Transportation
Getting around Singapore is easy, thanks to a systematic and integrated land transport master plan that incorporates an efficient rail and bus system, a carefully thought-out road and traffic structure, and controlled car ownership.
MRT
The Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is by far, one of the easiest and quickest ways to get around Singapore. Comprising four lines and over 70 stations, the comprehensive network spans across most of Singapore. The trains are safe, clean and reliable, arriving every three to eight minutes from 5.30am to 12.30am daily. Currently under construction, the Downtown Line will be the fifth MRT line when it is ready in 2013, serving the Bukit Timah and eastern areas of Singapore.
The Light Rail Transit (LRT) is a feeder rail service of 14 stations, serving the Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang estates.
To travel on the MRT and LRT, you may either purchase single trip tickets or the more convenient EZ-link card which is a stored value card, allowing you multiple trips on trains and buses with rebates for transfers. Fares on the MRT are very affordable, from SGD 1 to 2.20 for a single trip, even less if you use the EZ-link card. You may use this online tool to calculate your train fare.
EZ-link cards may be purchased or topped up at any MRT/LRT station and bus interchanges.
For more details on MRT routes, fares and travel times, visit the SMRT website.
Buses
Public buses ply comprehensive routes throughout the island and are an affordable mode of transport, especially to locations not served by the MRT or as a feeder from the MRT to a specific location. Due to the integrated nature of public transportation in Singapore, bus stops are often located right next to MRT stations, making your entire journey a seamless one.
Bus services are regular, with waiting times averaging 10 to 20 minutes per trip. They run daily from 5.30am to midnight. Fares range from SGD 0.80 to 1.80 for a single trip. To travel on buses, you may either pay the exact fare via a coin slot right next to the bus driver’s seat (no change will be given) or use the EZ-link card which is also operable on the MRT/LRT. Just as with the MRT, the EZ-link card offers better value and convenience for bus rides.
You may calculate your fare based on your bus route here.
The majority of buses in Singapore are run by main bus operators - SBS Transit Ltd and SMRT Buses Ltd. You may find out more about their bus routes and fares on their websites. If you intend to ride on buses frequently, the Transit Link Bus Guide which lists all the bus and SMRT services and routes would be useful to have on hand. You can purchase the guide from all SMRT stations. SBS website also offers a journey planner feature. IRIS services helps commuters check when the next bus is arriving.
For those who prefer a more upmarket bus service, SMRT offers premium bus services that charge slightly more but offers a more comfortable ride. These scheduled services ply standard routes between the Central Business District and housing estates during peak hours on weekdays. For more details on the service, click here.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Singapore. You may go to a taxi stand, make a booking via phone or internet, or flag one down from the side of the road (except in the Central Business District (CBD)). Fares too, are relatively cheap compared to other major cities in the world, though you will need to take note of surcharges for ERP, peak hours, midnight, public holidays and certain locations such as Singapore Changi International Airport and Singapore Expo.
Booking a taxi is a convenient way of ensuring you have a taxi just when you need it. These are the numbers for the following taxi companies: