Top 10 things to do in Singapore at night

Singapore’s nightlife isn’t only about cocktails and parties. But it’s also about admiring the twinkling city lights from above, experiencing the bustling night markets, watching the stunning light shows (which surprisingly are free), the list goes on! Whether you’re feeling a bit jet-lagged or simply want to experience the nightlife, this guide will show you exactly what to do in Singapore at night!

How to get to Singapore?

Flights

The best and quickest way to get to Singapore is to fly directly there. There’s a wide selection of low-cost airlines to choose from, perfect for those on a budget. 

Popular routes:

Routes	Airlines	Starting price
Kuala Lumpur to Singapore	Scoot, Jetstar Asia, Singapore Airlines, Air Asia	US $43
Penang to Singapore	Scoot, Jetstar Asia, Singapore Airlines, Air Asia, Silkair	US $38

Bus

If you’re on a much stricter budget, the next best option is to take the bus. Luckily, all buses are very spacious and have reclining seats which helps make the hours fly by fast. 

Popular routes:

Routes	Journey duration	Starting price
Kuala Lumpur to Singapore	6-7 hours	US $37
Melaka to Singapore	4-5 hours	US $13
Penang to Singapore	10 hours	US $40

Ferry

If you’re coming from Batam Island in Indonesia, you can take a short ferry ride to Singapore. The journey takes roughly one hour and prices start from US $22.

1. Spectra Light & Water Show

When it comes down to deciding what to do in Singapore at night for free, look no further than the Spectra Light & Water show which happens every evening at Marina Bay. 

The best spot to watch the show is at the Event Plaza situated right in front of the iconic Marina Bay Sands. This captivating show features dancing water fountains, laser lights projecting psychedelic patterns over the water mists and an orchestral soundtrack. 

Show times: 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. from Sundays to Thursdays. 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays

2. Garden Rhapsody Show

Gardens by the Bay is no doubt the best place to visit in Singapore. It features 18 Supertrees, each measuring between 25 and 50 meters tall. These gigantic metal structures feature over 200 species of plants and some of them are even equipped with photovoltaic cells. The harvested solar energy is then used to light up the trees at night for the Garden Rhapsody show. 

During the show, the Supertrees light up the sky while changing colors in tune to classical or modern music for 15 minutes straight. Since the show is completely free to watch, get there early, at least 15-30 minutes in advance to secure a spot. 

Show times: 7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. every night

3. Marvel at the HSBC Rain Vortex

Cascading at 40 meters amid a tropical garden in the middle of Changi airport is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, Rain Vortex. Since its opening in 2019, this masterpiece has become one of Singapore’s top attractions and can be visited for absolutely free. 

As impressive as it is during the day, the best time to visit is at night during the light and sound show. Again the show is completely free and takes place every evening at one-hour intervals from 7:30 p.m to 11:30 p.m.

4. Party the night away 

To experience Singapore’s nightlife at its best, head to Clarke Quay where some of the top Singapore bars are located! This spot is packed with rows of bars, restaurants and nightclubs perfect for those who want to party the night away. For the best views of the city’s skyline, Marina Bay Sands rooftop bar, Cé La Vie is where it’s at. 

For a more hipster feel, consider either Ann Siang Hill or Club Street, both located adjacent to each other. During the day, Ann Siang Hill looks more like a sleepy neighborhood flanked by colorful Chinese shophouses but once the sun goes down, you will find tables and stools lining down the street where both locals and fellow travelers mingle with cocktails in hand.

If you’re on the hunt for the coolest bars in Singapore with live music, head to Crazy Elephant for some Rock ‘n’ Roll Blues (Robbie Williams even performed there!), Hero’s for rock and pop music, Cool Cats for a jazzy vibe or Timbre X.

To save some cash, make sure to go during happy hour. Some bars even have ladies’ night specials during certain days of the week which translates into discounted or free drinks!

5. Evening stroll at the Esplanade 

Go for an evening walk along the Esplanade where you will come across some of Singapore’s most popular landmarks including the Merlion, Helix bridge, Esplanade theatres (recognizable by their “durian” shape), Art Science Museum and Marina Bay Sands.

The views are particularly breathtaking at night with the lights reflecting on the water.

6. Shopping at Bugis Street

Although Bugis Street Market is a great spot to visit during the day, it provides a completely different experience at night. Here you can buy anything from souvenirs to clothes and food, all at very cheap prices. For more late-night shopping, you can also head to Bugis+ and Bugis Junction malls located on the opposite side of the street.

7. Mustafa Center

If you’re looking for more shopping, Mustafa Center in Little India is open 24/7 and sells pretty much anything you can think of – electronics, clothes, beauty products, fabrics, gold jewelry, groceries, you name it! 

The 7-story building is crammed with stores and walking down the narrow aisles will make you feel like you’ve landed in the middle of a gigantic maze. You’re almost guaranteed to get lost but it’s all part of the fun! There’s even a rooftop restaurant, Kebab’s N Curries, that stays open until 1 a.m for those craving for a midnight snack.

8. Singapore Flyer

Admire the sparkling city lights from a bird’s eye perspective at the Singapore Flyer, Asia’s largest observation wheel. Located in Marina Bay, a ride in the Singapore Flyer will spin you up to 165 meters above ground for 30 minutes as you take in the view of Singapore’s skyline. 

From this unique vantage point, you’ll be able to observe Marina Bay, Raffles Place and other popular sights. If you’re traveling with your other half, you can opt for an in-flight package to enjoy a romantic 4-course dinner or simply sip on champagne while admiring the view.

Price: From 33 SGD (US $24.40)
Opening hours: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Thursdays to Sundays

9. Satay Street Lau Pa Sat 

Lau Pat Sat, also known as Telok Ayer Market, is a huge hawker center located in Singapore’s business district. Open from 7 a.m to 2 a.m, it’s the best place to indulge in cheap local and international eats. 

But if you decide to come after dark, head toward the back of the building to the famous Satay Street. From 7 p.m, the street is closed off to traffic and welcomes hundreds of locals and tourists alike. You can’t miss it if you just follow the smoky scents of barbeque meat and seafood skewers. Stalls 7 and 8 are said to serve the best satays but I’ve personally ordered from the other stalls as well and they tasted just as good.

10. Chinatown

Another great spot to visit in Singapore at night is Chinatown. Start at Pagoda Street for some souvenir shopping before moving on to Chinatown Food Street. This covered pathway is lined with food stalls and restaurants selling a wide selection of local food such as roast duck, Chinese dumplings and Indian curry. If you look closely, you’ll also notice a few interactive murals in the area.

Don’t forget to stop by the Buddha Tooth Relic temple and admire its illuminated red façade. And if you’re lucky enough to spot the Uncle with his trusty tricycle, make sure to order some delicious ice cream sandwich from him (this sweet treat will set you back 2 SGD/US $1.48 only). 
So, these are some of the top things to do in Singapore at night. Whether you’re a party animal or just want to experience the city of light after dark, you’ll be spoilt for choice!