Tickets
English
Language
Currency
Contents

A Guide to Visiting Singapore in May | Attractions, Events, Weather & More

Singapore may be physically small, but it is an economic giant. It is the region's financial hub and frequently competes with Hong Kong for the busiest port and busiest airport in the region.

The city effortlessly blends Malay, Arab, Indian and Chinese cultures. It’s no wonder then that Singapore is referred to as a melting pot of cultures with its diverse ethnic tapestry. This diversity manifests itself in its culinary choices and a calendar full of festivals.

Is May a good time to visit Singapore?

You can expect the heat and humidity of April to roll over to May. One significant change would be the haze that comes from the nearby Indonesian island of Sumatra due to the farmers there clearing the land by setting fire to it instead of using excavators to do the job.

Visitors who have respiratory problems should avoid traveling to Singapore in May.

Singapore in May - Why You Should Visit

Why You Should Visit 

  • It is a quiet time just before the school holidays.
  • Sunny weather with a bit of rain. Perfect if you are coming from colder countries.
  • Plenty of festivals and events to indulge in.
Singapore in May - What to Look Out For

What to Look Out For

  • Fires from Indonesia cause haze. People with respiratory problems should avoid visiting at this time.
  • Singapore in May weather starts warming up. The heat of Singapore in May also means fewer crowds. So you can visit the popular attractions with less jostling.

Overview of Weather in Singapore in May

Singapore in May - Overview of Weather in Singapore in May

More About the Weather in Singapore in May

What is the temperature in May?

Singapore in May weather is carried over from the April weather patterns. The temperatures are similar to April, with an average of 27°C / 81°F. But the humidity levels can be higher.

  • What is the heat index in May?

In May, the average heat index touches a blistering 42°C (107.6°F).

In May, the average heat index is higher than in the previous months, reaching a blistering 42°C (107.6°F). Be sure to avoid sustained exposure and avoid outdoor activities.

  •  How much rain does Singapore get in May?

Singapore in May usually gets around 170 mm of rain spread over three weeks. 

  • How much daylight does Singapore get in May?

Singapore in May gets an average of 12.5 hours of daylight.

Best Things to do in Singapore in May

Singapore in May - Gardens By The Bay
Singapore in May - Singapore Flyer
Singapore in May - Marina Bay Sands
Singapore in May - Madame Tussauds
Singapore in May - Singapore Cruises
Singapore in May - National Gallery Singapore
Singapore in May - Universal Studios
Singapore in May - Jurong Bird Park
Singapore in May - River Safari
Singapore in May - Orchard Road

10. Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom

Nature Park | Insects

The Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom is located on Sentosa Island and showcases the stunning beauties of different varieties of butterflies and interesting insects. It is perfect for visitors of all ages, particularly if you have young kids. 

This park is nestled in the lush environs of Sentosa Island among beautiful flowers and cascading waterfalls. Over 3000 species of insects call the park home. You are likely to come across unicorn beetles, scorpions, and giant carnivorous spiders

Singapore in May - National Orchid Garden
Singapore in May - Changi Experience Studio

Top Experiences & Things to do in Singapore in May

0

Festivals in Singapore in May

Singapore in May - Vesak Day
Singapore in May - Hari Raya Puasa

Events in Singapore in May

Singapore in May - Singapore International Festival of Arts

Know Before You Visit Singapore in May

Travel Essentials
What to Wear
What to Pack
Transport
Stay
Food
Singapore in May -  Travel Essentials
Singapore in May -  What to Wear

What to wear in Singapore in May

As Singapore is hot and humid all through the year, you will need to dress for summer. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, and other lightweight clothing made of breathable fabric are the way to go.

If you are staying at a hotel that has a swimming pool or is close to the beach, you may want to take a dip in the water. So if on a hot day the water beckons, make sure you have a swimsuit for that. 

Hats and sunglasses are useful in sunny Singapore for those daytime strolls. 

If you plan to visit one of the many rooftop bars or upmarket restaurants, you may need to adhere to a dress code. For men, a button-down shirt, trousers, and a pair of leather shoes will be adequate. 

Women can throw on a smart casual dress with appropriate footwear such as heels to keep it classy.

Singapore in May -  What to Pack

What to Pack in Singapore in May

  • Sunscreen – Being near the equator means the sun is extra sharp in Singapore. To avoid looking like a lobster, carry a good sunscreen with an adequate SPF rating. 
  • Face Towel – The temperature remains constant, mostly within the 23ºC and 33ºC range all day or night. With an average humidity of 84%, you will be sweating buckets. A face towel will be helpful to mop up the sweat. 
  • Umbrella – Singapore experiences rain for 178 days in a year. Even heavy rains don’t bring down the temperature much. So always carry an umbrella but stick to wearing your shorts and t-shirt. 
  • Comfortable Shoes – Singapore is a compact city and is best explored on foot. You will be doing a lot of walking, so think of shoes that are light and comfortable.
Singapore in May - Getting Around in Singapore in May

Getting Around Singapore in May

  • Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is the quickest and most pocket-friendly way to get around the city. Most popular attractions are just a hop away from an MRT station, making the trains a great way to get around.
  • Singapore's bus system extensively covers the island. It is an economical way to get around, and it’s also one of the most scenic ways to enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful architecture of the city from the air-conditioned comfort of the bus.
  • Taxis are comfortable and come in handy for covering short distances. Cabs are metered, and there is no haggling about the fare. There may be a surcharge depending on where, when, and the company’s taxi you hail down.
Singapore in May -  What to eat in Singapore in May

What to eat in Singapore in May

  • Hokkien Prawn Mee - This is a popular hawker food, and the name reflects its Chinese (Hokkien) origins. Hokkien Prawn Mee is made of yellow noodles and vermicelli. It is wok-fried with eggs and served with prawns, squid, and lean pork belly.
  • Roast Meat - This is another staple at hawker centers and traditional coffee shops. When ordering this dish from hawker centers, you will notice cooked poultry and thick cuts of meat hanging behind glass screens. Usually made of chicken or duck, it is a simple meal served with white rice, cucumber, and chili sauce.
  • Oyster Omelette - Oyster omelets are often sold with Hokkien Mee. It is a savory accompaniment to the popular noodle dish. The oysters are fried with eggs, and they give a gooey and crispy texture to the omelette.

Hacks & Tips to Visit Singapore in May

  • Temperature and humidity both see an increase in May.
  • Forest fires from Indonesia affect air quality in Singapore.
  • Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which is the end of Ramadan, is celebrated in May and is an enjoyable experience.
  • May is just before the school holidays begin. So a visit may mean fewer crowds and less jostling.
  • Random thunderstorms are to be expected. So ‌carry your umbrella.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Singapore in May

Is May a good time to visit Singapore?

May is quite warm and is usually avoided by tourists. If you are willing to brave the sun, it can be a great time to be in Singapore as the popular attractions will be devoid of visitors.

What are the best things to do in Singapore?

Some of the best things to do in Singapore in may include visiting the Gardens by the Bay for a breath of fresh air and beautiful landscape gardens, exploring the vibrant nightlife in Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, and taking a walk or cycle along the East Coast Park for stunning views of the ocean or visiting the Jurong Bird Park for a unique bird-watching experience.

Is Singapore cold in May?

Singapore’s lowest temperature is around 24 degrees in December, which is as cold as it gets. So you can enjoy your time in Singapore in May without worrying about chilly weather. 

How hot is Singapore in May?

Singapore in May weather touches a maximum of 31 degrees Celsius. But May can be quite humid, thus limiting daytime activities.

Can you swim in Singapore in May?

You can swim in Singapore all year long as the temperatures are constant throughout the year.

Is it sunny in Singapore in May?

Yes, Singapore is Sunny in May with the odd thunderstorm.

What clothes to wear in Singapore in May?

The most preferred clothing in Singapore by residents and tourists alike is apparel made of cotton and linen. Shorts are preferred with T-shirts or shirts and are usually paired with flip-flops.

Is it rainy in Singapore in May?

There is relatively more rain than in April, with around 20 days of the month experiencing rainfall.

Is Singapore expensive to visit?

Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in Asia. However, if you look hard enough, there are always good deals to be found.

How safe is Singapore ?

Singapore is a safe haven for all its inhabitants. Its strict laws are actually a boon in this case.

What can I see in Singapore in May?

The most popular attractions are the Adventure Cove Waterpark, Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and Universal Studios.

What are the significant events in Singapore in May?

The most significant events are Hari Raya Puasa and Vesak day from a religious point of view. Then there is the International Festival of Arts which showcases Singapore’s art and culture.

What is the average temperature in Singapore in May?

Just like the rest of the year, the average temperature in May hovers between 25°C to 31°C

What are the best things to do in Singapore in May?

A hike in the MacRitchie reservoir and the iFly are good for adrenaline junkies. For the more relaxed traveler, island hopping would be a fun option.

What are the best things to do with Kids in Singapore in May?

Kids can have fun at Singapore’s only pug cafe or at the Panda Club in the Singapore Zoo.

What are the main festivals in Singapore in May?

The religious festivals of Hari Raya Puasa, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Vesak Day, which celebrates the life of Buddha, are the major festivals of May.