Singapore Neighborhoods

One of the most important Singapore travel tips I can share is to plan ahead. When you’re considering where to stay in Singapore, it’s helpful to know a bit about each Singapore neighborhood. That way, you can book rooms that are close to the Singapore attractions you want to see or in a part of the city that you’ll joy.

CHINATOWN

Singapore’s vibrant Chinatown has become one of the hottest neighborhoods. It’s the place to be if you’re looking for amazing food, great shopping, and plenty of history and culture. There are also several cool hotels that will appeal to younger travelers.

ORCHARD ROAD

Once lined with plantations, Orchard Road is now Singapore’s famous shopping street. If your idea of a great vacation involves luxury shopping, then consider staying at one of the nearby hotels. We like to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore.

LITTLE INDIA

This historic section of the city is the heart of the local Indian community, and it’s home to Sri Mariamman Temple, the city’s oldest and most important Hindu temple. You’ll find good affordable accommodation options here.

MARINA BAY

Trendy and upscale is how I’d describe this neighborhood, which is home to Marina Bay Sands and Mandarin Oriental Singapore. You’ll have easy access to luxury shopping and some of the most popular Singapore attractions.

SENTOSA ISLAND

Stay here if your goal is to relax, unwind, and have some fun. There are beautiful beaches, theme parks, golf courses, walking trails, and fabulous restaurants — plus beautiful luxury hotels. Sentosa Island is only 15 minutes from the city center on the monorail or cable car.

TIONG BAHRU

This is one of the hippest Singapore neighborhoods — and one of the oldest — which means that the vibe here falls somewhere between modern and historic. There are chic cafes and art galleries in this residential neighborhood along with huge traditional markets where you can find local delicacies.

DEMPSEY HILL

This quiet Singapore neighborhood isn’t far from Orchard Road, but it’s a lot more relaxed and low-key, making it a good option for families who want a home base away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. It’s just opposite of the Singapore Botanic Garden.

CIVIC DISTRICT

The iconic Raffles Hotel is located in this Singapore neighborhood, which is also home to the National Museum of Singapore, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, and the National Gallery.

Our Favorite Things to Do in Singapore

Below I’ve shared some information about just a few of our favorite things to see and things to do in Singapore.

THE GARDENS BY THE BAY

There are three gorgeous waterfront gardens on Marina Bay. The photos you’ll find in your Singapore travel guide won’t do the 419-foot aerial walkway, the Flower Dome, or the tallest indoor waterfall justice. Plan to visit in the evening so you can catch the Garden Rhapsody music and light show.

NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE

There are more than 8,000 pieces of art in the National Gallery — including the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia. I’ve often spent an entire day exploring the exhibits here.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS® SINGAPORE

Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island is one of the most popular Singapore attractions with family travelers. It has seven movie-themed lands with twenty-four rides, plus lots of shows, great shopping, and character experiences.

JURONG BIRD PARK

If you’re looking for things to do in Singapore with kids, put this on your list. It’s the largest bird park in Asia, and more than 5,000 birds representing 400 species call the park’s aviaries home. I recommend booking the Jurong Bird Park Feeding Frenzy Tour.

THE NIGHT SAFARI

The Night Safari is the world’s first safari park dedicated to nocturnal animals. You can explore on your own, but it’s worth hopping on the 40-minute guided tram tour that will give you more information about each habitat and the animals that live there.

I think you’ll love Singapore as much as we do and use these Singapore travel guides as a resource.