Big Bus Singapore Hop On Hop Off Tour

Rating: 4.0 / 5 (based on 2 reviews)
Price: $80.00 per person
Location: Singapore
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes per loop

<h3 id="section-0">Intro: A Practical Look at Singapore’s Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

We haven’t personally taken this tour but have gathered insights from travelers who have, alongside the details provided by the operator. What stands out immediately is the flexibility of the Big Bus Singapore experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and hop on or off at over 30 strategic stops. This makes it ideal for first-time visitors eager to see main sights or seasoned travelers wanting a quick overview of the city’s highlights.

Three features we particularly appreciate are the unbeatable city views from the open-top double-decker, the well-curated route options covering both modern landmarks and cultural neighborhoods, and the easy access to major attractions like Gardens by the Bay or Orchard Road. On the flip side, some travelers mention a lack of clear signage at some stops, which can make finding the correct bus stop a bit frustrating.

This tour suits those who enjoy independent exploration but prefer the convenience of guided transport, families wanting a flexible sightseeing day, or anyone curious about Singapore’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic sites.

Key Points

• Flexible Hop-On, Hop-Off concept allows personalized sightseeing.
• Over 30 stops including Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Chinatown.
• Open-top buses offer great views, especially in good weather.
• Approximate 50-minute loops provide a quick overview of the city.
• Signage issues at stops can cause some initial confusion.
• Pricing at $80 per person offers good value considering the extensive route coverage.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Suntec City Tourist Hub

Starting at Suntec City, you’re immediately in the heart of Singapore’s bustling business and shopping district. Travelers often note that this stop is conveniently near public transportation, making it an easy first point to jump on the bus. It also sets the tone for the tour, with a view of Singapore’s modern architecture and vibrant city life.

Singapore Flyer

Next, the Singapore Flyer offers a chance to see the city from a bird’s eye view. While the tour doesn’t include a ride, the proximity to this giant Ferris wheel means you could consider returning later for a more leisurely experience. The Flyer is a favorite among visitors for its panoramic views of Marina Bay, the city skyline, and sometimes even Indonesia and Malaysia on clear days.

Marina Bay Sands Singapore

This iconic hotel and casino complex is a highlight. The bus stop provides a perfect photo opportunity and a quick snapshot of Singapore’s sleek, modern skyline. Many travelers mention that viewing Marina Bay Sands from the bus offers a great perspective, especially at night when the lights come alive.

Gardens by the Bay

A must-visit for many, this verdant oasis is just a short walk from the bus stop. The tour’s timing allows you to explore the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome at your leisure. Reviewers have enjoyed the stunning night-time light shows and the peaceful escape from urban hustle. One traveler described it as “truly magical,” especially after dark.

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

This historic hotel, located along the waterfront, offers a glimpse of Singapore’s colonial past. The bus passes by this grand building, giving you a taste of the city’s architectural evolution from past to present. It’s also a great photo spot.

Clarke Quay & Robertson Quay

These riverside areas are lively spots for dining and nightlife. The bus route makes it easy to explore without the hassle of traffic or parking. Many visitors appreciate the scenic view of Singapore’s riverfront, especially at sunset or in the evening when the lights reflect on the water.

Zion Riverside Food Centre

For those interested in trying local flavors, this stop provides access to traditional hawker fare. Though the tour doesn’t include food, it’s a good tip to hop off here to taste authentic Singaporean dishes without straying far from your sightseeing route.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Botanic Gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk. The bus stop makes it easy to visit and then continue your tour. Travelers have mentioned it as a peaceful break from city sightseeing.

Orchard Road & Nearby Stops

The tour covers the world-famous shopping street, Orchard Road, with stops at Orchard Hotel Singapore, Wheelock Place, Hilton Singapore Orchard, and Orchard Plaza. These are ideal for fashion lovers or those wanting a break for retail therapy. Reviewers note that the bus provides a quick yet rundown of this bustling shopping district.

Chinatown & Nearby Highlights

Chinatown adds cultural flavor to your itinerary, with stops at Chinatown itself, Kreta Ayer Road, and historic sites like Raffles Hotel. The proximity of these stops makes it easy to explore on foot after hopping off. One reviewer appreciated the opportunity to see both the modern and traditional sides of Chinatown.

Additional Stops

Other stops like Boat Quay, Hong Lim Park, and Sands Expo & Convention Centre round out the route, offering a well-rounded view of Singapore’s diverse districts.

The Experience: What You Can Expect on Board

The buses are open-top, making it easy to snap photos and take in the sights. The journey lasts roughly 50 minutes per loop, so it’s perfect for a quick overview or a way to get between attractions. The buses run rain or shine, so bringing an umbrella or raincoat is advisable if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

Travelers have shared mixed reviews about signage, with one noting, “Most annoying was no sign on stops to say Big Bus here,” but they still enjoyed the ride once onboard. The buses are generally punctual, and you can hop on or off at any point by showing your voucher or ticket to staff or the driver.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join easily. As some stops may be skipped during special events or rehearsals, it’s good to keep an eye on notices posted on the bus.

The Value of the Tour

At $80, you’re paying for extensive route coverage and the convenience of transportation between key sights. Considering the cost of individual taxis, guided tours, or entrance fees at major attractions, this pass can offer great value—especially if you plan your stops efficiently.

The flexibility to hop on and off allows you to customize your day, spending more time at sites you love or rushing through those less interesting to you. It’s a smart way for first-timers to get a broad sense of the city, especially if you’re limited on time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Singapore’s sights without the hassle of planning transport between destinations. Families will benefit from the easy-to-navigate routes and the opportunity to take breaks as needed. Budget travelers will appreciate the value offered by this combination of guided transport and sightseeing flexibility.

Those interested in night views will enjoy the city’s skyline illuminated from the open-top buses, especially with the Gardens by the Bay light show, which many reviewers described as “truly magical.”

Final Thoughts

The Big Bus Singapore Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers a straightforward and flexible way to see the city’s highlights without the stress of navigating public transport alone. The combination of open-top views, curated routes, and strategic stops makes it a practical choice for a first, quick, or leisurely exploration of Singapore.

While signage can sometimes be a challenge, the overall experience, especially when you hop off to enjoy key attractions, is a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a rundown, good photo opportunities, and the freedom to explore at their own pace.

For around $80, you gain access to some of Singapore’s most photogenic spots, cultural districts, and modern marvels—all from the comfort of a guided, easy-to-handle transport option. Whether you’re here for a day or two, this tour can serve as a useful backbone to your Singapore itinerary, helping you maximize your time in this dazzling city.

FAQs

How many stops are there on the tour?
There are over 30 stops strategically located across the city, including major attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Chinatown.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, you can hop on or off at any stop along the route by showing your voucher or ticket. Just keep in mind that some stops may be skipped during events or rehearsals.

How long does the tour last?
Each loop takes roughly 50 minutes, but you can take as much time as you like at each stop before hopping back on.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour continues rain or shine. It’s wise to bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecasted.

Can I use this tour as transportation between attractions?
Absolutely. It’s a practical way to move around the city without relying on taxis, especially between major sights like Orchard Road and Marina Bay Sands.

What makes this tour a good value?
Considering the extensive coverage of key landmarks and neighborhoods, plus the flexibility to hop on and off, $80 offers good value compared to individual costs of taxis or separate attraction tickets.

Are the buses comfortable?
Yes, the open-top double-decker buses are generally well-maintained, providing great views and a comfortable ride.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Some stops might be skipped during special events such as NDP rehearsals. Also, the tour reserves the right to refuse entry if your name on the ticket doesn’t match your ID.

Can I buy tickets on the spot?
Yes, you can redeem your voucher from the bus driver or staff at any bus stop along the route.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the open-air buses and flexible stops make it a family-friendly way to explore Singapore at your own pace.

In essence, the Big Bus Singapore Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers a practical, scenic, and customizable way to get to know Singapore. While some signage issues have been noted, the overall experience provides a valuable overview of the city’s highlights, especially for first-timers or those with limited time. It’s a ticket to seeing the city’s iconic sights comfortably, with plenty of chances to explore deeper when you hop off.