Singapore Travel Guide
Contents
- Singapore — A Global City in a Garden
- Singapore and Its Antipode
- The City
- Top Things to Do in Singapore
- Do and See
- Dining in Singapore
- Cafés in Singapore
- Bars & Nightlife
- Shopping
- Tourist Information
Singapore — A Global City in a Garden
Singapore is one of the world’s most efficient and outward-looking cities, a compact island nation that has transformed itself into a major global hub for finance, trade, culture, and innovation. In just two centuries, Singapore has evolved from a sparsely populated trading post into a prosperous, highly urbanised city-state.
Often described as a “City in a Garden,” Singapore balances dense urban development with carefully planned green spaces, waterfront promenades, and nature reserves. Its skyline reflects economic ambition, while its neighbourhoods reveal layers of cultural history shaped by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences.
Singapore and Its Antipode
Every place on Earth has an antipode — the point directly opposite it on the globe, connected by a straight line passing through the Earth’s core.
Singapore’s antipode lies deep in the Atlantic Ocean, far from any major landmass. This land-to-ocean antipode highlights Singapore’s global orientation: a city defined by maritime trade, movement, and connectivity rather than geographic depth.
The contrast between a hyper-connected equatorial city and open ocean on the far side of the planet reinforces Singapore’s identity as a crossroads of cultures and commerce.
The City
Singapore is clean, safe, and highly organised, qualities that residents take great pride in. The city’s harbour is one of the busiest in the world, and its financial district operates around the clock, hosting banks, insurers, and global corporations.
Distinct districts such as Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, and Boat Quay offer insight into Singapore’s multicultural roots, while modern developments like Marina Bay reflect its contemporary ambitions.
Top Things to Do in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay
A landmark urban park featuring the iconic Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest conservatories.
Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck
A panoramic viewing platform offering sweeping views over Marina Bay and Singapore’s skyline.
Jewel Changi Airport
A multi-level complex featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, tropical gardens, and retail spaces.
Singapore Flyer
A giant observation wheel providing views across Marina Bay and the surrounding city.
Singapore Zoo
A world-renowned “open zoo” known for spacious enclosures and immersive wildlife experiences.
Sentosa Island
A resort island offering beaches, attractions, theme parks, and coastal walks.
Tiger Brewery Tour
An insight into one of Asia’s most recognisable beer brands, including its brewing process and history.
Henderson Waves
The highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, forming part of the scenic Southern Ridges walk.
Fort Canning Park
A historic hilltop park offering insight into Singapore’s colonial and military past.
Do and See
Clarke Quay
A lively riverside district filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Chinatown
A vibrant district featuring markets, temples, heritage buildings, and street life.
Little India
A colourful neighbourhood known for temples, spice shops, textiles, and traditional cuisine.
Holland Village
A popular area among locals and expatriates, offering cafés, bars, and independent shops.
The Southern Ridges
A 9-kilometre network of elevated walkways, forest trails, and panoramic viewpoints.
Raffles Hotel
A historic colonial-era hotel and birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail.
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
A major performing arts centre on the waterfront, often nicknamed “the Durian.”
Dining in Singapore
Singapore is one of the world’s great food cities, where Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international cuisines coexist. Hawker centres offer affordable local dishes, while fine-dining restaurants rank among the best globally.
- Makansutra Gluttons Bay
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre
- A Noodle Story
- Tai Hwa Pork Noodle
- Newton Food Centre
- Timbre+
- Odette
- Sun with Moon
- Shinji by Kanesaka
- Blu Kouzina
Cafés in Singapore
Local kopitiams and modern cafés serve everything from traditional kaya toast to contemporary brunch and specialty coffee.
- Ya Kun Kaya Toast
- The LoKal
- Symmetry
- Common Man Coffee Roasters
- Killiney Kopitiam
- Ah Chew Desserts
- Wild Honey
Bars & Nightlife
Singapore’s nightlife ranges from historic hotel bars to rooftop lounges and international nightclubs.
- Zouk
- The Long Bar at Raffles Hotel
- Paulaner Bräuhaus
- Orgo
- Gallery & Bar at 1-Altitude
- Atlas Bar
- Comedy Masala
Shopping
Shopping is often described as a national pastime in Singapore, with luxury malls, markets, and department stores spread across the city.
- Orchard Road
- Suntec City
- Ngee Ann City
- Plaza Singapura
- Chinatown
- Marina Square
- Sim Lim Square
- Far East Plaza
Tourist Information
Singapore is served by Changi Airport, consistently ranked among the world’s best. The airport is directly connected to the city via MRT trains, buses, and taxis.
Public transport is efficient and affordable, with MRT trains and buses covering most areas. Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced.
The best time to visit Singapore is from November to June, when major festivals and events take place.
Electricity in Singapore is 220–240 volts / 50 Hz using type G plugs.
