Best of Singapore: Hotels, Dining & Hidden Gems
Insider luxury city guide to Singapore — hand-selected hotels, fine dining, cultural highlights, and local secrets for discerning travelers.
Discover a futuristic garden city where diverse cultures converge amidst stunning architecture and exquisite dining.
Singapore, a dazzling island nation, epitomizes modern luxury and innovation. This futuristic garden city seamlessly blends lush tropical greenery with soaring skyscrapers, offering an array of world-class attractions from award-winning dining to architectural marvels. Discover a harmonious melting pot of cultures, promising an experience of refined elegance and endless exploration.
- Best time to visit: February-April (least rainfall, pleasant temperatures) or July-August (shopping festivals, vibrant events).
- Ideal duration: 4–5 nights
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (S$)
- Language tip: Learn 'lah' – a versatile Singlish particle used at the end of sentences for emphasis. E.g., 'Confirm can, lah!'
- Getting around: Singapore's public transport system (MRT and buses) is one of the best in the world – clean, efficient, and extensive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Grab) are also readily available and reasonably priced. The city is very walkable in designated areas.
Where to base yourself
Marina Bay
Iconic, Modern, Luxury, Architectural. Best for Iconic landmarks, stunning views, high-end experiences. Top pick: Witnessing the Spectra light and water show at Marina Bay Sands.
Civic District & Colonial Core
Historic, Elegant, Cultural, Green. Best for History buffs, art and culture, grand colonial architecture. Top pick: Exploring the National Gallery Singapore and its art collections.
Tiong Bahru
Charming, Hip, Retro, Culinary. Best for Quaint cafes, independent bookstores, authentic hawker food. Top pick: Browsing design shops and enjoying coffee at a chic cafe.
Kampong Glam
Bohemian, Malay Heritage, Vibrant, Unique. Best for Boutique shopping, Middle Eastern food, street art. Top pick: Admiring the majestic Sultan Mosque and exploring Haji Lane.
Where to eat
- Odette — Modern French
- Burnt Ends — Modern Australian BBQ
- Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre — Local Singaporean
- Candlenut — Modern Peranakan
Insider tips
- Experience the 'Supertree Grove' at Gardens by the Bay during the evening light show for a truly magical spectacle.
- Explore the Tiong Bahru neighborhood for its charming pre-war architecture, independent bookstores, and fantastic cafes.
- Take a Bumbo boat ride along the Singapore River for a different perspective of the city's iconic landmarks.
- Visit a hawker center (like Newton Food Centre or Maxwell Food Centre) for affordable and authentic local cuisine.
- Indulge in a classic Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, a timeless experience.
Suggested itinerary
Published by Peters Signature Travel.