One of the best ways to experience Singapore is through its food — and nothing captures that better than its hawker centres. Whether you're stopping for a quick bite between sightseeing or enjoying a sit-down lunch, these open-air food courts offer a taste of everyday life in Singapore.

If you're planning a customised tour, including a few hawker centres in your itinerary is a great way to connect with local culture and cuisine — all in one bite.

Here are some of the best hawker centres to include in your 2025 Singapore adventure:

1. Maxwell Food Centre – Chinatown

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Maxwell is ideal for a midday stop during a heritage walk. It’s home to the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, but you’ll also find dumplings, oyster cakes, and fresh sugarcane juice.

Perfect for: A quick bite while exploring Singapore’s Chinese heritage.

2. Lau Pa Sat – Downtown Core

This beautifully restored colonial-era food court offers both local delights and international options. If your tour includes a stop in the financial district or Marina Bay, Lau Pa Sat is a great place to rest and refuel.

Try: Satay in the evening — the street outside transforms into a smoky, delicious night market.

Perfect for: A sit-down lunch in a unique architectural setting.

3. Tekka Centre – Little India

Bright, bustling, and full of flavour, Tekka Centre is a must if your customised tour brings you to Little India. From roti prata and biryani to freshly made lassi, this place is a feast for the senses.

Perfect for: Sampling Indian and Malay dishes in a colourful, cultural area.

4. Tiong Bahru Market – Heritage Meets Modern

Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s oldest residential neighbourhoods, now known for its blend of retro charm and modern cafés. The hawker centre upstairs serves classic local dishes like chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes) and lor mee (braised noodles).

Perfect for: A relaxed brunch before or after exploring the Tiong Bahru mural trail and boutiques.

5. Old Airport Road Food Centre – Local Favourite

A little off the beaten tourist path, Old Airport Road is where locals go for authentic, wallet-friendly hawker fare. Great for visitors wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back lunch.

Perfect for: A deeper local experience during a customised neighbourhood tour.

Making Food Part of Your Journey

The great thing about custom Singapore tours is flexibility. You don’t have to set aside a whole day for food — just let your guide know you're interested in trying hawker fare, and they can plan the route to include one or two centres based on your sightseeing plans.

Whether you want to grab something quick or sit down and soak in the atmosphere, hawker centres are the perfect pit stops. Every tray of noodles or cup of teh tarik tells a story — and makes your trip just that much more memorable.

When you land in Singapore, one of the best ways to experience the city is through its food. The Lion City is a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences — and every bite tells a story. Whether you're joining a Singapore food tour or exploring solo, make sure your first day is all about eating like a local.

Here are 5 dishes you must try on your first day in Singapore:

1. Hainanese Chicken Rice

This is often called Singapore’s national dish. Simple yet flavourful, it’s made with poached chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock, paired with chilli sauce, dark soy sauce, and ginger paste. You’ll find this dish at nearly every hawker centre — Maxwell Food Centre is a great place to start.

Local Tip: Ask for both roasted and steamed versions if you want to try the difference!

2. Char Kway Teow

This stir-fried noodle dish is smoky, savoury, and slightly sweet — thanks to a blend of soy sauce, Chinese sausage, cockles, and egg. It’s cooked on high heat for that perfect wok hei (charred aroma).

Where to Try: Head to Hill Street Char Kway Teow or any busy stall at Lau Pa Sat for a reliable taste.

3. Laksa

Laksa is a spicy coconut-based noodle soup packed with prawns, fishcakes, and tofu puffs. The most popular version in Singapore is Katong Laksa, where noodles are cut short so you can scoop them up with just a spoon — no chopsticks needed!

Food Tour Bonus: A Singapore food tour often includes a stop for laksa, helping you understand how each ingredient plays a role in its signature flavour.

4. Roti Prata with Curry

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, this Indian-inspired flatbread is best dipped in fish or mutton curry. It’s a satisfying breakfast or snack that’s available all day.

Where Locals Go: Visit The Roti Prata House or Mr. and Mrs. Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata.

5. Chilli Crab

If you’re feeling adventurous and ready to splurge a bit, chilli crab is a must. This messy but delicious seafood dish features crab cooked in a thick, tangy, and spicy tomato-based sauce. Perfect with mantou buns to mop up the sauce.

Evening Dining Suggestion: Try it at Jumbo Seafood by the river or during the dinner portion of a curated Singapore food tour.

Known as the “King of Fruits,” durian holds a special place in Singapore’s culinary heart, despite its divisive nature. This large, spiky fruit is famous for its strong aroma and rich, custard-like texture. The durian variety that reigns supreme in Singapore is the Mao Shan Wang, a variety famed for its creamy, bittersweet flavor and its distinctively smooth, thick flesh. Visitors to Singapore are often enticed by the challenge of trying this unique fruit, as it has become an iconic part of the local food culture.

Our guests smiling and pointing at a durian stall on a vibrant street in Singapore, showcasing stacks of fresh durians during a private tour.

Originally native to Southeast Asia, durian was introduced to Singapore through the region's rich agricultural history. It thrives in the tropical climate and has been a staple for centuries. The Mao Shan Wang durian, often considered the best of the bunch, is grown primarily in Malaysia and is celebrated for its perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. While the smell can be overwhelming to some, its taste is like nothing else – a combination of creamy, buttery richness with hints of almond and a slight bitterness that lingers.

For any food lover visiting Singapore, trying durian is a must. Whether you’re sampling it fresh from a street vendor or savoring it in pastries or ice cream, the experience is unforgettable. The strong smell may deter the faint-hearted, but those brave enough to indulge in this delicacy will find themselves rewarded with a taste of Singapore’s culinary soul. It’s more than just food – it’s a true Singaporean experience that shouldn’t be missed.

If you’re visiting Singapore in June, don’t be surprised to hear the loud beat of drums and see long, colorful boats racing through the water. That’s because it’s time for the Dragon Boat Festival—a lively and meaningful celebration filled with tradition, culture, and thrilling boat races.

Photo credit: Singapore Tourism Board

The Story Behind the Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a race. It’s based on a moving story from ancient China. A wise and honest man named Qu Yuan lived during the Warring States Period, over 2,000 years ago. Sadly, he was unfairly exiled by his ruler and, feeling hopeless, he jumped into a river. The local people admired him so much that they rushed to save him. They threw rice into the water to keep the fish away from his body and beat their paddles to scare off any sea creatures.

Today’s dragon boat races and rice dumplings are ways of remembering this touching act of love and respect.

How Singapore Joins the Celebration

While the festival has deep Chinese roots, Singapore has truly made it its own. The first dragon boat race here was held in 1978, and since then, it’s grown into an exciting event that draws both local and international teams.

The boats are long and sleek, shaped like dragons and brightly decorated. Each racing team usually has 20 paddlers, one drummer to keep the rhythm, and one steerer to guide the boat. When the drum beats fast, the paddlers row even harder—everyone must work perfectly together to win. It’s a great example of strength, unity, and teamwork.

What Visitors Can Expect

If you’re adding this to your Singapore to-do list, here’s what you’ll experience:

• Exciting races: Head to places like Marina Bay or Bedok Reservoir to watch the thrilling dragon boat competitions. Crowds cheer, drums echo, and the energy is incredible!

• Festive food: Try zongzi, the famous sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. They’re filled with tasty things like pork, mushrooms, or red bean paste.

• Cultural activities: Some events also include traditional music, dance, and storytelling about Qu Yuan and the meaning of the festival.

• Community spirit: Whether you’re watching the races or tasting local food, you’ll feel a strong sense of togetherness and celebration across cultures.

A Time to Celebrate Heritage and Harmony

Singapore’s Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a sporting event. It’s a day when people honor the past, enjoy the present, and come together in joy. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, it’s an unforgettable experience that blends tradition with excitement.

So don’t forget to pack your camera, bring your appetite, and get ready to cheer at the races—it’s going to be a splash!

Rino, a visually impaired woman from Tokyo, gently touches and smells purple and white flowers during a sensory walking tour in Singapore, experiencing the city through touch and scent.

Travel has no limits—and neither does curiosity. Rino, a visually impaired guest from Tokyo, returned to Singapore with her son Shane for their second customized tour with us. After a memorable first visit in August 2023, they joined our guide Gee Soo once again for another 8-hour adventure tailored specially to Rino’s needs. Her visual disability didn’t stop her from exploring the city—she simply experienced it in a different, deeper way.

Our customized tours are thoughtfully designed to suit guests with visual disabilities, focusing on the richness of Singapore through touch, sound, scent, and taste. From the texture of architectural details to the sounds of the bustling streets and the aroma of local dishes, every moment is curated to create a meaningful experience.

At Hello! Singapore Tours, we believe travel should be accessible and inclusive. Rino and Shane’s return is a beautiful reminder that discovery isn’t limited by sight—it can be felt with the heart and sensed with care. Whether it’s your first visit or your second, we’re here to craft a journey that meets your needs and celebrates your way of exploring the world.

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a passionate foodie YouTuber on our Ultimate Singapore Food Tour, and what a journey it was! In their words, they completed a “6-hour ultimate Singapore food tour” filled with local dishes, cultural discoveries, and unforgettable flavors. Their video is a fantastic snapshot of what it’s like to explore Singapore through the lens of food — and we couldn’t resist sharing some highlights from their experience.

From iconic street food to stories of immigration and cultural fusion, Keith and Devon’s video captured the essence of what makes Singapore such a special place to eat (and eat... and eat some more). If you’re curious to follow in their footsteps and discover the real flavours of Singapore, you know where to find us.

Singapore’s beloved Gardens by the Bay is turning up the excitement in 2025 with new attractions and enhanced experiences that offer something for every traveler. Whether you're here on a short trip or planning a personalised itinerary with a Private Tours Singapore experience, the Gardens is the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and discover nature in creative new ways.

One of the biggest highlights this year is the return of Tulipmania, now featuring a fresh theme titled “Tulipmania – The Ottoman Legacy.” This floral extravaganza pays tribute to Türkiye, often credited as the original home of tulips, long before they became the national flower of the Netherlands. Over 50,000 tulips are on display in a range of vibrant shades and rare varieties.

Photo: Gardens By the by webste

The Flower Dome has been transformed into a Turkish-inspired landscape, complete with blooming arches, a floral replica of the iconic Blue Mosque, and market-themed floral arrangements that take you right into the heart of Istanbul. This year’s display is more immersive than ever, especially with the addition of “Sensory Moments,” where visitors can touch, smell, and interact with tulips through guided, hands-on experiences. If you’re a plant enthusiast or simply love a good photo spot, visiting with a friendly tour guide as part of your private tour can really elevate the experience, giving you a deeper understanding of the flowers’ cultural significance and historical journey.

Families will also be thrilled with the brand-new PropNex Family Zone, the largest outdoor play area at the Gardens to date. Opened in April 2025, this nature-themed playground is inspired by the Gardens’ iconic Supertrees and features everything from climbing towers and flying fox rides to a glowing sandpit and super-long tunnel slides. At the centre is Becky Bunny, a giant bunny-shaped play structure that’s a hit with young kids and perfect for adorable photo moments. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teens, this new area adds even more fun and flexibility for families exploring the Gardens. Parents can relax in shaded seating areas while kids immerse themselves in hours of nature-inspired adventure.

Photo: Gardens By the Bay

If you’re visiting Singapore and want to explore Gardens by the Bay in the most convenient and insightful way, we recommend including it in a Private Tours Singapore itinerary. With a friendly tour guide, you’ll learn fascinating stories behind the Supertree Grove, the sustainable design of the domes, and insider tips to navigate the space efficiently. You'll also be guided to the best photo spots, optimal timing for the Garden Rhapsody light show, and lesser-known features like the Floral Clock and the Heritage Gardens. On the other hand, if you prefer to explore independently, Gardens by the Bay is also easy to access by MRT and has plenty of signage and resources for self-guided visitors. From the tranquil Cloud Forest with its indoor waterfall to the evening light show beneath the Supertrees, there’s plenty to enjoy at your own pace.

Gardens by the Bay continues to redefine what a city garden can be, and 2025 is the perfect year to rediscover this iconic landmark. Whether you’re admiring tulips inspired by Ottoman art or watching your kids zip through a giant bunny slide, there’s something magical here for everyone. And if you’re planning your Singapore adventure with us, don’t hesitate to request Gardens by the Bay as part of your customised Private Tours Singapore. We’ll make sure you see it in the most memorable way—guided, meaningful, and stress-free.

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Singapore isn’t just a stop—it's a destination. For cruise passengers arriving in the Lion City, there's so much to experience beyond the port. With its sparkling skyline, world-class attractions, and unbeatable cleanliness and efficiency, Singapore is often a highlight on any Southeast Asia cruise itinerary. And that’s exactly what our recent cruise guests discovered on their unforgettable 2-day customized private tour with our fabulous guide, Gee Soo!

From iconic sights to hidden gems, delicious eats to cultural wonders, this 48-hour adventure packed in everything that makes Singapore such a hit with travelers from around the world.

The Heart of the City & Historic Charms

Our journey began at Merlion Park, where the story of Singapore's mythical half-lion, half-fish mascot came to life. As we strolled past Anderson Bridge from Victoria Theatre, our guests soaked in riverside views and snapped plenty of photos with the iconic Merlion.

Lunchtime took us to Café Jubilant at Millenia Walk, where we enjoyed a relaxing meal in a cozy setting before continuing our exploration.

We cruised past St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the Fountain of Wealth—did you know it holds a Guinness World Record? Our next stop was the breathtaking National Gallery Singapore, housed in two grand colonial buildings: the former City Hall and Supreme Court. Not only did we admire incredible Southeast Asian art, but we also visited an actual old holding cell and enjoyed panoramic views from the rooftop.

The day ended with a scenic walk along the Singapore River, where we met Sir Stamford Raffles and admired sculptures of early river merchants and heritage bridges like the Cavenagh Bridge. And of course, we couldn’t miss the glamorous Fullerton Hotel, a national monument that once served as the city’s General Post Office!

Skyscrapers, Street Food & Super Trees

What better way to start the day than at the top of the world? At the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, we marveled at the views from 57 storeys high. From the city skyline to the distant shores of Batam, Indonesia, the sights were absolutely jaw-dropping.

Next, we ducked into Tiong Bahru Market, one of Singapore’s beloved hawker centers, for a delicious lunch. Despite the pouring rain, our guests loved the glimpse into local life—umbrellas, steaming food stalls, and all!

Then came the showstopper: Gardens by the Bay. We wandered through towering Super Trees and floated along the OCBC Skyway, soaking in the views. We also explored three magical indoor gardens:

• Floral Fantasy with its whimsical displays (and even some surprise Disney characters!),

• Flower Dome, filled with vibrant blooms and springtime Sakura, and the misty, mysterious Cloud Forest, home to a dramatic indoor waterfall.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we wrapped up the day with a ride on the Singapore Flyer. At 165 meters above sea level, this massive observation wheel gave us a dreamy “blue hour” view of the entire city.

And because no trip is complete without a feast, we ended our adventure with a mouth-watering dinner at Swee Choon Dim Sum, a local favorite known for its classic dumplings and warm, buzzing atmosphere.

Singapore is a favorite among cruise passengers for good reason. Its clean and efficient transport system makes getting around a breeze, especially for those with limited time onshore. The city offers a fascinating blend of cultures, where East meets West in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. From iconic modern landmarks to rich historical sites, there’s something for everyone. And of course, the food scene is unbeatable—hawker centers serve up world-class dishes at wallet-friendly prices. With friendly locals and world-famous attractions packed into a compact, safe city, it’s no wonder Singapore leaves cruise visitors wanting more.

Singapore is a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers stand alongside rich cultural heritage, but exploring it on your own can be overwhelming. While many attractions are easy to find, the city’s hidden gems—like secret hawker stalls, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and stories behind its rapid transformation—are best discovered with a knowledgeable private tour guide. With a local expert, you’ll go beyond the usual tourist spots and experience Singapore’s history, food, and culture in a way that guidebooks and online searches simply can’t offer.

Hello! Singapore Tour Guide Gee Soo with his guest on a customised tour

Without a guide, visitors might miss out on the best street food, the meaning behind historical landmarks, and the unique traditions that shape Singapore. A private tour guide in Singapore personalizes the experience, taking you to places only locals know and sharing insights that make every stop more meaningful. Whether it’s learning about the city’s diverse communities, uncovering hidden heritage sites, or skipping the tourist crowds, having a guide ensures you make the most of your time in the Lion City.

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Singapore is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside beautifully preserved heritage buildings. One of the best ways to explore its vibrant culture is through a private customised walking tour. Walking through the city's diverse neighborhoods allows visitors to experience Singapore beyond the usual tourist spots, offering a deeper connection to its history, traditions, and people.

Each neighborhood in Singapore has a unique story to tell, shaped by history and the communities that call it home. On a walking tour, visitors can explore these lively areas at their own pace, uncovering hidden gems and gaining insights that they might miss on a standard tour.

Hello! Singapore guests exploring Chinatown on a walking tour.

Chinatown: A Blend of Old and New

Chinatown is a vibrant district filled with colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and centuries-old temples. Walking through its narrow lanes, visitors can learn about the early Chinese immigrants who settled here and their contributions to Singapore’s growth. The Sri Mariamman Temple and Thian Hock Keng Temple offer a glimpse into the city's religious diversity, while food lovers can sample local delights such as Hainanese chicken rice and dim sum from hawker stalls.

Kampong Glam: The Heart of Malay Heritage

A walk through Kampong Glam reveals Singapore’s rich Malay and Arab influences. The iconic Sultan Mosque, with its golden dome, is a must-see landmark. Visitors can explore the trendy boutiques along Haji Lane, known for its colorful street art and independent shops. This area offers an intriguing mix of traditional and modern, with hip cafes sitting alongside historic spice shops and textile stores.

Little India: A Burst of Color and Culture

Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant neighborhoods, full of energy, aromatic spice shops, and traditional Indian eateries. Guests on a walking tour can witness the daily bustle of the Tekka Market, admire the intricate designs of the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and taste authentic Indian sweets and snacks. During Deepavali, the streets light up with dazzling decorations, making it a fantastic time to visit.

Joo Chiat and Katong: A Peranakan Heritage Trail

For a quieter but equally enriching experience, Joo Chiat and Katong showcase Singapore’s Peranakan heritage. This neighborhood is famous for its pastel-colored shophouses and traditional Peranakan cuisine, such as laksa and kueh. Walking here feels like stepping back in time, with its charming streets and stories of the Peranakan culture, a unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and European influences.

Walking tours offer a more immersive experience compared to bus or car tours. Guests can interact with locals, take in the sights at a leisurely pace, and appreciate the finer details of each neighborhood. With Hello! Singapore Tours, a private customised walking tour ensures a more personal experience, tailored to individual interests and preferences. Whether it’s food, history, or culture, a walking tour allows visitors to explore Singapore in a meaningful and memorable way.

Exploring Singapore on foot brings a new perspective to the city’s colorful neighborhoods. It’s an opportunity to step away from the usual attractions and dive into the stories, traditions, and flavors that make Singapore truly unique. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a walking tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Lion City.