Skip to main content
x

Airport Layover Guide: Singapore Changi Airport

By Brooke Morton | Published On September 11, 2014
Share This Article :

Airport Layover Guide: Singapore Changi Airport

Qin-Qing/Xinhua Press/Corbis

With so many no-cost diversions, Singapore’s Changi Airport (airport designation SIN) is one connection where you may plan for a long layover. In addition to courtesies such as free charging and Internet-use stations, you’ll find free movie theaters in terminals two and three.

Best place to eat healthy

Green Market in terminal two, level three, specializes in organic Japanese fare. Zen it is — with low lighting, a calm vibe, and a welcome drink (opt for the aloe-infused green tea). Those coming off of long flights may want to take advantage of the all-you-can-eat salad and appetizers bars. If yours is a working trip, note that Green Market has free Wi-Fi and plenty of workspace.

Best reason to keep a swimsuit in your carry-on

The Ambassador Transit Hotel in terminal one welcomes guests to their rooftop pool, provided they pay the day-use fee, which includes a towel, access to shower facilities and a non-alcoholic drink. The pool bar also serves cocktails; the Singapore Sling is a specialty.

Best place to grab a drink

It’s part of a chain, but also the drink-slinging spot with the best view. Harry’s Bar has two airport locations, one in the terminal-three departure transit lounge, and one nestled among the rooftop cactus garden of terminal one. Cocktail aficionados will appreciate the 13 signature drinks created by Harry’s barkeeps through the city. The Smooth Criminal is perhaps the most original: It blends Bacardi Oakheart rum with Drambuie, Midori, sugar and ginger ale.

Best reason to leave the airport

Thank the airport itself and Singapore Airlines for offering free, two-hour city tours. Daytime stops include Little India, Chinatown and the world’s tallest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer. You must meet visa entry requirements, and register at least an hour prior with the Free Singapore Tours desks.

Best indoor nature

You don’t have to step outside for fresh air: Each terminal offers a different natural escape (terminal 2 shown above). Head to the roof of terminal one to explore a cactus garden. In terminal two, wander through separate orchid and sunflower gardens. The highlight of terminal three is the sanctuary that’s home to a thousand butterflies.