Getting from Changi Airport to Singapore city centre is quick and affordable. The MRT train is the most popular option, offering a direct route to major hotels and attractions.

About City Centre (Orchard)

Orchard Road is Singapore's premier shopping boulevard, a 2.2-kilometer stretch lined with luxury malls, department stores, and flagship boutiques. From the high-end ION Orchard and Paragon to the more accessible 313@Somerset and Orchard Central, the area caters to every budget and taste. The street also hosts many of Singapore's top hotels, including the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, and Hilton.

Beyond shopping, Orchard has significant cultural depth. The Istana (the President's official residence) and its grounds border the district, opening to the public on select holidays. Fort Canning Park, a hill steeped in 700 years of history, lies at the eastern end of the road. Side streets such as Emerald Hill showcase beautifully preserved Peranakan shophouses with ornate facades, now housing bars and restaurants.

Nearby Landmarks

ION Orchard Fort Canning Park The Istana Emerald Hill Singapore Botanic Gardens

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost S$25-35
Time 25-35 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost S$20-30
Time 25-35 min

Arrivals level at each terminal. Follow "Private Hire" signs. Request via Grab app.

Train (East-West Line (Green))

Cost S$2-3
Time 35-50 min
Frequency Every 3-7 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Take MRT from Changi Airport Station (CG2)
2. Change at Tanah Merah to East-West Line (green)
3. Alight at City Hall, Raffles Place, or Orchard
4. Journey takes 35-50 minutes depending on destination

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi S$25-35 25-35 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare S$20-30 25-35 min Budget-conscious, app users
Train S$2-3 35-50 min Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The MRT runs until approximately 11:30 PM (midnight on weekends and public holidays). After MRT service ends, taxis and Grab are the main options. Late-night taxi fares include a 50% surcharge from midnight to 6:00 AM. A Grab ride from Changi to Orchard at night costs around SGD 25–35. There are also NightRider bus services (NR1, NR2, NR6) on Friday and Saturday nights running from the city center.

Luggage Tips

MRT trains have limited luggage space, but Changi Airport station is typically uncrowded. Keep bags close to you and avoid blocking doors. For large luggage, Changi offers baggage storage at all terminals (from SGD 4/day). Alternatively, take a taxi or Grab for a hassle-free ride directly to your hotel.

Accessibility

Singapore's MRT system is fully wheelchair accessible with platform screen doors, elevators at every station, and priority seating. Changi Airport station has barrier-free access from the terminals. Taxis accommodating wheelchairs can be booked through ComfortDelGro Hotline (+65 6552 1111). Orchard Road sidewalks have tactile paving and accessible crossings.