Things to Know Before Going to Singapore

Planning a trip to Singapore? If it’s your very first visit or you’re just brushing up before you go, there are a few things that can make your experience smoother, easier, and even more enjoyable.

Singapore is one of those cities that surprises people – in the best way. It’s clean, modern, packed with flavour, and incredibly easy to get around.

But it also has its quirks, unspoken rules, and hidden gems that first-timers might miss.

After multiple visits (and a lot of kaya toast), I’ve put together this simple guide to the things I wish I knew before my first trip.

From transport tips to local customs, here’s everything you need to know to hit the ground running in the Lion City.

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Singapore is hot and humid year-round

Thanks to Singapore’s location almost right on the Equator, the temperature doesn’t change much.

Rain is common, but it is usually only for a short time and rarely all day, so if you see it forecast, it likely won’t interrupt your plans too much.

Year-round you can expect temperatures around 30°C (86°F) with high humidity, so pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are musts! I also like to always pack an umbrella (for rain and shade) and a little handheld fan.

The MRT is clean, fast, and easy to use

The train system connects almost every part of the city. It’s safe, air-conditioned, and easy to navigate, even for first-timers. Grab a Tourist Pass or EZ-Link card for unlimited travel.

Don’t disregard buses either. They can sometimes be quicker depending on the route, and you can use the same transport card as the MRT.

“Chope”-ing is real at hawker centres

Locals often reserve seats by placing tissues or umbrellas on tables – this is called “chope”-ing. Don’t move someone’s chope, even if no one is sitting there!

Hawker centres are a must

This is where the best food in Singapore lives. Meals are cheap, safe, and incredibly tasty. Michelin-star meals for under $10? Yes, please.

Lau Pa Sat is a good starting point for first-timers. Maxwell Food Centre is also very popular – but there are more than 120 hawker centres in Singapore now, so try out some of the others too.

Chewing gum is restricted

You won’t find gum for sale, and bringing it in can cause issues. Littering and eating on public transport can also lead to fines – Singapore is very serious about cleanliness.

We fell fowl of this one on our first trip – buying drinks as we were getting on the MRT. We were sitting on the platform waiting to board when an employee came over to us and gently reminded us it wasn’t allowed.

You can drink the tap water safely

The tap water is clean and safe to drink, so you don’t need to buy bottled water. Carry a reusable bottle to fill up as you go.

You can download and use the Mymizu app to find places to fill up your water bottle (this works worldwide)

Tipping isn’t expected

Restaurants and hotels usually include service charges in the bill. There’s no need to tip, though rounding up change is always appreciated.

As a typical Australian, getting a tip out of me is like getting blood out of a stone, and in Singapore I do only tip when the person has gone above and beyond – and this seems to be the norm.

Dress modestly for temples and mosques

If you’re planning to visit religious sites, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Some places provide shawls or wraps at the entrance.

I’ve seen options at the entrances of Sultan Mosque and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – but even at others less visited, be mindful that you are doing the right thing.

Use Grab instead of Uber

Uber doesn’t operate in Singapore, but Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app. It’s reliable, safe, and often cheaper than regular taxis.

For an approximate on costs, it’s about $25-30SGD from the airport to Chinatown.

Shops and eateries stay open late

Many malls and food courts stay open until 9 or 10 PM, and some hawker stalls even later. You won’t go hungry, even after a full day of sightseeing.

You won’t find the malls open early though, the big places don’t tend to open until 10 or even 11. Some hawker stalls though, will be open from 5 or 6am.

You’ll walk more than you think

Even though the MRT is convenient, you’ll still do a lot of walking. Pack comfortable shoes and expect a few 10,000+ step days.

My last trip, I averaged about 16000 steps a day – but I do like to walk.

Wi-Fi is decent, but data helps

Free Wi-Fi is available in malls and on public transport, but it’s not always reliable. Buying a local SIM or eSIM makes navigation and food hunting much easier.

For my last two trips I picked up an eSim in advance from Airalo and it worked seamlessly the whole time. I will be doing it again on my next trip.

Singapore is culturally diverse

You’ll experience a unique mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. English is widely spoken, but you’ll also hear local “Singlish” – a fun blend of languages.

In fact, English is one of four official languages, so all signage and information will be in English – and often the other three languages too.

Stay central, or try a local neighbourhood

Central areas like Marina Bay, Chinatown, Clarke Quay or Orchard Road are great for first-timers, but neighbourhoods like Katong, Tiong Bahru, or Kampong Glam offer a more local vibe.

My personal favourite is Chinatown, but it’s so easy to get around that if you are in the central area and near a MRT station, you will be fine.

I do not recommend Sentosa Island unless you are planning to spend multiple days there – it’s too far out of the main are for me.

Book popular attractions ahead of time

Things like rooftop bars, restaurants, and museum exhibits can book out – especially on weekends. Booking in advance saves time and stress.

I like to book attractions using Klook or Get Your Guide. They both offer good prices, which I double-down on with Shopback on bonus days, saving even more.

Healthcare is excellent if you need it

Singapore has world-class hospitals and clinics, many with English-speaking staff. You’ll be in good hands for anything from minor issues to emergencies.

I can speak to this one personally, having spent a few hours in the Raffles Hospital emergency department. I was pleasantly surprised with both the service and the cost.

Learning a little about the Singapore health care system before you go will ease your mind if you do need to take advantage of it.

Singapore can be as expensive – or affordable – as you make it

Yes, you can splurge on rooftop cocktails and designer shopping, but you can also eat like a queen for under $10 at hawker centres and stay in budget-friendly hotels.

It’s all about the balance – save in one place so you can splash out in another.

You won’t see everything in 2–3 days, and that’s okay

Singapore may be small, but it’s packed with things to do. Don’t try to cram it all in.

Pick a few key experiences, leave some breathing room, and know that it’s a place worth coming back to again (and again).

Trust me – I’ve been ten times and I still have a list! I recommend 5 days as a good starting point, but even more is better if you can manage it.

You might not need a visa, but you will need to fill in the SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

Most travellers don’t need a visa for short visits (please do your own research based on your passport), but everyone needs to complete the SGAC online before arriving.

It’s quick and easy to do within three days of your trip – just don’t forget, or you’ll be scrambling at the airport.

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Singapore is one of those rare cities that’s easy to love and even easier to explore – especially when you know a few insider tips before you go.

Whether it’s understanding how to chope a table, knowing what to wear to a temple, or realising you will want to come back again, these little things can make a big difference to your first experience.

The best part? You don’t need to see everything all at once. Singapore isn’t going anywhere, and it’s the kind of place that gets better each time you visit.

Now that you know what to expect, you can relax and enjoy the food, the culture, and the surprise moments that make Singapore so special.