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Hotels in Singapore

Where futuristic innovation meets vibrant heritage

Singapore

LanguageEnglish
CurrencySGD
TimezoneGMT+8
Temperature26-32 °C
Dial Code+65
Population5.9M
Area733 km²
SocketsType G
Tap waterDrinkable

Discover Singapore

Singapore is a dynamic island nation in Southeast Asia that seamlessly blends soaring glass skyscrapers, lush tropical gardens, and a rich multicultural heritage. It is an exceptionally clean, safe, and modern metropolis that serves as an ideal entry point for travellers visiting Asia for the first time, as well as a captivating destination for food lovers, shopping enthusiasts, and families. From the historic shophouses of Chinatown and Little India to the futuristic, climate-controlled domes of Marina Bay, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. It is particularly suited to independent travellers who appreciate efficient public transport, world-class culinary scenes ranging from humble hawker stalls to Michelin-starred dining, and a highly organized urban environment.

What to see

The places worth your time in Singapore, and what to expect at each

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay

Marina South

A futuristic nature park spanning 101 hectares in Marina South. It features the iconic Supertree Grove and two massive, climate-controlled conservatories: the Flower Dome, which is the world's largest glass greenhouse, and the Cloud Forest, which houses a dramatic 35-metre indoor mountain and a misty waterfall.

Tip: The outdoor areas and the nightly Garden Rhapsody light show at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM are completely free to enjoy.

Admission:
SGD 46
Time needed:
2-4 h
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

Marina Bay

A public cantilevered platform situated 200 metres high atop the iconic three-towered Marina Bay Sands hotel. It offers breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views of the Singapore skyline, the bustling Singapore Strait, the Singapore River, and the adjacent Gardens by the Bay.

Tip: The famous infinity pool is reserved exclusively for registered hotel guests, so your ticket only grants access to the viewing deck.

Admission:
SGD 32
Time needed:
1 h
Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi Airport

Changi Airport

A massive, nature-themed entertainment and retail complex directly integrated with Singapore's main airport. It is famous for the HSBC Rain Vortex, which is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by the multi-level, lush green trails of the Shiseido Forest Valley.

Tip: Visit in the evening to witness the spectacular sound and light show projected onto the waterfall, running hourly from 7:30 PM.

Admission:
free
Time needed:
2-3 h
Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore

Sentosa Island

Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, located on Sentosa Island. The park features adrenaline-pumping rides, interactive shows, and themed attractions based on major blockbuster movies across seven distinct zones, including Sci-Fi City and Ancient Egypt.

Tip: Consider purchasing a Universal Express Pass on weekends or school holidays to bypass the long standard queues.

Admission:
SGD 83
Time needed:
1 day
S.E.A. Aquarium

S.E.A. Aquarium

Singapore Oceanarium

Sentosa Island

One of the world's largest aquariums, recently rebranded as the Singapore Oceanarium. It houses over 100,000 marine animals across 1,000 species and 22 themed zones, featuring a massive 36-metre Open Ocean viewing panel where manta rays and sharks glide past.

Tip: Same-day re-entry is permitted, so you can step out for lunch at Resorts World Sentosa and return to the aquarium later.

Admission:
SGD 50
Time needed:
3-4 h
ArtScience Museum

ArtScience Museum

Marina Bay

An iconic lotus-shaped museum located within the Marina Bay Sands resort complex. It hosts innovative exhibitions that blend art, science, culture, and technology, including the permanent digital art installation 'Future World' created with teamLab.

Tip: Children under 12 can enter for free every Friday with a paying adult, though this is not valid during school holidays.

Admission:
SGD 22
Time needed:
2 h
National Gallery Singapore

National Gallery Singapore

Civic District

A prominent art museum housed in two beautifully restored national monuments, the former Supreme Court and City Hall. It boasts the world's largest public collection of modern Southeast Asian art and offers spectacular views of the city from its rooftop.

Tip: Join one of the free guided tours offered at set times to gain a deeper understanding of the art and history.

Admission:
SGD 20
Time needed:
3-4 h
National Museum of Singapore

National Museum of Singapore

Civic District

Singapore's oldest museum, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the nation's social history, art, and culture. It offers a progressive and highly interactive approach to showcasing the country's development from a small fishing village to a global hub.

Tip: The Singapore History Gallery is closed for restoration until October 2026, so check the official website for active exhibitions.

Admission:
SGD 20
Time needed:
2-3 h
Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo

Mandai

A world-renowned rainforest zoo famous for its 'open concept' design, which uses natural barriers instead of traditional cages. It houses over 4,200 animals and features unique habitats like the world's first free-ranging orangutan enclosure.

Tip: Download the Mandai Wildlife Reserve app to track live showtimes and navigate the extensive grounds efficiently.

Admission:
SGD 49
Time needed:
3-4 h

Photos: Gardens by the Bay — Shiny Things. (CC BY 2.0) · Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck — This Photo was taken by Supanut Arunoprayote. Feel free to use any of my images, but please mention me as the author an (CC BY 4.0) · Jewel Changi Airport — LN9267 (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Universal Studios Singapore — ashleyt (CC BY-SA 2.0) · S.E.A. Aquarium — ProjectManhattan (CC BY-SA 3.0) · ArtScience Museum — Basile Morin (CC BY-SA 4.0) · National Gallery Singapore — Basile Morin (CC BY-SA 4.0) · National Museum of Singapore — Rudolph Fennington (Public domain) · Singapore Zoo — Drew (CC BY 3.0)

Where to stay

Areas and districts, matched to the kind of trip you are taking

Marina Bay

Best for: Luxury and iconic views

This modern waterfront district is home to Singapore's most famous landmarks, including Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. It is the most expensive area to stay, offering high-end luxury hotels, fine dining, and sleek business amenities.

Orchard Road

Best for: Shopping and dining

A bustling, upscale retail paradise lined with mega-malls, designer boutiques, and department stores. It is an expensive area that is highly convenient, well-connected by the MRT, and packed with diverse dining options.

Civic District

Best for: History and culture

The historic heart of Singapore, featuring grand colonial-era architecture, major national museums, and manicured parks. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a range of mid-scale to luxury heritage hotels.

Chinatown

Best for: Heritage and budget stays

A vibrant, historic neighborhood filled with traditional shophouses, bustling street markets, temples, and affordable boutique hotels. It is a fantastic base for budget-conscious travellers and food lovers.

Search hotels →

Getting around

From the airport

Singapore is one of the world's premier aviation hubs, making it exceptionally easy to reach from almost anywhere on the globe. Most visitors arrive via the award-winning Changi Airport, which is located on the eastern end of the island, approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre. The airport is seamlessly connected to the urban area by a variety of efficient, clean, and affordable transport options.

Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) · 20 km

  • Train (MRT)· 40-50 mins· SGD 2.50
  • Taxi· 20-30 mins· SGD 20.00
  • Bus· 60 mins· SGD 2.50

Around town

Getting around Singapore is incredibly simple thanks to one of the most efficient, clean, and affordable public transport networks in the world. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system covers almost the entire island, complemented by an extensive bus network. Fares are distance-based and can be paid easily using contactless credit cards or mobile wallets directly at the gates.

MRT (Train)The fastest and most reliable way to travel across the city, running from early morning until midnight. · SGD 0.92
Public BusAn extensive and scenic way to travel, covering areas not directly served by the MRT stations. · SGD 0.92
Taxi & Ride-HailingMetered taxis and ride-hailing cars are widely available, safe, and highly regulated. · SGD 10.00

Useful apps: Grab, Gojek, Citymapper, Moovit

When to go

Singapore is a year-round destination with a tropical climate, meaning it remains hot and humid throughout the year. The best time to visit is generally between February and April, which is the driest period of the year with slightly lower humidity levels. The wettest months are during the Northeast Monsoon from November to January, though rain showers are usually brief and heavy rather than lasting all day.

Best time

February to April

What to avoid

November to January

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Day30°31°31°32°32°32°31°31°31°31°31°30°
Night24°24°25°25°25°25°25°25°24°24°24°24°
Rainy days13911141413131313151818
Sea27°28°29°30°30°30°29°29°29°29°28°28°

Food & drink

Singapore's culinary scene is a legendary reflection of its multicultural identity, blending Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian influences. The heart of local dining lies in its open-air hawker centres, where you can eat incredibly well for just a few dollars. Alongside these casual food markets, the city boasts a highly sophisticated fine dining scene with numerous Michelin-starred establishments.

What to try

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Poached chicken served with fragrant rice and spicy ginger-chili sauce; try it at Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice in Maxwell Food Centre.

Chili Crab

Stir-fried mud crab in a sweet, savory, and spicy tomato-chili sauce, best eaten with fried mantou buns at Jumbo Seafood.

Katong Laksa

A spicy noodle soup with a rich, coconut curry broth, prawns, and fish cakes, available at 328 Katong Laksa on East Coast Road.

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat rice noodles with dark soy sauce, chili, prawns, and Chinese sausage; try it at Hill Street Char Kway Teow.

Satay

Skewered and grilled meats served with a rich peanut dipping sauce, best enjoyed in the evenings at Lau Pa Sat's outdoor Satay Street.

Kaya Toast and Kopi

Traditional toasted bread with coconut jam and butter, served with soft-boiled eggs and local coffee at Ya Kun Kaya Toast.

What it costs

Local coffee (Kopi) at a hawker centre

SGD 1.50

Casual hawker lunch for one

SGD 8.00

Local beer (0.5L) at a restaurant

SGD 12.00

5 km taxi ride

SGD 12.00

Typical 3-star hotel night

SGD 150.00

Typical 4-star hotel night

SGD 300.00

Indicative prices that change over time — treat them as a guide, not a price list.

Practical information

SocketsGBritish, three rectangular pins
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Tap waterTap water is drinkable — Tap water is perfectly safe to drink directly from the tap across Singapore.
TippingTipping is not expected, as a 10% service charge is automatically added to bills in most restaurants.
Driving on theleft
SafetySingapore is exceptionally safe with low crime rates, though you should watch your belongings in crowds.
Opening hoursShops generally open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Restaurants open from 11 AM to 10 PM, while hawker centres open earlier.
Customs & etiquetteChewing gum is banned. Eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly forbidden on all public transport.
A few local wordsGood morning — Selamat pagiThank you — Terima kasihPlease — TolongExcuse me — Maafkan sayaHow much? — Berapa harga?

How to plan your days

1 day

The Iconic Marina Bay

  1. 1Start your morning with a stroll through the futuristic conservatories at Gardens by the Bay.
  2. 2Head to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck for a stunning midday view of the city.
  3. 3Spend your afternoon exploring the interactive digital art at the ArtScience Museum.
  4. 4End the evening watching the free Garden Rhapsody light show at the Supertree Grove.

2 days

Culture and Heritage

  1. 1Begin with a traditional breakfast of Kaya Toast and soft-boiled eggs in Chinatown.
  2. 2Visit the beautiful Tang-style Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.
  3. 3Spend the afternoon browsing the modern Southeast Asian art at the National Gallery Singapore.
  4. 4Have dinner on Satay Street at the historic Lau Pa Sat open-air food market.

3 days

Island Adventures

  1. 1Take the MRT to Sentosa Island and spend the morning at the S.E.A. Aquarium.
  2. 2Enjoy the afternoon riding the rollercoasters at Universal Studios Singapore.
  3. 3Head back to the mainland and explore the shops and the massive Rain Vortex waterfall at Jewel Changi Airport.

Day trips

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

30 km · 1-2 h

Cross the border into Malaysia for affordable shopping, delicious local street food, and family-friendly attractions like Legoland Malaysia.

Bintan Island, Indonesia

45 km · 1 h by ferry

A beautiful tropical island getaway in Indonesia known for its luxury beach resorts, water sports, and championship golf courses.

Pulau Ubin, Singapore

10 km · 15 mins by boat

Step back in time to experience Singapore's last traditional kampong villages, scenic cycling trails, and lush, untouched nature.

Frequently asked questions

Is chewing gum really illegal in Singapore?+

Yes, the sale and import of chewing gum is strictly prohibited in Singapore, and littering it carries heavy fines.

Can I drink the tap water in Singapore?+

Yes, the tap water in Singapore is treated to high international standards and is perfectly safe to drink directly.

What is the best way to pay for public transport?+

You can simply tap your contactless bank card, credit card, or mobile wallet at the MRT and bus gates.

Is tipping expected in restaurants?+

Tipping is not customary or expected, as a 10% service charge is already added to your bill in most dining venues.

Can I eat or drink on the MRT?+

No, eating and drinking are strictly forbidden on all trains and in stations, and doing so can result in a fine.

What is the weather like in Singapore?+

Singapore has a tropical climate, meaning it is hot, humid, and rainy throughout the year with steady temperatures.

Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?+

Most nationalities do not require a visa for short tourist stays, but you must complete an SG Arrival Card online before arriving.

Is Singapore safe for solo travellers?+

Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world, with extremely low rates of violent crime.

Arrival Card

Fill in the required arrival card before your trip to avoid delays at immigration.

Complete Arrival Card

Visa Requirements

Check the latest visa requirements for entering this country. Some nationalities may need to apply for a visa or e-visa before travel.

Check visa requirements

Emergency Numbers

Police999Ambulance995Fire995

Language

English

Currency

SGD

Timezone

GMT+8

Dial Code

+65

Population

5.9M

Area

733 km²

Voltage

230V / 50Hz

Driving Side

Left

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