Singapore Public Transport

Singapore has one of the best system of public transport in the world. You can get around virtually anywhere Singapore with just a few buses and subway rides.

Head after the break to see the tourist guide and local tips of getting around the island.

There are 3 popular modes of public transport in Singapore are Buses, MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and Taxis, all of which use distance-based fares meaning the further your travel distance is, the more you pay. The most widespread payment method in Singapore is using RFID farecards called EZ-link (the similar concept used in London, Hong Kong and Japan). The card is sold with a non-refundable deposit of S$5 but in return it gives discounted rates compared to paying one-time fares on the spot. Once the balance of the card is low, it can be replenished at MRT top-up machines, ATMs or convenient stores such as 7-Eleven islandwide.

Example of front and back sides of an EZ-link card

Tourists in Singapore can also purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass instead of opting for EZ-link or one-time fares. The cost of the Tourist Pass is S$8 for unlimited usage per day plus a deposit of refundable S$10. Given that a minimum bus or MRT ride in Singapore costs S$1, it would make sense if you're going to travel a lot (and you probably will!).

Singapore Tourist Pass, $8 for unlimited transport usage per day

More tips:
There's no need to spend a cent for Singapore maps, you can easily get them from any MRT passenger service counters for free!

If you don't know how to get from one point to another in the most convenient way, log on to Google Map or a local service Gothere.sg for quickest guide. It would even tell you down to the approximate time your journey is going to take.


See also:
- Guide to: MRT
- Guide to: Buses
- Guide to: Taxi