4. Heritage Trail: Little India, Kampong Glam, Chinatown & Telok Ayer
What better way to explore Singapore than on a heritage food trail that winds through neighborhoods reflecting the city’s multicultural roots? In the past, different communities settled in distinct quarters: Chinese in Chinatown, Indians in Little India, and Malays in Kampong Glam.
Today, we no longer live separately - but each district still invites you to celebrate and experience the rich traditions of its culture. Start in Little India, where vibrant streets, fragrant spice shops, and colorful temples set the scene.
Don’t miss the whimsical Umbrella Trees along Hindoo Road - a public art installation that comes alive during Deepavali, when the neighborhood glows with festive lights. Grab a local classic like roti prata for an authentic taste of Singapore.
Next, head to Kampong Glam, the historic Malay-Muslim quarter. Marvel at the majestic Sultan Mosque, explore boutiques and cafés along Arab Street, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the district.
Then move on to Chinatown, bustling with markets, traditional snacks, and ornate temples like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Sri Mariamman Temple. Treat yourself to Tong Heng’s famous diamond-shaped egg tarts, beloved by locals for generations, and check out Smith Street Hawker Centre and People’s Park Food Centre for a variety of iconic bites.
Finish the trail in Telok Ayer, a historic lane lined with old shophouses. Step into Chong Wen Ge Peranakan Café, once Singapore’s first Chinese school, where the ground floor blends a cozy Peranakan café with a Peranakan Tile Gallery, and upstairs, the Singapore Musical Box Museum houses over 40 antique music boxes. The heritage menu features Nyonya mee siam, laksa, kuehs, and a three-layered Teh-C Special - perfect for a quiet afternoon of discovery.
Right across the road, Fu Lin Bar & Kitchen serves Singaporean classics with a twist. Their dry yong tau foo—golden fritters piled with noodles and gravy, served with a side of soup - is legendary, and the crisp fried beancurd skin is addictive. By night, this cozy spot transforms into a lively bar, showing that Singapore’s heritage isn’t just history - it’s a living, shared celebration of culture.
5. Jewel at Changi Airport
Before or after your flight, dive into Jewel Changi Airport - an architectural wonder crowned by the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, set amidst lush indoor forests. Step into Canopy Park, where you can bounce across suspended nets, wander through themed gardens, or get lost in the mind-bending Mirror Maze, a dazzling playground of reflections that’s perfect for photos (and a few giggles). Changi isn’t just about the airport. Families and fitness enthusiasts can stroll or cycle along the nearby Jurassic Mile Park, dotted with life-sized dinosaur sculptures. Round off your day at Changi Village Hawker Centre, where famous nasi lemak, satay, hokkien mee, giant sugarcane juice and other local favorites offer a relaxed, seaside taste of Singapore. Catch the sunset at East Coast Park to end on a serene note.
