Back in 2017, I had a chance to visit Singapore, a gorgeous Southeast Asian Nation where the cosmopolitan culture never fails to win hearts! I traveled with a friend, and it was one of my life’s most amazing trips!
We did our fair share of research before traveling to Singapore about the places to visit and the things to do, but when we were there, we realized that it’s better to go with the flow rather than plan a day-to-day itinerary. We were there in the country for 10 days, exploring some of the touristy places (Of course, they’re worth visiting!) and some not-so-touristy ones about which we got to know from my friend’s cousins (who were also hosting us), cab drivers, shopkeepers, and co-passengers of MRT!
Because Singapore is one of the fastest developing countries in Asia and is a commercial hub, it’s a tad bit more expensive than its neighbors like Thailand, Cambodia, or Malaysia. We were super lucky to have a place to live as it helped us save a lot of money! If you are on a tight budget, you should try looking for Couchsurfing options or backpacker’s hostels, as hotel costs might be too much.
To kick off your Singapore adventure, start with Merlion Park, home to the city’s iconic mascot—a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body, symbolising Singapore’s heritage. Standing tall against the Marina Bay skyline, the Merlion is a must-see, offering fantastic photo opportunities with the city in the background.
Next, take things to new heights with a ride on the Singapore Flyer, one of the world’s largest observation wheels. We highly recommend going in the evening to witness the city come alive with twinkling lights—a breathtaking view you won’t forget.
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Gardens by the Bay – one of the world’s most visually stunning urban green spaces. Be sure to check out the Cloud Forest and its breathtaking indoor waterfall, and as night falls, stick around for the Light & Sound Show at the Supertree Grove – a magical spectacle of dancing lights and music.
For some thrill and adventure, head to Sentosa Island, home to Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium. At Universal Studios, get ready for an adrenaline rush with rides like Revenge of the Mummy (a heart-pounding indoor roller coaster) and the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure.
These are, of course, the top highlights that any travel guide will mention. But if you’re looking for offbeat, hidden gems, there are plenty more unique experiences in Singapore that you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
1. China Town
Chinatown in Singapore is famous for tourists visiting many shops and eating street food.
As you might have guessed, Chinatown is the subzone and ethnic enclave where Singapore’s early Chinese settlers put down roots and built a life for themselves. Steeped in history and culture, this vibrant district is a fascinating blend of the old and new—bustling markets, ornate temples, heritage shophouses, and, of course, some of the best street food in the city!
One of the must-visit spots here is the Chinatown Heritage Centre, located right in the middle of all the action. This immersive museum offers a deep dive into Singapore’s past, showcasing the struggles, resilience, and everyday lives of the early Chinese immigrants who arrived in this land seeking better opportunities. It’s a beautifully preserved time capsule, filled with authentic recreations of old living quarters and fascinating exhibits.
Location: 48 Pagoda Street, Singapore 059207
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Not far from here, you’ll find the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, an architectural masterpiece that houses one of Buddha’s sacred canine teeth. Whether you’re spiritually inclined or just love intricate temple designs, this is one place that’s well worth a visit.
Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience
Ticket Price: Free
Why We REALLY Came to Chinatown… FOOD!
If you’re a foodie like us, Chinatown is nothing short of paradise. With hundreds of hawker stalls and restaurants, this is where you can feast on a mix of Chinese, Indonesian, Malaysian, and Hainanese cuisine—all at affordable prices! Whether you’re craving Hainanese Chicken Rice (SGD 8) or the famous Singapore Chilli Crab (SGD 10), you’ll find something mouthwatering at every turn.
Pro Tip: Don’t order everything at once—the portions here are generous, and you don’t want to waste good food!
Best Food Spot: Chinatown Complex Food Centre (335 Smith Street)
Best Time to Visit: Evening (for the ultimate hawker experience!)
From history to heritage to heavenly food, Chinatown never disappoints. It’s the kind of place that pulls you in with its charm, fills you up with delicious flavours, and leaves you wanting more.
2. Tiong Bahru
Green tea ice latte and cake at Tiong Bahru Bakery Singapore.
One of Singapore’s oldest neighbourhoods, Tiong Bahru often gets overshadowed by the flashy nightlife of Clarke Quay. But let’s be real—you’d be missing out BIG TIME if you skip this charming district. A perfect blend of heritage, art, and hipster vibes, Tiong Bahru’s narrow streets are lined with beautiful murals, quaint bookshops, and some of the best cafés in town.
Be prepared to walk more than you think, because every turn reveals stunning street art, hidden gems, and retro architecture that tell the story of Singapore’s past. And trust us—you’ll fall in love with the murals just like we did!
Pro Tip:The Singapore weather can be unforgivingly humid, so bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated while mural-hunting.
Location: Tiong Bahru, Singapore (Start at Yong Siak Street for the best murals!)
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
Ticket Price: Free
Where to Chill After Your Walk?
After soaking in all the artsy vibes, it’s time to refuel. Pop into one of Tiong Bahru’s charming cafés, like Tiong Bahru Bakery (home to legendary croissants) or BooksActually, a cosy indie bookstore with vintage finds. But if you’re in the mood for something stronger, head to Thirsty Craft Beer Shop, where you can sip on over 200 kinds of craft beers and ciders.
Best Drink Spot:Thirsty Craft Beer Shop (1 Kim Tian Road)
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon, when you can cool down with a cold one after your stroll!
3. Newton Food Center
Newton Food Centre is a famous eating place for locals and tourists, offering a one-stop shop for local street food in Singapore.
Located right next to Newton MRT Station, Newton Food Centre is one of Singapore’s most iconic hawker centres, and trust us—finding it is the easy part. Opened in 1971, this legendary food hub has been serving up mouthwatering local delicacies for decades, making it a favourite among both locals and travelers. The moment we stepped in, we were greeted by a buzzing crowd, the sizzle of woks, and the irresistible aroma of Singapore’s finest street food. And guess what? That’s the usual scene here, every single night!
What to Eat?
Expect everything from fresh lobsters and oysters to sizzling pork dishes, all cooked to perfection and served at shockingly reasonable prices. You might think we’re exaggerating, but a hearty feast for five people won’t set you back more than SGD 100 – yes, you read that right!
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Laksa – Spicy, creamy, and packed with flavour
Lobster in Lemon Butter Sauce – Succulent and rich in every bite
Oyster Omelette – Crispy, fluffy, and loaded with fresh oysters
Pork Chops – Juicy, tender, and absolutely delicious
Location: Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495 Best Time to Visit: Evening (from 6 PM onwards, when the stalls are in full swing) Cost: Dishes range from SGD 5 to SGD 30, depending on what you order
Pro Tip: Go with an appetite—you’ll want to try everything, and sharing is the best way to sample as many dishes as possible!
4. Kinokuniya Bookstore
Kinokuniya is renowned as the best bookstore chain in Singapore.
We get it—not everyone prioritises bookstores while travelling. But for true book lovers, discovering one of Southeast Asia’s largest bookstores is nothing short of thrilling. And trust us, Kinokuniya Singapore is an absolute treasure trove!
Located inside the Ngee Ann City Takashimaya Shopping Centre on Orchard Road, this massive bookstore boasts a collection of over 500,000 quality titles from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for rare literary gems, the latest bestsellers, graphic novels, or even foreign-language books, this place has something for every reader. To our surprise, we even found a few Bengali books, which was totally unexpected but incredibly exciting!
Even if you’re not in the mood to buy anything, just spending a few hours here—browsing your favourite genres, flipping through art books, or getting lost in travel guides—feels like a perfect escape from the city’s hustle.
Location: 391 Orchard Road, #04-20/20B/20C, Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays (afternoons are quieter for uninterrupted browsing)
Entry Fee: Free (but let’s be honest, you’ll probably leave with a book or two!)
Pro Tip: If you’re a manga or comic book fan, Kinokuniya’s selection is unbeatable – so be prepared to spend extra time in that section!
So, if you love books as much as we do, don’t miss this gorgeous bookstore in Singapore!
5. Arab Street
On the second last day of our trip, we set out to explore Haji Lane & Arab Street, and let’s just say—we were blown away. Tucked away in Kampong Glam, this vibrant neighbourhood felt like a whole new world, bursting with Middle Eastern charm, colourful street art, and an irresistible mix of sights, sounds, and aromas.
Every step here was a sensory delight, from Arabic, Lebanese, and Turkish delicacies to tiny indie boutiques and graffiti-covered alleys. Middle Eastern music floating through the air, the scent of freshly grilled kebabs, and the sight of quirky cafés and bustling shophouses made this place feel like a slice of another continent, right in the heart of Singapore.
We kept wondering how we did not know about this place earlier. Every turn and every corner made us stop and soak it all in. And while some shops might seem a little pricey, if you trust your bargaining skills, you might just walk away with some incredible finds at a steal!
Location: Haji Lane & Arab Street, Kampong Glam, Singapore
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening (when the vibe is at its best!)
Entry Fee: Free (except for what you choose to eat and shop!)
Pro Tip: Don’t just stick to the main streets—venture into the smaller alleys, and you’ll find some hidden gems in the form of artsy cafés, vintage stores, and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Whether you’re here to shop, eat, or just soak in the bohemian vibes, Haji Lane & Arab Street is one of Singapore’s coolest neighbourhoods—and a must-visit before you leave!
If you are planning to travel to Singapore, add these places to your checklist. Apart from these, there’s another place that we would like you to visit – Bird Paradise Mandai. A little touristy for sure, but it’ll be one exciting journey to get close to so many avian species. From flamingoes to toucans and macaws to bald eagles – you’ll get to spot them all. And if you are a braveheart, you can pose with a vulture on your head too!
To say the least, Singapore is a place we would love to return to, as we’re sure there’s more to explore. If you’ve been to Singapore and loved something, then let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Singapore
What is the best time to visit Singapore?
Singapore is a year-round destination due to its tropical climate. However, February to April offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Avoid peak holiday seasons like December and June if you prefer fewer crowds.
How can I travel from India to Singapore?
Direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangaloreto Changi Airport, one of the world’s best airports, are available. Airlines like Singapore Airlines, IndiGo, and Air India operate regular flights.
What currency is used in Singapore, and can I use Indian Rupees?
The currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Indian Rupees are not accepted, but you can exchange currency at money changers or withdraw SGD from ATMs.
Is Singapore safe for tourists?
Yes, Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, and public transport is secure. However, always follow local laws, as they are strictly enforced.
What languages are spoken in Singapore?
English is the official working language. Other languages include Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. Most signs and announcements are in English, making navigating easy for tourists.
Can I use my Indian SIM card in Singapore?
You can use your Indian SIM with international roaming, but it may be expensive. A better option is to buy a local SIM card from providers like Singtel, StarHub, or M1 at the airport or convenience stores.
What to eat when in Singapore?
Food is more than just a meal in Singapore—it’s a national obsession. From upscale dining to buzzing hawker centers, the Lion City is a paradise for food lovers, thanks to its rich multicultural influences. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and where to find them:
Hainanese Chicken Rice
Simple but packed with flavor, Hainanese chicken rice is a national treasure. The rice is cooked in chicken broth, garlic, and ginger, making it fragrant and irresistible. The dish is served with poached or roasted chicken and a side of ginger-garlic chili sauce. It’s comfort food, Singapore-style!
Where to find it:
Tian Tian at Maxwell Food Centre: It is iconic but often sells out fast.
Boon Tong Kee & Wee Nam Kee: Both serve excellent versions.
Chatterbox at Mandarin Orchard: For a gourmet twist, if you’re feeling fancy.
Chilli Crab
If there’s one dish you cannot miss, it’s chilli crab. Giant crabs are bathed in a thick, sweet-savory tomato sauce with a hint of spice. The magic lies in dipping fried mantou buns into the sauce—you’ll be licking your fingers clean!
Where to find it:
Jumbo Seafood & No Signboard Seafood: Crowd favorites.
Long Beach Seafood: Known for inventing black pepper crab.
Roland Restaurant: A nostalgic spot for chilli crab lovers.
Katong Laksa
This bowl of noodle heaven combines rice noodles, seafood, and a rich coconut-based curry broth. Spicy, creamy, and soul-warming, it’s a dish rooted in Peranakan culture, originating from the Katong district.
Where to find it:
328 Katong Laksa: Famous for beating Gordon Ramsay in a laksa challenge.
Janggut Laksa & Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei: Both are worth a visit for their unique takes on the dish.
Bak Kut Teh
Imagine waking up to a bowl of pork ribs simmered in a peppery broth—that’s bak kut teh for you. It’s a favorite breakfast and even works as a hangover cure! There are two main styles: Teochew (clear, peppery) and Hokkien (dark, herbal).
Where to find it:
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh: For a classic Teochew version.
Ng Ah Sio: Known for their rich, soy-based Hokkien style.
Es Potong (Ice Cream Sandwich)
Ice cream, but make it quirky. Es Potong, or “cut ice,” is exactly that—a block of ice cream wedged between soft white bread. Flavors range from taro to red bean, making it the perfect antidote to Singapore’s tropical heat.
Where to find it: Look out for street vendors at Bugis Street, Orchard Road, and Clarke Quay.
Hokkien Mee
This street food favorite features stir-fried egg and rice noodles with prawns, pork, and a splash of sambal. The smoky flavors come from being cooked over charcoal, giving it an edge over your typical stir-fry.
Where to find it:
Geylang Lor 29: Old-school and delicious.
Come Daily Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee (Toa Payoh): Loved for its strong prawn flavor and loyal following.
What are some local laws and customs to be aware of?
Singapore is known for its strict laws and emphasis on public order, cleanliness, and respect for social norms. As a traveler, it’s essential to be mindful of these rules to avoid fines or legal issues. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate:
No Littering:
Littering in public places is strictly prohibited. First-time offenders can face fines of up to SGD 1,000, and repeat offenders may also be required to perform community service.
No Spitting:
Spitting in public is considered an offense and can result in fines.
No Smoking in Public Areas:
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas. Smoking in prohibited places, like parks, bus stops, and restaurants, can lead to fines of up to SGD 1,000.
Chewing Gum Restrictions:
The import, sale, and possession of chewing gum (except for medicinal purposes) are banned. Fines apply if you are caught chewing or importing it.
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, comment below, and I’ll tell you about some hidden gems in the Lion City!
An absolute foodie and a die-hard ‘mountain-aholic’, I love to read and write! (Give me a book and I’ll love you all the more!) Over the last few years, I have had the opportunity to travel to a lot of places across India and abroad, and I escaped to the mountains often – blame it on my ardent love for the quaint Himalayan towns and Lemon-Honey-Ginger tea!
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