Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove against the Singapore skyline

They might call it the Little Red Dot, but Singapore packs a punch.

It's heaven for foodies and full of family attractions, and one of the most kid-friendly destinations in the world. Hotels tend to price well, too, for a major city in Asia. On this page, I've collected the best Singapore travel tips and information.

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Katie Dillon

Hi, I'm Katie. Singapore is one of my favorite cities to plan for families, and I'm happy to share the hotels, food, and attractions we love most.

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Our Favorite Things to Do in Singapore

There are so many amazing things to do in the island city-state of Singapore. It's a fascinating place with attractions for visitors of all ages, and one of the most kid-friendly destinations in the world. Below are a few of our favorites.

Where and What to Eat in Singapore

They say that eating is the national sport of Singapore and I believe that to be true. The food is outstanding whether you're at a massive hotel buffet or a hawker stall. Read our guide to the best Singaporean food.

We seek out:

  • Chili Crab
  • Hainanese Chicken Rice
  • Char Kway Teow
  • Kaya Toast
  • Laksa
  • Roti Prata
  • Nasi Lemak
Chinatown street food and shophouses in Singapore

Get to Know Singapore Neighborhoods

When you're considering where to stay in Singapore, it's helpful to know a bit about each 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 enjoy.

  • Chinatown, Singapore

    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 shopping in Singapore

    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, consider staying nearby. We like to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore.

  • Little India, Singapore

    Little India

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

  • Marina Bay light show, Singapore

    Marina Bay

    This neighborhood, home to Marina Bay Sands and Mandarin Oriental Singapore, is trendy and upscale. It offers easy access to luxury shopping and some of the most popular Singapore attractions.

  • Sentosa Island, Singapore

    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 is only 15 minutes from the city center by monorail or cable car.

  • Tiong Bahru bakery, Singapore

    Tiong Bahru

    One of the hippest and oldest Singapore neighborhoods, with a vibe that falls somewhere between modern and historic. This residential neighborhood has chic cafes and art galleries, along with huge traditional markets where you can find local delicacies.

  • Dempsey Hill, Singapore

    Dempsey Hill

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

  • Civic District, Singapore

    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.

Resources

Sometimes there isn't one clear way to buy. Here's where to crunch the numbers.

  • Go City Singapore

    Bundles top attractions, including all Wildlife Reserves Singapore parks, into one pass. Choose All-Inclusive or the Explorer pass and save up to 50% on admission.

    Use Go City
  • Context Travel

    My favorite company for small-group and private tours in Singapore and anywhere worldwide.

    Use Context Travel
  • Grab

    Singapore's version of Uber, and the easiest way to get a ride around the city.

    Use Grab
  • MRT Map

    The MRT is clean, fast, and easy. Keep the route map handy to get around.

    View MRT Map

Need to Know

  • Language

    Four official languages

    English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin. English is widely spoken.

  • Currency

    Singapore Dollar

    Credit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for hawker stalls.

  • Tipping

    Not customary

    It's not expected, but if you experience good service, you're welcome to leave a tip.

  • Voltage

    230 V, 50 Hz

    Type G sockets. Bring an adaptor; the luxury hotels I work with have international plugs.

  • Transportation

    MRT + taxis + Grab

    Taxis are plentiful and the MRT trains are clean and reliable. Download the Grab app, a rideshare similar to Uber.

  • Best Time to Visit

    February to August

    Hot and humid year-round. Dry season is February to August (driest June to August); rainy season September to January. Rain helps cool you down, so it's not always a bad thing.

Shangri-La Singapore pool

Book your Singapore stay

VIP amenities at every hotel we book.

Send us your dates and we'll quote with breakfast, room upgrades when available, and a property credit at every hotel where we have a VIP program. Or request the password to our booking tool to search and book on your own.

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