Southeast Asia at Your Fingertips
Singapore is not just a dynamic island nation; it is the ultimate hub for exploring the wonders of the East. Discover our comprehensive guide to unforgettable getaways.
Where to go for a weekend?
Thanks to its strategic location and the efficiency of its transport network, Singapore lets you change scenery in under three hours.
Malacca, Malaysia
Colonial history and Peranakan cuisine just 3 hours away by road.
Bus / Taxi
Bintan Island
Luxury resorts and white-sand beaches.
Ferry (1h)
Batam, Indonesia
Shopping, affordable spas and fresh seafood.
Ferry (45min)
Johor Bahru
Theme parks and cross-border shopping.
Bus / Train
Tioman Island
A paradise for diving and marine biodiversity.
Ferry / BusMalacca: A Journey Through Time
Once a major hub of global trade, Malacca (or Melaka) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For an expat living in Singapore, it is the most culturally rewarding overland excursion. You will discover Portuguese, Dutch and British heritage blending harmoniously with the local Malay and Chinese cultures.
- ✔ Jonker Street: The must-visit night market for antiques and street food.
- ✔ Stadthuys: The iconic red building bearing witness to Dutch occupation.
- ✔ Nyonya Cuisine: A unique blend of Chinese and Malay flavours (don't miss Laksa Melaka).
Tip: For greater comfort, book a "Private Car" (private car with driver) through services mentioned on Expat.com.
3h
Average travel time
Getaway Budget Calculator
Estimate the cost of your next weekend away from Singapore.
Total Estimate (SGD)
Includes return transport, accommodation (2 nights) and meals.
Bali & Phuket: Weekend Classics
For many French-speaking expats, Bali is "the" hidden gem. Just a 2h40 flight from Changi, the Island of the Gods offers a radical change of scenery. Whether you are looking for spirituality in Ubud, surfing in Uluwatu or parties in Seminyak, Bali has something for everyone.
Indonesia
A visa on arrival is often required (VDA). Check for updates.
Thailand
Phuket, Koh Samui and Bangkok are accessible in < 2h.
To organise your flights, see the International Transport guide.
Day Trips (No Overnight Stay)
Batam (Indonesia)
Take the ferry from HarbourFront in the morning, enjoy a 2-hour massage, eat chilli crab and return in time for dinner.
Find out more →Legoland Malaysia
Located just across the border in Johor, it is the favourite destination for families looking for a fun day out.
View tickets →Pulau Ubin (Local)
No passport needed! A wild island in Singapore where you can relive the old "Kampung" days by bicycle.
Nature Guide →Getaway Comparison Table
| Destination | Transport | Duration | Budget (1–5) | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bintan | Ferry | 60 min | $$$ | Beach & Golf |
| Kuala Lumpur | Bus / Plane | 45 min (C) / 5h (B) | $$ | Shopping & City |
| Siem Reap (Angkor) | Plane | 2h15 | $$$ | Culture & History |
| Tioman | Bus + Ferry | 5-6h | $ | Diving & Nature |
Expat Tips for Stress-Free Travel
Your Passport and EP/SP
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. Never forget your resident card (FIN) when going through the automated checkpoints at Changi.
Travel Insurance
Even for a weekend in Batam, travel insurance is essential. Medical costs in Indonesia or Malaysia can quickly add up.
Changi Recommends
Hire a Wi-Fi router or buy a regional SIM card at the airport before you leave, so you can stay connected without excessive roaming charges.
They've explored the region
"We go to Bintan every two months. It's our breath of fresh air. We leave the office at 4pm, catch the 6pm ferry and by 7.30pm we're by the pool with a cocktail. That's the unbeatable advantage of Singapore."
Marc & Sophie
Expats since 2024
"I used Singapore as a base to visit Angkor Wat and Luang Prabang. There are plenty of direct flights at affordable prices if you book a little in advance. It's an incredible opportunity."
Julien
Solo Traveller
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a visa for Malaysia from Singapore? ↓
French, Belgian and Swiss citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of less than 90 days in Malaysia. However, you must complete the **Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)** online before your arrival.
When is the best time to visit Bali? ↓
The dry season runs from April to October. This is the ideal time to avoid tropical showers. For more information about the regional weather, see Climate and Seasons.
Is it easy to drive in Malaysia? ↓
Yes, the motorways (North-South Expressway) are excellent. Note that people drive on the left, as in Singapore. Remember to check your car insurance for Malaysia cover if you use your own vehicle.
Which are the main low-cost airlines? ↓
AirAsia, Scoot and Jetstar are the main ones. They serve almost every capital in Southeast Asia at very competitive prices (often less than 150 SGD for a return trip).
Can you use the Singapore dollar elsewhere? ↓
Apart from Brunei (where it is pegged at parity), no. Plan to exchange money or use cards such as Revolut or YouTrip, which offer excellent exchange rates with no fees. See our guide to Payment Methods.
Ready for your next adventure?
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