Best Times to Visit Singapore
Quick Answer:
February to April in Singapore offers a sparkling escape from the crowds and heat. The weather is delightfully dry and sunny, perfect for exploring the city's vibrant hawker centers, bustling with the aromas of exotic spices and sizzling street food. June to August brings the monsoon season, but even the rain showers add a unique charm, creating a lush, sparkling green landscape. The Great Singapore Sale in June and July offers a dazzling array of shopping opportunities, while the dazzling lights of the Singapore Night Festival in August illuminate the city in a breathtaking spectacle. For a sparkling blend of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, the months of September and October offer a wonderful compromise.
Airport Code
SIN
Coordinates
1.35°, 103.87°
Top Things to Do
Gardens by the Bay's Cloud Forest at Dawn
Witness the Cloud Forest's otherworldly beauty at sunrise, before the crowds gather. The mist-shrouded environment feels magical in the early light, and you'll have unparalleled photo opportunities. Pre-book your tickets online to avoid queues.
Hawker Centre Food Crawl: Tiong Bahru Market
Venture beyond the typical tourist haunts to Tiong Bahru Market, a charming hawker centre with a retro vibe. Sample local delicacies like char kway teow and bak kut teh, soaking up the authentic atmosphere. Go early for the freshest food and fewer crowds.
Singapore Botanic Gardens' National Orchid Garden
Explore the breathtaking diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, a highlight of the Botanic Gardens. Look for rare and hybrid varieties, and take your time to appreciate the meticulous landscaping. Visit during the annual Orchid Show for a spectacular display.
A Night at the Singapore Night Safari
Experience the thrill of a nocturnal wildlife adventure at the Night Safari. Ride the tram through the park's diverse habitats, spotting animals active only after dark. Bring a light jacket as it can get cool at night.
Essential Travel Tips
Singapore has a fantastic public transport system! Download the Gothere app; it integrates buses, MRT (subway), and taxis, showing you the fastest route in real-time, factoring in traffic. For longer distances, the MRT is efficient and affordable; for shorter hops, especially during rush hour, Grab (Southeast Asia's version of Uber) can be quicker.
The Singapore dollar (SGD) is widely used. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some local cash on hand is useful for smaller hawker stalls and taxis that might not accept card payments. You can easily withdraw SGD from ATMs at the airport or Changi Airport.
Hawker centres are a must-try! These are open-air food courts offering incredibly diverse and delicious food at very affordable prices. Try the local favourites like chicken rice, laksa, or char kway teow. Many hawker centres have multiple stalls, so you can sample a variety of dishes.
Singapore is a multicultural society, so respecting local customs is key. Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites. Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, or English to show your respect and enhance your interactions with locals.
Singapore is generally very safe, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Use Grab or taxis instead of walking long distances at night, and keep your valuables secure.
Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Rain is frequent, so a light, foldable raincoat or umbrella is essential. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C | 24°C | 84°F | 75°F | 170mm | 12 days | 12h |
| Feb | 30°C | 24°C | 86°F | 75°F | 110mm | 8 days | 12h |
| Mar | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 120mm | 9 days | 12.5h |
| Apr | 32°C | 26°C | 90°F | 79°F | 160mm | 11 days | 13h |
| May | 32°C | 26°C | 90°F | 79°F | 180mm | 13 days | 13.5h |
| Jun | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 150mm | 12 days | 13.5h |
| Jul | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 140mm | 10 days | 13h |
| Aug | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 160mm | 11 days | 12.5h |
| Sep | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 200mm | 14 days | 12h |
| Oct | 30°C | 25°C | 86°F | 77°F | 220mm | 15 days | 11.5h |
| Nov | 29°C | 24°C | 84°F | 75°F | 200mm | 14 days | 11.5h |
| Dec | 28°C | 23°C | 82°F | 73°F | 180mm | 13 days | 12h |
All Things to Do in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay's Cloud Forest at Dawn
natureWitness the Cloud Forest's otherworldly beauty at sunrise, before the crowds gather. The mist-shrouded environment feels magical in the early light, and you'll have unparalleled photo opportunities. Pre-book your tickets online to avoid queues.
Best time: Feb-Apr
Hawker Centre Food Crawl: Tiong Bahru Market
foodVenture beyond the typical tourist haunts to Tiong Bahru Market, a charming hawker centre with a retro vibe. Sample local delicacies like char kway teow and bak kut teh, soaking up the authentic atmosphere. Go early for the freshest food and fewer crowds.
Singapore Botanic Gardens' National Orchid Garden
natureExplore the breathtaking diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, a highlight of the Botanic Gardens. Look for rare and hybrid varieties, and take your time to appreciate the meticulous landscaping. Visit during the annual Orchid Show for a spectacular display.
Best time: Nov-Mar
A Night at the Singapore Night Safari
activityExperience the thrill of a nocturnal wildlife adventure at the Night Safari. Ride the tram through the park's diverse habitats, spotting animals active only after dark. Bring a light jacket as it can get cool at night.
Shopping Spree at Haji Lane
shoppingDiscover Haji Lane's eclectic mix of boutiques, vintage shops, and street art. This trendy district offers unique fashion finds and quirky souvenirs. Bargaining is common, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices.
Cultural Immersion at Little India
culturalImmerse yourself in the vibrant colours, aromas, and sounds of Little India. Wander through the bustling streets, visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and sample delicious Indian cuisine. The best time to visit is during festive seasons like Deepavali.
Best time: Oct-Nov
Singapore River Cruise at Sunset
attractionEnjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Singapore River, taking in iconic landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands from a unique perspective. Many cruises offer drinks and snacks; choose one with a commentary to learn about the city's history.
Best time: Jan-Mar
Rooftop Bar Hopping in Marina Bay
nightlifeExperience Singapore's vibrant nightlife with rooftop bar hopping in the Marina Bay area. Enjoy stunning city views while sipping cocktails at stylish bars. Make reservations, especially on weekends.
Getting Around Singapore
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)
Singapore's incredibly efficient subway system connects almost everywhere. It's clean, air-conditioned, and runs frequently, making it ideal for navigating the city quickly and easily. Lines are color-coded and clearly marked.
Buses
Singapore's extensive bus network complements the MRT, reaching areas the subway doesn't. Buses are generally reliable and affordable, offering a good way to see the city from street level.
Taxis & Ride-hailing Services (Grab)
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are readily available and convenient, especially for late-night travel or reaching less accessible areas. Grab is generally cheaper than taxis.
Cycling
Singapore has dedicated cycling paths and is generally a safe and enjoyable city to cycle in. It's a great way to explore neighborhoods and parks at your own pace.
Singapore River Cruise
A scenic and relaxing way to see the city's skyline and historical landmarks. Several companies offer cruises of varying lengths.
Walking
Many attractions in Singapore are within walking distance of each other, particularly in areas like the Marina Bay Sands area or Orchard Road. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Singapore to avoid crowds and rain?
For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons (March-April and September-October). While it's still warm and humid, you'll encounter less rain than the monsoon season (November-January) and dodge the peak tourist months (June-August). Even during the shoulder seasons, pack a light rain jacket; short showers are common.
How easy is it to get around Singapore using public transport, and are there any hidden costs?
Singapore boasts an incredibly efficient and affordable public transport system! The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses are clean, reliable, and extensive. Get an EZ-Link card for seamless travel – it's much cheaper than paying per ride. One hidden cost to watch out for is the occasional surcharge during peak hours on some bus routes.
What are some unique cultural customs I should be aware of in Singapore?
Singapore is a melting pot, but it's polite to be mindful of its multi-ethnic society. Avoid loud conversations or public displays of affection in certain areas. Also, tipping isn't expected, and chewing gum is actually banned in many places – a leftover from a past anti-litter campaign.
Besides Gardens by the Bay, what are some lesser-known attractions worth visiting?
Escape the crowds and head to Pulau Ubin, a rustic island offering a glimpse into Singapore's past. Rent a bicycle and explore the kampongs (villages), enjoy fresh seafood at a local eatery, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. It's a world away from the city's skyscrapers!
How safe is Singapore for solo female travelers?
Singapore is remarkably safe, even for solo female travelers. I've personally felt very secure walking around at night, even in less-populated areas. That said, common sense precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding overly isolated spots at night are always advisable, just as in any city.
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