If you’re cruising into Singapore and only have a day or two to soak up the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, this private 6-8 hour tour might just be your perfect match. For $258.27 per person, you get a flexible, personally tailored experience that combines walking, public transit, and a selection of must-see sites and local neighborhoods. Your guide will meet you at the cruise terminal, so you skip the hassle of figuring out transit and dive straight into the city’s sights and sounds.
One aspect we particularly love about this tour is the customization — whether you’re into food, culture, shopping, or history, the guide will craft an itinerary that matches your interests. Plus, with public transit included in the price, you won’t have to worry about transport costs, making it a value-packed option for curious travelers. The second highlight is the personalized attention from your guide, which ensures a smooth, engaging experience and the opportunity to ask all those questions that pop into your mind.
A possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and time outdoors — so comfortable shoes and staying hydrated are musts. Also, if you want to visit more ticketed attractions like the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark or Gardens by the Bay conservatories, those are extra costs.
This experience suits travelers who want flexibility, authentic insights, and the chance to see a wide range of Singapore’s districts without feeling rushed. It’s especially ideal if you’re a first-timer eager to get a comprehensive feel for the city in a short amount of time.
Key Points
- Highly customizable: Your itinerary is tailored to your interests, whether food, culture, or sightseeing.
- Convenient logistics: Guides meet you at the port, and included public transportation makes navigating the city easy.
- Authentic experiences: Explore back streets, local neighborhoods, and learn about Singapore’s diverse heritage.
- Expert guides: Guides like Richard, Sue, and Gee Soo receive glowing reviews for their knowledge and friendliness.
- Flexibility: Stops can be added or skipped depending on your preferences and available time.
- Good value: With transportation included and personalized service, the tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.
An Honest Look at the Experience

When we consider a private tour like this, the first big advantage is customization. Unlike cookie-cutter bus tours, your guide works from your preferences — whether you want to see the famous Merlion and Marina Bay Sands, explore historic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Kampong Glam, or sample the city’s legendary street food. This flexibility means you can prioritize what interests you most, making the day feel tailored and meaningful.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Singapore
The Itinerary and Stops
Your guide will start at the cruise terminal, where a personalized welcome sets the tone. The tour typically includes several stops, which you can choose depending on your interests and your physical stamina. The guide will often take you to Singapore’s key historic sites, such as St Andrew’s Cathedral and City Hall — iconic buildings that tell the story of the city’s colonial past. These are quick visits (around 10 minutes each), but they’re packed with significance.
Cultural highlights like the National Gallery offer the chance to see over 8,000 artworks from Singapore and Southeast Asia, a treasure trove for art lovers. Other stops include Esplanade Park, a peaceful spot with memorials honoring Singapore’s notable figures, and the Merlion Park, with its famous half-fish, half-lion statue that’s perfect for photos and soaking in the sunset over Marina Bay.
The tour also covers vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown, where you can explore traditional temples such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple or the Thian Hock Keng Temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. If you’re craving local cuisine, a stop at Maxwell Food Centre is often included, where you can indulge in Singapore’s famed chicken rice or sip fresh sugar cane juice. Many reviews praise the food experience as a highlight, with one reviewer noting that it was “my best food in Singapore.”
Other highlights include strolls along Boat Quay and Clarke Quay, historic areas that buzz with energy, restaurants, and bars. These districts reflect Singapore’s trading past, and walking along the river gives a real sense of the city’s lively, multicultural vibe.
For scenic views and modern attractions, optional visits include the Sands SkyPark, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer. While these require additional tickets, your guide can advise on timing and help maximize your experience within your schedule.
A cruise on the Singapore River aboard a bumboat offers a relaxing perspective that many travelers rave about. The 45-minute ride, though not included in the base price, is highly recommended and adds a tranquil element to the busy day.
The Value of Guided Personalization
One review mentions how their guide, Sue Ling, “made the experience so much better,” illustrating how personalized attention can elevate the tour from good to exceptional. Guides like Richard and Gee Soo also receive praise for their knowledge, friendly approach, and ability to tailor the experience — making sure you see what interests you most.
Transportation and Pricing
The inclusion of public transit fare (MRT and buses) is a smart move, especially since Singapore’s transit system is efficient and clean. This means you can focus on the sights without the hassle of ticketing or navigating unfamiliar routes. The price might seem high at first glance, but considering the personalized guide, included transport, and the flexibility it offers, it’s a good deal for those wanting an in-depth, custom experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who appreciates local insights, flexible pacing, and a focus on authentic neighborhoods, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview but also the freedom to explore their curiosities. Families with children or those with moderate fitness levels will find it manageable, especially since stops are brief and customizable.
If you're drawn to exploring Singapore on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences
- 3hrs Singapore Walking Tour: Chinatown-Kampong Glam
- 4 hour Chinatown, Civic District to Marina Bay Walking Tour
- 4hour Chinatown, Little India, Arab Street Walking Tour
- 3h Historical Civic District & Marina Bay Walking Tour
- A Walking Tour of Singapores Heart with a Classic SG Meal
- Chinatown Hidden Treasures Local Guided Walking Tour
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This private Singapore tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and iconic sights, all wrapped in the comfort of a guided, personalized experience. Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides like Richard, Sue, and Gee Soo make a difference, blending storytelling with local tips that elevate the visit.
The inclusion of public transit in the price makes it economical, especially given the private guide’s ability to skip the confusion of public transportation alone. If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible, and authentic introduction to Singapore — and don’t mind walking and occasional outdoor exposure — this tour is a strong choice.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize a short stay with a tailored itinerary that focuses on their interests, whether that’s food, history, neighborhoods, or modern landmarks. The glowing reviews about how the guides personalize the experience, combined with the ease of logistics, make it a standout option for those who prefer a more intimate, in-depth exploration of Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does this tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour covers public transportation (MRT and buses), and the guide will meet you at the cruise terminal for convenience.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You will answer questions about your interests beforehand, and your guide will tailor the stops accordingly.
How long does the tour last?
It’s typically 6 hours, but can extend up to 8 hours depending on your preferences and stops.
Are tickets to attractions included?
No, entries like Marina Bay Sands SkyPark or Gardens by the Bay are not included — you can purchase tickets separately if desired.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children, and the moderate walking is manageable for most family members.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and an umbrella for rain — Singapore’s weather can be unpredictable.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel more than 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are non-refundable.
Is this tour available for larger groups or only private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
Can I include specific attractions like Gardens by the Bay or Marina Bay Sands?
Yes, these are optional stops and can be added to your itinerary if time permits, but additional tickets are required.
Final Words

If you’re looking for a flexible, insightful, and hassle-free way to explore Singapore, this private walking tour ticks many boxes. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see the highlights and hidden gems without the stress or rigidity of larger group tours. With guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness, you’re likely to leave with a deeper understanding of the city’s culture and history—and some memorable moments to cherish.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers the perfect balance of personalized experience and local insights. It’s an excellent way to start your Singapore adventure and set the tone for the rest of your trip.
More Walking Tours in Singapore
- Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch
- Chinatown Hidden Treasures Local Guided Walking Tour
- Singapore: Faber Peak Guided Walking Tour with Breakfast
- Singapore: 700 Years of History River Cruise & Walking Tour
- Singapore: NTU/NUS Student-Led Walking Tour
- Guided Walking Tour to the Historical Attractions in Farrer Park
More Tours in Singapore
- Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch
- Eat Pray Love – Singapore Food Tour With A Difference
- Chinatown Hidden Treasures Local Guided Walking Tour
- Private One Day Highlight Tour of Singapore with Singapore Flyer
- Full Day Singapore City Tour (With Flyer,Skypark and GBB)
- Singapore City To Kuala Lumpur City En-route Malacca Heritage Tour
More Tour Reviews in Singapore
- Quaint Little Shops & Tiong Bahru
- Singapore Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck E-Ticket
- Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch
- Eat Pray Love – Singapore Food Tour With A Difference
- Chinatown Hidden Treasures Local Guided Walking Tour
- Private One Day Highlight Tour of Singapore with Singapore Flyer
More Singapore experiences we've covered
- Quaint Little Shops & Tiong Bahru
- Singapore Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck E-Ticket
- Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch
- Eat Pray Love – Singapore Food Tour With A Difference
- Chinatown Hidden Treasures Local Guided Walking Tour
- Private One Day Highlight Tour of Singapore with Singapore Flyer
- Full Day Singapore City Tour (With Flyer,Skypark and GBB)
- Singapore City To Kuala Lumpur City En-route Malacca Heritage Tour
- SG Evening/Nite -River Cruise, Marina Bay Light Show, Chinatown
- Singapore: Faber Peak Guided Walking Tour with Breakfast
- Singapore City Hotel to Marina Bay Cruise Terminal /SCC Transfer
- Singapore: 700 Years of History River Cruise & Walking Tour
