Singapore Guide For First Timers With Everything You Need To Know

singapore skyline showing some iconic architectural buildings

Singapore is a fantastic destination for tourists. This ultimate Singapore Travel Guide for first-timers, will tell you everything you need to know before your visit.

An island in Southeast Asia, Singapore mixes colonial history with an array of world-class museums, parks, hawker markets, architecture and shopping.

SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS

Whilst there are plenty of iconic sights and architectural buildings to grab your attention, it is only by wandering Singapore’s lanes and neighborhoods that you will discover its true diversity.

Special and unique in every way, this melting-pot is passionate about its green spaces, multi-racial heritage and food.

In this travel guide for Singapore, you will find all the information that you’ll need for planning a trip, including the best things to do, the best way to get around, the best time to visit and more!

In a rush? Pin and read later!

JUMP AHEAD

WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT SINGAPORE

Singapore may not be as cheap to visit as its Asian counterparts, but it is definitely a destination worthy of more than a “stopover” visit. Lying at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, it is a thriving city-state and renowned financial business leader.

Singapore marries a colonial past with a sleek, progressive future, and is constantly reinventing itself, in a manner which is both engaging and alluring for its visitors.

Peel back its shiny exterior layer however and you will discover a fascinating multi-cultural country. Vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam, each have their own character and charm.

Brimming iconic architecture such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By the Bay and Cloud Forest, look effortlessly designed. With so many sites to visit, tourists will want to visit Singapore a second and third time.

We have visited 5 times and always find new and different things to do and never tire of the cleanliness, fantastic metro system, food, people and beautiful open green spaces. Singapore is one of our favourite countries to visit.

Here are our Reasons Why You Should Visit Singapore This Year, but you will definitely find more!

BEST TIME TO VISIT SINGAPORE

Singapore has a tropical climate year-round with average temperatures of 27°C, and 80% humidity. You should be prepared for rain at any time of the year, which can be torrential but usually brief.

It can feel hot and sticky but most indoor spaces are air-conditioned so you always feel comfortable.

Below is a chart for the average daily temperature, sunshine hours and rainfall per month.

A chart to show average monthly figures for Singapore weather. Shows average temperatures, days of sunshine and rainfall.

November to February is Monsoon Season and marked with consistent rainfall, especially during December. These showers, often short and sweet do not stop you getting out and about.

February to April is an ideal time for a trip as its during Singapore’s dry season and enjoys the least amount of rain, lowest humidity, and the most sunshine.

June to August is the driest time of the year and a great time to enjoy the beaches of Sentosa Island.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SINGAPORE FOR FESTIVALS

Chinese New Year: Capture the festive spirit during the most important event in the Chinese calendar, during mid-January to mid-February.

Shopping: The Great Singapore Sale – Singapore’s longest-running annual sale ( recently known as GSS: Experience Singapore), is usually held over 6 weeks, and you can buy high-quality major brands at discounted prices. (TBA – September 2024)

Singapore Grand Prix: – takes place over 61 laps of the 5.063-kilometre Marina Bay Street Circuit, and is usually held in September.

Singapore Food Festival: The country loves their food and celebrates the best of their food culture, with masterclasses, tours and a whole range of food-tasting events. This month-long food extravaganza takes place in July/August.

Singapore lights outside a shopping mall at Christmas — Orchard Road at Christmas

Singapore offers consistent weather conditions year-round and something for every type of traveller. Check the calendar of festivals before you plan your trip, to avoid missing out on a special event.

TRAVELING TO SINGAPORE

Most international visitors fly to Singapore arriving into Changi Airport, home to Singapore Airlines. Changi is consistently voted the best airport in the world, and for good reason.

A visit to Singapore begins at Changi Airport, an amazing tourist destination in its own right. There are several ways to get to the city from the airport.

TO DOWNTOWN SINGAPORE BY TRAIN

Singapore Mass Rapid Transit or SMRT, is a cheap and relatively quick option to get into the city. At the Airport, follow signs that say “train to city” to the basement of Terminals 2 and 3.

If you need to make your way between terminal buildings use the Skytrain or connections path.

Take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4), then transfer to the East West Line towards Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33).

Alternatively, take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bukit Panjang MRT Station (BP6/DT1).

From Changi Airport MRT Station to Tanah Merah MRT Station:

First Train: Monday-Saturday: 5:31am | Sunday & public holidays: 5:59am Last Train: Connecting to Tuas Link: 11:18 PM, daily | Connecting to Pasir Ris: 12:06 AM, daily.

Use the SMRT Fare Calculator to determine ticket prices and travel times (approximated). Single tickets can be purchased at General Ticketing Machines near the metro, which are cash only.

For example: Changi Airport to Marina Bay: This trip will take about 50 minutes (including average waiting and changing times if any). For stored value cards, the fare is $1.87 and standard ticket fare (ticketing machines) is $2.70.

You can also purchase an EZ-Link card, which is a rechargeable card that can be used on multiple kinds of public transport and provides a discount on journeys. These are available at ticket offices near the MRT terminal in the airport and is also refundable when you leave the city.

TO DOWNTOWN SINGAPORE BY PUBLIC BUS

From Terminals 1, 2 and 3, buses can be found at the basement bus bays. From here you can take buses 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110 and 858 into the city.

Bus 36/36A runs from the airport to the central MRT stations in the CBD – Marine Parade Rd, Somerset or Orchard Rd. The ride takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs S$2.50 or S$1.84 with an EZ- Link card.

A standard ticket can be brought for cash from the driver, however be aware that no change is given. Use this guide for estimated travel times and stops. Public buses run from 6am to just before midnight.

TO DOWNTOWN SINGAPORE BY AIRPORT SHUTTLE

The City Shuttle (S$10.00 per adult or S$7.00 per child below 12 years of age) goes to most downtown hotels. The City Shuttle departs every hour from 0700 – 2300hrs.

The Ground Transport Concierge (GTC) is a 24-hour transport service designed to handle passengers’ transportation needs, and is located in the Arrival Hall of each terminal.

Check this list to see if the shuttle stops at your hotel.

TO DOWNTOWN SINGAPORE BY TAXI

Taxis are available from taxi stands in the Arrival areas of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. A ride to the city takes about 30 minutes and costs between S$20 and S$40.

All fares are metered, but there is an additional Airport Surcharge for all trips originating from the Airport. The amount is dependent on the time of day/night, but can be significant.

ESSENTIAL SINGAPORE TRAVELLER ESSENTIALS

LANGUAGE: Most Singaporeans speak English and other languages heard are Mandarin Chinese, Malay or Tamil.

CURRENCY: Singapore dollar (SGD) in note denominations of S$2, S$5, S$10, S$50, S$100, S$1,000 and S$10,000. Coins are 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and S$1. Check the latest exchange rate so you can keep on top of your budget.

POWER: Standard electrical current used in Singapore is 220-240 V/50Hz, and three square pronged plugs can be used.

VISA: To find out whether you require a visa, check entry rules to Singapore. Also see Singapore’s Safe Travel Website.

GETTING AROUND SINGAPORE

GETTING AROUND BY TRAIN

Aside from walking, the fastest and easiest way to get around the city is by Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system. Most popular attractions are just a short walk away from an MRT station, making the trains a great way to get around.

Maps are located throughout MRT Stations and on the trains themselves, and it is extremely easy to use and navigate.

GETTING AROUND BY BUS

Bus journeys can be a scenic option if you like to enjoy the views while travelling in air-conditioned comfort. The system covers most routes, is economical and a great way to reach out of the way places such as Singapore Zoo.

GETTING AROUND ON THE HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS

First time visitors can get a general feel for the city layout by using the popular Hop-On Hop-Off buses. Your ticket comes with unlimited access to 6 routes covering the key landmarks in Singapore.

Listen to an informative and entertaining commentary, then simply hop off at a stop and explore. Return to the same bus stop and hop on to the next bus to continue your tour.

Purchase your bus pass through Get Your Guide before you go!

If using public transport, visitors have a few options to make paying fares cheaper and more convenient.

SINGAPORE TOURIST PASS

If you plan to see numerous attractions and use the MRT or public buses often, a Singapore Tourist Pass will simplify your journeys. The Pass can be purchased at the following locations:

Changi Airport Station (T2 & T3) near the Transitlink Ticket Office.
At automated STP Kiosks at Orchard Station and HarbourFront Station.
From a TransitLink Ticket Office at selected MRT stations.

The pass must be used on consecutive days and will allow you unlimited travel for one day (S$10), two days (S$16) or three days (S$20). A S$10 deposit per card must be paid, which is refundable up to 5 days after the purchase date.

The pass means you don’t have to buy tickets for each ride and full details can be found on Singapore Tourist Pass website.

EZ-LINK / NETS FLASHPAY CARD

If your stay is for longer than 3 days and don’t require unlimited daily rides, then one of these cards could suit you better. You will pay less than standard single fares plus they do not need to be used on consecutive days.

EZ-link / Nets FlashPay are adult Stored Value Smartcards, both cost $12 inclusive of card value, and come with a stored value of $7 for you to use on your commutes. The cards can be purchased from convenience stores and at any Transitlink Ticket Office.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU GO TO SINGAPORE FOR?

Singapore makes a great stopover when travelling long-haul to countries like Australia and New Zealand. To see Singapore’s main tourist spots and attractions, 3 days will give you a good overall impression.

However, this small island is more than the sum of its tourist attractions.

Depending on budget, your interests and what you like to do, you could easily spend 5-7 days here.

Whether you are arranging a Singapore itinerary for 3 days, 4 days, 5 days or more, no two travellers will bring home the same experience.

If short on time use the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to get to the attractions that interest you, and prioritise the places to visit in Singapore.

Have longer to stay? Our 5 day Singapore Itinerary offers a day by day structure, tips on how long to stay at each location, and suggestions for where to stay.

DAY ONE

Botanic gardens
Kampong Glam
Little India
Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Cocktails & Light Show

DAY TWO

Raffles Hotel
Civilian War Memorial, St. Andrews Cathedral, Cenotaph & Padang
National Gallery
Asian Civilisations Museum, Singapore River
Gardens By The Bay

DAY THREE

Fort Canning Park, Battle Box Museum
National Museum Of Singapore
Chinatown
Orchard Road Shopping OR Night Safari

DAY FOUR

Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Southern Ridges
Singapore Flyer

DAY FIVE

Sentosa Island & Universal Studios OR Outer Southern Islands

This Singapore Guide for first timers will help you with the details of your trip. However, when planning your visit really consider what you want to see and do in Singapore. Top sights are the sights that are important to you, nobody else.

Looking for a detailed itinerary that is already tried and tested? Save time by buying a digital version that you can download straight away!

TOP THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE

Singapore may be a small island, but it is packed with top things to do and see. Here are our top 10.

1. GARDENS BY THE BAY

Go anywhere in Singapore and you will be impressed by the architecture, both restored and modern. No itinerary to Singapore however, should leave out Gardens By The Bay, an innovative and incredible design achievement.

Highlights include the Supertrees, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. The sheer scale of this 101-hectare garden show-piece will enthrall you. Iconic supertree giants, 22-metre-high skyway, biodomes and sculptures, add to the magic.

Buy tickets online for both conservatories from GetYourGuide and skip the queue while saving money. And don’t miss the nighttime lighting up spectacle.

Where? 18 Marina Gardens Drive | Take the underground linkway via Bayfront MRT Station (Exit B)
Cost? Adult S$28 | Child S$15. Purchase in advance through Get Your Guide
Time To Spend There? About 3-4 hours
Open? Check before your visit

2. SINGAPORE ZOO

Singapore Zoo is an exceptional lush tropical rainforest for over 2,400 animals. Much lauded for its captive animal conservation programme, the setting is magical.

Award-winning in every sense, animal lovers prepare to be mesmerized! Be sure to check out the Night Safari to view the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park after hours!

Where? 80 Mandai Lake Road | Easy to get to on public transport or taxi.
Cost? Adult Online Price S$36.90 | Child S$25.20. Purchase in advance through Get Your Guide or get a multi-park pass if visiting other attractions.
Time To Spend There? About 3-4 hours
Open? 8.30am-6pm (last entry 5pm)

3. SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in 1860 is one of Singapore’s most popular attractions. With a stunning natural setting, it is a place of calm and beauty to stroll around.

Think placid lakes, lush green lawns, sculptures, heritage trees and an amazing array of plants to admire!

Where? 1 Cluny Road | Easy to get to on public transport or taxi.
Cost? Free | S$5 entry fee to Orchid Garden
Time To Spend There? 1-2 hours
Open? 5am-12 midnight daily

4. BUDDHA TOOTH RELIC TEMPLE & MUSEUM

Beautiful inside and out, this Tang-styled Chinese Buddhist temple, built in 2007 has richly decorated interiors. Find comprehensive exhibits on Buddhist art and history in the Temple, and a Buddha left canine Tooth Relic in the Museum on the third floor.

You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the Temple’s many highlights.

Where? 288 South Bridge Road | 6 min walk from Telok Ayer MRT Station
Cost? Free
Time To Spend There? <1 hour
Open? 9am-5pm daily

5. SOUTHERN RIDGES

henderson waves bridge in Singapore — Henderson Waves

Made up of and bridging the hills of collection of parks, the tracks get you out into nature and offer great city views too. Southern Ridges can be accessed from Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve.

Although 10 km in length, the section between Kent Ridge Park and Mount Faber offers the best section views.

Cross the undulating bridge of the Henderson Waves suspended 36m above ground, enjoy stunning vistas and walk through a forest canopy.

Where? Pasir Panjang MRT Station | walk up Pepys Road | Easy to get to on public transport or taxi.
Cost? Free
Time To Spend There? 1-3 hours
Open? 24 hours

6. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE

Singapore’s oldest museum, the National Museum is housed in a stunning and graceful white building. Multimedia galleries present the island’s history and culture in an imaginary way. And after strolling around the exhibitions there are two great dining options to choose from.

Where? 93 Stamford Road | Easy to get to on public transport
Cost? Adult S$15 | Child S$10
Time To Spend There? 1-2 hours
Open? 10am-7pm Daily

7. BATTLEBOX MUSEUM

Battle Box Museum in Fort Canning Park, Singapore

Head 9 metres underground and step inside an authentic 1930s World War II secret command centre. This bunker hidden in Fort Canning Park, is a secret labyrinth of rooms and corridors with amazing wartime artefacts.

Watch the war unfold as you follow the battles both on land and at sea. Discover the drama behind the scenes as it was decided to surrender Singapore on the 15th of February 1942.

Where? 2 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Park | Dhoby Ghout MRT Station Exit B (est. 10min walk) or Fort Canning MRT Station Exit B (est. 18min walk)
Cost? Admission is only available through a 30 min guided tour | Adult S$20 | Child S$10
Time To Spend There? 1-2 hours
Open? Friday to Sunday, first tour 9.45am, last tour 4.30pm

8. FORT SILOSO ON SENTOSA ISLAND

This well-preserved coastal fort on Sentosa Island, was once part of Singapore’s defences. Visit the military museum which has wax figures of British and Japanese soldiers and an informative video documentary about Singapore’s surrender during WWII.

Don’t miss Fort Siloso Skywalk, towering 11-storeys high, it leads you on a tree-top trek, along 181 metres.

Where? 2 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Park | Dhoby Ghout MRT Station Exit B (est. 10min walk) or Fort Canning MRT Station Exit B (est. 18min walk)
Cost? Admission is only available through a 30 min guided tour | Adult S$20 | Child S$10
Time To Spend There? 1-2 hours
Open? Friday to Sunday, first tour 9.45am, last tour 4.30pm

9. MARINA BAY

Representing everything glossy and successful about Singapore, this bay that Singapore River empties into, is a great place to wander around.

The centrepiece is the magnificent shaped Marina Bay Sands Hotel, but stroll around the whole bay and you will view many stylish and futuristic designed buildings.

Where? Marina Bay | Marina Bay MRT Station
Cost? Free to stroll around
Time To Spend There? 1-2 hours
Open? 24 hours

9. SINGAPORE RIVER CRUISE

Once a thriving hub of commerce, you can discover Singapore’s history and modern architecture on a bumboat cruise. A night tour shows off the amazing lights of Marina Bay district!

Where? Clarke Quay Jetty (next to Hooters Restaurant)
Cost? Adult S$25, Child S$15
Time? Ride lasts 40 minutes
Open? Mon to Thurs 1pm-10pm | Fri to Sun 10am-10pm

Some say no visit to Singapore is complete without trying a Singapore Sling. Just one of the things Singapore is famous for!

10. EATING IN HAWKER CENTRES

Singaporeans LOVE their food! In fact food is a major focus and thankfully there are numerous great places to enjoy many different cuisines. One of the top and cheapest things to do in Singapore, is to visit a hawker centre and eat how and where locals eat.

To reserve your table, simply leave a packet of tissues on it and join the queue!

PLACES TO VISIT IN SINGAPORE FOR FREE

public art sculpture in Singapore — Check out the amazing public sculptures

The good news for tourists in Singapore is that even if you have a small budget, the island offers plenty of free things to do. Wondering what they could possibly be? Check out our post that details 52 free things to do in Singapore to help you save money.

From lush green parks, cultural museums, and epic light shows, to iconic architecture, public art and charming neighbourhoods. Singapore really does offer a fantastic experience on any amount of budget.

SINGAPORE HIDDEN GEMS

When planning your Singapore itinerary, after you tick off the must do’s, do you want to explore off the main tourist path?

To make sure you experience all that Singapore has to offer, be sure to consider alternative things to do. Check out this list if you want to uncover Singapore hidden gems and unique things to do.

Whether you are a lover of architecture, history, art, museums, nature or just good entertainment, there’s something for everyone.

WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

Singapore accommodation options offer something to suit every taste and budget. From striking iconic Raffles Hotel to futuristic Marina Bay Sands. Or boutique beauties in charming neighbourhoods to hostels and capsule hotels.

Wherever you choose to lay your head, book in advance for the best deals.

BEST AREA TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

To make the most of your time on the island, it will help to choose a central area for accommodation. Hotels along Orchard Road and Marina Bay tend to be high-end 5 star properties.

However, if you are near an MRT Station you have easy access anywhere.

The most popular areas to stay in Singapore tend to be:

ORCHARD ROAD | Great for the city’s best shopping , Botanic Gardens, bars and high-end restaurants.
MARINA BAY | Many luxurious 5 star hotels offering great views of the skyline and across the bay. Great for popular attractions such as Gardens By The Bay & Singapore Flyer, and top restaurants and bars.
CHINATOWN | Lively neighbourhood for budget and boutique accommodation. Great for cheap dining in hawker centers, nightlife and trendy bars.
LITTLE INDIA | Authentic Indian food with friendly vibrant vibe and budget accommodation.
THE QUAYS | Great place to enjoy Singapore’s night scene.
SENTOSA ISLAND |Ideal for families and fun seekers, as it is home to Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios.

BEST RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN SINGAPORE

DOS AND DON’TS IN SINGAPORE

Discipline is considered extremely important to Singaporeans. On-the-spot fines are common and can be given for a wide range of behaviours which are tolerated in your own country.

However, don’t be deterred by the many laws in Singapore. It is a great country which is incredibly safe, clean and welcoming. Read up on the Do’s and Don’ts in Singapore that you need to know before you go, for an enjoyable trip.

READ MORE: Do’s And Don’ts In Singapore

SINGAPORE FOOD GUIDE

Singapore has a vibrant food scene, powered by an obsession with food. Practically every cuisine is represented here and you will be spoilt for choice with the explosion of flavours.

From Chinese, Malay, Peranakan, Indian and Indonesian, to Thai, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Italian and Greek. From swanky restaurants to local haunts and street food, the options are endless.

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT IN SINGAPORE

With restaurants and eateries tucked into every nook and cranny of every neighbourhood, where to eat in Singapore can be pleasantly overwhelming. Foodies in search of fine dining will be delighted at the choice of Michelin-starred restaurants.

A staple of Singapore life however, is the affordable and wide range of amazingly good food found in hawker centres. No trip to Singapore is complete without a trip to a hawker centre and enjoying food with the locals.

The following is a list of some favourite local dishes and where to try them:

1. TIAN TIAN HAINANESE CHICKEN | One of Singapore’s iconic dishes. Tender chicken, fragrant white rice, chilli sauce, dark soy sauce, and a bowl of warming soup. Where? Maxwell Food Centre Stall 10 & 11

2. SATAY | Tender grilled spiced beef and chicken skewers Where? Lau Pa Sat 18 Raffles Quay

3. KAYA TOAST | A popular snack or breakfast dish that’s prepared by spreading kaya (jam made from coconut and eggs) between toasted or charcoal-grilled slices of bread. Enjoy it with tea or coffee. Where? Ya Kun Kaya Toast at over 40 outlets

4. GREEN TEA ALMOND CROISSANT | Extremely moreish croissants Where? Tiong Bahru Bakery, Tiong Bahru

5. FRIED KWAY TEOW | The mix of flat rice noodles and yellow wheat noodles, is stir-fried over high heat with light and dark soy sauce, garlic, chilli, waxed sausage, egg, fishcake and beansprouts.

WHERE TO SHOP IN SINGAPORE

For shopaholics, Singapore is a shopping heaven dream. It is an experience in itself. Whether searching for home-grown talent, luxury brands, cultural memorabilia or vintage, there is a shopping place to find anything and everything.

Head to Little India, Mustafa Centre and Chinatown for souvenirs and cheap bargains such as jewelry, fabrics and accessories.

SHOPPING ALONG ORCHARD ROAD

Put aside a day for shopping along this famous shopping street, where you’ll find stylish multi-story shopping malls. A great place to shop especially for high-end goods and luxury brands.

Try Paragon, ION Orchard and Mandarin Gallery for luxury global brands such as Prada and Cartier. If high street fashion is more your style and budget, head to Far East Plaza. While electronics can be found at Lucky Plaza.

Singapore has some amazing talented designers, so pop to Tangs and Design Orchard, for some local textiles and crafts.

WHAT TO WEAR IN SINGAPORE

Singapore is hot and humid all-year-round, with temperatures rarely dipping below 75 degrees (F) even at nighttime. Rain showers are common, often heavy and without warning, especially during monsoon season.

Pack loose fitting lightweight clothing to combat the humidity and warm weather. Here are some tips for what to bring with you:

Small collapsible umbrella for any downpours.
Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
Comfortable flat pumps, flipflops or sandals as you will be walking a lot!
Scarf, pashmina or thin cardigan for the air-conditioned malls.

Shorts, t-shirts, jeans, dresses, skirts and flipflops are acceptable everywhere. However, higher-end bars and restaurants may have a long trouser policy. Pack a long-sleeved shirt and stylish dress with some heeled shoes for the evening. And if you plan on hiking in nature reserves you will need some sturdy trainers.

GREAT PHOTO SPOTS IN SINGAPORE

With its dazzling skyline, modern futuristic architecture and restored neighbourhoods, the city is a photographer’s dream. Some of Singapore’s interesting yet less obvious places to take photos are:

Marina Bay Waterfront – Visit at sunset to watch the iconic skyline transform from day to night. Photograph the lotus flower-shaped ArtScience Museum and Singapore Flyer in the changing light. Closest MRT Station: Bayfront
Helix Bridge – Intriguing in daylight, this twisting pedestrian bridge takes on a new form at night, when it is lit up. Closest MRT Station: Promenade or Bayfront
Atlas, Parkview Square – Inspired by the Art Deco interiors of the buiding, this quirky bar in the lobby is a real treat. A three-storey tall tower containing hundreds of rare varieties of gin takes centerstage. Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling! Closest MRT Station: Bugis
Henderson Waves – The curving twisting 274-metre length bridge mimics a wave shape. The slats of Balau wood and hidden recesses make for some great atmospheric shots. Closest MRT Station: Harbourfront followed by 20 minute walk.
Tiong Bahru – Step back in time with street murals and art deco styled architecture. Closest MRT Station: Tiong Bahru.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR SINGAPORE

Some final tips for your first visit to Singapore are:

Drink tap water, its perfectly safe and saves buying bottled water.
Alcohol is expensive so find happy-hour deals and buy one, get one free cocktails.
Walk places as its a great way to get lost and find local off the radar gems.
Talk to locals and get some tips for places to visit away from tourist districts.
Eat were locals eat, in hawker centres and along Smith Street in Chinatown.
And finally, be sure to take out adequate Travel Insurance!

SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE WRAP

Singapore is a perfect East Asian gem that has so much to offer and will leave you with a newfound appreciation for cutting-edge architecture. Whether you’re planning a stopover or a week, Singapore offers something for everyone, and is a destination not to be missed.

We hope that this article has inspired you to want to visit Singapore. If you have any questions about the island or advice to share with other readers, please leave these in the comments below.

ULTIMATE SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS