Downtown Core

Downtown Core is a planning district in Singapore's Central Region that contains modern skyscrapers, office towers, and entertainment spaces. The district divides into eight subzones including Raffles Place and Marina Centre, forming the city's main business hub.

The area started as a trading post founded by Stamford Raffles in 1823 and gradually became Singapore's financial and commercial center. This shift from colonial port to modern business hub shaped how the district developed over time.

The National Gallery Singapore and Esplanade showcase artworks and performances throughout the year, reflecting local and international creative expression. Visitors can experience how these institutions animate the neighborhood with regular cultural events.

Multiple MRT stations including Raffles Place, Marina Bay, and Tanjong Pagar serve the district with underground train connections to the rest of Singapore. Getting around the area feels straightforward thanks to this extensive transit network.

The district operates under a height limit of 280 meters (920 feet), keeping the skyline from becoming too dense compared to other financial centers. This restriction means even the tallest structures here maintain a certain proportion with the surroundings.