Singapore in Winter Travel Tips – Weather, Activities & More

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into all the essential information you need to enjoy the winter season in the tropical paradise of Singapore in Winter. Discover how this vibrant city-state transforms during the cooler months, and plan your winter adventure like a pro with Explore Worldly.

Singapore is a fascinating mix of East and West, where diverse cultures combine to create a unique blend of traditions, delicious food, and languages. With its modern cityscape and warm tropical weather, it’s a place that’s easy to fall in love with. Singapore has something for everyone, whether you’re into luxury shopping, fantastic food, or a relaxing spot to enjoy the sun. Visiting Singapore in winter is a great time to explore all the city offers without dealing with the summer heat and large crowds.

Table of Content

Exploring Singapore During the Winter Months: A Quick Overview

December to February

• Average Temperature: remains around 28°C to 32°C
• Average Rainfall: 200 mm
• Average Daily Wind Speed: 8.1 m/hr 
• Average Sea Temperature: 27°C
• Average Daytime: 11-12 hours

Why visit Singapore in Winter?

Ideal Temperatures

Singapore experiences its most excellent weather from December to March, offering the perfect window for a visit! With pleasant and inviting temperatures, this season is ideal for outdoor adventures and various city explorations.

Soothing Warmth

The gentle cloak of winter brightness envelops Singapore and offers a refreshing change for those searching for the perfect holiday.

Winter Festivities

Prepare for a cozy 26°C temperature and 86.5% humidity in December. Singapore transforms into a festive wonderland with numerous Christmas-themed events during this month.

Packing List for a Singaporean Winter

Essentials for Your Suitcase

Pack lightweight clothing suitable for the mild winter, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Remember your travel adapter and a power bank to keep your devices charged.

Dressing Smartly

Layering is the key to dressing for Singapore’s winter. Pack a combination of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved tops, and a lightweight jacket. It enables you to adjust to the shifting weather conditions throughout the day.

Don’t Forget Your Rain Gear

While the rain is not frequent, it’s wise to carry a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket. These will come in handy during sudden showers.

What to Wear?

What to Wear in Singapore in Winter?

• Due to the bustling foot traffic in the city, it’s essential to don footwear that enables unrestricted movement.
• Packaging a compact and lightweight umbrella for your travels in this country is a brilliant idea, as it’s notorious for unexpected thunderstorms and occasional light rain.
• Due to the high heat, opting for a heavy raincoat in Singapore would be uncomfortable. Instead, opt for a lightweight jacket.
• Given the consistently warm and humid climate, casual shirts, tops, and shorts are your ideal clothing choices. Tunics can also help keep you cool and shielded from the sun.

Top Things to Do in Singapore in Winter

1. Gardens By The Bay

It’s no wonder that Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay stands out as one of the city’s top tourist destinations. What truly amazes visitors is the diverse plant life on display and the creative ways they are showcased. For instance, inside the conservatory, you’ll find a Cloud Forest section miming tropical highlands’ cool and humid environments. This area features a treetop walkway and the star attraction, a stunning 114-foot indoor waterfall, which is a must-see and a perfect spot to enjoy during the winter season.

2. Visit The National Gallery

In the heart of Singapore’s Civic District, you’ll find the National Gallery Singapore, home to Southeast Asia’s most extensive public collection of contemporary art, boasting over 9,000 remarkable pieces. Visitors can explore diverse artworks worldwide, and the gallery frequently hosts rotating exhibitions that spotlight individual artists or captivating themes. Securing your tickets in advance is wise to skip the hassle of long queues.

 3. The Intan

In the heart of Singapore, The Intan, a private residence, offers a wealth of Peranakan antiquities. Over 30 years, the dedicated Proprietor has collected 1,500 items from the Peranakan culture, including exquisite enamel tiffin containers adorned with intricate floral designs. It’s important to note that during the winter season, walk-ins are not permitted. Book your tickets to ensure a warm and cozy experience at The Intan.

 4. Step into Merlion Park

In Singapore, a captivating 28-foot stone sculpture, the Merlion, is found along the promenade overlooking Marina Bay. The statue, a unique combination of a fish and a lion, is a powerful symbol for the city. Originally, Singapore was a small fishing village, and this iconic fish-themed logo pays tribute to the city’s name, “Singapura,” meaning “Lion City.”

Constructed in 1972, the Merlion has since become one of the top attractions for tourists in the country. Therefore, when you visit Singapore, remember to stop during winter to witness this marvelous landmark.

5. Saint Andrew’s Cathedral

This grand monument, resembling a towering wedding cake, is one of the city’s oldest and most breathtaking structures. It proudly occupies the heart of Singapore’s Civic District, surrounded by lush parkland that provides a serene escape within this bustling metropolis.

This impressive tower is also Singapore’s largest Anglican cathedral and boasts the distinction of being the country’s oldest. It enjoys immense popularity among those who appreciate history, culture, and remarkable architecture.

 6. Visit the Southern Ridges

The Southern Ridges route, spanning 6.2 miles, connects Mount Faber Park and the Labrador Conservation Area in Singapore, tracing the city’s southern ridge. This path is meticulously maintained, reflecting the characteristic quality of Singaporean architecture. Along the route, you’ll encounter varying landscapes, with some sections blanketed in lush foliage while others are adorned with striking architectural marvels.

Exploring these ridges presents a beautiful opportunity to share quality time with your loved ones.

7. Visit Clarke Quay

In the 1800s, a bustling wharf known as a quay was close to Fort Canning Park. This place thrived as a center of commerce, with barges diligently ferrying goods downstream for storage in nearby warehouses. Today, the once-functional silos have undergone a stunning transformation, expertly renovated and painted in a rich spectrum of colors. This captivating site has become a favorite location for capturing photographs.

In addition to its picturesque appeal, Clarke Quay has become one of Singapore’s most beloved dining, socializing, and entertainment destinations. It’s a place where people gather for a great time, making it a top choice for those seeking a fun and memorable experience.

Events & Festivals in Singapore in Winter

ZoukOut

Venue: Sentosa, Singapore

Time: December

The ZoukOut music festival is one of the biggest in Asia. It brings to life the famed outdoor nightclub, Zouk, a household name across the continent. As this extraordinary event unfolds, ZoukOut transforms into Asia’s most spectacular beach party, stretching from night to dawn and winding down as the sun rises.

Chinese New Year

Venue: All over Singapore

Date: January 21st to February 20th

Many Singaporean Chinese folks enthusiastically celebrate the Chinese New Year, a cherished tradition. This holiday usually falls between the winter solstice and the beginning of spring, occurring annually between January 21st and February 20th. It’s believed that on this day, Yu Huang, the supreme ruler of both earth and heaven, ascends his celestial throne.

During this auspicious occasion, sweet cakes, caramelized fruits, and delectable rice dishes are offered to the Household Deity with the hope that these offerings will earn their family favorable recognition in the eyes of Yu Huang. It is a significant part of the Chinese New Year festivities, full of cultural and spiritual significance.

Chingay Parade

Venue: All over Singapore

Date: February

Singapore’s Lunar New Year celebrations are extraordinary, and one standout event is the Chingay Parades. These parades are an excellent opportunity to don masquerades and costumes, adding a layer of fun to the festivities. The word “Chingay,” from Chinese, literally means “costume and masquerade art.”

This event is a must-see for anyone seeking a grand spectacle where people from diverse corners unite to celebrate the richness of life. It’s a vibrant and colorful display that’s to be noticed.

Christmas

Venue: All over Singapore

Date: December 25th

It would help if you didn’t go to great lengths to embrace the Christmas spirit. Christmas in Singapore is a truly magical time, with its vibrant lights, adorned streets, and delectable festive cuisine, making it one of the most cherished holidays in the country. To fully immerse yourself in the holiday magic, stroll through the city after nightfall and relish the excitement of the beautifully illuminated Orchard Road.

Tips for Exploring Singapore Winter Wonders

Here are some practical tips and hacks for visiting Singapore during the winter:

Dress Smart for the Humid Weather:

Keep the humidity in mind when selecting your clothing. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable while exploring Singapore’s attractions.

Opt for Lightweight Footwear:

When exploring Singapore’s wonders, choose comfortable and lightweight footwear. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your shoes are easy on your feet.

Utilize Public Transportation:

Public transportation is often more convenient and cost-effective than driving in Singapore. The extensive network of buses and trains makes it easy to get around the city.

Observe Smoking Regulations:

Remember Singapore’s strict smoking regulations—only smoke in designated areas to avoid fines and penalties.

Enjoy Street Food for Savings:

One of the best ways to save money and experience local flavors is indulging in Singapore’s delicious street food. You’ll find many affordable and tasty options throughout the city.

Know Before You Visit Singapore in Winter.

Getting Around Singapore in Winter

Here are some transportation options in Singapore:

Bus:

Using the city’s bus system is often more cost-effective for shorter distances in Singapore than the MRT. Most buses, including air-conditioned ones, are readily available in the morning. You’ll find both single and double-decker buses throughout the city.

Taxi:

Conventional taxi fares in Singapore start at $3 for the initial mile, with an additional 22 cents for every 400 meters until you reach 10 kilometers. After 10 kilometers, the fare decreases, offering a reasonable way to travel.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit):

The MRT is a highly efficient choice for getting around the city. Most of Singapore’s attractions are conveniently located near MRT stations, making it a convenient and accessible mode of transportation.

What to Eat in Singapore in Winter?

When visiting Singapore in winter, you’ll have a delightful array of local dishes to savor. Here are some must-try options:

1. Bak Kut Teh: This dish, also known as “pig bone tea,” has its roots in China but is a beloved favorite in Malaysia and Singapore. Despite its name, it doesn’t contain tea. It’s a flavorful pork soup, traditionally enjoyed with a strong cup of tea to cleanse the palate.
2. Char Kway Teow: Another popular hawker dish, Char Kway Teow, often goes hand in hand with Hokkien Mee. This cuisine hails from China’s Fujian region, the ancestral home of the Hokkien people, and has made its way to Singapore and Malaysia.
3. Chicken Rice: Considered by many as Singapore’s unofficial national dish, chicken rice is a classic that you can find in countless restaurants across the city. It features tender poached chicken with fragrant rice and various condiments, making for a delightful meal.

Where to Stay in Singapore in Winter

Singapore during the winter is a unique opportunity, so let’s make the most of it. Here are some fantastic hotel options to consider for your holiday in Singapore:

Luxury Hotels:

1. Mandarin Oriental
2. Andaz Singapore
3. The St. Regis Singapore
4. The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia, Singapore

Mid-range Hotels:

1. Fragrance Hotel – Oasis
2. ibis budget Singapore Pearl
3. Bliss Hotel Singapore
4. Hotel YAN

Budget Hotels:

1. Lloyd’s Inn Singapore
2. Holiday Inn Express Singapore Orchard Road
3. KINN Capsule Hotel – SG Clean
4. Hipstercity Hostel

These hotels accommodate diverse budgets and provide a variety of amenities to ensure a memorable stay in Singapore during the winter season.

FAQs-Singapore in Winter Travel Tips

Is it worth visiting Singapore during the winter season?

Absolutely! Winter in Singapore offers pleasant weather and many activities to enjoy.

What’s the best way to get around Singapore during winter?

The efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains, is the best way to explore the city.

What are the must-visit attractions in Singapore during winter?

Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, and Universal Studios are top picks for winter visitors.

Do I need to worry about rain during the Singaporean winter?

While rain is possible, it’s not a frequent occurrence. Bringing a compact umbrella is a reasonable precaution.

What cultural experiences should I be aware of during winter in Singapore?

Exploring cultural districts like Chinatown and Little India and trying local cuisine at hawker centers are must-do activities.