Stopping over in Singapore?
Everyone already knows about the impressive indoor waterfall and the lush green spaces of Singapore Changi Airport. But Changi Airport didn’t top the rankings of the world’s best airports for years just because of these IG-worthy spots. It also boasts entertaining, relaxing, and even educational facilities that will almost make you wish you didn’t have to leave for your next flight.
The secret to making the most of your next stopover at Singapore Airport is knowing where to go. To help you hack your layover at Singapore Airport, we did our research and listed down its best-kept secrets that will make the time pass by quickly:
1. Get a massage
Stopping by Singapore after a long and tiring trip? Drift into a state of bliss and relaxation at Changi. Head to Terminal 3 to try out the massage chairs free of charge. If you want something more in-depth, go to the Airport Wellness Oasis in Terminal 1 for a body massage by a masseuse.
Massage chairs - T3, Level 2 - FREE
Airport Wellness Oasis - T1, Near D Gates - PAID
2. Play video games for free
Whether you’re a bored traveller or a nervous flyer who wants to distract themselves, you’ll have a blast enjoying the different consoles and games at the Entertainment Deck. Play against each other or try to beat the record on the Wii, Xbox 360, or Playstation.
Location: T2, Level 3 - FREE
3. Save money and eat at Secret Staff Canteen
Despite its name, Singapore Airport’s Staff Canteen is actually open for everyone, including travellers. To find the cafeteria and save money on overpriced airport food, head towards the car park in Terminal 2 and head to the 3rd floor until you see the sign for the canteen. Once there, you’ll find several affordable options like fish and chips, soya bean drinks, pastries, and pastas.
T2, Public area
4. Experience a complete Dior makeover and fragrance customisation for FREE
Need a touch up after a long trip? Head to the Dior counter for the luxurious makeover you deserve. You can choose between a natural, no-makeup makeup look or a red-carpet ready look that will have you looking like a celebrity. Then, you can also find out the perfect Dior perfume that matches your makeover.
T3, The Shilla Duty Free
5. Watch a movie for free
No need to settle for your phone’s tiny screen to enjoy a movie. Head to the theatres and watch the newest blockbuster in massive screens and comfortable seats. The best part? They’re open 24 hours, so you can enjoy it no matter what time you arrive.
Location: T2, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall | T3, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall North
Worried about travel restrictions? Don’t fret. Check out everything you need to know about the Singapore and Australia travel bubble on Klook.
6. Get a free skin test
Worried about your skin? Get science-based results at the airport. Head to the SK-II counter and get a magic ring test to find out just how your skin is based on texture, firmness, radiance, spot control, and wrinkle resilience. You’ll see how old your skin is and the best way to address any issues.
Location: T3, The Shilla Duty Free
7. Go on a swim at the rooftop
Beat the Singaporean heat with a nice swim at the rooftop pool! Watch aeroplanes zoom through the sky as you float along the water. Arriving at night? Try the jacuzzi and get drinks from the poolside bar for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Location: T1, Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel, Level 3
8. Take a nap at the Snooze Lounge
There’s no need to break the bank on an airport hotel to catch some Z’s when at Singapore Airport. Take a much-deserved nap at the Snooze Lounge, where you’ll find comfortable long chairs in a quiet area. And the best part? The snooze lounges are free!
T2, Transit Area, Level 2 | T3, Mezzanine, Departure Transit Hall North | T4, Level 2M, Departure Transit Hall
9. Shop online and avoid the queues
Don’t have time to look through the dozens and dozens of shops and boutiques at Changi? No problem. Just buy what you want at iShopChangi.com and get your order from the counter nearest your gate. All you have to do is show the receipt on your phone and you’re good to go.
In a hurry to get to your hotel? Check out the best ways to get from Singapore Airport to your accommodation.
10. Watch TV at Xperience Zone
Calling all sports fans! There’s no need to miss out on the action even though you have to wait at the airport for your flight. At the Xperience Zone, you’ll get to watch games as it happens on the big screen. It’s open for 24 hours, so you can get caught up on all things sports.
Location: T2, Level 2, Departure Transit Hall
11. See butterflies at the Butterfly Garden
Singapore Airport has everything you can ask for and more. It even has a butterfly garden—the world’s first in an airport. Be surrounded by vibrant tropical plants, a 6 metre waterfall, and around 1,000 butterflies as you walk through the enclosure. Bring your camera to take photos of the butterflies feeding on different flowers.
Location: T3, Levels 2 and 3
12. Play or dine at Canopy Park
Take the entire fam to a fun time at the Canopy Park. You and the kids can enjoy the fun mazes, massive slides, bouncing nets, and more. There are also plenty of photo opps at the Mirror Maze, Petal Garden, and the Topiary Walk.
Location: Jewel, Level 5
13. Snap photos at The Social Tree
Leave your (digital) mark on Singapore Airport and share photos and videos on the Social Tree. You can use your Facebook or email account to upload your post and see it on the big screen alongside iconic images of the city’s skyline.
Location: T3, Public Area, Level 1
14. Ride down one of the world’s tallest slides
Just a stone’s throw away from the tree, you’ll find The Slide@T3, which holds the record for being the tallest slide in an airport. The entire fam will enjoy the twists and turns down the four-storey high slide. Going down to Basement 3 has never been this fun!
Location: T3, Public Area, Level 1
15. Learn about Singapore’s rich heritage at the Peranakan Gallery
One of the most unique things about Singapore is its exceptional local culture that’s been influenced by China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. At the Peranakan Gallery, you’ll get a close look at how the different cultures have made Singapore the melting pot that it is today as you admire traditional clothes and portraits.
Location: T4, Transit, Level 2
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16. Enjoy interactive games at the Experience Studio
Get a behind the scenes look into what it takes to run Singapore Airport at the Experience Studio. Play interactive games, get to know more about flying aircrafts, and enjoy captivating projection experiences. Kids and adults can also participate in a bike race and join the smile challenge.
Location: Jewel, Level 4