tips for travelling to singapore

Singapore Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Singapore is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s a foodie’s dream, bursting with tasty hawker stalls, delicious Indian food, and fresh seafood. There are hiking trails where you can stretch your legs and beaches for chilling out and soaking up the sun.

Home to around 5.7 million people, Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that gained independence from the British in 1965. It is now one of the world’s leading economic centers in shipping and banking.

Because of its status as a global economic hub, Singapore is expensive by Southeast Asian standards, with everything costing almost double what it does elsewhere in the region. In fact, it consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world!

For this reason, visiting Singapore isn’t as popular with budget travelers compared to affordable destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, or elsewhere in Southeast Asia .

But while most people come here for a couple of days just to see the highlights, the city actually has a lot to offer and requires more time than you might think. Don’t rush your visit if you can afford it; Singapore can fill any schedule.

Use this Singapore travel guide to help plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this lively multicultural metropolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Singapore

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. Eat at the Boat Quay

Boat Quay is the place to go for dining and entertainment. The alfresco pubs and restaurants make Boat Quay ideal for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Try Wakanui for quality Japanese steak cooked over a white oak fire, or Kinara for reasonably priced North Indian cuisine.

2. See the supertrees at Gardens by the Bay

This urban landscaping project is a series of towering metal “supertrees.” There are roughly 200 species of orchids, ferns, and other tropical plants coating their structure. It’s free to walk through the outdoor gardens, but you have to pay 8 SGD for the canopy walk (which is worth doing!) as well as for the stunning Flower Dome and Cloud Forest biodomes .

3. Hang out (and party) on Sentosa

This little island is home to a nighttime light show on the beach and a host of bars, restaurants, and beaches to enjoy. Hang out at Bora Bora Beach Bar or splash out and try the cable car sky dining experience (it isn’t cheap). You can get to Sentosa via the Sentosa Express train (4 SGD). Entering on foot/bicycle is free.

4. Tour the Singapore Zoo

Spanning 70 acres, the Singapore Zoo is massive, boasting over 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are lions, tigers, sun bears, Komodo dragons, primates, and much more! The zoo offers a night safari featuring over 900 different nocturnal animals (41% are endangered). Admission is 44 SGD and the night safari is 48 SGD.

5. Hang with the Merlions

The Merlion is Singapore’s mascot and has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. The original statute (and most impressive Merlion) can be found in Merlion Park, but the 37-meter-tall (121-foot) replica on Sentosa is also pretty cool to see. There is no entrance fee for Merlion Park.

Other Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. admire thian hock keng temple.

Thian Hock Keng (Palace of Heavenly Happiness) is one of the most photogenic buildings in Singapore. The temple originated as a small building that served the local Chinese population. It was expanded in 1840 and made from the finest materials available at the time, paid for by years of donations from the local community. It’s the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea (Chinese immigrants came here to ask for safe passage before leaving to cross the South China Sea). The temple was designated as a national monument in 1973. Admission is free.

2. Explore Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah, located within Singapore’s only remaining stretch of rainforest, is the country’s premier eco-tourism attraction. On the hiking and biking trails, you’ll be able to get up close to the macaques, squirrels, flying lemurs, and various species of birds. The reserve covers over 400 acres and is 30 minutes from the city center. It’s open daily from 7am-7pm. The weekends get really busy, so come during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

3. Wander around Chinatown

Chinatown encompasses two square kilometers of traditional Chinese life, nestled beside the modern Central Business District. This remains the place to get a real sense of Chinese culture within Singapore. The streets are filled with temples, craft shops, stalls, and restaurants and are a great place to pick up a bargain. Head down Chinatown Food Street to find some char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or grilled meats. If you can, eat at Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (aka Hawker Chan), the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is another Michelin-starred hawker stall worth a visit. Like Hawker Chan’s, it’s located in the Maxwell Hawker Center.

4. Eat hawker food

Singapore’s hawker food scene is one of the best in the world. It has been recognized by Michelin in 2016 with the world’s first street food Michelin star and by UNESCO in 2020 with Cultural Heritage status. Whether you go to Newton Food Center (of Crazy Rich Asian fame), to the Old Airport Hawker (many locals’ favorite), or to one of the other 103 centers across the island, you won’t be disappointed and you can grab a cheap meal surrounded by locals. Don’t miss the chili crab, satay, dim sum (dumplings), or nasi lemak (fried chicken with coconut rice). If you’re not sure where to go or what to eat, take a guided food tour!

5. Take a trip to Pulau Ubin

This island lies off the northeastern coast. It’s incredibly different from the modern city; locals still use a diesel generator for electricity and fetch water from wells. Rent a bike and explore the sights, villages, and beaches of this island. To get there, hop on a bumboat from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which costs about 3 SGD and takes 10-15 minutes. There are no fixed departure times — just line up and wait. Very few tourists make it out this way; it’s one of the most off-the-beaten-path things you can do here.

6. Relax in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens lie close to the city and consist of 128 acres of gardens and forest. Founded in 1859, the main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species of orchids. There is also a ginger garden, a rainforest, and various streams and waterfalls to explore. The Botanic Gardens are Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site (and the only tropical botanic garden on UNESCO’s World Heritage List). It’s open daily from 5am-12am, and admission is free to everything except the National Orchid Garden, which is 15 SGD.

7. Eat in Little India

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Little India, where you can get amazing, cheap, and delicious food, fresh vegetables, snacks, and souvenirs. Seek out local favorites like roti prata (pancakes) and teh tarik (“pulled” tea). Make sure you stop off at the Tekka Center, a hawker center with Indian clothing, groceries, and food. The food here is cheap and delicious and makes for an authentic Little India experience.

8. Learn about Singapore’s History

For a more cultural experience, visit the former British naval base of Fort Siloso located on Sentosa. It’s a decommissioned coastal artillery battery the only preserved fort on the coast of Singapore, providing a fantastic look into the city-state’s complicated history. You’ll get to see the coastal guns and the remains of tunnels under the fort. It’s a well-constructed, interactive attraction. Entrance is free.

9. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple

This extremely colorful, ornate temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, built in 1827 in Chinatown. It was constructed in what is known as the Dravidian style and is devoted to the goddess Mariamman, known for curing illnesses and diseases. During the post-war colonial period, it was a hub for community activities and was even the Registry of Marriages for Hindus. Admission is free.

10. Watch a free concert

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts various free concerts at different venues around the country. You might just be lucky enough to catch one of their shows — just check their website for details during your visit.

11. Visit the MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, dating back to 1868. Today, this beautiful and lush city park is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Walk the 8-kilometer (5-mile) treetop hike, with bridges suspended high above the forest floor, where you might see long-tailed macaque monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, owls, and even flying lemurs. In addition to the TreeTop Walk, there’s also a network of walking trails. Admission is free.

12. Visit the National Museum of Singapore

First opened in 1849, this is the oldest museum in Singapore . Learn about the country’s history, culture, and people through the various permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are gold ornaments, 18th-century drawings and artwork, the mace used by King George VI when he declared Singapore a city in 1951, and the Singapore Stone (an indecipherable stone with inscriptions from the 10th century). Admission is 15 SGD.

13. Admire the street art

Singapore has some really incredible street art to admire. While none of it is spontaneous (unauthorized graffiti is illegal), it can be found all over the island. Yip Yew Chong is probably the best-known artist as he has murals everywhere from Chinatown to the East Coast. His images depict scenes from days gone by and range from small pictures to entire walls. Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Little India all have masses of art to look at, as does the east coast, but you can find it on random buildings in most areas. Take a walking tour if you want more detail, or Art Walk Singapore has three self-guided walks outlined on their website.

14. Marvel at the rain vortex in Jewel

Located adjacent to Changi International Airport, Jewel Mall is home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Cascading from the roof, the water falls seven stories (around 130 feet) to the basement through a huge tiered garden. At night it is lit up for a light and music show. There’s more to do at Jewel if you have time including two mazes, a canopy bridge, sky nets, slides, and a topiary walk. It’s free to see the rain vortex and prices range from 5-22 SGD each for the other activities. You can get bundles that work out cheaper.

15. Explore Kampong Glam

Also known by its most popular street, Haji Lane, and as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods. The shophouses here are now stores selling textiles, rugs, and Turkish homewares such as dishes and glass lamps. There are some great Arabic restaurants around here all under the shadow of the enormous golden-domed Sultan Mosque. There’s some street art around here and Haji Lane has some cool eclectic shops by day and a buzzing nightlife with outdoor live music by night. If you have time, check out the Malay Heritage Center (admission is 8 SGD).

16. Get spooked at Haw Par Villa

Hands down the quirkiest thing you can do or see in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is a huge outdoor art gallery. It was built in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw, a millionaire philanthropist one of the men behind Tiger Balm, for his younger brother. Once a theme park for locals, Haw Par Villa was also used as an observation point by the Japanese army during World War II. It’s filled with dioramas depicting Chinese mythology and has recently reopened after a 9-month refurbishment and renovation project. Entry to the grounds is free but the museum — called Hell’s Museum as it includes an exhibit depicting the 10 Courts of Hell — is 18 SGD.

Singapore Travel Costs

A budget hotel room with amenities like air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a TV starts around 65 SGD per night. Most larger chain hotels cost at least 80-110 SGD per night.

Airbnb is available in Singapore, with private rooms starting at 25 SGD per night (though they average closer to 60 SGD). Entire homes/apartments average 85 SGD per night.

Food – As a cosmopolitan hub, Singapore has food from all over the world, however, there is an abundance of Chinese and Indian food, which is usually around 8-9 SGD per meal. Rice or noodles are usually the backbone of most meals, and popular dishes include steamed chicken, chili crab, fishhead curry, satay, and nasi lemak (coconut rice cooked in a pandan leaf). The city’s hawker centers (large halls full of various food stalls) are one of the most popular and cheapest places to try Singapore’s vibrant cuisine.

As for Singaporean specialties, try the seafood, which costs around 20-35 SGD for a main dish. For drinks, beer is typically 8-10 SGD, a glass of wine is about 10-16 SGD, and a cappuccino is around 5 SGD.

There are also plenty of low-cost eateries around Singapore, with street stalls typically selling food for less than 6 SGD per meal. A fast-food burger is around 8-10 SGD while sandwiches at a café are around 11-14 SGD. There are many restaurants offering a set lunch menu for around 12-16 SGD, and a dish at dinner in most casual restaurants is around 20 SGD. After that, the sky is the limit.

If you want to cook your own meals, expect to pay 95 SGD per week for basic staples like rice, noodles, vegetables, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Singapore Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Singapore, expect to spend around 90 SDG per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating at the cheap hawker stalls and in Little India, cooking some meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying nature.

On a more mid-range budget of 175 SGD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheaper hawker stalls, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the zoo and the botanic gardens.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 SGD or more per day, you can eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, stay in a hotel, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SGD.

Singapore Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Singapore isn’t a super cheap destination so you’ll need to tread carefully if you want to avoid blowing your budget. Here are some ways you can save money during your visit:

• Take public transit – Singapore’s public transit system is fast and efficient, making it the best way to get around. Unlimited travel on public transport is 10 SGD per day with a Singapore Tourist Pass. If you’re staying a few days, the pass gets cheaper per day, as a two-day pass is 16 SGD and a three-day pass is 20 SGD.
• Eat on Smith Street – The stalls here offer food for less than 6 SGD and are a great place to sample local snacks.
• Eat cheap – Save money on food by eating in Little India, Chinatown, or the hawker stalls throughout the city. Meals in these places cost only a few dollars and are some of the tastiest around!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with a local for free. You’ll not only save money but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stick to happy hour – Alcohol is expensive in Singapore, so limit your drinking to save money. If you do plan on drinking, stick to the happy hours.
• Avoid bottled water – The tap water here is perfectly fine to drink, so avoid buying water and just refill your bottle. It will save you money and it’s better for the environment! LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Singapore:

• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel

How to Get Around Singapore

Like the MRT, Singapore’s bus system is extensive and efficient. You can use your Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses as well. You can also pay with cash, but it has to be the exact change. A single trip costs between 1.40-2.50 SGD.

Trishaws – Trishaws (like rickshaws) are less popular these days in Singapore, and now they’re largely used for guided tours that cost around 40 SGD for a 30-minute run. Trishaw Uncle is the only licensed trishaw tour operator in the city, offering various guided tours by trishaw.

Taxi – Taxis are comfortable and convenient, but they’re not cheap! All cabs are metered, but there might be surcharges depending on the company and where you’re going. For example, if you’re hiring a taxi from midnight to 6am there is a 50% surcharge on the total metered cost, while rides in the mornings and evenings carry a 25% surcharge. Prices start at 3.20 SGD and then increase by 0.22 SGD every 400 meters. Skip them if you can!

When to Go to Singapore

It’s always a good time to visit Singapore! The island is warm year-round with a tropical climate that boasts daily temperatures in the high 20s°C (80s°F). December to June is the busiest time to visit, especially during the Chinese New Year. February-April is the driest period with the most sunshine and least amount of rain.

Monsoons occur between December-March, with December usually being the rainiest month. The weather is windy, cloudy, and humid.

Late summer and early fall (July to October) are also a good time to visit if you’re hoping to avoid all the tourist traffic. The weather is still pleasant, averaging around 30°C (87°F) each day, and accommodation might be a bit cheaper during this time as well.

How to Stay Safe in Singapore

Singapore is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. In fact, it’s one of the safest countries in the world (it’s currently the 11th safest country).

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t walk home alone at night, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.)

Be aware that penalties for breaking the law here are stiff. For example, you’ll be fined up to 1,000 SGD for things like littering, spitting, and smoking in public. Singapore is also notoriously strict on drugs. If you’re caught even with marijuana in your system you could do jail time. In short, say no to drugs here!

Scams are rare in Singapore, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it when you’re in Singapore. Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Singapore Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Singapore Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Singapore travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

18 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Singapore

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Essential Information

Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Singapore – get important information, tips and advice to maximize your experience and make the most of your visit.

Travel Tips

Money and payments, commuting around the island.

• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Travel With Us
• Paid Travel Internship
• TTIFridays (Community Events)
• SG Travel Insider (Telegram Grp)

• SG Things To Do

Ultimate Singapore Travel Guide — Insider Tips & Everything You Need To Know (Lah!)

Yes, the rumours are true: Singapore is really clean.

Travelling out of Singapore so often, we regularly meet many foreigners during our journeys. Two things usually happen when we tell them we’re from Singapore: they either share how they loved our country, or how they’d really like to visit.

The praises are stacked high for the majority of them: Singapore is clean, everything is efficient, and the food is amazing. But the lukewarm attitude and criticisms are real too. Some people felt that Singapore was too rigid, too expensive, and boring with nothing to do (Really? Because we can think of 54 things !).

That said, you can’t deny Singapore has a lot going on. Nature, culture, nightlife , food  — whatever you’re interested in, you’ll probably find it. But for first-time visitors, here’s a sample three-day itinerary of Singapore’s best  to check out. We’ve added some handy travel tips at the end too.

For now, our Singapore travel guide tells you everything you need for a  sibei shiok ( Singlish for ‘extremely good’) time in sunny Singapore!

Pre-trip Essentials

Best time to visit: All year-round! Singapore is located near the equator, so it’s perpetually hot and humid with an average temperature of 27-30°C. (It sometimes gets a lot hotter, though!)

The monsoon season runs from November to January, so have wet weather plans ready if you’re visiting then. Other times of the year may see overcast days or unexpected showers. Bring along an umbrella, or wait it out under our many sheltered areas… and air-conditioned malls. 

Connectivity:  Pre-book a nifty WiFi device , which you can collect upon arrival at Changi Airport. It connects up to eight devices, and provides good coverage islandwide. Alternatively, a SIM card lets you make calls and texts too.

In Singapore, most shopping malls and public spaces provide free WiFi, such as  Wireless@SG . However, to activate it, you’ll need international roaming to receive a verification code via SMS.

For other essential information like types of power outlets, and whether the tap water is safe to drink, check out this page .

Check Flights to Singapore

Getting around singapore, mrt (mass rapid transit).

The easiest way to travel around is by the MRT , Singapore’s version of the metro/subway. To use the trains, purchase an EZ-Link card from any MRT station or 7-Eleven store. The card costs S$12, which includes a stored value of S$7.

Alternatively, register your contactless card with SimplyGo to get around with just your credit card or Apple Pay.

Occasionally, some railway lines experience early closures and late openings for maintenance. Before arriving, check official transport sites like SMRT  and SBS  for updates. Shuttle services between affected stations are available during this period.

Buses in Singapore are fairly frequent, making them another easy and convenient way to get around. You can either use your EZ-Link card or pay a single fare on buses. The cost ranges from ~S$1.50 – ~S$2.60. Do have some coins on hand as no change will be given.

We recommend using  Google Maps  to find buses that head to your destination, as well as apps like  SG Buses or SingBUS  to check timings.

From Changi Airport, you can opt for a speedy and comfortable transfer service straight to your accommodation in town. It’s especially helpful if you’re travelling in a big group, or arriving late when the MRT and buses have ended service for the day.

All taxis in Singapore are metered, so no haggling is required. Fares are dependent on the distance, taxi type, and surcharges based on timings and your pick-up location. A 19km ride from Changi airport to town costs S$20 – S$40 (incl. surcharge).

Taxis are usually widespread around the city area. However, they may be difficult to flag down when it’s raining, or during shift changes between 4PM – 5PM. Alternatives like  Grab  and  GoJek  (which work exactly like Uber) are also available in Singapore, and typically provide cheaper fares.

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Singapore if you have the time. Within the city area, most attractions are within walking distance of each other.

The unfortunate downside is that the heat and humidity will make you perspire (a lot). Thankfully, you can always duck into one of our many air-conditioned malls to cool off!

Where to Stay in Singapore

It’s easy to find accommodation in Singapore. Be it swanky/budget hotels or affordable hostels, you’ll find most of them within the central city area, where it’s convenient to get around.

High-end hotels tend to be located in the Marina Bay area or on Sentosa Island, while budget-friendlier accommodation can be found in Little India and Chinatown. For more on where to stay, check out these 10 affordable hostels !

High-range: Fullerton Hotel

Up until the 90s, this lavish monument used to house the country’s post office. Since then, the Fullerton Hotel has become a symbol of luxury, and is one of Singapore’s few remaining colonial buildings.

Located in the Central Business District, it provides breathtaking views of the iconic city skyline, elegant rooms, impeccable dining options, and a classy ambience — everything that will make you feel like royalty. A night in a premier courtyard room costs ~S$374 .

Mid-range: Fragrance Hotel (Riverside)

Fragrance Hotel is a well-known hotel chain for budget-conscious travellers. The Riverside branch is located just under a 10-minute walk from Clarke Quay — an ideal place to crash after a long night out.

The hotel also has a pool that will cool you off in the Singapore heat. However, the rooms here are on the smaller side. A night in a standard double room costs ~S$240 .

Budget: InnCrowd Backpackers Hostel

An award-winning hostel, InnCrowd Backpackers Hostel  offers budget travellers a convenient location in Little India, along with free breakfast and kick-scooter tours of the city. The hostel also serves one of the cheapest cold beers in Singapore at ~S$5 (Alcohol is, unfortunately, expensive).

They go to great lengths to preserve the backpacker atmosphere, so you’ll be in good hands here! A night in a 12-bed mixed dorm room costs ~S$17.50 .

Besides hotels and hostels, you can try Airbnb . They’re found all over the island, but it’s worthwhile to note there are some present risks. There have been previous instances where Airbnb guests were turned away by building security , because running an Airbnb is technically illegal in Singapore. Staying in one is not, though.

Couchsurfing  is another popular alternative. However, don’t feel disheartened if you can’t find a host. Most locals still live with their parents, who may not be comfortable hosting surfers. You can always meet the community though!

Places to Visit in Singapore

1) marina bay.

Marina Bay  is the hallmark of Singapore. Standing in a scenic row, it’s where you’ll find many of the island’s architectural feats such as the  Singapore Flyer , Helix Bridge , ArtScience Museum , and the majestic Marina Bay Sands .

Across the bay is a statue of the  Merlion , Singapore’s official mascot. Nearby is the  Esplanade , a performing arts centre that resembles two durians (the country’s favourite fruit, as you’ll soon discover). At the venue, there are regular  free performances and programmes you can catch during your visit.

2) Gardens by the Bay

Self-dubbed a “Garden City”, Singapore sure lives up to its reputation with Gardens by the Bay . Located behind Marina Bay Sands, it’s a huge, wondrous maze of local and exotic greenery, coupled with towering supertrees and record-breaking conservatories . Occasionally, you might even spot wild otters scuttering across the park!

For the best panoramic views of the city skyline, head to the  Marina Barrage . The dam is located behind the Gardens, and has a sprawling grass patch on the rooftop that’s perfect for picnic gatherings and activities like kite flying.

3) Chinatown

One of Singapore’s most popular attractions, Chinatown thrives with an olden charm. There are lots to enjoy for culture buffs — historical buildings like the Buddha Tooth Relic Museum ,  Teng San Tian Temple , traditional medicine halls, and colonial shophouses which will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the past.

Chinatown is also for those who love to bargain and/or eat. The Chinatown Street Market  is great for souvenir shopping, while  Food Street  sells a range of mainland Chinese specialties.

To taste local dishes, head to nearby hawker centres like People’s Park  and Chinatown Complex . The latter is also where you can have the cheapest Michelin-star meal ever: soya sauce chicken rice for just S$2!

4) Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam was originally an ethnic enclave for the Muslim, Arab and Bugis communities. Today, it’s a popular culture spot with a unique blend of the old and new. At the heart of it all is the Sultan Mosque , the country’s biggest. Wandering around, you’ll find many Mediterranean restaurants amidst shops selling carpets, fabrics, and souvenirs.

From the mosque, take a short walk down to Haji Lane . Arguably Singapore’s OG hipster neighbourhood, it’s a fun place to explore day or night with plenty of murals to feast your eyes on, and Instagrammable cafes to literally feast at.

The streets are also lined with fashion boutiques and trendy bars which add a modern touch to Kampong Glam’s rich history.

Sentosa is a crowd favourite for locals and travellers alike. The resort island is one of the most “happening” places in Singapore, chock-full of activities and thrilling attractions. Most notably is Universal Studios Singapore  and the S.E.A. Aquarium , the world’s largest!

Most weekends, the resort island sees many people flocking to its  beaches  and bars to chill out for the day. Music festivals like ZoukOut and Countdown parties are also hosted there at the end of the year — events that hardcore ravers shouldn’t miss!

There are three ways to get to the island: (1) on foot via the Sentosa Boardwalk , (2) the Sentosa Express Monorail from VivoCity, or (3) by cable car . The cable car provides beautiful aerial views of the city, the harbourfront area, and Sentosa island — and lets you arrive in style!

Read also:  54 Things To Do In Singapore — Local’s Guide To Indie and Iconically Singaporean Experiences

What to Do in Singapore

1) be dazzled by jewel changi airport.

Jewel Changi Airport is an attraction on its own right at the airport, offering many things to see and do the second you touch down. Besides a 40m-tall Rain Vortex , there’s also a Canopy Park  to stroll around and enjoy the blooming gardens and sculpted topiaries.

Ticketed attractions like the Mirror Maze and Bouncing Nets  also provide entertaining adventures and fun photo opportunities for both kids and kids-at-heart!

Get acquainted with Singapore’s local brew at Tiger Street Lab . There, you can taste the ever-famous Tiger Beer, or opt for special seasonal brews. You can also have your drink in a Jewel-exclusive beer bottle — a neat Singaporean souvenir!

To find out what else Jewel offers, check out these 25 stores and attractions .

2) Go Museum-Hopping around the City

Get a dose of Singapore’s cultural landscape by exploring its many museums! The most renowned one is the ArtScience Museum , which characteristically hosts futuristic exhibitions. Occasionally there are film exhibits, like Harry Potter and Marvel Studios.

Art enthusiasts would enjoy the National Gallery , Peranakan Museum , and the  Asian Civilisations Museum  for their wide display of Southeast Asian artwork and artifacts.

Those who prefer a more offbeat experience should check out the Singapore Sports Museum , Vintage Camera Museum , and  MINT Museum of Toys . You might discover a different historical and cultural side of Singapore that most locals might not even know of!

3) Explore Singapore’s Natural Outdoors

There’s no denying that Singapore is a concrete jungle, but that’s not all there is to it. Spend the day outdoors hiking the numerous green spaces and nature trails around the island. The most popular trek is the MacRitchie Nature Trail , which passes through a rainforest and leads to a beautiful treewalk.

#Fitspo travellers can challenge themselves to longer hikes like the Southern Ridges Walk . The trail crosses three parks, and has spectacular views of the city and nearby Sentosa along the way. There’s also a 36km-long coast-to-coast trail that’s guaranteed to give you a workout you won’t soon forget!

4) Soak up Singapore’s Nightlife

Singapore isn’t exactly the city that never sleeps, but there’s still lots to keep you entertained after the sun goes down. The country’s burgeoning nightlife scene is centrally located in  Clarke Quay , where most bars and clubs are located. On weekends, the place is bustling with people jostling to get into hot favourites like Zouk and Privé .

If you’re unsure which joint to hit up, visit ’em all in one night with a pub crawl . The fun tour takes you on a boozy night of making new friends and partying!

For a night that’s a little less  rabak (loosely translated from Malay as a ‘wild situation’), swing by Tanjong Pagar  or  Robertson Quay . These two areas have a wide variety of upscale bars and restaurants that are great for chilling out with the squad.

5) Shop for Your Favourite Products

Singapore is well-known for being a shopping paradise. All along Orchard Road and Bugis Street , countless malls and shops sell a vast range of products like books, casual streetwear, and branded accessories. Travellers can also dive into malls like Sim Lim Square and Funan Mall to snag cheap electronics.

Similar to our food scene, shopping in Singapore isn’t limited to the usual working hours. Head to 24-hour shopping places like Decathlon  or Mustafa to stock up on sporting goods, groceries, or anything you fancy.

Need more ideas on things to do around Singapore? Read our 54 recommendations here !

What to Eat in Singapore

It’s true when they say eating is the national past-time of Singapore! There are restaurants and cafes at every corner (some open 24/7), but eating at hawker centres are the way to go to experience the local food scene. There are tons of food to try , but here are five classics you have to savour.

1) Chicken Rice

Simply put, Hainanese chicken rice is Singapore’s national dish. Tender chicken, poached or roasted, is served alongside fragrant and soft white rice.

It’s a delicious favourite amongst locals, who each have their own preferred way of eating it. Our advice: don’t be afraid to mix condiments like chili, ginger, or black sauce into your chicken rice! It’s the little things that elevate the flavour even more.

2) Roti Prata

The humble roti prata is a delicious, crispy South-Indian flatbread that’s usually paired with chicken or fish curry. While prata is available in neighbouring countries too, Singaporeans enjoy their  kosong (plain) prata with curry and/or sugar — a distinctly local norm.

You can easily find prata in Indian-Muslim eateries like  Zam Zam , or at hawker centres where there’s an Indian store. There are many toppings available to try, such as egg, onion, and cheese.

That said, we recommend trying special pratas like the “Plaster Blaster” from Springleaf Prata . It’s basically an Eggs Benedict, except served atop a buttery, crispy prata!

Originating from Indonesia, satay is bite-sized skewered meat that’s been grilled over an open fire. The satay in Singapore usually comes with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce, red onions, and ketupat (rice dumplings). It’s a popular dish that’s best shared in a group.

Satay can be found in the hawker centres and food courts closer to the city, such as Satay by the Bay and Old Airport Road .

4) Ice Cream Bread

For many locals, ice cream bread is an endearing childhood treat. It’s a simple, no-frills dessert that provides relief on a warm day. All you have to do is pick a flavour with soft and fluffy rainbow bread, or crunchy wafers!

The iconic dessert can be found at ice cream trucks lined up along Orchard Road and Bugis, serviced by elderly folks. On weekends, some trucks will occasionally drive around heartland neighbourhoods to sell these treats.

Fun fact: a 2016 Buzzfeed UK listicle criticised Singapore’s ice cream bread, along with other “absolute worst sandwiches”. It was swiftly met with local backlash , just proving how much we Singaporeans adore our food.

5) Tau Huay

Hokkien for soy beancurd pudding, tau huay  has a silky smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Hot or cold, the lightness and sweetness of the dessert make it an excellent after-meal or supper option.

We recommend  Lao Ban Beancurd  or Rochor Original Beancurd for some of Singapore’s best  tau huay . Have it with an oily and crispy you tiao  (dough fritter) to make your dessert even more  shiok !

For a more interesting experience, hop off the ‘eaten’ path and try your hand at making your own traditional snacks ! You’ll walk away with homemade local delicacies, and a greater understanding of Singaporean culture.

Read also:  Ultimate Singapore Food Guide for Tourists — Local-Approved Things To Eat in Singapore

Sample 3-Day Singapore Itinerary for First-Timers

Highlights: Chinatown — Marina Bay — Gardens by the Bay — Sentosa Island — Orchard Road — Little India — Haji Lane — Clarke Quay

Exploring Singapore Like A Local

Like a lot of Singaporeans, I unwittingly complain about this country a lot — the weather, the rising cost of living, not knowing what to eat because there are too many choices (#firstworldproblems). Despite it all, I get very excited when I meet travellers who haven’t been to Singapore.

I dish out as many recommendations as I can remember, like must-eat foods, budget things to do , what to prepare, etc. Perhaps a large part of me really wants them to like Singapore. It is my home, after all, and I love it (despite the whines). It’s a small island packed with world-class attractions, amazing foods, intriguing culture and history, as well as hard work and a lot of heart.

The truth is Singapore is not perfect, but it is good enough. And if you don’t believe me, well, you’ll just have to come here to see for yourself. 😉

Travel Tips for Singapore

1) pack light, wear light.

We recommend wearing comfortable, lightweight clothes made of cotton or linen, especially if you’re going to be outdoors a lot! The UV rays and glare in Singapore can also be pretty harsh, so sunblock and sunglasses would help too. 

Some religious sites (e.g. temples) require visitors to be modestly dressed, so you can bring along a shawl or sarong to cover up when touring these places. 

2) Be aware of our laws

It’s oft said that Singapore is a “Fine City” because of our many fines imposed on things you shouldn’t be doing (like vandalism and murder, duh ). The truth is Singapore isn’t all that strict, but it’s best to have these prominent laws in mind when visiting.

(1) Smoking is prohibited within all of Orchard Road. Look for designated smoking areas outside of malls and hotels to get your nicotine fix. (2) Littering is a big no-no. If you get caught, it’s an instant S$300 fine (true story). (3) Being a public nuisance. Self-explanatory — making a lot of unruly noise, starting fights in public, or leaving your bags unattended in the MRT all count. (4) From 10:30PM – 7AM, public consumption of alcohol is banned. Shops are also not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol during this time. You can, however, continue to drink at licensed premises (e.g. bars, hawker centres). For more info, check out this Q&A about Singapore’s drinking law .

3) Speak Singlish!

Like you, we too have our own language: Singlish (a.k.a. colloquial Singapore English). It’s an interesting blend of English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin dialects like Hokkien. To any non-Singaporean, it may sound coarse and confusing. But to us, it sounds like home.

So we encourage you to learn Singlish and use it when conversing with locals! You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Singapore culture, as well as discover how easily impressed we can get when non-Singaporeans speak Singlish.

A couple of tips: first off, do not  add “ lah ” at the end of every sentence. That will only annoy people. Second, brush up your vocabulary with our 101 Guide to Singlish !

First time to Singapore? Or been here before? Tell us what you think of the little red dot in the comments below!

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  YouTube  for more travel updates!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on May 7, 2019 at 6:13am PDT

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

7 Chill Hangout Spots Along the New Thomson-East Coast Line to Check Out With Your Friends

35 New Deals and Attractions in Singapore this June 2024

Tulipmania is Back at Gardens by the Bay from 29 April 2024

7 Boutique Hotels in Singapore For an “Out of the Country” Staycation

Westies: Here’s Where to Spot the Best Chingay Performances in the Heartlands This 2024

11 Best Hotels for a Unique Staycation in Singapore — Glamping, Parisian Decor, Quirky Art (2024)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disney Adventure Cruise Sailing from Singapore in 2025 — Everything You...

6 Epic Road Trips in Australia for First-timers — Victoria, New...

JB Day Trip Itinerary — What to Do, Eat, and Shop...

New Flight to Sibu, Malaysia — A Lesser-Known Weekend Getaway Near...

Ultimate Guide to the Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads (2024)

• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of Singapore for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Singapore without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Music & Nightlife
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Los Angeles

Do's and Don'ts for tourists in Singapore

We don't want to be a mum, but here's an etiquette guide to exploring Singapore the right way

Photograph: Supplied

As a gastronomical paradise with plenty of sun (and the occasional downpour) all year 'round, Singapore is unsurprisingly on plenty of travel bucket lists. But before making your way down to the Lion City, it’s about high time tourists get schooled on the much-needed lesson on how to behave in public. Take this handy etiquette guide to heart (and head) and explore the city like a local – there's a reason why it stays clean and green.

RECOMMENDED: Guide to getting around Singapore on public transport and 101 best things to do in Singapore

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Do dress for the weather

This is an absolute no-brainer. Remember to pack all your summer outfits suitable for Singapore's tropical climate and warm temperatures that range from 24 (rarely) to 35 degrees at most. The high humidity is expected to make you sweat too. Slap on some sunscreen, put on a hat and a pair of sunglasses, and you're ready to go. An umbrella comes in handy too, just in case it rains.

Don't litter

Avoid tossing your rubbish anywhere and everywhere. There are bins in every nook and cranny of the city for you to throw them in. Also, littering can get you in trouble and fined up to from $300 up to $1,000. Done with a cigarette? Do us a solid, stub out that cig and put it in the bin.  There’s a reason Singapore’s so clean and green, and for one, it's definitely not your personal ashtray. 

Do stand on the correct side

Let's avoid any human traffic where possible. That means standing on the left side of the escalator and walking up the steps on the right side. Strolling on walking paths and not ones with the yellow bicycle signs. This unwritten rule saves you from being tutted at, or worse, in a people stampede.

Do join the queue

If there's one thing Singaporeans love, it's a queue. Whether you're waiting for the train, ordering your food or claiming a freebie, nothing gets the locals wide-eyed than seeing a queue. Join the line and not cut it, or you'll receive some unwanted attention and disgruntle.

Do mind your manners

We’re not your mums and we shouldn’t constantly be reminding you of this: look everyone – servers and locals alike – in the eye and say 'please', 'thank you', 'sorry' and 'excuse me'. When it comes to volume, try not to shout when talking, and for crying out loud, don't spit in public. 

Don't even think about tipping

Here’s a tip on tipping: don’t bother. You'll notice that this isn't big here, anyway. Ask for the bill and you'll find a fine print that says 'GST' (goods and services tax), as well as 'service charge' which is basically synonymous with tipping.

Do carry cash

We're not telling you to bring stacks of cash. But it's super helpful to carry some in the wallet. We get that it’s 2018 and every business is expected to accept cash, but hawker centres and street markets are pretty much old school, so cash is king. On a slightly different note, tissue packs on tables and chairs at hawker centres mean the seats are taken.

Don't use public transport during peak times

If you're travelling in groups, taking the trains or busses during peak times (around 8am-9am and 6pm-7pm) might run the risk of being separated. And if you don't the city at the back of your hand, you might just find yourself lost. You wouldn't want that, would you?

Do treat the elders like family

Everyone here is your uncle and auntie, and you can simply call them that. It's a form of respect and courtesy, and instead of being offended, you'll be greeted with a smile instead – give it a go!

Don't jaywalk on roads

Stick to the traffic lights and only walk when the green man lights up. Crossing the road during a red light is not only risky, but it may cause you a fine from $20 to $1,000.

Tourists, take note...

Essential tourist information for people visiting singapore.

• Things to do

The best things to do while you're in Singapore

13 tourist attractions Singaporeans never go to

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

An email you'll actually love

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Sign up to newsletter
• Advertising
• Express Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

• Print edition
• Digital edition

• Miles & Points
• Travel Tips
• Inspiration & Ideas
• Travel Gear

40 Singapore Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors (2022)

Are you planning a trip to Singapore for the first time and looking for the best Singapore Travel Tips? Below you’ll find the best tips, and recommendations to ensure you have a great time in the Lion City. The first of several posts in our Singapore Travel Guide, the tips below come from experience traveling to Singapore across many trips, having learned the best ways to save money, optimize an itinerary, and experience the best things the city-state has to offer.

The Singapore travel tips listed below are not in any particular order. There is an overlap across many of them in terms of suitability and priority, given different travel preferences. The below tips relate to getting around the city, saving money, and how to make the most of a trip to Singapore. The focus of this list is to provide the most comprehensive Singapore travel tips for visitors who are looking for detailed information on traveling to the city-state.

The 40 Best Singapore Travel Tips

1. Eat at Hawker Centers

This is the first tip for a reason. Singapore’s hawker centers are such an integral part of everyday life, and they perfectly showcase the delicious food on offer in the city that it’s an essential stop for every visitor. Hawker centers are covered open-air food courts with numerous stalls, with each stall often selling only a few dishes that are local specialties. Their purpose is to offer locals affordable meals, and they can be found all over the city, featuring some of the best local food vendors. Many of them have even earned Michelin Guide recognition.

For visitors, hawker centers offer the best opportunity to try multiple local dishes for an affordable price. You’ll find popular options like chicken rice, laksa, prawn mee, chili crab, and much more. Best of all, the prices for many dishes can be as low as $5 SGD, making a hawker centre a budget-friendly essential visit.

2. Don’t Be Afraid of a Line

When visiting a hawker center, look for lines to indicate the more popular hawker stalls to find the best food. While it’s not guaranteed that the food won’t be good at stalls without lines, it does not provide the same vote of confidence that seeing a line does.

The lines will typically move quickly at hawker centers. Considering that Singaporeans are happy to line up for good food, locally known as queueing, don’t be surprised to see long queues for the most popular hawkers.

3. Get Around by MRT (Subway) or Buses

Singapore is well known for having one of the best transportation networks in the world. Its MRT rail network offers clean, efficient, and easy-to-use rail services throughout the city-state. For more challenging places to get to, there are easy-to-ride buses you can find with step-by-step instructions on google maps.

Considering the impressive public transportation in Singapore, it is the best way to save money during your visit. Fares for the MRT and buses provide the cheapest way to get around the entire island incredibly cheap, often less than $2 SGD, unless you travel long distances, which are even quite reasonable and far more affordable than a taxi.

4. Use Grab instead of Taxi

While Singapore’s taxis are clean, comfortable, and reasonably priced, hailing a cab can be challenging as they can only stop at designated places for taxis to pull off the road, so it can be confusing for visitors looking to wave one down.

Grab is similar to Uber (they bought out Uber’s Southeast Asia business in 2018) and offers cars, vans, and taxis through their app for easy pickup and easy directions to your destination, removing the hassle of providing the wrong address or bad directions.

Download and sign up for the app before your trip. Even if you expect to use public transportation, that tired moment you figure you may just take a taxi back to your hotel, you may find it challenging to find one or a pickup area.

5. Don’t Lose Money With Dynamic Currency Conversion

Dynamic currency conversion offers customers using cards from other countries the ability to be charged in their home currency at both ATMs and Point of Sale Credit Card machines. To many visitors, this looks like the safe choice, and by agreeing to the conversion, the customer will unknowingly be charged more on a transaction or cash withdrawal. This currency conversion is offered all across Singapore.

Dynamic currency conversion is available when a bank that owns an ATM or a point of sale machine issuer provides the services to convert a currency for a customer. This conversion would be in place of having the card network, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, perform the currency conversion, which typically happens when you use your card overseas. These card networks perform the conversion with competitive foreign exchange rates, with potentially a small foreign exchange fee that your bank or card issuer adds to the transaction.

The banks in Singapore that offer the dynamic currency conversion will typically offer a far less competitive foreign exchange rate, leading to customers paying a lot more for their transactions. This makes this one of the most important Singapore travel tips.

Dynamic Currency Conversion Example

An example of this is paying for your hotel bill with US Visa credit cards, and the hotel offers you to settle the bill in Singapore Dollars or US Dollars. The USD will seem like the safe choice, but the bank that operates the POS machine scanning your card is likely to offer you a far less competitive rate. On a $1,000 USD hotel bill, you could find yourself paying $50-100 USD more by settling the bill in USD on the credit card scanner. Choosing to be charged in SGD will generally always be a cheaper transaction.

The above photos show an example of dynamic currency conversion offered at an ATM vs. the exchange rates at the time of withdrawal. Using Visa’s website, and factoring a 3% foreign transaction fee, the actual USD withdrawal amount was $749.25, which saves $13.27 when compared to accepting the offer from the ATM.

Find more currency exchange tips for traveling here.

6. Confirm the Square footage Before Booking a Hotel

Singapore hotel rooms can be tiny at budget hotels. While you may feel that you have stumbled upon a great deal for a room online, it’s worth being aware of the actual size of the room. Plenty of spaces come in at just over 100 square feet. These will typically offer a shower, sink, toilet, and bed, with just enough room to squeeze along the bed on one side. There won’t be much room for luggage, and if you are sharing the room with your partner, it can be tight.

These small rooms can be a great way to save money for budget travelers. However, they are better appreciated by travelers who expect them before arriving, rather than being surprised on arrival. Look for over 200 square feet for more comfort and over 300 square feet for extra room to move around and sit on chairs other than the bed or desk.

7. Get Duty-Free Alcohol On Your Way In

Singapore has relatively high alcohol prices at bars, restaurants, and even convenience stores. Alcohol is not cheap compared to other countries. Travelers looking to celebrate or have a couple of drinks to wind down at the hotel should consider picking up some alcohol at the airport duty-free store upon arrival.

8. Eat a Variety of Foods, Then Repeat Your Favorites

With so many unique dishes available, Singapore has so many foods to try and experience. Some visitors may find one dish they like at the start of a trip and order it multiple times. While chicken rice or laksa may be delicious, don’t miss out on the other exceptional dishes by sticking to the ones you tried and enjoyed. Try as many as you can, and then repeat a dish or two towards the end of your trip.

9. Hydrate As Much As You Can

Singapore has hot weather year-round. Though the cloudy days and covered walkways may offer a little protection, those planning long days outside sightseeing should be mindful of dehydration. Hydrate yourself throughout the day, especially if you spend a lot of time in the mid-day sun. Looking for a refreshing way to hydrate? Hawker centers have drink stands that offer refreshing juices, cold coconuts, and freshly ground sugarcane juice.

10. Bring a Water Bottle

Save some money and avoided buying additional single-use plastics. Singapore has clean tap water throughout the city; if water isn’t safe to drink, there will be a sign on the tap that tells you.

11. Avoid Mid-Day Sun to Avoid the Heat and Help Your Jetlag

The mid-day Sun in Singapore can drain you of energy and fluids quite quickly. Those with aggressive sightseeing plans may find they can’t keep up in the same way as they might in other cities. Plan around the heat and sun by heading out of your hotel early, enjoying the morning hours outside, and then looking for a break from mid-day to late afternoon.

Consider a visit to one of Singapore’s museums in the early afternoon, or head to your hotel for a nap or time by the pool before heading back out to explore the city from late afternoon into the evening.

12. Consider Carrying a Small Cardigan or Extra Layer

In Singapore, many malls and restaurants like to blast their air conditioning to provide relief from the heat. For most, it will be a welcome temperature; for those who get cold quickly, it can create an unexpected challenge with packing. If you are someone who gets cold quickly, consider packing a small sweater or layer that you can carry in your daypack for when you go to malls or colder restaurants.

13. Test the Chili Sauce Before Adding to Your Food

Singaporean food can be pretty spicy, and locals love chili sauce and peppers. Many dishes at hawker centers and restaurants come with a small condiment bowl of chili sauce or peppers. Be sure to taste it quickly before adding it to your dish. Plenty of visitors have unknowingly added more than they can handle by underestimating the spice levels in the city. Sampling condiments and sauces before adding can help save you from ruining a dish you might have loved.

14. Skip Room Service, Order Food From Grab

In addition to offering ride-hailing services from their app, Grab also provides food delivery, similar to Uber Eats. Considering the often over-priced and mediocre room service options available at hotels, Grab offers a broader selection of local restaurants, dishes, and budget-friendly choices for a larger family. If you are too tired to leave the hotel, you can still get local Singaporean food or comfort food from familiar chains dropped off at your hotel lobby.

15. Find Your Way Google Maps

Hands down one of the best travel apps ever for international travelers, Google Maps has excellent coverage in Singapore and provides the best directions to get around the city. From accurate walking directions to public transportation navigation that takes you directly to the MRT station exit or bus stop, Google Maps is a travel essential for a trip to Singapore. Make sure to download the free app for the best user experience.

16. No Need to Tip

Singapore does not have a tipping culture, and there are no expectations for tips for any services. However, more corporate restaurants, especially hotel F&B outlets, will often charge a 10% service charge, in addition to the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST), though this is one of the rare occurrences. Outside of the service charges that may be added to specific restaurant or bar bills, you don’t need to tip anywhere during your visit to Singapore.

17. Know the Voltage of Your Device

Singapore operates on a 230V electric supply, while the US and Canada run on 120V. For hair dryers, plug-in electric razors, and other electric devices that run on a motor, you should check if they are dual voltage devices or consider packing a power converter.

18. Have Plans for Rainy Days or Rainy Parts of Days

Singapore is in a tropical climate and receives, on average, 167 days that include some rainfall each year. While plenty of days may have only a brief period of rain, others can see rainfall throughout the day. Therefore, plan your itinerary to have activities or attractions that can be enjoyed on a rainy day. With plenty of museums on offer, shopping, gambling, and several covered hawker centers, there are several places to go when the rain starts.

19. If it Rains, Try to Wait it Out

While downpours can start quite suddenly, they can also stop as fast. So if you get caught somewhere in the rain, consider waiting for a little to see if the rain clouds pass. Singapore often sees a weather pattern of a few rain clouds passing through the city within a more extensive cloud system. Though it is not guaranteed that you’ll find better weather for the rest of the day, letting an isolated shower pass will allow you to enjoy the rest of the attraction you are visiting once it stops.

20. Explore Singapore’s Unique Neighborhoods

Venture out from the typical Chinatown, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and Sentosa Island itinerary to explore some of Singapore’s unique neighborhoods. Little India offers a South Asian cultural experience, while nearby Kampong Glam has colorful streets, like Arab Street, that are full of street art, along with the nearby former home of Malay royalty. Tiong Bahru is a hipster haven with unique art deco buildings on its street corners, which contrasts against Katong and Joo Chiat’s colorful Peranakan shophouses, which are iconic Singapore attractions.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to see these places outside Central Singapore, as they offer culturally unique neighborhoods for a memorable experience during your visit.

21. Carry a Few Packs of Tissues

Humble Singapore restaurants and hawker centers rarely provide napkins for diners. Instead, locals will carry small packs of tissues that can be bought at convenience stores and shops throughout the city. So throw a few packs of tissues in your day pack to ensure you have something to wipe off your hands while you eat.

22. Don’t Sit at a Table With a Pack of Tissues on it

Known locally as “chope-ing seats,” Singaporeans will often reserve a table or seats at a table by placing a pack of tissues or some other small, inexpensive item at them. This seat-saving style is often seen at hawker centers or food courts during peak hours.

For larger tables, you may see these reserving only a couple of seats, leaving the rest of them open. While locals understand that visitors may not know how the system works, it’s worth being courteous and respectful when looking for seats or a table.

23. Be Prepared to Spend

Consistently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, Singapore has an unusual mix of prices that may help or hurt depending on your travel style. The country stands out in Southeast Asia as its neighbors are all typically viewed as cheaper destinations. As a result, expect hotels and accommodation rates to be higher compared to many global cities. The same can be said for alcohol and high-end dining. On the other hand, local food options and public transportation are incredibly budget-friendly, and taxi or ride-hailing app fares are reasonably priced.

24. Explore Singapore on Foot

Singapore is primarily flat, with the city center and all the older neighborhoods being easy to walk around. The downside of too much time in taxis, buses, and especially underground in the MRT is that you miss taking things slowly and up close. While the mid-day sun may make it tough to walk around all day, the morning and evening can be quite pleasant to enjoy the unique shophouse architecture found throughout Singapore.

25. Save on Drinks with Happy Hour

A standard tip in most cities, Happy Hour in Singapore offers an exceptional value due to its length and the high cost of drinks in the city. With the city-state’s workers known for having long workdays, the time of Happy Hour varies, with many bars offering buy-one-get-one deals or discounted pints up to 9:30 pm. Head to Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, or China Town to find some of the best bars and great deals at happy hour.

26. Umbrella, Suntan Lotion, Bug Spray

Three packing essentials for a trip to Singapore, make sure you carry these items in your day pack when you head out to explore the city. From the strong sun to the sudden showers, an umbrella or rain jacket and suntan lotion are apparent essentials. Finally, bug spray is often overlooked but should not be in Singapore. Mosquitos in the city can carry dengue fever, with thousands of cases yearly. So ensure you are using bug spray when visiting the nature reserves, parks, or if you are spending an extended amount of time outside.

27. Head to the Airport Early For Your Flight

Consistently listed as the world’s best airport, Singapore’s Changi Airport is known for its entertainment. There is plenty of shopping, movie theaters, a butterfly garden, a pool, and more inside the terminals. However, the highlight is the Changi Jewel, a massive dome with well-manicured plants and trees surrounding a huge artificial waterfall, which is connected to the airport terminals by walkways. Part of a larger mall complex, the Jewel is a must-see attraction before departure.

It’s worth noting that the Changi Jewel is outside the secure area and before immigration, so be sure not to go through the immigration checks if you plan to check it out. It’s a good idea to get to the airport three hours before your flight if you want to explore most of Changi’s attractions.

28. Save Money by Having a Drink with a View

To visit the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, you must pay the $26 SGD admission fee. At the same time, a signature cocktail at Cé La Vi, which sits on the same rooftop observation deck will cost you $25 SGD before tax and service charge. So skip the high-admission viewing point and have a drink at one of the most scenic rooftop bars in the world.

Note that the infinity pool on top of the Marina Bay Sands is restricted to hotel guests only.

29. Follow the Local Laws, But Don’t Stress

Singapore has long had a reputation for strict laws. Many travel shows and articles about travel to Singapore still like to highlight this perception and the fact that the country still has corporal punishment. However, most visitors will be oblivious to the perceived strictness in Singapore. Perceptiosn are often that it is just a pleasant city with many common sense laws focused on keeping it clean. Though the death penalty may get headlines, most punishments for petty crimes result in fines for bad behavior.

Be mindful of the laws and signs highlighting them. Below are common laws that visitors should know about.

Laws to Know:

• Chewing gum is banned, leave yours at home.
• Littering carries a heavy fine.
• Smoking can only take place in designated areas.
• Vaping is banned.
• Some prescription drugs are banned, check yours before you pack them.
• Illegal drugs are against the law and carry harsh penalties.

30. Get an EZ-link Card for Ease of Travel

EZ-link cards are the stored value transportation cards. They can be used to tap in and out of MRT stations and on buses. They cost $15 SGD to buy at any MRT station or 7-11 convenience stores. Each card comes with $10 SGD of value, with a $5 SGD non-refundable deposit for the card.

On a short visit, it’s hard to justify the $5 SGD deposit in terms of savings. Though, for ease of traveling around the city, especially on buses, those looking to save time for a small cost will get good value from the card.

31. Consider the Singapore Tourist Pass for a Busy Day Out

Offering all-day travel on city buses and MRT trains, the Singapore Tourist Pass is similar to the EZ-link card, except for 1-3 days of unlimited travel. Available at MRT stations, the pass requires a $10 SGD deposit and costs $10 SGD for one day, $16 SGD for two days, and $20 SGD for three days of travel.

While the pass offers excellent value for those traveling back and forth across the island, it requires a decent amount of travel to pay for the pass compared to regular tickets. In addition, MRT trips start from $0.95 SGD for short trips, so unless you take many trips over long distances in a day, it may be hard to justify.

32. Get a Singapore Go City Pass to Save on Attractions

This tourist pass includes admission to many of Singapore’s top attractions for 2 to 7-day periods, offering a good value for those with many paid attractions on their must-see list. The pass includes Universal Studios Singapore, Garden’s by the Bay’s paid gardens, the Long Bar at Raffles, S.E.A Aquarium, and much more. Find the details of the pass here.

Calculate the expected value before purchasing. Singapore offers plenty of free cultural attractions and its top museums are not included as part of the pass. So for some the pass may not be worth it. However, if you are planning to visit Universal Studios, the pass will often make sense. This works out well if there are at least a few other sights included on the pass that interest you.

33. Visit a Mix of Theme Parks, Gardens, Museums, and Cultural Sights

Singapore is most appreciated by visitors when they can enjoy a diverse mix of sights and experiences. It’s easy to fill an itinerary with too many similar activities and then not get a full appreciation of what the Island-state has to offer. You will get a more well-rounded itinerary by mixing the types of sights you visit. Combine a day out in Little India with the Singapore Botanical Garden, Sentosa Island’s attractions, and the National Museum of Singapore.

34. Carry Some Cash

For most of your time in Singapore, you’ll be able to get by using your credit card. This method generally is recommended if you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. However, there are still places where having cash is essential. Especially at hawker centers, where many shops don’t offer the ability to pay with a card.

Beyond the practical reasons, it’s also a fun experience to see and use a foreign currency when most transactions are becoming digital. Given the certainty of the world eventually becoming a cashless society, getting to pay for things in cash in a foreign country is still an exciting part of the travel experience.

35. When Getting Cash, Use an ATM for the Best Rates

ATMs are the best option for getting Singapore Dollars in the country. They offer highly competitive exchange rates, as the rate is determined by card providers, such as Visa or Mastercard. In addition, the fees are relatively limited, with only the fee charged by the machine and your bank, which you can confirm beforehand if your bank has any fee-waiving agreements with any Singapore banks.

Foreign Exchange stands at the airport do not offer nearly as competitive rates as ATMs. While they may advertise themselves as fee-free, they typically profit from the poor exchange rates they offer. High fees and bad rates are reasons to avoid exchanging money at banks before travel.

Learn more here about tips for foreign exchange while traveling.

36. See the Gardens by the Bay Light Show and the Marina Bay Sands Water Show Back to Back

The Gardens by the Bay light show in the supertree grove is offered at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm daily, while the Marina Bay Sands Water Show is at 8 pm and 9 pm, with a 10 pm show on Friday and Saturday nights.

Head to the Marina Bay Sands Water Show at 8 pm, and you’ll have plenty of time after the 15-minute show to walk over to the supertree grove at 8:45 pm for the Gardens by the Bay Light Show.

37. Don’t Stress Over Dining Advice from Locals

One of the most common travel tips is to go where the locals go. This tip applies to dining, shopping, and sightseeing, but most often when looking for the right place to eat. In Singapore, you’ll find no shortage of recommendations from locals on where to eat and who offers the best version of a dish.

It’s easy to get carried away following local advice in Singapore, with many Grab and taxi drivers offering tips on where they like to go. Avoid stressing about following every recommendation or sorting through conflicting advice on who serves the best chili crab or laksa. Locals often don’t live near the city center where many visitors stay, so following a recommendation to the best place for a dish that requires you to travel 45 minutes may not be the best decision.

Take parts of the advice and recommendations that fit your itinerary, but don’t stress about optimizing too much based on locals’ suggestions.

38. Dress Appropriately for Temples

Research ahead if you have a temple in your itinerary for a specific day. Different temples in Singapore have different dress codes. Some require long pants or skirts. Some require covered shoulders and no tank tops or halter tops. Hindu and Buddhist temples have different requirements, so it’s best to confirm ahead rather than be surprised when you arrive.

39. Get a Singtel Prepaid Sim Card to Stay Connected

Available at the airport upon arrival or convenience stores around the city, Singtel offers the best combination of service coverage and value with their prepaid hi!Tourist sim cards. These provide exceptional data allowances and local calls while offering different lengths of validity depending on your trip.

Suppose you have an unlocked mobile phone that allows you to use a different sim card. In that case, this is a much cheaper option than data roaming from your home mobile provider and more convenient than relying on free wi-fi around Singapore.

Find the details of the sim card here.

40. Decide if You Want to Pay for a View

Each visitor has different priorities, so it’s worth considering how much you prioritize taking in the city’s best views. For example, the Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel costs $40 SGD per adult, the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck costs $26 SGD per adult, and a drink at Cé La Vi starts at around $25 SGD for a cocktail before tax and service charge.

While Singapore offers a beautiful skyline, your willingness to pay the high ticket prices for visiting the viewing decks will likely depend on your previous travel experience. Additionally, many could argue that the views from the ground are impressive enough that paying for a higher view may not justify the cost.

The 10 Best Electric Travel Kettles (2023)

Best ski bags for 2022-2023: a complete guide, related posts.

The Ultimate Niseko Travel Guide 2022-2023

The 25 Best Things To Do in Oahu Right Now (2022)

The Best Time to Visit Santorini: A Complete Guide (2022)

What is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii? The Ultimate Guide (2022)

Recent Posts

The Best Pilot Luggage: Ten Top Picks (2024)

The Best Hardside Luggage Sets: Ten Top Picks (2023)

Recommended

The 10 Best Travel Tea Mugs and Bottles (2022)

Wander & Experience offers practical travel tips, advice, reviews, and guides to readers looking for thorough guides to travel the world. Copyright 2021 Wander & Experience.

• Inspiration & Ideas
• Miles & Points

• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

How to Plan a Singapore Trip

Singapore is a particularly successful urban island country in Southeast Asia. It is one of the world's four largest financial centers and one of the world's five busiest seaports. Singapore is also known as a garden city and a classy tourist destination. Find out how to plan a Singapore trip with this Singapore travel guide.

Why Travel to Singapore

1. Singapore is a melting pot of multiculturalism.

From the fusion of various cooking methods from various countries to its diverse architectural styles, Singapore is a gathering place for multinational cultures.

2. Singapore is the center of Southeast Asian art.

The National Gallery of Singapore has the world's largest exhibition of Southeast Asian modern art. The open-air art performances at Marina Bay always make people linger.

3. Singapore is an amusement park suitable for all ages.

Singapore is a family-friendly tourist destination. Singapore Zoo, Kallang Riverside Park, Sentosa, and Universal Studios are suitable for all ages.

4. Singapore is a shopper's paradise.

From shopping malls on Orchard Road to luxury shops in Marina Bay, to boutique shops in Haji Lane, you can always find a place that suits you well.

No matter why you go to Singapore, let us arrange the trip for you!

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Top Places to Visit in Singapore

Located at the southernmost tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a total area of only 694 square kilometers (268 square miles), which is even smaller than Hong Kong . It takes an hour to drive around the whul class="infolist"e island, but Singapore is an all-inclusive experience, blending diverse cultures from all over the world, and there are many wonderful things you can't miss.

• 1. Go to Merlion Park to see the symbul of Singapore.
• 2. Go to Little India to experience a culorful miniature of massive India.
• 3. See the largest mosque in Singapore, Sultan Mosque.
• 4. Admire the exquisite Sri Mariamman Temple and look up at countless statues of gods there.
• 5. Wander around Orchard Road and experience Singapore's artistic shopping paradise.
• 6. Go to the "Big Durian" Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, Singapore to appreciate Singaporean art.
• 7. Visit Gardens by the Bay with the world's largest greenhouse.
• 8. Climb the world's first double helix pedestrian bridge, also by Marina Bay.
• 9. Go to Clarke Quay to enjoy the nightlife of Singapore.
• 10. Go to Chinatown to experience the cultural heritage and taste local food.
• 11. Take an island adventure on Sentosa.
• 12. Explore Changi Airport, which holds the world's largest indoor waterfall.

Contact us to know more about Singapore.

Best Times to Visit Singapore

Singapore is located in the tropics and has an equatorial rainy climate. It is warm/hot throughout the year without a winter. The average daily temperature range is 24 to 31 °C (75–88°F). The least sweltering month is January with an average temperature range of 22 to 30 degrees Celsius (72–86°F). Slightly hotter temperatures average 25–32°C (77–90°F) from February to June.

There is only one of the obvious four seasons of temperate climes in Singapore — only summer — but there is a distinctly less wet season and a very wet season. The monsoon rainy season is from November to January.

Singapore is a country that's suitable for year-round travel and the best time for you to go depends on what you want to do in Singapore.

If you do not like wet weather, you might consider the months of lowest rainfall on average (still moderate to high): February, September, and June

If you like food, you could choose to go to Singapore in April for the annual World Chef Summit or July for the Singapore Food Festival (July 10-26), when there are food tasting activities at Clarke Quay, Chinatown, and many other attractions.

If you like shopping, you could come from June to July for the shopping discount season, when large shopping malls attract tourists with their discounts.

If you like a lively holiday atmosphere, November to December is the best time. From November to December, the shining celebrations of Deepavali, Christmas and New Year's Day will light up the entire Lion City.

If you are a motor racing fan, you should go in September, when Singapore hosts the only F1 night race in the world.

Singapore travel can be expensive, and it is always higher during the festivals, such as Chinese Lunar New Year in January or February. So, to keep travel costs down, avoid the festivals.

When would you like to take a Singapore trip? Let us tailor-make a Singapore tour to your requirements.

Recommended Singapore Tour Packages

Singapore is small and many attractions are relatively concentrated within walking distance. Usually, 4–7 days are recommended to see all of Singapore's highlights . Here is a suggested 5-day Singapore tour package for your reference:

Day 1: A one-day walking tour to see Chinatown, Marina Bay, and Singapore nightlife at Clarke Quay.

Day 2: Explore Little India and Haji Lane in the daytime and take a Night Safari in the evening.

Day 3: Enjoy retail therapy with a one-day shopping experience on Orchard Road.

Day 4: Take a day to relax in a resort on Sentosa. (If your time is sufficient, a night stay in the island is highly recommended.)

Day 5: Visit Jewel Changyi at Changyi International Airport, then fly home.

How many days do you have for the trip? We will customize your Singapore trip based on your requirements.

Singapore Festivals

Chinese new year.

Celebrated: in January or February

About 75% of Singapore people are ethnic Chinese, so Chinese lunar New Year is the most important festival in Singapore for many. During that time, you will see dazzling lanterns along the streets, parades, and performances nearly everywhere in the city. The biggest celebration is in Chinatown.

Unmissable Celebrations:

• Enjoy the street lighting-up ceremony in Chinatown prior to the festival.
• Join the cul class="infolist"orful Chingay Parade from 1 Republic Boulevard to NS Square.
• Immerse yourself in the River Hongbao garden festivities in NS Square.

Christmas on Orchard Road

Celebrated: from November 16th

Orchard Road is one of the most popular shopping streets in Singapore, and also a world-class shopping destination. The road is particularly brilliant and beaming during the Christmas period.

• Enjoy the iconic lighting-up ceremony.

In Singapore, Christmas comes early every year, starting from mid-November. With the official launch of the Christmas lighting ceremony on November 16, this lively and fashionable district of Orchard Road is transformed into a cul class="infolist"orful fantasy world with laughter and joy, allowing you to immerse yourself in the joy of the festival in advance.

The lighting and decorations stretch 3.88 kilometers (2.4 miles) from Tanglin Mall to Plaza Singapura (including Scotts Road, Grange Road, and Orchard Road). And they stay up until January 1, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this feast for the senses.

• Have fun at the Happy Christmas Village Fantasy Carnival.
• Join the Christmas countdown party — the climax of the hul class="infolist"iday celebrations.
• Shop happily on Orchard Road. Many shops offer discounts to attract guests during that time.

Celebrated: from October or November for a month

Deepavali, also called "the Festival of Lights", is a national cultural festival in Singapore. On this day, thousands of Hindu families in Singapore will light up their warm yellow oil lamps (deepas) at home to pray to Lakshmi, god of fertility and prosperity. Little India is the best place to enjoy Deepavali, which is decorated gorgeously at that time. There will be various exquisite elephant and peacock statues on the street, and the ground is covered with traditional Indian Rangul class="infolist"i paintings.

The day of Deepavali is different each year. It will be on October 31st in 2024, but the celebration can last more than a month, from the week before the festival to a month after the festival. The highlights are always in the week before Deepavali Day.

1. Participate in the "Silver Chariot procession". Devotees drag a silver carriage carrying a statue of the goddess Sri Drowpathai Amman from Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown (one of the ul class="infolist"dest Hindu temples in Singapore) all the way to Little India.

2. Enjoy the Fire Dance Festival (Theemithi) held in the Mariamman Hindu Temple. In this ritual, thousands of male believers step on burning coals with their bare feet to pay homage to the goddess. Theemithi is held about a week before Deepavali Day.

3. Enjoy wonderful traditional performances in Little India. The performances last for a few nights before Deepavali.

Singapore Food Festival

Celebrate time: from mid-July

• Taste all kinds of delicious food and have the opportunity to see the delicious masterpieces cooked by the chefs.
• Experience various celebrations, workshops, and live music performances. STREAT is the iconic event of the Food Festival, where you can try different kinds of street food.

What is more, Mid-Autumn Festival, Vesak Day, Thaipusam, Hari Raya Puasa are also the popular festivals in Singapore.

Singapore Food

Singapore is a hodgepodge of diverse races and cultures, which also brings a variety of local cuisines and delicacies together. From street food to elegant restaurants, no matter what your taste or budget, you can enjoy the ultimate delicacy in Singapore. Singapore's traditional cuisine includes chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice, bak kut tek ('pork rib tea'), laksa (spicy noodles), fish head curry, satay, and kaya (coconut jam) toast.

Kampong Gelam is a gastronomic treasure house, popular among tourists from home and abroad. Almost all styles of cuisine can be found there, including authentic Indonesian cuisine, Mexican cuisine, Vietnam cuisine, Japanese food, and Chinese food. Here are some popular restaurants for your reference:

Indian Restaurant: Zam Zam Singapore

• Add: 697-699 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198675
• Tel: +65 6298 6320

Indonesian Restaurant: Warong Nasi Pariaman

• Add: 736/738 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198704
• Tel: +65 6292 2374

Malay kampong ('village') taste restaurant: Hjh Maimunah

• Add: 11 & 15 Jalan Pisang, Singapore 199078
• Tel: +65 6297 4294

Mexican restaurant: Piedra Negra

• Add: 241 Beach Road, Singapore 189753
• Tel: +65 6291 1297

Vietnamese restaurant: Mrs Pho

• Add: 349 Beach Road, Singapore 199570
• Tel: +65 6292 0018

Japanese restaurant: Box n Sticks

• Add: 28 Kandahar Street, Singapore 198889
• Tel: +65 6341 7780

How to Get around Singapore

1. singapore's mass rapid transit (mrt).

The Singapore Metro is a very convenient way to travel. There are dense subway lines and many attractions can be reached by subway. It is very convenient. Usually, the first train departs at 05:30 and the last train is between 23:30 and 00:00.

The bus routes are quite complicated, and the stop names are usually a landmark building near the stop. Therefore, the stop names coming or going are often different. In addition, most buses do not announce the stations , and some only display the name of the next station on their electronic screens. So please be aware of the stops situation when you take a bus.

Taxis are convenient in Singapore. It is easy to take one from hotels, attractions, or shopping malls. The taxi fare starts around 3 SGD (2 USD), and then it's about 0.22 SGD (0.15 USD) for every 400 meters.

1. You can buy an EZ-Link Card or a Singapore Tourist Pass to take the MRT or buses in Singapore with cashless convenience.

2. There is a credit card machine at the front and rear doors of the buses. Please remember to scan your card when you get on the bus at the front door and scan it again when you get off at the rear door.

3. There are many taxi companies in Singapore, such as Comfort, City Cab, SMRT, Trans-Cab, Premier Taxis. SMRT provides advanced taxi services, so the cost will be more expensive.

Private car is always the most comfortable way to get around. Contact Asia Highlights for private transfers.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Singapore is a small country with convenient public transportation. You can take the subway to most of the sightseeing places, so staying near a subway station will make things easy for you. There are five popular areas that people typically choose for a Singapore stay:

• Chinatown : There are more youth hostels and economy hotels in this area. Tourists with a lower budget often choose to stay in this area. Porcelain Hotel Singapore, Bliss Hotel Singapore, Opera House Hotel, and Oasia Hotel Downtown are recommended.
• Sentosa : Many hul class="infolist"iday hotels are located there. If you want to enjoy top-class hotel facilities and relax on beaches, Sentosa should be your choice. The famous Universal Studios is also there. Le Meridien Singapore, Sentosa; Siloso Beach Resort; Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa; and Hotel Michael are recommended.
• Orchard Road: Singapore's shopping mecca! There are many large department stores and shopping centers along the 2-km-long road. If you want to go shopping in Singapore, you should not miss Orchard Road. Grand Park Orchard, Ascott Orchard Singapore, Hotel Chancellor, and YOTEL Singapore are recommended.
• Marina Bay : If you are looking for a luxury hotel experience , there will be more options for you in Marina Bay. Marina Bay Sands; The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore; Sofitel Singapore City Centre; and The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore are all there.
• Bugis : There you can fully experience the charm of Southeast Asia, and you can taste many different local snacks in the night market in Bugis. InterContinental Singapore, Hotel G Singapore, XY hotel Bugis by Asanda Hotels and Resorts, Hotel Royal @ Queens Singapore, and Mercure Singapore Bugis are all good options.

Where would you want to stay? Let us help book the ideal hotel for you.

Shopping in Singapore

Singapore is one of the famous shopping paradises of the world. From unique souvenirs to fashion brands, you can always find the best that retail has to offer. You can buy high-tech products at Funan Mall, fashion clothing and jewelry at Orchard Road; buy Indian specialty products at Little India; and go to Chinatown for a customized exquisite qipao (cheongsam). Or go shopping like a local in very Singaporean malls, such as Tampines 1, Jem®, and Westgate.

Or do you want to bring a special Singapore gift back home? There are many local brands in Singapore, such as TWG tea, Supermama local ceramics, Scene Shang's homeware, Tiger Balm, and local snacks from Biscuit King.

If you only have half a day's transit time in Singapore, Jewel Changi will rewrite your airport transit experience.

Singapore Travel Tips

• Singapore is a rainy country most of the time. Please prepare a raincoat or an umbrella for rain at any time.
• Singapore is an equatorial country with a high UV index. Please prepare sunglasses and sunscreen for your trip.
• The standard electrical current used in Singapore is 220–240 vul class="infolist"ts AC (50 cycles). If you need to, be prepared with a power plug (adapter) with three square prongs.
• Tap water is safe to drink in Singapore. It has passed the World Health Organization standards.
• Smoking is forbidden in all air-conditioned places in Singapore.
• Chewing gum is forbidden in Singapore.
• Singapore charges a very high tax on alcohul class="infolist", so it is expensive to drink or buy a bottle of wine.
• Only the Singapore dul class="infolist"lar is used in Singapore and you can exchange money at the airport when you arrive.
• Tipping is not customary in Singapore. An additional 10% gratuity is charged on top of your bill by some restaurants and hotels.

Tour Singapore with Asia Highlights

Even though Singapore is a small country and English is widely used there, if you want to explore the real Singapore and experience local life, it would still be helpful to have a professional tour guide. Travel with Asia Highlights for a hassle-free and more-fulfilling Singapore tour.

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 18-Day Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 12-Day Thailand, Singapore, and Bali Tour
• 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery
• 19-Day Japan, China, Singapore and Bali
• How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali 2024
• How to Plan a Trip to Singapore and Thailand 2024/2025
• How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore 2024
• How to Plan a Trip to Singapore and Bali 2024/2025
• The Best Times to Visit Singapore

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Exploring Singapore: tips from a local

Visiting Singapore soon? I’m Jac, a Singaporean travel lover who’s lived here all my life and here are some of my personal recommendations on things to do in Singapore, including some local tips for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist sights. I love travelling but when I’m out of annual leave, I try to spend more time exploring my own backyard a little more. The official Visit Singapore is useful to learn about the main sights to see in Singapore, but I’m here to share some of its lesser known corners and experiences.

Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

One of my favourite niche museums in Singapore where you can learn about local biodiversity and see the famous whale skeleton that washed up on our shores

Fuk Tak Chi Temple

One of many religious buildings along Telok Ayer Street which was the former waterfront of Singapore, the Chinese temple Fuk Tak Chi has a backdoor that now leads to the fancy Amoy Hotel.

SEA Aquarium Overnight Stay

Sure the SEA aquarium is cool to visit during the day, but staying in the main gallery overnight and getting to stare at sharks and rays swim by as you fall asleep was pretty cool.

Shuang Long Shan

Not so much an actual attraction worth travelling for, but just an oddity in Singapore to see if you happen to be in Clementi – a cemetery right in the middle of a busy housing estate

Singapore’s ‘palace’ is really the official residence and offices of the President, and while usually restricted to public, the grounds are open five days in a year.

Hidden Gems

A sponsored post that I wrote for Expedia sometime back about the the less commonly known things to do in Singapore.

5 Places in SIngapore that don’t live up to the hype

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t visit Singapore’s major tourist attractions, but don’t raise your expectations up too high for some of them!

If there is only one thing you do in Singapore, make it to eat as much as you possibly can, whether you are a foodie or not.

Hawker Centres

Singapore’s hawker centres are home to our street food and are a quintessential part of Singapore life where you can eat a huge variety of local food that’s cheap and good. Some hawker centres are even home to Michelin-standard food stalls.

What to eat and drink in Singapore

Want to eat your way through Singapore’s famous food culture but don’t know where to start? Here’s a primer that I wrote on quintessential Singaporean food to try.

For the hipsters who like hanging out at cute cafes for good coffee and desserts, this is a compilation of recommendations by my readers on the best cafes to check out in Singapore

Cheap Meals under $5

Many things in Singapore are expensive but food is still relatively cheap overall… if you know where to go. (Of course, inflation is affecting us all though)

Singapore Sling

Often considered the iconic Singaporean drink, I think the Singapore Sling is more a great marketing experience by Raffles Hotel. My local drink of choice is a good ol’ teh tarik (tea with milk).

Artisanal Ice Cream

Artisanal home-made ice cream has taken off in Singapore, but these are the stores you have to check out if you want to have a taste of local favourite flavours like durian, teh tarik and more

Everyone has different styles of travel, here are some of my suggestions on routes to help you see Singapore in a different light.

Singapore by a Singaporean

Everything I usually recommend my visiting friends to check out in Singapore in one post. Also, some of my reflections on my home country.

Journey to the West (by MRT)

I’ve always found Singapore’s subway or MRT system the best way to get around. Here’s what you can see where you take the subway from east to west in Singapore.

Sightseeing Singapore when it rains

Tropical Singapore sees downpours any time of the day! Here’s how to explore Singapore and see the sights without letting the rain wash out your day.

15 Non Touristy Things to do in Singapore

Alternative sights that I recommend repeat visitors to Singapore or those looking for a less touristy side to check out.

What does it mean to be Singaporean, and how true are some of the stereotypes and things you’ve been told about Singapore? Some views from a local’s perspective.

The bastardisation of English with lots of local slang words from Singapore’s diverse cultures, Singapore may have 4 official languages but Singlish is our truly unique patois that combines all these languages and more in one.

How to piss off a Singaporean

This is one of my earliest and most successful articles that went viral and features the stereotypes about Singaporeans that really, really annoy us.

The evolution of Singapore’s Street Art Scene

Singapore has a reputation for cleanliness and harsh laws against vandalism, but we’ve somehow grown our local street art scene. This was a fun piece where I spoke to local street artists and delved deeper into these wall murals and public art that I love.

5 things you didn’t know about Singapore

Fun facts about Singapore that you never knew about. Here’s a similar article that I wrote for Culture Trip .

A common question I am asked is whether I have any hotel recommendations in Singapore or which area to stay in. Here are some of my suggestions and some of the hotels that I have reviewed.

• Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Hotel – Located at Changi Airport Terminal 3
• Yotel Changi Airport – Located at Changi Airport Jewel
• Village Hotel Changi – Located near Changi Village
• Village Hotel Katong – Located in the Peranakan quarter
• Quincy Hote l – Free drinks from the fridge and snacks from the lounge all day long
• Rendezvous Singapore – very convenient to all the major museums and tourist attractions
• Yotel Singapore – Fabulous location for shopaholics on Orchard Road
• Amoy Hotel – One of the hotel’s entrance is in an actual temple

• Home take me
• Travel Guides
• Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• North America
• About me learn more
• Contact get in

17 Travel Tips For Singapore You Need To Read Before Visiting!

Last Updated on 7 November 2022

*This post may contain affiliate links , which means that if you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you! This allows me to continue bringing you valuable content for free and any purchases you make via these links are gratefully appreciated. Please refer to my Disclosures for more information.*

What to know before visiting singapore.

A bustling hub of multiculturalism, Singapore has long been used as merely a stopover for international travellers. But it is fast becoming one of the best destinations to visit in Asia (and quite rightly so). Abundant with temples, markets, and extravagant light and sound shows, there are some truly incredible things to do in Singapore throughout its many vibrant districts. I can’t think of any reasons not to visit Singapore, but there are certain things you should know before you go. So here are 17 essential travel tips for Singapore that you must know whether it’s your first or third time visiting!

1. Eat in Hawker Centres

Unique to Singapore, Hawker Centres are buzzing open-air food courts where you can find all kinds of delicious local dishes at affordable prices, without compromising on quality! Lined with stalls which sell an eclectic mix of scrumptious snacks and meals from Satay to Seafood, one of the top travel tips for Singapore is to eat in Hawker Centres (especially if you’re travelling on a budget). One of the unique features of Hawker Centres is that they offer sociable shared seating areas to sit and enjoy your food in the company of others from all over the world. Makansutra Gluttons Bay is one of the best Hawker Centres in the Marina Bay area, and is located a stone’s throw from the iconic Marina Bay Sands.

How to get to Makansutra Gluttons Bay: Makansutra Gluttons Bay is located just beyond the Float @ Marina Bay Grandstand. Continue past the Float @ Marina Bay Grandstand as if you were heading towards the Merlion for ~350m. You will find Makansutra Gluttons Bay tucked behind a row of trees to the right, before you reach the Esplanade Outdoor Stage (there is a sign to denote where it is). 

2. Singapore is super humid 

One of the things to know when travelling to Singapore is that nothing can prepare you for the stifling humidity. With average humidity levels of ~84%, Singapore is one of the most humid places in Southeast Asia, and is on par (if not worse than) places like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap . And there isn’t much respite from this, because Singapore’s climate remains hot and humid year-round. Some of the top tips for surviving the Singapore humidity is to keep hydrated, wear sun cream, avoid the midday sun and seek refuge in the air conditioned aisles of 7-Eleven or a shopping mall.

Tip: With the chances of rain showers year-round (which are usually heavier in December and January), one of the essentials on your packing list and top travel tips for Singapore is to take an umbrella!

3. There are some unique laws in Singapore

There are some dos and don’ts in Singapore. And you’ll probably want to be aware of these so you don’t end up breaking any of the local laws or getting issued with a large fine. One of the most famous ones is the ban on chewing gum which has been in place since 1992, due to it being a public nuisance. But some of the other things to know when travelling to Singapore is that it’s illegal to leave a public toilet unflushed, urinating in an elevator is a big no no (who does this anyway), e-Cigarettes are prohibited, it is illegal to walk around in public or at home in one’s birthday suit, and Durian is banned on public transport due to its pungent smell.

4. Singapore is not just a chic skyline – it’s extremely diverse

At first glance, you might think that Singapore is just an ultra modern city with a chic skyline, which is what I naively thought before visiting. But it is a vibrant hub of multiculturalism which spans way beyond the lavish area of Marina Bay. In Singapore, you’ll find that communities from all over the world live side by side in perfect harmony. This is reflected in the many neighbourhoods, such as Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam. You’ll find diverse food, bustling little markets and differing pockets of culture throughout these districts, which shows that Singapore is so much more than glitz and glam of Marina Bay!

5. You need travel insurance

Whether it’s Singapore or anywhere else in this wonderful world, travel insurance is always a necessity when you are travelling abroad. You never know when you might need medical assistance or financial support to return home – both of which can be extremely costly out of your own pocket. So don’t compromise, and get yourself a good level of travel insurance which provides you with all the cover you might need. 

6. Get to Supertree Grove early – one of the best travel tips for Singapore

Watching the magical light and sound show at Supertree Grove in Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is one of the things which should be on any bucket list for Southeast Asia . It’s a purely enchanting experience which will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, as you lay and watch the lights dance and twinkle to the sound of music in the night sky. And because it is one of the quintessential Singapore experiences (and is free to watch), it gets very busy. So get there well in advance of the start time so you can find a decent spot at the base of one of the trees to perch yourself.

7. A Venetian Canal in a shopping mall is a thing

It might seem quite eccentric, but a Venetian Canal inside a shopping mall is a thing in Singapore. And it can be found in the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Abundant with luxurious outlets, an afternoon of retail therapy at the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is probably something reserved for those who aren’t travelling on a budget. But you should definitely stop by to see the resident canal that’s populated with Venetian Gondolas – it’s a pretty unique scene!

8. Singapore is one of Southeast Asia’s walkable cities

Being one of Southeast Asia’s smallest countries, Singapore is a walkable city with many of the main attractions located within a pleasant stroll of each other. And what’s more, Singapore is pretty much flat, so you are unlikely to encounter any hilly climbs (unless it’s your hotel stairs)! One of the top travel tips for visiting Singapore is to schedule your itinerary so you do your sightseeing by neighbourhood. This way, you can maximise your time in the city, especially if you only have a few days.

9. Use public transport 

If your legs do get tired from all the walking or the distance is just too far, then you can rely on Singapore’s fully integrated public transport system. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system offers an easy way to get around the city, and it’s not going to break the bank. Unless you arrive at an unsocial hour, the best way to get from Singapore Changi Airport to the City (and vice versa) is to use the MRT. This way, you will avoid wasting valuable sightseeing time stuck in traffic or risk missing your flight. 

How do I get from Singapore Airport to the City? To get from Singapore City to the Airport (and vice versa), take the East West Line to Tanah Merah MRT Station or the Downtown Line to Expo MRT Station, and then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station.

10. Flights around Southeast Asia can be cheap from Singapore 

Singapore is home to one of Southeast Asia’s major airports, and an advantage of this is that you can usually find a whole host of cheap flights to other parts of Southeast Asia. If you’re travelling from outside of Southeast Asia, it’s likely to be a long old journey for you to get there. So why not turn you trip into one fit for a bucket list, by visiting a few other places too, like I did on this 3 week itinerary for Singapore, Malaysia and Bali ? International flights are quite pricey and if you’ve got a couple of weeks spare, it’s probably going to work out cheaper in the long run to visit a few places at once. 

11. Singapore is pricey (so do your research)

Singapore is known as one of the most expensive cities in Asia, if not the world. But that doesn’t mean you can’t travel on a budget. As with Europe , one of the best travel tips for Singapore is to do your research before you go, so you don’t end up making spontaneous and costly decisions. Aside from your flights (especially if they are international), your largest expense is likely to be accommodation. If you are using your hotel just to sleep in and are willing to forfeit daylight, one of the best ways you can save money on accommodation is to book a room without a window (note: this is something that can help cut your costs on accommodation in Hong Kong too). Eating in Hawker Centres and walking to get from A to B are two of the best money-saving travel hacks for Singapore.

12. The currency is the Singapore Dollar

The best currency to use in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). For your own security, it’s always a good idea to take a mix of cards and money, and to keep these in separate places in case you lose anything or items get stolen (crime is low in Singapore, but you can never be too safe). Although many retailers, hotels and restaurants accept major cards, this may not be the case in smaller shops, so it’s best to carry cash with you too. There is an agreement in place with Brunei whereby the Brunei Dollar can be accepted in Singapore too (and vice versa). 

13. Alcohol is expensive, so stick to happy hour

Unlike the Malaysian island of Langkawi which is tax-free, alcohol is heavily taxed in Singapore making it expensive. The cheapest places to buy beer is at a supermarket or Hawker Centre, but even then it’s fairly pricey. At a Hawker Centre you can expect to pay in the region of $3-$5 for a small can of beer, and $7-$10 for a large bottle. So if you want to cut your travel costs for Singapore, perhaps stick to water or soft drinks, or look out for happy hour deals.

14. You can drink the tap water 

Unlike many Southeast Asian destinations, the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink . It falls within the Drinking Water Quality guidelines outlined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Singapore’s Environmental Public Health Regulations. This not only lessens the costs to you because you don’t have to buy drinking water, but it’s great for the environment too. A useful piece of travel advice for Singapore is to include a refillable water bottle on your packing list, so you can cut out unnecessary plastic usage. 

15. If you’re from the UK, you won’t need a plug adapter 

If you’re travelling to Singapore from the UK, you won’t need a plug adapter because the sockets in Singapore take UK-style 3-pin plugs. The only thing you may need to pack an adapter for is an electric toothbrush, as these are often fitted with the 2-pin plugs designed for Europe, but if you’re from the UK you’ll likely already have this anyway. If you’re travelling from outside the UK to Singapore, then you’ll need to pack yourself an adapter that converts to 3-pin British type. The standard voltage in Singapore is 230v, so you’ll only need a voltage converter if the voltage of your home country is dramatically less (such as in the USA).  

Tip: Worst case scenario, larger hotel chains may be able to provide you with an adapter if you need. If not, you’ll be able to pick one up in Singapore. Perhaps try the Mustafa Centre, which is a 24 hour shop which stocks souvenirs, electronics, food, clothes and more. 

16. There’s a lot of hype about Changi Airport

For many, a visit to Singapore Changi Airport is a bucket list experience and vacation destination in its own right. Dubbed the world’s best airport for many years, Singapore Changi is one of the main transit hubs in Southeast Asia with facilities to match. Along with general amenities like restaurants, lounges, and duty free shops, there are more extravagant ones like a swimming pool, rainforest-surrounded indoor water fountain, hotels, cinema, entertainment decks, and gardens. If you’re travelling internationally and have a long layover, you’ll probably want to hope it goes via Singapore Changi Airport because you are certainly not going to be bored!

17. Singapore is a safe city (but exercise caution)

Singapore is classed as a pretty safe place and crime is relatively low which is probably down to the harsh penalties and prison sentences attached to offences. But you shouldn’t let this lure you into a false sense of security. One of the top travel tips for visiting Singapore is to keep your wits about you and use your common sense. Beware of petty crimes like bag snatching and clue yourself up on common scams . Don’t store all your money and cards in one place, and leave any valuables in the hotel safe. Stay in brightly lit and busy places, and keep your bag securely over your body. Take the same precautions you would anywhere else in the world.

Book your Singapore accommodation

Pssst… sharing’s caring! Pin this post using one of the images below, so you can find it easily later!

The Scrapbook Of Life

Posts by The Scrapbook Of Life

You Might Also Like

Tonle Sap Floating Village – A Unique Day Trip From Siem Reap, Cambodia

Trip Planning Tools, Websites & Apps I Can’t Plan Travel Without!

A Quick Travel Guide To Langkawi, Malaysia [3 Minute Read]

Batu Caves From Kuala Lumpur By Train – A Step By Step Guide

10+ Useful Scotland Travel Tips + One You Won’t Have Already Read!

When To Visit Scotland – A Seasonal Guide + Avoiding The Midges

9 Absolute Best Things To Do In Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

Where To Stay In Singapore – The Only 5 Areas You Need To Know

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

• Top Things to do
• Singapore Tours
• Attractions
• Singapore Zoo
• Night Safari Singapore
• River Wonders Singapore
• Bird Paradise Singapore
• Universal Studios Singapore
• Gardens by the Bay
• Marina Bay Sands Skypark
• ArtScience Museum
• Singapore Flyer
• S.E.A Aquarium Singapore
• Adventure Cove Waterpark
• Skyline Luge Sentosa
• Trickeye Museum Singapore
• Resorts World Sentosa
• Mandai Wildlife Reserve
• Big Bus Singapore Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
• Sentosa Attractions Tickets
• Guided Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Theme Parks
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Travel Guide
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Festivals and Events
• Travel Tips
• Best Time to Visit

Top 24 Singapore Travel Tips | The Best Hacks on Budget Travel, Sight-Seeing, & More

The island city-state of Singapore offers it all, from towering skyscrapers to opulent retail malls to a flawless transportation system! Travelers can discover a variety of sights in this center of modernism and growth. It can be a bit overwhelming when you look at all the things that Singapore has to offer. This page will help you with planning your Singapore trip in the best possible way.

24 Essential Singapore Travel Tips

1. Get an EZ-Link Card

• The EZ-Link card is one of the best ways to save money in Singapore, which is usually thought to be a bit expensive.
• You can ride both LRT and MRT using the EZ-Link card. With the efficiency offered by the public transit system, you can not go wrong with this in Singapore.

2. Use the Public Transport System

Transport tip.

• The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system in Singapore is a traveler's dream. The country's public transportation system is amazing and will take you everywhere you want to go.
• It is also an economic and fast way of traveling in Singapore as the network is very well maintained and governed.

3. Know the Laws of the Land

• Singapore is regarded as a Fine City. It has severe rules that must be followed by both tourists and locals. Those who do not comply will face harsh sanctions and heavy penalties.
• Be well versed with the laws of Singapore, which can often be bizarre, for instance, singing songs with obscene lyrics could attract a hefty fine.

4. Watch out for Happy Hours

• Singapore is a high liquor tax. So if you plan to have a good time and not spend as much, happy hours are your best bet.
• Keep an eye out for happy hour deals at bars and restaurants. Most of them have a specific time in which deals are made available.

5. Wear Light Clothes

Packing tip.

• The weather in Singapore is hot and humid. You don't want to be drenched in perspiration when walking around the city. Before your flight, pack breathable, lightweight clothing.
•  You should also have waterproof clothing and umbrellas in your luggage as it rains in Singapore every month of the year.

6. Send in You Visa Application a Month in Advance

General tip.

• Singapore Government is quite efficient in processing Visa applications. However, you must not send it less than a month in advance.
• Read the guidelines carefully and set your documents in order before sending in your Visa application.

7. Know your Internet Options

• Tourists are welcome to utilize the free public WiFi in Singapore. Simply use any Wireless@SG hotspot to register your international phone number.
• A SIM card can also be used to connect to the internet. You must display your passport and mobile voucher at any M1 retail outlet or Cheers convenience store at Changi Airport when purchasing a SIM card in Singapore.

8. Keep the Emergency Numbers Handy

• In Singapore, Police can be reached via the 999 hotlines. Fire and health services are available on 995 hotlines.
• If you need flight information, you can call the toll-free 1800 543 4422 number.

9. Carry a lot of Spare Cents

• There will be several times during your vacation when you will need to pay in change, from shopping in the famous street markets to stopping and getting a $1 drink.
• While you may not have an issue while shopping, you will almost certainly have one when using the bus in Singapore because the bus driver issues your ticket only after you have inserted precise change in the money box.

10. Know The Art of Bargaining

Shopping tip.

• One of the finest budget travel recommendations for Singapore is to negotiate wisely, but only in places like Bugis Street or Chinatown. The cost of things is quite inexpensive because these are nearly like street or flea markets.
• However, if you don't learn to bargain in Merlion country, you can end yourself with nothing. You must be sensible with your bargains and courteous throughout.

11. Claim a Tax Refund

• Another useful Singapore travel tip is to collect a 7% GST refund at the airport during your departure from participating stores like Fossil, Charles & Keith, and others. 
• This is only possible if you spend more than S$100 and have all of the receipts for the products you purchased.

12. Visit Gardens by the Bay Early

Sightseeing tip.

• Gardens by the Bay, as one of the city's most popular attractions, may get rather crowded. Arrive 15 minutes early for the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, which open at 9 AM.
• The Gardens and Supertree Grove are free to visit all day, starting at 5 AM, and you can pay a small fee to explore the higher walkway between the trees.

13. Go For a Cruise in Singapore

• Going for a cruise in Singapore is one of the top experiences. You can take a cruise of your choosing through the rivers surrounding Singapore.
• The sunset cruise is usually a favorite among travelers. You can even visit some of the neighboring islands by taking a ferry.

14. Visit Singapore in the Shoulder Season

Best time to visit tip.

• Because Singapore is such a popular tourist destination, avoiding peak season is essential for a successful trip.
• The shoulder seasons in Singapore include June and November, and they are also the months when the city's rainfall is at its lowest.

15. Book Tickets in Advance

• Whatever they say, the tourist attractions in Singapore are never fully empty. To assure entrance to the most popular Singapore attractions, get your tickets in advance and online.
• Get your tickets as soon as they become available if you intend to go during or near peak season.

16. Choose Your Hotel Carefully

Accommodation tip.

• If you plan on spending only a day or two in the country and the rest of your time elsewhere, arrange your accommodations appropriately.
• This is undoubtedly one of the greatest Singapore travel tips because it will save you not only time but also energy and money.

17. Tips are not Mandatory

Etiquette tip.

• In most Singapore restaurants, a service charge is applied to your bill to cover the cost of the wait staff's services.
• Even so, you may leave a 5% tip if you were extremely delighted with a restaurant's services or if your bill did not include a service charge.

18. Try the Street Food

• Eat like a local when you're in Singapore. Although Singapore has various fine dining venues, nothing surpasses street food soul cuisine.
• Look for sites where the locals congregate. This indicates that the hawker serves delectable food without sacrificing quality.

19. Wear Sunscreen All Day

• Unless you're extremely lucky, you'll be exposed to a lot of sunlight if you choose Singapore day trips. Always wear sunscreen when you head out.
• Keep the sunscreen on you for long trips during the day and remember to put another layer after about 4 hours to stay protected.

20. Keep Your Camera Charged

• The majority of the activities will take up an entire day, and many of the sights may appear to be too breathtaking. As a result, check sure your camera is fully charged.
• To avoid any battery draining scenarios and to ensure that you are always reachable by phone, including the power cord and a couple of power banks in your backpack or handbag.

21. Get Travel Insurance

• Don’t forget to get travel insurance when traveling to any foreign country. This secures your trip and helps you enjoy your holiday without stressing out.
• Pick travel insurance that covers medical bills as well so you don’t have to worry about your bills when you are in Singapore.

22. Use Skip the Line Tickets

• Visitors flock to Singapore in droves, especially in the neighborhoods surrounding the city's most famous landmarks. Purchase skip-the-line tickets if you want to save time.
• Skip-the-line tickets are an excellent way to view Singapore's attractions while also saving money. You can even buy skip-the-line tickets in advance

23. Don’t Buy Single Use Bottled Water

• Bring a reusable bottle with you and fill it up as needed at the Singapore taps. Drinking tap water in the city is safe.
• Single-use plastic water bottles are both expensive and harmful to the environment. Besides, littering will attract fines in Singapore.

24. Bring the Right Credit Card

• In Singapore, most credit cards are accepted. To transact in Singapore, bring a chip card with a 4-digit PIN.
• Check to see if your card allows you to make free international purchases. If you want to save a lot of money, find one that does.

Top Experiences in Singapore

Frequently asked questions about singapore travel tips & hacks.

The best travel tips for transport in Singapore are, always using the public transport system whenever possible, wearing light and breathable clothes, and walking to places that are a short distance away instead of taking a taxi.

The best travel tips for sightseeing in Singapore are using skip-the-line tickets, leaving early if you want to go to one of the popular attractions, and taking a cruise from Singapore.

The best travel tips for accommodation in Singapore are picking the right locality to make sightseeing easier and booking the hotels in advance.

The best tips for budget travel in Singapore are booking your flight and attraction tickets well in advance, having street food from popular vendors, and drinking tap water.

Avoid bringing or purchasing chewing gum, visiting the city during the peak tourism season, and getting on the bus without exact change.

Check if you have the right credit card, purchase a universal adapter for your electronic appliances, and book tickets for the major attractions before leaving for Singapore.

In Singapore, you should obey the traffic rules, carry an umbrella in case the weather turns rainy, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Conversely, avoid going for dinners creating a ruckus on the street, visiting the city during the peak tourism season, and littering.

When traveling to Singapore for the first time, always fly to the closest airport to your hotel.

Singapore’s eateries generally levy a service charge on the bill. Even so, if you feel inclined to tip, you may.

Depending on the time of the year, a comprehensive trip to Singapore will take 4 to 6 days.

Try to stay as centrally as possible on your first trip to Singapore. Colonial District, Sentosa Island, Orchard Road, and Chinatown are all great neighborhoods to stay in on your first trip.

No, Singapore is not very expensive to visit. The average daily cost for a person in Singapore is S$164. The weekly budget for a couple in Singapore is about S$2300.

No, Singapore is a fairly clean city despite a high tourist volume. The authorities are quite proactive in maintaining the hygiene standards in Singapore.

• Survival Guide Top 10 Tips...

Survival Guide: Top 10 Tips For Traveling To Singapore

Singapore Travel Writer

First time traveling to Singapore? This city-state has all the modern trappings, is small, and easy to navigate. However, to help make your holiday as smooth as possible, here is our survival guide to Singapore, with all the tips you need to plan your trip and fully enjoy your vacation.

Dress for the weather.

Singapore ‘s tropical climate means it’s like summer all year round, with temperatures ranging from 26–34 degrees Celsius (about 78–93 degrees Fahrenheit) on average. The high humidity also means a lot of perspiration when outdoors, so pick the right clothing to wear or risk looking like a sweaty, frazzled mess throughout your trip. Plan your outdoor activities for cooler mornings, and urban walks at night when the lights come on. An umbrella is also essential, as this tropical climate swings from blistering sunshine to torrential downpours in a matter of minutes.

Be prepared to spend a little more

Singapore is ranked as one of the more expensive cities globally and traveling here can tax your budget more than exploring its Southeast Asian neighbors. However, the extra fees may be worth it because it’s small enough to explore adequately in a short amount of time, and has modern conveniences and infrastructure right at your fingertips. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do for budget-conscious travelers, but ultimately, the cost of living here can be a bit shocking, especially if you arrive after spending time in the surrounding region.

Save on food at hawker centres

An easy way to save money is to skip the hipster cafes and fancy restaurants and head to the local hawker centres for a meal, where you can find Singapore’s most authentic cuisine —when in doubt, just join the stall that has the longest queue. Hawker food is usually cheaper than the food in air-conditioned food courts and the centres are typically further from tourist areas, so sweating outside may be worth it. Those concerned about hygiene standards should look out for the colored placards, from A (the best) to D (a risk), displayed at each stall.

Public transport is cheap, convenient, and safe

The cheapest and easiest way to get around Singapore is via their extensive public transport system that is modern and well-maintained. Pick up a stored value EZ-Link card to use on the buses and subways; tap the reader at the start and end of your journey to automatically deduct your fare, and use apps to tell you exactly how to get to a specific location. Taxis are all metered, but you can also use ride-sharing apps like Grab if you’d rather not worry about local currency. Bike-sharing is also growing in popularity and a cheap way to get around.

An airport you want a long layover in

Consistently ranked as one of the top airports in the world, Singapore’s Changi Airport is where you want to be if you have to suffer through a long layover. With the downtown area just half an hour away from the airport by public transport, it’s easy for you to see the main sights quickly on your own, or if you have at least a six-hour layover, you can even join a free city tour. If you’d rather relax, know that the airport is so well-loved that locals enjoy spending their weekends here; check out their many gardens, free movie screenings, and even a swimming pool.

Know the rules

Singapore is well known for its many laws and regulations . Actions like spitting in the street, tossing your cigarette butt into a drain, or sticking your chewing gum on public property may result in a fine if you get caught . Most of the laws are common sense rules, but know that you may face harsh punishments that include incarceration and caning when it comes to infractions like vandalism. You may even face the death penalty for drug-related offences. Despite this hard stance on crime, Singapore is often rated as one of the safest countries in the world.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,395 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Partying and smoking is expensive

Singapore places a very high tax on alcohol, so getting a drink or buying a bottle in any nightlife establishment or restaurant is an expensive affair. Save money by scoping out the best happy hour deals , or get your own booze for a house party from the supermarkets for cheaper; make sure to do so before 10:30 p.m. when shops stop selling liquor. Cigarettes are also expensive in Singapore, and it’s harder to smoke in public, as smoking has been banned in restaurants, clubs, and a fixed perimeter around most public transport areas; look out for the yellow smokers’ box to see where you can take a legal puff.

Know the customs rules and duty-free concessions

If you’re trying to get around the expensive alcohol and tobacco taxes, study the duty-free concessions, as Singapore is strict about what you can bring in, and you may face stiff fines if you’re caught not following the rules. For alcohol, you can buy one liter each of spirits, wine and beer, or two liters of wine, plus one liter of beer, and vice versa. There is no concession on tobacco products; you can bring in one already-opened packet, but everything else is taxable, while e-tobacco products are banned.

Safety is high and corruption is low

In general, Singapore enjoys high safety standards . Crime is generally low, it’s safe to be out on your own late at night, and bribery and corruption are not a problem. Still, you should use common sense when traveling in a cosmopolitan city, just as you would at home. For example, don’t leave your items unattended.

Additional tipping not necessary

Tipping culture is not customary in Singapore and service staff generally don’t expect tips, though it’s welcome if you want to reward excellent service. Smaller shops and hawker centres usually charge an all-inclusive “net” fee, while there is a 7% goods and services tax for most services in shops. When it comes to dining, cafes, restaurants, and bars, you’ll often be charged an additional 10% service charge on top of your bill; look for a “plus-plus” or “++” symbol on your menu.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Guides & Tips

This surprising asian city is one of the food capitals of the world.

Places to Stay

Hip apartments in singapore you'll want to call home.

See & Do

The best experiences made in singapore.

Restaurants

The 10 best brunch spots in orchard road, singapore.

How Passion Transformed Singapore Into One of the Most Futuristic Cities on Earth

The Best Swimming Pools in Singapore

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Singapore

What's On

Could singapore’s ‘flights to nowhere’ get the travel industry moving again.

Where to Stay in Singapore for a Local Experience

5 Awesome Islands To Visit Near Singapore (That Aren’t Part of It)

Singaporeans Share What They Love About Singapore

Meet the Stars of Singapore's Explosive Hip-Hop Scene

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 856970
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 15 Singapore Travel Tips You Must Follow For A Value For Money Experience!

27 Jun 2023

Singapore is undoubtedly a paradise full of greenery and iconic wonders on the earth. And as much as this is true, the fact that the country is a bit heavy on the pockets of some travelers is true as well. But, that shouldn’t stop you from planning a trip there at all, as a holiday in the Merlion land is an experience of a lifetime. But to make sure that it truly is one, here are the top Singapore travel tips that you must take a note of, before you step into the Merlion land.

15 Singapore Travel Tips For Having The Most Hassle-Free Holiday

From how to plan your trip in a hassle-free way to the things you must do in the country for an unregretful experience, these 15 Singapore travel advices will help you the most. So, take a note and remember to follow these whenever you plan to visit the country next!

1. Check the weather & pick the best time to visit Singapore

Checking the weather of a destination you wish to holiday at is an absolute must-do as it is the major factor that can make or break your holiday plans. When it comes to Singapore, the country doesn’t experience a pleasant or cool climate and the weather during most of the year is hot & humid with temperature mostly reaching over 30°C. Fortunately, the only saving grace is the rains that make the mornings and evenings a bit more pleasant. So, go through the temperatures that every month witnesses and pick the most suitable time for your trip as this is the most essential Singapore travel tip you ought to follow.

Suggested Read: Here’s Why Singapore Cruise Tour Is An Ideal Way To Explore The Lion City On Budget

Singapore Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Go on a luxurious Singapore holiday and visit Universal Studios, Singapore flyer, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Life Park, and Marina Bay Sands. Packages Inclusive of airport transfer, 4 star hotel stay, breakfast, visa, sightseeing, & more at unbelievably affordable rates!

Fascinating Singapore 4D/3N Package @ Rs 21,000

Plan your trip today!

Marvelous Singapore Family 5D/4N Package @ Rs 35,000

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Singapore & Malaysia Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 39,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Singapore & Bali Honeymoon 8D/7N Package @ Rs 41,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Singapore & Malaysia Honeymoon 8D/7N @ Rs 49,999

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Customize your trip itinerary while keeping everyone in mind

Unless it’s a solo trip, the experiences you wish to have on a holiday must be picked and finalized keeping everyone who’s traveling in Singapore in mind. For instance, while you may love adventures & want to try the Luge, your parents might not feel the same. In such cases, it is always better to discuss in person and customize your Singapore trip itinerary by including experiences that cater to everyone’s interests and needs. By doing this, you aren’t only ensuring that everybody has a kick-ass time, but also saving the money that might have otherwise got wasted.

Suggested Read: 10 Scenic Singapore Mountains For A Great Adventure In The Lion City

3. Apply for your tourist visa a month in advance

This is one of the most important things to know when traveling to Singapore. We won’t deny that getting your visa application completed and approved is one of the biggest & most important concerns while planning a holiday overseas. But unlike many other places, getting a tourist visa for Singapore is easier and doesn’t take much time (Provided). A month prior to the departure date of your flight is the perfect time to submit your application to the authorized agent nearby, but make sure you do not delay it at all.

Suggested Read: Singapore Street Food Guide: What To Eat At The Best Places To Pamper The Foodie In You

4. Stay in a hotel that’s nearby to the places you wish to visit

Singapore is not a very big country and most of the attractions are in Sentosa or other islands. So, if you’re thinking of spending only a day or two in the country and the rest of the time at other places, prefer booking your stay accordingly. This is certainly the best Singapore travel advice as it will not save your time, but also your energy and money. For instance, choose a hotel on the Havelock Road in Singapore that is closer to the metro station and the major attractions like Clarke Quay, and book a separate hotel in Resorts World Sentosa.

Suggested Read: Novena In July: A Guide To Experience This Province In Singapore!

5. Check with the hotel if they provide a complimentary mobile with a local SIM

Image Credit: Trusty Joe

Most of the hotels like Furama Riverfront in Singapore offer a device called ‘Handy’, which is a complimentary mobile with a local SIM mostly kept in the rooms of the guests. Having and using these devices instead of your personal ones will help you cut down your roaming charges and stay in touch with your loved ones in the Merlion land. Very often, these devices also have plans like free calling and messaging to India or certain other places. So, make sure you check with your hotel in advance if they provide a handset like this. Having a local sim card is a major requirements while travelling to Singapore, so that you stay connected with your family and friends.

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Singapore: Your Guide To The Most Romantic Places & Experiences!

6. Read about the do’s and don’ts & follow them wisely

Every country has certain laws, and respecting & abiding by the same is a good traveler’s duty. Smoking in public places or air-conditioned complexes is strictly prohibited in Singapore, and so is chewing a gum in public. Such and similar other don’ts can levy a heavy fine or put you behind the bars if not followed wisely. So, make sure you go through all the don’ts before you step into the Merlion land for experiencing a hassle-free holiday.

7. Avoid the long queues by booking all your entry tickets in advance

Be it the Singapore Flyer or the SEA Aquarium in Sentosa, every other attraction in the country has an entry ticket and needless to say, there are mostly long queues for buying the same. So, the best way to save your time & energy (also money) is to book all your entry tickets online, well in advance. If you’re booking a holiday package for Singapore, you can also ask your trip planner or agent to do the same for you.

Suggested Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

8. Keep your Singapore dollars handy, especially the cents

From shopping around the famous street markets to stopping & buying a $1 drink, and from taking buses to buying munchies from 7/11, there will be a lot of instances during your trip where you’d be required to pay in change. So, it’s best that apart from carrying your Forex Card, you also carry notes of S$2, S$5, S$10, and a lot of cents. While you may not face an issue during shopping, you most probably will while commuting via buses since the bus driver in Singapore prints your ticket only after you insert the exact change in the money box. (You can for sure put S$2 if your ticket is for S1.50, but don’t expect to get your 50 cents back.)

9. Remember to wear sunscreen & carry a water bottle at all the times

The weather in Singapore is hot and humid throughout the year, with December and January being the only monsoon months. So, if you’ve opted for Singapore day tours , you will most likely get to face a lot of sun unless you’re really lucky. To deal with the same and ensure that your holiday mood or plan doesn’t get affected, it is best to wear sunscreen with SPF 50+ at all the times, and to carry a water bottle with you, which you can easily refill from any place where you see water taps. (Yes, the water in Singapore is so clean that you can drink from the taps in the shower rooms of your hotel as well.)

Suggested Read: 10 Picture-Perfect Singapore Islands For An Enchanting Vacation

10. For places like Sentosa, commute via public transport

Image Source

While Singapore is not a very big country, you might realize that some of the attractions in your itinerary are located on opposite ends. In such cases, the best way to reach in time and not splurge all your money on taxis is to take MRTs or buses. Both are pretty cheap when it comes to fares, very accessible, and quite convenient for the tourists. For instance, if you’re going to Sentosa, you can hop on a bus that will charge you around S$1.25 instead of a taxi whose fare starts from S$3 onwards.

11. Carry minimal valuables, wear comfy shoes & keep a map handy

When you’re new to a place, figuring out the directions and locations often seems a bit difficult initially. To avoid such feelings, it is best that you carry a map with you wither in your bag or in your phone. Also, the Merlion land requires both its locals and tourists to walk a lot from one place to another, especially when you’re exploring the country like a traveler. So that your feet don’t hurt too much too soon, make sure you wear comfortable footwear at all the times, and carry only the most essential things. This is one of the most important tips for travelling alone in Singapore.

Suggested Read: Best Indian Restaurants In Singapore: Because A Good Vacation Deserves Great Food

12. Keep your camera and phone charged & power banks handy

Most of the experiences would cost you a whole day and many of the attractions will seem too breathtaking. So, do make sure that your camera is completely charged (if you’re carrying any), and so is your phone. You can carry the power cord and a couple of power banks in your backpack or handbag to avoid any kind of battery draining situations, and to ensure that you are reachable via phone at all the times.

13. Carry your passport & visa while going places

Amongst all the Singapore travel information tips , the most essential and basic one is to ensure that you carry a copy and as well as the originals of your passport & visa wherever you go. This is not only for security reasons since you’re in a new country, but also because a lot of places like the ‘Casino in Marina Bay Sands’ allow free entry only after seeing your identity proof, which they check through your passport.

Suggested Read: Why Should Boys Have All The Fun? An Exciting All Ladies Vacation To Singapore!

14. Bargain wisely, but only at street or flea markets

One of the best Singapore budget travel tips is to bargain wisely, but only at places like Bugis Street or Chinatown. Since these are almost like street or flea markets, most of the goods sold here are copies of brands or are non-branded whose cost is very low in comparison to the price. But you must learn the art of bargaining in the Merlion land else you may end up empty handed. One tip is to smile, stay polite, and bargain realistically.

15. Claim a tax refund on your purchases during departure

Another essential Singapore travel information tip is to claim a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund on your purchases from any participating shops like Fossil, Charles & Keith, and more at the airport during your departure. Though, this is only possible if you have spent more than S$100 and have all the bills of the purchased items with you.

Further Read: Shopping In Singapore: 19 Places For Buying The Best Handbags, Electronics & More

Singapore is a gem in Asia and a kick-ass place to visit, be it for any type of holiday. But to ensure that you have a hassle-free and a value for money experience, make sure that you take a note of all these tips and follow them wisely. And now when you’re done doing that, don’t forget to customize your Singapore trip itinerary with TravelTriangle for an absolutely one-of-its-kind holiday!

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

Recent Posts

Lune de miel à Singapour 2024: votre guide des endroits et des lieux les plus romantiques Expériences

Les meilleurs 8 des choses à acheter à Singapour: des souvenirs à offrir et à chérir en 2024

15 Meilleures plages de Singapour qui en font un paradis de plage

16 Meilleures activités aventureuses à Singapour pour vous faire crier de plaisir en 2024

Voyager seul à Singapour en 2024: un guide pour savourer le meilleur de la porte d’entrée de l’Asie

Guide Singapour En Juillet: Pour Visiter Une Destination Impeccable, Propre Et Moderne

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Singapore »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

12 Singapore Travel Tips for first-time visitors

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 4, 2023

Welcome to Singapore!

Famous for its towering skyscrapers, bustling city streets, and delicious food this small island nation located in Southeast Asia is a melting pot of cultures. Its diverse population is made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences.

If you are planning a first-time visit to the beautiful city-state of Singapore you may be excited about what it has to offer and after visiting 5 times in the past 5 years I have learnt a few practical tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Read on and prepare for your visit to Singapore!

An introduction to Singapore

• 1. Be prepared for Singapore's tropical climate

2. Prepare for your phone to overheat

3. wear comfortable clothes and shoes, 4. use public transportation to get around, 5. arrive early for a seat for the garden rhapsody show at supertree grove at gardens by the bay, 6. explore the vibrant nightlife in clarke quay, 7. eat in a hawker centre, 8. enjoy some kaya and kopi, 9. shop till you drop at orchard road – singapore’s must-visit shopping street.

• 10. Don't forget an adaptor (unless you are from the UK) & other Singapore packing essentials
• 11. Don't chew gum – it's illegal
• 12. Don't miss a visit to the new Avatar experience in its temporary home at the Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay

Where to stay in Singapore

Enjoy your visit to singapore.

There are plenty of things to do and see in Singapore, depending on your interests.

If you’re interested in history and culture the Chinatown Heritage Center offers a glimpse into the lives of early Chinese immigrants in Singapore while the National Museum of Singapore traces the country’s history from its earliest beginnings to the present day.

If you prefer outdoor activities take a walk or bike ride through the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to over 10,000 species of plants including the world-famous orchid garden .

You could also visit the Singapore Zoo , which has over 2,800 animals from around the world or take a trip around Singapore’s night zoo which is a particular favourite of mine.

For a taste of local culture try some of Singapore’s famous street food which can be found at hawker centres and food courts all over the city (but more about that later!)

Enjoy shopping? It’s a popular activity in Singapore where you will find a range of options from high-end malls to bustling street markets.

Overall, Singapore is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just want to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your visit.

If you are planning to visit a number of sights in Singapore it may be cost effective to consider purchasing an Explorer Pass . With the pass you can choose 2 to 7 activities from a list of 40+ attractions and tours. You can visit them at your own pace as the pass has up to 60 days of validity. Click here for more information about the Singapore Explorer Pass.

12 Singapore travel tips

1. be prepared for singapore’s tropical climate.

Singapore has a tropical climate which means high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The average temperature is around 31 degrees Celsius (87 degrees Fahrenheit) and there is little variation between the hottest and coolest months.

The wet season is broadly from September to February with the rest of the year (March to August) generally dry.

This means basically if you are walking around expect to get hot and sweaty. I find heading into a shopping centre is the best way to cool down when the heat starts to be too much. The contrast is a bit startling though so expect your glasses and tech to steam up with the change from hot and humid to the often freezing temperatures of an air-conditioned shop or restaurant.

• Suncream is essential. On our first visit to Singapore, my daughter forgot to put suncream on her shoulders and was pretty badly burnt and sore for a few days.
• Wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun
• Carry a water bottle and drink plenty to stay hydrated.

I learnt this the hard way on my last visit when I was wandering around taking photos on a rather hot Sunday morning around 9 am and suddenly my iPhone screen went black with a warning notice that the phone was too hot and needed to cool down.

As I was using my iPhone to navigate around the city I was slightly perturbed!

Apparently, most smartphones have a sensor which alerts you when the internal temperature exceeds 95 degrees. Which in the heat of Singapore is probably pretty common!

On that occasion, I was pretty close to the Marina Bay Sands Hotel so I took the opportunity to enjoy the air-conditioned interior to cool both myself and the phone down.

I also popped into a 7/11 shop and purchased a couple of bottles of cold water which I placed in a compartment in my bag before storing my phone in an alternate compartment (to avoid condensation from the cold bottles wetting the phone)

I found this worked pretty well and I managed to avoid my phone overheating after doing this.

So if you are heading out with your iPhone I would recommend taking a bag in which to store it away from direct sunlight and the heat and putting it away when you aren’t using it. Keep a couple of bottles of cool water with you and if all else falls head to an air-conditioned shopping centre, hotel or restaurant.

As I previously mentioned Singapore has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures that are consistently warm throughout the year so it’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibres such as cotton or linen. Avoid heavy fabrics and dark colours, which can make you feel hotter.

Singapore is a modern city with a mix of cultures, so you’ll see a range of styles and dress codes but overall it’s important to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather and occasion.

When it comes to footwear choose comfortable shoes, trainers or sandals as you will probably be doing a fair amount of walking!

Make use of the fantastic public transport system to get around. The MRT ( Mass Rapid Transit ) train system consists of a network of lines that cover most of the island with stations located at regular intervals.

The MRT is used by millions of people every day to get around the city and is clean, efficient and inexpensive.

The price of your journney on the MRT varies between SGD $1.50 and SGD $2.50 depending on the distance travelled.

There are a number of options to pay for your journey on the MRT including using contactless credit or debit cards. Another option is to purchase an EZ-Link card. This is a stored-value card that can be used to pay for fares on the MRT, buses, and other modes of public transportation in Singapore.

To use the EZ-Link card, you simply tap it on the card reader at the beginning and end of your journey. The fare will be automatically deducted from the card balance. You can top up the balance on your EZ-Link card at MRT stations, bus interchanges, and other locations throughout the city.

The public bus system in Singapore is also easy to use and I find a combination of the MRT, buses and of course walking is the best way to get around.

There are lots of fabulous things to see at Gardens by the Bay (the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest and Floral Fantasy) but one of my favourite free things to do is head to the Garden Rhapsody Show. The show is held twice each evening at 7.45 pm and 8.45 pm at Supertree Grove. An additional show is held at 9.35 pm over the Christmas period.

You can’t miss the supertrees and of the 18 supertrees in the Gardens by the Bay 12 are located in Supertree Grove.

Facts about Singapore’s Supertrees

• The trees are actually vertical gardens full of ferns, orchids, tropical climbers and more.
• The trees are between 25 and 50 metres tall with the tallest tree apparently about the height of a 16 story building!
• There are over 162,900 plants representing 200 species.

The lights and music show takes place in, on and around the trees and is a superb event which really should be in your Singapore itinerary!

I recommend heading to the trees as early as possible (at least 30 minutes prior to the show) as it can be very busy. Take a seat (or lie down) and enjoy the show which lasts for around 15 minutes.

Throughout the year the music and light shows change. Some of the themes covered in 2022 include Garden Waltz, Songs of Singapore, Opera in the Gardens, The Enchanted Woods and of course The Christmas Special over the festive season.

How to get to Supertree Grove by MRT

• The nearest MRT station is Bayfront.
• Bayfront is on two lines – the Circle Line and Downton Line so either of these lines will get you to Bayfront
• Once at Bayfront take exit B for the fastest walking route to Supertree Grove
• Cross the Dragonfly Bridge (enjoy the views!)
• Continue walking and you will see the trees ahead of you. Take the steps or lift down to Supertree Grove
• It takes less than 10 minutes from alighting the MRT to get to the trees

Our favourite neighbourhood when we stay in Singapore is Clarke Quay. The area developed around the historic riverside quay and is full of restaurants, boutiques, shops, bars and nightclubs.

Clarke Quay is also conveniently located for transportation including the MRT, bus and river cruises. It is the perfect area for first-time visitors and one we have returned to again and again.

You really have to eat at a hawker centre while in Singapore. Not least because they are a budget friendly option in an otherwise pretty expensive place to visit but also because the food choices are fantastic with so many dishes to try. Popular local dishes include chicken rice, laksa, and chilli crab but honestly, I have never eaten anything I didn’t thoroughly enjoy.

Half the fun is wandering around and checking out what is on offer before ordering from a variety of vendors (until you are so full you can hardly move!) You will notice that some stalls have pretty long queues which is a good recommendation to try.

If you are travelling solo a hawker centre is a great place to go to eat – on my last trip I was joined at my table by a Mum with her son and we had a lovely chat.

There are numerous hawker centres to choose from including Lau Pa Sat (located near Marina Bay and Chinatown), Satay by the Bay (located in Gardens by the Bay park) and Newton Food Centre (as seen in Crazy Rich Asians )

My next tip is something I learnt very recently from my friend Paula who lives in Singapore (read more about life in Singapore on her website Truly Expat )

When Paula asked me if I had tried kaya toast and kopi my answer was a definite no! So off I went to Toast Box to sample this popular breakfast dish.

So what is kaya toast and kopi you may ask? Kaya toast consists of two slices of toast with butter and kaya (coconut jam) commonly served with soft boiled eggs and a hot cup of kopi (coffee)

The kopi is rather different too – watch how it is poured!

If you are on a budget this is a delicious (and cheap) way to start your day. Search for a Toast Box on google and away you go (there are 79 Toast Box outlets in Singapore so you shouldn’t have any difficulties locating one near you)

If shopping is your thing then there is one place you have to visit in Singapore and that is Orchard Street. Orchard Road is the main shopping district, with a mix of luxury brands and local boutiques and I must admit that during my most recent trip I spend far too long perusing the food department of Marks & Spencers!

Don’t miss Emerald Hill which is located just off Orchard Road. The historic buildings you can see include rows of colourful two-storey terrace shophouses which were built around 1902 in the Straits Chinese style. Quite a contrast to the modern Singapore architecture which surrounds them.

10. Don’t forget an adaptor (unless you are from the UK) & other Singapore packing essentials

When putting together your packing list for Singapore don’t forget some practicalities such as the need for an adaptor for any electricals (unless you are arriving from the UK as you will find that the sockets and plugs are exactly the same as back home!)

Other travel essentials include

• Water bottle
• Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
• Hand-held fan

Check out our packing list for Southeast Asia for more essentials

11. Don’t chew gum – it’s illegal

This law is pretty well known but don’t bring chewing gum into Singapore. It has been banned since 1992.

12. Don’t miss a visit to the new Avatar experience in its temporary home at the Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay

There are many things to enjoy at Gardens in the Bay including Supertree Grove which I have already mentioned. But my favourite is the Cloud Forest.

The Cloud Forest is home to indoor waterfalls and a walkway from which to enjoy the views of the lush greenery around you. (Just be wary if you have a fear of heights)

It is also where you will find the new Avatar Experience which was launched in October 2022. It is an immersive walk-through event with 5 interactive zones. Having recently experienced Avatar: The Experience I can is really fun and definitely worth visiting.

Purchase tickets for the Cloud Forest including Avatar: The Experience

Other must-visit places in Gardens by the Bay include

• Floral Fantasy – Enjoy the beautiful flower displays including suspended bouquets and garden landscapes.
• The Flower Dome – The flower dome houses native plants from a range of habitats around the world.
• Supertree Observatory – Enjoy the fabulous view of Gardens by the Bay from the tallest of the supertrees.
• OCBC Skyway – Stroll between two supertrees on this suspended 128-metre walkway.

Purchase a day ticket which includes entry to a choice of attractions at Gardens in the Bay

There are so many wonderful places to stay in Singapore including many world famous 5* hotels such as the Marina Bay Sands and Raffles .

Much as I would love to stay at both of those (one day) we have stayed at a great hotel on every visit and that is the Paradox Singapore Merchant Court Hotel (formally the Suisse hotel)

⭐️ Click here for prices and availability at the Paradox Singapore Merchant Court Hotel at Clarke Quay

Its location in Clarke Quay is perfect with convenient access to transport including the MRT and buses. It is also the departure point for river cruises which are a great way to enjoy the spectacular mix of heritage and modern architecture as you sail past historic monuments, quays and bridges.

Read more – Where to stay in Singapore – area and accommodation guide

I am sure you will have found our tips helpful and you will have a fantastic visit to wonderful Singapore.

Read more about visiting in our Singapore Travel Guide

Read more about visiting Asia

• Best day trips from Ubud Bali
• Packing list for South East Asia
• Best train trips in India

15 Singapore travel tips & hacks | First-timers in Singapore

Things to do in Singapore Singapore Travel Guide Singapore Travel Tips and Hacks

Singapore has a reputation for being an expensive city for tourists, however, it isn’t impossible to experience it on a modest budget. This quirky island city is known for having an array of exciting activities and unique experiences in store for travelers. While there is a lot to do, there are also several ways to cut down on the ludicrous expenses that you can get caught up in during your stay. From finding the perfect place to stay to finding the top things to do in the city; our Singapore travel tips guide has you covered.

Singapore Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Singapore. Make sure you pack the right travel adapters.

Language English, Malay, Chinese & Tamil

Time zone GMT+8

Country Code +65

Socket Type G

Currency Singapore dollar (SGD)

Best Time To Visit Singapore

Although Singapore hardly undergoes any variation in the temperature, there are a couple of seasons which will treat you to a delightful experience. April is a great time to visit Singapore, as the peak season crowd subsides by the end of February. November onwards the city experiences a surge in tourism and also witnesses crowds that visit Singapore for the festive season. While there is a lot of crowd during the seasons of June and July, the Great Singapore Sale which begins in June and lasts till the end of July is a must-visit if you’re someone who prefers to shop till they drop!

Read our complete guide on the best time to visit Singapore .

Singapore Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank us later!

#1 It's Safe to Consume Tap Water

While this may sound strange for an Asian country, Singapore has clean tap water which is safe to consume at any given point. This is not only accessible but is also helpful when it comes to saving money during your stay. A bottle of water in Singapore can cost you S$2 at minimarts. It is wise to carry a water-bottle around which can be refilled at any given point.

#2 Smoking and Partying is an Expensive Affair

If you're planning to keep a tap on your budget, steer clear of smoking and drinking in Singapore. Due to excess taxation, a pack of Marlboro cigarettes costs over S$13, and a cocktail can burn a real large hole in your pocket. While there are no cheaper alternative for cigarettes, alcohol can be purchased for a modest amount at 7-Eleven stores across the city. If you plan on partying, stick to the happy hours where you can find buy one, get one free deals.

#3 Make the Most of The City's Parks

While the marvelous architecture of Singapore is something that catches the eye and touches the soul, the city is also known for its expansive and verdant parks. What makes it even better is that they’re free of cost! Even the 160-year-old tropical Singapore Botanical Gardens is free and is an absolute delight to picnic and prance about. Take a stroll down some of its elevated walkways or ride a bicycle through the matrix of greenery that the city boasts of - there’s plenty to explore if you’re someone who enjoys this serenity.

#4 Tiong Bahru is a Neighbourhood Worth Visiting

Spend an afternoon ambling about the art-deco filled neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru for an sumptuous taste of life as a local in Singapore. Pop into one of the many independent shops and cafes - BooksActually for a fantastic selection of literature ,Plain Vanilla for freshly baked cupcakes, 40 Hands for a fine cup of coffee and Tiong Bahru Bakery for Singapore’s finest artisan croissants. An afternoon here is one to remember.

#5 Research Before you Shop!

Singapore has some of the most vibrant shopping hubs in Asia - with enough to satisfy label lovers and more than enough for price-sensitive shoppers to haggle! It could take you forever to saunter the endless oasis of shopping malls in the city, so make sure you research before investing time and money into one of them. If you prefer flea markets and pop-up shops, you're likely to find plenty of them in Chinatown or Little India.

#6 Know the Law to Avoid Fines

Locals in Singapore are often caught joking about how the city is notoriously known as the ‘fine’ city. You could be slammed with a fine for the most innocuous activity which is probably not even a law in your country! Actions like spitting on the streets, tossing your cigarette butt anywhere but the trash can, or selling/importing chewing gum may result in a fine if you get caught. You could be incarcerated for vandalism and can even face a death penalty for drug-related offences in this country. Make sure to brush up on some basic rules and regulations to avoid being penalised. Here's a list of important laws to get you started.

#7 Get Yourself a CEPAS/ EZ-LINK Card

If you're planning to use the public transport in Singapore, grab a CEPAS/ EZ-LINK card as soon as you arrive. An EZ-Link card costs S$12 with a S$7 worth of credit included. This card can be used across the LRT and MRT trains as well as the public bus network in the city and you can top it up at any minimarts for a nominal cost. Moreover, the EZ-LINK card can be used for all kinds of lifestyle payment needs such as shopping at retail outlets, dining and so much more.

#8 Eat Your Meals From Local Hawkers

Save yourself from blowing up a fortune in Singapore by choosing to eat from local hawker centres. Pro Tip: If you're doubtful about the taste, join the one with the longest queue! Hawker food is generally cheaper than the air-conditioned food halls and restaurants- definitely worth the sweat. Those concerned about hygiene standards should look out for the colored placards, from A (the best) to D (a risk), displayed at each stall by the government hygiene department. Head to the hawkers on Smith Street to sample some scrumptious local snacks for less than $6 SGD.

#9 Capsule Hotels Are A Great Culture-Taste

Affordable accommodation is quite the task when it comes to a city like Singapore. While staying near the Marina Bay Sands is extremely accessible, it also comes with a hefty price tag. Capsule hotels have gained momentum in the past couple of years, and have quickly become a favorite among budget travelers who don't want to spend a pretty penny on expensive hotels. Check out the top capsule hotels in Singapore .

#10 Bundled Deals In Singapore Are A Great Buy

Surfing the internet in advance for an ideal combo is perhaps the best way to go about your Singaporean holiday. Having a handy combo pass during your excursion will not only help you save money but will also make sure you avoid the rush hour crowd with the help of a skip the line feature. Here are some of our favourite combo deals that will help you save big bucks

#11 Claim a Tax Refund on Your Purchases

As a tourist in Singapore, if you've spent over S$100 and have all the bills of the purchased items with you; you can claim a refund on the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on your purchases. To know whether a shop is participating in the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), look for a “Tax Free” shopping logo or sign displayed at the shop. To know more about the GST refund head here .

#12 Spend Some Quality Time at the Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport was voted the World's Best Airport 2019 by international air travellers for the seventh consecutive year, so try and squeeze a long layover/stopover. There's so much to do in here that locals are often seen spending their weekends in the airport! With perfectly manicured gardens, a swimming pool, free movie screening and what not; there's no scope for boredom in here. Also, there are 2 free city tours for visitors transiting through Singapore. Arrive a little early before your departure or spend a while after you land in Singapore - it's the perfect spot to start/end your vacation!

#13 Tipping is not Mandatory

A majority of the restaurants and cafes in Singapore charge a 10% service fee, due to which tipping is generally considered unnecessary. Conversely, hawker centers and food courts do not charge service or consumption tax, neverthless, most locals do not tip here as well. In other words, you wouldn’t be frowned upon if you skip the tip.

#14 Keep a Whole Day Aside for Sentosa

A whole day or two whole days. There's so much to do in Sentosa, you'll probably need a whole week. However, as a tourist you must keep aside atleast a day or two to make the most of this man-made island. While the Universal Studios , Adventure Cove Waterpark and the Wings of Time top our list of things to do in Sentosa Island; there are atleast 20 things to do in Sentosa that deserve your time and money. Pick and choose the ones you'd like to do and don't forget to squeeze in a few hours at the Sentosa beach!

Read all about making the best of Sentosa island with the Sentosa FUN Pass .

#15 The City Lights-Up Every Now & Then

No matter which month you go, there's an event or festival in Singapore through the year. Barring the ethnic/religious celebrations like the Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas, there are also artistic illuminations such as the Singapore Night Festival, the i-Light Marina Bay Sustainable Light Art Festival that see the city decked in elaborate street decorations. Festive areas are known to have street bazaars and free performances and visiting these could easily be the highlight of your vacation. The real icing on the cake could be the visiting one of the umpteen events that run through the year - The Singapore International Festival of Arts, The Singapore Jazz Festival, Dragon Boating Regattas and the Great Singapore Sale to name a few.

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In Singapore

Singapore has an elaborate transport network that can help you get around the city with ease. Whether you plan on taking the bus or traveling by the subway, here are a few tips for affordable transportation:

• Using your credit card at a petrol pump can help you save money. You can avail 20.88% savings at Esso and 20.8% savings at Shell petrol stations, and up to 8% cash-back at various other petrol pumps across the city.
• Singapore is a cycle-friendly city with dedicated cycle lanes and top-notch safety measures for riders. Barring the healthy quotient, it's economical and allows you to cover grounds inside parks as well!
• Checking into the MRT before 7.45 AM will earn you $0.50 off your fares. Also, if your ride costs under $0.50, it’s free!
• Singapore has a myriad of bus-pooling applications including Beeline or GrabShuttle that will allow you to book a seat for your commute with passengers going the same way.
• Using credit cards for public transport can score you exciting cashbacks if you hit a minimum spend.
• Hop On Hop Off buses are a great way for tourists to get around the city. You can use them an unlimited number of times and hit up most of Singapore’s top attractions with great ease.

Tips For Saving Money On Eating In Singapore

Best known for being an expensive city, scouting for cheap food in Singapore can be a task in itself. However, there are ways you can relish your bucket-list favorites without having to compromise on anything. Here are a couple of tips that you can keep in mind during your stay in Singapore:

• Food hawkers across the city promise a good meal for under $5. You have an array of cuisines to choose from - the harder it is to pronouce, the tastier it is likely to be.
• One of the easiest ways to save in Singapore is by drinking wisely. Restaurants charge a premium when it comes to in-house drinks, so watch out for happy hours. There’s also a good chance that their in-house drinks are of superior quality, so it is wise to purchase your own alcohol from 7-Eleven stores.
• If your hotel provides a complimentary breakfast, make sure you stock up on heavy breakfast before heading out for the day.
• Use reservation applications that can acquaint you with new offers every now and then. Keeping these apps handy can help you with reviews and other tips by travelers who have visited the restaurant before.
• Choose to eat at Food Halls that are available in plenty in Singapore. With an array of affordable and delicious food available, Food Halls have become an essential part of the Singaporean culture.
• Using a credit card can be handy if you’re someone who likes to fine dine once in a while. Not only does it avail special deals, but also it is a great way to get cash back after you spend a fortune on your meals. If you have dining credit cards, including Citi Cashback Card, POSB Everyday Card, and UOB YOLO Card, make sure you put them to good use.

More Tips To Save Money In Singapore

• Accommodation tips
• Choose a youth hostel or a dormitory to save up on accommodation.
• You are likely to find cheaper alternatives on couch-surfing, Airbnb and capsule hotels.
• Search for accommodation around Little India, where the prices are relatively cheaper.
• Save up Hotel reward points to make the most of expensive destinations.
• Choose a hotel that’s far from the city, but is close to transit system.
• Keep an eye out for new hotels opening up, as they tend to start off with lower rates.
• Free Attraction Tips
• Take a stroll down the iconic Merlion Park, where the huge national icon stands on the banks of the Singapore River.
• Visit The Cenotaph, a 60-foot war memorial that pays tribute to soldiers who sacrificed their lives for World War I and II.
• Gardens by the Bay invites visitors for free to explore its multi-themed gardens and greenhouses.
• The UNESCO world heritage Botanical Gardens not only have free entry but also have free guided tours for visitors.
• Catch a free performance at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre between 7:30 pm to 11 pm.
• Free Museum Days
• The National Museum of Singapore , which is one of the oldest museums in the city has free entry for tourists every day.
• The Singapore Art Museum offers free entry for Singaporeans, PRs and children under six years of age.
• Red Dot Design Museum Singapore allows visitors to pay as they like and have free admission for children under the age of six years.
• The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum has free entry for everyone on all days.
• The Singapore City Gallery, which carries a 3D architectural model of the city, also has free admission for everyone, on all days.
• Tips For Tours In The City
• Opting for a guided tour is helpful, as it takes you through the important attractions on a budget.
• A self-guided tour is also a great idea if you’re looking out for a good, economical way of touring the city. It also allows you to explore the city at your own pace.
• It is a good idea to invest in an audio guide if you’re touring by yourself, as it can help in acquainting you to the local history of the area.
• If you're visiting neighbourhoods like Kampong Glam, Little India, Chinatown etc, it's best to walkabout with a local guide to understand the history and acquaint yourself to lesser known facts about these diverse neighbourhoods. Here are the best guided walking tours in Singapore
• The Singapore City Gallery , which carries a 3D architectural model of the city, also has free admission for everyone, on all days.
• Food tours in Singapore are a much sought after affair, so sign up for one in advance to grab a spot.
• Tips For Purchasing Online Tickets
• Choosing to book tickets online can not only help you to avoid last-minute price rise but can also help you avoid the crowd.
• Online tickets may also come with perks such as skip the line, VIP access as well as several other combo offers.
• Booking tickets online can also provide you with an option of flexible dates and various cancellation offers.

Top Experiences In Singapore

I'm sure you have your itinerary all sorted, but here are the top 10 things you must do in Singapore. If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in! There are a few recommended tours for each attraction, so if you haven't grabbed tickets as yet, now would be a great time.

1 Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo is one of the world's most popular zoos. Situated on 28 hectares (69 acres) of land in the Mandai rainforest, it houses over 2,400 animals from 300 species of mammals, birds and reptiles. The zoo adopts an "open concept" in which many of its animals are kept in spacious, naturalistic enclosures.

2 Universal Studios Singapore

The Universal Studios Singapore theme park is located on Sentosa Island, Singapore and comprises of 24 fantastic rides, shows, and experiences in seven distinct zones. The park has a total land area of 20 hectares (49 acres), with the seven themed regions surrounding a lagoon.

3 Singapore Marina Bay

Marina Bay Sands is one of the most renowned structures in Singapore. The hotel and casino resort, which opened in 2010, is located on Marina Bay's waterfront and was dubbed the world's most expensive standalone casino property by its developers. Three tapering towers (55 stories high) topped with a giant 1-hectare skypark crown the building, which also houses a museum, theatres and a shopping mall.

4 Gardens By The Bay

Gardens By The Bay is a stunning place that must not be missed when in Singapore! The Cloud Forest displays plant life from the tropical highlands. A 35-meter tall mountain enveloped with greenery, which conceals the world's tallest indoor waterfall!

5 Adventure Cove Waterpark

Located in Sentosa, Adventure Cove Waterpark is an aquatic playground with something for everyone. With a variety of rides and attractions, the waterpark is perfect for a day of fun with family and friends.

6 S.E.A Aquarium Singapore

The S.E.A. Aquarium on Sentosa Island is a marine world beyond imagination. It is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia, and contains more than 100,000 aquatic creatures from all across the world and from over 800 species of animals.

What are the best times to visit Singapore?

The best time to visit Singapore is between February and April, when the weather is cool and dry. The city experiences its heaviest rainfall from November to January, so these months are best avoided if possible. June to September are also relatively wet months.

Do I need a visa to enter Singapore?

Nationals of most countries can enter Singapore without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. However, there are a few exceptions, so it's always best to check with your nearest Singaporean embassy or consulate before you travel.

What is the currency of Singapore?

The currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar (SGD). ATM machines are widely available across the city, and credit cards are accepted at most businesses.

What is the best way to get around Singapore?

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is the most efficient way to get around Singapore. The trains are clean, safe, and air-conditioned, and they cover a vast majority of the city. Buses are also widely available, and taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced.

What are some of the best things to see and do in Singapore?

Some of the top sights in Singapore include the Marina Bay Sands Resort, the Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island. For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit Chinatown and Little India. And don't forget to try some of the city's amazing food!

What are some helpful tips for visiting Singapore?

Some helpful tips for visiting Singapore include dressing conservatively, being aware of the city's strict laws, and carrying plenty of cash. Singapore is a safe city, but it's always best to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

What are some things to avoid doing in Singapore?

Some things to avoid doing in Singapore include littering, smoking in public places, and spitting. These are all heavily fined offenses, so it's best to avoid them if possible. Additionally, it's important to be respectful of the city's many religions and cultural customs.

What is the food like in Singapore?

The food in Singapore is incredibly diverse, thanks to the city's multicultural population. You'll find everything from Chinese to Indian to Malay cuisine, and it's all delicious. Be sure to try some of the city's famous street food, like satay and bak kut teh.

What is the shopping like in Singapore?

Singapore is a shopper's paradise, with countless malls and markets to explore. Orchard Road is the city's main shopping district, and it's home to high-end brands as well as more affordable stores. For a truly unique shopping experience, head to Chinatown or Little India.

What are some other helpful tips for traveling to Singapore?

Some other helpful tips for traveling to Singapore include carrying your passport at all times, being aware of the city's strict laws, and dress conservatively. Singapore is an incredibly safe and clean city, but it's always best to be prepared and aware of your surroundings.

Ready to explore Singapore?

Here are a few more guides that should help you plan your visit.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

• Travel Tips Singapore for planning and on the go

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• travel-advice
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

More travel information for Singapore

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Singapore

• Eating and drinking in Singapore
• How to get to Singapore
• Travelling with children in Singapore
• Shopping tips for Singapore
• Getting around Singapore: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore is one of the more expensive Asian cities, especially for accommodation, and many items are priced at Western levels. On the other hand, with budget dormitory accommodation in plentiful supply, and both food and internal travel cheap, it’s possible to survive on £20/US$32 a day, though that would leave little for sightseeing. If you want to share a double room in a lower-mid-range hotel and enjoy one restaurant meal a day in addition to hawker-cooked food, your budget is likely to soar to £60/US$95 at least.

Crime and personal safety

Culture and etiquette, electricity, entry requirements, internet access, opening hours and public holidays, tourist information, singapore tourist offices abroad, travellers with disabilities, singapore apps, travel ideas for singapore, created by local experts.

Indulgent Singapore

From the infamous Singapore Sling to fabulous shopping and nightlife, colourful neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine, the small city-island of Singapore packs a punch. Come here for a relaxing break or a luxury respite before heading on to one of its more frantic neighbours.

Uniquely Singapore

There’s plenty to enjoy in Singapore, from visiting ethnic neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown, to night safaris, authentic street food and sampling the eponymous cocktail, or two. Singapore is, in short, the ideal introduction to Asia in one fell swoop.

Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

Combine Southeast Asia's smallest country Singapore with its largest country: Indonesia. Spend a few days exploring the metropolis before flying to the magical island of Bali. Temples, volcanoes and ceremonies are part of your itinerary, as are the gorgeous beaches of Nusa Lembongan.

Singapore Family Fun

From lush rainforests to cool night safaris, a glittering skyline and gorgeous Sentosa beaches, Singapore has plenty to offer. Easy to navigate and pristine clean with warm and welcoming locals, its characterful districts and numerous green spaces will ensure everyone is entertained.

Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore adventure

A diverse and unforgettable exploration awaits! From the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur to the cool retreat of Cameron Highlands. Immerse yourself in lush tea plantations before heading to Borneo for thrilling orangutan encounters and unforgettable river safaris. Brunei and Singapore conclude the trip

Malaysia Express from Singapore

A captivating 7-day tour that unveils the beauty of Malaysia, commencing from Singapore. Traverse the border into Malacca to uncover its rich heritage gems. Progress to Kuala Lumpur, where iconic landmarks await your exploration. Culminate your journey in George Town, Penang.

Note that Singapore has a 7 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) , which is levied by all companies except small businesses. Prices in shops include GST, but it’s not uncommon for hotels and restaurants to leave it out, quoting prices with “++” at the end. In this case, the first plus indicates that they levy a ten percent service charge (as all mid-range and upmarket hotels and restaurants do) and the second plus indicates GST on the combined cost of the room or food and the service charge, that is, a 17.7 percent surcharge in total. Where two prices are given for a museum or other attraction in this book, the second price is for a child ticket unless otherwise stated.

If you lose something in Singapore, you’re more likely to have someone running after you with it than running away. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t be complacent – muggings have been known to occur and theft from dormitories by other tourists is not unknown. Singapore’s police, recognizable by their dark blue uniforms, keep a fairly low profile but are polite and helpful when approached.

Singapore is notorious for the fines that people found guilty of various misdemeanours are liable to pay. Though these fines aren’t often enforced – their severity has the intended deterrent effect on an already compliant public – it reveals something of the micro-managed state the island has become that, in principle, someone can be fined hundreds of dollars for smoking in certain public places and shopping malls, “jaywalking” (crossing a main road within 50m of a designated pedestrian crossing or overhead bridge) and littering. Even chewing gum has been banned (for the mess it creates when not disposed of properly), except when the gum contains prescribed medication.

While the above might seem amusing, the penalties for possession or trafficking illegal drugs are no laughing matter (foreigners have been executed in the past), and if you are arrested for drugs offences you can expect no mercy and little help from your consular representatives.

The rules of thumb often trotted out concerning behaviour in Asia apply much less to Singapore, given how Westernized the island can be. Nonetheless, appearances are deceptive, and it pays to bear a few points in mind to avoid causing offence.

Although Singaporeans are not especially prudish when it comes to dress , they may well frown upon public displays of affection, which aren’t really the done thing. It’s also not appropriate to pat children (or even friends, for that matter) on the head – the head being considered sacred in Buddhist culture. Conversely, the soles of the feet and, by extension, the soles of your shoes, are regarded as unclean, hence the need to remove footwear before stepping over the threshold when visiting people at home, at just about every guesthouse and before entering a temple or mosque.

One cliché about Asia that does still hold in Singapore concerns the importance of not losing face. A mistake or problem that might be regarded as trifling elsewhere might, here, be rather humiliating for the person responsible. The most likely situation in which visitors might need to bear this particular sensitivity in mind is when making a complaint . Rather than raising your voice and making a scene, it’s best to state your case politely but firmly; this will help preserve the dignity of whomever you are complaining to, and improve the chances of a speedy resolution of the issue.

To avoid losing face yourself, note that when it comes to meetings, the old Singaporean habit of nonchalantly showing up half an hour late for social and other engagements has been replaced by pretty stringent timekeeping , so be sure to set off early.

Finally, while there are generally few restrictions about what you can and can’t photograph , staff at some temples and other places of worship take a dim view of snapping pictures on their premises; when in doubt, always ask.

Singapore’s power supply is at 230 V/50 Hz, and British-style sockets – taking plugs with three square pins – are the standard.

British citizens, and those of the Republic of Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, don’t need a visa to enter Singapore. Regulations change from time to time, though, so check with the embassy before departure. You’ll normally be stamped in for at least thirty days.

It is possible to extend your stay by up to three months. This being Singapore, you can apply online: check the section on extending short-term visit passes at w ica.gov.sg , or call the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority on t 6391 6100 for more details. Otherwise, there’s always the option of taking a bus up to Johor Bahru, across the border in Malaysia, and then coming back in again with a new visit pass.

For a list of embassies in Singapore, as well as a list of Singapore embassies abroad, see the Missions section of w mfa.gov.sg .

Customs Upon entry from anywhere other than Malaysia you can bring into Singapore up to three litres in total of spirits, wine and beer duty-free ; duty is payable on all tobacco. For up-to-the-minute customs information, including how the alcohol allowance works in practice, go to w www.customs.gov.sg . Under certain conditions, tourists can reclaim the Goods and Services Tax (GST) of seven percent on the cost of items they have bought in Singapore; for more on the red tape this involves.

The levels of hygiene and medical care in Singapore are higher than in much of the rest of Southeast Asia. Tap water is drinkable throughout the island and all food for public consumption is prepared to exacting standards. No inoculations are required for visiting Singapore. However, it’s a wise precaution to visit your doctor no later than four weeks before you leave to check that you are up to date with your polio, typhoid, tetanus and hepatitis A inoculations. It pays to use mosquito repellent in Singapore, particularly if you’re in a nature reserve or beach area. This isn’t because Singapore is malarial – it isn’t – but because mosquitoes may carry dengue fever , an illness which is seldom fatal but can be debilitating while it lasts. Note that DEET-based repellents are not available in Singapore, so if you prefer these you will have to buy them abroad.

Travellers unused to tropical climates periodically suffer from sunburn and dehydration . The easiest way to avoid this is to restrict your exposure to the sun, use high-factor sunscreens, drink plenty of water, and wear sunglasses and a hat. Heat stroke is more serious: it is indicated by a high temperature, dry red skin and a fast pulse and can require hospitalization.

Medical services in Singapore are excellent, with staff almost everywhere speaking good English. Pharmacies are well stocked with familiar brand-name drugs, though only the largest outlets have pharmacists dispensing prescription medication; the two main chains are Guardian and Watsons, both ubiquitous. Private clinics are found throughout the city, even inside shopping malls such as the Tanglin Shopping Centre (19 Tanglin Rd) and Paragon (290 Orchard Rd). A consultation costs from $50. You can find a list of dentists at w www.yp.sg .

Before you set off, it’s a good idea to arrange travel insurance to cover medical expenses as well as loss of luggage, cancellation of flights and so on. A typical policy usually provides cover for the loss of baggage , tickets and – up to a certain limit – cash or cheques, as well as cancellation or curtailment of your journey. Most of them exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid. When securing baggage cover, make sure that the per-article limit will cover your most valuable possession. If you need to make a claim, you should keep receipts for medicines and medical treatment, and in the event that you have anything stolen, you must obtain an official statement from the police.

The best place to look for internet cafés is Little India, where they are ubiquitous and charge as little as $2 per hour. Chinatown and Orchard Road have a sprinkling of internet cafés too, though they may charge quite a bit more. Several café chains offer free wi-fi, too. It’s also possible to sign up for the free Wireless@SG wi-fi service available in the lobbies of many shopping malls; though not always reliable, it’s mighty convenient when it works. One site where you can sign up is at bit.ly/dw6fFX. The snag is that you will need a friend with a Singapore mobile phone, as the system can only send your password by SMS to a local number.

For unlimited Wi-Fi on the go whilst travelling Singapore, buy a Skyroam Solis , which works in 130+ countries at one flat daily rate, paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. You can connect up to five devices at once. Prices start from as little as €5 a day.

Singapore’s postal system is predictably efficient. The island has dozens of post offices (typically Mon–Fri 9.30am–6pm & Sat 9.30am–2pm), including one conveniently off Orchard Road at 1 Killiney Rd (near Somerset MRT) that keeps extended hours (Mon–Fri 9.30am–9pm, Sat 9.30am–4pm, Sun 10.30am–4pm). Poste restante/general delivery (bring proof of ID) is at the Singapore Post Centre, 10 Eunos Rd (near Paya Lebar MRT; Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, Sat 8am–2pm). For more on the mail system, contact SingPost ( t 1605, w www.singpost.com ).

The best maps of Singapore are those at w streetdirectory.com , also accessible via the Singapore Maps app. Besides being totally up to speed with the constant rebuilding and reshaping of Singapore, these maps include handy features such as the ability to view shops inside buildings by clicking, and clicking on bus stops to reveal which buses serve them and when the next services will arrive. Bookshops sell printed versions of these maps as street atlases, with new editions regularly published. Otherwise, the maps in this book should be sufficient for most of your exploration, and you can back them up with free foldout maps available from the Singapore Tourism Board.

Singapore’s currency is the Singapore dollar, divided into 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $500, $1000 and $10,000; coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and $1. At the time of writing, the exchange rate was around $2 to £1 and $1.25 to US$1. All dollar prices in this book are in local currency unless otherwise stated.

Singapore banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3pm (although some open until 6pm), Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm. Major branches on Orchard Road are open Sunday 9.30am to 3pm as well. Outside of these hours, currency exchange is available at moneychangers, whose rates are comparable to those at banks. Major hotels also offer currency exchange, though don’t expect their rates to be competitive.

ATMs are plentiful around Singapore and take most types of debit and credit card, usually charging a fee for each withdrawal. Larger retailers and companies accept all major cards, and there are often adverts in the press offering discounts on shopping and meals if you pay with your card.

Shopping centres are open daily 10am to 9.30pm, while offices generally work Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm and sometimes on Saturday mornings. In general, Chinese temples open daily from 7am to around 6pm, Hindu temples 6am to noon and 5 to 9pm, and mosques 8.30am to noon and 2.30 to 4pm.

Singapore has numerous public holidays , reflecting its mix of cultures. Dates for some of these vary; with Muslim festivals, we’ve given the months in which they fall during 2013–15.

It’s worth noting the dates of local school holidays , at which time Sentosa and other places of interest to kids can be inordinately crowded: schools take a break for one week in March and September, throughout June and from mid-November until the end of December.

Local calls from private phones in Singapore cost next to nothing; calls from public phones cost 10c for three minutes. Nearly all phone numbers have eight digits (except for a few free or premium-rate numbers, which start with 1800 or 1900 respectively). Land-line numbers always begin with 6 and mobile numbers with 8 or 9; there are no area codes.

Local SIM cards are available from any 7-11 store or Singtel/Starhub shop. Prices vary depending on what packages are being promoted, though expect to pay at least $10, and bring your passport to complete the registration process. Note that on Singapore networks, receiving calls and texts on your phone incurs a charge.

Singapore has a good range of sports facilities, including one of the best networks of swimming pools anywhere – almost every new town has its own open-air 50m pool. A full list of state-run sports centres appears at w ssc.gov.sg; some venues, including privately run facilities, are listed below.

Golf The Marina Bay Golf Course at 80 Rhu Cross ( t 6345 7788, w mbgc.com.sg ), next to the Bay East garden, is one of the most central and reasonably priced golf facilities, and as such it tends to get booked up quickly – best to reserve a slot at least a couple of weeks in advance (mornings are less busy). Nine holes costs $83 on weekdays, including use of a golf buggy. Bus #158 from Aljunied MRT.

Gyms The main operators are California Fitness ( w californiafitness.com), True Fitness ( w truefitness.com.sg ) and Fitness First ( w www.fitnessfirst.com.sg ). All have gyms downtown, though you will need to take out membership to use them.

Swimming The most conveniently located of the island’s Olympic-sized pools is at the Jalan Besar Swimming Complex on Tyrwhitt Rd ( t 6293 9058). Farrer Park or Lavender MRT. Daily 8am–9.30pm (Wed from 2.30pm). Other pools are listed at w singaporeswimming.com.sg .

Tennis Farrer Park Tennis Centre, 1 Rutland Rd t 6299 4166 (daily 7am–10pm; Farrer Park or Little India MRT); Kallang Tennis Centre, 52 Stadium Rd t 6348 1291 (daily 7am–10pm; Mountbatten MRT).

Singapore is eight hours ahead of Universal Time (GMT) year-round, and therefore two hours behind Sydney (when daylight saving time is not in effect there) and thirteen hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

There are a few cases where you might want to tip someone offering you a personal service, for example a hairdresser or barber, but these are the exception rather than the rule – tipping is seldom the custom in Singapore. The better restaurants add a ten percent service charge to the bill anyway, and the inexpensive kopitiam -type diners don’t expect tips, nor do taxi drivers.

In a place as organized and wired-up as Singapore, it’s usually straightforward to get hold of accurate and comprehensive information of use to travellers: everything from public transport to sales taxes is extensively documented online, some companies provide toll-free t 1800 helplines, and many restaurants and shops have websites that are kept up to date.

The Singapore Tourism Board ( STB ; information line Mon–Fri 9am–6pm t 1800 736 2000, w yoursingapore.com ) and operates Visitors’ Centres at Changi Airport and downtown on Orchard Road, diagonally across from the 313@Somerset mall (daily 9.30am–10.30pm). Two smaller Visitors’ Centres exist on the ground floor of the ION Orchard mall (above Orchard MRT; daily 10am–10pm), and behind the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown (Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat & Sun 9am–10pm).

If you have a particular interest In Singapore’s past and architectural heritage, you can get booklets providing background on downtown districts from the Singapore City Gallery, or download them from w ura.gov.sg/rediscover .

A number of publications offer entertainment listings plus reviews of restaurants and nightlife. The best of these are the weeklies I-S ( w is-magazine.com; free) and the monthly Time Out ( w timeoutsingapore.com ; $4). Other freebie publications available from Visitors’ Centres and hotels contain similar information, and the “Life!” section of the Straits Times also has a decent listings section. Geared towards the large expat community (though with some information of interest to tourists) are The Finder , a free monthly magazine available at some downtown bars and restaurants, and the website w expatsingapore.com .

Australia Level 11, AWA Building, 47 York St, Sydney t 02 9290 2888.

UK Grand Buildlings, 1–3 Strand, London t 020 7484 2710, e [email protected].

US 1156 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 702, New York t 212 302 4861, e [email protected]; 5670 Wiltshire Blvd Suite 1550, Los Angeles t 323 677 0808, e [email protected].

Singapore is a moderately accessible city for travellers with disabilities . Many hotels and even a handful of guesthouses make provision for disabled guests, though often there will be only one accessible room in the smaller establishments – always call ahead and book in plenty of time.

Getting around Singapore is relatively straightforward. MRT stations and trains are built to assist passengers using wheelchairs or with impaired sight or hearing, while around 100 bus routes are now fully served by accessible buses, though some stops may not be suitable for wheelchair users. For more details, check the “Accessibility” section of w smrt.com.sg , and the “WAB services” section of w sbstransit.com.sg . If you can afford to use taxis all the time, so much the better; SMRT taxis ( t 6555 8888) are wheelchair-accessible, and Comfort Taxis and CityCab (both on t 6552 1111) have drivers trained to assist wheelchair-bound passengers.

The best people to talk to for pre-trip advice are the Disabled People’s Association of Singapore ( t 6899 1220, w dpa.org.sg ) or the Singapore Tourism Board. You may also want to consult one local tour operator, the Asia Travel Group ( t 6438 0038, w asiatravelgroup.com.sg), which can arrange customized tours of the island in suitably equipped minibuses.

A variety of mobile apps can help you get the most out of your visit to Singapore. At the time of writing, all of the following were free and available for both iOS and Android devices.

Official weather forecasts, flood and dengue alerts, plus – so Singaporean – a hawker-centre locator.

SBS Transit Iris

Service information and journey planner for the North East and Circle MRT lines, and all of SBS’s buses.

Singapore Maps

Don’t bother with Google Maps while in Singapore – this app features super-accurate home-grown maps, based on state cartography, and includes real-time bus information and detailed business listings for each address.

SMRT Connect

Does the same for the rest of the MRT network, plus SMRT’s buses.

YourSingapore

The official app of the Singapore Tourism Board repackages content from their website and lets you locate nearby points of interest.

The Rough Guides to Singapore and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Singapore

Find even more inspiration here.

Ready to travel and discover Singapore?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

What can I do during a 24-hour layover in Singapore?

Jun 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Here's how to explore the best of Singapore when you've got limited time © John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images

Tiny Singapore has a lot to offer, but you can still enjoy a snapshot of the island-state if you're only there for a short time.

In the 12 years that I've been living in Singapore, I have steered many visiting friends on what to do on a 24-hour stopover. Here's how to spend your time before your onward flight.  

How do you get from the airport to the city?

Singapore is a masterclass in public transport . You can catch the MRT, bus, taxi or Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) from the airport right into the center of the action. It only takes 40 minutes to cross the entire island, so it won't take long to reach your hotel, wherever you decide to stay. For those on a really quick visit, make use of the luggage storage facilities at the airport terminals so you can explore hands-free. 

A Singapore Tourist Pass costs from SGD$22 a day, which gives you unlimited access during that time to buses and the MRT. Taxis are extra but still kind on the wallet. Popular locations are fairly close together, for example, a five-minute taxi ride whisks you from the Marina Bay area to Chinatown , or a 10-minute taxi ride could take you from Little India to the upscale shopping trawl of Orchard Road. It’s also an easy city to walk around, although maybe you will want to seek some shade around midday.

Don't want to miss anything in Singapore? Here are the best places to visit

What should I do with 24 hours in Singapore?

The fastest way to understand Singapore is through its food . The hawker centers (street food stalls) are where Singaporeans gather and bond over their favorite dishes. Singapore’s hawkers are such an important part of the culture, they were recognised by UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage list. Everyone has their favorite hawker, but a good place to start is Lau Pa Sat near Singapore’s financial district, as it serves every dish you can think of. Found in what looks like an oversized band stand, this popular food court is open 24 hours. Satay St, next to the food court, is lined with hawkers from 6pm each day who serve skewers of meat cooked over hot coals. 

Still hungry? Here are Singapore's best flavors

You can walk from here around the bay or take a six-minute taxi ride to Gardens by the Bay where you can take the perfect Instagram shot by the famed Supertrees. While you’re there, ride an elevator to the top of the tallest Supertree to get a 360-degree view of the city that includes the sea, Marina Bay Sands  and the Singapore Flyer . If you have more time, spend a couple of hours in the aircon-filled glasshouses that are the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, open from 9am to 9pm.

For your next stop, take a taxi to the heritage area of Kampong Glam. Among the pastel-colored shophouses and street art, you’ll find cute cafes and independent stores, such as Sifr Aromatics , a perfumery that can make you a bespoke scent. On the second floor of a shophouse in Haji Lane you will also find Type8ar , filled with 50 vintage typewriters.

Kampong Glam gives you the chance to enjoy some of the city’s best treats. Indulge in a sweet potato donut coated in palm sugar called gulu melaka at KS Keria , sample a gateaux with Singaporean flavours at Julie Bakes or cool down with a bowl of chendol (shaved ice, jelly noodles and pandan) at Makan Melaka. Look out for Tarik , a former hole-in-the-wall that serves pulled tea, where the eat is poured from a height, which now takes center stage as part of Kampong Glam’s biggest mural.  

Next, visit Sentosa Island , home to beach clubs, theme parks and a former 19th-century fort, and where a tall ship sets sail. Sip cocktails on board the ship and take in the famed Singapore skyline as the it glides along the coast. 

Where can I stay in Singapore?

If you land at night and need to rest your head, there are two new Singaporean hotels to check into. The design-led 21 Carpenter is found in a heritage building near Clarke Quay. During the day, its stainless-steel rooftop pool with views of Marina Bay provides the perfect place to cool off after a spot of sightseeing. Alternatively, Artyzen near the upscale shopping district of Orchard Rd gives a nod to Singapore’s Peranakan culture, serving up tropical colors in the bedrooms and traditional kopi (coffee) or teh (tea) among the treats at breakfast.

How much will a layover in Singapore cost?

You don’t need to have a bulging wallet to have a fun time in Singapore. A budget stay at the YMCA One Orchard hotel , which also has a rooftop pool, will set you back around S$128 per night.

There are many free and cheap activities too , such as hiring a bike for a small fee and cycling along Sinapore's parkway connectors, or lingering in one of the city parks. Throw down a picnic rug in the UNESCO site the Botanic Garden  (free entry) or the beach at East Coast Park . It's also free to visit Singapore’s first theme park,  Har Paw Villa , built in the 1930s and filled with sculptures from Chinese folklore. However, if you’re tempted to enter the onsite  Hell’s Museum and discover what awaits in the afterlife, this will cost S$20. 

Looking for more budget tips? Here's how to save money in Singapore

What if I’ve only got a few hours in Singapore?

If your layover is at least 5.5 hours, you can sign up for the free Singapore tour from Changi Airport. The proviso is your luggage is checked through to your final destination.

Another fun way to experience the city is to book a vintage Vespa sidecar tour with Singapore Sidecars. The Singapore in a Nutshell tour lasts between one to three hours and will take you past the iconic Marina Bay Sands building, through the colonial Civic District and into heritage areas such as Little India and Chinatown. You don’t need a motorbike license as the team will chauffeur you around the city and you can just enjoy being a passenger, but you will need to travel from the airport to the starting point.

If your layover is only a couple of hours' long, check out the glass-domed centerpiece that is Jewel at Singapore’s Changi Airport . Not only will you find cafes, designer stores and a cinema, but also the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, 2000 trees, and a canopy park.

No matter what you do, you’ll find that a stopover in Singapore is worth it.

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Apr 24, 2024 • 11 min read

We’ve selected 11 gardens around the world that offer beauty, serenity, a connection with nature and a sense of place.

Mar 7, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 31, 2023 • 7 min read

May 12, 2022 • 5 min read

Oct 27, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 13, 2021 • 6 min read

Jan 8, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 9, 2020 • 2 min read

Explore Singapore's Best with eSIM: Travel Tips and Tricks

Mian Taimoor Ahmad

Going to Singapore, lah? This is the ultimate travel guide for you. 

Singapore, often referred to as the “Lion City”, is a modern city-state that gets millions of visitors annually. It’s a fast growing economy with a unique blend of cultural diversity, stunning architecture, lush green spaces and culinary delights. 

Whether you are planning a short trip or an extended stay, this Singapore itinerary will help you make the most of your visit. We’ll cover everything from must-visit attractions, food spots and even best eSIM packages to fit your travel needs. 

MUST-VISIT SPOTS

• Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay

One place that every tourist inevitably visits is Marina Bay Sands. It is an iconic resort known for its three 55-story hotel towers topped by a massive SkyPark in the shape of a ship's hull. The SkyPark offers panoramic views of the bay and features observation decks , gardens, restaurants, and an elevated infinity pool! 

Adjacent to Marina Bay Sands is the impressive Gardens by the Bay , comprising three distinctive waterfront gardens - Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. These sustainable gardens feature over a million plants, massive vertical gardens up to 16 stories tall, two conservatories replicating different climate conditions, and a nightly Garden Rhapsody light and sound show. While you’re in the Marina Bay area, you can’t miss a picture with the Merlion at the Merlion Park.

Both these attractions are the top most tourist attractions of Singapore. There’s simply no skipping them. 

• Sentosa Island

No visit to Singapore is complete without a trip to Sentosa, the iconic resort island just off the southern coast. Whether you are in Singapore for 4 days or more, a full day trip to Sentosa is an absolute must.

Formerly a British military fortress, Sentosa ("peace and tranquility" in Malay) is now one of the city-state's biggest recreational destinations. This compact island packs in abundant attractions like the Resorts World Sentosa with its Universal Studios theme park , S.E.A. Aquarium , and sandy beaches. You can spend a day exploring themed areas like the Merlion statue, Imbiah Lookout, Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom. Ride the Singapore Cable Car from Mount Faber for sweeping views, or climb to the peak of the Tiger Sky Tower. 

Sentosa provides a wonderful tropical getaway while being a short drive or train ride from central Singapore and you’ll make memories for a lifetime. 

• Civic District 

At the heart of Singapore's urban core lies the Civic District, where colonial history meets modern city life. This compact precinct is home to many of the city-state's iconic landmarks and architectural marvels. 

The modern National Gallery Singapore showcases Southeast Asian art across two stately colonial buildings. Nearby, the futuristic Esplanade theatres evoke a durian fruit's spiky shape. Walk through the lush Istana Park to the Istana, official residence of the President of Singapore. With museums, performing arts venues, outdoor parks and the F1 Singapore Grand Prix track winding through, the Civic District encapsulates Singapore's fascinating blend of heritage and contemporary development.

BONUS: UNDERRATED SPOTS

Besides the iconic attractions, Singapore has several underrated gems waiting to be explored. Step back into the city's rich heritage at Kampong Glam , the buzzing Malay-Arab quarter with Sultan Mosque at its center, lined with textile shops, Middle Eastern eateries, and the indie boutiques of Haji Lane. Also wander the laid-back streets of Tiong Bahru , a charming housing estate with low-rise Art Deco buildings, hip cafes serving local delicacies and indie craft stores tucked into its beautiful alleys. These off-the-beaten-track gems offer a glimpse into Singapore's diverse cultures, cuisine, and neighborhoods.

CONNECTIVITY AROUND SINGAPORE

If you're visiting Singapore, consider getting an eSIM package based on your length of stay:

For less than a week:

• Asia Premium 3 GB eSIM package : 3GB data valid for 7 days for just $6.99

For 1 month:

• Singapore Malaysia Thailand 30 GB eSIM package: Get 30 GB data on eSIM valid for 30 days for just $13.99! 

Longer than 1 month:

• Asia Top 4 Countries 50 GB eSIM : 50GB data, no contract, valid for 90 days and priced at just $59.99

LET’S TALK FOOD - SINGAPORE’S BEST CULINARY DELIGHTS

• Hainanese Chicken Rice

Every country recognizes certain foods as ‘comfort meals’. In Singapore, its this. Also supposedly called the (unofficially ofcourse) national dish of the country, it can be found everywhere - from humble hawker stalls to top hotels. We’ve tried it and it’s definitely delicious and comforting. 

With Chinese and Malay origins, laksa can be found in many regional variations across Malaysia and Singapore. It is a one-bowl meal, comprising a rich spicy coconut-laced soup, rice noodles and ingredients such as fishcake and prawns. Check out this Timeout guide for the best Laksas in town. 

• Chilli Crab

Proudly originated in Singapore, chilli crab gets its delectable flavors from a combination of chilli sauce, tomato paste, sambal and egg, along with tweaks and variations across the many seafood restaurants that serve it. It’s also called the King of all crab dishes. 

Some other beloved dishes are Char Kwoy Teow , Satay and Vegetable Pho for vegetarians. 

BUDGET TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS

It is no surprise that Singapore is an expensive city but that doesn’t mean budget travelers will have a hard time. 

From eating at hawker’s markets to staying in budget accommodations like the Ibis Budget Singapore Crystal, there are plenty of budget friendly ways to go around the city. 

One should also get the all inclusive city pass that helps save money on various attractions. To make friends, you could also sign up for free walking tours . 

Pro tip - instead of buying bottled water every time, you can simply drink tap water as it is fit for consumption in Singapore. 

And there you have it. An itinerary covering both the well trodden paths and hidden gems of Singapore. Some must have meals and budget hacks with the biggest travel essential - an incredible eSIM package. So, can you hear a Singaporean inviting you in the vicinity, saying ‘lai lai!’?

Top 5 Best Places to Travel around the World in Summer with Children

Eid Al-Adha Travel Tips: Top 5 destinations, Itineraries and eSIM plans

Eid Al-Adha Travel Tips: Top 5 travel destinations, Itineraries and eSIM plans

Celebrating Africa Day 2024: 5 African countries to visit with the best eSIM connectivity

Celebrating Africa Day 2024: 5 African countries to visit with the best eSIM connectivity | Best eSIM for Africa

MobiMatter Goes Multilingual : eSIM App and Website now available in many global languages

MobiMatter eSIM App available in Spanish, Arabic, Turkish & more languages

Disney's biggest cruise ship will carry 9,000 people on cruises in Asia

Would you travel around the world to sail on Disney Cruise Line 's biggest ship yet?

On Wednesday, Disney Cruise Line announced new details about Disney Adventure , which will become the line's biggest vessel when it debuts in Singapore in 2025. At 208,000 tons, Disney Adventure will be about 44% larger than the line's current biggest cruise ship, Disney Wish .

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Disney Adventure will also look a little different from the Disney ships you know and love. The vessel was originally ordered for Asia-based Dream Cruises, which collapsed in early 2022. Disney bought it from liquidators for the brand and plans to debut it in 2025.

As a result, the line must work with a preexisting ship layout, a whole new ballgame for Disney. The company has historically controlled the design and construction process of its resorts, both on land and sea, from ideation to completion. The 208,000-ton ship was originally designed to accommodate a whopping 9,000 passengers, plus thousands of crew members. However, Disney plans to reconfigure it to hold 6,700 guests and 2,500 crew members. Still, that could mean more than 9,000 people on board when the ship sails at full capacity.

Cruisers on Disney Adventure will be sharing the ship with far more people than on the line's previous vessels. The five ships in Disney's fleet range from 83,969 tons to 144,000 tons and hold a maximum of about 4,000 passengers. (Disney's oldest and smallest ship, Disney Magic , can accommodate, at most, 2,500 guests.) Another way to put it into perspective — the world's current largest ship, Royal Caribbean's 250,800-ton Icon of the Seas , holds 7,600 passengers.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Despite the differences in size and layout, Disney Adventure will still immerse passengers in the brand's signature style of lively, magical spaces.

The ship will feature new themed areas that showcase Disney's core pillars of storytelling — imagination, discovery, fantasy and adventure.

An open-air performance venue will feature a lush garden and elements reminiscent of an enchanted valley. Dubbed Disney Imagination Garden, the space will draw on the adventures of Disney characters like Mowgli and Moana.

Shopping and dining opportunities within the ship's Disney Discovery Reef area will feature popular aquatic and nautical characters from movies like "The Little Mermaid," "Finding Nemo" and "Lilo & Stitch."

San Fransokyo Street, a family entertainment area and street market, will offer interactive games and activities, shops and cinemas themed around the world of "Big Hero 6."

The ship's pool area, Wayfinder Bay, will feature an open-air poolside retreat with panoramic sea views amid Pacific Islands-themed environs.

Town Square will be the hub for lounges, cafes, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Here, passengers can immerse themselves in the world of Disney princesses, such as Cinderella, Snow White and Rapunzel.

Marvel Landing will host new immersive attractions that celebrate the Marvel superheroes. Passengers can also enjoy watery fun in Toy Story Place, a whimsical interactive space featuring water play areas and themed food venues.

Additionally, guests can expect Disney-level service, engaging dining options and top-notch entertainment, all hallmarks of the brand.

Disney also shared that the ship's exterior will reflect the fleet's iconic Mickey Mouse-inspired colors, complete with the line's signature red funnels.

North Americans will have to travel far to set sail on Disney Adventure. Disney's new ship will sail three- and four-night cruises departing from Singapore's Marina Bay Cruise Centre for at least the next five years in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. The line has yet to reveal specific details of the itineraries. Short cruises out of Singapore will likely draw an international crowd, with many passengers hailing from Asia.

When Disney Adventure begins service, it will be the seventh ship in the Disney fleet. The line currently operates five ships; a sixth, Disney Treasure , is due to debut in December.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin