City guides / Singapore
Singapore travel guide
Hawker centres, tropical gardens and a faultless airport.
Singapore · Local currency SGD · Time zone Asia/Singapore
Best time to visit Singapore
Flights and hotels are cheapest in May, August. Expect to pay the most in January, November, December.
Tourist season due to New Year celebrations.
Chinese New Year affects travel plans.
Average visitor numbers post-festivities.
Warm weather continues, popular for city tours.
Lower tourist traffic, slight increase in rainfall.
Event season with the Great Singapore Sale.
Continuing sale season draws some tourists.
Typically off-peak, hot and humid.
Mid-year school holidays bring local visitors.
Weather improves; fewer tourists.
Christmas festivities and events attract visitors.
High demand due to holiday season.
Getting around Singapore
Public transport
Public transport is highly reliable, with trains and buses running frequently (every 5-10 minutes); payment can be made via an EZ-Link card or cash for buses.
Driving and parking (6/10 difficulty)
Parking can be difficult and expensive, so it’s best to use public transport instead. If driving is necessary, park in designated areas using parking apps.
How locals get around
Most locals prefer using public transportation; when on the MRT or buses, give way to others and avoid speaking loudly.
Local customs in Singapore
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Singapore, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change (approx. 10%) for exceptional service is appreciated.
What to wear
Casual attire is acceptable in most places; however, visitors should wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites, such as covered shoulders and knees.
Cards and cash
Both credit cards and cash are widely accepted; it's advisable to carry some cash (SGD) for hawker centers and small shops.
Phrases worth knowing
- How much is this?
- — Use this when inquiring about prices.
- Thank you! (Xie Xie!)
- — Use this to express gratitude.
- Excuse me, where is...?
- — Use this when asking for directions.
- I don’t understand.
- — Use this when you need clarification.
- Can I have the bill, please?
- — Use this when you are ready to pay at a restaurant.
Plan a Singapore trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Singapore itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Singapore