Neighborhood guide to Singapore

A multi-diverse population, exceptional urban planning, and an outstanding quality of life are some of the things that set Singapore apart. Courtesy of numerous urban parks and recreational spaces, the charming city-state is also one of the greenest in the world.

Singapore also features a charming confluence of Indian, Chinese, and Malay cultures, making it one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Southeast Asia. The country boasts Buddhist temples and Ramadan bazaars, Indian restaurants, and biryani spots, along with many other ethnic establishments, making this cultural diversity their distinct identity. With a diverse culture also comes a range of festivals that bring the populace together and promote the interchange of regional cuisines and recipes. You can visit the country with your loved ones or even have a solo trip, with plenty of things to do alone.

Source: Addie on Pexels

So, find out the best time to visit Singapore, learn about tourist etiquettes, and grab the opportunity to witness distinct customs and sample different cuisines. To know the country better, keep reading this elaborate guide on some of its best neighborhoods.

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Geylang

Source: William Cho on Flickr

With plenty of heritage buildings and eye-catching historic architecture, Geylang is a neighborhood that retains an old-world charm despite the modernization of the country.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Sri Sivan Temple

Even though this temple is over 170 years old, it was only moved to its present site in 1993. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds daily prayers and celebrates major Hindu festivals, including Maha Shivaratri.

• Geylang East Public Library

Spanning three floors and boasting an exhibition hall and a 200-seat auditorium, Geylang East Public Library has something for people of all age groups. It’s also in a peaceful and green neighborhood so you can have a pleasant time.

• Masjid Khadijah

Opened over a century ago, Masjid Khadijah is one of the most important worship centers and institutes for Muslims in Geylang and neighboring areas. Apart from holding prayers, the mosque offers computer classes and tuition to kids.

• Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre

Spanning two stories, Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre is one of the many food markets in the country. It’s a bustling hawker center selling traditional items and local cuisine. The center is an important landmark of Malay culture and allows you to sample authentic Malay and Indian cuisine.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

With easy access to Paya Lebar subway station, Geylang offers brilliant connectivity to the rest of the city via the MRT system. Changi Airport is also only around 13 km (8 mi), which makes for an easy drive to and fro.

• Dining and shopping scene

From various street stalls to Michelin-award-winning restaurants, Geylang is a paradise for gastronomy enthusiasts. As for your shopping spree, the neighborhood features several malls and shopping centers, including Paya Lebar Square and PLQ Mall. You can also shop for traditional Malay items at the Joo Chiat Complex nearby.

• Cultural and historical significance

Geylang boasts pre-WWII architecture, including iconic Peranakan shophouses. For an authentic cultural experience, you can visit Geylang Serai, which is one of the oldest Malay settlements in the country.

• Medical facilities

Geylang features plenty of clinics and other healthcare facilities for locals and tourists alike, including Jnp Healthcare Pte. Ltd., Advantage Medical Clinic (Geylang East), A Healing Heart Medical Clinic, and more.

• Best suited for

With charming long-standing architecture and traditional markets, Geylang is perfect for those who want to have an authentic cultural experience. A walk or drive along the Geylang Road will also be stimulating for history enthusiasts and foodies.

Unique aspects:

• Religious and ethnic diversity

Geylang is home to people of diverse religions and features religious organizations and places of worship such as churches, mosques, and temples. Moreover, there’s also an amalgamation of different cultures, thanks to the Indian, Malay, and other communities staying here.

• Festivals

From the Hindu festival of Mahashivratri to the Islamic Hari Raya, Geylang hosts many vibrant festivals that cater to different cultures and religions.

Advantages of staying in East Singapore:

• Proximity to Singapore Changi Airport

Neighborhoods and towns in East Singapore, including Geylang, Marine Parade, Katong, and Bedok offer easy access to Singapore Changi Airport. This makes East Singapore an ideal location for tourists.

• Coastal setting

The lengthy and expansive East Coast Park offers a charming coastal setting. It even boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, which makes the area perfect for relaxation.

• Cultural and religious diversity

The inclusive environment of East Singapore in terms of religion and ethnicity makes it ideal for all kinds of travelers. You can find places of worship for various religions and enjoy different festivals. There’s also authentic cuisine for you to taste.

• Accessible areas

East Singapore has various accessible areas that are suitable for people with disabilities. For example, East Coast Park has wheelchair-friendly spaces.

• Senior and healthcare facilities

Expect safety and an abundance of medical facilities in East Singapore. The East Coast even has ample facilities for the elderly, including assisted living and senior housing.

• Recreational activities

You can find a range of recreational activities in East Singapore. The neighborhood boasts East Coast Park, which is one of the best hubs for recreational activities in the city. Changi Village, a charming seaside community with fishermen and campers, is another great place to have an enjoyable time.

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Bukit Timah

Source: Zairon on Wikimedia Commons

With a nature reserve, several parks, and green corridors, Bukit Timah boasts plenty of the city’s native greenery. It also features luxury housing and upscale condominiums, which makes it one of the most high-end neighborhoods in Singapore.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Witness Singapore’s native flora and fauna during your hike to the country’s highest peak in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The untamed greenery along with gentle hiking trails allow you to take a break from day-to-day life and make the most of nature.

• Singapore Botanic Gardens

The magnificent Singapore Botanic Gardens were put at the forefront when it was decided to turn Singapore into a garden city. Apart from the tropical gardens, the complex features a small rainforest and a gorgeous orchid garden. The only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore is also a popular recreational area, apart from being an outstanding plant research center.

• Bukit Timah Railway Station

The defunct Bukit Timah Railway Station is conserved as part of a communal recreation space and includes the original platform and train tracks. Ever since its renovation, the charming space has been used by residents and tourists for cycling, jogging, and other recreational activities. It also boasts an ecological corridor known as the Rail Corridor.

• Champions Public Golf Course

For a pastime, golf enthusiasts can swing their clubs at the nine-hole Champions Public Golf Course. If you have been out of practice, you can also check out the golf academy to get on top of your game. Moreover, there’s a pro shop if you need to buy equipment.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

For easy connectivity with the rest of the city, Bukit Timah Road and MRT’s Downtown line pass right from the middle of the neighborhood. Singapore Changi Airport is at a distance of 26 km (16.2 mi).

• Dining and shopping scene

Just like in other areas, you can savor local cuisine on a budget in the neighborhood's hawker center, Bukit Timah Market and Food Center. For fancy dining, you can find a range of restaurants and bars, including Fat Belly and Sixteen Ounces.

• Cultural and historical significance

Bukit Timah was the site of the battle between Singapore and Japan, with the consequent Japanese occupation. Bukit Timah Hill played an important role in this battle.

• Medical facilities

Providing a safe environment for everyone, especially the elderly, Bukit Timah offers easy access to many clinics and hospitals. These include Cavenagh Medical Clinic and Home Care, Adam Road Medical Centre, and more.

• Best suited for

Courtesy of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and other lush parks, Bukit Timah is a paradise for nature lovers. These attractions also make for popular recreational centers, making the neighborhood ideal for families as well.

Unique aspects:

• Natural beauty

With charmingly landscaped gardens and ecological corridors, Bukit Timah is one of the lushest areas in the city. Apart from parks and gardens, you can also find tree-lined streets like the rest of the city, adding to its natural beauty.

• Golfing

Bukit Timah is an outstanding neighborhood for golfers and sports enthusiasts, with a country club, a sports park, and Champions Public Golf Course sitting close to each other.

• Educational facilities

This neighborhood is an ideal place for families with children as it features several reputed educational institutions, both local and international.

• Retirement communities

Bukit Timah is also home to retirement communities such as St Bernadette’s Lifestyle Village and The Hillford, allowing the elderly to live comfortably.

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Holland Village

Source: Terence Ong on Wikimedia Commons

With streetside dining, indie boutiques, and art studios, Holland Village is where locals and tourists go to unwind. Come evening, the main road turns pedestrian-only, and that is the time when the area truly comes to life.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Lorong Mambong

Lorong Mambong is the main stretch of Holland Village where you can find plenty of hip cafes and restaurants, fitness studios, and spas. The charming and bustling street is famous for streetside dining and makes for a wonderful option for experiencing the urban vibe.

• Natureland Holland Village

To let the citizens and the tourists relax, Holland Village also boasts plenty of spas. At Natureland Holland Village, you can rejuvenate with reflexology and recharge with body massages. Making prior bookings is advisable as the place always seems to be in demand.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

With Bukit Timah to its north and Queenstown to its south, Holland Village is in an outstanding location. The Circle Line of the MRT offers easy connectivity throughout the city, and you can also find Holland Village's very own metro station on the transit line.

• Dining and shopping scene

Holland Village offers a unique vibe, with cafes and restaurants setting up alfresco dining by the street. For those on a budget, the hawker center of Holland Village Market and Food Center is right on Lor Mambong for you to explore. As for your shopping spree, you can find several indie boutiques and fashion stores to update your wardrobe.

• Cultural and historical significance

Formerly housing British soldiers and their families, Holland Village still displays a European influence.

• Medical facilities

While in Holland Village, you’ll have access to plenty of healthcare centers such as Boey@Holland V or OneDoctors Family Clinic (HV). The neighborhood is also close to the highly rated Hovi Care - HoviClub Ulu Pandan, which is only about 2 km (1.2 mi) away.

• Best suited for

Home to numerous fitness studios and spas offering body massages, yoga, pilates, and fitness classes, Holland Village is best suited for fitness enthusiasts. It’s also a popular choice for expat families.

Unique aspects:

• Green spaces

Aside from the bustling streets, Holland Village offers green spaces to spend some quiet time in. One of them is the 0.3-ha (0.7-ac) Holland Village Park.

• Nightlife

Several cafes and restaurants in Holland Village stay open till or past midnight, making it one of the best areas in Singapore for enjoying a vibrant nightlife.

• Local events

Holland Village is one of the best places to be in Singapore if you enjoy participating in local events. From a cheerful Christmas market to lively art and music festivals, there are many events to check out here.

• Wellness facilities

Along with spas and fitness studios, Holland Village also features numerous beauty salons. So, for those looking for a makeover, daily workouts, or an occasional body massage, Holland Village is the place to be.

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Chinatown

Source: PxHere

Chinatown boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere in South Singapore and is a must-visit neighborhood if you’re in the country. Not only does it feature numerous eateries, bars, and shops selling local products, but it’s also a great place to explore cultural institutions and immerse yourself in rich heritage.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Chinatown Heritage Center

Want to learn more about some of Singapore’s earliest settlers? Visit Chinatown Heritage Center and browse through artifacts, household items, and other exhibits. You can also attend a story-telling session to get an insight into the history of the region.

• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This Buddhist temple in Chinatown features a stunning facade and gorgeous interiors. It proudly houses the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, which devotees from all over the world come to see. From the gold stupa to the tooth relic, there are many things to admire in this temple, and you can take a tour to see it all.

• Sri Mariamman Temple

Located in downtown Chinatown, Sri Mariamman Temple is the earliest Hindu temple in Singapore, dating back to 1827. It boasts quintessential Dravidian architecture and many sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses. Naturally, the temple attracts Hindu devotees from all over the country.

• Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple, built in 1842, is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, and tells the story of early Chinese settlers in Singapore. You can admire traditional Chinese elements in its architecture and decor, including ornate motifs, carvings of dragons, and more.

• Chinatown Street Market

This bustling street market is a delight for shopaholics and foodies. Visit colorful shophouses by the street to buy souvenirs and Chinese handicrafts at budget-friendly prices. You can also dig into authentic Asian street food here. Aside from being a shopping and dining location, the market offers a cultural experience.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

Chinatown is easily accessible via the North-East Line and Downtown Line of the MRT system. It has its own station as well. Moreover, the neighborhood is less than a 25-minute drive from Singapore Changi Airport, which makes it easy to reach even for tourists.

• Dining and shopping scene

If you’re looking for a budget shopping and dining experience in Singapore, Chinatown should be on your list. Aside from streetside vendors, you can also find several restaurants serving Chinese food. For your shopping needs, visit the numerous shops along the streets to get unique items at a bargain.

• Cultural and historical significance

Chinatown was home to the first Chinese settlers in Singapore and continues to be of significance to the Chinese population in the country. It also boasts diverse cultural institutions, including a Hindu temple, a Buddhist temple, and a Chinese temple, catering to a wide range of religions.

• Medical facilities

You can find various clinics and medical centers in Chinatown such as Chung Hwa Free Clinic. Some of these clinics, including TCM Traditional Chinese Medicine Bao Zhi Lin Singapore, even offer age-old traditional Chinese medicine.

• Best suited for

Besides being a haven for shoppers and foodies, Chinatown is a cultural melting pot and attracts culture enthusiasts from all over the world. The neighborhood is also family-friendly and lets you enjoy cultural attractions and mouth-watering delicacies with your loved ones.

Unique aspects:

• Festivals and celebrations

Chinatown holds various events and festivals throughout the year for locals and tourists alike. These include Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, and Hungry Ghost Festival, among others.

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Tiong Bahru

Source: Sengkang on Wikimedia Commons

This bustling neighborhood is one of the oldest residential areas in Singapore and features sleek Streamline Moderne architecture. It’s also teeming with cafes, shops, and record stores that you can explore to feel the neighborhood’s hipster vibes.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Tiong Bahru Park

This lovely park dates back to the 1960s and provides locals and tourists with a relaxing break. It comes with fitness corners, a reflexology footpath, and jogging trails for fitness enthusiasts. The park also appeals to children with its playground, featuring a unique tilted train. Moreover, there’s a therapeutic garden for those who would like to unwind.

• Kim Pong Park

This beautifully designed park reflects the Streamline Moderne vibe of Tiong Bahru. It comes with three zones that include gathering areas and a pavilion for community events. The park is spread across 1.1 ac (0.4 ha) and is a great place to go for a walk as well.

• Tiong Bahru Plaza

Tiong Bahru has something for shopaholics as well. Visit Tiong Bahru Plaza to browse great stores, shop for souvenirs, and grab a quick meal. There’s even a playground where your little ones can stay entertained while you enjoy a movie screening or a music show.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

The East-West line of the MRT will connect you to Tiong Bahru. You can also easily reach Singapore Changi Airport by car. The airport is around 26 km (16 mi) away.

• Dining and shopping scene

With several cafes, a hawker center, and bakeries, Tiong Bahru attracts foodies of all kinds. While here, visit Tiong Bahru Bakery to dig into delicious baked goods such as their famous almond croissant. You can also enjoy a meal at some of the charming cafes, including Plain Vanilla Tiong Bahru.

• Cultural and historical significance

Tiong Bahru dates back to the 1920s and is one of the earliest residential estates in the country. The Streamline Moderne architecture of the buildings reflects the neighborhood’s past and adds to its historical appeal.

• Medical facilities

Tiong Bahru boasts several clinics and other medical facilities such as Dr. Care Medical Clinic (Tiong Bahru). It also provides senior healthcare, featuring nursing homes such as Hua Mei Care Management Service. Only 1 km (0.6 mi) away, you can find NTUC Health Senior Day Care - Bukit Merah View as well.

• Best suited for

Tiong Bahru is a safe and family-friendly neighborhood with residential complexes and plenty of green spaces for the little ones to explore. It’s also senior-friendly, thanks to easy access to healthcare facilities. Moreover, the neighborhood is ideal for foodies and bookworms, boasting several eateries and bookstores.

Unique aspects:

• Bookstores and record stores

If you’re a voracious reader or a music lover, this neighborhood will entice you with its bookstores and record stores. You can take your kids to the charming Woods in the Books or check out the huge collection at SKS Books Warehouse. Tiong Bahru is also known for its record stores, including Curated Records, where you can try to find the kind of music you like.

• Green spaces

Tiong Bahru features parks and playgrounds for both adults and kids to enjoy some fresh air and stretch their muscles.

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Sentosa

Source: dronepicr on Flickr

Sentosa Island is an attractive neighborhood in Singapore, enticing beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and entertainment seekers with its many offerings. This island resort features pristine beaches, rich marine life, and entertainment venues for all ages. It also has several staycation destinations.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Universal Studios Singapore

A stay at Sentosa Island will be incomplete without visiting Universal Studios Singapore. This theme park features thrilling rides for all ages, as well as fascinating themed zones such as Ancient Egypt, Sci-fi City, and more. When you feel hungry after all the activities, stop by Discovery Food Court for a local snack.

• S.E.A. Aquarium

If you’re a marine enthusiast, you must check out this huge aquarium on Sentosa Island. Take your little ones along for a fun educational tour as you observe over 1,000 marine species, from sharks to black sea cucumbers. You may also take part in interactive programs.

• Adventure Cove Waterpark

Another attraction for thrill seekers, Adventure Cove Waterpark features exciting water-based rides. If you’re not carrying swimwear, you can buy some from Reef ‘n Wave Wear and hop on one of the thrilling rides such as Adventure River or Riptide Rocket. You can even witness vibrant marine creatures here.

• Madame Tussauds Singapore

Visit this wax museum in Sentosa to pose with wax figures of your favorite celebrities. You can also indulge in fascinating experiences such as 4D cinema viewing and VR racing. Book a ticket for the Skyride too, if you’re keen on admiring Singapore from an exciting vantage point.

• Trickeye Singapore

Are you intrigued by optical illusions? Then, visit Trickeye Singapore for a puzzling but fun time. Aside from illusions, this unique museum offers various photo ops for the whole family. The place even includes 4D spaces that are sure to blow your mind.

• Siloso Beach

If you’re a beach lover, check out the stunning Siloso Beach during your stay in Sentosa. Indulge in water sports such as kayaking, surfing, or skimboarding while here and fuel up at any of the beachside eateries and bars. The beach also boasts a vibrant nightlife.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

You can reach Sentosa Island from Singapore Changi Airport in around 30 minutes by car. You can also opt for the MRT to reach the island, the nearest station being HarbourFront. This station can be reached via the North-East line or the Circle line.

• Dining and shopping scene

As a resort island, Sentosa boasts many eateries, from fine-dining restaurants to cozy cafes. These include Bedrock Origin, FOC Sentosa, eM By The Marina, and more. There are also some charming shopping venues, such as the waterfront Quayside Isle and Festive Walk at Resorts World Sentosa.

• Cultural and historical significance

While this island is an urban hotspot at present, it boasts a rich history as a quaint fishing village. The island was home to a British military base and also played a major role in housing prisoners of war during the Japanese occupation.

• Medical facilities

Aside from Parkway Shenton Medical Clinic at Resorts World Sentosa, this island offers more or less easy access to nearby medical facilities. These include Mint Medical Centre HarbourFront Tower 1- GP, 3.7 km (2.3 mi) away, Singapore General Hospital, about 5.5 km (3.4 mi) away, and Mediway Medical Center, 7.1 km (4.4 mi) away.

• Best suited for

Sentosa Island is best suited for adventure enthusiasts and beach lovers. It’s a family-friendly island and has attractions that cater to all age groups.

Unique aspects:

• Local events

Sentosa Island not only features exciting attractions but also hosts some lively events and festivals to keep locals and tourists entertained. These include live music events on the beach, such as ZoukOut, outdoor movie screenings, and more.

• Adventure activities

From exhilarating water sports to thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore, there are a lot of adventure activities that you can enjoy in Sentosa. You can also take a cable car ride to admire the surroundings better.

• Wheelchair-accessible areas

Sentosa Island boasts wheelchair-accessible areas for easy mobility, including wheelchair-friendly cable cars. There are also elevators, ramps, and other facilities to provide a smooth experience for those with mobility issues.

• Senior-friendly attractions

Elderly people won’t have trouble navigating the island either, thanks to various easily accessible modes of transportation. Facilities such as elevators and medical aid at attractions also help seniors enjoy themselves safely.

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Kampong Glam

Source: Erwin Soo on Flickr

Visit Singapore’s Muslim Quarter and immerse yourself in its rich heritage. Kampong Glam is characterized by its vibrant streets lined by charming shophouses. It’s a shoppers' paradise, featuring many boutiques selling both traditional and modern products. It’s also home to art galleries and features colorful street art. If you want to elevate your experience here, consider staying at The Sultan.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Sultan Mosque

Kampong Glam is best known for one of the top historical places in Singapore, the stunning Sultan Mosque, which dates back to the 1800s. This mosque is not only a place of worship for Muslims in Singapore but also a significant cultural landmark. It was built through contributions from Muslims from all walks of life and features gorgeous interiors.

• Haji Lane

Haji Lane attracts shoppers and youngsters with its many shophouses and lively cafes. It also features street art that adds to its cheerful vibe. This street has something for music lovers as well - drop by Musicology Records to find some great music.

• Arab Street

Arab Street is known for its array of shops offering Middle Eastern textiles, men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, as well as handicrafts. It also boasts eateries such as the Turkish-themed Anatolia Restaurant SG and the chic Cantina, among others.

• Kampong Glam Park

Kampong Glam Park on Beach Road is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the shopping lanes in the neighborhood. Not only does this park feature lush greenery, mature trees, and benches where you can rest, but it also offers access to Hajjah Fatimah Mosque. The latter is much more peaceful than the popular Sultan Mosque.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

You can take either the East-West line or the Downtown line of the MRT and get down at Bugis station. Kampong Glam is less than 10 minutes from this station by car. As for those flying in, Singapore Changi Airport is only about 20 km (12.4 mi) away.

• Dining and shopping scene

The bustling Haji Lane and Arab Street feature plenty of restaurants and cafes that you can try out, including Rumi The Poet's Cup, Reis Turkish Cafe, and Grill Ninety Nine. Shopping for souvenirs is also easy, as there are many shops selling unique handicrafts, clothing items, accessories, and more. These include Kin Soon - House of Ribbons (Minton Ribbons) and The Heritage Shop, among others.

• Cultural and historical significance

Kampong Glam is one of the most culturally significant neighborhoods in Singapore. It’s among the earliest Muslim settlements in the country and home to various ethnicities, including Malays, Arabs, and Bugis.

• Medical facilities

Rest assured that Kampong Glam has ample medical facilities to ensure a safe stay. You can find medical centers such as MaNaDr Clinic and Town Clinic, as well as clinics for traditional Chinese medicines such as Zhou Chinese Physician and Treatment Complex. Aged care facilities such as St John Dementia Centre and MWS Wesley Active Ageing Centre – Jalan Berseh are also easily accessible.

• Best suited for

Kampong Glam lures art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and history buffs with its street art, galleries, mosques, and shophouses. It also attracts foodies and shoppers, featuring many unique eateries and shops.

Unique aspects:

• Events and festivals

Being a cultural melting pot, Kampong Glam is home to vibrant events and festivals. The streets near Sultan Mosque turn even more lively during the Islamic festival of Ramadan. Art and food festivals are also common here.

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Little India

Source: Public Domain Pictures

Little India is not just a haven for Indians living in Singapore but it’s also a culturally significant neighborhood and a charming tourist destination. When you’re here, expect to be surrounded by colorful shophouses selling jewelry, accessories, clothing, and other items. You can also sample authentic Indian food. Moreover, there are temples and mosques if you’re looking for places of worship. For your stay in this neighborhood, consider any of these cozy Airbnb vacation rentals.

Attractions and landmarks:

• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Visit one of the oldest temples in the country when in Little India. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple was a safe haven for Indian migrants who used to work in the neighborhood. The temple showcases the Dravidian style of architecture and is mainly dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Kali. Aside from Goddess Kali, there are many other deities that you can worship here.

• Tan Teng Niah

History buffs would love to check out Tan Teng Niah, the last remaining Chinese villa in Little India, dating back to the 1900s. The vibrant facade of this villa featuring rainbow colors makes it stand out and enchant tourists. Formerly belonging to a businessman named Tan Teng Niah, the villa is now preserved by the National Heritage Board.

• Serangoon Road

This historic road in Little India is home to vibrant shophouses with smooth exteriors and a Hindu temple called Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple. Once an important avenue for Indian cattle farmers, the lively road is now thronged by locals and tourists who wish to shop for authentic Indian items.

• Tekka Centre

This hawker center in Little India offers an array of dining and shopping options. Its wet market is also one of the biggest in Singapore. Visit Tekka Centre if you wish to buy fresh produce at a reasonable price or shop for clothes for an Indian festival. Just remember to take enough cash with you as cards aren’t accepted here.

• Mustafa Centre

Dating back to the 1970s, Mustafa Centre is a bustling shopping mall in Little India. The mall boasts 400,000 sq. ft. (37161.2 sqm) of space and is spread across four floors. From cosmetics to jewelry, there are over 300,000 items here to choose from.

Neighborhood tips:

• Location and accessibility

You can reach Little India MRT station via the North-East or Downtown line. Singapore Changi Airport is only about 17 km (10.5 mi) away from here.

• Dining and shopping scene

Taste authentic Indian flavors in Little India at any of the numerous dining venues here. These include Khansama Tandoori Restaurant - Little India and Mustard Singapore - Flavours of Bengal & Punjab, among others. Shoppers will also find many options, from streetside shophouses to Mustafa Centre.

• Cultural and historical significance

Little India is one of the most culturally significant neighborhoods and tourist spots in Singapore. Its rich history dates back to the colonial period when the place was home to brick kilns, a race track, and Indian cattle farmers. Today, the neighborhood is a lively place for people to gather, worship, shop, dine, and enjoy Indian festivals.

• Medical facilities

Little India features medical facilities for tourists and locals alike, including clinics such as Winstedt Clinic, Medstar Medical Clinic & Surgery, Herbal Care Homeopathic Clinic, and more. For the elderly, Healthy Home Healthcare Private Ltd is only a 15-minute drive away.

• Best suited for

Little India attracts culture enthusiasts and budget travelers who wish to find Indian souvenirs. It’s also a haven for foodies, featuring excellent eateries selling flavorful dishes. Moreover, the neighborhood boasts colorful street art that art lovers will definitely appreciate.

Unique aspects:

• Temples and religious sites

Little India has several temples and mosques where locals and tourists can offer their prayers. Some of these are Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Angullia Mosque, and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple.

• Cultural festivals

The neighborhood livens up during Indian festivals such as Diwali, Pongal, Navratri, and more. The celebrations welcome not only Indians but also people from other ethnicities.

• Street art

The beautiful street art in Little India is sure to impress art lovers. From murals of flowers to depictions of classical Indian dances, there are many forms of art to admire.

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Have a fantastic stay in Singapore

Source: Bernard Spragg NZ. on Wikimedia Commons

Singapore is truly a cosmopolitan city-state with a diverse population and equally diverse attractions, including famous buildings. Each of its neighborhoods has its own unique charm and comes with excellent offerings for locals and tourists alike, whether you wish to splurge or have a budget-friendly stay. From the bustling shopping streets of Chinatown to the rich heritage of Jalan Besar, there’s much to explore in Singapore.

You’ll also find suitable accommodations for yourself, including Muslim-friendly hotels, capsule hotels, and luxurious hotels, among others. You can stay in a tranquil holiday villa as well. Use this guide to find the perfect neighborhood for you and have a wonderful time in this stunning destination.

Things to do in Singapore

Restaurants and other dining spots in Singapore

Hotels and resorts in Singapore

Vacation rentals and other accommodations in Singapore

Tips for tourists in Singapore