5 of the best ways to get around in Singapore

It may be a tiny country and city-state, but this Southeast Asian gem is a dream destination. In fact, Singapore's size makes it even easier to navigate. We round up the best ways to get around and soak up the sensational sights...

Sampling the country’s signature chilli crab or the delights on offer at Satay Street; snapping incredible vistas atop Marina Bay Sands; sipping on a Singapore Sling in Raffles hotel; absorbing unique nature while watching the nightly light and music show at Gardens By The Bay – a trip to Singapore is a bucket-list venture for sure. There are plenty of convenient ways of getting around and experiencing the destination's sights and sounds – just choose whatever floats your boat (speaking of which, there are plenty of river cruises too)…

Here are five of the best ways to take it all in...

1. Walk

It sounds obvious, but strolling in Singapore is both easy and wonderful. Be warned though: walking down Orchard Road will be a huge distraction thanks to the many malls, boutiques and eateries on both sides. Even first-time visitors will feel very safe when walking around. Crime levels are extremely low here, mainly due to the efficiency of the local law enforcement – and its tough punishments. Wander for miles, night or day, and stop to marvel at whatever catches your eye.

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2. Sidecars

A sidecar tour is a perfect, fun way to see the sights of this incredible city-state. The brainchild of Simon Wong, Singapore Sidecars offers an adventure you’ll never forget. Simply choose your vintage Vespa (there are several different colours and styles), decide on a specific route – there are seven in total, including a night ride. Routes cover landmarks, museums, specific neighbourhoods such as the beautiful Muslim Quarter, Kampong Gelam, and even an art tour. Your driver will point out the sights and stop for photographs as and when you wish. If you can’t decide on one route, ask for a bespoke journey. Each route can take one, two or three hours – again, that’s down to you. It beats an open-top bus tour any day.

Singapore Sidecars

READ MORE: 28 things to see, do, eat and drink in Singapore

3. Cycle, scoot or roller skate

Singaporeans take exercise seriously – and rightly so. One of the main reasons for this is how easy it is to cycle (or walk) here. The Park Connector Network (PCN) is a path system that connects all the major parks of Singapore, whether you want to use it for cycling, walking, jogging, roller skating/blading or scootering. The linear network of green corridors winds for 230 miles (370km), with a promise by the National Parks Board (NParks) to extend the network of recreational routes to 311 miles (500km) by 2030. Want to explore but don’t know where to start? The PCN NParks’ website and app can provide you with island-wide routes plus maps to make the most of this unique concept.

4. MRT

We’re used to complicated subway and metro networks in most countries, but Singapore does things differently. MRT stands for Mass Rapid Transit and its efficient, user-friendly service and maps make for pleasant journeys when getting from A to B. There are 140+ stations across six lines that span the island and all MRT trains are air conditioned – a huge win in such a hot and humid climate. When you’re riding a train but have your head stuck in a book or your eyes fixed to your phone, panic usually sets in when you wonder where you are… not here. Conveniently, an LED lights up the stop you’re approaching. A simple idea that works wonders. TfL, take note.

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5. Buses

OK, we hear you. A bus is a bus, right? Wrong. Picture the scene: it’s 35°C (95°F) in the middle of summer, the buses are getting more and more packed as you approach each stop. What would help this uncomfortable situation? Since 2013, all buses in Singapore are air conditioned. A huge win.

It’s also cheap to ride the bus, with fares calculated according to the distance travelled. The Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited travel across bus services, MRT and LRT (Light Rail Transit), across one, two or three days, depending on what suits your plans. Prices start from S$22 (£12.99).

READ MORE: How to spend 48 fun-filled hours on Sentosa Island, Singapore

For more information and to plan your next trip, head to visitsingapore.com

Main image: Richie Chan/Shutterstock