Explore Singapore's best locations for a perfect city escape

The best way to recharge your batteries is to explore a city on a short break. Singapore is ideal for a quick getaway as there's a lot of great things to do and the city is easy to navigate. It is a city of contrasts – orderly yet buzzing, serene yet cosmopolitan, Singapore truly is a melting pot of culture and vibrant communities.

Singapore is truly one of the world's most exciting cities, brimming with multiculture diversity, trendy boutiques and iconic landmarks. We’ve condensed the best neighbourhoods Singapore has to offer into this short guide. Find out what do to and where to stay on your next city break to Singapore. 

Explore these culturally rich Peranakan Chinese neighbourhoods in East Singapore that were once seaside retreats for the wealthy. Enjoy the areas eclectic stores, tiny cafes, and pastel coloured heritage shophouses. Shop for traditional Peranakan heirlooms, jewellery, and beaded clothing at Katong Antique House. For a taste of traditional Laksa (spicy noodle soup) visit 328 Katong Laksa. 

Little India possesses a deep rooted heritage in the heart of Singapore. With restaurants serving traditional South Indian curries, buildings marked with street art, and centuries-old Hindu temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. This culturally rich district is where you will find the perfect biryani, silk sarees and henna tattoos.

Singapore's Muslim quarter dates back to the 1800s. Today the area is a blend of religions and history, tradition, and innovation. From the interesting street art along Haji Lane to the stately Masjid Sultan Mosque with its gold dome roof. Explore the districts boutiques, coffee shops, bars, and cafes. We recommend tucking into nasa padang at Hjh Maimunah, a Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery.

Take in Clarke Quays riverside berth at night. Historically a trade centre filled with warehouses, today, it’s an open-air precinct filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs. Find a seat outdoors at Fu Lin Bar & Kitchen and watch kids running through the central fountain. Most of Clarke Quay’s restaurants are open in the day, but the atmosphere is more festive at night. The Crazy Elephant, a Singapore rock stalwart hosts live cover bands. Enjoy a hot pot at Hai Di Lao, go dancing at Zouk, or enjoy drinks at Chupitos.

From Clarke Quay it’s an easy three-kilometre boat trip to Marina Bay Sands. The Marina Bay Sands with its landmark three-towers is a must-see destination, especially for the stunning views from the rooftop. But there are plenty of places to eat and drink on the waterfront. Delight in Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beers over-the-top milkshakes or the best local food at Satay by the Bay.

This is major tourist attraction in Singapore, and justifiably so. This 101-hectare fantasy garden presents the plant kingdom in an astounding new way. From its ever-changing displays in Flower Dome which include thousands of tulips, orchids and blossoms to the tallest indoor waterfall and a lush mountain covered with ferns, mosses, and algae in The Cloud Forest. Enjoy dazzling Marina Bay views from the OCBC Skyway which is connected between two SuperTrees. 

Chinatown is within walking distance from Clarke Quay. As you walk up South Bridge Road, you’ll notice how the street becomes more colourful the closer you get to Chinatown. Chinatown the world over is a bustling, chaotic experience and Singapore is no different although the neighbourhood is undeniably super cool. Makeshift street food stalls sit shoulder to shoulder with temples, trendy bars, tea houses, and contemporary art galleries. The little WOAW Gallery on Ann Siang Hill changes exhibitions often, always with something new to see. The Née Vintage Store on South Bridge Road stocks pre-loved Louis Vuitton, Hermes and Chanel accessories and bags. Also on South Bridge Road is The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. This famous temple houses a museum, library, a serene garden, and the sacred Buddha Relics Chamber. Look out for the vegetarian food court. It serves delicious and very affordable mixed rice plates. Shop for unique Peranakan tiles, eat delicious Cantonese street food, and enjoy beers and martini’s at the tiny bars found on every street corner and rooftop. 

Shopping heaven! Orchard Road is an elegant, tree-lined boulevard flanked by distinctive shopping malls, luxury brands and fashion-forward boutiques. ION Orchard, Orchard Central, and 313@Somerset are among the best shopping malls to visit during The Great Singapore Sales which start in June and end in August every year. 

Escape the buzz of the city and head to Singapore’s Southern Ridges for a serene nature walk comprising ten kilometres of trails in the southwest of the island. You can enjoy panoramic views from the bridges and walkways of the three parks and nature reserve that make up the Southern Ridges –Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill, and Kent Ridge. You can also soak up nature at the Labrador Nature Reserve.

Singapore enjoys a warm, temperate climate year-round and the best time to visit is between October and May. Foodies will be spoilt for choice during The Singapore Food Festival which takes place annually during the month of October. Chinese New Year is one of the Singapore’s most impressive festivals. Taking place in January or February, dependant on the first full moon of the year. Another significant event is the Singapore Art Festival which takes place annually during May. The city comes alive with all forms of art. From musical ensembles, theatre acts, international film screenings, painting competitions, to art installations.

Novotel Singapore on Kitchener offers urban tranquillity within the heritage hub of Little India,  a five-minute walk from the Farrer Park MRT Station. The design is a harmonious blend of intuitive design, flexible spaces, and contemporary aesthetics and is perfect for families, friends, and business travellers. The expansive seventy-six square metre Premier Suites are ideal for a long stay in Singapore. Featuring a separate living space and a kitchenette for easy dining. Wellness and rejuvenation stand at the core of Novotel Singapore on Kitchener's offerings, with a tranquil swimming pool and a state-of-the-art gym.

Discover luxury Cantonese fine dining at Fu Lin Men Grandeur and global fair at CALI, the hotels all-day dining restaurant. Serving up a range of Native American and Mexican heritage dishes, Singaporean favourites, Asian specialties, and European classics. 

Novotel Singapore on Stevens, near the centre of Orchard Road, features modern comforts and 254 stylishly designed guest rooms. Facilities include a tennis court, 24-hour gym, pool and meeting rooms. The lobby L’Apéritif restaurant is an informal spot for afternoon tea, cocktails, and delicious tapas. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views, the rooftop infinity pool offers a tranquil oasis to unwind. Enjoy food and drinks from the adjacent Food Exchange restaurant. The light and airy restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The restaurant’s main drawcard is the buffet with several live food stations featuring a melange of Asian and European dishes. It’s a local and global culinary exchange all under one roof.

 Singapore has been ranked the happiest country in Asia in 2024 and the world’s safest city for travellers. The beauty of a Singaporean city break is that you don’t need to follow a fixed itinerary as the city naturally goes with the flow. Whether you want to spend your time visiting galleries and ancient temples, eating local cuisine and shopping, or simply strolling the streets and people watching. Singapore offers memorable city escapes that’s hard to beat.