Singapore Currency Guide 2026
Singapore Dollar (SGD) · S$
1.35 SGD = $1 (approx.)
Singapore Travel Guides
Cash is Useful in Singapore
Cards work well but cash is handy for markets and small vendors
Daily Budget Guide
🎒
Budget
S$60–100 ($44–74) (hostel, hawker centre meals, MRT)
🏨
Mid-Range
S$150–250 ($111–185) (hotel, restaurants, Grab)
✨
Luxury
S$400+ ($296+) (Marina Bay Sands, fine dining, private experiences)
ATM Tips for Singapore
DBS, OCBC, and UOB ATMs are most compatible with international cards
Singapore ATMs generally charge lower fees than other Asian countries ($2–4 per withdrawal)
NETS contactless (local payment) is widely available — your Visa/Mastercard contactless works everywhere
Changi Airport has ATMs before and after customs — withdraw on arrival
Card Payment Tips
Singapore is one of Asia's most cashless societies — cards accepted almost universally
PayNow QR code payments are common for small hawker stalls — use Revolut or Wise to scan
EZ-Link card for transit: buy at any MRT station, top up at machines or convenience stores
Hawker centres increasingly accept NETS QR or NETS contactless payment
Currency Exchange Tips
✓ Best method
Licensed money changers at Mustafa Centre (open 24h), People's Park, or any Arcade money changer offer better rates than banks. DBS, OCBC, and UOB ATMs are reliable.
✗ Avoid exchanging at
- ×Airport exchange (poor rates)
- ×Hotels (convenience markup)
- ×Unlicensed street changers
Tipping in Singapore
Not expected — most restaurants add a mandatory 10% service charge. Rounding up in taxis is appreciated but not required.
Useful Denominations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Singapore expensive?
Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, but hawker centres make eating very affordable (S$4–8 per meal). Accommodation and nightlife are pricey. Budget travellers can manage on S$60–80/day.
Should I use cash or card in Singapore?
Cards are accepted almost everywhere. However, hawker centres and wet markets may still be cash or NETS. The EZ-Link card is essential for MRT and bus travel.
Where can I exchange currency in Singapore?
Licensed money changers at Mustafa Centre (24h, Little India) offer some of the best rates. Arcade money changers in Chinatown and People's Park Complex are also competitive.
What is the best card to use in Singapore?
Any Visa or Mastercard works well. For best value, use a zero foreign-transaction-fee card (Wise, Revolut, or Charles Schwab). Singapore's NETS contactless also works with standard Visa/Mastercard.
Before you go to Singapore
Singapore Packing List
Everything else you need for your Singapore trip