Getting around Singapore: MRT, buses, EZ-Link, SimplyGo and contactless cards
The easiest way to get around Singapore is the MRT and public bus network, paid by tapping a contactless bank card or mobile wallet, or a stored-value card such as EZ-Link, at the gantry or card reader when you board and again when you exit. Fares are distance-based and transfers within a set time count as one journey. Taxis and ride-hailing apps fill the gaps late at night and to places away from the rail lines.
Last updated 13 November 2026 · 🏙️ Places rankings →
The network
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) has several colour-coded lines, including the North-South, East-West, North East, Circle, Downtown and Thomson-East Coast lines, with LRT feeder lines in Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol. Public buses reach almost every housing estate. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) plans the network; operators run the trains and buses. Trains generally run from early morning until around midnight, with timings varying by line and station.
How to pay
- Contactless bank cards and mobile wallets: tap a Visa or Mastercard contactless card, or a phone wallet, at MRT gantries and bus readers through the SimplyGo system. Your bank may charge foreign transaction fees on overseas cards.
- Stored-value cards: EZ-Link and other concession or account-based cards, sold and topped up at ticket offices, machines and convenience stores. LTA and TransitLink publish the current card options after recent changes to card ticketing.
- Singapore Tourist Pass: unlimited rides for a set number of days, sold to visitors.
Always tap in and tap out, on buses as well as trains, or you may be charged the maximum fare. Fares and transfer rules are set and published by the Public Transport Council and LTA.
Taxis and ride-hailing
Metered taxis can be hailed on the street (outside the CBD restrictions), booked by app, or taken from taxi stands. Ride-hailing apps operate widely. Surcharges can apply for peak hours, late night, airport pickups and trips through the CBD; the meter or app shows them. Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) charges on some roads are passed on to passengers.
Rules on trains and buses
- Eating and drinking are not allowed on trains and buses or in paid areas of stations.
- Flammable goods and durians are not permitted on trains.
- Priority seats are for elderly, pregnant, disabled passengers and those with young children.
- Stand on the left on escalators to let others pass.
From the MRT you can reach most of our ranked attractions, museums and heritage districts without a car.
FAQ
Can I use my foreign credit card on the Singapore MRT?
Yes, contactless Visa and Mastercard cards and supported mobile wallets work at MRT gantries and on public buses through SimplyGo. Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees.
Do I still need an EZ-Link card?
Not if you have a contactless bank card or phone wallet. EZ-Link and concession cards remain useful for those without one or for concession fares; check LTA or TransitLink for the current card options.
How do I get from Changi Airport to the city?
The MRT (East-West Line via the Changi Airport branch, with a change at Tanah Merah, or the Thomson-East Coast Line extension when open), public buses, taxis, ride-hailing and private transfers all serve the airport.
Is it allowed to drink water on the MRT?
No. Eating and drinking are prohibited on trains and buses and in the paid areas of stations, and fines can apply.
Related rankings
- Top 3 attractions in Singapore
- Top 3 heritage districts in Singapore
- Top 2 hotels & stays in Singapore
Sources
Editorial guide by Best Singapore. Not legal, financial or medical advice; check the sources for current rules and figures.