Singapore

"Singaporeโ€”a city where nature thrives alongside cutting-edge innovation."

๐Ÿ™๏ธ๐Ÿน๐ŸŒด

Currency

Singapore Dollar (SGD) $

Best Time

Dec โ€“ Mar

Population

5.7 million

Weather ยฐC

25-31ยฐC

TWYS โ€” The Best Travel Guides for Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

Singapore is a marvel of modernity, a clean, green city-state known for its futuristic skyline, world-class shopping, and exceptional hospitality. Despite being a bustling metropolis, the city places a strong emphasis on cleanliness, safety, and efficiency, making it a welcoming destination for travelers. The city offers a striking juxtaposition of old and newโ€”lush gardens like the Gardens by the Bay sit beside iconic modern structures such as Marina Bay Sands. Cultural districts such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam showcase Singaporeโ€™s rich multicultural heritage, while the famous Orchard Road offers luxurious shopping experiences. Singaporeโ€™s impressive culinary scene features a blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences, and its commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and innovation makes it a must-visit for travelers. The balance of tradition and progress makes Singapore a cutting-edge destination.
Year

1819 AD Modern era, founded by Sir Stamford Raffles of the British East India Company.

Cost of Living (10)

1๏ธโƒฃ0๏ธโƒฃ Very high cost of living, particularly for housing, food, and luxury services.

State

Central Singapore

Airport

Changi International Airport (SIN)

boutique shopping

Minimal List TL;DR

TWYS curates the best places to SEE, EAT, DRINK, SHOP & MORE โ€” uncover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, top restaurants, unique bars, boutique shops, luxury stays, and networking spots.

Shop
Flea Market
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Fleawhere

4.5
A treasure trove of unique finds
Shop
Vintage Market
๐Ÿบ

Haji Lane

4.5
A colorful street known for its artistic vibe
Shop
Local Market
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Bugis Street

4.4
A bustling street market for shopping
See
Historical Site
๐Ÿฐ

Reflections at Bukit Chandu

4.7
A tribute to wartime history
See
Garden
๐ŸŒฟ

Gardens by the Bay

4.7
A futuristic garden showcasing biodiversity
See
Cultural Landmark
๐Ÿ•Œ

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

4.6
A colorful Hindu temple
See
Nature Walk
๐ŸŒณ

MacRitchie Reservoir

4.6
A serene escape in the city
See
Nature Reserve
๐ŸŒฒ

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

4.6
A sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers
See
Heritage Site
๐Ÿฏ

Fort Canning Park

4.6
A historical park with lush greenery
See
Cultural Center
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Malay Heritage Centre

4.6
A deep dive into local culture
See
Art District
๐ŸŽจ

Tiong Bahru

4.5
A hub for creatives
Eat
Food Court
๐ŸŒฎ

Tiong Bahru Market

4.7
Famous for its local delicacies
Eat
Street Food
๐Ÿข

Lau Pa Sat

4.6
A feast for the senses
Eat
Traditional Cafe
โ˜•

Ya Kun Kaya Toast

4.5
A taste of Singapore's breakfast culture
Eat
Hawker Center
๐Ÿœ

Maxwell Food Centre

4.5
A must-visit spot for authentic local food
Drink
Rooftop Bar
๐Ÿน

1-Altitude Rooftop Bar

4.7
Experience the best views of Singapore
Drink
Hidden Bar
๐Ÿธ

The Secret Mermaid

4.6
A unique bar experience
Drink
Artisan Cafe
โ˜•

Chye Seng Huat Hardware

4.6
A haven for coffee enthusiasts
Drink
Local Brewery
๐Ÿป

Red Dot Payment Brewery

4.5
A craft beer haven

Places to See

Discover breathtaking landmarks, hidden gems, and offbeat sights that make every destination unforgettable.

Must Visit:

Chinese New Year, Singapore Arts Festival, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Multicultural Heritage. Singaporeโ€™s cultural highlights include the Singapore Arts Festival, its modern architectural landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, and vibrant multicultural heritage.

Singapore is a global financial hub and one of the cleanest and most modern cities in the world. It is famous for its iconic skyline, with landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and the Gardens by the Bay. The city is known for its multicultural society, reflected in its culinary scene, blending influences from Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Western cuisines. Singaporeโ€™s Orchard Road is a paradise for shopping, while its efficient public transport system makes it easy to explore the cityโ€™s many attractions, including world-class museums and nature reserves.

local places to eat

Places to Eat

Savor the best local flavors, street food gems, and must-try dining spots curated for true food lovers.

Must Try:

๐Ÿ— Hainanese Chicken Rice (steamed chicken with rice) ๐Ÿฒ Laksa (spicy noodle soup with coconut milk) ๐Ÿข Satay (grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce) ๐Ÿฅ˜ Chili Crab (crab cooked in a spicy, tangy sauce) ๐Ÿค Prawn Noodles (noodles with prawns in a savory broth) ๐Ÿฉ Kueh (traditional sweets)

Places to Drink

Unwind at vibrant bars, cozy cafรฉs, and craft breweries, handpicked for the best drinks and atmosphere.
Music & Dance:

๐ŸŽถ Pop Music (local and international hits), ๐Ÿ’ƒ Contemporary Dance (modern styles like hip hop and contemporary ballet), ๐ŸŽค Mandopop (popular Mandarin pop), ๐ŸŽง Electronic Dance Music (vibrant club scene).

places to network

Places to Network

Connect with like-minded travelers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs at the best networking spots.
We'll update more places soon!
Key Industries:

๐Ÿ’ฐ Finance: Singapore is a leading financial center in Asia, with a strong banking, investment, and insurance sector. ๐ŸŒ Trade: As a global trade hub, it connects the East and West, facilitating international commerce and logistics. ๐Ÿข Services: The services sector, particularly IT, consultancy, and education, is an important pillar of Singaporeโ€™s economy.

Singapore

"Experience Singaporeโ€™s stunning transformation into a modern green city with futuristic marvels."
local places to shop

Places to Shop

Explore local markets, unique boutiques, and artisanal stores for one-of-a-kind finds.

luxury experiences

Luxury

Indulge in high-end experiences, exclusive stays, and premium services tailored for refined travelers.
For More Tips Read on Further...

Clean, Modern Singapore

Futuristic technology, lush gardens, world-renowned architecture, desert excursions, and luxury shopping.

Famous for Marina Bay Sands, Singapore is a global financial hub known for its futuristic architecture and luxury shopping. The city-stateโ€™s iconic skyline is complemented by lush gardens, such as the Gardens by the Bay, and a wealth of cultural offerings, including museums, galleries, and theaters. Known for its cleanliness and efficient public transport system, Singapore seamlessly blends modernity with cultural traditions, making it a leading destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

Singapore is a dazzling city-state that has emerged as a global leader in both innovation and cultural diversity. The city is known for its iconic skyline, dominated by the Marina Bay Sands, an architectural marvel that features a rooftop infinity pool with sweeping views of the city. Singapore is also home to the world-renowned Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic park filled with Supertree structures and the Flower Dome. The city offers a mix of cultural experiences, from the ethnic neighborhoods of Chinatown and Little India to the Malay district of Kampong Glam. The food scene in Singapore is a reflection of its diverse population, with hawker centers offering an array of dishes from Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines. Singapore is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with green initiatives integrated into urban planning and the preservation of natural spaces like East Coast Park and MacRitchie Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy shopping on Orchard Road, visit the iconic Singapore Zoo, or explore the National Museum of Singapore for insights into the cityโ€™s history. A fusion of modernity and tradition, Singapore is a city that captivates with its charm and innovation.

watch out for these things

Watch Out

Watchย out for Crowded Areas

Avoid overrated tourist traps and discover alternative experiences worth your time.

Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Singapore

Transportation

๐Ÿš† The MRT system is efficient and covers all major areas. Buses ๐ŸšŒ are also an extensive option, and taxis ๐Ÿš– are easy to hail for short distances. Singapore Changi Airport ๐Ÿ›ฌ is one of the best-connected in the world.

travel around within the city

City Overview

Singapore: A City of Innovation, Diversity, and Sustainability Singapore, a gleaming city-state at the crossroads of Asia, is known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and stunning skyline. One of the worldโ€™s most advanced urban landscapes, Singapore blends modern innovation with a rich cultural heritage. The Marina Bay Sands, with its iconic infinity pool, and the stunning Gardens by the Bay, with its futuristic Supertree Grove, are among the cityโ€™s most famous attractions. Yet, thereโ€™s so much more to explore in this multicultural hub. Singaporeโ€™s diverse neighborhoods, from the colorful streets of Chinatown to the cultural richness of Little India and the hip vibes of Tiong Bahru, offer a wide variety of experiences. The cityโ€™s vibrant food scene is a major draw, with hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre serving up local delicacies such as chilli crab, laksa, and satay. Singapore is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with lush green spaces like the Singapore Botanic Gardens and initiatives aimed at making the city an eco-friendly model for the future. Singaporeโ€™s bustling nightlife, world-class shopping on Orchard Road, and proximity to exotic Sentosa Island make it a destination for all types of travelers. Whether youโ€™re enjoying a sunset cocktail at Marina Bay, exploring Haw Par Villaโ€™s quirky art, or experiencing the cityโ€™s thriving arts scene, Singapore is a city of endless innovation and diversity.

Singapore

3 Day City Guide

๐ŸŒ… Day 1: ๐Ÿ•˜ 9:00 AM: Visit Gardens by the Bay ๐ŸŒธ. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Explore Marina Bay Sands ๐Ÿ™๏ธ. ๐Ÿด 2:00 PM: Dinner at a hawker center ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ. ๐Ÿ•‘ 3:00 PM: Evening relaxation. ๐ŸŽถ Day 2: ๐Ÿ•˜ 9:00 AM: Discover Sentosa Island ๐Ÿ๏ธ. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Visit the National Gallery ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ. ๐Ÿด 2:00 PM: Dinner & cultural performance ๐ŸŽญ. ๐ŸŽถ Day 3: ๐Ÿ•˜ 9:00 AM: Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens ๐ŸŒณ. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Visit Orchard Road ๐Ÿ›๏ธ. ๐Ÿด 2:00 PM: Nightlife at Clarke Quay ๐ŸŽ‰.

Current Trends

๐Ÿฒ Culinary trends: Michelin-starred street food is taking the spotlight, with hawker centers serving high-quality, affordable dishes. The focus is on maintaining authenticity while innovating with flavors. ๐ŸŒ Cultural events: Multicultural festivals like Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya are getting more inclusive and diverse, attracting people from all backgrounds. ๐ŸŽง Tech innovations: The use of digital platforms to promote local events and exhibitions is widespread, from fashion shows to art galleries. ๐Ÿ“ฑ Smart city: Singaporeโ€™s development as a smart city integrates tech innovations with everyday life, making it an ideal destination for tech enthusiasts. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Shopping culture: New retail trends like online-to-offline (O2O) shopping are making it easier for consumers to experience both physical and digital retail spaces.

Local Events Guide

๐ŸŽจ Singapore Arts Festival (May): A vibrant celebration of local and international arts featuring performances, exhibitions, and workshops across the city. ๐ŸŽ Great Singapore Sale (June): A retail paradise offering massive discounts at shopping malls and stores. ๐Ÿ•บ Chingay Parade (February): A multicultural parade showcasing vibrant costumes, street performances, and marching bands. ๐ŸŒฟ Singapore International Festival of Arts (June/July): Celebrates contemporary art, theatre, and performances. ๐ŸŽค Singapore Grand Prix (September): Formula 1 fans can enjoy racing events and spectacular concerts.

Local Insider Tips

๐ŸŒณ Marina Bay Sands: Explore the futuristic architecture and sky park for stunning views. ๐ŸŒธ Gardens by the Bay: Wander through the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome. ๐Ÿœ Hawker Centers: Taste a variety of affordable, local dishes like laksa and satay. ๐Ÿ™๏ธ Chinatown: Explore Chinatownโ€™s vibrant culture and traditional markets. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Little India: Discover the colorful streets and temples in the heart of Little India.

Sustainable Travel

๐ŸŒณ Sustainable initiatives: Focus on urban greening, with impressive green buildings and public gardens. ๐ŸŒ Waste reduction: The city is implementing innovative waste management programs to reduce landfill waste. ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Eco-friendly transport: Expanding the electric vehicle fleet and bike-sharing systems across the city. ๐Ÿƒ Community support: Promoting local artisans and sustainable businesses to support the local economy. ๐ŸŒฑ Sustainable tourism: The cityโ€™s tourism industry is focusing on eco-friendly practices, offering sustainable tours and accommodations.

Singapore

TWYS: Your Ultimate Guide to Unique Travel Experiences & Insider Tips

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
โ€
Ready to see through a localโ€™s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you wonโ€™t find in typical travel guides.
Whether itโ€™s a cozy cafรฉ tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart โ€”perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

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Unlock the Hidden Side:
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Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

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Berlin Hidden Gems
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Resilient Detroit Spirit
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Daring Frontier Marseille
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๐Ÿœ๏ธ๐Ÿฐ๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ
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Local Amman Culture
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๐Ÿฅƒ๐Ÿ‡๐ŸŽถ
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Southern Charm Louisville
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