About Singapore Travel Guide
Destination Overview – Singapore
Singapore is a modern island city-state in Southeast Asia known for its futuristic skyline, lush greenery, rich multicultural heritage, and exceptional cleanliness. Often called the “Garden City,” Singapore offers a seamless blend of world-class attractions, efficient infrastructure, diverse cuisine, and cultural charm.
Whether you're strolling through the vibrant streets of Chinatown and Little India, experiencing the luxury of Marina Bay Sands, or exploring the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, Singapore offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly entertainment. Its efficient public transport and visa-on-arrival facility for many nationalities make it a top choice for tourists from around the world.
Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Singapore
- Iconic Landmarks
- Marina Bay Sands – SkyPark views and infinity pool
- Gardens by the Bay – Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest
- Merlion Park – Symbol of Singapore with skyline views
- Singapore Flyer – One of the world’s largest observation wheels
- Sentosa Island – Beaches, adventure parks, and Universal Studios
Cultural Experiences
- Chinatown – Traditional temples and Chinese street food
- Little India – Colorful streets, temples, and Indian cuisine
- Kampong Glam – Malay heritage and the Sultan Mosque
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – A major Buddhist landmark
Nature & Wildlife
- Singapore Zoo – World-famous for open-concept enclosures
- Night Safari – Nocturnal wildlife experience
- Jurong Bird Park – Thousands of exotic bird species
- Botanic Gardens – UNESCO World Heritage Site with tropical flora
Hidden Gems
- MacRitchie Reservoir – Canopy walk and hiking trails
- Haji Lane – Hipster street with murals, cafes, and boutiques
- Pulau Ubin – Rustic island for cycling and kayaking
- Southern Ridges – Scenic walkways and forest treks
Best Time to Visit Singapore
- Singapore is a year-round destination with a tropical climate.
- Best months: December to early March (cooler and festive)
- Avoid: May to July if you prefer drier weather
Festivals & Events
- Chinese New Year – January or February
- Deepavali – Celebrated in Little India
- Singapore Food Festival – July
- Great Singapore Sale – June to August
- F1 Singapore Grand Prix – September
How to Reach Singapore
Air:
Singapore Changi Airport is one of the world’s best airports and connects Singapore to all major international cities.
Sea:
Cruise terminals like Marina Bay Cruise Centre and HarbourFront handle international cruise liners.
Local Transport:
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), buses, taxis, and app-based rides like Grab provide efficient connectivity across the island.
Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers in Singapore
- Singapore is one of the most accessible cities globally.
- Public transport (MRT, buses) has wheelchair access
- Ramps, elevators, and disabled-friendly restrooms are available at most attractions, malls, and public areas
- Hotels follow international accessibility standards
Things to Do & Experiences in Singapore
- Enjoy panoramic views from Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
- Experience the light and sound show at Gardens by the Bay
- Ride thrilling roller coasters at Universal Studios Singapore
- Walk through the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome
- Take a river cruise from Clarke Quay
- Visit museums like the National Gallery and ArtScience Museum
- Go shopping along Orchard Road and Marina Bay
- Savor multicultural food at Hawker Centres
Accommodation Options in Singapore
Singapore offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget hostels:
Luxury Hotels
Marina Bay Sands
Raffles Hotel Singapore
The Fullerton Hotel
Mandarin Oriental
Mid-range & Budget Hotels
Hotel G
Park Hotel Farrer Park
Village Hotel Bugis
Popular areas to stay
Orchard Road – Shopping and dining
Marina Bay – Iconic views and luxury
Chinatown – Culture and budget stays
Little India – Budget hotels and vibrant local life
Local Cuisine & Dining in Singapore
Singapore’s culinary scene is a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences.
- Must-try dishes:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Laksa
- Chilli Crab
- Satay
- Char Kway Teow
- Roti Prata
- Kaya Toast and Soft-Boiled Eggs
Popular Food Spots
- Maxwell Food Centre
- Lau Pa Sat
- Newton Food Centre
- Tekka Centre (Little India)
- Chinatown Complex
Travel Tips & Safety in Singapore
- Singapore is very safe for tourists with strict laws and low crime rates
- Follow rules – avoid littering, chewing gum, jaywalking
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Use EZ-Link or NETS cards for MRT and bus rides
- Emergency contacts: Police – 999, Ambulance/Fire – 995
- Carry an umbrella – occasional rain is common
Weather Details & Packing Suggestions in Singapore
Climate: Tropical and humid year-round with temperatures between 25°C and 32°C
Packing tips:
- Light cotton clothing
- Umbrella or raincoat
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
Currency Exchange & Banking Facilities in Singapore
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
- Money changers are available at Changi Airport, shopping malls, and tourist areas
- ATMs are widespread, and international cards are widely accepted
- Most transactions can be made via cards or digital wallets
Connectivity & SIM Card Info in Singapore
- Top telecom providers: Singtel, StarHub, M1
- SIM cards and tourist plans are available at Changi Airport and convenience stores
- Strong 4G/5G coverage across the country
- Free WiFi at airports, MRT stations, cafes, and many public areas
Itinerary Suggestions in Singapore
1-Day:
Visit Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Chinatown
3-Days:
Add Universal Studios, Sentosa, Little India, and a Night Safari
5-Days:
Include Jurong Bird Park, Botanic Gardens, shopping at Orchard Road, and a day trip to Pulau Ubin
Family Itinerary:
Zoo, Universal Studios, Science Centre, River Wonders, SEA Aquarium
Nearby Destinations to Explore from Singapore
- Malaysia (Johor Bahru) – 1 hour by road
- Bintan Island (Indonesia) – 1 hour by ferry
- Kuala Lumpur – 5–6 hours by bus or 1-hour flight
- Bali – 2.5-hour flight
- Bangkok – 2-hour flight
Shopping & Souvenirs in Singapore
- Merlion souvenirs
- Local snacks (bak kwa, kaya jam)
- Batik clothing and sarongs
- Singapore Sling merchandise
- Orchid perfumes
- Shop at Bugis Street, Chinatown, Mustafa Centre, and Orchard Road
Cultural & Historical Background of Singapore
Founded as a trading post in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles, Singapore has evolved from a colonial port to a global financial hub. The city embraces its multicultural identity, with communities of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian descent living in harmony.
This rich heritage is reflected in its temples, mosques, festivals, food, and architecture, making Singapore a melting pot of Asian cultures.
Best Transport Options in Singapore
- MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) – Fast and reliable for tourists
- Public Buses – Extensive coverage and affordable
- Grab – App-based taxi service
- Cycling and walking – Safe paths and green connectors across the city
Nearest Railway Station or Airport in Singapore
Changi International Airport – One of the world’s best airports, well-connected to city by MRT and taxi