Singapore

Singapore Essentials: Your First Day in the City

City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0 (147)

Singapore Essentials: Your First Day in the City

Start your Singapore journey with a local who helps you explore must-sees, hidden corners, and learn how to navigate the city with confidence.

What makes this experience special

The perfect first-day experience in Singapore. Your host blends must-sees with practical tips—local transport, hawker food, and hidden corners—so you leave feeling confident and ready to explore.

Key highlights

Get a feel for Singapore’s layout with a relaxed, local-led introduction.
Learn how to use the MRT, best walking routes, and travel tips.
See historic riverside shophouses and murals that tell Singapore’s story.
Take in the Merlion from a hidden, crowd-free angle.
Explore Chinatown’s backstreets beyond the tourist stalls.
Taste must-try hawker dishes like Hainanese chicken rice.
Gain local insights on the best spots to visit during your stay.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Raffles place MRT exit G, 6 Battery Rd, Singapore 049909

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
Public transport may be used during the experience—please bring an EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay card, set up Apple Pay or Google Pay (for contactless payment), or carry small change for bus fares, as no change is given.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Raffles place MRT exit G, 6 Battery Rd, Singapore 049909

Get Your Bearings at Boat Quay

A scenic introduction to Singapore’s history and layout.

Singapore Essentials: Your First Day in the City

Start with a relaxed walk along Boat Quay, where Singapore’s trading history comes to life. Your host shares city tips, key neighborhoods, and MRT insights, tailoring the walk to your interests.

The Merlion—Without the Crowds

See Singapore’s most famous icon, but from a peaceful spot.

No need to fight the crowds for a photo. Instead, head to a lesser-known viewpoint behind One Fullerton for an unbeatable skyline shot and a true local perspective on this landmark.

Chinatown’s Hidden Corners & Culture

A deeper look at Chinatown beyond the touristy streets.

Skip the souvenir stalls and explore Chinatown’s quiet alleys, heritage temples, and tea shops. Discover its cultural fusion and get insider tips on shopping, nightlife, and hidden speakeasies.

Hawker Culture & Essential Eats

Taste Singapore’s best hawker food—where locals actually eat.

No first day in Singapore is complete without a hawker center visit. At Chinatown Complex, your host suggests top street food picks like Hainanese chicken rice, fried carrot cake, or iced kopi peng.

Learn to Ride the MRT Like a Local

Master Singapore’s fast and affordable transport system.

Public transport is the easiest way to explore Singapore, and your host will show you how to use the MRT, buy tickets, and read the system like a local. They’ll also offer personalized recommendations on which routes to take for the rest of your trip.

If Time Allows: A Quiet End in Telok Ayer

A historic district where past and present quietly meet.

If time allows, stroll Telok Ayer’s heritage streets, visit a centuries-old temple, or unwind at a tucked-away café—perfect for soaking in the city’s charm and planning your next Singapore discovery.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Exploring Kampong Glam – Colors, Culture, and a Touch of History!

A Symbol of Transformation – Standing by the Butterfly Sculpture!

A Stroll Through Colonial Singapore – History Around Every Corner!

Lost in the Magic of Gardens by the Bay – A Walk Among Giants!

Little India’s Vibrance – Culture, Colors, and a Warm Welcome!

The Fountain of Wealth – A Prosperous Moment in Singapore!

Exploring the Rich Heritage of Singapore’s Temples!

A Touch of Old-World Glamour – Drinks & Charm at Atlas Bar!

Lost in the Beauty of the Cloud Forest!

On Top of the World – Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Views!

Hawker Heaven – The Best Local Bites with the Best Company!

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google

recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

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What travelers think of this experience

Louise Apr 2025

We loved our tour with Mark, his enthusiasm for Singapore is infectious and his high energy was just what we needed. We arrived in Singapore off a cruise shop and decided booking this would be a good way to orientate us and also help us to explore areas not directly on the tourist route. Mark helped us to explore the history of Singpore, by meeting us at our hotel, then making our way to City Hall and the Supreme Courts, to the Singpore River and on to Chinatown before helping us to navigate a Hawker Centre. We had lots of opportunities to ask questions, not only about where we were but also about life in Singapore. For us it was well worth the money and because it's personalised you really can make out it what you want. Our communication from Mark before the trip was great and if you are lucky enough to be asigbed to him, you won't be disappointed!

Louise Apr 2025

Mark was great! We really enjoyed the trip and learnt lots along the way. We like that even on the day Mark was flexible to our needs.

Ivold Apr 2025

Liang was the best tour guide I have ever met across the 27 countries I have visited. He’s very knowledgeable and very kind, interested in guests’ learning and enjoyment. Since I visited Singapore for less than 24 hrs, Liang’s tour was the perfect option to get immersed quickly in the culture of Singapore. Every single spot was well explained and carefully selected to give me the best impression of Singapore. Thanks Liang! I’m definitely coming back to Singapore in August 2025!

Julian Apr 2025

Mark went to so much trouble to enrich us with the best possible outcome; he is such a great person, we couldn't have dreamed of a better guide.

Gail Apr 2025

Loved every minute of our Walking Tour

Janet Mar 2025

We had a private tour with Colin. Very knowledgeable, good pace, accommodating to our interests and needs. Excellent pre-meeting communication.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

What kind of stories and insights will my host share?

Each host has their own personal relationship with the city. You'll experience the city through their eyes—hearing stories about places they love, discovering hidden gems, and learning what makes their city special in a way that goes beyond a typical tour.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Absolutely! Whether you want a blend of food, history, local culture, or nightlife, your host will seamlessly weave them together into one immersive experience.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Are food and drinks included, or do I need to pay separately?

Unless stated otherwise, food and drinks are not included. Your host will take you to great spots where you can order what you like and pay as you go.

Can we explore outside the main city?

Yes! If you’re interested in day trips or exploring beyond the city, let us know in the post-booking questionnaire, and your host will design an itinerary that takes you to incredible places off the usual tourist path.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.