A Guide to Singapore for First Time Travelers

Looking to visit Singapore soon? Asia’s greenest city is a cultural melting pot known for its diverse population and rich cultural heritage. The city-state may seem small compared to its neighbors but it’s a city bursting with unique food flavors, eclectic shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife.
With the multitude of activities to try and destinations to explore, it may seem like a challenge to determine where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
From when to go to what to do and where to stay, we’ve compressed a comprehensive guide for first-time travelers looking to traverse this small yet extraordinary island.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
It’s always a good time to visit Singapore! The country has a tropical climate all year round with average daily temperatures from 24°C to 31°C.
December to June is the busiest, especially during Chinese New Year. If you’re looking to lounge by the beach on Sentosa Island, the driest periods are from February to April, when the country experiences the least amount of rain.
Much like its neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, Singapore experiences annual monsoon seasons which occur between December to March. The twelfth month is usually the rainiest, and the weather is often cloudy and humid at this time.
Our best time to go pick would be from July to October, as you can avoid the tourist traffic and enjoy pleasant weather with daily temperatures averaging around 30°C. Accommodations may also be cheaper during non-peak seasons.
Fit Check
The city-state has warm and humid weather all year round, so it’s best to bring light, breathable clothes. Moreover, don’t forget to factor in that many indoor facilities in Singapore such as shopping malls have air-conditioning, which can make the temperature feel cooler. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes for exploring the many sights and attractions.
It is also best to be mindful of varying cultural backgrounds in the country. Although it’s a generally cosmopolitan city, modest attire is still appreciated particularly in religious or cultural sites. Avoid over-revealing clothes and pack pieces suitable for different occasions.
Getting to Singapore

Singapore can be accessed by flight from both international and domestic destinations. Changi International Airport has been named the World’s Best Airport for several consecutive years as it offers state-of-the-art technology and a wide range of activities and shopping opportunities for travelers. The airport itself is an attraction!
While you’re there, don’t miss The Jewel, a massive mall adjacent to Terminal 1, boasting a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and recreational services that can make any layover fly by. Let’s not forget its piece de resistance, the Jewel Rain Vortex, which is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
There are several commercial airlines that offer direct and connecting flights to the city-state. Prices depend on the airline, destination, and season so it’s best to do your research. Flight search engines such as CheapFlights and Skyscanner can help get you the best deals, and also keep an eye out for special promos on airlines’ social media pages.
Where to Stay?
Upon booking flights, the next on our agenda is finding a place to stay. If Singapore is known for anything, it’s that it’s not cheap — “Crazy Rich Asians” was spitting facts! Compared to the rest of Asia, the city-state is very expensive with an average daily cost of S$210. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t keep to a budget when in Singapore.
Boutique hotels could be a great option for travelers looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing good service. Although it’s relatively smaller than big hotel chains such as the Hilton or Shangri-La, their charm lies in their distinct characteristics from their unique décor to their personalized services that provide a more intimate experience for their guests.
Kesa House, for example, is a row of conserved shophouses along Keong Saik Road near Chinatown, offering guests “flexible living” options. Whether you’re looking into short stays or long-term rentals, the property might just have the best room for you. A standard room costs S$143+ per night. You can also check out some of the other trendy boutique stays in Singapore here.
For those looking for more budget-friendly accommodation, we also recommend Capsule hotels in the city, which offer both comfort and convenience minus the hefty price!
If you’re backpacking your way across Asia or simply looking to stay out more than in, why not try The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel, which is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers and is the country’s leading and most established boutique hotel. A single pod can cost as low as S$35 per night.
You can also check out some of the most recommended capsule hotels in the city here.
Another important factor to consider is location. Although Singapore is a relatively small country, it’s divided into five regions, each of which offers something new and exciting for visitors. But as first-time travelers, you are most likely to want to see all the touristy spots and national landmarks within “The City” which is located in the south-eastern part of the Central Region.
Our top neighborhood areas for first-time travelers are Marina Bay, Singapore River, Orchard Road, Chinatown, and Sentosa Island. Marina Bay in particular is the best overall for newbie tourists because of its central location and close proximity to key attractions and destinations such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Merlion. This is also where you’ll find the country’s best hotels, shopping malls, and nightlife.
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at some of Singapore’s five-star stays. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands down to the grand Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton hotels, Singapore knows all the ways to splurge and more.
Transportation from the Airport

Changi International Airport is fairly close to the city center so you can get there in no time, no matter how you choose to travel.
Getting a taxi is a convenient way to get to the city, and unlike in many major countries, it’s reasonably priced too! There are taxi stands located on the Arrival levels of each terminal. The ride can take around twenty minutes and costs approximately S$20 for 19km on a standard taxi during off-peak hours.
All taxis are metered so there’s no haggling involved, and cash is often the preferred payment method. For a more comprehensive guide on flag-down rates and booking fees, click here.
Alternatively, you can also book a rideshare if you have access to a local data plan. Grab is the largest rideshare app in Singapore. Other apps you can use include Gojek, TADA, and Ryde, which is the first carpool app in the country.
The Changi Airport Shuttle is another budget-friendly way to get to the city. The City Shuttle offers drop-offs to most of the downtown hotels in the city for S$10 (adults) and S$7 (children). The shuttle departs every hour from 7 AM to 11 PM.
You can approach the 24-hour Ground Transport Concierge (GTC) at the Arrival Halls to book a seat or book in advance online here. Additionally, you can also book an Airport Transfer vehicle through the GTC. Prices vary depending on the vehicle. A 4-seater car costs S$55.00 per trip to any Singapore destination.
Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) a.k.a. the subway or underground is the best option if you want to spend less and are only carrying light baggage. A ride will only cost you S$1.74 and will take approximately half an hour to get to the city center. The only challenging part about this mode of transport is that you are most likely to change lines.
To get to the city, take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4), then transfer to the East West Line towards Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33). Alternative routes can be found here.
Getting around Singapore
Singapore might be one of the more expensive countries to visit but it's possible to save a little bit more if you make use of their extensive public transport system.
The subway system or MRT is quite straightforward and easy to navigate even for first-timers. There are six MRT lines all labeled with their distinct colors, while stations are assigned with specific numbers, making it easy for travelers to identify their stops.
You can download the network map on the SMRT Journey Planner, and see the detailed train timings as well as essential information about specific stations here.
Singapore also has several Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems, but they mostly serve residential neighborhoods that tourists are unlikely to encounter. One LRT line to note, however, is the Sentosa Express, a monorail that gets you around Sentosa Island where attractions such as the beaches, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Universal Studios Singapore are located.
Another cheap option is to take the bus to see the sights. Singapore’s bus network covers most of the island and is considered the most convenient and accessible mode of transport in the country as it brings passengers closer — if not exactly to — their destinations. Bus stops all have a unique number which makes it easy for passengers to identify where to get off, and most bus stops will also have detailed route information.
You can also opt for Free Shuttle lines which can be found in most tourist hubs such as Sentosa Island, Kranji Countryside, and the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

To find the best way to get to your destination fare and travel time-wise, download the Land Transport Authority’s app planner, My Transport App which is available for both iOS and Android. Alternatively, you can also use Citymapper or SimplyGo to plan your journeys. As for how much you have to pay, fares are calculated by distance so it’s best to consult with a fare calculator to get an estimate.
But how exactly do you pay for public transport? Tourists can opt to buy an EZ-Link card available at MRT stations and bus interchanges. You can also get them at convenience stores or on online commerce platforms such as Lazada and Shopee.
Visitors should consider getting a Tourist Pass which allows unlimited rides on public transport for one to three days.
If you have a bit more budget to spare, then getting a taxi or booking on rideshare apps such as Grab are the most convenient ways to explore the city. Scroll back to the previous section to learn more about fares and other apps available!
Best things to do in Singapore
Singapore may be smaller than its Asian neighbors but it’s brimming with incredible food markets, awe-inspiring architecture, and stunning nature spots. There’s so much to see and do here that it will definitely keep your itineraries packed for the duration of your stay.
If you don’t have much time and are hoping to get a taste of what’s good and fun in Singapore, here are our picks on the things you shouldn’t miss to see as well as the best places to eat, shop, and play in the city.
SEE

Gardens by the Bay – Although Singapore boasts towering skyscrapers and impressive shopping malls, it’s able to maintain a greener side of the city with its stunning national parks and tranquil green spaces across the island, living up to its name as Asia’s “Garden City.”
Gardens by the Bay is by far the most popular of Singapore’s gardens with its impressive Supertrees that look like it’s from another planet, and the twin glass hemispheres wherein you’ll find the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. Taking a stroll through this massive garden is definitely a good escape from the bustling city when it gets a little too warm.
Marina Bay – Every tourist has to get a photo taken at the iconic Marina Bay, where one can admire the impressive architecture surrounding the area. From the towering Marina Bay Sands twin towers and the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum to the DNA-inspired Helix bridge and the majestic water-spouting Merlion, a walk along Marina Bay is like being inside a postcard or desktop wallpaper.

Here’s a tip: Although Marina Bay looks impressive any time of day, we recommend going around sunset. It gives you enough time to get stunning daylight shots before the city is shrouded in darkness and the lights blaze on, which is a remarkable sight in its own right. Not to mention, it’s much more comfortable to take a stroll around the area when the temperature has cooled down a bit.
You can also catch a light and sound show at the Marina Bay waterfront or Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay along the way.
Singapore River – Bumboats have been cruising down the Singapore River for over a century. And you can still ride one today! This river was once a historic center during Singapore’s trading days. The warehouses that once stored goods along its banks have now been converted into restaurants and bars that make up the city’s top nightlife districts.
Taking a cruise along the Singapore River is also a great way to learn more about the country’s heritage as it passes through several sites, such as the Raffles Landing Site, The Esplanade, the Merlion, and all three quays situated along the riverside. It definitely gives you a unique view, seeing all these sites from the water.

EAT
Hawker Centers are a huge part of Singapore’s food culture; they're where you’ll find a variety of food stalls selling delicious, not to mention affordable meals. This is where you go if you want to “eat like a local.”
There are several dotted across the city, but some of the famous ones include the Chinatown Complex Food Centre, which is the largest with over 200 stalls, and the Newton Food Centre which was featured in the film, “Crazy Rich Asians.”

If you’re one to spend a little bit more on a good bite, Singapore boasts more than fifty Michelin-starred restaurants. You can also try the many coffee shops and bistros for your next brunch, or head over to one of the city’s bars for a great evening out.
Location: Chinatown Complex Food Centre, Address: 335 Smith Street, Singapore | Operation times vary per stall.
Location: Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North Singapore 229495 | Times may vary per stall. Check the website for specific operation times and menu price lists.
SHOP
Cost of living aside, Singapore is expensive due to the amount of spending opportunities it offers visitors. Some of its popular shopping districts include Orchard Road, where you’ll find renowned department stores, upscale shops, as well as trendy restaurants and coffee shops. Additionally, you can also find designer boutiques at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
For lovers of thrifting, you can head over to Haji Lane for vintage shops that offer great deals and aesthetic vibes for your IG feed. And if you're wondering what to bring home to your loved ones, we've got your shopping list right here. You simply must bring home a box of Merlion chocolates!
PLAY
Vacationing with friends and family? Singapore has a ton of recreational spots perfect for your next family holiday. Resorts World Sentosa for one, has several attractions ranging from theme parks to marine life, scattered across Sentosa Island.
Spend a day going on all the thrilling, movie-inspired rides and attractions at Universal Studios Singapore, or beat the heat and make a splash at Adventure Cove Waterpark.
Singapore also offers visitors a chance to learn more about wildlife at the S.E.A. Aquarium which houses a variety of marine species, as well as at the Mandai Life Reserve, a unique wildlife and nature destination featuring attractions such as the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari — the very first of its kind in the world that allows visitors to go on a wild nocturnal adventure!
Some Reminders for Travelers
- Safety first! Singapore is a relatively safe city-state, but one can never be too careful when traveling! No matter where you go or what you do, always be wary of your surroundings and stay alert! Keep your belongings in check and be mindful!
- Do Your Research on Rules! Maintaining the city-state's cleanliness and orderliness is vital in Singapore. So much so that chewing gum, littering, smoking (in prohibited areas), and jaywalking can land you in prison or you will be ordered to pay hefty fines!
- Plan ahead! To go with the flow may seem like the least stressful way to go at first glance but trust us when we say that it’s not always the case when traveling. Planning ahead can save you a lot of time and prevent you from unfortunate circumstances such as getting lost or missing certain attractions.
- Have fun! You will feel stressed at some point, and that feeling of fear while traveling to a new place never really goes away but remember that it’s all part of the adventure! Traveling expands our worldview, and we grow a little bit more in each footprint we leave behind. Take this opportunity to be in the moment and just have the time of your life!
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