One of the first things you’ll notice upon arriving in Singapore is how organised everything is. From the airport to the city, there are many attractions to see and quickly get to via public transportation.
The strict organisation of this great country continues with their exemplary transportation system that makes getting around Singapore as easy as taking a train, bus or taxi. Visitors to the Island country of Southeast Asia will love that it’s simple to get to any part of the island at all hours of the clock.
You’ll quickly adapt to their public transportation and handle the confusing Singapore MRT train system, even if it’s your first trip to Singapore. It’s time to make a traveller’s life easier for those visiting by providing helpful tips on taking a taxi, catching a Grab, or even a gentle stroll around an incredible country.
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Getting Around Singapore
Unlock the secrets of Singapore with your ultimate travel companion: Google Maps. Whether navigating the bustling streets or venturing into unknown territory, this indispensable App is your ticket to seamless exploration.
Discover the most efficient routes, whether hopping on a bus, strolling to a nearby gem, or cruising to your desired destination. With online and offline options, Google Maps ensures you’re never lost in the city’s enchanting maze.
Join us as we unveil the key to unlocking Singapore’s hidden treasures. Let Google Maps be your guide to a truly unforgettable adventure.
Upon arrival, purchase a 4G Sim Card at Changi Airport!
1. Singapore MRT System is the most Economical way Around
The first thing you’ll want to do upon arrival is head to the nearest 7/11 store and purchase yourself a Singapore MRT pass.
Once you have your card, you can top up the Singapore MRT Fare funds using the ticketing machines at all train stations, and with your newly purchased MRT card, Singapore is easy to get around by catching a train or bus to many areas of the island.
The MRT system will initially seem daunting, with many different train lines to get your head around while you try to work out when to change trains to another rail line.
It won’t take too long to get into the swing of things, and once you do, you’ll find that the MRT transport system is the easiest, most convenient and cheapest way of getting around in Singapore.
Positives of the Singapore MRT Pass:
- The MRT fare is cheap; even the most extended trips by train won’t cost over two dollars.
- Trains run all the time, so if you narrowly miss a train while rushing down the escalator in embarrassing attempts to beat the door, take comfort that the next one is only a few minutes away.
- The trains stop at several locations, so getting to your desired destination is a breeze.
- There is adequate Singapore Airport transport to the door of Changi Airport, so getting to and from the Singapore Airport, or vice versa, is no issue.
Negatives of the Singapore MRT Pass:
- Not many to tell you the truth, but let’s be picky for conversation’s sake. The MRT Transport System can seem confusing for the average tourist, with different lines running in different directions. The chances of getting lost or off at the wrong station in your early days are probably 100%.
- The trains are packed, especially during peak times. Be prepared to stand and huddle close to other commuters aboard the train. There is usually no respite unless you head out of the city centre to locations further away.
2. Catching the Singapore Bus
Using the same MRT card used for the train, using a bus in Singapore is another cheap option for navigating the city. If the train doesn’t run to your intended location, the bus certainly will and generally take you to the entrance of your planned attraction.
Positives of using the Singapore Bus Service:
- On the streets of Singapore, the buses rule. It assists you ideally in getting to the locations the train can’t get to, especially if it seems a little too far to walk.
- The Singapore bus routes go to all the popular destinations, so get on the correct bus route, go upstairs of the double-decker bus and admire the view of the significant city buildings while travelling to your destination.
Negatives of using the Singapore Bus Service:
- There are many Singapore bus routes, so it’s essential to research using the google maps App, which will tell you the bus number you need to catch before hopping aboard. You don’t want to go in the wrong direction and waste valuable holiday time.
- While the buses run pretty frequently, it is not as frequent as the trains, so you must be more patient while waiting for the next SG bus to arrive.
3. Walking Around Singapore is the best way to view the City
One of the best walking cities in the world, and anyone who loves to explore a city at a steady pace on their own two feet may prefer this option.
With many exciting things to see in Singapore’s travel experience, the walking option is recommended, especially if you want to take a photo or two of the city and capture it at its best.
If you are heading to your next attraction and it’s a nearby distance, take a stroll instead of going underground and catching the train.
While the train is convenient, you miss a few hidden gems when you travel around Singapore in a dark tunnel. So, stay above board and don’t miss a second of what Singapore offers.
Positives of walking around Singapore:
- Singapore is a great walking city, and there will be many photo opportunities when taking a town stroll.
- A great way to lose those precious calories, especially if you are eating great food while holidaying in Singapore.
It’s great to keep fit.
Negatives of walking around Singapore:
- Walking in a hot and humid climate will not be a wise option for everybody. Know your limits and how far you need to travel before exercising the option of taking a long walk. Keep hydrated.
- It naturally takes longer to get from point A to point B than the Singapore bus service or the MRT system.
4. Take the Grab Share (Formerly Uber)
Everyone loves ride-sharing, and Grab, the Uber of Southeast Asia, is an excellent way to get from point A to point B during your Singapore travel and has convenient payment options.
It’s cheaper than a taxi and a quick way to get to your next destination, especially if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of catching a crowded train.
The best way to do it is to Download the Grab App, register your details – including a credit card, and order your Grab ride with a few swipes on your smartphone; the driver will be at your current location as soon as possible.
Positives of using Grab:
- Payments are pre-determined when you order your Grab ride through the App, so you can’t be cheated, nor can the driver.
- Cheaper than a taxi.
Negatives of using Grab:
- Grab drivers may cancel on you without notice.
- Due to traffic, you can wait several minutes for a Grab driver to reach your destination.
- You’ll need internet access to order your Grab ride, so being in WIFI access or a SIM card is paramount.
- It can be difficult to contact your driver, especially if you can not make calls on your phone due to no valid SIM card in the area.
5. Hail a Taxi – They are everywhere
Taxi is one of the most popular and convenient transportation methods in Singapore. They are everywhere and can take you to your destination quickly and easily. However, it is essential to know that several surcharges apply to taxi rides in Singapore, such as peak hour surcharges, night surcharges, and airport taxi fares.
If you are looking for a more affordable option for getting around Singapore, using the train instead of a taxi is recommended. The train is much cheaper than a taxi and can quickly get you where you need to go. The most reasonable time to take a cab is during the middle of the day.
If you’re getting around Singapore, using a taxi as a last resort is recommended because many better options are available. Remember that catching a train is a pittance of the price of one taxi ride.
Positives of getting a taxi in Singapore:
- Taxis are everywhere, so it’s handy when you are in a hurry and must get to your destination quickly.
- Taxi drivers in Singapore will likely speak adequate English, so it’s great when you need to explain a few instructions.
Negatives of getting a taxi in Singapore:
- An expensive way of getting around Singapore.
- Not a big problem in Singapore today because it is well organised to stop this from happening, although very few taxi drivers may take advantage of the vulnerable tourist by taking the long route to mount up the bill. On the other hand, some are very informative to the tourist.
Other means of travelling Around Singapore
Experience Singapore’s vibrant transport options with cable cars centred around the iconic Sentosa Island. Sentosa is home to Universal Studios, breathtaking beaches, and captivating attractions; Sentosa Island offers many ways to explore.
One of the most convenient ways to reach Sentosa Island is from the Vivo City shopping mall. Choose from a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, a thrilling ride on the monorail, or a breathtaking journey aboard cable cars to reach new heights.
Getting around Singapore has never been easier, making it a breeze for tourists, whether a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor. Discover the wonders of this fascinating country by simply setting foot in Singapore and embarking on an unforgettable adventure.
Your assessment of Taxi driver taking the long route.
Might be true where you come from.
In singapore taxi drivers loose their licence for that.
Never had a Taxi not asking my preferred route nor taking deliberately long route.
Rest of the article is perfect
Thanks Arnuad for your insight. Much Appreciated.
What about Grab?
Hi Amy, thanks for reminding me I need to update this article, it was Uber at the time of this post, but I know that Grab has taken over now. Thank you.