Woman watching the sun set over Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

Singapore to Bangkok – How to Get There

By Stuart Bak

Considering doing a double header in Southeast Asia? You could do worse than a trip that takes in both Bangkok and Singapore, two of the greatest cities in the region, if not the world. We’re talking balmy tropical weather, exciting attractions, world-class hotels with pools and some of the finest street food you’ll ever experience. And with direct flights that connect the two in the blink of an eye, there’s really no reason not to. Read on for our whistlestop guide to Singapore and Bangkok – and the best ways to get from one to the other.

Bangkok in a Nutshell

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Bangkok enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, with a hot dry season between March and June, when sweltering daytime temperatures can top 100 degrees, with a warm rainy season from July to October and a cooler, drier period from November to February. Bear in mind that ‘cooler’ is a relative term in Bangkok and you can still expect t-shirt-wearing temperatures in the mid-70s during winter.

Bangkok’s crowded streets and noisy traffic can seem overwhelming to newbies but getting around is actually relatively easy thanks to the excellent BTS SkyTrain network which links the airport to downtown and serves most of the key districts in the city center. An extensive metro system supplements this and, for something a little different, a variety of ferries, water taxis and long-tailed boats serve the waterways. And can you even say you’ve visited Bangkok if you haven’t traveled by túk-túk? Though almost always an uncomfortable and somewhat terrifying rip-off, these iconic three-wheeled taxis have to be experienced at least once on any visit to the city.

In a place as big as Bangkok there are of course accommodation options to suit every budget. Big-name and luxury brands including Kempinski, Carlton, Marriott, Shangri-La and Anantara are well-represented here if you have a bit of cash to flash, but there are plenty of mid-range and budget options to choose from, too. Perhaps unsurprisingly, you’ll find the most competitive prices during the rainy season.

Singapore in a Nutshell

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Much like Bangkok, Singapore is hot, humid and frequently wet. Temperatures here hover in the high 80s year round, with a tropical climate that promises regular downpours during the two monsoon seasons from December to March and June to September. Rainfall here is often sudden, short and, well, spectacular, so prepare by carrying a good umbrella if you’re visiting in monsoon season, but don’t otherwise let this put you off visiting!

The transport infrastructure here in the Garden City is second to none, with a superb mass transit system (MRT), dedicated cycling paths and even cable cars and monorails. The MRT is basically your best friend when in Singapore, with speedy automated underground trains that span almost the entire island and connect you to top attractions including Marina Bay, the Singapore Flyer observation wheel, the Botanic Gardens and Orchard Road shopping district. Hop on the cable car or monorail to reach the beautiful white-sand beaches and many popular attractions on Sentosa Island, and rent a bicycle if you’re feeling fit and fancy seeing some of the abundant nature that covers around 50% of Singapore. There are hundreds of miles of dedicated (and mostly flat) cycle paths across the island, from downtown commuter lanes to major out-of-town networks including the epic Park Connector Network and Central Urban Loop. Note that failing to wear a helmet when cycling here is against the law and will likely result in a hefty fine.

Singapore accommodation is just as varied as Bangkok, with Raffles, the Ritz-Carlton and Marina Bay Sands with its absolutely enormous 57th-floor infinity pool among the best-known luxury options in town. There are stacks of budget and mid-range options, too. But bear in mind that Singapore is rather an expensive city to visit, especially compared to Bangkok! So if you’re looking for electronic gadgets, fashion brands and other luxury souvenirs to take home, it’s worth noting that you’ll get far more bang for your buck in Thailand.

Top Things to do in Singapore and Bangkok

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There are stacks of attractions worthy of your time in both Bangkok and Singapore, not least the world-class street food and hawker centers serving up zingy noodle pots, hot curries, sticky peanut satay and umami seaweed dishes. Then there are the grand Bangkok palaces and temples and sprawling night markets. Singapore offers a little more for the thrill seeker, with sky-high rides that include the Singapore Flyer observation wheel (one of the world’s highest), the Sentosa SkyHelix and a giant swing that flies high over the palm-fringed golden sands of Siloso Beach on Sentosa Island.

With Go City, you can save a packet on visiting multiple attractions in both destinations. Click here to view Singapore attractions and pass options, and click here for Bangkok.

Singapore to Bangkok – How to Get There

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Traveling between Singapore and Bangkok really couldn’t be simpler. Carriers including Thai Airways and Singapore Airlines operate several direct flights daily. Budget airlines including Scoot, Jetstar and VietJet Air also cover the route from Changi Airport to Suvarnabhumi with one-way prices starting from as little as $120. Once in Bangkok, the formidable BTS SkyTrain will get you to destinations in and around the city center at near-lightning speed.

But there are other options available should you choose to take them. Adventurers and dedicated slow travelers can turn the journey into an experience in itself by taking the train: an epic 30-hour journey across some 2,000 kilometers that starts by crossing the Johor-Singapore Causeway bridge into Malaysia then weaves north to Kuala Lumpur and up through the atmospheric Cameron Highlands before crossing the border into the mountainous rainforests of Thailand’s Khao Pu–Khao Ya National Park. From there, another thrilling 17 hours of train travel through stunning jungle and coastal landscapes will deliver you straight to the center of buzzing Bangkok.

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This train is of course not direct and requires a bit of planning and a few changes along the way. We’d recommend a stop-off in Kuala Lumpur because, heck, why not chuck another Asian super-city into your vacation? Connected to the mainland by road, the island of Penang in the north-west of Malaysia presents another fine opportunity for a stopover: beautiful beaches, stunning colonial architecture and easily some of the finest street food in Asia are just three good reasons to take a break here.

Once you’re across the border, Hat Yai is your best bet for a short stop. It’s perhaps best known as a jumping-off point for some of southern Thailand’s best-loved islands – Ko Samui, Ko Lipe, Phuket – and you’ll find budget minivans, buses and flights serving all of these and more. If you’ve got time on your hands, we can think of no better way of getting from Singapore to Bangkok than turning the journey into a mini-vacation all of its own.

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Save on admission to Singapore and Bangkok attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.

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Things to do in Singapore at Night
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Things to do in Singapore at Night

The night. The mysterious time of the day when the light fades away, and things tend to go bump on a regular basis. To some, the absence of life brings the horror of our mortality to life. They go inside, turn on the lights, and pray for daybreak. Some of them sleep too. That's pretty useful. But to the rest of us, the night is just the beginning. It's our time to shine. To those of you out there who call the darkness home, we salute you. And we're here for you. Even on vacation, our penchant for the shadows cannot be sated. We flourish when others flounder. We head out into the night to find fun, where many dare not. We sleep during the day...because we have to sleep sometime. So, what can you do if you're a night owl in Singapore? Well, read on and discover our picks of the best things to do in Singapore at night! Cue thunder, lightning, and cackling. Including: Gardens by the Bay CÉ LA VI SkyBar at Marina Bay Sands Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar Wings of Time Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour and more! See night wonders at Gardens by the Bay Let's kick things off with some greenery. Gardens of the Bay is not only Singapore's most famous green space; it's also one of the most recognizable on the planet. Featuring millions of plants across multiple climates, it's the perfect place to reconnect with nature. But when the sun goes down, you'll discover something even more amazing there - the Garden Rhapsody. And what is that? Well, it's the best light and music show you'll ever see in a park! Thanks to the park's Supertrees, you'll be treated to a light show that seems to move the trees along to the music. It's all smoke and mirrors, of course, merely a trick of the light. But it's one of the most impressive tricks of light you're ever likely to witness. So if you're looking for things to do in Singapore at night, the Garden Rhapsody is arguably the most awe-inspiring. And, with two shows every night, you'll always find time to check it out. Get rooftop vibes at CÉ LA VI SkyBar at Marina Bay Sands On Singapore's warm evenings, one of the best things to do in the city is have a refreshing drink. Want to appreciate some of the best views in the city while you sip? Do it all at a rooftop bar! Enter CÉ LA VI, Singapore's premier rooftop bar at Marina Bay Sands. Step off the elevator on the 57th floor, and you'll get VIP views along with VIP treatment. And yes, that means you'll be skipping the queue straight into the VIP bar! But we're not done yet, because you'll also get a free drink on us! Sublime. Or vibe on ground level at Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar However, if heights leave you squirming, or the heavens have opened up, why not try the drier, terra firma delights at Long Bar at Raffles? You'll still be treated to stunning surroundings, thanks to the swaying palms and majestic white arches that adorn the hotel's courtyard. You'll still get excellent service from Raffles' award-winning staff. And you'll still get a complimentary drink - of course, none other than the country's favorite 'Singapore Sling'. And hey, if you want to stay for longer, you'll get to pick from dozens of refreshing offerings on their eye-opening menu. Be dazzled at the Wings of Time For more song and light shenanigans, head to Singapore's premier hotspot, Sentusa's, for pyrotechnics with a plot! At the Wings of Time, through light, sound, song, and fireworks, you'll follow the story of Shahbaz, a bird from long ago, as he tries to find his way home. He and his friends explore human progress through the millennia, from the Pyramids to the Industrial Revolution. And all of this translates to one of the most dazzling spectacles you'll find in Singapore, one that lights up the night sky with a rainbow of colors. An unmissable experience, Wings of Time is one of the best things to do in Singapore when the sun goes down. Explore Singapore by night on a Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour If you want to see some of Singapore's most prominent landmarks, then you needn't do it during the day. Thanks to this nighttime bike tour of Marina Bay, you can still tick plenty off your itinerary. With an experienced tour guide in tow, you'll pass plenty of Singapore's blissful landmarks, from the Gardens of the Bay to the SuperTrees, and along the Kallang River. And if you want to know more about each place, your guide will be more than happy to drop some knowledge bombs on your trip. Traveling around Singapore at night almost feels like another world, so if you're a night owl, get on your bike and get peddling! See sleepy - and not so sleepy - animals on a Night Safari If you wonder what other creatures share your night owl status, then where better to meet them than on an evening safari? With a rare chance to see what happens in the animal kingdom when the sun goes down, this night safari is one of the best things to do in Singapore at night! The park features four zones; Leopard Trail, Wallaby Trail, Fishing Cat Trail, and East Lodge Trail. And each zone houses a myriad of different species that can happily co-exist. So don't worry, it's nothing like Jurassic Park. And within each zone, you'll find plenty of animal favorites like lions, leopards, Malaysian tapirs, hippos, tigers, hyenas, otters, and bears. Even the adorable - and sadly incredibly endangered - pangolins are lurking about somewhere, waiting for their moment in the camera. See if you can find them. And those are our picks of the best things to do in Singapore at night! Looking for some more fun activities and attractions to grace your vacation's sunny days? Go City's got you covered. With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can pick and choose the best of Singapore for one low price.
Dom Bewley
View looking up at skyscrapers in Singapore's CBD on a sunny day.
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Singapore in June

Hot, steamy and sticky, June sees Singapore’s peak season get into full, glorious swing. The streets teem with sightseeing vacationers, the summer shopping season peaks during the Great Singapore Sale and hotel prices rise more sharply than the midday mercury. In short, it’s an expensive but fun time to visit, assuming you can stand the heat. Here’s our expert guide to what to expect when vacationing in Singapore in June. Visiting Singapore in June Temperature: 75–88°F • Average Rainfall: 19 days/month • Average Sunshine: 8 hours/day If you remember to pack just one thing for your June break in Singapore, make sure it’s sunscreen. The sun is hot and relentless at this time of year, even when there’s cloud cover. So do yourself a favor and slap on the factor 50 to avoid the shame (and discomfort) of a ‘Singapore tan’. The heat and humidity also encourage the wearing of light, loose-fitting cotton or linen clothes and broad-brimmed hats. Heck, maybe even stuff a parasol in your backpack along with the water bottle and city map, just to be on the safe side. You’ll also want a proper umbrella: June sees the start of the southwest monsoon season, with regular afternoon downpours that increase in intensity, frequency and duration as the month progresses. Nicknamed the ‘Sumatra squalls’ these sudden, heavy downpours are usually heralded by strong gusty winds and peals of thunder. If you spot the signs in time, we’d advise ducking into the nearest café or mall until the rain passes because, frankly, no umbrella is going to keep you completely dry when torrents of accumulated water begin gushing around your feet, like a miniature version of The River Wild. Hotel prices do also increase at this time, but not crazily so. As always, we advise booking your accommodation as far in advance as possible to lock in the best deals. Things to do in Singapore in June It’s just too damn hot to do most anything other than meandering gently down a lazy river in a giant donut, right? Right! Good news! Singapore is just a hop and a skip from its tiny island sibling of Sentosa, reachable via road, monorail, pedestrian bridge or (hands down the most fun and scenic option) cable car. Once there, you have access to a veritable playground of sunny day activities including, yep, the biggest and best water park in Singapore. Hit up Adventure Cove for the aforementioned lazy river, with 14 different zones that include a verdant jungle garden, a secluded grotto, and a spectacularly trippy underwater tunnel teeming with tropical marine life. Hop over to the park’s Rainbow Reef, where another 20,000 or so watery critters are waiting to say hello to snorkeling tourists. There are fun wave pools for the kids as well as, inevitably, a handful of heart-pounding high-octane flumes for adults. Ever wanted to know what it feels like to be flushed down the loo? The Riptide Rocket and Spiral Washout rides have your name written all over them! Adventure Cove is part of Sentosa’s enormous Resorts World complex, where there are more drinking and dining options than you can shake a stick at, as well as an aquarium, the awesome Universal Studios Singapore theme park, and more. Want beaches? Sentosa has those, too. Whether a history buff, an adrenaline fiend or, you know, simply in the market for sipping cocktails beneath the shady fronds of a coconut palm, the island’s man-made trio of sandy beaches will have something for you. Stroll the elevated walkway through the treetops to Fort Siloso, soar high over Siloso Beach on a giant swing, or strap on your snorkel and flippers for a spot of marine sightseeing in the emerald-green waters that lap the shore. A free shuttle operates along the southwest coast, linking the three beaches. There are plenty more activities to keep outdoor types occupied in Singapore in June. Take to the waters in a kayak around the coastal waters and mangrove forests of Pulau Ubin, a boomerang-shaped island just off the northeast coast. Slap on the sunscreen and hit the 26 kilometers of lush cycling trails around the Northern Eastern Riverine Loop, pausing for breath in wetlands, woodlands and beach parks along the way. Commune with nature at the MacRitchie Reservoir, or meet the ferociously cute inhabitants of the sprawling Singapore Zoo. And if the June heat doesn’t have you scurrying for the nearest air-conditioned building, the afternoon downpours surely will. In fact, they’re as good an excuse as any to while away a few hours browsing the vast collection of Singaporean and Asian art in the National Gallery or indulging in a traditional tea ceremony in Singapore’s biggest and oldest traditional teahouse, a venue once visited by Queen Elizabeth II, no less. And if it’s good enough for Her Majesty... What’s on in Singapore in June? You’ll also want to spend time in the malls. Regardless of what the weather’s doing outside, June is prime time for picking up a bargain as the annual Great Singapore Sale gets into full swing. You might want to pack an empty suitcase for this one, because it’s a whopper. We’re talking hundreds of participating stores offering unheard-of discounts of up to 70% on designer goods, big-brand electronic gadgets, homeware and more. Head to the famous malls along Orchard Street for some of the most sensational bargains in town and a veritable festival atmosphere amongst feverish shopaholics. You’ll also find some fine bargains in and around the atmospheric lanes of Kampong Glam (pictured above), where even the independent boutiques and souvenir stores are getting in on the action. Easily June’s most enjoyable Singapore spectacle, the Dragon Boat Festival has its roots in a tale about ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan. It’s said that when he threw himself into a river in despair after being banished by the king, locals beat the water with oars and threw in rice dumplings to prevent fish from devouring his body. Weird, right? Anyhoo, this annual festival commemorates that legendary event by way of colorful dragon boat races along the island’s rivers, accompanied by a loud beating of drums and the sound of millions of Singaporean’s tucking into those delectable little dumplings – glutinous, sticky blobs of rice warped around any number of delectable sweet and savory fillings. Yum. Save on attractions and activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Avatar the experience with Go City Singapore Gardens by the Bay
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Things to do in Singapore in Winter

Bright lights, big city. Singapore conjures images of just this, along with lush landscapes, bustling street markets and world-class shopping. And she won’t disappoint no matter what the season. From breathtaking gardens and sublime beaches to globally-inspired cuisine, visiting Singapore in the winter is the perfect time to experience all that the city has to offer and more without the crazy crowds of summer. Why visit Singapore in the winter? Winter in Singapore runs from December to February and while temperatures and humidity levels remain fairly high, the rains have arrived, and you can expect rainfall and thunderstorms daily. Temperatures range between 28°C and 32°C and humidity levels are high. But don’t be put off by the rain – Singapore is packed with an incredible array of attraction and activities that can be enjoyed whatever the weather. We’ve put together list of the best things to see and do in Singapore in winter. Grab a reliable umbrella and get exploring! 1. Hit the shops We all love a bit of retail therapy and Singapore certainly delivers. Singapore’s shopping scene is world-renowned, and some people visit the vibrant city just to shop. The tiny island-state is home to an impressive range of shopping malls, high-end boutiques, brand-name stores, and hidden gems. You can find everything from appliances to apparel and the choice of places to get them is mind-boggling. The best place to start your shopping spree is the epochal Orchard Road. Mega malls line the two-mile stretch of street and whatever you are looking for from budget clothing to state-of-the-art electronics, you’ll find it here. For something extraordinary, head to the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, where you do some window shopping while taking a relaxing gondola ride around the mall. You’ll also find some outstanding restaurants here when you start getting ‘hangry.’ 2. Explore Singapore’s superb museums Escape the rain and explore some of the city’s excellent museums. Singapore is home to several outstanding cultural institutions that cover a wide variety of interests, and you are bound to find a few that will pique your curiosity. Head the Asian Civilisations Museum to learn all about Asia’s fascinating cross-cultural connections. Wander through the galleries and marvel at ancient artifacts found on the Tang Shipwreck of 830 AD. Discover the grand religions of India from Buddhism to Jainism and admire some beautiful Islamic Art. Another incredible museum to explore is the Indian Heritage Centre. Based in the heart of Little India Heritage District, this cultural centrer and museum focuses on the rich culture, heritage and history of Indian Singaporeans. Don’t forget to use your pass to get free access to these two amazing museums. After your museum visit, why not take a stroll around the Little India Heritage District? One of Singapore’s cultural enclaves, Little India is a sensory overload with a cacophony of sounds, vibrant colors, and eye-watering aromas. It’s an experience not to be missed! 4. Soak up some spectacular views Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the lofty heights of the SkyPark Observation Deck. Occupying the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands, the SkyPark Observation Deck is the perfect place to take in magnificent panoramic views of Gardens by the Bay and the impressive Supertree Grove. Try to spot Singapore's famous landmarks like the Merlion and the durian-shaped domes of the Esplanade. Enjoy a guided tour of the deck and learn about Singapore's history. Escape the heat with a refreshing dip in the hotel’s famous infinity pool that seemingly floats over the city and sip a cool drink from the the CÉ LA VI SkyBar. Remember to use your pass to enjoy a free drink from the bar. Top tip: Head up to the SkyPark Observation Deck in the evening to get the best seats in the house for Spectra, a nightly outdoor light and water show with fountain jets and dazzling laser beams. 4. Experience the Neon Lights Festival One of the best experiences in Singapore in winter is the Neon Lights Festival. This unique two-day music festival runs over a few days in November and is a highlight on the city’s event calendar. The festival features over 150 music and art performances from both local and international artists. You’ll also find plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, a silent disco and loads of delicious gourmet food. If you’re planning a trip to Singapore in winter, you should plan around this epic event. 5. Wander around Singapore’s beautiful gardens Despite the rain, you should definitely spend a few hours exploring some of Singapore’s beautiful gardens. Wait for a break in the clouds and head to the Gardens on the Bay in Marina Bay. This is one of the city’s most spectacular green spaces and you’ll be amazed at the misty biodomes, the towering high-tech trees, and the comical sculptures. Get free access to the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome by using your pass. Another enchanting oasis to meander around is the 82-hectare Singapore Botanic Gardens where you can admire over 550 species planted in beautifully laid out themed gardens. Stop in at the National Orchid Garden and the botanical art gallery in the Gallop Extension while you are there. Top tip: Visit in the late afternoon and head up to the observatory at the top of the tallest Supertree for some breathtaking panoramic views over Marina Bay. Stay until the evening Garden Rhapsody show where the Supertrees burst into light. It is a sight to behold! 6. Enjoy a riverboat cruise Take to the water to see Singapore from a different perspective. Use your pass to hop on a traditional bumboat for a Singapore River Cruise and take in the awe-inspiring city skyline. Bumboats are traditional painted boats that are used to transport both locals and tourists around the bay. They are covered so you don’t have to worry about the rain and their brightly painted faces will protect you from oncoming traffic (or so it is believed). Marvel at the beauty of the steaming city as you glide past famous sights like Raffles, the Esplanade, and the Old Parliament House. 7. Eat your way around the world When it comes to food, this tiny island-state packs a punch with everything from legendary hawker stall fare to Michelin-star meals. There are some incredible restaurants and trendy envelope-pushing dining concepts in the city, but the best place to get a taste of Singapore is on the street at the legendary hawker centers. From charcoal-grilled kaya toast for breakfast to sublime Indonesian ayam penyet (smashed fried chicken) for dinner, you’ll be able to eat your way around the world and back again in a single day. Top tip: Cash is king on the street, so carry cash in small notes when street dining. 8. Celebrate Chinese New Year This is another fantastic festival that happens in winter that shouldn’t be missed! Also known as the Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year occurs at the end of January is the most important date on the Chinese calendar. It’s a time for celebration, and Singapore does this with aplomb. Head to Chinatown and witness the official opening ceremony of the holiday called the Street Light-Up. Beautifully designed lanterns and stunning floral displays line the streets and vibrant processions wind their way through the neighborhood. Lively lion dances are held, and seasonal markets bustle with trade – the mood is nothing less than electric. And then there is the food! Traditional Asian feasts are part and parcel of the festival and hawkers’ stalls heave with piles of delicious delicacies. Make sure you go hungry! 9. Hit the town When the sun goes down, Singapore changes from flats to heels and really puts on a show. Trendy restaurants, buzzing bars, and glitzy nightclubs all vye for attention, while chic rooftop bars draw the cool crowd. Kick off the evening with a complimentary Singapore Sling at the famous Raffles Long Bar – present your pass for your free drink. Then head out into the night and experience Singapore’s electric nightlife.
Alex Birungi

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