Why go to Singapore
Singapore packs futuristic gardens, colonial architecture and four cultures into a tiny island. It is spotless, safe and very easy, and its hawker centres are some of the best value meals on earth.
Best time to visit Singapore
Singapore is hot and humid year-round. February to April tends to be drier and sunnier. November to January brings the wetter monsoon, with heavy afternoon showers. Festivals like Chinese New Year and Deepavali are spectacular.
Top things to see
Gardens by the Bay
Supertrees and cooled conservatories; stay for the light show.
Marina Bay
Skyline walks and the Merlion.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A World Heritage site with the National Orchid Garden.
Chinatown
Temples, shophouses and Maxwell Food Centre.
Little India
Colour, spice shops and Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
National Gallery Singapore
Southeast Asian art in two landmark buildings.
Things to do in Singapore
- Eat at a different hawker centre every meal
- Walk the Southern Ridges treetop trail
- Visit the Night Safari
- Explore Kampong Glam and Haji Lane
- Day-trip to Pulau Ubin by bumboat
Local experiences
- Order kaya toast and kopi for breakfast
- Reserve a hawker table with a tissue packet, local style
- Try chilli crab at the East Coast
- Join a Peranakan food walk in Katong
Where to eat in Singapore
Dishes to try: Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chilli crab, char kway teow, roti prata, kaya toast.
Maxwell Food CentreHawker
Home of Tian Tian chicken rice.
Lau Pa SatHawker
Victorian market with a satay street at night.
Burnt EndsModern barbecue
Wood-fired Australian barbecue in Dempsey.
CandlenutPeranakan
Peranakan cooking in Dempsey.
OdetteFine dining
French tasting menus at the National Gallery.
Where to stay in Singapore
Raffles SingaporeLuxury
The 1887 colonial icon, home of the Singapore Sling.
Marina Bay SandsLuxury
The rooftop infinity pool.
Hotel Indigo Singapore KatongMid-range
Peranakan-inspired hotel in a heritage district.
Best areas to stay
Marina Bay
Skyline views and major sights.
Chinatown
Central, characterful and good value.
Orchard
Shopping and transport links.
Katong
Local heritage and food.
3 days in Singapore
Day 1: Marina Bay
Day 2: Heritage districts
Day 3: Gardens and wildlife
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Chinese New YearJanuary or February
Chinatown light-ups and street bazaars.
Singapore Grand PrixSeptember or October
Formula 1's original night race.
DeepavaliOctober or November
Little India glows with lights.
Getting around
The MRT is fast, clean and covers the island; tap in with a contactless card. Changi Airport is 25 minutes from the city and an attraction itself, with the Jewel waterfall.
Practical information
- Plug types
- G (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 999 (police), 995 (ambulance and fire)
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
Tipping: Not expected; 10% service charge is usually added. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Fines for littering and eating on the MRT are enforced
- Chewing gum is restricted for sale
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Carry an umbrella for sudden downpours
Singapore travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Singapore?
The best months are usually Feb–Apr. Singapore is hot and humid year-round. February to April tends to be drier and sunnier. November to January brings the wetter monsoon, with heavy afternoon showers. Festivals like Chinese New Year and Deepavali are spectacular.
How many days do you need in Singapore?
Plan on 3 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Singapore?
The local currency is the Singapore dollar (SGD). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Singapore cost per day?
Roughly US$90 per person per day on a budget, US$220 mid-range and US$650 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Singapore?
Local favourites include Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chilli crab, char kway teow, roti prata, kaya toast.
What plug adapter do I need for Singapore?
Singapore uses plug type G at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
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