Your ultimate Changi Airport layover survival guide

You are not alone if you find airport layovers the least exciting part of air travel. In fact, this is probably the one part of the journey most travellers hope can be over as soon as possible. Besides, there’s often very little to see and do while you wait, making the boredom even more unbearable. We promise you won’t feel the same way at Changi Airport. Whether you’re on a short stopover or have more time to spare, there are plenty of activities available here to keep you entertained and refreshed before your next flight.

Layover time: 2 hours or less

Fuel up for your next flight

Not a fan of airline food? Prep for your upcoming flight by savouring a leisurely meal at  before you board the plane. If your journey takes you through Terminal 2, drop by the Gourmet Garden and take your pick from the many stalls featuring various cuisines and even some of our local favourites.

For a taste of authentic Singaporean cuisine, savour the signature Hainanese chicken rice from Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice, or indulge in a fragrant plate of nasi lemak (coconut rice topped with various ingredients) from Crave. Regardless of your choice, you are definitely in for a treat.

If you are in need of an alcoholic pick-me-up, the Lotte Duty Free store at Terminals 2 and 3 has the solution for you. Redeem a free cocktail of your choice through the Lotte app, and watch the Makr Shakr, a bartending robot, do its work.

Indulge in some retail therapy

Two hours is just enough time to enjoy a spot of shopping, whether to stock up on necessities or to indulge in a luxury item. With a wide range of stores selling perfumes, cosmetics, books, gifts, electronics and even fashion accessories you’ll be able to snag some good deals at shops such as The Shilla Duty Free, which offer lower prices than malls downtown.

 

Layover time: 2 to 6 hours

Escape to a pocket of greenery

Find out what makes Singapore a Garden City with a calming break among the airport’s themed gardens. With green spaces at every terminal – such as the Cactus Garden at Terminal 1, Sunflower Garden at Terminal 2 and Butterfly Garden at Terminal 3 – you can even embark on a nature trail to recharge yourself as you wait for your next flight.

 

Explore our terminals and discover hidden gems

In every terminal, there is always something exciting for you to explore and discover. From a TV Lounge and an immersive digital garden in Terminal 2, to a Chandelier playground and Entertainment Corner in Terminal 4, there are so many things for you to check out.

The best part? It is so easy to jump around the different terminals in Changi. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are all connected via a skytrain. To get to and from Terminal 4, hop onto a free shuttle bus from any of the terminals.

If your layover is at least 5.5 hours, you can even redeem for a free 2-hour bicycle rental to venture out into the great outdoors and explore Singapore’s parks on two wheels.

Ease your tension at one of the many spa services

Long flights and a busy travel schedule can leave you with tense and tired muscles. When you have time to unwind, drop by one of the spas within the airport lounges, or standalone spas such as Be Relax,  for a soothing massage or foot reflexology session. With up to six hours to spare, you can even get a mani/pedi and end your session with a hot shower, so you’ll be fresh and ready for the next flight.

Did you know that along with great deals at the Shilla Beauty Loft at Terminal 3, you can also get pampered with luxury beauty services while you’re there? For instance, you can get a complimentary flash makeover at the Dior Beauty House, so you'll be looking your best before your next flight. At the La Prairie Boutique, get rejuvenated as one of their beauty therapists takes care of your skincare needs – from hand massages to skincare consultations.

Layover time: Over 6 hours

Explore Jewel Changi Airport

I’m sure you all have seen pictures of Jewel Changi Airport’s HSBC Rain Vortex plastered all over your social media when searching about Changi Airport. If you find yourself with at least a 5-hour transit window, consider venturing into Jewel Changi Airport – a haven to play, eat or shop.

To get to Jewel, you must clear immigration when you land in Singapore. So, make sure that you have all the necessary documents needed such as a visa if required, or completing the SG Arrival Card online.

Beyond the captivating allure of the HSBC Rain Vortex, there is so much more in Jewel to explore. For those travelling with little ones, a trip to the Canopy Park on level 5 is a must. They can expend their energy navigating the mirror maze or bouncing it out on the bouncing nets. Not forgetting all the dining and shopping options available, make sure you don’t lose track of time! Be sure to check in for your departing flight at least 2 hours before your flight departure time.

Explore Singapore

With at least six hours in the country, you can also choose to head out of the airport and enjoy some of Singapore’s iconic sights by signing up for a Free Singapore Tour. You can choose from four itineraries – Heritage Tour, City Sights Tour, Jewel Tour and Changi Precinct Tour. The Changi Precinct Tour is a new itinerary added in 2023, that brings you to the charming residential town of Tampines and the rustic Changi Village in the east of Singapore. 

With at least six hours in the country, you can head out of the airport and enjoy some of Singapore’s iconic sights by signing up for a Free Singapore Tour

Enjoy some quality R&R

For some uninterrupted rest and relaxation, check yourself into one of the airport’s transit hotels, which can be booked for a minimum of six hours. There’s also a swimming pool and jacuzzi at the Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel at Terminal 1, so you can fully relax before heading to your room for a good sleep. Don’t forget to make use of the wake-up call service so you won’t miss your flight!

 

Now that you’ve sampled just a bit of what Singapore has to offer at Changi Airport, it’s time to consider a longer stay the next time you touch down here!