Singapore was designed to shine. From shimmering skyscrapers and high-tech sculptures to its dazzling sea of fusion restaurants and sun blessed beaches, Singapore is picture-perfect all year round. It is consistently hot and humid, which is perfect if you plan on sticking to its blissed-out beaches, but in true Southeast Asian style, sudden showers are never out of the question. Take in the country’s sights during its low season (August – November), when temperatures soar and cultural events surge, or see Singapore on a high in February, June and July. Join in the festival fever during February’s Chinese New Year or jostle with carefree crowds making the most of the school holidays in midsummer. Read on for a more detailed insight into when best to visit Singapore.
November – January
These may be the coolest months of the year in Singapore but they can hardly be defined as cold. Land temperatures hover at 26°C, creeping to 30°C on a good day, while sea temperatures sit at a pleasant 27°C. You may have monsoon rains to contend with in December but with such an inviting sea on hand, we’re sure you won’t mind. If it’s festivals you’re on the look out for too, this winter season has you covered. From Singapore Fringe Festival and Art Stage Singapore to St Jerome’s Laneway Festival and myriad Christmas festivities, you’ll be hard-pressed to know where to start.
February
February is Singapore’s sweet spot. Rainfall is significantly less than its shouldering months (165mm compared to the 238mm of January) and temperatures stay consistent at around 27°C – just without the humidity that March brings. Be prepared for many of the country’s local shops and markets to be shut during Chinese New Year and for its main attractions to be busy. If you’re looking to escape the city, don’t forget about Sentosa Island, where cool beach bars, theme parks and exhilarating zip lines abound.
March – May
From March to May, it’s all about gearing up for the summer ahead. Known as the country’s shoulder period (the time in between high and low seasons), it is perfect for those wanting to spend a little less and but do a little more. There are less crowds, making visits to the Sultan Mosque and Gardens by the Bay a walk in the park, and less heat, meaning you can walk around the city all day without breaking a sweat. During this season temperatures remain around 27°C with highs of 31°C and lows of 24°C.
June – July
From June to July, school is out and summer is in full swing. Rainfall is at an all-time low and festival fever is at an all-time high. Cavort with locals at Singapore National Day, sample pale ales and light lagers at Beerfest Asia and party into the night at Singapore Night Festival. Temperatures hold at around 30°C with eight hours of sunshine… heaven.
August – October
September is reserved for one thing and one thing only – Formula 1. However, unless you are a Ferrari fanatic or an Alfa Romeo aficionado willing to spend double rates for rooms, we recommend skipping the month in favour of neighbouring August and October. In August, rainfall is rare and temperatures maintain their alluring summer charm (and heat) of 27°C, while October welcomes the odd thunderstorm in preparation for the impending monsoon season. So really, it’s the best of both worlds.
