Last updated: January 2024
Singapore came in at number eight in terms of convenience, a metric used to assess how well-run a city's transportation system is based on factors including travel ease, ticketing, electronic services, and transfers.
One of the countries with the fastest growing economy is Singapore.
Singapore surpassed major cities like New York and Paris to claim the top spot on the list because of its well-developed and reasonably priced public transit infrastructure.
Learn why Singapore has one of the greatest public transportation systems in the world.
Does Singapore have good public transport?
Singapore's public transport system among best in the world - Public Transport in Singapore
Singapore has the third-highest per-capita GDP in the world despite having no natural resources and no land.
Globalization, digitization, and free-market capitalism are all responsible for the country's astonishing rise.
By concentrating their efforts on using the potential of cutting-edge technological solutions, the government authorities have built the framework for smart cities.
With that, the public transportation in Singapore is among the best in the world, becoming very convenient and fairly priced.
Additionally, the country does well on other metrics including environmental impact and ticketing systems.
The government implemented significant policy changes in 2013 to increase the affordability of public transportation.
Also, there are special concessionary cards available for students, seniors, and those with impairments.
The lives of Singapore's residents have significantly improved because of the city's transportation infrastructure.
Moreover, the government continually makes significant expenditures to raise the standard of living for residents.
The national transportation and energy needs are the focus of a comprehensive digital improvement by the government.
The urbanization of the public transportation network is only one of Singapore's numerous achievements.
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How cheap is public transport in Singapore?
How cheap is public transport in Singapore? - Public Transport in Singapore
Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system is the most effective means to navigate around the city-state.
Bus services run by MRT can take you almost anywhere in the city.
Because parking is costly and traffic may be excruciating, we advise against renting a car.
The MRT system connects Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), where the majority of visitors come.
In line with this, we've listed the several types of public transportation you may try riding when visiting Singapore:
Cab/ Taxi/ Ride Hailing Apps
Call a cab if you need to get somewhere quickly.
Cabs are inexpensive; the starting fare is between S$3 and S$5, and the subsequent fare is around S$0.22 per kilometer.
The majority of drivers will be able to understand English, so make sure you ask them for advice about the area.
Here are some popular transport apps you need to get in Singapore.
MRT/ LRT/ Subway
The MRT subway system is extensive, hygienic, fast, affordable, and simple to use—everything you desire from public transportation.
There are maps at each station; the cost of a ticket depends on how far you have to go and often ranges from S$1 to S$2.50.
If you're staying in Singapore for a lengthy period of time, think about investing in an EZ-Link rechargeable card for S$12 to save money and skip the ticket queue.
Bus
How cheap is public transport in Singapore? - Public Transport in Singapore
The entire country is covered with buses, which can transport you wherever you need to go.
If you know which ones to take, that is; first-time tourists may feel overwhelmed or confused by the various bus lines.
The cost of a trip depends on the route used, the time of day, and the kind of traveler.
You could wind up paying the same price as you would for a metro journey based on all those considerations.
Car
Singapore, a city of more than 5 million people, has a lot of traffic.
Driving may be a major inconvenience, and parking in the city will set you back a lot of money.
Not to add that Singaporeans drive on the left.
There are rental agencies in the city and at the airport, though, if you truly want a car.
Learn also: How much cost to own a car in Singapore?
What is the best way to get around in Singapore?
What is the best way to get around in Singapore? - Public Transport in Singapore
The MRT subway system is the best option to travel around Singapore among the several public transportation options mentioned above.
There are 130 stations across six MRT lines in this subterranean network that round the whole city.
Thus, the majority of residents and tourists can travel the city easily, which is well connected by the MRT system.
Learn more: Cheaper Taxi Apps in Singapore
Is public transport in Singapore expensive?
Despite being frequently criticized for having a high cost of living, Singapore's public transportation is nevertheless remarkably affordable when compared to other major Asian cities.
One of the world's greatest and most affordable public transportation networks is found in Singapore.
A one-way bus fare typically starts from $1.09 (by ezlink card/ simplygo) or $1.90 (cashfare).
How many hours do bus drivers work in Singapore?
Both SBS Transit and SMRT Buses now operate a six-day work week, with the weekly minimum of eight hours spread out throughout those days.
The standard work week for SBST will probably be approximately 44 hours, similar to SMRT's.
Public Transport Singapore Time
For the weekend late night, services available for night owls and clubbers which operate during the wee hours on Fridays, Saturdays and the eve of public holidays.
These buses also offer limited stops and routes but are a great option for those who need to travel late at night from town to the heartlands.
All night bus fares are typically more expensive than a regular bus journey due to the extra hazards of night driving.
Nonetheless, public transport in Singapore is still a great and affordable way to get around the city.
What are the hours of normal bus lane?
Cost of Public Transport in Singapore
How much is public transport in Singapore?
How much is Singapore public transport? - Public Transport in Singapore
The cost of using bus and train services is determined on the distance traveled.
For up to 3.2km of travel, the fare is $1.09 (by ezlink card/ simplygo) or $1.90 (cashfare).
Whether taking a direct route or making transfers, commuters who travel the same distance on the same type of service pay the same cost.
Thus, the cost of public transportation in Singapore differs depending on the type of passenger you are.
If you are a student, senior citizen, lower-wage worker, or person with a disability, you will automatically receive a discount for your fare as long as you can show a valid identification card.
How is MRT fare calculated?
MRT fares are determined by distance, resulting in a more integrated payment system that enables passengers to change trains without paying more.
Distance fares are calculated per travel rather than adding a boarding fee for each transfer trip that is included in the journey.
How much is Singapore MRT card?
The Singapore ezlink card costs $12 (with stored value of $7) and can be used for all types of transport in the city-state, for your bus and MRT train journeys.
Simply swipe your MRT card when you board the bus or train and it will deduct the fare from your pre-paid balance.
You can also use it to pay for your ComfortDelGro or Premier Taxi fares throughout the city.
Do note that starting June 1 2024, commuters will be required to use SimplyGo-compatible ez-link cards or NETS FlashPay cards for fare payments on public buses and trains, as older ez-link cards that do not support SimplyGo will no longer be accepted.
How do I pay for public transport in Singapore?
To pay for public transport in Singapore, you can use a contactless stored value card called EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay.
You can easily purchase these cards from ticket vending machines located at all MRT stations, bus interchanges and convenience stores such as 7-11 or Cheers. Apart from this, you can also use your credit or debit card for payment, via the EZ-Link app or by tapping your card at the designated reader on buses, MRT trains or LRT lines.
You may also download mobile wallets and scan with just your mobile devices.
Cash payment is limited to buses and you are advised to carry the exact amount. Therefore, it is always convenient and recommended to carry a stored value card for hassle-free and smooth travel on Singapore's public transport system.
Can we pay cash for a bus in Singapore?
Yes you can pay cash on a bus in Singapore, however there will be no change if you can’t pay the exact amount. Just tell the driver your destination and he will inform you of the cash fare amount.
You can also use contactless bank cards, mobile wallets, stored value cards, concession cards, to pay for bus or MRT/LRT journeys.
If you are riding with a kid under 0.9 meters tall and traveling with a fare-paying passenger, children ride buses and trains for free.
How much is student bus fare In Singapore?
If a Monthly Concession Pass (MCP) is not bought, student tickets will be taken from the School Smartcard.
Since the MCP only covers basic bus and rail services, student rates will still be deducted for Express and Premium Bus Services.
| Bus Monthly Concession Passes (Unlimited bus rides) |
Price |
|---|---|
| Primary School Students | $24.00 |
| Secondary School Students | $29.00 |
| Polytechnic Students | $29.00 |
| Train Monthly Concession Passes (Unlimited train rides) | Price |
|---|---|
| Primary School Students | $21.00 |
| Secondary School Students | $26.50 |
| Polytechnic Students | $26.50 |
Starting 23 December 2023, you can use the Hybrid Monthly Concession Passes for (Unlimited bus and train rides
| Hybrid Monthly Concession Passes (Unlimited bus and train rides) | Price |
|---|---|
| Primary School Students | $39.00 |
| Secondary School Students | $49.00 |
| Polytechnic Students | $49.00 |
How much is the Adult bus concession?
Commuters can purchase the $128 Adult Monthly Travel Pass for unrestricted use of Singapore's train and basic bus services for a month.
| Hybrid Monthly Concession Passes (Unlimited bus and train rides) | Price |
|---|---|
| Full-Time National Servicemen | $81.00 |
| Adults (Monthly Travel Pass) | $128.00 |
| Senior Citizens | $58.00 |
| Persons with Disabilities | $58.00 |
| [New] Workfare Transport Concession Cardholders | $96.00 |
Transportation in Singapore for tourists
What is Singapore tourist pass?
It is an electronic card that provides unlimited rides on the MRT and LRT train networks for the duration of its usage period.
This offers tourists a hassle-free way to explore Singapore, without having to deal with tickets.
The Singapore Tourist Pass can be bought at selected Ticket Offices and Passenger Service Centres at Mrt stations and bus interchanges, and offers a range of value options to suit different tourists, with 1 day and 3 day passes available.
| Types of Pass | Singapore Tourist Pass |
SG Tourist Pass | Singapore Tourist Pass Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $10/$16/$20 | $25 | $38 |
| Duration | 1 – 3 Days | 3 Days | 3 Days |
| Rides* on Public Transport |
Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Rental Deposit | $10 | Nil | Nil |
Is Go City Pass worth it Singapore?
With the Go City Pass, you can save up to 45% off the regular admission prices to the world-renowned Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, as well as tickets to Universal Studios Singapore and the iconic Singapore Flyer.
The pass also includes expertly guided tours to bird and butterfly parks, historic landmarks, and some of the world’s greatest nature reserves.
For visitors looking for a variety of different experiences and attractions, the Go City Pass is a great way to save money and experience Singapore without breaking the bank.
| No. of Days | Price (Adult/ Child) |
|---|---|
| 2 Day Pass | $210/ $165 |
| 3 Day Pass | $301/ $226 |
| 4 Day Pass | $351/ $276 |
| 5 Day Pass | $376/ $301 |
| 6 Day Pass | $396/ $321 |
| 7 Day Pass | $411/ $336 |
Public Transport Singapore
Singapore will always be regarded as unique in terms of efficiency due to their average wait time and percentage of dedicated lanes, respectively, and are reasonably well across the other measures.
According to a study, the nation's LTA is attempting to create a predictive maintenance system.
The effectiveness of Singapore's public transportation is seen as satisfactory by its citizens.
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