Singapore Trip Guide for First Time Travelers

Singapore, a high-tech city, global, commerce, and finance hub, offers plenty of reasons to the first time visitors to awe. Aesthetic, serene, and contemporary, the city is a colorful medley of open, vast spaces and green views. Known for its high rises that are dotted with plants and rooftop gardens- Singapore travel is like a breath of fresh air you might be looking for!

Initially a British trading colony, the country earned its independence in 1965 and has managed to transform its image into a safe, clean, and a popular travel destination. It is high on the list of popular travel locations in the world. If you are planning a Singapore trip for the first time, then our quick guide will help you make some useful decisions!

Why Singapore?

Exciting nature reserves, eclectic neighborhoods, delectable cuisine, and fusion food, historical and heritage sites, luxurious shopping malls, and plazas are just some of the reasons why millions of tourists flock to this island nation. A melting pot of culture and modernity, Singapore has a unique diversity that makes it so incredible. From shopping joints, ancient enclaves, landmark attractions, and skyscrapers that comprise the beautiful skyline and hordes of places to visit in Singapore – the city is an enticing blend of old-world charm and modern complexities.

Are you embarking on Singapore travel for the first time? The city has its share of modern trappings but is easy to navigate. Here is our survival guide with a list of places to visit in Singapore that will help you plan and enjoy your Singapore trip to the fullest.

Top ten places to visit in Singapore:

Gardens by the Bay

A nature reserve park and an initiative by the government to bring a “City in a Garden,” the place is much more than a botanical garden. You can spend all day serenading nature.

Universal Studios Singapore

The first Universal Studios in Southeast Asia, the amusement park, is full of exciting rides and futuristic theme-based attractions that are suitable for all ages.

Singapore Night Safari

As the sun goes down, over 1000 nocturnal animals begin their nightly routine in the world’s first nocturnal zoo. A popular tourist attraction, this must feature in your Singapore trip. You get a chance to get up, close, and personal to the animals as they graze, hunt, and have fun.

Singapore Zoo

Also known as Mandai Zoo, this open zoological garden is home to numerous species of wildlife within landscaped enclosures.

S.E.A Aquarium

Located in Sentosa Island, the Southeast Asia Zoo is home to 100,000 marine animals.

Singapore Flyer

A giant observation wheel that takes you through a fantastic view of the whole of the city, the Singapore Flyer has many other experiences to its list. Enjoy a romantic dinner and get your cameras ready to take the best photographs of the city.

Marina Bay Sands Baypark

Marina Bay Sands Baypark is an observatory that is perched 200 meters above the ground level and lets you experience a one-of-a-kind feeling from the top. As it floats high on the clouds, you get a fantastic panoramic view of Singapore and all its major attractions.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

The Relic Temple is a Buddhist temple and museum located in the Chinatown area of Singapore.

River Safari

The River Safari is a river-themed zoo and aquarium which takes you through an enchanting journey to explore wildlife nestled between the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. The zones mirror the habitat of the Mississippi and Yangtze.

National Orchid Garden

Nestled on the highest hulls of the Singapore Botanical Garden, the place is a sprawling slope of landscapes filled with over 1000 species of flora and over 2000 displays of hybrid plants.

Take a look at some of the top places to visit in Singapore!

Best time to visit Singapore and some insider tips:

The weather is pretty consistent throughout the year. You can expect to have rainfall and high humidity almost all months of the year. Between November to January, you have the monsoon season, and May, June, and July see slightly less rainfall. No matter when you visit, you will face heat and humidity. So make sure to drink plenty of water, keep a pair of sunglasses and an umbrella when outdoors.

Pick suitable clothing to protect you adequately from blistering sunshine. Tipping is not a custom in Singapore, and service staff don’t generally expect tips. You can if you want to. Laws and regulations in Singapore are strict, so make sure you behave like a responsible tourist. 

How to save money on local travel:

You can try these hacks and tips to cut some costs:

1. Use the MRT or the subway, which is efficient, punctual, and impeccably clean.
2. Avoid traveling during national holidays like the Chinese New Year as prices to attractions will skyrocket.
3. Make full use of happy hours, and tons of bars and restaurants in Singapore host them. 
4. Head to the local hawker centers to grab a meal.

Also check some interesting transport hacks in Singapore!

Essentials about Singapore

• Languages: English (primary), Malay, Mandarin and Tamil
• Country Code: 65
• Time Zone: GMT 8
• Currency: Singapore Dollars (SGD or S$)
• Electricity: 230V or 50 Hz
• Visa Rules: Citizens of most countries get a 90-day visa on arrival if they have a passport with a validity of over six months. Citizens of Armenia, India, Russia, and Myanmar need to obtain a visa before arrival in the country.
• Money: There are several ATMs and money exchange centers in the city. Most establishments accept credit cards.
• Singapore is a hotpot of culture and a wonderful city that never fails to impress. Navigating through the city is very easy and be it hotel booking, bus booking, or planning a visit to an attraction- the city offers the discerning tourist a pleasurable experience.

Wait no more, and go ahead to plan that long-awaited Singapore trip. Make your Singapore city tour a comfortable experience with redBus. Book your local bus online tickets via redBus and get attractive deals and discounts. Club your bookings with hotel deals to get attractive rates.