Exploring Singapore and Beyond by Car
Singapore may be a small island, but it offers surprising diversity for road trip enthusiasts. From scenic coastal drives to cultural explorations and even cross-border adventures, having a rental car gives you the freedom to discover Singapore and its surroundings at your own pace.
In this guide, we'll share our favorite driving routes in and around Singapore, complete with insider tips, must-see attractions, and practical information to help you plan the perfect road trip adventure.
Within Singapore: Urban and Nature Explorations
1. The Round Island Route
Experience Singapore's diverse landscapes and coastal views with this comprehensive driving tour that circles the entire island.
Route Highlights:
- Start at Marina Bay - Begin your journey with views of Singapore's iconic skyline
- East Coast Parkway - Drive along this scenic coastal road past East Coast Park and Changi Beach
- Punggol Waterway - Explore this northern waterfront area with lush greenery and waterside paths
- Kranji Countryside - Visit farms and nature areas in Singapore's rural northwest
- West Coast Park - Enjoy sea views and recreational facilities on the west coast
- Return via Southern Ridges - Complete your circuit with panoramic views from Mount Faber
Driving Distance:
Approximately 150 km total (if completing the full circuit and visiting all recommended stops)
Recommended Time:
Full day (8-10 hours with stops) or break into two half-day trips
Best For:
First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive overview of Singapore's diverse landscapes
Insider Tip:
Start early (around 7 AM) to avoid peak traffic hours and enjoy the morning light for photography. The East Coast segment is particularly beautiful at sunrise.
2. Singapore Heritage Trail
Discover Singapore's rich multicultural history and architectural heritage with this urban driving route connecting historic districts.
Route Highlights:
- Chinatown - Explore traditional shophouses, temples, and bustling streets
- Kampong Glam - Visit the historic Malay-Arab quarter with the stunning Sultan Mosque
- Little India - Experience vibrant colors, aromas, and authentic South Asian culture
- Joo Chiat/Katong - Admire beautifully preserved Peranakan heritage houses
- Tiong Bahru - Singapore's oldest housing estate with distinctive Art Deco architecture
Driving Distance:
Approximately 25 km (plus walking explorations at each district)
Recommended Time:
Full day (park and explore each area on foot)
Best For:
History enthusiasts and culture lovers
Insider Tip:
Parking can be challenging in heritage areas. Look for multi-story car parks near each district and explore on foot. The URA Centre car park is centrally located for accessing Chinatown.
3. Singapore Nature and Parks Drive
Discover Singapore's surprising abundance of natural spaces with this green itinerary connecting major parks and nature reserves.
Route Highlights:
- Singapore Botanic Gardens - Begin at this UNESCO World Heritage site with over 10,000 plant species
- Bukit Timah Nature Reserve - Home to Singapore's highest hill and primary rainforest
- MacRitchie Reservoir - Enjoy forest walks, the TreeTop Walk suspension bridge, and lakeside views
- Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve - Spot migratory birds and wildlife in this coastal wetland
- Gardens by the Bay - End your nature tour at this futuristic garden with Supertrees and conservatories
Driving Distance:
Approximately 40 km (not including walks within parks)
Recommended Time:
Full day (with short hikes at each location)
Best For:
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
Insider Tip:
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds at popular spots like TreeTop Walk. Bring insect repellent, water, and comfortable walking shoes for the nature reserves.
Day Trips from Singapore
1. Johor Bahru City Exploration (Malaysia)
Cross the border for a taste of Malaysia just a short drive from Singapore.
Route Highlights:
- Johor Bahru City Centre - Explore the heritage district, Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, and Chinese Heritage Museum
- Danga Bay - Waterfront area with recreational facilities and restaurants
- LEGOLAND Malaysia - Theme park for families (optional side trip)
- Johor Premium Outlets - Luxury shopping destination on the return route
Driving Distance:
Approximately 70 km round trip (excluding border crossing time)
Recommended Time:
Full day (factoring in border crossing times)
Best For:
Cultural explorers and shopping enthusiasts
Important Notes:
Check with your rental company if cross-border travel is permitted. You'll need:
- Valid passport with Malaysia entry requirements
- Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) for Malaysia
- Autopass Card with sufficient value for Singapore departure/return
- Touch 'n Go card for Malaysian tolls
- Additional insurance coverage for Malaysia
Border crossing times can be lengthy (1-3 hours) during peak periods (weekends and holidays).
2. Desaru Coast Drive (Malaysia)
Explore Malaysia's southeastern coastline with beautiful beaches and resort areas.
Route Highlights:
- Desaru Beach - 25 km of pristine coastline with white sand and blue waters
- Desaru Fruit Farm - Tour and sample tropical fruits
- Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark - Family-friendly water attractions
- Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum - Learn about traditional fishing culture
Driving Distance:
Approximately 200 km round trip from Singapore
Recommended Time:
Full day (or overnight stay for more relaxed pace)
Best For:
Beach lovers and families
Insider Tip:
Consider taking the Desaru Coast Ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and renting a car in Desaru to avoid border crossing traffic. Check the same cross-border requirements as the Johor Bahru trip if driving from Singapore.
3. Malacca Heritage City (Malaysia)
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage city with its rich history and cultural heritage.
Route Highlights:
- Malacca Historic Centre - Explore A Famosa Fort, St. Paul's Hill, and Jonker Street
- Malacca River Cruise - See the city from a different perspective
- Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum - Learn about Peranakan culture
- Portuguese Settlement - Experience unique Eurasian culture and cuisine
Driving Distance:
Approximately 240 km one-way (480 km round trip)
Recommended Time:
Overnight trip (at least one night stay recommended)
Best For:
History buffs and cultural enthusiasts
Insider Tip:
This is a long drive best split over two days. The same cross-border requirements apply as for other Malaysia trips. Consider parking at Malacca's designated parking areas and exploring the historic center on foot or via trishaw.
Scenic Drives for Special Occasions
1. Singapore Sunset Drive
Experience Singapore's stunning sunset views with this romantic evening drive.
Route Highlights:
- Keppel Bay - Start at this marina with views of luxury yachts and waterfront dining
- Mount Faber - Drive up for panoramic sunset views of the city and harbor
- Marina Barrage - Perfect spot for sunset skyline views
- East Coast Park - End with a seaside dinner along this coastal stretch
Driving Distance:
Approximately 20 km
Recommended Time:
3-4 hours (starting around 5 PM)
Best For:
Couples and photography enthusiasts
Insider Tip:
Time your visit to Mount Faber about 30-45 minutes before sunset for the best views. Check the weather forecast, as Singapore's frequent cloud cover can affect sunset visibility.
2. Singapore Night Drive
Experience the city's spectacular illuminations with an evening driving tour.
Route Highlights:
- Marina Bay - Circle this area to see the iconic skyline lights
- Helix Bridge and Esplanade - Drive past these illuminated architectural wonders
- Gardens by the Bay - Witness the Supertree light show (Garden Rhapsody at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM)
- Orchard Road - Cruise down Singapore's main shopping street with its dazzling lights
- Benjamin Sheares Bridge - Enjoy panoramic city views from this elevated expressway
Driving Distance:
Approximately 15 km
Recommended Time:
2-3 hours (starting after 7 PM)
Best For:
Night photography enthusiasts and special celebrations
Insider Tip:
Traffic in the Marina Bay and Orchard areas can be heavy in the evenings, especially on weekends. Consider a weeknight for a smoother drive.
Tips for Driving in Singapore and Malaysia
Singapore Driving Tips
- Drive on the left side of the road
- Be aware of Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantries and charges
- Observe speed limits strictly (generally 50 km/h on urban roads, 70-90 km/h on expressways)
- Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to avoid traffic and find efficient routes
- Parking can be expensive in central areas; look for parking promotions or park at HDB estates when appropriate
Malaysia Cross-Border Tips
- Ensure your rental agreement allows for cross-border travel
- Fill up your tank before crossing (fuel is cheaper in Malaysia)
- Keep passport and vehicle documents easily accessible
- Be prepared for potential long waits at immigration (especially on weekends and holidays)
- Malaysia has different traffic rules and enforcement; drive cautiously and follow local speed limits
- Avoid night driving on rural Malaysian roads if possible
Vehicle Recommendations
For the best road trip experience, choose the right vehicle for your adventure:
- Urban Singapore Explorations: Compact or economy cars are ideal for navigating Singapore's well-maintained roads and finding parking in urban areas. Our Toyota Corolla or Honda City models are perfect choices.
- Nature Trails and Parks: Consider an SUV like our Honda CR-V for better visibility and comfort when visiting multiple nature sites.
- Malaysia Day Trips: A mid-sized sedan like our Mazda 6 offers good comfort for longer journeys while maintaining fuel efficiency.
- Family Road Trips: Our 7-seater Toyota Sienta provides ample space for everyone and their luggage on longer adventures.
Road Trip Essentials
For a smooth road trip experience, remember to pack:
- Valid driver's license and passport (for Malaysia trips)
- Digital payment cards for tolls and parking
- Mobile phone with local SIM card or data plan
- Charging cables for devices
- Water and snacks
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- First aid kit and basic medications
- Umbrella or raincoat (Singapore's weather can change quickly)
- Camera for capturing memories
Conclusion
While Singapore might not immediately come to mind for road trips due to its compact size, exploring the island and nearby destinations by car offers unexpected freedom and discovery. From urban adventures to nature excursions and cross-border journeys, a rental car opens up possibilities that public transportation simply can't match.
At Ploras Poon, we provide well-maintained vehicles perfect for your Singapore driving adventures, along with personalized recommendations to help you make the most of your journey. Our fleet includes fuel-efficient economy cars ideal for city exploration, comfortable SUVs for nature trips, and premium vehicles for special occasions.
Ready to hit the road and discover Singapore your way? Browse our fleet or contact our team to plan your perfect Singapore road trip today.