Welcome to Singapore, the futuristic “city in a garden”! This is a vibrant island nation where lush green spaces blend with soaring skyscrapers. It is a true melting pot of cultures and a global hub of innovation and cuisine. For a first-time visitor, Singapore is an incredibly rewarding and easy city to explore.
This is the only guide you need to start planning your trip. We will walk you through every step. We cover everything from pre-trip preparations and arriving at the world’s best airport, to navigating the city, deciding what to eat, and discovering the best things to do. To give you a taste of the incredible experiences that await, you can start by exploring a preview of the unmissable experiences Singapore has to offer.
Planning Your Trip: When to Go and What to Know
Proper planning is the first step to an amazing vacation. Understanding the climate and local customs will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Singapore’s tropical climate is consistent all year round. You can expect hot and humid weather no matter when you visit. The temperature rarely changes, typically staying between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 90°F). The main difference throughout the year is the amount of rainfall. The Northeast Monsoon from December to March is the wet season, while the Southwest Monsoon from June to September is generally drier. For a deep dive into the climate and advice on what to pack to stay comfortable, you can see our complete guide.
Travel can also be busier and more expensive during certain periods. It’s also a great idea to check the calendar of Singapore’s public holidays, as these can bring exciting festivals but also larger crowds.
Important Rules and Customs
Singapore has a well-earned reputation for being one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world. This is partly thanks to a set of clear rules that everyone is expected to follow. You may have heard about the famous ban on selling chewing gum, which helps keep the public spaces spotless. To ensure a smooth and respectful visit, it is helpful to understand Singapore’s most important laws and local customs.
Arrival and Getting Your Bearings
Your Singapore adventure begins the moment you land. The first few hours are all about getting through the airport and settling into the city with ease.
Arriving at Changi Airport
Your entry point is likely Singapore Changi Airport, which is consistently voted the world’s best. It is more than just an airport; it is a world-class attraction. You will be impressed by its efficiency, stunning architecture, and the incredible Jewel complex with its indoor waterfall. Navigating the terminals and getting to the city is a breeze. See our complete traveler’s guide to Singapore Changi Airport for everything you need to know.
Money and Connectivity
The first two things every traveler needs are local currency and mobile data. The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Upon arrival at Changi, you can easily find ATMs to withdraw cash and counters to purchase a tourist SIM card to stay connected. For detailed advice on exchange rates, ATMs, and the best data plans (including eSIMs), read our guide to handling money and getting a SIM card in Singapore.
Navigating the City
Singapore’s public transport system is one of the best in the world. It is clean, safe, and incredibly efficient. The main modes of transport are the MRT (train system), an extensive network of public buses, and convenient ride-sharing apps like Grab. You can travel almost anywhere with ease. You can master the system with our comprehensive guide to using Singapore’s public transport.
Where to Stay in Singapore: Choosing Your Home Base
Deciding where to stay will shape your entire trip. Singapore offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and advantages.
Understanding the Neighborhoods
The first step to choosing a hotel is choosing the right neighborhood. Do you want the iconic luxury of Marina Bay, the rich heritage and amazing food of Chinatown, or the endless shopping of Orchard Road? To find the perfect area that matches your travel style, start with our in-depth guide to Singapore’s unique neighborhoods.
Finding the Right Accommodation
Once you have a neighborhood in mind, the next step is finding a hotel that fits your budget and style. Singapore offers a wide range of options, from world-famous luxury hotels to charming boutique stays in historic shophouses. Once you have picked an area, see our curated recommendations for the best places to stay in Singapore, broken down by travel type.
The Singapore Food Experience: What and Where to Eat
Prepare your taste buds for an adventure. Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, with a culinary scene that reflects its multicultural heritage.
Your Introduction to Hawker Centres
The heart and soul of Singaporean food culture is the hawker centre. These are large, open-air food courts where you can find an incredible variety of delicious and affordable meals. Eating at a hawker centre is an essential local experience. Do not be intimidated by the number of stalls. You can learn how to order like a local in the bustling hawker centres with our beginner’s guide.
Must-Try Local Dishes
After explaining where to eat, the next logical question is what to eat. Singapore is home to a number of iconic dishes that you simply cannot miss. Be sure to try classics like Hainanese Chicken Rice, Chilli Crab, and the fragrant noodle soup, Laksa. To make sure you do not miss out on the best flavors, check out our list of 10 must-try local foods in Singapore.
What to Do: Exploring the City and Island
With your planning sorted, it is time for the fun part. Singapore is filled with incredible attractions and activities for every type of traveler.
Top Attractions and Experiences
Every first-timer’s list should include a few big-ticket items. You will want to see the magnificent Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay and wander through the vibrant, colorful streets of Kampong Glam and Little India. The Singapore Botanic Gardens, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another unmissable stop. This special status is managed by organizations like the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, which recognizes sites of outstanding universal value.
Exploring on a Budget
While Singapore can be an expensive city, it does not have to be. Many of the city’s most memorable experiences cost absolutely nothing. From spectacular nightly light shows at Marina Bay to hiking in lush nature reserves, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city for free. To help you save money, we have put together a list of our favorite free things to do in Singapore.
The Ultimate Escape: Sentosa Island
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to its premier island resort. Sentosa is the perfect place for fun, relaxation, and adventure. It is home to golden beaches, world-class theme parks, tranquil nature walks, and luxurious hotels. The island truly offers something for everyone. Dive into our collection of Sentosa guides to plan your perfect island getaway.
Ready to Explore Singapore?
Singapore is an incredibly accessible, safe, and rewarding city for any traveler. This guide is your perfect starting point. The detailed articles linked within are your roadmaps to an unforgettable trip. We hope you use these resources to start exploring and building your dream Singapore itinerary.