Singapore’s MRT (mass rapid transit) system is a fast way to get around. The extensive rail network means that most of the key attractions are within walking distance to an MRT station.
You can buy single-trip tickets but if you intend to use the MRT and bus services frequently, you can buy a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP), a special EZ-Link stored-value card which allows unlimited travel for one day (S$10), two days (S$16) or three days (S$20).
The cards are sold at the TransitLink Ticket Office at the following MRT stations―Orchard, City Hall, Raffles Place, Bayfront, Tanjong Pagar, Harbourfront, Chinatown, Farrer Park, Changi Airport, Bugis, Lavender, Jurong East, Kranji, Woodlands, Ang Mo Kio―or at the Concession Card Replacement Office at Somerset station. They are also available at the Automated STP Kiosks at Changi Airport MRT Station (Terminal 2 and 3) near the Transitlink Ticket Office.
Taxis are especially handy to go to places not directly accessible by the bus or MRT.
Taxis here are metered, but there may be surcharges depending on when, where, time and the taxi company you use. Check with the driver at the beginning to get a ballpark idea of the final fare including surcharges and ask for a receipt after the trip. You can hail a taxi by the roadside at most places, or by queuing at taxi stands found at most shopping malls, hotels and tourist attractions. To book a cab, you can call a common taxi booking number, 6-DIAL CAB (6342-5222), and your call will be routed to an available taxi company's call centre.
Singapore's fully air-conditioned bus system has an extensive network of routes covering most places here. It is the most economical and scenic way to get around.
Pay the fare using an EZ-Link stored-value card or the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP), which you tap on the card reader next to the driver as you board. Do remember to tap your card again, on the reader located at the rear exit, as you leave.
For longer stay, the easiest way to pay for travel on the public transport is with the EZ-Link card. The card allows you to travel by train and bus by tapping it at the sensors.
The EZ-Link cards are sold at the customer service counters at MRT stations for S$12 (this includes a S$5 non-refundable deposit).
The card can also be bought at 7-Elevens for S$10 (including the S$5 non-refundable deposit).
Cards can be topped up with cash or by ATM cards at station ticket machines.