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The 12 Best Neighbourhoods in Singapore for Diverse Culture Immersion
They say Singapore is small, but it sure packs a punch when it comes to its neighbourhoods. Each one has its own vibe and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
From bustling Little India to laid-back Robertson Quay, I have the scoop on where to eat, what to see, and even where to shop (because of souvenirs, am I right?).
So whether you’re hunting for Peranakan pastries in Katong or sipping cocktails along the Singapore River, this guide will help you navigate the island’s distinct districts without feeling like a lost tourist.
Chinatown
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Location: Within the Outram district
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) or North-East Line (Purple) to Chinatown MRT Station (DT19/NE4). Exit through Exit A to get to the street markets along Pagoda Street.
Bus: Get on Bus 143, 147, 190, 61, and 124. Alight at stops near New Bridge Road or Eu Tong Sen Street.
Main street: Pagoda Street
Must-see attractions: Chinatown Heritage Centre, Ann Siang Hill, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Chinatown isn’t just about lanterns and temples; it’s where history, culture, and some serious street food collide.
I like wandering through the vibrant Chinatown Street Market, snapping photos with Yip Yew Chong’s murals, and soaking in the serenity at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
And when hunger strikes, I head to Maxwell Food Centre for a feast of Hainanese chicken rice or hit up one of those Michelin-starred hawker stalls—yes, a Michelin meal without breaking the bank!
Pro-tip: For a full day in Chinatown, bring around S$50–80 per person.
Kampong Glam
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Location: Within Rochor district
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) or East-West Line (Green) to Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14). Use Exit B and walk about 5 minutes along Victoria Street toward the Sultan Mosque.
Bus: Buses 2, 12, 32, 33, and 960 stop along Victoria Street and Beach Road, close to the area.
Main street: Arab Street
Must-see attractions: Sultan Mosque, Haji Lane, Malay Heritage Centre
Kampong Glam is where heritage meets hipster. Think majestic Sultan Mosque on one end and artsy cafes on Haji Lane on the other.
The vibrant murals make every corner Instagram-worthy, while the Malay Heritage Centre offers a peek into Singapore’s cultural roots.
It isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also where your taste buds will have the time of their lives. Fuel your exploration with Middle Eastern delights at Derwish, or indulge in some serious café hopping along Haji Lane.
Pro-tip: Bring around S$50–80 per person for a casual day at Kampong Glam. This should cover a meal, some café treats, and a few small souvenirs.
Little India
Location: Within Rochor district
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) or North-East Line (Purple) to Little India MRT Station (NE7/DT12). Use Exit A to reach Serangoon Road.
Bus: Buses 23, 64, 65, 131, and 139 stop along Serangoon Road or Rochor Canal Road.
Main street: Serangoon Road
Must-see attractions: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Tekka Centre, Little India Arcade
Little India Singapore is a sensory explosion with its bright temples, bustling spice markets, and the irresistible scent of curry wafting through the air.
I like walking through the Little India Arcade for trinkets and treasures or stepping into the vibrant Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple for a moment of calm amid the chaos.
When I’m famished, I grab a meal at The Banana Leaf Apolo, where the curry is served on (you guessed it) a banana leaf!
Pro-tip: Don’t miss the delights at Tekka Food Centre. Indian food in Singapore just doesn’t get more authentic (or delicious) than this!
Katong and Joo Chiat
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Location: Marina Parade district
How to get there:
MRT: The closest MRT stations are Eunos MRT Station (EW7) and Paya Lebar MRT Station (EW8/CC9).
Bus: Buses 10, 12, 14, 32, and 40 serve the area along East Coast Road and Joo Chiat Road.
Main streets: Joo Chiat Road, East Coast Road
Must-see attractions: Colourful shophouses, Peranakan Museum
Katong and Joo Chiat feel like a walk through Singapore’s past with their Peranakan shophouses in candy colours, heritage gems at every corner, and the charm of old-school vibes.
I enjoy strolling along East Coast Road which feels like flipping through a living history book, with culture spilling from both shophouses and the Peranakan Museum.
And when it’s time to eat, I like tucking into spicy bowls at 328 Katong Laksa or indulging in some elegant Peranakan fare at Rumah Bebe.
Pro-tip: Bring a mix of cash and credit cards to Joo Chiat and Katong. Many cafes, restaurants, and boutiques accept cards, but some smaller shops, hawker stalls, and local vendors might be cash-only.
Marina Bay
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Location: Adjacent to Central Business District
How to get there:
MRT: Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16) on the Circle and Downtown Lines provides direct access to Marina Bay Sands.
Bus: Buses 106, 97, 133, 400, and 502 stop near Marina Bay Sands and The Shoppes.
Main street: Bayfront Avenue
Must-see attractions: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park
Marina Bay Singapore feels like the future—towering skyscrapers, a floating hotel, and trees that light up at night. A stroll through Gardens by the Bay or a selfie with the Merlion gives you those “I’m really here” travel vibes.
If you find your tummy rumbling during a stroll, you’re still in the right place. For food with a view, head up to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, or indulge in local delights at Makansutra Gluttons Bay.
Pro-tip: Catch the Spectra Light and Water Show starting at 8 PM at Marina Bay Sands. It’s completely free!
Orchard Road
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Location: Central Business District
How to get there:
MRT: Take the North-South Line (Red) to Orchard MRT Station (NS22) for access to ION Orchard and the main shopping belt.
Bus: Buses 7, 14, 16, 36, and 65 serve Orchard Road, stopping at various points along the street.
Must-see attractions: Ion Orchard, Orchard Central, Emerald Hill
Orchard Road Singapore is the ultimate playground for shopaholics. With every designer label, flagship store, and high-end boutique, this neighbourhood will call out to your wallet.
Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of Ion Orchard or exploring the trendy corners of Emerald Hill, this shopping mecca offers both glitz and charm.
After maxing out your credit cards (just kidding–don’t do this!), you can refuel with all-day brunch at Wild Honey or enjoy gourmet treats at Jones the Grocer.
Pro-tip: On a tight budget? Stick to window shopping at high-end stores, then dive into affordable eats at food courts inside malls like Ion Orchard or Orchard Central.
Robertson Quay
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Location: Along the Singapore River
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) to Fort Canning MRT Station (DT20).
Bus: Buses 32, 195, 51, and 123 serve the area.
Main street: Robertson Quay Road
Must-see attractions: Singapore River, art galleries, Robertson Walk
I find that Robertson Quay Singapore is where lazy afternoons by the river turn into lively evenings filled with good food and wine. Its charm is as effortless as it is irresistible.
There, you can stroll along the scenic Singapore River, pop into an art gallery, or relax at Robertson Walk, a Mediterranean-style courtyard perfect for dining and drinks.
When hunger strikes, there’s always enjoyable riverside dining at Wine Connection or treat yourself to comfort food at PS.Café.
Pro-tip: For a relaxing night out, grab a drink at one of the riverside bars or lounges, but if you’re feeling active, yoga sessions by the river and evening art exhibitions are also popular.
Holland Village
Location: Bukit Timah planning area
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Circle Line (Yellow) to Holland Village MRT Station (CC21). Use Exit B to emerge right into the heart of the village.
Bus: Buses 7, 61, 106, 165, and 970 serve the area.
Main street: Holland Avenue
Must-see attractions: Holland Road Shopping Centre, street art
Holland Village Singapore is like that cool, artsy friend who’s always ahead of the trends. From quirky murals to the lively buzz at Holland Road Shopping Centre, it’s a spot where the city’s creative spirit shines through.
Foodies will blow a gasket there, too. You can start your evening with a caffeine fix at Café Latte, and finish with sweet decadence at 2am: dessert bar.
Pro-tip: Night owls, start your night early at one of Holland Village’s rooftop bars or lounges, then hop between its vibrant pubs and cafes.
Tiong Bahru
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Location: Bukit Merah district
How to get there:
MRT: Take the East-West Line (Green) to Tiong Bahru MRT Station (EW17).
Bus: Buses 5, 16, 33, 63, and 123 serve the area.
Main street: Tiong Bahru Road
Must-see attractions: Tiong Bahru Market, Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail
Whenever I go to Tiong Bahru, it feels like I’m stepping into a Wes Anderson film: art deco architecture meets hipster vibes, with a dash of nostalgia. It’s the kind of neighbourhood where brunch stretches into the afternoon, and every corner feels like an Instagram post waiting to happen.
I like strolling along the Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail, where I’ll stumble upon hidden murals, cosy bookshops, and quirky cafes.
Pro-tip: For a caffeine boost, Forty Hands Café is your go-to, while Tiong Bahru Bakery offers the most delicate buttery croissants.
Sentosa Island
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Location: Off Singapore’s southern coast
How to get there:
MRT: Take the North-East Line (Purple) or Circle Line (Yellow) to HarbourFront MRT Station (NE1/CC29). From there, transfer to the Sentosa Express Monorail at VivoCity Mall.
Bus: Buses 123 and RWS8 head to Sentosa, stopping at Resorts World Sentosa.
Main street: Siloso Beach Walk
Must-see attractions: Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, Siloso Beach
Sentosa Island Singapore is where vacation mode kicks in, whether you’re chasing thrills at Universal Studios or lounging on Siloso Beach with a cocktail in hand. It’s where beach vibes meet theme park energy, and every day feels like a mini holiday.
You won’t have to worry about starving there, either. For a chill meal, grab a seat at Coastes right on the sand or dive into tropical treats at Ola Beach Club.
Pro-tip: Sentosa is all about fun in the sun, so pack your swimwear, load up on sunscreen, and prepare for a day you won’t forget!
Telok Ayer
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Location: Chinatown District
How to get there:
MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) to Telok Ayer MRT Station (DT18).
Bus: Buses 80, 145, and 166 serve the area, stopping along Telok Ayer Street or Cross Street.
Main street: Telok Ayer Street
Must-see attractions: Amoy Street Food Centre, Thian Hock Keng Temple
Telok Ayer feels like the perfect blend of old and new—think restored shophouses, trendy cafes, and temples all living in harmony. This pocket of Singapore offers a little bit of everything, from scenic strolls to foodie adventures.
Whether you’re sipping a flat white at a hip cafe or exploring the majestic Thian Hock Keng Temple, this neighbourhood charms at every turn. And when the sun sets, Telok Ayer’s energy kicks up a notch with chic bars and lively eateries.
Pro-tip: If you’re visiting during festival season, don’t miss the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, complete with lantern walks, storytelling sessions, and free lanterns for kids.
Pulau Ubin
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Location: Northeastern coast of Singapore
How to get there:
MRT: Take the East-West Line (Green) to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4). From there, transfer to a bus to Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
Bus: From Tanah Merah, take Bus 2 or Bus 29 to Changi Village Bus Terminal
Boat: At Changi Point Ferry Terminal, hop on a bumboat (between 6 AM and 7 PM) to Pulau Ubin. The ride costs S$4 per person and takes about 15 minutes.
Main streets: Ubin Town area, Jalan Ubin
Must-see attractions: Chek Jawa Wetlands, Puaka Hill
Pulau Ubin feels like stepping back in time. It’s a rustic island where kampong life still thrives, and bicycles outnumber cars. Options like hiking up Puaka Hill for panoramic views or exploring the rich biodiversity at Chek Jawa Wetlands offer a refreshing escape from city life.
Rent a bike, grab some snacks from a local stall, and roam the island’s winding trails at your own pace. It’s where muddy shoes and mosquito repellent are badges of honour, and every turn promises an adventure waiting to happen.
Pro-tip: While overnight stays aren’t allowed for most visitors, adventurous types can apply for a permit to camp at designated sites like Jelutong or Mamam Beach.
