How to get to Singapore

Singapore is a dynamic metropolis and a unique city-state in Southeast Asia, attracting travellers with its futuristic architecture and rich culture. When planning a trip to Singapore, you will discover that thanks to its status as the region's largest transport hub, you can reach the city not only by plane but also by land transport — by bus, train, or car from neighbouring Malaysia.

Travelling to Singapore by plane is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach this amazing city-state. The metropolis is a major international aviation hub, and its main airport, Changi (SIN), is regularly recognised as one of the best in the world, receiving flights from hundreds of cities across the globe.

In addition to direct flights, savvy travellers sometimes consider routes via airports in neighbouring cities located in close proximity. For example, Johor Bahru Airport (JHB) in Malaysia is situated just 15 km from the border. Indonesian airports in Batam (BTH) and Tanjung Pinang (TNJ), located 36 km and 86 km away respectively, can also be convenient alternatives. These transport hubs are well-connected to the region and allow for creating an interesting combined itinerary.

There is no railway station for long-distance trains directly within the city of Singapore itself, but this does not stop fans of overland travel. The main transit hub is Malaysian Johor Bahru, located just a few kilometres from the border. Trains from various corners of the peninsula arrive here, allowing tourists to witness the changing tropical landscapes even before entering the metropolis.

Upon arrival at the station in the neighbouring country, the remaining part of the journey is easily covered by a special shuttle train that crosses the causeway over the strait. This is a convenient and fast way to bypass traffic jams and arrive in the territory of the city-state for passport control.

Bus services connect the metropolis with the mainland, and the most popular route is the journey from the Malaysian city of Johor Bahru. Buses cover the distance of 25–30 kilometres across the causeway, and travel time usually ranges from 40 minutes to one and a half hours, depending on congestion at border checkpoints. This is an excellent alternative to the sea route often used by guests arriving from the Indonesian islands of Batam and Tanjung Pinang.

Regular trips are operated by dozens of private and state companies, offering both direct express services and budget transit options with transfers. Travelling by bus remains the most economical way to get to Singapore, allowing travellers to cross the strait in comfort and immediately find themselves in the centre of the action.

The only overland route to Singapore for motorists lies across the border with Malaysia. The key transit point is the city of Johor Bahru: the distance between the centres of the metropolises is only about 25–30 kilometres. Traffic is organised via two crossings — the Causeway leading to the Woodlands area, and the "Second Link" bridge in the Tuas area. When planning a trip, it is worth allocating time for customs clearance: the journey usually takes from 45 minutes to one and a half hours, but waiting times can extend during weekends and holidays.

For those who prefer taxis, it is important to know a nuance: standard city cars are not permitted to cross the state border. It is necessary to look for special licensed vehicles at the terminal in Malaysian Johor Bahru. The cost of a transfer to a hotel in the centre usually varies from 60 to 80 Singapore dollars. It is also worth considering the geography of the region: it is impossible to arrive by car from the Indonesian islands of Batam and Tanjung Pinang due to the lack of road connections, so this mode of transport is relevant only for routes from the north.

A trip to Singapore promises to be comfortable and exciting if you prepare for the peculiarities of this unique city-state in advance. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations for you that will help avoid awkward situations and save time on your journey.

1. Clothing and Climate. It is summer all year round in the city with high humidity, so the best choice would be loose clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen). However, be sure to bring a light cardigan or shawl: air conditioners in shopping malls, cinemas, and the metro often work at full power, and it can feel cold if you are not used to it.
2. Transport. The most convenient way to get around is the high-speed metro (MRT), covering almost every corner of the island. To pay for trips, it is most cost-effective to purchase an EZ-Link card at the ticket office of any station or use the Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis and shops, but you will need cash when visiting the famous street food courts (hawker centres) and small souvenir shops.
4. Health and Safety. Tap water here meets WHO standards, so it is safe to drink directly from the tap. The crime rate is extremely low, and it is safe to walk even at night, however, it is worth using repellents when visiting parks and nature reserves for protection against tropical insects.
5. Communication. English is one of the four official languages and the main medium of communication. Most signs, indicators, and menus are duplicated in English, so the language barrier is practically non-existent here.
6. Local Etiquette. In the local culture, it is customary to strictly observe queues — whether boarding a bus or waiting for an order in a café. Also, pay attention to tables in food courts: if you see a pack of tissue paper lying on a table, it means the seat is occupied ("chope"), and you should not sit there.
7. What to Avoid. Singapore is often called the "city of fines". It is strictly forbidden to litter, cross the road in unauthorised places, smoke outside specially designated zones, as well as eat or drink (even water) in metro carriages and stations. Fines for these violations are very high.
8. Extra Tip. Do not forget to arrange a tax refund (GST Refund). If you make purchases totalling more than 100 SGD in shops with the "Tax Free" logo, keep the receipts — you can claim back the 9% tax at electronic kiosks in the airport before departure.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and focus on what matters most — exploring the futuristic architecture, gastronomic discoveries, and rich culture of this amazing Asian metropolis.