I’ll admit, before visiting Singapore for the first time, I thought of it as just a stopover destination. But after spending time exploring the city, I quickly realised there is so much more to it. Although Singapore may be one of the smallest countries in the world, it’s packed with amazing attractions, incredible food, beautiful gardens, and vibrant neighbourhoods, making it a fantastic destination in its own right.
One of the things I loved most about Singapore was how easy it was to explore. The city is clean, modern, and incredibly diverse, with a fascinating mix of cultures that can be seen in everything from the architecture to the food. Whether you’re wandering through colourful streets, enjoying the skyline at Marina Bay, or sampling local dishes at a hawker centre, there’s always something new to discover.
If you’re planning your first visit, you’re in for a treat. Not only is Singapore one of the safest countries in the world, but it’s also one of the easiest places to navigate, making it perfect for first-time visitors to Asia. Here’s everything I learned to help you make the most of your trip.
Arrival Card and Visa
Before arriving in Singapore, you’ll need to complete the electronic Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC). Australian passport holders don’t need a visa for short visits, but travellers from other countries may require one. Entry requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest visa and travel requirements before you fly.
Changi Airport
Changi Airport is a destination in its own right. The place is huge, with an array of shops, dining, attractions and hotels that could easily fill your day. There’s even the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the HSBC Rain Vortex, affectionately known as the crown jewel of Changi Airport.
Climate
Singapore has a tropical climate, so you can expect warm, humid weather all year round. Temperatures typically range between 25°C and 32°C, with high humidity making it feel even warmer. Short afternoon showers are common, so it’s a good idea to pack a small umbrella. Many hotels also provide umbrellas for guests to borrow, which can come in handy if you’re caught in a tropical downpour.
How Many Days Do You Need?
I’d recommend 3 to 5 days for a first visit. This gives you enough time to see the main attractions, visit Sentosa, explore neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little India, and enjoy the food scene without rushing.
Money
The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is the local currency. The exchange rate is usually quite similar to the Australian dollar, making it easy to estimate prices while you’re travelling. Just keep in mind that exchange rates can fluctuate. I found it easy to use my bank card everywhere I went. Most places accept debit cards, I usually only carry a small amount of cash for hawker centres and markets.
Getting Around
Public transport in Singapore is some of the best I’ve experienced anywhere in the world. With MRT stations all over the city, it is incredibly easy to get around. There is no need to buy a ticket, you can simply use your contactless bank card or digital wallet. Just tap on at the start of your journey and tap off when you reach your destination
If you’d rather not catch the train, you can use Grab or Gojek to get around. Uber doesn’t operate in Singapore, with Grab being the most popular ride-share app. Download the app before you travel, and you’ll be ready to explore!
Is Singapore Safe?
Singapore is one of the safest countries I’ve travelled to. I felt comfortable walking around during the day and at night, and the city is incredibly clean and well maintained. Singapore is known for its strict laws, which help keep the city clean and safe. For example, littering can result in hefty fines, and the sale of chewing gum is heavily restricted. It’s no surprise that Singapore is often recognised as one of the cleanest cities in the world.
Can I drink the water?
Unlike most Asian destinations, the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink, including in hotels. Pack a reusable water bottle and fill it up before heading out for the day. Singapore’s hot and humid climate means it’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending hours sightseeing. I always pack Hydralyte to help replace electrolytes after a long day exploring in the heat.
Shop till you drop
Singaporeans love to shop, it’s almost a national pastime. Whether you’re after luxury designer brands, high-end shopping malls or bustling markets, there’s something for everyone. Orchard Road is a shopper’s paradise, while neighbourhoods like Bugis and Chinatown are great for finding affordable souvenirs, local snacks and unique gifts.
Accommodation
Hotels are a bit like shopping centres, they’re everywhere. There is accommodation to suit every budget, from hostels and boutique hotels to world-famous luxury brands. Personally, I love staying around the river, particularly Clarke Quay or Robinson Quay, where you are close to great restaurants, bars and attractions. Orchard Road also has plenty of accommodation options if you want to be in the heart of the shopping district, while Sentosa Island is perfect for a relaxing resort style escape.
The options are endless, and you can find a property at Booking.com to suit your needs.
Food
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise. From hawker stalls to trendy cafés and fine dining restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Hawker centres are a must visit, serving up delicious local favourites at affordable prices. Be sure to try iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, satay and chilli crab. Whether you’re after a quick snack or a memorable meal, you’ll never run out of great places to eat in Singapore.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is connected by a bridge, and you can even catch the train or cable car over. The tropical island is packed with attractions, from the luge and Universal Studios to Harry Potter: Visions of Magic, beach clubs and so much more. Spend a day exploring everything Sentosa has to offer, or check into one of the many hotels and unwind by the pool for a relaxing island escape.
Singapore quickly became one of my favourite cities to visit. I loved how easy it was to get around, how incredible the food was and how you could go from exploring a busy city street to relaxing on a tropical island in no time.
With so much to see, do and eat, Singapore is a destination you’ll want to return to again and again. I hope you enjoy exploring it as much as I did!
Ready to Turn Your Travel Dreams into Reality?
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or your next big adventure, these trusted travel partners have you covered.
** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog. **
Happy travels, and thanks for supporting Anne Adventure by booking through my links!
Let Me Be Free 