A long layover at Changi Airport is a great chance to see Singapore. The airport is close to the city, immigration is quick and the public transport is easy to use. This Singapore layover itinerary shows how to spend about 8 hours between flights. It covers what to see, where to eat and, most importantly, when to head back so you do not miss your plane.
Can you leave the airport on a layover?
Many travellers can, but it depends on your nationality, so check the entry rules for your passport before you fly. All visitors also need to submit the SG Arrival Card online before arriving. Read our visa and entry guides for the basics.
As a rule of thumb, leaving the airport makes sense if your layover is 6 hours or longer. You need time for immigration, travel to the city and getting back at least 2 hours before your next flight.
Before you leave Changi
- Bags: if your luggage is checked through, you only need to carry your hand luggage. Changi has left-luggage services if you need to store anything.
- Money: many places take cards, but carry a little cash for hawker stalls.
- Transport: you can pay for the MRT with a contactless bank card. A taxi to the city takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Singapore layover itinerary: 8 hours
Hour 0 to 1: Land and leave the airport
Clear immigration, then take a taxi or the MRT to Bayfront station. If you have time before leaving, the free Rain Vortex waterfall at Jewel is a short walk from Terminal 1.
Hours 1 to 3: Gardens by the Bay
Start at Gardens by the Bay. The outdoor gardens and the Supertree Grove are free. If you have a little more time, the cooled Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are worth the ticket, especially on a hot afternoon.
Hours 3 to 4: Marina Bay walk
Walk across the Helix Bridge and along the waterfront to the Merlion. This is the classic Singapore skyline view, and it is all free.
Hours 4 to 5: Lunch at a hawker centre
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Lau Pa Sat in the business district, or Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown. Try chicken rice, laksa or satay. Our hawker centre etiquette guide explains how to order.
Hours 5 to 5.5: Singapore River
If time allows, take a short Singapore River cruise or walk along Boat Quay to see the old shophouses in front of the towers.
Hour 6: Head back to Changi
Leave the city at least 2 hours and 30 minutes before your flight. That gives you time to travel, check in if needed and clear immigration.
If your layover is shorter
With less than 6 hours, stay inside the airport. Changi has gardens, rest areas, play areas for children and plenty of food. If you need to sleep, see our guide to airport hotels, including hotels inside the terminals.
If your layover is longer
With 12 hours or more, add Chinatown or Kampong Glam, or stay into the evening for the free light shows at Marina Bay. Our guide to free light shows in Singapore has the show times.
FAQs about a Singapore layover
How long a layover do I need to leave Changi Airport?
We suggest at least 6 hours. That leaves time for immigration, travel and returning 2 hours before your next flight.
Do I need a visa for a Singapore layover?
It depends on your passport. Many nationalities do not need a visa for a short visit, but check the official rules before you travel and complete the SG Arrival Card.
How do I get from Changi Airport to the city?
Take the MRT, paying with a contactless card, or a taxi, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes outside rush hour.
Can I store my luggage at Changi Airport?
Yes. Changi has left-luggage services in the terminals, so you can explore with just a small bag.
More plans in our layover and stopover guides.
