How to get around Singapore: Transportation options
by | November 22, 2022
Traveling to Singapore soon? The good news is that Singapore is one of the easiest cities to navigate in the world because it boasts an incredibly efficient public transport system and affordable taxis.
In this guide, we'll tell you everything you need to know about getting around Singapore. You won't have to worry about how to get around Singapore. Instead, you'll be able to focus on making incredible memories in the “Garden City.”
So, let’s jump right in and review everything you need to know about how to get around Singapore!
How to get around in Singapore: Airport transfers
The first step of your trip is to apply for the SG Arrival Card and getting on your flight. Once you’ve landed in Singapore, time to go to your hotel to drop off your bag. Changi Airport offers travellers a convenient 24-hour transfer service (called Ground Transport Concierges or GTC) to transfer them from the airport to their destination of choice. While you can hop onto a private 4 or 7-seater vehicle, you can also enjoy the city’s shuttle services for only S$ 10.
Alternatively, you can pick up your rental car from one of the many car rental companies at the airport, book a rideshare, catch a taxi, jump on the Metro (MRT) or catch a bus. As you can tell, there are many ways of getting around Singapore, you just need to pick whatever fits your plan and budget the best.
How to get around Singapore in the city
There are five main ways to answer how to get around Singapore.
The Underground
The underground, called SMRT for Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (also called MRT), is the pride of Singaporeans and probably the best way of getting around Singapore. It is one of the cleanest, fastest, and easiest undergrounds to use on the planet. And as a bonus, it’s cheap, making it the preferred mode of transport for many travellers.
There are currently six MRT lines spanning the island, and the lines are constantly expanding to improve rail coverage. These lines feature over 140 stations meaning that wherever you are in Singapore, you’re never far from an MRT station.
In addition to the six MRT lines, the city also features two LRT lines (Light Rapid Transit) featuring over 40 stations across the city-state. The two operators running the train system are the SMRT Corporation Ltd (SMRT) and SBS Transit (SBST), each covering different areas. You’ll find more information on the official website, including a map of the train network.
To pay for your fare, you can either buy a stored value card (which can be used on the MRT, LRT, or buses throughout the city) or buy a tourist pass. Stored value cards can be purchased on EZ-link or NETS. The tourist pass is ideal if you're planning to travel a lot within the city and are only staying for a short period of time.
Bus
Singapore has an extensive network of bus routes. The buses are clean, reliable, all feature air-con, and provide cheap and frequent rides, making them another great option for travellers.
The fares typically depend on the distance travelled, but you’ll find more information on the SBS Transit website. For instance, at the time of writing, a 9km bus trip will cost you around $1.47 one way. Because the network is so big, it can be quite overwhelming trying to find the best bus route in Singapore. That’s why we’d recommend using the TransitLink Guide.
Car
Usually, when you reseach how to move in a city, renting a car is an option. In the case of how to get around in Singapore, this is still the case. As a foreigner, you can rent a car in Singapore, but you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Have a valid driving license in English or an International Driving Permit.
- Many car rental companies require that the person renting the car is between 23 and 73 years old and has at least two-year driving experience. However, you can still rent a car if you’re on your P-plate. Naturally, this means that the premiums and insurance excess will be higher.
- Have a clean driving record.
Singapore’s main car rental companies include Sixt Rental, Swee Seng Leasing, Ride Now, and Cars and Trips.
Taxi
Did you know that Singapore is the city with the highest number of taxis per capita in the world? At the time of writing, there are more than 26,000 taxis roaming the city!
The city has several taxi companies, including ComfortDelGro, Strides Taxis, TransCab, and Premier Taxis. To get a ride, you can either hail a taxi, head to a designated taxi rank, or call in advance to book one. Note that taxis are surprisingly affordable in Singapore, with the base fare (including the first km) starting from S$3 and any additional 400 meters costing S$0.22 during regular hours.
And if you prefer to travel with a ridesharing company, you can use Grab, Go-Jek, Ryde, or TADA.
Cycling Paths
Singapore is a modern city, and as such, it has heavily invested in building an extensive network of cycling paths to allow residents and travellers to enjoy some of the most beautiful spots and landmarks the city has to offer while riding a bike.
The city boasts over 525 km of cycling paths and is continuously expanding the cycling path network. You’ll find a guide to the cycling paths in Singapore on the Land Transport Authority website.
How to get around in Singapore: additional tips
- The MRT can be a busy place, especially during peak hours. So, to avoid having to shuffle your way to the right side of the carriage when the doors open, look for the orange light located on the panel just above the doors. This will tell you which door will be opening next, allowing you to prepare in advance.
- Some MRT stations offer free mobile charging points for commuters. Some of these stations include: Bugis, City Hall, Outram, Kent Ridge, Ang Mo Kio, Orchard and Tanjong Pagar.
- Singapore used to be a British colony. That’s why people drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- While Singapore boasts a low crime rate, for the ultimate safe Singapore travel experience, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like the MRT or buses.
