How to make the most of your layover in Singapore

Singapore is an exciting city that’s definitely worth leaving the airport if you have a layover. It's a city in Southeast Asia known for its blend of ultra-modern architecture, lush green spaces, and diverse cultural influences. The city offers plenty to see and experience, even in a short visit.

Singapore is famous for its iconic skyline, anchored by Marina Bay Sands, and the futuristic Gardens by the Bay. It’s also a food paradise, with flavorful hawker centers where you can try local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab.

Getting around is easy with Singapore’s efficient public transportation system. It allows you to explore Singapore and its highlights like Chinatown, Little India, and the busy Orchard Road shopping area in a short time. Singapore’s clean, safe environment and well-organized city layout make it perfect for quick layover adventures whether you're with friends, family, or on a business trip!

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Singapore is a large city, so it makes sense that its airport is just as impressive. But, this massive structure can feel overwhelming and you can get lost easily. We're here to help you figure out Singapore Airport and share everything you need to know before heading out.

Visa requirements in Singapore

If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you can use the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF). It will get you a 96-hour stay in Singapore if you plan to leave the airport. This option is perfect for exploring the city while you wait for your connecting flight at Singapore Changi Airport!

Minimum layover times in Singapore

1. In-airport short layover:
   With some Singapore Airlines, you can use the FAST option. These are automated machines for checking in, boarding pass scanning, and other services when you're departing. If you’re bringing in any goods, make sure to fill out and have your customs declaration ready.
2. Domestic flights: 40 minutes
   Domestic layovers in Singapore don't take too long, especially with the automated systems. Avoid booking a flight less than 40 minutes after landing because possible extra security checks can cause delays.
3. International flights: 90 minutes
   Changi Airport is huge, so any international layovers could take a while. Especially if your flight is in another terminal. The Skytrain and shuttle bus can help you get to your terminal, but you'll still need time. If you have 5.5 hours between flights, the airport offers a free Singapore tour for Singapore Airlines passengers. So, you can explore Changi Airport and everything around it.
4. In-airport long layover: 6h
   Changi Airport is loaded if you're looking for stuff to do. The entertainment ‘department’ includes movie theaters, swimming pools, jacuzzies, play areas, art exhibits, and an entertainment deck. If you need to recharge between flights, you have free rest areas, gardens, lounges, a shower, spa services, and baby care rooms. If you're hungry, you’ll find fast food, fine dining, a supermarket, and bars. The shops also have everything you need including children's supplies, electronics, and luxury shopping.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 9h
   Buses 24, 34, 36, and 110 can get you to and from all 4 terminals. As soon as you enter Singapore, you realize that it has an incredible amount of things to see and experience. Even if you didn't plan it originally, you should lay over for a day or two to see everything the city has to offer.

What to do in Singapore during a layover

Not only does the airport have a huge amount of attractions, but so does the city. Take a look at our list of places you can explore during a morning, afternoon, evening, and even overnight layover in Singapore. Enjoy your stay, but before that, leave your bags at some of the Changi Airport luggage spots!

Morning layover in Singapore

If you have a morning layover in Singapore, check out some things you can try during the morning hours. You’ll find some of these places on the free tour too.

1. Visit Gardens by the Bay and see Singapore botanic gardens in the incredible nature park with its Flower Dome and Cloud Forest Conservatories.
2. Try the traditional Kaya Toast with coconut jam and butter at Lau Pa Sat.
3. Stop by Marina Bay Sands with its SkyPark terrace which links three 57-story hotel towers and offers amazing panoramic views of Singapore.
4. Head to the Maxwell Food Centre and enjoy Kopi, a local coffee that gives you a taste of tradition.

Afternoon layover in Singapore

With morning and afternoon free,  you have time to explore more of Singapore and dive deeper into the culture.

1. Visit Chinatown to experience traditional shops and temples like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
2. Have lunch at Chinatown Complex and try Laksa (spicy noodle soup).
3. Shop at Haji Lane and experience its colorful street art and boutique shops.
4. Check out Old Airport Roat Food Centre for some chili crab or Hainanese chicken rice.

Evening layover in Singapore

A whole day layover in Singapore is almost enough to get a feel for what the city has to offer. Check out our list of things you can do during the evening:

1. Head back to Marina Bay for the free Spectra Light and Water Show, which takes place every evening.
2. Make your way to Newton Food Centre and sample Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles).
3. The Singapore Night Safari can get you up close to some nocturnal animals.
4. Clarke Quay has some great options like Rojak, a sweet and savory salad.

Overnight layover in Singapore

If you're staying overnight in Singapore, here are some things you can do late at night and some places where you can stay before you leave Singapore Airport:

1. Explore the Jewel Changi Airport Garden with its HSBC Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
2. Take a walk through Merlion Park which is beautifully lit up at night.
3. Book a room at the Ambassador Transit Hotels which offers hourly rates.
4. Check into Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, which is upscale and has some spacious rooms.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Singapore

Here are some notes and tips for your short stay in Singapore:

• The weekend is on Saturday and Sunday.
• Singapore has four official languages: English (mostly used), Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
• Their currency is the Singapore dollar, which you can exchange anywhere in the airport.
• Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world. But, with so many people around, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out to avoid pickpocket.
• You can expect to spend about $5 on street food, public transportation is very cheap, but the attractions will cost you a bit more than usual.

The best tip we can give you is to explore light. Find one of our Bounce partners, leave your baggage behind, and explore Singapore like a local.