BEST Singapore Private City Tour by an Insider (1/2/3 x full-day)

When it comes to experiencing a city as vibrant and diverse as Singapore, a guided private tour led by a local insider can truly elevate your trip. This particular offering stands out because it’s designed with flexibility and personal touches in mind—allowing you to craft a personalized adventure over 1, 2, or even 3 days. Whether you’re interested in iconic landmarks, hidden ethnic neighborhoods, or sampling the best street food, this tour adapts to your preferences.

What we really love about this experience is the ability to customize every aspect—selecting the stops that interest you most while having a knowledgeable guide to bring each site alive. Plus, the inclusion of a private vehicle (if chosen) ensures comfort and convenience. One possible consideration is that entrance fees, food, and public transit costs are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately.

This tour suits travelers who crave an authentic, flexible, and personalized Singapore experience—those who prefer getting off the beaten path or want a deep dive into local culture and cuisines. It’s perfect for curious explorers who appreciate insider insights, making it ideal for first-timers eager to cover the highlights without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Fully customizable: Design your own itinerary from a menu of unique experiences.
• Flexible duration: Pick between 1, 2, or 3 days to suit your schedule.
• Insider guidance: Led by a knowledgeable local guide with personalized input.
• Variety of options: From river cruises to ethnic neighborhoods and gardens.
• Transportation choices: Opt for private vehicle or public transit for local immersion.
• Clear costs: Tour price covers guiding and transport; extras are paid separately.

An In-Depth Look at the Private Singapore Tour

This private tour essentially acts as a blank canvas—your itinerary is tailored based on your interests, pace, and time constraints. The flexibility here is the biggest draw. With a knowledgeable guide like Anna Ong, who consistently receives glowing reviews, you’re in capable hands to explore Singapore’s best and lesser-known spots.

The Guiding Experience

Guides like Anna stand out for their friendly approach and depth of local knowledge. Past travelers have appreciated her attentiveness—she often meets guests at their hotels early in the morning and discusses their preferred stops, ensuring the day aligns perfectly with their interests. Many reviews highlight her ability to blend historical insights with fun facts, making the tour both educational and entertaining.

Transportation Means

You can choose to explore via private vehicle, which makes for a more relaxed and seamless experience—perfect for those who prefer comfort or are traveling with family. Alternatively, using public transit like the MRT and taxis allows for a more immersive experience, blending in with locals and getting a feel for everyday Singapore life. The tour fee includes guiding and transport, but entrance fees, food, and rides are paid separately, giving you control over your spending.

The Customizable Itinerary: What You Can See and Do

The beauty of this tour is the extensive list of stops, which can be combined in countless ways. Here’s what stands out based on the options:

Clarke Quay & Singapore River Cruise

Starting with Clarke Quay offers a lively atmosphere—think vibrant nightlife and historic riverside architecture. The optional bumboat cruise (around SGD 25 per adult) takes you back through more than 200 years of Singapore’s river history, colonial buildings, and iconic landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands. Guests describe the cruise as a charming way to grasp Singapore’s development, with one reviewer noting, “The boat ride was a highlight, giving us a fresh perspective on the city’s past and present.”

Marina Bay Sands Skypark

A visit to the Skypark (ticket approx. SGD 26) offers panoramic views that are breathtaking, especially at sunset or at night when Singapore’s skyline lights up. Many guests rave about the “spectacular bird’s-eye view” and the opportunity to snap incredible photos. Walking through Marina Bay Sands also offers a chance to see this architectural marvel up close.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Gardens are a peaceful haven amid the urban buzz. The Orchid Garden, which costs SGD 5, is a favorite for its stunning floral displays and tropical orchids. Visitors comment that “the Gardens provide a lovely contrast to busy city sights,” and the relaxed stroll here is highly recommended for those seeking a moment of tranquility.

Ethnic Quarters: Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam

These neighborhoods are packed with character, history, and delicious eats. Chinatown features bustling street markets, colorful temples, and traditional shops. The guided walk often includes a visit to notable places of worship, with some reviewers mentioning how “the vibrant street art and busy markets truly capture Singapore’s multicultural essence.”

Little India is equally lively, brimming with aromatic food stalls, ornate temples, and artistic murals. The chance to taste authentic local dishes at hawker centers (around SGD 6-10 per person) is a highlight here. One guest noted, “ sampling the spicy curries and sweet snacks made our taste buds dance.”

Kampong Glam offers a blend of history and contemporary arts, with street art, mosques, and boutique shops. Food sampling here costs about SGD 15–20, and many visitors appreciate how it “gives a deeper understanding of Malay culture and religion.”

Gardens by the Bay

This iconic attraction can be tailored with options like the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and OCBC Skyway (tickets from SGD 8–28). Reviewers love the diversity of plant displays and the “jaw-dropping views from the Skyway,” which offers a different perspective of the city’s landscape. Many mention that spending a few hours in this horticultural wonderland is worth every Singapore dollar.

Off-the-Beaten-Path and Heartland Experiences

For those wanting a more local flavor, stops like Toa Payoh or Pulau Ubin provide insights into everyday Singapore life. Visiting Pulau Ubin involves a short boat ride (SGD 6 round trip) to see what life was like in Singapore’s past, with the simplicity and natural beauty impressing many.

Sentosa Island and Beyond

Adding Sentosa offers a more touristy, yet fun, escape with cable car rides, beaches, and attractions like the Treetop Walk. The scenic cable car trip (SGD 35) provides fantastic views and a sense of adventure.

Authentic Food & Local Flavors

One of the standout features of this tour is the emphasis on sampling authentic Singaporean cuisine. Many reviewers have mentioned that trying local dishes at hawker centers—like the famous Maxwell Food Centre or Katong—adds a genuine flavor to the experience. Typical food sampling ranges from SGD 6–15 per person, making it accessible for most budgets.

Why Food Matters on Your Tour

For many, food is the gateway into understanding Singapore’s multicultural makeup. Past guests have appreciated guided tastings and insights into what makes each dish special. Whether it’s spicy laksa, sweet kaya toast, or satay, these moments turn the tour from just sightseeing into a cultural feast.

Practical Details & Pricing

The tour costs around $686.84 for up to four people, which provides a private guide and a choice of transportation. When you consider this includes personalized planning, expert guidance, and the flexibility to explore at your pace, the value becomes clear. Entrance fees and food are paid separately, so budget accordingly—especially if you want to indulge in multiple attractions.

Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, indicating high demand and the need for planning. The tour is fully customizable, with the ability to revisit or switch stops as often as you like during the day or across multiple days.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys personalized experiences, this private tour is perfect. It’s especially well-suited for travelers eager to explore Singapore’s diverse neighborhoods, learn from local guides, and taste authentic food. It’s also great for families, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed pace and insider tips.

Those who prefer a structured, group tour might find this too flexible, but for anyone craving control over their day and a deeper connection to the city, this is a fantastic option.

The Sum Up

This private Singapore tour offers an unbeatable mix of flexibility, insider knowledge, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re marveling at the city skyline from Skypark, wandering through colorful Chinatown, or savoring local dishes at a hawker center, this tour adapts to your interests and pace. The ability to choose your stops and explore with a knowledgeable guide makes it a valuable investment in your trip.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a personalized, immersive experience without the constraints of traditional tours. The knowledgeable guides like Anna Ong make the journey engaging and insightful, ensuring you get the most out of your time in Singapore.

For those seeking a rich, tailored introduction to the city’s culture, sights, and flavors, this tour stands out as a truly worthwhile way to explore Singapore’s vibrant tapestry. Just remember to budget for entrance fees and food, and you’re set for a memorable adventure.

FAQ

How many days can I choose for this tour?
You can select a 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day experience, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring Singapore.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour fee includes guiding and a private vehicle if you choose that option. Public transportation costs like MRT, taxis, and rides are paid separately.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for attractions such as Gardens by the Bay or Marina Skypark are paid separately during your visits.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The itinerary can be amended multiple times to suit your pace, interests, and needs.

What’s the typical cost for food and activities?
Food sampling generally costs between SGD 6–15 per person, while admission fees for attractions like Gardens by the Bay or Skypark are extra.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, especially since it’s flexible and can be tailored for different ages and interests.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 14 days ahead, especially during peak season or holidays.

Can I explore neighborhoods outside the city center?
Yes, options like Toa Payoh, Pulau Ubin, or Kampong Glam can be included to give a fuller picture of Singapore life.

Is there a maximum duration for the tour?
The tours range from about 8 hours to up to 23 hours, depending on your selected itinerary and preferences.

This comprehensive, flexible approach makes the BEST Singapore Private City Tour a top choice for travelers wanting an authentic, personalized experience. With insider guides, diverse stops, and the freedom to customize, it promises a memorable way to discover Singapore beyond typical tourist routes.