Expat Life Singapore

Color-coded Singapore MRT map showing all MRT lines including the East West Line, North South Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and Bukit Panjang LRT, with interchange stations like City Hall, Dhoby Ghaut, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Raffles Place, Orchard Road, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar clearly marked. Ideal for expats using Singapore’s MRT system, this guide highlights MRT stations, train services, bus service connections, public transport options, and operating hours. Features include train frequency during peak hours and off peak times, midnight daily services, priority seats, and easy access to Changi Airport. Riders can pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and Singapore Tourist Pass options. The map supports SimplyGo app and MyTransport app integration, with Google Maps compatibility for planning MRT rides, bus rides, and total journey distance. Expats can explore Singapore cost effectively, tapping in with a physical card or mobile wallet at MRT stations and public buses, with admin fee details and first bus timings available at convenience stores and official app.

Singapore MRT Guide for Expats

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by

Expat Life Team

Welcome to your essential Singapore MRT Guide for Expats—the complete resource for navigating Singapore’s world-class Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Whether you’re settling in to work, study, or explore Singapore, understanding MRT lines, train stations, and the seamless integration with public transport is key to making life in the Lion City cost-effective and hassle-free.

Why the MRT Is Your Best Friend in Singapore

The backbone of Singapore’s MRT is its impressive network of MRT stations, interchange stations, and rapid train services that link almost every corner of the island. From shopping havens like Orchard Road to historic Chinatown MRT, scenic Botanic Gardens, and bustling business zones such as Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar, and Marina Bay, every destination is just a ride away. With outstanding train frequency during peak hours and reliable operation from early morning until midnight daily, the system guarantees fast, easy access across Singapore.

East West Line

Color-coded Singapore MRT map showing all MRT lines including the East West Line, North South Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and Bukit Panjang LRT, with interchange stations like City Hall, Dhoby Ghaut, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Raffles Place, Orchard Road, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar clearly marked. Ideal for expats using Singapore’s MRT system, this guide highlights MRT stations, train services, bus service connections, public transport options, and operating hours. Features include train frequency during peak hours and off peak times, midnight daily services, priority seats, and easy access to Changi Airport. Riders can pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and Singapore Tourist Pass options. The map supports SimplyGo app and MyTransport app integration, with Google Maps compatibility for planning MRT rides, bus rides, and total journey distance. Expats can explore Singapore cost effectively, tapping in with a physical card or mobile wallet at MRT stations and public buses, with admin fee details and first bus timings available at convenience stores and official app.

The Green Connection Across Singapore

The East West Line (Green) is a major artery of Singapore’s railway system. It stretches from Pasir Ris in the east to Tuas Link in the west, connecting pivotal mrt stations like Changi Airport, City Hall, Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar, and Outram Park—many of which are prominent interchange stations for transfers between lines. The East West Line is unbeatable for city commutes, airport connections, and direct access to both residential and industrial districts.

Circle Line

Detailed Singapore MRT map highlighting the Circle Line (CCL) in orange, with clearly marked interchange stations and connections to the North-South Line, East-West Line, Downtown Line, North-East Line, and Thomson-East Coast Line—ideal for expats navigating Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit system. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats showcases train stations, MRT lines, and travel routes around key areas like Dhoby Ghaut, Bras Basah, and Marina Bay, offering easy access to public transport, MRT rides, and bus service options across the city.

Making Every Journey a Loop

The Circle Line (Yellow) encircles the downtown area, giving you a non-stop path to key spots without entering the city core. It links major residential, entertainment, and corporate centers, making it easy to explore Singapore. With quick transfers at hubs like Dhoby Ghaut, Marina Bay, and Botanic Gardens, it’s the shortcut for smart commuters. Perfect for those aiming to avoid traffic or looking for efficient cross-town MRT rides.

Downtown Line

Comprehensive MRT map of Singapore highlighting the Downtown Line in blue, showing MRT stations from Bukit Panjang to Expo with interchange stations connecting to the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and Bukit Panjang LRT. Ideal for expats using Singapore’s MRT, this guide supports public transport planning with details on train stations, MRT lines, LRT lines, bus service routes, and MRT rides. Key stops like Chinatown MRT, Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Botanic Gardens, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, and Tanjong Pagar are clearly marked. The MRT map helps users explore Singapore with easy access to Changi Airport and public buses. Riders can pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. The SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and Google Maps enhance journey planning, showing train frequency during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, and midnight daily services. Features include priority seats, admin fee info, operating hours, first bus timings, and cost-effective MRT and bus rides available at convenience stores and via the official app. Expats can simply tap to ride and navigate Singapore’s mass rapid transit system with one line or multiple transfers across total distance.

Blue Convenience From West to East

Spanning from Bukit Panjang LRT in the north-west to Expo in the east, the Downtown Line (Blue) cuts through the city, serving commuters from residential districts to the heart of financial Singapore. It connects with key interchange stations such as Newton, Bugis, and Chinatown MRT, offering alternative routes and reducing crowding on other MRT lines. For those keen on fast routes, even during off peak hours, this line is a daily game changer.

Bukit Panjang LRT

Complete MRT and LRT map of Singapore showing all MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, and Thomson East Coast Line, plus LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT, Sengkang LRT, and Punggol LRT. Designed for the Singapore MRT Guide for Expats, this MRT map highlights key MRT stations and train stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Botanic Gardens, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, and Tanjong Pagar. It supports public transport planning with interchange stations, train frequency during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, and off peak times. Expats can explore Singapore with cost-effective MRT rides and bus rides, using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. The map integrates with SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and Google Maps for easy access to train services, public buses, bus service routes, and total journey distance. Features include priority seats, operating hours, first bus timings, midnight daily services, and admin fee details. Riders can pay directly and simply tap at convenience stores or MRT stations across Singapore’s mass rapid transit system—one line or multiple transfers.

The Last-Mile Solution

The Bukit Panjang LRT is a dedicated LRT line connecting neighborhoods to the wider MRT network at Bukit Panjang station. It’s a lifeline for local residents, offering smooth, rapid access to schools, malls, and homes. If your journey starts or ends in Bukit Panjang, this light rail ensures easy access to the rest of Singapore.

Thomson East Coast Line

Complete MRT and LRT map of Singapore showing all MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, and Thomson East Coast Line, plus LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT, with clearly marked MRT stations and interchange stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats helps users explore Singapore’s mass rapid transit system with easy access to train stations, public buses, and bus service routes. Riders can plan MRT rides and bus rides using Google Maps, the SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, or the official app, with details on train frequency during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily services. Payment options include contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. Expats can pay directly and simply tap at convenience stores or MRT stations, with admin fee info, operating hours, first bus timings, priority seats, and total distance covered across one line or multiple MRT lines. Singapore’s MRT and LRT network offers cost-effective public transport and train services for every journey and ride.

A New Era of Connectivity

The Thomson East Coast Line (Brown) is Singapore’s newest link, but is not yet fully operational from Woodlands to Marine Parade. As of 2025, it runs from Woodlands North to Sungei Bedok, and new stations are opening progressively. This line keeps enhancing the network, connecting more homes and offices to the rest of the system. It provides new alternatives for both daily commutes and weekend outings, marking an exciting upgrade in public transport.

EZ-Link Card

Hand holding an EZ-Link card in front of Singapore’s modern skyline, symbolizing easy access to Singapore’s MRT system for expats and tourists. The EZ-Link card is a physical card used for MRT rides, bus rides, and train services across MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights how to pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or travel cards from other countries. Riders can simply tap at MRT stations, public buses, and ticketing machines to purchase single trip tickets or the Singapore Tourist Pass. The card works with the SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, Google Maps, and the official app to explore Singapore’s mass rapid transit system. Key interchange stations like Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, and midnight daily. The image reflects Singapore’s cost-effective public transport, train frequency, operating hours, priority seats, admin fee details, and total distance coverage—ideal for planning journeys and rides with convenience stores nearby.

Your All-in-One Travel Card

The EZ-Link card is the standard travel card for all MRT rides and most bus rides in Singapore. Pick one up at MRT or bus interchanges, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, or selected ticketing machines. Current prices may vary—S$12 with S$7 stored value and S$5 admin fee is common, but check official sources for latest pricing. Top-up easily at any ticketing point, online, or with mobile wallets. For seamless tracking, use the EZ-Link or SimplyGo app—auto top-ups are available.

Top-Up Methods

  • Ticketing machines at all MRT stations
  • AXS machines and partner locations
  • The EZ-Link app and SimplyGo app for online top-ups
  • Most convenience stores and bus interchanges

Many expats appreciate the flexibility of having a physical card for daily use and a mobile app for quick account management.

Apple Pay

Hand holding a smartphone with a digital wallet interface ready for contactless payment at a Singapore MRT station, showcasing mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, and contactless bank cards used for MRT rides, bus rides, and train services across Singapore’s MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights how to pay directly and simply tap at MRT stations, public buses, and ticketing machines using physical cards like EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, or travel cards from other countries. The image reflects easy access to Singapore’s mass rapid transit system with cost-effective public transport options, train frequency during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, and midnight daily services. Key train stations and interchange stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible via the MRT map. Expats can explore Singapore using the Singapore Tourist Pass, single trip tickets, and official apps like SimplyGo and MyTransport, with support from Google Maps, convenience stores, and admin fee details. Features include operating hours, first bus timings, priority seats, total distance coverage, and one line transfers across Singapore’s MRT and bus service network.

Tap and Go With Your iPhone

Apple Pay is accepted for MRT rides and bus services—just add your card to your device and tap at fare gates. Manage payments and journey history using the SimplyGo app. Like other mobile wallets (such as Samsung Pay and Fitbit Pay), it’s a cash-free, instant way to pay and keep track of your rides without fumbling for your physical card.

Fitbit Pay

Close-up of a smartwatch displaying a digital payment interface with Fitbit Pay, ready for contactless payment at a Singapore MRT station—ideal for expats using mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Fitbit Pay to pay directly for MRT rides, bus rides, and train services across Singapore’s mass rapid transit system. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights how to simply tap at MRT stations, public buses, and ticketing machines using contactless bank cards, physical cards like EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay, or travel cards from other countries. The image reflects easy access to MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. Expats can explore Singapore with the Singapore Tourist Pass, single trip tickets, and official apps like SimplyGo and MyTransport, supported by Google Maps and convenience stores. Key train stations and interchange stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. The MRT map supports public transport planning with train frequency, operating hours, priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, total distance, and cost-effective journey options for every ride.

Fitness Meets Commuting

Use Fitbit Pay to tap in and out, keeping your wallet in your pocket and your journey hands-free. This mobile payment is especially convenient for travelers on the go or when out for a run—simply tap your device at any gate just like with contactless bank cards.

Contactless Bank Cards

Hand holding a blue contactless bank card at a modern Singapore MRT station, ready to pay directly for MRT rides, bus rides, and train services across Singapore’s mass rapid transit system. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights how to simply tap using physical cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or travel cards from other countries such as EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay. The sleek station environment supports MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. Expats can explore Singapore with the Singapore Tourist Pass, single trip tickets, and official apps like SimplyGo and MyTransport, supported by Google Maps and ticketing machines at MRT stations and convenience stores. Key interchange stations and train stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. The MRT map helps plan cost-effective journeys with public transport options including public buses and bus service routes, train frequency, operating hours, priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, total distance, and one line transfers for every ride.

Hassle-Free and International-Friendly

You can now pay directly for any ride using contactless bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or mobile wallets. Just simply tap at the fare gate—your fares are debited automatically, giving the same cost effective rates as a travel card, and there’s no extra admin fee. Note: Some foreign-issued cards may incur additional transaction or admin fees. Transactions and ride details are all tracked via the SimplyGo app. For more details, visit the SMRT visitor payment guide.

  • Tourists may choose the Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides.
  • NETS FlashPay is another excellent stored-value card alternative.
  • If you only ride occasionally, purchase single trip tickets at ticketing machines.

MRT Map

Full-color Singapore MRT map showing all MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines such as Bukit Panjang LRT, Sengkang LRT, and Punggol LRT, with clearly labeled MRT stations and interchange stations like Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats helps users explore Singapore’s mass rapid transit system with easy access to train stations, MRT rides, bus rides, and public transport options. The MRT map supports travel planning with Google Maps, SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and the official app, showing train frequency during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. Riders can pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. Features include operating hours, priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, convenience stores, public buses, and cost-effective train services across one line or multiple MRT lines, covering total distance for every journey and ride.

Visualize Your Entire Journey

Every station features prominently displayed MRT maps in multiple languages, highlighting MRT lines, interchange stations, and transfer points. Download a map to your phone or access it via the official app or Google Maps for journey planning. Knowing the MRT map helps you visualize the shortest or fastest route to your destination, be it Marina Bay, Orchard Road, or Chinatown MRT.

Understanding Station Layout, Signage & Accessibility

All train stations are designed for easy access—look for digital screens, color-coded paths to various lines, and “You Are Here” markers. English is always present, complemented by Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Features include lifts, ramps, priority seats, and tactile paving for the visually impaired, making every journey accessible for all.

Tip: Always stand on the left side of escalators to let others pass on the right—an important piece of local etiquette.

How Fares Work and What to Expect

Fares for MRT rides and connecting bus rides are calculated by total distance traveled, not by zone. For adults, fares typically range from S$0.69 to S$1.97. Your fare is automatically combined if you switch from bus to train within two hours. Using an EZ link card, NETS FlashPay, or contactless bank cards is more cost effective than single use single trip tickets.

  • There is a difference between peak and off-peak fares—early morning trips before 7:45 AM receive a small discount.
  • Reduced fares for students, seniors, and permanent residents
  • Check exact fares using the MyTransport app or Google Maps before your journeyFor the most accurate fare details—whether traveling short or long distances—see the official SimplyGo adult fare chart.

Managing Peak Hours, Rush Hours & Off Peak Times

Busy Singapore MRT station with commuters walking briskly across tiled floors during peak hours, featuring yellow tactile paving for accessibility and signage for MRT stations and train services. This dynamic scene reflects Singapore’s mass rapid transit system, ideal for expats navigating MRT lines like the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines including Bukit Panjang LRT. The Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights public transport options including MRT rides, bus rides, and public buses, with train frequency details for rush hours, off peak hours, off peak times, and midnight daily services. Riders can pay directly using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. Key interchange stations and train stations like Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible with easy access via Google Maps, SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and the official app. The image captures the cost-effective journey experience across Singapore’s MRT map, with operating hours, priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, and convenience stores nearby for every ride.
  • Peak hours/rush hours: 7:30–9:30 AM, 5:30–7:30 PM; expect the highest crowding at major interchange stations like Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, and Raffles Place.
  • Off peak hours: Minutes between trains are slightly longer, but you’ll grab a seat and enjoy quieter travel—perfect for sightseeing or errands.
  • Weekend peaks: Shopping and leisure areas like Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and Botanic Gardens experience heavier flow especially on Saturday afternoons.
  • All MRT lines run with excellent train frequency and punctual operating hours—the first bus and train generally starts between 5:30 and 6:00 AM, with last trains typically running until about 12:00 midnight.

Commuter Tip: Use the official app or Google Maps for live updates, especially during peak times or planned maintenance.

Interchange Stations

Navigating interchange stations is crucial—these are where one line meets another, allowing you to switch lines easily. Main examples:

  • Dhoby Ghaut (North South, North East, Circle Lines)
  • City Hall (East West, North South Lines)
  • Raffles Place (North South, East West Lines)
  • Outram Park, Jurong East, and Paya Lebar
  • Smaller interchanges allow for quick cross-platform transfers, but larger stations like Dhoby Ghaut and Chinatown MRT involve walks across multiple platforms.

Interchange Tips:

  • Follow floor markings and signs matched to line colors.
  • Double-check train frequency screens to minimize waiting.
  • Plan transfers beforehand using the MRT map or trip planning apps.

Time-Saving Hacks for Expats and Frequent Riders

Interior of a clean, modern Singapore MRT train during peak hours, with passengers seated and standing near priority seats, showcasing the mass rapid transit system used by expats and locals alike. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights MRT rides across MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. Riders can explore Singapore with cost-effective public transport options such as bus rides, public buses, and train services, using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards like EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Key MRT stations and train stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible during rush hours, off peak hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. The MRT map supports journey planning with Google Maps, SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and the official app, offering details on train frequency, operating hours, ticketing machines, admin fee info, first bus timings, and total distance. Expats can pay directly and simply tap at convenience stores or MRT stations, using single trip tickets or the Singapore Tourist Pass for every ride on Singapore’s MRT and bus service network—whether traveling one line or transferring at interchange stations.
  • Stand near the doors in center carriages—they’re less crowded off-peak.
  • Memorize which car stops nearest your preferred exit at your stop.
  • Board at terminal or less busy stations for a better chance at a seat during peak hours.
  • Use the MyTransport app, SimplyGo app, or Google Maps for live data and optimal transfers.
  • Always check ticketing machines for fare changes or updates.

Etiquette and Local Customs

Singapore prides itself on clean, efficient, and courteous public transport. Remember to:

  • Let riders alight first before boarding the train.
  • Keep noise to a minimum; use headphones for all audio.
  • Offer priority seats to those in need.
  • Keep food and drink outside trains.
  • Queue in orderly lines, and keep right to walk on escalators, left side to stand.

Troubleshooting: Disruptions, Emergencies, and Service Changes

Should service be disrupted (rare, but possible), announcements and notices will appear on station screens and in the SimplyGo app or official app. MRT and bus staff are trained for emergencies—press emergency call buttons on trains or platforms for help. Buses are often deployed as a backup bus service on affected routes.

Mixing MRT with Other Options

  • Tap in and out using credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, or physical cards on MRT, LRT, and bus rides.
  • Many bus interchanges are physically integrated with major MRT stations for seamless transfers.
  • Explore bike-share, e-scooters, or walking via Singapore’s sheltered walkways for your last-mile connection.
  • Take the East West Line to Changi Airport for a cost-effective, smooth airport ride.

Mobile Apps and Journey Planning

Smiling person holding a smartphone in front of Singapore’s iconic Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, symbolizing the ease of exploring Singapore with its mass rapid transit system. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights MRT rides across MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines like Bukit Panjang LRT. Expats can access MRT stations and train stations such as Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. Public transport options include public buses, bus rides, and train services with train frequency details and operating hours. Riders can pay directly and simply tap using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. Ticketing machines offer single trip tickets and the Singapore Tourist Pass. The MRT map supports cost-effective journey planning with Google Maps, SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and the official app. Features include priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, convenience stores, and interchange stations for easy access across one line or total distance traveled.

Essential tools:

  • Google Maps and MyTransport app for real-time arrivals and service info
  • EZ-Link app and SimplyGo app for mobile top-ups, card management, and payment tracking
  • Citymapper and Moovit for journey planning, including alternate routes and live updates
  • Download an offline MRT map for underground travel or walkways

    Plan your trips with ease using the Land Transport Authority’s travel planner. It includes route maps, MRT transfer guides, and mobile payment options for commuters.

Marina Bay

Evening view of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, with illuminated towers and the ArtScience Museum in the foreground—an iconic destination easily accessible via Singapore’s MRT system. This Singapore MRT Guide for Expats highlights MRT rides across MRT lines including the North South Line, East West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, Thomson East Coast Line, and LRT lines such as Bukit Panjang LRT. Expats can explore Singapore with cost-effective public transport options like bus rides, public buses, and train services, using contactless bank cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or physical cards such as EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, and travel cards from other countries. MRT stations and train stations including Dhoby Ghaut, City Hall, Chinatown MRT, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Raffles Place, Botanic Gardens, and Tanjong Pagar are accessible during peak hours, off peak hours, rush hours, off peak times, and midnight daily. The MRT map supports journey planning with Google Maps, SimplyGo app, MyTransport app, and the official app. Riders can pay directly and simply tap at ticketing machines or convenience stores using single trip tickets or the Singapore Tourist Pass. Features include train frequency, operating hours, priority seats, admin fee info, first bus timings, interchange stations, and total distance coverage across one line or multiple transfers on Singapore’s mass rapid transit network.

The iconic Marina Bay district is served by several lines—use the Circle Line, Downtown Line, or North South Line to reach the attractions, gardens, and shopping complexes. Transfers here are smooth, serving both tourists and daily commuters, but plan ahead during high-traffic events or special occasions for the easiest ride.

Your Journey Starts Here

Start with your daily routes, focus on the lines and interchange stations that matter most to your journey, and use your travel card or contactless bank cards for the easiest experience. The Singapore MRT Guide for Expats unlocks a city where every commute is simple and efficient, and exploring every corner of Singapore is just a tap away. Welcome aboard!