Singapore Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Trip

Welcome to Singapore, the glittering city-state where innovation meets tradition, and lush green parks co-exist with futuristic skyscrapers. Whether you’re strolling along the iconic Marina Bay, indulging in Michelin-starred street food, or losing yourself in the buzz of Orchard Road, Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, flavours, and experiences. This bustling metropolis may be small in size, but it’s packed with exciting things to do and see.

Before you head off to the Lion City, this Singapore travel guide will give you all the essential tips you need to make the most of your trip. From travelling to Singapore and what to see, to understanding local customs and navigating the local currency, this guide has it all. Ready to dive in?

Things to See and Do in Singapore

When it comes to things to see and do in Singapore, the options are endless. Whether you’re into architecture, food, nature, or history, Singapore has something for everyone. Here are some top picks to get your trip started.

Explore Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay

If there’s one area that showcases Singapore’s transformation into a futuristic city, it’s Marina Bay. The iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel dominates the skyline with its boat-like structure, but don’t stop there. Take the elevator up to the SkyPark Observation Deck for unbeatable views of the city’s dazzling skyline. At night, catch the Spectra light and water show — a stunning visual display over the bay.

From there, it’s just a short walk to Gardens by the Bay, an unmissable highlight on any Singapore travel guide. Wander through the surreal Supertree Grove, a collection of towering vertical gardens that light up each evening. Don’t miss the Cloud Forest, where you can step into a misty, plant-filled wonderland beneath the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

Discover Cultural Neighbourhoods

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, and its neighbourhoods reflect this diversity. Start in Chinatown, where you’ll find a mix of old temples, hip cafes, and bustling markets. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a must-see, with its intricate architecture and fascinating exhibits.

Next, head to Little India, where colourful shophouses line the streets and the scent of spices fills the air. Be sure to visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, and sample the delicious food at Tekka Centre.

Finally, wander through Kampong Glam, the historic Malay-Arab quarter, home to the stunning Sultan Mosque and trendy boutiques on Haji Lane. It’s a vibrant district where tradition meets modernity, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll.

Indulge in Singapore’s Famous Hawker Centres

One of the best Singapore travel tips is simple: eat like a local at one of Singapore’s famous hawker centres. These bustling food courts are home to a dizzying variety of dishes, from Hainanese chicken rice to laksa and satay. Some of these hawker stalls have even earned Michelin stars!

Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat are two of the most popular spots to experience authentic, affordable Singaporean food. Whether you’re craving noodles, seafood, or barbecued meats, you’ll find it all here at a fraction of the cost of eating in a restaurant.

Money and Spending in Singapore

Singapore is a modern, cashless society, but it’s always good to know what to expect when it comes to managing your money. The official currency is the Singapore dollar (SGD), and though most places accept cards, having a bit of cash for small purchases is handy.

Cash or Card in Singapore?

In Singapore, credit and debit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere, from high-end restaurants and shopping malls to taxis and street markets. However, when visiting hawker centres or smaller shops, it’s a good idea to have some Singapore dollars on hand.

One of the best ways to manage your spending in Singapore is with the Travelex Money Card. You can load it up with Singapore dollars before you go, lock in your exchange rate, and enjoy contactless payments throughout your trip. The card is accepted wherever Mastercard prepaid is, making it a convenient and secure way to spend while you explore.

Tipping in Singapore

Wondering if you need to tip in Singapore? Unlike in many other countries, tipping isn’t customary here. Service charges (usually around 10%) are already included in the bill at most restaurants and hotels, so you don’t need to add anything extra. However, if you feel like leaving a little something for exceptional service, rounding up the bill is always appreciated, but not expected. At hawker centres and casual eateries, tipping is not a practice.

Buy Singapore Dollars with a Travel Money Card

For peace of mind when managing your money in Singapore, the Travelex Money Card is a smart option. You can load it with Singapore dollars before you travel, ensuring that you lock in the exchange rate and avoid any surprises. The card is widely accepted in Singapore, whether you’re paying for a meal at a hawker centre or shopping for luxury goods along Orchard Road. It’s a secure and hassle-free way to manage your travel funds.

Travelling Around Singapore

Despite its small size, Singapore has an efficient, well-connected transport system that makes getting around the city a breeze. Here’s a quick look at how you can travel through Singapore:

By MRT

Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is the best way to get around the city. It’s fast, efficient, and connects all the major areas, from Changi Airport to Marina Bay. The MRT is easy to navigate, with signs in English, and tickets are reasonably priced. Consider getting an EZ-Link card for easy access to both MRT and buses — it’s a contactless card that you can top up as needed.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Singapore and are a convenient option if you’re in a hurry or travelling with luggage. Taxis are metered, and fares are generally affordable compared to other major cities. You can hail one from the street, book through apps like Grab (Singapore’s equivalent to Uber), or find them at designated taxi stands.

By Foot

Singapore is a compact city, and walking is a great way to explore its neighbourhoods up close. Areas like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam are best experienced on foot, where you can discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Singapore is also known for being one of the world’s cleanest and safest cities, making it perfect for walking.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Singapore

Before you pack your bags for the Lion City, here are a few essential travel requirements for Singapore that you should know.

Do I Need a Travel Visa for Singapore?

For UK citizens, the answer is no — you don’t need a visa for short stays in Singapore. If you're travelling to Singapore from the UK for tourism, business, or social visits, you can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the latest travel requirements for Singapore before you go, as entry rules may change.

When to Travel to Singapore

Singapore is a year-round destination, thanks to its tropical climate, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically falls between February and April. These months offer the most pleasant weather, with lower humidity and less rain, making it perfect for sightseeing. The rainy season runs from November to January, but don’t let that put you off — showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine.

Culture and Etiquette

Singapore is a multicultural city with a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences. The people are generally polite and respectful, and you’ll want to follow suit. Here are a few Singapore travel tips to keep in mind:

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like temples or mosques.

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore, so don’t bring it into the country!

Public cleanliness is taken seriously, so avoid littering or smoking in public places — both can result in hefty fines.

Be patient and polite: Singaporeans value orderliness, so it’s important to queue and be mindful of others in public spaces.

Order Your Singapore Dollars with Travelex

Now that you’re ready to explore the wonders of Singapore, it’s time to sort out your currency. Buy Singapore dollars online with Travelex and enjoy free home delivery on orders over £500, or choose click & collect from one of the convenient locations across the UK, including major airports. Get great rates and pay no commission when you buy online from Travelex.

Travelex Money Card

The Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard, is a smart, secure way to manage your money while travelling. Load it with Singapore dollars, lock in your exchange rate, and use it for contactless payments or ATM withdrawals across Singapore. Because the card isn’t linked to your bank account, your funds are kept safe, and you can use it at millions of locations worldwide. Get your Travelex Money Card now from Travelex.

With this Singapore travel guide in hand, you’re ready to make the most of your time in this vibrant, world-class city. From iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands to bustling hawker centres and tranquil green spaces, Singapore offers a unique blend of experiences that will captivate any traveller. Safe travels, and enjoy your journey through the Lion City!