Curator’s statement
Singapore, a dazzling tapestry of old and new, invites you to explore its vibrant heart. This guide unlocks the city-state's secrets, from the serene beauty of its gardens to the bustling energy of its markets. Immerse yourself in a rich cultural heritage, indulge in world-class shopping, and savor a diverse culinary journey. Let Singapore's captivating blend of tradition and modernity inspire your adventure.
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Where to stay in Singapore
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Things to do in Singapore
Places to Visit
Colonial District: Immerse yourself in Singapore's history at the National Museum and discover Southeast Asian art at the National Gallery
Raffles Hotel: Indulge in the iconic Singapore Sling at its bar of origin, the Long Bar. This is a very tourist destination that embraces the salty side of Singapore, with peanut shells covering the floor.
Singapore Flyer: Ride at night to see stars below you, or during the day to see the teaming activity in the city and on the docks.
Marina Bay/ Boat Quay
Visit the iconic Merlion Fountain in Merloin Park on Fullerton.
Gardens by the Bay - Outside gardens are free, while indoors are paid and worth the money. The Cloud Forest has the most amazing waterfalls. Go early afternoon and then enjoy dinner/evening around Marina Bay, which is particularly beautiful at night.
Take a walk along the Singapore River - Amazing views, and people-watching at any time, but the evening is cooler.
Take a boat instead - Singapore River Cruise on a bumboat from Clarke Quay (40 minutes, S$25.50). Enjoy the breezes and views with a load off your feet!
Watch the Sunset from Marina Bay Sands, Singapore’s most iconic building. Get a drink at CÉ LA VI SkyBar and avoid paying for the observation deck - same view, similar cost, but this comes with a drink.
Spectra is an amazing free laser light show that shoots out of Marina Bay Sands at 8/9 pm and can be seen from all around the bay. This is the reason to fork over the bucks to stay on the bay- but can also be enjoyed for free outside!
Check out the Supertree Grove at night for a free light show- 7:45 and 8:45pm.
Little India: Immerse yourself in vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and Hindu temples.
Tan Teng Niah, Chinese villa built in 1900
Tekka Centre and Mustafa Centre - 24-hour shopping center.
Kampong Glam
Explore the Muslim quarter with its charming shops and lively nightlife.
Fun boutique shops during the day
Live music by pavement bars in the evening
Chinatown: Discover a melting pot of cultures, temples, and delicious street food.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Buddhist)
Thian Hock Keng Temple (Taoist)
Sri Mariamman (Hindu temple)
Chinatown Food Street (11am–11pm)
Orchard Road: Indulge in world-class shopping.
Botanic Gardens: Escape the city and relax amid lush greenery.
Singapore Zoo and Night Safari: Encounter amazing wildlife up close.
Must-Do Experiences
Spend a sunset into the night on Marina Bay, be captivated by the Spectra Light Show
Take a Singapore River Cruise to view a walking tour while sitting (it’s hot!)
Soar above the city on the Singapore Flyer.
Remember, this is just a starting point. Singapore offers endless possibilities for exploration and unforgettable experiences.
Day Trips:
TreeTop Walk in MacRitchie Reservoir – A nature reserve outside the city where you walk along suspended bridges in the canopy of the forest.
Places to eat & drink in Singapore
Singapore has been a hub of civilizations and food cultures for longer since its origin. If you are not eating your way through the city, you are missing out. There are so many different fusions of cuisine to be found, and from the street stalls to the finest restaurants- everything is delicious.
Maxwell Food Center - Try food hawkers all in one place and all at a standard of quality. There are some that are more famous than others, but wandering the stalls and finding new things is what this is all about. Consider trying something new (to you, these are Singapore classics) like oyster omelets, rice congee, or Hainanese chicken rice
No Signboard Seafood is a great option for chili and pepper crabs - more Singapore classics.
Taste Durian and learn about this amazing fruit at Ah Di Dempsey Durian
Try some Australian cuisine at Cloudstreet - where vegemite and crab curry take on new heights. Consider sitting at the chef’s counter to take in the magic in the kitchen.
Singapore Zam Zam showcases Indian-Muslim cuisine.
Act like a local and eat breakfast at Tong Ah Eating House, located in Chinatown.
My favorite dish in Southeast Asia- indulge in Laksa at Janggut Laksa at Roxy Square. This spicy noodle soup is traditionally served for breakfast (feel free to eat it for lunch) and is the best hangover cure in Singapore.
Indulge in a 3-Michelin Starred experience at Zen, Odette, or Les Amis - all boasting modern European/French cuisine.
Need to know
Getting Around
Singapore is mostly walkable, but the heat and humidity can be intense. The MRT metro is efficient and affordable, with fares around S$2 per trip. Consider the SimplyGo EZ-Link card for easy top-ups. Taxis are readily available, with Grab being the preferred app. For unlimited travel, explore the Singapore Tourist Pass.
Places to Stay
Marina Bay: Luxurious with stunning views, but pricier.
Bugis: Lively neighborhood with easy access to key attractions.
Chinatown: Affordable with a vibrant atmosphere.
Orchard Road: Ideal for shopping enthusiasts, but less central.
Travel Advisor
Meghan Ball
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Singapore. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Enjoy Food and Wine in California's Hidden Gem: Paso Robles