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Things to do in Singapore in Winter

By Alex Birungi

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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best rooftop bars in Singapore
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Best Rooftop Bars in Singapore

If there's one thing that's better than sipping on a refreshing beverage and feeling fruity on a warm summer's day, it's doing all of that on a rooftop. Rooftop bars have only grown in popularity in recent years, with the lovely spots popping up on top of skyscrapers, car parks, and even office buildings. We love them, and we know you love them. It's why you're here, after all. So, what about Singapore? Does it have rooftop bars? Yes! Yes, it does. So, if you're heading there this year and want some recommendations, you're in for a treat. We've chosen the best rooftop bars in Singapore and put them in this handy list. Please sit back and discover our picks for the best rooftop bars in Singapore...right...about...now. Including: 1-Arden Levant Sky Lido Atico Lounge SKAI Bar and more! SKAI Bar SKAI Bar is many things, but one of those is not short. In fact, at 70 stories high, it's the tallest rooftop bar on this list. Does that make it one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore? We'll let you be the judge. Overlooking Marina Bay, fun-seekers will be treated to a host of wines from all over the planet. Really, wine is their thing, so if you don't know your Pinot Noir from your Pinot Grigio, or a Rapace sounds like something a DJ would use, then perhaps SKAI Bar isn't the rooftop bar for you. Sky Lido If you're looking for space to stretch out, then Sky Lido has 6,000 glorious square feet of the stuff. And, with all that space, you'll need something to fill it up. How about some food prepared by gourmet chef Gabriel Cher? Yep, that'll do. With everything from pasta to pizza on offer, you can make an evening of it. Plus, we still haven't mentioned the drinks. Divine, take our word for it. With a list longer than your arm, highlights include the signature cocktails prepped by the specialists. Go see, go eat, and go drink. Then, sit back and lounge the evening away. Atico Lounge Sitting tall at 56 stories high, the Atico Lounge gives you fantastic views of the island while you get to sip on some fantastic drinks. To us, that looks like every rooftop bar box ticked. Its drinks offering come from all over the world. Expect Italian Negronis, Japanese Highballs, and Caribbean Purple Rains all to share the stage. And, with pumping music to keep the night going, you can drink long into the early hours. Just make sure to drink some water before you bed down, or you'll suffer an absolutely epic hangover. 1-Arden If you like a little class with your rooftop endeavors, then 1-Arden is the spot for you. Sitting pretty at 51 stories, you'll also get a fantastic view from its massive windows. Truly a summer spot if ever there was one. You'll also be treated to a delightful drinks menu, featuring the best Australian wines money can buy, as well as cocktails made with ingredients from the adjacent garden. Sustainable and swanky? It doesn't get much better than that. Level 33 If you're a fan of the amber nectar, then Level 33 might be more on your...level. This microbrewery/rooftop bar not only provides delightful views of the Marina Bay and Financial Centre, but it also lets you sip on some beautiful craft beers. Many of them are brewed on-site, so you'll likely be trying some beers that are new to you. But variety is the spice of life, so give thanks to the beer gods, drink the amber goodness, and give praise to them. Yay. Kinki Restaurant & Bar If you're in the market for some locally-inspired cocktails, then look no further than Kinki Restaurant and Bar. Exiting the elevator, you'll discover a chic rooftop bar full of booze-mixing opportunities. The Gin Assam Boi is one such local culprit, made with gin, rum, and a dash of sweet pineapple juice. Or, take a punt on the Aurora Polaris, which combines the botanical delights of local gin with a dash of lime and a helping of grapefruit juice. Refreshed? You will be. Inebriated? Most likely. Mr. Stork Rooftop Bar 39 floors above the ground, you'll find the comically-named Mr. Stork Rooftop Bar. But don't let the name fool you, because babies aren't even allowed up here. Nothing but adults and great cocktails as far as the eye can see. Thanks to a combination of great views of the skyline and a multitude of fruity cocktails to keep you cool, some may say Mr. Stork's is one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore. Will you agree? Only time, and a timely visit, will tell. Levant If you're hankering for a snack and love the rich, healthy morsels found in the Mediterranean, then Levant is arguably one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore. Alongside some Mediterranean-themed cocktails like the Greek Forest, you'll also have a menu of Mezzo-style bites to help see off those hunger pangs. And, with views of the Tanjong Pagar neighborhood to keep you company, you'll be all set for an evening of deserved R & R. And those were our picks for the best rooftop bars in Singapore? Want to make the most of your vacation? Why not check out the amazing repertoire of destinations that Go City has on offer? With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can work Singapore's best attractions around your vacation itinerary! So, what are you waiting for?
Dom Bewley
Singapore skyline showing the Marina Bay Sands Resort
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Singapore in November

It’s hot, it’s humid and it’s often wet. But in reality, Singapore’s climate is pretty uniform year-round, with very few weather extremes to worry about. November heralds the start of monsoon season so yeah, you can expect a few short, sharp downpours in the afternoons and evenings, but nothing a small umbrella or pocket poncho can’t handle. You’ll find it pleasantly warm the rest of the time, so be sure to pack light cottons and linens, floppy sun hats and sunscreen as you would for any vacation in the tropics. Oh, and don’t forget the mozzie repellent – those bitey little blighters just adore that sweet Singapore humidity! As ever, booking well in advance is the best way to lock in cheap prices on flights and accommodation but, as this is low season, you can also expect late deals as hotels push to fill rooms. Either way, November is one of the best times of year to grab a Singapore bargain. Things to do in Singapore in November Mandai Wildlife Reserve Nature lovers need look no further than Singapore’s premier wildlife reserve. This vast expanse of jungle, rainforest and wetland north of the city boasts not one but four distinct parks. Bird Paradise, the newest addition at time of writing, is a colorful cornucopia of pretty plumage and sweet birdsong; an enormous aviary where you can get up close to pink flamingos, turacos, toucans, rockhopper penguins and all manner of other feathery critters. The reserve is also where you’ll find Singapore Zoo and the famous Night Safari, as well as the awesome River Wonders attraction, where water-loving beasts of the world – manatees, piranhas, Indian gharials, giant pandas and more – live their best lives. Sentosa Island A day trip to Sentosa is a quintessential part of any Singapore experience. Heck, you could spend at least a week on this fun-packed south coast resort island, and still not have enough time to see it all. Start with the quite excellent cable car ride from the main island, easily Singapore’s most scenic ride, before diving into everything else this tropical playground has to offer. We’re talking the epic Universal Studios Singapore, SEA Aquarium and Adventure Cove water park. And that’s just for starters! Hit up Siloso Beach for powdery white sands, balmy waters and, um, forest luge tracks, or take the scenic route to Fort Siloso – an elevated Skywalk that takes you high above the forest canopy. Foodie Fantasia All that activity making you hungry? Singapore’s hundreds of world-class food courts and hawker centers have your back. Dodge the afternoon downpour to while away a few hours in old-school favorite Lau Pa Sat, a Singapore landmark with street food so exquisite it might just prove life-changing. The sheer variety of international cuisines here – Vietnamese, Filipino, Malaysian, Korean, Indonesian – is mind-boggling, so you’re sure to find something to tickle those tastebuds. Our advice? Look for the stalls with the longest lines and gorge on small plates from as many vendors as you can manage. Think umami chili crab (the Singaporean national dish), delicious sambal-laced laksa, red-hot rendang curry and – for the truly adventurous (and unsqueamish) only – fried pigs’ fallopian tubes in kung pao sauce. Yum! Get Some Culture Singapore’s galleries and museums are second to none. Start by immersing yourself in thousands of years of Asian history at the epic National Museum of Singapore where trying to decipher the enigmatic Singapore Stone is just one of the many fun activities available. The National Gallery houses more than 9,000 contemporary and modern artworks from Singapore and southeast Asia, with highlights including Georgette Chen’s evocative series of family portraits and Singaporean Choo Keng Kwang’s woodcuts and oil paintings. Hit up the futuristic ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands for immersive exhibitions and a gallery that’s packed with eye-popping VR artworks. The museum’s in-house cinema screens a curated selection of classic movies, documentaries and arthouse films for Singapore’s hip crowd. What’s on in Singapore in November? Visitors to Singapore in November – especially late November – will find a city already gearing up for the festive season. Never anything short of spectacular, the gorgeous Gardens by the Bay ramp things up to the all-singing all-dancing max with their awesome Christmas Wonderland event. Get your snow fix at Blizzard Time, visit Frosty’s Fairground for all manner of prize-winning opportunities, and enjoy a romantic stroll beneath the 75,000 festive bulbs that illuminate the aptly named Walk of Lights. And if it’s lights you want, you’ll find some of the very best along Orchard Road, which also just happens to be home to the finest (and largest) malls in town. This popular annual attraction, titled ‘Christmas on A Great Street’, more than lives up to its boastful name, with oodles of street food stalls, pop-up gift stores and more carnival rides and Christmas villages than you can shake a candy cane at. November is also when the Singapore International Film Festival rolls into town, giving fans of (mostly) Asian and world cinema a rare chance to catch exclusive screenings, as well as attending industry workshops, discussions, director Q&A\s, awards ceremonies and more at glittering venues across the city. It’s always worth going along, even if just for the celeb-spotting opportunities alone! 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
Singapore Light Show
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Free Things to do in Singapore

Singapore is an expensive, luxurious city, but there’s still plenty to see and do on a budget. You don’t need to break the bank to have an unforgettable Garden City experience. So, put your purse away and check out our favorite free things to do in Singapore! Wander through Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay offers a magical experience with its lush greenery and mesmerizing nature. This multi-award winning construction is one of the most visited gardens in the world, housing the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and the largest greenhouse. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are both cooled by a climate-controlled mountain mist system, meaning it’s a breath of fresh air during the hot, sticky Singapore days. There are paid sections, however it’s free to explore a good portion of the gardens. Plus, if you time it right, you can treat yourself to a free light show in the evenings too. Snap a selfie with the Merlion statue The Merlion statue is Singapore’s most iconic landmark and a go-to attraction for both locals and foreigners. A mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, it’s by the waterfront and a great place for a selfie. Its fishlike body represents Singapore’s origins as a fishing village, while its head represents the city’s original name, Singapura (lion city) in Sanskrit. It’s a popular spot for photographers, so try to get there early when it’s nice and quiet. You can find the statue in Merlion Park, just behind the Fullerton Hotel. Take the MRT subway to Raffles Place station or hop on bus 131. Go green at the Singapore Botanic Gardens Singapore’s Botanic Gardens is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Singapore and for good reason - the Gardens are blissfully serene, and many people visit the Gardens for their daily stroll through nature. The Gardens house hundreds of species of native and exotic plants, as well as a beautiful orchid garden, and serve as a home for animals such as snakes and turtles. Established in 1859 as a tranquil place to rest and recuperate for workers in the bustling port city, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens are accessible for all in the heart of the city. With a restaurant, cafe, as well as a playground for children, it’s the ideal spot for families, couples or just solo wanderers looking for some quiet time. Watch the light show at Marina Bay One thing you won’t be short of in Singapore is a light show. There are shows in the various gardens, Sentosa island, Faber Peak, and more. Our advice: time your evening stroll so you’re around The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands just before sunset, and keep your camera handy. It only lasts 15 minutes, but the Spectra light show will stay with you forever. The waterworks combined with the lighting, combined with the backdrop of the Singapore skyline - perfection! Another free light show well worth visiting is Garden Rhapsody at Gardens by the Bay. Lay beneath the Supertree Grove and soak in the heady mix of dazzling lights and orchestral soundtrack. Believe us, you’ll wish it lasted longer than just 15 minutes. Have a day at the beach Whatever your dream beach vacation - relaxing under a palm tree, cocktails and live music, or adrenaline-fueled watersports, you’ll find them all in Singapore. Sentosa houses several of the most popular beaches - Silosa, Tanjong, and Palawan being the most famous. They may be artificial, having the sand imported from Malaysia and Indonesia, but that doesn’t make them any less dreamy. If you want to head a little further out, away from the immediate crowds, consider a trip to St. John’s Island. You can’t stay on the island, so take a ferry for a day trip from Singapore’s main Marina South Pier. With lagoons, caves, and mangroves to explore, be sure to pack a waterproof camera. Stargaze at Seletar Rocket Tower Dreaming of strange new worlds? Head to Seletar Rocket Tower for a spot of stargazing. Seletar Rocket Tower is a rocket launch pad in Singapore. Built in 1961 by the Royal Air Force, the tower is now used as an observation tower for stargazers. Built on a hill, the tower is 120 meters tall (about 400 feet) and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas. It’s accessible by stairs or by lift; however, the stairs are steep. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, try the spiral staircase that leads to the topmost platform of the tower. On clear nights, you can see the moon, stars, and even constellations. The best time to go is during the summer months, from April to September, when the sky is clearest but, even if it’s cloudy, you’ll still get a spectacular view of the city. Take a hike For the more active travelers out there, Singapore is full of various hikes and walking routes, catering to a gentle stroll with kids up to a 39km, 12-hour coast-to-coast hike. While the 39km route might be a little extreme, the shorter routes are a nature lover’s dream. The MacRitchie Reservoir has the perfect mix of shorter, more accessible boardwalk trails and longer, more advanced hikes. Whichever you choose, you’ll be wandering through the rainforest with the chance to spot monkeys, lemurs, and rare exotic birds. There’s even a treetop walk across a suspension bridge 25 meters high. It’s free to enter, opening daily from 6AM until 7PM. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel

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