Why Explore Singapore?

Singapore is a modern tropical city featuring skyscrapers, shaded pathways, and immaculate public transport with elevators and escalators everywhere. It's often likened to New York City, but it's cleaner, safer, and easier to navigate. Every train station is equipped with elevators and escalators, making it a breeze for travelers. After a decade of annual visits, I felt compelled to share my insights on what to do in Singapore.

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Is Singapore Considered a Country?

Indeed, Singapore is a sovereign city-state in Southeast Asia, gaining independence from Malaysia on August 9, 1965.

This former British colony is a vibrant cultural hub, with 75% of its population being Chinese, followed by Malays and Indians. The constitution recognizes four official languages: English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin, but English is widely spoken, with many locals being bilingual or multilingual. This cultural diversity has contributed to Singapore's exceptional culinary scene.

One standout feature of this island nation is its abundant green spaces—nearly half of Singapore is parks and gardens. The public transport system is both efficient and affordable, making exploration enjoyable. Singapore is also incredibly clean and safe, boasting drinkable tap water!

While it has a reputation for high costs, there are many budget-friendly ways to experience the city-state. Plus, its airport is considered the best in the world, making it an ideal stopover for long-haul travelers!

Having visited Singapore more than a dozen times in the last ten years, I always find something new. Read on for my travel guide featuring the best experiences in Singapore without overspending.

Planning Your Visit

Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD) Best Time to Visit: Anytime. The weather is generally warm and humid, with June and July being the hottest months. Travel Insurance: Consider SafetyWing travel medical insurance for coverage against accidents and delays.

Mobile eSIM Card: Get reliable global connectivity without the hassle of a physical SIM card.

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Top Free Activities to Enjoy in Singapore

Experience a free light and sound performance nightly at the Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay.

Merlion Park features the country's unofficial mascot, an 8.6-meter tall Merlion statue, symbolizing Singapore's heritage. The name translates to "Lion City" in Sanskrit, making this a prime photo spot for the skyline and Marina Bay Sands.

Gardens By the Bay is a must-see green haven, home to the famous Supertree Grove. While the gardens are free to explore, entry to the indoor gardens and the Supertree canopy walkway requires a ticket. Don't miss the complimentary light and sound show, Garden Rhapsody, at 7:45 and 8:45 p.m.

Marina Bay Sands boasts an impressive three-tower hotel topped by a cruise ship-shaped structure. You can stroll through the hotel or enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar for stunning views, with an attached mall to browse.

Gardens by the Bay.

Visit the colorful Sri Mariamman Temple and Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery in Singapore, both free to enter.

Wander through Chinatown and check out the iconic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum along with the vibrant Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, built in 1872. The Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery is a stunning Buddhist temple complex located a bit off the beaten path.

Haw Par Villa offers a unique experience as a Buddhist hell park filled with over a thousand statues—definitely an intriguing visit, and entry is free.

Mustafa is a six-story mall in Little India packed with an astonishing variety of goods, making it a fascinating place to explore.

The Jewel at Changi Airport features the world's largest indoor waterfall, the HSBC Rain Vortex, and connects the airport terminals with a shopping mall.

The Peranakan terrace houses on Joo Chiat Road and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are two of the best photography spots.

The Peranakan terrace houses on Joo Chiat Road showcase colorful historic architecture, ideal for morning photo ops. For the best shots, set your GPS to either 19 Koon Seng Road or 287 Joo Chiat Road.

Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the National Orchid Garden—an absolute highlight!

Haji Lane is one of the most colorful streets in Singapore, lined with shops and eateries—perfect for photos.

Best Parks, Walks, and Nature Reserves

The TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir is located within Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

Singapore boasts a multitude of parks and nature trails—over 47% of the island is green! Start your explorations early to escape the heat; all trails are easily reachable via public transport.

Central Catchment Nature Reserve features the MacRitchie Reservoir, the largest in Singapore, and offers the renowned Treetop Walk, a 25-meter-high suspension bridge along 20 kilometers of trails.

The Southern Ridges is a 10-kilometer trail that includes the Henderson Waves, the highest bridge in Singapore, creating a delightful forest walk. Start at Harbour Front MRT for a downhill finish.

Here's a map.

Fort Canning Park is rich in history, once home to the country's early rulers. Explore its heritage through self-guided walks, featuring historical gardens, sculptures, and the Fort Gate—remnants of the colonial fort. Instagrammers will love the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel, though expect a line for the perfect shot.

With 350 parks and even more green spaces, I can't name them all, but a few standout locations include Labrador Nature Reserve and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, both accessible via public transport. For more park info, visit Nparks.

Best Beaches to Visit

Sentosa Island features three popular man-made beaches: Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong Beach.

Interestingly, most beaches in Singapore are manmade. A top beach destination is the island resort of Sentosa, home to Universal Studios and an aquarium. For a quieter option, check out Changi Beach, a beautiful strip of white sand in Eastern Singapore, ideal for running and cycling.

Top Museums to Explore

While Singapore has fantastic museums, foreign visitors usually pay admission except during special events. I particularly enjoyed the Peranakan Museum, which provides deep insights into the culture of Southeast Asia's Peranakan communities—a must-see for cultural enthusiasts. The National Museum of Singapore, established in 1849, is another excellent choice.

Accommodation Options in Singapore

Enjoy a free nightly light, water, and sound show outside Marina Bay Sands at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., with an extra show at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Visit the site for details.

Accommodation can be pricey in Singapore. The budget-friendly areas include Little India, Chinatown, and Joo Chiat, where hostels start at around $30-40 SGD ($22-29 USD) and hotels from $200 SGD ($148 USD). My preferred lodging is 30 Bencoolen, a modern, clean hotel near the Bencoolen MRT, featuring a pool, gym, and laundry facilities. Its location is perfect for a 20-30 minute walk to Chinatown or downtown.

If you're looking to indulge, consider iconic hotels like Raffles Singapore, Fullerton Bay Hotel, and Marina Bay Sands.

Must-Try Dining Experiences

Sample local favorites like chicken rice and kaya toast, two iconic Singaporean dishes.

The most affordable dining in Singapore can be found at hawker centers, which blend community space with food courts. Popular dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, kaya toast, carrot cake, and Laksa.

Here are some of my favorite eateries:

  • Ya Yun Kaya Toast: Delight in their steamed kaya toast and other breakfast options.
  • Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant: A huge dim sum spot with a fast-moving line—cash only!
  • Tiong Bahru Bakery: A charming French-style bakery perfect for breakfast and lunch; their granola is a highlight.
  • Tim Ho Wan: A Hong Kong chain famous for its barbecue pork bao—opt for the to-go window to skip the line.
  • Chinatown Complex Food Center and Maxwell Food Center: Renowned hawker centers in Chinatown.

Craft Beer Scene in Singapore

Singapore boasts a vibrant craft beer culture. Since alcohol isn't cheap, look for Happy Hour deals for savings. Regular prices start at $16+ SGD ($12 USD) outside of these hours. Duty-free shops at the airport offer a chance to buy craft beer at lower prices. Here are my top places for a pint:

  • The Beer People Co.: A newer venue featuring over 150 craft beer options and tasty Thai food—my current favorite!
  • Smith Street Taps: A craft beer stall in Chinatown Complex Food Center, serving beers in a lively, dive-bar atmosphere.
  • Tap: Offers the most affordable craft beer in town, with a selection on 20 taps and food available.
  • Druggists: A trendy bar with a solid craft beer selection, albeit at slightly higher prices.

Vibrant Haji Lane is a popular destination for shopping and dining, adjacent to the Sultan Mosque, open to visitors.

Do You Need Travel Medical Insurance for Singapore?

Absolutely! Travel medical insurance is crucial for any international trip, covering potential issues from injuries to delays.

I recommend SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance, which offers no-deductible coverage across 180+ countries for travelers aged 69 and under. The daily cost is minimal, ensuring access to hospitals abroad.

Additional benefits include coverage for lost luggage, over 12-hour travel delays, and injuries incurred during sports or leisure. You can also opt for adventure sports coverage and theft protection.

Is Public Transport Available in Singapore?

Yes, Singapore features a comprehensive public transport system of underground trains (MRT) and buses, making it easy to get around in about 30 minutes, except for the airport and western regions. MRT fares range from $1-3 USD, with a $2 USD fare from the airport to Bencoolen MRT. For convenience, use a contactless bank card or purchase passes.

Is Uber Operational in Singapore?

No, instead, taxis and Grab, the leading rideshare service in Southeast Asia, are available.

Where to Get the Cheapest SIM Card in Singapore?

Steer clear of overpriced SIM cards at the airport, which range from $30-50 SGD ($22-37 USD). Instead, opt for an e-SIM from Airalo for instant activation upon arrival. If your phone doesn't support eSIM, visit a 7-Eleven in town for a much cheaper option ($14 SGD/$10 USD). Keep in mind that e-SIMs may require a regional package rather than a country-specific one.

For more, check out my guide on eSIM cards.

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How Many Days Should You Spend in Singapore?

Allocate two days for exploring the marina and Chinatown, plus another day for visiting green spaces. If your budget allows, a week can be filled with activities. Changi Airport is the best in the world, making it a perfect layover stop!

Is Chewing Gum Prohibited in Singapore?

Yes, chewing gum is illegal in Singapore. This law stemmed from issues with gum damaging the public transport system. The strict regulations contribute to the city's pristine cleanliness, making it one of the cleanest cities globally.

Are Laws Strict in Singapore?

When you arrive in Singapore, expect a warning from the pilot about strict penalties for drug trafficking. Following the law is essential; standard global laws are enforced, so avoid littering, jaywalking, and public spitting or urination.

Can You Consume Alcohol in Public in Singapore?

Yes, alcohol consumption is generally permitted in public spaces, although it's restricted from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. due to past incidents. Additional restrictions apply in certain areas on weekends. More details can be found in a local news article.