Top Apps for Visiting Singapore
32 apps · Apps verified August 9, 2026 · Guide written April 1, 2025
Quick Answer
What apps do I need in Singapore?
For Singapore, most travelers should download EZ-Link, Yesim, Airalo, and Holafly before arrival for transport, payments, maps, and connectivity. International cards are widely accepted, though keeping a backup payment option is still wise. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Sources
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Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to the questions travelers and AI assistants ask most often.
What apps do I need in Singapore?
For Singapore, most travelers should download EZ-Link, Yesim, Airalo, and Holafly before arrival for transport, payments, maps, and connectivity. International cards are widely accepted, though keeping a backup payment option is still wise. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Can I drink tap water in Singapore?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Singapore. Singapore has some of the world's cleanest tap water. Safe to drink directly from the tap anywhere in the country.
Should I tip in Singapore?
Singapore has no tipping culture. Service charge is built into prices at restaurants and hotels. Restaurants: Not expected. Most add 10% service charge + 9% GST. No additional tip needed.
Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?
Many nationalities can visit Singapore visa-free for up to 30 days. ASEAN citizens: 30 days visa-free. US/EU/UK/Australia: 90 days visa-free. India/China: SG Arrival Card required (free, apply online 3 days before). All visitors must complete SG Arrival Card. Transit visa not needed for <96 hours if holding onward ticket.
What power adapter do I need for Singapore?
Singapore uses Type G power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs. US and European visitors need an adapter. All hotels provide adapters or have universal sockets.
If you use these apps at home
How the big global apps hold up in Singapore — and what locals use instead.
- If you use Uber
- For ride-hailing, locals in Singapore typically use Grab and Gojek.
- If you use Uber Eats
- For food delivery, locals in Singapore typically use GrabFood and Foodpanda.
- If you use WhatsApp Works here
- Yes — WhatsApp works in Singapore.
- If you use Google Maps Works here
- Yes — Google Maps works in Singapore. Locals also use SimplyGo and Citymapper.
- If you use Apple Pay
- For payments, locals in Singapore typically use EZ-Link.
- If you use Amazon
- For online shopping, locals in Singapore typically use Shopee.
- If you use Netflix Works here
- Yes — Netflix works in Singapore.
Finance & Payments
2 apps
eSIM & Data Plans
4 apps
Already use N26, Revolut, or Truecaller? Some bank apps now bundle travel data, so check yours first. If not, these standalone eSIMs are the best value:
Ride Hailing
3 apps
Public Transit
4 apps
Navigation
3 apps
Food Delivery
2 apps
Communication
2 apps
Shopping
2 apps
Tours & Experiences
2 apps
Health & Insurance
3 apps
Media & Entertainment
3 apps
Dining & Reservations
2 apps
💳 Payment Methods in Singapore
Tourist Accessibility
Excellent for tourists
International Cards
ATM availability: widespread
Accepted Payment Methods
Popular Local Payment Apps
💡 One of the world's most cashless societies. Contactless cards (Visa/Mastercard) accepted virtually everywhere including hawker centers. SimplyGo lets tourists tap international contactless cards on MRT/buses. Apple Pay and Google Pay work seamlessly. SGQR unified QR system widely available. Cash rarely needed.
Travel Information for Singapore
Common Requirements
- Valid passport (6 months validity)
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient funds (SGD 1,000-2,000)
🏧 ATM Tips
ATMs ubiquitous, all major networks accepted. DBS/POSB, OCBC, UOB ATMs everywhere. Daily limit S$2,000-3,000. No fees at major bank ATMs for most international cards.
💱 Money Exchange Tips
Money changers offer better rates than banks. Mustafa Centre and Arcade at Raffles Place have best rates. Avoid airport/hotel exchanges. Brunei dollar accepted at par (1:1).
Best Time to Visit
February-April least humid, Chinese New Year festive. Avoid September (haze season). Year-round tropical 25-32°C. Daily afternoon thunderstorms common.
Languages
English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil English: high
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Singtel, StarHub, M1 main providers. Tourist SIMs at Changi Airport and convenience stores. S$12-38 for 7-30 days unlimited data. Registration requires passport. Excellent 5G coverage nationwide.
Transportation
MRT/bus system world-class, use SimplyGo or EZ-Link card. Grab/Gojek for rides. No Uber. Taxis plentiful but add surcharges. Walking friendly but hot/humid. Sentosa Express for island. No need for car rental.
Cultural Notes
- Multicultural harmony: Chinese (74%), Malay (13%), Indian (9%)
- Strict laws: no chewing gum sales, jaywalking fines, no eating/drinking on MRT
- Tipping not expected, service charge included
- Queue culture strong (chope seats with tissue packets)
- Four official languages, Singlish commonly spoken
- Respect all religious sites - temples, mosques, churches
Safety Rating
Emergency Numbers
Tap Water
Singapore has some of the world's cleanest tap water. Safe to drink directly from the tap anywhere in the country.
Power Outlets
230V, 50Hz
UK-style three-pin plugs. US and European visitors need an adapter. All hotels provide adapters or have universal sockets.
Tipping
Singapore has no tipping culture. Service charge is built into prices at restaurants and hotels.
Changi Airport (SIN)
Cheapest option. MRT station in Terminal 2/3 basement. Runs 5:30am-11:30pm. Use EZ-Link or contactless card.
Cheapest option but slow. Better for budget travelers not in a rush.
Official taxi queue at arrivals. Metered + airport surcharge (S$3-5). Late night/peak surcharges apply. Credit cards accepted.
Pick up at designated areas. Often slightly cheaper than taxi. Surge pricing during peak hours.
⚠️ Overpriced Tourist Shops
Electronics shops near Sim Lim Square or Mustafa Centre may quote higher prices to tourists or push extended warranties.
Compare prices online before buying. Shop at official retail stores or Challenger/Courts for electronics.
⚠️ Illegal Money Changers
Unlicensed money changers may offer good rates then swap notes or short-change you.
Use licensed money changers at Mustafa Centre, Arcade @ Raffles Place, or the airport. Look for MAS license.
✈️ Download Before You Go
Get these apps ready on your phone before boarding
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