Biking in Singapore is a fun, eco-friendly, and popular way to explore the city-state. With over 300 kilometers of dedicated cycling paths and a Bike Score of 69.2, Singapore has one of the best biking infrastructures in the world. But biking isn’t just about transportation – it’s also an excellent way to experience the city’s unique culture and history, from the Botanic Gardens to Chinatown. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a fun way to sightsee, be sure to experience biking in Singapore.
Wheels for hire: Exploring Bike rental options
- SG Bike – This bike-sharing service is the most used biking option in Singapore. With over 3,000 bikes located at various stations across the city, it is the most convenient and affordable option for tourists and locals alike.
- Bike Stop – If you’re looking for a more unique and personalized experience, Bike Stop is a great option. Located near the scenic Singapore River, they offer a variety of bike rentals, including city bikes, mountain bikes, and folding bikes. They also provide guided bike tours, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace while learning about its history and culture.
- GoCycling – For families or groups, GoCycling is a popular choice as they offer a variety of bikes, including kids’ bikes and tandem bikes. They also have several locations across Singapore, making it easy to find a rental spot near you.
- Anywheel – Anywheel is another great option for bike rentals in Singapore. With over 1,000 bikes located at various stations across the city, it is a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore Singapore.
Climate: What to Expect When Biking
Singapore has a tropical climate, meaning it is generally hot and humid year-round. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), with high humidity levels that can make biking uncomfortable for some people. The best time to go biking in Singapore is during the cooler and drier months of December to February.
Essential Bike Accessories to Bring for Your Ride
If you’re planning to explore Singapore on a bike, there are a few essential accessories you’ll want to bring along. Firstly, a comfortable helmet is a must-have to protect your head in case of any accidents. Next, have a pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the bright sun and reduce glare. Additionally, along with a water bottle, don’t forget a water bottle holder and a hydration pack, especially in Singapore’s humid climate. Finally, don’t forget to bring a small bike pump and a tire repair kit, as they can come in handy in the case of a flat tire.
If you’re planning to bike at night, you’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure your and pedestrians’ safety. First and foremost, ensure to have a good quality bike with mirrors and light to illuminate your path and make yourself visible to others on the road. You may also want to consider wearing reflective clothing or accessories to increase your visibility. In addition to a helmet, you may want to wear a headlamp to light up the road ahead. Finally, a small first aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can come in handy in case of any accidents or injuries.
➕Insider’s Tip: It’s important to note that some bike rental shops may provide helmets and lights as part of the rental package, but it’s always a good idea to bring your accessories to ensure your safety and comfort during your ride.
Cycling Routes in Singapore
1. East Coast Park Connector
This 42-kilometer route is one of Singapore’s longest and most popular cycling routes. It takes you through East Coast Park, known for its scenic views, food stalls, and recreational facilities.
- Difficulty: easy to moderate difficulty
- Starting point: East Coast Park
- Nearest MRT: Bedok MRT station
- Highlights: It features beautiful ocean views, beachfront restaurants and cafes, water sports activities, barbecue pits, playgrounds, and a skate park. Along the way, you’ll also get to see some of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, and the Esplanade.
Do check the guide from National Parks Board to explore this cycling trail further.
➕Insider Tip: Explore the side paths. The East Coast Park Connector has many side paths that lead to scenic spots and hidden gems, such as the Bedok Jetty and the Marine Cove Playground. Take the time to explore these paths and discover new places in the park.
2. The Southern Ridges
This 10-kilometer route takes you through several parks and nature reserves, including Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and the lush greenery of Singapore’s southern region.
- Difficulty: moderate difficulty
- Starting point: Mount Faber Park
- Nearest MRT: Harbourfront MRT station
- Highlights: It features The Henderson Waves, a pedestrian bridge that offers panoramic views of the city; the Forest Walk, a treetop walkway that lets you explore the forest’s canopy; and the Kent Ridge Canopy Walk, a 280-meter long suspension bridge that connects two hills.
Click here for more information and start your nature adventure today!
➕Insider Tip: Plan for a half-day ride. The Southern Ridges cycling route covers a distance of approximately 10 kilometers and includes several steep climbs and descents. Plan for a half-day ride to allow for rest stops and photo opportunities.
3. Punggol Waterway Park
This 12-kilometer route takes you through the scenic Punggol Waterway Park, known for its winding waterways, lush greenery, and vibrant flora and fauna.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate difficulty
- Starting point: Punggol Waterway Park
- Nearest MRT: Punggol MRT station
- Highlights: it features the Adventure Bridge, a 44-meter-long suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the park; the Waterway Point Mall, which offers plenty of dining and shopping options; and the Sunrise Bridge, which offers incredible views of the sunrise and sunset over the waterway.
To learn more about the Punggol Waterway Park, visit the National Parks Board website.
➕Insider Tip: Visit the Lorong Halus Wetland. The Lorong Halus Wetland is a nearby attraction easily accessible from Punggol Waterway Park. Take a detour to explore this unique wetland area, home to many species of birds and other wildlife.
4. Pulau Ubin
This 10-kilometer route takes you through the rustic island of Pulau Ubin, known for its untouched nature, traditional kampong houses, and scenic trails.
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Starting point: Changi Point Ferry Terminal
- Nearest MRT: Tanah Merah MRT station
- Highlights: It features Chek Jawa Wetlands, a biodiverse ecosystem that’s home to a variety of marine life and wildlife, traditional kampong houses, scenic beaches, and rustic village life.
To learn more about cycling in Pulau Ubin, visit the National Parks Board website.
➕Insider Tip: Bring cash. Most of the shops and eateries in Pulau Ubin only accept cash. So, make sure to bring enough with you for the day. There are also no ATMs on the island.
5. The Northern Explorer Loop
This 25-kilometer cycling route takes you through the heart of Singapore’s northern neighborhoods, including Yishun, Sembawang, and Woodlands. This scenic route is perfect for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Singapore while getting in a good workout.
Difficulty: moderate difficulty
Starting point: Yishun MRT station
Nearest MRT: Woodlands MRT station
Highlights: It features beautiful parks, reservoirs, and nature reserves, such as Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, Sembawang Park, and Woodlands Waterfront Park. You’ll also pass by historical sites such as the Kranji War Memorial and the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, home to wildlife, including migratory birds.
Do check the guide from National Parks Board to explore this cycling trail further.
Biking in Singapore is an exciting and eco-friendly way to experience the city’s culture and attractions. With dedicated cycling paths and scenic routes, it’s perfect for exploring hidden gems and landmarks. From vibrant neighborhoods to tranquil parks and gardens, biking allows you to see the city differently and take in its sights, sounds, and smells. So rent a bike, gear up, and embark on a cycling adventure in Singapore that you’ll never forget!
