entry necessities, issues to do, and every little thing you could know

One in all my favourite issues about flying from North America to Asia is doing a Singapore layover as a result of it has probably the most high-tech airport on the earth! On this article, I’ll share with you every little thing you could find out about spending 24 hours in Singapore together with visa and entry necessities.

📧 Hello Trisha! I’ve been studying your journey blogs about Singapore and they’re very useful! I’m going to the Maldives and my flight requires a Singapore layover. Do I would like a visa as an American citizen? Are you able to give me ideas please? I’ve a ten hour layover and I’m not actually positive if I ought to keep within the airport or go to the town. Thanks for all of your assist!

Shirley Younger, United States

Hello Shirley! Thanks for studying the weblog and for following these adventures! I additionally did a Singapore layover on the best way to the Maldives! And sure, you need to exit of the airport if in case you have a 10-hour layover.

To be truthful, there are various issues to do contained in the airport (it’s like an amusement park!) so it’s actually as much as you if you wish to enterprise into the town or not. However with this time that you’ve got, it’s assured that you just gained’t miss your flight so that you resolve!

Listed here are a few of my recommendations on doing a layover in Singapore. If in case you have questions that weren’t answered right here, simply go away a remark and I’ll reply them as quickly as I can! Have a blast in SG!

Xx, Trisha

🛩️ Can you allow Singapore Airport throughout a layover?

ABSOLUTELY! In case your Singapore layover is greater than 4 hours, you need to go away the airport and discover the town. Labeled as one of the best airport on the earth, getting out of Changi Airport is handy by way of public transport.

Please observe that should you resolve to exit the airport throughout layover, you’ll now not be labeled a transit passenger however a daily traveler. You must exit the airport as if Singapore is your closing vacation spot after which do the check-in course of once more.

🛃 Do I would like a visa if I’ve a layover in Singapore?

Most nationalities don’t want a visa to enter Singapore. Nevertheless, should you plan to exit the airport throughout your layover, the bottom stewards will direct you to the connection lounges as an alternative of customs.

In case you are 100% positive that you’ve got time to exit the airport throughout your Singapore layover, you have to comply with the arrivals indicators as an alternative of the connecting flight indicators.

Nobody will actually examine you for it so long as you may have your onward boarding move with you. Simply do the method as if Singapore is your closing vacation spot.

Residents of  Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the UK and the USA of America DO NOT want a visa to do a Singapore layover.

Under are the nations that want a visa to enter Singapore:

✅ Singapore layover necessities

As of February 13, 2023, it’s now not required to current any COVID-19 vaccination card or PCR exams to do a Singapore layover.

In case you are exiting the airport throughout the layover, you’ll have to apply for an SG Arrival Card (SGAC) wiith an digital well being declaration. This is applicable to all nationalities and it’s very simple to get one.

In case you are staying contained in the airport or have a Singaporean residency card, you don’t want to use for the SGAC. To use for the SGAC on-line, go to the SGAC e-Service web site or just obtain the MyICA Cell app by way of Apple Retailer or Google Play.

To use for the SGAC on-line, you may be requested for a legitimate passport, contact info, flight info, and details about your lodging in Singapore. In case you are solely in Singapore for a layover, you’ll be able to go away the lodging part clean.

The SGAC is freed from cost so be sure you solely join utilizing the hyperlinks above. Many faux hyperlinks will cost you so all the time go to the official SGAC web site.

Extra importantly, your SGAC must be legitimate 3 days earlier than arriving in Singapore. When you reside within the USA, Canada, or Europe, please observe the time distinction and ensure your SGAC adheres to the native time in Singapore.

Additionally, observe that the SGAC shouldn’t be a journey visa. It’s an additional requirement for all nationalities getting into or doing a Singapore layover.

✈️ Singapore layover issues to do at Changi Airport

If you wish to spend time within the airport with out going out throughout your Singapore layover, observe that Changi Airport is without doubt one of the prime 5 airports on the earth and there are various actions you are able to do with out going to the town heart.

Changi Airport has the quickest airport wifi on the earth so I gained’t point out the wifi connectivity in every space. I swear, you’ll be amazed in regards to the loading pace of wifi in Singapore!

Listed here are the highest issues to do in Changi Airport for a layover:

1. Butterfly Backyard at Terminal 3

📍 Open on Google Maps

The Butterfly Backyard at Terminal 3 is the world’s first butterfly backyard in an airport, housing over 1,000 butterflies from numerous species. You’ll be able to wander by the plush greenery and colourful flowers, watch butterflies fluttering round, and find out about their life cycle on the academic corners.

It’s an amazing spot for images lovers, providing numerous alternatives to seize the great thing about these delicate creatures. Benches are scattered all through, permitting you to sit down again and soak within the serene atmosphere.

Discover the two-story backyard, with a waterfall and tropical foliage, making it an ideal exercise for a Singapore layover. All gardens in Changi Airport are open-air so get pleasure from this breath of contemporary air after being within the airplane for hours!

2. Cactus Backyard (Terminal 1)

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Dwelling to greater than 100 species of cacti and arid crops from the deserts and dry areas world wide, the Cactus Backyard is an enchanting place to discover.

Every plant is accompanied by informative indicators that educate guests in regards to the distinctive variations of those crops. The backyard affords a rooftop view, which is ideal for watching plane take off and land.

There’s a bar positioned throughout the backyard, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a drink or two.

3. Sunflower Backyard (Terminal 2)

📍 Open on Google Maps

The Sunflower Backyard options a number of forms of sunflowers grown in Changi Airport’s personal nursery. This vibrant and cheerful backyard is a pleasant spot to elevate your spirits.

Take a leisurely stroll among the many vibrant sunflowers and benefit from the sunny ambiance. The backyard offers a wonderful backdrop for pictures, particularly throughout the golden hours of dawn or sundown.

It additionally serves as a viewing deck for planes, providing a panoramic view of the runway and plane.

4. Jewel Changi Airport

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Jewel Changi Airport, a shocking multi-use advanced positioned adjoining to Changi Airport, affords a plethora of actions and sights that may flip your Singapore layover into an pleasurable expertise.

Right here’s a information to what you are able to do throughout a layover at Changi Jewel:

HSBC Rain Vortex

Witness the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, standing at 40 metres excessive. It’s a spectacular sight, particularly when illuminated at night time. It’s an amazing spot for images and rest.

Shiseido Forest Valley

Discover this lush indoor backyard that spans 4 tales. It’s stuffed with strolling trails set amongst 1000’s of timber and crops, offering a serene escape from the airport hustle.

Cover Park

Positioned on the prime degree of Changi Jewel Airport, this space consists of distinctive sights just like the Cover Bridge, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, and Sky Nets for bouncing and strolling. It’s good for each youngsters and adults in search of a little bit of journey or rest.

Changi Expertise Studio

Go to this interactive digital attraction that gives a behind-the-scenes take a look at the operations of Changi Airport by video games and multimedia shows.

Shaw Theatre

A business cinema that expenses for film screenings, providing the newest releases in a state-of-the-art setting. That is in distinction to the free film theatres positioned within the transit areas of Terminals 2 and three, that are accessible solely to passengers who’re in transit.

5. Play areas for youths

In case you are touring with youngsters, you’ll be able to entertain them by visiting the totally different play areas inside Changi Jewel. There may be an admission price to entry this space, and the fee can range based mostly on the precise sights you select to go to throughout the park.

Discovery Slides

That is an inventive sculpture in addition to a playground, providing 4 built-in slides, together with two tube slides and two sliding surfaces.

Foggy Bowls

This space creates a whimsical play expertise with light concave bowls stuffed with mist to create the phantasm of taking part in amongst clouds.

Cover Bridge

Suspended 23 meters above the bottom in Jewel Changi Airport, the Cover Bridge affords beautiful views of the Rain Vortex and Shiseido Forest Valley. That includes a glass ground part for an exciting view under, it’s a wide ranging expertise amidst lush greenery.

Hedge Maze

Singapore’s largest hedge maze affords an intriguing out of doors journey. Navigate by the labyrinthine pathways, uncover charming alcoves, and attain the watchtower for a panoramic view of the maze’s intricate format.

Mirror Maze

This fascinating attraction incorporates a maze of mirrors, making a world of limitless reflections. The distinctive play of sunshine and reflections affords an immersive and disorienting expertise, difficult guests to seek out their manner by the charming labyrinth.

To go to these sights, you’d usually buy a ticket for the Cover Park, which can provide numerous packages or bundled choices together with entry to a number of sights throughout the park.

6. Nature Trails for jogging and stretching

Changi Airport is designed as an outside space with contemporary air which makes it the best airport on the earth, particularly if you’re in a cabin for lengthy hours of flights.

All areas in Changi Airport have nature trails so you’ll be able to even train throughout your Singapore layover!

The Changi Airport Connector, as an example, is a 3.5-kilometer biking and jogging path that hyperlinks Changi Airport to East Coast Park and the Park Connector Community.

At all times jog on designated paths or areas to make sure security for your self and others. Throughout peak hours or in crowded areas, it is perhaps difficult to jog comfortably. Select much less busy occasions for a extra nice expertise.

7. Take a dip on the rooftop pool

The rooftop pool at Changi Airport is a well-liked spot for vacationers trying to calm down throughout a layover in Singapore. The pool is located on the Aerotel Airport Transit Lodge in Terminal 1, close to the D gates.

The pool is accessible to non-hotel visitors, so that you don’t should be staying on the Aerotel to make use of the pool. It’s open from 12 PM – 10 PM every day.

There may be an entrance price of 25 SGD ($19 USD) to make use of the pool, which usually consists of using bathe amenities, a towel, and generally a complimentary non-alcoholic drink.

Along with the pool, there are bathe amenities, a poolside bar, and a jacuzzi. The poolside bar affords a variety of drinks and lightweight snacks. You’ll be able to get pleasure from refreshments whereas lounging by the pool.

8. Greatest lounges in Changi Airport Singapore layover

Changi Airport in Singapore, identified for its world-class amenities, hosts a number of premium lounges that supply consolation and luxurious to vacationers. Listed here are the highest 3 lounges, together with their costs and facilities:

Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminals 1, 2, and 4)

Roughly 58 SGD ($44 USD) for two hours, 75 SGD ($57 USD)for five hours, and 100 SGD ($75 USD) for 10 hours. It has snug seating, cold and warm meals alternatives, drinks, and a bar.

It additionally has bathe amenities and Wi-Fi. Some places provide personal resting suites, therapeutic massage providers, and convention amenities for a further price.

Ambassador Transit Lounge (Terminals 2 and three)

Ranges from round 38 SGD ($29 USD) for two hours to 58 SGD ($44 USD) for five hours. This consists of gentle refreshments, drinks, bathe amenities, and relaxation areas.

Blossom – SATS & Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 4)

Roughly 58 SGD ($44 USD) for two hours and varies for longer stays. This lounge affords a world buffet and reside cooking stations.

There are bathe amenities, snug seating, Wi-Fi, and leisure choices. Therapeutic massage providers and personal resting areas out there at a further price.

9. Buying and eating

Changi affords a variety of retail retailers, from luxurious manufacturers to native specialties. There’s additionally a various array of eating choices, together with native Singaporean delicacies, worldwide meals, and well-known fast-food chains.

Singapore has probably the most numerous and possibly probably the greatest cuisines in Asia so be certain that to eat and pattern dishes throughout your layover!

10. Guided tour of Jewel Changi Airport

For individuals who solely have 2-3 hours within the airport, you’ll be able to join a guided tour of the Jewel Changi Airport. An area will take you across the hotspots of the airport. This consists of the doorway price to the Cover Park.

💁🏻‍♀️ GST tax refund at Singapore Airport for foreigners

Not all vacationers know this however should you buy groceries in Singapore or buy something throughout the metropolis, you might be entitled to a refund for purchases of greater than 100 SGD ($75 USD).

Nevertheless, the GST refund is barely relevant to collaborating retailers. You’ll be able to all the time see indicators on the retailers and eating places if they’re collaborating within the vacationer refund scheme.

To get the refund, be certain that to gather receipts to get to 100 SGD ($75 USD). To use to your GST refunds, you’ll be able to go to the digital vacationer refunds self-help kiosks on the airport. They’re simple to identify and you’re going to get the refund immediately.

🚕 Tips on how to get to Singapore from the airport

As one of the best airport on the earth, getting out of the airport throughout your Singapore layover could be very simple and environment friendly. Under are the methods on learn how to get to the town from the airport:

MRT (Mass Fast Transit)

The airport is linked to the MRT community, which is a handy and cost-effective solution to attain the town. The Changi Airport MRT station is positioned on the basement of Terminals 2 and three.

The price of an MRT ticket from Changi Airport to numerous places in Singapore varies relying on the space and vacation spot. The fare from Changi Airport to the town heart is often round 2-3 SGD ($1.50 USD approx).

Automated ticket machines can be found on the Changi Airport MRT station. These machines settle for money in SGD and main bank cards.

You should buy a single-trip ticket or a stored-value EZ-Hyperlink card, which can be utilized for a number of journeys on the MRT and buses.

The EZ-Hyperlink card prices 12 SGD ($9 USD), which incorporates 7 SGD ($5 USD) credit score and a non-refundable 5 SGD (3.78 USD) card price.

Singapore airport taxi (personal)

For individuals who are touring with teams or with youngsters, it’s higher to pre-book your Singapore airport transportation, particularly if you’re arriving late at night time.

Please observe that there’s a midnight surcharge of 10 SGD (round $8 USD) for transfers from 12 midnight to six:00 AM.

There are additionally taxi traces on the arrivals gate. The taxi system in Singapore is well-regulated, and all taxis use a meter to calculate the fare based mostly on the space traveled.

Singapore Airport Shuttle (Shared)

The airport shuttle service at Changi Airport offers a handy manner for vacationers to get to numerous places in Singapore, together with motels.

The shuttle service can normally be booked on the Floor Transport Desk positioned within the arrival halls of every terminal. These desks are well-signposted and simple to seek out. Airport employees at these desks can help you with reserving the shuttle and offering info on the subsequent out there service.

The fare is round 9 SGD ($7 USD) per grownup and 6 SGD ($5 USD) for a kid beneath 12 years. The precise fare can rely in your vacation spot and the service supplier.

Shuttle providers normally function at common intervals, however the frequency can range relying on the time of day and demand. Commonplace baggage allowances apply, and there is perhaps further expenses for extra or outsized objects.

Busses at Changi Airport

Bus stops are positioned on the basement bus bays of Terminals 1, 2, and three. Simply comply with the indicators within the arrival corridor to seek out the closest bus cease.

The price of taking a public bus from Changi Airport to the town heart in Singapore could be very inexpensive, usually a lot cheaper than different transport choices like taxis or the MRT.

The bus fare from Changi Airport to the town heart is normally round 2.50 SGD ($1.89 USD approx). This may range barely relying on the precise route and distance.

You’ll be able to pay the bus fare utilizing an EZ-Hyperlink card or a Singapore Vacationer Cross, that are each tap-and-go sensible playing cards. These could be bought and topped up on the airport.

If paying in money, it’s necessary to have the precise quantity as bus drivers don’t present change. The journey to the town heart by bus can take roughly 60-80 minutes, relying on visitors and the precise vacation spot.

A number of public bus providers function from Changi Airport, together with bus numbers 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110, and 858. Bus 36/36A is a typical selection for vacationers heading to the town heart, because it passes by key areas and has a comparatively direct route.

🗺️ Issues to do throughout a Singapore layover

Once more, in case your Singapore layover is greater than 4 hours, take into account going out of the airport. It’s not a problem and Singapore is value exploring!

Listed here are among the finest Singapore layover excursions that I like to recommend with practical hours. This manner, you’ll be able to estimate the time you could return to the airport to catch your onward flight.

1. Singapore Strolling Tour

You most likely wish to be extra energetic throughout a layover in Singapore so a strolling tour will likely be superb. Strolling excursions normally begin within the morning and you’ll select the situation of the tour:

• Singapore River and Marina Bay Strolling Tour: every day besides Tuesdays, from 9 AM to 12 PM
• Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam: Tue & Thu | 9 AM – 12 PM and Sat & Solar | 2 PM – 5 PM
• Singapore for learners | Day by day besides Sundays | 10 AM – 1 PM

Every of those strolling excursions has totally different itineraries. They’re additionally spearheaded by locals so that is one of the best layover tour as you’ll study loads inside 3 hours!

🌟 I like to recommend the Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam tour to your layover. These are probably the most colourful areas of Singapore with many actions and hawker meals!

2. Singapore on a bicycle

When you don’t wish to stroll, you can even join a bicycle tour throughout your layover in Singapore. Just like the strolling excursions above, there are various choices for the routes and landmarks:

• Lion Metropolis Bike Tour: 20 KM (12 miles)
• Katong Meals Tour on a motorbike: 12 KM (7 miles)
• Downtown SG Meals Tour on a motorbike: 14 KM (8 miles)

Most of those bicycle excursions in Singapore go to must-see areas just like the Formulation 1 Monitor, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore River, Chinatown, Little India, and extra!

😋 Do you know that Singapore has a really wealthy meals tradition? I like to recommend the downtown SG meals tour on a motorbike the place you gained’t solely see landmarks however eat your manner by the town!

3. Singapore Road Meals Tour (Personal)

Personal excursions are really helpful to those that are touring in teams. With this, you’ll be able to resolve when to start out and finish your tour. Personal excursions vary from $349 USD for two vacationers and will get cheaper because the group will get bigger.

This Singapore Road Meals tour that I like a lot will take you to 10 native spots within the totally different neighborhoods in Singapore. The hosts are additionally locals (born and raised in Singapore) so that they gives you an intensive historical past class and beneficiant tip about their nation!

4. Gardens by the Bay (1-2 hours)

With restricted time, concentrate on the most important highlights: the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome. Each are iconic, climate-controlled conservatories with distinct themes. Purchase your tickets on-line to keep away from ready in line. This additionally means that you can examine for any reductions or combo offers.

Start with the Cloud Forest to see the spectacular indoor waterfall and the mist-filled mountain coated with lush vegetation. It’s a novel expertise that differs significantly from typical botanical gardens.

If time permits after the Cloud Forest, head to the Flower Dome. It’s the world’s largest glass greenhouse and showcases unique crops from 5 continents in 9 totally different gardens.

Gardens by the Bay is photogenic, so have your digicam prepared. The Cloud Forest’s waterfall and the Flower Dome’s floral shows are notably picturesque.

Count on to do a good quantity of strolling. Snug sneakers and applicable clothes for a moist setting are really helpful.

If in case you have a number of further minutes, take a fast stroll within the out of doors gardens. The Supertree Grove, with its futuristic tree-like constructions, is particularly value a fast go to.

5. Merlion Park and Singapore River (2 hours)

Go to both early within the morning or later within the night to keep away from crowds and luxuriate in cooler temperatures. Evenings provide a superbly lit skyline.

Take pleasure in a leisurely stroll alongside the Singapore River. The riverside is lined with historic websites, art work, and offers a glimpse into Singapore’s previous and current. If time permits, shortly go to close by sights just like the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay or the Marina Bay space.

Contemplate a fast go to to Clarke Quay or Boat Quay, each vibrant areas alongside the river identified for his or her eating and leisure choices.

Make the most of public transport just like the MRT or buses for simple entry to and from Merlion Park. The closest MRT station is Raffles Place.

✅ I solely really helpful 5 issues to do throughout a Singapore layover on this article since I don’t wish to overwhelm you with selections, provided that you may be pressed for time. If you’d like extra choices for actions, consult with this text.

🏨 Singapore Layover Accommodations

Most of you’ll choose to remain in a resort near the airport for a layover and I completely perceive that – you don’t wish to miss your connecting flight!

Nevertheless, Singapore’s transportation is admittedly environment friendly so relaxation assured that you’re going to get to the airport in time to your flight, must you resolve to e book a resort throughout your layover.

The perfect method is to remain in a resort close to the MRT Raffles Station so that you’ll be near all of the landmarks and the prepare station to the airport. Under are a few of my really helpful Singapore layover motels:

🧳 Baggage storage in Singapore

In case you are solely in Singapore for a layover, you gained’t have to assert your baggage because it’s tagged to your closing vacation spot. You solely must take your baggage if you’re switching airways throughout your layover.

When you examine in your baggage at your authentic vacation spot, be certain that to ask the stewardess or examine your suitcase for the tag.

When you booked a resort to your Singapore layover, the baggage storage is FREE of cost.

There are baggage storage amenities out there in Singapore, offering handy choices for vacationers who must retailer their baggage briefly. Listed here are a number of locations the place you could find baggage storage providers:

Changi Airport Baggage Storage

Changi Airport affords baggage storage providers in any respect terminals. The service is on the market 24/7, making it handy for vacationers arriving or departing at any time. Charges usually vary from 5-15 to SGD ($3-11 USD) per piece for twenty-four hours.

MRT Stations Baggage Storage

Some MRT (Mass Fast Transit) stations in Singapore, particularly these in central areas or close to vacationer sights, have baggage storage amenities.

These are self-service lockers, usually coin-operated or with digital cost choices. Costs vary from 10-20 SGD ($8-$15 USD) per day, relying on locker dimension.

Baggage Storage Companies

There are additionally devoted baggage storage providers in Singapore, corresponding to Locker & Lock, Baggage Storage Singapore, and Baggage Storage by Smarte Carte.

These providers are positioned in numerous elements of the town, together with widespread vacationer areas. These are safe storage, generally providing further providers like baggage wrapping. Costs vary from 5-12 SGD per day.

Baggage Supply Companies

Baggage supply providers in Singapore provide a handy manner so that you can transport your baggage from the airport to your resort, residence, or vice versa, with out the effort of carrying them round.

It is a door-to-door supply that could be very widespread for vacationers however not each traveler find out about this! Most providers provide monitoring choices and be sure that your baggage is dealt with securely.

Supply could be scheduled in keeping with your arrival, departure, or resort check-in/check-out occasions. Some suppliers additionally provide baggage wrapping, storage, and even non permanent holding.

As a basic estimate, costs can vary from round 10-20 SGD ($8-$15 USD) per bag for traditional supply. Test the service hours to make sure they align together with your journey schedule!

Listed here are among the respected baggage supply providers in Singapore:

• Changi Airport’s Baggage Service: affords supply from Changi Airport to any deal with in Singapore. That is helpful for vacationers who wish to discover the town hands-free earlier than checking into their lodging.
• Porter Xpress: offers baggage supply between the airport, motels, and cruise terminals. In addition they provide baggage storage and switch providers.
• CARTS: makes a speciality of baggage supply and storage providers for passengers at Changi Airport. Companies embrace baggage supply, storage, and even a cellular baggage wrapping service.