Planning a trip to Singapore soon, but you're not sure how to navigate around? Lucky for you, our little island packs on many convenient mode of transportations that will get you from one place to another quickly and fuss-free ? Here's some of the best ways to go around the city, plus a few bonus options that combines sightseeing as well!
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1. Mass Rapid Transit
Mass Rapid Transit, also known as MRT for short, is the most common mode of transportation in Singapore for both tourists and locals alike. It's a convenient and fast train service that connects travellers to the nearest neighbourhood and city stations, making it easy to commute around Singapore regardless of where you’re going! ? With the Singapore MRT map continuing to expand at a steady pace, we got you covered with 10 tips a tourist (or even locals) should take note of when exploring the country by train!
2. Bus
Another convenient mode of transportation in Singapore would definitely have to be the bus! Sometimes, buses bring you closer to your destination as compared to trains, which cuts down the time needed to walk (always a plus point in ever-sunny Singapore). In addition, you'll get to admire scenic views in air-conditioned comfort as well ?
If you bought the Singapore Tourist Pass for your train rides, you can use it for your bus trips as well! You can also choose to pay for your bus fare using either the EZ-link or Nets FlashPay card. You can also use your foreign-issued Mastercard® and Visa contactless bank cards issued outside of Singapore to pay for your ride, or pay in cash, however, do make sure that you have the exact amount in change. Just tap on the electronic card reader - located next to the bus driver - as you board, and don't forget to tap out once you've arrived at your destination! For more information, you can head on to TransitLink's SimplyGo website ?
3. Private transport such as taxi and ride-hailing apps
Whether the places you're going to aren't accessible by bus or MRT, or you've lost the battle to Singapore's heat, taxis are a comfortable and convenient mode of transport you can check out! You can hail a taxi by the roadside at most places, or by queuing for one at a taxi stand, which you’ll find at most malls, hotels and attractions ? Cabs here are metered, but there may be surcharges depending on when, where and which company’s taxi you board. You can check with the driver on the surcharges and ask for a receipt at the end of the trip.
Alternatively, you can also book a ride using any of these four main ride-hailing apps in Singapore: Grab, Gojek, Ryde or TADA. Many of these ride-hailing apps have unique deals and discounts throughout the day, which gives you a cheaper fare! ?
4. Cycling
Singapore's called a green city for a good reason, and that's because our sunny island boasts a well-connected network of cycling paths that cuts park connectors and green spaces! So if you're an adventurous soul looking for a change of scenery in the city, check out any of these 12 best cycling routes in Singapore! ? You can rent shared bicycles from licensed operators that's located near popular parks such as East Coast, or even rent a bike from anywhere in the island with Anywheel!
5. Rent your own car
If you prefer travelling at your pace sans the crowds at public transportations and additional costs of taxis, why not rent your own car? ? There's a variety of options available out there, from operators offering car rentals to even car-sharing apps such as GetGo and Shariot.
Do note though that foreigners have to be at least 23 years old to rent a car in Singapore, produce a valid driving license issued by your home country that is officially translated to English, or an International Driving Permit (IDP), and have had your driving license for at least one year. Do note also that should you decide to book a car rental via car-sharing apps, do read the terms and conditions carefully as some may not allow drivers with a foreign license.
6. Ride a Vespa all over the city
This might be the coolest thing you can takeaway from your Singapore trip! Dubbed as the world's first vintage Vespa sidecar tours, Singapore Sidecars lets your breeze through some of the city's landmarks in guided tours vintage-style. Each tour runs between 1-2 hours, but the memories you'll get will last forever. Some tours that we think you should check out are the Singapore in a Nutshell tour (they also offer night rides, which is perfect if you want to catch a glimpse of Singapore's skyline!), Crazy Rich Asians tour in accordance with the popular Hollywood film and the Nonyas, Babas and Peranakans tour!
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7. DUCKtours & Big Bus Singapore
The DUCKtours was the first "amphibious" tour in Singapore where you'll get to take in Singapore's stunning sights both on land and water! The 1-hour tour will bring you around the Civic District before it splashes into water (like a duck ?) and cruise along Marina Bay!
Alternatively, if you prefer to just explore Singapore on land, opt for the Big Bus Singapore instead! It's a Hop-On and Hop-Off bus tour, which means you get to choose where you'd like to go! There's over 33 stops on the route, all of which conveniently located covering iconic landmarks, sights and attractions you want to visit. Plus the open top-deck offers you a panoramic view that's simply picture perfect ?
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8. Take a stroll
It's a free way to explore the city, plus you'll truly be able to mingle around with the locals as well! If you're not sure where to start, why not sign up for a walking tour? Tribe Tours offer walking tours that uncover hidden gems behind popular tourist spots such as Bugis or Kampong Gelam area. Plus you'll be able to snap stunning photos that's bound to wow your IG followers ?
You can also check out any self-guided tours from LocoMole, which not only lets you discover local stories and hidden spots only locals would know, but you'll also be able to find out useful tips about what you can find around the area. There's also augmented reality (AR) technology so you can take unique photos with special effects! Even if you don't decide to take any tours, a simple, lazy stroll around the country lets you take in the gorgeous sights at your own pace! ?
Remember to keep this article handy for your Singapore trip planning! Have fun exploring our little island!
P.S. Need some guides to help you plan? Check out these articles!