Cycling Singapore

Best Cycling Routes in Singapore

By Cara Merren

By Mia Russell

Beautifully green and pristinely clean, Singapore is a city that begs to be explored. And what better way than on two wheels? While there are myriad ways to explore the ‘Garden City,’ hopping on a bike and riding around on its Park Connector Network (PCN) is a great way to experience the city and get active at the same time.

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Home to spectacular gardens and parks, beautiful beaches, and awe-inspiring architecture, the ‘Lion City’ is packed with incredible places to explore. Feel the wind in your hair as you meander past beaches and wind your way through gardens.

You’ll find plenty of places around the city that offer bike rentals. Use your pass to rent a Gogreen Bicycle and hit the road. Remember to keep your pass handy to gain entry to many of the city’s top attractions along the way.

Let’s take the road less traveled and discover the city’s hidden secrets on these top cycling routes in Singapore.

Southern Ridges Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate Distance: 9 km

The Southern Ridges are a beautiful part of Singapore and are ideal for exploring by bike. Spanning 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), the Southern Ridges comprise five parks and lovely green spaces crisscrossed with a network of trails.

Start at South Buona Vista Road and make your way towards the Alexandra Arch, an 80-meter-long pedestrian bridge known as the ‘Gateway to Nature.’ Meander along the Forest Walk and take in the tranquil beauty of the dense secondary forest of Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Stop at the famous Henderson Waves, the architecturally-striking 274-meter-long pedestrian bridge that connects Telok Blangah Hill Park to Mount Faber Park. Keep an eye out for rare birds such as the Drongo and Yellow Oriole.

Make your way up to Mount Faber for some spectacular views of the bay and the bustling waterfront district of Harbourfront. Treat yourself to hill-top dining against a backdrop of stunning views and if you don’t feel like riding back, hop on the Singapore Cable Car with your pass and soar over Singapore’s skyline to Sentosa.

Mandai Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate Distance: 35 km (21 miles)

This inner-city cycling route will take you through the Mandai Reserve, home to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari, and past the Old Ford Factory.

Start your ride at Rats Corner on Orchard Road and head north towards the Mandai Reserve. The reserve has several renowned mountain bike tracks, including the famous Track 15 (T15), one of the easiest trails in Singapore. Have some fun on the dirt tracks or use your pass to gain free entrance to the Singapore Zoo. Spend a few hours meeting the 300 species that call the zoo home.

When you are done at Mandai, complete the loop southwards towards the city, along Bukit Timah Road. Make sure to swing past the Old Ford Factory, the historic site where Singapore surrendered to Japan in 1942, before returning to Rats Corner.

Eastern Coastal Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate Distance: 20 km (12 miles) to Changi, 27 km (16.7 miles) to Marina Bay

Escape the city with an adventure along the East Coast of the island on this fantastic cycling route. Connecting East Coast Park and Pasir Ris Park, the Eastern Coastal Loop will take you past beautiful beaches, dense rainforests, lush wetlands, and awe-inspiring coastal landscapes.

Begin your journey at East Coast Park and ride to Changi Beach Park, one of the oldest coastal parks in Singapore. Located at the northern tip of Changi, the 28-hectare beach park still retains the kampung atmosphere of bygone days and is a fantastic place to have a swim and relax. Grab a delicious meal of Goreng Pisang (banana fritters) and nasi lemak (coconut rice) at the Changi Village Hawker Centre.

Make your way back to East Coast Park. If you haven’t had enough, continue riding in the opposite direction and wind your way through Gardens by the Bay. Marvel at whimsical sculptures, gigantic high-tech trees, and misty biodomes in this fantastical world of green. Use your pass for admission to the Cloud Forest home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and the Flower Dome.

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Northern Eastern Riverine Loop

Difficulty level: Easy Distance: 26 km (15 miles)

This incredible trail meanders for 26 kilometers (15 miles) through the spectacular parks and waterways of Punggol.

Start at Punggol Park and make your way toward the Sungei Pinang footbridge and the Coral Plant. Cross the Sungei Pinang footbridge and admire the amazing views of the scarlet-colored Coral Plant. Head towards the Punggol Promenade and enjoy the greenery and biodiversity flourishing along the seafront as you pass by.

Ride to the Lorong Halus Wetland, a scenic stretch of land on the eastern banks of the Punggol-Seletar reservoir that is home to shimmering ponds and thick reed beds. Detour past Punggol Waterway Park to see its beautiful reservoirs and impressive suspension bridges. Watch the sunset from Adventure Bridge and soak up some stunning views.

Central Urban Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate Distance: 36 km (22 miles)

Explore the neighborhoods in the heart of Singapore and get a glimpse into the everyday life of Singaporeans. Begin your trip in Toa Payoh Town Park and make your way through Kallang Park and the Whampoa connector. Along the Whampoa Park Connector, stop by Balestier Road to sample some of the amazing food from the street hawkers.

When you get to Bishan, take a break in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. Set on the banks of the Kallang River, the park is one of the biggest on the island and is the perfect place for a picnic lunch.

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Northern Explorer Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate – Challenging Distance: 11 km (7 miles)

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and venture into Singapore’s Northernmost region to take in the beauty of Woodlands, Yishun, and Sembawang.

Start from Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, a natural sanctuary of dense forests and tranquil waterways. Make your way through the five-kilometer (three-mile) Mandai Park Connector that runs alongside the beautiful Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Keep an eye out for cheeky, long-tailed Macaques who call the reserve home.

The next stop is Admiralty Park, a lovely hilly park in Woodlands bisected by the Sungei Cina River. The 20-hectare park is home to a myriad of fauna and flora and offers some challenging hills if you are feeling energetic.

Ride on to visit Woodlands Waterfront, one of Singapore’s longest coastal jetties, and end your adventure with a swim at the natural sand beach in Sembawang Park.

Western Adventure Loop

Difficulty level: Moderate – Challenging Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

If you feel like an off-the-beaten-track adventure, then the Western Adventure Loop is perfect! This challenging route takes you through the wild west of Singapore.

Start at Choa Chu Kang Park, a lovely green space with old fruit tree plantations, small streams, and an array of bird species. Cycle through the bucolic Pang Sua Park and along the Bukit Panjang Park Connector, keeping your eyes on the tree line to spot birds.

Pass by the rugged terrain and untouched vegetation of Zhenghua Nature Park and cycle into the Dairy Farm Nature Park. This park is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and excellent hiking and rock climbing.

Ride on to your final destination at Bukit Batok Nature Park where you’ll find a tranquil quarry pond surrounded by high cliffs. It’s the perfect place to end the day with a refreshing swim in the cool quarry waters.

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Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail

Difficulty level: Moderate Distance: 36 km (22 miles)

Experience all of Singapore’s diverse landscapes on this challenging 36-kilometer (22-mile) trail across the island. Beginning in the Jurong Lake Gardens in the west, you’ll make your way across the island to Coney Island Park in the northeast.

The trail takes you through the Lornie Nature Corridor near the center of the island and some of Singapore’s most beautiful parks like Bukit Batok Nature Park and Hindhede. You’ll end your journey on the charming Coney Island.

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Indian Heritage Centre in Singapore
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Things to do in Singapore When it Rains

Rain, rain go away! Come to Singapore another day, preferably when you’re not on vacation. However, if you do find the days a little moist, worry not. There are plenty of places to escape the downpour. We’ve put together a list of activities so you won’t miss a minute of action during your Singapore vacation. Shopping at the mall National Museum of Singapore National Gallery Singapore Asian Civilizations Museum Indian Heritage Center Floral Fantast Tea Chapter Chinese Teahouse Madame Tussauds Singapore Trickeye Enjoy Some Retail Therapy It’s raining and you’re feeling a little blue. What better way to cheer yourself up than with a little retail therapy? The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands contains a world-class hotel, casino, shops, restaurants, bars, and other attractions providing entertainment for all the family. You’ll find a vast casino, cinemas, theaters showing award-winning productions, over 80 restaurants, close to 300 shopping outlets, indoor river rides, and spectacular waterfalls. And best of all? You’ll be nice and dry. Explore the Museums of Singapore National Museum of Singapore The nation’s oldest museum, it brings history to life with exciting visual exhibitions and internationally renowned festivals. The National Museum of Singapore embraces technology to share traditional culture, stories, and history through displays, artifacts, plus innovative events. National Gallery Singapore A stunning 64,000 square meter building in the heart of the Civic District, see the world’s largest public collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern art at the National Gallery Singapore. If you get a little hungry from all the exploring, stop for a bite in one of the MICHELIN-starred restaurants. Asian Civilisations Museum Discover the rich history of Asia, with exhibits dating back to 830 AD. The varied cultures of Asia have an interconnected history, and the Asian Civilisations Museum presents it through artifacts, exhibits, plus a giant shipwreck to explore. You’ll also find a variety of artwork from the various major religions, all of which passed through this vital port town. Indian Heritage Centre The Indian Heritage Center offers a chronological timeline of the Indian influence in Singapore. Using galleries, exhibitions, archived footage, and interactive, educational spaces, you’ll learn of the first Indian settlements, through the growth and development of the Little India district to the tourist hotspot it is today. The Battlebox Venture underground and explore this authentic command center 9 meters underground - the same space where Lieutenant-General Percival and his senior officers directed the Battle of Singapore in World War II. After the 30-minute tour you’re free to wander alone, navigating the labyrinth of corridors as you watch footage of the war raging above. An essential experience if you want to truly understand the history of Singapore. Stop and smell the roses Floral Fantasy is an indoor section at Gardens by the Bay that will blow your mind and your senses. Thousands of freshly cut, dried, and preserved flowers decorate the ceiling, while flowers, artistic expression, and technology combine to create a sensational sensory experience below. Divided into four diverse landscapes, Dance, Float, Waltz, and Drift, you’ll forget all about the rain outside. Dance features a mesmerizing display of swaying plants, Float contains stunning water features, Waltz is home to waterfalls and a frog vivarium, while Drift is an enchanting cave with beautifully lit rock formations. A Cup of Tea Wait out the rain with a nice, hot cup of tea. Tea is more than just a drink in Singapore. It’s a part of the long, multicultural history of the country, including China, India, the British Empire, and Japan. Experience the full spectrum of tea in the country with a trip to a teahouse. Tea Chapter is the largest and oldest Chinese teahouse in Singapore. Fit for royalty, receiving Queen Elizabeth II in 1989, it continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the world about the ceremony and ritual behind making, pouring, and serving the perfect cup. Complete your experience with a lovely cup of Indian chai in Little India, or Japanese matcha green teas in The Maccha House Singapore. Ready for some selfies? Madame Tussauds Singapore Pose alongside your favorite Hollywood, Bollywood, TV, and sports stars, like Serena Williams, Taylor Swift, and Johnny Depp. It’s not just selfies though. Madame Tussauds Singapore offers an edutainment aspect too, with the chance to sing and dance alongside famous Bollywood stars, and explore Singapore’s rich culture with the Spirit of Singapore Boat Ride. Definitely an excellent rainy day activity. Trickeye @ Southside Singapore Fill your social feed with mind-bending optical illusions while playing with augmented reality in this virtual world playground. Swim with sharks and dance with mermaids in this interactive augmented reality environment. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel
Shopping Singapore
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Shopping in Singapore

By Mia Russell One of the world’s best shopping destinations, Singapore is a shopaholic’s heaven! The bustling city offers everything from electronics to clothing at affordable prices. The variety is mind-boggling, and you can indulge in luxury brands on Orchard Road or find ethnic treasures at one of the many craft markets. There’s something around every corner. Shopping in Singapore is so much more than just buying things. It’s a showcase for the multicultural diversity within the city and the different worlds in which retail and heritage meet. From the vibrant Tanglin Mall Bazaar packed with vintage treasures to the sleek international flagship stores along Orchard Road, you’ll be immersed in the rich dichotomy that this incredible city-state is famous for. Best Places for Shopping in Singapore Singapore is a shopper’s paradise with an unimaginable array of places to shop. From the bustling markets on Pagoda Street in Chinatown to the world of electronics at Funan IT mall, here are some of the best places to shop in Singapore. 1. Orchard Road Home to mega malls, designer boutiques, and local and international department stores, Orchard Road is the most famous spot for shopping in Singapore. Dating back to the early 1830s, Orchard Road began as an unnamed road lined with nutmeg plantations, fruit orchards, and pepper farms. The first department store, TANGS, was built on Orchard Road in 1958, and today, the bustling boulevard is now a retail and dining paradise. Begin your retail adventure at TANGS, one of Singapore’s oldest department stores. Designed in an Eastern style to homage to the Forbidden City, TANGS is stocked with Asian collectibles, unique souvenirs, and international brands. In stark contrast, the ION Orchard is one of the city’s most dazzling shopping complexes. Boasting over eight levels of brand stores, restaurants, and an art gallery, the famously futuristic-looking mall is one of the most popular places to shop. You’ll find high-end brand stores like Gucci and Prada and specialist stores like The Grande Whisky Collection. The ION Art Gallery hosts local and international exhibitions, and the Far East Plaza is a bargain hunter’s utopia. Another great retail haven along Orchard Road is the massive Far East Plaza. The plaza is famous for being the best spot in town to get Asian brands of apparel, accessories, and footwear at discounted prices. Top tip: If you have limited time, Orchard Road is your best bet for one-stop shopping. 2. Marina Bay One of Singapore’s most glamorous locales, Marina Bay is home to several malls such as Raffles City and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands that promise an unforgettable shopping experience. From trendy boutiques and international brand stores to state-of-the-art electronics, Marina Bay is one of Singapore’s top retail spots. Take a break from shopping and head up to the SkyPark Deck on the top of the Marina Bay Sands. Based on the 57th floor, this popular spot offers the most incredible views of the city, Marina Bay, and the busy Singapore Strait. Take a guided tour and learn about Singapore's history and enjoy a dip in the hotel’s famous infinity pool that seemingly floats over the city. Use your pass to enjoy a free drink from the CÉ LA VI SkyBar as you soak up the unbelievable views. 3. Chinatown Singapore’s Chinatown is renowned for being one of the most fascinating and vibrant places to shop in the city. Home to bustling markets, quaint spice shops, and colorful arts and crafts stalls, Chinatown is the best place to buy spices, unique gifts, antique Asian treasures, and souvenirs. Make your first stop at Ann Siang Road. Named after the wealthy businessman, Chia Ann Siang, the road is lined with rows of beautifully restored and brightly colored shophouses that blend the district’s rich history with trendy shopping and dining options. 4. Little India Colorful, vibrant, and buzzing with energy, Little India is a maze of winding lanes lined with quaint shops selling rich sari fabrics, aromatic spices, beautiful flower garlands, and antique jewelry. The Mustafa Centre is the main mall in the district and is famous for being one of the best places in the city to shop in bulk for the lowest prices. You’ll find everything from electronics to fabrics and souvenirs and it’s also open 24 hours, 7 days a week, so you can shop until you drop at all hours of the day. Other good places to explore in Little India include Serangoon Road and its many little side street shops, and the Little India Arcade. Take a break from shopping and visit the Indian Heritage Centre to learn about the rich history of India and South Asia. Located in the heart of the Little India Heritage District, the museum has themed galleries displaying a wonderful array of artifacts and objects relating to Indian and South Asian heritage. 5. VivoCity Situated on the HarbourFront, VivoCity is Singapore’s largest shopping mall and is hailed as the ultimate shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle destination. Boasting over a million square feet of retail space, this megamall is jam-packed with an array of brand-name stores from Chanel to Marks & Spencer, and everything in between. VivoCity is more than just shopping – it’s also home to four food courts, a wading pool, an amphitheater, and the world’s largest cinema. There is also an open-air playground on the second floor and a rooftop sky park for the kids to burn off some energy. 6. Haji Lane If it's quirky boutiques and trendy designer stores you’re looking for, make your way to Haji Lane. Renowned for being one of the best street shopping places in Singapore, the famous narrow street in this Arab Quarter is lined with quaint vintage stores and chic boutiques. From vintage cameras and stylish apparel, you’ll find a spectacular range of unique items, gifts, and souvenirs. Some of the top spots on Haji Lane include Fabulous Fads, Dulcet Fig, and Tangers. 7. Clarke Quay Clarke Quay is a beautiful riverside quay that is home to a clutch of historic warehouses that have been transformed into glamourous shops, fancy waterfront restaurants, and sleek nightclubs. Home to designer boutiques and high-end brand stores from around the world, Clarke Quay is the best place to splurge on shopping. Top shopping spots range from Central Clarke Quay, Riverside Point, and Great World City. 8. IMM Singapore’s largest outlet mall, IMM in Jurong is a bargain hunter’s paradise! Home to over 80 outlets offering up to 80% discount all year round. You’ll find big brand apparel names like COACH, DKNY, and Sacoor, as well as local labels like Charles & Keith. The mall also has several home décor and furniture stores for all your interior designing needs. 9. Tanglin Mall Bazaar Vintage lovers and retro nuts will love the Tanglin Mall Bazaar on Tanglin Road which is packed with second-hand apparel and accessories, nostalgic CDs and vinyl, and other quirky items. There is also a fantastic food court with a wide range of delicious fare. 10. City Plaza One of the oldest malls in Singapore, City Plaza is a budget bazaar for locals and tourists alike. Five floors are full of stores selling clothing, accessories, electronics, makeup, and footwear with some of the most popular shops including Whitefiction, PEONY Collection, and the Power Photo Store. Top Tips for Shopping in Singapore If you are planning a trip to Singapore with the sole aim of shopping, head to the city between May to July for the Great Singapore Sale. You’ll find massive discounts and fantastic bargains. If you have limited time for shopping, choose a spot with many shops or malls to get everything under one roof to save time. Look out for shops that have ‘GST Refund’ or ‘Tax-Free Shopping’ signs – keep all your receipts and claim back the tax when you get home. If you are buying large appliances or electronic items, make sure to check that your purchase has an international warranty. Shop with your own recyclable bags and help save the environment.
Go City Expert
Singapore SkyDeck Infinity Pool
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Things to do in Singapore for Couples

Singapore is one of our favorite cities for couples. It’s got everything from romantic adventures to sublime scenery, fine dining to tasty teas, and incredible shopping opportunities. Whether you crave the sun, want some thrills, or just want to party, there’s always something to do for happy couples in Singapore. If you’re searching for things to do in Singapore for couples, check out our list of the top attractions and activities. Best time for couples to visit Singapore There’s never a bad time to visit Singapore. It’s a year-round city. However, depending on what you want from the experience, there are better times than others. If the sun’s your priority, February to April is your time to shine. Those are the months with the least rain, with temperatures in the mid-80s°F (high-20s°C). If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet with the beaches to yourself, July to November is a good window. The streets, shops, and beaches are all a little quieter, although the rain picks up towards the end of the year. Keep that in mind if you’re hoping for romantic picnics or laying out under the stars. Chinese New Year falls either in January or February depending on the cycle of the moon, and can be a spectacular experience for traveling couples. Expect parades, floats, dragon dances, and a feast of fine food to excite the senses. If you’ve got any special items you want to buy your significant other, Singapore is the dream destination. With some of the best shopping malls in the world, you’ll find whatever you need. But, if you want more bang for your buck, time your trip so you arrive during The Great Singapore Sale (also known as the Big Singapore Sale). It usually lasts a month and features island-wide discounts of up to 70%! Check online before booking your trip as the sale period can vary from year to year. Nightlife in Singapore Singapore’s nightlife is pretty impressive. There are amazing venues, a wide variety of cuisines, and countless entertainment options. Although Singapore is small, its nightlife is diverse and won’t leave you wanting. If you want to go out partying in Singapore, here are some great options. Feel like royalty, drinking in one of the most glamorous rooftop bars in the city, CÉ LA VI SkyBar. Panoramic views of the Singapore skyline, delicious cocktails, and celebrity DJs providing the perfect soundtrack to the evening - that’s a recipe for a romantic evening. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to a dance class to learn one of the many traditional dances of the region, including Zapin, Joget, Peranakan, and Kathak, to name a few. If you just want to shake your hips, you can find clubs playing Salsa, Tango, Cha Cha, and everything in between. Tanjong Beach is one of the liveliest spots in Singapore, with bars and clubs offering a great beach vibe with stunning views of Sentosa, international DJs, and live music playing all year round. Cultural events in Singapore Sightseeing is always fun, but if you can time your trip to coincide with a festival or cultural event, you’ll enhance your experience tenfold. Singapore Night Festival - Spanning a full week, the Singapore Night Festival celebrates the arts and heritage in Singapore. With a different theme each year, it features public art installations, light shows, projection mapping, and nightly performances. Moon Festival runs in early September. How does a romantic evening of Cantonese Opera sound? Or get dressed up in your finest to attend an evening performance by the Chinese Chamber Ensemble. There are plenty of other, lighthearted events during Moon Festival too, from a Lantern Tour to puppet shows. Definitely not one to be missed. Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) - Over 70 performances across the city featuring hundreds of local and international artists, SIFA incorporates theater, dance, music, film, and visual arts. The outcome is a fortnight of stellar, educational, thought-provoking performances that will stay with you for a lifetime. Most romantic locations for a selfie in Singapore If you don’t leave Singapore with a memory card full of photos, you’re doing something wrong. Whether it’s the iconic architecture, breathtaking natural beauty, or iconic landmarks, Singapore is a beautiful city to photograph, which obviously includes a selfie or three. Here are some romantic locations in Singapore for a perfect selfie. The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark You cannot leave Singapore without a SkyPark selfie. The stunning view from Marina Bay Sands SkyPark observation deck will leave you in awe. 200 meters in the air, with a 150-meter infinity pool offering an unparalleled view of the city below. Gardens by the Bay The Flower Dome offers a perfect romantic getaway for a photo, especially if you and your partner visit on a weekday when it’s a little quieter. The Cloud Forest features a light-and-water show on selected evenings, so you’ll be able to capture that perfect moment with the one you love. For yet more photo opportunities, experience nature from up high at The Supertree Grove, with treetop skywalks and the Supertrees providing the perfect backdrop. Chinatown The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a jaw-droppingly beautiful building, but that’s not the only photo opportunity in Chinatown. Pagoda Street is a vibrant street filled with history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel

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