Singapore Changi Airport

You cannot miss its iconic control tower as you enter Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport (SIN  ^IATA), "Changi" or just "the airport" to locals, is the main commercial airport of Singapore. It is 25 km (16 mi) from the centre of Singapore, on the eastern edge of the island, and has good public transport links to all parts of Singapore.

Consistently voted one of the best airports in the world, Changi is quintessentially the hub for flights within Southeast Asia, to where virtually all Southeast Asian airlines fly, and a common stop on the Kangaroo Route between Europe and Australia. It is the hub airport of the island nation's flag carrier Singapore Airlines alongside its low-cost subsidiary Scoot, and Jetstar Asia, a low-cost subsidiary of Australian flag carrier Qantas.

Understand

Changi Airport is on the east coast of Singapore, about 25 km from the downtown area with good rail and road connections. There are no domestic flights due to the small size of Singapore; all flights to Changi are international (Singapore has only one other civilian airport: Seletar).

Opened in 1981 on reclaimed land to alleviate the ever-increasing air traffic at what was then Paya Lebar Airport closer to the city, Changi is one of the world's busiest, and has been consistently voted in the world's top three best airports. Passengers are made to feel at home while in transit, with more facilities than you'd typically expect at an airport. Airside gardens and artworks soothe the eyes, a massage parlour and spa relax the muscles, a swimming pool at Terminal 1 helps keep the body fit, while a cinema and giant television screens provide visual entertainment. There are even butterfly gardens and koi carp ponds! In 2019, a nature-themed mall called Jewel Changi opened its doors right in the middle of the terminal buildings, with countless restaurants, spectacular high gardens and the world's tallest indoor waterfall, that wows not only travellers using the airport but also locals living in other parts of the island nation.

The airport's schedules are dominated by the island nation's flag carrier, Singapore Airlines, its low cost subsidiary, Scoot, and its fellow low-cost competitor, Jetstar Asia. All Southeast Asian major airports have at least one daily flight from Singapore, taking at most 4 hours. East Asia, South Asia, and Australia are reachable in 7 hours or less and see multiple services per day by different airlines. Many major cities in Europe, as well as some in Africa and North America, also have a non-stop connection from Singapore. In fact, three of the world's top 10 busiest international flight routes (to Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok as of 2019) and three of the top 10 longest flight routes (to New York JFK and Newark airports and Los Angeles as of 2023) originate from Singapore, cementing its reputation as one of the world's most important aviation hubs.

Flights

Check-in at Terminal 4 involves no human touch in most cases!

The odd one out Uniquely, Malaysian airline Firefly flies turboprops from Kuala Lumpur-Subang not to Changi, but Singapore's other airport, Seletar, instead. See Singapore#Seletar Airport for details.

Changi has four terminals, referred to as Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 4 (T1, T2, T3 and T4). T1, T2 and T3 are connected in a horseshoe shape, yet are numbered rather in order of their construction completion time. Thus, T1 is sandwiched between T3 on the left and T2 on the right. A walk from gate A21 in terminal 3 to gate F60 at terminal 2 spans at least 5 kilometers; to spare you the hike, free Skytrain shuttles connect these terminals together, and the shuttle between T1 and T2 is an attraction in itself since it passes right next to the Jewel waterfall. You can walk or use the Skytrains to transfer without going through immigration.

T4 however, is located on a separate area not directly connected to the former three terminals. To transfer there, you must take the bus from outside the departure levels of Terminals 1 or 3, or Gate C21 at Terminal 1 if you are connecting from airside.

Singapore Airlines flights arrive at T1, T2 or T3 regardless of where they are coming from; if you have friends picking you up, ask them to check the flight information system via the airport website.

Terminal 1: Concourse C & D Air China, Air France, Air Niugini, Bangkok Airways, British Airways, Cambodian Airways, China Southern Airlines, Chongqing Airlines, Emirates, Fiji Airways, Finnair, Hebei Airlines, Japan Airlines, KLM, Myanmar Airways International, Philippine Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Scoot, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Starlux Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, XiamenAir, ZipAir Tokyo

Terminal 2: Concourse E & F Air Canada, Air India, Air India Express, Air Japan, Air Macau, ANA, Ethiopian Airlines, Firefly, IndiGo, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Royal Brunei Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, TransNusa, United Airlines and Singapore Airlines flights to Southeast Asia, Bangladesh, Japan (except SQ12, which continues on to Los Angeles), Maldives, Nepal, South Korea and Sri Lanka

Terminal 3: Concourse A & B Air New Zealand, Aircalin, Asiana Airlines, Batik Air, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Citilink, Drukair, Etihad Airways, EVA Air, Garuda Indonesia, Gulf Air, Myanmar National Airlines, Saudia, SriLankan Airlines, Thai Lion Air, T'way Air, US-Bangla Airlines, Vistara, Vietnam Airlines, and Singapore Airlines flights to destinations not listed under T2

Terminal 4: Concourses G & H Aero Dili, AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, GX Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Indonesia AirAsia, Jeju Air, Jetstar, Jetstar Asia, Juneyao Air, Pacific Airlines, Korean Air, Spring Airlines, Thai AirAsia, VietJet Air

For transit, each concourse has a prominent transfer desk to collect your next boarding pass. Check the TV screen for information about where to retrieve the boarding pass for your flight.

No boarding pass for your next flight yet? Inquire at one of the transfer desks where your airline has a counter!

There are no boarding calls made within the airport and boarding gates generally close 10 minutes before departure.

Unlike most other airports, there are no separate zones for departing and arriving passengers in the airside of the main terminals, hence arriving passengers are free to shop and eat if they are not in a hurry to pass through passport control. In addition, unless you have checked luggage, you can clear passport control at any terminal; security checks are done at the gate of the respective flight. At Terminal 4 however, the centralised security screening is after immigration.

Ground transportation

The slow but cheap way to the city is the MRT.

From the airport there are a number of ways to get into the city. If you're coming off a long flight and have luggage, by far the easiest option is to simply take a taxi, fares are reasonable ($20-30) and the city center is only 30 minutes away.

By train

Changi Airport is the terminus of the East-West line of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail system. While cheap, the MRT is aimed squarely at commuters: there are no express services; the trains are regular commuter trains without baggage storage (although many of the train sets have handrails installed in place of seats in order to occupy more standing passengers with luggage), and can get quite crowded during rush hour (mornings towards the city, evenings towards the airport). But if you're not in a rush, don't have too much luggage or are staying near a station, the train can still be worthwhile.

The station sits between Terminals 2 and 3, and is well indicated from Terminal 1; access to Terminal 4 requires you to take a bus that stops at Terminals 1 or 3. You'll need to change trains at Tanah Merah – exit on the left hand side door and cross the platform if you are heading to the city, or right hand side in the unlikely event that you're heading to the northern residential areas of Simei, Tampines or Pasir Ris. When returning to the airport from either direction, cross to the middle platform. If you use the Downtown Line, transfer at the Expo station, the first one after the airport. It should cost you less than $3 (Singapore dollars) to get anywhere from the airport, for instance the 40-minute ride to City Hall station costs $2.30 and you can pay by tapping any Visa/Mastercard on the gates. Trains run Mondays to Saturdays from 05:30 and Sundays from 06:00 every 10 minutes until midnight. See Singapore#Get around for more details and other payment options.

By shuttle

A Ground Transport Desk is available in the arrival hall at all terminals and can arrange shuttle bus transfers, with hourly departures between 7 AM to 11 PM daily. The shuttle costs $10 per adult and $7 per child (aged 12 years and below) and will take you to most downtown hotels. Quite frankly, it's hard to see why you'd want to use this: for a solo traveler it's more expensive yet slower than the MRT, while for two or more a far faster and more convenient taxi/Grab will be about the same price.

Transtar Travel operates a coach service from Terminals 1 and 4 to Johor Bahru Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex (CIQ). Fares are $10 from Changi Airport to Johor Bahru, and RM10 in the reverse direction. Payment is accepted by cash and EZ-Link card. The first bus departs at 8:15AM and the last leaves at 11:15PM.

If you are heading to Batam or Bintan, there is a shuttle service from Terminals 1 and 4 to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT), with the journey costing $4 in each direction.

By taxi

Taxi remains the fastest way to travel to the City Centre, taking around 30 minutes. Keep in mind the additional surcharges for trips from the airport.

There are 2 types of taxis to choose from, depending on how many people are travelling together.

• Taxi (cab) is easiest - simply follow the signs after clearing customs. Meters are always used in Singapore. A trip to the city during the day will be $20–40 including a $8 airport surcharge from 5PM to midnight and $6 at other times. An additional 50% surcharge of the final fare applies daily 00:01-05:59, while a 25% surcharge is applicable 06:00-09:30 weekdays & 18:00-00:00 daily. By law, a taxi can carry a maximum of 4 passengers.

Taxis are easily available at the airport and you need not call one if you are traveling from there. If you are traveling to the airport however, calling ahead may be a better option.

• • Comfort or Citycab, ☏ +65 6552 1111. 
  • Premier Taxis, ☏ +65 6363 6888. 
  • SMRT, ☏ +65 6555 8888. 
  • Transcab, ☏ +65 6555 3333. 
• An airport transfer service, bookable from the Ground Transport Concierge at the arrival levels, charge a flat rate of $55 or $60 for a party of 4 or 7 respectively, to anywhere in the city. These are a pretty good deal after midnight, as you can skip the queue and avoid the surcharge. The same pricing applies to chartering van-sized cabs, which are good for large families if you have lots of baggage.

By rideshare

Private hire car services Grab, Gojek, Tada Mobility, and Ryde enable you to book a ride using the respective apps from your phone. This is often cheaper than taking a taxi and can be faster too if there's a queue. Head to the designated pickup points at the arrival levels of T1, T2, or T3, and pay attention to the door number, since this is how the drivers will find you in the scrum.

By bus

A number of bus routes serve the airport and take you to the city center and other points at eastern and northern Singapore, but they are generally not optimised to bring luggage. If you wish to look at the views of Singapore from ground level at a leisurely pace however, they can be of great use. Bus terminals are in the basements of T1, T2 and T3, and at ground level at T4 next to Car Park 4B.

• Route 24 serves the airport from Ang Mo Kio, Serangoon, as well as Tai Seng, Macpherson, Paya Lebar, Eunos, Kembangan, Bedok, Tanah Merah, and Upper Changi MRT stations
• Route 27 traverses Hougang, Buangkok, Sengkang, and Tampines before entering the airport premises.
• Route 34 follows a similar route as Route 27 but only serves Punggol before Tampines.
• Route 36 goes directly to the city center and takes roughly one hour travelling on expressways through the East Coast to City Hall and Orchard Road.
• Route 53 takes you to the airport from Bishan and Serangoon MRT stations as well as Pasir Ris region.
• Route 110 is an express bus from Sengkang MRT station to the airport
• Route 858, connecting the airport with Woodlands, Sembawang, and Yishun MRT stations, is ideal if you are heading towards the northern part of the country or the land crossing with Malaysia.

All buses serve terminals 1 to 3; only routes 24, 34, 36, and 110 make a stop at Terminal 4.

Buses generally run from 05:30 to midnight every day. Fares vary depending on distance, but a ride to the city should cost around $2.50. You can pay by tapping in a bank card or mobile wallet, as well as store valued cards, Singapore Tourist Pass, or exact fare in cash to the driver.

By car

The airport is at the terminus of the Pan Island Expressway (PIE), the East Coast Parkway (ECP), and the Tampines Expressway (TPE). A drive to Tampines takes 10 minutes, to Downtown, Woodlands, & central Singapore 30 to 40 minutes; a drive to Jurong at the western end of the expressway is twice as long. All parking lots except the one for Terminal 1 and Jewel Changi are eligible for long term parking, with parking rates capped at $57.60/24 hours; short term or general parking at all terminals are at a rate of $0.04/minute, starting from 10 minutes after entrance. An open-air parking lot between Terminal 2 and JetQuay terminal offers a cheaper parking rate of $35/24 hours or $0.035/minute.

Car rental counters are open 7AM to 11PM. Mainstream brands have their respective kiosks at the arrival level of all terminals except terminal 1.

Get around

These skytrains make travel between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 quick and convenient...

...transfer to Terminal 4 however requires a lengthy ride by bus. These can be done at both airside or landside.

Passengers whose flights depart from Terminals 1, 2, or 3 are free to use most of the facilities within these three terminals (e.g. if your flight departs from Terminal 2, you can head over to Terminal 1 to use the swimming pool there). This is because Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are well-connected to each other by the SkyTrain, an automatic driverless people mover which operates both landside and airside, that operates from 4AM to 1:30AM. When the train is not in operation, you must walk if you wish to remain airside. A walk from Terminal 2 to Terminal 3 or vice-versa should take about 30 minutes as you have to pass through Terminal 1. A buggy car that will take you to your boarding gate, very useful if you are in a hurry, is available upon request. If you are landside, you can walk along the walkway that passes through Jewel Changi.

Terminal 4 is located in a separate area from the other 3 terminals, and is not served by the SkyTrain system. To connect airside, you need to clear security first, take the bus from gate C21 at Terminal 1 or the arrival hall A before immigration at Terminal 3; to connect landside, get on the bus from Door 3 Departure Level of Terminal 1 or Door 8 Departure Level of Terminal 3. The bus shuttle runs 24 hours every 10 minutes and takes you there in 10 to 15 minutes.

Wait

For the listings below, "landside" requires going through passport control to enter Singapore, while "airside" can be accessed in transit without going through immigration.

Landside

Rain Vortex at the Jewel Changi with the Forest Valley and Canopy Park in the background

• 1 Jewel Changi Airport (directly connected to Terminal 1; walk across the link bridge from 2 and 3; from Terminal 4, take the bus to Terminal 2). 24 hours. Most shops & attractions: Daily 10AM-10PM. A shopping mall with many restaurants and shops, many of which have their only outlet in Singapore here. Even the locals do come often to bask in the semi-indoor cool tropical greeneries after a hearty meal & a day of shopping. Head to the Canopy Park at Level 5 for assorted mazes and walks between hedges, or the Shiseido Forest Valley to shelter under the trees. The iconic Rain Vortex is the world's highest fountain, whose water showers down rather than shoots up, and at night it becomes the stage for a light and sound show. If you don't want to move landside, you can see the fountain by taking the skytrain between Terminal 3 Concourse B and Terminal 2 Concourse E. (updated May 2019)

Kinetic Rain

• There are several kinetic art installations at each terminal. The most significant ones include the Kinetic Rain at Terminal 1 that displays sequence of raindrops forming shapes as they go up and down and Daisy at Terminal 3, a windmill whose movement corresponds to the movement of travelers within its immediate area.
• If you have at least 5 hours and 30 minutes of transit time to spare, you can join the Free Singapore Tour. After check-in at one of their counters (Terminal 2: near Gate F50, Terminal 3: near Gates A1-A8), you get to travel as a group and seeing a choice of the modern skylines or ethnic areas at the city center, the local neighborhood of Changi, or the gardens and shops in Jewel Changi.

Airside

Even if you are stuck in the airport, there are plenty of ways to kill time as each terminal has a unique design and the airside areas of T1, T2, and T3 are attractions in themselves. T2, arguably the most interesting, has an indoor garden, a music listening area with couches and mood lighting, a computer gaming room, a small cinema (you can bring your luggage trolleys inside and park them at the back), paid massage services and, of course, plenty of duty-free shops. T3 has a butterfly garden and plenty of natural light, but fewer entertainment options. T1 has a swimming pool for $13.91 and Jacuzzi, both open until 23:00. There is an outdoor cactus garden on the roof of T1. You can travel between the main terminals without passing through immigration and, if you have no checked-in luggage to collect, you can clear passport control and customs at any terminal. T4 is smaller than the other three terminals, but has a Peranakan heritage area with exhibits about Peranakan culture and history.

• Movie theaters with several current movies are played in the loop at Terminals 2 and 3. Simply park your trolley and tuck in, for no charge!
• There is at least one TV lounge at every terminal, inviting football fans to watch matches live.
• Let your kids enjoy their time at the play area in Terminals 1 (public area) and 3 (public area & transit area behind Louis Vuitton)
• Have a little time for art? Create your own woodblock print at the art stations in Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Gardens

Bask in the refreshing foliage, even in a small forest at the transit area

Being a tropical country, the airport tries to introduce native flora for travelers who lucked out of visiting Southeast Asian gardens and jungles, or just to unwind themselves.

• Terminal 1: Cactus Garden, Water Lily Garden, Discovery Garden, Piazza Garden
• Terminal 2: Enchanted Garden, Orchid Garden, Sunflower Garden
• Terminal 3: Butterfly Garden, Crystal Garden
• Terminal 4: Steel In Bloom

Lounges

• Singapore Airlines has a SilverKris lounge for First Class & Business class passengers, and another lounge for Krisflyer Gold members in Terminals 2 and 3. While you can access the lounges at either terminal regardless of your destination, the lounges at terminal 3 have a larger space in addition to The Private Room, a dining lounge exclusively for First Class passengers with made-to-order dishes.
• Pay-per-use lounges enables you to work in a more comfortable space, take a shower, eat a little snack, or have a short nap during a long transit for a fee. Merhaba operates a lounge at Terminals 1 & 3, while Ambassador Transit Lounge can be found at Terminals 2 and 3, each with a dedicated transit hotel, and Blossom has one lounge at Terminal 4. Changi Lounge at Jewel Changi also offers paid access, the only landside lounge in the airport.
• Ground services dnata & SATS have lounges at each terminal. Inquire your airline about which lounge they use.
• British Airways, Emirates, Qantas and Qatar Airways have large dedicated lounges for First and Business Class passengers in Terminal 1 with shower facilities, food and drink, Wi-Fi access and internet terminals.
• Cathay Pacific has a lounge for First and Business Class passengers in Terminal 4.
• Plaza Premium Lounge has a lounge in Terminal 1, and another one jointly run with SATS in Terminal 4.
• Local bank DBS operates DBS Asia Treasures Lounge in Terminal 3 for their private banking clients.

Priority Pass holders have access to all of the pay-per-use lounges.

Eat and drink

There is at least one food court at all terminals, where you can savour Singaporean delicacies, such as this one at Terminal 4.

All of the terminals include a food court at Level 3 within the transit area, where you can savor Singapore delicacies without stepping out of the airport. There are however many more options landside that are worth checking out, especially at Level B2 of Terminal 3 and Jewel Changi. As locals do also frequent these places, prices generally are similar to other spots across the island.

Some of the restaurants in the transit area accept neighboring and world major currencies; change in cash is however always given in Singapore dollars. The food courts and convenience stores there are, with few exceptions, open 24 hours.

Terminal 1

Public

Many of the establishments can be found at Level 3, where there are also facilities such as a playground and a viewing mall, where you can see aircraft movement at the terminal.

• Anjappar, Terminal 1 Level 3. 24 hours. Indian cuisine with focus in southern Indian, especially the Chennai region. (updated Aug 2023)
• Heavenly Wang, Terminal 1 Level 2. Daily 7:30AM-10PM. Be here for a quick Singapore style breakfast such as Kopi & Teh, kaya toast, and soft-boiled eggs, or something more substantial like Nasi Lemak or chicken congee. (updated Nov 2022)
• Penang Culture, Level 3. Daily 10:30AM-11PM. Savor the street food favorites from the Malaysian island town, such as nasi lemak, fried kway teow (rice vermicelli), or prawn noodle soup in a fine-dining setting. From $10. (updated Aug 2023)
• Staff Canteen, Terminal 1 Car Park 1B (Terminal 1: From Departures take lifts 8 or 9 behind row 13 to Level B1. From Arrivals head past Changi Meet & Greet for the lift of the same number. Go down the stairs on the left at the end of the passage.). Daily 06:00-22:00. Featuring a wide array of local food at local prices, this miniature hawker centre is where the airport staff eat. Best of all, it's also open to the public, albeit a little hidden & with a slightly higher price. $5-$10. (updated May 2019)
• Terrace Chinese Kitchen, Level 3. Daily 8AM-11PM. Dim sum and other Chinese stir-fried dishes. From $6. (updated Nov 2022)
• TGM & Root 98, level 3. Choice of Japanese or Korean specialties and vegetarian under one roof. The set menu is a deal worth trying. From $15. (updated Aug 2023)

Transit

• Crave, Level 2 (near Discovery Garden). Daily 5AM-10PM. Taste the famous Adam Road Nasi Lemak (coconut rice) that you can pay per ingredient, and pair it with Teh Tarik (milk tea) From $7. (updated Nov 2022)
• Food Gallery, Level 3. 24 hours. The food court offering diverse Singaporean delicacies. (updated May 2019)
• Ippudo Express, Level 2 near D Gates (near Discovery Garden). 24 hours. Head here for a quick ramen stop with various toppings from the famous Japanese chain. From $10. (updated Aug 2023)
• O'Learys Sports Bar, Level 3. Daily 6AM-midnight. Premium diner style dishes and drinks from the bar to enjoy while catching up with the ongoing sport matches on screen. Food from $25, drinks from $15. (updated Aug 2023)
• Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Level 2 (near Discovery Garden). 6AM-midnight. The famous Singapore Kopitiam franchise with its renowned toast with kaya jam, or try it together with a bowl of soft boiled egg and a cup of coffee. Set menus from $6, drinks from $2. (updated Aug 2023)

Terminal 2

Landside

• Jinjja Kitchen, Level 2 (near Check-In Row 1 and entrance to MRT station). Korean style fried chicken and other assorted Korean delights such as kimchi fried rice, Korean-style pasta, and stew. $8-$15. (updated Nov 2023)
• Jones the Grocer. Coffee shop from Australia featuring warm coffee and cold smoothies. Snacks range from pastries and sandwiches to fruit cups and salads. (updated Nov 2023)
• XW Western Grill, Level 3. Flame grilled chicken, steak, and fish, accompanied with a free flow of salad from the self-service bar. $15-$25. (updated Nov 2023)
• Staff Canteen, Terminal 2 Car Park 2A (Terminal 2: From Departures or Arrivals follow the sign to Car Park 2A, then take the lift to level 3, followed by the stairs up to level 3M.). Daily 06:00-22:00. Essentially the same as its Terminal 1 counterpart. $5-$10. (updated Jan 2024)

Transit

• Chutney Mary, Level 3. 24 hours. Craving the authentic Indian spices? Head here for either a light street snack or a more substantial thali set. (updated May 2019)
• Kaveri Indian Vegetarian. One of the few vegetarian friendly restaurants at the airport. Specialises in southern Indian flavours. (updated May 2019)
• Straits Food Village, Level 3. 24 hours. A food court offering assorted dishes from Singapore in a rustic wood atmosphere. Order the food by selecting from the kiosk and pick up your meal from the restaurant when your number is called. (updated May 2019)
• The Satay Club by Harry's, Level 2. 24 hours. Primarily Malay and Indonesian favorites such as satay (grilled skewered meats), nasi goreng (fried rice), gado-gado (salad with peanut sauce), and deep-fried kueh. Grill section also expansive with kushi-yaki style skewers like wagyu beef or tiger prawn. (updated Nov 2023)

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 offers by far the most complete eating options, especially at the publicly accessible level B2 that is like a mall in itself.

Terminal 3 Airside Area

Public

• 4 Fingers Curry Chicken, Level B2, ☏ +65 6214 3995. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM. Crispy chicken that is good on its own or mixed with seafood for more protein, or rice for a more balanced meal. Can be enjoyed a la carte or with a combo of drinks & fries. From $12. (updated Nov 2022)
• Curry Times, Level B2, ☏ +65 6447 8068. Daily 8AM-10PM. Owned by the famous curry puff vendor Old Chang Kee, with its signature dishes such as curry chicken, fish fillet rice, prata, curry bun, and classic Singapore desserts. Mains $8-$15. (updated Nov 2022)
• Kopitiam, Basement 2. 24 hr. Food court serving local dishes at reasonable prices (by airport standards). From $6. (updated Jan 2020)
• Paradise Dynasty, Level 3. A cavernous Chinese restaurant with mainly dishes made for sharing. Its specialty dish, xiao long bao (steamed dumpling filled with meat and soup) is worth to try. (updated Aug 2023)
• Mr. Teh Tarik, Level B2. The pulled milk tea (Teh Tarik) is not to be missed. There are also something more substantial such as assorted roti prata or roti john flavors, briyani rice, and fried noodle or rice. Snacks & drinks from $2. (updated Nov 2022)
• Swensen's, Level B2. Serves diner-style breakfast and snacks, steaks, pastas and pizzas, and of course, ice cream. (updated May 2019)

Transit

• LeNu Chef Wai's Noodle Bar, Level 2. 5AM-2AM. In mood for something warm and hearty? Head here to savor its noodle with a choice of beef or pork broth, simmered for at least 12 hours resulting in rich flavor and high protein content, or congee with toppings you can select from, including the recommended silk tofu and century egg. (updated Jun 2019)
• The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, Level 2 Departure Lounge Central. 6AM-1AM. Enjoy breakfast in the morning or steak, pasta, and pizza in the afternoon and evening, with recipes tailored by the renowned chef. (updated May 2019)
• Singapore Food Street, Level 3. 24 hours. A 1960s-themed food court offering culinary delights from the island nation. (updated May 2019)

Terminal 4

Public

• Kopitiam, Level 2M. Perhaps the only food court on landside. Prices comparable to outside establishments. (updated May 2019)
• Ma Mum, Level 1. Halal-certified laksa, chicken rice, and noodle soups, some with a touch of Thai spiciness. From $7. (updated May 2019)
• Old Street Bak Kut Teh, Level 1. 24 hours. Specializing in one of Singapore's favorite delicacies, pork ribs herbal soup (Bak Kut Teh). Also provides comfort food such as congee & pork noodle. From $7. (updated Aug 2023)

Transit

• International Food Hall, Level 2M. 24 hours. Food court offering a diverse range of dishes from all over the world. (updated May 2019)
• Tiger Den, Level 2 (next to WH Smith, opposite the row of shops). Enjoy Singapore's very own beer, tapped up to a pitcher or bottled. (updated Jun 2019)
• Crystal Jade GO, Level 2. An extensive selection of dim sum in addition to noodles and congees. Look for its set menu which for a cheaper price makes a complete meal. Set menus $14-20. Dim sum $5-8, Main course $10-15. (updated Jun 2019)

Jewel Changi

A shopping mall adored by locals & transiting passengers alike, restaurants that cater to many tastes of the world are peppered across 7 levels of this spherical building. Many are sit-down establishments in a space designed akin to fine dining places, some with a lucky view of the gushing Rain Vortex, while others offer snacks that can be enjoyed as you stroll around. For something cheaper yet substantial & still authentic Singaporean, head into the food court at level B2.

• Burger & Lobster, Level 5, ☏ +65 6971 6126. Level 5. Beef burgers & assorted lobster platters, whole or as a sushi roll. Mains $15-$25, lobster dishes $25-$65. (updated Nov 2022)
• Food Republic, Level B2. Daily 10AM-10PM. Want to eat but not limited to a specific restaurant? The food court at level B2 serves a wide range of options, from local highlights to international choices. (updated Dec 2022)
• Poulet Bijou, Level 1, ☏ +65 6243 7820. Daily 11:30AM-10PM. Modern French bistro featuring soups, pot pies & its signature roast chicken with a choice of diane, mushroom cream, or cranberry sauce. (updated Nov 2022)
• Shang Social, Level 1, ☏ +65 6346 0260. Lunch: M-Th 11:30AM-3PM, F-Su 11:30AM-4PM; dinner: Su-Th 5-9PM, F-Sa 5-10PM. Dim sum for lunch or authentic dishes from mainland China all day. Dim sum $5-$15, Mains $25-$75. (updated Nov 2022)
• Tonito Latin American Kitchen, Level 2, ☏ +65 6904 3975. Daily 11:30AM-10:30PM. Classic tapas, Mexican light bites, Peruvian stews, and Argentinian pastas Mains $25-$30. (updated Nov 2022)
• Violet Oon, Level 1, ☏ +65 9834 9935. Weekdays: 12-3PM, 6-10PM; weekends 12-10PM. Peranakan-style cuisine, from satays, pratas, rendang, to sweet desserts. Special vegan menu also available. Mains $20-$30, desserts $15. (updated Nov 2022)
• The World is Flat, Level 1, ☏ +65 8590 4900. Su-Th: 11:30AM-10PM (last order 9:15PM) F-Sa 11:30AM-10:30PM (last order 9:40PM). A former staple for alcoholic drinks at Terminal 1, the bar at its new location still serves draft beer & zesty cocktail mixes. For something more substantial, enjoy filling burgers and hearty sandwiches, or donburi (Japanese rice dish) from its sister restaurant next door, Tanuki Raw. Happy hour all day Sunday & 3-7PM other days. Sandwiches $25-$35, cocktail & beer from $10 (happy hour). (updated Nov 2022)
• Birds of Paradise, Level 1, ☏ +65 9757 9892. Daily 11AM-10PM. Premium ice cream with a local twist, such as the bestseller white chrysanthemum, sea salt hojicha, coconut, spiced pear, pandan, and lemongrass. $6 per cone. (updated Nov 2022)

Buy

Your spare change can go a long way. If you have spare Singapore dollars or other currencies you wish to dispose of, you can do so at the Travelersbox vending machine for credit at various merchants (such as Starbucks, Facebook, JD.com, Grab, Lazada, Amazon China or Japan, Tokopedia) or donate them to charity.

Plenty of options in big or small shops, such as these giant boutiques at Terminal 1.

If Changi Airport were a mall & moved to more than 100 countries, it would constitute their largest mall! The shopping experience is vibrant, especially thanks to the variety of shops that are housed at Jewel Changi. As it is frequented by locals alike, prices landside are the same as other places within Singapore, be it retail or F&B, and you need not venture far into the city center to find similar options.

All stores in general accept American Express, Visa and MasterCard; most accept Diners Club, JCB and UnionPay. Should you need cash, there are ATMs from Singaporean banks as well as ICBC & Citibank before security, as well as money exchange operated by UOB or Travelex at each terminal & FXCHANGE at levels B1 & 4 of Jewel Changi, although you will pay a small premium if doing so inside the airport. Duty free shops even offer payment in the traveler's home currency or in Singaporean dollars; make sure to check the exchange rate of your credit card issuer first.

If you have little time to roam the shops, the airport also has a dedicated online shopping page, where you can pre-order from 30 days to 12 hours before your departure flight from Singapore and retrieve your items at one of its collection centers during your transit (Terminal 1: behind Charles & Keith, Terminal 2: near GST refund counter, Terminal 3: behind Louis Vuitton, Terminal 4: to the right after immigration & security, before Shilla duty free). You can also collect these items upon arrival before customs and at Jewel Changi, although these are subject to the Singaporean Goods and Services Tax (GST).

If you are eligible for a GST refund after shopping in Singapore, you can claim one with evidence of your passport, boarding pass, receipts, and purchased items at both the public & transit area of each terminal, as well as Level 1 of Jewel Changi.

If you're just arriving and need to buy a SIM card for your phone, there are plenty of tourist help-oriented shops that will be happy to sell you one with $50-70 of credit on it (and that's how much it will cost). 1GB of data for a week is only $7 though, so if you're only in Singapore for a short time, the bigger cards are definitely overkill. Instead, head to the money changers - you can buy a $15 SIM card there. You need to present your passport when purchasing SIM cards.

Airside

• 7-Eleven, Terminal 1 Level 3. For a small drink or snack that you can take for or after your flight. (updated Nov 2022)
• Bacha Coffee, Terminals 1 & 3, Level 2, ☏ +65 6343 1910. Daily 6AM-midnight. A coffee boutique offering over 200 products of Arabica loose beans, brewed in tradition since 1910 from Marrakesh in Morocco. (updated Nov 2022)
• Bee Cheng Hiang, Terminals 1,2,3,4 Level 2, Jewel Changi Level 1. Varies between 7AM to 11PM. Most famous for its bakkwa, a Singaporean delicacy resembling sweet bacon or jerky, cut in various shapes and sizes, freshly BBQed for near-future consumption or vacuum packed for longer shelf life. Also sells meat floss and mini cookies. Bakkwas from $15. (updated May 2019)

• Cheers, Terminals 3 & 4 Level 3. For a small drink or snack that you can take for or after your flight. (updated Nov 2022)
• Discover Singapore, One at each end of all terminals. Daily 6AM-midnight. For your last minute gift ideas on Singaporean memorabilia and icons as souvenirs. 
• Irvin's (Terminal 1: Transit Area near C Gates. Terminal 2: Transit Area Center. Jewel Changi). 7AM to 11PM or sold out. One of the new delicacies of Singapore you can effortlessly take home with: bite sized fried fish skin (or cassava or potato chips) coated with salted egg. The fish skin usually sells out by mid afternoon! Whoever tries will be addicted. (updated May 2019)
• TWG Tea Boutique, All terminals. Daily 6AM-1AM. A lineup of loose tea leaves with assorted local & international flavors, or enjoy the flavorful macarons. (updated Nov 2022)
• Wine & Spirits Duplex Store, Terminals 2 & 3. 24 hours. Discover a complete library of wine, spirits, and liquor from around the world, showcased in individually-designed boutiques or in a chiller you can walk into. (updated Nov 2022)

Landside

• Changi Recommends, All terminals, level 1. Sells SIM Cards with humongous internet quotas or alternatively, rent a WiFi that can be shared with multiple devices. Inbound travelers can also benefit from pre-purchase of admission tickets to tourist attractions as well as tourist passes. Departing passengers can purchase rail passes for Japan or rent WiFi for other countries. (updated Jun 2019)
• Gift by Changi Airport, Jewel Changi Level 4. Daily 10AM-10PM. A landside souvenir shop for last-minute memento ideas, including vintage postcards & lion dolls. (updated Nov 2022)
• Muji, Jewel Changi Levels 2 & 3, ☏ +65 6241 1385. Daily 10AM-10PM. Japanese retailer with focus on minimalist yet functional clothing & apparel lines and household items. (updated Nov 2022)
• Pokemon Center, Jewel Changi Level 4. Daily 10AM-10PM. An official shop that recreates the Pokémon Center featured in the world of the video game, and the first outside Japan. (updated Nov 2022)
• Sauce Legend, Jewel Changi Level 1, ☏ +65 6289 9288. Daily 12-8PM. Artisan condiments commonly used in Asian delicacies, such as soy sauce, fish sauce, prawn chili sauce, and whole salted beans. (updated Nov 2022)
• Hands, Jewel Changi Level 2, ☏ +6562427903. Daily 10AM-10PM. Formerly known as Tokyu Hands, acquired by another company in 2022. Off-brand stationeries, houseware, and skincare products imported from Japan. (updated Nov 2022)

Connect

There are two ways to connect to the Internet at the airport. One option is Wi-Fi connectivity with the WiFi@Changi access point that resets every 3 hours. Don't really count on its speed and reliability though. A much better option is to use one of the 100 standing computers throughout the airport. You have 20 minutes for each session, although you can always re-login. They are always free of charge. Meanwhile, Jewel Changi also has its own Wi-Fi hotspot called #WiFi@Jewel, also free with no limitations on usage.

Charging ports can easily be found at the sitting areas, especially those at the gates. If you are visiting Jewel Changi, you can rent a power bank for free for up to 12 hours at the Experience Concierge on Level 2.

Any local calls made within the departure transit lounge are free. You can use the public payphones or head over to the convenience stores. If you are on the land side, you can rent a smartphone or buy a prepaid card.

Passengers that have liquid, aerosols, and gels that are too big to make their way pass the security checkpoint, can take advantage of the Speedpost@Changi service. Purchase an envelope from the security offices or at the mailbox, drop them in, and wait for them to be delivered within 5 working days to most cities. You must drop them in the mailbox by 30 minutes before departure.

If you want to send some last minute postcards, you can buy stamps from the 7-Eleven on the airside of Terminal 1 on the right-hand side of the immigration control, and put the cards in the mail box behind the Aspial store. You can also drop them at Transfer F at Terminal 2 or near the GST Refund Counter at Terminal 3.

Cope

Drinking water station at Changi Airport, Singapore with "drinking water" written in multiple languages.

• Free water fountains are generally found next to the restrooms. While you can fill up your bottle with its water, saving money compared to buying bottled water, do not forget to empty it before proceeding through security for your flight.
• Baggage storage can be found at all terminals both landside and airside. Rates range from $5 for loose items to $18 for extra bulky items, per 24 hours. These can come in handy if you wish to stroll the city only for a couple of hours.
• Although smoking is not allowed at most areas, outdoor smoking areas are peppered within the terminal (Terminal 1: near Cactus Garden and Snooze Lounge, near Gates D36 and C16. Terminal 2: Sunflower Garden, opposite gate E5, behind Sunglass Hut. Terminal 3: Opposite gates B10 and A21, next to Harry's Sports Bar, Butterfly Garden. Terminal 4: near gates 4 and 16, Level 2M).
• If you'd rather sit, there are chairs throughout the area. Charging points are also adjacent while a few are even equipped with feet massage.
• Although prayer rooms can be found at all terminals, these mainly cater to Muslims.
• Should you feel unwell or require medical assistance, the Raffles Medical Clinic at all terminals will be able to assist you. Pharmacies from mainstream landside brands such as Guardian and Watson can be found at all Terminals, with generic medicine and vitamins you might need.
• While all toilets are both child and disabled friendly, there are a couple dedicated for baby care, both at public and transit areas. (Terminal 1: near gates D36 and C24, behind Kaboom shop, level 3 near Playground and 7-Eleven. Terminal 2: near gate E1, behind Guardian. Terminal 3: Gates A1-A8, A16-A20, A21, B1-B4, between B8 and B9. Terminal 4: Near Gates 4, 7, 10, Baggage Claim.)

Airport maps and signs to some essential facilities are clearly indicated at various points in the terminals, although you can also just grab a free guide book to make your way through the airport. You can also scan your boarding pass at the scanner kiosk to look for which gate your flight is departing from.

Sleep

While the transit area is open 24 hours, police & staff regularly go around overnight to check on connecting passengers. In this case, you just need to show them your passport and the boarding pass for your next flight.

Airside

Need a nap while in transit? Grab one of the seats at a lounge, like this in Terminal 3.

Snooze lounges for a little nap or lounging while charging your devices can be found at all terminals. Though they are often packed, travelers do come and go quite frequently within the hour.

• Terminal 1: Level 3, opposite O'Leary's Sports Bar
• Terminal 3: Level 2, along the passage behind the shops with a view of the runway.
• Terminal 4: Level 2M, opposite International Food Hall

For a more substantial sleep on real beds, there are transit hotels in Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

• 1 Aerotel, Terminal 1 Level 3, ☏ +65 6808 2388, hello.sin@myaerotel.com. Rooms of assorted sizes from 1 to 4 people, with either shared or private showers. Also operates a swimming pool and gym (fee applicable for non-hotel guests) . From $90 per 6-hour increment. (updated Jun 2019)
• Ambassador Transit Hotel, Level 3, Terminals 2 and 3. Rooms from 1 to 3 people, most with private showers. Also offers lounge and gym facilities (fee applicable for non-hotel guests), in addition to pampering package. From $100 per 6 hour increment (Budget Room in Terminal 2 only $60 per 6 hour increment). (updated Jun 2019)

Landside

Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, the first landside hotel on the airport property

Central Singapore is only 30 minutes away by taxi, so if you have a longer layover it's worth venturing into the city. There is no budget accommodation near the airport, but the East Coast district of Geylang has plenty and it can be reached in 20 minutes by MRT.

Within airport

• 2 Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, 75 Airport Blvd #01-01 (connected to Terminal 3), ☏ +65 6823 5300. Regular winner of "best airport hotel" awards, and also has well soundproofed planespotting rooms with direct runway views from your bed. Lovely palm-lined pool area, gym, spa, bar, two restaurants. From $240 per night. 
• 3 YOTELAIR Changi, Jewel Changi Level 4, ☏ +65 6407 7888. A more affordable option within the airport. Small, windowless rooms but featuring modern design and amenities. A room fit for 4 is also readily available. In-house restaurant with breakfast for extra fee. From $190 per night. (updated Jun 2019)

Around airport

There are two small clusters of hotels near the airport: leisure hotels near Changi Village, and business hotels at Changi Business Park. Both are under 15 minutes away by taxi.

• 4 Capri by Fraser, Changi City, 3 Changi Business Park Central 1, Changi (Changi Business Park, nearest MRT Expo). A larger & more modern hotel than its neighbour, the Park Avenue. Rooms are like suites with a kitchenette. Each room has an iPod dock & DVD player. Airport transfer is free. From $250. 
• 5 Changi Cove, 351 Cranwell Road, Changi (Changi Village). Rooms are fairly spacious and close to the beach. You'll have your own Nespresso coffee machine, L'Occitane toiletries, and a wall on your room where you can write everything! Complete facilities such as wide restaurants & a swimming pool. From $240. 
• 6 Park Avenue Changi, 2 Changi Business Park Avenue 1, Changi (nearest MRT Station: Expo), ☏ +65 6823 5300. 171 rooms, including 70 suites with kitchenette. Each room has an iPod dock & flat screen TV. There's an outdoor swimming pool & fitness centre, but no restaurants. From $170. 
• 7 Village Hotel Changi (Formerly Le Meridien Changi Village), 1 Netheravon Road, Changi, ☏ +65 6379 7111. Basic rooms but might be a bit less spacious. A wide infinity swimming pool & restaurant. Airport transfer is free. From $240. 

Stay safe

Note: Singapore has very strict drug laws, and drug trafficking carries a mandatory death penalty — which is also applied to foreigners. Even if you haven't passed Singapore customs and immigration and are only transiting while in possession of drugs, you would still be subject to capital punishment. Possession equally applies to prescribed/labeled medications. If you must travel with restricted/controlled medications, see "Singapore#Get in" for a link to find out what drugs/medications are restricted and to obtain permission for those restricted but permitted. Also note that in Singapore, it is an offence even to have any restricted drug metabolites in your system, even if consumed outside Singapore; Customs occasionally does spot urine tests at the airport! Additionally, bringing in explosives or firearms without a permit is also a capital offence in Singapore.

By and large, the airport is safe as police frequently patrol by Segways and buggy cars and the building is well-lit throughout the day. The airport practically never sleeps, so even at dawn there will always be a few people at some points in the airport.

Passengers sleeping or hanging around in the public areas of the airport for extended periods of time can expect to get questioned by security. You'll be fine as long as you have a departing flight within the next 24 hours or so.

• 2 Airport Police Division, 35 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819645, ☏ +65 6546 0000. The unit responsible for policing Changi Airport. (updated Feb 2024)

Nearby

While the area within the immediate vicinity of the airport houses primarily industries and offices, going a little bit further takes you to Changi Beach to the north or East Coast Beach starting from around Bedok MRT station. Grab a classic Singaporean delight in Geylang, East Coast Lagoon Food Village in the East Coast, accessible directly from the airport with bus number 36. See Singapore/East Coast for complete listings.

Or head over to the pubs and clubs in Riverside and Chinatown.