Chinatown

Singapore, Asia

Chinatown in Singapore is a vibrant cultural enclave known for its rich heritage, colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and delectable cuisine. The historic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, diverse street food options like Michelin-starred hawker stalls, and the lively Chinatown Night Market exemplify the unique blend of modernity and tradition. The area also hosts numerous festivals, making it a dynamic place to explore and learn about Chinese culture. Whether shopping for souvenirs or savoring local delicacies, Chinatown is an essential stop for any traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

District

Vibe

History

Airport

Paya Lebar

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

9 Best Things to Do in Chinatown

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Explore a stunning temple housing a sacred relic.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Try local street food at Chinatown Food Street

Savor authentic local dishes in a vibrant setting.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Shop at Chinatown's Night Market

Experience a lively market filled with unique finds.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Chinatown Heritage Centre

Uncover the rich history of Singapore's Chinatown.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Sri Mariamman Temple

Admire the intricate details of Singapore's oldest Hindu temple.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the Chinatown Street Market

Shop for souvenirs and local crafts at this bustling market.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar

Sip cocktails with a view of the skyline.

No booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Thian Hock Keng Temple

Experience the spiritual ambiance of this historic temple.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a cooking class

Learn to make traditional dishes in a fun setting.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-2 (#64 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Singapore Dollar

Majority religion

No majority

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Steamed chicken with rice and sauce (National dish)

Chili Crab

Crab in spicy tomato and chili sauce

Laksa

Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat noodles with seafood

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)