Tropical warmth meets winter sparkle in Singapore every December. With dazzling displays at Gardens by the Bay, shopping sprees on Orchard Road, and a city decked out for Christmas, it’s peak season for a reason. Arrive early to beat the rain and book attractions in advance to dodge long queues.
Singapore in December 2025 at a glance
🌦️ Weather
Expect 28 °C / 82 °F days, 24 °C / 75 °F nights, heavy rain in late afternoons.
Tranquil tombs and jungle paths. Wander a forgotten cemetery overrun with tropical vines. Local guides offer deep dives into Chinese tomb symbolism and WWII tales. 📍 Where: Bukit Brown Road
Catch an indie film at The Projector
Retro cinema meets modern curation. Inside a former 1970s theater, you’ll find beanbags, craft beer, and indie flicks. Air-con coolness makes it ideal for rainy afternoons. 📍 Where: Golden Mile Tower
Hike the Southern Ridges
Elevated trails and forest skywalks. Stretch your legs along canopy paths and scenic bridges. Mornings are cooler and less rainy. Look out for monkeys and misty treetops. 📍 Where: From Mount Faber to Kent Ridge
Shop indie at Design Orchard
Local fashion with rooftop views. Find Singaporean designers under one roof, from bold prints to eco-bags. Head to the rooftop garden for skyline snaps. 📍 Where: Orchard Road
Sip cocktails at Native
Foraged flavors in a hidden bar. This upper-floor bar makes drinks with local herbs, jackfruit, and even ants. A favorite among cocktail nerds. Reservation recommended. 📍 Where: 52A Amoy Street
Festivals and events in Singapore this December 2025
What to expect: Dazzling light installations, carnival rides, and Christmas markets create festive magic. Book evening slots ahead to dodge peak-hour lines.
What to expect: Live music, drone shows, and midnight fireworks. Arrive early or reserve rooftop dining to avoid packed MRT platforms.
Highlights for different traveler types
Families with kids
Explore indoor attractions like ArtScience Museum and S.E.A. Aquarium to avoid rain.
Night Safari after dark is a kid favorite with cool temps and tram rides.
Join family-friendly fun at Christmas Wonderland with carnival games and snowfall zones.
Couples
Book a Royal Albatross dinner cruise for romance under festive lights.
Sip local wines at Dempsey Hill, a quieter spot with twinkling decor.
Stroll hand-in-hand along the Southern Ridges or lighted Clarke Quay.
Shopaholics
Orchard Road’s holiday sales run all month—look for last-minute deals post-Christmas.
Pick up design-forward gifts at Naiise or Design Orchard.
Hit malls like VivoCity or Jewel for festive pop-ups and rewards promos.
Culture vultures
Catch Ghibli exhibits or December gallery runs at Gillman Barracks.
See Christmas through Peranakan decor in heritage neighborhoods like Katong.
Book performances at Esplanade’s Theatres on the Bay for year-end concerts.
Your perfect 3-day Singapore in December itinerary
Morning: Walk the Helix Bridge early to beat the heat.
Breakfast: Grab kaya toast and kopi at Ya Kun Kaya Toast (Marina Bay Link Mall).
Midday: Tour the ArtScience Museum , especially the Ghibli exhibition.
Lunch: Dine at Satay by the Bay—covered but breezy.
Afternoon: Explore Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.
Evening: Book a bumboat ride or watch the Spectra light show at Marina Bay.
Morning: Hike the Southern Ridges from Mount Faber.
Breakfast: Eat at Seah Im Food Centre before you start.
Midday: Chill at Henderson Waves; bring water and snacks.
Lunch: Grab Hainanese chicken rice at Tiong Bahru Market.
Afternoon: Explore indie shops at Tiong Bahru.
Evening: Dine riverside at Clarke Quay and catch live music.
Morning: Window-shop early along Orchard Road to skip crowds.
Breakfast: Try egg tarts and soy milk at Joy Luck Teahouse.
Midday: Visit Design Orchard and Ion Sky.
Lunch: Enjoy xiao long bao at Din Tai Fung (Wisma Atria).
Afternoon: Relax in Fort Canning Park or check out Bras Basah bookstores.
Evening: Head to Gardens by the Bay for Christmas Wonderland.
Best day trips from Singapore in December
Pulau Ubin
⏰ Travel time: ~40 min by MRT and bumboat
Rustic and quiet in December’s off-peak lull. Cycle past mangroves, check out Chek Jawa Wetlands, and snack at local warungs. Expect light rain; pack ponchos.
Johor Bahru, Malaysia
🚆 Travel time: ~1 h by bus or train
Hop over for malls, massage parlors, and Malay food. December weekends are busy; go early. Immigration can take time—bring patience and your passport.
Sentosa Island
🚊 Travel time: ~15 min by MRT and monorail
Mix indoor and outdoor fun: S.E.A. Aquarium, cable car views, festive beach shows. Many attractions are weatherproof. Avoid weekends if crowds bother you.
Streetwear, souvenirs, and snacks at bargain prices. Fun to explore on rainy days under its covered arcades.
Pro tips for visiting Singapore in December
Carry a small umbrella—showers strike fast, usually after 2 pm.
MRTs get packed post-6 pm. Travel midday or late evening if possible.
Reserve tickets for Gardens by the Bay, Night Safari, and dinner cruises a week ahead.
Use indoor attractions mid-afternoon when rain is most likely.
Grab hawker food before 7 pm—some stalls sell out early.
Bring a light scarf for chilly air-con in malls and museums.
Pack mosquito repellent, especially for outdoor parks and Sentosa.
Watch fireworks from Marina Barrage—less crowded than Marina Bay Sands.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Singapore in December
Yes. Despite being the wettest month, festive lights and cooler evenings make December magical.
Expect 28 °C / 82 °F days with heavy afternoon rain and 24 °C / 75 °F nights. Pack light and waterproof.
Most travelers don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. Check entry rules based on your passport.
Breathable clothes, comfy shoes, and a light rain jacket. Dress modestly for temples.
Yes. Singapore is one of the world’s safest cities with excellent public transport.
Most remain open, though hours may shift on Dec 25. Check in advance.
Yes, cards are widely accepted. Keep some cash for hawker stalls.
Very. Book hotels and major attractions well in advance.
Avoid public displays of affection, and remove shoes when entering homes or certain temples.
Use Grab for taxis, Citymapper for MRT/bus routes, and MyTransport.SG for real-time updates.
What to eat in Singapore in December: Seasonal delicacies
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Roast meats
Christmas means turkey, ham, and even roast suckling pig in Singapore’s buffets. Where to eat: Colony, Ritz-Carlton Millenia
Log cakes
French-style sponge cakes, often chocolate or durian-flavored, dominate bakery displays this month. Topped with snowmen or Santas. Where to eat: Chateraise, various outlets
Durian puffs
Local bakeries roll out cream-filled choux puffs with pungent durian mousse—a must-try for adventurous eaters. Where to eat: Goodwood Park Hotel
Tang Yuan (sweet rice balls)
Eaten during the Dongzhi Festival (Dec 21), these glutinous rice balls come in ginger soup. Where to eat: Mei Heong Yuen Dessert, Chinatown
Satay under the stars
Grilled skewers with peanut sauce, perfect for humid December nights. Where to eat: Lau Pa Sat, Boon Tat Street
Christmas-themed bubble tea
Chains release limited-time holiday cups, with flavors like peppermint cocoa and snow jelly. Where to eat: LiHO Tea, multiple outlets
