City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours
5.0
(180)
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.
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 049909Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat 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 mostHere’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
Chinatown’s Hidden Corners & Culture
A deeper look at Chinatown beyond the touristy streets.
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Hawker Culture & Essential Eats
Taste Singapore’s best hawker food—where locals actually eat.
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Learn to Ride the MRT Like a Local
Master Singapore’s fast and affordable transport system.
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If Time Allows: A Quiet End in Telok Ayer
A historic district where past and present quietly meet.
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1. Select a date
2. Select start time
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Lost in the Magic of Gardens by the Bay – A Walk Among Giants!
The Majestic Welcome: Teddy Hosts in Traditional Splendor
Under the Watchful Gaze of Nature's Guardian
A Symbol of Transformation – Standing by the Butterfly Sculpture!
Charmed by the Cluck: Roaming Roosters and Classic Architecture
Exploring the Rich Heritage of Singapore’s Temples!
Exploring the Future: A Snapshot of Cityscape Dreams
A Touch of Old-World Glamour – Drinks & Charm at Atlas Bar!
Exploring Culture in the Heart of the City
The Fountain of Wealth – A Prosperous Moment in Singapore!
Hawker Heaven – The Best Local Bites with the Best Company!
Lost in the Beauty of the Cloud Forest!
Little India’s Vibrance – Culture, Colors, and a Warm Welcome!
Delighted Wanderers Amidst Waterfalls
Smiles Amidst the Henna and Trinkets
On Top of the World – Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Views!
A Stroll Through Colonial Singapore – History Around Every Corner!
Tales and Togetherness at the Temple Gate
Exploring the Exotic: A Taste Adventure in the Heart of the Market
Joyride in the Jungle
Exploring Kampong Glam – Colors, Culture, and a Touch of History!
25,773+ 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
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.
Carl
Nov 2025
Jon was a fantastic guide! He focused our tour to meet the needs of our group. He was probably the best guide that we have had while we have visited Singapore!! He was very informative about all kinds of topics when we asked questions.
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Richard
Nov 2025
This was our fourth tour of Singapore. Jon’s knowledge of Singapore allowed to instantly modify our tour so to not duplicate our other tours. He has a great and warm personality and showed us exactly what we needed to see and was able to explain in clear English the history and traditions of each site.
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Elvira
Nov 2025
Our guide Tan is very knowledgeable, fun and accommodating! We had scheduled a different time for walking tour but because of maintenance in earlier attraction we were free earlier called her and she agreed to meet us before time! Thank you Tan
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Stephen
Oct 2025
It really is the best way to familiarise yourself with the city. My host was so responsive and proactive.
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Keith
Oct 2025
We did the 3 hour walking tour with Stefan yesterday and even though we had some Limitations due to the area closures because of the Grand Prix, he was able to give us a comprehensive tour of Chinatown explaining a lot of the early history of the island. We also learnt about the future expansion plans for Singapore. He also took us into a hawker center for lunch where he recommended several luncheon options. Stefan has lived in Singapore his whole life, has an excellent knowledge of the history and cultural events in the island and we would recommend him as a tour guide.
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Anthony
Oct 2025
Mark provided a highly personal and pragmatic tour full of fascinating insights into Singapore's past and present
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour or something different?
This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..
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?
Yes! You can blend food, culture, history, neighborhoods, or even a bit of nightlife if time allows. Just share your interests in the questionnaire, and your host will build the day around them.
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.