All you need to know about getting around Singapore

Home to almost 6 million people, Singapore has one of the most well-connected public transport systems in the world. You’re never far from a train station or bus stop, and there are multiple ride-sharing options to get you to wherever you want, whenever you want. If it’s your first time here, this beginner’s guide to Singapore’s transportation system will give you an introduction to getting around the city with absolute ease.

MRT: Go the long distance

The train system in Singapore is called the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT). Spanning across six different lines, the MRT is one of the quickest ways to get around the island. It’s also very convenient with more than 140 stations island-wide, many of them situated near popular landmarks.

Bus: Get to less accessible places

To visit the less central areas of Singapore, taking a bus is your best bet. Bus stops are peppered all throughout town and often, you’ll find that your travel route consists of first taking an MRT, then a bus from the MRT station to your final destination.

All you need to do is look out for the bus services at the bus stop and remember to flag down your bus as it approaches (just to make sure the driver stops for you to board). Upon boarding, tap your EZ-link card, Singapore Tourist Pass or contactless card at the doors in front, and another time when you exit the bus from the back. Similar to the MRT, you can find more information on the payment options below.

More information on payment options for MRT and bus rides:

Taxi/Private hire cars: Travel in comfort

If you’re travelling in groups, with young children, or the elderly, you might find taking a taxi or a private hire car to be more convenient and comfortable compared to taking public transport. Plus, they are available any time of the day.

Bikes & e-scooters: Explore the nooks and crannies of Singapore

Singapore may be small, but it’s still going to take a toll on you if you were to walk everywhere. That’s where bike and scooter-sharing services come in. It’s the perfect mode of transport to explore the ins-and-outs of the island in an affordable and fun way.

Often, even locals would rent a bike or e-scooter for leisurely rides around attractions with vast spaces — such as East Coast Park, Punggol Settlement, or Coney Island. It’s relaxing to ride amidst nature and the view can be pretty romantic too!

If you’re up for a challenge, you can also consider properly plotted bike routes like the 36km Coast-to-Coast Trail. Leading from Jurong Lake Gardens all the way to Coney Island, this route brings you through various parks like the Bukit Batok Nature Park, Botanic Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir — where you can pause for a rest and take in the best of Singapore’s views. Be prepared with tons of water and make sure to be in your most comfortable outfit!

The quintessential apps you need to get around Singapore

Lastly, apart from the specific apps that you might need to utilise the different modes of transport, Google Maps is essential to your exploring of Singapore. It’s easy to use and will provide you with detailed directions like which MRT line or bus to take, and estimated travelling time depending on which mode of transport you choose.

Another app you can consider is Citymapper. Similarly, Citymapper can help you plan your route based on time, cost and even energy expanded (like how many calories you can burn if you choose to cycle). On top of the basic information, it also suggests what time you should leave your hotel if you’re planning to reach your destination by a certain time; or which bike path to take if you’re in a hurry, versus if you’re riding for leisure. All apps recommended (i.e. Grab, GOJEK, SGBikes, Google Maps and Citymapper) can be downloaded on iOS and Android devices.

It always pays to be familiar with a country’s transport system before visiting. If you’re planning your travel itinerary and routes, rest assured that Singapore’s transportation network is absolutely well-connected and easy to navigate. On top of that, you can conveniently connect to free Wi-Fi with Wireless@SG — available in most MRT stations, bus interchanges and various places island-wide —to save on data-usage when navigating or planning your journey with your phone. With this beginner’s guide, exploring the island will be a breeze!