MRT Map from LTA
Singapore is a vibrant and exciting city with a wealth of sights and experiences to explore. Taking the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is one of the best and most convenient ways for tourists to explore Singapore. This tourist guide provides a comprehensive overview of Singapore's MRT system and tips for getting the most out of your ride.
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Introduction to the Singapore MRT
Photo by Kit Suman on Unsplash
The history of MRT in Singapore dates back to 1981 and is rooted in necessity. The island's limited space and growing population necessitated a transport system that could accommodate the demand. The then Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, initiated the construction of the MRT, a project that required a staggering budget of 5 billion SGD.
The first MRT line was erected in the Toa Payoh and Novena area in 1983, marking the beginning of a transportation revolution in Singapore. Gradually, the MRT network expanded into the city's center, with the first line, the North-South Line, opening officially on November 7, 1987. Since then, the MRT has become a reliable and comfortable choice of transport for both locals and tourists.
The Singapore MRT system is one of the world's most advanced and efficient transportation networks. It is a great way to explore the city and its many attractions. The system is made up of five lines: North-South, East-West, Circle, Northeast, and Downtown. It is well-connected and covers the entire city, making it easy to get around.
The MRT is a great way to explore Singapore's attractions, as it is well-connected with many of the city's tourist spots. The MRT stations are clearly marked and easy to find. There is also an extensive network of buses and taxis for those who prefer not to take the MRT.
An Overview of the MRT Lines
The MRT system comprises several lines, each denoted by a specific color on the MRT map. These lines connect different parts of Singapore, making travel quick and easy.
Thomson-East Coast Line: The Newest Addition
The Thomson-East Coast Line, denoted by the color brown on the MRT map, is the latest addition to the MRT network. It offers an alternative to the North-South Line and is particularly beneficial for residents of the Woodlands area. The line's construction is still ongoing, with phases two and three delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Thomson-East Coast Line is also part of Singapore's Art in Transit program, featuring unique artworks at each station. Particularly, the Woodlands South station stands out with its vibrant wall decor, making it a fun stop for a quick selfie.
Sengkang LRT and Punggol LRT: Smaller but Significant
The Sengkang and Punggol Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines, marked in grey on the MRT map, are smaller and less speedy than the MRT lines, but they cover essential areas. The Sengkang LRT, a driverless and fully automated train, has two loops: the East Loop and the West Loop. Similarly, the Punggol LRT is divided into two loops.
North-South Line: The Pioneer
As the first MRT line in Singapore, the North-South Line holds historical significance. Since its inauguration in 1987, it has expanded to cover 27 stations and has transitioned from semi-automatic to fully-automatic operation. The line is denoted by red on the MRT map.
Notable Stations:
- Orchard Station: As the epicenter of Singapore's famed shopping scene, Orchard Road offers an unparalleled retail experience with its array of malls and boutiques. The area buzzes with activity, from high-end fashion to street-level bargains, alongside a variety of dining options.
- Marina Bay Station: This station opens up to the futuristic landscape of the Marina Bay area. Here, you can explore the iconic Marina Bay Sands, the stunning Gardens by the Bay with its Supertree Grove, and the architecturally unique ArtScience Museum. The area is a testament to Singapore’s urban innovation and cultural flair.
- Khatib Station: A gateway to Singapore's wildlife experiences, Khatib Station is the closest MRT stop to the Singapore Zoo, River Safari, and Night Safari. These attractions offer immersive encounters with a wide range of wildlife, set in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats.
North East Line: A Technological Marvel
The North East Line, marked in purple on the MRT map, is the world's first fully automated and driverless MRT line. It consists of 16 stations, each featuring distinctive artworks as part of the Art in Transit Program. If you're headed to Sentosa Island, you can disembark at the HarbourFront station and continue your journey via the Sentosa Express Monorail.
Notable Stations:
- Little India Station: Little India is a vibrant district that offers a sensory feast. From the colorful facades of its shophouses to the tantalizing scents of its street food, this area provides an authentic glimpse into Indian culture within Singapore.
- HarbourFront Station: HarbourFront Station serves as the main access point to Sentosa Island, a world-renowned resort destination. Sentosa is a treasure trove of attractions, including beaches, theme parks, and luxury resorts, making it a perfect escape from the city hustle.
- Clarke Quay Station: Clarke Quay is synonymous with nightlife and dining in Singapore. This historic riverside quay is bustling with bars, restaurants, and clubs, offering a lively atmosphere and picturesque views, especially at night.
East-West Line: The Longest Route
The East-West Line, the second oldest MRT line in Singapore, is the longest train rail in the city-state. It covers 35 stations and is marked in green on the MRT map. The line has an extension to Changi Airport from the Tanah Merah MRT Station, making it convenient for travelers.
Notable Stations:
- Raffles Place Station: Situated in the heart of Singapore's financial district, this area is not just about high-rise buildings and corporate offices. A short walk away is the Merlion Park, offering picturesque views of the Marina Bay and a chance to see the iconic Merlion statue.
- Changi Airport Station: Ranked among the world’s best airports, Changi Airport is a destination in itself. The station provides direct access to the airport’s various terminals, including the Jewel Changi Airport, known for its breathtaking Rain Vortex and lush indoor gardens.
- Bugis Station: This station is a stone's throw away from the vibrant Bugis Street market. Known for its bustling atmosphere, the area is a mix of traditional shops, modern boutiques, and street food stalls, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
Downtown Line: The Subterranean Marvel
Marked in blue on the MRT map, the Downtown Line is the fifth and longest fully underground MRT line in the world. It serves 34 stations and is known for its extensive Art in Transit program.
Notable Stations:
- Bugis Station: Bugis is known for its youthful vibe and cultural diversity. The nearby Haji Lane is a narrow alley filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and wall murals, offering a stark contrast to the modern cityscape.
- Promenade Station: The Singapore Flyer, one of the world's largest observation wheels
Circle Line: The Perfect Circle
The Circle Line, aptly named for its circular shape on the MRT map and marked in orange, was the fourth MRT line in Singapore. It spans 35.7 km and covers 30 stations. This line significantly reduced the travel time between Bishan and Changi Airport from 1 hour 30 minutes to just 45 minutes.
Notable Stations:
- Esplanade Station: Adjacent to the iconic Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, this area is a cultural landmark in Singapore, known for its durian-like architecture and a plethora of performing arts events. The nearby Marina Bay area serves as a stunning backdrop, especially during the evening.
- Botanic Gardens Station: The Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to Singapore's reputation as a city in a garden. This station offers direct access to the lush greenery and tranquil scenery of the gardens, including the famous National Orchid Garden.
- Bayfront Station: Bayfront Station is the doorstep to the Marina Bay Sands complex, a symbol of modern Singapore. The area is a hub of luxury shopping, fine dining, and entertainment, with the ArtScience Museum adding a touch of creativity and innovation.
Bukit Panjang LRT: The First Light Rail System
The Bukit Panjang LRT, marked in grey on the MRT map, was the first light rail system in Singapore. Despite its short length of 7.6 km, it conveniently connects with the North-South Line and Downtown Line.
MRT fares and ticketing systems
The fares for Singapore MRT are dependent on the distance traveled and the type of ticket used. The fares are divided into two categories: adult fares and senior citizen/student fares.
For adult fares, the prices range from S$0.92 to S$3.10 for a single trip, depending on the distance traveled. Passengers can also choose to use the EZ-Link card, which offers a 10% discount off the standard adult fare. The EZ-Link card can be purchased and topped up at any MRT station or convenience store.
For senior citizen/student fares, the prices range from S$0.50 to S$1.55 for a single trip, again depending on the distance traveled. Senior citizens can enjoy these fares if they are aged 60 years and above, while students can enjoy these fares if they are primary, secondary, or full-time polytechnic students in Singapore.
There are also other types of tickets available, such as the Singapore Tourist Pass and the Monthly Travel Pass, which offer unlimited rides within a certain duration. Passengers are encouraged to check the fare calculator on the webpage to determine the fare for their intended journey.
Factor | Adult Fares (SGD) | Senior Citizen/Student Fares (SGD) |
Distance Traveled | S$0.92 - S$3.10 | S$0.50 - S$1.55 |
Type of Ticket | Standard or EZ-Link card | Standard or Senior Citizen/Student concession card |
Discount | 10% off standard adult fare with EZ-Link card | N/A |
EZ Link Card
To use the MRT, tourists will first need to purchase an EZ-Link card, which can be easily obtained at any MRT station. The card can be used not only on the MRT, but also on buses and certain other forms of public transportation in Singapore. Tourists can choose between a single-trip ticket, which is valid for one journey on the MRT, or a stored-value card, which allows for multiple trips and can be topped up as needed.
Once they have their EZ-Link card, tourists can plan their trip using the interactive MRT map, which can be found on the official website of the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The website also provides real-time updates on train schedules and disruptions, so visitors can plan their journey with confidence.
MRT is an effective transport system for tourists
Overall, the MRT is a convenient and efficient way for tourists to explore Singapore. With its extensive coverage of popular attractions and easy-to-use payment system, it is the perfect option for visitors who want to make the most of their time in the city-state. If you are planning to book flights to Singapore, do check out our Trip.com Promotion Codes for the greatest savings.