Singapore Cycling Routes for Tourists: Complete Pricing & Hours Guide
Singapore's extensive network of cycling routes offers tourists an accessible, affordable way to explore the island's diverse neighbourhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden local gems. Whether you're interested in leisurely rides along scenic waterfront paths or immersive food-and-culture cycling tours, Singapore's well-maintained bike infrastructure makes it one of Asia's most bike-friendly destinations for visitors.
This guide covers current ticket prices, opening hours, rental options, and practical tips to help you plan your cycling experience in Singapore with confidence and safety—values that Homejourney prioritizes for all users exploring the island.
Understanding Singapore's Cycling Infrastructure
The Park Connector Network (PCN)
Singapore's Park Connector Network (PCN) is a 360km island-wide network of dedicated recreational routes that connect parks, neighbourhoods, and waterfront areas.[5] The most popular segment for tourists is the Round Island Route (RIR), a continuous 150km park connector that circumnavigates the entire island.[5] This network is completely free to access and operates 24/7, making it ideal for tourists on any budget.
The PCN features well-paved, orderly pathways with minimal hills and excellent traffic management—conditions that make Singapore a cyclist's dream compared to other Southeast Asian cities.[1] Most routes are separated from vehicle traffic, creating a safe environment for both experienced and casual cyclists.
Popular PCN Routes for Tourists
- Northern Eastern Riverine Loop: A scenic 30km+ route through Punggol, Sengkang, and along the Serangoon River, featuring beautiful landscaped walkways and detours to Coney Island for beach access.[2]
- East Coast Park Connector: Connects from Changi in the east through East Coast Park to Marina Bay, passing beaches, gardens, and the city's iconic waterfront.[1]
- Pandan River Park Connector: Runs through central Singapore with abundant natural scenery and connections to multiple parks.[2]
- Kallang Riverside Park: Features accessible ramps at overhead bridges and rain gardens developed under PUB's ABC Waters Programme.[2]
Bike Rental Options: Prices & Hours
Self-Service Bike Rental
Gocycling is one of Singapore's primary bike rental operators, with multiple locations including Changi Beach (Car Park 1 at Nicoll Drive) and other strategic points across the island.[2] The service allows flexible returns at any of their rental stations, making it convenient for point-to-point cycling routes.
Typical rental rates for self-service bikes range from SGD $10-20 per day for standard bicycles, though specific hourly rates vary by location and bike type. Most rental services operate during daylight hours (approximately 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM), with extended hours during peak tourist seasons.
Guided Cycling Tours with Rental Included
For tourists preferring structured experiences, numerous operators offer guided cycling tours with bike rental included:
- Half-Day City Tours: Small-group tours exploring Marina Bay, Colonial District, Chinatown, and Little India typically cost SGD $60-85 per person and last approximately 4 hours.[1] These tours include bike rental, helmet, light refreshments, and an English-speaking guide.
- Pulau Ubin Nature Cycling: Full-day 4-hour nature cycling experiences cost approximately SGD $84 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.[1]
- Food & Bike Tours: Specialized food-focused cycling tours through neighbourhoods like Katong, Chinatown, and Little India range from SGD $70-120 per person for 4-hour experiences, including multiple dishes, snacks, bike rental, and licensed guide.[4]
- Private Full-Day Tours: Exclusive 7-8 hour private cycling experiences with your group cost approximately SGD $150-250+ per person, departing at 10:30 AM along Singapore River and including guide, bike rental, and admission fees to venues.[4]
- Rail Corridor Tours: Specialized 4-hour tours combining the historic Rail Corridor, Civic District, and food experiences cost SGD $80-110 per person, including Brompton folding bike rental, STB licensed guide, and local refreshments.[4]
Top Cycling Routes: Details & Best Times to Visit
East Coast Park to Marina Bay (13-20km)
Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy | Best Time: Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM)
This scenic coastal route begins at Changi Beach or East Coast Park and follows the beautiful Singapore coastline toward Marina Bay.[1] The route passes through established beach areas, recreational parks, and culminates at iconic landmarks including Gardens by the Bay, Marina Barrage, and views of the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.[1]
Insider Tip: Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. The route features multiple pause points for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring activities along the way. Sunset rides offer spectacular views of the city skyline and are increasingly popular for photography.
Marina Bay Night Cycling Experience
Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy | Best Time: 6:00 PM-9:00 PM
Singapore's top-rated nighttime cycling tours showcase the dazzling transformation of Marina Bay after dark.[1] Routes follow the riverfront promenade past Gardens by the Bay, Marina Barrage, the National Stadium, and the famous Formula One race track, with opportunities to catch live shows at the Esplanade.[1]
What to Bring: Bring lights or use a guided tour with lighting. Wear reflective clothing and plan for cooler evening temperatures (around 24-26°C).
Northern Eastern Riverine Loop (30km+)
Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate | Best Time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
This extensive loop through Punggol, Sengkang, and along the Serangoon River offers a "living like a local" experience with beautifully landscaped riverside walkways between high-rise flats and small streams.[2] The route connects Punggol Point Park, Punggol Park, Sengkang Riverside Park, and Punggol Waterway Park, with optional detours to Coney Island for beach access and jungle exploration.[2]
Route Highlights: The Lorong Halus Bridge offers scenic photo opportunities, and the route features accessible ramps and well-maintained paved pathways. Punggol Waterway Point shopping mall provides food and rest facilities midway.
Raffles Place to Changi Village (30km)
Duration: 2.5-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Best Time: Early morning or weekends
This classic route traverses Singapore from the central business district eastward to the charming Changi Village, passing through diverse neighbourhoods and ending at one of Singapore's most atmospheric local areas.[3]
Specialized Cycling Tours for Different Interests
Cultural & Heritage Tours
Small-group tours exploring Singapore's rich cultural tapestry cost SGD $65-90 per person for 4-hour experiences.[1] These tours pedal through historic neighbourhoods including Kampong Glam, Chinatown, Little India, and the Colonial District, with stops at cultural landmarks and stories explaining Singapore's transformation from a fishing village to a global city.[1]
Food-Focused Cycling Tours
Singapore Food & Bike Tour operators offer two primary experiences:
- Katong Neighborhood Tour: Explores residential areas with authentic local experiences, featuring laksa, chicken rice, and curry puffs from neighborhood food centres.
- Downtown Tour: Departs at 9:00 AM from Bike Around Tour Singapore (20 Republic Ave, near Nicoll Highway MRT Exit A), lasting 4 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.[4] Includes multiple dishes, snacks, bicycle, helmet, and licensed English-speaking guide.
Important Note: Food tours operate rain-or-shine, and you should be a competent urban cyclist comfortable sharing routes with pedestrians and occasional scooter traffic.[4]
Nature & Outdoor Adventures
Pulau Ubin cycling experiences showcase Singapore's natural heritage with 4-hour tours at SGD $84 per person, featuring free cancellation and exploration of this island's unique ecosystem.[1]
Practical Information for Cycling in Singapore
What to Bring & Wear
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics in light colours to reflect heat. Avoid loose clothing that could catch on bike chains.
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours), wide-brimmed hat or cap, and sunglasses with UV protection. Most tours recommend bringing sunscreen.
- Hydration: Bring a refillable water bottle—Singapore's tropical climate means you'll lose fluids quickly. Most tours include light refreshments but carrying your own ensures constant hydration.
- Safety Equipment: Helmets are provided by rental companies and tour operators. Request in advance if you have specific requirements.
- Navigation: Download offline maps or use Strava GPX files available from bike rental companies like Livelo.[3]
Best Times to Cycle
Optimal Seasons: Singapore's tropical climate means cycling is possible year-round, but the best times are:
- December-March: Slightly cooler and drier with less rainfall
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Coolest temperatures, fewer crowds, best for photography
- Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM): Sunset rides offer spectacular views and cooler conditions
Avoid: Midday (11:00 AM-3:00 PM) when temperatures peak at 30-32°C and UV exposure is strongest.
Safety Considerations
Singapore's cycling infrastructure is among Asia's safest, with dedicated paths, orderly traffic, and minimal hills.[1] However, tourists should be aware:
- Share some routes with pedestrians and occasional scooter traffic
- Traffic lights and road rules apply to cyclists
- Most paths are well-lit, but nighttime cycling should be done with lights or guided tours
- Stay hydrated and take regular breaks in tropical heat
Money-Saving Tips for Cycling in Singapore
- Free PCN Access: The entire 360km Park Connector Network is completely free and operates 24/7. Bring your own bike or rent one for a single route.
- Off-Peak Tours: Book weekday tours instead of weekends for better availability and sometimes lower prices.
- Group Discounts: Most tour operators offer discounts for groups of 4 or more. Coordinate with other tourists to access these rates.
- Combination Packages: Some operators bundle cycling tours with food experiences or cultural attractions for better overall value.
- Self-Guided Routes: Download free Strava GPX files from Livelo and other operators to create your own itineraries using rental bikes.[3]
- Flexible Cancellation: Most reputable operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to adjust plans based on weather.
Accessibility & Family-Friendly Information
Singapore's cycling infrastructure is designed for accessibility. Park Connector routes feature ramps at overhead bridges, making them suitable for families with children and those with mobility considerations.[2] Most bike rental companies offer child seats and smaller bikes for young riders.
Important: Some specialized tours (particularly food-focused experiences) may not be ideal for wheelchair accessibility or those preferring air-conditioned transport, so verify specific requirements when booking.[4]
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Cycling
Maximize your Singapore visit by combining cycling with nearby attractions:
- Gardens by the Bay: Accessible via East Coast Park routes; features free garden access with paid conservatory tickets
- Marina Bay Sands & Merlion: Iconic photo stops on most downtown cycling routes
- Esplanade: Check for live shows during evening cycling tours
- National Stadium: Visible from Marina Bay routes; occasionally hosts events
