Going to a concert in Singapore: easy transport, expensive beds

The main venues

• Singapore Indoor Stadium: the indoor arena in Kallang, hosting most mid-to-large international concerts.
• National Stadium: same Kallang complex, for stadium-scale shows.
• The Star Theatre: in Buona Vista, for fanmeetings and mid-sized shows; beside an MRT station.
• Capitol Theatre, Esplanade: central, for smaller shows.

Transport: the MRT does almost everything

The Kallang complex has Stadium MRT station (Circle Line) beside both the Indoor Stadium and the National Stadium. From anywhere in the city the MRT is the only sensible way; taxis after a show are expensive and slow to find.

After a big show Stadium station is overwhelmed and staff may meter entry in batches. Many people walk to nearby Mountbatten or Kallang stations to avoid the wait.

Trains run until around midnight; for a late finish, check the last train first.

Costs: nothing like Bangkok

Concert tickets in Singapore usually cost more than the same show in Bangkok, and accommodation is what inflates the trip most. If budget matters, the same tour in Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur is often much cheaper including flights.

Singapore earns its price when a show is only here, or when you are combining it with a trip and are not counting.

Entry and rules

Entry policy for Vietnamese citizens can change; check official sources close to your date. Singapore requires an electronic arrival card. Complete it in advance.

Venue rules are enforced strictly: prohibited means prohibited, with no "just a small one". Read the organiser’s list before you go.

On the day

• Merchandise queues at the Indoor Stadium can open in the morning and run for hours.
• Cashless almost everywhere, but your card must have overseas transactions enabled.
• Charge your phone and screenshot the e-ticket.
• Hot, humid, with sudden rain. Bring a light raincoat if you queue outdoors.