After delving into the vibrant array of things to do in Singapore City, from marveling at the futuristic Gardens by the Bay to shopping on Orchard Road, you might wonder what other experiences lie beyond the city’s urban landscape. Day trips from Singapore City present an excellent opportunity to discover the diverse attractions within easy reach, offering everything from idyllic island getaways to cultural excursions in neighboring regions.
Venturing outside Singapore City, the surrounding area invites you to explore a variety of experiences, such as the rustic charm of Pulau Ubin, the family-friendly activities on Sentosa Island, or the historical insights found in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. These day trips not only complement your urban adventures but also broaden your understanding of the region’s cultural and natural beauty.
Choosing where to stay in Singapore City is key to enjoying both the bustling city life and the serene escapes that surround it. The right accommodation ensures you’re well-positioned to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and provides a convenient base for embarking on memorable day trips, blending the best of urban sophistication with the allure of Southeast Asian diversity.
Discover Best Day Trips from Singapore City, Singapore
1. Pulau Ubin, Singapore
Pulau Ubin, a small island northeast of Singapore, offers a glimpse into the country’s rural past with its traditional kampongs and abundant nature. The island is accessible by a 15-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: A 15-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Transportation: Bumboat
Main Attractions: Traditional kampongs, Chek Jawa Wetlands, Ubin Quarry
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Bumboat Ride: $3 (one way)
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Chek Jawa Wetlands, Ubin Quarry, Butterfly Hill
Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the island’s rustic paths and abundant wildlife.
2. Sentosa Island, Singapore
Sentosa Island is a popular resort island with beaches, theme parks, and attractions like Universal Studios Singapore. Reach it by cable car, monorail, or a short drive from the city center.
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Travel Time: Around 15-20 minutes by cable car, monorail, or car
Transportation: Cable Car, Monorail, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Universal Studios Singapore: $79
- S.E.A. Aquarium: $32
- Adventure Cove Waterpark: $38
Budget: Approximately $100-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, Sentosa Nature Discovery
Travel Tip: Plan your visit to include the spectacular evening light show, Wings of Time.
3. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Johor Bahru, just across the border in Malaysia, offers a cultural contrast with shopping malls, traditional eateries, and the Legoland Malaysia Resort. The trip involves a short bus or train ride from Singapore.
Distance: Approximately 26 km
Travel Time: Around 1-2 hours by bus or train, depending on the border crossing
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Train
Main Attractions: Legoland Malaysia Resort, Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, Johor Bahru City Square
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Legoland Malaysia: $50
- Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque: Free
- Johor Bahru City Square: Free
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Danga Bay, Istana Besar, Hutan Bandar Johor Bahru
Travel Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid long queues at immigration.
4. MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore
MacRitchie Reservoir, known for its treetop walk and hiking trails, is a haven for nature lovers and a great spot for a peaceful retreat. It’s easily accessible by public transport from the city.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: Around 30 minutes by public transport
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), MRT
Main Attractions: Treetop Walk, Hiking Trails, MacRitchie Nature Trail
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: Free
- Treetop Walk: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Treetop Walk, MacRitchie Reservoir, Jelutong Tower
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to walk the treetop trail.
5. Batam, Indonesia
Batam, Indonesia, is a short ferry ride away and offers beaches, water sports, and a slower pace of life. It’s known for its affordable spas and seafood.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: Around 1 hour by ferry from HarbourFront Centre
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall, Barelang Bridge, Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry Ride: $20 (round trip)
- Barelang Bridge: Free
- Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Barelang Bridge, Nongsa Beach, Batam Centre Park
Travel Tip: Check visa requirements beforehand, as they can vary depending on your nationality.
6. Bintan Island, Indonesia
Bintan Island, accessible by ferry, is a popular destination for its resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches. It’s ideal for a luxury getaway or a golf weekend.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: Approximately 1-2 hours by ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Trikora Beach, Bintan Resorts, Lagoi Bay
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry Ride: $30 (round trip)
- Trikora Beach: Free
- Bintan Resorts: Varies
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Trikora Beach, Lagoi Bay, Penyengat Island
Travel Tip: Visit the mangroves for a guided eco-tour to see the island’s diverse wildlife.
7. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Singapore
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a short drive from the city, is a dense rainforest reserve with rich biodiversity. It offers challenging hiking trails and a chance to encounter diverse wildlife.
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Travel Time: Around 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking Trails, Bukit Timah Hill, Rich Biodiversity
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Summit of Bukit Timah Hill, Hindhede Quarry, Dairy Farm Nature Park
Travel Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and humidity of midday.
8. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Gardens by the Bay, though in the city, is a unique day trip destination with its futuristic Supertree Grove and climate-controlled conservatories. It’s easily accessible by MRT or bus.
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Travel Time: Just a few minutes by MRT or bus from the city center
Transportation: MRT, Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, Flower Dome
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Supertree Grove: Free
- Cloud Forest: $20
- Flower Dome: $20
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Supertree Grove, OCBC Skyway, Dragonfly Lake
Travel Tip: Visit in the evening when the Supertree Grove comes alive with a spectacular light and sound show.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Singapore City, Singapore
What are some popular day trips from Singapore City?
Popular day trips from Singapore City include a visit to the historical island of Pulau Ubin, exploring the natural beauty of the Johor Bahru in Malaysia, a family-friendly outing to Legoland Malaysia, and experiencing the cultural richness of Batam or Bintan Island in Indonesia.
Can I visit a traditional kampong village near Singapore?
Yes, Pulau Ubin offers a glimpse into Singapore’s last kampong (village) lifestyle. It’s a great place for biking, trekking, and experiencing Singapore’s natural and cultural heritage.
Is Legoland Malaysia worth a day trip from Singapore?
Absolutely! Legoland Malaysia is a short journey from Singapore and offers an array of attractions for children and adults alike, including rides, a water park, and interactive workshops.
How accessible are Batam and Bintan Islands from Singapore?
Batam and Bintan Islands are easily accessible by ferry, with trips taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. These islands are popular for their beaches, watersports, and golf courses.
Are there nature reserves near Singapore for a day trip?
Yes, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve are perfect for nature lovers. These reserves offer trails for hiking and opportunities to observe Singapore’s diverse flora and fauna.
Can I explore the historical sites of Malacca in a day?
Yes, Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is reachable for a day trip. It’s known for its historical architecture, vibrant night market, and rich Peranakan culture.
Is there a place for adventure sports near Singapore?
For adventure enthusiasts, Sentosa Island offers activities like skydiving in iFly, indoor surfing, and the Mega Adventure Park. For a more natural setting, head to the Forest Adventure in Bedok Reservoir Park.
Are culinary day trips a good idea from Singapore?
Definitely! The nearby regions offer diverse culinary experiences. Johor Bahru is famed for its Malaysian delicacies, while Batam and Bintan offer fresh seafood and Indonesian cuisine.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170?activity_type=dayTrip
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