Discover Singapore’s Iconic Gardens by the Bay: An Unforgettable Travel Experience at the 2026 Singapore Garden Festival, Featuring the Best Floral Displays and Award-Winning Designs

Published on November 23, 2025

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, an awe-inspiring tropical garden nestled in the heart of the city, will host one of the world’s premier garden shows – the Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) – in July 2026. The festival, often hailed as ‘The Chelsea of Asia’, marks a milestone this year as it celebrates two decades of showcasing exceptional garden designs and horticultural artistry. While the festival is already a significant cultural event in Singapore, it remains an undiscovered gem for many international garden enthusiasts, particularly those in the UK. This eight-day holiday tour, curated by ECT Travel, offers an immersive experience into Singapore’s unparalleled greenery and world-class flower shows.

A Premier Floral Event Celebrating 20 Years of Green Brilliance

With its biennial schedule, the Singapore Garden Festival has long been a gathering point for world-renowned garden designers and floral artists. The 2026 event promises to be a spectacular showcase of cutting-edge garden designs that push the boundaries of tropical gardening. Participants from around the globe will compete for the coveted Best of Show title, with previous winners and returning champions adding even more prestige to the event. Expect a diverse array of designs that blend creativity, sustainability, and tropical beauty, all set in the stunning landscape of Gardens by the Bay.

This iconic event will continue to attract top designers from the globe, ensuring that visitors will witness the world’s most impressive garden designs. The Best of Show Designers’ Gardens will once again capture attention with their innovative displays, all vying for the gold medal, a title considered the highest recognition in the world of horticulture.

What to Expect at the Festival: Flower Shows, Cutting-Edge Displays, and More

In addition to the garden exhibitions, the SGF will highlight the art of floral design in its prestigious Floral Windows to the World Championship. Floral designers from across the world will display their skills in a thrilling competition. These floral masters are tasked with creating awe-inspiring arrangements that blend craftsmanship and creativity, representing the botanical heritage of their respective countries. Visitors can witness the culmination of these incredible floral displays during the Grand Final, where the top competitors will showcase their best work in an exclusive ticketed event.

Whether you are a passionate gardener or a lover of floral artistry, the Singapore Garden Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you inspired by the skill and innovation that drives the global gardening community.

Discover the Green Heart of Singapore: The City in a Garden

Beyond the festival’s immediate spectacle, Singapore itself stands as an epitome of sustainable green city design. The Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of tropical plant species, boasting the largest collection of orchids in the world. Visitors can explore the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species of orchids, including rare and endangered varieties. The gardens are a testament to Singapore’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and showcasing the harmonious relationship between city life and nature.

For those seeking a unique experience, the VIP Orchid Garden presents an exceptional collection of hybrids named after global icons. It’s a must-see for those curious about the intersection of celebrity culture and horticultural artistry.

Why Visit Singapore in 2026? Travel Tips and Essential Information for Garden Lovers

If you’re planning to visit Singapore in 2026 for the festival, ECT Travel’s specially curated tour ensures that you experience the best of the event and the city. Here are a few tips to enhance your trip:

• Book early: The Singapore Garden Festival attracts thousands of visitors, so securing your tickets and accommodations early is crucial to ensuring a smooth experience.
• Stay close to Gardens by the Bay: The proximity of hotels to this botanical wonderland allows you to maximize your time at the festival. The event runs for nine days, so having easy access to the venue will give you more flexibility.
• Take advantage of guided tours: To fully appreciate the intricate design details, consider booking a guided tour during your visit. These tours often provide in-depth insights into the design and history of the gardens, enhancing your experience.
• Explore the rest of Singapore: Beyond the festival, Singapore is a global destination for food lovers, shopaholics, and those looking to explore its vibrant multicultural heritage. Don’t miss the Raffles Hotel for a traditional afternoon tea, or venture out to the Hawker Centres for an authentic taste of Singaporean street food.
• Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes: Singapore’s tropical climate can be humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing for long walks through the lush gardens.

Why Singapore Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

For garden lovers and enthusiasts of floral design, Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Garden Festival should be on your bucket list. The festival represents the best of global gardening talent, with breathtaking designs and stunning floral displays. Whether you are attending the show, exploring the Botanic Gardens, or simply enjoying the stunning green spaces throughout the city, Singapore offers a unique and inspiring experience.

Singapore’s commitment to sustainability and its seamless integration of nature into urban life make it a model for cities around the world. It’s the perfect destination for those who appreciate the beauty of the natural world and want to explore the cutting-edge of horticulture and garden design.