National Museum
Singapore's oldest museum, ideal for understanding the island's history from 1819 to the present day.
Visit →
The Soul of Singapore: Culture & Traditions
Immerse yourself in the heart of a city-state where Malay, Chinese, Indian and Western heritage blend to create a harmony found nowhere else in the world.
A Human Mosaic
Multiculturalism: The Lion City’s DNA
Singapore is not simply a modern city-state; it is a living social laboratory where diversity is upheld as a core value. When you arrive here, you will immediately notice the natural coexistence of Hindu temples, mosques, churches and Buddhist shrines.
This harmonious blend stems from a strong political commitment to preserving the balance between the four main communities: Chinese (around 74%), Malays (13%), Indians (9%) and others (Eurasians and expatriates). To understand Singapore, you need to look beyond the skyscrapers and immerse yourself in the subtleties of each heritage.
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Official Languages
10+
Coexisting Religions
Architectural Duality: Between Past and Future
Green Futurism
Structures such as Marina Bay Sands are redefining urban planning by integrating biodiversity into concrete.
Explore the neighbourhoods
Shophouses
Historic commercial houses tell the island’s colonial and trading story through their colourful façades.
Colonial Heritage
The “Black and White” bungalows are peaceful havens inherited from the British era.
Environmental Innovation
Gardens by the Bay embodies the vision of a “City in a Garden”, where technology supports nature.
Discover the parksLocal Craft Treasures
Singaporean craftsmanship is inseparable from Peranakan culture (the descendants of the first Chinese immigrants who married local Malays). This hybrid culture has given rise to exceptionally delicate objects.
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Peranakan Porcelain: Known for its pastel colours (pink, turquoise and yellow) and phoenix and peony motifs.
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Batik: A wax-resist dyeing technique shared with the Malay world, expressed here in magnificent sarongs.
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The Merlion: An iconic half-lion, half-fish statue, symbolising the city’s protection and origins.
A Never-Ending Rhythm of Festivals
Every month brings a celebration, turning the streets into living spectacles.
January / February
Chinese New Year
Chinatown lights up. This is the time for the Chingay Parade, Asia’s largest float parade, and energetic lion dances.
See the guide →
April / May
Hari Raya Puasa
Marking the end of Ramadan, Geylang Serai becomes a vast night bazaar where the aromas of Malay cuisine fill the air.
Traditions & weddings →
9 August
National Day (NDP)
The whole island is decked out in red and white. A spectacular military and fireworks show celebrates Singapore’s independence.
Full calendar →
October / November
Deepavali
The Festival of Lights transforms Little India into a sparkling fairy tale, celebrating the triumph of good over evil.
July
Singapore Food Festival
A complete immersion in the island’s gastronomic mosaic, from hawker centres to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Discover the dishes →
September
F1 Grand Prix
Far more than a race, it is a major cultural and musical festival that electrifies the city centre.
The Singapore Etiquette Evaluator
Test your cultural reflexes before you go out. Avoid fines and earn the respect of locals!
Scenario 1: You are on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and feeling very thirsty...
Civic Score: 0
Simulation year: 2026
A Gastronomic Mosaic
In Singapore, “eating” is a national sport. The cuisine perfectly reflects the blend of cultures. In the same Hawker Center (covered food market), you can enjoy Hainanese Chicken Rice, spicy Peranakan Laksa, or Indian Roti Prata.
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Hawker Centres
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, they are the beating heart of social life.
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Culinary “Singlish”
Learn to order your coffee (Kopi) like a local: Kopi-O (black), Kopi-C (evaporated milk), etc.
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Hygiene & Regulations
Check the grades (A, B, C) displayed at the stalls to find out the hygiene level.
Religious Harmony and Secularism
Singapore is a secular state that guarantees absolute freedom of worship. Religion influences social life in a discreet but profound way, particularly through the fairly distributed public holidays.
Buddhism
The most widely practised religion, with magnificent temples such as the "Buddha Tooth Relic Temple".
Find out moreIslam
The Malay community is predominantly Muslim. The Sultan Mosque in Kampong Glam is a must-see.
Hinduism
Vibrant and colourful, particularly during festivals such as Thaipusam and Deepavali.
Christianity
Present in various denominations, with historic churches dating back to the colonial era.
Good Manners: The "Fine" Rules
Strict Prohibitions
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No chewing gum: Its importation and sale are prohibited to keep the MRT clean.
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No smoking: Strictly limited to designated areas. Fines can be as high as 1,000 SGD.
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Public cleanliness: Dropping even a simple piece of paper on the ground can result in a Corrective Work Order.
Everyday Courtesy
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"Choping": Reserve your seat in a hawker centre by placing a packet of tissues on the table.
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Escalators: Always stand on the left to let people in a hurry pass on the right.
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Respect for elders: Always give up your seat and be patient during social interactions.
Intellectual Immersion
National Gallery
Located in the former City Hall, it houses the largest collection of Southeast Asian art.
ArtScience Museum
A lotus-shaped building hosting immersive exhibitions about the future and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really drink water on the MRT?
Strictly prohibited. Even one sip of water can result in a 500 SGD fine. Wait until you have passed through the barriers before having a drink.
What is "Singlish"?
It is a creole based on English mixed with Mandarin, Malay and Hokkien. It is used informally by all Singaporeans. E.g.: "Can or not?" (Is it possible?).
Do you have to leave tips?
Tipping is not customary. A 10% "Service Charge" is already included in most restaurants.
How should you dress when visiting a temple?
Covering up is required (shoulders and knees). Most temples lend sarongs at the entrance.
What are the rules on smoking?
Smoking is prohibited under shelters, within 5 metres of a building entrance or a bus stop. E-cigarettes are completely illegal.
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