Orchard Road is a renowned shopping paradise in Singapore. It is brimming with numerous shopping malls, such as ION Orchard, Takashimaya, Lucky Plaza, and others.
Many travelers earmark Orchard Road as their initial stopover in Singapore. In addition, some transit passengers in Singapore also prefer to spend their layover exploring the shops and attractions here.
Orchard Road’s strategic location in the city center facilitates easy access from different locations. You can reach Orchard Road via the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), buses, or taxis.
If you’re new to Singapore or in transit for a few hours and intend to visit Orchard Road directly from Changi Airport, this article will guide you on how to get there using the MRT or bus.
The fastest way to reach Orchard Road is by MRT. Despite the absence of a direct MRT line from Changi Airport to Orchard Road, reaching there is still pretty straightforward. Here’s how:
To use the MRT, you’ll need to first pirchase an EZ-Link card, a contactless smart card used for public transportation such as the MRT and buses. This card also caters to other payments at eateries, vending machines, and more.
You can purchase the card at the Changi Recommends counters at each terminal of Changi Airport or at the Passenger Service Centres near the entrance of Changi MRT stations. For more guidance on purchasing an EZ-Link card, refer to our related tutorial.
Alternatively, you can use contactless credit cards from Visa and Mastercard for MRT and bus journeys. If you’re transiting in Singapore, these credit cards might be a more practical choice.
The MRT station at Changi Airport is nestled between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. If you are in either of these terminals, you can comfortably walk down to the ground floor to access the MRT station.
If you are in Terminal 1, you can take the Skytrain to Terminal 2 or Terminal 3. If you’re at Jewel, you can proceed to Terminal 1 and then hop on the Skytrain, or directly walk to Terminals 2 and 3 using the Sky Bridge.
For those in Terminal 4, which lacks a Skytrain connection, a shuttle bus will take you to Terminal 3. The shuttle service is free and operates at regular intervals.
Upon reaching the station, swipe your EZ-Link card or contactless credit card at the gate and proceed to the platform. Wait patiently for the train, and once it arrives, board in an organized manner and find a seat.
The process of boarding the MRT at Changi Station is consistent with other stations in Singapore. For detailed steps on using the MRT in Singapore, refer to our tutorial on MRT boarding.
The next train you’ll board will make stops at two stations: Expo and Tanah Merah. Upon reaching Tanah Merah Station, disembark and cross over to the opposite platform. Board the East-West Line MRT train (green-colored) that is heading towards Joo Koon.
After approximately 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at City Hall Station. Here, alight and switch to the North-South Line MRT (red-colored). Ensure to take the train heading towards Jurong East.
A short 5-minute journey later, you will arrive at Orchard Station. Exit the train and swipe your EZ-Link card or contactless credit card at the exit gate. You’ve now reached Orchard Road.
Follow the signs to reach your desired destination. The Orchard MRT Station provides direct access to ION Orchard and Takashimaya, allowing you to enter these malls without stepping out of the station.
If you’d rather avoid the multiple MRT station transfers, you can opt for a public bus to reach Orchard Road. There is a bus service that directly connects Changi Airport with Orchard Road. Let’s take a look at the steps:
Just as with taking the MRT, if you want to travel by bus, you will need to have an EZ-Link card. Refer to the tutorial above for instructions on purchasing an EZ-Link card. Alternatively, you can use a contactless credit card from Visa or Mastercard.
Next, make your way to the bus stops, which are located at each terminal. Follow the signage to locate the bus stop. Once you’re there, wait for bus numbers 36 or 36A, as indicated on the front of the bus.
Once bus 36 or 36A arrives, board the bus through the front door. Swipe your EZ-Link card or credit card on the card reader next to the front door. Afterward, find an available seat and make yourself comfortable.
The journey from Changi Airport to Orchard Road using this bus typically lasts more than an hour and a half, so it’s advisable to find a seat to avoid standing throughout the journey.
When the bus approaches the Orchard Stn/Tang Plaza bus stop, press the stop button located on the pole or wall of the bus. Once the bus comes to a halt, swipe your EZ-Link card or credit card on the card reader near the middle door and exit through that door.
Upon reaching the bus stop, you can venture into the numerous attractions along Orchard Road. You may also wish to try a popular local treat – ice cream sandwiches sold in front of ION Orchard and Takashimaya.
To conclude, both the MRT and bus offer cost-effective and efficient methods of reaching Orchard Road from Changi Airport. Choose the MRT if you prefer a faster journey, or opt for the bus if you’d like a simpler route without the need to switch lines.
