Singapore Changi Airport Transfers (SIN)

Welcome to the Lion City! Your incredible Singapore journey starts the moment you land at the world-renowned Changi Airport. But with four massive terminals and a world of attractions inside, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming after a long flight.

This guide will be your personal tour of Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) . We've packed everything you need to know into one place so you can start your vacation without any stress.

Here’s a quick look at what TravelThru'll cover:

• Your guide to navigating Changi's terminals, lounges, and finding the best parking spots.
• Must-see attractions in the airport.
• How to get to your hotel from Changi Airport.
• Things to do and how to get around the island once you've settled in.

SIN Airport Overview

Singapore Changi Airport is your main gateway to Southeast Asia, known for its amazing facilities and service. The airport is always open (24/7), making travel convenient at any hour. Just 20 kilometers from the city center, Changi is a major global hub connecting over 400 cities through more than 100 airlines.

Changi Airport features four operational terminals:

• Terminal 1 handles many European and African carriers
• Terminal 2 serves various Asian airlines and some European routes
• Terminal 3 accommodates numerous international carriers
• Terminal 4 focuses on budget airlines and select full-service carriers.

Transferring Between Terminals in SIN

The Skytrain: Connecting Terminals 1, 2, and 3

The primary way to travel between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 is the Skytrain. This automated, driverless train system is complimentary and operates in both the public and transit areas. So, you can use it whether you are catching a connecting flight or just visiting the airport.

The trains arrive every few minutes, and the journey between terminals typically takes less than four minutes. Just look for the clear "Skytrain" signs to find the nearest station.

Getting to Terminal 4: The 24-Hour Shuttle Bus

Terminal 4 is located in a separate building and is not connected by the Skytrain. To reach it, Changi provides a free 24/7 shuttle bus service.

• From the public area: The main shuttle bus pickup point is at the Terminal 2 Arrival Hall (Door 1). You can also find shuttle services from Terminal 1 and Jewel.

   

• From the transit area: If you are connecting to a flight at T4, follow the signs for "Transfers to T4" to find the dedicated airside shuttle bus lounge.

The bus ride to Terminal 4 takes approximately 10 minutes, so be sure to allow for this extra travel time.

Walking Between Terminals and to Jewel

If you prefer to stretch your legs, you can also walk between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 via air-conditioned link bridges. This is also how you access the Jewel complex. Jewel is directly connected to the Terminal 1 Arrival Hall and is just a 5-10 minute walk from the Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 Departure Halls.

Singapore Changi Airport Lounge

Whether you need to work or unwind, Changi offers an incredible selection of lounges across its terminals.

• Singapore Airlines Lounges (T2 & T3): The flagship SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges offer luxury for eligible Singapore Airlines passengers. 

   

• Plaza Premium Lounge (T1): Accessible to premium airline passengers and through programs like Priority Pass, this lounge offers comfortable seating, a live cooking station, a full bar with bartender service, and shower facilities.

   

• Marhaba Lounge (T1 & T3): A pay-per-use lounge that offers a quiet environment with complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating, providing a welcome escape from the bustling terminal.

   

• Cathay Pacific Lounge (T4): Known for its stylish design and signature Noodle Bar, this lounge offers fantastic food and beverage options, business facilities, and a tranquil atmosphere for eligible passengers.

Parking at Changi Airport

Figuring out parking doesn't have to be a headache. Changi has a ton of well-managed parking options. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you find the right spot.

• For Quick Stays: Terminal Car Parks (T1, T2, T3, T4)

If you're picking someone up, seeing a friend off, or just visiting for a few hours, this is your best bet. Each terminal has its own dedicated, covered car park with easy access to the arrival and departure halls. It's super convenient, and you're never far from the check-in counters.

Best for: Pick-ups, drop-offs, and short visits.

• For Your Vacation: Long-Term Parking

Heading off on a trip and want to leave your car? For the most affordable rates, head to the South Car Park. It’s located a short walk from Terminal 2 and offers a much lower daily rate compared to the main terminal car parks, which can save you a lot of money on longer trips.

Best for: Travelers leaving their car for several days or weeks.

• For Visiting Jewel: Jewel Car Park

If your main destination is Jewel to see the Rain Vortex or do some shopping, use the dedicated Jewel car park (accessible via T1). It's huge, spanning from levels B2 to B5, and provides direct access right into the complex. Just be aware that the parking rates here are different from those at the other terminal car parks.

Best for: Shopping, dining, and exploring Jewel.

Things to Do in Changi Airport

Forget everything you know about boring airports where you just sit and wait. Singapore Changi Airport is a world-class destination in itself, packed with so much to see and do that you’ll actually want to have a long layover.

Explore the Jewel Changi Airport

First things first: you have to visit Jewel. It's a massive nature-themed mall and attraction connected to the airport that's open to everyone. You could easily spend a whole day here alone!

• HSBC Rain Vortex: The star of the show! This is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, and it is absolutely mesmerizing. It pours down through the center of Jewel, and you can see it from almost every level. Don't miss the spectacular light and sound show in the evening.

   

• Canopy Park: Head to the top floor for a huge indoor playground. You can walk on giant nets suspended high above the ground, get lost in a hedge maze, and slide down giant sculptures. It’s fun for all ages.

   

• Shiseido Forest Valley: Take a relaxing walk on the trails of a lush, multi-story indoor forest that surrounds the Rain Vortex. It's the perfect way to stretch your legs after a long flight.

   

• Shopping & dining: Jewel also has hundreds of shops and amazing restaurants, from Shake Shack and a Pokémon Center to Michelin-starred options.

Relax

Even if you're not leaving the transit area, there are incredible pockets of nature and calm.

• Butterfly Garden (T3): Step into a tropical paradise and watch over 1,000 butterflies flutter around you. It's a truly magical and peaceful escape from the airport hustle.

   

• Rooftop Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi (T1): Yes, you can actually go for a swim while you wait for your flight! Enjoy a dip in the rooftop pool, grab a drink from the bar, and watch the planes take off and land.

   

• Cactus Garden (T1): Head up to the rooftop bar and garden to see over 100 species of cacti and succulents from around the world.

Kill Time with Fun & Entertainment

Boredom is not an option at Changi.

• Free 24-Hour Movie Theaters (T2 & T3): Want to catch up on the latest blockbuster movies? Both terminals have comfortable cinemas that are open 24/7, completely free of charge.

   

• The Slide@T3: Ready for a thrill? Whiz down Singapore's tallest slide! It's four stories high and a super fun way to pass the time between flights.

   

• Entertainment Corner (T4): Challenge your friends to vintage arcade games like Street Fighter or try your hand at Xbox Kinect for some interactive fun.

Discover Amazing Art & Culture

Changi is also a giant art gallery. As you walk through the terminals, keep an eye out for incredible sculptures and installations. The most famous is the stunning Kinetic Rain sculpture in Terminal 1, where hundreds of bronze droplets move in harmony to create beautiful patterns.

Honestly, the biggest challenge at Singapore Changi Airport is deciding what to do first!

Transfer from Changi Airport to Your Hotel

Once you're ready to leave the airport, you have several options for your onward journey.

TravelThru Airport Transfer Service in Singapore

Why start your vacation by waiting in a long taxi queue or trying to figure out public transport with all your luggage? There's a smarter, more efficient way to get your Singapore trip started right.

When you pre-book with TravelThru, you take all the guesswork out of your arrival. A driver will be waiting for you at a designated spot, ready to handle your bags. You'll head straight to your private vehicle without any delay.

Because your price is fixed when you book, you know exactly what you're paying. Just hop in, cool off in the air-conditioning, and enjoy a smooth and easy ride directly to your hotel.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Public Train (MRT): The Mass Rapid Transit connects directly to Changi Airport via the East-West Line. While economical, it requires managing your own luggage and potentially transferring lines to reach your final destination.

   

• Airport shuttle: Several shuttle services operate routes to major hotels and city areas. This budget-friendly option can be slow during peak traffic hours and requires coordination with other passengers.

   

• Changi Airport taxi: Official Changi Airport taxi services operate from designated stands outside all terminals. While convenient, fares can vary significantly based on traffic conditions and distance, with potential surge pricing during peak periods.

Things to Do in Singapore

Once you are settled, an incredible city awaits. Singapore offers a stunning blend of futuristic architecture, lush green spaces, and vibrant cultural enclaves.

• Gardens by the Bay: Explore the iconic Supertree Grove and the breathtaking Cloud Forest and Flower Dome biomes.

   

• Marina Bay Sands: Visit the observation deck for panoramic city views or take a photo with the legendary Merlion statue nearby.

   

• Orchard Road: Indulge in a world-class shopping experience along this famous retail street.

   

• Sentosa Island: Enjoy a day of fun at Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, or relaxing on the sandy beaches.

   

• Changi Village: For a quieter escape near the airport, explore Changi Village for its rustic charm and delicious local food at the hawker centre.

>>> More fun things to do in Singapore for your next trip!

Getting Around Singapore

• TravelThru Private Shuttle Services in Singapore

Why limit yourself to one neighborhood when the whole island of Singapore is waiting for you? With our private transportation services, you can create your perfect itinerary, all from the comfort of a cool, private car.

You can easily plan a day trip to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve to see the famous Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. Or, when evening comes, head out to experience the vibrant nightlife at Clarke Quay without a second thought.

For exploring the city's diverse areas, you have complete flexibility with our hourly chauffeur service. You can spend the day hopping between the colourful streets of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, or go on a serious shopping spree down Orchard Road, without ever thinking about traffic or parking.

• Public Transportation Network

Singapore's efficient Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system features multiple color-coded lines that connect all major areas of the island. The network integrates seamlessly with buses and light rail, making it convenient for tourists and residents to navigate the city.

• Walking and Cycling

Hit the streets and explore Singapore's city center on foot, especially Orchard Road and the Civic District. You'll find tons of attractions super close by, giving you plenty of chances to stumble upon authentic local experiences as you wander around.

>>> Maybe you're interested in: How to Get Around Singapore Like A Local