9 April 2025·4 min read

Getting Around Singapore: MRT, Bus, Grab & Taxi Guide (2025)

Singapore's MRT and bus network is one of Asia's best — fast, air-conditioned, and cheap. Here's everything you need to get around the island.

Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is one of the world's most reliable and clean rail systems — covering the entire island from Changi Airport in the east to Jurong in the west, and from Woodlands in the north to Sentosa in the south. An EZ-Link card handles everything.

Singapore Transport Options (2025)

MRT (any line)SGD $1.20–2.50/trip with EZ-Link; Changi Airport to city: SGD $2.10, 29 min

BusSGD $1.00–2.10/trip; covers areas the MRT misses; real-time via SG Bus app

Grab (ride-hailing)SGD $12–25 for most city trips; no surge during daytime

Metered taxiSGD $3.90 flag fall + SGD $0.55/400m; surcharges apply (peak, midnight, airport)

Sentosa Express MonorailSGD $4 return from VivoCity; or free if walking across the bridge

City tour bus (City Sightseeing)SGD $43/day; hop-on hop-off covering 18 stops

The EZ-Link Card: Essential for Singapore

Buy an EZ-Link card at any MRT station (SGD $12 including SGD $7 credit + SGD $5 non-refundable card fee). Top up at any MRT station or 7-Eleven. It works on all MRT lines, buses, and some taxis. For a 5-day visit, load SGD $25–30 and you'll be well-covered for all public transport. The Singapore Tourist Pass (SGD $22 for 3 days unlimited) makes sense if you're doing many short trips across multiple days.

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Changi Airport is a destination in itself — voted the world's best airport multiple times. If your flight arrives early or departs late, the free Jewel Changi waterfall (tallest indoor waterfall in the world), Canopy Park attractions, and world-class food options are worth arriving early for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Grab or taxi better in Singapore?

Grab is generally more convenient — set price upfront, no negotiation, available immediately via app. Metered taxis are comparable in price but have surcharges that can add SGD $3–8 on top of the meter. For airport runs, both are reliable; book Grab in advance to avoid the taxi queue.

How long does it take to get from Changi Airport to the city?

By MRT: 29 minutes to City Hall (SGD $2.10). By Grab: 20–35 minutes depending on traffic (SGD $18–28). By taxi: SGD $20–35 depending on time of day + airport surcharge. The MRT is the best option for most visitors — fast, cheap, and drop-off is central.

Book a pre-arranged transfer in Singapore

Fixed price · no meter disputes · book in advance