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Where to travel from Singapore that's less than five hours away

For a quick weekend getaway during the long weekends

There are many reasons to love Singapore, and top of the list is our proximity to many incredible destinations. As a travel hub in Southeast Asia, we're well within five hours of bustling metropolises, white sandy beaches, and dramatic mountain landscapes in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and even the Philippines. All you have to do is book well ahead of long weekends to secure good ticket prices, and you'll be all settled for a restive getaway. 

RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to 2024 public holidays in Singapore and  Unique hotels in Southeast Asia with treehouse resorts and glamping experiences

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Short getaways from Singapore

1.  Taipei, Taiwan

Surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, Taiwan’s capital city is the perfect getaway for those who want the best of both nature and the city. Within Taipei City, walking trails like the Elephant Mountain Trail and Jinmianshan Trail offer sweeping views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding urban sprawl. Further out at Yangmingshan National Park, you’ll find towering peaks, hot springs, and waterfalls. When you’ve had your dose of nature, return to Taipei city for café jaunts on Chifeng Street, countless night markets full of delicious street snacks, and creative happenings at Songshan Cultural and Creative Hub. 

Where to stay: Treat yourself to a stay at Kimpton Da An , a boutique hotel in Zhongsan District. Rent a complimentary bike from Kimpton to explore the city. After immersing in its bustle, you’ll be glad to return to the sanctuary of these modern and cosy rooms which have thoughtful perks like a yoga mat, espresso machines, and a morning coffee and tea service. Those with fur babies will be glad to know that the hotel is pet-friendly too. 

2.  Bali, Indonesia

If total relaxation is what you seek, you can't go wrong with a beachside vacation in Bali. Not only is it the perfect setting for soul-searching amidst lush nature and historic temples, the island in Indonesia is also a great place for vibrant nightlife and water activities like surfing. Else, simply lay along the sandy shores with a cocktail in hand, and let your mind wander as you admire the gorgeous sunset.

Where to stay : Park yourself in the heart of Kuta – home to bustling markets, nightlife, and water sports activities – with a stay at Fairfield by Marriott Bali Kuta Sunset Road . Unwind at the hotel’s poolside while savouring cocktails from the swim-up bar, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, or challenge your friends to a game of billiards. As for dining options, check out the in-house restaurants for Indonesian street food and all-day high tea.

From now till June 10, 2024, book the Kuta Cityscape deluxe room package, which comes with perks like complimentary breakfast, beer, laundry service, F&B discounts, and transportation to Kuta Beach. Find out more here . 

3.  Manila, Philippines

The Philippines’ capital city is a vibrant mix of Filipino, Spanish, and American culture. In recent years, Manila has also upped its culinary game, with top-notch bars and restaurants popping up on every street and corner. For a start, t ake a walking tour through a former colonial outpost of the Spanish empire known as Intramuros, or step into the majestic halls and courtyard gardens of the San Agustin Church and Museum. There are modern pursuits too, like the 4D cinema rooms at Bonaficio Global City and modern Filipino plates at Locavore Kitchen x Drinks. Wind down with a sunset walk along the breezy Manila Boardwalk, a waterside promenade lined with stalls selling halo-halo and other street eats. 

Where to stay : There’s a reason that The Manila Hotel is called the Grand Dame – it has been a landmark in the city for more than 100 years. To this day, it impresses with its old-world elegance – updated to modern comforts and service standards. This is a particularly good stay for history buffs, as it is within striking distance of historical attractions like Intramuros and Rizal Park. But if you want to stay in, the hotel also has a contemporary art museum and heritage museum for you to explore. 

4.  Chiang Mai, Thailand

Although it doesn’t offer beachy shores, Northern Thailand is equally laidback as its southern counterpart. Admire the Burmese-style temples and ornately carved teak houses in the lush rainforest and jungle. Check out the cool boutiques and galleries, artist communities, and of course, sink your teeth in Isaan cuisine - some of the best street food in Thailand. 

Where to stay: Escape to the natural wonders of Northern Thailand at The Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle . Boasting 15 luxurious tents and a two-bedroom Explorer’s Lodge, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is nestled in a magical bamboo forest overlooking the Mekong River. There’s also a chance to interact and care for rescued elephants.

5.  Kuching, Sarawak

Not the most coveted destination, but this city in Sarawak is rich in natural landscapes. Pay a visit to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, home to the endangered Bornean Orangutans. Learn more about them and be entertained as your ape friends swing from tree to tree. For some adventure, kayak down the 11km Sunget Sarawak Kiri surrounded by mangroves and limestones. Don’t forget to visit Anah Rais, a village home to the Bidayuh tribe and bamboo longhouses. For some exploration, the Bako National Park has ten hiking trails for you to choose from. They all offer varying lookout points, views and wildlife to greet. Kuching is also big in the street food department. Munch on bowls of Sarawak laksa, pork ribs and its signature dish, kolo mee.

Where to stay : With vaulted ceilings, dark beams and whitewashed walls, The Marian Boutique Lodging House exudes colonial-style charm. An old warehouse which has been creatively restored is now a unique dining hall that serves Mediterranean and European cuisine including homecake cakes and desserts and some of the best cocktails in Kuching. The hotel is also near attractions including the Sarawak River, waterfront bazaar and the Darul Hana Bridge.

6.  Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a wonderful city of contrasts. The densely packed city has world-class exhibitions, artsy junkyards, glitzy restaurants, and time-tested traditional eats – not to mention tons of nature and adventure activities right in the city or in the surrounding islands. If it’s your first time, hop on the Star Ferry to enjoy the iconic Hong Kong skyline along Victoria Harbour and visit a dai pai dong for a no-frills local meal. Browse the antiques at Upper Lascar Row or pick through the restaurants, cafes, and bars on Hollywood Road. Otherwise, enjoy seaside views on a east-west cycle in New Territories and explore rock formations and salt pans at islands like Tung Ping Chau and Yim Tin Tsai. 

Where to stay: There is no shortage of hotels in Hong Kong, many of which afford stunning views of the famed Hong Kong skyline. Ovolo Southside offers that, alongside a huge dose of personality. This converted warehouse pops with vibrant artwork, 80s rockstar-inspired suites, and retro music videos playing on TVs in the elevator. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with prime views of mountains and sea.  

7.  Bali, Indonesia

A trip to Bali is never a bad idea. If you’re looking for a laidback beachfront getaway, or a lush jungle hideaway, travelling to the Island of the Gods should be at the top of your list. Offering rich greenery and diverse landscapes, Bali is great if you want to escape the stresses of city life. Try out spiritual experiences and surf lessons, or even lay down on a beach and do absolutely nothing. It’s not hard to pack plenty of activities into your itinerary, even if you’re there for a few days. Where to stay : Head for the cliffs and escape into Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort , where you get sensational ocean views of the world-renowned Impossible Beach. The beach is one of the most famous surf points in Bali where surfers can descend through the resort’s beach elevator to the beautiful rocky beach. Book the resort’s ‘Uluwatu Bliss’ package and disappear into a world of indulgence beginning with a back and shoulder massage, a two-course dinner, and accommodation in a suite or pool villa.

8.  Da Nang, Vietnam

For a tropical escape, Da Nang is your best bet. The former French colonial port is now full of cultural and culinary delights, with white sandy beaches and beautiful places to stay. Tick the famous Golden Bridge off your itinerary before enjoying rollercoasters and more thrilling rides at Fantasy Amusement Park. Those who prefer nature and sweeping scenic views should hike the Marble Mountains or cycle the Son Tra Peninsula. For a spot of culture, visit the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture or the Danang Fine Arts Museum. 

Where to stay : InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort boasts 201 luxurious rooms, suites, penthouses and villas in a bold monochrome palette. With endless ocean views, you’ll feel relaxed in no time. For wellness, opt for the Naman Retreat. It offers traditional methods of healing - from holistic spa treatments to yoga and tai chi.

9.  Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Famous among the three Gilis, Trawangan is a great place to explore Indonesia’s diverse marine life. See all kinds of colourful fish, reef sharks and stingrays at Shark Point. For experienced divers, deep dive and explore some pretty spectacular wrecks like the Glenn Nusa 1 or Bounty Wreck. Also known to be a party island, Gili Trawangan is packed with cool bars and hangouts where you can drink the night away. One place you shouldn’t miss is Sama Sama Reggae Bar. Serving good drinks and vibes, it also has live reggae music shows. Other places to hang out include Blue Marlin and The Irish Pub.

Where to stay : This chic villa resort boasts luxurious boutique accommodation. At Kokomo Resort , you get fantastic sea views as well as private pools. Enjoy a breakfast on the beach of banana pancakes with honey and lime and berry coulis. Book a boat trip, through the resort, to one of the neighbouring islands for a snorkelling session or even a romantic picnic.

10.  Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap has stolen the hearts of many tourists with its chic hotels and trendy cafés that incorporate Cambodian style and tradition. Aside from the incredible Angkor Wat, check out the Old Market (or as the locals call it “Psar Chaa”), walk down the dim alleyways of the meat section where you’ll find freshly made sausages hanging on strings, or walk through the rows of vendors sitting on straw floor mats selling dried seafood. And whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening of Western food or a wild night of Angkor beers on tap, Pub Street is the place to be. 

Where to stay: Stay at Amansara , which was once a residence for the king’s guests. Through thoughtful renovation, the building has been lovingly restored to its former glory and enhanced with contemporary design. It is also extended with 12 pool suites around a grassy courtyard that segues perfectly into the quietly luxurious ambience of yesteryear, making the Amansara Siem Reap’s classiest accommodation.  Just 10 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Archaeological Park, Amansara offers guests customised itineraries including cycling, meditation in an ancient forest and more.

11.  Nikoi Island, Indonesia

For a truly relaxing vacation away from the tourist crowds, pack your bags for Nikoi Island. This 15-hectare private island is under three hours from Singapore, offering untouched nature, heaps of adventure, and understated luxury all rolled into one. Explore Nikoi's lush forests on dedicated tracks or dive right into its teeming reef. Kayaking, windsurfing, tennis, even a secluded pool under towering rock formations – Nikoi's an oasis for all sorts of travellers.  Where to stay : The Nikoi Private Island villas are your only option but that's no cause for complaint. 18 stylish two-storey beach houses keep you close to nature – enjoy the ocean breeze from the private daybeds on the first-floor open deck, or gaze out at the ocean from the expansive balcony. Nikoi has also introduced two new pool villas for a luxurious soak in your own personal heaven. Enjoy Mediterranean-style dining at Biru or kick back with a drink and sunset views at three bars on the island to cap your island getaway.

More travel news

The best alternative destinations to travel to from Singapore

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The best destinations in Thailand you can travel to on a VTL

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• 27 Surreal Places To Take Short Trips From Singapore In 2024

05 Apr 2024

Need a change of scenery while staying in Singapore? Take a break and visit these beautiful and quaint islands sans the horrible airport queues and long travelling hours. Several out-of-town spots which are perfect for relaxing and refuelling away from the stress of the city. These spots are great for people who aren’t looking for a long vacation but need a good experience sunbathing at the beach or hiking through the jungle. And they will make just the perfect short trips from Singapore that you will remember forever. You will find places that are half an hour to three hours away from Singapore. Check out the whole list and pick the best option that is suitable for you.

There are a variety of places to go from Singapore, to enjoy the best of an Asian trip. You can engage in shopping, eat a variety of foods, enjoy adventure activities and do a whole lot of sightseeing. Keep scrolling to take a peek at the list!

27 Best Short Trips From Singapore In 2024

Singapore is an excellent city for short trips for couples and families. If you want to experience all the fun that Singapore has to offer, you should plan to take some best short trips from Singapore outside the city as well. There are many amazing places to visit near Singapore that will add to your vacation experience. Here are a few suggestions to consider:

• Desaru – For A Weekend Getaway
• Cameron Highlands – For Its Tea Plantations
• Malacca – For Its Quaint Beauty
• Krabi – For An Island Getaway
• Bali – An Indonesian Paradise
• Bintan – Away From The Hustle-Bustle
• Halong Bay – For Scenic Beaches
• Penang – An Offbeat Destination
• Kuala Lumpur – For A Dazzling Skyline
• Batam – A Picturesque Getaway
• Iskandar Puteri – For The Theme Parks
• Yogyakarta – For A Thrilling Experience
• Genting Highlands – For A Complete Experience
• Perhentian Island – For Its Pristine Beaches
• Chiang Mai – To Relax And Unwind
• Sentosa Island – To Relive Childhood Memories
• Hoi An – To Explore the Countryside
• Yangon – To Relish The Culture
• Johor Bahru – Explore The Ancient Temples
• Langkawi – For Adventure Lovers
• Siem Reap – Opt For Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Borneo – Visit Oldest Rainforests
• Koh Samui – Perfect For A Short Getaway
• Phuket – Explore At Your Own Pace
• Ipoh – Resonating A Street Culture
• Hong Kong – A Lively City
• Macau – For A Mixed Culture

1. Desaru – For A Weekend Getaway

Image Credit: Jpatokal for Wikipedia Commons

Desaru is one of the best places for a short getaway near Singapore. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway, offering a relaxed atmosphere and sandy beaches that provide a break from the fast-paced urban life. The island is underrated, but its white sand beaches and azure waters have a soothing effect on the mind, making it one of the best destinations for a quick escape. This place which has amazing fruit plantations and posh golf courses is just a ferry ride away from Changi Ferry Terminal.

This place is a paradise for golf lovers as they offer great golf sessions for beginners and even seasoned golfers. April to October is considered the ‘good’ season to visit this place but June to August are the busiest ones. Snorkelling and surfing are some activities for adventure-loving people.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : April to October How to reach : Take a ferry from Changi Ferry Terminal Places To Eat: 261 Bar Restaurant, Desaru Coast Riverside, and Nelayan Seafood By The Coast Where To Stay: Hard Rock Hotel, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Desaru Beach, Adventure Waterpark, and Desaru Fruit Farm

Must Read: National Parks In Singapore

2. Cameron Highlands – For Its Tea Plantations

Image Credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen for Wikipedia Commons

If you’re planning a short vacation from Singapore, this place is a nine-hour drive coach ride may sound exhausting but it’s worth this great place which gives you the experience of the coolest weather without travelling halfway around the globe. This place is quite popular for strawberries and it also has huge tea plantations which is a great family spot. Cute little carts around Cameron Highlands sell delicious burgers which are finger-licking good. This is your perfect 3 days short trip from Singapore, if you’re looking for more than a weekend getaway, you can also match it with skydiving in Malaysia.

Your love of flora should lead you to this gorgeous lavender garden, which offers a wide range of lavender-related products as well as information on lavender’s medical and therapeutic applications. Some tourist attractions of Cameron Highland also include mossy forest, Taman Eko Rimba Parit Falls, Robinson Waterfall, time tunnel-the local museum and a butterfly garden that make for perfect day trips from Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : Throughout the year How to reach : Hire a taxi Places To Eat: Cactus View Restaurant, May Flower Restaurant, and Delicious & Happiness Kitchen Where To Stay: Kea Garden Guest House, The Lake House, and Century Pines Resort Tourist Attractions: Time Tunnel and Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm

3. Malacca – For Its Quaint Beauty

Image Credit: Engin Akyurt for Wikipedia Commons

If you want to go on a short trip out of Singapore, Malacca is the place. This charming and peaceful place is just a few hours’ drive away from the border and is surely a great short trip from Singapore for singles. A lovely change of scenery is exactly what this place gives to the visitors. The historical alleyways which are quaint and beautiful have hundreds of shops and stalls weaving through which add much more to the beauty of this place. Those looking for short trips from Singapore with family or as a couple would love this gorgeous town. Tea houses which show you the ‘proper’ way to drink tea and house-turned-museums which displays the culture of this place are some attractions of this island. Antiques and good food are also some qualities which add to the qualities of this island. Tandoori chicken and assorted curries are a must-have when you visit Malacca.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : April and May How to reach : Nearest railhead is Pulau Sebang Places To Eat: Nancy’s Kitchen, The Baboon House, and Low Yong Moh Restaurant Where To Stay: Hatten Hotel, Double Tree by Hilton, and Rosa Malacca Tourist Attractions: A Famosa, Christ Church, Stadthuys, and Church of St. Paul

Suggested Read: Markets In Singapore

4. Krabi – For An Island Getaway

Image Credit: Mikecleggphoto for Wikipedia Commons

Travelling to this amazing vacation destination is just a two-hour jet ride away! And is one of the best short trips around Singapore, a lot of activities like scuba diving in Krabi are offered on this island, and others include kayaking, hiking, rock climbing and many interesting activities which make your weekend a memorable one. One can also visit beaches like Ko Hong, Ko Poda and Ko Gai or kayak through the Andaman Sea.

This place is a great vacation spot for every kind of person from an adrenaline- junkie to a lazy beach person. Everybody has a great time on this tourist-friendly and commercialized island. Railay is nirvana for rock climbers whereas Ko Lanta is a place for wannabes. This place has something for everyone.

Location: Thailand Best Time To Visit : November to March How to reach : Buses are available from Bangkok and Phuket Places To Eat: Maharat Bakery, Chalita Cafe, and Gecko Cabane Restaurant Where To Stay: Krabi Resort, Centara Anda Dhevi Resort, and Aonang Fore Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Railay Beach, Ko Lanta, Ko Poda, and Tiger Cave Temple

5. Bali – An Indonesian Paradise

Image Credit: Paco Pater for Wikipedia Commons

‘An Indonesian paradise’ is the description given to Bali. This place is a very popular getaway destination for short trips from Singapore especially for couples who can easily plan a trip in Bali. Also known as the ‘artistic capital’ of Ubud, this place has astounding white sand beaches in contrast to the clear blue waters. A three-hour journey is all that it takes from Singapore to reach this paradise and have an amazing weekend. Stunning natural backdrops to exotic temples are one the main attractions of this place.

Volcanoes and jungles are also an addition to this great holiday spot. The people of Bali are more tolerant than people of the mainland of Indonesia. Balinese is spoken here but in tourist areas, many foreign languages including English are spoken. Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : April to October How to reach : One can take a flight to reach Bali Places To Eat: Restaurant Locavore, Secret Garden Restaurant, and Kubu at Mandapa Where To Stay: Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa, The Lovina Bali Resort, and Senetan Villas & Spa Resort Tourist Attractions: Uluwatu Temple, Mount Batur, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Suggested Read: Singapore Zoo

6. Bintan – Away From The Hustle-Bustle

Image Credit: WikiTravel for Wikipedia Commons

If you’re looking for a cheap weekend getaway from Singapore for your family, Bintan is just a 50-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, this beach is a great distraction from the hustle-bustle of the city. Some fun activities offered here include bowling, horse riding and elephant riding. One can also book various eco-tours which show the beauty of nature present on this amazing island. Parasailing and water sports are some recreational activities here.

This place has a great mixture of cultures which consists of Malay, Chinese, Bugis and orang Laut (sea people). Bahasa Indonesia is spoken by visitors from Malaysia which is a version of Malay. Though this place is popular for golf, there are many sports activities provided by resorts which include Banana boat rides, Kayaking or kite ride. Do include in this your choice for short trips from Singapore.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : March to October How to reach : Take a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal Places To Eat: The Kelong Seafood Restaurant, Warung Yeah, and Nelayan Bintan Lagoon Resort Where To Stay: Bintan Lagoon Resort, Nirvana Resort Hotel, and The Anmon Resort Tourist Attractions: White Sands Island, Penyengat Island, Trikora Beach, and Ria Bintan Golf Club

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7. Halong Bay – For Scenic Beaches

Image Credit: Lycaon for Wikipedia Commons

Why visit this bay in Vietnam? Well to answer just that, you haven’t seen anything like this in Vietnam even if you have visited the famed country before! With scenic beaches and limestone cliffs, this paradise just keeps getting better with views you will only believe once you see them from your naked eye. The fishing villages while on a private cruise are a must-visit and don’t forget to swim in the crystal waters of Cong Dam lagoon among many things to do in Vietnam . A kayaking experience all through the Tra San and Cap Lan will surely be a joyous experience making it one of the best short weekend trips from Singapore and hiking in Vietnam is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, if you are looking for the best countries near Singapore, just come and visit this captivating area.

Location: Vietnam Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : One can take a bus from Hanoi Places To Eat: 1958 Restaurant, 14 Pizza Halong, and Linh Dan Restaurant Where To Stay: Novotel Halong Bay, La Paz Resort, and Garden Bay Cruise Tourist Attractions: Sun World Halong Park, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Tuan Chau Island

Suggested Read: New Year Celebration In Singapore

8. Penang – An Offbeat Destination

Image Credit: HundenvonPenang for Wikipedia Commons

If you are looking for places to go for short trips from Singapore that you can reach quickly from Singapore, then Penang should be on your list of weekend getaways from Singapore. Penang is the hub of arts and culture. The colourful streets will surely impress you. Apart from that, it is also known for hawker food. Make sure you try the food there and also don’t forget to hit the best Penang beaches including Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah. With its vibrant ambience, Penang is undoubtedly one of the best places near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : Take a train from Kuala Lumpur Places To Eat: Markus Restaurant, Orinea, and Sushi Kitchen Gurney Plaza Where To Stay: 1926 Heritage Hotel, The Gurney Resort, and Berjaya Penang Hotel Tourist Attractions: Penang Hill, Gurney Drive, and Kek Lok Si Temple

9. Kuala Lumpur – For A Dazzling Skyline

Image Credit: Luke Ma for Wikipedia Commons

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most beautiful places you can plan a short trip from Singapore. The capital city of Malaysia offers a glimpse into the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Its skyline is dotted with high-rise buildings that define its grandeur. Do consider this for your day trips from Singapore. Being a well-established city, this is a convenient place for short trips from Singapore with a baby, as all the needed facilities will be available and have plenty of fascinating places to visit in Kuala Lumpur .

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : December to February How to reach : One can take a taxi or bus from Singapore Places To Eat: Fuego at Troika Sky Dining, Iketeru, and Dining In The Dark Where To Stay: Regalia Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and Pacific Express Hotel Tourist Attractions: Petronas Twin Tower, Batur Caves, and Bukit Bintang

Suggested Read: Free Things To Do In Singapore

10. Batam – A Picturesque Getaway

Image Credit: Ivetta Inaray for Wikipedia Commons

Batam is one of the smallest yet picturesque Indonesian islands to take a short trip from Singapore that will leave you mesmerised! The island offers serene beaches and blissful views that make for the best cheap short getaway from Singapore. It also boasts a lively nightlife.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : May to September How to reach : Take a boat or ferry from Singapore Places To Eat: Rezeki Seafood Restaurant, Piccola Stella, and Harbour Bay Seafood Restaurant Where To Stay: Harmoni One Convention Hotel, KTM Resort, and Lovina Inn Tourist Attractions: Sentosa, Fort Siloso, and Universal Studios

11. Iskandar Puteri – For The Theme Parks

Image Credit: Chongkian for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best places for weekend trips from Singapore, Iskandar Puteri would surely treat you and your family. It is known for the Legoland and Hello Kitty theme park. If you are travelling with your kids, they would love the place. Apart from that, the city also offers world-class restaurants that offer a lavish dining experience. It is one of the best tourist attractions near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : Hire a taxi Places To Eat: Spice Grill, New Zealand Unlimited, and Olive Kitchen Bar Where To Stay: Legoland Hotel, Puteri Cove Residences, and Gem Hotel Tourist Attractions: Sireh Park, Puteri Harbour, and Legoland Waterpark

Suggested Read:   Historical Places In Singapore

12. Yogyakarta – For A Thrilling Experience

Image Credit: Gunawan Kartapranata for Wikipedia Commons

A popular place for a weekend getaway near Singapore, Yogyakarta will leave you jaw-dropped by its tourist attractions. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a water palace. Make sure you visit the famous Borobudur temple and for a thrilling experience, take a rickshaw and explore the streets of the city.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : May to October How to reach : Fly to Surakarta airport Places To Eat: Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil, Canting Restaurant, and Milas Vegetarian Resto Where To Stay: Yogyakarta BnB, Adhisthana Hotel, and The Patio Yogya Tourist Attractions: Taman Sari, The Palace Of Yogyakarta, and Fort Vredeburg Museum

13. Genting Highlands – For A Complete Experience

Image Credit: jetsun for Wikimedia Commons

Genting Highlands is an integrated resort development in the Pahang region of Malaysia. It has hotels, restaurants, shopping malls like SkyAvenue Mall and Genting Premium Outlets, casinos and amusement parks. Located on the Titiwangsa Mountains at a height of 1,740 metres this is one of the best tourist attractions that can be visited on a short tour from Singapore. Don’t forget to enjoy the exciting Cable Card ride. Hands down, a plethora of recreational activities makes Genting Highlands one of the top places near Singapore.

Location: Malayasia Best Time To Visit : March to September How to reach : Take a bus or hire a taxi Places To Eat: Coffee Terrace, Burger & Lobster Malaysia, and Restaurant Loong Kee Where To Stay: First World Hotel, Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, and Theme Park Hotel Tourist Attractions: Casino De Genting, Snow World, and Chin Swee Caves Temple

Suggested Read:   Festivals In Singapore

14. Perhentian Island – For Its Pristine Beaches

Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for options on short trips from Singapore to Malaysia, this is an off-beat option. Falling in the Besut District of Malaysia, Perhentian Island is a group of gorgeous islands. The pristine beaches and azure waters are a highlight of this place. These are popular for their diving and snorkelling scenes, with some really popular diving spots. You can learn to dive at a very low cost compared to many other places. So, what awaits you? Plan an adrenaline-filled one day trip from Singapore to Malaysia and have an experience of a lifetime.

Location: Malayasia Best Time To Visit : March to November How to reach : Take a flight from Singapore and further a taxi and boat to reach Perhentian Island Places To Eat: Bayu Restaurant, Belinda Cafe, and Ewan’s Cafe & Restaurant Where To Stay: Coral View Island Resort, The Barat Perhentian, and Alunan Restaurant Tourist Attractions: Turtle Beach, Long Beach, and Teluk Keke

15. Chiang Mai – To Relax And Unwind

Image Credit: Fumihiko Ueno for Wikimedia Commons

Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai is an ancient mountain city in Thailand. Known for the remains of its past as a religious centre, this beautiful destination is perfect for a short tour from Singapore. Visit the elephant sanctuaries, forests and waterfalls along with its rustic temples. This is a great place to relax and unwind.

Places To Eat: Italics Restaurant, The Service 1921 Restaurant, and Sababa Hummus Where To Stay: Rainforest Boutique Hotel, Prestige Chiang Mai, and The Chaya Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Wat Chedi Luang, Doi Suthep, and Wat Phrathat Doi Location: Thailand Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : One can take a flight from Singapore

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Asia In April

16. Sentosa Island – To Relive Childhood Memories

Image Credit: dronepicr for Wikimedia Commons

It is one of the closest destinations to Singapore that lies in very proximity to the main city of Singapore and is certainly the best short trips from Singapore to take. Sentosa is an island that features multiple amusement parks, and beaches and is home to the famous Universal Studios Singapore theme park and water park making it one of the most remarkable tourist places to visit around Singapore .

Location : Singapore Best time to visit : June- July, October – December How to reach: Take the Singapore MRT Service. From Harbourfront Station, enter VivoCity Mall. Go to the third floor (Level 3) of VivoCity Mall. Purchase a Sentosa Pass. Board the Sentosa Express. Places To Eat: Malaysian Food Street, Ocean Restaurant, Din Tai Fung Resort Where To Stay: Harbour Ville Hotel, Siloso Beach Resort, and Travelodge Harbourfront Tourist Attractions: Universal Studios, Gardens by the Bay, and Sands Expo

17. Hoi An – To Explore The Countryside

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This Vietnamese city is one of the most pristine locations in Southeast Asia. It is the ultimate beach and tourist destination that has ample sunshine, and a quaint French colonial town to explore with a lush countryside.

Location : Vietnam Best time to visit : February to June How to reach : Hoi An has no airport, and no train station either. The only way to get there is by road. You can hire a taxi from the neighbouring city of Da Nang, which does have an airport with daily flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other large Vietnamese cities. Places To Eat: Restaurant & Cafe Tuan, Thai Kitchen, and Cao Lau Where To Stay: Hoi An Four Seasons Villa, Sun Paradise Villa, and Hoi An Beach Resort Tourist Attractions: An Bang Beach, Phung Hung House, and Japanese Covered Bridge

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

18. Yangon – Relish The Culture

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Yangon, the capital city of Myanmar, attracts thousands of tourists every year. You can explore the beautiful terrain of Myanmar by taking a three-hour flight from Singapore. If you are looking for countries close to Singapore, visit Yangon. Here, you can witness various temples and relish the culture of this beautiful country.

Location : Myanmar Best time to visit: November to January How to reach: You can hire a local taxi from Imphal till Moreh and then cross over to Tamu by walking. Once in Tamu, you can catch a local bus to the nearest major city of Mandalay. Directly via flight: There are direct flights between Delhi and Yangon which can be booked for as less than Rs. 9,000 per head if you plan Places To Eat: Green Gallery, Shan Yoe Yar Restaurant, and Le Planteur Restaurant & Lounge Where To Stay: Sky View Hotel, Inya Lake Hotel, and Hotel Grand United Tourist Attractions: Sule Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Market, and Shwedagon Pagoda

19. Johor Bahru – Explore The Ancient Temples

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If you are looking for beautiful places to visit near Singapore, then there cannot be a better option than Johor Bahru in Malaysia. Johor Bahru is home to one of the most famous Hindu temples in the whole world which is covered with glass and that is Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple. If you visit this temple, then you will be mesmerized by both the exterior and interior of the temple as it is covered with different kinds of glass – clear, mirrored, and coloured. The place can be reached in 45 minutes by car or bus so there is less hassle to explore this place near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: The best and most convenient way to reach Johor Bahru is by hiring a direct taxi or by taking a bus from Singapore to Malaysia. Places To Eat: Restoran Ya Wang and Tosca Restaurant Where To Stay: Berjaya Waterfront Hotel, KSL Resort, and De Sweet Boutique Hotel Tourist Attractions: Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Angry Birds Activity Park

Suggested Read: Zoos In Phuket

20. Langkawi – For Adventure Lovers

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An archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is located close to the border of Thailand which can be reached within 90 minutes by taking a direct flight. If you are a beach person then you must head to this place for a short holiday from Singapore. You can laze around in the sun and opt for adventurous water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.

Another thing that you can opt for is a cable car ride to Gunung Mat Chinchang mountain from where you can take a walk on the Sky Bridge. While walking here, you get to take a closer look at the rainforest canopy which is why you will find several nature lovers and photographers roaming around here.

Location: Malaysia Best time to visit: January to March How to reach: The best way to reach Langkawi from Singapore is by taking a direct Malaysian flight. Places To Eat: Pia’s The Padi, The Fat Frog, and Nasi Dagang Pal Malau Where To Stay: Bamboo Getaway, Panorama Country Resort, and Alamanda Villas Tourist Attractions: Pantai Cenang, Laman Padi, and Crocodile Adventureland

21. Siem Reap – Opt For Hot Air Balloon Ride

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Another one on the list of places to go near Singapore is Siem Reap which can be reached by a two-hour flight. There is no doubt in the fact that Angkor Wat is the show-stealer here. Some of the other tourist places in Siem Reap are Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. One of the most thrilling activities that are done here is a hot air balloon flight which gives a bird-eye view of the whole Siem Reap. If you have an adventurous soul then you might not want to miss out on this activity.

Location: Cambodia Best time to visit: December & January How to reach: The best way to reach Siem Reap from Singapore is by taking a direct flight to the destination. Places To Eat: Georges French Restaurant, Marum, and Cuisine Wat Damnak Where To Stay: Popular Residence Hotel, Central Suite Residence, and Popular Hotel & Spa Tourist Attractions: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm Temple

Suggested Read: Villages In Thailand

22. Borneo – Visit Oldest Rainforests

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Did you know that the list of the best places near Singapore also covers the largest island in Asia? Yes, Borneo is a 3-hour flight away from Singapore and the island is divided into three parts that are located in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. You might not be aware of this fact but Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and these rainforests shelter different species of animals including Borneo Orangutan. If you are a flora and fauna lover then you must explore the sanctuaries here to view apes from a close distance. Amongst all the exciting weekend trips from Singapore that one can experience, exploring the landscapes of Borneo is one of the best! With loved ones or solo, have an awesome experience by embarking on short trips from Singapore to exceptional destinations, like Borneo.

Location: Asia Best time to visit: March to October How to reach: The best way to reach Borneo from Singapore is by taking a flight. Places To Eat: Michi Japanese Restaurant, Ming Cafe, and The Raintree Restaurant Where To Stay: Gaya Island Resort, The Waterfront Hotel, and Manukan Island Resort Tourist Attractions: Mount Kinabalu, Taman Negara Gunung, and Gunung Mulu National Park

23. Koh Samui – Perfect For A Short Getaway

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How can the list of vacation spots near Singapore be complete without including one of the most iconic islands of Thailand? So, here is Koh Samui which is known for its classy beach clubs, luxury villas, white-sand beaches, and turquoise water. Along with this, the place also offers some amazing activities for people. Make sure that you are carrying your camera to this place as you will get many chances to capture the beauty of landscapes.

Location: Thailand Best time to visit: February to April How to reach: You will either have to take a flight or get on a bus to reach Koh Samui. Places To Eat: Supattra Thai Dining, Chez Francois, and Mr KAI Kitchen Where To Stay: Samui Bayview Resort, Chaweng Noi Pool Villa, Weekender Resort Tourist Attractions: Chaweng Beach, Wat Plai Laem, and Wat Phra Yai

Suggested Read: Sarawak Gawai Festival

24. Phuket – Explore At Your Own Pace

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How can one miss Phuket while looking for places to visit near Singapore? So, here is the Pearl of the Andaman which is popular for its pristine beaches and blue-green waters. Phuket has everything that you can dream of for a short getaway from the hustle-bustle of city life. Stay at a gorgeous villa, opt for kayaking in Phang Nga Bay, and get a perfect view of Phuket’s beaches from a state-of-the-art helicopter. So, make sure that you include Phuket in your list of places to go near Singapore.

Location: Thailand Best time to visit: November to April How to reach: There are several ways to reach Phuket which includes bus, ferry, subway, aeroplane, car, and train. Places To Eat: Suay Restaurant and One Chun Cafe & Restaurant Where To Stay: Blue Monkey Hub & Hotel, EcoLoft Hotel, and Royal Phuket City Hotel Tourist Attractions: Old Phuket Town, Sunday Walking Street Market, and Phuket Trickeye Museum

25. Ipoh – Resonating A Street Culture

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Ipoh makes it to our list of the top places to visit near Singapore as it is considered a mini-Penang. Being the foodie capital of Malaysia, you can experience a range of street foods, bars, local eateries, restaurants and cafes. What makes visiting Ipoh even more attractive as compared to Penang, only a handful of tourists visit. One of the best things to do in Ipoh , if not the best would be to admire the street art, culture, the caves and much more.

While at Ipoh, visiting the Old Town is a must with crumbly buildings, Chinese shophouses, street artists, grand colonial buildings and plenty of cool coffee shops. One amazing thing to explore is the Ipoh Heritage Trail – with the Ipoh architecture and the Ipoh Mural Art displays.   

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : Use the ETS Train and Shuttle train to reach Ipoh from Singapore. Places To Eat: Pakeeza Restaurant & Catering, Sun Marpoh Restaurant, Yum Yum Restaurant Ipoh Where To Stay: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Meru Valley Resort, Ipoh Bali Hotel Tourist Attractions: Kellie’s Castle, Tempurung Cave, Sam Poh Tong, Movie Animation Park Studios, Kek Lok Tong

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In May In Asia

26. Hong Kong – A Lively City

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Hong Kong has to be one of the best places to visit near Singapore. A vibrant, lively and cultural Asian mega-city, Hong Kong is a must-visit destination. Two of the best things to do in Hong Kong are shopping and eating at various restaurants. Taste the street food, the gorgeous dumplings, and visit the OZONE Bar, which is one of the highest bars in the world, located at the Ritz Carlton. You can also indulge in ferry rides, take a tram, ride the cable car and visit Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of the city. So, on your next short trips from Singapore, do not overlook Hong Kong.

Another reason Hong Kong makes it to the best places to visit from Singapore are the sightseeing options, beach exploration, the Symphony Of Lights, and Happy Valley. You can take your time in exploring this beautiful city to the fullest. 

Location: China Best Time To Visit : September to December How to reach : To reach Hong Kong, there is a direct 4 hour flight from Singapore with Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Jetstar, or Cathay Pacific. Places To Eat: CAPO TST, Yat Lok Roast Goose, VEA Restaurant & Lounge, Tin Lung Heen Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, The Langham, Hong Kong, Island Shangri-La Tourist Attractions: Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Victoria Harbour, the Tian Tan Buddha

27. Macau – For A Mixed Culture

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Macau becomes the answer to your query about what short trips from Singapore to embark on for a culturally unique experience. You get to experience a mixed culture – of East and West – the colonial Portuguese and the neighboring China. Although the region has a lot of glitzy casinos, the Macaunese cuisine is a delicious experience. The various restaurants in Macau offer a mix of both cultures including galinha à Portuguesa, Bacalhau, Macanese chili shrimps and much more.

Do explore the East and West Side, wherein the eastern side is dominated by the Cotai Strip and western side by Macau Heritage Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Cotai Strip has a lot of resorts, casinos, shows, malls, restaurants and clubs while the Macau Heritage Center has Portuguese influence with Senado Square, St Paul’s church, and Guia Fortress.

Location: China Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : Macau is a direct 3 hour 45 minute flight from Singapore with Scoot. Alternatively, take a one hour ferry from Hong Kong to Macau. Places To Eat: Lai Heen, Vida Rica Restaurant, The Golden Peacock, Dynasty 8 Where To Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, The Venetian Macao, JW Marriott Hotel Macau Tourist Attractions: The Venetian Macao, A-Ma Temple, Monte Fort, City of Dreams, Taipa, Coloane 

Further Read: Langkawi Travel Tips

If all you need is a good weekend getaway where you make amazing memories, then these places are some amazing options one should consider for short trips from Singapore. There are spots to crash, for all kind of people from introverts to extroverts and from adventure-loving to lazy strollers. These islands give you the kind of weekend you need after a long stressful week. So, do not waste any more time, plan a trip to Singapore and go island hopping.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Short Trips From Singapore

Which are some of the short getaway from Singapore for couples?

Langkawi, Phuket, Bali, and Bintan are some of the best short getaways for couples traveling from Singapore.

Which are some of the short getaway from Singapore for family?

Batam, Johor Baru, and Malacca are some of the best destinations that you can surely check out on your next short getaway from Singapore.

Where should I go for a one-day trip?

You can go to Sentosa Island for a one-day trip. It is one of the most exquisite places to visit near Singapore.

How far is Bali from Singapore by plane?

Bali is 1680 kilometers away from Singapore by plane.

How long does it take from Singapore to Malaysia?

It takes almost 7 hours from Singapore to Malaysia.

Do I need a visa to go to Malaysia from Singapore?

Yes, you need a visa to go to Malaysia from Singapore.

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18 Cheap and Budget Holidays from Singapore

When it comes to travelling out of Singapore, it may often feel like you have to make a choice between emptying out your bank account and visiting the destination of your dreams. 

While embarking on a journey to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes is a universal desire, often the cost of travel, including necessary expenses like travel insurance and mobile wifi , can make you feel like it’s better to just stay home for the time being.

However, this doesn’t always need to be the case! For Singaporeans with a case of wanderlust and a keen eye for budgeting your travels , there are plenty of cheap holiday destinations nearby to help satisfy the travel itch. Southeast Asia is a region rich with one-of-a-kind attractions and activities, making it the perfect place to stretch your tourist dollar a little further.

Read on to find out where your next trip is gonna be – without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

Genting highlands, desaru coast, sumba island, ha long bay, ho chi minh city, sihanoukville, best miles & travel credit cards, pack your bags because your next budget getaway from singapore awaits, where to go in malaysia.

Malaysia offers a variety of cheap holiday destinations from Singapore, making it a perfect choice for travellers on a budget. Whether you’re looking for short getaways for couples or big cities for the whole family to enjoy together, Malaysia has something for everyone. Let's explore some of the most affordable and captivating destinations you can visit.

(Psst, before you board your ferry or flight to Malaysia, make sure you get the best travel insurance for Malaysia to ensure you’re fully protected for your trip!)

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Langkawi, often referred to as the Jewel of Kedah, is an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. It's about an hour's flight from Singapore, making it an accessible cheap getaway for the weekend. The island enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 34°C. Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Declared a UNESCO geo-park in 2007, Langkawi is recognized for its stunning geology, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes. The currency used is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), and the island is relatively safe for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take normal safety precautions, especially when exploring isolated areas. In case of emergency, Langkawi Hospital is available on the mainland.

Must visit in Langkawi

Eagle Square, also known as Dataran Lang, is possibly one of the best representations of Langkawi’s natural wonders, perched on a star-shaped pier overlooking an expansive seascape. A magnificent sculpture of an eagle stands proud amid the pier, frozen in an ever-ready position of flight surrounded by a panoramic view of this beautiful island. For the best photo-op, you can board Langkawi’s cable car that will lead you up the Mat Cincang mountain, offering panoramic vistas of the islands and sea.

Shoppers may check out duty-free stores such as Perniagaan Haji Ismail Group Sdn Bhd, which sells world-famous brands of chocolate, and The Zon Duty-Free Zone, which sells some of the cheapest liquor, tobacco and perfumes in Langkawi. 

Must eat in Langkawi

Langkawi offers a plethora of dining options showcasing local Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Seafood is particularly prominent, given the island's coastal location, so ikan bakar and other grilled seafood is definitely a must-try. For a truly local experience, try nasi tomato , a Malay dish consisting of rice stir-fried with tomato paste for a sweet-sour flavour and paired with dishes like rendang . Or savour the rich flavours of pajeri nenas (pineapple curry), a local favourite that’s tough to find in Singapore.

Must do in Langkawi

Outdoor activities abound in Langkawi! Apart from relaxing on its beautiful beaches, visitors can enjoy island hopping, snorkelling, and exploring the mangroves. The Langkawi Sky Bridge also offers a unique perspective of the island's stunning geography for some truly memorable photos.

Where to stay in Langkawi

For those looking for budget holiday options from Singapore in Langkawi, consider staying at budget hotels like the Langkawi Uptown Hotel, which offers comfortable accommodations at affordable rates. Airbnb also presents various options for those preferring a more homely setting, with choices ranging from cosy apartments to beachfront villas. However, do carry out proper research before booking an Airbnb and look for listings with positive, genuine reviews.

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Moving from the serene beaches of Langkawi to the cool mountains, Genting Highlands offers another budget getaway from Singapore. Situated about 6 hours’ drive from Singapore, this hill resort is known for its cool climate, theme parks, and entertainment facilities. The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, though English is commonly used in tourist areas. The area uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), and like Langkawi, it is generally safe for tourists. For emergencies, the Genting Highlands Hospital provides medical services, and embassy or consulate assistance is available in Kuala Lumpur, which is about an hour’s journey (without heavy traffic).

Must visit in Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands is home to the world-renowned Resorts World Genting, offering entertainment, shopping, and dining all in one location. The area is also known for its cultural attractions such as the Chin Swee Caves Temple, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese spiritual practices set against a backdrop of stunning highland scenery.

Must eat in Genting Highlands

The culinary scene in Genting Highlands is as diverse as its attractions, offering a range of local and international cuisines. For an authentic taste of Malaysia, try dishes like bak kut teh , a fragrant herbal pork rib soup, or indulge in the local version of steamboat, a communal hot pot dining experience perfect for the cooler climate.

Must do in Genting Highlands

Outdoor activities in Genting Highlands are best for soaking up the mountaintop landscape and cool, sometimes misty weather. Apart from visiting the theme park, you can trek along the Awana Trail, hike Clearwater Way, or ride the Genting Skyway for a scenic gondola ride.

Where to stay in Genting Highlands

For budget-conscious travelers, Genting Highlands offers several affordable accommodation options within the resort complex. Of these, the First World Hotel is known for its competitive rates and convenient location. Other local listings also provide a variety of choices, from apartments to homes, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

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Desaru Coast is a top holiday destination from Singapore, thanks to its pristine beaches, water parks, and golf courses. It's located on the southeastern coast of Malaysia and can be accessed via car (about 2-hours drive from Singapore – don’t forget your travel insurance for self-drive to Malaysia !) or by ferry. The area’s tropical climate makes it perfect for beach trips, or a weekend escape. With a whole itinerary of explorative and adventurous activities that await you, Desaru Coast is the perfect oasis of fun for the ultimate budget long weekend getaway from Singapore !

While Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, English is widely spoken as with many other regions of Malaysia. The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the currency used, and Desaru Coast is generally safe for tourists. Local hospitals and the nearest embassy or consulate services are accessible in Johor Bahru, about an hour away by car.

Must visit in Desaru Coast

It is a must to enter its Adventure Waterpark at least once while you’re here. Promising an exciting time for all ages, you can expect over five different water zones, each with its own set of thematic rides and attractions. One of its most exotic and thrill-inducing rides is the ominously named Kraken’s Revenge which takes thrill-seekers up 30 meters of track and a 360º horizontal loop, followed by a 27 meters speedy descent.

For those who want to be outdoors but don’t feel like getting wet, the Desaru Fruit Farm offers guided tours and ATV adventures, providing a unique agricultural experience plus plenty of heart-stopping fun!

Must eat in Desaru Coast

Desaru Coast's culinary offerings include a mix of local seafood and international cuisine. Local dishes such as ikan bakar (grilled fish) and otak-otak (grilled fish cake) are must-tries for visitors looking to experience the flavours of a seaside town.

Must do in Desaru Coast

In addition to waterpark fun, Desaru Coast offers beach activities, golfing, and nature walks. The Els Club Desaru Coast features ocean and valley courses for golf enthusiasts, while the Desaru Beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation and water sports.

Where to stay in Desaru Coast

For those on a budget holiday, Desaru Coast offers several affordable lodging options. The Sand & Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa provides budget-friendly accommodations with easy access to the beach. But you can also find a variety of properties ranging from modest apartments to luxurious villas, catering to all budget levels, on platforms like Airbnb.

Where to go in Indonesia

Indonesia offers a plethora of cheap holiday destinations from Singapore, where culture, adventure, and natural beauty meet. From the cultural hub of Yogyakarta to the pristine shores of Sumba Island and the underwater paradise of Raja Ampat, Indonesia has something for every traveller looking for affordable getaways from Singapore.

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Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is not just a city but the heart of Javanese culture and heritage. It is approximately a 2-hour flight from Singapore, making it an accessible budget holiday even for a long weekend getaway . The weather is tropical year-round, with the best time to visit being between April and October to avoid the rainy season. Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, though English is widely understood in tourist areas, and the currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Safety-wise, Yogyakarta is relatively secure, but it's always wise to follow standard travel precautions. In case of emergencies, international hospitals and the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta are available for assistance.

Must visit in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is home to the majestic Borobudur and Prambanan temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites that are a must-visit. The Kraton (Sultan's Palace) also offers a glimpse into the royal Javanese culture, with sprawling pavilions designed to represent the cosmos in Javanese mythology. For shopping, Malioboro Street (Jalan Malioboro) in the heart of the city is bustling with vendors selling local crafts and batik.

Must eat in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is famous for its local cuisine. For breakfast, try the gudeg , a traditional jackfruit stew. Bakpia Pathok is a perfect snack, while sate klatak and ayam goreng Kalasan make for delightful lunch or dinner options, offering a true taste of Javanese flavours without the need for a five-star price tag.

Must do in Yogyakarta

Once you’re done exploring ancient temples, immerse yourself in a traditional Javanese batik workshop, or venture to the Merapi volcano for a thrilling off-road tour. The city's rich cultural tapestry is also evident in its vibrant street art and lively traditional performances which are held regularly at the Kraton.

Where to stay in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta offers numerous affordable accommodations for travellers on a budget. The OstiC House is a 3-star hotel highly recommended for travellers on a budget, providing a comfortable stay with local charm. The city also has many other hostels, inns, and boutique hotels across its vast expanse so you’re sure to find one that fits your travel needs.

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If you’ve run out of things to do in Bali , head to Sumba Island instead. With its unspoiled beaches and traditional villages, Sumba is an emerging cheap getaway from Singapore located slightly south of Bali. The island is about a 4-hour flight, including a transfer in Bali. The island experiences a dry season from May to November, ideal for visits. Indonesian is the primary language, but many in the tourism and hospitality sector speak basic English at minimum so communication should not be a significant issue. While Sumba is off the beaten path, it offers a serene escape with basic safety precautions advised for travellers. Do note that local healthcare facilities are limited and the nearest Singapore consulate is on the mainland.

Must visit in Sumba Island

Discover the unique megalithic tombs and traditional villages like Ratenggaro and Praijing. Sumba's Ikat weaving centres are also fascinating places to visit for those interested in local crafts or simply admire the beauty of Ikat’s elaborate motifs and patterns.

Must do in Sumba Island

The island's cuisine reflects its maritime culture. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like ikan bakar (grilled fish) and sambal matah for a local flavour experience. For a traditional meal, try se'i (smoked meat), kasbi (tapioca stew), and moke (fermented palm tree sap).

Where to stay in Sumba Island

Padadita Beach Hotel offers an excellent budget holiday from Singapore, with beachfront views and traditional architecture. The island is home to mostly resorts, but there are also 2- and 3-star hotels aplenty, plus smaller guest houses and inns here and there.

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Raja Ampat, known for its spectacular marine biodiversity, is the pinnacle of cheap places to travel from Singapore for diving enthusiasts. The journey involves a flight to Sorong via Jakarta or Makassar, then a boat ride to the islands. The best visiting months are from September to April, when the water is at its calmoest. Indonesian is the lingua franca, with English spoken in major resorts and dive centres. As a remote location with limited emergency services, it's advisable to have diving travel insurance if you’re planning on taking a dive, and stay mindful of safety practices.

Must visit in Raja Ampat

Piaynemo Island offers breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic karst islands. Don't miss the chance to visit the local villages and learn about the unique Papuan culture.

Must eat in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat’s cuisine is heavily based on seafood. Try local dishes like papeda , a sago porridge served with fish soup, for a unique culinary experience.

Must do in Raja Ampat

Diving and snorkelling in Raja Ampat are unparalleled, giving you the chance to get up close with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Kayaking and bird-watching are also popular activities to appreciate the natural beauty of the islands.

Where to stay in Raja Ampat

Kri Eco Resort offers an affordable stay with eco-friendly accommodations and direct access to some of the best dive sites. Airbnb options are limited in Raja Ampat, but finding a local homestay can provide a genuine and budget-friendly experience.

Where to go in Vietnam

Vietnam is a cheap holiday destination from Singapore offering an array of experiences ranging from serene landscapes to bustling city streets. Be it via a local travel agency in Singapore or a totally self-planned trip, let's explore what this beautiful country has to offer in Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Source: Rachel Claire on Pexels

Traveling from Singapore to Ha Long Bay is relatively straightforward, with the most common route being a flight to Hanoi followed by a bus or a private transfer to Ha Long Bay. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a rich history dating back thousands of years and uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND) for currency. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with the best times to visit being from October to April for cooler and drier weather. Vietnamese is the primary language, though you'll find English spoken in tourist areas at varying levels of fluency. The area is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to heed local safety tips such as guarding personal belongings and staying within designated tourist areas. For emergencies, knowing the location of the nearest hospital and the contact information for the Singapore embassy in Hanoi is crucial.

Must visit in Ha Long Bay

A visit to the Sung Sot Cave and a cruise around the bay to see the limestone islands are must-dos. For shopping, the Ha Long Market offers local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Must eat in Ha Long Bay

Street food stalls and local eateriesin Ha Long Bay offer a wide array of authentic and delicious options, but local cuisines you must try include seafood pho for breakfast, banh mi for brunch, and grilled oysters for dinner. 

Must do in Ha Long Bay

Kayaking and boat tours are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty up close. Visiting the floating villages and experiencing the local way of life is also highly recommended.

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay

For budget-conscious travellers, the Ha Long Bay Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. There are also a variety of inns, Airbnbs, and hostels that cater to different budgets and preferences.

Source: James Cheung on Unsplash

Da Nang, easily accessible from Singapore, is a vibrant city known for its French colonial architecture and rich cultural history. The city experiences a tropical climate with a monsoon season, with the best time to visit is from February to May when the weather is mild and pleasant. English and Vietnamese are widely spoken, making communication for tourists relatively easy. The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the currency used, and Da Nang is considered safe for travelers, with standard safety precautions recommended. It's useful to have information on local hospitals and the nearest embassy for emergencies.

Must visit in Da Nang

The Marble Mountains and the Dragon Bridge are iconic landmarks. For shopping, visit the Han Market for local goods.

Must eat in Da Nang

Enjoy a bowl of Mi Quang for breakfast, a Banh Xeo for brunch, and seafood by the beach for dinner.

Must do in Da Nang

Beach activities are a must in Da Nang, with My Khe Beach offering jet skiing and surfing. The Ba Na Hills, featuring the famous Golden Bridge, also provide breathtaking views and a welcome escape from the heat. And a nighttime boat ride down the river is sure to deliver unforgettable memories.

Where to stay in Da Nang

The Da Nang Backpackers Hostel provides affordable lodging with easy access to the city's attractions. The city also has a wide range of 3- and 4- star hotels, inns, and hostels at varying price points.

Source: Nam Quân Nguyễn on Pexels

Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis rich in history and culture, is another cheap getaway from Singapore. Direct flights connect Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City, making it an accessible holiday destination with no airline transfers necessary. The city has a tropical climate, with the dry season from December to April being the ideal time to visit. Vietnamese is the main language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the currency used. While the city is generally safe for tourists, it's advisable to be cautious with personal belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Knowing the location of the nearest hospital and embassy details is recommended for safety, and there is a Singapore Consulate-General in the city itself.

Must visit in Ho Chi Minh City

The War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels offer insightful glimpses into Vietnam's history. For shopping, Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit for souvenirs and local products.

Must eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Start your day with Pho for breakfast, enjoy Banh Mi for brunch, and end with Com Tam for dinner.

Must do in Ho Chi Minh City

Exploring the city's vibrant street life, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, and taking a boat tour on the Saigon River are top activities. The city's nightlife and cultural shows also offer a glimpse into its modern-day vibrancy.

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

The Saigon Europe Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay. Accommodations at every price point are easily located across the city, so you can pick one that suits your budget best.

Where to go in Thailand

Exploring cheap holiday destinations from Singapore? Thailand offers a medley of experiences that cater to every traveller's budget and taste. From the serene beaches of Krabi to the cultural richness of Chiang Mai and the unique charm of Chiang Rai, Thailand is a treasure trove of budget getaways for Singaporeans. Let's dive into what makes each of these destinations a must-visit for those looking for a quick, wallet-friendly escape. (And don’t forget your travel insurance for Thailand so you can enjoy a worry-free holiday!)

Source: Valeriy Ryasnyanskiy on Unsplash

Krabi, a province on Thailand's southwestern coast, is famed for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic beaches. Approximately a 1.5-hour flight from Singapore, Krabi offers a tropical climate year-round, with the best weather from November to April during the dry season. The local language is Thai, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. The Thai Baht (THB) is the currency, and ATMs are readily available. For safety, standard precautions apply, and it's recommended to have travel insurance for your Thailand travels . There are several international private hospitals in Krabi, which can handle most conditions or illnesses.

Must visit in Krabi

Krabi is renowned for its natural and cultural attractions. Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, and the Phi Phi Islands offer breathtaking scenery and water sports. For shopping, the Krabi Town Night Market is a must-visit for local crafts and souvenirs.

Must eat in Krabi

Local cuisines in Krabi cater to all meal times. Start your day with a traditional Thai breakfast of Jok (rice porridge). For lunch, indulge in Pad Thai or Som Tam (papaya salad) at local eateries. Dinner options include Massaman Curry, a flavorful blend of Thai and Indian influences, made with coconut milk, potatoes, and meat.

Must do in Krabi

Outdoor activities in Krabi are plentiful. Rock climbing at Railay Beach, kayaking through Mangrove forests, and island hopping are popular choices. For a unique experience, visit the Emerald Pool for a swim in its naturally warm waters.

Where to stay in Krabi

Budget-friendly accommodations are plentiful in Krabi, from hostels to hotels to beach resorts. The Slumber Party Hostel is a great option for travelers on a tight budget, offering both dormitory and private rooms.

Source: Peter Borter on Unsplash

Featuring a beautiful countryside that is accompanied by stretches of flourishing paddy fields and evergreen mountains, Chiang Mai is the perfect respite from the constant hustle and bustle. It’s about a 3-hour flight from Singapore, so you can take a breather from work as you explore this beautiful landscape at your own pace. The weather is cooler than much of Thailand due to its higher altitude, especially from November to February. Thai is the primary language, with English widely spoken or understood in tourist areas. Chiang Mai's history as a cultural and religious centre dates back over 700 years, reflected in its many temples and historical sites. The currency is the Thai Baht, and visitors will find numerous ATMs and exchange services. Safety tips include being cautious of traffic when exploring by bike or on foot. Hospitals are available for medical assistance if needed, but you may need to ask for an interpreter.

Must visit in Chiang Mai

Explorers can consider visiting Doi Inthanon, a serene national park situated at the highest point of Chiang Mai’s mountains. Make sure to bring your trekking shoes as it will be a long climb. There is an array of waterfalls and pagodas that you will come across on your trek that will make the experience even more visceral. When you return, take a moment to engage in deep relaxation at one of Chiang Mai’s many spas. Consider the Fah Lanna Spa experience at Old Town , a renowned and award-winning spa. 

Must eat in Chiang Mai

Local dishes in Chiang Mai include Khao Soi , a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, and Sai Oua , a spicy and aromatic Chiang Mai sausage.

Must do in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is famous for its outdoor activities, including trekking in the nearby national parks, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and bamboo rafting. The city's many temples also offer a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into local spiritual practices for the more spiritually minded.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

For budget travellers, the Hug Hostel is one option offering comfortable and affordable accommodations. There are also local homestays for a truly immersive experience of traditional Thai village life.

Source: J.R. Bellmore on Pexels

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand, presents a blend of cultural and natural wonders, about a 3-hour flight from Singapore. The climate is similar to Chiang Mai, with cooler weather from November to February making it a popular cold weather getaway in Southeast Asia . Thai is the main language, and English is commonly used in tourist areas. Chiang Rai's history is rich with Lanna culture, evident in its art and architecture. The Thai Baht is the currency, and safety precautions are similar to those in other parts of Thailand.

Must visit in Chiang Rai

Notable attractions include the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Black House Museum, showcasing contemporary Thai art and architecture. The Night Bazaar offers local crafts and food, so you can nibble on a bite while shopping for awesome souvenirs to bring home.

Must eat in Chiang Rai

Local cuisine features unique dishes such as Khao Kan Chin, a rice dish made with pork blood and herbs, and Yam Naem Khao Tod , a crispy rice salad with fermented pork.

Must do in Chiang Rai

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Boat trips on the Mekong River and visits to hill tribe villages offer insights into the area's cultural and natural beauty.

Where to stay in Chiang Rai

Budget accommodation options include the Connect Hostel, known for its friendly atmosphere and clean facilities. For those seeking a more personalised stay, check out Airbnb or the various boutique hotels located around the city.

Where to go in Philippines

Exploring the Philippines offers a treasure trove of experiences, especially for those looking for cheap holiday destinations from Singapore. With its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local life, it stands out as a premier choice for budget holiday for Singaporean deal seekers. Among its many gems, Coron, Bohol, and El Nido shine the brightest, each offering unique adventures and experiences at a fraction of the cost you might expect. Explore some of the Philippines’ shining gems with us, and don’t forget to get the best travel insurance for the Philippines for your trip so you can fully immerse yourself in your holiday!

Source: Guillermo Bresciano on Unsplash

Coron, a stunning part of the Palawan province, is easily reachable from Singapore, with travel time typically around 8 hours, including layovers. The weather here is tropical year-round, with the best months to visit being from December to May, avoiding the wet season. English and Filipino are widely spoken, making communication for tourists straightforward. The Philippine Peso (PHP) is the local currency, with favourable exchange rates for Singaporeans, enhancing the appeal of cheap getaways from Singapore.

Must visit in Coron

For cultural enthusiasts and explorers, the must-visit sites in Coron include the iconic Kayangan Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs. The Coron Sunken Ships offer a unique diving experience, revealing a piece of history beneath the sea. For shopping, the local markets are perfect for finding handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies, making for a memorable budget holiday from Singapore.

Must eat in Coron

When it comes to dining, Coron offers an array of local cuisines that tantalise the taste buds without breaking the bank. For breakfast, try the traditional Filipino silog dishes. For lunch or dinner, seafood is a must-try, with options like grilled fish and kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) being local favourites.

Must do in Coron

Outdoor activities in Coron are plentiful, with snorkelling and island hopping being top picks. Exploring the Twin Lagoons and taking a dip in the Maquinit Hot Springs are perfect ways to experience the natural beauty of this budget destination from Singapore.

Where to stay in Coron

For accommodation, Coron offers numerous budget-friendly options. One notable budget hotel is the Coron Ecolodge, known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Additionally, Coron has various homestays and private rooms on platforms like Airbnb, providing a more personal and budget-conscious stay (provided you do your own research before booking an accommodation).

Source: Ninia Rose Nava on Pexels

Bohol, another gem in the Philippines, is accessible from Singapore within 7 to 9 hours, including transfers from Manila. The climate is generally dry from November to April, making it an ideal time to visit. English and Visayan are the primary languages here, facilitating relatively easy communication for travellers. The currency used is the Philippine Peso (PHP).

Must visit in Bohol

Cultural sites abound in Bohol, with the Chocolate Hills and the historic Baclayon Church being top attractions. For shopping, the Bohol Quality Mall and the local craft markets in Tagbilaran offer a variety of goods, from local crafts to delicious treats, perfect for those looking for cheap holidays from Singapore.

Must eat in Bohol

Bohol's culinary scene features dishes like the succulent lechon and the savoury pansit . For breakfast, trying out the local puto (rice cakes) with sikwate (hot chocolate) is a must. Seafood, especially during lunch or dinner, reflects the island's rich marine life, offering delicious options for those on a budget holiday from Singapore.

Must do in Bohol

Outdoor adventures in Bohol include river cruising on the Loboc River and visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world's smallest primates. These activities provide unique experiences for travellers seeking to blend adventure with affordability, proving you don’t have to break the bank to have an unforgettable vacation.

Where to stay in Bohol

Bohol offers a range of budget accommodations, such as the Bohol Sea Resort, offering great amenities at low prices.

Source: Eibner Saliba on Unsplash

El Nido is a paradise within Palawan, reachable from Singapore in approximately 10 hours, including layovers in Manila. Known for its stunning limestone formations, clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity, it's a haven for nature lovers. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May. English and Filipino are widely spoken, and the Philippine Peso (PHP) is the currency, which can be easily exchanged in Singapore.

Must visit in El Nido

In El Nido, don't miss the Big and Small Lagoons, which offer unparalleled natural beauty and kayaking opportunities. The town's vibrant markets and boutiques provide unique shopping experiences, ideal for securing souvenirs and local crafts on a budget holiday from Singapore.

Must eat in El Nido

El Nido's dining scene is rich with options, from the fresh catch of the day served at beachfront grills to the local Philippino favourite, adobo , available in most eateries.

Must do in El Nido

Outdoor activities in El Nido are abundant, with scuba diving, snorkelling, and island hopping being top attractions. Exploring the hidden beaches and secret lagoons provides an exclusive experience that truly showcases the natural beauty of the Philippines.

Where to stay in El Nido

For budget-friendly lodging, El Nido offers options like the Spin Designer Hostel, known for its chic design and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Airbnb, inn, and 3- or 4-star hotel rentals are also available, offering a range of choices from private rooms to entire suites.

Where to go in Cambodia

Cambodia, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a top pick for travellers seeking cheap holiday destinations from Singapore. This guide dives into three Cambodian gems: Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and Battambang, offering a comprehensive overview for those planning a budget holiday abroad.

Source: Serg Alesenko on Pexels

Siem Reap, the gateway to the ancient world of Angkor Wat, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike. A direct flight from Singapore to Siem Reap takes approximately 2 hours, making it an ideal cheap getaway when you’re short on time but want to enjoy a holiday. The weather in Siem Reap is typically warm year-round, with the best time to visit from November to February when the climate is cooler and drier. The local language is Khmer, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but US dollars are also accepted everywhere, offering greater convenience for travellers. For safety, it's advised to keep belongings secure and be cautious when travelling at night. Siem Reap is equipped with several hospitals and clinics for emergencies, and the Singapore Embassy in Phnom Penh can provide consular assistance if needed.

Must visit in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is renowned for Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, and a visit here offers a glimpse into the architectural genius of the Khmer empire. Guided tours can be hired via platforms such as Klook, with inclusions ranging from small walking tours to luxurious experiences complete with a private tour guide, a fully air-conditioned van, unlimited chilled water and lunch.

Besides Angkor Wat, the bustling Old Market and the vibrant Pub Street are perfect for shopping and experiencing the local nightlife. For those interested in cultural immersion, the Angkor National Museum and the Cambodian Cultural Village provide insights into the country's rich heritage. And if you love getting massages while on holiday, you can step into a roadside massage as affordable as USD$1 (S$1.37) for 10 minutes, USD$2 (S$2.74) for 30 min and USD$3 (S$4.10) for an hour. Should you want to live the life of luxury, it will not cost you much — even the fanciest spas there can cost less than USD$100 for a three-hour pampering session . 

Must eat in Siem Reap

Dining in Siem Reap is affordable, with meals at local eateries costing between S$1 to S$2, and restaurant or cafe meals available for S$10 to S$20 per person. Start your day with a local breakfast of Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice) or Kuy Teav (noodle soup). For lunch or dinner, try Amok , a traditional Cambodian curry, or Lok Lak , a pepper beef dish. 

Must do in Siem Reap

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Siem Reap a playground of adventures. Explore the Angkor complex by bike, take a hot air balloon ride for aerial views of the temples, or embark on a quad bike adventure through the countryside. Additionally, attending a traditional Apsara dance performance offers a unique evening experience.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

For budget-conscious travelers, Siem Reap offers a range of affordable getaways. Hostels and budget hotels provide accommodations starting as low as S$20 per night, with everything from traditional Khmer houses to modern apartments available on booking platforms.

Source: Sim Kimhort on Unsplash

Sihanoukville, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe, is becoming increasingly popular as a cheap place to travel from Singapore. Flight time from Singapore to Sihanoukville is around 2 to 3 hours, with a layover in Phnom Penh. The weather is warm throughout the year, with the best time to visit being from November to March. English and Khmer are widely spoken, making communication easy for tourists. The currency and safety tips are similar to Siem Reap, and medical facilities are available for emergencies.

Must visit in Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is home to several must-visit beaches like Otres Beach and Serendipity Beach, perfect for relaxation and water sports. The city's markets, such as the Phsar Leu Market, offer a glimpse into local life and are great for souvenir shopping. For a dose of culture, the Wat Leu Temple provides serene views and a spiritual experience.

Must eat in Sihanoukville

The coastal city's cuisine features fresh seafood and Cambodian specialties. Breakfast by the beach might include a simple but delicious rice porridge or fresh fruits. For lunch or dinner, indulge in grilled fish, crab with Kampot pepper, or squid. Dining by the beach offers not just tasty meals but also stunning views, with prices remaining budget-friendly.

Must do in Sihanoukville

Outdoor activities in Sihanoukville cater to beach lovers and adventure seekers. Enjoy snorkelling, diving, or island hopping to nearby Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. Beach parties and fire shows at night provide entertainment and a chance to mingle with other travellers.

Where to stay in Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville offers various budget-friendly accommodation options. Budget hotels and guesthouses near the beaches offer rooms at competitive rates. Airbnb rentals, ranging from beachfront bungalows to cosy rooms in shared homes, also provide alternatives for every type of traveller.

Source: HANUMAN PHOTO STUDIO🏕️📸 on Pexels

Battambang, Cambodia's third-largest city, is known for its colonial architecture, ancient temples, and the famous bamboo train. The journey from Singapore to Battambang involves a flight to Siem Reap followed by a scenic bus or taxi ride. The city experiences a tropical climate with a similar best visitation period as Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. English and Khmer are the main languages, and the currency and safety guidelines are consistent with other Cambodian destinations.

Must visit in Battambang

Battambang's charm lies in its blend of history and nature. The Phnom Sampeau and the Banan Temple offer breathtaking views and insights into the region's history. The city's bustling markets, such as Phsar Nat, are ideal for exploring local crafts and foods. The bamboo train, a unique ride through the countryside, is a must-experience for visitors.

Must eat in Battambang

Battambang's culinary scene includes traditional Khmer dishes and street food favorites. Breakfast options include Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) and sweet snacks from local vendors. For lunch or dinner, savour dishes like Prahok Ktis (pork and fermented fish dip) and grilled meats. The city's cafes also offer a mix of local and international cuisines at affordable prices.

Must do in Battambang

Battambang's activities range from cultural exploration to adventure sports. Take a tuk-tuk tour of the surrounding countryside, visit local art galleries, or cycle through the city's charming streets. Kayaking along the Sangker River offers a peaceful way to see the rural landscapes.

Where to stay in Battambang

Battambang's accommodation options cater to budget travellers and those seeking a bit more comfort. Guesthouses and budget hotels in the city centre are readily available, offering clean and comfortable lodgings. Airbnb listings provide a more personalised stay too, but do do your own research before booking an accommodation.

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Truthfully, Singapore’s relatively strong currency compared to its Southeast Asian neighbours is why we appear to be surrounded by some of the cheapest countries and destinations to travel to from Singapore for a quick getaway. So the fact that we’re not short on where to go for a good time is definitely not something to take for granted!

That being said, there is a whole cosmos of explorative opportunities that awaits you, with cultural marvels, unbelievable sights and untold mysteries laid all across our grandiose world waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning a 3D2N public holiday long weekend escape , 4D3N couple’s getaway, or even a 1 week family vacation across multiple destinations, wait no longer, and start getting your travel checklist ready!

Make sure to protect yourself adequately however, with the appropriate travel insurance so that your journey goes unhindered. Or check out our guide to the cheapest travel insurance in Singapore and best travel insurance promos to stretch your travel dollar even further!

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18 Short Trips from Singapore Less Than 3 Hours Away

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

12 OCT 23 . 7 MIN READ . GUIDES

Weekend Wanderings: Short Trips from Singapore

Beyond the Lion City lies a world of hidden treasures and exquisite travel destinations located across different countries near Singapore, all less than three hours away.

If you have a public holiday or an extra long weekend coming up and you’re looking for a short but sweet break from your everyday routine, we’ve got you covered!

Pack your bags, leave the city’s bustling rhythm behind, and embark on a journey of exploration with this list of the best weekend getaways and short trips from Singapore!

Langkawi, Malaysia

Bangkok, thailand, bali, indonesia, kuala lumpur, malaysia, koh samui, thailand, lombok, indonesia.

• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phuket, Thailand

Krabi, thailand, jakarta, indonesia, hoi an, vietnam, siem reap, cambodia, penang, malaysia, chiang mai, thailand.

• Bintan Island, Indonesia

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Batam, indonesia, cameron highlands, malaysia.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes by flight from Singapore

Known for its white sandy beaches and pristine turquoise waters, Langkawi features a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a laid-back island atmosphere.

1. Embark on a jet ski adventure

Dayang bunting jet ski island tour.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a jet ski and tour across eight islands with an epic island-hopping adventure, exploring breathtaking Fjords, relaxing on isolated beaches, or watching the eagles soaring through the skies.

2. Soar to new heights with a cable car adventure

Langkawi cable car (skycab) tickets.

If you want a magnificent bird’s eye view of Langkawi, book a cable car ride to soar to the summit of the 550 million-year-old Mount Manchinchang. Witness the beauty of Langkawi’s diverse wildlife from above as you glide over this ancient rainforest.

3. Surprise your special someone with a sunset cruise

Sunset cruise in langkawi.

Or, if you’re looking to add a splash of romance to your trip, why not try a sunset cruise on a luxury yacht across the crystal-clear waters of Langkawi’s archipelago?

Set sail with Crystal Yacht, Langkawi’s top choice for luxurious boat trips.

You can select from two popular packages: the Sunset Dinner Cruise and the Geopark Day Cruise. They offer shared and private options on their big 50- and 60-foot catamaran boats.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 30 minutes by flight from Singapore

Bangkok offers a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, shopping, and entertainment and promises to be one of the best weekend getaways from Singapore.

4. Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen saduak floating market tour.

Begin your adventure by touring one of Bangkok’s best-floating markets , the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , exploring its fascinating maze of canals, enjoying a paddle boat ride, and watching how the locals make coconut brown sugar.

5. Walk your way through Bangkok and immerse yourself in local history

The grand palace & bangkok temples walking tour.

For history buffs, immerse yourself in Bangkok’s cultural and historical heritage by exploring the Grand Palace’s royal chambers and some of Bangkok’s most stunning temples , like the Emerald Buddha Temple and Wat Pho.

6. Go on a Michelin guide Bangkok street food adventure

Michelin guide bangkok street food tour by tuk-tuk.

No matter your trip’s length, you can’t miss the chance to indulge in Bangkok’s iconic street food scene .

Jump in a tuk-tuk and explore Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown like a local, zooming through tiny alleyways and sampling local delicacies from the many iconic eateries and street food stalls in the area, all Michelin-rated.

Trust us, your palate will thank you.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes by flight from Singapore

Bali is one of the more popular long weekend getaway choices for Singaporeans when planning a short overseas trip from Singapore.

This island paradise combines natural beauty with vibrant culture and secluded beaches that make for the perfect romantic retreat for couples.

7. Spend a day with the macaques of Ubud

Ubud monkey forest sanctuary tour and jungle swing.

Start your adventure with a trip to the memorable Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where over 500 long-tail macaques roam the jungle – the photo-ops here are to die for!

8. Go on a Bali Instagram adventure

Bali instagram tour.

If it’s iconic photo ops you’re looking for, you can’t miss passing through the Gates Of Heaven in front of Mount Agung or the chance to pose for pictures in a secluded mystical cave.

Explore Bali’s most beautiful and well-known locations on a customisable day trip.

You’ve probably seen these places on Instagram, from the Gates of Heaven to the Ubud rice fields.

Now, you can experience their beauty in person.

9. Cruise to Nusa Lembongan

Beach club cruise tour to nusa lembongan.

No weekend getaway in Bali would be complete without a day of beach fun and water sports, so we recommend jumping aboard a beach club cruise on a Book your Nusa Lembongan beach club cruise today!

Once you arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore Mushroom Bay with snorkelling adventures, scuba diving, bar and restaurant hopping, whatever floats your boat.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes by flight from Singapore

If you’re jet-setting on a short trip to Malaysia from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur should be at the top of your list. KL (as the locals call it) offers the pace and thrill of a large cosmopolitan city with a rich food scene, lush natural beauty, fabulous shopping and a generous dose of culture.

10. Embark on an off-the-beaten-track foodie tour

Flavours of malaysia off the beaten track food tour.

Begin by getting a literal taste of this capital city by visiting one of its largest wet markets, with a professional guide leading you through a vibrant selection of fresh produce and iconic local dishes.

11. See the best of KL

Batu caves and kuala lumpur city tour with 21 attractions.

We recommend making the most of your time in KL with a full-day experience that takes you to Batu Caves and the main attractions.

The incredible Batu Caves is known for its 400-million-year-old limestone rock formations and Hindu shrines.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 5 minutes by flight from Singapore

For a blissful weekend getaway from Singapore, the pristine shores of Koh Samui, Thailand, offer a tantalising paradise just a short flight away.

With its turquoise waters and lush landscapes, this tropical gem is perfect for couples looking for rest and rejuvenation.

12. Go island-hopping

Koh samui island hopping tour to coral and pig island.

Start your retreat by island hopping to Coral and Pig Island, where you’ll snorkel amidst pristine coral reefs and colourful marine life, or relax and unwind with your partner on a secluded beach.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes by flight from Singapore

History, culture and gastronomy combine in exquisite harmony in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, making it an ideal escape for a short weekend getaway from Singapore.

13. Visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep

Sendang gile and tiu kelep waterfalls tour.

Kickstart your weekend of total immersion in nature with a refreshing dip in Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall.

14. Slow down, and explore village life in Tetebatu

Tetebatu walking tour: rice terraces, waterfall, forest.

Then experience village life with a walk through the rich landscapes of Tetebatu with its lush rice terraces, waterfalls and monkey forests.

Stop for a chat with the locals, or soak in panoramic views of Mount Rinjani volcano along the way.

15. Climb Mount Rinjani

2d1n mount rinjani summit trekking tour.

If you’re still craving adventure, you can hike up to the summit of the stunning Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.

You’ll catch glimpses of local wildlife along the way, and have the opportunity to soak in magnificent panoramic views from the summit!

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Travel Time : 2 hours and 15 minutes by flight from Singapore

16. Scale the Saigon Skydeck

Saigon skydeck at bitexco financial tower tickets.

Elevate your weekend with a bird’s eye view of the city from 178 metres up in the air at the Saigon Skydeck , with stunning 360-degree views.

17. Explore Ho Chi Minh City on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Ho chi minh city hop-on hop-off sightseeing.

Afterwards, you can descend from the heavens back down to earth and experience the city at your own pace with the hop-on hop-off bus , an immersive sightseeing adventure through Ho Chi Minh’s vibrant neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.

18. Go on a romantic Saigon sunset cruise

Saigon romantic sunset cruise.

Finally, for couples looking to spice up their romantic retreat, we recommend sailing off into the sunset in a luxury speedboat in the heart of Saigon.

This sunset cruise comes with unlimited refreshments, allowing you to explore Saigon’s winding canals and architectural wonders, all while soaking in a spectacular sunset.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 55 minutes by flight from Singapore

For a short getaway from Singapore filled with sun, sea and adventure, look no further than Phuket, Thailand.

19. Tour James Bond island on a luxury boat

James bond island luxury boat tour with sunset dinner.

Upon landing, live the lavish life of James Bond with the James Bond luxury boat adventure!

Hop onboard a luxurious catamaran with a full bar, sunbeds, a DJ and a dancefloor, sip on a glass of bubbly, explore the sea caves of Hong Island by kayak, and indulge in a delicious sunset dinner.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes by flight from Singapore

Just about two hours away by flight, Krabi in Thailand is one of the best weekend getaways from Singapore.

20. Island hop till you drop

4 islands tour from krabi.

Known for its pristine beaches, you can start your getaway with an island-hopping adventure across four islands, snorkelling at Hin Pae, sunbathing on pristine white sands, and indulging in a delicious complimentary lunch.

21. Explore Phi Phi Island's coral reefs

Phi phi islands snorkelling tour by speedboat from krabi.

Explore the depths of the underwater realm with an exciting snorkelling tour by speedboat across the Phi Phi Islands from Krabi, where giant limestone rocks emerge majestically from the clear blue waters.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes by flight from Singapore

Jakarta, a vibrant city, offers a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, making it an ideal destination for short trips from Singapore. Explore its skyline, shopping hubs, bustling food streets, and the historic charm of ancient mosques and Old Town.

22. Hop on the Gondola Ancol

Gondola cable car ancol tickets.

Just a stone’s throw away from Singapore lies Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, offering travellers a rich blend of history, cuisine, and urban charm (as well as fun activities for families with kids). To see Jakarta from up high in the sky, jump on the Gondola Ancol and get a panoramic view of Jakarta Bay.

23. Visit the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari

Jakarta aquarium & safari tickets.

Get up close and personal with local wildlife by spending the day at the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari, Indonesia’s largest indoor living planet.

This fascinating conservation area is home to over 3,500 species of aquatic and non-aquatic animals.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes by flight from Singapore

Hoi An is a picturesque town on the central coast of Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its charming architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich history.

24. Row your way through Hoi An on a basket boat

Hoi an ancient town and basket boat tour from da nang.

To steep yourself in Hoi An’s ancient history, you can stroll through its vibrant streets and visit a renowned coconut village to take a traditional basket boat ride, all while learning about the region’s history and culture.

25. Glide along the Hoai River and release a lantern into the night sky

Hoai river boat ride ticket.

To experience this enchanting town by night, watching the lanterns light up and soaking in its ancient architecture, you can step aboard a traditional wooden boat and embark on a serene journey along the Hoai River.

You’ll even be able to release your very own lantern into the skies, which is believed to bring good luck and blessings.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore

An immersive journey awaits at Siem Reap, nestled in the heart of Cambodia and home to exquisite natural beauty.

26. Explore Siem Reap's countryside by Vespa

Siem reap countryside vespa adventure.

Why not explore it on the back of a Vespa, off the beaten track and into the real Cambodia, with a local guide leading you on a personalised adventure?

You’ll end this once-in-a-lifetime experience with some culture by visiting a local Buddhist temple and trying a tantalisingly tasty local dish.

27. Join a Khmer cooking class

Half day khmer cooking class.

If food is on your mind, you can try your hand at actually cooking local Khmer cuisine with the help of Cambodian chefs!

Hop in a tuk-tuk to Treak Village where a lush herb garden, banana trees and homegrown local ingredients await you, and immerse yourself in Cambodian food culture.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes by flight from Singapore

Penang is a Malaysian island known for its rich landscapes, cultural heritage and delectable cuisine like char koay teow and laksa.

28. Fill your day with magic and wonder

Magic world penang.

If you have the kids in tow on your short family getaway, keep them entertained by visiting Magic World Penang .

This 3D art museum lets visitors interact with optical illusions and imaginative artworks.

You’ll even have the chance to pose as part of the art for some truly memorable photo ops.

29. Witness Penang from up high in the sky at The TOP

The top penang tickets.

To soak in the sights and sounds of Penang, head to The TOP Penang for a bird’s eye view of the capital from the Rainbow Skywalk open-air glass bridge, or for a day of fun at its indoor theme park.

Travel Time: 3 hours by flight from Singapore

Chiang Mai is located in the lush northern hills of Thailand and is known for its serene temples, vibrant street markets and natural beauty.

30. Set out in a tuk-tuk and start exploring

Chiang mai temples and street market tuk-tuk tour.

Dive into your cultural adventure by hopping in a tuk-tuk and touring the local temples and markets, including the 700-year-old Lanna-inspired Wat Chedi Luang.

31. Take a walk on the wild side with the Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang mai night safari tickets.

The night safari in Chiang Mai is also not to be missed, nestled in the foothills of the Doi Pui mountain and home to several creatures that roam in the dark, from lions to tigers, hyenas to cheetahs.

Bintan, Indonesia

Travel Time: 50 minutes by ferry from Singapore

Only 50 minutes away by ferry, Bintan is ideal for a quick getaway from Singapore , offering travellers several vacation options, from spas and shopping to watersports and outdoor adventures.

32. Explore the best of Bintan

Best of bintan tour.

You can make the most of your stay on this beautiful island with an immersive all-day adventure, venturing to hilly dunes and turquoise blue lagoons, enjoying a delightful seafood lunch, and ending the day with a relaxing massage.

33. Go on a Bintan foodie hunt

Bintan food hunt tour.

Discover the island’s delicious local cuisine and culinary specialities that most tourists don’t even know about on a Bintan foodie tour.

You’ll stop at local villages and soak in some truly stunning scenery, well worth the trip, we say.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore

Yogyakarta is a cultural gem on the Indonesian island of Java, renowned for its rich history, artistry, and majestic ancient temples.

34. Check out Borobudur & Prambanan

Yogyakarta: borobudur & prambanan temple day tour.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites of Borobudur and Prambanan temples are not to be missed, with the famous Borobudur standing proud as the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

Travel Time: 45 – 70 minutes by ferry from Singapore

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore , Batam makes for one of the easiest and fastest destinations, making it perfect for short weekend trips from Singapore.

35. Enjoy all sorts of fun in Batam

Batam adventure park.

Once you touch down in Batam, enjoy an afternoon of go-karting with the family, or hire an ATV for a thrilling ride through the Batam Adventure Park’s forest tracks.

If adrenaline-pumping thrills are not your cup of tea, you can opt instead for a relaxing day at the Absolute Spa, with a series of spa treatments and massages to choose from.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore to Ipoh, then 1h45m by car to Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is the largest hill station in Malaysia, also home to tea plantations and a huge variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables.

36. Strap on your boots and head to a strawberry farm

Cameron highlands day tour.

Get in touch with the land by visiting its stunning strawberry farms and take a tour of a local tea plantation, all the while soaking in magnificent views of rolling hillsides and lush vegetation.

37. Spend a day with the sheep of Cameron Highlands

The sheep sanctuary ticket in cameron highlands.

For families travelling with kids, the Sheep Sanctuary is a fabulously fun day out for all ages, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet, pet and even feed a host of adorable sheep!

From Beaches to Bars: Short Trips from Singapore

From the tranquil beaches of Bali to the bustling streets and bars of Bangkok, the cultural wonders of Yogyakarta to the tropical paradise of Koh Samui – these enchanting getaway destinations are just a quick journey from the Lion City, making them them the best short trips from Singapore for you to embark on.

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Home » Singapore » 15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

Unique family trips within 3 hours from singapore.

In Asia, Singapore is perfectly located super well for easy and fantastic travel options close by. Whether your tribe enjoys beach bumming or city slicking, there are plenty of options for weekend getaways and short trips from Singapore. Little Steps has rounded up some of our favourite short-haul destinations, with a bonus that they’re only under 3 hours or less from Singapore.

From Bali to Laos, there are just so many exciting destinations to consider! Short haul trips from Singapore with kids in tow – you’re sorted. Pack your bags, and happy travels!

LAOS: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Laos is too often overlooked as a South East Asian holiday destination. It shouldn’t be, especially considering its beautiful landscapes and exceptionally well-kept heritage. Visit Vientiane for yummy food and cultural wonders. Take the kids on fantastic adventures like challenging their senses with a cooking class in Luang Prabang, or visit the magnificent Tham Sang Triangle caves near Vang Vieng. While in Vang Vieng, don’t miss the opportunity to see Laos from above while on a hot air balloon tour. Stay at the charming Salana Boutique Hotel in Vientiane.

Tamarind Restaurant & Cooking School, on the Nam Khan River, Ban Wat Sene, Luang Prabang, Laos, +856 20 5634 7690, [email protected], www.tamarindlaos.com

Above Laos Ballooning Adventures, Vang Vieng Paramotor Center and Pilot’s Café, Road to Nathong village, Blue Lagoon 1 and Phu Kham Cave, Laos, +856 20 98 849 401, [email protected], www.abovelaos.com

Salana Boutique Hotel, Chao Anou Road, 112 Wat Chan Village Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Laos, +856 21 254 254, [email protected], www.salanaboutique.com

Luang Prabang, More info here

Vientiane Hotels For Kids, More info here

LOMBOK: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Bali, for sure, is popular and a must-visit holiday destination, but Lombok is the place to go if you want to relax and enjoy some of Indonesia’s idyllic beaches. Yes, exactly like the ones you see on the pages of travel magazines. It's still a bit of a hidden gem in that most tourists forget about it and instead only travel to Bali when exploring their island getaway in Indonesia. We definitely recommend taking the time to visit Lombok. In Lombok, partying is not at the top of the list. The atmosphere is more laid-back and relaxed compared to Bali, making it the perfect destination for families. It’s a little piece of paradise that you definitely need to explore… and they have direct flights from Singapore!

Lombok With Kids, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/lombok-with-kids-toddlers

Hotels And Resorts In Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/best-family-friendly-hotels-and-resorts-in-lombok

Yoga Retreats And Wellness Classes In Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/wellness-yoga-retreats-and-classes

Best Villas In Kuta Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/villas-in-kuta-lombok

PHUKET: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Phuket is the perfect short-haul destination from Singapore for the whole family, especially for those who enjoy time by the ocean. Dip your toes in with the kids or laze on the white sandy beach, cocktail in hand! Explore the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay by kayak. Climb up to view the Big Ming Mongkol Buddha in Phuket. There are tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from, with kids clubs or private villas for groups. Have a look at the Aleenta Resort & Spa, a great choice catering to the whole family’s needs.

John Gray Sea Canoe, 111/7 Moo 6 Tambon Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 63 124 3404, [email protected], www.johngray-seacanoe.com

Big Ming Mongkol Buddhab, Nakkerd Hill near Chalong, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 081 891 3827, [email protected], www.mingmongkolphuket.com

Aleenta Resort & Spa, 33, Khok Kloi, Takua Thung District, Phang-nga, Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 2 514 8124, [email protected], www.aleenta.com/phuket

Ultimate Phuket Guide For Families, More info here

Top Family-Friendly Hotels In Phuket, More info here

KUALA LUMPUR: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Just over an hour’s flight from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur is the ultimate short-haul city break from Singapore. This northern neighbour offers plenty of delicious food and shopping galore, as well as some easy outings for children. Get close to Malaysia’s feathered friends by spending a morning with the kids at the KL Bird Park. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the ancient Batu Caves just outside Kuala Lumpur. Stay at the luxurious Sunway Resort. The kids will love the added bonus of the several water and amusement parks in the vicinity.

KL Bird Park, 920 Jalan Cenderawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 3 2272 1010, [email protected], www.klbirdpark.com

Batu Caves, Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia, Malaysian Ministry Of Tourism, Arts, & Culture, +60 3 8891 8000, [email protected], www.malaysia.travel/explore/batu-caves

Sunway Resort, Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 3 7492 8000, [email protected], www.sunwayhotels.com/sunway-resort

Kuala Lumpur With Kids, More Info here

Family-Friendly Hotels In Kuala Lumpur, More info here

PENANG: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Penang offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, delish food, and activities galore that’ll please the whole family. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa sits on 30 acres of tropical landscaped gardens - the perfect luxe resort for families. With a spa for mom and dad and nearby Adventure Zone indoor playground for the kids, they’ve got you covered! Flutter past Entopia Butterfly Farm and watch newly-emerged butterflies take their first flight in an enchanting aviary. For action and adventure, head to Escape theme park where play is seamlessly mixed with learning about the environment.

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Batu Feringgi Beach, Penang, Malaysia, +60 4 888 8888, [email protected], www.shangri-la.com/en/penang/rasasayangresort/

Entopia Butterfly Farm, 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia, +60 4 8888 111, [email protected], www.entopia.com

Escape Theme Park, 828 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia, +60 17 797 7529, [email protected], www.escape.my

Penang With Kids, More info here

BATAM: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

An easy 45 minutes away from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, the luxury Montigo Resort sits on the north-eastern coast of Batam (Indonesia). It’s one of Batam’s first luxury residences. Each of the lavish villas offers ample room for your little jetsetters to run around, and tons of groegous spaces for parents to relax and indulge in some TLC. Included at the resort is a gamut of activities like volleyball, tennis, swimming, cooking, and painting for the kiddies. The resort also offers a fantastic kids club for when you want to take a couples massage or just have some quiet by the pool and know that your little ones are well looked after. Go on a mangrove tour or ride quad bikes on a dirt track, booked through the Resort! Chill by your own private infinity pool. Yes, please!

Montigo Resort - Nongsa, Jl. Hang Lekir Nongsa, Batam, Indonesia, +62 778 776 8888, [email protected], www.montigoresorts.com

BALI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Made up of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a perfect getaway right on Singapore’s doorstep. For a relaxing getaway, try Bali! As the Southern Hemisphere’s “Hawaii,” Bali has a little bit of everything - monkey forests, waterfalls, and safaris for the little ones. Take the kids to experience the magic of being close to beautiful endangered Sumatran elephants at the Mason Elephant Park & Lodge. Have fun getting wet at Bali Wake Park, one of Asia’s largest aqua parks! Stay at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, a family-friendly beachside haven in Bali.

Mason Elephant Park & Lodge, Jl. Elephant Park Taro, Taro Village, Tegalalang, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 721 480, [email protected], www.masonelephantlodge.com

Bali Wake Park, Jl. Raya Pelabuhan Benoa No.7X, Pedungan, Kec. Denpasar Selatan, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 846 8866, [email protected], www.baliwakepark.com

Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, ITDC Lot N-3, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 771906, [email protected], www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dpswi-the-westin-resort-nusa-dua-bali

Little Steps Bali - Everything You Need To Know, More info here

Top 50 Things To Do With Kids In Bali, More info here

BINTAN: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Living in Singapore has plenty of perks including the popular 45-minute ferry ride to the family-fabulous island of Bintan. From fishing and urban life tours, to dining by the sea. Bintan Island in Indonesia has many adventures to offer the whole family, and tons of opportunities to play and relax. Enjoy swimming amongst clownfish and beautiful coral reefs on a snorkeling or diving tour in the reef. Favourite family-friendly resorts in Bintan include The Residence Bintan and The Sanchaya.

Bintan Adventure Tours, Housing Griya Bima Kencana Blok E No. 05 Tanjung, Uban Selatan, Tanjung, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 812 613 19820, [email protected], www.bintanadventures.com

The Residence Bintan, Kampung Galang Batang RT 005 RW 003, Desa/Kecamatan Gunung Kijang, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 778 6000 888, [email protected], www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/bintan

The Sanchaya, Lagoi Bay, Jalan Gurindam Duabelas, Plot 5, Sebong Lagoi, Kec. Tlk. Sebong, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 770 692200, [email protected], www.thesanchaya.com

HO CHI MINH CITY: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Vietnam has it all, including friendly locals and famously delish food. Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of fabulous eateries, shopping gems, five-star stays, and historical adventures. Stay at the lovely 5-star hotel InterContinental Saigon. It’s perfect for seeing the sites of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Opera House. Visit the educational War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Enjoy an unforgettable night out - book a Water Puppet Show and dinner on a Dragon Boat combo tour as you cruise along the Saigon river.

InterContinental Saigon, Corner Hai Ba Trung, St.& Le Duan Bl, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 28 3520 9999, [email protected], www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/ho-chi-minh-city/sgnha/hoteldetail

War Remnants Museum, 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 8 3930 5587, [email protected], www.baotangchungtichchientranh.vn

Bike Tour, Ton That Thuyet Street 3/17, Ward 18, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 888 688 911, [email protected], www.vnbiketour.com

PHNOM PENH: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Family stays at one of Asia’s grand old dames, the classic colonial-era Raffles Hotel Le Royal, will transcend you back in time. Located in the heart of Cambodia’s intoxicating capital city, Phnom Penh, this landmark luxury hotel offers easy access to all the sites and the Mekong River Cruise terminal. Ease into a fantastic sunset cruise along the Mekong river, while enjoying traditional Khmer BBQ. Browse around with the fam at Central Market, also an art deco landmark in Phnom Penh, and pick up some fab souvenirs to take home.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh, +855 23 981 888, [email protected], www.raffles.com/phnom-penh

Memorable Cambodia Tours, Preah Sisowath Quay (Between street 90 & 94), Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, +855 17 226 700, [email protected], www.memorablecambodia.com

Central Market, Street 128 (Kampuchea Krom) in Phsar Thmei 1 Commune, Daun Penh District, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

SIEM REAP: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

You’ll find it impossible to travel through Cambodia with kids without friendly smiles directed your way – Cambodians love children! Cambodia’s main holiday destination, Siem Reap, is most famous for its beautiful temples, especially Angkor Wat. It’s a “must-see” and said to be one of the world’s largest religious structures. The view is especially enchanting at sunrise or sunset. Temples aside, there is so much more to discover in Siem Reap like food tours, horse rides, and the incredible Phare The Cambodian Circus. Book your stay at the Tanei Angkor Resort & Spa. Angkor Wat, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia Phare

The Cambodian Circus, Intersection, Ring Road south of Sok San Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia, +855 15 499 480, [email protected], www.pharecircus.org

Tanei Angkor Resort & Spa, Ring Road, Svay Dangkum Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia, +855 89 844 589, [email protected], www.taneiangkor.com

Siem Reap With Kids, More info here

BANGKOK: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

There are so many opportunities for fun in the City of Angels - Bangkok, especially for families. Relax at the stunning Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort offering a large tropical swimming pool, a kids club, spacious rooms, and plenty of dining options. Take the kiddos to Siam Amazing Park, an amusement and water park, for loads of fun! For something different, pop past Stanley MiniVenture, Asia’s largest 1:87 miniature town. As a short-haul city break from Singapore - Bangkok is always a winner!

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road, Thonburi, Bangkok 10600, Thailand, +66 2 476 0022, [email protected], www.anantara.com/en/riverside-bangkok

Siam Amazing Park, 203 Suan Siam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok, Thailand, +66 2 105 4294, [email protected], www.siamamazingpark.com/index.php

Stanley MiniVenture, 982/22 Gateway Ekamai, Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand, +66 2 048 9924, www.stanleyminiventure.com

50 Family-Friendly Adventures In Bangkok, More info here

LANGKAWI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Langkawi is one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia. It’s a favourite tourist attraction due to its spectacular beaches and plethora of things to do. Stay at the serene Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, tucked away within an UNESCO World Geopark. This magnificent Resort is flanked by a tropical rainforest and the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea. Ride on a SkyCab gondola taking you up from the lush green foothills to the top of the mountains. For breathtaking views, also stroll across the 125m long curved pedestrian SkyBridge suspended above Mount Gunung Machinchang.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Mukim Ayer Hangat, Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi, Malaysia, +60 4 950 8700, [email protected], www.fourseasons.com/langkawi

Panorama Langkawi, Cable Car Station, Oriental Village, Burau Bay, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, +60 4 959 4225, [email protected], www.panoramalangkawi.com

Langkawi With Kids, More info here

Family-Friendly Hotels For Kids In Langkawi, More info here

KOH SAMUI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

With stunning beaches, delicious food, and sunsets to die for, you're sure to have fun with the kiddos in Koh Samui. With 23 charming villas to choose from, including options for 1 to 8 bedrooms, Samujana can cater to single families, groups, and family reunions. All villas feature large private infinity pools, unobstructed sea views, and dedicated villa hosts. Go on a jungle safari tour as you 4x4 off-road through the untouched jungle and splash in waterfalls. Book a half-day boat tour to experience sighting the beautiful pink dolphins at play.

Samujana, 63/154 Moo 5, Plai Laem Soi 11, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand, +66 77 423 465, [email protected], www.samujana.com

Koh Samui Tours, 128/69 Moo 3 (Maret Lamai), Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand, +66 82 854 0296, [email protected], www.kohsamui.tours

KOTA KINABALU: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

You will be spoilt for choice with the many five-star resorts to stay at in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state on Borneo Island. Have a blissful escape with 5-star luxury at The Magellan Sutera Resort. Spend a day exploring Gaya Island and go on an underwater sea walking marine tour at nearby Sapi Island. To make the most of your time in Kota Kinabalu, book a Mari Mari Cultural Village tour. The whole family can be immersed into the Island’s diverse and vibrant culture.

The Magellan Sutera Resort, At Sutera Harbour Resort, 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia, +60 88 318 888, [email protected], www.suteraharbour.com

Adventoro Tours, 27C, Jalan SS 22/19, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, +60 10 468 8011, [email protected], www.adventoro.com

Travel Yamu, Block B3-1-27, Jalan 1/152, Taman OUG Parklane, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 19 696 9325, [email protected], www.travelyamu.com/home

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RSVP for 15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Singapore has been described as a playground for the rich, and it's true that the small city-state does have a certain sheen of wealth. But Singapore offers more than just high-end shopping malls, luxury hotels, and fine dining (though it's worth indulging in those a bit if you can). There is also a vibrant history and diverse ethnic quarters to discover, along with many family-friendly attractions and lovely public spaces that make exploring this slightly futuristic city worthwhile.

Singapore has an excellent public transportation system that makes sightseeing convenient and easy. Once you've gotten a sense of the metro map, you'll have no problem zipping from one part of town to the next. English is spoken everywhere, and signs are in English as well. In fact, Singapore is one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to navigate in Southeast Asia. And as long as you're not comparing prices to nearby Thailand or Vietnam, you're in for a lovely stay.

For ideas on things to see and do, read our list of the top attractions in Singapore.

1. Marina Bay Sands

2. gardens by the bay, 3. botanic gardens, 4. singapore zoo, 5. orchard road, 6. singapore flyer, 7. raffles hotel singapore, 8. chinatown, 9. sentosa island, 10. clarke quay, 11. universal studios singapore, 12. night safari singapore, 13. merlion park, 14. asian civilizations museum, 15. pulau ubin (granite island), 16. fort canning park, 17. the maritime experiential museum, 18. fort siloso, 19. national gallery singapore, 20. jewel changi airport, singapore - climate chart, easy places to visit from singapore.

The opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex includes a high-end luxury hotel , a mall with a canal running through it, the ArtScience Museum , and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck –a vantage point for taking in the entire city. The Skypark's viewing deck and infinity pool are found in the ship (yes, ship) that tops the hotel. Only hotel guests are allowed to use the infinity pool, but anyone can visit the observation deck.

From the Skypark, you can see the innovative double helix bridge , the port, the Gardens by the Bay (101 hectares of land converted into waterfront gardens), and the impressive skyline.

While up there on top of the city, guests can grab a snack or a coffee at the rooftop restaurant or pick up some keepsakes from the souvenir stand. You can purchase a photo of yourself green-screened in front of the massive hotel as it's all lit up at night, but the cost is steep at 50 Singapore dollars–better to ask a fellow tourist to snap a photo of you if possible. The elegant opulence of the Marina Bay Sands exemplifies Singapore's style and status as a major international city in Southeast Asia.

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

Official site: http://www.marinabaysands.com/

Once you've glimpsed this beautifully designed green space (from the top of the Marina Bay Sands, perhaps) you won't be able to stay away. Wander through the Bay East Garden , perfect for enjoying the vibrant plant life and escaping the city bustle for a moment.

You won't want to miss Supertree Grove , where you'll find a cluster of the iconic, futuristic structures designed to perform environmentally sustainable functions. Then, head to the Cloud Forest Dome to see the world's tallest indoor waterfall and learn a bit about biodiversity. Check the website for ticket sale prices and tour times.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

Official site: http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en.html

Not to be confused with the Gardens on the Bay , the Botanic Gardens are also worth a visit. Singapore received its first UNESCO World Heritage nomination for its botanical gardens, and with good reason. The city can sometimes feel like a concrete jungle, albeit a clean and comfortable one, but the botanic gardens preserve pieces of Singapore's wilder heritage.

Here, a walking trail leads to the gardens' heritage trees, which are conserved as part of an effort to protect the city's mature tree species. Make sure to visit the impressive National Orchid Garden as well.

Other popular things to do include visiting the eco-garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculptures, and several other formal gardens.

Address: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore

Official site: www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg

Billing itself as the world's best rainforest zoo, the Singapore Zoo is a pretty impressive place. The facility is clean and inviting, and the animals appear well treated, with plenty of lush vegetation and habitat space.

The orangutans are particularly impressive, and visitors can watch as babies and adults alike swing high above their platforms and snack on fruits. There is also a large chimpanzee family, zebras, meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos, and many other creatures.

Guests can observe feedings for some of the animals. Allow at least three hours to make your way around the zoo.

If the zoo doesn't satisfy your need for getting close to wildlife, there's also the Night Safari , River Safari (including a giant panda forest), and the Jurong Bird Park . Park hopper passes are available if you plan to visit more than one of the wildlife parks.

For a unique and personal wildlife experience, try the Singapore Zoo Breakfast with the Orangutans. This hassle-free tour includes transportation from and to your hotel, allows you half day to explore the zoo, and has an optional upgrade to enjoy breakfast in the company of the zoo's much-loved orangutans.

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/singapore-zoo

One could be forgiven for coming to Singapore and doing nothing but shopping, as this is a world-class city for style and designer chic. The Orchard Road area is a great place to start a shopping spree, as there are high-end stores at every turn. You'd expect nothing less from a neighborhood that boasts 22 malls and six department stores. There are also four movie theaters, including an IMAX cinema, and a KTV karaoke establishment.

If you get hungry while burning through all that cash, there are plenty of eateries in the neighborhood serving international food.

Official site: http://www.orchardroad.org/

If the observation deck at the Marina Bay Sands doesn't quite do it for you, try taking in high tea while looking out over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest giant observation wheel. Choose from several different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that encompasses not only the Singapore skyline but as far away as the Spice Islands of Indonesia and Malaysia's Straits of Johor.

There are several different ticket packages to choose from, and each includes access to the multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit, which delves into Singapore's history and the creation of the Singapore Flyer.

Flights last 30 minutes and run from early morning until late at night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy: the beginning of another bustling day or when Singapore is aglow after dark.

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore

Official site: www.singaporeflyer.com

This colonial building is one of the world's last grand 19th-century hotels, once visited by literary luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling and Joseph Conrad, as well as movie star Charlie Chaplin.

Built in 1887, the property has served as a city landmark for well over a century and continues to live up to its tony reputation with excellent food and service. The classical architecture and tropical gardens provide a refined setting and represent another facet of Singapore's varied and rich history.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is located in the city's Colonial District , which is also home to several other historic sites, and a good place to base yourself in the city. Here, you'll find the Raffles Landing Site , where Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, is said to have stepped ashore in 1819. The story has it that he saw the small fishing village but recognized its potential as a port, so he purchased the land from the Sultan of Johor and invited Chinese and Indian immigrants to move here. And so the seeds of Singapore's multi-ethnic identity were sown.

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore

Official site: www.raffles.com/singapore

If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back here. From the small mom-and-pop stores and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns, there's excitement and hustle in this district. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and see the impressive and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.

Another temple worth seeing is the Buddha Tooth Relic temple. If you're up early enough (think 4am), you can hear the morning drum ceremony. Or you can just check out the closing ceremony in the evening after viewing the relic.

Heritage markers have been installed throughout the neighborhood in English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese, so visitors can better understand the significance of the area. But this neighborhood is not just a testament to the influence of the Chinese throughout Singapore's past. This is a progressive neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all), and it's home to the trendy Ann Siang Hill area, where the quaint bistros and upscale boutiques could be at home in any Western city.

Official site: www.chinatown.sg

Singapore isn't exactly known as a beach destination, but if you're really craving some fun in the sun, Sentosa Island is the place to find it. Siloso Beach is a good spot for getting in beach time, and visitors can play volleyball on free courts or go kayaking and skimboarding. There are several other beach attractions as well, plus an Underwater World aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins.

A must-see on Sentosa Island is the Merlion , Singapore's famous statue that has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. You can take an escalator to the top of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Adventurous types will want to check out The Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports @ Wave House, where you can try your hand at flying strapped to a water-propelled jet pack.

Official site: www.sentosa.com.sg/en

The "center of commerce during the 19th century," Clarke Quay lives up to its legacy as a busy hub. Today, it has a more polished sheen, so after a long day of shopping on Orchard Road, visitors can happily head to Clarke Quay for an evening of waterfront dining and entertainment.

River taxis and cruises also depart from here, giving tourists the chance to admire some of the city's historic bridges and view landmarks like the Merlion from the water. The Quay's biggest hit with younger tourists is a giant bungee-jumping attraction , an adrenaline-packed thrill ride.

Nearby attractions include the Asian Civilisation Museum ; the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery located in Singapore's oldest fire station; and the Hong San See Temple , a picturesque century-old Buddhist place of worship.

Universal Studios Singapore occupies 49 acres of Resorts World Sentosa. The park is arranged thematically, with each area paying tribute to a location, film, or television show. Destinations include New York City, Hollywood, Madagascar, and a trip back to Ancient Egypt. Fiction-themed areas include Shrek's Far Far Away, Lost World, and Sci-Fi City, where Battlestar Galactica -themed dueling roller coasters and an indoor dark coaster, Revenge of the Mummy , dominate the thrill rides.

In addition to the many rides–that range from kiddie-friendly to daredevil –the park also has diverse dining options, shopping, and live shows throughout the day and night.

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore

Night Safari Singapore puts a new twist on the traditional zoo experience by introducing visitors to the nocturnal lives of the residents. The park's habitats are divided into four sections, each with its own trail that lets you observe these elusive creatures as they go about their "day."

The Leopard Trail has, as expected, leopards, as well as lions, flying foxes, civets, and porcupines among other animals. The Fishing Cat Trail tours the habitat of animals native to Singapore, including the fish-loving felines, pangolin, binturong, and other species both common and endangered. East Lodge Trail features Malayan tigers and spotted hyenas, and the Wallaby Trail introduces visitors to the marsupials of Australia.

Private tours, buggy rides, and educational sessions are available, as well as once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as an Asian elephant feeding session.

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/night-safari

Singapore's Merlion is just what it sounds like–the figure of a mythical creature that has the head of a lion and the body and tail of a fish. The Merlion represents the city's humble start as a fishing village combined with its traditional Malay name Singapura, "lion city."

The structure, which was relocated to Merlion Park in 2002, where it can overlook Marina Bay , weighs 70 tonnes and stands at 8.6 meters tall, spouting water from its mouth in a fountain.

The "Merlion Cub" sits nearby, only two meters tall but a hefty three tonnes, and there are five additional official Merlion statues throughout the city. Merlion Park is an ideal spot for photo-ops, whether you are taking a selfie in front of the iconic creature or capturing the magnificent views from the park as it looks out over the bay.

Address: One Fullerton, Singapore

If the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven't satisfied your taste for colonial architecture, pay a visit to the Empress Place Building . It was constructed in 1865 and built in the Neoclassical style, and was named in honor of Queen Victoria. It now houses the Asian Civilisations Museum, which delves into the many Asian cultures that helped form Singapore.

The museum's collections focus on the themes of trade and spirituality, both of which heavily influenced Asian cultures. Exhibits cover topics such as the Indian Ocean trade, stories of faith and belief, and a look at the important role that scholars played in Chinese culture for centuries.

Address: 1 Empress Pl, Singapore

Official site: http://acm.org.sg

For a look at what life in Singapore was like before it was all about glamor and skyscrapers, visit the small island of Pulau Ubin, where fewer than 100 people still live in the same simple way as they did in the 1960s. The island's name is Malay for "Granite Island," a moniker given due to its past prominence as a quarry town.

Today, it is a peaceful, rustic place where tourists can enjoy unspoiled forests and diverse wildlife. The island is also home to the Chek Jawa Wetlands , which contain a coral reef teeming with sea life.

The island is easily reached by boat, a 10-minute ride that departs from Changi Point Ferry Terminal .

As military strongholds go, Fort Canning has had a long and varied life. Built in 1859, the fort was originally meant to defend Singapore against attacks but it became a bunker during World War II and was eventually surrendered to the Japanese in 1942.

Now in peacetime, the original building is home to modern performing arts troupes, and the park regularly sees picnics, concerts, theater performances, and festivals.

Other attractions at the park include relics from Singapore's early history, from as far back as the 14th century, and Sir Stamford Raffles' personal bungalow. Guests can also see a replica of the spice market Raffles established in 1822, as well as ASEAN sculptures that were erected in the 1980s.

Address: 51 Canning Rise, Singapore

This indoor-outdoor museum is located right on the water, and it's a great way to explore Singapore's maritime history through fun, interactive exhibits. Before you even enter the building, you'll be able to see several ships anchored here.

Inside, the highlight of the museum is the Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a sailing vessel that sank in 830 CE while traveling between Africa and China. You can also see large-size models of trading ships that traveled the Silk Route, learn navigation skills and how to read nautical charts, and experience a 9th-century shipwreck at Typhoon Theater in a special-effects simulation.

Fort Siloso, the country's only preserved fort and a military museum, is located on Sentosa Island. You can reach the fort via the Fort Siloso Skywalk trail , a massive steel bridge towering 11 stories up. Surrounded by lush tropical canopy, the bridge is accessed by either a glass elevator or simple stairs–though taking the elevator means sweeping open views of the Keppel Harbor, which you can't really see if you choose to walk your way up. The 181-meter-long bridge offers great views of the nearby islands, as well as the jungle floor below.

Once at the fort, visitors can join guided tours to learn more about the history of the area–although it's also possible to explore on your own, just walking around and seeing the sights.

Highlights inside the fort include the many massive cannons on display, three tunnel systems used to move ammunition around, and special exhibits showcasing daily life in the fort for the soldiers living there in the 1800s.

The entire fort is a beautiful shaded park, where you can spend a couple of hours exploring.

Address: Siloso Road, Singapore

Official site: http://www.fortsiloso.com/

Home to the largest modern art collection in Southeast Asia, the National Gallery mostly focuses on the works of local and Asian artists starting in the 19 th century. The 9,000-plus works of art are divided between two buildings – City Hall and the former Supreme Court – over more than 64,000 square meters.

In addition to the permanent collection, the gallery hosts temporary exhibits in unique aspects such as Vietnamese lacquer painting, modern photography, and Chinese calligraphy.

Free tours are available in English and Mandarin, and the gallery also offers workshops, open performances, and special presentations for both adults and children.

Address: 1 St. Andrew's Road, #01

Official site: https://www.nationalgallery.sg

Often voted as the best airport in the world, the 10-story-high Jewel Ghangi is not your ordinary transportation hub. In fact, you should put it on your list of must-see places to visit while in Singapore.

In addition to over 300 shops, the airport's most famous feature is the 40-meter-high HSBC Rain Vortex, an indoor waterfall surrounded by over 2,000 trees. Each of the airport's three terminals (all seamlessly connected) also has its own garden. There's a cactus garden in Terminal 1; a sunflower garden in T2; and a very famous butterfly garden at T3, home to more than 40 species of butterflies, a six-meter grotto waterfall, and plenty of flowering plants.

The airport is also home to two movie theaters, an entertainment corner with vintage arcade machines, an indoor canopy park with garden mazes and stunning viewing decks, and a 12-meter-tall (that's four stories high) slide both children and adults are welcome to use.

Official site: https://www.changiairport.com

Singapore Getaways: If you're based in Singapore and looking for some time outside the city, or if you're thinking of adding something on to your holiday, consider one of our ideas for weekend getaways from Singapore . Flights connect the city to beautiful destinations around SE Asia in just two or three hours. There are also several interesting places you can reach by bus or ferry.

More on Singapore

8 of the best places to visit in Singapore

Apr 16, 2024 • 12 min read

From art to the astonishing architecture, here are the places that should be on every Singapore itinerary © Sean3810 / Getty Images

Singapore's allure goes beyond its iconic hotels, manicured gardens and world-class airport. A maturing local identity peeks through if you know where to look.

At first glance, the city isn't really known for range when it comes to travel, especially with its headliners clinching superlatives at every turn. Attractions like the Marina Bay Sands , Gardens by the Bay  and Jewel Changi Airport  suggest that the city-state has little beyond manmade sights to offer, but ask any local and they'll be happy to point out that there's life beyond Crazy Rich Asians.

To know Singapore more intimately, venture beyond its famous showcase to the various neighborhoods around the island. From a red light district that doubles as an excellent food hub, to a tranquil reservoir hiding the world's first nocturnal zoo, here are the best places to visit in Singapore to discover its alternative charms.

1. Pulau Ubin

A rural island holding fast to the 1960s

Off the eastern shores of Singapore is Pulau Ubin , a tiny island where many locals consider to be the last vestige of kampong (village) life. More than just a description of a gathering of makeshift houses made of zinc sheets and wood, the term represents a simpler time when the communal spirit was strong. Thus, it became a destination for Singaporeans to visit for some authentic nostalgia. 

While small, the best way to explore the island is by bicycle – a fact evident by the many rental shops near the jetty entrance. If you have limited time, take the eastern trail as it leads to the island's most famous sight,  Chek Jawa wetlands . Walk the extensive boardwalk to spot mudskippers and fiddler crabs, or come during low tide to see carpet anemones, ribbon seagrass and the occasional horseshoe crab. At the end of the walk, climb up Jejawi Tower for panoramic views of the area.

As one of the few sites for granite mining in the early days, the western trail features three water-filled quarries that look spectacular on a sunny day. Cycle first to Petai Quarry and pop by Butterfly Hill to see a small knoll decorated with plants that draw the fluttering creatures. Further along, you'll come by Puaka Hill. It's an easy 15-minute hike up to the highest viewpoint on the island, which offers stunning views of Ubin Quarry from the top. Consider dropping by Wei Tuo Fa Gong Temple nearby, a temple from the 1950s with colorful prayer flags over a pond. 

Return to the main village and have a meal at one of the humble eateries there. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere as well as an impressive example of a wayang stage for traditional theatrical performances, now rarely seen on the main island. 

Planning tip: Take a one-way ferry ride to the island from Changi Point Ferry Terminal for just $4 a person. The independent operators will wait to fill the boat of 12 before leaving, so waiting times may vary from a few minutes to 20 minutes. Insect repellant is heavily advised. 

The red-light district that's also a popular supper spot

Since it's a place that's often seen as sanitized, the fact that there are legalized brothels in Singapore may be a surprise to some. Limited to the even-numbered lorongs (lanes) branching out from Geylang Road, one can identify them by their open gates and their red numbered signs or crimson hanging lanterns at the door. However, for many locals, the star attraction here is really the unpretentious food scene, especially after dark.

It's all a very logical evolution of course. Customers visited in the wee hours and neighboring businesses adjusted their hours for the clientele. As more night owls gravitated there for supper, Geylang became a 24/7 food haven. An early example is Yong He Eating House , a Taiwanese joint most famous for their fried fritters and smooth beancurd. It's also one of the few places you can try a salty variety of the latter, made savory with minced meat, preserved vegetables, spring onions and dried shrimp. Further down the road, Eminent Frog Porridge has earned itself a mention in the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide with their claypot delicacy, but there are other stir-fry dishes for those not into the creatures. Charcoal-cooked dishes are popular too, with stunning examples of seafood noodles fried in a wok at Swee Guan Hokkien Mee and the oven-roasted char siew pork slivers in Koung’s Wanton Mee . For a sharing platter, Mongkok Dim Sum serves up all sorts of steaming treats in small baskets throughout the day. There's even a string of vendors selling that most polarizing of fruits, the durian.

Local tip: Safety is not an issue despite the repute, and the brothel operators mainly keep to themselves. If you do venture into their lanes, do not gawk and refrain from taking pictures and videos. Instead, if you wish to better learn about the history of the area, the independent Geylang Adventures will assure one of a vivid and respectful trail.

A photogenic Peranakan enclave with tasty adventures

An ethnic group that emerged from early Chinese settlers marrying with Malay and Indonesian communities in Southeast Asia, the Peranakans bear out this fused heritage in an attractive and vibrant way. Other than visiting the museum at Armenian Street , one can visit Katong to experience their architecture and food.

The most photogenic stretch can be found at Koon Send Road, where a line of multi-colored pastel terrace houses are a perfect backdrop. As you make your way down Joo Chiat Road towards East Coast Road, you'll notice numerous food options, ranging from local Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup) to trendy cafes. You'll also come by Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen , a great option for some authentic cuisine. As you move towards East Coast Road, try to spot one of the many eye-catching murals tucked in the alleys.

The main stretch holds more food offerings, but visit Peranakan Inn & Lounge for homey classics like Ayam (chicken) with Buah Keluak – a savory and painstaking dish made special by the earthy nuts. Baba Chews is a more commercial counterpart located below Hotel Indigo. Across the road, the glutinous rice dumplings at Kim Choo Kueh Chang are hot commodities, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. While you're there, popular food choices include Katong Laksa  – which serves a creamy curry noodle dish – and Birds of Paradise , a local gelato maker known for their botanical flavors. 

As the area is not as accessible via the local subway system, make the most of your outing with a visit to the nearby East Coast Park,  Singapore's largest example of the coastal ecosystem. Then visit East Coast Lagoon Food Village to sample the tasty hawker fare.

4. Tanjong Pagar

A different creature by day and night

With its proximity to the Central Business District (CBD), Tanjong Pagar is a hotbed of suits seeking out hawker nosh at Amoy and Maxwell Food Centers, or their afternoon cuppa at chic cafes. This juxtaposition between modern and traditional can also be seen in its architecture, especially in Chinatown and along Amoy Street and Telok Ayer Street, where heritage shophouses sit next to towering blocks. Interestingly, this is also where one can find Singapore's multi-religious society represented along one road. Make your way to the South Bridge Road end of Pagoda Street and you'll find yourself between two 19th century places of worship,  Masjid Jamae and Sri Mariamman Temple. Move further south of the main road and you'll come by the impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , with Fairfield Methodist Church just across the junction.

When the sun sets, the area goes from bustling to bar-centric, and here you'll find some of the world's best watering holes. In fact, two of the three Singaporean bars that have made it to the World's 50 Best list call this area home. Jigger & Pony is a more polished affair residing in Amara Hotel – an excellent place for an espresso martini. Sago House has a more convivial atmosphere in a compact space, along with a smaller menu that rotates regularly. For other tipple explorations, try Live Twice and Oriental Elixir .

Tanjong Pagar also hosts the island's only LGBTQ+ nightlife businesses. While not legally recognized, the community enjoys relative freedom at these establishments. Taboo and Tantric Bar are local institutions, while newer joints prefer more provocative names such as Sausage Market and Neil's Conversion Clinic .

A natural sanctuary with world-class facilities

The Singapore Zoo consistently places itself as one of the world's best animal parks and a must visit when visiting the country, thanks to its naturalistic habitats that cater to the wildlife. Always innovating, the teams behind the zoo created  Night Safari Park  in 1994, the world's first nocturnal zoo exhibit, and later on in 2014, River Wonders  – the first and only river-themed version in Asia. This was most recently joined by Bird Paradise in 2023, showcasing an astonishing variety of birds such as hornbills, flamingos and even penguins, set against various Asian backdrops like rice terraces and bamboo groves.

Less talked about is the nearby Upper Seletar Reservoir. Situated in the Central Catchment Reserve, it is a peaceful escape from the urban areas and also a great spot to catch a tree lined sunset. With such a scenic potential, the area is also slated for a new attraction in 2024,  Rainforest Park ; highlights will include a 250m suspension bridge and a canopy walk 11m above the ground.

Planning tip: Private hire is the most convenient transport option, and the journey will take about 30 minutes from the city. For public transport, take the MRT subway to Ang Mo Kio Station and transfer to bus 138. You can also drop off midway to visit the reservoir. Or, head further north to Khatib MRT and opt for the $2 park shuttle ride. Because Bird Paradise is slightly apart from the other zoo parks, it is best to visit it first and take the free shuttle to the other segments and finish with Night Safari Park.

6. Tiong Bahru

A residential relic which experienced a renaissance

Singapore's public housing scheme first took root in Tiong Bahru in the 1930s, which is why the designs here differ so greatly from today's soaring blocks. Rather than focusing on living density, the four-story buildings are comfortably spaced apart, making it an easy stroll for visitors. The architecture is a highlight here: quiet art deco with soft curves infused with Straits elements, like corridors reminiscent of five-foot ways, spiral staircases and light wells. Spot the green tinted glass used to shield residents from the harshest sun in certain areas.

For the most representative take, make your way to block 55 at the junction of Tiong Bahru Road and Tiong Poh Road to admire the architectural highlights of these rare pre-war buildings. When the area was slated for conservation, this drew the attention of the local creative community, and many have quietly made their homes or businesses here. You'll see this new millennial revival as you expand your walk, spotting intermittent options for quaint cafes, crafty retail stores and delicious hawker fare. Tiong Bahru Bakery , opened by Frenchman Gontran Cherrier, has become a stalwart fix for croissants, while Micro Bread & Co and Flock Cafe are great local alternatives for baked goods. Cat Socrates has delightful stationary and souvenirs to take home, and Nana & Bird is a well-established spot for chic women's clothing.

Don't forget to visit Tiong Bahru Market for a true local experience. The first level houses daily sundry, fresh flowers and other necessities, while the second story is a well-regarded hawker center. Take your pick from piping hot umami prawn noodles, freshly-steamed buns and even a Michelin Bib Gourmand chicken rice stall. Finish off your exploration at Nimble/Knead and have your weary body spiffed up at this unique spa housed in shipping containers.

7. Bugis and Kampong Glam

A thriving shopping area with Malay cultural attractions

Kampong Glam has emerged as one of the best places to visit in Singapore, largely thanks to its star attraction, Haji Lane. The bohemian street is as unbridled as it gets on the island, with energetic murals crawling up shophouses selling everything from clothing to trinkets. Make your way to the end at Beach Road (where the coastline used to be before reclamation happened) to experience a Mexican meal underneath a massive Aztec art piece at Piedra Niegra , or join the locals having some soupy prawn noodles at Blanco Court or Hainanese pork chop at Prince Coffee House.

There's plenty to see past the revelry at the lane. As you make your way towards Sultan Mosque , you'll notice Arab Street specializes in classic Middle-Eastern trade items like fabrics and rugs – much like in Singapore's early years. As you reach Bussorah Street, admire the golden domes of the mosque down a line of shophouses before popping by Jamal Kazura Aromatics for some heady traditional perfumes. Neighboring hole-in-the-wall Bhai Sarbat continues to pour out some of the best teh tarik (frothy milk tea) anywhere on the island. The nearby Malay Heritage Centre is undergoing some renovations, but the grounds are pretty to walk through given its original use as a former Istana (palace). Other worthy mentions include the dramatic Vintage Cameras Museum shaped like an actual Rollei, and Golden Landmark Shopping Center with its humble shops and startlingly beautiful glass elevators.

The larger neighborhood of Bugis is also an enjoyable slice of Singapore, boasting a more street market-style approach. Walk up to Albert Street and you'll be sandwiched between Albert Center with tons of hawker options and Fu Lu Shou Complex, which offers affordable massages. To the west stand two favored religious venues:  Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple , one of the busiest Chinese temple in Singapore, and beautifully decorated Sri Krishnan Temple.

Local tip: Bugis is also one of the best places to stay when visiting Singapore. Not only is it well-connected with four out of the six MRT subway lines within easy walking distance, but it contains surprisingly affordable accommodation options for such a central location, including independent operators and global brands like ibis and Mercure hotels.

This article was first published Oct 13, 2021 and updated Apr 16, 2024.

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Singapore Travel Guide 2024

Singapore has been in the top ten list of the most visited cities in the world for years. Our small yet beautiful island deserves it as the city has everything to satisfy any need of visitors: a green and safe environment, cultural diversity, delicious food, world-class shopping malls, the latest fashion and electronics, vibrant nightlife, cheap and convenient public transport, and many more.

You are reading the most comprehensive Singapore travel guide [2024 Guide], which covers everything you need to know to have a satisfying trip. Scroll down to discover them all.

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Where to Have Halal Food in Singapore?

From fancy international buffets in five-star hotels to budget-friendly a la carte meals at individual restaurants, there is plenty of halal food to enjoy..

Where to Shop in Singapore?

Whether you want to shop at an orchard luxury mall, a factory outlet mall or a street market, singapore has got you covered..

What to Buy in Singapore?

Here are the best products to bring home as a souvenir for your loved ones..

What to Do at Night in Singapore?

Singapore has one of the hottest and most vibrant nightlife scenes in asia. discover it here..

What to Enjoy More in Singapore?

Massage and beauty sessions can make the brilliant extras for a more satisfying trip..

• Destinations

Singapore Travel Guide

A majestic ode to modernity, Singapore stuns the senses. From its iconic skyline—swaying toward the heavens beneath outsized infinity pools—to its cutting-edge cuisine and cocktail culture, its dazzling nightlife to its incomparably efficient transit systems, this is a city of the future. Yet, beyond the obvious Instagram outposts, Singapore holds a strong connection to its past, honoring its history by drawing from the eclectic cultures that combined to create it. Small in size, Singapore offers visitors an experience improbably vast. — Brad Japhe

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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Home » Southeast Asia » Singapore » Places to Visit

22 BEST Places to Visit in Singapore (2024)

The small Southeast nation of Singapore sure packs a punch! A fabulous destination for foodies and shopping lovers, the country also has a wealth of cultural, religious, and historical sites, fun theme parks and family-friendly attractions, and an exciting night scene. There’s never a dull moment in the Lion City and no shortage of tourist attractions in Singapore to explore.

Singapore has a reputation for being on the pricey side compared to neighbouring countries. Many people are put off visiting because of the higher travel costs.

There’s no need to worry, though! Our expert team of travel writers have compiled this list of the best places to visit in Singapore, including both pocket-friendly places and attractions where you’ll definitely want to splurge. It’s not that difficult to balance your budget while still making the most of Singapore.

With popular tourist destinations and attractions that are off the beaten track, the best places to visit in Singapore are sure to amaze you! From Sentosa Island to the Merlion Park and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, there’s so many Singapore attractions to explore.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Singapore:

These are the best places to visit in singapore, faq on the best places to visit in singapore.

Singapore is simply incredible and we know you can’t wait to get started, but before you do, be sure to check out where to stay in Singapore ! Choose your favourite area and book yourself a great stay.

If you’re on a budget and you’re backpacking in Singapore , you’re probably going to want to check out cheaper digs like some of the great hostels in Singapore .

For those with a slightly more flexible budget, check out the Airbnb’s in Singapore for something a bit different.

Then, on to the good stuff…

Marina Bay is one of Singapore’s prettiest and most desirable neighbourhoods. Located in the centre of the city, Marina Bay overlaps with the Central Business District, the Civic Quarter, and trendy Clarke Quay, so you’re never far from the action.

• Take in the stunning views from the Sands Skypark, a platform perched 55 stories above the ground.
• Sip on a pint of artisanal beer at LeVel 33, the world’s highest microbrewery.
• Visit Merlion Park and see the famous Merlion (half-fish, half-lion) statue, a symbol of Singapore.

For a pretty tiny city-state , there’s still a dizzying array of things to do in Singapore and it can be hard to know which ones to pick, especially if you’re on a short trip like a weekend to Singapore . So we’ve compiled a rundown of the best tourist attractions in Singapore, as well as some more off the beaten track places to add to your Singapore trip.

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#1 – Singapore Food Trail – Explore the Epic Hawkers Centres

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• Travel back to the Singapore of old
• Unusual and rare dishes
• Great place to sample an array of local cuisine
• Energetic atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: The Singapore Food Trail is a culinary exploration around the many incredible Hawker Centres around the city. Travel around the many different cuisines of the city through your taste buds and sample dishes made from recipes that have been passed down through the generations. Dishes combine Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, and you’ll find Peranakan delicacies and meals with European influences too. The centres are often busy, showing their popularity.

What to do there: Be sure to come hungry to the Singapore Hawker centres and let your senses guide you! Order a variety of dishes to share with your friends so that you can all sample a range of tasty treats and authentic Chinese food alongside Malay and Indian cuisine. Sink your teeth into things like chilli crab, oyster omelette, satay skewers, steaming bowls of noodles, Hainanese rice, BBQ fish, and rojak. The prices are reasonable so there’s little excuse not to indulge! Be sure to explore the many different Hawker centres around the city.

Insider tip: The best centres to check out are – Adam Road Food Centre, Amoy Street Food Centre, Ghim Moh Market, Maxwell Food Centre, Newton Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, Tekka Market Food Centre and Tiong Bahru Market.

#2 – Raffles Hotel – One of the most romantic places to visit in Singapore!

• Colonial vibes
• Old-world elegant atmosphere
• Home of the Singapore Sling cocktail
• Iconic building

Why it’s awesome: Named after Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the founder of colonial-era Singapore, visiting this historic location is a throwback to a long-ago time when the British aristocracy wined and dined here. This hotel is possibly the most famous hotel in the city, well, it was before that ‘other one’ was built over at the areas. But here that one is all about modernity, here it’s all about history. That history dates back to the early 1830s when it was a beach hut, the hotel as we know it was founded here in 1887! That’s not the only history here, it’s the place the Singapore Sling was invented too!

What to do there: Well, of course, if you’ve got the cash you could splash out for one of the super expensive rooms and fully indulge in the grandeur of this colonial palace. But I suspect if you’re a fellow broke backpacker then you’re probably going to be relegated back to a hostel! Never fear though, because you don’t have to be an overnight guest to indulge in a piece of Singapore’s history. Pull up a stool at the bar and sample the original Singapore Sling for yourself! Ok, it’s not the cheapest bevvie you’ll ever have, but it’s probably the fanciest!

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#3 – National Museum of Singapore – A fascinating educational place to visit in Singapore

• Singapore’s oldest museum
• Top place to learn more about Singapore’s history and culture
• Huge collections and displays
• Home to most of Singapore’s National Treasures

Why it’s awesome: Originally named the Raffles Library and Museum, the National Museum of Singapore dates back to the late 1840s. Today, the diverse collections tell the story of Singapore’s history and is home to many hidden gems . The museum’s aim is to preserve and revive the nation’s cultural heritage. Most of the country’s National Treasures can be found in the large museum. The building itself is impressive both inside and out, with stained glass, a sweeping spiral staircase, wooden details, a glorious dome, glass rotundas, beautiful tiling, and stucco motifs. It’s an essential place to visit for anyone interested in hitting up some of the historic tourist attractions in Singapore.

What to do there: Admire the Neo-Palladian and Renaissance building from the outside before stepping inside to enjoy the impressive interiors and collections. See the eleven National Treasures housed in the museum, including a Peranakan coffin cover, drawings by William Farquhar, the Singapore Stone, Munshi Abdullah’s will, and the Gold Ornaments of the Sacred Hill. Other artefacts include glass pieces from the Victorian era, artworks, costumes used in Chinese opera, photographs, and old containers. The Singapore History Gallery really helps to bring the past to life, with an array of early items and household objects. Check the events calendar to see if there are any special lectures or workshops being held during your visit to Singapore.

#4 – Bukit Batok Nature Park – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Singapore

• Peaceful outdoor attraction
• Large urban park
• Off the beaten track
• Historical significance

Why it’s awesome: Bukit Batok Nature Park covers 89 acres (36 hectares). The large urban park was developed in an old disused quarry. The quarry is now filled with water and the surrounding lush parkland is home to various flora and fauna. There are beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. The picturesque setting and limestone rocks have led to the area being called the Little Guillin of Singapore. There are historic sites in the park too, including the remains of an old Japanese memorial.

What to do there: Follow the verdant forested nature trails around the park and look out for diverse bird species and creatures like the green crested lizard and other reptiles. If you’re feeling active, it’s a great place for an early morning jog. You’ll also find various fitness equipment if you want to work up more of a sweat too. You can also climb Bukit Batok Hill and visit viewpoints for stunning vistas. See the 100-plus concrete steps and pillars that remain from the Japanese memorial that honoured soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.

#5 – Universal Studios Singapore & Sentosa Island

• Fun theme park on Sentosa Island
• Enter the world of movies
• Diverse rides and shows
• First Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia

Why it’s awesome: Located on Sentosa Island (often referred to as Singapore’s island of fun), Universal Studios Singapore is a large theme park spread across seven cool-themed areas. Areas include Hollywood, New York, The Lost World, Ancient Egypt, Sci-Fi City, Madagascar, and Far Far Away. There are rides and shows to suit people of all ages, with adrenaline-inducing rides for thrill-seekers and tamer rides for the kids. There are attractions based around popular films, and you can learn more about the movie-making process. Universal Studios theme park is also set in the beautiful location of Sentosa Island which in itself is a great place to visit.

What to do there: Spend a fun-filled day enjoying the diverse rides, shows, and other film-based attractions in Universal Studios Singapore. Step back in time at Hollywood, designed to replicate Hollywood Boulevard in the 1970s, and see the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Broadway-style theatre. See the bright neon lights and skyscrapers in New York, complete with the Lights! Camera! Action! show and characters from Sesame Street.

Visit the Lost World to step right into Jurassic Park and Waterworld and ride the Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride and Treasure Hunters in the Lost World. Explore Shrek’s World in Far Far Away, peek into the future at Sci-Fi City, and soak up the tropical jungle vibes of Madagascar. There are numerous places to eat and drink and you can also pick up some themed merchandise at Universal Studios, Sentosa Island.

#6 – Gardens by the Bay – Great place to visit in Singapore at night!

• Unusual and photogenic attraction
• Diverse beautiful gardens
• Home to the famous Supertrees
• Romantic vibes

Why it’s awesome: Gardens by the Bay is a picturesque nature park with various gardens and features to enjoy, it’s one of the most popular attractions for tourists, locals, and backpackers exploring Singapore alike.  Each individual garden and conservatory has its own appearance and ambience. As well as being able to see a wide range of different plants and flowers the gardens offer different ways to relax and a number of leisure options. Helping to cement Singapore’s reputation as a Garden City, the Gardens by the Bay are one of the country’s must-see attractions.

What to do there: Lap up the views of the spectacular Singapore skyline from the Bay East Garden, designed like tropical leaves with various botanic and water-inspired themes. Take a scenic walk alongside the waterfront in the Bay Central Garden and take kids to the specially designed Children’s Garden, complete with an adventure trail with hanging bridges, swings and trampolines. Explore Singapore’s main ethnic groups in the Heritage Gardens, with gardens dedicated to the Malay, Indian, and Chinese groups, and see the significance of plants in Singapore’s history in the Colonial Garden. You’ll find even more to appreciate in the Flower Dome (the world’s biggest glasshouse without columns) and the Cloud Forest, which even features a tropical-like waterfall. Don’t miss the stunning and futuristic Supertree Grove, and try to see the gorgeous trees lit up in the evenings too.

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#7 – Clarke Quay – A great place to visit in Singapore at night

• Riverside key with a strong sense of history
• Restaurants and bars in converted warehouses
• Popular place for a night out along the Singapore River
• Have a go on the rush-inducing reverse bungee

Why it’s awesome: Clarke Quay is located next to the Singapore River and it was a major trade hub in times gone by. An important commercial area during the colonial period, Clarke Quay has been redeveloped to create a lively centre for leisure and entertainment. The area really comes into its own at night with five blocks of warehouses that now house top-class restaurants and nightclubs. Floating bars and eateries are contained in traditional Chinese junks (sailing vessels) and there are awesome views. Many of Singapore’s top-name nightclubs can be found at Clarke Quay and it’s popular with locals and visitors alike looking for a lively night on the tiles along the Singapore River.

What to do there: Savour a tasty meal in one of the beautiful riverside restaurants, with establishments serving Singaporean favourites alongside international menus. Walk along the riverside, seeing restored warehouses, moored boats, and old shophouses. There’s plenty of colonial-period architecture seamlessly woven into the modern city too. Brave the G-Max Reverse Bungee and see the structure magnificently illuminated at night. Other attractions at Clarke Quay include the Art-2 Gallery and the 100-year-old Hong San See Temple. Don your best clothes and comfortable dancing shoes for a night of revelry in one of the many swanky bars and clubs—this is a place to see and be seen! DJs spin the latest hits and there’s a wide range of drinks to loosen you up and get you well and truly in the party mood.

#8 – Merlion Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Singapore

• Symbol of Singapore
• Rich mythology
• Lovely river views and pleasant park
• A major tourist attraction

Why it’s awesome: Merlion Park is a major landmark in Singapore. Opened in 1964, it contains the original Merlion statue. The Merlion is a symbol of Singapore, designed with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It represents Singapore’s early beginnings as a fishing village and the original name of Singapora (Lion City). The tall statue sprays water from its mouth, taking pride of place in the leafy park. There’s also a smaller Merlion statue within the park, known as the Merlion Cub. There’s no charge to visit the park and see the famous statues which is perfect for travellers worried about the expenses in Singapore .

What to do there: Take lots of pictures of the Merlion and smaller Merlion Cub and admire the views of the river, the nearby skyscrapers towering over the park, and the even closer colonial architectural gem of One Fullerton Hotel. Cross the Esplanade Bridge for even more great views and find a quiet spot in the park to sit for a while in peaceful contemplation. While you’ll spot the Merlion symbol on many things, from promotional materials to souvenirs, there are a further six official Merlion statues around the country if you want to spot even more depictions of the emblematic mythical creatures.

#9 – Pulau Ubin – A must visit place to visit in Singapore on the weekend!

• One of Singapore’s last places to immerse yourself in rural life
• Laid-back vibe
• One of Singapore’s National Parks
• Lots of native flora and fauna
• Interesting local legends

Why it’s awesome: The island of Pulau Ubin, which means Granite Island, is said to have been created when an elephant, pig, and frog challenged each other to race across the water. Those that failed the challenge would turn to stone. All met with difficulties and were thus turned into stone. In the past, the island had several major quarries. Today, just a few residents remain on the island, living a way of life much different to that on the main island. Indeed, Pulau Ubin is often said to be one of the few places in Singapore where kampong life still truly prevails. Free from urban development, homes are fairly simple. The island is also known for its array of flora and fauna and is an especially great place for bird watching.

What to do there: Cross to the island by bumboat and rent a bicycle to leisurely explore Pulau Ubin, cycling past traditional wooden homes and jetties, an area that is rich with wildlife, mangroves, green plantations, and abandoned quarries. Feeling more active? Follow the diverse terrain along the mountain biking trail in Ketam Mountain Bike Park. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere and look out for creatures like majestic hornbills, wild boars, and various other birds, small mammals, and small reptiles. Walk along the boardwalk at Chek Jawa, a place known for its rich eco-diversity.

#10 – Haw Par Villa – A beautiful & colourful place in Singapore!

• Unusual religious-themed attraction park
• Fascinating peek into Chinese mythology
• Discover the Courts of Hell
• Created by the inventors of Tiger Balm!

Why it’s awesome: Haw Par Villa is one of Singapore’s more unusual attractions and yet it’s a place that sees relatively few tourists. There are large dioramas and hundreds of statues that show scenes from local lore and legends, history, and Chinese mythology. One of the most fascinating (and gruesome!) parts of the park is often the Courts of Hell where you can gain insights into what awaits people in hell for a range of misdeeds during their life. The religious-themed park was created by Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, two Burmese brothers who also created Tiger Balm. It aimed to teach traditional Chinese values and was opened to the public in the mid-1950s.

What to do there: Learn more about Chinese beliefs and local legends as you gaze at some 1,000 statues in all sizes and colours. Brave the grisly, eerie, and monstrous Ten Courts of Hell to find out what punishments are given for various earthly sins. See the memorial dedicated to the brothers’ parents and learn more about local beliefs and history from the large dioramas. Scenes include the Legend of the White Snake, Journey to the West, and the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

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#11 – Sri Mariamman Temple – One of the most religious places to see in Singapore

• Oldest Hindu temple in Singapore
• Active place of worship
• Colourful and attractive
• National Monument

Why it’s awesome: Singapore’s eye-catching Sri Mariamman Temple is the country’s oldest Hindu temple. It’s also a National Monument that was established in 1827 by an Indian businessman and community leader. Initially a fairly simple wooden temple with a statue of the Mother Goddess, the temple grew and became more ornate over the years. Many of the striking details that you can see today were created by master craftspeople from India’s Tamil Nadu. The temple has an ornate and colourful entrance tower, known as a gopuram, many statues, and several shrines. It is an active place of worship and there is a serene spiritual air. The temple is also a major hub for the local community.

What to do there: Marvel at the colourful six-tier tower, complete with intricate carvings of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, animals, flowers, and other figures. Statues of Lords Krishna and Murugan flank the towering beauty. Pass through the main door and ring the small bells as you enter the temple complex. Stroll around the inner walls and admire the rich decorative details and see lovely statues atop the walls. Allow plenty of time to fully appreciate the site, paying your respects to the Goddess Mariamman at the main shrine before visiting the smaller shrines to Murugan, Rama, Ganesh, Shiva, and Durga. You can enjoy great views of the complex from the viewing platform.

#12 – Fort Canning Park – One of Singapore’s coolest historical sites!

• Long history
• Thought to be haunted
• Believed to have been the centre of ancient Singapura
• Diverse attractions and recreational activities

Why it’s awesome: Fort Canning Park sits on Fort Canning Hill, one of the highest points near the city centre.  Known as the Forbidden Hill in Malay, many people believe that the area was once at the heart of ancient Singapura and was the place where kings of old were buried. There have been settlements on the hill for a long time. In 1819, when the Singapore Treaty was signed, the hill was where the British flag was first raised. Sir Stamford Raffles had a home on the hill and he initiated the nation’s first botanical garden there too (though plans were later abandoned). A fortress was built on the hill in the 1860s, although little remains of the fort today. There are various attractions and activities around the hill, as well as the reservoir and park.

What to do there: See the remains of an old cemetery, complete with a Gothic archway and a number of old gravestones and monuments. The walls surrounding the site contain several tombstones too. You can also see what remains of the old fort, namely the gateway and two large cannons. An old bunker was used as a strategic military base by the British during World War II, later used by the Japanese after the British surrendered. Today you can explore the large underground network of passageways and rooms at the Battle Box. The Sally Port is a secret door and the Spice Garden is a pleasant place to relax. You can also unwind at Canning Green. Architectural highlights include pretty cupolas, Raffles House, and the sacred Keramat Iskandar Shah. Art lovers should add the Fort Canning Arts Centre to their travel list.

#13 – Singapore Flyer – One of the most amazing places in Singapore!

• The Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s biggest Ferris wheels
• Terrific views
• Photogenic landmark
• Waterside location

Why it’s awesome: A ride on the Singapore Flyer offers spectacular views across the water and city and is among the biggest observation wheels in the world. Rides are available by both day and night, letting you see the city from different perspectives. The Singapore Flyer is a huge 165 metres (541 feet) tall. The large capsules can hold up to 28 people and a revolution takes around 30 minutes. It is also possible to book private rides and a variety of cool experiences. The Singapore Flyer is one of the classic tourist attractions in Singapore.

What to do there: See the iconic structure next to the water before hopping into an air-conditioned glass capsule to see famous Singaporean sights from above. Views include Raffles Place, the Singapore River, Marina Bay, and Padang. If you’re feeling flush or want to go all out to impress that special someone you can book a private trip on the Singapore Flyer with champagne and/or dinner add-ons. The wheel is well worth seeing at night time too when it’s illuminated.

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#14 – Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – A perfect place to visit in Singapore if you are on a budget!

• No admission charge
• Impressive religious building
• Houses sacred Buddhist relics

Why it’s awesome: A fairly recent addition to Singapore’s diverse religious buildings, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was built in 2007. An impressive vision of red tiers from the outside, the interiors boast lavish designs, stunning spiritual artwork, and interesting artefacts. The temple also contains one of Buddha’s teeth, said to have been recovered from his cremation site. The revered tooth is housed within a gigantic gleaming golden stupa. There are peaceful spots where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment and there’s no charge to enter the temple or join a free tour.

What to do there: Be dazzled by the colourful details and intricate designs of the beautiful place of worship, see the sacred tooth from the viewing platform, and watch as devotees make merit and pay their respects through various rituals and prayers. Learn more about the life of the Lord Buddha and admire lots of religious art and statues. Visit the Buddhist Culture Museum to see religious artefacts and attend a cultural show or talk in the Eminent Sangha Museum. For some peace and quiet, head up to the tranquil roof garden.  Take a volunteer-led temple tour for greater insights into the various parts of the temple, relics, and exhibits.

#15 – ArtScience Museum – An awesome place to visit in Singapore for an immersive experience

• Unusual architecture
• Educational experience
• Sustainable eco-friendly practices
• Great for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: ArtScience Museum is a terrific blend of the arts and the sciences, hosting many temporary displays and collections from globally renowned museums. The permanent collection, Future World, has many interactive art exhibits that cover themes like town, park, nature, and science. The actual building looks a lot like a pale lotus flower. The design is meant to represent ten fingers and symbolise Singapore extending a warm welcome to all. The building has several sustainable features too, such as the collection of rainwater to use in the bathrooms.

What to do there: Appreciate the unusual building from the outside before discovering the 20-plus galleries inside, each with something new to educate, enthral, and excite you. The hands-on displays are especially great for younger visitors and curious minds. Learn how Nobel Prize inventions have helped to change the world, discover more about the oceans and their lifeforms, see huge accomplishments in the fields of the sciences and the arts, admire treasures from the Tang Dynasty, and see cargo from the Belitung shipwreck.

#16 – Sisters’ Islands – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Singapore!

• Lesser-visited islands
• Away from the typical tourist trail
• Surrounded in local legends
• Great spot for swimming and snorkelling

Why it’s awesome: Singapore may not be known for its beaches and water sports, but there are, nonetheless, several places around the country that will keep water-lovers happy. The twin Sisters’ Islands are among those spots. The sandy beaches offer prime relaxation in the sun and the waters are home to an array of aquatic life. The atmosphere is tranquil and there are great views. Accessible by ferry, the islands are easy to reach from the main island. Legends surround the islands, with several variations that include a story of two ill-fated sisters.

What to do there: Walk along the sandy stores and laze in the sunshine with a good book as you top up your tan. Take a dip in the sea and spot creatures like corals, octopus, fish, and nudibranchs in the water on a snorkelling trip. Diving is also possible for deeper explorations. Pack a picnic for a delightful al fresco lunch, though do be wary of the cheeky macaques that live on the larger of the two islands. Take a guided walk to learn more about the biodiversity on the islands.

#17 – Chinatown

• Explore the story of the Chinese population of Singapore
• See where the old meets the new in this amazing city
• See some of Singapore’s most amazing temples
• Enjoy some amazing food

Why it’s awesome: Singapore’s Chinatown is one of the city’s ethnic enclaves where you can take in the different people that make up Singapore and what makes it such a fascinating place to visit. Here you’ll find the streets lined with traditional shophouses and intricately decorated Buddhist temples. The colourful and energetic region of the city developed in the 1830s and gradually spread over an even larger area.

What to do there: Well, Singapore is all about the cuisine, so obviously you need to indulge in some authentic Chinese food when visiting, or, more accurately, Singaporean Chinese food! You should also visit places like NUS Baba House, once a typical family home, it’s not a museum to the area and remains preserved from the early days of Chinatown. Explore temples such as the Thian Hock Keng Temple to see the religious side of this region and then swing by the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn even more about the district and its inhabitants.

#18 – Little India

• Discover the Indian heritage of Singapore
• Indulge in some amazing food
• Experience some beautiful architecture
• See a less polished side to Singapore

Why it’s awesome: So, you thought Chinatown was an explosion of colour, well, get ready for Singapore to one-up itself again! Welcome to Little India where the streets are alive with a rainbow of shades, tints and pigmentations on every imaginable surface, from technicolour houses to pastel saris dancing gently in the breeze! It’s a true treat for the senses, as delicious spices waft from the many restaurants and Bollywood tunes fill the air.

What to do there: Visit the multicoloured Tan Teng Niah, an old colonial-era Chinese villa that will blow your mind! want more colour, we’ve got it! Next visit the intricately detailed Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess and destroyer of evil. After that, you’ll have worked up an appetite to explore the Tekka Centre, one of the best hawker centres in the country, but also a bustling market too and a great place to rub shoulder with locals going about their daily business. If you want to learn even more whilst visiting this fascinating area, then swing by the Indian Heritage Centre to discover the wonderful history of the Indian community in Singapore.

#19 – Kampong Glam

• Take advantage of the budget accommodation around here
• Party the night away at the Blu Jaz Café
• Indulge in yet more incredible food
• Visit the Malay Heritage Centre to see the history of this ethic group

Why it’s awesome: Well, we’ve seen the Chinese and Indian sides to this multicultural city, so why not chuck another one in! Singapore really is a testament to how all different cultures and religions can get along side by side. The Kampong Glam area of the city is traditionally an Arab/ Muslim area and is home to many incredble restaurants covering a myriad of cuisines as well as carpet and fabric shops and some seriously stunning mosques. It’s also quite a trendy area to visit too with a thriving cafe and art scene in the area.

What to do there: First things first, you just have to (and you can’t miss it) visit the incredible Masjid Sultan, the largest Mosque in the country. The golden-domed temple looks like something from Aladdin and the palm tree-lined streets leading to it are super photogenic. Then take a walk down Arab Street and Haji Lane for a look at a different side of this area, with street art, boutique shops and trendy cafes, it’s a fun and lively area to explore. There’s good reason Singapore is hailed as foodie heaven and here is another reason why, you’ve had your fill of Malay, Chinese and Indian treats, now it’s time for a Middle Eastern culinary journey. Here you’ve got everything from Turkish to Lebanese, Egyptian to Iranian and beyond to try out!

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#20 – Peranakan Museum – A great place to visit in Singapore if you are alone/traveling solo

• A fabulous place to learn more about Singapore’s Peranakan heritage
• Designed like bungalows from Straits Settlements
• Contains many interesting items
• Housed in an old school

Why it’s awesome: The Peranakan Museum is the perfect place for anyone interesting in knowing more about the Peranakan people of Singapore. Peranakan is the name given to people born in the Straits with mixed parentage. The fine museum takes an in-depth look at Straits Chinese and it has a large collection of Peranakan items, many of which feature dazzling designs. There’s everything from clothing, jewellery, and textiles to ceramics, household furnishings, and ornaments. The three-level museum is in an old school, and the layout was designed to be like a traditional Straits home.

What to do there: Travel back in time to the days of wealthy traders who married local women and see how they lived their lives in the Singaporean Straights in the 19 th century. The blend of cultures and traditions resulted in some fine items and customs. As well as being able to see many items from Peranakan homes the museum also has splendid interactive displays and multimedia exhibitions. See how Peranakans have evolved over time and be wowed by elaborate wedding rituals. Don’t miss the charming Father and Kid statue outside.

#21 – Orchard Road – A great place in Singapore if you love to shop!

• Singapore’s premier place for shopping
• More than 5,000 shops and restaurants
• Once a quiet pastoral area of orchards, farms, and plantations
• Interesting street art and installations

Why it’s awesome: With simple beginnings as an agricultural area, Orchard Road has grown to be one of the best places in Singapore to indulge in some retail therapy. There are shops selling almost everything you could imagine from a broad array of brands, and the abundance of restaurants and cafes help you to keep your strength up on shopping outings. Establishments serve dishes from all over the world. There’s also a fabulous art gallery along Orchard Road and many interesting statues and sculptures.

What to do there: Prepare for a long day of exciting shopping and make your way around Orchard Road’s many retail establishments. Be sure to check out the area’s first shopping centre—Tangs, which has been keeping customers happy since 1958. The futuristic ION Mall is a great place for fashion and luxury items and the Far East Plaza offers a wealth of affordable items. Follow the Orchard Art Trail to see spectacular works like the Dragon-Riding Bodhisattva, Mother and Child, Eulogy to Singapore, Vitality, Harmony Fountain, Love, and Dancer. Stop for a bite to eat at any time of the day or evening in one of the numerous restaurants and rest over a drink in one of the street’s cool and classy bars.

#22 – Singapore Botanic Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Singapore

• Gorgeous tropical garden
• More than 150 years old
• Relax in nature
• UNESCO world heritage site

Why it’s awesome: The Singapore botanic gardens were the country’s first UNESCO world heritage site. It can trace its roots back to the late 1850s when an old plantation was turned into a pleasant garden. Home to myriad plants from various parts of the globe, the different gardens cover various themes. Furthermore, the Botanic Gardens has the biggest collection of orchids in the world, with displays that include the country’s national flower. Galleries and museums present more learning and cultural opportunities and there are great places to eat and drink.

What to do there: Enjoy the romantic vibes and pretty plants as you follow one of the walking trails around the picturesque Botanic Gardens. It’s also a popular place for jogging enthusiasts and one of the most wonderful Singapore attractions for escaping the concrete jungle. See a wide variety of orchid species, including the Vanda  ‘ Miss Joaquim ‘. Visit the SBG Heritage Museum to discover all about the site’s heritage and delve deeper into the world of botany at the CDL Green Gallery. Kids can run and play as they learn about plant life at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.

#23 – Marina Bay Sands – A great place to see in Singapore if you love views

• Amazing Singapore skyline views
• Luxury place to stay
• One of the key tourist attractions in Singapore
• Action-packed casino

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2010, the remarkable and distinctive Marina Bay Sands is set next to the water and designed to look like a boat atop a stack of cards. With three soaring towers and a stunning sky deck, the complex has a luxury hotel, a casino, a shopping arcade, restaurants and bars, an exhibition centre, a museum, theatres, an observation deck, and an indoor ice skating rink, among other features. Although you can’t miss the building from the outside, it’s well worth visiting even if you don’t plan on staying here. If you are looking for luxurious accommodation in Singapore, however, you can book here to experience the glamour and grandeur of exceptional services as well as being able to relax in the high infinity-edge pool.

What to do there: Give your credit cards a workout at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, a boutique shopping centre with designer brands and excellent restaurants. Wander alongside the indoor canal and add some romance with a ride on a Venetian-style gondola. Buy tickets for a theatre show, observe incredible vistas from the high observation point, and test Lady Luck in the casino. The whole place is so much more than just a fancy hotel and it’s now a major tourist attraction in the city.

Get insured for your trip to Singapore!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Singapore

What is the most visited place in Singapore?

The most visited attraction in Singapore is Marina Bay Sands or the Gardens by the Bay.

What is the best place to visit in Singapore with children?

Gardens by the Bay has its own garden for children and is a wonderful place to explore as a family.

What is a good place to visit in Singapore at night?

Night Safari is the best thing to do at night as it’s the world’s first nocturnal zoo, so you won’t have many opportunities in life to see this.

What is a fun place to visit in Singapore?

Universal Studios Singapore is one of the most fun attractions in the city.

There really is so much to see and do in Singapore. full of delights for the senses that certainly won’t disappoint. Visit Haji Lane for a spot of bargain hunting in the vibrant market, chill with the locals in East Coast Park, and learn more about the country and wider region in the world-class Asian Civilisations Museum.

Outlying islands like St. John’s Island and Pulau Hantu offer respite from the busy city life and places like MacRitchie Reservoir let you enjoy nature and the great outdoors. Sentosa Island has a well-deserved reputation for fun, you can just grab a ride on the Singapore cable car to get over there!

From shopping, dining, and partying, to cultural experiences and travelling back through Singapore’s history, there are many awesome places to visit in Singapore. Just make sure you don’t get caught chewing gum here !!

With something for all ages and interests and a captivating blend of old and new, Singapore is a fantastic all-around destination. You might even want to consider moving here. If that’s the case, check out our Cost of living in Singapore guide – it’s filled will all of the insider knowledge you need!

Monique MacPhail

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The First-Timer’s Singapore Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Singapore travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

On a previous trip to Singapore, we were on the MRT en route to Little India from Changi, when I overheard this conversation between two young travelers:

“Singapore is a lot like Japan” , one friend said to the other, “but you can talk to people here.”

They sounded European and from that, it was clear that the guy talking had been to Singapore before while his friend was here on his first-ever visit.

I get what he was trying to say. He meant that Singapore is similar to Japan in its hyper modern-ness. They’re both clean with citizens known for being disciplined and orderly, but more Singaporeans are proficient in English so there’s less of a language barrier here.

I agree with him on both points, but the more I visit Singapore, the more I realize that there’s so much more to this city than what you see on the surface.

Most first-time visitors will notice its cutting-edge architecture. How can you not? Iconic structures like Marina Bay Sands, the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay, the Durian, and the ArtScience Museum were designed to grab your attention. But the more often you come, the more you get used to them, and then a funny thing happens. They start fading into the background to reveal what makes this tiny island nation truly special in my opinion – its diversity.

Singapore is called the “melting pot of Asia” for a reason. You may be too blinded by Marina Bay to appreciate that at first, but stay here long enough, and you may soon realize that Singapore’s unique blend of ethnicities, culture, and food is what makes this country truly shiok.

VISIT SINGAPORE QUICK LINKS

This travel guide to Singapore is long. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels in Orchard, one of the best areas to stay for first-time visitors to Singapore.

• Luxury: The St Regis Singapore
• Midrange: YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road (SG Clean, Staycation Approved)
• Budget: Hotel Supreme
• Sightseeing Tour: Singapore City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Gardens by the Bay: Gardens by the Bay and OCBC Skyway Tickets
• Food Tour: Private Guided Food Tour with Tastings
• Theme Parks: Universal Studios Singapore Tickets

OTHER SERVICES

• Visa Services
• Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
• Airport Transfers
• Go City Pass (tourist discount card)
• Singapore eSIM

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Singapore travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, Singapore travel guidelines change regularly. Our friends at Booking.com created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before doing any serious trip planning, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Singapore. If you do decide to visit Singapore, then you may want to seriously consider getting travel insurance with COVID coverage.

SINGAPORE VISA

You may need a visa and other travel documents to visit Singapore depending on your passport. Check out iVisa.com to learn about the requirements and to apply for a visa (if necessary).

SINGAPORE AT A GLANCE

Singapore is a tiny island nation in Southeast Asia that’s become one of the world’s most prosperous countries. Walk around for a day and you’ll see all the features of an ultramodern society with its impressive skyline, contemporary architecture, high-end shopping malls, and highly efficient subway system.

But in spite of its facade of steel and glass, Singapore retains much of the ethnic and cultural diversity that earned it its nickname – “the melting pot of Asia”. Iconic structures like Marina Bay Sands and Supertree Grove are impressive but equally of note are the ethnic pockets within the city that preserve each culture’s unique heritage and traditions.

Hop on a city sightseeing bus and you’ll be treated to colorful neighborhoods like Little India, Chinatown, Arab Street, and Kampong Glam, all within the span of half an hour. This balance of modernity and cultural preservation is what makes Singapore so fascinating.

Another thing I found surprising about Singapore is that it’s apparently the second most densely populated country in the world , behind only Monaco. It certainly doesn’t feel crowded when you’re there, perhaps due to the efforts they’ve made into making it a pleasant and liveable green city.

In spite of being a city-state with 100% of its population urbanized, over 50% of Singapore’s area is covered by greenery. It boasts over 50 major parks and 4 nature reserves, all within a 720 sq km area.

If there existed a utopic city in the world today, then that city would be Singapore.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SINGAPORE

Singapore is hot and humid year-round so there isn’t a perfect time to visit weather-wise. The average temperature is 26-27°C and the humidity is always above 80% no matter what time of year.

The only thing you probably need to know regarding Singapore’s weather is that the wettest months are from November to January. That’s the monsoon season so you may want to avoid those months if you don’t want a greater chance of rain.

NOV-JAN: As described, this is monsoon season so it’ll be the wettest time of the year in Singapore. However, it’s also the coolest, which may be appealing to travelers unaccustomed to the brutal Southeast Asian heat. I’ve read that it generally rains in spurts in Singapore even during the wettest months so it may not matter as much. Locals advise just ducking into a mall until the rain stops.

FEB-OCT: June till August is the driest time of the year in Singapore. We went in late June once and it would get overcast and drizzle a bit on a couple of days but that was it. It was hot and sunny the rest of the time and still very humid. If you enjoy shopping and food, then around July may be an ideal time for you to visit. Both the Great Singapore Sale and the Singapore Food Festival are held at that time.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Singapore

To help you better understand the climate in Singapore , I’ve put together the average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are indicated in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall

TRAVELING TO SINGAPORE

The majority of visitors to Singapore will be arriving by plane at Changi Airport. There are several ways to get to downtown Singapore from Changi .

BY SUBWAY (SMRT): The SMRT is the fastest and cheapest way to get to downtown Singapore from the airport. It took us around 45 minutes to get to Little India MRT Station. Since mid-2022, ticketing machines have been phased out in Singapore so you’ll need to have a stored value card to use the metro system. You can refer to the Visit Singapore site for more information. You can also use this SMRT fare calculator to figure out the fare to your destination.

BY PUBLIC BUS: This is another inexpensive option and should get you into the city in a little over an hour. Unlike the metro, you can pay in cash but the fare will be higher. Also, you’ll need to prepare the exact amount since no change is given. You can catch bus 36 from the basement bays of Changi Airport Terminals 2 and 4 into the city. You can check the Changi Airport guide for more information on taking public buses from the airport to the downtown area.

BY AIRPORT SHUTTLE: If you’re arriving at odd hours, then you can take an airport shuttle bus for around SGD 10 for adults and SGD 7 for kids (under 12). These shuttle buses run 24 hours and will take you directly to your hotel. You can refer to this list to check if your hotel is one of their serviced hotels. If it is, then you can follow this link to book tickets on Klook.

BY TAXI: This is the easiest but most expensive way. It’ll cost you anywhere between SGD 20-40 to get into the city by taxi. Bigger groups can take these large taxis called Maxi Cabs. They can accommodate up to 7 people for a flat fee of SGD 60. You can check the Changi website for more information.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: If you’d rather book a private transfer in advance, then you can do so through Klook .

We flew to Singapore but there are other ways to get there depending on where you are. I suggest checking Bookaway to find route options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

The unit of currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD) .

Finding good places to exchange your currency is less of a concern in Singapore. Most (if not all) places give fair rates. Even the currency exchange booths at Changi Airport aren’t bad.

But if you want the best exchange rate, then Mustafa Foreign Exchange at Mustafa Centre in Little India is an excellent choice. Aside from offering some of the best rates in the city, they’re also open 24/7. If it’s too far from where you are, then you can check this website for a list of the 5 best money changers in Singapore . They’re in different parts of the city so you can find the one that’s closest to you.

Another option is to withdraw SGD from an ATM. The rates are competitive, some say even better. If you do decide to withdraw SGD from an ATM, be sure to let your bank know as they may have to activate it for overseas use. That’s what I do before every trip. In my experience, my ATM card works in some machines but not in others.

NOTE: Some ATM machines may ask you if you’d like to proceed “with or without conversion”. NEVER proceed “with conversion” because that would authorize the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion instead of your local bank, which often results in terrible exchange rates. I’ve made this mistake before. According to this article on Medium, the difference between rates can be as high as 10% or more .

BEST AREAS TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

Singapore isn’t that big but it’s such a diverse, multiracial city that you’ll find many interesting neighborhoods within its 720 sq km area. This is by no means a definitive list but here are five popular neighborhoods where you can stay in Singapore.

For your convenience, I created the color-coded map below to help you see where all these recommended areas are. Click on the link for a live version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

RED – Little India BLUE – Chinatown GREEN – Marina Bay LAVENDER – Orchard ORANGE – Sentosa

LITTLE INDIA

We’ve stayed in Little India a few times. We never intend to, but our search for affordable accommodations always seems to lead us there. I guess the area is known for having a good range of budget to mid-range hotels.

As its name suggests, Little India is home to Singapore’s Indian community. It’s a lively area with lots of Indian restaurants, colorful shophouses, and a few MRT stations.

On my most recent visit, I stayed at Atlantis Pods which is one of those modern capsule hotels. The pods are surprisingly roomy and a great choice for solo travelers on a budget.

Atlantis Pods has a few branches in Singapore but if you want to book a pod at the outlet in Little India, then you can do so through Booking.com or Agoda .

If you don’t think that Atlantis Pods is the right place for you, then you can check these links for alternate listings in Little India: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• Luxury: Wanderlust, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood (SG Clean)
• Midrange: Citadines Rochor (SG Clean)
• Budget: Snooze Inn @Dickson Road

As is the case with most Chinatowns in the world, if you travel for food, then this is an excellent place to stay in Singapore. Here you’ll find plenty of food options from cheap hawker centers to trendier bars and restaurants. Budget travelers will find a good selection of hostels and boutique hotels here as well. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Chinatown: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• Luxury: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering SGClean and Staycation Approved
• Midrange: KēSa House, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood
• Budget: Beary Best! Chinatown by a beary good hostel (SG Clean)

Home to the iconic Marina Bay Sands, this is one of the best areas to stay for luxury travelers. Hotels here are amongst the most luxurious and offer the best views in Singapore. Marina Bay is home to many upscale restaurants, bars, and shopping malls as well as popular attractions like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay , and the Singapore Flyer.

Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Marina Bay: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are some of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• 1st Choice: Marina Bay Sands (SG Clean)
• 2nd Choice: SO/ Sofitel Singapore (SG Clean)
• 3rd Choice: Oakwood Premier AMTD Singapore (SG Clean, Staycation Approved)

If you’re traveling to Singapore to shop, then this is probably where you’ll want to be. Orchard Road is Singapore’s premier shopping district. It stretches for two kilometers and is home to more shopping malls than anywhere else in Singapore. Want a break from shopping? Head to nearby Botanic Gardens which is Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Check these sites for a list of accommodations around Orchard Road: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

Sentosa is Singapore’s resort island. It’s home to manmade beaches and theme parks like Universal Studios and Resorts World Sentosa . Staying here would put you farther away from the attractions in central Singapore, but if you’re traveling with kids, then this a good place to consider. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in and around Sentosa Island: Booking.com | Agoda . Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in the area:

• 1st Choice: The Barracks Hotel Sentosa by Far East Hospitality (SG Clean)
• 2nd Choice: ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove Singapore (SG Clean)
• 3rd Choice: Resorts World Sentosa – Hotel Michael (SG Clean)

You can also book hotels and homestays in Singapore using the handy map below.

ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN SINGAPORE

1. gardens by the bay.

Gardens by the Bay is the most popular attraction on TripAdvisor and it isn’t hard to understand why. This place is mind-blowing and unlike anything we’ve ever seen. It’s home to the iconic Supertrees and two amazing conservatories — Cloud Forest and Flower Dome . If you have time for just one attraction in Singapore, then this should be it.

You can buy tickets to both conservatories at the gate but you can get a discount if you purchase them in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Estimated Time Needed: Half a day Admission: SGD 30 (adults), SGD 18 (kids)

2. Singapore Zoo

I love animals but I’ve stopped going to zoos because most of them are shit. They don’t put enough stock in the welfare of the animals but Singapore Zoo, which was voted by TripAdvisor users as the 5th best zoo in the world , is an exception. It’s an impressive facility that sets the standard for captive animal conservation.

Check out my post on Singapore Zoo for more pictures and information. You can buy entrance tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Pretty much everything in Singapore is world-class and that includes all its animal parks. Aside from Singapore Zoo, we’ve visited three others and they’re all pretty awesome.

Check out my post on 5 places to enjoy animals in Singapore for more pictures and information. If you’d like to visit any of them, then you can sometimes get discounts on admission through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Estimated Time Needed: At least half a day Admission: SGD 48 (adults), SGD 33 (kids)

3. Universal Studios and Sentosa Island

Universal Studios needs no introduction. Located on Sentosa Island, this popular theme park is home to exhilarating rides like Jurassic Park and Transformers. If you’re traveling to Singapore with kids, then you’ll probably want to allocate a day here. Otherwise, you’ll never hear the end of it. You can buy tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook .

As popular as Universal Studios is, it’s hardly the only attraction at Sentosa. Sentosa is an entire island dedicated to fun so it’s home to many other attractions as well like 4D theaters, the Trick Eye Museum , action parks, S.E.A. Aquarium , watersport facilities, golf courses, and beaches. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants on the island as well.

Universal Studios will take up an entire day so you may want to reserve another day to explore the rest of the island. You can purchase cable car tickets to Sentosa on Get Your Guide . Check out my post on Sentosa Island for more pictures and information.

Photo by JinjoPhoto via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: At least one and a half days Universal Studios Admission: SGD 82 (adults), SGD 61 (kids)

4. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Marina Bay Sands is the most iconic hotel in Singapore. I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of its infinity pool on social media. It’s absolutely incredible but unfortunately, it’s only open to guests of the hotel. (Boo!)

If you aren’t checked in at Marina Bay Sands, then the next best thing would be to head up to the Skypark observation deck on the 57th level to get some of the most stunning views of Singapore.

You can buy tickets at the gate but you may get a discount if you purchase them in advance through Klook .

Photo by thipjang via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 hrs Admission: SGD 26

5. ArtScience Museum

There are many interesting museums to visit in Singapore. Among the most notable are the National Museum of Singapore , National Gallery Singapore , Singapore Art Museum (SAM), and the ArtScience Museum .

Known for the building’s hand- or lotus-flower-like shape, I visited the ArtScience Museum on my most recent trip and was blown away by its exhibits, particularly Future World which featured trippy interactive light displays. It’s a permanent exhibit but some – like the Minimalism exhibition below – are temporary so be sure to check the ArtScience Museum website to see what’s on before you go.

I purchased tickets at the gate but you can get them in advance through Klook or Get Your Guide .

Estimated Time Needed: 2-3 hrs Admission: Varies per exhibit

6. Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. It offers fantastic views of the city from Asia’s largest observation wheel.

You can go on a standard flight but if you want something a little more memorable, then how about going on one that offers drinks like Singapore Slings or champagne? For couples, they even offer flights with a romantic four-course dinner for two.

You can buy tickets to the Singapore Flyer at the gate or in advance through Klook . You can get vouchers for beverage flights and sky dining as well.

Photo by Joshua Davenport via Shutterstock

Estimated Time Needed: 30 mins Cost: SGD 40 (adults), SGD 25 (kids)

7. Singapore Botanic Gardens

One of the most striking things about Singapore is how green it is. It’s the greenest city in Asia and one of the greenest in the world, which is surprising for a small city with 100% of its population urbanized.

Gardens by the Bay is a fantastic place to appreciate Singapore’s greenery, but if you want to enjoy it in a more natural setting, then head on over to Singapore Botanic Gardens. It’s a 158-year-old tropical garden and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore.

Entrance to the gardens is free but you’ll need to pay SGD 15 fee to enter the National Orchid Garden. It’s a must so don’t miss it.

Check out my post on Singapore Botanic Gardens for more pictures and information. We went to the botanic gardens on our own but you can also go on a guided tour .

Estimated Time Needed: 2-3 hrs Admission: FREE

THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE

1. get to know singapore on a sightseeing bus tour.

Barring any serious traffic or pollution problems, these sightseeing bus tours are among the easiest and most convenient ways to explore a new city. All you need to do is hop on the bus and the driver and audio guide will do the rest.

In Singapore, it’ll take you to key attractions like the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, Botanic Gardens, and Orchard Road, just to name a few. You can buy tickets for the sightseeing bus tour on Klook .

There are many fun and interesting tours you can do so check out Klook and Get Your Guide for a list of city sightseeing tours in Singapore.

2. Try the Iconic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

Think of this as your welcome drink to Singapore. The Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail developed over a hundred years ago by Ngiam Tong Boon, a Hainanese bartender at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel , which is still often cited as Singapore’s finest hotel. It’s become synonymous with Raffles and a must-try for first-time visitors to Singapore.

Be prepared for the hefty price tag though since a Singapore Sling at Long Bar will run you at least SGD 37. Hey, at least you can freely scatter your peanut shells all over the bar’s floor.

Photo by katushOK via Shutterstock

3. Experience the Best of Singaporean Cuisine on a Food Tour

There is so much good food to be had in Singapore. In fact, it’s one of a handful of cities we could visit again and again just for the food.

If you have plenty of time in Singapore, then you can check out our Singapore Food Guide for restaurant recommendations. But if you’re pressed for time, then you may want to go on a food tour. It’s an easy way of sampling the local cuisine without having to find these restaurants and stalls yourself.

There are plenty of food tours to choose from, but some of the best we’ve been on are from A Chef’s Tour . They’re a tour provider that offers these really interesting food-focused tours in Asia and Latin America.

You can check out my article on this Singapore food tour with A Chef’s Tour for more pictures and information. It features the most divine plate of char siew rice (pictured below) I’ve ever had in my life.

If you don’t think this is the right tour for you, then there are other Singapore food tours you can choose from on Get Your Guide .

Length of Tour: 3 hrs

4. Take a Cooking Class

Ren loves to cook so we often take cooking classes we travel. For us, it’s the best way to really get to know an unfamiliar cuisine. It’s one thing to eat it, but it’s quite another to learn exactly what goes into making each dish.

We haven’t taken a cooking class in Singapore, but if you’re interested, then you can search for one on Cookly. Cookly is an online booking platform that offers cooking classes in many cities around the world. They’re basically an online tour provider that focuses just on cooking classes. For me, there’s no better place to look for one-day cooking classes than Cookly. Follow the link to search through their list of cooking classes in Singapore .

Photo by Ariyani Tedjo via Shutterstock

5. Arrive Early at Changi Airport

Singapore is probably the only country in the world with an airport that’s a legitimate tourist attraction. Changi was already our favorite airport in the world by a mile, but even more so now with the opening of the Jewel complex.

Jewel Changi Airport is a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex. It’s linked to the airport’s three passenger terminals and features over 300 retail and dining facilities, not to mention indoor gardens, mazes, bridges, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall (pictured below) .

We haven’t been back to Singapore since Jewel’s unveiling but this incredible complex is reason enough to go back. Check out Get Your Guide for a list of attraction deals at Jewel Changi. With an airport like this, you can never arrive too early for a flight.

“ Jewel Rain Vortex at Changi Airport ” by Terrazzo , used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped, processed in Photoshop and Lightroom

SINGAPORE FOOD GUIDE

Singapore is synonymous with food. They take their food seriously here so a hawker stall that’s been serving the same iconic dish for decades is every bit as important to us as Gardens by the Bay.

To make sure we ate at the best, I consulted with locals and trusted Singaporean food blogs to find out exactly what we should eat in Singapore. The result is this Singapore food guide listing 35 of the best dishes to eat in Singapore.

WHERE TO EAT IN SINGAPORE

Our Singapore food guide shows you what dishes to eat in Singapore, but if you want to know where you should try them, then be sure to check out our restaurant guide. It lists 25 of the best restaurants in Singapore .

Not everyone can go to all 25 restaurants listed in our restaurant guide so I’ve narrowed it down to our favorites. All the eateries we mentioned are worthy of a visit but if you’re pressed for time, then these are the six you shouldn’t miss (listed in no particular order).

1. Red House Seafood Restaurant

What better way to start this list than with Singapore’s most iconic dish, chili crabs? Often referred to as Singapore’s national dish, chili crabs are prepared by stir-frying crabs — commonly mud crabs — in a rich, tomato- and chili-based sauce. Despite its name, it’s more sweet and tangy with just a hint of spiciness.

There are countless places where you can enjoy chili crabs in Singapore but my local friend recommended Red House at Robertson Quay. It was absolutely delicious with loads of crab roe in its shell. Chili crabs are considered Singapore’s greatest culinary creation so you can’t visit this country without trying this dish.

2. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

Like chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice is one of Singapore’s core dishes and something you need to try as well. It’s prepared by poaching whole chickens at sub-boiling temperatures then using the stock to cook the rice. The result is an oily, flavorful rice sometimes known as “oily rice”.

It’s such an important dish that many restaurants and stalls vie for the title of Singapore’s best chicken rice. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, once featured by the late great Anthony Bourdain and having bested Chef Gordon Ramsay in a chicken rice showdown in 2013, is a serious contender. I’ve had Hainanese chicken rice many times but this was easily one of the best.

3. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle

Hawker Chan gets all the attention but this place is every bit as deserving. Like Hawker Chan, Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle is one of the first two hawker stalls ever to receive an esteemed Michelin Star.

I had to wait over an hour in line to get one bowl of their famous bak chor mee — a vinegar and spicy sambal pork noodle dish made with lard — and that was BEFORE they received their star. I can only imagine how long you’d have to wait now. If there’s one dish worth queuing up for in Singapore, then this is it.

4. The Banana Leaf Apolo

Three words — fish head curry. This restaurant in Little India has been serving this delicious curry dish for over 40 years now.

Made with a secret blend of 18 spices, it’s prepared by stewing a whole sea bream’s head in a Kerala-style curry with assorted vegetables like okra and eggplant. It’s served on banana leaves and best eaten with rice or naan bread . It’s really, really good.

5. Candlenut

Candlenut is a one-star Michelin restaurant that serves modern interpretations of Peranakan cuisine. If you’ve never tried Peranakan food before, it’s a deeply flavorful cuisine that blends Chinese ingredients with distinct spices and cooking techniques used by the Malay/Indonesian community. If you enjoy food that isn’t shy on flavor, then you’ll love Peranakan cuisine.

For the best experience, I suggest going for dinner and trying Chef Malcolm Lee’s “ahma-kase” set menu. I believe Candlenut is the only Peranakan restaurant in the world to be awarded a Michelin star. Check out my post on Candlenut in Singapore for more pictures and information.

6. MA Deen Biasa

Sup tulang is without a doubt the messiest and most sinful dish on this list. But it’s also one of the most delicious. Sup tulang is a bone marrow dish made with tomato paste and a slew of spices. It’s served with a basket of bread to mop up the sauce and straws to suck out the marrow. Seriously.

Ren had been wanting to try this devilish dish for the longest time so when KF Seetoh described MA Deen Biasa’s sup tulang as “the most desperately delicious”, I knew we found the right place. WARNING: Do not wear white when you eat here because you WILL get dirty.

INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN SINGAPORE

Singapore is one of the most Instagrammable cities we’ve visited so far. Everywhere you look there seems to be a mural or interesting piece of architecture to make your #ootd pop! Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands are obvious choices, but here are a few you may not have heard of.

1. Haji Lane

Haji Lane is an alley stretching for about two blocks in the trendy Kampong Glam neighborhood. It’s characterized by traditional shophouses on either side that are home to funky boutiques and interesting cafes. There are plenty of murals here to serve as colorful backdrops for your Singapore selfies.

Closest MRT Station: Bugis

2. Helix Bridge

Helix Bridge is a twisting vortex of steel and glass that links Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay area. There are plenty of Instagrammable spots in this area like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum, and the Esplanade. You could spend the whole day here taking Instagram photos.

Closest MRT Station: Bayfront or Promenade

3. Future World

As described, Future World is a permanent exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. It was done in collaboration with teamLab, a renowned art collective that created teamLab Borderless , a similar multi-sensory experience in Tokyo. It’s an interactive digital art experience the likes of which I had never seen before. Very cool.

Closest MRT Station: Bayfront

4. LASALLE College of the Arts

LASALLE College of the Arts is a private art school with a campus in the Rochor area. It’s comprised of six geometrically-designed buildings around a central courtyard covered by a single roof. The courtyard is open to the public and walking through it feels like you’re going through a canyon made of steel and glass.

Closest MRT Station: Rochor

5. People’s Park Complex

People’s Park Complex is a residential high-rise on Eu Tong Sen Street in Chinatown. The first few floors of the complex houses a shopping center, at the top of which is this roofdeck where you can take this picture.

NOTE: I didn’t notice it at first but there’s a (not so prominent) sign on a wall that says this is private property. Apparently, you need permission to take pictures up here, a consequence perhaps of too many Instagrammers taking selfies. I even asked a security guard how to get up here and he didn’t advise me it was prohibited, so I don’t know how strictly they enforce that rule. Nonetheless, proceed at your own risk. This is Singapore after all.

Closest MRT Station: Chinatown

POINTS OF INTEREST IN SINGAPORE

I put together the map below to help you understand where everything is. Click on the link for a live version of the map. Most of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN SINGAPORE

Singapore’s MRT system is very efficient. We used it to go pretty much everywhere. We only needed to take a bus once, to go to Singapore Zoo, but I’ve read the bus system is very efficient as well.

If you need to travel by bus often, then I suggest using the Google Maps app ( iOS | Android ) to help you navigate. I’ve always found bus systems to be more confusing than trains but this free app makes it so much easier. It’ll tell you exactly how to get from one place to the next using any city’s public transportation system.

If you’re too lazy to take public transportation, then you can always hop into a taxi or use Grab. We did a couple of times to get to harder to find restaurants.

If you plan on using public transportation often, then there are few transport cards you can get to make it cheaper and more convenient:

Singapore Tourist Pass

If you’re staying in Singapore for a maximum of three days and plan on using the trains often like we did, then you can invest in a Singapore Tourist Pass. It’ll give you unlimited access to the MRT and public bus system, plus it’ll save you the hassle of having to buy tickets before each ride.

The Singapore Tourist Pass is available in 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day passes for SGD 10, SGD 16, and SGD 20 respectively. 2- and 3-day passes need to be used on consecutive days. You’ll need to pay a SGD 10 deposit per card which you can refund within 5 days after the date of purchase. Check the Singapore Tourist Pass website for more information.

EZ-Link / NETS FlashPay Card

These are two different cards issued by two different companies, but they basically do the same thing. If you’re staying in Singapore for longer than three days and don’t need unlimited daily rides, then an EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card may be better options than the Singapore Tourist Pass.

Unlike the Singapore Tourist Pass, you don’t have to use the EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card on consecutive days. Plus, you can use them to pay for taxis and make purchases at participating shops and convenience stores. They’re very similar to Hong Kong’s Octopus Card in that regard.

Follow the link to learn more about the EZ-Link Card and where to buy it. If you’re visiting Thailand before Singapore, then you can get the NETS FlashPay Card through Klook.

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / SINGAPORE ITINERARY

Singapore isn’t that big but it’s packed with fun and interesting things to do. It’s got a lot of good restaurants and hawker stalls too.

If you’re in a rush, then you can probably do everything in this guide in 4 full days. That will give you enough time to see the major sights. But if you want to have a more relaxed stay, then stay at least 5.

Food was a big reason why we were here so we stayed for 6 days to visit as many eateries as possible. Here’s a 5-day Singapore itinerary to help you plan your trip.

SINGAPORE TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

I’ve been using the free trip planning app for several years now and I don’t see myself stopping soon. It just makes the process of creating an itinerary faster and easier.

With Sygic Travel, I can see where everything is on a map so I can group attractions and restaurants by day to come up with the most efficient itinerary. If you find trip planning daunting or tedious, then you may want to give it a try. Check out my full post on the Sygic Travel app for more information.

DOWNLOAD: iOS / Android

Check out our 6-day Singapore eat-inerary on Sygic Travel .

2. Save on Attraction Costs with a Go City Pass

There are SO many fun things to do in Singapore. However, it isn’t the cheapest city in the world which is why having a tourist discount card like the Go City Pass can be a worthwhile investment.

We used the Go City Explorer Pass in Barcelona and saved over 21% on admission and tour costs. Check out the Go City website for more details.

3. Rent a Pocket Wifi Device

It goes without saying that a reliable connection to the internet is a must these days. We need it to do research, check email, and post on social media. It becomes even more important when you’re trying to find your way in an unfamiliar country. Personally, we never go anywhere now without renting a pocket wifi device first. It just makes the trip less stressful and more fun.

You can stay connected in Singapore by renting a pocket wifi device or getting a sim card. We prefer pocket wifi devices but either way is fine. Between the two, sim cards are cheaper. You can arrange for both through Klook . If you live in Asia, then be sure to go through the list as it may be cheaper to pick it up from your home country.

4. Check for Singapore Travel Deals

Before every trip, I go through several e-commerce travel websites to see what deals I can find. I’ve purchased vouchers from different sites but my favorites are Klook and Get Your Guide. They almost always have the widest selection at the best prices.

If you’re looking for deals on attractions and services, then check out these links for a complete list of Sinagpore deals on Klook and Get Your Guide . Even if I don’t wind up buying anything, I often find interesting activities that I wouldn’t normally think of yourself so it’s always fun to look.

5. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may seem like a frivolous expense to some but for others, it’s a necessity. For us, it depends on where we’re going and what we’ll be doing.

If all we’ll be doing is eating and shopping for a couple of days, then we may not bother with it. Our credit cards give us free (but limited) travel insurance anyway. But if we plan on doing anything remotely dangerous, like skiing or competitive eating, basically anything that could land us in the hospital, then we’ll definitely get it.

When we do feel the need for it, we buy insurance from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re travel insurance providers often used by many long-term travelers. Follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Will Fly for Food readers get 5% off on Heymondo when purchasing a policy through our link.

6. Know the Laws

Singapore is a “fine city”. It’s a fine city not just because it’s lovely, but because it’s possible for you to get fined for something you’d normally do in your own country.

Things like spitting, connecting to someone else’s wifi, and jaywalking can carry hefty fines. There’s even a law that requires you to flush public toilets! If you don’t want to be on the wrong end of a fine, then you’ll need to familiarize yourself with Singapore’s laws .

7. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Singapore has Type G electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

By no means am I an expert on Singapore but I do hope that you find this guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from our trip. If you have any questions or comments, then please let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have a shiok time in Singapore lah!

These are some of the things we brought with us to Singapore. See what’s in our backpack for more on our travel gear. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon and other affiliate links.)

This Singapore travel guide contains affiliate links, meaning we’ll earn a small commission if you make a booking at no added expense to you. We only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and firmly believe in. We really appreciate your support as this helps us make more of these free travel guides. Thank you!

Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Friday 19th of April 2024

good that is enough infromation for me to travel singapore

Nathan James

Wednesday 10th of May 2023

Absolutely loved reading this post. This is so extensive. I am sure it will help anyone planning to visit Singapore immensely.

JB & Renée

Sunday 21st of May 2023

Happy you found it useful Nathan!

Thursday 12th of January 2023

Thank you for sharing this excellent article. The information you provided here is very insightful. I am sure it will be of great help to many people.

Friday 13th of January 2023

Happy you found it useful Neil!

Lily Nguyen

Saturday 8th of October 2022

Thank you so much. This is a very helpful detailed guide. Really appreciate it.

Thursday 13th of October 2022

Happy to help Lily! Enjoy Singapore.

Wednesday 18th of August 2021

Awesome amount of kit man!

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Australia, Singapore travel tips: On-budget sustainable recreational experiences

S ustainable experiences are at the forefront of the travel industry, reshaping the way travellers engage with culture, wildlife and the environment. Today, more than ever, tourists seek meaningful and responsible ways to explore the world, fostering a deep connection with their chosen destinations while also contributing to the preservation of heritage and the protection of the environment.

Let's delve into four destinations that exemplify this transformative shift in travel -

• Embrace First Nations culture and engage with local communities:

Preservation and honour of historical and present cultural assets and practices are critical in encouraging sustainable tourism. The Tribal Warrior cruise in Sydney is one remarkable event that embodies this philosophy as the trip is a one-of-a-kind adventure because it is owned and run by First Nations people, providing an extraordinary maritime voyage.

Throughout the voyage, you'll have the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal names and their meanings for major local landmarks, all while immersing yourself in the rich stories of Sydney Harbour's Gadigal, Guringai, Wangal, Gammeraigal and Wallumedegal peoples. Another must-visit destination in Sydney is the Australian Museum, Australia's oldest museum institution.

Remarkably, the Australian Museum has received recognition from the Federal Government for its commitment to climate action, having achieved a carbon-neutral status. Particularly noteworthy is the museum's ongoing exhibition, "Changing Climate," which not only provides valuable insights into climate change but also shares innovative solutions and accounts of its impact on Australia.

(Dwayne Bannon-Harrison, an Aboriginal guide, conducting a traditional welcome with a smoking ceremony as part of a Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness tour)

Tweed Eco Cruises offer eco-friendly river trips along the picturesque Tweed River during the day or after sunset. These cruises provide sumptuous snacking boards made entirely of locally sourced cuisine or a spectacular seafood buffet and alternatively, for a deep cultural experience, consider joining Dwayne 'Naja' Bannon-Harrison from Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness who takes on country tours around the picturesque NSW Far South Coast, giving visitors an intimate experience of Yuin Country.

2. Take a stroll with New South Wales’ beloved inhabitants:

Witnessing wildlife is an exhilarating travel experience, so it is vital that these excursions prioritise animal well-being and environmental preservation. To achieve this and enhance your chances of wildlife sightings, consider hiring a local guide or expert.

EcoTreasures offers conservation-focused coastal walks and snorkeling tours in Manly, while Wolgan Valley Eco Tours provides informative hikes in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. On the Far South Coast of New South Wales, Navigate Expeditions' guides offer insights into the area's biology and culture, along with local cuisine and eco-friendly electric vehicle transportation.

(Visitors delight in a kayaking tour organised by Navigate Expeditions in Kalaru)

For an up-close wildlife experience, Dolphin Swim Australia offers the opportunity to swim and snorkel with dolphins along Port Stephens' coastline. After some training, you can enjoy a safe and supervised wild dolphin swim in the pristine waters of the Great Lakes Marine Park. Further North, in Byron Bay's Marine National Park, Go Sea Kayak provides guided kayaking and snorkeling adventures, allowing you to encounter dolphins, whales and local green and loggerhead turtles. Notably, the tour operator also contributes $1 for each client to support marine-related charities, including Sea Shepherd.

3. Wander around Singapore’s fascinating Birds Paradise

Nestled within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Bird Paradise is an enchanting destination that beckons nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike. As one of Asia's largest bird parks, Bird Paradise has as many as 3,500 birds from 400 different species, flying in a magnificent open sanctuary.

(Visitors enjoying the open Bird Paradise in Mandai Wildlife Reserve)

The newly opened wildlife park also features varied immersive and naturalistic mixed-species habitats that reflect different ecologies from around the world. Mandai Wildlife Reserve is enhancing existing human-made, sustainable resources to protect the environment and conserve biodiversity in Singapore in fact, it is set to become carbon-neutral by 2024 so visitors can now discover a world of vibrant plumage and ecological wonders in Bird Paradise.

4. Mr. Bucket

A stone throw away from Orchard Road, Mr. Bucket promises an unparalleled, chocolatey adventure. This unique chocolate lifestyle destination is Singapore’s first ever waste-proof chocolate dispensary and even features a build-your-own chocolate slab station.

(Some scrumptious chocolate-based refreshments prepared with Mr. Bucket’s waste-proof approach)

Beyond its delectable culinary offerings, the establishment is committed to Singapore's sustainability goals and employs a zero-waste approach to cacao fruit utilisation. Patrons can savour items from a selection of meticulously crafted beverages. This is a distinctive eco-conscious dining spot which serves one-of-a-kind refreshments- from cacao husk lemon tea to a must-try cacao-infused wine.

Read more news like this on HindustanTimes.com

Traveloka Team

15 Jun 2024 - 4 min read

4 Tops Singapore Airport Lounges to Relax During Your Transit

Singapore Changi Airport is a gateway to the world, and its lounges are havens of relaxation and luxury. If you're a traveler seeking the best spots to unwind before your flight, this guide is for you. We'll explore the top lounges, how to access them, and tips to make your airport experience exceptional.

Why Choose an Airport Lounge?

Airport lounges offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the terminal. They provide comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and often, showers and nap rooms. For frequent travelers, lounges can transform a long layover into a mini-vacation. Additionally, if you are a business traveller, airport lounges are the perfect spot for you to do your daily tasks while waiting for departure.

Visiting airport lounges also becomes a current trend for travellers, especially the younger ones. Relaxing in an airport lounge becomes one of the checklists on their trip abroad because airport lounges provide a unique travel experience. The combination of comfort, luxury, and exclusivity makes lounges appealing to millennials and Gen Z. Plus, with social media playing a huge role in their lives, lounges offer Instagram-worthy settings that are perfect for sharing travel moments.

Top Lounges at Singapore Changi Airport

Picking the right airport lounge is key to a top-notch travel experience. With all sorts of amenities, an airport lounge can tick all your boxes for a smoother journey.

Fortunately, Singapore Changi Airport has some airport lounges offered by several airlines and service providers. Here are four top lounges at Singapore Changi Airport you can choose:

1. The SilverKris Lounge (Singapore Airlines)

Caroline Sun / Shutterstock.com

The SilverKris Lounge is situated in two locations, at Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The lounge is open 24 hours and offers various premium facilities such as a selection of warm food and light snacks, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, TV, restrooms, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a baby care room, playroom, and showers. If you opt to elevate your lounge experience, there's The Private Room that offers additional privacy and luxury. The SilverKris Lounge is perfect for those flying with Singapore Airlines or its Star Alliance partners.

2. Plaza Premium Lounge

Sorbis / Shutterstock.com

Available in Terminal 1 and Terminal 4, Plaza Premium Lounge is an independent pay-in lounge, making it open to all travelers, regardless of airline. This lounge is open 24 hours and offers many facilities, including private resting suites, shower rooms with amenities (wheelchair-friendly room available), VIP rooms, comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, charging stations, flight information and TV channels.. It's an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a touch of luxury.

3. Qantas International Business Lounge Singapore

The Qantas International Business Lounge at Singapore Changi Airport is a stylish and cosy spot perfect for chilling before your flight. Located in Terminal 1, it boasts several high-end facilities such as a cool cocktail bar, a mouth-watering Asian and Western dining menu, high-speed Wi-Fi, and top-notch shower facilities. It’s ideal for those flying with Qantas or oneworld alliance partners.

4. SATS Premier Lounge

Found in Terminals 2, 3, and 4, you’ll be pleased to discover a variety of amenities, including Wi-Fi, workstation, massage chairs and shower facilities, at the SATS Premier Lounge. Moreover, indulge in a delicious buffet spread and pair it with a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This lounge is also open for 24 hours. The SATS Premier Lounge is accessible with various lounge membership programs and Priority Pass membership issued by credit cards.

How to Access Airport Lounges

While Singapore airport lounge may look intimidating at first, accessing the lounge can be easier than you think. Here are a few methods to utilize this premium facility:

1. Frequent Flyer Programs

If you're a member of a frequent flyer program, check your status. Higher tiers often come with complimentary lounge access, available exclusively to airline ticket holders. For instance, the SilverKris Lounge is accessible to those flying with Singapore Airlines or its Star Alliance partners.

2. Credit Card Perks

Many premium credit cards offer lounge access as a benefit. Cards like the American Express Platinum or Citi Prestige provide entry to a network of lounges worldwide.

3. Pay-Per-Use

Some lounges, like the Plaza Premium Lounge, offer pay-per-use options. Prices can vary, but it’s a great way to enjoy the perks without a membership.

4. Lounge Memberships

If you frequently travel around the world, consider purchasing a lounge membership like Priority Pass. It grants access to hundreds of lounges globally, including several at Changi Airport such as SATS Premier Lounge.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Lounge Experience

Now that you know which lounge suits your needs and preferences, the next step is to learn how to make the most of your lounge access. Here are some tips to help you maximise the benefits:

1. Arrive Early

Give yourself plenty of time to relax and enjoy the amenities. Arriving early means you can take full advantage of the food, drinks, and services available.

2. Utilize the Facilities

Don’t just grab a quick bite and leave. Take a shower, enjoy a drink at the bar, or find a quiet corner to catch up on work or reading.

3. Stay Connected

Most lounges offer high-speed Wi-Fi. It’s a great opportunity to catch up on emails, stream your favourite shows, or update your travel blog.

4. Healthy Eating

Lounges often have a variety of food options. Opt for healthier choices to keep you feeling good throughout your journey. Fresh salads, fruit, and light snacks can be more energising than heavier meals.

Lounges are frequented by business travelers and frequent flyers. It’s a great place to network and meet like-minded individuals who share your love for travel.

In Conclusion

Singapore Changi Airport’s lounges are some of the best in the world, offering a range of amenities to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, a spot to catch up on work, or simply a comfortable seat with good food and drinks, there’s a lounge for you. Use these tips to make the most of your lounge experience and transform your airport wait into a memorable part of your journey.

So, next time you find yourself at Changi Airport, remember to treat yourself to the comfort and luxury of an airport lounge. It’s not just about waiting for your flight; it’s about enjoying every moment of your travel adventure.

Flight to Singapore

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