If you’re planning your very first trip to Singapore, welcome! Or as we say here, 欢迎, vanakkam, and selamat datang! As a local who has spent years helping visitors fall in love with our tiny but vibrant island, I’ve noticed that many first-time travellers often arrive with certain assumptions… and leave with totally different impressions.
So before you pack your bags and hop on that flight, here are 5 honest truths that will help you understand Singapore a little better and let you explore this beautiful country more like a savvy insider. These are also some of the most relevant travel tips for Singapore 2025, especially as the city constantly evolves with new attractions and things to do.
1. Singapore is small but it is not boring at all
One truth many travellers discover quickly: Singapore might be small, but it’s far from being boring.
Yes, our total land area is only about 735.7km² but every neighbourhood feels like its own little planet. In one afternoon, you can go from the colourful preserved shophouses of Katong where Peranakan culture is brimming, to the bustling aroma-filled lanes of Little India, — all before catching the sunset by the futuristic Gardens by the Bay.
Think of Singapore as where East and West cultures come together into a melting pot. Stir in diverse influences by our own local Singapore culture and we get something that is uniquely Singapore. That dynamic fusion is what makes exploring here so addictive.
Local tip: Don’t plan just by district. Plan by flavours and vibes. Want old-school charm? Visit Tiong Bahru. Want artsy streets? Wander around the Bras Basah Bugis precinct. Want chill island life? Hop on a ferry to Pulau Ubin or Lazarus Island.
2. The food is cheap… if you know where to find it
Let’s be real — tourists often hear that Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world. And while our malls and rooftop bars can make a dent in your wallet, our real food culture is still found in humble hawker centres.
A Michelin-approved chicken rice for under S$6? A full and delicious meal for two under S$10? Absolutely! Hawker centres are where we locals go to fill our stomachs and warm the soul, without breaking the bank.
But step into certain restaurants and you’ll suddenly wonder if you need a loan just to buy a beer or coffee.
Local tip: If you want to stretch your budget and eat like a Singaporean, do this:
- Look for long queues that comprise of mostly locals at hawker stalls. We’re very serious about “queue = good food”.
- Visit Chinatown Complex Food Centre, Old Airport Road Hawker Centre, or Tiong Bahru Market for a delicious and wallet-friendly introduction to local flavours.
- Try at least one kopi (local-style coffee) order. It’s a must do in Singapore!
If you’re unsure how to order in a hawker centre, join a local food tour with a local tour guide who will teach you the ropes and let you try all the favourite dishes that we Singaporeans love!
3. Our weather has two seasons: “hot” and “hot with rain”
One of the biggest surprises for first-timers? The humidity. Singapore’s tropical weather is intense and not somewhat unpredictable as well. From January to December, it’s pretty much 30°C and humid — the real difference is whether it’s sunny or sunny with sudden thunderstorms.
But don’t worry, the locals have mastered the art of staying comfortable outdoors.
Local tip:
- Carry a small,foldable It works for sun and rain.
- Drink water like it’s your new personality.Hydrate like you mean it!
- Wear lightand breathable clothing. Shorts and sandals are our go-to choice of clothes, unless you are going somewhere fancy.
- Duck into shopping malls or air-conditioned link ways when you need a break, there’s always one nearby.
4. Singapore is greener than you think!
Many travellers arrive expecting a busy concrete jungle. And while our skyline is iconic, the real surprise hits when they see just how green Singapore is. Seriously, we’re basically a huge garden.
A widely-used term to describe Singapore is “garden city”. Here, nature isn’t just decoration; it’s part of daily life. Trees line almost every road, parks connect seamlessly across districts, and rooftop gardens can be found on malls, apartments, and even carparks.
The government has spent decades investing in greenery, but what really amazes visitors is how accessible nature is. One moment you’re in the city centre; 15 minutes later, you’re on a forest trail surrounded by monkeys.
Don’t miss:
- Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- MacRitchie Reservoir and the TreeTop Walk
- Southern Ridges, a gorgeous 10km trail across forested hills
- Jurong Lake Gardens, perfect for quiet morning strolls
- The new Mandai wildlife precinct, expanding throughout 2025
Local tip: Early mornings are the best time to explore nature here. Think cooler weather, gentler light, and fewer crowds. Also, bring insect repellent…we are a tropical country and our mosquitoes are very friendly.
5. Singapore isn’t just a stopover — it rewards slow travel
In my opinion, this may be one of the most important travel tips for Singapore 2025. Many travellers treat Singapore as a gateway to Southeast Asia, staying only 24–48 hours. But island reveals its charm slowly if you are not in such a rush.
Some of our best experiences aren’t on brochures:
- Cycling along the Marina Bay waterfront when the air is cool. Join a guided bicycle tour to hear intriguing stories of Singapore’s history and transformation while you soak in the night lights!
- Watching otters swim freely along the Singapore River.
- Browsing handmade items and vintage goods at craft markets at Kampong Gelam and Bugis Street
- Having a leisure local breakfast of toast, eggs and coffee at one of our vibrant heartland towns like Geylang Seraior Ang Mo Kio.
For 2025, a wave of new attractions and green spaces mean the city is better than ever for travellers who love culture, food and slow exploration!
Local tip: Stay at least 4 to 5 days. Singapore can be a pit stop but it’s a better destination if you take time to explore beyond the tourist attractions.
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Final Thought: Come with curiosity, leave with stories
Singapore is best enjoyed with an open mind and an empty stomach. Whether you’re coming for culture, food, shopping, nature, or a little of everything, our tiny island has a way of surprising even the most seasoned travellers.
Remember these essential insights in this Singapore travel guide when you are planning your Singapore itinerary. And don’t forget: the best travel tips for Singapore 2025 will always come from the locals you meet along the way. We may not be very smiley, but we’re friendly. Just say hi!
