Things to Know Before Visiting Singapore: Travel Tips & Insights
Singapore is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new—think futuristic skyscrapers standing beside historic temples, lush green parks nestled among bustling shopping streets, and a street food scene that rivals Michelin-starred restaurants. But before you jet off to the Lion City, here are some key things to know before visiting Singapore to make your trip smooth and stress-free!
Also, if you’re just getting started on your planning, take a look at this ultimate 3-day Singapore itinerary to kickstart your trip planning!
Practical Singapore Essentials to Know
- 💰 Currency: The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is the official currency, and credit cards are widely accepted. But if you’re planning to hit up hawker centers or small shops, having some cash on hand is always a good idea!
- ⏰ Time Zone: Singapore Standard Time (SGT) | UTC +8 (No daylight savings, so no clock changes to worry about!)
- 🔌 Voltage & Plug Type: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type G – same as the UK (this is the one I have and I LOVE it!). Don’t forget an adapter if you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe!
- 📏 Measurement System: Singapore uses the metric system—so temperatures are in Celsius, distances in kilometers, and speeds in km/h.
- 🚗 Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road—so if you’re renting a car, be ready to adjust! (Though honestly, public transport is so good you probably won’t need one.)
- 🚖 Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber is a no-go here! Instead, download Grab or Gojek—both work just like Uber and are super convenient. Taxis are available too, but they can be pricier.
- 🚨 Emergency Number: Keep these handy! 999 for police, 995 for ambulance/fire services.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
- ☀️ Hot & Humid Year-Round: Singapore is always warm, with temperatures averaging 77-88°F (25-31°C). Pack light, breathable clothing, and be ready to sweat!
- 🌧️ Rain, Rain, and More Rain: There’s no real “dry season,” but the heaviest downpours happen during the Northeast Monsoon (Dec–Mar) season. Rain showers are usually quick but intense—bring an umbrella just in case!
- 🎯 Best Time to Visit: February to April is a sweet spot—fewer downpours, pleasant(er) temperatures, and tons of festivals to experience.
Language & Culture
- 🗣️ Main Languages: English is widely spoken (yay for easy communication!), but you’ll also hear Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.
- 🕌 Main Religions: Singapore is a true cultural melting pot, with Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Taoism being the most practiced religions. Temples, mosques, and churches sit side by side, reflecting the city’s wide and accepting diversity.
- 🎉 Popular Holidays:
- Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb, varies) – Expect dazzling decorations and dragon dances!
- Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr) – Marking the end of Ramadan with feasting and celebrations.
- Deepavali (Diwali) – Little India lights up with stunning displays.
- National Day (August 9) – Think fireworks, parades, and citywide celebrations!
Laws & Etiquette (a.k.a. Don’t Get Fined!)
- 💰 Tipping: Nope, not necessary! Most restaurants already include a 10% service charge, and tipping isn’t part of the culture.
- 🛑 Weekly Closures: Unlike some countries, Singapore doesn’t have a widespread “closed-on-this-day” rule—though some smaller family-run shops may take Sundays off.
- 🚫 Strict & Unique Laws: Singapore is famous for its zero-tolerance policies, so be mindful of these quirky but serious rules:
- No chewing gum (Seriously, don’t even bring it in—it’s illegal to sell or import!)
- No littering or jaywalking (Fines start at SGD 300 (about $221 USD)—yikes!)
- No vaping (E-cigarettes are completely banned—don’t try bringing one through customs.)
- No eating or drinking on public transport (Even a sip of water on the MRT can get you fined!)
Best Locations to Stay & Hotel Recommendations
Singapore is compact and well-connected, making it easy to explore. Where you stay depends on your travel style and budget. Here are three top areas to consider:
- Marina Bay – Best for travelers who want stunning skyline views and easy access to major attractions.
- Bugis & Kampong Glam – A lively area with a mix of heritage, shopping, and great food, perfect for mid-range travelers.
- Little India – A vibrant and affordable area with cultural charm and excellent budget-friendly stays.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Budget: The Pod @ Beach Road – stylish capsule hotel in the Kampong Glam area, offering affordable yet comfortable stays with great access to public transport.
- Mid-Range: Heritage Collection on Smith – An apartment featuring rooms with free Wifi and air conditioning in the center of Singapore.
- Luxury: Marina Bay Sands – A waterfront five-star hotel with stunning bay views, impeccable service, and easy access to Marina Bay attractions.
National Symbols of Singapore
Singapore has some cool national symbols that give you a little insight into the country’s personality:
- National Flower: The Vanda Miss Joaquim, a gorgeous hybrid orchid that represents Singapore’s resilience and multicultural roots.
- National Animal: The Lion—makes sense since “Singapura” literally means “Lion City!” It stands for strength and courage.
- National Fruit: The Durian, aka the “King of Fruits.” People either love it or can’t stand it because of its super strong smell.
- National Monument: The Merlion, that half-lion, half-fish statue you see all over. It’s a quirky but iconic nod to Singapore’s maritime history and legendary name.
Health & Safety
- 🚰 Tap Water: 100% safe to drink—bring a reusable bottle to save money and stay hydrated in the heat!
- 💊 Medication Restrictions: Some common meds (like strong painkillers or certain cold medicines) require a prescription or approval. Check with Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority before packing your meds.
- 🍟 Singapore has strict hygiene laws, and some restaurants don’t allow takeaway of unfinished food due to food safety concerns.
- 🛡️ General Safety: Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is rare, but as always, stay aware in crowded areas for minor pickpocketing.
Top Attractions (You Can’t Leave Without Seeing These!)
- 🌆 Marina Bay Sands & Gardens by the Bay – This is the iconic Singapore skyline. Visit at sunset for the best views, then catch the Garden Rhapsody light show at night—it’s free!
- 🏝️ Sentosa Island – A tropical escape within the city! Ride the cable car, visit Universal Studios, or just relax on the beach.
- 🎭 Chinatown & Little India – Get lost in vibrant streets filled with temples, markets, and some of the best street food in town!
Sunscreen & Bug Spray (Stay Comfortable Outdoors!)
- Singapore’s UV index is very high, so sunscreen is a must—even on cloudy days! Bring a reef-safe sunscreen to be eco-friendly.
- Mosquitoes are not a major issue in urban areas, but if you plan to visit nature reserves, Pulau Ubin, or the Southern Ridges, bring bug spray to avoid bites.
Trash Bins Are Hard to Find (But Don’t Litter!)
- You might notice that public trash bins are rare, especially in MRT stations and tourist spots. This is intentional for cleanliness.
- If you can’t find a bin, hold onto your trash until you find one—littering comes with a hefty fine!
No PDA in Certain Places
- Holding hands is fine, but excessive public displays of affection (PDA) can be frowned upon in conservative areas.
- This is especially important in religious sites or more traditional neighborhoods like Geylang Serai.
MRT Etiquette – Unwritten Rules
Singapore’s public transport system is efficient, clean, and well-organized, but there are some unwritten rules:
- No food or drinks on the MRT—eating/drinking can lead to fines.
- Let passengers exit before boarding.
- Priority seats should be given to the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
What to Wear in Singapore
Singapore is a tropical country with high humidity and frequent rain showers, so lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Casual wear is widely accepted, but keep in mind:
- Temples & Religious Sites: If visiting places like the Sultan Mosque or the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Some places may provide scarves or sarongs at the entrance.
- Air-Conditioned Malls & Public Transport: Indoor spaces can get very cold due to strong AC, so bringing a light sweater or shawl is a good idea.
- Rain Showers: Sudden downpours are common, so pack a small umbrella or rain poncho.
- Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are best—Singapore is very walkable!
Things to Know Before Visiting Singapore FAQs
❓ What should I avoid in Singapore?
Avoid littering, jaywalking, chewing gum, and eating on public transport—these can lead to fines!
❓ Is Singapore safe for solo travelers?
Yes! Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, making it ideal for solo travelers.
❓ Can I use USD in Singapore?
No, you’ll need Singapore Dollars (SGD), but credit cards are widely accepted.
❓ What’s the best time to visit Singapore?
February–April is best for good weather and festivals.
Final Boarding Call
Now that you know the things to know before visiting Singapore, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure! And keep in mind while you’re planning – three days is a perfect amount of time in the Lion City. I’ve created the best itinerary here that will bring you to all of the best attractions in Singapore!
Whether you’re soaking up the futuristic skyline, indulging in hawker food, or exploring cultural districts, Singapore is a city that never fails to impress.
Have you been to Singapore? What did I miss? Let me know on Instagram!
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