InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay

Catch a train (MRT) ride from the Clarke Quay station located within a 10-minute walk from the hotel, or pick up a bicycle from our Concierge and embark on a leisurely 8-minute ride to the charming estate of Tiong Bahru. One of the city’s oldest housing estates, you will find a mix of quaint preserved shophouses that residents have resided in since years back, and heritage-rich coffee shops, dotted with a trail of hipster coffee joints and book cafes that have opened in recent years. Start the day with breakfast at the established Tiong Bahru market, known for its delicious selection of local favourites. Thereafter, a stroll around the neighbourhood will allow a glimpse into local living, and at the same time, offer a step into modernity with a well-brewed cup of coffee at one of the many coffee joints – the perfect way to experience Singapore, both old and new. Whilst in the neighbourhood, some places to visit include Forty Hands (for coffee), Books Actually, an independent bookstore known for its selection of Singapore literature, or Marilyn Tan Jewellery, a store that sells pieces by one of Singapore’s top jewellery designers. And if time permits, join one of the walking trails that are voluntarily run by locals in the area. As part of the trails, keep a lookout for an air raid shelter at Blk 78 Guan Chuan Street, the only public housing building to have been equipped with a bomb shelter.

Take a 15-minute train (MRT) ride from the Tiong Bahru station to Chinatown station thereafter and explore the streets of Chinatown to pick up some souvenirs or simply immerse in Chinese culture at the Chinatown Heritage Centre, a trio of restored shophouses along Pagoda street. A short walk away along Telok Ayer Street, is where you will find the Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of the oldest Hokkien temples in Singapore. The temple is an architectural piece of art, assembled without the use of nails. It was gazetted as a national monument in 1973 and has since won 4 architectural awards including the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation Building. Sited just next to the temple is the Chong Wen Ge café, named after Singapore’s earliest Chinese school. The café attempts to pay tribute to local history by serving local delights including Nyonya Kuehs and local signatures such as Laksa, Mee Siam and Curry Chicken – perfect for a mid-afternoon break.

At sunset, catch a short taxi ride of about 15 minutes to the Gardens by the Bay, an extravagant showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry. Be surrounded by diverse vegetation and hidden floral gems within the air-conditioned conservatories or make a trip to one of the iconic Supertrees, a tree-like vertical garden that comes alive at night with its display of lights. Alternatively, catch a concert or musical performance at Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay, Singapore’s national performing arts centre before ending your day by hopping onto a boat along the river towards Robertson Quay. Stop by one of the many bars along the way and take in views of the riverside whilst enjoying a glass of wine or cocktail by the quay. Alternatively, we recommend an Italian cocktail or wine at Publico Ristorante, a perfect spot for a night cap before you end your day.