Singapore, or the “little red dot” as it is also known is compact, hyper-modern, ultra-efficient, and unapologetically polished. It’s a city-state that runs like clockwork: safe, clean, and impressively organised. Glass towers rise above colonial facades, hawker stalls sit beneath skyscrapers, and tropical greenery softens almost every corner.
While Singapore has worked to soften its Crazy Rich Asians image, it still exudes wealth. It can be expensive — often significantly pricier than its Southeast Asian neighbours — but what you get in return is world-class infrastructure, outstanding food, and effortless travel. It’s small, but it punches far above its weight.
Why Visit Singapore?
- Striking skyline and waterfront
- Incredible food scene
- One of the safest cities in the world
- Impeccably clean and easy to navigate
It is a brilliant gateway and starting point to Southeast Asian itinerary or a perfect 2-3 night stopover en route to Australia or New Zealand
Getting There
Singapore is incredibly well connected.
Singapore Changi Airport is the usual entry point and is consistently ranked among the best airports in the world, to the point it is an attraction in its own right.
It is the hub for Singapore Airlines but served by a strong network of international carriers. It is also served by many low-cost regional airlines which provide excellent connections across Asia.
Historically, Singapore was a refuelling stop on the classic “Kangaroo Route” between the UK and Australia. While Gulf carriers and ultra-long-haul flights have changed that dynamic, it remains one of the best stopover cities in the world.
It’s also ideal for combining with Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and beyond.
Getting Around
As a city state Singapore is a destination you absolutely do not need a car. It has a fantastic public transport systems which is modern, fast and spotless including its MRT (metro system) which covers the whole island.
Buses are equally efficient, and taxis and Grab (ride hailing service) are affordable by Western standards.
Once in the centre it is very easy to walking as is compact. Likewise. bike tours are a great way to explore. Whilst distances are short, Singapore is incredibly humid which can both slow you down and also make it very uncomfortable.
Where to Stay
Singapore offers a wide range of accommodation options. For those who prefer staying with international hotel chains, all the major brands are represented. The island is not short of luxury choices, though more affordable hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments are also available.
Popular areas include:
- Marina Bay – Iconic skyline views, close to major sights
- Orchard Road – Shopping-focused, plenty of hotels
- Clarke Quay / Boat Quay – Lively riverside dining and bars
- Tiong Bahru – Trendy, lower-rise, café culture
Accommodation in Singapore is rarely cheap, particularly during major events such as the Singapore Grand Prix, and is generally far more expensive than in neighbouring countries.
What to See & Do
Marina Bay Walk
Marina bay is one of the most impressive urban waterfronts in the world. A walk around it gives you many of the highlights in one loop:
- Marina Bay Sands
- Merlion
- Raffles Singapore (small detour) — see below
- Gardens by the Bay — see below
At night there is a free water and light show in front of Marina Bay Sands, and the skyline is particularly impressive after dark.
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is is an urban park spanning 105 hectares. It is most famous for its Supertree Grove which consists of eight tree-like structures that dominate the Gardens’ landscape with heights between 25 metres (82 ft) and 50 metres. At night there is a free show where they light up with music — well worth timing your visit for.
The gardens also have two cooled domes:
- Cloud Forest
- Flower Dome
Of the two, the Cloud Forest — with its indoor waterfall and mist-filled mountain — is the most striking. However, if you are short on time, the Supertree Grove is the most impressive part to prioritise.
Raffles & The Singapore Sling
Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth stepping into Raffles Singapore for a drink at the famous Long Bar. The Singapore Sling was created here, and while it’s undeniably expensive, it’s a slice of colonial-era theatre that’s well worth experiencing at least once.
It can get busy, particularly at peak times, so expect a lively atmosphere and be prepared to queue. On your table you’ll be given peanuts, and you’ll notice guests — and even staff — throwing the shells on the floor. This is perfectly acceptable here and famously one of the only places in Singapore where littering is allowed.
Behind the bar, there’s an old-school mechanical shaker that allows multiple cocktails to be shaken at once. The bar staff are typically friendly and, if you ask nicely, may even let you try it yourself — especially if it isn’t too busy.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is an island off the south of Singapore accessible by cable car or MRT. It is known for its beaches, resorts as well as home to Universal Studios Singapore.
Universal Studios is compact but fun if you enjoy theme parks. However, Singapore isn’t a destination purely for theme parks in the way Orlando is.
Singapore Zoo & Night Safari
Singapore Zoo and Night Safari are impressive and thoughtfully designed. The Night Safari is particularly atmospheric and unique in concept. That said, if pushed for time, it’s not completely essential on a short visit.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a calm green escape from the city. The gardens are beautifully maintained and home to the National Orchid Garden, which showcases over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids.
Excellent for a morning stroll before the heat builds.
Practical Information
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
- Language: English (alongside Mandarin, Malay, Tamil)
- Plugs: UK plug sockets (Type G, 230v)
- Getting around: Very walkable and MRT is modern and efficient; no car needed
- Safety: Exceptionally safe
- Tipping: Not expected (service charge often included)
- Weather: Hot and humid year-round (umbrella, light clothing and portable fan recommended)
Best Time to Visit Singapore
Singapore doesn’t have traditional seasons — it’s tropical year-round, so no time is significantly better or worse. Expect occasional intense rain showers, heat and high humidity.
If you visit during major events, notably the Singapore Grand Prix, expect hotel prices to be significantly higher and availability more limited.
Food & Drink in Singapore
Singapore is arguably one of the best food cities in the world. It is famous of its Hawker Centres which sell street food. Street food culture is central to Singaporean life — and some stalls have Michelin stars.
Must-try dishes:
- Hainanese chicken rice
- Chilli crab
- Laksa
- Satay
- Char kway teow
Hawker dining is affordable, social, and authentic.
Shopping
Singapore is a retail powerhouse — but it’s not a low-cost shopping destination and is more about polished malls and global luxury brands than bargain hunting.
Orchard Road is the city’s main shopping artery, packed with vast malls, international names, and high-end boutiques. You’ll also find large department stores, designer labels, and premium beauty brands throughout the central districts.
Electronics are competitively priced, and there’s an excellent selection of regional brands and speciality Asian products you won’t easily find in the UK.
Changi Airport’s duty-free offering is extensive and high quality — particularly for alcohol, cosmetics, and luxury goods. If you’re travelling with hand luggage only, it’s easy and convenient to shop before departure.
48 Hours in Singapore: The Perfect Itinerary
Day 1: Skyline & Icons
Morning
- Arrive and check in
- Walk around Marina Bay
- Drinks at Raffles
- Hawker centre lunch
Afternoon
- Gardens by the Bay (visit the domes)
- Optional: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Day 2: Culture & Neighbourhoods
Morning
- Botanic Gardens or Tiong Bahru cafés
- Explore Chinatown or Little India
Afternoon
- Sentosa Island or Orchard Road
- Optional Zoo / Night Safari in the evening
Final Thoughts
Singapore isn’t gritty or chaotic. It’s polished, controlled, and extremely efficient.
Some travellers find it too perfect. Others love the ease, safety, and food.
What it does exceptionally well is effortless travel — and few cities combine tropical climate, world-class infrastructure, and outstanding cuisine so seamlessly. It may not have the raw energy of Bangkok or the romance of Paris — but as a stopover, gateway, or compact city break, Singapore is hard to beat.
Holiday Nerd 