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

Singapore is a city that packs an incredible punch — a seamless blend of modernity, tradition, and lush greenery. If you’re looking to experience this vibrant city beyond typical tourist spots, then a private, customized tour guided by a local insider might just be what you need. Based on glowing reviews, this tour offers a flexible way to see Singapore on your terms, whether you have one, two, or three full days to explore.

What we love about this experience is how it puts the control in your hands—you decide what to see, how long to linger, and how to dive into local culture and cuisine. The ability to choose between private transport and public transit means you can tailor the pace and comfort level to your liking. Plus, the personal guidance of someone who truly knows the city makes a huge difference. One potential consideration? The price per group (up to 4 people) is quite reasonable, but extra costs for entrance fees, food, and activities are on you. That said, this tour is perfect for travelers eager for a personalized, authentic Singapore experience and who appreciate flexibility.

Who will benefit most? If you’re a curious traveler wanting a bespoke adventure, eager to sample local flavors, and interested in discovering neighborhoods off the beaten path, this tour is highly recommended. Families, couples, or small groups who want a private guide to craft their own itinerary will find it especially worthwhile.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You select your preferred sights and activities for each day.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share local stories, traditions, and culture with genuine enthusiasm.
• Flexible Duration: Options for 1, 2, or 3 days allow you to adjust based on your schedule.
• Variety of Stops: From iconic landmarks to ethnic neighborhoods, there’s something for all.
• Choice of Transportation: Explore by private vehicle or public transit, depending on your comfort.
• Food & Culture: Sample authentic local cuisine and learn what makes Singapore unique.

The Details: What to Expect on Your Customized Singapore Tour

This private tour is a fantastic way to see Singapore in a manner that fits your interests and pace. The core concept is flexibility—your guide, Anna Ong, works with you to craft an itinerary that resonates, whether you want to focus on cultural enclaves, modern architecture, or local food scenes. The price, at around $686.84 per group for up to four people, covers guiding and a private vehicle if you choose, but remember that entrance fees, food, and public transit are additional expenses. This makes it essential to budget for extra experiences, which many travelers find well worth it.

Exploring the Highlights

The tour features a menu of potential stops, which can be combined in various ways for a full day or multiple days. Each attraction offers something distinct — whether it’s history, nature, or local life — and the choice is yours to customize.

Clarke Quay and the Bumboat River Cruise

Starting with Clarke Quay offers a lively vibe with colorful bars, restaurants, and riverside sights. The highlight here is a river cruise aboard a traditional bumboat, where you’ll see Singapore’s skyline, colonial architecture, and landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands. The boat ride, costing SGD 25 per adult, is a relaxing way to soak in the city’s history and modern beauty. One reviewer mentioned that the boat ride alone is a highlight, providing a “more than 200 years of Singapore’s history.”

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

For breathtaking views, the SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands is a must-visit. Walk through the luxurious resort and ascend to the observation deck, where you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the city skyline, Gardens by the Bay, and beyond. The SGD 26 ticket isn’t included but is well justified by the “spectacular bird’s eye view” that offers perfect photo moments. One guest noted it’s an hour well spent, especially if you’re into architecture or photography.

Gardens by the Bay

Next, you’ll likely want to visit Gardens by the Bay, home to the iconic Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. These climate-controlled conservatories are stunning, and the floral displays are truly mesmerizing. The SGD 28 admission fee is excluded from the tour but is considered worthwhile for the incredible plant displays and the Floral Fantasy exhibit, which many visitors find enchanting. The OCBC Skyway offers stunning aerial views of the gardens and city, adding another layer to your experience.

Ethnic Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam

The tour excels at showcasing Singapore’s multicultural tapestry. Walking through Chinatown reveals vibrant street markets and sacred temples, with options to try local hawker fare for SGD 10–15 per person. Reviewers loved the chance to sample authentic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice or laksa, highlighting how food is central to the experience.

Similarly, Little India impresses with its lively streets, colorful murals, and traditional shops. You might get to indulge in aromatic snacks or enjoy a cultural performance. Art lovers can opt for henna painting at SGD 15–25, adding a personal touch to their visit.

Kampong Glam offers a more relaxed vibe, with serene mosques, street art, and tasty Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine. Sampling the local food here is also highly recommended, with costs around SGD 15–20 per person. Reviewers appreciated how guides introduce the history behind these neighborhoods, making the experience both fun and educational.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Heartland, Pulau Ubin, and Sentosa

Beyond the city center, options include Toa Payoh, a true local neighborhood where you can experience everyday Singaporean life firsthand. Sampling local street food or visiting community markets offers a different perspective compared to tourist-heavy spots.

Pulau Ubin provides a rustic island escape, with a short boat ride costing SGD 6 round-trip. The island looks like it’s frozen in time, with traditional village houses and unpaved roads. Visitors often describe it as a nostalgic trip back to Singapore’s 1960s life.

Sentosa Island is more touristy but offers adrenaline-pumping activities, scenic beaches, and cable car rides. The scenic Mount Faber and the cable cars (SGD 35) make for memorable views, and the adventure-seekers will enjoy the treetop walk and beach strolls.

How It Works in Practice

The beauty of this tour lies in its customization. You tell Anna what interests you most, and she’ll suggest a plan. Based on reviews, guides like Anna are praised for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and ability to adapt on the spot, ensuring your experience is genuinely tailored.

Timing is flexible, and since you’re in control, you can spend more time at the sites you love or skip others to fit your schedule. Some guests mention that guides are great at providing context and stories that bring each location to life — making the sightseeing meaningful rather than just ticking boxes.

Transportation and Pacing

You have the option for private vehicle or to explore via public transit. The latter can save money and give an authentic city experience, especially in neighborhoods like Chinatown or Little India, where walking and local transport are part of the charm. One reviewer appreciated the clean, comfortable van and the driver’s punctuality, which contributed to a smooth day.

The overall duration varies from 8 to 23 hours, depending on your chosen itinerary and pace. Many find a single day enough for a taste of Singapore’s highlights, but two or three days allow deeper exploration, especially if you want to include options like Gardens by the Bay or Pulau Ubin.

The Value of a Personal Guide

What really sets this experience apart, according to reviewers, is Anna’s personalized approach. She takes time to understand your interests, shares stories that you won’t find in guidebooks, and ensures the itinerary suits your energy level. Guests appreciate her enthusiasm and local insights, making the tour feel more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This customizable private tour is excellent for small groups or couples who want an intimate, flexible way to see Singapore. It suits travelers interested in culture, food, and authentic neighborhoods, rather than just the iconic skyline. The option to include sightseeing with local food tastings makes it especially appealing for those eager to connect with Singapore’s diverse communities.

Given the cost includes guiding and a private vehicle, it’s a good value for travelers who prefer comfort and flexibility over larger group tours. It’s also ideal for those with specific interests or limited time, who want to optimize their sightseeing without feeling rushed.

FAQs

Can I choose my own itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be entirely customizable. You select your preferred stops, and the guide helps craft your ideal route.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina SkyPark, or the Orchid Garden are paid separately by travelers. The tour fee covers guiding and transportation.

Can I explore by public transit?
Absolutely. You can opt for public transit (subways and taxis), which many guests find authentic and budget-friendly. The guide can help with planning routes and schedules.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers find this tour family-friendly, especially with options like Pulau Ubin and Gardens by the Bay, which appeal to children and adults alike.

How long does the tour last?
Depending on your choices, it can range from about 8 hours to over 23 hours for multiple days. You can specify your preferred duration when booking.

What’s the price range?
The per-group fee is $686.84 for up to 4 people, making it a good value given the personalized service and private transport. Additional costs for activities and food are extra.

Final Thoughts

Opting for this private, customized tour of Singapore offers a personalized window into the city’s soul. Guided by a local insider like Anna, you’ll uncover hidden gems, indulge in authentic cuisine, and enjoy panoramic views that make the city unforgettable. The flexibility to tailor each day means you’ll get a curated experience that hits all your interests, whether it’s history, food, or nature.

This tour is perfect for small groups who value personal interaction and want to avoid cookie-cutter itineraries. If you’re looking to truly connect with Singapore’s diverse neighborhoods and culture, and appreciate the convenience of private guiding, this experience will leave you with lasting memories.

For those who want a balanced combination of guided insights and personal exploration, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a smart choice for curious travelers eager to discover Singapore beyond the usual tourist spots, with the attention and flexibility that only a personalized experience can provide.