Big Bus Singapore

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the open-air top deck for panoramic views of Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore skyline

• Hop off at Raffles Hotel to explore colonial-era architecture and historic Singapore's grandeur

• Visit the Merlion at St. Andrew's Road, one of Asia's most iconic and photographed landmarks

• Explore the vibrant street art and local culture of Kampong Glam and Arab Street

Hidden Gems

• Catch sunset views from the bus route along East Coast Park for golden hour photography without fighting crowds

• Discover the quieter heritage trails through Tiong Bahru, Singapore's oldest public housing estate with charming shophouses and cafes

• Time your tour to pass through the quaint streets of Chinatown during evening hours when lanterns and neon signs illuminate the heritage shophouses

What Makes it Special

• Hop-on hop-off flexibility lets you design your own itinerary rather than following a fixed guided tour schedule

• Open-air double-decker vantage point offers unobstructed photo opportunities and immersive 360-degree views of Singapore's urban landscape

• Complementary audio commentary in multiple languages provides cultural context and insider knowledge without mandatory group participation

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures between 8am and 10am offer the best combination of mild weather, softer natural light for photography, and manageable crowd levels. December to February provides the most comfortable weather conditions with lower humidity and temperatures around 24-26°C. Avoid midday hours from 11am to 3pm when the tropical sun is intense and top deck seats become uncomfortably hot.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Shoot from the right side of the bus during morning routes to capture the Merlion and Marina Bay with optimal backlighting and golden hour glow

• Position yourself on the upper deck's front section for unobstructed wide-angle shots of Singapore's skyline and approaching landmarks

• Arrive early enough to catch sunrise light on the east-facing facades of Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay for dramatic architectural photography

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Singapore is a multicultural society where respect for all communities is paramount; be mindful when photographing religious sites like temples, mosques, and churches, and always ask permission before photographing individuals. Dress modestly when visiting heritage neighborhoods and religious areas, avoiding overly revealing clothing. Tipping is not customary in Singapore, though rounding up fares or leaving small change is appreciated.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Chinese New Year (January/February) features festive decorations and special Chinatown routes with extended hours to capture the vibrant lion dances and lantern displays

• During the Singapore Food Festival (July), special commentary highlights hawker centers and food heritage stops along the tour route

• Year-round holiday season (November-December) brings festive light displays and special evening routes showcasing Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and CBD illuminations

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay seated when the bus is moving, especially on the top deck, as sudden stops or turns can be hazardous on the open-air upper level

• Keep valuables secure in crossbody bags or backpacks worn in front of your body, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas

• Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours on the exposed top deck to prevent heat exhaustion and severe sunburn in Singapore's equatorial climate