Singapore travel guide
Singapore Tourism | Singapore Guide
You're Going to Love Singapore
The city-state of Singapore is a cultural melting pot, foodie heaven, and a top destination for shoppers all wrapped into one.
From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the ecological consciousness of future cities, it's hard not to fall in love with Singapore at first sight.
What to do in Singapore
1. Visit the World's Most Famous Botanical Garden
More than going to a botanical garden, visiting Gardens by the Bay is an event in and of itself. The futuristic-looking structures Flower Dome and Cloud Forest replicate some of the world's climates in addition to being amazing constructions to look at.
2. Shop Until You Drop at Orchard Road
Explore the glitz and glam of one of the most famous streets in Singapore, full of shopping malls and restaurants.
3. Have the Best View of Singapore
Go up to the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck on top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel for the most spectacular, 360-degree view of Singapore.
4. Admire Singapore's National Flower
The National Orchid Garden has over 1,000 different species of Singapore's gorgeous national flower.
5. Explore Chinese Culture in Chinatown
Shops, museums, temples, and street food stalls await for you in Singapore's Chinatown for a fully immersive experience in Chinese culture.
When to visit Singapore
Expect tropical weather with high levels of humidity all year long. Avoid June and July if you can't handle high temperatures.
If you want to travel during Singapore's top events, plan your trip for the Chinese New Year and the Chingay Festival in February.
How to Get to Singapore
Entry Requirements
Nationals from most countries can enter Singapore with a visa on arrival valid for a 90-day stay. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your date of entry.
Plane
The modern four-terminal Changi Airport is served by international flights to Singapore from several destinations around the world, operated by both regular and low-cost airlines.
The airport is connected to the city center by a fast and efficient network of trains and buses. A one-way ticket costs approximately S$2 ($1.45) per person.
Train
There is a train connection between Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore and JB Sentral in Johor Bahru (Malaysia). A one-way ticket costs around S$5 ($3.70) and can be purchased online.
Car
Only two roads connect Singapore to Malaysia and, considering the number of daily commuters and the need for everyone to go through customs, traffic jams are frequent.
If you're not traveling with your vehicle, be aware that car rental companies often charge an extra fee for allowing their cars to cross the border.
Bus
You can opt for a regular commuter bus between Johor Bahru (Malaysia) and several destinations in Singapore. Bus connections are frequent and a one-way ticket costs about S$3.50 ($2.60) per person.
Alternatively, for more options when it comes to routes, you can choose to take a bus operated by a private company like First Coach.
Boat
Singapore is served by regular ferry connections from Malaysia and Indonesia. These boats arrive at the Ferry Terminals of Changi Point, HarbourFront, and Tanah Merah.
Popular airlines serving Singapore
Where to stay in Singapore
Accommodation is usually expensive and top end in Singapore. However, you'll manage to find more budget-friendly options near Chinatown and Little India.
Where to stay in popular areas of Singapore
Most booked hotels in Singapore
How to Get Around Singapore
Public Transportation
The best way to get around Singapore is on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), an efficient and fast network of over- and underground trains operating in five lines. A one-way ticket costs approximately S$1.40 ($1). For out-of-towners planning on using the MRT frequently, a one-day tourist pass costs about S$10 ($7.45).
Bus
Urban and suburban buses are operated by SMRT and SBS Transit. One-way bus tickets start at approximately S$1 ($0.75) per person.
Car
Singapore is equipped with a well-maintained road network. Keep in mind that you must drive on the left side of the road and have your local driver's license with you at all times.
Some car rental companies might request an International Driving Permit in addition to your local driver's license.
The Cost of Living in Singapore
Meals range from approximately S$6 ($4.40) in food courts and street food stalls to S$80 ($58) in a mid-range restaurant. While ATMs are easy to find and international debit and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, it's a good idea to keep some cash on you. Weekly groceries cost around S$35-50 ($24-36).