TL;DR
- A good Southeast Asia trip guide starts with Singapore and Malaysia. With modern infrastructure, English-speaking locals, and rich cultural diversity, they’re perfect for even novice travellers.
- Budget £80 to 120 daily for Singapore and £30 to 50 for Malaysia, with significant savings possible through strategic planning and deals.
- Visa rules are simple for citizens of the EU (Singapore provides 90 days’ visa-free entry, Malaysia gives 90 days to most Europeans).
There’s a certain kind of magic that hits the moment Singapore and Malaysia come into view. The colours, the chaos, the calm: all coming together in perfect harmony.
For anyone dipping their toes into Asia, this duo rolls out the red carpet. Think bold flavours at every corner, architecture that makes you pause mid-step, and just the right amount of adventure to keep things exciting without feeling overwhelming.
Here’s a little taste of what makes Singapore and Malaysia attractions so special: it’s everything we love about Asia with a little globalised flair.
Streets are spotless, transportation works seamlessly, and the locals are almost all bilingual (or even multilingual!). That means no “mmm”s or “ahhh”s at restaurants or frustrating interactions. Just familiar environments, even on foreign land.
What you can expect: easy, beautiful travel filled with spice and soul.
Why Singapore and Malaysia Should Top Your Southeast Asia Bucket List
Here’s one of the most underrated Singapore and Malaysia travel tips: treat both like a cultural buffet. Stay open to the moment, and you’ll move from Chinese chess under shaded trees to the echo of a mosque’s call to prayer, then into the spice-laced streets of Little India.
It’s non-stop contrast, and it’s magic.
Singapore may have a clean-cut image, but there’s personality tucked into every hawker stall and alleyway. Malaysia brings the warmth, the soul, the kind of vibe that lingers long after the trip ends.
With both countries being easy to navigate, the focus stays on the fun, not the basics.
Get Exclusive Deals for your Singapore and Malaysia Trip
Step into the travel section at My Exclusive Deals and get ready to uncover Singapore and Malaysia travel tips that are almost too good to be true!
- Get 23% off your tickets with Singapore Airlines before you begin your journey.
- Snag up to 35% off on Malaysia Airlines tickets and fly smarter!
What Your SE Asia Budgeting Strategy Should Include
Here’s what to keep in mind before planning your itinerary:
Singapore Budget Breakdown
Look, a Singapore itinerary for 2025 will probably not be all that cheap. However, it also doesn’t have to make you bankrupt. Accommodation ranges from £40 hostels to £150 luxury hotels. Here’s the secret: hawker centres. These food courts serve incredible meals for £3 to 5. We’re talking Michelin-starred food (literally) at street prices.
Getting around is easy with the MRT. It’s clean, affordable, and covers everything. Around £8 to 15 a day does the job, and it’s smoother than London’s. Activities like Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor areas are free. Others cost a bit, but they’re absolutely worth it.
Malaysia Budget Considerations
Here’s one of the best Malaysia travel tips: it’s unbelievably affordable. Accommodation starts at £15 for decent hostels, £50 gets you proper luxury. Food is so cheap you’ll eat like royalty daily. £8 to 20 covers everything from street food to restaurant meals.
Public transportation offers excellent value. Buses connect everything, trains are comfortable, and Grab (like Uber) is everywhere and cheap. Budget £5 to 12 daily and you’re sorted.
Activities are incredibly affordable. Most attractions cost £5 to 20, and many cultural sites are free (or nearly so).
How Does Singapore & Malaysia Visa Info Affect European Travellers?
Here’s a “good-to-know” tip for any Southeast Asia trip: EU citizens get a 90-day visa-free stay in both countries. Just rock up with your passport (ensure it’s valid for six months) and you’re in. No forms, no fees, no hassle.
Brexit hasn’t changed things for UK citizens. You still get the same visa-free access. Just double-check current requirements before you travel because, well, Brexit keeps changing things.
Travel insurance is essential. Both countries have excellent healthcare, but it’s not free for tourists. Get proper coverage before you go.
Score Amazing Savings on Your Singapore & Malaysia Adventure!
Now this is where it gets fun. Planning a trip doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet, and there’s a smart way to stretch every penny. My Exclusive Deals has been rolling out some wild offers on Singapore and Malaysia travel. The kind that makes you smile mid-scroll.
Check out our travel deals section right now for the latest offers. These destinations are worth every penny, and with the right exclusive deals, you’ll save serious money that can go towards amazing experiences, shopping, or simply extending your adventure.
Also Read: Packing Tips 101 For Travel: Tricks & Hacks
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the ideal time of year to visit SE Asia?
Both countries work year-round, but the period between March and September experiences slightly less rain. Avoid Chinese New Year when prices shoot up and everything tends to close.
2. How many days should I spend in Malaysia and Singapore?
Give Singapore 4 to 5 days and Malaysia 7 to 10 days. You could spend longer, but that covers the highlights without rushing.
3. Are Singapore and Malaysia safe for solo European travellers?
Absolutely! Both countries are incredibly safe for tourists. However, always exercise due caution, no matter the environment.
4. What’s the currency in Singapore and Malaysia?
Singapore uses Singapore Dollars (SGD), and Malaysia uses Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards work everywhere, but carry some cash for hawker centres and local transport.
5. Can I travel between Singapore and Malaysia?
Super easily! Buses, trains, and budget flights connect them regularly. The causeway between Singapore and Johor Bahru is particularly convenient.
6. Are vegetarian/vegan options readily available in Malaysia and Singapore?
Yes, especially in Singapore. Both countries have large Indian and Chinese populations, so plant-based options are plentiful.