Singapore skyline at dusk

Awakening the Senses in Singapore:
Culture and Leisure 2026

Discover how the Garden City blends age-old traditions with bold futurism to offer French-speaking expats an unrivalled lifestyle experience.

Explore the neighbourhoods Check the events calendar

One City-State, a Thousand Facets

In 2026, Singapore is more than ever establishing itself as the metropolis of tomorrow. Far from the clichéd image of a sterile financial centre, the city is a vibrant mosaic where every street tells a story. For French-speaking expats, settling here means embracing immersion in a successful laboratory of multicultural coexistence.

From the preserved colonial architecture of the Civic District to the organic structures of Marina Bay, Singapore defies convention. It is a "City in a Nature" where biodiversity is integrated into the concrete, creating a dynamic, breathable living environment. Integration means understanding this duality: a deep respect for Malay, Chinese, Indian and Eurasian roots, combined with an unlimited appetite for technological innovation.

"Singapore is not visited; it is experienced through its contrasts, between a centuries-old Buddhist temple and a digital art gallery."
Modern Singapore architecture Traditional temple Lush gardens Lively local market

Must-See Icons

These are the places that have defined Singapore’s global skyline and continue to amaze residents and visitors alike.

Gardens by the Bay Supertrees

Gardens by the Bay

Nature & Tech

Much more than a garden, this is a masterpiece of sustainable engineering. The **Supertrees**, these vertical structures standing 25 to 50 metres tall, collect rainwater and solar energy while also serving as vertical gardens. Don’t miss the nightly *Garden Rhapsody* show, a choreography of light and sound that transforms the park into an enchanted forest.

  • Cloud Forest: An artificial mountain under a dome with the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
  • Flower Dome: The world’s largest glass conservatory, changing with the seasons.
Discover the green spaces →
Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands & SkyPark

Luxury & Horizons

Towering over the bay with its three towers linked by a skyborne ship, MBS is the epicentre of entertainment. Its **SkyPark** offers a 360° panoramic view of the city and the surrounding straits. This is where you truly appreciate Singapore’s logistical power as you watch the procession of container ships in the distance.

ArtScience Museum

TeamLab immersive exhibitions

The Shoppes

Luxury shopping and dining

Explore the nightlife →

The Mosaic of Historic Neighbourhoods

Chinatown district

Chinatown Heritage & Flavours

A fascinating blend of old and new, Chinatown is the beating heart of the Chinese community. Among colourful *shophouses* and majestic temples such as the **Buddha Tooth Relic Temple**, the atmosphere is electric. It is the perfect place to find handicrafts or sample the famous *Chicken Rice* at a hawker centre.

Living in Chinatown Food Guide Traditional Festivals & Weddings
Little India district

Little India A Sensory Explosion

As soon as you leave the underground station, the scents of spices, jasmine and incense transport you elsewhere. Little India is a vibrant neighbourhood where richly decorated Hindu temples, such as the **Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple**, stand alongside 24-hour shopping centres such as Mustafa Centre. It is a hub of living culture, particularly during Deepavali.

Explore the hidden corners
Kampong Glam district

Kampong Glam Bohemian & Royal

The Malay-Muslim neighbourhood is dominated by the impressive **Sultan Mosque**. But behind the religious buildings lies **Haji Lane**, the city’s narrowest and trendiest street, famous for its monumental graffiti, independent designer boutiques and cafés with original concepts.

Expats’ tip: Go in the late afternoon to see the neighbourhood come alive to live music and enjoy the bespoke fragrances from the artisanal shops.

Leisure Budget Calculator: Plan Your Weekend

Planning outings in Singapore requires a certain amount of budget planning. Use our calculator to estimate the cost of a relaxing day in 2026.

Estimated Budget (per person)

SGD 20

*Prices are indicative for 2026. For more details, see our Budget & Cost of Living page.

A World-Class Museum Ecosystem

Singapore has invested heavily to become Southeast Asia’s cultural hub. Here, museums are not merely places of preservation, but interactive spaces where history meets digital art.

Interior of a modern museum French-Speaking Cultural Events Calendar

National Gallery Singapore

Housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, it is home to Southeast Asia's largest public collection of modern art.

NOT TO BE MISSED: The rooftop terrace for the view.

Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM)

Explore the historical links between Asian cultures and the world. The Tang Shipwreck Treasure is an absolute archaeological marvel.

ArtScience Museum

The giant lotus flower at Marina Bay. Its permanent "Future World" exhibition by TeamLab is a must for families and Instagram fans.

Peranakan Museum

Discover the unique culture of the descendants of Chinese traders who married into local Malay communities. A rare level of aesthetic refinement.

Nature Escape: From UNESCO to the Wild Islands

National Orchid Garden
UNESCO

Botanic Gardens

Over 160 years old, it is the only tropical botanic garden listed by UNESCO. The National Orchid Garden is a riot of colour.

See the trails →
Sentosa Beach
LEISURE

Sentosa Island

Singapore's playground. Artificial beaches, theme parks (Universal Studios), golf courses and beach clubs. Ideal for a family weekend.

Island guide →
Nature on Pulau Ubin
WILD

Pulau Ubin

A leap back in time. Hire a bicycle to explore the last kampongs (villages) and the wetlands of Chek Jawa. A striking contrast.

Get there by bumboat →

Asia's Gourmet Capital

In Singapore, "Have you eaten?" is as common a greeting as "How are you?". Food is the social glue of the nation. From a Michelin-starred street food stall to a futuristic restaurant, your taste buds will be in a constant state of excitement.

🦀

Chilli Crab & Black Pepper Crab

The kings of the Singaporean table, best enjoyed with mantous (steamed buns).

🍜

Laksa

Spicy coconut milk noodle soup, an inheritance of Peranakan culture.

🍢

Satay Street

Head to Lau Pa Sat in the evening for the best open-air grilled skewers.

All our recommendations
Singapore Street Food

Make the Most of Your Immersion

Transport

The MRT is your best ally. Clean, fast and air-conditioned. Use an EZ-Link card or your contactless bank card.

Network map →

Climate

Hot and humid all year round. Always pack a light cardigan for the freezing air conditioning indoors and an umbrella for tropical showers.

Live weather →

Reservations

For major attractions and popular restaurants, book online 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially at weekends.

Events →

Accommodation

Choose Bugis or Clarke Quay to be in the centre. Chinatown for the atmosphere, or Orchard for shopping.

Neighbourhood guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

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