Complete Guide to Singapore Transportation: MRT, Buses, Taxis & More (2025)

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is the main core of Singapore public transport. The MRT runs on a network of 6 colour-coded lines that covers 199 stations around the island, linking all the Singapore tourist attractions, shopping malls and residential neighbourhoods.

MRT Lines and Coverage

• North-South Line (Red): Links Jurong East and Marina South Pier via Orchard Road and City Hall.
• East-West Line (Green): Connects Pasir Ris to Tuas Link, covering Changi Airport and major shopping areas.
• North-East Line (Purple): It runs between Harbour Front and Punggol and passes through Chinatown, Little India and Clarke Quay.
• Circle Line (Orange): It is a loop that links HarbourFront with Dhoby Ghaut through Marina Bay.
• Downtown Line (Blue): Connects Bukit Panjang to Expo and passes through key tourist areas.
• Thomson-East Coast Line (Brown): The route connects Woodlands North to Marina South Pier.

Operating Hours and Frequency

• Weekdays: MRT trains run between 5:30 AM and 11:30 PM.
• Weekends: Trains on the MRT system run from early morning, 5:30 am till 12:30 AM to 1:00 AM at night

MRT Fares and Payment Options

In Singapore, MRT fares are distance-based, with most of the journeys costing between Rs. 78 (SGD 0.90) to Rs. 190 (SGD 2.20). Payment methods include:

• EZ-Link Card: Prepaid card for travelling through buses and trains.
• Singapore Tourist Pass: Up to 3 days of unlimited rides at Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,300 (SGD 22-34).
• Contactless Credit/Debit Cards: Tap your Visa or Mastercard directly at gates for contactless access.
• Mobile Payments: Online payments are accepted.

Singapore buses operate on more than 300 routes throughout the city-state and even connect the villages in Singapore.

Bus Network and Routes

• Trunk Services: The main route that links the residential areas to business districts.
• Feeder Services: Connecting the MRT stations with the local neighbourhoods.
• Express Services: Peak-hour services with limited stops at terminals to travel faster.
• Night Services: Selected services that run between midnight and 5.30 AM.

Bus Operating Hours and Frequency

• Bus services operate between 5:30 AM to midnight, with frequencies of 10-20 minutes. 
• Night buses operate on key routes between midnight and 05:30 AM with normal intervals of 30-60 minutes.

Bus Fare Structure

• The bus fare is between Rs. 164 (SGD 1.90) and Rs. 265 (SGD 3.07) and is charged based on the distance travelled. 
• Discounted prices are available for students, senior citizens and group travellers.
• Transfers are easy as buses accept the same payment methods as MRT.

The taxi system of Singapore offers convenient 24-hour door-to-door services that are supplemented by the modern ride-sharing apps.

Traditional Taxis

• Basic fare: Rs. 200 (SGD 2.30) to Rs. 415 (SGD 4.80) for the first kilometre, depending on the type of taxi and time of day.
• Distance charges: Regular metred taxis usually charge Rs. 23 (SGD 0.26) per 400 meters whereas the hig- end taxis have higher rates.
• Peak hour: Prices surge up to 25% during the peak hours from 6:00-9:30 AM and 6:00 to midnight on weekdays.
• Airport surcharge: Rs. 337 to Rs. 692 (SGD 5-8) depending on pickup time.

Ride-Hailing Apps

• GrabCar: Standard sedan service.
• GrabCar Premium: Deluxe and more comfortable vehicles.
• GrabShare: Affordable ride-sharing services.

In addition to the conventional mode of transport, Singapore provides you with access to the exclusive transportation service that explores the rich cultural heritage and landmarks of Singapore. 

Bumboat River Cruises

The traditional bumboats are transformed into luxury tourist boats that sail along the Singapore River. This 40-minute cruise offers stunning views of the city and operates between Clark Quay and Marina Bay.

Trishaw Rides

The bicycle rickshaws are primarily deployed in tourist areas like Chinatown and Little India, giving people a chance to relax and enjoy a ride in these culturally renowned areas. 

Cable Cars and Monorails

Mount Faber and Sentosa Island are linked through the Singapore Cable Car, which offers stunning aerial views of the harbour. Sentosa Island has its monorail network called the Sentosa Express, which links together the attractions of the island.

The Changi Airport is well connected to the Singapore public transport network.

MRT from Changi Airport

Both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 are connected to the East-West Line of the MRT. It takes about 45-60 minutes to reach the city centre, with trains operating between 5:30 AM and 11:18 PM.

Airport Shuttle and Taxi Services

• Airport Shuttle: Shared shuttle services are available from the airport that charge around Rs. 674 to Rs. 1,000 (SGD 10-15) per person.
• Taxi: Taxis are also available for a fixed price. 
• Private Car Services: Pre-booked car services through hotels or tour operators also operate.

Singapore Tourist Pass Benefits

The Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited rides on MRT, LRT and basic bus services. Every pass comes with a Rs. 674 (SGD 10) refundable deposit when returned within five days of purchase.

• 1-Day Pass: Rs. 1,500 (SGD 22) 
• 2-Day Pass: Rs. 1,950 (SGD 29) 
• 3-Day Pass: Rs. 2,300 (SGD 34)

EZ-Link Card for Extended Stays

The EZ-Link card is usually more cost-effective in cases of longer visits. The card is priced at Rs. 337 (SGD 5) as a non-refundable amount and a minimum top-up the amount of Rs. 674 (SGD 10).

Singapore maintains strict regulations to ensure public transport remains clean, safe and efficient.

MRT and Bus Etiquette

• No eating, drinking or chewing gum on trains and buses.
• Special seating for the elderly, pregnant women and disabled passengers.
• Backpacks should be placed in front during rush hours to maximise space.

Penalty and Fine Structure

• Fine of around Rs. 33,700 (SGD 500) for eating and drinking on public transport.
• Nearly a fine of Rs. 67,450 (SGD 1000) for smoking.
• Rs. 3,370 (SGD 50) fine plus fare adjustment in case of fare evasion.

You can make your transportation experience a lot more enjoyable with real-time data and a comfortable booking experience using essential apps.

Official Transport Apps

• MyTransport.SG: Real-time arrival information and route planning.
• SG BusLeh: Bus arrival times and route information.
• Grab: For ride and food delivery services.

Singapore Transportation is one of the most effective and convenient in the whole world. Getting around Singapore is easy and enjoyable as you can make use of the well-organised MRT lines to visit the major attractions, buses to explore the neighbourhood or the traditional bumboats to experience its rich culture. Book your Singapore holiday package or Singapore honeymoon package to enhance your travel experience. Our customer service is available for your concierge service during your travel period.