Is December a good time to visit Singapore? This question has been on the minds of many travelers who are planning to visit this beautiful island city-state during the holiday season. Singapore is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and modern attractions. However, the weather and crowd conditions in December can make or break your trip. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of visiting Singapore in December and help you decide if it’s the right time for you to visit.
Weather in December
Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 34°C (73°F to 93°F) throughout the year. December is one of the cooler months in Singapore, with average high temperatures around 29°C (84°F) and average low temperatures around 23°C (73°F). The humidity is relatively low, making it a comfortable time to visit. However, it’s not uncommon to experience occasional rain showers, so it’s essential to pack accordingly.
Pros of Visiting Singapore in December
Here are some advantages of visiting Singapore in December:
- Comfortable Weather: The cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.
- Less Humidity: The low humidity makes it easier to walk around and enjoy the city’s sights and sounds.
- Christmas Celebrations: Singapore celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm, and you can experience the festive atmosphere in the city.
- Fireworks Displays: The city hosts several fireworks displays during the holiday season, which are a treat to watch.
- Special Events: December is a great time to attend special events, such as the Singapore River Hongbao, which celebrates the Chinese New Year.
Cons of Visiting Singapore in December
Here are some disadvantages of visiting Singapore in December:
- Crowds: December is a peak tourist season in Singapore, and you can expect large crowds at popular attractions.
- Higher Prices: Accommodation and flight prices tend to be higher during the holiday season.
- Rainfall: Although the humidity is low, Singapore can experience occasional rain showers, which can dampen your plans.
- Less Greenery: The dry season can make the city’s gardens and parks look less vibrant than usual.
Things to Do in Singapore in December
Things to Do in Singapore in December
Singapore offers a wide range of activities and events in December that cater to different interests. Here are some things to do in Singapore in December:
Outdoor Activities
Singapore has plenty of outdoor spaces that are perfect for exploring during the cooler months. Here are some outdoor activities to consider:
- Hiking at MacRitchie Reservoir Park: This park offers several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Exploring the Gardens by the Bay: These beautiful gardens are a must-visit, especially during the holiday season when they are decorated with festive lights.
- Visiting the Singapore Botanic Gardens: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 10,000 plant species and offers a peaceful escape from the city.
- Walking along the Singapore River: Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the city’s sights and sounds.
Indoor Activities
If you prefer to stay indoors, Singapore has plenty of museums, galleries, and shopping malls to explore. Here are some indoor activities to consider:
- Visiting the National Gallery Singapore: This museum features a collection of Southeast Asian art and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Exploring the ArtScience Museum: This museum features interactive exhibits that showcase the intersection of art and science.
- Shopping at the Marina Bay Sands: This iconic mall offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, as well as stunning views of the city.
- Visiting the Singapore Flyer: Take a ride on the world’s largest observation wheel and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Events and Festivals
Events and Festivals
Singapore hosts several events and festivals in December that are worth attending. Here are some of the top events and festivals to consider:
Singapore River Hongbao
This festival is a celebration of the Chinese New Year and features lion and dragon dances, cultural performances, and traditional food stalls. It’s a great time to experience Singapore’s rich cultural heritage. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Kangra Valley – A Year Round Paradise)
Christmas Light-Up
Singapore’s shopping malls and streets are decorated with festive lights and decorations during the holiday season. It’s a great time to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
New Year’s Eve Countdown
Singapore hosts a massive New Year’s Eve countdown party at the Marina Bay Sands, which features live music, fireworks, and a countdown to midnight.
Singapore International Festival of Arts
This festival features a range of performances, including music, dance, and theater. It’s a great time to experience Singapore’s vibrant arts scene.
Accommodation and Transportation
Singapore has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some tips for finding the right accommodation and getting around the city:
Accommodation
Singapore has plenty of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from. Here are some tips for finding the right accommodation:
- Book in advance: December is a peak tourist season, so it’s essential to book your accommodation well in advance.
- Consider a hotel with a rooftop pool: This will give you a great view of the city and a chance to relax.
- Look for hotels with a free breakfast: This will save you money and give you a good start to the day.
- Consider a hostel or guesthouse: These options are often cheaper and offer a more local experience.
Transportation
Singapore has a well-developed public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are some tips for getting around:
- Buy a Singapore Tourist Pass: This pass gives you unlimited travel on public transportation for a set period of time.
- Use the MRT: The Mass Rapid Transit system is efficient and convenient.
- Take a taxi: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
- Use ride-hailing apps: Apps like Grab and Go-Van are popular in Singapore and can be used to hail a ride.
Food and Drink
Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. Here are some tips for finding the best food and drink in Singapore:
Street Food
Singapore is famous for its street food, which is available at hawker centers and food courts throughout the city. Here are some popular street food options:
- Chili crab: This is a Singaporean classic and is often served with steamed rice.
- Hainanese chicken rice: This is a popular dish that consists of poached chicken served with fragrant rice and chili sauce.
- Char kway teow: This is a stir-fry dish made with noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood.
- Roti prata: This is a type of Indian flatbread that is often served with a variety of curries.
Restaurants
Restaurants
Singapore has a wide range of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from traditional Singaporean cuisine to international flavors. Here are some popular restaurant options: (See Also: What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Poland – Discover the Perfect Season)
Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Singapore is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including:
- Odette: A French restaurant with two Michelin stars.
- Les Amis: A French restaurant with two Michelin stars.
- Brasserie Les Saveurs: A French restaurant with one Michelin star.
Traditional Singaporean Restaurants
Here are some popular traditional Singaporean restaurants:
- Newton Food Centre: A hawker center serving traditional Singaporean dishes.
- Tiong Bahru Market: A hawker center serving traditional Singaporean dishes.
- Chili Crab Restaurant: A restaurant specializing in chili crab dishes.
International Restaurants
Singapore has a diverse range of international restaurants, including:
- Italian restaurants like Bella Italia and La Strada.
- Chinese restaurants like Crystal Jade and Din Tai Fung.
- Indian restaurants like Muthu’s Curry and Komala Vilas.
Shopping
Singapore is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of shopping malls and markets to choose from. Here are some popular shopping options:
Shopping Malls
Singapore has several large shopping malls, including:
- Marina Bay Sands: A luxury shopping mall with a range of high-end brands.
- ION Orchard: A luxury shopping mall with a range of high-end brands.
- Paragon: A shopping mall with a range of international brands.
Markets
Markets
Singapore has several markets that offer a unique shopping experience. Here are some popular markets:
Chinatown Street Market
This market is located in the heart of Chinatown and offers a wide range of goods, including souvenirs, clothing, and accessories.
Little India Arcade
This market is located in the heart of Little India and offers a wide range of Indian goods, including clothing, accessories, and spices.
Newton Food Centre
This hawker center offers a wide range of traditional Singaporean dishes, as well as souvenirs and other goods. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Java – Peak Adventure Season)
Mustafa Centre
This shopping mall offers a wide range of goods, including electronics, clothing, and accessories.
Recap
In this article, we have explored the pros and cons of visiting Singapore in December, including the weather, things to do, accommodation and transportation options, food and drink, and shopping. We have also highlighted some popular events and festivals that take place in December, including the Singapore River Hongbao and the Christmas Light-Up.
Key Points
- December is a peak tourist season in Singapore, with comfortable weather and plenty of events and festivals to enjoy.
- The city has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.
- Singapore has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city.
- The city is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from, including traditional Singaporean dishes and international flavors.
- Singapore is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of shopping malls and markets to choose from.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Singapore?
Yes, December is a good time to visit Singapore, with comfortable weather and plenty of events and festivals to enjoy.
What are the best things to do in Singapore in December?
Some of the best things to do in Singapore in December include visiting the Gardens by the Bay, taking a stroll along the Singapore River, and exploring the city’s many shopping malls and markets.
What are the best places to stay in Singapore?
Singapore has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Singapore include the Marina Bay Sands, the ION Orchard, and the Newton Food Centre.
What are the best ways to get around Singapore?
Singapore has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city. Some of the best ways to get around Singapore include using the MRT, taking a taxi, and using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Go-Van.
What are the best foods to try in Singapore?
Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from, including traditional Singaporean dishes and international flavors. Some of the best foods to try in Singapore include chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice, and char kway teow.
