Plan the Perfect Trip to Singapore – A Guide for Travelers, Tourists, and Expats

Photo Credits: Mike Enerio

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures with a vibrant food scene, beautiful architecture, and unique attractions that will leave you breathless. So, what’s a traveler to do when visiting this tropical paradise? We’ve rounded up the best of the best when it comes to Singapore’s popular attractions, including Sentosa Island and Gardens by the Bay, plus a few hidden gems.

Sentosa Island

This man-made island boasts a range of attractions, from roller coasters to aquariums, beaches to spas. Start your day early and head to Universal Studios for an adrenaline fix before relaxing on the sandy beaches or indulging in a luxury spa treatment. For an unforgettable experience, head to the nightly Wings of Time show, where fire, water, and lasers come together in a stunning display.

Haw Par Villa

For a unique cultural experience, head to this eclectic amusement park which was once owned by the Tiger Balm brothers. The park is home to hundreds of statues and dioramas depicting Chinese folklore such as the Monkey King and the Ten Courts of Hell. Be warned, some of the displays are graphic and may not be suitable for young children.

Marina Bay Sands

The iconic three-towered structure of Marina Bay Sands is one of the most photographed landmarks in Singapore. Don’t miss the chance to take in the city views from the spectacular observation deck at the top of the towers. For thrill-seekers, try the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool on the 57th floor – an unforgettable experience that can’t be missed.

Chinatown

As one of Singapore’s oldest districts, Chinatown has a rich history and culture. Here you can find traditional Chinese medicine shops, bustling markets, and ancient temples. For foodies, no trip to Chinatown is complete without a taste of Singapore’s famous chili crab dish, available at numerous restaurants.

Gardens by the Bay

A true gem in the heart of Singapore, these iconic gardens feature futuristic structures, stunning flora, and night-time light shows. Take a leisurely stroll through the Supertrees soaring into the sky, or visit the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome to be mesmerized by rare plants and flowers from all around the world. And don’t forget to stick around for the nightly Garden Rhapsody, a breathtaking light and music show set amongst the Supertrees.

Weather
When considering the best time to visit Singapore, the weather should be at the top of your list. Singapore has a tropical climate, which means it is hot and humid all year round. However, there are two distinct monsoon seasons in Singapore the Northeast Monsoon from December to early March, and the Southwest Monsoon from June to September. During the monsoon seasons, there is heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. Therefore, if you’re looking for cooler, drier weather, consider visiting Singapore between late March and early June or between late September and early December.

Cost
Another factor to consider when choosing the right time to visit Singapore is cost. Depending on when you visit, the cost of flights, accommodation, and attractions can vary. Singapore’s peak season runs from July to early September, which means prices for flights and hotels tend to be higher during this time. During Singapore’s off-peak season (December to early January), you can often find great deals on flights and accommodation. Therefore, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, consider visiting Singapore during the off-peak season.

Holiday Celebrations
Singapore is known for its vibrant and colorful celebrations, so it’s worth considering the city-state’s holiday calendar when planning your visit. One of the most popular events in Singapore is the Chinese New Year, which is celebrated in late January or early February (depending on the lunar calendar). During this time, there are parades, fireworks, street markets, and lion dances happening all over Singapore. Another popular event is the Singapore Grand Prix, which takes place in September and is a must-see for all Formula One enthusiasts. So, if you’re interested in experiencing Singapore’s vibrant culture and celebrations, time your visit to coincide with one of these events.

Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse array of flavors and dishes to tantalize your taste buds. From sizzling satay to spicy laksa, the local cuisine is enough to keep anyone happy and satisfied. But Singapore also boasts a multicultural population, and that means there’s a world of international cuisine to explore here too.

Hawker Center Delights

No visit to Singapore would be complete without heading to one of its world-renowned hawker centers. These bustling food markets are filled with vendors selling a wide variety of street food, from famous dishes like chicken rice and chili crab, to lesser-known delights like braised duck and fishball soup. One of our favorite hawker centers is Lau Pa Sat, which dates back to the 19th century and is located in the heart of the central business district. Here, you can find an array of local and international cuisines, including Indian, Malay, Chinese, and Western.

Exploring Cafes

Singapore’s cafe culture is thriving, with new cafes popping up all the time offering everything from artisanal coffee to gourmet sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for a trendy brunch spot, we recommend visiting Common Man Coffee Roasters in Robertson Quay. Their menu boasts a range of mouth-watering dishes, from smashed avocado toast to coconut waffles, all made with locally-sourced ingredients. Another great cafe to check out is Shop Wonderland, located in the hip Haji Lane neighborhood. Here, you can indulge in an array of homemade cakes and pastries while soaking up the charming, whimsical atmosphere.

Fine Dining

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Singapore has plenty of high-end restaurants to choose from. One of our favorites is Jade Palace Seafood Restaurant, located in the Forum Shopping Mall on Orchard Road. Known for its outstanding Cantonese cuisine, this elegant restaurant serves up an array of mouth-watering dishes, from crispy Peking duck to delicate wok-fried lobster. If it’s contemporary fine dining you’re after, check out the Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Chinatown. Here, you can enjoy inventive dishes like smoked quail egg and grilled king crab amidst a hip and trendy atmosphere.

International Cuisine

Singapore’s multicultural population means you can indulge in a vast array of international cuisine, and one of the best areas to explore this is the charming enclave of Little India. Here, you can find authentic Indian dishes like naan bread, tandoori chicken, and butter chicken. For Italian cuisine, head to the vibrant Robertson Quay neighborhood, where you can enjoy handmade pasta dishes at Pasta Fresca Da Salvatore. If it’s Japanese cuisine you’re after, make your way to Liang Court Mall in Clarke Quay, where you can enjoy some of the freshest sushi and sashimi in the city.

The downside of visiting Singapore is that the country is known for its steep prices, especially when it comes to accommodation. But fear not, fellow travelers! Here is a budget guide to accommodation in Singapore, including options that cater to all types of budgets.

Luxury Hotels
For those who don’t mind splurging on lavish accommodations, Singapore has many excellent luxury hotels to choose from. The Marina Bay Sands is an iconic hotel with postcard views of the city skyline and features a stunning infinity pool perched on the roof. Another option is the Fullerton Bay Hotel located in a prime location on Marina Bay. It offers an impressive rooftop bar and rooms with stunning views of the bay. However, with prices starting at $400 per night, these luxury hotels don’t come cheap.

Boutique Hotels
If you’re looking for something unique, consider staying at a boutique hotel in Singapore. The Wanderlust Hotel located in the heart of Little India offers quirky and chic accommodations in an old-school building. Another option is the Peranakan-inspired Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong, located in the culturally-rich Katong neighborhood. These boutique hotels may be slightly cheaper than luxury hotels, with prices starting at around $200 per night.

Budget Hotels
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of budget hotels in Singapore that offer decent amenities at affordable prices. Fragrance Hotel and Hotel 81 are two popular budget hotel chains in the country that offer rooms starting at around $50 to $100 per night. These hotels are great for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on location and cleanliness.

Hostels
Hostels are the perfect option for budget-conscious backpackers who want to save money and make new friends along the way. Singapore has an abundance of hostels dotted around the city, with prices starting at around $15 per night. The 5-footway.inn is one of the best options for backpackers, conveniently located within walking distance to the Chinatown MRT Station. Another option is the Dream Lodge located in the Bugis area, perfect for solo travelers who want to explore the cultural and heritage sites of Singapore.

Airbnb
Another option for budget-conscious travelers in Singapore is to use Airbnb. Here you’ll find a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to all types of travelers. Plus, you can often find unique experiences with hosts who can give you insider tips on the best places to eat, shop, or hang out. From studio apartments and private rooms to entire homes, Airbnb has something for everyone.

Haji Lane – If you’re looking for quirky and trendy gifts, head over to Haji Lane. This narrow street is packed with boutiques, vintage stores, and hip cafes. You can find everything from handmade jewelry, retro clothing, to local designer labels. Haji Lane is also a great place to take some Instagram-worthy photos with its colorful murals and graffiti.

Chinatown – Singapore’s Chinatown is a vibrant district with a mix of traditional and modern shops. You can find all sorts of souvenirs here, from Chinese tea sets, calligraphy brushes, to keychains with your Chinese zodiac sign. Be sure to check out the street markets, where vendors sell exotic fruits, spices, and snacks. You can also find a variety of Chinese New Year decorations and gifts if you happen to visit during that period.

Little India – Another colorful neighborhood to visit is Little India. You can find authentic Indian souvenirs here, such as silk sarees, bangles, and incense sticks. Check out the Mustafa Center, a 24-hour department store where you can find almost anything you need, including jewelry, electronics, and cosmetics. Don’t forget to try some Indian dishes and snacks at the nearby food stalls.

Bugis Street – This bustling shopping street is a paradise for bargain hunters. You can find affordable fashion items, accessories, and knick-knacks here. Don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors and you might get a good deal. The street is also famous for its street food, so make sure to try some local delights while you shop.

Orchard Road – If you’re looking for high-end designer labels, head over to Orchard Road. This boulevard is lined with shopping malls and department stores, such as ION Orchard, Takashimaya, and Paragon. You can find brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci here. If you’re on a budget, there are also some affordable options like H&M and Zara. The malls also have plenty of dining options, so you can take a break and refuel before you continue shopping.

Clarke Quay

A great place to start your night out in Singapore is at Clarke Quay. This popular riverside area is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs, and is one of the liveliest spots in Singapore after dark. At Clarke Quay, you can take your pick from a range of different venues, from sports bars to dance clubs to jazz bars. One of the top nightlife spots here is Attica, which features an impressive lineup of international DJs and a great dance floor.

Zouk

Another must-visit nightlife spot in Singapore is Zouk, which is located just a short distance from Clarke Quay. This iconic nightclub has been around for over 29 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With a massive dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, and a rotating lineup of international DJs, Zouk is the perfect destination for those looking to dance the night away.

Marina Bay Sands

The Marina Bay Sands complex is not only home to hotels, a casino, and a shopping mall, but it also boasts a number of nightlife options. One of the highlights is the ultra-swanky Lavo nightclub, which is located on the rooftop of the Sands SkyPark and offers stunning panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. If you prefer something more laid back, you can check out the bustling and atmospheric Spago Bar & Lounge, which features an extensive drinks menu and a chic rooftop setting.

Live Music Venues

If live music is more your thing, Singapore is home to a number of top-notch music venues. One of the best is the Esplanade Concert Hall, which hosts a variety of performances ranging from classical concerts to pop gigs. Another great option is Timbre, which is known for its live performances and chilled-out atmosphere. With several locations scattered throughout the city, including one at the scenic Botanic Gardens, Timbre is a great spot to catch some live music while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Singapore is a city with a diverse range of attractions to suit any taste. Whether it’s sun, sand, and spa treatments or stunning architecture and colorful cultural experiences, Singapore has it all. From Sentosa Island to Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Chinatown, and Haw Par Villa, you’ll never be bored when exploring this tropical paradise. With the information in this guide, you’ll be sure to make the most out of your Singaporean adventure. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and start packing your bags!