Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
On this walking tour, we cast our minds back more than 200 years to a time when Sir Thomas Stamford Bingley Raffles of the British East India Company arrived in Singapore, started a British trading post in 1819, became part of the Straits Settlements in 1826, and eventually a separate colony of the British crown in 1867.
We’ll visit well-preserved structures from the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras, and stately neo-classical style buildings, which have all been restored to showcase the splendour of Colonial Singapore.
We pay tribute to our former colonial masters who left behind their legacy of careful town planning, sound legal system, good education system, solid infrastructure, impressive architecture, etc, which have certainly played a significant part in the development of modern Singapore.
At about midday, we’ll kick back and enjoy lunch by the Singapore River at Boat Quay, before we resume our tour of the Civic District and Old European Town.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Licensed tourist guide and disposable poncho in the event of rain.
3-course lunch by the river, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Gratuities.
St Andrew's Cathedral
Our story begins with how the British started their trading post in Singapore in 1819, where the early European settlers built their homes, and how the first Anglican church came to be constructed in 1836.
National Gallery Singapore
We explore the 2 colonial buildings which now make up the National Gallery Singapore, namely the Former Municipal Building (later renamed City Hall Building) and the Former Supreme Court Building. Step into the chamber where Lord Louis Mountbatten accepted the surrender of the Japanese on 12 September 1945, the holding cells of the former Supreme Court, etc.
43 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Kylie M,
Aug 23, 2025
- Viator
This tour is full of fascinating stories and historical sites. We learned about Singapore’s origins, politics and significant events, all while walking through the buildings and streets where everything happened. There is a mixture of indoor (air conditioned) and outdoor walking, including along the river. There were lots of opportunities for water and bathroom breaks. Lunch was included and was delicious (one of the best meals I had in Singapore!) Lunch included a drink and dessert and the whole tour was excellent value for money. Ping’s knowledge and tour guiding skills made this a very high quality experience and her friendly and fun personality made this a tour that our family will never forget. Highly recommend if you want to learn a lot about Singapore in a few hours, see historical sites, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Gwenn L,
Aug 13, 2025
- Viator
Lovely stroll among buildings in central Singapore. Ping was an excellent guide with lots of historical information. Included lunch was a bonus!
Abbie T,
Aug 1, 2025
- Viator
Ping is such a great host. So knowledgeable and considerate when we were struggling with the heat. We visited so many beautiful buildings, learning all about the history along the way. Ping took great photos of us at every stop and shared them back with us at the end of the trip. Lunch was great too. We would definitely recommend.
Elsa R,
Jun 9, 2025
- Viator
Excellent tour guided by Ping. Kept us all engaged and very interested during the tour time. Excellent location for lunch.
CLAUDIO B,
May 30, 2025
- Viator
Ping is a fantastic guide, very knowledgeable and helpful. She passionately conveys her love for her country and guides you to discover lesser-known parts of the city. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants to know everything about Singapore
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