Changi Airport Singapore Guide: Terminals, Transport and Travel Tips

Author's Profile Picture
Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport is often the first stop for Filipinos visiting Singapore. The airport feels calm and easy to move around, with clear signs and English used everywhere. After landing, it is comfortable to rest, eat, or freshen up before heading out. Getting to the city is simple by MRT, taxi, Grab, or private pick up.

❤️Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking flights from Manila to Singapore and Singapore hotels in advance to secure the best rates.

Airport Overview

Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport uses the airport code SIN. It serves Singapore and is a common entry point for many Filipinos, whether for holidays, work trips, or transit flights. From arrival to departure, the airport feels smooth and well organized. Lines move fast, signs are clear, and everything is easy to understand even for first time visitors.

Changi Airport opened in 1981 and is now one of the busiest airports in Asia. For many Filipino travelers, it leaves a good first impression and is often remembered as one of the most comfortable airports to pass through.

Item

Details

Official Name

Singapore Changi Airport

Airport Code

SIN

Location

Changi, Singapore

Distance from City

About 20 kilometers from the city center

Number of Terminals

4

Opened

1981

Secure Your Stay in Singapore

See All Hotels
NO.1
8.7/10122 reviews
Oakwood Studios Singapore
Hotel in Singapore
Gym
Parking
NO.2
8.3/105 reviews
Heritage Collection on Smith - Mobile App Check-in
Hotel in Singapore
Luggage storage
Wi-Fi
NO.3
10/101 review
Rest House
Hotel in Singapore
Parking
Non-smoking room
NO.4
8.9/10654 reviews
Lyf Farrer Park Singapore
Hotel in Singapore
Gym
Parking
NO.5
8.9/1071 reviews
Treetops Executive Residences
Hotel in Singapore
Restaurant
Gym
NO.6
9/1021 reviews
Heritage Collection on Boat Quay (South Bridge Wing) - Mobile App Check-In
Hotel in Singapore
Luggage storage
Wi-Fi

Airport Terminals and What to Expect

Changi Airport

Changi Airport has four main terminals. For Filipinos, moving between terminals feels easy and stress free. All terminals are connected by the Skytrain and walking paths, so you do not need to leave the airport when transferring flights.

Important: Terminal assignments can change, especially for budget airlines. Always double check your flight details with your airline before your travel day.

Terminal Guide

Terminal

Main Use

Notes

Terminal 1

International flights

Used by many full service airlines

Terminal 2

Recently upgraded, more shops and food

Terminal 3

Very spacious and popular with long haul flights

Terminal 4

Mostly budget and regional airlines

Terminal Maps and Facilities

Changi Airport Map

Sources: changiairport.com

Each terminal has clear maps posted around the airport. These make it easy to find check in counters, immigration, boarding gates, restrooms, lounges, and food areas. Terminal 3 is often a favorite among Filipino travelers because it has wide walking space, many dining options, and places to sit and rest while waiting for flights.

Transferring Between Terminals

Changi Airport

If you need to change terminals:

  • All terminals are connected inside the airport
  • Free Skytrain and clear walking paths are available
  • No need to pass immigration again
  • Transfers usually take 10 to 20 minutes

Allow extra time during peak hours or if you are unfamiliar with the airport.

Facilities Available at the Airport

Changi Airport Food Street

Each terminal offers everything travelers usually need:

  • Airline check-in counters
  • Immigration and security areas
  • Restaurants, cafés, and quick food options
  • Shops, convenience stores, and duty free
  • Plenty of seating areas and clean restrooms

Facilities are well distributed across all terminals, with Terminal 3 having the widest selection of dining and resting areas.

Unlock the Best Flights to Singapore

  • One way
  • Round-trip

Displayed flight fares from ${{departCityName}} to ${{arrivalCityName}} are based on average prices across airlines for the next 3 months, according to the latest Trip.com database.

Flights to Singapore

Arrival Process

Changi Airport

After landing, follow the clear signs for Arrivals and Baggage Claim. For most travelers, arrival feels smooth and well organized.

Arrival Steps

  1. Proceed to immigration inspection
  2. Present your passport if requested
  3. Collect your baggage
  4. Pass through customs
  5. Exit to the public arrivals area

Immigration officers may ask simple questions such as how long you are staying and where you will be going.

Services Available at Arrivals

  • Money exchange counters
  • SIM card and mobile data kiosks
  • Taxi stands and Grab pickup points
  • Food outlets and coffee shops

The public arrivals area is clean, spacious, and easy for friends or family to wait in.

Secure Your Stay in Singapore

5 star

8.9/10Very Good954 Reviews
Singapore River Singapore|2.11km from city center
They gave my child a little otter toy, and the overall experience was great. The breakfast was delicious. On Christmas Eve, Santa even showed up and handed out candies to the kids, which made them incredibly happy. The king-size bed was very comfortable, and the sofa could even be converted into a bed specifically for the child. It was convenient for getting everywhere, and the staff were very thoughtful.
From€213
9.1/10Great1934 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city center
Location: The hotel's location is excellent. Although it's not directly on Orchard Road, it's very close, just a 2-3 minute walk to the main street. The Grand Hyatt is right across the street, which is significantly more expensive. Cleanliness: The cleanliness is quite good; rooms are cleaned daily. Facilities: The facilities are a bit old. On our first night, the main switch broke, and the hallway light couldn't be turned off. It was fixed the next day after we reported it. Sometimes, you can hear the sound of water pipes from next door, but it's not frequent. Overall, if you're looking to stay near Orchard Road, this hotel offers incredible value for money. If the price remains the same, I would definitely consider staying here again.
From€120
9.5/10Amazing2024 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km from city center
A truly first-class hotel where care, consideration and thoughtfulness are meticulously attended to. The television system malfunctioned and failed to operate properly, but was promptly repaired by the technical staff.
From€797
9.2/10Great1704 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km from city center
I chose the executive room, and it exceeded my expectations. The location is excellent. The room was well-equipped, even featuring a large bathtub. The hotel provides complimentary bottled mineral water, and you can always ask the front desk for more if you run out. Breakfast was predominantly Western style. I was a bit pressed for time, so I didn't get a chance to check out the gym and pool.
From€218
8.7/10Very Good1303 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.34km from city center
This hotel gets mixed reviews on Xiaohongshu, and during New Year's Eve, this four-star hotel was charging five-star prices. However! The city view rooms in the hotel's South Tower offer a spectacular view of the New Year's fireworks! It's hard to describe the pleasant surprise of searching all night for a good spot to watch the fireworks, only to return to the hotel disappointed, and then discover we could see them perfectly from our room! The accompanying photos are actual shots of the fireworks from the hotel; they might not be the clearest as they're video screenshots, but in person, the view was crystal clear! Some reviews mentioned cleanliness issues, but we found it to be quite clean. The hotel's pool is also beautiful. Overall, it's a hotel that meets expectations in all aspects, and it even gave me a wonderful personal surprise!
From€215
9.3/10Great1738 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km from city center
This was my first time in Singapore, and I blindly chose this hotel from many options because the pictures looked great and it was close to the MTR (subway). Upon arrival, I found that it truly is very close to the MTR; you can access the station by walking through the mall without even going outside. It's about a kilometer from the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands, and there are attractions like the National Gallery nearby. It's perfect for an after-dinner stroll, as it might even be faster to walk than take public transport for those short distances. The service was excellent, and the breakfast was incredibly rich and delicious. It might be the best hotel breakfast I've ever had, definitely on par with a Park Hyatt. I had read some reviews mentioning poor soundproofing, but I didn't experience that during my stay. The hotel has wooden floors, with a carpeted area around the bed, which is great for someone with allergies like me. The hotel is truly beautiful, and the Christmas decorations were very thoughtfully done. I really felt like I didn't want to leave and would definitely stay here again next time. The only downside, in my opinion, was the hairdryer. It really didn't match the overall decor; it was an old-fashioned type that was noisy and didn't have concentrated airflow, making it slow to dry hair. I hope they can upgrade the hairdryers next time.
From€239

Show more

Business travel

8.6/10Very Good1576 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.32km from city center
Returned to stay after six years and the hotel is now rebranded as LYF Bugis Singapore. The atmosphere is very different from the boutique style I remembered, now focused on a modern co-living concept with smaller shared spaces. I stayed in the One of A Kind Plus room, clean, simple and spacious but extremely minimalistic. The TV has no channels (only casting) and basic amenities like slippers and toothbrushes must be requested. The location is still excellent, close to Bugis and MRT but overall the experience no longer matches the cosy boutique feel it used to have. Clean and convenient but not what I expected.
From€83
8.7/10Very Good1439 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|1.94km from city center
I chose to stay at this hotel during the F1 Singapore Grand Prix this past National Day holiday. The environment and hygiene were decent, though the facilities were a bit old. The staff were very welcoming and even helped carry my luggage to the room. The hotel's location is excellent, very close to the subway station, making it easy to get around.
From€91
8.3/10Very Good2883 Reviews
Lavender Singapore|3.37km from city center
Room size was so small (that’s typical in SG), but sufficient if you plan to be out the whole day and just come back to sleep. Elevators took so much time (up to 15 minutes wait) especially if there’s a crowd. Stayed for over 5 nights but the sheets weren’t changed :/
From€80
8.2/10Very Good976 Reviews
Singapore River Singapore|1.77km from city center
Traveling with my parents, I chose this hotel because I felt the loft rooms wouldn't feel too cramped (hotel rooms in Singapore are generally on the smaller side). It was decent for a family of three. The upstairs area was okay; we could fit one or two suitcases and there was a chair. Downstairs, there was no seating other than the bed. The mattress was a bit soft, making it a bit of an effort for the person sleeping inside to get out. Coffee and tea bags were provided. Just a short walk from the hotel's parking area is the Singapore River, surrounded by many dining options (mostly Western cuisine). There were quite a few people exercising and cycling. It's a bit of a walk to the MRT station, but there's a smaller food court about 600 meters away where we had several meals. Overall, the hotel is quite clean and new. However, the air freshener scent in the hallway outside the elevator was quite strong initially, though it improved over the next few days. The lobby scent was fine. Plus, there are several 7-Eleven stores nearby, making it very convenient for buying things. Overall, our stay was quite good, and the housekeeping was very clean.
From€126
8.1/10Very Good821 Reviews
Singapore River Singapore|1.87km from city center
I booked this hotel during a promotion, and for just over 600 SGD, it's a pretty good deal in Singapore. The room size is probably its biggest advantage; it's quite spacious compared to other hotels. The decor is a bit dated, but it's still clean and tidy. The shower is in the bathtub, which isn't the most convenient. There's a water dispenser in the common area outside the room, so you can fill up your cup or bottle. It's about a five to six-minute walk to Clarke Quay MRT station, and Chinatown and Fort Canning are both within a few kilometers.
From€101
8.8/10Very Good756 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.81km from city center
Very very nice family room ... The kids love it so much that they didn't want to go out ... So we just ordered ... & Literally enjoyed the room. Bathroom was amazingly clean & functioning .... However a bidet will be superb added feature for the WC. The projector was unique to have instead of a TV .. just that the viewing angle is a lil too high. We had some problem login to Netflix ... But staff was fast in responding. Overall .... Very good location for staycay ..... With kiddos .... So much option for food as well. Kids can't wait to come again
From€55

Show more

Breakfast

8.5/10Very Good2248 Reviews
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km from city center
The hotel is conveniently located near a shopping mall and is easily accessible by bus and MRT. Although the room for two was slightly compact, it was well equipped with all the basic amenities, including a safe box, hairdryer, hangers, and a fridge. The bed and pillows were comfortable; however, the bed height made it difficult for kids and elderly guest to get on and off the bed.
From€70
7.4/101707 Reviews
Singapore River Singapore|1.59km from city center
The location is strategic, town area nearby Singapore River. Going to MBS, Merlion Park, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Fort Canning Park, all tourists spots are nearby. Easy to take grab/cab and MRT station. Good reception and friendly and helpful. Most important is free parking for guests. We can park car over here and go anywhere nearby
From€50
8.1/10Very Good1108 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.92km from city center
It was a really nice experience. Hotel is eco friendly, laidback, chill and we explored a lot of nature and plants even within the hotel itself. They are an inclusive employer employing special needs employees too, which is perfect for me who has an autistic child, for a hotel that understands. The swimming pool has a waterfall feature using water from a natural stream. It was cold and so wonderfull! Overall the place really surprised me.
From€126
8.4/10Very Good1290 Reviews
Novena Singapore|4.21km from city center
The concierge staff were very accommodating and friendly, check in and check out was not a hassle. The hotel stay was great overall, breakfast is good, not much viand selection but overall was good, i liked the pancakes. For the room, it's pretty standard, the bed was firm which is what I prefer, only downside for me is that there is no bidet in the bathroom but the water pressure is good. Location is within walking distance to Novena mrt station which is very convenient.
From€81
9/10Great2639 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city center
The location is excellent and very convenient. Everything is nearby, including shops, restaurants, and public transportation, which made moving around extremely easy. The price is very affordable, especially considering the quality of the service and cleanliness, so it offers great value for money. The place is very clean and well-maintained, and the overall atmosphere feels fresh and comfortable with a pleasant, nice smell throughout the property. The staff are exceptionally friendly, polite, and helpful, always greeting guests with a warm smile and making sure we felt welcome. What made my stay even more special was the birthday surprise. The staff kindly prepared a free birthday meal, ice cream, and even brought out a delicious cake with candles, which was such a thoughtful and heartwarming gesture. It truly made my day and showed how much they care about their guests. Another fun and unique feature was the robots, which were very interesting and added a modern, enjoyable touch to the experience. Overall, the service was outstanding, the environment was comfortable, and the hospitality exceeded my expectations. I would happily stay here again and highly recommend this place to others.
From€101
8.2/10Very Good1082 Reviews
Lavender Singapore|3.73km from city center
Experience was bad due to AC issues. Had 2 room changed at level 2 but ac issues did not improve. Finally a third room change at 3am to a room at level 3 solve the problem. My guess was the ac wasn’t working for the whole of level 2.
From€64

Show more

Show more

Immigration and Entry Requirements

SG Arrival Card (Mandatory)

Changi Airport SGAC

All travelers, including children, must submit the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) with an Electronic Health Declaration through the official ICA website or the MyICA Mobile app.

  • When to submit: Within three days before arrival, including the day of arrival
  • Cost: Free of charge
  • Tip: Save a screenshot or PDF copy on your phone. Some airline check-in counters in the Philippines may ask to see it.

Biometric Immigration Clearance

Changi Airport Biometric Immigration Clearance

Singapore has implemented the New Clearance Concept (NCC) at Changi Airport, allowing most travelers to use biometric clearance.

  • Automated lanes are available for most passengers, including first time visitors
  • Physical passport stamps are no longer issued
  • Immigration clearance is usually very fast

After clearing immigration, an Electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) is sent to your email showing the length of stay granted.

Length of stay: Usually up to 30 days, subject to ICA approval.

Visa Information for Filipino Travelers

Philippine passport holders can enter Singapore visa free for short tourist visits, subject to immigration approval. Final entry conditions are determined by ICA officers upon arrival.

Documents to Keep Ready

Even with automated clearance, officers may conduct spot checks. Always have:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Accommodation details
  • Proof of sufficient funds (rarely requested, but recommended)

Customs Reminder

Singapore enforces strict customs rules. Prohibited and controlled items include e-cigarettes, chewing gum, and certain medications. Travelers are advised to check official Singapore Customs and ICA guidelines before packing.

🎉 Pro Tip: Avoid delays at immigration. Our Singapore Arrival Card and Singapore Visa guide explains what to prepare before flying.
🎉 Pro Tip: Flying to or from the Philippines? Complete eTravel Philippines registration online before your flight for faster airport processing.

Departing from Changi Airport

Changi Airport Departure

Departing from Changi Airport is usually smooth, but arriving early is still recommended.

Flight Type

Recommended Arrival Time

International flights

2 to 3 hours before departure

Short haul or regional flights

Around 2 hours

Biometric clearance may be used at departure gates, but travelers should still carry their passport at all times in case it is requested.

After immigration, passengers can enjoy dining, shopping, or resting areas before boarding.

Unlock the Best Flights to Singapore

See All Flights
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Mon, Apr 27
Mon, Apr 27
One way
18% off
From 157.00€129.00
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Tue, Mar 17
Tue, Mar 17
One way
17% off
From 157.00€130.00
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Tue, Apr 14
Tue, Apr 14
One way
17% off
From 157.00€131.00
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Mon, Mar 16
Tue, Mar 17
One way
15% off
From 157.00€133.00
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Mon, Mar 9
Tue, Mar 10
One way
15% off
From 157.00€133.00
Manila
MNL
Singapore
SIN
Tue, Apr 21
Tue, Apr 21
One way
15% off
From 157.00€133.00

Duty Free Shopping

Changi Airport Duty Free Shopping

Duty free shops are available after immigration in all terminals. Popular items include:

  • Perfumes and cosmetics
  • Chocolates and snacks
  • Alcohol and wine
  • Singapore souvenirs

Always follow airline liquid rules and destination country regulations.

🎉 Pro Tip: Don’t forget your tax refund. Our Singapore GST Refund guide explains how to claim GST refunds at Changi Airport.

Parking at the Airport

Changi Airport Parking at the Airport

Parking is available at all terminals and is clearly marked.

Parking Type

Best For

Short stay parking

Pick up or drop off

Long stay parking

Multi day trips

Open parking areas

More affordable option

Terminal parking

Fast terminal access

Parking is first come, first served and can fill up during weekends and holidays.

❤Pro Tip: Stay connected effortlessly during your visit by opting for a Singapore eSIM. Explore more available plans now!

Recommended eSIMs Options for Singapore

See All Attractions
131549 booked
4.5/51876 reviews
[Singapore] Singtel hi! | 5G SIM card | Changi Airport 24H/Downtown pick up | Optional EZlink transportation + phone 2-in-1 card
SIM card
€4.80
82809 booked
4.6/53245 reviews
Singapore/Malaysia/Indonesia 5G eSIM | TikTok & ChatGPT Available | In-App Installation | Day Pass/Total Data Package | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code
SIM card
€0.14
5108 booked
4.2/5139 reviews
Singapore Starhub 5G travel phone card optional EZLINK transportation card data card SIM card (Singapore Airport pick up)
SIM card
€17.72

Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel is directly connected to Changi Airport and is worth visiting if you arrive early or have a long layover.

Inside Jewel, you will find:

  • Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall
  • Many food options
  • Shops for last minute shopping and souvenirs
  • Seating areas to rest and cool down

It feels like a mall and garden combined, making it one of the best ways to pass time before a flight.

Getting from the Airport to the City

Changi Airport

Transport options are clearly marked and easy to use.

Transport Option

Travel Time

Notes

MRT train

About 30 minutes

Cheapest and very reliable

Taxi or Grab

20 to 40 minutes

Depends on traffic

Hotel transfer or private pickup

30 to 45 minutes

Comfortable for groups

Public bus

45 to 60 minutes

Slower but affordable

🎉 Pro Tip: Use this Singapore Airport to City guide to choose the easiest way to get from Changi Airport to the city.

Wi-Fi and Charging

Free Wi-Fi is available across all terminals and is easy to connect. Charging points are widely available near gates, seating areas, and lounges.

Accessibility and Family Facilities

Changi Airport is very family friendly and accessible:

  • Elevators and ramps throughout the airport
  • Wheelchair assistance available through airlines
  • Baby care rooms and family restrooms
  • Clear signage for easy movement

If you need assistance, inform your airline in advance.

Hotels Near the Airport

Many hotels are located near Changi Airport, making them a good choice for Filipinos with early flights, late arrivals, or short stopovers. These hotels are convenient, comfortable, and easy to reach from the terminals.

Recommended Hotels Near the Airport

YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport

Location: Jewel Changi, 78 Airport Blvd., #04-280, Singapore, 819666, Singapore
Perfect for short stays and transit passengers. You can walk straight from the terminal, which is very helpful after a long flight.

Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

Location: 75 Airport Blvd., #01-01, Singapore, 819664, Singapore
One of the most popular airport hotels. Rooms are quiet and spacious, ideal if you want proper rest without leaving the airport area.

Park Avenue Changi Hotel

Location: 2 Changi Business Park Ave 1, Singapore, 486015, Singapore
A short drive from the airport. Good option for business trips or slightly longer stays.

Village Hotel Changi
Location: 1 Netheravon Rd, Singapore, 508502, Singapore
A relaxed option near the airport with bigger rooms. Some Filipino travelers choose this if they want a quieter area before or after a flight.

Staying near Changi Airport helps reduce travel stress, especially if you are flying early in the morning or arriving late at night.

Why Changi Airport Makes Arrival Easy

Singapore Changi Airport feels calm, organized, and easy to manage. After a long flight, it is simple to find food, connect to Wi-Fi, charge your phone, and arrange transport without stress. Whether you are visiting Singapore, meeting family, traveling for work, or just transiting, Changi Airport offers a smooth and comfortable experience for Filipino travelers.

FAQs About Changi Airport

  • What is the airport code for Singapore Changi Airport?

    The airport code for Singapore Changi Airport is SIN.
  • How far is Changi Airport from the city center?

    Changi Airport is about 20 kilometers from Singapore city center. Travel time is usually 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and transport choice.
  • Do I need to submit the SG Arrival Card when flying to Singapore?

    Yes. All travelers must submit the SG Arrival Card within three days before arrival, including the day of arrival. This is required for entry into Singapore.
  • Is Singapore Changi Airport good for transit passengers?

    Yes. Changi Airport is very transit-friendly, with rest areas, food options, shops, lounges, and easy terminal transfers without leaving the airport.
  • Can I move between terminals without clearing immigration?

    Yes. All terminals are connected inside the airport. You can transfer using the Skytrain or walkways without passing immigration again.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
TaraKai

TaraKai

Travel Explorer

I enjoy exploring new destinations, testing travel products, and sharing useful travel tips that help Filipino travelers enjoy smoother and more comfortable trips.

121 articles
Travel & Experiences
>
Changi Airport
aaaa