Singapore MRT Map & Guide 2025, Singapore

Why the MRT is the easiest way to see Singapore

Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is fast, clean, air-conditioned and incredibly well-connected. Trains run roughly from 5:30am to around midnight daily, with 2–3 minute headways at peak and 5–7 minutes off-peak on most lines.¹ During major festivals, operating hours are often extended—check operator notices close to the date.¹

Use the official interactive map (and download the latest PDF)

For the most accurate, station-by-station view—including line interchanges, station amenities and nearby points of interest—use the MRT/LRT Interactive Systems Map from Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA).² If you prefer an offline copy, download the current system map (multi-language versions available) direct from LTA. The 2025 map reflects the newest openings and naming updates.^1,3

Download the latest system map (PDF).³

Meet the lines (and where they're great for visitors)

• North–South Line (NSL, Red): Handy for Orchard Road shopping (Orchard, Somerset), Marina Bay (Marina Bay), and transfers at City Hall/Raffles Place via linked interchanges.
• East–West Line (EWL, Green): Connects the city with Changi Airport (CG2 Changi Airport), Marina Bay, Bugis and heritage districts like Kampong Glam (Bugis). Great backbone for cross-island journeys.³
• Circle Line (CCL, Orange): An orbital line that links fringe-of-CBD neighborhoods and stadiums; useful for Bayfront (via the Downtown Line as an interchange), Esplanade, and the National Stadium area.
• North East Line (NEL, Purple): Runs to HarbourFront—gateway to Sentosa via the Sentosa Express and pedestrian boardwalk (Sentosa Express is not part of the MRT fare system).
• Downtown Line (DTL, Blue): Excellent for museums and the civic district (Bugis, Bencoolen, Downtown), Little India (Little India, Rochor) and Chinatown (Chinatown interchange).
• Thomson–East Coast Line (TEL, Brown): A newer north–south corridor serving Woodlands, Thomson, Orchard, Shenton Way and East Coast areas as it stages open. Great for CBD and lifestyle areas as the line expands.^1,3
• LRT Lines: Feeder loops in estates such as Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol connect neighborhoods to the main MRT network.³

Pro tip: Use the official interactive map to preview walking connections and barrier-free routes at interchanges so you can minimise stairs and save time.²

Operating hours & frequency

Trains typically operate from about 5:30am to around midnight. Peak-hour frequency averages 2–3 minutes, and 5–7 minutes off-peak, system-wide.¹ For exact first/last train times at a specific station, check operator pages (e.g., SMRT station info) or third-party trackers—especially if you're catching an early flight or arriving late at night.^4,5

Paying your fare: cards, contactless, and the Tourist Pass

1) EZ-Link / NETS FlashPay (Card-Based Ticketing)

Adult card-based ticketing (CBT) continues to run in parallel with SimplyGo, giving commuters the option to keep using traditional EZ-Link/NETS FlashPay cards on public transport.⁶

2) SimplyGo (Account-Based Ticketing, including contactless bank cards)

SimplyGo lets you tap in/out with contactless bank cards or a SimplyGo-enabled stored-value card, and review trips digitally. See LTA's newsroom and SimplyGo resources for the latest on features, card compatibility and service points, as the ecosystem continues to consolidate under the SimplyGo brand.^7,8

3) Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) for unlimited rides

Visitors who expect to ride often can consider the Singapore Tourist Pass (1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, or 5-day options) for unlimited rides on basic MRT/LRT and public bus services during the validity period. Current guide prices: 1-Day S$17, 2-Day S$24, 3-Day S$29, 4-Day S$37, 5-Day S$45.^9,10,11 Check the official site for purchase locations (selected SimplyGo Ticket Offices, automated kiosks and partner points) and full terms.¹²

How much does a single MRT trip cost?

Singapore uses distance-based fares. The easiest way to estimate is LTA's official Fare Calculator, which supports multi-leg journeys across MRT/LRT and buses when you tap in/tap out with eligible cards.¹³

Monthly passes & concessions

If you're a student or frequent commuter, compare monthly concession passes on the Public Transport Council (PTC) site before you buy—plans and prices are periodically reviewed.¹⁴

Fare-saving tips locals use

• Check the Fare Calculator before long trips: Small route changes (e.g., a different interchange) can alter fares slightly under the distance-based system.¹³
• Tourists: do the math on STP vs pay-per-ride: If you're planning fewer than ~5–6 train/bus rides a day (typical tourist day), pay-per-ride can be cheaper; if you're criss-crossing the island, a Tourist Pass can pay off and eliminates top-ups.^9,10,11
• Use one card consistently: Mixing cards (e.g., a bank card in the morning, EZ-Link in the afternoon) scatters trip history and makes spend tracking harder. The SimplyGo app centralises this when paired with compatible cards.⁸
• Travel off-peak when possible: You'll save time (faster boardings, fewer crowds), and the system runs very frequently off-peak (typically every ~5–7 minutes).¹

MRT etiquette & rules (read before you ride!)

Singapore's MRT is famously orderly—and that's because commuters follow clear rules and social norms. Key regulations are set out under the Rapid Transit Systems Regulations (Singapore Statutes).^15,16 Highlights:

• No eating or drinking on trains and within paid station areas. Offenders may be fined (up to S$500 for such nuisance behaviors).^15,17
• No smoking anywhere in MRT premises. (Also prohibited under separate laws.)
• Mind the platform edge and obey safety signage. Serious offences like soiling or dangerous acts can attract heavier penalties (up to S$5,000 in some cases).¹⁷

Beyond legal rules, gracious habits make everyone's ride smoother:

• Let alighting passengers exit first before boarding.
• Stand on the left, walk on the right on escalators (a common local habit, though stations may encourage standing still for safety).
• Keep doorways clear—move into the carriage during peaks.
• Give up your seat to those who need it: elderly, pregnant commuters, passengers with disabilities or young children. Reserved/priority seats are clearly marked to encourage this.¹⁸
• Headphones on, volume down: keep calls short and quiet.
• No bulky or hazardous items that obstruct doors or aisles.

Tip: If you have an invisible condition and need a seat, ask at ticket/passenger service counters about initiatives (e.g., “May I Have a Seat Please”) that help signal your need discreetly.¹⁹

Plan like a local: trip-planning tools that actually help

• LTA Interactive Map & MyTransport app: Official source for lines, stations, walking links and service advisories.^2,1
• Operator pages: SMRT/SBS station pages show first/last train times for individual stations (handy for early-morning airport runs).⁵
• Community trackers: Third-party sites (e.g., SGTrains) compile first/last trains and disruptions in one place. Use together with official advisories.⁴

Best lines for major attractions

• Gardens by the Bay & Marina Bay Sands: Bayfront (DTL/CCL). Short covered walks to the attractions.
• Chinatown & Civic District: Chinatown (DTL/NEL), City Hall and Raffles Place interchanges for museums and the river.
• Orchard Road shopping: Orchard/Somerset (NSL), Orchard Boulevard (TEL) for the Tanglin end.
• Little India & Tekka: Little India (DTL/NEL), Rochor (DTL).
• Jewel & Changi Airport: EWL to CG2 Changi Airport for Terminals 1–3 via Skytrain/walkway; check terminal connections and first/last trains before early flights.^3,5
• Sentosa Island: NEL/CCL to HarbourFront, then transfer to Sentosa Express (separate fare) or walk the boardwalk.
• East Coast & Thomson areas: TEL as stages open; also connects to Orchard and the CBD.³

Accessibility

MRT stations are equipped with lifts, tactile guidance where applicable, and platform safety systems. Use the interactive map or station pages to confirm barrier-free routes and lift locations before you go.²

Riding the MRT from Changi Airport

The EWL connects Changi Airport to the city with one transfer at Tanah Merah or Expo depending on service patterns. If you're landing late, verify last-train times at your destination station; if you miss the last train, taxis and ride-hailing operate 24/7.^5,4

Quick FAQ

Is tap-to-pay with my foreign bank card supported?
Yes—contactless bank cards are supported via SimplyGo's account-based ticketing. Check card issuer compatibility and roaming settings, and register in the SimplyGo app if you want trip notifications and e-receipts.^7,8

Is the Singapore Tourist Pass worth it?
If you plan multiple long hops each day (airport ⇄ city, then attractions in different districts), the flat daily price can be good value. If you'll mostly explore one area per day, pay-per-ride may cost less.^9,10,11

Where can I see my fare before travelling?
Use the official LTA Fare Calculator to estimate multi-leg trips (bus + MRT).¹³

Can I eat or drink on the train?
No. Consumption of food or drink is prohibited on trains and within paid station areas; fines may apply under the Rapid Transit Systems Regulations.^15,17