Singapore Travel Guide
Singapore is a gleaming, hyper-efficient city-state where futuristic architecture rises beside colonial shophouses and lush tropical greenery. It is famously clean, safe, and easy to navigate, offering world-class food from humble hawker centres to fine dining, all within a compact, multicultural island.
Singapore — Highlights in photos
Top things to do
Marina Bay Sands & the SkyPark
The iconic three-towered hotel topped by a ship-shaped SkyPark defines the modern skyline. Non-guests can pay to visit the observation deck for sweeping views, while the infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests.
Gardens by the Bay
A spectacular futuristic park famed for its towering Supertrees and two climate-controlled domes, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The outdoor gardens and evening Supertree light show are free, while the domes charge admission.
Sentosa Island
A resort island packed with beaches, theme parks, and attractions including Universal Studios and cable cars. Getting there is easy and cheap, though individual attractions each have their own tickets.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage site and tranquil tropical oasis, home to the beautiful National Orchid Garden. The main gardens are free, with a small charge for the orchid collection.
Chinatown
A vibrant heritage district of restored shophouses, temples, markets, and excellent food. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and browse the street market before a hawker-centre meal.
Little India & Kampong Glam
Two of the city's most colourful ethnic quarters, one alive with the scents and colours of India, the other centred on the golden Sultan Mosque and hip Haji Lane. Both are wonderful for wandering, shopping, and eating.
Clarke Quay & the Singapore River
A lively riverside stretch of restaurants and bars, best explored on foot or by a short river cruise. It is the heart of the city's nightlife and a scenic evening walk.
Merlion Park
Home to the half-lion, half-fish statue that is the national symbol, with a classic view across the water to Marina Bay Sands. It is free and a must for a photo, especially at dusk.
Museums & entry info
National Museum of Singapore
The country's oldest museum tells the national story through immersive galleries and artefacts. Entry is around SGD 15-20 for adults, often free or discounted for residents; open daily. Check the official site.
ArtScience Museum
The striking lotus-shaped building at Marina Bay hosts blockbuster exhibitions blending art, science, and technology, including popular digital installations. Ticket prices vary by exhibition, typically around SGD 20-30; verify officially.
National Gallery Singapore
Housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall, this gallery holds the world's largest public collection of Southeast Asian modern art. Entry is roughly SGD 15-20, with free access for citizens and residents; open daily. Confirm hours officially.
Asian Civilisations Museum
A riverside museum devoted to the arts and cultures of Asia, from ancient trade to religious art. Entry is approximately SGD 15-20; open daily with some late evenings. Check the official site.
Peranakan Museum
A beautifully curated museum exploring the rich culture of the Straits-born Chinese, or Peranakans. Entry is around SGD 12-18; open daily. Verify current details before visiting.
Signature experiences
Singapore River cruise
Glide past the historic quays and modern skyline on a traditional bumboat, a relaxing way to see the city's landmarks. Tickets typically cost about SGD 25-30 for adults.
Gardens by the Bay OCBC Garden Rhapsody
Watch the free nightly sound-and-light show among the illuminated Supertrees, a magical and budget-friendly evening. The show itself is free; the elevated OCBC Skyway walkway charges a small fee.
Hawker centre food tour
Sample the city's soul through its Michelin-recognised hawker stalls, from chicken rice to laksa. Guided tours run about SGD 60-100, or explore independently for the price of the dishes.
Night Safari
The world's first nocturnal zoo lets you observe animals after dark by tram and walking trails. Adult tickets are approximately SGD 50-55; book online in advance.
What to eat
Singapore's food is its greatest pride, a delicious fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian traditions best sampled at bustling hawker centres. Eating is a national pastime, and the quality-to-price ratio is unbeatable.
Singapore is warm and humid year-round, so any time works, though February to April tends to be slightly drier. Brief heavy showers can occur any month, so carry an umbrella.
The clean, efficient MRT metro combined with buses reaches virtually everywhere cheaply, and taxis and ride-hailing are plentiful. The MRT links Changi Airport to the city centre in about 30-40 minutes, with a short transfer along the way.
Traveler tips
- Get an EZ-Link or use a contactless card for seamless travel on the MRT and buses.
- Obey the strict local laws: no littering, jaywalking, or eating and drinking on public transport, and note the ban on chewing gum sales.
- Eat at hawker centres for the best value, and reserve a seat by placing a packet of tissues on the table as locals do.
- Stay hydrated and plan indoor, air-conditioned breaks to cope with the constant heat and humidity.