Changi Airport Guides

Changi Airport guide: the terminals explained

This Changi Airport guide covers what most visitors need, from landing to take-off. Changi is Singapore's main international airport, on the east side of the island. It has four passenger terminals. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are linked by walkways and by the Skytrain, a free airport train. Terminal 4 is separate and is linked to Terminal 2 by a free shuttle bus.

Check your ticket for your terminal before you travel. Airlines sometimes move between terminals, so confirm with your airline close to your flight.

Next to Terminal 1 is Jewel Changi Airport, a large glass-domed complex with gardens, shops and places to eat. Its centrepiece is the Rain Vortex, a huge indoor waterfall. Jewel is linked to Terminals 1, 2 and 3. It is on the public side of the airport, outside immigration.

Arriving in Singapore

Before you land, check the entry rules for your passport. Foreign visitors must also submit the SG Arrival Card online in the three days before arrival. It is free on the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website and in the MyICA app. Avoid other sites that charge a fee. Our Visas & Entry page has more on the rules.

Many visitors can use the automated immigration lanes, which are quick. Then collect your bags and pass through customs. Singapore has strict rules on what you can bring in:

• There is no duty-free allowance for cigarettes, so declare any tobacco you bring.
• Vapes and e-cigarettes are illegal, and you must not bring them in.
• Ordinary chewing gum cannot be brought in, so leave it at home.
• Large amounts of cash and some medicines must be declared or approved.

See Singapore Customs for the full rules.

Getting from Changi Airport to the city

MRT

The MRT, Singapore's metro, is the cheapest way into town. Changi Airport station sits below Terminals 2 and 3. For most central areas, change trains at Tanah Merah. Pay by tapping a contactless bank card or phone at the gates. The ride is slower with big bags, and trains do not run through the night. Read How to Use the MRT in Singapore: A Tourist Guide before you go.

Taxis and ride-hailing

Taxi stands are just outside the arrival halls. A taxi to the city centre often takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares include extra charges for airport pick-ups and late-night trips. Ride-hailing apps also work at Changi, so follow the signs to the pick-up point.

Public buses

Public buses also serve the airport. They are cheap but slow, and there is little space for large bags.

Things to do at Changi Airport

Changi is a pleasant place to spend spare time. In the transit area, the terminals have indoor gardens, rest areas and children's play areas. There is also free Wi-Fi and plenty of places serving local dishes.

On the public side, Jewel is worth a visit even if you are not flying that day. Walk through the indoor gardens, watch the Rain Vortex and browse the shops. Shake Shack (Jewel) is one of many places to eat there.

With a few more hours, take a taxi to Changi Village on the coast. Changi Village Hawker Centre serves local food, and Changi Beach Park is good for a seaside walk. For a longer stop, read Singapore Layover Itinerary: 8 Hours in the City.

Staying near the airport

A late arrival or a dawn flight is easier with a bed close by. Crowne Plaza Changi Airport is linked to Terminal 3. Jewel Changi Airport YOTELAIR is inside Jewel and suits short stays. Both are on the public side, so you must clear immigration first. Changi also has transit hotels inside the terminals for passengers who do not enter Singapore.

Departing: check-in, tax refunds and security

• Arrive in good time. Follow your airline's advice on when to reach the airport. Allow extra time for traffic and queues.
• Visit Jewel first. Jewel is on the public side, so see it before you pass immigration.
• Claim your GST refund. Visitors can often claim back GST, the goods and services tax, on eligible shopping. GST Refund at Changi Airport: Step-by-Step Guide explains each step.
• Leave time for security. Allow time for passport control and screening, and reach your gate early.

FAQs about Changi Airport

How do I get from Changi Airport to the city?

Take the MRT from Changi Airport station and change at Tanah Merah for most central areas. Taxis and ride-hailing cars are quicker but cost more.

Is Jewel inside the transit area?

No. Jewel is on the public side of the airport, so transit passengers must clear immigration to visit it.

How do I get between terminals?

Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are linked by the free Skytrain and by walkways. Terminal 4 is reached by a free shuttle bus from Terminal 2.

Can I sleep at Changi Airport?

Transit passengers can use rest areas or a transit hotel. If you clear immigration, see Changi Airport Hotels for nearby options.