Flights to Singapore

Public Transport and How to Get Around

The best way to get around Singapore is with the city's subway system. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is cheap, efficient, easy to understand and covers the entire city. Instead of buying single tickets throughout your trip, purchase the EZ-Link travel card. It costs $ 12 SGD ($12.47 AUD), you'll get discounts on fares and you’ll avoid the long ticket lines.

Bus

If it's your first time visiting Singapore, the bus system might not be the best option. With an extensive number of routes that stretch across the entire city, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. It's also possible that you'll end up paying more for a bus ride than a much faster trip on the metro depending on the distance travelled and time of day You can also catch a bus from Changi Airport (SIN) into the city. The bus stops are in the basements of terminals 1,2 and 3.

Train

Once your flight to Singapore lands at Changi Airport, the best way to get into the city is with the eastbound train. The service runs from 5:20am to 11:50pm Monday to Sunday. You can buy your one-way ticket at the Tanah Merah station or use an EZ-Link card for multiple rides.

Taxi

The fastest way to from Changi Airport to your hotel is with a taxi. Luckily, the metered cabs in Singapore are an affordable option for solo and group travellers. The meters start at $3 SGD ($3.12 AUD) and cost $0.22 SGD ($0.23 AUD) per kilometre.

Car

If you don't want to rely on public transport to get around, you can hire a car from Changi Airport or at outlets throughout the city. You can also book one in advance on Webjet, at the same time as booking flights to Singapore. However, parking is expensive and traffic jams are common. You'll also need an International Drivers Permit to be able to rent a car.

The Best Time to Visit

While there is no bad time to visit, if you're searching for cheap flights to Singapore, book your trip for travel between July and October. The city sees a slight slump in tourism over these months, and you'll have better luck finding great deals on return flights to Singapore and accommodation. If you're a fashion lover, you'll also be able to catch the end of the Great Singapore Sale!

The busiest time to visit Singapore is between November and June. There are tons of holidays, and business travellers flock to the country. If your trip falls over this period, book your flights to Singapore well in advance to lock in lower prices. You'll also need to book your hotel as soon as possible, especially if you'll be visiting the city over Chinese New Year. But if you're able to avoid the festivities, an airfare to Singapore does return to normal, and you can still pick up deals between November and June.

Tips for First-Time Travellers to Singapore

Eat Like the Locals

One of the many reasons people book flights to Singapore is for the city's exceptional food. Singapore is home to some of the world's best Michelin rated restaurants as well as delicious, cheap eats from stalls around Chinatown. Be sure to try specialities like Chili Crab and Prawn Mee!

Go to Gardens by the Bay early

Gardens of the Bay is one of the country's top attractions. The futuristic architecture sees thousands of visitors booking flights to Singapore each year to wander around its impressive gardens. If you want to avoid the crowds, get there as early as possible. The Gardens and Supertree Grove opens at 5:00 AM every day and tickets cost $8 SGD ($8.31 AUD) per person.

Drink the tap water

The tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. Pack a refillable water bottle and save money on water and reduce the amount of plastic you use during your trip.

Save money with happy hour

Alcohol is not cheap in Singapore. A drink can cost as much as $22 SGD ($22.86 AUD) at some of the top bars in town. If you’ve booked return flights to Singapore and you want to keep your expenses down, grab a drink during happy hour.

Visit the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool

If you're searching for the best view in Singapore, book a night at the Marina Bay Sands. The hotel boasts an incredible infinity pool that overlooks the city's skyline. If you're not a guest, you can still take in the views by visiting the Observation Deck on the 57th floor. Entry costs $23 SGD ($23.89 AUD).

Plan for the weather

Singapore experiences hot and humid weather all year round, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking to escape the cold. But once you buy your tickets to Singapore, pack for your trip wisely. You'll need a few waterproof layers like a rain jacket for the unexpected showers as well as lightweight, breathable clothes.