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Singapore Singapore Singapore… this city surprised the heck out of me. I’ll be the first to admit that I had more or less completely written Singapore off as a stopover destination. I knew I could expect good food, but other than that I thought I was in for nothing more than glitzy high rises, gimmicky Instagram activities, and not very much culture or energy.
I am thrilled to be able to report that I couldn’t have been more wrong. Singapore ended up being so great that we seriously regretted only staying for a short while.
I would go back to Singapore in a heartbeat, and not just as a stopover but as a destination in its own right! The history and culture of Singapore are often overlooked, but I promise it’ll be well worth your time to engage with this tiny-but-fascinating country.
This post is going to cover all the best things to do in Singapore. It’s gonna be a hefty one, so I recommend looking at the table of contents, opening tabs for later, taking notes, or maybe even just skipping all of this and buying my curated Google Maps lists that will auto-populate in your own Google Maps app (coming soon). No matter how you do it, though, by the end of this post you’ll basically be ready to hit the ground running when you touch down in Singapore. Let’s get into it.
- Things to Do in Singapore
- 1. Indulge in Singapore’s Iconic Hawker Centers
- 2. Don’t Write Off the Tourist Traps!
- 3. Wander Through Singapore’s Most Vibrant Neighborhoods
- 4. Marvel at Singapore’s Unique Architectural Styles
- 5. Immerse Yourself in Singapore’s Top Museums
- 6. Discover Singapore’s Dynamic Street Art Scene
- 7. Shop for Local Treasures and Hidden Gems
- 8. Step Into the Past at Haw Par Villa
- 9. Hike the Scenic Trails of the Southern Ridges
- 10. Cruise the River on a Singapore Boat Tour
- 11. Experience the Best of Singapore’s Performing Arts
- 12. Escape the City for a Memorable Day Trip
- 13. Explore the Unexpected Wonders of Changi Airport
- Where to Stay in Singapore
- When to Visit Singapore
- FAQs about Things to Do in Singapore
Wanna explore Singapore like a local?
Here’s a mini guide to help you explore beyond the tourist track!
Where to stay:
My favorite neighborhoods:
Can’t miss experience:
Your holy grail on-the-ground resource:
Stay connected:
More on Singapore:
Delve into Singapore
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Singapore posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip!
13 Things to Do in Singapore Like a Local
Real Talk:
Singapore – while less affected than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors – is not immune to overtourism, gentrification, and environmental damage. So please: don’t be an asshole when you travel here (or anywhere).
If you’ve made it to my blog, I’d like to think you too care about preserving the integrity of the places you visit – but I’ve seen enough disrespectful behavior from Western tourists to know it’s worth saying out loud:
If you’re going to make locals’ lives harder, just stay home.
1. Indulge in Singapore’s Iconic Hawker Centers
I probably don’t have to tell you this, but Singapore is world-renowned for its food scene.
It has that incredible quality you’ll sometimes find in cities where you can find the best food you’ve ever tried from a street cart, food court, or Michelin star restaurant depending on your vibe. One of the biggest challenges you’re going to face during your trip will be figuring out how to fit in all the foods you want to try in between all the things to do in Singapore.
The most important food-related activity will be to visit the hawker centers that Singapore is famous for, where you’ll be able to sample all the must-trip Singaporean foods on your list.
I’ve written two other complete guides on the food and food culture in Singapore, so be sure to check those out to get all the information you’ll need about what to eat and where to eat in Singapore, including everything you need to know about Hawker Centres.
If it feels like a herculean feat to get through all the food you want to sample, that’s because it can be, so I highly recommend incorporating a food tour into your itinerary.
Insider Tip
There’s no shortage of food tours in Singapore, but you’ve got a choice to make.
Many food tours cover a lot of ground in one day. The one we took (which I do highly recommend!) covered Kampong Glam, Chinatown, AND Little India. It did feel a bit hectic shuttling between locations, but we were able to see and taste a lot, and felt it was completely worth our time and money.
Your other option is to pick a tour that covers just one neighborhood. While spots like Maxwell Food Centre (Chinatown) and Tekka Centre (Little India) lean toward their respective cuisines, these and most other hawker centers offer a little bit of every cuisine.
I don’t feel like one option is inherently better than the other, but it’s worth thinking through which experience you’d prefer before committing!
Here are a few neighborhood-specific tours I’d choose next time:
Planning Cheat Sheet: Every Link You Need in One Place
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2. Don’t Write Off the Tourist Traps!
The thing about Singapore is that while there is so much more to the city than its glitz and glam and touristy areas, this ultimately is also a big part of the city, culture, and life in Singapore. While I typically will avoid the tourist areas when traveling, in Singapore – more than some other destinations – I think there’s a worthy argument to be made about making time for these places.
The Raffles Hotel
The Raffles is admittedly a bit of a gimmick, but it’s also an iconic historic hotel, so I have a bit of a soft spot for it.
Built in 1887, The Raffles is credited with being the birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail. It was also a hotspot for iconic old Hollywood guests in the 1920s and 30s.
We decided to go and get a drink—a Singapore Sling of course—in their garden because it was simply too cool of a building to not get sucked into the tourist trap of it all. Not only that, but Daniel’s grandpa actually remembers going to The Raffles for a drink when he was in the Navy during the Vietnam War.
Buyer beware: The Raffles is expensive. Like incredibly expensive. Like, so expensive that we ended up getting whiskey sours instead of Singapore Slings because it was too pricey. Also, I don’t really know how to put this delicately but… this is where I encountered the largest number of truly obnoxious westerners during my trip to Singapore, so I wouldn’t exactly call it a local experience.
That being said, I enjoyed getting to peek inside the hotel a bit and trying the famous drink. I’m glad I went, but I probably wouldn’t return on my next visit to Singapore.
The Marina Bay Sands
Imagine if you put a casino/hotel from the Las Vegas Strip right on the Singapore waterfront. The Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is basically exactly that, so if that kind of thing doesn’t appeal to you, super valid – keep scrolling.
The resort was opened in 2010 and is probably most well known as an eye-catching part of Singapore’s skyline, with its three towers topped by a giant boat. Inside the Marina Bay Sands you’ll find a casino, more than 80 bars and restaurants, the SkyPark observation deck, a theatre for musicals and concerts, the ArtScience Museum, and a luxury mall that has a canal running through it that you can take a gondola ride on… Who needs Vegas anyway?
The main draw, in my opinion, is sadly only a perk for guests of the hotel, and to be honest this alone could convince me to stay there for at least a night next time. The rooftop infinity pool gives you insane views of the city from a truly luxurious pool and lounging experience. I’m honestly so jealous of people who have gotten to watch the sunrise or sunset from this spot, and hopefully that’ll be me next time!
The Gardens by the Bay
This is one of the things to do in Singapore I actually really wish we’d had time for, and I’m going to be sure to make time for the next time I’m in Singapore. The Gardens by the Bay is one of the most visited attractions in the city, and it’s easy to see why.
More than 100 hectares of green space and garden right on the waterfront in the heart of central Singapore is not something you might expect, which is exactly why it’s so cool. Some of the more eye-catching features are the Supertrees (which go up to 50 meters high), the Skyway that connects them from above, and the Cloud Forest Dome (a massive climate controlled greenhouse basically).
Despite only opening in 2012, the Gardens by the Bay have cemented themselves as a critical part of Singapore’s landscape, and I think they’re well worth a visit.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
If the Gardens by the Bay are feeling a bit too touristy for your taste (or if you’re a fan of the Crazy Rich Asians trilogy), I recommend checking out the Singapore Botanic Gardens instead. Located a bit out of the center (in the same green space that the Tyersall Park mansion is meant to be located in the books/movie) the Botanic Gardens was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015. It’s only slightly smaller than the Gardens by the Bay and a lot less fantastical, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! Here you’ll find landscaped gardens, rainforests, an orchid garden, heritage trees, and colonial era-buildings, among other things.
Basically, if the Gardens by the Bay represent Singapore’s glitzy and modern present and future, the Botanic Gardens definitely bring you back to a historic and colonial past. Actually, it was founded in 1859 on the same site of a different botanic garden planned by Stamford Raffles (yes, that Raffles!), and has historically played a pretty strong role in the rubber industry across Asia in the 20th century.
I think this is a pretty cool thing to do in Singapore that combines a calm and nature-y vibe with a historical insight into the city.
Merlion Park
There’s really not a ton to do at the Merlion Park, and I also don’t really think it’s worth going out of your way to visit this, but if you happen to be in the area, you may as well stop by! It’s basically just a giant merlion statue along the river. It shoots water out of its mouth. Cute photo op and references the city’s history as a fishing village and its current moniker: the Lion City.
St. Andrews Cathedral
St. Andrews Cathedral is an Anglican church dating from the 1860s whose construction was partly funded by donations from Stamford Raffles (you’ll hear about him a lot). It was used as a hospital by the Japanese during their occupation of Singapore in WWII.
While I’m not typically a huge fan of churches while traveling, I am a huge fan of buildings that feel out of place with their surroundings.
The church is located really close to all the modern glitzy buildings of downtown Singapore, so it’s really strange to see it in this context! It kind of reminds me of the German church I saw during my time in Namibia (coming soon). Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for this church while you’re exploring downtown!
Clarke Quay & Robertson Quay
And finally, pretty much every city has a Clarke Quay / Robertson Quay type of neighborhood – basically a historically significant industrial area turned shopping and nightlife zone. The Singapore River area that these quays straddle was initially a trade hub in the 1800s, before being revitalized into the commercial centers they are today.
To be totally honest, Clarke Quay is kind of my personal nightmare while traveling, but it feels crazy to not mention it in this guide to Singapore, plus I know that some people really like a busy vibe! It sits right on the river and you can find all sorts of bars, restaurants, clubs, live music and loads of shops.
If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back and upmarket (where you’re also much more likely rub shoulders with locals than backpackers), Robertson Quay is likely more your vibe!
See the Sights for Free!
Want to knock out Singapore’s must-see landmarks early in your trip?
A free walking tour is the perfect way to get your bearings, cover a ton of sights in one go, and save money for deeper exploration later. Just remember—guides work for tips, so plan to show your appreciation!
3. Wander Through Singapore’s Most Vibrant Neighborhoods
If you’ve read the blog even once before you may be able to guess what my personal favorite tip for things to do in Singapore is going to be. I think that the most valuable part of traveling is wandering around and getting a more authentic feel for wherever you are, much more than seeing all the tourist sights.
Singapore is a small but incredibly diverse city with distinct neighborhoods, each offering something unique. Here’s a quick rundown of the best areas to get off the tourist path and into a more local scene (if you want the full guide you’ll have to check out my Singapore neighborhood guide):
Chinatown
Singapore’s Chinatown is obviously a hotspot to check some of the items off of your food bucket list, especially at the Maxwell Food Centre (where you’ll have to get the Hainanese Chicken Rice), Ann Siang Hill & Club Street, and Keong Saik Road.
You’ll also be able to shop for traditional Chinese medicines and herbs, see traditional shophouses, street markets, and other heritage sites.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the impressive Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple as well.
Little India
Little India is where we stayed when we were in Singapore. I’m sure it takes no explaining that you will find incredible Indian food here, especially at the Tekka Centre. There are a ton of little stalls to explore selling all kinds of traditional goods and textiles, and lots of colorful interesting buildings to see. This is also where one of the more interesting theatre experiences in Singapore takes place.
Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is where Singapore’s Malay, Arab, and hipster cultures collide in the best way possible. The grand Sultan Mosque sits central in the neighborhood, while Arab Street is lined with fabric shops, restaurants, and shisha lounges.
One street over, Haji Lane is ideal for indie boutiques, vintage shops, street art, and quirky cafés that spill onto the sidewalk. It’s a little more on the beaten path nowadays but it’s still full of energy and worthwhile. Whether you’re here for culture, shopping, or just the vibe, this area is a must-visit.
Katong / Joo Chiat
Katong is one of Singapore’s most charming neighborhoods, as well as one of my personal favorites. Centered around the lively Joo Chiat Road, here is where you’ll find a seamless blending of Peranakan heritage with a laid-back, coastal vibe. It’s a must-visit for food lovers – think legendary laksa, old-school kaya toast, and modern cafes in colorful shophouses.
Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru is a bit more out of the center than the other areas on this list, but it’s also a lot more local.
This area is one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates, and is now one of the trendier neighborhoods in the city.
It’s known for its incredible Art Deco architecture and the Tiong Bahru hawker center.
You can find cute independent shops, amazing food and cafes, and lots of street art in Tiong Bahru.
Tanjong Pagar
Tanjong Pagar is a cute little neighborhood near Chinatown that known for its shophouses, upscale restaurants, and lively nightlife. The area is home to heritage buildings, chic cafes, and iconic skyscrapers like Guoco Tower. We found a ton of cute book stores and indie shops to explore around here, as well as lots of cool buildings.
This is just scratching the surface for the different neighborhoods in Singapore, so be sure to check out my full guide to where to stay in Singapore for more!
4. Marvel at Singapore’s Unique Architectural Styles
If you love architecture you’re probably going to have a good time in Singapore. Whether you’re strolling through heritage neighborhoods or taking in the latest urban masterpieces (sometimes you’ll be seeing both at the same time), Singapore’s diverse architectural landscape reflects its rich history and multicultural influences. As you explore the city, here’s what to look for:
- Peranakan Shophouses – You’ll mostly see these in areas like Katong and Chinatown. These are some of the more iconic visuals of Singapore architecture, so there’s a good chance you’ll recognize them. These colorful, intricately decorated row houses feature pastel facades, floral tiles, and wooden shutters and traditionally have a shop on the ground level, with the residential portion up top.
- Art Deco – I love art deco design and architecture, so it was super exciting to learn that there’s a lot of Art Deco in Singapore. The best place to see examples of this is in Tiong Bahru, one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates and now one of the more off-the-beaten-path (for tourists) but trendy neighborhoods.
- Modernist & Brutalist – Post-independence Singapore saw functional, concrete-heavy designs emerge, particularly in large apartment blocks and buildings like Golden Mile Complex. I think these are visually really interesting, especially for photography, and are also a key part of Singapore’s history.
- Contemporary – Though it’s not my preferred style, it’s impossible to not appreciate the contemporary architecture of Singapore. There are some incredibly cool skyscrapers around, not to mention the more famous locations like Marina Bay Sands.
Each district in Singapore offers a unique window into its architectural evolution—keep an eye out as you wander!
5. Immerse Yourself in Singapore’s Top Museums
I know museums aren’t for everyone, but personally I love to visit at least one – usually several – of them when I visit a new place. If you want my full breakdown of all the ins and outs of Singapore’s museums, you can check out my full Singapore Museum guide here, but in the meantime here’s a quick selection of my top picks.
- National Museum of Singapore – a deep dive into Singapore’s history through immersive exhibits
- Asian Civilisations Museum – showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Asia, particularly China, India, and Southeast Asia.
- Peranakan Museum – beautifully curated, explores Peranakan culture, traditions, and history.
- National Gallery Singapore – holds the world’s largest collection of modern Southeast Asian art, housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings.
- MINT Museum of Toys – an impressive collection of vintage toys from around the world.
6. Discover Singapore’s Dynamic Street Art Scene
While you’re walking around the diverse landscape of Singapore it would be impossible to miss the array of street art that covers the walls in most, if not all, neighborhoods in the city. My favorite pieces of street art were the ones that are depicting some sort of story or history about the area it’s placed in. Chinatown and Tiong Bahru had some of the coolest pieces, in my opinion. If you happen to take a walking tour through the city your guide will probably point out some of the cooler ones, and be able to tell you the context behind them!
7. Shop for Local Treasures and Hidden Gems
Listen, I’ve made no secret of the fact that I love to shop when I’m traveling. I genuinely think that shopping at independent stores, finding local makers, and exploring vintage shops/markets is one of the last guaranteed ways to interact with local culture and people in a more genuine way. Plus, it ensures that your money is going into the hands of people (rather than major corporations).
Singapore may be teeming with big name shops, but the independent stores are not messing around either, and you are not going to want to miss out. If you want the full scoop, check out my Singapore shopping guide, but for now here’s a quick selection of some of my top picks:
- Sifr Aromatics – a really cool and one of a kind parfumerie. You can choose from their existing scents or book a custom creation session. We actually bought one of our all time favorite perfumes from here, the Burma scent, and I’m constantly wishing I could get more shipped to me.
- A Vintage Tale – a well-curated vintage shop offering retro clothing, accessories, and collectibles.
- Cat Socrates – an eclectic store with a little bit of everything. Probably a good spot for a souvenir or gift, and keep your eyes peeled for the cat!
- Littered with Books – An indie bookstore boasting a diverse collection of second-hand and new titles – I’ll admit I did some damage here…
- Sojao – a sustainable lifestyle brand with some truly incredible ceramics (I’m still sad I didn’t buy them).
- By My Old School – a nostalgic boutique celebrating classic school-day memories with retro-inspired stationery, memorabilia, and quirky lifestyle items.
8. Step Into the Past at Haw Par Villa
Located a bit out of the center of Singapore you’ll find Haw Par Villa, a strange and quirky piece of Singapore’s history.
This odd little theme park was actually built by the creators of Tiger Balm in the 30s as a gift to the community and is weirdly meant to teach traditional Chinese values and morals through all the fantastical dioramas.
The villa started to grow in popularity in the 50s after the Japanese occupation ended. It’s an odd little attraction that feels really unique and special to the city.
9. Hike the Scenic Trails of the Southern Ridges
We didn’t manage to do the Southern Ridges while we were in Singapore given they were partially closed, but it was one of the top things I wanted to do, and hope to get to next time. The Southern Ridges are 10 km of 5 connected parks and nature reserves that you can explore via elevated walkways and nice trails.
The Henderson Waves is one of the most impressive bits, so if you only want to walk part of it (understandable considering it’s so goddamn hot year-round) that might be a good choice. Mount Faber Park, and the Canopy walk are also good options. Make sure you bring some water!
Make the Most of Your Southern Ridges VIsit with a Small Group Tour
Embark on a guided tour of the Southern Ridges to fully experience its natural beauty and iconic landmarks. This tour covers Mount Faber, the Henderson Waves bridge, and more, offering insights into the area’s rich history and ecology. It’s an excellent way to explore the highlights of the Southern Ridges without the hassle of planning your route.
10. Cruise the River on a Singapore Boat Tour
A boat tour is one of the best ways to see Marina Bay, the iconic Merlion, and the Singapore River, all without fighting through crowds in the fabled Singaporean heat and humidity.
There are a few different options, but the traditional bumboat cruises are probably the most popular. These old-school wooden boats were originally used to transport goods along the river, and now they make for a pretty scenic and relaxed way to take in the city’s mix of colonial and modern architecture.
If you’re looking for something a little more special, sunset and evening cruises are a great way to see Singapore’s skyline when it’s at its most dramatic (and, let’s be real, to enjoy some much-needed relief from the heat).
Would I go out of my way just to do this? Probably not. But if you’re already near Clarke Quay or Marina Bay and want to take a break from walking, hopping on a boat for an hour is a pretty solid way to soak up the sights.
11. Experience the Best of Singapore’s Performing Arts
Seeing a show, performance, or film can be a really cool way to see a different side to a city. While most people might think about big Broadway-style productions as the only option for these types of experiences – which you can find in Singapore! – there are loads of smaller and more local productions to choose from.
We chose to do an immersive audio show in Little India called New World’s End, which has very sadly closed after a long, successful run in July 2024. Produced by OH! Stories, an independent Singapore-based art collective, New World’s End was an audio-guided experience taking place throughout the Little India neighborhood that narrated a love story and took visitors back to 1960s Singapore.
The tour taught us a bunch of history of the area and we saw parts of it we probably wouldn’t have explored otherwise, like the now-defunct New World Amusement Park, which was a significant landmark from 1923 to 1987.
We really enjoyed this experience! I’ve never done something like it before and it was a cool way to see the area! As bummed as I am that I can’t recommend you experience New World’s End yourself, keep an eye out for the next production from OH! Stories.
Alternatively you could visit the The Asian Film Archive at Oldham Theatre. The aim here is to preserve and showcase Asian cinema through classics and contemporary works, as well as retrospectives and panel discussions. I’m not usually personally a big film person, but even I have to admit this seems like a cool thing to do in Singapore that is definitely off the tourist track.
There are two other well-regarded theatre companies in Singapore – Wild Rice Theatre Company and Singapore Repertory Theatre – that perform a mix of Broadway hits and new works by Singaporean artists. We didn’t get to see a show at either of these when we visited as the dates of their productions just didn’t line up with our trip, but we certainly will next time!
If you’re interested in a flashier, Broadway-style experience, check out the Esplanade Theatre for its program of incredible concerts and performances.
12. Escape the City for a Memorable Day Trip
If the itinerary allows for it, taking a little day trip is always one of the best ways to get a broader look at wherever you’re visiting. Singapore is an interesting case, being a city-state and an island, meaning many of the close options would require going to an entirely new country (which may be tricky, visa-wise, for some visitors). However, there are some good options in Singapore that don’t require you to leave the country!
- Pulau Ubin: If you want a glimpse of what Singapore was like in the past, Pulau Ubin is the place to go. This rustic island is known for its untouched nature, old-school kampong (village) houses, excellent cycling trails and great for those who love the outdoors and want a break from city life.
- Kusu Island: This small, tranquil island is known for its cultural and spiritual significance. “Kusu” means “turtle” in Chinese, and the island is home to a famous Chinese temple (Da Bo Gong Temple) and three Malay keramat shrines.
- St. John’s Island: This island is known for its serene atmosphere and is a favorite for picnics, fishing, and swimming. Once used as a quarantine center, it’s now a peaceful getaway with walking trails and holiday bungalows.
- Sentosa: Singapore’s ultimate leisure island, packed with attractions. You can lounge on beaches like Siloso or Palawan, visit Resorts World Sentosa (home to Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark), or check out historical sites like Fort Siloso. This is by far the easiest to get to as well.
- Kampong Lorong Buangkok: This is Singapore’s last surviving traditional kampong (village) and offers a rare glimpse into the country’s past before rapid urbanization. Located on the mainland, this small community has wooden houses, lush greenery, and a laid-back atmosphere—completely different from modern Singapore.
13. Explore the Unexpected Wonders of Changi Airport
Odds are that you’ll be in the Singapore airport on either arrival or departure, but probably both. I realize it’s a bit weird to add an airport to the list of things to see and do in Singapore but the Changi Airport is kind of an incredible sight to see, and really is a hallmark of the city. We ended up having about 6 hours to kill in the Singapore airport due to a layover on our way home, so we became very acquainted with the space, and honestly I wouldn’t be mad to do it again.
The main iconic attraction is the Rain Vortex, which is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, and is honestly a show stopping sight to see. It’s also surrounded by a bunch of lush greenery. There is also a shocking array of restaurants and food courts to choose from. We actually had such a good meal in the airport, which is obviously not something you can normally count on in an airport.
If you’re traveling with children there are a ton of attractions to keep them busy, and if you aren’t there are more shops than you’ll know what to do with, so don’t be afraid to get to the airport a little early and see what all the fuss is about.
Insider Tip
Many airlines allow baggage to be checked up to 24 hours in advance from Singapore, precisely to enable travelers to take advantage of all the Jewel has to offer. Perhaps aim to head there the night before your departure flight and stay at one of the several hotels on-site; or aim purposefully for a long layover on the return trip as we did!
Where to Stay in Singapore
Singapore has a ridiculous number of hotels, but if I had to pick just a couple, these would be the ones. Whether you’re after a stylish boutique stay or full-blown luxury, I’ve got you covered.
For more great places to stay in Singapore, check out my full post about the best Singapore hotels!
KēSa House, The Unlimited Collection
$ | 4 Star | Tanjong Pagar
Housed in a beautifully restored row of heritage shophouses, KēSa House is where old-world charm meets contemporary comfort. This boutique stay preserves its architectural soul—think elegant archways, shuttered windows, and a touch of colonial nostalgia—while offering sleek, modern rooms designed for efficiency. Guests love the communal kitchen, free snacks, and unbeatable Chinatown location, putting you steps from buzzing cafés and MRT access. Just a heads-up: soundproofing isn’t perfect, so light sleepers may want to plan accordingly.
Photo: Booking.com
$$ | 4 Star | Orchard Road
The Standard, Singapore delivers exactly what you’d expect—bold design, playful luxury, and a touch of cheekiness—all in a surprisingly peaceful spot off Orchard Road. The rooms are smartly designed (though on the smaller side), the pool scene is effortlessly cool, and the service is warm without being over-the-top. It’s boutique, it’s stylish, and it’s got just the right amount of personality.
Photo: Booking.com
$$$ | 5 Star | Chinatown
QT Singapore is bold, playful, and effortlessly cool—exactly what you’d expect from the QT brand. Set in the heart of Chinatown, it blends modern colonial charm with a vibrant, design-forward aesthetic. The rooftop bar and pool are definite highlights, offering killer views and a lively yet laid-back vibe. While service can be hit-or-miss, the stylish rooms, buzzing location, and overall atmosphere make it a solid pick for a chic city stay.
Photo: Booking.com
When to Visit Singapore:
Weather & Best Times to Go
Let’s get one thing out of the way: Singapore is hot. Always.
If you’re hoping for a magical “cool season,” I hate to break it to you, but that doesn’t exist here. The city sits just one degree north of the equator, so you’re looking at year-round heat, humidity, and the occasional torrential downpour for good measure.
That said, some months are slightly more bearable than others.
The Best Time to Visit Singapore
Singapore’s weather doesn’t change much, but there are two main monsoon seasons that might influence your plans:
- Northeast Monsoon (December–March): Expect more rain, strong winds, and higher humidity in December and January. February and March tend to be drier, making them some of the best months to visit (if you can handle the occasional shower).
- Southwest Monsoon (June–September): Rain showers happen, but they’re usually shorter and less intense. However, this is also when haze from forest fires in Indonesia can occasionally cause air quality issues—so if you have respiratory concerns, keep that in mind.
April, May, and October tend to be the hottest months, with humidity at its worst and temperatures hovering around 31-33°C (88-91°F) every single day – so if you’re sensitive to heat, you might want to plan accordingly.
How to Survive the Heat in Singapore
No matter when you visit, you’ll be dealing with humidity, so here are a few survival tips:
- Plan indoor breaks strategically. Singapore has some of the best air-conditioned shopping malls and museums in the world, so use them as pit stops.
- Embrace the outdoor fans. This was an innovation I was super impressed by in Singapore: hawker centres, restaurant terraces, and public spaces often have covered areas with fans that keep the air moving – a very welcome relief from the otherwise unbearable heat.
- Time your outdoor sightseeing wisely. Go early in the morning or in the evening. Afternoons can feel like walking into a sauna when you step outside.
- Carry an umbrella. Not just for rain, but for shade. Trust me, it helps… and you’ll see locals doing the same!
Long story short? Singapore is a year-round destination – just be prepared to sweat, dodge some rain, and embrace the heat. If you can deal with that, you’re going to have an amazing time.
FAQs about Things to Do in Singapore
Is 3 days enough for Singapore?
Yes, 3 days is enough for Singapore to see all the major sights, experience the food scene and get a decent feel for different parts of the city, but you’ll have to be okay with a packed itinerary! Singapore isn’t that large, and it’s pretty well-connected, making it easy to explore efficiently.
If you really pack in the activities on two of the days you’ll even have time to make a day trip for the third, but if you want to have time during the day to head back to your hotel and shower, hydrate, or nap you may want to aim for 4-5 days instead.
What activities can be done in Singapore?
Singapore is packed with things to do, whether you’re into food, culture, nature, or adventure. This ultimate guide covers the best things to do in Singapore, but if you want a TL;DR version try these iconic attractions:
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Gardens by the Bay
Chinatown
Little India
Kampong Glam & Haji Lane
Haw Par Villa
How many days should you do in Singapore?
The ideal number of days in Singapore is really going to depend on your travel style and interests, but a sweet spot for most people is around 3 to 5 days.
In three days, you can hit the major highlights—exploring Marina Bay, visiting Gardens by the Bay, wandering through at least a few of the neighborhoods, and enjoying the vibrant food scene.
If you have five days, you can take things at a more relaxed pace, fitting in Sentosa Island, day trips to Pulau Ubin or the Southern Ridges, and discovering more of the city’s hidden gems.
Singapore is compact, so even a short visit can be packed with incredible experiences, but if you love food, culture, and nature, a few extra days will give you time to fully appreciate everything this city has to offer.
Is Singapore cheap for tourists?
Well, to put it bluntly… no not at all. Singapore is definitely not considered cheap for tourists, or for its residents to be honest. It’s pretty well known for having a high cost of living, and between food, accommodation, and any shopping you might want to do it can certainly add up.
That being said, a trip to Singapore doesn’t have to break the bank. If you stay outside of the center and eat cheaply (which is easy to do well), you can still do alright for yourself.
However, if you want a truly cheap vacation, other Southeast Asian destinations, Like Vietnam (coming soon), are going to be a better bet.
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Are you ready to explore Singapore?
I hope that this post about things to do in Singapore has been helpful in planning your trip to Singapore! As I said before, Singapore is literally teeming with things to do that, in my opinion, go far too underexplored by most travelers.
If you have any feedback or want to share your experience traveling around Singapore, please leave me a comment!
As always you can always find me on Instagram (tag me in your travel content!), Youtube, or Pinterest.
Happy traveling!
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