Here is a guide to start your exploration from Clarke Quay MRT Station, just a short walk away from Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay. If you need more information, a virtual concierge at the Hotel can help you plan your day or use the 3G smartphone with GPS to assist you with navigations.
Harbourfront (NE1)
Monorail to Sentosa
Photo courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
Explore offshore islands around Singapore from here. Take the Sentosa Express to Universal Studios, beautiful beaches or Fort Siloso to find out about Singapore’s history. If you are looking for something further afield, you can hop on a ferry at the Harbourfront Cruise Centre to visit Batam or Bintan, nearby Indonesian islands. These trips take less than an hour and remember to bring your passport.
Outram Park (NE3)
BooksActually at Tiong Bahru
Photo by Danny Santos, courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
The Outram Park – Tiong Bahru neighbourhood is lined with pre-war art deco style apartment blocks, hipster outlets, unique boutiques and traditional shops. Check out the heritage shophouses turn coffee connoisseur cafes at Everton Park or walk over to Keong Saik Road, a former red-light district now a foodie stretch.
Chinatown (NE4)
Chicken rice at Maxwell Food Centre
Photo by Afur Wong, courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
Chinatown is packed with historical and cultural attractions, and a true taste of Singapore. The renowned Maxwell Food Centre is home to the cheapest Michelin-star food in the world: Liao Fan Hawker Chan. Be prepared for long queues.
Clarke Quay (NE5)
Clarke Quay at Sunset
Photo courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
Clarke Quay comes alive when the sun goes down and you can party the night away. Walk along the Singapore River past Robertson Quay, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, each bustling to its own rhythm, aromas and life. Avoid peak hour crowds by getting onto one of the colourful bum boats for a river cruise of the Singapore skyline.
Dhoby Ghaut (NE6)
Peranakan Museum facade
Photo by Afur Wong, courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
Enter the museum district. The National Museum, Singapore Art Museum, Peranakan Museum and the Philatelic Museum will allow you to discover different historical facets of Singapore. Fort Canning Park in all its greenery is an escape from the bustling city and home to significant historical milestones.
Little India (NE7)
Little India stalls
Photo courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board
Spend the day soaking in the colourful atmosphere and get lost in the busy alleyways of Little India. See handmade traditional flower garlands, vendors selling a thousand bracelets along the pavement and vibrant temple architecture. Little India is especially colourful during traditional Indian festivals like Deepavali, Pongal and Thaipusam.