Riverside, Singapore

The Singapore River serves as a vital artery within the densely populated Central Business District (CBD) of Singapore. On the northern bank of the river lies the very spot where Raffles originally landed and established his colony. To this day, numerous central government buildings are situated in this vicinity. Conversely, the southern bank, adorned with towering skyscrapers, is where Singapore's financiers amass their wealth. Sandwiched between these two banks are the majority of Singapore's nightlife establishments, lining the riverside streets of Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Robertson Quay.

Most of Singapore's historical attractions are clustered along the river, and the ideal starting point for your tour is at the river's mouth. While this area has constituted the heart of Singapore's downtown area since the early 19th century, it's regrettable that many of the once-iconic shop-houses and street markets succumbed to modern skyscrapers and shopping centers in the 1980s. Those seeking a more authentic glimpse into colonial Singaporean life would find it worthwhile to venture north to the Malaysian island of Penang instead. Nevertheless, not all is lost, as several significant government buildings and places of worship from the 19th century have endured, offering a rare glimpse into the city's colonial history.

Tip:
This area is more vibrant after 5pm as all the restaurant are open.