and there is nothing to buy. Use the same card or phone for every trip, because the system calculates your fares from it.
Stored-value cards
You can also buy a stored-value transport card at station ticket offices or convenience stores and top it up as you go. It works on both the MRT and buses.
Tourist pass
The Singapore Tourist Pass gives unlimited rides for a set number of days. It can save money if you plan many trips each day, but for most visitors a contactless card works out about the same. Check the latest prices on the Land Transport Authority website.
How to use the MRT, step by step
- Plan your route with a map app. Google Maps shows MRT routes and times.
- Tap your card or phone at the entry gate.
- Follow the line colour and the direction, shown by the last station on the line.
- Stand behind the yellow line and let passengers off first.
- Change lines at interchange stations by following the signs.
- Tap out at the exit gate with the same card or phone.
MRT fares and hours
Fares depend on how far you travel. Most trips around the city cost only a few dollars. Trains usually run from about 5.30am to around midnight, with trains every few minutes at busy times. Check the last train times if you plan a late night out.
MRT rules to know
- No eating or drinking on trains or past the gates, including water. Fines can be large.
- No durians on the MRT, because of their strong smell.
- No smoking anywhere in the system.
- Give reserved seats to elderly passengers, pregnant women and people with young children.
- Stand on the left of escalators so people can pass on the right.
Read more about local rules in our etiquette and local law guides.
Useful MRT stations for visitors
- Bayfront: for Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands.
- Orchard: for shopping and hotels in Orchard.
- Chinatown: for temples, shophouses and hawker food.
- HarbourFront: for the Sentosa Express and the cable car.
- Changi Airport: for flights and Jewel. Read our Changi Airport guides.
FAQs about using the MRT in Singapore
Can I use my credit card on the Singapore MRT?
Yes. You can tap a contactless Visa or Mastercard, or a phone wallet, at the gates and pay normal adult fares.
How much does the MRT cost in Singapore?
Fares depend on distance. Most trips around the city cost only a few dollars.
What time does the MRT close?
Trains usually run until around midnight. Last train times vary by line and station, so check before a late night out.
Can I drink water on the MRT?
No. Eating and drinking, including water, is not allowed on trains or past the station gates.
More transport tips in our getting around guides, and planning help in our first-time visitor guides.
