Complete Travel Guide From Singapore to Bintan Looking for a quick island escape from Singapore? Bintan is the perfect getaway, just an hour away by ferry, yet it feels like a world apart. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy local stays, Bintan has something for every traveler. You’ll find beautiful beaches, calm lagoons, and plenty of fun things to do, whether it’s a weekend trip or a longer vacation. As a Travel Partner in Bintan, we’ve put together everything you need to know before your trip, including entry requirements, ferry options, places to stay, and top activities. What You’ll Find in This Guide Bintan Entry Requirement & Visa on Arrival Getting to Bintan from Singapore Where to Stay Things to do in Bintan Getting Around Bintan Plan Your Trip with Local Expert Bintan Entry Requirements & Visa on Arrival Before traveling, make sure you meet the basic entry requirements to enter Indonesia. Basic Entry Requirements Passport Validity — Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Return or Onward Ticket — You’ll need proof of return or onward travel. Ferry Ticket — Book your ferry in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays. Visa on Arrival (VOA) Most visitors to Bintan can get a Visa on Arrival for tourism. 1. Free Visa (13 Countries) Citizens from Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, Suriname, Colombia, and Hong Kong can enjoy a free 30-day visa (not extendable). 2. Special Free Visa for Singapore PRs If you’re a Singapore Permanent Resident, you can visit Bintan visa-free too. Bring your blue NRIC. You’ll get a 4-day visitor permit upon arrival. This permit cannot be extended. 3. Paid Visa on Arrival (100 Countries) If your country isn’t listed above, you can apply for a paid VOA: Fee: IDR 500,000 (~SGD 45) for 30 days. Pay by Visa, Mastercard, or JCB card. Can be extended once for another 30 days. Tip: You can apply online before arrival via the official e-VOA portal. 4. 7-Day Visa for Riau Islands For short visits, a 7-day VOA is now available for Bintan and the Riau Islands. Fee: IDR 250,000 per person. Valid for 7 days. Apply on arrival at the immigration counter. but, if you need more details, you may read about Bintan entry requirement & Visa On Arrival And also yo need fill up E digital arrival card before arrive in Bintan, read about Bintan E Digital Arrival Card Getting to Bintan From Singapore Traveling from Singapore to Bintan is easy , just hop on a ferry. There are two main ferry routes you can choose from: 1. From Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bintan Resort Ferry operator: Bintan Resort Ferries (BRF) Arrival port: Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Duration: 70 minutes Ideal if you’re staying in Lagoi or Bintan Resort area Ferries run several times daily Time Zone Note: Bintan is 1 hour behind Singapore — set your watch when you arrive. Book your tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure your seat. 2. Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Tanjungpinang Ferry Terminal If you’re heading to Tanjungpinang (the main city) or the east coast, this is your route. Operators: Sindo Ferry and Majestic Ferry Duration: 1 hour 40 mins – 2 hours Tickets are available on each operator’s website. Need help getting from the ferry terminal to your hotel?Check our Bintan Arrival Transfer Guide for transport tips and shuttle options. Or you may book private arrival transfer in Bintan For more details, you may read getting to Bintan Island ChatGPT said: If you’re coming from Batam or planning to stay there before heading to Bintan, you can read our guide on Batam to Bintan Island. If you’re visiting Bintan just for a short getaway, check out our guides on: Day Trip from Batam to Bintan Day Trip from Singapore to Bintan Where to stay in Bintan Island Bintan offers a variety of accommodations across three main areas — from beach resorts to cozy villas. 1. Bintan Resort areas ( Lagoi ) The most popular area for Singapore travelers — just 5–20 minutes from BBT Ferry Terminal. Recommended stays: Natra Bintan— Glamping-style tents near Treasure Bay, perfect for families or groups. Banyan Tree Bintan — Luxury villas with ocean views, ideal for romantic getaways. Kamuela Lagoi Bay Villas — Modern villas with private pools, close to Lagoi Bay Beach. Pantai Indah Lagoi Villas — Spacious private pool villas, great for families. Or check out the details on the list of hotels at Bintan Resort page. 2. East of Bintan / Trikora Area Looking for peace and quiet? Head to Bintan’s east coast. One of a Kind Resort — Secluded and serene, about 1 hour from BBT. The Residence Bintan — Surrounded by nature, great for a relaxing escape. Bintan Spa Villa — Beachfront resort known for its spa and romantic atmosphere. Or check out the details on the list of hotels around east of Bintan page. 3. Tanjungpinang area The heart of local life in Bintan — perfect for exploring local life, food, and culture. Stay at Aston Tanjungpinang or CK Tanjungpinang Hotel. Or check out the details on the list of hotels at Tanjungpinang city area page. Looking for private pool villas in Bintan ? Check out our guide on Bintan Villas with Private Pools. Best Things to Do in Bintan Whether you love adventure or relaxation, Bintan has something for everyone. 1. Treasure Bay Bintan The famous Crystal Lagoon offers swimming, kayaking, bumper boats, and ATVs — fun for all ages! 2. ATV Adventure Try the ATV Jungle Ride around coffe plantation area — a thrilling 8 km track through scenic trails. 3. Snorkeling at Kelong Go on a snorkeling day trip to Bintan’s east coast. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and other adventure. 4. Bintan Island Day Tour See the best of Bintan in one day. Visit top attractions across North, East, and South Bintan with a private driver. Explore our Best Things