Things to Do at Changi Airport (SIN)

How to Make the Most of your Layover at Changi Airport
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Singapore Airport (SIN) › Guide › Layover at the Airport

The Top Things to Do in Singapore Airport During a Layover

If you think layovers at the airport are a waste of time, a few hours spent at Changi International Airport will definitely change your mind. Verily, SIN Airport is one of Singapore’s attractions itself. Besides featuring top-rated services and amenities and housing a wide number of sites and attractions, the Jewel Changi -the recreational, multi-purposed terminal- attracts locals and city visitors, hence even those not having a layover at the airport. So, what are the best things to do at Singapore Airport? In other words, during the limited time of a layover, what are the available airport facilities, services, and amenities that you can benefit from?

Our Tip: Please keep in mind that Changi terminals T1, T2, and T3 are connected airside via the complimentary Skytrain, while they can also be accessed on foot. Moreover, passengers can catch the free airport shuttle bus from the transit areas of T1, T2, and T3 to the transit zone of T4. On the other hand, Jewel Changi and Hub & Spoke are located in the public zone of Singapore Changi Airport. As a result, you’ll have to clear immigration and (most probably) issue a visa to reach those facilities.

Shopping is Always a Good Idea

And if that statement is true, then shopping at SIN Airport is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do at Singapore Airport. Indeed, the vast Changi Airport houses countless retail shops, ranging from local brands to international chains and from budget shops to fashion designers and luxurious facilities. Hence, whether you want to buy gifts for your loved ones, treat yourself to premium (or low-cost) shopping, or limit yourself to window shopping, you’ll find far more than enough options at Singapore Changi Airport.

Our Tip: The airport also offers a complimentary 24/7 shopping concierge service. Should you settle on that provided amenity, you’ll benefit from events, discounts, and access to products before their official market launch, while you’ll have the possibility to shop from any SIN terminal and have the products delivered to your departure terminal.

Drink or Dine at Singapore International Airport

Whether you are looking for a fast-food solution, a casual eatery, or a fine-dining restaurant, Changi Airport will meet up with your expectations. The main airport in Singapore hosts numerous dining and drinking options, providing dishes influenced by local cuisine and international or fusion options.

Utilize the Free Wi-Fi for a Well-Spent Layover

Singapore Airport offers free Wi-Fi to its passengers, while all terminals are well-equipped with numerous charging stations. Thus, you can use the free airport Wi-Fi to finish any undone work project, participate in a meeting, communicate with your loved ones, check your socials, or even binge-watch your favorite series or movies.

Relax in One of the Changi Airport’s Lounges

Although some lounge facilities at Singapore Airport can be accessed only by airlines’ VIP or business members, there are plenty of lounge areas available to all SIN travelers for a fee. All Changi terminals offer several lounge options that are accessible to all passengers who are willing to pay the entrance fee. Thus, if you want to use their premium premises, take a shower (should they house shower amenities), enjoy a light meal or a refreshing drink, or work in a designated working area, all you’ll have to do is make your pick among the available options.

You Can Relax at Changi Airport for Free!

Changi International Airport provides its travelers with courtesy designated sleeping areas. Thus, if you head to one of the rest zones, you’ll find comfy chairs with luggage space and charging points, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating nap. The SIN sleeping areas are to be found:

  • at Departures transit hall East of T1 (Level 3)
  • at Departures transit hall (near Cocoa Trees) of T2 (Level 2)
  • at Departures transit hall (near Sunflower Garden) of T2 (Level 3)
  • at Departures transit hall North Pier (Sanctuary Lounge) of T2 (closed for the moment)
  • at Departures transit hall North Pier (Oasis Lounge) of T2 (closed for the moment)
  • at Departures transit hall South of T3
  • at Departures transit hall of T4 (Level 2M)

Are you a smoker? You’ll find smoking areas (indoor and open-air) in all the Changi airport terminals.

Check-in at One of the Changi Hotels

If you have a long Singapore airport layover and you feel like checking in to a hotel, you’ll find three Changi airport hotels located airside (at T1, T2, T3, and the JetQuay terminal) as well as two hotels near Changi Airport, situated landside within its premises. Verily, a lodging establishment is to be found at the Jewel Changi, while SIN travelers can also check in at the hotel lying next to terminal 3.

Pamper Yourself in One of the Spa Facilities

Various lounges house spa establishments, while Be Relax spa is also to be found in Changi terminal 3. Hence, transit passengers have access to a wide array of services, including massage sessions, beauty treatments, reflexology, shower amenities, etc.

Find your Inner Peace During your Layover at Changi Airport

Various prayer rooms are scattered around the premises of Singapore International Airport. Thus, no matter your terminal, you can make your way to one of the religious places to pray, pay your religious duties, or just enjoy some peaceful moments. The prayer rooms at SIN Airport are situated at:

  • The Departures transit hall East of T1 (Level 3)
  • The Departures transit hall Central of T2 (Level 3)
  • The Departures transit hall South of T3 (Level 2)
  • The Departures transit hall of T4 (Level 2M)

“Tone Up” During your Singapore Airport Layover

If you are a gym enthusiast and spending your free time at the airport working out sounds really exciting to you, you should pass through immigration and head to the Hub & Spoke, lying right next to terminal 2. There, you’ll find the Gym Pod, the fully-equipped container gym, available to Changi passengers. The gym operates around the clock, and the entrance fee starts from S$7.50/$5.60/€5.20 per person. Private virtual sessions (yoga, HIIT, etc.) are also available for a fee.

Watch TV

Singapore Changi Airport houses TV areas in all its terminals. Thus, you’ll find a cozy TV zone on Levels 2 and 3 of terminal 1, on Floor 2 of terminal 2, and on Level 2 of terminal 3. Finally, terminal 4 also hosts a TV area on Level 2.

How About Hanging out By the Pool?

Aerotel, the transit Changi airport hotel, features a large outdoor pool. Lying in terminal 1, on the Departures transit hall near Gates D (on Level 3), the hotel’s one-of-a-kind rooftop pool can also be accessed by non-guests once they pay the relevant fee (starting from S$25/$18.60/€17.30 per person). Towels and the use of shower facilities are also included in the price. A jacuzzi is to be found next to the pool as well. Moreover, the poolside bar (Aerobar), decorated in a safari-inspired style, offers refreshing drinks and delicious light meals. The Aerotel pool is open from noon to 10:00 pm.

Watch a Movie

You can watch the latest blockbuster hits at Changi Airport. Not on your tablet or laptop but on an actual screen. Verily, Singapore Airport houses a movie theater on Level 3 of terminal 3 (near the Ambassador transit lounge), which is open 24/7 and is out of charge. Can you think of any better free things to do in Changi Airport during your layover?

The Famous Entertainment Deck

Situated in the transit zone of Changi terminal 2, on its third level (next to the Sunflower Garden), the Entertainment Deck is a play heaven whether you are a child or an adult who likes having fun. It houses movie theaters, xBox Kinect stations, PlayStations, and even actual arcade machines.

Our Tip: Unfortunately, for the time being, the Entertainment Deck remains out of operation.

Rent a Bicycle

If you don’t mind passing through the security control and having to re-check in at the airport (and you have, of course, a visa), you should head to the Hub & Spoke and rent a bicycle. The Changi Airport Connector (the cycling and jogging path that leads to the East Coast of Singapore while featuring various attractions alongside) starts from the Hub & Spoke area. The first two hours are free of charge (if you book your bicycle through the Changi app), while each hour after costs approximately S$10/$7.40/€6.90. By renting a bicycle, you’ll spot the beautiful outdoor gardens, the imposing Changi Jurassic Mile (the dinosaur park), as well as the scenic beaches of the island’s east side and Marina Bay.

The Top Things to Do at Changi Airport with Children

(or even without if you feel like it anyway!). Singapore Airport is a family-friendly air hub, and various attractions and activities stand behind that fact. Hence, apart from the necessary amenities, the airport offers its little passengers numerous things to do to pass their free time there. Explicitly, some of the provided services are:

  • e-activity booklets: Various puzzles, spot-the-difference games, and creative projects are ideal so that you’ll have some quality family time during your Singapore airport layover.
  • Play areas: Changi Airport is scattered with designated play areas, usually for children 4-12 years of age. Hence, a playground is to be found on the public area of T1 (Floor 3), on the transit zone of T2 (Level 2), on landside T3 (Basement 2), and its transit area (on Levels 1 and 2). On the other hand, the 2 Bears Hideout lying in the transit area of T2 is also one of the children’s favorite options.
  • Climb@T3: Indoor climbing is also available at Singapore Airport. The establishment is to be found in the public area of T3 (on Basement 3).
  • ChangiVerse: The digital version of Changi Airport allows travelers to actually become part of this airport’s “form”. Various games along with awards (even Singapore Airlines tickets) for the most skilled players are what the ChangiVerse is actually about.
  • The Slide@T3: The world’s tallest airport slide couldn’t help but attract children and adult passengers. Verily, the T3’s enormous slide (located on Level 1, landside) guarantees thrilling moments to those who dare try it.
  • The Chandelier: A gigantic structure resembling a huge chandelier is located airside on T4’s Level 1 near the Heritage Zone. It is empty on the inside and dares adults and children passengers to climb it and enjoy real excitement.

Changi Airport is Green

Numerous gardens are to be found around the airport, proving that it is the main airport in Singapore, the City in a Garden. Truly, Singapore Airport offers its passengers the possibility to enjoy natural scenery even without exiting the terminals’ premises. Thus, the Changi terminals’ gardens are:

  • The Arrival Garden: The garden that welcomes the passengers to the airport. It lies on landside T1, right outside its premises, and features a plant-made gigantic dragonfly and palm trees.
  • The Cactus Garden: The rooftop garden consists of various species of the cactus family and is located on Level 3 of T1. Passengers can also enjoy a drink or a snack in the bar area lying inside the garden.
  • The Butterfly Garden: One of the most impressive gardens of Singapore Airport, the Butterfly Garden, is home to more than 1000 tropical butterflies. Verily, there are more than 40 butterfly species to be found, as well as various plants. The garden is situated at Levels 2 and 3 of terminal 3 (in the transit area).
  • The Crystal Garden: It is to be found in the Central Piazza of terminal 3 (airside, on Level 2) and consists of 12 differently-formed spheres. The glass sculptures symbolize -among others- journeys to every part of the world, standing above a “flowering” carpet.
  • The Discovery Garden: An impressive garden that is also home to three tree-like sculptures. Ideal for scenic walks, the garden lies on the transit area of T1, on Level 2.
  • The Enchanted Garden: The second floor of terminal 2 houses one of the most impressive natural attractions of Changi Airport. Lying airside, the Enchanted Garden has motion sensors that activate sounds, while LED lighting creates a mystical atmosphere. Moreover, four bouquet sculptures are also to be found inside the garden premises.
  • The Gourmet Garden: A different-than-the-others garden is situated airside T2. The garden houses various dining facilities and offers panoramic views. Still, it is full of plants and flowers, somewhat justifying its name.
  • The Piazza Garden: Another garden is to be found on Level 2 of T1 (airside). It is full of seasonal plants, while thematic plants are added depending on the time of the year.
  • The Sunflower Garden: The garden dedicated to sunflowers lies airside T2, on its third level. It is home to many varieties of the flower. Moreover, being a rooftop garden, it offers amazing views of the runway.
  • The Dreamscape: It’s an indoor garden (lying airside T2). Here, more than 10.000 plants are to be found, as well as 18 green structures. The garden’s “sky” changes according to the simulated weather conditions, and sounds “surround” the scenery. In fact, a sound and lighting show is performed every 30 minutes.
  • The Wonderfall: Though it is not an actual waterfall, it still lies among green walls. The undoubtedly impressive digital waterfall is located on T2, in its public area.
  • The Tropical Rainforest: A tropical forest inside an airport? At Singapore Airport, everything is possible! Thus, if you head to the transit area of T1’s Level 2, you’ll spot a vivarium. Imitating the actual weather conditions of a tropical rainforest, it houses both terrestrial and sea flora (53 species) and fauna (8 species), originating from that environment.
  • The Water Lily Garden: The serene garden full of waterlilies is situated in the transit zone of T1 (in Level 2).

The Cultural and Artistic Options of Singapore Airport

If you want to enjoy a more “cultivated” Singapore airport layover, you should keep in mind that various artistic attractions are to be found inside the Changi premises. In detail, scattered around the airport, you’ll find:

  • The Birds in Flight: a work of art inspired by a seabird and today’s ways of traveling. It lies on Level 2 of terminal 3.
  • The Coming Home: You’ll spot it in the transit zone of T3’s Level 1. It is a sculpture dedicated to the family institution.
  • The Daisy: Using Singapore’s national colors (red and white), the flower-resembling propeller is a reminder of the country’s natural wealth. You’ll find it on Level 2 of T3 (landside).
  • The Flap Pix: The vintage flight information board that lies landside on T2 is brought into today’s world, featuring important info about the flight status, etc.
  • The Flora Inspiration: The gigantic seed pods are situated landside on Level 2 of T3.
  • The Heritage Zone: An area that features the distinctive and traditional Peranakan shophouses. Both their exterior and furnishing imitate the actual Peranakan stores, making this T4’s zone (lying airside, on Level 2) one of the most picturesque parts of the airport complex. It offers a glimpse of the traditional architectural style prevalent between the 1880s and the 1950s. What’s more, a theatrical performance is displayed on the area’s screens, showcasing Singapore back in the 1930’s.
  • Hey, ah Check: In the public area of T4 (on Level 2), passengers can take a good look at the bronze sculpture, displaying a typical market scene of 1950s Singapore.
  • The Immersive Wall: T4’s passengers find the panoramic LED display, featuring breathtaking landmarks, on Level 2’s transit area.
  • The Kinetic Rain: 1216 bronze droplets transform into 16 different shapes, forming airplanes, dragons, and abstract figures. The Kinetic Rain is to be found landside on T1’s Level 2.
  • Les Oiseaux: The work of art is named “The Birds” in French and lies on Levels 1 and 2 of R4 (airside). Verily, the artist used stainless steel wire to form three birds.
  • The Petal Clouds: The kinetic sculpture that moves is situated on Level 2 of T4. It actually spreads over the Departures check-in area, the transit, and the Arrivals halls.
  • The Sega Seed: Located on Level 1 of T3 (airside), it is dedicated to the more than 200 saga trees that are to be found in Singapore.
  • The Steel in Bloom: A magical combination of a koi pond, steel flowers, flora, and colorful light creates the Steel in Bloom, lying on Level 2 of T4 (airside).
  • The Singapore Rojak: A mural displaying stalls selling local delicacies. It is to be found landside, on Basement 1 of T4.
  • The Memory of Lived Space: The work of art consists of photographic panels and painted glass. It is actually a brilliant “game” between light and shadow. You’ll find it in the transit area of T3 (on Level 2).
  • The Traveling Family: An aluminum sculpture located on Level 2 of R4 (airside).
  • The Vessel: Sculptures inspired by local cuisine and artistic tradition. It is to be found airside, on T3’s Level 2.

Plane-Watching

The Viewing Malls are designated areas where passengers can observe the air traffic. They are to be found in the public areas of T1 and T2 (on Levels 3), and on Level 4 of terminal 3 (in its public zone too).

Take Part in a Changi Tour

If you don’t to explore the airport by yourself, you can participate in one of the organized tours by Singapore Airport. The tours last around 1.5 hours and acquaint travelers with the transit areas of SIN Airport. They mostly take place indoors. That being said, outdoor transfers are made via airport shuttle buses.

Changi Airport is an accessible air hub. Thus, all terminals have all the necessary facilities and amenities to accommodate travelers with disabilities, while various activities are accessible to disabled passengers as well.

The Hub & Spoke 

The Hub & Spoke area is to be found next to terminal 2, connected to the terminals landside. Various services and amenities are provided at that airport’s area. Thus, the Hub & Spoke Cafe is to be found here, as well as a bar facility (Overflow) where live night performances also take place. Moreover, shower premises are positioned here as well. Verily, passengers can use the shower facilities, paying S$5/$3.70/€3.40 per person. Free toiletries and hairdryers are at their disposal, and lockers are also available. However, towels must be purchased from the vending machines. The showers are open from 07:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Furthermore, the Hub & Spoke features a garden lounge and the Gym Pods. What’s more, bicycle repair services are also provided, and passengers find bicycles to rent to make their way to the Changi Airport Connector. A bicycle parking facility is also located here.

The Jewel Changi Terminal

Located in the airport complex yet in its public zone, the Jewel Changi Terminal is a recreational center that attracts visitors from all over Singapore. Thus, it goes without saying that it is one of the top things to do at Changi Airport. Still, it requires clearing immigration and re-checking in to your departure terminal, as well as the issue of a visa.

There are various reasons why the Jewel Changi is one of Singapore’s main attractions. Verily, it houses numerous and one-of-a-kind facilities. Thus, in Jewel Changi, you’ll find:

  • The HSBC Rain Vortex: The world’s tallest indoor waterfall is to be found inside the Jewel Changi. It spreads over 7 floors and simply amazes all the building’s visitors.
  • A wide number of retail stores and dining and drinking facilities.
  • The Shiseido Forest Valley: A green experience in total sync with Singapore (the City in a Garden). Here, you’ll find more than 900 trees and several walking trails, as it spreads from Jewel’s Level 1 to Level 4.
  • The Jewel-rassic Quest: Children who love adventure will certainly be captivated by the Jewel activity. TimeLens devices are available at the terminal’s Level 1, allowing the little explorers to travel back in time and find themselves in the Cretaceous period. With dinosaurs hidden all over the Forest Valley and the Canopy Park, the missions can be challenging, but excitement is kept consistently high!
  • The Changi Experience Studio: Situated on Jewel’s Level 4, it is the place to be for aviation lovers, as it provides useful info and facts about Changi Airport. Moreover, virtual tours, shows, and interactive games are also available to visitors.
  • The Canopy Park: The last floor of Jewel Changi houses the Canopy Park, where the most fascinating attractions of the building are to be found. Thus, the Canopy Park houses a Hedge Maze, a Mirror Maze, the Walking Net, and the Bouncing Net. The Canopy Bridge is a 23-meter above-the-ground bridge with a glass bottom, where the artificial fog creates a “cloudy” experience, and the Discovery Slides balance between being a work of art and an exciting playground. On the other hand, the Petal Garden is home to seasonal flowers from every corner of the planet, and the Foggy Bowls create a dreamy scenery where children can hide in bowls of mist and cloudy fog. Finally, the Topiary Walk is full of unique topiary animals.