Apart from being one of Asia’s major financial hubs, Singapore is also one of the hottest places to be for fun-loving teens. With its diverse communities, flavorful cuisine, and overall cosmopolitan nature, Singapore has plenty to offer young people who want to have some downtime after a week of grueling schoolwork. It’s also one of the safest and easiest cities for teens to navigate; along with its top-notch transport system, Singapore takes pride in its secure streets that allow kids to walk home safely at night.
Whether you’re attending a high school in Singapore for international students or are simply new to the Lion City, you can make the most of your stay by knowing the best places to chill. To help you out, here are some of the coolest spots around town that should be worth visiting over the weekend. Or you could take a Singapore Tour.
Orchard Road
Orchard Road is a shopping and dining destination favored by locals and tourists alike. The area is filled with shopping malls, indie stores, and an eclectic mix of eateries and restaurants to discover on a fine Saturday morning. Orchard Road is also home to *SCAPE, a youth-focused events place and hangout spot with areas for various activities, including graffiti art and skateboarding.
Tiong Bahru
If you’re the artsy type, you may want to drop by Singapore’s very own hipster haven: Tiong Bahru. Located in one of the country’s oldest residential estates, Tiong Bahru is known for its quirky facade and historical atmosphere. The area evokes an “old Singapore” ambiance with its traditional Qi Tian Gong temple, art deco architecture, and stunning murals. You may want to spend your weekend at Tiong Bahru if you’re a big fan of literature, European-style cafes, and vintage record stores.
Bugis
Bugis is THE place to be if you want to get a feel of the different cultures that have converged in Singapore through the years. Bugis Street Market, in particular, is one of the best spots to go bargain-hunting for clothes, knickknacks, and more. Additionally, this shopping mecca has a selection of dining options that offer a taste of authentic Singaporean cuisine. The best part? Bugis is easily accessible via MRT!
Arab Street and Haji Lane
Singapore has a rich Islamic heritage that makes it one of the most interesting places to explore. At Singapore’s Arab Street district, you can experience the country’s unique Muslim culture through its vibrant shophouses, clothing stores, and Middle Eastern restaurants.
After strolling through Arab Street, you may want to drop by the famous Haji Lane. This back alley is mostly popular for its Instagram-worthy facade, but it’s also filled with hole-in-the-wall shops, artsy boutiques, and cozy eateries. Arab Street and Haji Lane are located in the Kampong Glam neighborhood, which is only a few steps away from Bugis MRT station.
Holland Village
Another hangout spot easily accessible via MRT is Holland Village or “Holland V”. Formerly a European enclave, Holland Village is a residential area frequented by youngsters for its laid-back vibe and colorful nightlife. Even if you’re not old enough to drink, you can still get your fill of savory flavors at the various eateries and cafes around the area. If you’re a history or architecture buff, you may want to marvel at the village’s colonial-style buildings that serve as a reminder of Singapore’s Dutch community in the 1900s.
Gardens by the Bay
Outdoorsy types are in for a treat at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay. This 101-hectare nature park houses a myriad of plant species and is divided into three plots: Bay Central, Bay East, and Bay South. You can have a picnic with a friend, go jogging, or simply stroll around the greenery on an idle afternoon. The Gardens also offers a wide range of cuisines at its Satay by the Bay food court and standalone food stalls.
While there, you may want to check out the air-conditioned Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome conservatories. Both greenhouses are massive, with the Cloud Forest containing a lush mountain of vegetation and one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls. Flower Dome, on the other hand, houses a splendid display of florals and is the world’s largest glass greenhouse.
Sentosa Island
Weekends are also perfect for beach days, and what better way to spend a sunny afternoon than a trip to Sentosa Island? You can take a 5-minute walk to the island via the Sentosa Boardwalk or take a cable car from the HarbourFront station to bask in the magnificent aerial views.
Sentosa has three beaches—Tanjong, Palawan, and Siloso—that are great for activities such as swimming, playing sports, or grabbing some eats. While on the island, be sure to check out the Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium, and the ever-popular Universal Studios theme park.
Making the Most of Weekends away from Home
Weekends are a time to kick back, relax, and spend some quality time with family and friends. That said, you can also use this time to relish your “alone hours” and explore a new city by yourself. Studying in a different country or environment can be tough, but acclimating can be easy once you’ve found the best spots for you to unwind. All in all, it’s impossible to have a boring weekend in a place known for being one of the most exciting destinations in the world.