Ever wondered what makes Singapore Changi Airport more than just a place to catch a flight? It is a destination in itself, a vibrant hub where magic, joy, and a sense of wonder fill the air. Since our first Best Airport award by Business Traveller UK in 1988 to our 13th Skytrax triumph as the World’s Best Airport in 2025, we have continued to touch and delight passengers with the iconic Changi Experience.
At the Skytrax 2025 World Airport Awards, Changi Airport also bagged the World’s Best Airport Dining, World’s Best Airport Washrooms, and Best Airport in Asia awards.
We take a look at what makes Changi Airport tick, and what keeps travellers loving Changi.
1. Connecting travellers to destinations for lasting memories
As a global air hub, Changi Airport connects travellers to destinations around the world.
With direct links to some 160 cities by about 100 partner airlines, Changi Airport is a gateway for tens of millions of travellers to places across the globe. More recently, it has expanded its connectivity to destinations such as Harbin, Dali and Lanzhou in China, Vienna in Austria, Darwin in Australia, and Labuan Bajo in Indonesia.
Shenzhen Airlines flies between Harbin and Singapore four times a week, with a brief stop at Shenzhen.
Travellers seeking direct flights to Phu Quoc, Vietnam, can currently fly with Scoot. VietJet Air will commence service to Phu Quoc on 30 May 2025.
With many flights to nearby Southeast Asian destinations such as Krabi and Koh Samui in Thailand, Phu Quoc, and Da Nang in Vietnam, as well as Yogyakarta and Padang in Indonesia, quick weekend getaways from Singapore has become more accessible than ever!
2. Embracing tranquility with lush greenery
Lush plants along Airport Boulevard offer a green welcome to Changi Airport.
Tall palms, blooming bougainvilleas and lush bushes line the approach to Changi Airport, setting a calm and relaxing start to your journey ahead.
Inside the airport, terminals are adorned with horticultural displays and numerous gardens, offering travellers moments of respite, photo-taking opportunities, and a refreshing burst of colour to alleviate the stress of travel.
Dreamscape is a must-see at Changi Airport, a wonderful treat before your flight.
Among the many captivating Changi attractions, Dreamscape, Changi Airport’s newest indoor garden in Terminal 2 (Transit), features more than 20,000 plants from over 100 species displayed on beams and hanging structures. Look up and be mesmerised by the digital sky that reflects real-time weather conditions. Catch a captivating light and sound show that plays throughout the day at 15-minute intervals.
The Cactus Garden offers great outdoor views of the tarmac and runway.
Steel In Bloom is a uniquely designed garden where steel meets nature.
Across Changi’s terminals, various gardens await. These attractions in Changi Airport offer a breath of fresh air and a chance to connect with nature.
Explore the 100 varieties of cacti and desert plants at the Cactus Garden in Terminal 1 (Transit), catch sunflower blooms at the Sunflower Garden in Terminal 2 (Transit), experience a first-of-its-kind Butterfly Garden in an airport in Terminal 3 (Transit), and marvel at a 6-metre-tall steel centrepiece featuring botanical motifs and plants at Steel In Bloom in Terminal 4 (Transit).
3. Captivating views in Jewel and across terminals
Changi Airport’s Jewel Rain Vortex and the Shiseido Forest Valley mesmerise visitors. Find the perfect photo spot on your next visit!
The many attractions at Changi Airport create memorable experiences from the time you land, and these include wonderful views. The iconic 40-metre Jewel Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, has drawn millions of visitors since its 2019 debut.
Those in transit seeking a glimpse of Jewel’s splendour can take the Skytrain service travelling between Terminal 2 and 3. Have your cameras ready to capture stunning views from the skytrain.
Within the terminals, expansive full-length windows provide breathtaking views into the airside, allowing you to watch aircraft takeoffs and landings. But the views aren't just outward; in the Terminal 2 Departure Hall, stands The Wonderfall, a roaring four-storey digital waterfall. The "Rhythms of Nature" show, a must-see, plays every 30 minutes.
4. Impeccably clean and pristine surroundings
Robot cleaners at Changi Airport keep the terminals sparkling clean 24/7.
Changi Airport’s restrooms are award-winning and worth a visit to freshen up
Beyond visual appeal, Changi Airport ensures a comfortable passenger experience by maintaining impeccably clean and fresh surroundings. Autonomous robots and diligent airport staff work tirelessly to keep the terminals sparkling. Some restrooms in Changi Airport even boast magnificent views of the tarmac! Check out those in Terminal 1 Central Piazza in particular.
Recognised with the World’s Best Airport Washrooms title at the Skytrax 2025 World Airport Awards, Changi’s dedication to comfortable and clean restroom experiences for passengers is evident.
Across the terminals, a signature Orchid Tea scent, blending floral and spice notes, creates a lasting positive impression. If you want to bring a scent of Changi home, this bespoke fragrance is available as reed diffusers, perfume oils, and scented candles at GIFT by Changi Airport in Jewel (#04-233) and on iShopChangi.
5. A wealth of entertainment options
Catch your favourite shows and unwind at TV lounges across Changi Airport.
Watch movies for free at the movie theatre in Terminal 3 (Transit).
There’s never a dull moment in Changi Airport. TV lounges in the transit areas allow you to sink into the plush couches and catch up on your favourite programmes.
Looking for free things to do at Changi Airport during your transit? A hidden gem is the free movie theatre in Terminal 3 (Transit), located next to Ambassador Transit Hotel. Blockbusters and popular films are screened throughout the day.
ST3PS at the public area of Terminal 3 is a vibrant event atrium
In the public areas, ST3PS at Terminal 3 Basement 2 provides free movie and football match screenings, alongside weekly live performances, and exercise classes.
6. Countless food options for a culinary adventure
You will never go hungry with the wide variety of cuisines at Changi Airport.
Come to Changi Airport hungry, so you can embark on a gastronomic journey. A multiple-time winner of the World’s Best Airport Dining award by Skytrax, you will find an array of restaurants, food courts and F&B kiosks that cater to every palate and budget.
Singapore Food Street showcases Singapore’s diverse food culture and heritage. Halal and vegetarian options are available.
Indulge in authentic Italian flavours at Allora Ristorante & Bar in Crowne Plaza Changi Airport.
The newly renovated Singapore Food Street in Terminal 3 (Transit) has more than 10 food stalls serving a range of dishes. Highlights include local culinary gems like Tai Wah Pork Noodle and Rong Cheng Bak Kut Teh (peppery pork rib soup).
At Jewel, be ready to experience unique dining experiences at restaurants that provide spectacular views of the Rain Vortex, such as PS.Cafe, Shake Shack, and Tonito.
Those seeking an indulgent meal can savour authentic Chilli Crab at JUMBO Seafood in Jewel, order from the extensive menu at The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck in Terminal 3 (Transit), or enjoy sophisticated Italian fare, including handcrafted pizzas, at Allora Ristorante & Bar in Crowne Plaza Changi Airport.
7. Uncompromising comfort and relaxation
The SATS Premier Lounge at Terminal 3 (Transit) provides a comfortable space to rest, catch up on work, and indulge in delicious Singaporean cuisine (you must try the Laksa!)
For travellers seeking respite amid travel journeys, there are airline and pay-per-use lounges across terminals with a range of amenities to rest and recharge.
At Jewel, Changi Lounge (Level 1) offers an exclusive retreat, complete with complimentary snacks, WiFi and shower rooms. The best part? Jewel’s attractions, as well as dining and shopping options, are within easy reach.
Find comfortable and quiet snooze lounges in transit areas for your power nap.
Enjoy comfortable rooms with flexible check-in options at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, directly connected to Terminal 3. (Image credit: Crowne Plaza Changi Airport)
For those needing a quick recharge, dedicated snooze lounges in Changi Airport’s transit areas provide a sanctuary for undisturbed rest. If you're not sure where to sleep in Changi Airport for free, these lounges are a great option.
For further relaxation, Natureland and BeRelax Spa outlets, located in Terminals 2 and 3, offer a range of rejuvenating treatments.
Need an extended rest? Check in to the stylish YOTELAIR in Jewel, or treat yourself to a stay at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport (awarded World’s Best Airport Hotel for the 10th time at the Skytrax 2025 World Airport Awards). Both hotels are located in the public areas. For those with layovers or early flights, transit hotels in Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are also convenient options.
8. Thoughtfully curated amenities
A pleasant and seamless journey for passengers is a priority, and carefully designed amenities are implemented across the airport, making Changi Airport a favourite among passengers.
Baby care rooms are available throughout Changi Airport for families with young children.
Special assistance amenities in Changi Airport are designed to cater to every travellers’ needs.
For families, well-equipped baby care rooms and complimentary strollers ease the journey with little ones.
Staying connected is a breeze for all, thanks to readily available charging points throughout the terminals and boarding gates, as well as complimentary WiFi.
For passengers with mobility needs, Changi Airport provides accessible changing rooms and ramp-accessible drop-off and pick-up points. Complimentary wheelchairs are also available for loan from information counters in the terminals and at Jewel.
At immigration, wide Special Assistance Lanes enable travellers using wheelchairs and family groups with young children (up to four persons) to enjoy automated immigration clearance.
9. Heartwarming hospitality
Changi Experience Ambassadors, easily recognisable in fuchsia jackets (ladies) and blazers (gentlemen), are always ready to assist you.
At the heart of the Changi Experience is heartwarming hospitality, embodied by all airport staff. Our dedicated and friendly Changi Experience Ambassadors stand ready at information counters and virtual platforms to assist you with a smooth and stress-free journey. The team of Changi Experience Ambassadors are collectively fluent in over 20 languages, from English and Chinese to Bulgarian and German.
Adding a unique touch of warmth, Changi Service Ambassadors, volunteers who dedicate their time to wayfinding assistance, also bring joy to the terminals with weekly ukulele performances, transforming transit into a truly welcoming and memorable experience. Catch them the next time you’re in Changi Airport!
10. Unparalleled retail experience
Lotte Duty Free Singapore in Terminal 3 (Transit) is a duplex wines, spirits & tobacco store with Changi Exclusive offerings.
No Changi Airport experience is complete without shopping. Find everything from Singaporean snacks and souvenirs to premium perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury items. You can pre-order your haul on iShopChangi for convenient collection at Collection Centres within the terminals before you depart or after you arrive in Changi Airport.
If you prefer a more spontaneous shopping spree, explore the many brands and new retail experiences when in transit! Remember to cater enough time to shop to your heart’s content.
Beyond The Vines is a popular Singapore home-grown brand with a pop-up store in Terminal 1. (Image credit: Beyond The Vines)
Discover the Forest of Li Bai in Lotte Duty Free Singapore’s Terminal 2 (Transit) Central store.
Discover pop-up stores from local brands, such as Beyond The Vines and Mr Bucket in Terminal 1 (Transit) and Terminal 2 and 3 (Transit) respectively. The new, inviting, and immersive experience at Forest of Libai, or the Exceptional Liquor Tasting Lounge, at Lotte Duty Free Singapore’s Terminal 2 (Transit) store stands out with its blend of art, liquor tasting, and entertainment.
11. Non-stop fun for people of all ages
2 The Bears Hideout playground is perfect for capturing photos of the kids having fun.
Jump, bounce, and hop to your heart’s content at the Bouncing Net at Jewel’s Canopy Park.
Young travellers will find joy in the dedicated play areas at Changi Airport. Newer additions include the 2 Bears Hideout in Terminal 2 (Transit) and a new playground in Terminal 1 (Transit) featuring tulips and a wooden macaw. At Jewel's Canopy Park, bouncing nets, exhilarating slides, and challenging mazes promise non-stop entertainment.
The newly unveiled Fit&Fun Zone in Terminal 2 (Transit) also alleviates travel fatigue with activities such as lifting, bouncing, and swinging for a quick recharge.
For those seeking an interactive and educational experience, Changi Experience Studio provides interesting insights into the airport's rich history, service ethos, and intricate operations. Don’t miss the ‘Amazing Runway’ station, where you and your friends can compete in a multiplayer game on stationary bicycles, recreating the Porsche vs. Boeing jet challenge that happened on Changi Airport’s runway in 2009.
12. Effortless journeys, from check-in to boarding
The Early Check-in facility in Jewel allows passengers to check in and drop off baggage early.
Changi Airport’s suite of self-service options makes check-in, baggage drop and immigration a breeze. It saves you valuable time to explore the airport.
Early check-in facilities in Jewel (Level 1) and Terminal 1 provide check-in services for more than 15 participating airlines from three to 24 hours before flight departure. This gives you even more time to shop, eat and play in Changi Airport!
Your face is your passport – all departing passengers can clear immigration at Changi Airport without passports.
The passport-less immigration clearance for all departing passengers allows travellers a rapid passage through automated lanes. Singapore residents enjoy the convenience of passport-free immigration for both arrivals and departures, further streamlining immigration processes.
At selected boarding gates, boarding for your flight is automated, allowing you to scan your boarding pass and have your photo taken to board the aircraft.
13. Quick and easy access to Singapore’s city centre
Singapore's vibrant city centre and key attractions are within easy reach from Changi Airport, making it extra convenient for travellers and Singapore residents. Whether you prefer the swift 20-minute car ride or the convenience of public transport, accessibility is seamless.
The MRT (train) station is connected to Terminals 2 and 3, offering convenient access to and from Changi Airport.
Multiple affordable transport options, including public buses, efficient train services, readily available taxis and private hire cars, and pre-booked airport transfers via the Ground Transport Concierges, provide travellers with effortless connections to the city, making exploration both quick and convenient.
So, there you have it – 13 undeniable reasons why Changi Airport isn't just a pit stop, but a destination in its own right. The next time you find yourself at Changi, remember to slow down, explore, partake in the many things to do within the transport hub and savour the magic. After all, it's not just about reaching your destination – it's about enjoying the journey. And at Changi Airport, that journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Start your holiday right at Changi Airport.
For more updates on Changi Airport, follow on Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram, X, Telegram and YouTube. You can also sign up for a Changi Account and have the latest news and articles delivered right into your inbox.