To the unacquainted, Singapore’s meteoric rise to global trade hub and bustling metropolis belies its brief history of independence since 1965. But the story of this Lion City actually begins much earlier from its role as a regional trade emporium in the 14th century and its status as a British colony in the 19th century.

Explore our island’s heritage with these five history tours, which take you through the chapters of our city’s fascinating past.

Red Clogs Down The Five-Foot Way
Tour operator: Journeys Pte Ltd
Group of visitors walking along Chinatown district, the oldest Hokkien-Chinese temple in Singapore

Take in the sights, sounds and smells of Singapore’s Chinatown district, as you traverse the enclave’s narrow byways and bustling streets on this multisensory tour.

From funerary rites to the intricacies of Chinese medicine, Red Clogs Down The Five-Foot Way will explore the lives of Chinatown’s earliest denizens, and how their stories and traditions live on in the present day.

You’ll marvel at the architectural details of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien-Chinese temple, learn about the original ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ of Ann Siang Hill, and sample a taste of the past, with traditional treats like herbal eggs, Chinese tea and egg tarts.

For online bookings, find out more here or call +65 6325 1631.


Battlebox Story of Singapore Tour
Tour operator: Battlebox
Group of visitors exploring the Battlebox museum in Fort Canning Hill

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Fort Canning Hill, the Battlebox museum was formerly an underground command centre, manned by the British military army during Japan’s invasion of Singapore during World War II.

History buffs hoping to acquire more knowledge of the Southeast Asian theatre during World War II should sign up for the Battlebox Story of Singapore Tour, which provides visitors with insights into a pivotal turning point in the region’s history.

Your knowledgeable guide will enthrall you with details of the British military’s air defence strategies, the tactical missteps leading to Singapore’s surrender, and the stories behind the fall of Singapore during World War II Battle of Singapore.

For online bookings, find out more here or call +65 6338 6133.


The Time of Empire
Tour operator: Journeys Pte Ltd
Close up shot of the Neo-Gothic architecture of Saint Andrew’s Cathedral

Formerly a British trading outpost, Singapore’s colonial past has indelibly influenced its modern-day status as a global city. Uncover the fascinating stories of 19th-century Singapore on The Time of Empire tour.

This two-and-a-half hour tour will transport you back to an era of rickshaws, ships-of-the-line and gunpowder, with an exploration of Singapore’s Civic District. Admire the Neo-Gothic architecture of Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, wander through the grounds of Singapore’s oldest church, and hear tales of the architects, missionaries and pioneers who laid the foundations of the Lion City.

For online bookings, find out more here or call +65 6325 1631.


Little India Walking Tour
Tour operator: Monster Day Tours
Couple browsing souvenirs along the Little India street stall

Explore the rich tapestry of South Asian culture, and learn about the history behind the vibrant enclave of Little India, with this two-and-a-half hour jaunt by Monster Day Tours.

The tour focuses primarily on religion and heritage, making it ideal for culture lovers and history buffs alike. Highlights include the wondrous wares on offer at the Little India Arcade, the surreal beauty of the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and the rich tradition on display at the Indian Heritage Centre.

For online bookings, find out more here or call +65 9151 7567.


Historical Singapore Bicycle Tour
Tour operator: Let’s Go Tour
Family of five on a bicycle tour

Hop aboard a bicycle, and uncover the heart of the Lion City with the Historical Singapore Bicycle Tour.

One of the widest-ranging offerings on our list, this four-hour tour will take you on an exploration that encompasses both the past and present, presenting you with a city where heritage and modernity intertwine seamlessly.

Be enchanted by stories of Malay royalty in the district of Kampong Glam, learn about the rivers and quays that made Singapore a centre of regional trade in the 19th century and take in the old-world architecture, museums and art galleries of Singapore’s Civic District.

For online bookings, find out more here or call +65 9004 4332.