Singapore family holiday guide
Looking for the ultimate family holiday destination that ticks all the boxes? You’ve come to the right place. Singapore has a lot going for it when it comes to family holidays. Lush green spaces, a friendly multicultural vibe, next-level clean public toilets, rubbish-free streets, world-class attractions and an efficient public transport system all combine to make Singapore a stress-free winner.
From the futuristic Gardens by the Bay to the iconic Sentosa Island, Singapore is a playground for families. Add in delicious food, fantastic accommodation options, and year-round warm weather, and it’s easy to see why this small island nation is such a big hit with families.
The best time to visit Singapore for a family holiday
Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s warm and humid all year round, with temperatures averaging 26–32°C. While there isn’t a “bad” time to visit, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Dry season (February–August): Slightly less rainfall makes it the ideal time for outdoor activities like exploring Sentosa or the Botanic Gardens.
- Wet season (November–January): Expect heavier rainfall, but showers are typically short-lived and can be a welcome break from the heat. Great for indoor attractions like museums and malls.
Family-friendly events:
- Chinese New Year (January/February): Vibrant parades, lion dances, and festive food markets.
- Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali: Cultural festivals filled with lights, food, and celebrations.
- Christmas Wonderland (December): A magical light display at Gardens by the Bay, perfect for kids.
Key facts about Singapore
Here are some key facts about Singapore to help you understand this vibrant city-state:
- Capital: Singapore is a city-state, so the capital is Singapore itself.
- Population: Approximately 5.92 million people as of 2023.
- Official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
- Time zone: Singapore Standard Time (UTC+8).
- Landmass: About 719 square kilometers.
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD).
- Emergency numbers: Police: 999; Ambulance and Fire: 995.
- Religion: A diverse mix, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism, and Hinduism.
Getting to Singapore and getting around with kids
Getting to Singapore:
Singapore is a major travel hub, with direct flights from Australia’s major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane and many other countries in the world. Airlines like Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and Jetstar frequently offer deals to Singapore. Search for a great deal on flights at either Flight Centre or Sky Scanner.
Getting around:
- MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): Cheap, clean, and efficient, the MRT is the best way to get around. Grab an EZ-Link card for easy travel.
- Buses: Well-connected and air-conditioned, with clear routes and signs in English.
- Taxis and ride-sharing: Apps like Grab are widely used and affordable for families.
- Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, and pathways are stroller-friendly.
- Big Bus Singapore: Grab a ticket for the Big Bus Singapore hop-on-hop-off tour bus.
Tips for travelling with kids:
- Public transport is family-friendly, but pack a foldable stroller to navigate busy stations.
- Keep a lightweight umbrella or poncho handy for unexpected rain.
- Bring water bottles to stay hydrated in the tropical heat.
Things to do in Singapore on your family holiday
Singapore is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. Here are some must-dos:
- Gardens by the Bay: Walk through the magical Supertree Grove and cool off at the Children’s Garden.
- Singapore Zoo and Night Safari: Get up close with wildlife during the day or go on a nocturnal adventure.
- Sentosa Island: From Universal Studios Singapore to S.E.A. Aquarium, Sentosa is a paradise for kids.
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: Soak in the city views from this iconic rooftop.
- Jurong Bird Park: A colourful adventure with over 5,000 birds.
Here’s some more inspiration for your family holiday to Singapore:
Family-friendly accommodation
Singapore offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly stays. Many hotels cater specifically to families with amenities like kids’ pools, play areas, and adjoining rooms.
Our top picks for a family holiday to Singapore:
Marina Bay Sands: Iconic, with breathtaking views and a family-friendly vibe.
Shangri-La Hotel: Known for its amazing kids’ club and splash zone.
Village Hotel Bugis: Centrally located with family rooms.
Resorts World Sentosa – Hotel Michael: A perfect base for exploring Sentosa Island.
Dining with kids in Singapore
Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, and the good news is, it’s just as great for kids!
- Hawker centres: Affordable and bustling with options for even the pickiest eaters. Try Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat for kid-friendly classics like chicken rice and satay.
- Family-friendly restaurants:
- Marché Mövenpick: A kid’s dream with play areas and fresh food.
- PizzaExpress: Great for pizza-loving kids.
- Special dietary needs: Many restaurants cater to vegetarians and offer gluten-free options.
Pro tip: Don’t miss Singapore’s iconic dessert, ice kacang—a colourful shaved ice treat your kids will love.
Itineraries and day trips
1-Day Itinerary:
- Morning: Explore Gardens by the Bay.
- Afternoon: Head to Sentosa Island for the S.E.A. Aquarium.
- Evening: Catch the light show at Marina Bay Sands.
3-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Visit the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.
- Day 2: Spend the day at Sentosa (Universal Studios, beaches).
- Day 3: Explore Chinatown and Little India for cultural experiences.
7-Day Itinerary:
Day Trips:
- Pulau Ubin: Experience Singapore’s rustic charm with cycling and nature trails.
- LEGOLAND Malaysia: Just a short drive across the border for LEGO-themed fun.
Budgeting for your family holiday to Singapore
Singapore might have a reputation for being pricey, but it doesn’t have to break the bank:
Cost-saving tips:
- Use public transport—it’s affordable and efficient.
- Eat at hawker centres for budget-friendly meals.
- Grab combo tickets for attractions to save on entry fees.
- Affordable attractions: The Botanic Gardens, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and Merlion Park are free and great for kids.
YouTube – Singapore family holidays
Additional resources
- Explore Visit Singapore for official travel information.
- Visit Smart Traveller Singapore for the latest Visa and safety requirements.
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