Linguistic, gastronomic and cultural diversity — all rolled into a little dot on the equator.
A little dot on the world map, Singapore packs a lot into a small space: a multicultural history, colorful turn-of-the-century shophouses, stately museums, one of the first fusion cuisines in the world and underground networks of malls. Its size means it’s possible to experience it all in one fell swoop, from luxury shops and bespoke bars to nature reserves. But don’t be fooled by the sparkling image of this urban planning marvel: Eat at a hawker center where the locals speak Singlish, and you’ll see that this island nation is delightfully down-to-earth.
Explore Singapore
- Orchard
- Novena
- Sentosa
- Tanjong Pagar
- Marina Bay
Orchard
Overview
Even non-shopaholics will be drawn to the enticing window displays of Orchard Road’s shopping malls, home to both luxury and homegrown brands. Pockets of serenity mark this maze, whether in the heritage homes of Emerald Hill, an alfresco bar or the rooftop garden of multiconcept space Design Orchard. Come around Christmas to find the tree-lined roads lit up with magic.
Known For
Shopping, Nightlife, Restaurants
Novena
Overview
Look beyond the shopping malls and there are many delightful finds, including a chicken-rice shop opened in 1953 and a coffee roaster factory that’s been making strong, sweet kopi (Singaporean coffee) since 1959. Anchored by Novena Church, this neighborhood is also a gateway to hikes such as MacRitchie Reservoir.
Known For
Heritage Preservation, Street Eats, Nature Walks
Sentosa
Overview
The cable-car ride into Sentosa is only the start of the adventure. There’s much to do on this sunny island, such as zip-lining over a jungle canopy, bungee jumping in Siloso Beach and riding a water coaster in Adventure Cove Waterpark. Once you’re ready to give your heart rate a break, relax at a beach club, cocktail in hand.
Known For
Beaches, Adventure Parks, Extreme Sports
Tanjong Pagar
Overview
A mesh of new and old, Tanjong Pagar encompasses some of Singapore’s tallest skyscrapers and oldest temples, mosques and churches. Historic shophouses unfold into terrace bars and eateries. The new arts initiative Distripark pumps life into Tanjong Pagar. In the midst of everything is Chinatown, with its delicious street food and bargain markets.
Known For
Temples, Hawker Centers, Art, Nightlife
Marina Bay
Overview
Marina Bay has undergone an impressive transformation and is now the face of Singapore, with futuristic landmarks lining the bay. Take in these architectural marvels and end with a drink at one of the bars by the bay or the theater at Esplanade, which locals call “The Durian.”
Known For
Landmarks, Theater, Nightlife
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
A Culture- and Food-Filled Weekend in Singapore
Dip into the City’s Diversity
Savor the cool morning with a stroll through the Botanic Gardens before exploring two distinct neighborhoods: Tiong Bahru and Tanjong Pagar. Relax at Tiong Bahru’s bookstores and cafés, then take yourself on a walking tour of various sites of worship in Tanjong Pagar. A fine-dining dinner followed by refreshing cocktails is well deserved.
Dig into the Flavors of the City
Each district of Singapore has its own distinct vibe. Zip from one to another, sampling the best food and cultural offerings of each: Katong and Joo Chiat, Kampong Glam and the Civic District. Then have a quintessential Singapore night out in Orchard, the city’s shopping and nightlife hub.
Take a Nature Break
Discover a quiet side to the Lion City in Pulau Ubin, a luxuriant island off the coast of Singapore swathed in coastal forests. Enjoy fresh seafood in a floating restaurant and explore this island stuck in time. Make it to Seletar Aerospace Park for a moonlit farm-to-table dining experience.