Singapore

Singapore

A garden city of hawker feasts and glass towers.

Local time
UTC+8
Population
5.9M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$
Expensive
  • Food$$$$$About $49 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
  • Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $112 a night for two
  • Transport$$$$$About $6.3 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇸🇬 SGD =
Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

SINSingapore Changi International AirportMain hub, about 19 km east of the centre.
HowCostTime
MRTCity HallS$2.3045-55 min
Cross-platform transfer at Tanah Merah; last city-bound trains end before midnight.
Public busCity centreS$2-360-80 min
Cheapest but slow; good if you have time.
TaxiCity centreS$20-3020-30 min
Includes about S$5 airport surcharge; 50% more from 1-6AM.
Grab / GojekCity centreS$20-3520-35 min
Pick-up points are signposted in each terminal.
XSPSeletar AirportSmall airport for turboprops and general aviation, about 15 km north.
HowCostTime
Public bus 102Hougang MRTS$1-220-30 min
Connects to the North-East Line.
TaxiCity centreS$15-2520-30 min
S$3 surcharge applies for trips from the airport.
Grab / GojekCity centreS$15-3020-35 min
Fewer cars here; allow extra wait time.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Singapore

Getting around

MRT for most trips; ride apps or metered taxis for late nights and door-to-door.

  • Metro ★MRT trains are fast and cheap. Tap a contactless credit card or buy an EZ-link card.
  • BusBuses cover gaps the MRT misses. Fares are distance-based and low.
  • Taxi / ride apps ★Taxis meter fares. Grab and Gojek ride apps are widely used.
  • Rental carDriving is possible but costly: ERP tolls, high parking and a car-ownership tax regime.
  • WalkingWalking is pleasant in the core. Covered walkways help in rain and heat.
  • FerryFerries run from HarbourFront and Tanah Merah to the Riau Islands and Johor.
Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights suit you: Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam fit two days, without needing a third night for Sentosa or the zoo.

Best for
  • FoodHawker centres, kopitiam breakfasts and late-night satay.

Weather by month

29°24°Jan🌧 24d
30°24°Feb🌧 18d
30°24°Mar🌧 25d
30°25°Apr🌧 27d
30°25°May🌧 28d
29°25°Jun🌧 26d
29°25°Jul🌧 23d
29°25°Aug🌧 26d
29°25°Sep🌧 23d
30°24°Oct🌧 27d
29°24°Nov🌧 28d
29°24°Dec🌧 28d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Tropical and hot all year: highs near 29–30°C, lows near 24–25°C, and rain on most months.

  • Warm every monthHighs stay around 29–30°C and lows around 24–25°C. No cool season.
  • Rain is commonExpect 18–28 rain days a month. February is the driest; May, November and December are the wettest.
  • Short heavy showersDownpours often pass quickly. Carry a small umbrella and use covered walkways.
  • High humidityIt feels hotter than the numbers. Drink water and take breaks in air-conditioning.
  • Best outdoor monthsFebruary and July–September have fewer rain days. Still plan around afternoon storms.
  • What to packLight breathable clothes, sandals or quick-dry shoes, an umbrella and sunscreen. A light layer for cold indoor AC.

Landmarks 48

Must-see · 9

  1. 1

    Marina Bay Sands

    Singapore's most recognisable modern icon, with its ship-shaped SkyPark and sweeping views over the bay. Come around sunset for the best light and to catch the evening light show; book SkyPark tickets online in advance.

  2. 2

    Gardens by the Bay

    A futuristic garden with the Supertree Grove and giant glass conservatories that is a must-see for first-timers. Visit in the late afternoon and stay for the free evening Supertree light show; buy conservatory tickets ahead.

  3. 3

    Merlion Park

    The half-lion, half-fish Merlion is the city's emblem and the classic photo spot facing Marina Bay. Go early morning or evening to avoid the heat and crowds; it is free and an easy walk from Raffles Place MRT.

  4. 4

    Jewel Changi Airport

    Home to the Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, set in a lush indoor garden. It is free to enter the mall; arrive outside peak hours for clearer views and photos.

  5. 5

    Chinatown Heritage District

    Historic shophouse streets packed with temples, markets and food, ideal for a first taste of old Singapore. Wander early in the day, dress respectfully at temples, and reach it easily by Chinatown MRT.

  6. 6

    Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

    A striking Buddhist temple in the heart of Chinatown housing a revered relic and peaceful halls. Entry is free; wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, and avoid peak prayer times.

  7. 7

    Kampong Glam & Haji Lane

    Colourful heritage streets around the Sultan Mosque, with boutiques and cafes along Haji Lane. Visit in the morning for cooler weather and quieter lanes; the area is a short walk from Bugis MRT.

  8. 8

    Little India

    A vibrant neighbourhood of temples, markets and Indian food that feels like another world. Go on a weekday and dress modestly at Sri Mariamman Temple; reach it via Little India MRT.

  9. 9

    Universal Studios Singapore

    The island's flagship theme park with rides and shows for all ages. Buy tickets online, arrive at opening, and take the Sentosa Express to reach it.

1Marina Bay Sands2Gardens by the Bay3Merlion Park4Jewel Changi Airport5Chinatown Heritage District6Buddha Tooth Relic Temple7Kampong Glam & Haji Lane8Little India9Universal Studios Singapore

Cultural

Modern Architecture 5

Buddhist 1

Urban Hub 3

Market 2

Harbor 2

Castle 1

Garden 2

Bridge 1

Statue 1

University 2

Museum 2

Hindu 1

Islamic 1

Other Religion 1

Natural

Beach 2

Island 1

River 1

Sea 1

Activities

Amusement Park 10

Food 1

Zoo 2

Library 1

Aquarium 1

Cable Car 1

Cruise Tour 1

Brewery 1

Overview

History & significance

Highlights

    Day trips from Singapore

    Johor Bahru · 1 h 00 by bus

    ★★★☆☆ · Full day · 22 km from Singapore

    Best way: The direct bus from Queen Street Terminal is cheap and takes about 1 hour, far less than the 30 SGD taxi for a similar road distance.

    Take the shuttle train or a bus from Woodlands or Queen Street to Johor Bahru across the Causeway; allow time for two immigration checks.

    • Bus ★1 h 00 · from $3-$10
    • Car26 min · taxi ≈ 30 SGD

    What to see

    • Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
    • Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
    • Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
    • Danga Bay

    Good to know

    • Allow extra time for two immigration checks at the Causeway.
    • Bus fares start from about $3-$10, and the shuttle train from Woodlands is an alternative.

    Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

    Plans

    Singapore packs cultures, food and greenery into a compact, easy-to-navigate island. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

    How long?

    What do you enjoy most?

    2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

    A first-timer food plan: hawker classics, Chinatown snacks and a satay street night.

    Tickets & tours
    ≈ SGD 130
    per person
    Taxis
    ≈ SGD 96
    per taxi, up to 4 people
    Day 1

    Arrive, Chinatown snacks and river dinner

    Tickets ≈ SGD 8 pp · taxis ≈ SGD 18
    12345
    Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
    1. 1

      14:00–15:30 · Free to walk · temples and museums ticketed separately

      Chinatown Heritage District Landmark quest

      Walk the streets and lanes. Shops open about 10:00–20:00.

      Open Streets always open · shops about 10:00–20:00

    2. 2

      15:45–16:30 · Free entry · donations welcome

      Buddha Tooth Relic Temple Landmark quest

      Usually 07:00–17:00, so go before it closes. Check on the day.

      Open Usually 07:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source

    3. Taxi · 210 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ SGD 6
    4. 3

      16:45–17:45 · Free to browse · food from about SGD 3–8

      Chinatown Street Market Landmark quest

      Snack as you go. Busiest in the evening.

      Open Stalls about 10:00–20:00 · busiest evenings

    5. Taxi · 964 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ SGD 6
    6. 4

      18:30–19:30 · Meals about SGD 4–10

      Hawker centre dinner

      Early dinner. Some stalls close early, so don't leave it too late.

      Open Most stalls about 10:00–21:00 · some close early

    7. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ SGD 6
    8. 5

      20:00–21:00 · Free to walk · drinks and boat rides extra

      Clarke Quay Landmark quest

      Short walk to the river. Bars get busy after 19:00.

      Open Always open · bars busiest after 19:00

    Day 2

    Marina Bay, satay and light show

    Tickets ≈ SGD 122 pp · taxis ≈ SGD 55
    123456
    Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
    1. 1

      09:00–09:15 · Buns from about SGD 1.50–3

      BreadTalk Landmark quest

      Quick breakfast bun. Most outlets open about 08:00.

      Open Most outlets about 08:00–21:00

    2. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ SGD 7
    3. 2

      10:00–12:30 · Outdoor gardens free · conservatories ≈ SGD 32 combined (check on the day)

      Gardens by the Bay Landmark quest

      Conservatories about 09:00–21:00. Book ahead if you can.

      Open Outdoor 05:00–02:00 · conservatories about 09:00–21:00 · Source

    4. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ SGD 7
    5. 3

      13:00–14:00 · Meals about SGD 5–12

      Lau Pa Sat Landmark quest

      Lunch under the clock tower. Satay street is evening only.

      Open About 24 hours · satay street in the evening

    6. Taxi · 1103 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ SGD 6
    7. 4

      15:00–15:30 · Free

      Merlion Park Landmark quest

      Photo stop. Always open.

      Open Always open

    8. Taxi · 11 km · ≈ 35 min · ≈ SGD 17
    9. 5

      18:30–20:00 · ≈ SGD 60–120 per crab depending on size and restaurant

      Chilli Crab Landmark quest

      Dinner. Most seafood places about 11:30–22:00. Prices vary, so ask first.

      Open Most seafood restaurants about 11:30–22:00

    10. Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ SGD 18
    11. 6

      20:00–20:30 · Free

      Supertree Grove light show

      Usually two shows each evening. Check times on the day.

      Open Usually two shows each evening · check times on the day · Source

    Day 3

    Kampong Glam and Little India flavours

    Tickets ≈ SGD 0 pp · taxis ≈ SGD 22
    1234
    Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
    1. 1

      10:00–11:30 · Free to walk

      Kampong Glam & Haji Lane Landmark quest

      Cafés and Haji Lane. Shops about 11:00–20:00.

      Open Streets always open · shops about 11:00–20:00

    2. Taxi · 1074 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ SGD 6
    3. 2

      12:00–12:45 · Lobby free · afternoon tea and drinks priced separately

      Raffles Hotel Landmark quest

      Look around the public areas. About 10:00–22:00, check on the day.

      Open Public areas about 10:00–22:00 · check on the day · Source

    4. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ SGD 7
    5. 3

      14:00–15:30 · Free to walk

      Little India Landmark quest

      Short ride by taxi or MRT. Great for an afternoon snack.

      Open Streets always open · shops about 09:00–21:00

    6. Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ SGD 10
    7. 4

      16:30–18:00 · Free to walk · food and coffee extra

      Tiong Bahru neighbourhood walk

      Old estate cafés. Most close around 18:00.

      Open Streets always open · cafés about 08:00–18:00

    Swap in instead

    • Swap a mall afternoon for a walk in the Botanic Gardens, free and open early.
    • Take a short ferry to Pulau Ubin or the Southern Islands for a slower day; check timings on the day.
    • Add a half-day in Kampong Glam and Little India for temples, murals and cheap eats.

    Getting around

    • MRT trains are fast and cheap; tap a contactless credit card or buy an EZ-link card.
    • Buses cover gaps the MRT misses; fares are distance-based and low.
    • Taxis meter fares; Grab and Gojek ride apps are widely used.
    • Driving is possible but costly: ERP tolls, high parking and a car-ownership tax regime.
    • Walking is pleasant in the core; covered walkways help in rain and heat.
    • Ferries run from HarbourFront and Tanah Merah to the Riau Islands and Johor.

    Where to stay

    • Marina Bay · ≈ SGD 250–700 a night
      Walk to Gardens by the Bay, the Merlion and the bay lights. Best for first-timers who want the skyline at night.
    • Orchard Road · ≈ SGD 200–550 a night
      Malls on your doorstep and a central MRT line. Good for shoppers and easy taxi rides anywhere.
    • Chinatown · ≈ SGD 120–350 a night
      Hawker food, temples and shophouse hotels. Cheaper than the bay and close to the river.
    • Bugis · ≈ SGD 130–380 a night
      Lively street market, good MRT links and short walks to Kampong Glam and Little India.

    Food & drink

    • Eat at hawker centres: Maxwell, Lau Pa Sat and Old Airport Road. A meal is often SGD 4–8.
    • Start the day with kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs and kopi at a kopitiam.
    • Try chilli crab, laksa, chicken rice and char kway teow. Prices vary widely by stall.
    • Many stalls are cash-only or use local payment apps. Carry small notes.
    • Book popular restaurants ahead. Hawker queues are shortest before noon and after 2pm.

    Tips

    1. EZ-Link card covers MRT and buses — the easiest way to get around.
    2. Hawker centres serve excellent meals from S$3–8; must-try: chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow.
    3. Air conditioning is everywhere — bring a light layer for malls and indoor spaces.
    4. Chewing gum is banned for sale; fines apply for littering and jaywalking.
    5. Grab (ride-hailing) is widely used and more predictable than taxis.
    Sources for prices and hours

    Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

    Tours & activities

    Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

    Marina Bay Sands
    • Ride up to the SkyPark observation deck
    • Panoramic views over Marina Bay
    • 8,180 reviews · 4.5 rating
    Entry includedSkyline views

    Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck Ticket

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (8,180)

    Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

    Gardens by the Bay
    • Explore the Supertrees and conservatories
    • See the futuristic garden landscapes
    • 4,278 reviews · 4.4 rating
    Entry includedFlexible timing

    Gardens by the Bay Entry Ticket

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.4 (4,278)

    Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

    Merlion Park
    Clarke Quay
    Marina Bay
    • See Merlion Park and the river by night
    • Watch the Garden Rhapsody and Spectra light shows
    • 1,865 reviews · 4.8 rating
    Hotel pickupNight tour

    Singapore: River Cruise, Garden Rhapsody & Spectra by CYT

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (1,865)

    Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

    Universal Studios Singapore
    • Full-day access to rides and shows
    • Fun for families and thrill-seekers
    • 1,692 reviews · 4.3 rating
    Entry includedTheme park

    Universal Studios Singapore Entry Ticket

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.3 (1,692)

    Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

    Mandai Night Safari
    • See nocturnal wildlife after dark
    • Guided tram through themed zones
    • 618 reviews · 4.1 rating
    Entry includedTram ride

    Singapore: Night Safari Entry Ticket with Tram Ride

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.1 (618)

    Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

    Chinatown Heritage District
    Little India
    Kampong Glam & Haji Lane
    • Taste dishes across three neighbourhoods
    • Visit hawker stalls and local eateries
    • 454 reviews · 4.9 rating
    Food tastingsSmall group

    Singapore Stories Food Tour with 12+ Tastings

    GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (454)

    Souvenirs

    Ya Kun Kaya Jam

    SGD 7–12About 220-250 g, 1 jar · estimate

    A sweet coconut and egg jam spread, and a classic Singapore breakfast staple. It is sold at the same cafes that serve the kaya toast locals eat every morning.

    Where: Official Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets
    Ask the outlet to pack the jar for travel, since they can wrap it for the flight.

    TWG Blend Tea

    SGD 25–4550-100 g · estimate

    TWG is a tea brand founded in Singapore, known for its luxury blends and elegant tins. It makes a practical gift that reflects the city's polished tea culture.

    Where: TWG Tea stores at ION Orchard or Marina Bay Sands
    Check the blend name and the origin listed on the tin before you pay, since blends vary widely.

    Peranakan Ceramic Small Plate

    SGD 20–601 piece · estimate

    These plates carry the bright floral and bird motifs of Peranakan culture, which grew out of Chinese and Malay roots in Singapore's shophouse neighborhoods. They are a distinctly local keepsake.

    Where: Peranakan Museum shop or Supermama
    Hand-painted pieces cost more than printed designs, so ask the seller which method was used.

    Flights

    Dates are departure dates at each airport, which may differ from your itinerary arrival date. Select your flight and complete payment on Trip.com.

    Search flights · Trip.com

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