Best Time to Visit
February to April
Currency
Singapore Dollar (S$)
Language
English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil
Timezone
SGT (UTC+8)
Discover Singapore
Singapore is a masterclass in urban harmony, where the futuristic skyline of Marina Bay is softened by the lush, otherworldly Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay. This city-state isn't just about gleaming surfaces; its soul is found in the sizzling woks of Maxwell Food Centre, the fragrant incense of Thian Hock Keng Temple, and the vibrant shophouses of Katong. It's a place where you can have a world-class cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the city, then descend into the bustling, authentic chaos of a hawker centre for a perfect plate of Hainanese chicken rice, all within a spotlessly clean and efficient environment.
Beyond its famous icons, Singapore reveals itself in layers. Explore the living heritage of Kampong Glam, where Arab Street's textile shops sit beside the golden dome of the Sultan Mosque. Discover the wild side on the MacRitchie Reservoir treetop walk, or escape to the themed beaches of Sentosa. The city's 'East Coast' lifestyle, with its cycling paths and seafood restaurants, offers a completely different pace from the downtown core, proving Singapore is far more than a single-postcard destination.
Why Visit Singapore?
A Culinary Capital: Experience one of the world's greatest food scenes, from Michelin-starred restaurants to legendary hawker stalls like Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle.
Architectural Wonderland: Marvel at the fusion of nature and innovation at Gardens by the Bay, the iconic infinity pool of Marina Bay Sands, and the stunning Jewel Changi Airport with its indoor waterfall.
Cultural Tapestry: Immerse yourself in distinct ethnic enclaves—pray at Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Little India, bargain for souvenirs in Chinatown, and explore the Malay heritage of Kampong Glam.
Family-Friendly Excellence: Enjoy world-class attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, the Singapore Zoo's Night Safari, and the interactive ArtScience Museum.
Garden City Reality: Find unexpected green escapes within the urban fabric, from the Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO site) to the Southern Ridges hiking trail and the Cloud Forest dome.
Unmatched Efficiency and Cleanliness: Navigate effortlessly with an impeccable MRT system, enjoy safe streets at all hours, and experience a society where order and modernity create a stress-free travel environment.
Singapore is Known For
Ready to explore Singapore?
Singapore Neighborhoods
Marina Bay / Downtown Core
The glittering, futuristic heart of Singapore, defined by iconic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and waterfront promenades. This is where you come for the postcard views, high-end experiences, and architectural marvels.
Highlights:
Best for:
Chinatown
A vibrant, sensory-rich district where ancient traditions thrive amidst modern boutiques. Historic temples and clan houses sit alongside trendy bars and restaurants in beautifully restored shophouses.
Highlights:
Best for:
Kampong Glam
The historic Malay-Arab quarter, buzzing with a bohemian and creative energy. Centered around the majestic Sultan Mosque, its streets are lined with independent boutiques, Persian rug shops, and hip cafes.
Highlights:
Best for:
Tiong Bahru / Joo Chiat
Singapore's charming 'heritage heartlands'. Tiong Bahru boasts 1930s art-deco architecture and hipster cafes, while Joo Chiat is famous for its colorful Peranakan shophouses and legendary eateries.
Highlights:
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Use the Grab or Gojek apps for taxis and food delivery; they're often cheaper and more convenient than hailing a cab.
- •Always carry a light sweater or shawl—air conditioning in malls, MRT trains, and museums is notoriously frigid.
- •For the best hawker food, look for stalls with long queues of locals, not tourists. This is the ultimate seal of approval.
- •Buy an EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay card for seamless travel on MRT and buses; it also works at many hawker centres and convenience stores.
- •Tap water is perfectly safe to drink across the island, saving you money and plastic.
- •Visit hawker centres during off-peak hours (e.g., 11am or 2pm) to avoid the intense lunch crowds and secure a seat easily.
- •Download the 'MyTransport.SG' app for real-time bus arrivals and detailed journey planning on public transport.
- •Many museums offer free admission for Singaporeans and PRs on certain days; check websites for tourist discounts or city passes.
- •When using public restrooms, note that the 'Asian' squat toilet is often the first stall; look for the wheelchair-accessible or other stalls for a seated toilet.
- •For a unique local breakfast, try 'kaya toast' with soft-boiled eggs and coffee at chains like Ya Kun Kaya Toast or Killiney Kopitiam.
Singapore Food Scene
Singapore's food culture is its national passion, a democratic and delicious reflection of its multicultural makeup. The legendary hawker centres are the great equalizers, where everyone from CEOs to construction workers queues for affordable, Michelin-recognized meals.
Must-Try Dishes
Hawker Centre Classics
- • Tian Tian Chicken Rice (Maxwell)
- • Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle (Crawford Lane)
- • Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (multiple outlets)
Use the 'chope' system: reserve a table by placing a packet of tissues on it before you order.
Peranakan (Straits Chinese)
- • Candlenut (Michelin-starred)
- • Guan Hoe Soon (oldest Peranakan restaurant)
- • Kim Choo Kueh Chang (for Nyonya dumplings)
Peranakan food is complex and labor-intensive; visiting a restaurant is better than trying to find it in hawker centres.
Indian & Malay Specialties
- • The Banana Leaf Apolo (Little India)
- • Zam Zam Restaurant (for murtabak)
- • Warong Nasi Pariaman (for Nasi Padang)
Eat with your right hand at traditional Indian/Malay eateries for the most authentic experience, but cutlery is always available.
Modern Singaporean & Fine Dining
- • Burnt Ends (barbecue)
- • Odette (3-Michelin stars)
- • Labyrinth (innovative local cuisine)
Book fine dining restaurants weeks, if not months, in advance, especially for weekend dinners.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Singapore
Spring
February to April is considered the best time to visit, with slightly less rainfall and humidity. This period often falls around the Chinese New Year festivities, adding vibrant cultural events.
Pros:
- + Lower average rainfall
- + Pleasant for outdoor activities
- + Coincides with festive seasons
Cons:
- - Higher hotel rates during Chinese New Year
- - Can still be very humid
Summer
May to August is consistently hot and humid, with a higher chance of short, intense afternoon thunderstorms. The Great Singapore Sale typically runs during this period.
Pros:
- + Major shopping sales
- + Vibrant summer events
- + Longer daylight hours
Cons:
- - Peak heat and humidity
- - Frequent afternoon showers
Autumn
September to November is one of the wettest periods due to the monsoon season. Expect heavy, prolonged rain showers, particularly in the afternoons and evenings.
Pros:
- + Lush, green landscapes
- + Fewer crowds at attractions
- + Cooler temperatures during rain
Cons:
- - Highest rainfall of the year
- - Outdoor plans can be disrupted
Winter
December to January brings slightly cooler temperatures (for Singapore) and more frequent wind. This is the peak tourist season, filled with Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Pros:
- + Festive atmosphere and decorations
- + Cooler breezes
- + Lively nightlife
Cons:
- - Highest tourist crowds
- - Most expensive time for flights and hotels
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Day Trips from Singapore
Pulau Ubin
15 min ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Step back in time to a rustic, 1960s Singapore. This granite island is a world away from the city, with traditional kampongs (villages), mangrove swamps, and quiet cycling trails.
Johor Bahru, Malaysia
1 hour by bus/car across the Causeway
Experience a different culture and currency just across the border. Johor Bahru is famous for its massive malls, street food, and significantly lower prices for shopping and dining.
Southern Islands (St. John's & Lazarus Island)
30 min ferry from Marina South Pier
Escape to Singapore's tropical island paradise with pristine sandy beaches and clear waters. Perfect for a picnic, swimming, and sunbathing in a serene setting.
Singapore Budget Guide
Singapore can be expensive, but savvy travelers can manage costs well by using public transport and eating at hawker centres. Accommodation is typically the largest expense.
Budget
S$70-100 for budget travelers (hostel, hawker meals, public transport)
per day
Mid-Range
S$200-350 for mid-range (3-4 star hotel, mix of hawker and casual restaurants, some taxis)
per day
Luxury
S$500+ for luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Hawker centres are your best friend for meals under S$10.
- •Stay in neighborhoods like Geylang or Lavender for better hotel value.
- •Purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited public transport rides.
- •Many attractions like Gardens by the Bay (outdoor areas) and Botanic Gardens are free.
- •Drink at hawker centres or convenience stores to avoid high bar prices.
Singapore Hidden Gems
Haw Par Villa
A bizarre and fascinating theme park built in 1937, depicting Chinese mythology, folklore, and moral lessons through hundreds of statues and dioramas.
It's utterly unique, free to enter, and offers a glimpse into a bygone era of Singapore that you won't find anywhere else.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
One of the only substantial patches of primary rainforest left in Singapore, with hiking trails leading to the island's highest point.
A challenging hike through genuine jungle wildlife, just a short MRT ride from the city, offering a complete escape from urbanity.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
A world-class wetland reserve in the northwest of the island, home to migratory birds, monitor lizards, and even estuarine crocodiles.
A serene, wild counterpart to the manicured Gardens by the Bay, perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
The Intan
A private Peranakan heritage home in Joo Chiat, turned into a museum by its passionate owner, filled with an incredible collection of antiques.
An intimate, personalized tour through Peranakan culture that feels like visiting a friend's home, far from the crowds of public museums.
Dempsey Hill
A former British army barracks complex nestled in a lush green area, now housing upscale restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and antique shops.
A peaceful, village-like enclave with great dining options, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe away from the downtown hustle.
Singapore Culture & Customs
Singaporean culture is a pragmatic and harmonious blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences, governed by a strong sense of social order and respect. 'Kiasu' (a fear of losing out) and 'kiasi' (a fear of death/ trouble) are often humorously cited as defining local traits, manifesting in efficient queues and rule-following.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always offer and receive items, especially money or business cards, with both hands as a sign of respect.
- •Remove your shoes before entering someone's home, and often before entering certain temples or shops.
- •Avoid chewing gum in public; its sale is banned, and littering with it carries heavy fines.
- •Do not point with your index finger; use your thumb over a closed fist instead.
- •Respect strict laws against jaywalking, smoking in prohibited areas, and eating/drinking on public transport.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Singapore
Is Singapore really that strict with fines?
Yes, regulations are strictly enforced. Common fines include S$300 for littering, S$1000 for smoking in non-designated areas, and S$500 for eating/drinking on MRT/buses. Jaywalking can also result in a fine. It's best to follow the rules.
Do I need to tip in Singapore?
Tipping is not a common practice. Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Tipping is not expected at hawker centres, food courts, or for taxi drivers, though rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Is Singapore safe for solo travelers?
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world for solo travelers of any gender. Violent crime is extremely rare. Normal precautions for protecting valuables apply, but walking alone at night is generally very safe.
What's the best way to get around?
The MRT (subway) is the fastest and most efficient way for most journeys. Buses cover more areas in detail. For short trips or groups, ride-hailing apps (Grab/Gojek) are convenient. The city center is also very walkable.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?
Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept cards. However, you will need cash for hawker centres, small shops, markets, and for topping up your transport card. It's wise to always have some Singapore dollars on hand.
What should I wear in Singapore?
Light, breathable cotton or linen clothing is essential due to the heat and humidity. Dress is generally casual, but bring a light cover-up for air-conditioned spaces. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and mosques.
Do people speak English?
Yes, English is one of the four official languages and the main language of business, government, and education. Virtually everyone you interact with in service roles will speak English fluently.
What is the voltage and plug type?
Singapore uses 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type G (the British three-pin rectangular blade plug). Most hotels provide adapters, but it's best to bring your own.
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