Layover & Stopover Guides

Making the most of a Singapore layover

A Singapore layover can be more than a wait at the gate. Changi Airport is well linked to the city, and the centre is not far away. With enough time, you can see Marina Bay, eat at a hawker centre and be back for your flight. With less time, the airport itself has plenty to keep you busy.

The key question is how much time you really have. Count from landing to your next departure. Then take off time for immigration, travel, security and check-in.

How long a layover do you need?

Under 5 hours: stay at Changi

With a short connection, stay in the terminals or visit Jewel Changi Airport. Jewel is linked to Terminals 1, 2 and 3. It is home to the Rain Vortex, a huge indoor waterfall surrounded by gardens. It also has shops and many places to eat. Note that Jewel sits outside the transit area, so you must clear immigration to visit.

5 to 8 hours: one area of the city

Five hours is tight but possible for one area. Marina Bay is the easiest choice. Walk past Merlion Park, cross the bay and see the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. Eat at a nearby hawker centre such as Lau Pa Sat. To stay close to the airport, take a taxi to Changi Village Hawker Centre for local food instead.

8 to 12 hours: two areas and a proper meal

Add Chinatown to Marina Bay. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, then have chicken rice at Maxwell Food Centre. Our post Singapore Layover Itinerary: 8 Hours in the City sets out a full route.

Overnight or 24 hours: book a room

For a long stopover, a proper bed makes a big difference. Stay at or near the airport, or book a central hotel and see the city at night. Browse Hotels in Changi & Airport, or read our Airport & Transit Hotels guides.

Leaving Changi Airport: what to know

• Entry rules: Check whether your passport lets you enter Singapore without a visa. Visitors who clear immigration must first submit the SG Arrival Card online. It is free on the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
• Bags: If your bags are checked through, you only need your cabin bag. Changi has paid baggage storage if you need to leave anything.
• Getting to the city: The MRT leaves from Changi Airport station, between Terminals 2 and 3. Change trains at Tanah Merah for the city. Taxis and ride-hailing cars are quicker but cost more.
• Getting back: Return early. Allow time for travel, immigration and security, and follow your airline's check-in advice.

Things to do without leaving the airport

If you stay in the transit area, there is still a lot to do. The terminals have indoor gardens, rest areas, play areas for children and a wide choice of food. Free Wi-Fi is available across the airport. You can also shop and claim your tax refund before you fly. GST Refund at Changi Airport: Step-by-Step Guide explains how it works.

If you do visit Jewel, Shake Shack (Jewel) is one of many places to eat there. The terminals also have food courts with local dishes, such as laksa and chicken rice.

Tips for a smooth stopover

• Keep your passport and boarding pass with you at all times.
• Carry a small umbrella, as short, heavy showers are common.
• Pay for the MRT and buses with a contactless bank card.
• Pick sights on one MRT line so you change trains less often.
• Set an alarm for when you must head back to Changi.

FAQs about a Singapore layover

Can I leave Changi Airport during a layover?

Yes, if your passport allows entry to Singapore. You will need to clear immigration and submit the SG Arrival Card. Check the latest rules on the ICA website before you travel.

How long does it take to get from Changi to the city centre?

The MRT takes roughly 40 minutes to an hour to central areas. A taxi usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Is 6 hours enough for a Singapore layover?

It is enough for a short visit to one area, such as Marina Bay. Go only if entry is simple for you and you keep a good time buffer. Otherwise, explore Jewel and the terminals.

Where can I sleep during a long layover?

Changi has rest areas, and there are hotels at and near the airport. See Changi Airport Hotels for options.