Singapore Travel Guide

Essential Info for Travelers

Singapore is one of those destinations where you never feel lost or bored. Traveling here offers a unique blend of world-class street food, lush tropical scenery, ultra-modern architecture, and an amalgam of Asian cultures coexisting peacefully.

There is wildlife everywhere, air-conditioned shopping centers, modern trains, clean streets, and welcoming residents. Every traveler will enjoy this city. Comfort, excitement, and lifelong memories are all promised in Singapore.

Why Visit Singapore?

You experience four cultures: Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan, all in one country.
You can witness futuristic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport.
Enjoy lush green spaces and world-class attractions, like Gardens by the Bay.
Discover shopping paradises with luxury brands and budget finds alike.
Taste mouth-watering cuisines that reflect a fusion of different cultures.
Revel in the lively nightlife with dynamic bars, clubs, and nightly events.
The city is incredibly safe, clean, and easy to get around.
Perfect for family trips, couples getaways, solo travelers, and food lovers.
Unique attractions like Night Safari, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
You explore a perfect mix of skyscrapers, beaches, rainforests, and theme parks.
You enjoy award-winning food from hawker stalls to Michelin-star restaurants.

Language

English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and Singlish

Emergency Numbers

Police- 999,
Fire/Ambulance - 995

Country Code

Singapore’s country code is +65.

Power Plugs

Type G (same as UK), 230V

Currency

Singapore Dollar (SGD)

Payments

Cards & e-wallets (GrabPay, Apple Pay, Google Pay).

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Although Singapore is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is from February to April.
Enjoy warm and pleasant weather during these months, making outdoor exploration and activities more enjoyable.
Take advantage of the festive Chinese New Year celebrations and the vibrant Orchard Road during Christmas time.

November to March - Peak Season

Best weather, festivals, New Year fireworks, and shopping.

April to June

Warm, slight humidity, Singapore Food Festival season.

July to October

Less crowded, Great Singapore Sale, Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Top Places to Visit in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands and SkyPark

You can enjoy rooftop vistas from the SkyPark and admire world-class sunset views.

Supertree Grove light show at Gardens by Bay

Gardens by the Bay

Marvel at the futuristic Super Tree Grove and beautiful Flower Dome. You will enjoy walking among futuristic trees and magical cloud forests.

Sentosa Island

Florence is a haven for art and architecture lovers. You may see the famous Duomo di Firenze, the Uffizi Gallery, and Michelangelo's David.

Universal Studios Singapore

You can relive movie magic through thrilling rides and shows.

Singapore Zoo

Get close to animals in natural rainforest-style habitats.

Night Safari

You can roam the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park.

Jewel Changi Airport

You witness the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex waterfall. Browse through shops and enjoy activities and nature in an airport.

Little India

Dive into Indian culture. Visit colorful temples and enjoy traditional Indian cuisine.

Chinatown

You admire temples and colorful streets. Taste Chinese street food and go souvenir shopping.

Kampong Glam

You can see the beautiful murals and visit tea cafes and boutiques on Arab Street. Go to the iconic Sultan Mosque.

Botanic Gardens

Escape into nature with orchids and scenic lakes in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Clarke Quay

You enjoy waterfront dining, nightlife, and river cruises.

Orchard Road

Shop at luxury stores, local boutiques, and giant malls.

East Coast Park

You cycle along the sea and relax like locals.

Henderson Waves Bridge

You take a scenic walk across the iconic wave-shaped bridge of Singapore.

Things to Do in Singapore

Savor local delights at hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, and Newton Food Centre.
Get lost in the arts and cultural displays at the National Gallery Singapore.
Experience a night safari at the Singapore Zoo, where you can watch nocturnal animals in their natural habitats.
Stroll through the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk the Helix Bridge and enjoy stunning Marina Bay views.
See a magical Garden Rhapsody light show at Supertree Grove.
Ride the Singapore Flyer for panoramic city views.
Relax on Sentosa’s beaches and take the scenic cable car ride.
Take a bumboat river tour along the Singapore River.
Visit the ArtScience Museum for exciting, futuristic exhibits.
Shop on Orchard Road, a luxury and street shopping haven in Singapore.
Look for colorful murals, indie boutiques, and cafés along Haji Lane.
Eat at Clarke Quay and experience Singapore’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Cycle along the scenic shore at East Coast Park.
Try indoor skydiving at iFly Sentosa for an adrenaline rush.

Singapore Culture and Traditions

You will find influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian cultures in this cosmopolitan community.

Several festivals and public holidays, such as Deepavali, Hari Raya, and the Chinese New Year, are celebrated to promote cultural harmony.

Being courteous and respectful is really appreciated.

Avoid being noisy in public.

Cleanliness is prioritized.

Be mindful of local regulations, such as not littering, eating on the MRT, or causing damage to public property.

Singaporeans wait patiently in line everywhere.

Honor regional traditions, such as taking off shoes before entering a house and abstaining from public shows of affection.

Useful Singapore Phrases

Lah - Commonly used at the end of sentences for emphasis.
Can lah - yes, okay.
Cannot lah - no, not possible.
Shiok - Used to describe sheer satisfaction or great pleasure.
Paiseh - A term for feeling embarrassed or shy.
Chope - To reserve a seat, often using a tissue packet as a placeholder.
Makan - A Malay word for eating. Often used to invite someone to eat together.

Singapore Foods and Drinks You Must Try

Hainanese Chicken Rice

A tender chicken with fragrant rice and chili sauce.

Chili Crab

A spicy, sweet crab soaked in a flavorful sauce.

Laksa

Sip creamy coconut-spiced noodles with origins in Peranakan cuisine.

Char Kway Teow

A smoky stir-fried noodle with prawns and eggs.

Hokkien Prawn Mee

Savory noodles infused with seafood broth.

Bak Kut Teh

Herbal pork rib soup, perfect for rainy evenings.

Satay

Savor grilled skewers with sweet peanut sauce.

Nasi Lemak

Coconut rice with sambal, fried chicken, and anchovies.

Roti Prata

Crispy flatbread dipped in a spicy curry.

Chendol

Shaved ice, coconut milk, and palm sugar.

Durian

Sample tropical fruits like durian, known as the King of Fruits.

Toast and egg attempting to represent Kaya Toast breakfast

Kaya Toast, Kopi, and Soft-Boiled Eggs

Sweet coconut jam toast with strong coffee. A popular breakfast option.

Teh Tarik

Pulled tea.

Bandung

A rose syrup with milk. A local drink favorite.

Singapore Visa and Entry Requirements

Many countries do not require a visa for short-term tourist visits to Singapore. However, some nations require an e-Visa. Verify the most up-to-date admission requirements before departing. Verify that your passport will be valid for at least six months following the date of admission. Upon arrival, you may need to show proof that you have enough money for your stay as well as a return or forward ticket. Consider purchasing travel insurance for additional peace of mind. Be sure to complete the Singapore Arrival Card online well before your arrival. Always check the most recent rules about the Singapore visa process at your local embassy or on official immigration websites before departing.

Inquire Now

Getting Around Singapore - Transportation Guide

MRT Trains - Take advantage of the effective Mass Rapid Transit system for quick, inexpensive, hygienic, and efficient travel around Singapore.

Public Buses - Buses are extensive. They can transport you to many locations that are not reachable by MRT.

Grab and Gojek Apps - These ride-sharing services are reasonably priced.

Bicycles and Scooters - Rent a bicycle and ride around the city in an ecologically friendly way.

Taxi - Taxis are a convenient and easily accessible mode of transportation. They are expensive.

Walking - You can walk in a lot of places. You can also stroll around picturesque waterfronts and retail avenues.

Cable Car (to Sentosa) - You can take in the breathtaking vistas from above as you soar above the ocean.

Where to Stay in Singapore - Accommodation Options

Night view of The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

Luxury Hotels

Luxurious options include Marina Bay Sands, Fullerton, The Ritz-Carlton, and the Raffles Hotel.

Colorful Singapore shophouses with orange roofs

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels offer unique experiences in neighborhoods like Kampong Glam, Sentosa, and Clarke Quay.

Mid-Range

Park Hotel Clarke Quay, Orchard Road business hotels, Hotel G, and Village Hotel Katong.

Chinatown shophouses facing Singapore skyline

Budget

Budget travelers can find affordable hostels in Chinatown or Little India. Adler Hostel, Capsule Pod Boutique Hostel, and the Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel.

Airbnb

Consider serviced apartments for longer stays or family travel.

Singapore Travel Costs and Budget Tips

Accommodation

Budget Travelers - 60 USD to 100 USD per day
Mid-Range - 120 USD to 250 USD per day
Luxury - Over 250 USD per day

Meals

5 USD to 20 USD for a meal at hawker centers. Over 20 USD at restaurants.

Public Transport

1.50 USD to 3 USD per ride.

Money-Saving Tips

The cost of lodging can be high. Thus, make reservations or keep an eye out for sales.
Hawker centers provide reasonably priced food with real flavors.
Get a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited travel on public transportation.
Visit free attractions such as the Botanic Gardens, East Coast Park, Gardens by the Bay, and the Southern Ridges.
Travel by MRT.
Purchase airline tickets online to avail of discounts.
Plan a trip to Singapore during off-peak times.
Book your hotel near an MRT station to make traveling easier.

Singapore Safety Tips and Travel Advice

Singapore is among the safest countries in the world. But in busy places, exercise caution.
Chewing gum is against the law. Respect local laws to avoid penalties.
Respect regional customs and cultures, especially at places of worship.
Tropical storms can happen, so keep an eye on the weather.
Adhere to the guidelines to the letter. Jaywalking, eating in the MRT, and littering can result in hefty fines.
Have emergency numbers on hand.
Drink lots of water, as the weather is humid.
Think about obtaining an EZ-Link card.

Essential Packing List for Singapore

Lightweight cotton clothing for the tropical climate.
Comfortable shoes for walking to roam the city sights.
An umbrella or light raincoat for sudden showers.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water bottle
Universal travel adapter
A Backpack
Power bank
Anti-mosquito wipes

Festivals & Events in Singapore

Chinese New Year - You can watch fireworks, red lanterns, and lion dances.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri - Savor food bazaars, traditional attire, and Malay market lights.
Deepavali - Little India is illuminated by bright lights.
Vesak Day - You can witness lantern offerings and Buddhist temple ceremonies.
National Day - Celebrated on August 9, the day features fireworks and patriotic parades.
Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix - You experience the excitement of street racing at night.
Mid-Autumn Festival - The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with lantern displays and mooncake tastings.
Christmas on Orchard Road - You can revel in the holiday shopping and fascinating street lights.

Singapore Travel Itineraries for First-Time Visitors

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark - Light & Water Show
ArtScience Museum
Merlion Park
Gardens by the Bay
Clarke Quay Dinner Cruise

Day 2

Cable Car to Sentosa
Universal Studios / SEA Aquarium
Skyline Luge
Beach time at Palawan or Siloso
Wings of Time Show

Day 3

Chinatown Heritage Centre
Sri Mariamman Temple
Little India & Mustafa Centre
Arab Street & Sultan Mosque
Bugis Street Night Market

5-Day Itinerary

Day 4

Singapore Zoo or River Wonders
Night Safari Experience
Breakfast with Orangutans

Day 5

Botanic Gardens (UNESCO Site)
Orchard Road Shopping
Clarke Quay Nightlife

7-Day Itinerary

Day 6

National Museum of Singapore
National Gallery Singapore
Fort Canning Park
Evening at Esplanade

Day 7

Ferry to Pulau Ubin
Chek Jawa Wetlands Cycling Tour
East Coast Park Adventure
Dinner in Katong (Peranakan Cuisine)

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Singapore

One of the priciest travel destinations in Asia is Singapore. On the other hand, dining at hawker centers, taking the MRT, and making early reservations for lodging can help you save a significant amount of money.

To enjoy the sights without rushing, a trip of three to five days is perfect for Singapore.

The tap water in Singapore satisfies international standards and is completely safe. You can refill your bottle anywhere. This helps save money and reduce plastic use.

Since most restaurants include a service fee of 10 percent in the bill, tipping is not prevalent in Singapore. However, if you wish, you can leave a tip for outstanding service or at upscale hotels.

The most popular nightlife area is Clarke Quay, which has clubs, pubs, and live performances by the river. In addition, Marina Bay has rooftop bars, luxurious lounges, and breathtaking nighttime views.

For first-time visitors, Marina Bay, Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, and Bugis are excellent locations. There are well-known sites nearby, and transportation is convenient. This area offers a variety of dining and retail options.

Message Us