Ritz Carlton Hotel image

Planning Your Trip

rcBreakText rcBreakWhiteText

More than a global financial hub, Singapore is also a city where foodies, explorers, collectors, socialites and change-makers meet and indulge in their passions. With world-class events, iconic tourist attractions and futuristic skyscrapers filled with lush greenery, there's just as much happening outside the boardroom as inside.

Sparkling outdoor pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Sparkling outdoor pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
What to Pack

The weather in Singapore is warm year-round, so pack a swimsuit for impromptu trips to the pool.

Business Travel
  • Singapore’s equatorial locale means a warm, humid climate — but looking professional is still important.
  •  
  • Carry business cards as it’s common to exchange them at most meetings. Follow local custom by using both hands to present your card and accept new ones.

  • For men, a well-tailored suit is standard for daytime meetings. If you’re heading straight from the office to evening drinks you can simply remove your jacket and tie for a smart yet casual look.

  • Women are encouraged to dress formally and wear heels. While donning a jacket provides a polished look, it is not strictly required.
Exploring the City
  • Many tourist attractions are located in the same area, making it easy to see the sights by foot. 
  • Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Singapore’s tropical climate means temperatures can be quite warm.
  • Pack a swimsuit for an impromptu trip to the pool to cool down.
  • Always carry a small umbrella. The weather is often unpredictable, and passing showers can occur in a flash, especially during monsoon season.
  • Smart-looking walking shoes will keep your feet comfortable as you spend a full day exploring the city.
  • Casualwear, such as a summer dress or a T-shirt and jeans, is perfect for shopping trips along the Orchard Road shopping belt.
Day Trips
  • Don’t let Singapore’s relatively small size fool you. There’s plenty to see and do nearby. 

  • For a family-friendly visit to Sentosa Island, bring swimwear for the beach and the Marine Life Park, as well as a change of clothes for exploring Universal Studios Singapore.

  • Casualwear, such as a summer dress or a T-shirt and jeans, are perfect for shopping trips along the Orchard Road shopping belt.

  • Bring binoculars if you’re heading to the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. The protected site is a globally recognized stopover for migratory birds. 
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
What to Reserve

Singapore is a cultural mecca and international food destination. Book these experiences in advance to ensure you don't miss out on some of the city's best offerings.

Dining reservations: Food is an incredibly important part of Singapore culture — it’s practically an obsession — and it’s easy to see why with all the mouthwatering options. Start with an exquisite Cantonese dining experience at the Michelin-starred Summer Pavilion restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. For a decadent feast, reserve your spot at the Sunday Vintage Champagne Brunch at the hotel’s award-winning Colony restaurant. Popular among locals and expatriates, Colony features seven conservatory kitchens where chefs dish out Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Malaysian, Western and local cuisine.

Spa appointments: Plan some downtime into your itinerary by scheduling a treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. From signature body massages to facials, this ocean-inspired spa is a sanctuary devoted to wellness, and also the only one in the world to offer the highly coveted La Mer Miracle Broth facial. For the classical-music lover, there’s the Cello Concerto experience, which requires a 48-hour advance reservation. During this hourlong treatment, a body massage is harmoniously synchronized with a live cello performance.

Day trips: For a change of scenery, there’s Sentosa Island and Pulau Ubin, two islands that offer distinct experiences. Visit the man-made Sentosa Island for a day of family-friendly fun at attractions like Universal Studios and the S.E.A. Aquarium. If you opt to arrive by cable car, you can buy your tickets online 90 days in advance. Nature lovers may prefer a trip to Pulau Ubin, where trekking, cycling and kayaking provide a respite from Singaporean city life. The hotel’s concierge can assist with making travel arrangements and securing tickets in advance for these and other popular attractions, such as the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.

Museum tickets and cultural sightings: Discover the rich history of the nation at Singapore's oldest museum, the National Museum of Singapore. The National Gallery, located in the former Supreme Court building, houses one of the largest collections of Southeast Asian and Singaporean art. With many international exhibits by renowned artists taking place in various Singapore museums year-round, advance reservations are highly recommended.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Morning
  • Local Flavors. Experience an authentic Singapore breakfast: Order kaya toast at Colony — it’s filled with butter and kaya, a jam made from coconut milk, sugar, eggs and pandan leaves. Also found in many coffeehouses, it’s best paired with hot tea or coffee. 

  • Botanic Treasures. Discover the beautiful lush grounds of the Singapore Botanic Gardens which was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 2015. The gardens, founded at the present site in 1859, cover 200 acres and contain thousands of species of flora. Be sure to see the area’s National Orchid Garden, distinguished as the world’s largest orchid display. 

Midday
  • Explore Chinatown. Head over to historical Chinatown to experience its eclectic mix of old and new — narrow streets, old shop houses, medicinal halls, teahouses and boutiques offering art and antiques. For a truly immerse experience, take a walking tour to discover cultural and architectural gems such as the Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

Afternoon
  • A Shopping Oasis. Indulge your shopping appetite at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore’s first large-scale luxury shopping locale. With more than 800,000 square feet, this awe-inspiring complex has a sophisticated mix of the luxe brands you’d expect as well as newer, emerging designer labels. 

  • Augmented Fun. Home to over 4200 art pieces, discover the hotel's extensive art collection through an augmented reality experience. Start by scanning the QR code located at the concierge desk and embark on an in-hotel adventure to see butterflies fly out of the lobby's overhanging "Cornucopia" sculpture by Frank Stella or a white Beluga whale in the Grand Gallery.     

  • Tea Time. Back at the hotel, enjoy afternoon tea at Colony restaurant which is a showcase of Singapore’s heritage cuisines including Chinese, Western and Malay. The canapés, finger sandwiches and desserts are served up in a ceramic five-tier tingkat (the Malay word for tiffin carrier). 

Evening
  • Chic Nightlife. Dine at Clarke Quay, a Singapore nightlife hot spot located upstream from the mouth of the Singapore River and Boat Quay. Formerly a busy commercial area in the late 19th century, today the updated warehouse is alive with restaurants, wine bars, entertainment spots and retail shops.

  • Colors and Cocktails. Order a nightcap at the hotel’s Republic bar – a showcase of flavours, ingredients and sensations inspired by the influential hallmarks of the 1960s. Take a seat at our opulent bar and allow our bartenders to share stories while you imbibe on liquid history.

Morning
  • Garden Design. Singapore is known as the Garden City, and nowhere is that more on display than the Gardens by the Bay. Walk among a grove of artificial “Supertrees” that feature vertical gardens (as high as 50 meters) that enable the harvesting of solar energy. You can also enjoy the refreshingly cool Flower Dome, the largest glass greenhouse in the world.

Midday
  • Discover a Rich Culture. Explore the fascinating history and culture of Singapore at the National Museum of Singapore. The nation’s oldest museum, it remains an influential force with innovative and multi-perspective displays of history, vibrant festivals, and captivating performances and film screenings.

  • A Quiet Haven. Stroll around Fort Canning Park, an iconic hilltop landmark that has witnessed many of Singapore’s historical milestones. Removed from the usual tourist itineraries, it’s typically a quiet retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Afternoon
  • For the Birds. With 3,500 birds representing more than 400 species, Jurong Bird Park is the largest bird sanctuary in Asia. Enjoy close encounters with the winged wonders in the walk-in, free-flight aviaries, and observe the world’s largest collection of hornbills.

  • En Vogue. Haji Lane, a narrow way tucked in the middle of the bustling Arab Street, is a must-see for fashionistas. This area of shop houses has quickly become, according to Time magazine, “an aggressively hip retail stretch recalling Le Marais in Paris or New York’s Meatpacking District.”

  • Rest and Renew. After a day of exploration, it’s time to pamper yourself at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Singapore. The ESPA Indulgence combines a facial with a foot care regimen, while the sensory-infused Cello Concerto synchronises the massage with melodies played by a cellist.

Evening
  • A Dinner To Remember. The hotel’s one Michelin star Summer Pavilion offers that too-rare dining experience of the absolutely finest cuisine paired with impeccable service in an intimate setting. Frequently ranked as the top restaurant in Singapore, Summer Pavilion’s Cantonese dishes are not to be missed.

  • Urban Lights. After dinner, take an evening stroll around the Marina Bay Promenade. Walk over the Helix Bridge, comprised of four different inner spirals lit up beautifully every night or visit our country’s iconic mascot, the Merlion statue.

Morning
  • A Cozy Breakfast. Start your day at Colony with a hot tea or coffee and kaya toast filled with butter and kaya, a jam made from coconut milk, sugar, eggs and pandan leaves.

  • On the Boardwalk. Outside the bustle of the city you’ll find the Changi Boardwalk, a scenic and tranquil setting along the Eastern coastline with gentle sea breezes, giant heritage trees and local fishermen trying for their morning catch.

  • Garden of Delights. Singapore’s renown as the Garden City is well-earned, and the lush grounds of the Singapore Botanic Gardens are a big reason why. This UNESCO world heritage site that is more than 150 years old, covers 200 acres and contains thousands of species of flora, including the world’s largest display of that alluring symbol of love, the orchid.

Midday
  • The Magic of Little India. Stroll hand in hand through Little India, one of Singapore’s most vibrant areas with its mix of shops, flavourful cuisine, restaurants, Hindu and Chinese temples, and mosques and churches. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the oldest temples in Singapore.

Afternoon
  • Artful Asia. Spend time in the National Gallery, the former Supreme Court Building and City Hall, which now houses one of the largest collections of Southeast Asian and Singapore art. Steal away to the rooftop bar, a cozy retreat with panoramic views of the city.

Evening
  • Watch the Sunset Up High. Catch a romantic sunset at the Marina Barrage rooftop, where the sky-high Singapore cityscape is a stunning foreground as the sun’s rays play off the buildings. Earlier in the day, this scenic locale is a favourite for picnics and kite flying. 

  • An Unforgettable Meal. For an exquisite dining experience in an intimate and sophisticated setting, the hotel’s one Michelin star Summer Pavilion’s Cantonese cuisine and impeccable service is second to none: The establishment ranks as one of the top restaurants in Singapore on TripAdvisor.com.

Morning
  • Mysteries of the Deep. Embark on a visit to Sentosa Island’s S.E.A. Aquarium, home to more than 100,000 marine animals across 1,000 species and 45 habitats, including Shark Seas and Open Ocean. Explore Asia’s maritime heritage and Singapore’s history as a trading port at the aquarium’s Maritime Experiential Museum.

Midday
  • Neighborhood Stroll. With its eclectic mix of European- and Chinese-influenced architecture and restaurants, cafés, pubs and buildings, Robertson Quay is the most relaxed of the Singapore River’s three quays. Stop by the Singapore Tyler Print Institute, a small creative workshop and gallery dedicated to print and paper art. 

Afternoon
  • A Journey of Teas. Enjoy afternoon tea sitting at the hotel’s Republic Lounge. A refreshing mocktail begins the experience, followed by a modern five-tier tea stand presentation that serves up scones with jam and clotted cream, dainty finger sandwiches and scrumptious miniature desserts.

  • Treat One Another. Shop for each other at Singapore’s luxe shopping locale, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. With more than 800,000 square feet, this massive mall has a sophisticated mix of high-end brands and newer, emerging designer labels.

Evening
  • Set Sail at Sunset. Charter a private yacht and set sail on a romantic cruise from the Marina at Keppel Bay. Dine and sip champagne as you take in the beautiful sunset and cityscape.

  • The Sky’s the Limit. Plan a late-night rendezvous at Gardens by the Bay. The OCBC Skyway is perfect for a hand-holding walk among a grove of radiating “Supertrees.” These vertical gardens, covered in thousands of plants, reach as high as 50 meters.  

  • Bridge of Sighs. Linger to talk awhile and gaze in each other’s eyes along the stylish Helix Bridge, a pedestrian walkway, nearly 1,000 feet long, that features a futuristic design and an enchanting view of the water and skyline. 

Morning
  • Breakfast in Bed. Enjoy a late start to your day and order breakfast to your room.

  • Chinese Culture. Head to Chinatown to soak up the captivating ambiance of its narrow streets, old shop houses, temples, medicinal halls, and teahouses. Pick up a souvenir in the small stores around the Heritage Centre, and discover cultural and architectural gems such as the Sri Mariamman Temple and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

Afternoon
  • Arabian Days. In the Kampong Glam area, you’ll be immersed in a rich cultural experience. Arab Street is a famous for its silk and basketry, and Haji Lane, a narrow pedestrian way, is becoming a fashion destination known for brilliant colors in unique designs. The district’s Sultan Mosque dates to 1824. 

  • Augmented Fun. Watch as butterflies emerge from the huge overhanging sculpture in the hotel lobby, or try spotting the white beluga whale in the Stella Gallery. Embark on an immersive augmented reality hotel art tour experience which starts by scanning a QR code at the hotel’s concierge desk. 

  • Relax and Indulge. Following days of sightseeing, it’s time to rejuvenate in the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Spa. After enjoying a treatment of choice, relax in a long bath with hydro-jets in our spa suite.

Evening
  • Cultural Crossroads. Savour the amazing range of heritage cuisine at the hotel’s Colony restaurant, where culinarians create masterpieces in conservatory kitchens and showcase the best of Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Malaysian, Western and local dishes.

  • A Final Show. Attend a show at Esplanade–Theatres on the Bay, a performing arts center on the waterfront overlooking Marina Bay, with dance, music, theater, visual arts, and more than 3,000 performances, workshops and other activities each year.

  • Cheers. Order a nightcap at the hotel’s Republic bar, a dark-toned bar characterised by handcrafted red Venetian glass. Reminisce about the adventures and new experiences enjoyed together over the past days over alluring 60s inspired cocktails.