The Singapore MRT is genuinely one of the best urban transport systems in the world — and I say that having lived in cities across Asia and Europe. Clean, ice-cold air conditioning, almost always on time and remarkably cheap. Once you figure out how it works, getting around Singapore becomes second nature within days.
If you have just landed or are about to move here, mastering the MRT is one of the first things to sort out. This complete guide covers everything — the different lines, how to pay, fares, operating hours, etiquette and the insider tips that separate the confused tourist from the confident local commuter.
And once you are settled into your commute, make sure you have also read our guide on the cost of living in Singapore — transport is just one piece of the monthly budget puzzle.
Overview of Singapore's MRT Network (2026)
As of 2026, Singapore has six main MRT lines covering virtually every corner of the island. Each line has a colour and a name — once you know the colours, navigation becomes instinctive.
š“ North-South Line (NSL)
Runs from Jurong East in the west to Marina South Pier in the south, passing through Orchard Road and City Hall. One of the busiest lines in Singapore.
Key stops: Orchard, City Hall, Raffles Place, Marina Bayš¢ East-West Line (EWL)
Stretches across the entire width of Singapore from Tuas Link in the far west to Pasir Ris in the east. Connects directly to Changi Airport via the branch line.
Key stops: Jurong East, Bugis, City Hall, Changi Airportš Circle Line (CCL)
Forms a loop around the central and eastern parts of Singapore. Great for connecting residential areas to the city center without going through the CBD.
Key stops: Dhoby Ghaut, Botanic Gardens, one-north, HarbourFrontšµ Downtown Line (DTL)
Fully automated and one of the newer lines. Runs from Bukit Panjang in the northwest to Expo in the east passing through the city center.
Key stops: Little India, Bugis, Chinatown, Bedok Reservoir, Expoš¤ Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL)
Singapore's newest MRT line, still being progressively opened. When fully complete it will run from Woodlands in the north all the way to the East Coast.
Key stops: Woodlands, Stevens, Orchard Boulevard, Gardens by the Bayš£ North East Line (NEL)
Fully automated line running from HarbourFront in the south to Punggol in the northeast. Serves several popular residential and entertainment areas.
Key stops: HarbourFront, Dhoby Ghaut, Serangoon, Hougang, PunggolHow to Pay for the MRT in Singapore
There are a few ways to pay for MRT travel. As an expat living here long-term, your choice of payment method actually affects how much you spend every month — so it is worth getting right from day one.
EZ-Link Card — The Best Option for Expats
The EZ-Link card is a contactless stored-value card and the most popular way to pay for MRT travel. Tap in when entering, tap out when exiting. Simple.
- š³ Purchase at any TransitLink customer service office at major MRT stations or at 7-Eleven stores
- š° Cost: SGD 12 (includes SGD 7 stored value and SGD 5 non-refundable card fee)
- š Works on MRT, buses and Light Rapid Transit (LRT)
- šŖ Accepted at many non-transport merchants as a payment method
- š Top up at MRT stations, 7-Eleven, via the EZ-Link app or set up auto top-up
SimplyGo — The Modern Alternative
SimplyGo lets you use your contactless bank card (Visa or Mastercard) or mobile payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay) directly on the MRT gantry. No separate transport card needed.
- ✅ No card fee upfront
- ✅ No need to carry a separate card
- ⚠️ Fares are slightly higher than EZ-Link — you miss out on the stored value discount
Single Trip Tickets
Available at ticket machines in every station. More expensive than EZ-Link and honestly not worth it if you are staying more than a few days. Avoid unless you have no other option.
MRT Fares in Singapore — What to Expect
Fares are distance-based — the further you go, the more you pay. But even the maximum fare is remarkably cheap compared to most global cities.
| Journey Type | EZ-Link Fare | SimplyGo Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum (short hop) | SGD 0.92 | SGD 1.00+ |
| Average commute | SGD 1.20 – SGD 1.60 | SGD 1.40 – SGD 1.80 |
| Maximum (long distance) | SGD 2.17 | SGD 2.40+ |
| Airport to Raffles Place | ~SGD 1.80 | ~SGD 2.00 |
| Monthly light commuter | SGD 80 – SGD 120 | Higher |
| Monthly heavy commuter | SGD 120 – SGD 160 | Higher |
MRT Operating Hours
| Day | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Saturday | ~5:30am | ~Midnight |
| Sunday and Public Holidays | ~5:30am | ~Midnight |
Peak and Off-Peak Hours
| Period | Time | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Peak | 7:00am – 9:30am | Weekdays |
| Evening Peak | 5:30pm – 8:00pm | Weekdays |
| Off-Peak | Before 7:45am / After 8:15pm | Weekdays |
| Off-Peak (all day) | All day | Weekends and Public Holidays |
How to Navigate the MRT Like a Local
Trust me — within two weeks of using the MRT daily you will feel completely at home on it. Here are the tips that speed up that learning curve:
- š± Use Google Maps — it works brilliantly for MRT navigation in Singapore. Enter your destination and it gives you exact platform, interchange and timing information.
- š± Download MyTransport.SG — the official LTA app for real-time train arrival times and service updates.
- ⬆️ Stand on the left on escalators — keep the right side clear for people walking. This is taken seriously by Singaporeans so follow it from day one.
- šŖ Wait for passengers to exit first — stand to the side of the door markings on the platform and let everyone off before boarding.
- š No eating or drinking — fines of up to SGD 500. Keep everything packed away while on the MRT.
- šŗ Give up priority seats — for elderly passengers, pregnant women, passengers with young children and those with disabilities.
- š Keep noise down — use earphones, keep calls brief and avoid loud conversations.
Key MRT Interchange Stations to Know
| Station | Lines Connected | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| City Hall | NSL (Red) + EWL (Green) | Central city location |
| Raffles Place | NSL (Red) + EWL (Green) | Heart of CBD financial district |
| Dhoby Ghaut | NSL + CCL + NEL | 3-line interchange — very useful |
| Outram Park | EWL + NEL + TEL | Important for southern Singapore |
| Jurong East | NSL (Red) + EWL (Green) | Major western Singapore hub |
| Serangoon | CCL (Orange) + NEL (Purple) | Northeastern Singapore hub |
Getting to Changi Airport by MRT
- Take the EWL (Green Line) from Changi Airport station towards Tuas Link.
- Change at Tanah Merah station to the main East-West Line heading towards the city.
- Continue to your destination — Raffles Place takes about 35 to 40 minutes, Orchard about 45 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, strollers and prams are allowed on the Singapore MRT. Use the designated wider doors at the front and rear of the train and position your stroller in the wheelchair and stroller area. During peak hours it can get crowded so plan accordingly.
Folded bicycles are allowed on the MRT during non-peak hours only. Full-size bicycles are not permitted on the MRT at any time. If you cycle to the station, use one of the bicycle parking facilities available at most MRT stations.
If you forget to tap out, the maximum fare for that journey will be deducted from your EZ-Link card automatically. You can apply for a refund of the difference at a TransitLink customer service office within 14 days of the journey.
Extremely safe. Crime on the MRT is virtually non-existent. Security cameras are present at all stations and trains and police presence is regular. Singapore has some of the lowest crime rates in the world and the MRT reflects this.
The MRT is by far the cheapest option at SGD 1.60 to SGD 2.10 depending on your destination. A taxi costs SGD 20 to SGD 35 and Grab is usually SGD 15 to SGD 25. Unless you have a lot of luggage, the MRT is the obvious choice.
You can buy an EZ-Link card at the TransitLink counter in the Arrival Hall at Changi Airport — all terminals. Cost is SGD 12 which includes SGD 7 stored value and a SGD 5 non-refundable card fee. Get one before you leave the airport and you are set for your first journey into the city.
Useful Official Links
- š️ Land Transport Authority (LTA): lta.gov.sg
- š TransitLink (EZ-Link and fares): transitlink.com.sg
- š SMRT (MRT operator): smrt.com.sg
- šŗ️ Singapore MRT Map: Download from lta.gov.sg
Final Thoughts
The Singapore MRT will quickly become one of your favorite things about living here. It is fast, reliable, affordable and connects virtually every part of this incredible city. Once you get the hang of it — which usually takes about a week — you will wonder how you ever managed without it.
Get your EZ-Link card at the airport. Download Google Maps and MyTransport.SG. Stand on the left on escalators. Wait for passengers to exit before boarding. Never eat or drink on the train. Follow those simple rules and you will be navigating Singapore like a seasoned local in no time.
Have Questions About the Singapore MRT?
Drop a comment below and we will be happy to help. Browse more expat guides at ExpatWiki.
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