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Take a boat cruise along the Singapore River to admire the beautiful skyline, explore the waterfront and historical landmarks. Walk along the riverbanks, visiting iconic spots like Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Marina Bay Sands. For a cultural experience, visit the nearby Asian Civilisations Museum and enjoy dining at riverside restaurants.
The Singapore River, Singapore's only river, is a man-made canal carved from the sea. Spanning approximately 4.1 kilometers, it runs through the city and is considered Singapore's mother river, a source of livelihood for early settlers. A stroll along the Singapore River offers visitors a variety of monumental landmarks, including the Raffles Landing Site, the Merlion Park, and the Arts House, as well as bustling neighborhoods like Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. Alternatively, take a boat tour to experience the vibrant cityscape of Singapore at night.
All seasons
1-2 hours;
Merlion Park, Clarke Quay, etc.
free
All day
The Singapore River has been the heart of the city's trade and commerce since the 19th century. Once a busy hub for merchants and traders, the river played a crucial role in Singapore's transformation into a global trading port. Today, it serves as a historical landmark with numerous riverside attractions, bars, and restaurants.
The Singapore River runs through the central business district, passing through iconic areas like Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Marina Bay. It is easily accessible by MRT (City Hall or Clarke Quay stations), bus, taxi, or even by walking along the scenic river promenade.
The Singapore River itself is open all day, but the best time to visit is during the evening when the area is beautifully lit, and you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride or riverside dining. The late afternoon to evening is ideal for photos of the skyline and riverfront activities.
Access to the Singapore River is free, but for boat tours, prices vary depending on the type of cruise. A standard boat ride typically costs around SGD 25 to SGD 40 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the boat docking stations or online via tour operators.
Booking tickets for boat tours in advance is optional, but it can be a good idea, especially during peak tourist seasons. For standard visits, no advance booking is necessary.
Exploring the Singapore River area can take around 2 to 3 hours if you plan to walk along the river, enjoy the sights, and take a boat ride. If you're planning to visit museums and other attractions along the river, you may need more time.
Must-see highlights include Clarke Quay, with its vibrant nightlife; Boat Quay, known for historical buildings and dining; and Marina Bay Sands, offering great views of the skyline. Also, visit the Asian Civilisations Museum for insight into Singapore's multicultural history.
Guided boat tours and walking tours are available in several languages, including English, Mandarin, and others. Audio guides for self-paced tours are also available for boat rides and some walking routes along the river.
The best viewpoints for photography include the vantage points from the Merlion Park, Boat Quay, and the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. For iconic shots of the city skyline and the river, consider taking a river cruise at sunset or in the evening when the lights come on.
Start by visiting Clarke Quay for its vibrant atmosphere and dining options. Then, walk along Boat Quay to admire the heritage buildings. Stop at the Asian Civilisations Museum for a cultural experience, and finish your trip with a scenic boat ride along the river to see the city from the water.
Yes, night visits are a fantastic experience. The area is illuminated, and a boat cruise offers a great view of the city skyline. Special light shows and events are often held at Marina Bay Sands, and there are evening river cruises that provide a more scenic view of the area after dark.
The area can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays. The evenings also tend to be quieter for a peaceful boat ride or riverside walk.
There are plenty of facilities available, including toilets, rest areas, and water fountains. Riverside cafes, restaurants, and shops are abundant in areas like Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, offering food and drinks throughout the day and evening.
Yes, the Singapore River area is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. There are ramps and paved walkways for easy movement. However, some areas may be more crowded, especially during peak hours, so it's best to visit during quieter times.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and for boat rides along the river. However, it is still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of emergencies.
There are numerous restaurants and cafes along the Singapore River, particularly at Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Marina Bay. Options range from casual cafes to fine dining establishments offering local and international cuisines.
Yes, many restaurants along the river offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. There are various local and international restaurants that cater to these dietary preferences.
There are several hotels close to the Singapore River, including luxury options like Marina Bay Sands, The Fullerton Hotel, and Raffles Hotel, as well as budget-friendly options in the Clarke Quay area.
Nearby attractions include the Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, and the Asian Civilisations Museum. All of these landmarks are within walking distance from the Singapore River and can easily be combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near Clarke Quay and Boat Quay selling traditional Singaporean items such as souvenirs featuring the Merlion, local crafts, and miniature models of the city’s landmarks.
After visiting the Singapore River, you can easily continue your trip by taking a taxi, MRT, or bus. If you’re heading to the Marina Bay area or Gardens by the Bay, these locations are just a short walk away, or you can hop on a nearby bus or MRT train.
