Practical information : Going out Singapore City
Timetable
Singapore's nightlife is expanding year on year. Nightclubs are generally open from Wednesday to Saturday from 10pm to 3am (later for afterhours). When it comes to activities with friends (cinema, billiards, bowling, go-karting, escape games, etc.), opening hours vary widely depending on the type of establishment. Since casinos were authorized on the island in 2005, Singaporeans have been having a field day. The Marina Bay Sands casino is open 24 hours a day!
Budget & Tips
Going out to a club is generally more expensive than in Europe, especially if you are a cocktail lover. Depending on the establishment, entry may be free before a certain time, mainly for ladies. For the cinema, count about S$ 12 the ticket and for the shows, unfortunately few good deals are proposed. If you want to try out paid activities in Sentosa, have a look at the flyers available in some hotels, at the tourist office or before boarding the Sentosa Express, they may offer you discounts or family rates.
All forms of payment are accepted, and as in restaurants, service is included, so do not tip.
To be booked
For shows, don't forget to book your tickets online (www.marinabaysands.com), so you don't have to queue on site. If you can, the easiest way is to present your ticket via your smartphone. For leisure activities, at Sentosa for example, or for boat tours in the bay, you can go directly to the venue - there's no need to book.
Night transport
The best way to get around late at night is by cab or Grab. They're plentiful and reasonably priced, although you'll have to pay a nightly surcharge. Be careful, however, on Friday and Saturday evenings, when it's harder to find an available one - so be patient! Public transport, buses and the metro run until 00:30, and 7 night bus lines operate from 23:30 to 2am (on NR) on Fridays, Saturdays and the eve of public holidays.
Age restrictions
The legal drinking age is 18. Remember to keep your papers on you if you look young. Since 2015, the sale of alcohol is prohibited in stores from 10:30 pm to 7 am, you can only consume in bars.
What's very local
Many of the more exclusive establishments require a dress code, which is indicated at the entrance. So dress appropriately for any eventuality, and avoid flip-flops and shorts for nightclubs!
Singaporeans are keen gamblers, so they appreciate the casinos that have been operating on the island since 2005. Admission is charged to them, not to tourists..
Smokers
It is forbidden to smoke in public places, some places on the terrace, but very few allow you to do so. A piece of advice, find out before lighting a cigarette, a fine can cost you a lot!
Tourist traps
You'll meet a couple of drummers in the very touristy neighborhoods, but nothing too bad.