Kampong Gelam
Bencoolen & Bras Basah
Katong-Joo Chiat
Together, Urban List and Qantas Hotels and Holidays are here to help you maximise your time off in 2025—consider this your go-to guide for squeezing in 25 epic holidays across the year. From clever leave hacks to well-timed public holidays, we’re all about making your escapes easier.
That’s why we’re showcasing how you can enjoy these getaways without breaking the bank. From luxurious hotels to quick staycations and far-off bucket-list destinations, this list has you covered with top-notch experiences, holiday hacks and great value.
Chinatown
Kampong Gelam
One of Singapore’s coolest enclaves, this is where vibrant street art spills down laneways lined with wine bars, cafes and supper clubs that buzz long after dark. Our tip? Ditch the map and follow the live music.
This is Singapore’s oldest urban quarter, but don’t expect anything stuffy. It’s a rich tapestry of culture—ornate mosques sit snug beside candy-coloured shophouses slinging intricate batik fabrics, hand-crafted leather goods and bespoke perfumes. Trust us, you’ll want to linger here a while.
Kampong Gelam
EAT: Hjh Maimunah
Experience the flavour bombs of traditional Malay and Indonesian cuisine at this Michelin Bib Gourmand listed eatery—a true love letter to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Founded by Mdm Mahiran Addul Rahman in the late 90s, the eatery brings to life recipes passed down from her late mother. Set inside a pistachio-hued shophouse, the OG outpost dishes up hearty bowls of sayur lodeh (a traditional Java dish of vegetables cooked in a turmeric coconut broth), nasi padang and BBQ seabass, perfectly charred and topped with their signature sambal.
EXPLORE MORE
6/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
Budget-friendly tip
A self-guided tour is a cheap and flexible way to explore at your own pace. Simply download a free app or use maps to guide your neighbourhood walking tour or heritage trail.
If you're wondering where Singapore's creative crowd hangs, this is it. You won't always find Bencoolen and Bras Basah on the standard tourist trail, but that's exactly what makes them so cool.
The cultural heartbeat of the city, this neighbourhood hums with art, design and ideas, playing home to Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, LASALLE College of the Arts, and heavy hitters like the National Museum, Stamford Arts Centre and National Design Centre.
In between indie bookshops and galleries, fuel up at hawker centres or hole-in-the-wall eateries dishing up local favourites. You’ll lose track of time in this creative playground.
Budget-friendly tip
Hawker Centres are the OG for cheap, local eats—think chicken rice, laksa or char kway teow from just $3–6 (SGD) a plate.
You’ll be hard pressed to find a prettier pocket of Singapore than Katong-Joo Chiat. The heart of Singapore’s vibrant Peranakan culture, its pastel shophouses in shades of peach, pistachio, cotton candy and azure make every street feel like a film set.
It's a total feast for the senses, with the scent of spicy laksa wafting through colourful laneways splashed with street art. Pro tip: arrive hungry, because behind all that beauty is a lineup of seriously good eats that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
Budget-friendly tip
Singapore’s bike sharing scheme is an eco-friendly and affordable way to zip around short distances—simply download the app, find a bike, unlock and ride.
Romantic Escapes
Keen to find more ways to make the most out of your time in the Lion City? Check out these guides to Singapore’s best hiking trails, museums, free activities and more neighbourhoods to explore.
Singapore might be small in terms of geography, but it’s big on experiences—and the best part? You can see it all without missing a beat. From meticulously designed neighbourhoods to world-class eats, buzzing cultural hubs, and effortless transport, every moment here counts.
Whether you’re exploring solo, hopping around with your partner, or wrangling the kids, Singapore makes it easy to plan less and enjoy more. Think of it as the ultimate stopover destination: stay a couple of nights, dive into its variety, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a full-on adventure without the stress.
Bencoolen & Bras Basah
Bencoolen & Bras Basah
Katong-Joo Chiat
Katong-Joo Chiat
See More
Postcards from
SINGAPORe
Eat: Family-Friendly Flavours
There’s no denying full bellies are key to a successful family trip—if you’re looking for a multicultural culinary adventure, then Singapore is the place to be. Reflecting its cultural heritage, you’ll find incredible Chinese, Malay and Indian food, but there are also plenty of tasty bites from around the globe.
From the buzzing stalls of the island’s famous hawker centres to casual beachside dining and luxe long lunches, Singapore’s got the whole fam sorted.
Budget-friendly tip
Hawker centres are the best places to feast on a budget in Singapore. With world-class flavours at affordable prices, eat like a local at one of the over 100 hawker centres, where you’ll find banging bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Get your hands on some Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab or satay, and thank us later.
Eat: Family-Friendly Flavours
There’s no denying full bellies are key to a successful family trip—if you’re looking for a multicultural culinary adventure, then Singapore is the place to be. Reflecting its cultural heritage, you’ll find incredible Chinese, Malay and Indian food, but there are also plenty of tasty bites from around the globe.
From the buzzing stalls of the island’s famous hawker centres to casual beachside dining and luxe long lunches, Singapore’s got the whole fam sorted.
Budget-friendly tip
Hawker centres are the best places to feast on a budget in Singapore. With world-class flavours at affordable prices, eat like a local at one of the over 100 hawker centres, where you’ll find banging bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Get your hands on some Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab or satay, and thank us later.
Find Out More
Get Outdoors With These Epic Hikes In Singapore
SEE MORE OF SINGAPORE
Find Out More
The Best Free Things To Do In Singapore If You’re Ballin’ On A Budget
Find Out More
15 Of Singapore’s Best Museums To Tick Off Your Cultural List
Find Out More
Singapore Neighbourhoods That Need To Be On Your Hit List
Budget-friendly tip
If you’re planning a jam-packed getaway, consider booking multi-attraction family passes like the Go City Explorer Pass or Pelago Pass. These let you choose which activities you’d like to do, and combine them into one ticket at a discounted price.
BOOK NOW
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
5/5
Destinations
EXPLORE MORE
Fico
Breezy, light-filled, and perched on the edge of East Coast Park with waves lapping the shore, Fico feels like you’ve landed on the Italian coast. The chef, originally from Puglia, slings bowls of pasta from the cucina that would make nonna proud. Start with the stracciatella with fig vinaigrette (best mopped up with fresh focaccia), followed by cacio e pepe, and ossobuco mafaldine. With the park’s sprawling greenery right outside, fight off the food coma with a post-meal stroll—it’s also perfect for little legs to burn off some energy.
EXPLORE MORE
Violet Oon
With three opulent locations across the city—Dempsey Hill, ION Orchard, and the historic City Hall—adding a lunch stop at Violet Oon to your Singapore itinerary is a must. Known for its bold Peranakan cuisine (a unique blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences), expect serious flavour bombs. Non-negotiable orders include the dry laksa, tender beef rendang, and kueh beng kah—a grated tapioca root cake drenched in coconut milk and sweet syrup. There's also a full plant-based menu if anyone in your fam is vegetarian.
EXPLORE MORE
Lau Pa Sat (Satay Street)
For a quintessential Singapore experience, grab dinner along Satay Street, next to the buzzing Lau Pa Sat hawker centre. Can’t find it? Just follow your nose—the scent of sizzling satay will lead the way. This street comes alive from 7 pm to 3 am on weekdays and from 3 pm on weekends, as locals and visitors alike tuck into melt-in-your-mouth skewers—beef, chicken, and seafood—served from nine bustling satay carts. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself (and your family) in Singapore's hawker culture: snag a seat, savour satay under the stars, and soak up the electric atmosphere.
EXPLORE MORE
Open Farm Community
Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, this lush urban farm and restaurant is the kind of place you’ll want to linger at long after your meal. With a passion for doing right by the planet, this sustainable eatery serves up locally sourced, seasonal dishes like whole Sakura chicken with laksa chimichurri and Lombok fish with kombu butter. There’s a dedicated kids’ menu, too, so everyone’s covered. After your feast, the whole fam can go on a farm tour—learning about their sustainable practices and basking in this green oasis.
EXPLORE MORE
Coastes
Sink your toes into the sand and let the sea breeze wash over you whilst dining at this Sentosa island eatery. Perched on Siloso Beach, this family-friendly joint is fringed by calm, shallow waters, so kids big and little can have a splash while the adults enjoy a cheeky cocktail (the frozen margarita is always a winner). The menu is stacked with crowd-pleasers. Think: homemade pizza and pasta, towering burgers, fresh salads, sandwiches and plenty of seafood from fish & chips to juicy garlic prawns. Post-meal, snag a sun lounger by the water and bliss out.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
Destinations
EXPLORE MORE
Violet Oon
With three opulent locations across the city—Dempsey Hill, ION Orchard, and the historic City Hall—adding a lunch stop at Violet Oon to your Singapore itinerary is a must. Known for its bold Peranakan cuisine (a unique blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences), expect serious flavour bombs. Non-negotiable orders include the dry laksa, tender beef rendang, and kueh beng kah—a grated tapioca root cake drenched in coconut milk and sweet syrup. There's also a full plant-based menu if anyone in your fam is vegetarian.
EXPLORE MORE
Lau Pa Sat (Satay Street)
For a quintessential Singapore experience, grab dinner along Satay Street, next to the buzzing Lau Pa Sat hawker centre. Can’t find it? Just follow your nose—the scent of sizzling satay will lead the way. This street comes alive from 7 pm to 3 am on weekdays and from 3 pm on weekends, as locals and visitors alike tuck into melt-in-your-mouth skewers—beef, chicken, and seafood—served from nine bustling satay carts. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself (and your family) in Singapore's hawker culture: snag a seat, savour satay under the stars, and soak up the electric atmosphere.
EXPLORE MORE
Open Farm Community
Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, this lush urban farm and restaurant is the kind of place you’ll want to linger at long after your meal. With a passion for doing right by the planet, this sustainable eatery serves up locally sourced, seasonal dishes like whole Sakura chicken with laksa chimichurri and Lombok fish with kombu butter. There’s a dedicated kids’ menu, too, so everyone’s covered. After your feast, the whole fam can go on a farm tour—learning about their sustainable practices and basking in this green oasis.
EXPLORE MORE
Coastes
Sink your toes into the sand and let the sea breeze wash over you whilst dining at this Sentosa island eatery. Perched on Siloso Beach, this family-friendly joint is fringed by calm, shallow waters, so kids big and little can have a splash while the adults enjoy a cheeky cocktail (the frozen margarita is always a winner). The menu is stacked with crowd-pleasers. Think: homemade pizza and pasta, towering burgers, fresh salads, sandwiches and plenty of seafood from fish & chips to juicy garlic prawns. Post-meal, snag a sun lounger by the water and bliss out.
EXPLORE MORE
Keng Eng Kee
Tucking into a zi-char feast (home-style Singapore dishes usually served in a casual setting) is a rite of passage when visiting Singapore—and there’s no better place for it than KEK. What started as a humble hawker stall has grown into a Michelin-recommended eatery, with over 50 years of flavour packed into the menu. There’s something to satisfy every family member’s palate. Must-orders? The chilli and black pepper crab (be sure to order ahead), wok-tossed moonlight horfun (just trust us), and the addictive coffee pork ribs that will have you licking your fingers.
EXPLORE MORE
Fico
Breezy, light-filled, and perched on the edge of East Coast Park with waves lapping the shore, Fico feels like you’ve landed on the Italian coast. The chef, originally from Puglia, slings bowls of pasta from the cucina that would make nonna proud. Start with the stracciatella with fig vinaigrette (best mopped up with fresh focaccia), followed by cacio e pepe, and ossobuco mafaldine. With the park’s sprawling greenery right outside, fight off the food coma with a post-meal stroll—it’s also perfect for little legs to burn off some energy.
5/6
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Visit The Sultan Mosque
Rising above Kampong Gelam's shophouses, The Sultan Mosque is impossible to miss. Dating back to 1824, it remains the beating heart of Singapore's Malay-Muslim heritage. Step inside on a free guided tour to learn about the faith, culture, and people who make this neighbourhood so special. Just remember to dress modestly (cover-ups are available at the entrance), and don't forget to remove your shoes before stepping inside. Insider tip: The black rings around the golden domes are made from glass soy sauce bottles which were donated by lower income families as their contribution to the mosque's construction.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Village Hotel Bugis
With Haji Lane and Arab Street right on your doorstep, Village Hotel Bugis is the perfect base for exploring Kampong Gelam. From king suites to family rooms, it’s got everyone covered—solo travellers, couples and families alike. Expect modern interiors, two onsite restaurants, a stacked gym and sprawling pool that’s made for cooling off after a day pounding the pavements.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: The Sultan
You've admired it from the street, now stay inside one of Singapore's most beautiful heritage shophouses at The Sultan. Spread across 10 lovingly restored early-1900s buildings, its 60 rooms blend old-world charm with modern luxuries. Think soaring columns, sweeping arches and those iconic shuttered French windows. It's the perfect sanctuary after a day exploring Kampong Gelam. Hungry? Dine in at the onsite restaurant before diving into one of the hotel’s bespoke tours from foodie trails to deep-dive cultural adventures.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Explore Haji Lane
Singapore’s most eclectic strip packs serious personality into one laneway. Street art climbs every wall, live beats spill from supper clubs, and indie boutiques sling one-of-a-kind finds. Kick off with a matcha cloud latte at Coffee Donkee, dig into mango ceviche and flauta tacos at Piedra Negra, then toast the night with an artisanal cocktail at Bar Stories or craft brew at Good Luck Beerhouse. Walk it off thrifting at Vintagewknd or flipping through vinyl at Musicology Records. Local tip: for crowd-free mural snaps, come early, but don’t expect the shops to open before 11.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Bhai Sarbat
Sipping a cup of teh tarik (pulled tea) from Bhai Sarbat is a rite of passage in Kampong Gelam. This second-generation stall is run by the charismatic Mohammad Asgar, whose tea-making performance is a blur of speed and skill—pouring and blending tea, milk and a house-made spice mix from great heights at lightning pace. The result? A rich, frothy brew crowned with a bubbly foam. With over 100 drinks on the menu, it’s hard to choose, but our tip? Go straight for the masala, a fragrant concoction infused with rose petals, ginger, cinnamon and green cardamom.
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
Budget-friendly tip
Hawker centres are the best places to feast on a budget in Singapore. With world-class flavours at affordable prices, eat like a local at one of the over 100 hawker centres, where you’ll find banging bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Get your hands on some Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab or satay, and thank us later.
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
Chinatown
Little India
Kampong Gelam
Bencoolen & Bras Basah
Katong-Joo Chiat
Chinatown
Little India
See More
Play
Catering to the niche notions of a whole family can feel impossible, but Singapore is set to keep everyone happy with experiences of all kinds.
Want the kids to learn while they explore? Head to the Oceanarium for a deep dive into the aquatic world, or hit up the ArtScience museum for mind-bending art and science exhibits.
For an afternoon of pure fun, check out Palawan for water park chaos, or get your Willy Wonka on at the Museum of Ice Cream.
There’s also plenty of fun to be had for thrill seekers, animal lovers, and curious minds alike.
Budget-friendly tip
If you’re planning a jam-packed getaway, consider booking multi-attraction family passes like the Go City Explorer Pass or Pelago Pass. These let you choose which activities you’d like to do, and combine them into one ticket at a discounted price.
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
Adventures For All Ages
EXPLORE MORE
Museum Of Ice Cream
Sweet tooths will be in heaven at this Willy Wonka-esque wonderland. A hit with kids and the young at heart, it features 14 cotton-candy hued interactive installations—get crafty in the art room, feel the nostalgia in the playroom, go cosmic in the infinity room, and dive into a giant sprinkle pool. Best of all? It’s all-you-can-eat ice cream, so come hungry.
EXPLORE MORE
ArtScience Museum
Trust us—you’ve never experienced a museum like this. Located at Marina Bay Sands, it’s home to mind-bending immersive exhibitions like Future World, where art, science, and magic collide. The museum also boasts a rotating roster of world-class pop-up installations, showcasing everything from Frida Kahlo and Studio Ghibli to Iris van Herpen and Sneakertopia—one of the world’s largest sneaker collections.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve
With five incredible wildlife parks to explore—including the world’s first nocturnal zoo and a lush eco-resort nestled in the forest—this destination is pure magic for all ages. Stroll alongside 36 free-roaming species at Rainforest Wild, drift through River Wonders, and encounter over 300 species at Singapore Zoo. Pro tip: grab a multi-park pass to see more and save.
EXPLORE MORE
Trifecta
Thrill-seekers can get their fix at Trifecta—Asia’s first snow, surf, and skate attraction. Hit the slopes on a Ski Simulator that uses a moving carpet to mimic real skiing, catch waves up to 1.5m on the Citywave deep-water surf pool, or shred in Singapore’s first hybrid skate bowl. All three zones cater to beginners through to pros, so the whole fam can get involved.
EXPLORE MORE
The Palawan
Perched on Sentosa’s beachfront, this mecca of family fun is worth a full-day visit. Make a splash at HydroDash aqua park, let the kids play at Splash Tribe’s sandcastle-themed zone, tee off on the 18-hole mini golf course, or rev up at HyperDrive—Asia’s first indoor gamified electric go-kart circuit. Hungry? Refuel at the food trucks or unwind in a cabana at +Twelve beach club.
EXPLORE MORE
Oceanarium
Immerse yourself in the magic beneath the waves at Singapore’s coolest new attraction—Oceanarium. Be mesmerised by thousands of Moon Jellies in one of the world’s largest Kreisel habitats, marvel at life-sized animatronics, fossil displays, and live exhibits, and join hands-on experiences that inspire a more sustainable marine future.
Play
Catering to the niche notions of a whole family can feel impossible, but Singapore is set to keep everyone happy with experiences of all kinds.
Want the kids to learn while they explore? Head to the Oceanarium for a deep dive into the aquatic world, or hit up the ArtScience museum for mind-bending art and science exhibits.
For an afternoon of pure fun, check out Palawan for water park chaos, or get your Willy Wonka on at the Museum of Ice Cream.
There’s also plenty of fun to be had for thrill seekers, animal lovers, and curious minds alike.
Budget-friendly tip
If you’re planning a jam-packed getaway, consider booking multi-attraction family passes like the Go City Explorer Pass or Pelago Pass. These let you choose which activities you’d like to do, and combine them into one ticket at a discounted price.
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
Adventures For All Ages
EXPLORE MORE
Museum Of Ice Cream
Sweet tooths will be in heaven at this Willy Wonka-esque wonderland. A hit with kids and the young at heart, it features 14 cotton-candy hued interactive installations—get crafty in the art room, feel the nostalgia in the playroom, go cosmic in the infinity room, and dive into a giant sprinkle pool. Best of all? It’s all-you-can-eat ice cream, so come hungry.
EXPLORE MORE
ArtScience Museum
Trust us—you’ve never experienced a museum like this. Located at Marina Bay Sands, it’s home to mind-bending immersive exhibitions like Future World, where art, science, and magic collide. The museum also boasts a rotating roster of world-class pop-up installations, showcasing everything from Frida Kahlo and Studio Ghibli to Iris van Herpen and Sneakertopia—one of the world’s largest sneaker collections.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve
With five incredible wildlife parks to explore—including the world’s first nocturnal zoo and a lush eco-resort nestled in the forest—this destination is pure magic for all ages. Stroll alongside 36 free-roaming species at Rainforest Wild, drift through River Wonders, and encounter over 300 species at Singapore Zoo. Pro tip: grab a multi-park pass to see more and save.
EXPLORE MORE
Trifecta
Thrill-seekers can get their fix at Trifecta—Asia’s first snow, surf, and skate attraction. Hit the slopes on a Ski Simulator that uses a moving carpet to mimic real skiing, catch waves up to 1.5m on the Citywave deep-water surf pool, or shred in Singapore’s first hybrid skate bowl. All three zones cater to beginners through to pros, so the whole fam can get involved.
EXPLORE MORE
The Palawan
EXPLORE MORE
Oceanarium
Immerse yourself in the magic beneath the waves at Singapore’s coolest new attraction—Oceanarium. Be mesmerised by thousands of Moon Jellies in one of the world’s largest Kreisel habitats, marvel at life-sized animatronics, fossil displays, and live exhibits, and join hands-on experiences that inspire a more sustainable marine future.
Find Out More
Get Outdoors With These Epic Hikes In Singapore
Find Out More
Get Outdoors With These Epic Hikes In Singapore
Find Out More
Get Outdoors With These Epic Hikes In Singapore
Perched on Sentosa’s beachfront, this mecca of family fun is worth a full-day visit. Make a splash at HydroDash aqua park, let the kids play at Splash Tribe’s sandcastle-themed zone, tee off on the 18-hole mini golf course, or rev up at HyperDrive—Asia’s first indoor gamified electric go-kart circuit. Hungry? Refuel at the food trucks or unwind in a cabana at +Twelve beach club.
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: 30 Bencoolen
See Bencoolen and Bras Basah from a new perspective at this boutique hotel, where the epic rooftop pool and jacuzzi offer incredible city views—especially at night when the skyline sparkles. Inside is just as inviting, with a state-of-the-art equipped gym, restaurant, bar and spacious rooms decked out in dark furniture and minimalist tones.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: V Hotel Bencoolen
Just five minutes from the National Museum of Singapore, and a quick stroll to Albert Hawker Market, these digs put you right in the heart of the action, without blowing your budget. Cool off with a dip in the pool, tuck into French and Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant Yuugo, then crash in your sleek, modern suite before heading back out to explore the artsy streets of Bencoolen and Bras Basah.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Explore National Museum of Singapore
Step inside one of Singapore’s most stunning neoclassical landmarks for a history lesson that’s anything but boring. Dating back to 1849, the National Museum brings the nation’s story to life through immersive installations and thought-provoking exhibits like Singapore Odyssey, which takes you on a seven-century journey shaped by the sea. Check out the rotating pop-ups and creative workshops, then refuel at Dame Museum Café , their Kerabu Bee Hoon (a Peranakan mix of sakura shrimp, tiger prawns and sambal) is a must-order.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Visit Objectifs
If you want to scope out Singapore’s brightest emerging talent in film and photography, head here. The visual arts space is a hub of creativity, presenting a year-round stacked calendar of exhibitions, screens, talks, residences and workshops that will inspire you. Tourists can sign up and unleash their inner creativity, and try their hand at lantern making and book binding.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Ume San 100
Hidden within Fortune Centre behind a strip of unassuming vending machines, you’ll find the secret entrance to one of Singapore’s best Japanese izakayas. This quirky 32-seater slings flaming cocktails, endless umeshu pours (it houses one of Singapore’s largest collections) and some of the best ramen innovations you’ll ever slurp—laksa soup, their signature nagoya dry and angry asari loaded with juicy clams. There’s also uni croquettes, puffer fish karaage with yuzu dip and truffle saikoro steak to tuck into while you sip an ume-espresso martini.
EAT: Albert Centre Hawker Market
Just minutes from Bugis MRT, this local gem is a feast for all senses, and trust us, you’ll want to show up hungry. It’s heaving on weekends, so swing by midweek if you want shorter queues and first dibs on the good stuff. Start with the springy fishball noodles from Hock Lee, then hit Michelin-recommended Ah Seng Bak Chor Mee. Don’t skip Say Seng Cooked Food’s braised pork belly or Bai Nian Niang Dou Fu, a comforting Hakka dish of tofu stuffed with minced meat.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Santa Grand Hotel
As the name suggests, this stay is something special. Set inside a restored Chinese Baroque building, Santa Grand seamlessly blends Peranakan heritage with modern comfort. Rooms are minimalist but cosy, complete with a free fully stocked mini bar and a lazy 2pm checkout. There’s a rooftop pool with city views, a gym, and bikes for exploring the neighbourhood. For a cultural twist, dress up in authentic Peranakan attire and wander Katong’s colourful streets for the ultimate photo op.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Hotel Indigo
Steeped in history—it sits on the grounds of the former Joo Chiat Police Station—Hotel Indigo blends heritage-inspired architecture with curated art, splashes of colour and luxurious comforts. In short, it’s one seriously chic stay in the heart of Katong. While it’s tempting to stay cocooned in your plush bed or soak in that deep tub with floor-to-ceiling views, don’t miss a float in the rooftop infinity pool, it’s pure bliss.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Explore Joo Chiat Road
Architecture buffs, this is your nirvana. Here you'll find traditional, well-preserved shophouses lining Joo Chiat Road, which houses a mix of modern boutiques, trendy cafes, art galleries and local eateries. Be sure to check out Koon Seng Road to get a peek at pastel-coloured shophouses adorned with intricated floral motifs and delicate ceramic tiles. When hunger hits, you’re in luck, this strip is stacked with great eateries like Kway Guan Huat which serves up fresh spring rolls filled with finely chopped veggies and meat (also known as popiah), Sing Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh where you'll find a banging pork bone tea soup, and Haig Road Putu Piring where you can snack on steamed rice cakes with palm sugar.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Peranakan Mansion
Discover the colourful world of the Peranakans, a unique fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian cultures. A living, breathing museum, step back in time to a 1928 home, peruse 200-year-old artefacts, or join a beadwork, batik and tile painting workshop.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Birds Of Paradise
Trust us, you’ve never had gelato like this. The queue snaking out the door says it all, but this sweet treat is worth the wait. Inspired by nature, the team infuses herbs and spices into every scoop—even the waffle cones are baked with thyme. You can't go wrong with any order, but some extra drool-worthy flavours include roasted sesame, spiced pear, pandan coconut and white chrysanthemum.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Kim Choo Kueh Chang
One of the tastiest ways to experience Peranakan culture? Pull up a chair at this third-generation family-run eatery. Using recipes and techniques passed down through the decades, Kim Choo Kueh Chang serves up the kind of comfort food locals swear by. Dig into their famous Nyonya rice dumplings—glutinous parcels stuffed with juicy pork or chili prawns. Feeling inspired? Sign up for one of their cooking workshops and feast like a true Peranakan.
Little India
Take a stroll through Little India and you’ll swear you’ve landed on the subcontinent itself. A heady mix of colour, spice and soul, this lively hood is one of Singapore’s most-loved.
Serangoon Road hums from AM to PM filled with kaleidoscopic temples, vivid street art and stalls selling flower garlands, silk saris and incense. Follow your nose to samosas, biryani and sweets that will have you coming back for seconds.
Budget-friendly tip
Singapore is home to a world-class public transport system that costs as little as $AU2 per trip, so if you’re neighbourhood hopping, head straight to the train station and save your hard-earned cash for indulgent eats and next-level sips.
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
Little India
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Citadines Rochor Singapore
You can’t beat the buzz around Citadines Rochor Singapore. With colourful Little India right on your doorstep, it’s the launchpad for exploring the city. If you like your digs roomy, this one’s for you—choose from sleek studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, ideal for longer stays and family vacations. Expect modern appliances, luxe touches, and all the creature comforts. When it’s time to unwind, hit the outdoor pool or squeeze in a quick session at the fitness centre to work off the 20 pani puri you devoured earlier that day.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Wanderlust
Just a minute from Jalan Besar MRT and five from Rochor, Wanderlust makes its home in a beautifully restored 1920s Art Deco building. Inside, 29 sleek suites blend old-school charm with modern design, including a spacious studio loft complete with full kitchens. When it’s time to unwind, slip into the palm-fringed plunge pool and soak up the serenity. It’s the ultimate self-care moment in the heart of the city.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Shop at the Mustafa Centre
Shopaholics, welcome to paradise. Open 24/7, this mega mall has everything—and we mean everything—from gold and perfume to groceries, fashion and gadgets. Even if retail therapy isn’t your thing, it’s a cultural experience worth the wander. Spread across two buildings and six levels, it’s easy to get lost (but that’s half the fun). What began as a humble tea-and-bread pushcart in the 1950s has grown into a Singapore shopping icon. Travelling with kids? Head to Basement two for toys and games galore, or swing by Basement one for fashion, textiles and jewellery.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Visit Former House of Tan Teng Niah
Singapore isn’t short on jaw-dropping architecture, but Tan Teng Niah might just top the list. This 1990s two-storey stunner, splashed in every colour of the rainbow, is the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India. Once owned by a local businessman who ran several sweet factories nearby, it’s a fascinating blend of Chinese and European design. Keep an eye out for the intricate details: gilded calligraphy panels, shuttered windows and a distinctive bamboo-tiled roof.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: RW Selmore Restaurant
For a true taste of India, make a beeline for RW Selmor, set across from the Indian Heritage Centre (perfect for a post-feast visit). Kick things off with their pani puri—crisp, hollow shells stuffed with spiced potato and tangy goodness. Fair warning: you’ll probably down half a dozen before you realise it. Then move on to the rich, melt-in-your-mouth lamb korma or the aromatic mutton masala. And whatever you do, save room for dessert. The gulab jamun, warm dough balls drenched in syrup, are straight 10s.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Tekka Centre
Kick off your Little India adventure at Tekka Centre located along Serangoon Road. Pro tip: arrive hungry, with an empty bag and plenty of time because there’s a lot to uncover. Spread across multiple levels, it houses retail shops stacked with vibrant textiles and jewels, a wet market and a bustling hawker centre that is pure foodie heaven. Make a beeline for the Michelin-approved spots—Delhi Lahori for charcoal-baked naan and butter chicken, and Allauddin’s Briyani (trust us, get the mutton).
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
Chinatown
An intoxicating blend of old and new, Chinatown is where Singapore’s cultural melting pot truly comes alive. Wander between sacred temples, ornate mosques and the Chinatown Heritage Centre thought-provoking museums, then time travel through rows of traditional shophouses.
When hunger hits, you’re in the right place. From Michelin-recommended hawker stalls to hole-in-the-wall eateries dishing out world-class bites for a few dollars, this is where history and flavour collide. Whether you’re chasing hidden gems or hip new haunts, Chinatown delivers.
Budget-friendly tip
Many of the temples in Chinatown are free to visit. For an affordable day out, check out the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum or Sri Mariamman Temple, where you can admire the ornate architecture, totally free of charge.
CLICK TO REVEAL
Budget-friendly tip
Chinatown
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: Duxton Reserve Singapore
For a dose of luxe, check in to Duxton Reserve Singapore, a 4.5-star stunner in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, perfectly placed for Chinatown adventures. Designed by British icon Anouska Hempel, the hotel pays homage to the area’s Asian heritage with dramatic golden fans, Oriental screens and a rich, moody palette spread across 49 unique rooms and suites—no two alike. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional tea ceremony before retreating to your room or dining at one of the two elegant onsite restaurants.
EXPLORE MORE
STAY: KeSa House
Just a five-minute meander from Chinatown MRT Station, KēSa House puts you right in the thick of the action. Set within restored shophouses, the rooms are compact yet stylish, the perfect crashpad after a day spent exploring. Expect blond timber floors, air conditioning, mini fridges and flat screen TVs, with shared kitchen facilities should you want to save some coin and cook at home. It’s sleek, social, and perfectly positioned for uncovering the best of Chinatown.
DO: Explore Temple Street
Right in the heart of Chinatown, Temple Street is a feast for the senses. It kicks off with the striking Sri Mariamman Temple before giving way to colourful shopfronts selling traditional Chinese Medicine. Be sure to grab a freshly brewed cold herbal tea from Wong Yiu Nam Medical Hall or Teck Yin Soon. Hidden down one of the laneways, you'll come across the famed artist Yip Yew Chong's recreation of the Chinatown Market from back in the day. And at the end of the street, you'll find Mei Heong Yuen Dessert, serving up traditional Chinese sweets like glutinous rice balls in ginger soup, mango pudding and peanut paste.
EXPLORE MORE
DO: Visit Chinatown Heritage Centre
Step back in time and trace the origins of Chinatown—its people, stories and the culture that shaped one of Singapore’s most important districts. Recreated from the memories of early residents who once called these shophouses home, this immersive museum lets you literally walk in their footsteps. Spread across three beautifully restored shophouses, the centre brings to life 1950s interiors in meticulous detail, offering an authentic glimpse into the grit and resilience of the community that built this vibrant neighbourhood.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Lim Chee Guan
A Chinatown legend since 1938, Lim Chee Guan has perfected the art of bak kwa—those smoky, sweet-savoury slices of barbecued meat that are pure Singapore tradition. What began as a humble pushcart on gang-run Chin Chiew Street has grown into four locations (two of which are in Chinatown), famed for its consistency and craft. Each slice is charcoal-grilled and flipped by hand to achieve that perfect balance of caramelised edges and juicy tenderness. Cooked to order, it’s an essential Singaporean snack and straight up delicious.
EXPLORE MORE
EAT: Tong Heng
A fourth-generation family bakery that's been winning hearts (and stomachs) since 1935, Tong Heng is a true Singapore icon. What started as a humble street stall has become a Chinatown institution, with daily queues snaking out the door. The must-order? Their signature diamond-shaped egg tart—a flaky pastry cradling a silky, wobbly egg custard that’ll have you doing a happy dance mid-bite. Still have room? The coconut egg tart is non-negotiable.
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6
EXPLORE MORE
6/6
5/6
4/6
3/6
2/6
1/6