Singapore has two seasons: hot and wet then hot and dry, with temperatures staying pretty even throughout the year. Winter in Singapore runs from September through to February. Temperatures hover around the late 20 to early 30-degrees, with rainfall and thunderstorms expected daily, and humidity levels on the rise. Not ideal for a holiday, I hear you say. But, Singapore is packed with attractions and activities that will keep you entertained and undercover. Even the Helix Bridge is designed to ensure you get that all-important selfie while remaining dry.
Here’s a roundup of the top things to do in Singapore in winter…
Hit the shops
Some people visit Singapore for the shopping scene alone. And a trip here will quickly show you why. The range of shopping malls in this tiny island city-state will have you occupied for many days, if retail therapy is a favourite pastime of yours. And quantity definitely doesn’t affect quality, with plenty of high-end options to explore also.
The shopping hub of Singapore is the iconic Orchard Road. Here, mega malls line the 2.2 kilometre street attracting both tourists and locals. This is the place to shop for clothing, electronic goods and homeware. Next, there’s the Mustafa centre, open 24-hours a day. It’s right in the heart of Little India and is famous for its array of jewellery on offer. Lastly, the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is an experience as well as a shopping destination, with world-class restaurants to refuel at when you’re feeling a little weary. For more shopping options, check out our guide on Shopping in Singapore.
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For Orchard Road:
Yellow Line Route, Stop: SVC Orchard
For the Mustafa Centre:
Red Line Route, Stop: Broadway Hotel
For Marina Bay Sands:
Yellow Line Route, Stop: Marina Bay Sands
Neon Lights Festival
For a couple of days in November, the Neon Lights Festival literally lights up Singapore, located right in the heart of the city at the Fort Canning National Park. The “two days of boundary-burning music and art performance” sees international and local artists line up, with previous acts including post-punk legends Interpol, The Vaccines and Caribou. The festival is family friendly with a wide range of activities also laid on for kids. There’s a silent disco, lots of games, and fun workshops for them to get stuck into. And in the name gives away the spectacular décor of this festival. When it’s time to pit stop for food, this is when Neon Lights sets itself apart from other festivals. From sorbets and gourmet bagels, to chilli crab and burgers. If you’re planning a trip to Singapore in winter, you might want to plan around this epic event.
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Yellow Line Route, Stop: Liang Court
Chinese New Year
Also known as the Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate. And the city of Singapore does this well. The most important date in the calendar, celebrations start weeks prior in January. Head to Chinatown and witness the Street Light-Up, the official opening ceremony of the holiday. You’ll be amazed by the creativity of beautifully designed lanterns lining the streets, floral displays and the warm welcome to tourists. The mood is excitable and the processions are colourful. Seasonal markets and lively lion dances are also laid on. And with an Asian celebration, of course comes a traditional Asian feast. Make sure you come hungry.
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For Chinatown:
Brown & Red Line Routes, Stop: Chinatown
Winter in Singapore must be sounding like a good idea right about now. Hopefully that’s all the inspiration needed to book your trip and discover this city that has the perfect mix of bright lights and futuristic architecture, with a delicious food scene and green spaces second to none. You don’t need to look any further for a holiday destination that has something for everyone. And if you need help filling the rest of your time in Singapore, check out our list of Top Things to Do.
