Singapore is a buzzing, vibrant destination with a global feel, and a genuinely stunning nightlife scene. While the city is pretty exciting during the day, the moment the last rays of sun go down on Singapore’s glittering skyline is when the city truly comes alive.
Singapore’s diverse cultures and communities makes for some brilliant drinking, dining and entertainment experiences, and whatever your preferences for after-dark entertainment, you’ll be sure to find them well catered for. Whether you are in the city for a vacation, or just in the city for a few days from one of the cruise lines that ports in Singapore, exploring the nightlife scene is a not to miss experience. Read on for a few of the best places to enjoy the Lion City after dark.
Chinatown
Chinatown is the centre of Singapore’s drinking culture, and boasts a hugely varied nightlife scene. From suave and elegant rooftop cocktail bars to edgy bars and rowdy pubs, this hip, alternative district really has it all.
If you are looking for a sophisticated night out, head to the ritzy neighborhood of Ann Siang Hill. Here you’ll find Nutmeg and Clove, a truly exquisite cocktail bar that serves up inventive, innovative concoctions inspired by the area’s storied past.
Singapore is rightly famous for its rooftop bars, and Chinatown is no exception. One of the best is Potato Head, expertly combining delicious cocktails, superb food and amazing views in one excellent package.
For something a little more laid back, try the Backstage Bar on Neill Road. A friendly space with well-priced drinks and an extremely atmospheric outdoor patio, a night out here is always a fun experience.
Haji Lane
Just a few steps from Kampong Glam, Haji Lane and the surrounding Arab district is Singapore’s “hipster district”, its resemblance to Williamsburg in New York or Hackney in London. The narrow streets and alleyways are full of cute cafes, independent boutiques, and some of the best alternative nightlife spots in the city.
When night falls many of the cafes, bookshops and independent stores even turn into under-the-radar nightspots, making this one of the best places in the city for an exciting evening full of surprises.
At Bar Stories on Haji Lane you can create your own bespoke cocktails, tailored to your personal tastes and desires, while the Goodluck Beerhouse is the place to go for lovers of artisan ales, with a huge selection of local and international craft drinks. Finally, head to Blu Jaz Cafe for a brilliant mix of mouthwatering Mediterranean food and fantastic punk-rock heavy live gigs, all lit by eye catching blue neon.
Clarke Quay
While plenty of tourists stick to the bright lights of Marina Bay, Clarke Quay is the real beating heart of Singapore’s nightlife.
28 Hong Kong Street is one of the best cocktail bars in the whole city, and set the trend for hidden speakeasy bars long before they became cool. Despite it being easy to miss this delightful little watering hole is packed on weekends, so be sure to get in early.
Zouk Nightclub is a Singapore institution, and has been doing its thing for nearly thirty years, which in this city is a big deal. Without a doubt the best and most popular club in town, it was ranked 3rd best club in the world by DJ Mag back in 2018, and should be unmissable for ravers and dancers.
Sentosa Island
While most of Singapore’s nighttime buzz is on the main island, if you are looking for something a little more relaxed then look no further than Sentosa.
This gorgeous little island to the south of the city might be better known for its beach resorts, but it is packed with delightful surf bars and beach restaurants, and can be just the ticket as an antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
So what will it be? A rooftop bar in Chinatown, the quirky scene on Haji Lane, bustling Clarke Quay, or relaxed Sentosa Island. Whatever scene you choose- you’re bound to have a great time.
