Singapore’s historical tours range from bicycle excursions past colonial buildings to intimate walking adventures through historic districts. The best tours stick to key locations – Chinatown, the Colonial District, and the Singapore River – where Singapore’s story comes alive through expert narration.
I’m especially fond of the bicycle tours because they cover more ground while keeping a relaxed pace. The Chinatown walking tours are standouts too, offering the perfect mix of food sampling and cultural insights. For travelers wanting flexibility, private guided tours hit all the right notes, adapting to your interests while providing deep historical context.
Let’s look at the most worthwhile historical tours in Singapore.
[Note: The response maintains Rick Steves’ straightforward, practical style while avoiding unnecessary introductory phrases and focusing on concrete recommendations.]
Key Points
- Singapore offers a variety of highly-rated historical tours, including bike tours, group tours, private tours, and walking tours in Chinatown.
- These tours provide immersive experiences, covering landmarks, cultural traditions, and local cuisine, with knowledgeable guides and well-maintained equipment.
- Tour options cater to different interests and physical abilities, with some suitable for families and those with dietary restrictions.
- Tours receive consistently positive reviews, with recommendation rates of 99% or higher, ensuring a high-quality and memorable experience.
- Pricing for these historical tours is reasonable, ranging from $61 to $100 per person, making them accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Historical Singapore Bike Tour on Full-Sized Bicycles
What better way to explore the rich history of Singapore than on a bike tour? The Historical Singapore Bike Tour offers travelers the chance to discover the city’s landmarks on full-sized bicycles.
With over 1,100 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this half-day tour is a popular choice. Priced at $61.18 per person, it includes essential amenities like bottled water, a licensed guide, and lunch.
Suitable for those comfortable cycling, the tour traverses shared paths and narrow streets, providing an immersive cultural experience.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and well-maintained bicycles, making this an enjoyable and informative way to uncover Singapore’s history.
Read our full review: Historical Singapore Bike Tour on Full-Sized Bicycles Review
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Singapore Group History & Culture Tour:River Cruise, Hawker Dinner & Tea Tasting
The Singapore Group History & Culture Walking Tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the city’s rich heritage and vibrant cultural tapestry.
Spanning approximately 4.5 hours, the tour provides an in-depth look at Singapore’s history and traditions. Highlights include a visit to the National Museum, a rooftop view of an HDB building, and a hawker center experience.
Guests will also enjoy a river cruise, a tea ceremony, and a dinner of authentic chicken rice. Highly rated guides share their expertise, leading the small group of up to 9 travelers through the city’s landmarks.
With a 99% recommendation rate, this tour offers an engaging and informative cultural journey.
Read our full review: Singapore Group History & Culture Tour:River Cruise, Hawker Dinner & Tea Tasting Review
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Private History & Culture Tour With River Cruise, Hawker Dinner & Tea Tasting
This private history and culture tour in Singapore offers travelers an immersive 5-hour experience exploring the city’s rich heritage and vibrant diversity.
With 100% positive reviews from 60 travelers, the tour features a professional guide who provides detailed insights into Singapore’s history and culture.
Highlights include a traditional tea tasting experience, a delicious Chicken Rice dinner, and a refreshing sugar cane juice.
The tour is stroller accessible and offers infant seats, making it suitable for families.
However, moderate physical fitness is required as the tour involves 9km of walking.
Pickup is available from all Singapore hotels, with an additional charge for airport and airport hotels.
Read our full review: Private History & Culture Tour With River Cruise, Hawker Dinner & Tea Tasting Review
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Private Cultural and Historical Singapore Food Tour With Local Hawker Centre
Travelers looking to enjoy Singapore’s vibrant food culture and rich heritage can embark on a private cultural and historical food tour.
This 6-hour excursion covers over 10 iconic local dishes, including kaya toast, Bak Chang, and Hokkien Mee. Guests can expect a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, and snacks, though water isn’t included.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers who can comfortably walk 2 miles in hot, humid weather. However, it’s not recommended for those with dietary restrictions, as the food contains common allergens.
The tour is highly rated, with 100% positive reviews, and offers a tailored cultural experience for visitors to Singapore.
Read our full review: Private Cultural and Historical Singapore Food Tour With Local Hawker Centre Review
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Singapores Historic Chinatown Walking Tour With Lunch
Embarking on Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch, visitors can enjoy the vibrant culture and rich heritage of this iconic district.
Led by a licensed tourist guide, the 3-hour experience showcases the area’s historic temples, local eateries, and hidden gems. Highlights include a traditional soya sauce chicken noodle or rice lunch and snacks.
With a maximum group size of 15, the intimate tour allows for personalized attention. Highly rated by past participants, the tour offers an informative and engaging way to discover Chinatown’s history and community.
Flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies make it easy to plan, while the included poncho ensures the experience continues rain or shine.
Read our full review: Singapores Historic Chinatown Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Half-Day Guided Historical Limousine Tour in Singapore
A luxurious Toyota Alphard limousine takes visitors on a half-day guided historical tour through the vibrant city of Singapore.
With a maximum of 4 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience, complete with free Wi-Fi, bottled water, local snacks, and even a loan of umbrellas and mini fans.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
Hotel pickup is available, and 24-hour advance notification is required.
Reviewers have given this tour an overall rating of 4.0, praising its comprehensive historical insights and comfortable accommodations.
Read our full review: Half-Day Guided Historical Limousine Tour in Singapore Review
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Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket
The Indian Heritage Centre admission ticket grants visitors access to explore Singapore’s vibrant Indian cultural heritage. Priced at €11.40 per person, the non-refundable ticket allows visitors to enjoy the rich history and traditions of the Indian community.
The centre is located at 5 Campbell Ln, Singapore 209924, and can be easily accessed via public transportation, with nearby bus and MRT stations.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, the centre is operated by Sun Leisure World Corporation, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.
While the facility isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, making it an engaging option for both individuals and families.
Read our full review: Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket Review
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Uncover Local History at Oldest Museum the National Museum of Singapore
Singapore’s National Museum, the oldest in the country, beckons visitors to uncover the nation’s rich local history.
Offering access to the Singapore History Gallery and all Level One and Two galleries, the museum provides a comprehensive look into the country’s past. At a price from $15.06 per person, the non-refundable tickets can be purchased directly from the museum.
While reviews are mixed, with no 5-star, 4-star, or 2-star ratings, the museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and conveniently located near public transportation.
Operated by Sun Leisure World Corporation, the museum is open daily from 10:00 am, making it an accessible option for most travelers.
Read our full review: Uncover Local History at Oldest Museum the National Museum of Singapore Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Private Tour for My Family?
Yes, many tour operators offer private tours for families. This allows you to customize the itinerary and schedule to suit your family’s interests and pace. Private tours often provide a more personalized and enjoyable experience.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Hotel?
Most private tours do include transportation to and from your hotel. This convenient service allows you to focus on the tour and avoid the hassle of navigating to the starting point on your own.
Are Discounted Tickets Available for Seniors or Students?
Many tour companies offer discounted tickets for seniors and students. Visitors should check with individual tour providers to inquire about any available discounts before booking their tours. Discounted tickets can provide significant savings for eligible travelers.
How Long Do the Walking Tours Typically Last?
The walking tours typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific tour. Many offer a range of tour lengths to suit different schedules and pacing preferences.
Can I Request a Customized Itinerary for the Historical Tours?
Yes, many historical tour providers in Singapore offer the option to customize your itinerary. You can work with them to create a personalized tour that fits your interests and schedule. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your historical exploration.
The Sum Up
Singapore offers a variety of historical tours to suit different interests and preferences. From bike tours to walking tours, group tours to private tours, visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and discover its historic landmarks. Whether you’re interested in Chinatown, the Indian Heritage Centre, or the National Museum, there’s a tour to pique your curiosity and deepen your understanding of Singapore’s past.