Singapore: Private Walking Tour with Flexible Itinerary & Pickup

Summary

Singapore’s lively streets, heritage corners & local flavors in one day

You’ll wander Singapore’s neighborhoods at your own pace with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Taste fresh-baked treats in Tiong Bahru, sip tea under mosque domes in Kampong Glam, and watch city lights flicker along Boat Quay — all with public transport included and plenty of time for detours.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide, Li, right outside the hotel lobby — she was holding a tiny umbrella even though the sky only threatened rain. She asked where we wanted to start (I blurted “food!” before anyone else could answer). So we ended up in Tiong Bahru first, weaving through sleepy bakeries and old men playing chess under fans that barely moved the air. The smell of pandan bread hit me before I saw the bakery window. Li pointed out some art deco flats and told us how her grandparents used to live nearby. I tried to repeat the name of her favorite hawker stall — failed completely, but she grinned anyway.

After that, we hopped on the MRT (Li handled the tickets — thank goodness) and zipped over to Kampong Glam. The Sultan Mosque’s golden dome caught sunlight just as a breeze finally picked up. We ducked into a little shop for teh tarik; it was sweet and frothy, and I spilled half of mine trying to stir it. Walking through Little India later, I got distracted by garlands of marigolds hanging everywhere and almost lost the group at one point. There’s something about that neighborhood — all colors and spices in the air, like nothing sits still for long.

I didn’t expect to care much about Merlion Park or Marina Bay Sands (thought they’d be too touristy), but standing by the river at Boat Quay with those skyscrapers behind us felt oddly peaceful. Our guide told us stories about early traders unloading goods here — you could almost imagine it if you squinted past all the neon signs. We ended near Clarke Quay as dusk crept in; music from a bar floated across the water while locals laughed over plates of satay. My feet were tired but honestly? I still think about that view by the river.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Meet guide and start tour

• Meet local guide at preferred location
• Explore Merlion and Marina Bay Sands
• Walk along Singapore River

Day 2 — 4 hours city landmarks tour

• Visit City Hall historic landmark
• See Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
• Explore Merlion Park views
• Visit The Fullerton Hotel
• Walk along Boat Quay riverside
• Explore Clarke Quay nightlife area

Day 3 — 6 hours cultural neighborhoods tour

• Explore Chinatown streets and heritage
• Visit Kampong Glam and Sultan Mosque
• Discover Little India culture and shops

Day 4 — 8 hours top attractions tour

• Visit Gardens by the Bay
• Ride Singapore Flyer observation wheel
• Shop and dine on Orchard Road
• Explore Clarke Quay riverside district
• Visit Tiong Bahru neighborhood
• Discover Katong and Joo Chiat heritage

Top questions

How long is this private Singapore walking tour?

You can choose between 4, 6, or 8 hours for your private walking tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, pickup from your hotel, cruise terminal or airport is included.

What areas can we visit on this tour?

The itinerary is flexible; popular stops include Tiong Bahru, Katong, Little India, Kampong Glam, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Orchard Road and more.

Are food or drinks included?

Bottled water is included; food purchases are at your own expense during stops.

Is public transportation covered?

MRT and bus fares are included; taxi rides are not covered.

Can children join this tour?

Yes—children under 12 join free; infants must sit on an adult’s lap or be carried.

What should I wear for this walking tour?

Dress casually with comfortable footwear; bring an umbrella or poncho just in case it rains.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No—it isn’t recommended for guests needing walking assistance or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your chosen location (hotel, cruise terminal or airport), all taxes and handling fees, bottled water to keep you going between stops, plus unlimited rides on Singapore’s MRT and buses throughout your private walking adventure with an English-speaking local guide by your side.