Practical information : Going out Singapore City
Timetable
Singapore's nightlife is expanding year on year. Nightclubs are generally open from Wednesday to Saturday from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. (later for afterhours). For activities with friends (cinema, billiards, bowling, go-karting, escape games...), opening hours vary widely depending on the type of establishment. Since casinos were authorized on the island, Singaporeans have been having a field day. The Marina Bay Sands casino is open 24 hours a day!
Budget & Tips
Clubbing is generally more expensive than in Europe, especially if you're a cocktail lover. Depending on the establishment, entry may be free before a certain hour, mainly for ladies. For the cinema, expect to pay around S$12 a ticket (depending on the day and screening) and for shows, unfortunately there are few good deals on offer. If you'd like to try out paid activities in Sentosa, take a look at the flyers available in some hotels, at the tourist office or before boarding the Sentosa Express, which may offer discounts or family rates.
All forms of payment are accepted, and as in restaurants, service is included, so please don't tip.
To be booked
For shows, book your tickets online (marinabaysands.com, esplanade.com or Sistic): you'll save time and can present the ticket directly on your smartphone. On the Sentosa side, some major attractions (Universal Studios, aquarium, water park) require advance booking, but for other activities, such as zip lines or beaches, simply turn up on site. As for cruises in the bay or on the Singapore River, tickets are easily purchased at the ticket office, except for dinner cruises or island crossings, which must be booked in advance.
Night transport
The best way to get around late at night is by cab or Grab. They're plentiful and reasonably priced, although a surcharge applies between midnight and 6 a.m. Be careful, however, on Friday and Saturday nights: in busy areas, it's harder to find an available one, so you may have to wait. Buses and the metro run until around 00:30 depending on the line. After that, only cabs or VTCs are available.
Age restrictions
The legal drinking age is 18: keep your ID with you if you look young. Since 2015, it has been forbidden to buy alcohol in stores between 10.30pm and 7am. During this period, consumption is only possible in licensed bars, clubs and restaurants, but not in public spaces.
What's very local
In select establishments, a dress code is de rigueur: no flip-flops, shorts or tank tops - smart casual is the way to go. When it comes to gambling, Singaporeans love the two casinos opened in 2010 at Marina Bay Sands and Sentosa. Access is free for tourists, but local residents must pay an entrance fee (S$150 per day).
Smokers
In Singapore, smoking is banned in most public places, in parks and on most terraces. A few designated smoking areas do exist, but they are rare. Always ask before lighting a cigarette: any infringement will result in a hefty fine (S$200 or more).
Tourist traps
You'll meet a couple of drummers in the very touristy neighborhoods, but nothing too bad.