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Singapore Travel Tips: Everything You Need To Know

Planning a trip to Singapore? This guide covers everything you need—from navigating public transport and choosing accommodations to tasting local cuisine and staying safe — making your trip easy, affordable, and unforgettable.

If you’re thinking about visiting Singapore, you’re about to experience one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world! Known for being clean, safe, and incredibly efficient, this tiny island is a perfect blend of tradition and futuristic charm. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or bringing the family along, you’ll find plenty to explore. Here’s your guide to making your trip stress-free, budget-friendly, and absolutely unforgettable.

Getting From the Airport to the City Center

singapore travel tips

Once you land at Changi Airport, you’ll notice immediately why it’s regularly ranked as one of the best airports globally — think butterfly gardens, free movies, and tons of restaurants. But once you’re ready to leave, here’s how you can get to your accommodation easily:

MRT (Subway)

The MRT is clean, quick, and very affordable. It operates directly from the airport, connecting you to central Singapore within half an hour. Get an EZ-Link card at the station to make traveling around easier.

Taxi

Singaporean taxis are reliable, metered, and safe. They’re perfect if you’re traveling with kids or luggage. Expect a fare of around SGD 20–30 to downtown areas.

Grab

Grab is Singapore’s version of Uber. Download the app and book your ride directly from your phone. Pricing is upfront, clear, and usually cheaper than taxis.

Airport Shuttle

Airport shuttles offer shared rides that drop you off at major hotels. It’s a great option if you’re looking for convenience without the taxi price tag.

Need health advice or medical help once you land?

Getting Around Singapore

Navigating Singapore is super easy, even if you’re not used to public transit systems.

MRT & Buses

The MRT covers almost every attraction you’ll want to visit, and the buses are just as easy to use. Get yourself an EZ-Link card or Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited travel.

Taxis & Grab

Perfect for shorter trips or late-night returns. Taxis and Grab cars are widely available, safe, and affordable.

Biking & Walking

Singapore has great walking paths, especially around Marina Bay and the Botanic Gardens. Renting bikes or scooters is also easy and fun for exploring areas like East Coast Park.

Must-Try Foods & Where to Eat

Singapore is a dream destination for food lovers. Here’s a shortlist of dishes you should definitely try:

  • Chicken Rice – Tender chicken and fragrant rice. Try Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre.
  • Chilli Crab – Sweet, spicy, and messy. Jumbo Seafood is famous for it.
  • Laksa – Spicy coconut noodle soup, best enjoyed at 328 Katong Laksa.

Hawker Centers

Eating at hawker centers is part of the Singapore experience. Lau Pa Sat and Newton Food Centre are popular spots offering tasty dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

Sightseeing & Attractions

tips for visiting singapore

Singapore’s iconic sights will keep you busy!

Marina Bay Sands & Gardens by the Bay

Don’t miss the rooftop infinity pool (hotel guests only, unfortunately) and the futuristic Supertrees at night.

Merlion Park

Take a selfie with Singapore’s national symbol, the half-lion, half-fish Merlion statue.

Singapore Flyer

Enjoy breathtaking views from this giant Ferris wheel.

Sentosa Island

Home to Universal Studios, sandy beaches, and adventure parks, Sentosa is perfect for a fun-filled day trip.

Activities for Families & Kids

Singapore is super family-friendly. Check these out:

  • Universal Studios – Fun for kids and adults with thrilling rides and entertaining shows.
  • Night Safari – Experience animals at night in their natural habitat.
  • Science Centre Singapore – Interactive, educational, and engaging for curious minds.
  • KidZania – Let your kids role-play grown-up jobs.

Finding the Best Accommodation

Depending on what you’re looking for, there’s a place for everyone:

  • Marina Bay – Luxury hotels with skyline views.
  • Chinatown & Little India – Budget hotels and hostels full of character.
  • Orchard Road – Ideal for shoppers, with plenty of hotels nearby.
  • Sentosa – Resorts and family-friendly accommodations.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Singapore’s weather is consistently warm and humid, but some months are drier.

  • February to April: Generally less rainy, slightly less humid, and perfect for outdoor exploring.
  • July to September: Also a drier period, great for sightseeing without unexpected showers.

Free & Affordable Things to Do

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy Singapore!

  • Singapore Botanic Gardens – One of the best botanical gardens in the world. It’s totally free and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay Sands – Free evening entertainment with beautiful visuals.
  • East Coast Park – Perfect for a relaxing day at the beach or a barbecue.
  • Little India & Chinatown – Explore vibrant neighborhoods with no entry fees.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Singapore nightlife is diverse and exciting:

  • Clarke Quay – Bars, clubs, and restaurants by the river.
  • Haji Lane – Quirky bars, live music, and hip cafes.
  • Zouk – Famous nightclub for those who love dancing all night.
  • Rooftop Bars – Check out 1-Altitude for stunning city views.

Safety & Common Tourist Scams

Singapore is incredibly safe, but keep these tips in mind:

  • Avoid buying electronics from unknown vendors; stick to reputable stores.
  • Always confirm taxi fares in advance or insist on using the meter.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, just as you would anywhere else.

Packing Tips & Essentials

Pack smart for a comfortable trip:

  • Lightweight clothing for humidity.
  • Comfortable shoes for lots of walking.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.

Cultural Tips

Respect local customs for a smoother trip:

  • Remove shoes when entering homes or temples.
  • Avoid pointing with your finger; gesture politely instead.
  • Keep public spaces clean — Singapore takes littering seriously.

Internet & SIM Cards

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in public spaces. For constant access, pick up a local SIM card at Changi Airport or convenience stores, or grab an eSIM.

Day Trips from Singapore

  • Pulau Ubin – A rustic island perfect for biking and nature.
  • Johor Bahru, Malaysia – Just across the border, great for shopping and eating local Malaysian food.
  • Batam, Indonesia – A quick ferry ride away, known for cheap spas and golf courses.

Final Thoughts

Singapore is compact, vibrant, and welcoming. With a bit of planning and these handy travel tips, you’ll easily navigate the city, try incredible food, and create memories you’ll cherish long after your trip is over.

About the Air Doctor App

With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.

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FAQs

Is English spoken everywhere in Singapore?

Absolutely! English is widely spoken, making it easy for travelers.

Is Singapore expensive?

It can be, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs down, like eating at hawker centers and using public transport.

Is public transportation safe and reliable?

Yes, it’s among the safest and most reliable in the world—clean, punctual, and efficient.

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Jenny Cohen Drefler

Jenny Cohen Derfler

Air Dr CEO & Co-Founder

Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.

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