Singapore with Kids: A First-Time Family Traveller’s Guide

Planning a short stop in Singapore during a Bali or Asia trip? Many travellers feel overwhelmed when researching accommodation, transport, attractions, GST refunds, and what to expect—especially when travelling with children.

This guide is designed exactly for that moment.

It’s based on a real client question from a family visiting Singapore for four days with kids aged 15, 11 and 9. Their goal: visit Universal Studios Singapore (USS) and explore the city — without paying luxury hotel prices.

Here is a clear step-by-step plan to make Singapore easier, stress-free, and enjoyable.

1. Where to Stay – Family-Friendly & Centrally Located

Singapore is compact, which means location matters more than room size. You don’t need a luxury hotel — just somewhere close to trains (MRT), food courts (hawker centres), and popular attractions.

Good areas to search:• Bugis• Clarke Quay• Chinatown• Little India• Lavender (often has budget options with pools)

Look for hotels near MRT stations. This saves a lot on transport and avoids walking long distances in the heat.

Search keywords to use:• “Singapore family hotel near MRT”• “Budget hotel with pool Singapore”• “Bugis or Clarke Quay hotel family room”

Tip: Many families use Booking.com or Agoda and filter by:• Free cancellation• Family rooms• Close to public transport• Swimming pool

2. Sentosa & Universal Studios Singapore (USS)

You’re doing the right thing by planning two days at Sentosa. There is a lot more than USS, including:• S.E.A. Aquarium• Adventure Cove Waterpark• Fort Siloso• Cable car to Mount Faber• Palawan Beach (free!)

Should you buy an attraction pass?Yes — if you plan to visit more than 2 paid attractions. The Sentosa Fun Pass and GoCity Singapore Pass offer savings. Look at how many activities you will do and compare the price with single tickets.

Universal Studios tickets are often cheaper online, especially on Klook or official reseller platforms.

3. Exploring the City — One-Day Itinerary

A simple route for your exploring day:• Merlion Park• Gardens by the Bay• Marina Bay Sands SkyPark• Chinatown (food + souvenirs)• Clarke Quay in the evening

To save money:You can eat at hawker centres such as Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Food Centre or Chinatown Food Street. These are clean and safe — and part of local culture.

4. Transport — Easy for Families

The MRT is safe, clean and always on time. Get a public transport card (EZ-Link) or simply tap with your bank card. Children over 7 pay standard fares.

Taxi apps: Grab or Gojek are widely used and safe.

5. GST Refund at the Airport — How it Works

You can claim GST (tax) back on purchases if:• The item was bought from a store that displays “Tax-Free” or “GST Refund”• You spent at least SGD 100 in one shop• You show your passport when paying• You keep the receipt

At the airport, look for “eTRS kiosks” to process the refund before security.

You cannot claim GST on food, drinks, hotel stays, medical items, or services.

6. Final Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Singapore is very clean and strict with rules. No chewing gum and no littering.• Tap water is safe to drink.• The humidity is high — carry water and wear light clothing.• The city is extremely safe, even at night.• No need to convert too much cash — card payments work everywhere.

7. Feeling Overwhelmed? That’s Normal

Many travellers planning Singapore for the first time feel the same way — especially families. With the right location, an easy itinerary and advance attraction bookings, everything becomes simpler.

If you need help with accommodation options, attraction passes or a family itinerary, you are welcome to reach out. We assist travellers across Africa and the Indian Ocean islands — especially families looking for stress-free, well-planned travel.