singapore travel spot

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Singapore has been described as a playground for the rich, and it's true that the small city-state does have a certain sheen of wealth. But Singapore offers more than just high-end shopping malls, luxury hotels, and fine dining (though it's worth indulging in those a bit if you can). There is also a vibrant history and diverse ethnic quarters to discover, along with many family-friendly attractions and lovely public spaces that make exploring this slightly futuristic city worthwhile.

Singapore has an excellent public transportation system that makes sightseeing convenient and easy. Once you've gotten a sense of the metro map, you'll have no problem zipping from one part of town to the next. English is spoken everywhere, and signs are in English as well. In fact, Singapore is one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to navigate in Southeast Asia. And as long as you're not comparing prices to nearby Thailand or Vietnam, you're in for a lovely stay.

For ideas on things to see and do, read our list of the top attractions in Singapore.

1. Marina Bay Sands

2. gardens by the bay, 3. botanic gardens, 4. singapore zoo, 5. orchard road, 6. singapore flyer, 7. raffles hotel singapore, 8. chinatown, 9. sentosa island, 10. clarke quay, 11. universal studios singapore, 12. night safari singapore, 13. merlion park, 14. asian civilizations museum, 15. pulau ubin (granite island), 16. fort canning park, 17. the maritime experiential museum, 18. fort siloso, 19. national gallery singapore, 20. jewel changi airport, singapore - climate chart, easy places to visit from singapore.

The opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex includes a high-end luxury hotel , a mall with a canal running through it, the ArtScience Museum , and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck –a vantage point for taking in the entire city. The Skypark's viewing deck and infinity pool are found in the ship (yes, ship) that tops the hotel. Only hotel guests are allowed to use the infinity pool, but anyone can visit the observation deck.

From the Skypark, you can see the innovative double helix bridge , the port, the Gardens by the Bay (101 hectares of land converted into waterfront gardens), and the impressive skyline.

While up there on top of the city, guests can grab a snack or a coffee at the rooftop restaurant or pick up some keepsakes from the souvenir stand. You can purchase a photo of yourself green-screened in front of the massive hotel as it's all lit up at night, but the cost is steep at 50 Singapore dollars–better to ask a fellow tourist to snap a photo of you if possible. The elegant opulence of the Marina Bay Sands exemplifies Singapore's style and status as a major international city in Southeast Asia.

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

Official site: http://www.marinabaysands.com/

Once you've glimpsed this beautifully designed green space (from the top of the Marina Bay Sands, perhaps) you won't be able to stay away. Wander through the Bay East Garden , perfect for enjoying the vibrant plant life and escaping the city bustle for a moment.

You won't want to miss Supertree Grove , where you'll find a cluster of the iconic, futuristic structures designed to perform environmentally sustainable functions. Then, head to the Cloud Forest Dome to see the world's tallest indoor waterfall and learn a bit about biodiversity. Check the website for ticket sale prices and tour times.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

Official site: http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en.html

Not to be confused with the Gardens on the Bay , the Botanic Gardens are also worth a visit. Singapore received its first UNESCO World Heritage nomination for its botanical gardens, and with good reason. The city can sometimes feel like a concrete jungle, albeit a clean and comfortable one, but the botanic gardens preserve pieces of Singapore's wilder heritage.

Here, a walking trail leads to the gardens' heritage trees, which are conserved as part of an effort to protect the city's mature tree species. Make sure to visit the impressive National Orchid Garden as well.

Other popular things to do include visiting the eco-garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculptures, and several other formal gardens.

Address: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore

Official site: www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg

Billing itself as the world's best rainforest zoo, the Singapore Zoo is a pretty impressive place. The facility is clean and inviting, and the animals appear well treated, with plenty of lush vegetation and habitat space.

The orangutans are particularly impressive, and visitors can watch as babies and adults alike swing high above their platforms and snack on fruits. There is also a large chimpanzee family, zebras, meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos, and many other creatures.

Guests can observe feedings for some of the animals. Allow at least three hours to make your way around the zoo.

If the zoo doesn't satisfy your need for getting close to wildlife, there's also the Night Safari , River Safari (including a giant panda forest), and the Jurong Bird Park . Park hopper passes are available if you plan to visit more than one of the wildlife parks.

For a unique and personal wildlife experience, try the Singapore Zoo Breakfast with the Orangutans. This hassle-free tour includes transportation from and to your hotel, allows you half day to explore the zoo, and has an optional upgrade to enjoy breakfast in the company of the zoo's much-loved orangutans.

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/singapore-zoo

One could be forgiven for coming to Singapore and doing nothing but shopping, as this is a world-class city for style and designer chic. The Orchard Road area is a great place to start a shopping spree, as there are high-end stores at every turn. You'd expect nothing less from a neighborhood that boasts 22 malls and six department stores. There are also four movie theaters, including an IMAX cinema, and a KTV karaoke establishment.

If you get hungry while burning through all that cash, there are plenty of eateries in the neighborhood serving international food.

Official site: http://www.orchardroad.org/

If the observation deck at the Marina Bay Sands doesn't quite do it for you, try taking in high tea while looking out over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest giant observation wheel. Choose from several different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that encompasses not only the Singapore skyline but as far away as the Spice Islands of Indonesia and Malaysia's Straits of Johor.

There are several different ticket packages to choose from, and each includes access to the multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit, which delves into Singapore's history and the creation of the Singapore Flyer.

Flights last 30 minutes and run from early morning until late at night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy: the beginning of another bustling day or when Singapore is aglow after dark.

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore

Official site: www.singaporeflyer.com

This colonial building is one of the world's last grand 19th-century hotels, once visited by literary luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling and Joseph Conrad, as well as movie star Charlie Chaplin.

Built in 1887, the property has served as a city landmark for well over a century and continues to live up to its tony reputation with excellent food and service. The classical architecture and tropical gardens provide a refined setting and represent another facet of Singapore's varied and rich history.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is located in the city's Colonial District , which is also home to several other historic sites, and a good place to base yourself in the city. Here, you'll find the Raffles Landing Site , where Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, is said to have stepped ashore in 1819. The story has it that he saw the small fishing village but recognized its potential as a port, so he purchased the land from the Sultan of Johor and invited Chinese and Indian immigrants to move here. And so the seeds of Singapore's multi-ethnic identity were sown.

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore

Official site: www.raffles.com/singapore

If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back here. From the small mom-and-pop stores and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns, there's excitement and hustle in this district. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and see the impressive and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.

Another temple worth seeing is the Buddha Tooth Relic temple. If you're up early enough (think 4am), you can hear the morning drum ceremony. Or you can just check out the closing ceremony in the evening after viewing the relic.

Heritage markers have been installed throughout the neighborhood in English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese, so visitors can better understand the significance of the area. But this neighborhood is not just a testament to the influence of the Chinese throughout Singapore's past. This is a progressive neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all), and it's home to the trendy Ann Siang Hill area, where the quaint bistros and upscale boutiques could be at home in any Western city.

Official site: www.chinatown.sg

Singapore isn't exactly known as a beach destination, but if you're really craving some fun in the sun, Sentosa Island is the place to find it. Siloso Beach is a good spot for getting in beach time, and visitors can play volleyball on free courts or go kayaking and skimboarding. There are several other beach attractions as well, plus an Underwater World aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins.

A must-see on Sentosa Island is the Merlion , Singapore's famous statue that has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. You can take an escalator to the top of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Adventurous types will want to check out The Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports @ Wave House, where you can try your hand at flying strapped to a water-propelled jet pack.

Official site: www.sentosa.com.sg/en

The "center of commerce during the 19th century," Clarke Quay lives up to its legacy as a busy hub. Today, it has a more polished sheen, so after a long day of shopping on Orchard Road, visitors can happily head to Clarke Quay for an evening of waterfront dining and entertainment.

River taxis and cruises also depart from here, giving tourists the chance to admire some of the city's historic bridges and view landmarks like the Merlion from the water. The Quay's biggest hit with younger tourists is a giant bungee-jumping attraction , an adrenaline-packed thrill ride.

Nearby attractions include the Asian Civilisation Museum ; the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery located in Singapore's oldest fire station; and the Hong San See Temple , a picturesque century-old Buddhist place of worship.

Universal Studios Singapore occupies 49 acres of Resorts World Sentosa. The park is arranged thematically, with each area paying tribute to a location, film, or television show. Destinations include New York City, Hollywood, Madagascar, and a trip back to Ancient Egypt. Fiction-themed areas include Shrek's Far Far Away, Lost World, and Sci-Fi City, where Battlestar Galactica -themed dueling roller coasters and an indoor dark coaster, Revenge of the Mummy , dominate the thrill rides.

In addition to the many rides–that range from kiddie-friendly to daredevil –the park also has diverse dining options, shopping, and live shows throughout the day and night.

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore

Night Safari Singapore puts a new twist on the traditional zoo experience by introducing visitors to the nocturnal lives of the residents. The park's habitats are divided into four sections, each with its own trail that lets you observe these elusive creatures as they go about their "day."

The Leopard Trail has, as expected, leopards, as well as lions, flying foxes, civets, and porcupines among other animals. The Fishing Cat Trail tours the habitat of animals native to Singapore, including the fish-loving felines, pangolin, binturong, and other species both common and endangered. East Lodge Trail features Malayan tigers and spotted hyenas, and the Wallaby Trail introduces visitors to the marsupials of Australia.

Private tours, buggy rides, and educational sessions are available, as well as once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as an Asian elephant feeding session.

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/night-safari

Singapore's Merlion is just what it sounds like–the figure of a mythical creature that has the head of a lion and the body and tail of a fish. The Merlion represents the city's humble start as a fishing village combined with its traditional Malay name Singapura, "lion city."

The structure, which was relocated to Merlion Park in 2002, where it can overlook Marina Bay , weighs 70 tonnes and stands at 8.6 meters tall, spouting water from its mouth in a fountain.

The "Merlion Cub" sits nearby, only two meters tall but a hefty three tonnes, and there are five additional official Merlion statues throughout the city. Merlion Park is an ideal spot for photo-ops, whether you are taking a selfie in front of the iconic creature or capturing the magnificent views from the park as it looks out over the bay.

Address: One Fullerton, Singapore

If the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven't satisfied your taste for colonial architecture, pay a visit to the Empress Place Building . It was constructed in 1865 and built in the Neoclassical style, and was named in honor of Queen Victoria. It now houses the Asian Civilisations Museum, which delves into the many Asian cultures that helped form Singapore.

The museum's collections focus on the themes of trade and spirituality, both of which heavily influenced Asian cultures. Exhibits cover topics such as the Indian Ocean trade, stories of faith and belief, and a look at the important role that scholars played in Chinese culture for centuries.

Address: 1 Empress Pl, Singapore

Official site: http://acm.org.sg

For a look at what life in Singapore was like before it was all about glamor and skyscrapers, visit the small island of Pulau Ubin, where fewer than 100 people still live in the same simple way as they did in the 1960s. The island's name is Malay for "Granite Island," a moniker given due to its past prominence as a quarry town.

Today, it is a peaceful, rustic place where tourists can enjoy unspoiled forests and diverse wildlife. The island is also home to the Chek Jawa Wetlands , which contain a coral reef teeming with sea life.

The island is easily reached by boat, a 10-minute ride that departs from Changi Point Ferry Terminal .

As military strongholds go, Fort Canning has had a long and varied life. Built in 1859, the fort was originally meant to defend Singapore against attacks but it became a bunker during World War II and was eventually surrendered to the Japanese in 1942.

Now in peacetime, the original building is home to modern performing arts troupes, and the park regularly sees picnics, concerts, theater performances, and festivals.

Other attractions at the park include relics from Singapore's early history, from as far back as the 14th century, and Sir Stamford Raffles' personal bungalow. Guests can also see a replica of the spice market Raffles established in 1822, as well as ASEAN sculptures that were erected in the 1980s.

Address: 51 Canning Rise, Singapore

This indoor-outdoor museum is located right on the water, and it's a great way to explore Singapore's maritime history through fun, interactive exhibits. Before you even enter the building, you'll be able to see several ships anchored here.

Inside, the highlight of the museum is the Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a sailing vessel that sank in 830 CE while traveling between Africa and China. You can also see large-size models of trading ships that traveled the Silk Route, learn navigation skills and how to read nautical charts, and experience a 9th-century shipwreck at Typhoon Theater in a special-effects simulation.

Fort Siloso, the country's only preserved fort and a military museum, is located on Sentosa Island. You can reach the fort via the Fort Siloso Skywalk trail , a massive steel bridge towering 11 stories up. Surrounded by lush tropical canopy, the bridge is accessed by either a glass elevator or simple stairs–though taking the elevator means sweeping open views of the Keppel Harbor, which you can't really see if you choose to walk your way up. The 181-meter-long bridge offers great views of the nearby islands, as well as the jungle floor below.

Once at the fort, visitors can join guided tours to learn more about the history of the area–although it's also possible to explore on your own, just walking around and seeing the sights.

Highlights inside the fort include the many massive cannons on display, three tunnel systems used to move ammunition around, and special exhibits showcasing daily life in the fort for the soldiers living there in the 1800s.

The entire fort is a beautiful shaded park, where you can spend a couple of hours exploring.

Address: Siloso Road, Singapore

Official site: http://www.fortsiloso.com/

Home to the largest modern art collection in Southeast Asia, the National Gallery mostly focuses on the works of local and Asian artists starting in the 19 th century. The 9,000-plus works of art are divided between two buildings – City Hall and the former Supreme Court – over more than 64,000 square meters.

In addition to the permanent collection, the gallery hosts temporary exhibits in unique aspects such as Vietnamese lacquer painting, modern photography, and Chinese calligraphy.

Free tours are available in English and Mandarin, and the gallery also offers workshops, open performances, and special presentations for both adults and children.

Address: 1 St. Andrew's Road, #01

Official site: https://www.nationalgallery.sg

Often voted as the best airport in the world, the 10-story-high Jewel Ghangi is not your ordinary transportation hub. In fact, you should put it on your list of must-see places to visit while in Singapore.

In addition to over 300 shops, the airport's most famous feature is the 40-meter-high HSBC Rain Vortex, an indoor waterfall surrounded by over 2,000 trees. Each of the airport's three terminals (all seamlessly connected) also has its own garden. There's a cactus garden in Terminal 1; a sunflower garden in T2; and a very famous butterfly garden at T3, home to more than 40 species of butterflies, a six-meter grotto waterfall, and plenty of flowering plants.

The airport is also home to two movie theaters, an entertainment corner with vintage arcade machines, an indoor canopy park with garden mazes and stunning viewing decks, and a 12-meter-tall (that's four stories high) slide both children and adults are welcome to use.

Official site: https://www.changiairport.com

Singapore Getaways: If you're based in Singapore and looking for some time outside the city, or if you're thinking of adding something on to your holiday, consider one of our ideas for weekend getaways from Singapore . Flights connect the city to beautiful destinations around SE Asia in just two or three hours. There are also several interesting places you can reach by bus or ferry.

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The best Singapore attractions to visit

From dizzying rooftop retreats to wild night-time safaris, there's no shortage of amazing things to do in this metropolis

With its blend of old and new, colonial and contemporary, Singapore is a true wonder of Southeast Asia. Gleaming skyscrapers, luxury hotels, Instagrammable parks and boulevards filled with air-conditioned malls – Singapore truly has it all. Oh, and there are  loads  of attractions and great things to do to keep the hordes of visitors occupied too. It can be hard to know where to start. There's nature in abundance, and endless ways to seek out amazing views. There's galleries and shops galore too, for the less adventurou. So here's a run-down of the best Singapore attractions, as selected by our local experts just for you.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore  and where to see interesting architecture and landmarks in Singapore

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Must-see attractions in Singapore

1.  Jewel Changi Airport

If you've just got off the plane, don't have to leave the airport just yet! Entertain yourself at the latest lifestyle concept, Jewel Changi Airport. This majestic dome is home to over 280 dining and retail outlets, with some open around the clock – think dining at ungodly hours at American fast-food chain A&W or food court Five Spice, or killing a couple of hours with a movie at 24-hour Shaw Theatres. You can also catch the hourly light and sound show at the HSBC Rain Vortex, the mall’s 40m-tall indoor waterfall, from 7.30pm to midnight. Honestly, this place is ridiculous. Arguably worth the flight just to see this. Not a sad pasty shop in sight. There's even play attractions for the little ones – including trampolines! Hell, you could even add a day onto the stay and use the on-site hotel. Sure makes checking in a little sweeter. 

2.  Singapore Botanic Gardens

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a jewel among the many beautiful parks and gardens in Singapore. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features attractions like  a swan lake where visitors can feed the black Australian swans and  the Evolution Garden Walk, a well-landscaped plot containing the fossilised remains of ancient trees. It's also home to the world's largest collection of orchids – some 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, plus the national flower, Vanda Miss Joaquim – at the National Orchid Garden.  During weekends, tours to its rainforest patch are available, while outdoor concerts are often held at Symphony Lake. And with the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, where children can run wild and explore the  farm, orchard, and forest which has its own stream and ponds, this nature spot is family-friendly.  

3.  Haw Par Villa

• Things to do

Opened in 1937, this weird and wonderful park was named after its owners, Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, the brothers who made their fortune from the acclaimed cure-all ointment Tiger Balm. Multicoloured statues and tableaux – some looking rather neglected – depict scenes from Chinese mythology. The highlight is the Ten Courts of Hell (responsible for childhood nightmares for generations of Singaporeans) where dioramas showing human sinners being punished in a variety of hideous and bloodthirsty ways – in extremely gory and graphic detail. It’s a safe bet that you will never see anything like it anywhere else. There is the infamous 10 Courts of Hell to navigate, but don't worry, it's not too scary. You can go in groups of up to 25 if you believe the whole 'strength in numbers' thing. 

4.  National Gallery Singapore

The former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings have been refurbished to become Singapore’s National Gallery. It is the largest visual art gallery in the city-state and is mostly dedicated to local and Southeast Asian art from the 19th century to the present day. So all the pretty modern and contemporary stuff then. Many of the works on display are drawn from the permanent National Collection but there’s also a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions to check out too. So there's always something new to check, even if you've been before. Plenty to look at. 

5.  Chijmes

Once a convent school, CHIJMES has transformed into a hip lifestyle enclave brimming with bars, restaurants and cafés. It’s currently undergoing a revamp – and it’s more than just a cosmetic update. A fleet of new F&B joints are flocking to the old school, including El Mero Mero, Here & There, and Prive. Whether you want to just chill on the lawn, get your yoga on, or just eat and drink basically everything you've ever eaten, you can do it here. An essential stop while you're in Singapore really. Especially if you want to just be in a place doing stuff. 

6.  Gardens by the Bay

The stuff of nature-lovers’ dreams, Gardens by the Bay is a truly magnificent site. The 250-acre green haven is filled with huge, flora-wreathed towers connected by ‘skyways’ and two enormous conservatories. Opened in 2012 as part of a drive to bring more greenery into Singapore, the gardens are free for guests to explore but you'll need an admission ticket for access to the flower domes that house rotating floral exhibitions. Needless to say, this is a non-negotiable must-see. There's also season passes for $20 (aprx. £11), so you can visit again and again. You'll want to, as it's absolutely massive. And beautfiul. 

7.  Universal Studios Singapore

This outpost of Universal Studios' theme park empire on Sentosa Island has an array of world-class rides across its various regions. There's Transformers: The Ride (a 3D adventure where you have to protect the Allspark), Battlestar Galactica (twin roller coasters that are sure to get your heart racing), Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure (everyone's favourite water ride), Enchanted Airways, Canopy Flyer and Revenge of the Mummy. Your kids will obviously never forgive you if you don’t let them run amok here. There's fun for all the family here though, whether you like thirll-seeking rides or chilling with the cast from Madagascar, it's all going on. Latest additions include a Trick or Thrills attraction. 

8.  Singapore Zoo

With 28 awe-inspiring hectares to explore, it's unlikely that you'll be able to cover Singapore Zoo in its entirety in a day. But you give it a good go. Unlike traditional zoos, which keep its animals in cages, this place was the first in the world to implement the 'open concept', which has animals in individually landscaped enclosures. There are more than 4,000 animals to see across 11 zones, including Wild Africa, Primate Kingdom and Frozen Tundra. There's over 300 species, so honestly, all sorts of things you'll never see anywhere else. Visit the world's largest captive colony of orangutans, feed the friendly Asian elephants and see the rare white tiger. You can also feed giraffes, if you're tall enough. A zoo done properly. Good to see. You also have amazing attractions like the night walk at the rainforst, and virtual experiences. 

9.  Night Safari

Set in lush secondary rainforest, the Night Safari is a must-see for visitors. The world’s first night zoo (opened in 1994) allows you to witness what over 2,500 nocturnal animals from 130 species get up to after dusk, in naturalistic habitats and without barriers, via the use of special lighting techniques. Lions? Check. Rhino? Check. Leopards? Check. Flying squirrels? Check! There's animals from seven geographical regions, and you get to see the lot without much work (you'll ride a tram all the way through). You can get open dated tickets too, so no stress on exactly when you rock up to the safari. 

10.  Singapore River Safari

Another animal exploration! This time it's the watery (and other) ones. Manatees, crocodiles, flamingos and monkeys are just some of the 5,000 beasties you’ll encounter in this river-themed wildlife park, which boasts the world’s biggest freshwater aquarium and a panda exhibit housing the cuddly couple Kai Kai and Jia Jia. So good they named them twice, twice. The River Safari is split into two zones: the Rivers of the World, which showcases animals from eight rivers including the Congo and Yangtze, and Wild Amazonia, where you can come face-to-face with over 30 animals from the rainforest on a boat ride aptly named Amazon River Quest. You can also see ancient-looking creatures, from a time long before we all started visiting zoos and stuff. 

11.  Bird Paradise

• Zoos and aquariums

A sad goodbye to Jurong Bird Park and an enthusiastic hello to Bird Paradise. This new 17-hectare park has eight stunning, walk-through aviaries modelled after the different biomes of the world. Think African rainforests, South African wetlands, and Australian dry eucalypt forests. This is where you can walk among free-flying birds, including some of the world's most threatened species and one of the largest populations of Hornbills under human care. 

The new park comes with refreshed programmes too. Visitors are in for a treat at new avian shows like Predators on Wings and Wings of the World, as well as behind-the-scenes tours at the Avian Healthcare and Research Centre and the Avian Breeding and Research Centre (with more to come). Otherwise, get up close with bird friends at special feeding sessions; the $8 fee will go to conservation programmes across the region that are supported by Mandai Wildlife Group. 

12.  Pulau Ubin

Take a walk on the wild side as you step foot on one of Singapore’s most popular off-shore islands. A sprawling 1,020 hectares, Ubin boasts lush greenery and abundant wildlife, drawing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore the many wonders of the granite island. There are plenty of activities to get up to here: go birdwatching at Pekan Quarry, wander through nature trails, and hike 75 metres up Puaka Hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the islet. The sea-and-mangrove route will be a breeze for moderate kayakers (it's a word) and will be an accessible challenge for beginners. So go on, enjoy the chill chill vibes that are Kayaking around the lushious Singapore islands. 

13.  MacRitchie Reservoir

• Walks and tours
• Central Water Catchment

Singapore’s oldest nature park is continuously filled with joggers, families and weekend strollers – plus those flocking to see the occasional free concert. You can get into the reservoir’s rainforest via the MacRitchie Trail, which offers straightforward boardwalk treks and more ambitious, longer hikes. There’s plenty of wildlife here, from flying lemurs to tree frogs and pangolins – but they do tend to hide out of sight. The one exception are the long-tailed macaque monkeys that hang about. Be warned, though: having been fed by less responsible visitors, they can be aggressive little terrors. Don't feed them, or wave about snacks. They're cute when behaving though, so do come along wo the big green lung right at the heart of Central Catchment Nature Reserve. It's one of the most significant, untouched, bits of land on the entire island. 

14.  Marina Bay Sands

The 2,500 rooms at this hotel offer views of the South China Sea or Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline, but let’s be honest: the Moshe Safdie-designed SkyPark is the real crowd-puller, sitting atop the three hotel towers 200 metres above ground level (that's high up, that is). Non-hotel guests have to pay for the privilege of enjoying unfettered views from the Observation Deck across the city – but it’s definitely worth it. To take that selfie to make all your friends back home seethe with envy, if nothing else. We're talking proper panoramic views, from the Gardens by the Bay to the Supertree grove sculptures, and of course that skyline. You can see the lot from up here. Well worth catching at various times of day. 

15.  Changi Airport

An airport doesn’t sound like much of an attraction – more a series of interminable queues filled with tetchy flyers and shrieking babies. But Singapore’s Changi Airport has been voted the world’s best airport for the fifth consecutive year – and there’s much to marvel at here. Butterfly habitats, Balinese-style rooftop pools, 24-hour cinemas, spa centres, and the highly-raved Jewel Changi Airport – trust us, this ain’t your average airport. There are far worse stopovers during a long-haul flight. I mean, you read about Jewel Changi Airport, didn't you? This is the airports-are-a-great-place epicenter of the world. A lot of the long-haul flghta go out of here too, so why not book yours there? you can just rock up very early, get a massage, have a little swim, the obligatory pre-flight drink at any ridiculous hour, and then you're jetting off. Stress free. Alternatively, when you turn up to the airport just forget the hotel for a few extra hours and chill. It's a holiday no? 

16.  Orchard Road

Once home to an orchard of fruit trees, this area of Singapore is now widely known as the shopping district. Stretching out over two kilometres in the centre of the city, Orchard Road is home to numerous coffeeshops, beauty salons, art galleries, hotels, designer and discount outlets, restaurants and nightclubs. Come armed with cash, and plenty of it. This is a 1.6 mile road full of amazing places to part-take in the old retail therapy. Whether you're looking for fantastic dining, beautiful shops (such as The Grande Whisky Collection, which has a nice 4,500 of the earest and oldest whiskies in the world), and more. There's also some decent hotels, like the Four Seasons. 

17.  Esplanade Theatres on the Bay

Few buildings have created such a stir in Singapore as the Esplanade. Opened in 2002, the eye-catching bayfront complex has been dubbed ‘the durians’ by locals because of its resemblance to the spiky (and stinky) tropical fruit. It’s the city’s most prominent performing arts centre and the programme bears an eclectic mix of Western and Eastern influences. Book a gig, concert or theatre show in advance and make a cultural evening of it. There's usually around 3,500 events at this venue every year, so you'll find something you like. There's also a lovely park nearby for those of you who enjoy a post-production stroll. 

18.  Singapore Flyer

Marina Bay’s giant, 42-storey, 165m observation wheel continues to pull a mix of tourists and locals who come for the breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city available from one of its capsules. Each flight lasts 30 mintues and on a clear day the panorama from the top of the wheel stretches into neighbouring Malaysia and Indonesia. If you fancy pimping your experience a bit, take a look at the dining and cocktail packages that are available. If you'd like to soak up some sweet sweet knowledge also, you're in luck – these 30 minute adventures come with an in-capsule audio guide and interactive screens designed to help you discover the past, present, and future of Sinapore. 

19.  National Museum of Singapore

After an $118 million refurb and rebranding job, the Singapore History Museum reopened as the National Museum of Singapore: the largest museum on the island. There are two main galleries: the Singapore History Gallery, which traces the history of Singapore from its beginnings in the fourteenth century to the present day and the Singapore Living Galleries, which focus on four lifestyle themes – food, fashion, film and photography.  That's over 700 years of Singapore to get stuck into, and over 1700 artefacts.  It’s worth a visit just for the building, an imposing neoclassical structure, complemented by modern glass additions. Until October 2021 there's a visual record on COVID-19 too, if current history is your thing. 

20.  ArtScience Museum

Shoehorning art and science into the same room and doing justice to both was always going to be a big risk. But by and large, the ArtScience Museum succeeds. Future World: Where Art Meets Science is a collaboration with Japanese art collective teamLab and features interactive experiences that are also perfect Instagram fodder. The building is a lot of fun too, a real spaceship vibe to the layout – it has ten fingers that anchor by a round base in the middle. So that's worth a looking alone. Inside, with the art-science crossover it should have something for everyone. 

Check out more great things to do in Singapore

101 best things to do in Singapore

The best things to do on a rainy day in Singapore

The best outdoor things to do on land in Singapore

The best free things to do in Singapore

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23 Best Things to Do in Singapore

By Ashlea Halpern

It may be the one of the most expensive cities in the world , but Singapore has racked up plenty of other superlatives: cleanest, best planned, and, quite possibly, most entertaining. The Lion City is home to the largest rooftop infinity pool, the world's first safari park for nocturnal animals, centuries-old temples and, of course, some of the best food on the planet. You'll also find extraordinary gardens, impressive architecture, world-class performance venues, and shopping streets. The city-state offers a fascinating melding of the old and new, the historic and the modern. Since the pandemic, most of the attractions have reopened safely, adhering to Singapore’s safe management measures and SG Clean certification guidelines . Read on for our picks of the best things to do in Singapore. 

Click the link to read our complete Singapore guide .

Gardens By the Bay Arrow

This is a hugely popular tourist attraction in Singapore, and rightly so. The breadth of plants and the creative ways in which they're displayed is awe-inspiring. In one part of the conservatory, the Cloud Forest mimics the cool-moist ecology of the tropical highlands. It has a treetop walk and an oft-photographed indoor 114-foot waterfall. 

National Gallery Singapore Arrow

With more than 9,000 works, National Gallery Singapore owns the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia. It's spread across two beautiful national monuments: City Hall and the country’s former Supreme Court. Some visitors spend half a day (or more) wandering the museum’s many galleries. If you're looking to avoid lines, consider going on a weekday and buying your tickets in advance online.

Kampong Glam Arrow

Are you a hipster? Or a devout Muslim? Do you like unconventional modern art or traditional Arab crafts? Do you just want that Instagram snap or are you interested in learning more about this historic district, from its red-light leanings to its religious importance? Or maybe you just want a slice of the delicious kaya swiss roll from the famous Rich & Good Cake Shop? If you answered yes to any of these things, this delightfully eclectic enclave is for you. Singapore's Muslim quarter dates back to the 1800s, but the area has grown and changed, blending the religious and historical with a modern take on the city-state.

Jewel Changi Airport Arrow

It might seem odd to tell travelers to hang out in an airport, but Jewel Changi is no ordinary airport (it's a fixture at the top of our Readers' Choice Awards best airport list ). The transportation hub is also a nature-themed shopping, dining, and entertainment extravaganza designed by architect Moshe Safdie. The project's highlights include the Rain Vortex, a seven-story-tall indoor waterfall; an indoor forest with suspended walkways; and nearly 300 stores. This is a game-changer for travelers on layovers. It's so popular (and so worth it) that 20 airlines will let you check in a full 24 hours in advance just to maximize your time inside.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

The Intan Arrow

The Intan is a private home that houses one of Singapore’s most impressive collections of Peranakan artifacts. Owner Alvin Yapp has spent 30-plus years collecting 1,500 objects from Peranakan culture, most notably kasut manek (ornate beaded slippers worn by Straits Chinese women) and enamel tiffin carriers hand-painted in delicate floral patterns. Yapp's post-war home is a labor of love, and it shows in the meticulous way that he has arranged every square inch of it. Visits are strictly by appointment only.

Pulau Ubin Arrow

This island was once known for its granite quarries. But when they closed down in the 1970s and jobs dwindled, residents began leaving. Today, the island is home to fewer than 50 people, who have chosen to stay for the old way of life. Which is exactly what people like visiting it for, too. Stepping onto Pulau Ubin is like time-traveling to the way Singapore was decades ago. Even getting to it is old-fashioned: You take a 10-minute ride on a chugging bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. This is a rich experience even for those who are cash-poor, and the perfect day trip for those looking to see a different time in Singapore's history or experience its wild side.

Merlion Park Arrow

This promenade overlooking Marina Bay is home to Singapore's iconic 28-foot Merlion statue, a half-fish, half-lion stone carving that shoots water into the bay. The fish symbolizes Singapore's beginnings as a fishing village while the lion head is a nod to Singapura, which means "Lion City" in Malay. Erected in 1972, it remains one of the nation's most popular tourist attractions, so plan accordingly.

Marina Bay Sands Arrow

This one's for ballers: If you have cash to splash, you can do everything from have a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant to check out the view from the SkyPark. The massive Moshe Safdie-designed mall, casino, convention center, and hotel is perhaps Singapore's most iconic building. A must-visit is the ArtScience Museum, Singapore's most future-forward, and the 57-story-high SkyPark, Singapore's best.

Haw Par Villa Arrow

Forget manicured or wild, this eight-acre outdoor art park is bizarre but a feast for the eyes. It was set up in the 1930s—before the advent of TV and the Internet—by Tiger Balm founder and philanthropist Aw Boon Haw, who commissioned more than 1,000 detailed sculptures and dioramas that would teach traditional Chinese values. Back then, it was popular and crowded, but has become less so over the years. And though it's lost a bit of its luster, that only lends to its charm and 'raw' feel—what you get here is an unfiltered, in-your-face lesson on Chinese morals and culture that doesn't sit behind velvet ropes or glass panels, and isn't crawling with tourists. Also of note: This "Asian cultural park" claims to be the last of its kind in the world, though it's hard to imagine there were many like this to begin with. 

St. Andrew's Cathedral Arrow

You can't miss this giant, wedding-cake-like monument in the middle of Singapore's Civic District—it's one of the oldest buildings in the area and perhaps the most imposing, with its Neo Gothic design topped with a minimalist spire. Park grounds surround the structure so it stands out as a sanctuary in the midst of a busy urban area. This is Singapore's largest cathedral and also its oldest Anglican house of worship. It's a gem for history, culture, and architecture buffs.

Thian Hock Keng Arrow

Thian Hock Keng Temple, a.k.a. Tianfu Temple, is Singapore’s oldest Buddhist temple. The elaborate architecture, done up in the traditional southern Chinese style, was built without using a single nail. Now fully restored, it's a feast for the eyes with its dragon and phoenix sculptures and Fujian-style broken porcelain roof ridges. Photos aren't allowed in most parts of the temple, and you'll likely get caught if you try to snap one. So you'll have to just keep those memories with you. If you can't keep your camera in your purse, don't go. This is not a selfie op. Admission is free, but it still never gets too crowded.

Sentosa Arrow

Sentosa is a 1,236-acre island resort off the southern coast of Singapore that's home to major tourist attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium. Singaporeans and international travelers also flock here to hang out on the beaches, zip line at Mega Adventure Park, shop at the massive Luxury Fashion Galleria, and more. Golf is a big deal here, too—the Sentosa Golf Club has two award-winning courses. In short, the island is a tourism machine, fine-tuned to appeal to a broad range of people—except those seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation.

The Southern Ridges Arrow

The Southern Ridges is a 6.2-mile recreational trail that connects five parks along the southern ridge of Singapore—Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. Like everything in Singapore, it's well-constructed and manicured. The landscape varies between jungle-like canopies of trees, unusual flora and fauna, and architecturally magnificent walkways. If you aren't up for the full five plus miles make sure you get to Henderson Waves, a timber deck lofted 256 feet in the air. It's the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and beloved by photographers for its undulating curves.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Arrow

This sanctuary for flora and fauna—an ASEAN Heritage Park—is as wild as it gets in manicured Singapore. The 500 acres of land is made up of mangroves, mudflats, ponds, and forests that are home to a biodiverse ecosystem of mudskippers, crabs, water snakes, monitor lizards, otters, and the odd crocodile. It's also a spot for birders —an internationally recognized site of importance for migratory birds and is part of the East Asian Australasian Shorebird Site Network. But despite how untouched it is, the trails are quite flat and the whole place is fairly easy to navigate.

East Coast Road Arrow

There's perhaps no better place to get a taste of Singapore—literally and figuratively—than by strolling through the East Coast Road enclave. Along this lively two mile stretch (one of Singapore's earliest delineated roads), colorful heritage shophouses sit shoulder to shoulder, forming a personality-packed backdrop for photos. Even better: They house some of the island's best eateries , including 328 Katong Laksa for its namesake dish, plus a handful of museums and stores showcasing the Peranakan—or Straits Chinese—culture that forms a large part of the local identity. The area is also a stone's throw from East Coast Park, where you can have a seaside stroll to counter the calories you'll inevitably consume along the way.

Singapore Botanic Gardens Arrow

This UNESCO World Heritage site is carved into three main areas, or "cores." The Tanglin core is the oldest and the one visitors see first as they pass through the historic Tanglin Gate. The Tyersall-Gallop core is integrated into the park’s existing rainforest and the Bukit Timah core is home to a children's garden complete with treehouses, a suspension bridge, and farm. Visit the National Orchid Garden to see more than 1,000 species of orchids and 2,000 hybrids on display.

Night Safari Arrow

This is the world's first safari park for nocturnal animals and a wildly popular one at that. It's operated by the same group that runs the equally popular Singapore Zoo. The 86-acre reserve houses some 2,500 animals from 130 species, more than a third of which are endangered. Guests ride around the park on complimentary guided trams. The tour itself takes about 40 minutes and covers seven themed geographic areas, but specific animal sightings are never guaranteed. On the weekend and with advance booking, you can observe live tiger feedings. If you have the ability to walk some of the trails, do it. It'll get you away from the tourist scrum and you're more likely to encounter reserved animals.

Clarke Quay Arrow

In the 1800s, this quay, or wharf, near modern-day Fort Canning Park , was one of the centers of trade, when barges would transport goods upstream for storage in the warehouses. Today, the warehouses have been restored and painted in rainbow hues, making this a great photo spot. Instagram-worthiness aside, Clarke Quay has also become one of Singapore's food, drink, and entertainment hubs. The whole area has been converted into an open-air pedestrian precinct filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay Arrow

The premier art venue in Singapore, the Esplanade is home to multiple performance spaces, including a stunning state-of-the-art concert hall, a horseshoe-shaped theater with an orchestra pit, a more intimate recital studio for chamber music and jazz concerts, an outdoor theater, and an open-air concert space. The building is an architectural marvel (it's the face of Singapore’s five-cent coins). The dome's spiky exterior has earned it the nickname “durian” in reference to the sometimes-polarizing Southeast Asian fruit. Anyone who loves architecture should swing by for a photo op.

Old Airport Road Food Centre Arrow

At more than 40 years old, Old Airport Road Food Centre is one of Singapore's best-loved hawker complexes , with 150 stalls spread across a single floor in neat rows. It can seem daunting, but as a general rule, a long line in front of a stall means excellent food. And while it can be quite a wait, food-obsessed Singaporeans will assure you that it's totally worth it. Dishes that demand your patience here include hokkien mee (fried yellow wheat noodles doused in a seafood stock and studded with prawns and pork) from Nam Sing Hokkien Mee, and silky beancurd pudding from Lao Ban Soya Beancurd.

Mint Museum of Toys Arrow

The main reason people come to MINT is to see the private collection of toys, which includes more than 50,000 items (around 8,000 of which are on display) hailing from 40 countries and dating as far back as the 1840s. Beyond the toys, the permanent collection includes two galleries devoted to vintage enamel signs. The museum is rarely crowded, unless there is a special event going on. The collection itself is impressive, but some of the exhibits are too darkly lit and obscurem making this is a better stop for those with niche knowledge. 

Sifr Aromatics Arrow

This one-of-a-kind, independently owned fragrance shop in Singapore's Kampong Glam neighborhood feels like a secret you want to keep to yourself. Owner Johari Kazura is a third-generation perfumer, but his approach to scents is more novel—and infinitely customizable. Several dozen perfumes and colognes are pre-made and part of his regular stable; others are mixed-to-order based on a customer's personal preferences. If you want a custom-blended scent, book a reservation in advance and block out at least 90 minutes for the session. (It's an excellent gift idea, too.)

Singapore Art Museum Arrow

SAM specializes in contemporary art from Singapore and Southeast Asia. When it opened in 1996 in a restored 19th-century Catholic boys school, it was the first art museum in the country. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in works by contemporary Asian artists. The collection covers multiple disciplines, including painting, photography, video, and sculpture.

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18 Best Things To Do in Singapore

Updated February 11, 2021

You can enjoy both urban and natural attractions in this mega-metropolis. Perusing the designer stores on the commercial  Orchard Road or the bustling stalls in  Little India will showcase the city's fast pace. And at the other end of the spectrum, Gar

• All Things To Do

Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay

If you're looking for a taste of nature without the trek, Gardens by the Bay is your urban jungle. The attraction is conveniently based in Marina Bay and features a wide of variety of enticing things to do and see that seamlessly mix Mother Nature with the metropolis. The Supertree Grove, the most recognized landmark of the park, features 18 "supertrees" that support the OCBC Skyway, a 419-foot-long aerial walkway that affords views of both the surrounding gardens, as well as Marina Bay.

In the nearby seashell-shaped facilities, visitors will find the highly lauded Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is the largest greenhouse in the world and showcases numerous types of plants and flowers grouped by country. Expect to find tulips next to replicas of Dutch architecture and Birds of Paradise flowers in the South African Garden. The Cloud Forest –  a crowd favorite –  features a 114-foot-tall mini mountain that plays host to the world's tallest indoor waterfall, which visitors can observe via the aerial Cloud Walk or Tree Top Walk. And that's just a few of the activities available on-site.

Marina Bay Marina Bay free

The district of Marina Bay is considered to be Singapore's tourism epicenter. Marina Bay houses some of the city's main points of interest as well as numerous opportunities for entertainment like the ArtScience Museum and The Float at Marina Bay (the world's largest floating stadium). You'll also find the Singapore Flyer , Gardens By the Bay and Merion Park , some of the city's best lookout spots overlooking the bay. And although many features will draw your eye, the centerpiece of Marina Bay is the Marina Bay Sands resort. You name it, this complex probably has it: a world-class casino, multiple nightclubs, performance halls, shops and spectacular overnight accommodations. Plus, don't miss the Sands SkyPark, an elevated open-air concourse that crowns the resort.

Recent visitors said a walk around Marina Bay is a must, especially for first-time travelers. Some recommended a stroll during the day and night, as both take on two different atmospheres. Those who decide to visit at night will be treated to a nightly light show put on by Marina Bay Sands. However, no matter the time of day, visitors say eateries surrounding this tourist mecca are pricey.

Singapore Botanic Gardens Singapore Botanic Gardens free

For such a large city, you'll be shocked at the amount of parks that share space with the skyscrapers. And the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the epicenter of this natural, flowering splendor. Formerly an unused plantation, the garden hugs 60 acres of the city, not only living up to Singapore's nickname of the City in the Garden, but earning the country's first UNESCO World Heritage site title. The gardens attract both casual naturalists and scholarly botanists with its  world-renowned botanical library, acres of varied vegetation and free admission. Numerous attractions dot a map of the gardens; however, we advise that you simply wander through this gorgeous spectacle and unwind. That said: travelers say not to miss the National Orchid Garden for its innumerable floral varieties and breathtaking colors.

Overall, recent visitors were taken by the beauty of the floral grounds, with some saying it was the best attraction they visited during their time in Singapore. Due to the size of the gardens, many travelers suggested allotting hours to tour this attraction because there is just that much to see. Aside from hitting the main points of interests, some recommended taking a jog or packing a picnic as an alternative means of soaking up the attraction. However you decide to experience the gardens, travelers agreed: bring water. With average temperatures reaching the 80s, it's essential you have a bottle to stay hydrated. 

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Cloud Forest Cloud Forest

The climate-controlled dome that houses Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest carves out a futuristic looking space along Singapore’s skyline. An indoor waterfall serves as the Cloud Forest’s primary attraction, cascading 30 meters (about 98 feet) down the human-made mountain. The Cloud Forest’s climate aims to replicate misty tropical mountains, which are cooler than the local area, so jets of vapor and spray from the waterfall work together to create the attraction’s namesake fog.

Recent visitors primarily praise the indoor waterfall, adding that the attraction offers a welcome respite from Singapore’s sweltering heat. Travelers also marveled at the plants, which vary from level to level; however, they also warn that parts of the higher levels may be triggering for those with a fear of heights.

Singapore's Chinatown Singapore's Chinatown free

As a nation composed of mostly immigrants, Singapore possesses a number of ethnic enclaves. Chinatown is one of the largest of them. Broken up into five districts, the neighborhood is packed with a variety of things to do and is constantly buzzing with pedestrians passing in and out of its shops, eateries and food stalls.

If you're seeking souvenirs, head over to Pagoda Street for trinkets galore, then consider grabbing a bite at Smith Street or New Bridge Road, the latter of which is known for its barbecued meats. For a night out on the town, venture on over to the Tangong Pagar district, which offers loads of bars, pubs and karaoke lounges. And when you need a break from the hustle and bustle, explore the Telok Ayer district. This area has the largest concentration of ancient mosques and temples in Chinatown. Set out to the Thian Hock Keng Temple for some quiet Zen. And though it's not associated with Chinese culture, you should stop in front of the Sri Mariamman Temple to admire its colorful, intricate facades.

Singapore Zoo Singapore Zoo

When you tire of the urban jungle, head to an actual jungle: the Singapore Zoo. The expansive facility is broken up into 11 different zones and has 12 exhibits, affording numerous opportunities to get up close and personal with a diverse array of wildlife. V enture to Primate Kingdom and get a glimpse into the lives of the 39 species of primate that call that zone home . Or visit the Elephants of Asia exhibit, where you can rub elbows with the five big girls (all five elephants are female) hailing from Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia. Along with numerous exhibits, guests can also attend animal shows, go on tours and safaris (the night safari is particularly popular), or even feed some of the animals.

Recent travelers raved about the zoo. Visitors appreciated how well-maintained the zoo was: animals appeared to be well looked after and their enclosures appeared to be exactly what their habitats would look like in the wild. Both kids and adults reported being entertained, and some recommended allotting as much as an entire day for the zoo as there is that much to see.

Orchard Road Orchard Road free

Every modern metropolis must have its commercial avenue. Singapore's version is Orchard Road. This electric boulevard buzzes with  the whizzing of cars,  the humming of neon lights and  the swiping of credit cards, a far cry from the way things once were way back when. Orchard Road got its name from the presence of fruit orchards, nutmeg plantations and pepper farms that dotted the area in the early 19th century. Today, the mile-long street houses tons of eateries and a whopping 47 shopping malls carrying high end brands, popular international retailers like Zara and H&M as well as local shops. The massive  ION Orchard shopping complex is arguably the centerpiece of the street, so you'll inevitably be lured inside by the designer names and stream of fashionable patrons. 

We definitely encourage window-shopping, but depending on your purchasing power, you should be wary of the enticing bright lights here. At various stores, the price tags range from reasonable to obscene, so we recommend saving your cash for unique souvenirs found in other character-filled neighborhoods like Little India and Chinatown . If you're still interested in getting a taste of this flashy thoroughfare, Orchard Road also houses art galleries, movie theaters, clubs and various other entertainment opportunities.

Merlion Park Merlion Park free

On Marina Bay , Merlion Park hosts one of Singapore's most recognizable monuments. The Merlion statue is the head of a lion with the body and tail of a fish, and the hybrid creature spouts water from its mouth and into the bay. Measuring 28 feet tall, the statue may seem a bit odd to the naked eye, but the statue is actually a nod to Singapore's history. The head of Merlion represents Singapura, the city's first name, which means 'lion city' in Malay. The fish tail and body symbolizes Singapore's old days as a small fishing town. Even though  the statue has claimed all the fame, another notable highlight is the park's panoramic view of the bay. Particularly at night, the urban vista with the spectacular Marina Bay Sands resort impresses visitors. Some travelers, however, complained of congestion and suggested visiting when the sun isn't at its peak.

Merlion Park is just a short walk from the Raffles Place MRT. The park is free to visit at any time of the day (though we recommend visiting at night). For more information, check out the Singapore Tourism Board's website .

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Sentosa Sentosa

Sentosa is an entire island resort dedicated to fun for all ages. You want family-friendly amusement; head to Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark or S.E.A. Aquarium.You want some adventure; hit up iFly Singapore, Mega Adventure or The Flying Trapeze. You need some relaxation; then hit the links or stake your claim on miles of beaches, including Palawan Beach, the southernmost point of Continental Asia.  And that's really only some of the myriad of activities you can do on Sentosa. 

While Sentosa is a vacation destination that could take an entire week to consume, we suggest that you set aside one day from touring Singapore's cultural sites for some island fun. Although some visitors found the conglomerate to be overwhelming, travelers agreed that the attractions are not only top-notch but really fun as well.

Little India Little India free

Should you want to stray from the mainland, immerse yourself in Little India. This cultural enclave, located a little more than 2 miles northwest of Marina Bay , features a dense network of streets and shops where you can find anything from flower garlands to fragrant spices and colorful fabrics. Start by perusing the boutiques along Serangoon Road and then venture down the smaller alleyways to discover true treasures. There's also the 24-hour Mustafa Centre, perfect for grabbing any last-minute amenities, and the open-air Tekka Centre, which offers sari and goldsmith retailers. When your feet (and credit card) begin to tire, check out the gorgeous Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, a Hindu place of worship.

Recent visitors enjoyed their trip to Little India, with many citing the neighborhood's authenticity as its best asset. Some travelers who are from or have visited India even went so far as to say that Little India made them feel as if they were in the country itself. Along with shopping, travelers strongly recommended arriving on an empty stomach to get a taste of the great northern and southern Indian dishes the neighborhood has to offer. But plan your time accordingly; Sundays are especially busy, according to reviewers. 

Singapore Flyer Singapore Flyer

Ever since Chicago built one in 1893 for the World Expo, cities around the world have learned that tourists really like Ferris wheels – huge ones. In 2000, London built its famous Eye , standing 443 feet tall. But Singapore didn't wait long before constructing the Flyer, which trumps its British equivalent by almost a hundred feet. Since opening in 2008, the 42-storey-tall Flyer, billed as Asia's largest giant observation wheel, has offered visitors 360-degree views of the urban landscape from Marina Bay . The attraction claims that visitors can catch a glimpse of neighboring Malaysia or Indonesia from the highest point of the observation wheel. 

Travelers label the Singapore Flyer as a must-do, with many saying the views atop the wheel are simply breathtaking. Visitors say the 30-minute ride time gives people ample time to take in the great views and snap lots of pictures. What's more, the pods are air-conditioned, making it a great place to also cool off from Singapore's year-round heat. Some suggested going at night to bare witness to the glittering city lights, or if you can, opt for a visit at dusk or sunset.

East Coast Park East Coast Park free

East Coast Park runs more than 9 miles along the southeast coast of Singapore. Visitors to the park can swim in the Singapore Strait; bask under the sun; barbecue and camp in the grass; and cycle or inline skate along the park’s paved path. The small park aims to appeal to every type of traveler, despite only covering less than 1 square mile of space.

Recent visitors appreciated the opportunity to get some exercise in at East Coast Park. They recommended renting a bike to take advantage of the park’s winding trail, while inline skating is also an option. Be careful during the weekends, though, as the paved path gets exceptionally crowded, according to recent visitors. After burning off some calories, travelers recommended taking advantage of the nearby shopping center.

The Southern Ridges The Southern Ridges free

Anyone who appreciates an excellent jaunt will love a visit to the Southern Ridges. Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve collectively make up the Southern Ridges. The Henderson Waves, a pedestrian bridge with wavy accents, is the area’s most stunning attraction. The bridge connects Telok Blangah Hill Park to Mount Faber Park. The Marang Trail offers another popular option and leads travelers to the top of Mount Faber.

The most commonly praised trail among past visitors is the Forest Walk, which connects HortPark and Telok Blangah Hill Park. The walk takes adventurers above the parks via an elevated platform, giving them a glimpse at the wildlife in and around the trees’ canopies.

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National Gallery Singapore National Gallery Singapore

A diversity of exhibits sets the National Gallery Singapore apart from its competitors. The gallery covers various mediums and its artwork ranges from the 1800s to the present; a majority of the art comes from Singapore and Southeast Asia. Exhibitions and programs regularly rotate through the gallery and keep its offerings fresh. You won’t need to leave the National Gallery Singapore to grab a bite, either, as the gallery hosts a variety of restaurants, lounges and cafes.

In addition to its art, past visitors were impressed by the National Gallery Singapore’s unique buildings. The former City Hall and Supreme Court were restored to house the museum, and travelers can even explore the court’s old holding cells. Recent travelers also suggest taking advantage of the gallery’s tours, which are included in the cost of admission.

Singapore Cable Car Singapore Cable Car

Two lines of the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network allow travelers to take in incredible views of the city as they traverse the area between Mount Faber and Sentosa . Six total stations divide the two lines (three stations each), while the lines themselves are a three- to five-minute walk between the Sentosa Station and the Imbiah Lookout Station. While panoramic views are the Singapore Cable Car’s main appeal, the cars are also an excellent means of transportation.

Past visitors describe their experiences on the Singapore Cable Car as nice and relaxing. Even if you’re afraid of heights, the rides are allegedly so smooth that acrophobia is not a problem. Recent travelers suggest getting a one-day unlimited rides pass, so that you can use the cable cars continuously from open to close.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Bukit Timah Nature Reserve free

For those who want a wilder interaction with nature than Gardens by the Bay offers, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve beckons from northwest of the city. The nature reserve sits about 8 miles from Singapore’s city center, in the geographic center of the island. The government dedicated the reserve in 1883 to protect the variety of plant, animal and insect life. Nowadays, travelers can trek to the top of Singapore’s tallest hill, Bukit Timah Hill, via the park’s paths.

Be sure to bring a camera; recent visitors snapped numerous photos of the area’s monkeys, foliage and birds. Past travelers appreciated that the reserve offers four different levels of hikes, which range from paved paths to steep slogs. Cyclists can also enjoy the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve’s well-built mountain biking trail. More information about trails is available at the reserve’s Exhibit Hall, which also offers limited parking that fills up exceptionally quickly, according to recent reviews.

Asian Civilizations Museum Asian Civilizations Museum

While we certainly encourage you to visit the neighborhoods of Little India , Chinatown and Kampong Glam (the Malay district), there's one place to preview the enormous diversity of Asian societies in Singapore. For this one-stop cultural shop, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum (ACM). This facility offers a broad survey Pan-Asian civilizations, including China, Southeast Asia and West Asia, with artwork and 1,300 artifacts from all corners of the continent. Wander through galleries and exhibitions and you'll find a diverse array of relics, such as religious sculptures, ornate furniture, Chinese ceramics and even remnants from a shipwreck. 

Many recent visitors enjoyed perusing the vast museum as well as the diversity of the art shown. Multiple travelers referenced the Tang Shipwreck exhibit as a must-see. However, if you're not a museum person, or don't have an interest in the subject matter, this attraction may prove underwhelming, as other travelers expressed. 

Jurong Bird Park Jurong Bird Park

A visit to the Jurong Bird Park provides an excellent first step into the world of birding. The massive aviary boasts exotic birds ranging from macaws to spoonbills to flamingos. If simply marveling at colorful, flying animals begins to bore you, the park also offers several shows and activities designed to entertain guests of all ages. What’s more, a guided tram is available to ferry visitors around the park for a one-time fee of SG$5 (about $3.69) for adults and SG$3 (about $2.21) for children ages 3 to 12.  

Past visitors universally loved the Lory Loft, where the birds will land on your hands and shoulders in search of a sip of nectar. These recent travelers also recommend being sure to catch the High Flyers and Penguin Feeding shows.

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60+ Best Things to do in Singapore

Marianne Rogerson

June 1, 2023

Discover the best things to do in Singapore with our pick of 60+ must-see attractions and activities , from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and stunning architecture, Singapore is a must-visit destination for travellers from all over the world. 

There are also loads of fun things to do here , from world-class theme parks and wildlife parks to botanical gardens, museums, galleries and more. 

With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. So we’ve put together a comprehensive list of 60+ of our favourite things to do in the Lion City. We’ve included everything from iconic landmarks and attractions to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Singapore.

You should also check out our itineraries, to see how you can fit in all these attractions to your time in Singapore:

• 2 days Singapore itinerary
• 3 days Singapore itinerary
• 5 days Singapore itinerary
• 7 days Singapore itinerary

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking using these links, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Got questions? Come join our Singapore Travel Tips Facebook group . It’s the perfect place to ask questions and get inspiration for your trip!

Table of Contents

Top Singapore Attractions

We’ve broken down our top recommendations into sections. So whether you are a nature lover, culture buff or food fanatic, you can skip ahead to your section of choice.

Tours & Sightseeing

Insider Tip : We have loads of great suggestions in our article: Best Sightseeing Tours in Singapore .

Singapore Flyer

Great views are guaranteed at The Singapore Flyer, once the world’s tallest observation wheel. At 165m tall, it is the height of a 42-storey building. The rotation takes around 30 minutes and you will be treated to fabulous views across Singapore and the surrounding islands. 

Click here to find out more and check availability .

Singapore Cable Car

If you’re heading to Sentosa, one of the most fun ways to get there is to ride the Singapore Cable Car. Start at Harbourfront to ride up to Mount Faber and take in the views at the top. Then re-board the cable car to travel across to Sentosa.

Click here to find out more and book tickets .

River Cruise

A boat ride along the Singapore River is one of the best ways to take in the sights of the Civic District, Marina Bay and the Quays. Board the boat at Marina Bay Sands or Merlion Park to ride the whole river up to Robertson Quay and enjoy the views.

Trishaw Tour

The trishaw was once a popular form of transport in Singapore. Today it is strictly the preserve of the sightseeing tourist, but it remains one of the most fun ways to get to know the city.

Sightseeing company Trishaw Uncle employs a fleet of trishaw drivers to take you on heritage tours of the Bugis and Little India quarters of the city.

Captain Explorer DUKW Tour

Much more fun than a standard open-top bus tour, the Captain Explorer DUKW Tour takes you on an adventure aboard an authentic revamped Vietnam War era vehicle.

You begin the tour with a drive around some of the city’s landmarks in the colonial district, before splashing down into Marina Bay for views of the Merlion and the Singapore Flyer.

Sidecar Heritage Tour

Choose from four heritage neighbourhoods – Kampong Gelam, Joo Chiat, Tiong Bahru and the Civic District as you ride in a Vespa sidecar to take in the sights. It’s a unique and memorable way to take in the Singapore sights and you’ll get some awesome photos to remember your trip by. 

Self-guided walking tour

Our self-guided walking tours are a great way to take in the sights of Singapore for a fraction of the price of a sightseeing tour. These allow you to sightsee at your own pace, and include easy-to-follow directions, plus an insider’s guide to the history and culture of each neighbourhood.

They are available for Chinatown, Little India and the Civic District.

Click here to learn more .

For Thrill Seekers

Universal Studios Singapore

It’s all about movie magic and fun at Southeast Asia’s only Universal Studios theme park. Get your heart racing on the roller coasters and movie-themed rides, meet some of your favourite kids movie characters, and enjoy the live shows that take place throughout the day. 

Click here to book discounted tickets to Universal Studios Singapore .

Adventure Cove Waterpark

A water park is the perfect place for thrill seekers in Singapore’s heat and humidity. Don’t miss the Riptide Rocket, Southeast Asia’s first hydro-magnetic roller coaster (ie. a water slide that takes you upwards). Then chill out at the wave pool and float along the 620m-long Adventure River inner tube ride. 

Click here to find out more and book discounted tickets .

Skyline Luge Sentosa

Scream if you wanna go faster! Part go-cart, part toboggan, the Luge sees you whizzing down a 650 metre long, paved track that begins at Imbiah Lookout and ends at Siloso Beach on Sentosa.

There are plenty of hairpin bends and fast straight sections to keep the adrenaline junkies amongst you going back for more.

Mega Adventure

There is plenty to keep adrenaline junkies happy at Mega Adventure on Sentosa. The MegaZip flying fox whizzes you over the jungle canopy for over 450 metres before depositing you on Siloso beach.

Then there’s Mega Climb, a 36-obstacle tree ropes course; MegaJump, a free-fall parachute simulator and MegaBounce, a bungee-assisted trampoline.

Sky Dive at iFly

If you haven’t had enough of an adrenaline rush by now, then head to iFly Singapore on Sentosa Island. Here, you will find one of the world’s largest indoor skydiving wind tunnels. You can experience true free-fall conditions, just like a real skydive… except you don’t need to jump out of a plane!

Kids as young as 7 years old can join in the fun, and the best bit is that it is a fraction of the price of an actual skydive. 

Bungy Sentosa

Over 4 million people have braved an AJ Hackett bungy jump over the past 30 years all round the world. And now you can also jump here in Singapore too. Skypark by AJ Hackett is located at Siloso Beach on Sentosa, where the 47m-high platform gives you views out over the South China Sea.

Not enough excitement for you? Jump aboard the Giant Swing , which will have you soaring at speeds of up to 120km/h.

Click here to find out more and check availability.

Forest Adventure

Channel your inner Tarzan and head to Bedok Reservoir, where Forest Adventure will have you swinging through trees, flying along zip-wires and crashing into cargo nets at high speed.

There are two courses here – a Kids Course for children aged five and up, and the Grand Course for adults and children aged ten and up. 

Animal Attractions

Singapore Zoo

It is renowned as one of the best zoos in the world, thanks to its natural rainforest setting and spacious landscaped enclosures. Start the day in style with Breakfast with Wildlife, and if you’re visiting Singapore with kids , pack their swimmers for the fun water play area.

Night Safari

The ever-popular Night Safari has been drawing in the crowds since 1994 thanks to its unique opportunity to view hundreds of exotic nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.

There’s over 1,000 nocturnal animals from 120 different species to view here, either from the tram or from along the subtly lit walking tracks. 

River Wonders

Tucked in between the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari, River Wonders offers a wildlife experience inspired by the world’s most iconic rivers. Housing over 6,000 animals, it is home to the world’s largest freshwater aquarium and also features beavers, crocodiles, tapirs, squirrel monkeys and more. 

The highlight for many is the Giant Panda Forest, home to Singapore’s two resident Giant Pandas, Jia Jia and Kai Kai.

Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise is Asia’s largest bird park and home to over 3,500 birds from over 400 species. Highlights of this beautifully landscaped park include eight walk-through aviaries, feeding the Loris, Ostriches and Pelicans and watching the fun and educational shows. 

Insider Tip: Planning on visiting more than one wildlife park? Buy a combo ticket to save money!

Click here to buy a Mandai Pass and save money.

SEA Aquarium

Over 800 species of sea creatures are represented across the 49 different habitats of the SEA Aquarium in Resorts World Sentosa. There’s over 100,000 marine creatures in total.

The grand finale is the impressive Open Ocean aquarium– a panoramic vista teaming with manta rays, sharks, and goliath grouper. 

Museums & Galleries

We have more ideas in our article about all the Best Museums in Singapore .

National Museum of Singapore 

If you only have time to visit one museum in Singapore, make it the fabulous National Museum of Singapore to give you an overview of the country’s history.

The exhibitions take you all the way from the 14th century to the building of modern Singapore. Along the way, you’ll learn about the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles and the difficult times of World War II and the Japanese occupation.

National Gallery Singapore

Singapore’s National Gallery is is home to the world’s largest public collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern art. As you wander through the halls of this impressive building, you’ll get to admire the diverse collection spanning from the 19th century to the present.

ArtScience Museum

This museum-cum-art gallery at Marina Bay Sands hosts a rotating line-up of international touring exhibitions from art and science, media and technology, and design and architecture. The permanent FutureWorld is an impressive digital interactive installation that everyone will love. 

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum

The magnificent Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is located in the heart of Chinatown. On the third floor you’ll find the Buddhist Culture Museum, which houses an impressive collection of rare Asian Buddhist artefacts. You’ll also find a display on the life story and teachings of Lord Buddha. 

Asian Civilisations Museum

Housed within a magnificent neo-palladian building on the banks of the Singapore River, you’ll find the excellent Asian Civilisations Museum. It safeguards over 13,000 artefacts, and explores the history of the Asian cultures brought to Singapore by the different ancestral groups. 

Click here to find out more and book tickets.

Fort Siloso

The sole surviving coastal fort in Singapore is now a museum dedicated to the memory of soldiers who lost their lives trying to defend Singapore.

Take a self-guided tour of the fort, while waxwork models and audio recordings bring the scenes to life. Entrance is free – it’s one of our favourite free attractions in Singapore !

The Battle Box Tour

Nine metres below ground in the centre of Fort Canning Park, Battle Box was the underground bomb-proof bunker of Britain’s HQ Malaya Command during World War II.

Visits to the Battle Box are by guided tour only, with scenes recreated to allow visitors to relive the last few hours prior to the British surrender.

Changi Museum

The Changi Museum tells the stories of all the civilians and Prisoners Of War who suffered during the Japanese occupation of Singapore from 1942-45. This incredibly moving exhibition is put together based on interviews with former inmates, Prisoners of War and their families.

The Museum encircles the outdoor Changi Chapel – a replica of the many chapels that were built by Prisoners Of War in Changi.

Peranakan Museum

The Peranakan Museum, housed in a beautiful building in the heart of the Civic District, showcases the fascinating cultural heritage of the Peranakan Chinese.

It holds the most comprehensive collection of Peranakan artefacts in the world. As you wander the galleries, you’ll gain an insight into this unique culture, including the 12-day wedding rituals, religious beliefs, rites of passage, and the importance of food and feasting.

Parks, Gardens and Beaches

Gardens by the Bay 

The Super Trees at Gardens by the Bay are one of the most recognisable sights in Singapore and the view from the Supertree Observatory is not to be missed.

Also within this 100-hectare park, you will find the climate-controlled conservatories Cloud Forest, Flower Dome and Floral Fantasy, which make for a welcome break from Singapore’s heat and humidity. 

Insider Tip: Visiting with kids? Bring their swimmers for the fun water play area.

Click here to learn more and book tickets .

Sentosa Beaches

Three beaches: Tanjong, Palawan and Siloso line the southern coast of Sentosa, and are the perfect setting for some fun in the sun. They may not rival those of neighbouring Thailand and Malaysia, but there are some cool beach bars and plenty of palm trees.

Botanic Gardens

It’s a little overshadowed by the Gardens by the Bay these days, but the Singapore Botanic Gardens are still worth a visit. You’ll find a huge variety of areas to explore and relax in, including lakes, fountains, sculpture gardens and plenty of well-manicured lawns.

National Orchid Garden

One of the highlights of the Botanic Gardens is the National Orchid Garden, where you’ll find over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids.

The VIP garden is home to hybrids created in honour of visiting dignitaries and celebrities, with flowers in honour of Margaret Thatcher, Nelson Mandela and even Ricky Martin and Jackie Chan! 

MacRitchie Reservoir

The primary rainforest surrounding Singapore’s oldest and largest reservoir is home to more than 840 flowering plant and 500 animal species.

There are several hiking trails and boardwalks to explore. The highlight is TreeTop Walks, a free-standing 250 m-long suspension bridge over the rainforest canopy.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in the far north of the island has a network of boardwalks that provide excellent bird viewing opportunities.

Keep your eyes out for herons, kingfishers, mudskippers and crabs. You are pretty much guaranteed to see large monitor lizards along the way, and if you’re lucky you may spot an estuarine crocodile too.

Pulau Ubin is just a 10-minute boat ride from Changi. A visit here lets you step back in time and discover what Singapore was like fifty years ago, before the construction companies moved in.

Hire bikes on arrival and head to the Chek Jawa Wetlands, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems, where you can explore the mangroves and coast via boardwalks.

East Coast Park

East Coast Park is one of the best places to go cycling, scooting or rollerblading, with its 15km of coastline. There are plenty of playgrounds and restaurants here and also a great hawker centre for some local food. There are several places to hire bikes if you don’t have your own.

Jurong Lake Gardens

Jump on the MRT and head west and you will find the beautifully presented Jurying Lake Gardens made up of Lakeside Gardens, Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden. At the time of writing the Chinese and Japanese Gardens are under redevelopment but there is still plenty to explore here.

Labrador Nature Reserve

Labrador Nature Reserve is full of hidden treasures amongst the tropical rainforest, including war bunkers, WWII machine gun posts and secret tunnels. There are also playgrounds, a jetty and a seaside boardwalk that takes you all the way to Keppel Bay. 

Shop til you Drop

Browse a Wet Market

For an authentic shopping experience away from the organised calm of the air-conditioned malls, head down to a local wet market to take in the sights and sounds of local Singapore. It’s a great introduction to local fruits and vegetables, and most wet markets also have a large fresh seafood section to explore. 

Cruise the malls at Orchard Road

Orchard Road has one of the highest concentrations of shopping malls worldwide. So if you want to flex those credit cards, this is where to go. Head to nine-storey ION Orchard for the best designer and high street shopping, or try the Mandarin Gallery for more boutique offerings. 

Souvenir shopping in Chinatown

The street stalls of Pagoda Street, Sago Street and Trengannu Street in Chinatown are piled high with souvenirs and gift ideas, from silk cushion covers to Chinese calligraphy and silk clothing.

Dig at little deeper int eh shops behind the stalls and you’ll discover a wealth of clothing boutiques, homeware stores, antique shops, Chinese tea houses and Traditional Chinese Medicine shops. 

Bargain shopping in Little India

Little India is a great area to browse for cheap souvenirs. Get a henna tattoo, buy Indian fabric, and splurge on gold jewellery. Serangoon Road is lined with shops, and the Little India Arcade offers a bustling warren of stalls.

For the best bargains, head to Mustafa Centre, which boasts 75,000 items for sale throughout its four floors that cover an area of 70,000 square feet!

Explore Haji Lane

Once known for its carpet and fabric stores, the arrival of cool boutiques and vintage record stores slowly transformed Kampong Glam into a bit of a hipster enclave. Haji Lane remains one of the most popular destinations, with its trendy hole-in-the-wall boutiques and homeware stores. 

Singapore Foodie Experiences 

Eat at a Hawker Centre

Having a meal at a Hawker Centre, the city’s version of street food, is one of the culinary highlights of Singapore. You’ll find many of Singapore’s best-loved dishes on offer here, so take your time to wander around. If in doubt, go for the stall with the longest queue!

Click here to read our pick of the best hawker centres in Singapore . 

Tuck into some Chilli Crab

It’s known as the national dish of Singapore and is definitely worth a try when you’re in town. This delicious local dish features crabs stir-fried in a tangy tomato and chilli sauce. It is traditionally served with mantous (steamed buns), which are perfect for mopping up all that beautiful sauce. 

Try it once, and you’ll be back for more!

Go for Dim Sum

Enjoying a dim sum lunch is another culinary highlight of Singapore. There are Chinese restaurants serving dim sum all over town, but one of our favourite dim sum restaurants in Singapore is Yum Cha in Chinatown. This bustling and busy restaurant can be found up a hidden staircase on the corner of Trengannu and Temple Streets.

Join a Food Tour

It’s one of the best culinary cities in the world and if you are short on time, joining a food tour can be a great way to sample some of the best food in a short amount of time. Let a local show you exactly what you should be eating and where to find it best.

Sip Cocktails at a roof bar

You are spoiled for stunning views in Singapore, so why not enjoy a cocktail while you admire the view? There is an abundance of rooftop bars, making the most of high-rise living and impressive vistas. Read our pick of the best Singapore rooftop bars here. 

Laze at a beach club

The Sentosa beaches are lined with laid-back bars and restaurants, but our favourite way to spend a day here is at one of the cool beach clubs. Here you can swim in the pool, dance to the DJs tunes, or just kick back and enjoy a cocktail on a sun lounger.

Insider Tip : Our favourite picks include Tanjong Beach Club and Rumours Beach Club.

Enjoy a Singapore Sling at Raffles

It’s the most famous cocktail in town, and the most famous place to try it is at the Long Bar at Raffles Hotel, where it was invented by Raffles barman Ngiam Tong Boon in 1915.

You’ll probably need to queue to get in, but once inside, you can take a seat on a rattan armchair below creaking fans and nibble on peanuts before tossing the shells on the floor.

Read more about the Raffles Singapore Sling here.

High Tea at Raffles

If you prefer a scone to a cocktail, then the High Tea at Raffles is another unforgettable experience. Here you can indulge in delicate sandwiches, exquisite cakes and delectable scones to the sound of a live harpist, while sipping on tea or champagne. 

Cultural Heritage Centres 

Chinatown Heritage Centre (currently closed)

The Chinatown Heritage Centre celebrates the early Chinatown residents. Divided between the maze-like warrens of three restored shophouses, the exhibitions tell the stories of Singapore’s Chinese immigrants. They highlight where they came from, their hardships, and their eventual successes. 

Click here to learn more.

Malay Heritage Centre (currently closed for revamp)

Housed in the former Istana Kampong Gelam, the historic seat of the Malay royalty of Singapore, this heritage centre showcases the the history of the Singaporean Malays.

You’ll learn the background of Kampong Glam, from its origins as a fishing village to become a self-sufficient urban centre of thriving commerce and trade by the end of the 19 th century.

Indian Heritage Centre

Located in the heart of Little India, this cultural centre celebrates the history and culture of the Indian and South Asian communities in Singapore and throughout the Southeast Asian region. There are five permanent galleries plus visiting exhibitions to explore. 

Places to Snap a Selfie

Looking for some insta-worthy Singapore places to snap a selfie? Read on!

Merlion Park

Standing tall by the waterfront at Marina Bay, this half-fish, half-lion sculpture symbolises the Singapore’s origins as a fishing village and its modern transformation. 

From here you have unbeatable views across the bay for selfies in front of the iconic Marina Bay Sands. Or take the cliched tourist snap of pretending the catch the Merlion’s spouting water in your hands!

Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck

Located 56 storeys up from Marina Bay, atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel the Skypark Observation Deck boasts 360-degree views of Marina Bay and Singapore’s world-class cityscape. You’ll be able to spot the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, the skyscrapers of the CBD and beyond. Impressive, day or night. 

The Jewel Waterfall

Located at the Jewel Changi Airport, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall is a sight to behold and a must-snap for your photo memories. The water here cascades 40 meters from the ceiling to the basement and is surrounded by lush greenery.

Gelam Gallery

Singapore’s first outdoor art gallery has transformed the back lanes of Muscat Street in the Kampong Gelam neighbourhood. Once used for deliveries and garbage disposal, you’ll now find murals and framed art from over 30 artists, both local and international. Instagrammers, get snapping! 

Madame Tussauds

Like all the other Madame Tussauds found worldwide, you can rub shoulders with the doppelgangers of celebrities from the world of sport, music, cinema and history.

Unlike other Madame Tussauds attractions, here you can also jump aboard the ‘Spirit of Singapore’ boat for a ride through a celebration of Singapore. Or race against Lewis Hamilton in the VR Racing experience.

Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream is a colourful and whimsical space filled with interactive ice cream-inspired installations. Much of it is specifically designed to be Instagram-worthy, so you can look forward to selfies in the giant sprinkle pool, banana-themed room, or a room filled with giant cherry sculptures.

Oh, and did we mention the unlimited ice cream tasting? 

Haw Par Villa

This strange and surreal statue garden in the West of Singapore has hundreds of multi-coloured statues and tableaux depicting Chinese myths and legends. Photo opportunities abound for the snap-happy. The highlight is undoubtedly the 10 Courts of Hell, depicting scenes of bloodthirsty torture…

Singapore Packing List: Essential Items for Your Trip

27 best museums and galleries in singapore.

33 Things to do in Singapore + Tourist Spots

Truth be told, I didn’t consider Singapore as one of the most exciting places to visit when I just starting my adventures abroad. The more I traveled to more places in Asia, I started to appreciate Singapore as a worthwhile destination, especially for people who are traveling abroad for the first time.

It is so easy to get around the city and there are so many tourist spots that many types of travelers, of all ages, can enjoy. To date, this country has become my most visited country in Southeast Asia thanks to frequent promo fares & direct flights from major airports in the Philippines.

The best places & things to do in Singapore are attractions that showcase the city’s rich multi-cultural heritage, innovative modernity and drive to harmonize nature with its dense urban landscape. If you’re on your way to this bustling city-state, I hope this these tips will help you make the most out of travel experience.

Singapore Tourist Spots

What to do & where to go in Singapore? I got you! Here are places to visit, interesting attractions & things to do in Singapore for your bucketlist/itinerary.

1. Gardens By The Bay

2. Jewel Changi Airport

3. Singapore City Tour

4. Universal Studios Singapore

5. Side Trip to Legoland Malaysia

6. Singapore Hawker Food

7. Marina Bay Sands

8. Merlion Park & Singapore River Walk

9. Fort Canning Park & Spiral Staircase

10. Chinatown

11. Kampong Glam & Arab Street

12. Little India

13. Sentosa Island

14. Singapore Zoo

15. Helix Bridge

16. Singapore Flyer

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

View more travel tips in:   Singapore ,  ALL Destinations .

Find this guide helpful? Share the love & follow Detourista for travel inspo on:  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Tiktok ,  Pinterest .

1. Dinosaurs Island

Dinosaurs Island in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines

Experience the “Jurassic Park” feels at Dinosaurs Island. The park is a fun place to learn more about the dinosaur era. One of the main attractions here is the Dino Trail where you can see life-size moving animatronic dinosaurs. Other zones include Insectlandia, which features giant insects of the Mesozoic era, the Unearth Museum, where you can find giant dinosaur fossils, and the Wonders of the World, which is filled with replicas of famous landmarks around the World.

Dinosaurs Island

Location  — Clark Picnic Grounds, Gil Puyat Ave, Mabalacat, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Opening Hours —  8 AM to 5 PM; Mon to Sun

Ticket Price —  PHP 699 ( Book here )

Dinosaurs Island in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Dinosaurs Island, Clark, Pampanga

Dinosaurs Island-004

2. Aqua Planet Waterpark

Aqua Planet in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines

Take a break with your family and friends. Spend a fun day at Aqua Planet Waterpark, the largest waterpark in the Philippines. in Clark, Pampanga. There are 38 water slides and other attraction including two wave pools, adrenaline-pumping rides, and the Kiddie Zone.

Location  — Clark Sun Valley View, Clark Special Economic Zone, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Aqua Planet in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Aqua Planet, Clark

Pro-tip:  To make your trip planning easier, I’ve added links to the pin locations on Google Maps. Use the ‘save’ feature on the app to see all your saved locations on one map, visualize your itinerary, and know the best areas to stay near the places you want to go.

Clark Travel Essentials

Before we go with the rest of the list, here are travel essentials you might need for a hassle-free trip. Click below to see discounts & read traveler reviews.

Where to stay in Clark:

Book here Compare rates

Recommended Clark Hotels:

Clark Marriott Hotel ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Splurge / Clark Freeport

Swissotel Clark ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Splurge / Clark Freeport

Quest Plus Conference Center Clark ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Splurge / near Clark Parade

M Stay Hotel ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Mid-range / Clark Freeport

Red Planet Clark ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget / near SM City Clark

Money-saving tip : Use promo code “ KLOOKDETOURISTA ” to grab 5% OFF hotels and 3% OFF tours/activities next time you book on Klook.

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

Clark Airport Private Transfers – to/from Manila & more

Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers

3. Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan) & 4D Theatre

Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan) in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines

The Clark Museum features the history of the Clark area: its journey to becoming the biggest American Base outside the United States to how it’s now transformed as Central Luzon’s biggest hub for leisure, entertainment, and gaming. You can learn about the history and culture of Pampanga and Mount Pinatubo’s eruption as well. Next door, the 4D Theater offers an immersive presentation about the history of Clark, present transformation and future development.

Location  — S. Osmena Street. Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Mount Pinatubo eruption exhibit at Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan), in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Museum-002

Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan) in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Museum, Clark, Pampanga

Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan) exhibits on the native Pamganga-Filipino culture, in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Museum-005

Giant Parol displayed at Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan) in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Museum, Clark, Pampanga

4D Theathre at Clark Museum (Museong Kapampangan), in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Museum, Clark, Pampanga

4. Stotsenberg Park & Clark Parade Grounds

Clark Parade Grounds in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines

Fronting the Clark Museum is the Stotsenberg Park, also known as the “Parade Grounds.” Here, you can go for a wonderful walk or run along the tree-lined jogging trail. The large open space was originally used for the Air Forces ceremony and parade exercises.

Location  — E Aguinaldo Street, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Stotsenberg Park in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Stotsenberg Park, Clark, Pampanga

Clark Parade Grounds in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Clark Parade Grounds, Clark, Pampanga

Stotsenberg Park & Clark Parade Grounds-004

5. Clark Theme Parks & Outdoor Activities

6. mimosa golf course & country club.

Mimosa Golf Course and Country Club in Clark Freeport, Pampanga

Location  — Clark Freeport Zone, Clark, 2023 Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Mimosa Golf Course and Country Club in Clark Freeport, Pampanga Mimosa Golf Course and Country Club, Clark

7. Angeles City Tour

8. food trip in clark and angeles, explore pampanga province, 9. mount pinatubo.

Marcos at Mount Pinatubo crater lake in Central Luzon, Philippines

Daring to visit an active volcano? Mount Pinatubo is a popular tourist destination, easily accessibly from Clark. Go on a thrilling 4×4 offroad adventure with views of the breathtaking lahar landscape and a guided hike up the active volcano to see the massive crater lake.

Location  — Pampanga-Tarlac-Zambales Provinces. Save on Google Maps .

Mount Pinatubo in Central Luzon, Philippines Mount Pinatubo, Philippines

Mount Pinatubo-007

10. Puning Hot Spring & 4×4 Off-Road Adventure

Puning Hot Springs in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

This place is a must-try adventure from Clark. Puning Hot Springs is located at the foot of Mount Pinatubo. 12 thermal wading pools are found on the cliff-side, where you can enjoy amazing views of the surrounding lahar-covered landscape. After a visit to the hot spring, experience the unique volcanic sand spa at Puning Station 2. This treatment involves getting buried to the neck under heated volcanic sand, which promotes relaxation and relief from rheumatic pains. Next, you’ll be taken to the mud pack area where mineral-rich volcanic clay is applied to your body to help cool down your body. The mixture is said to have therapeutic properties.

Location  — Porac, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Puning Sand Spa in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning Sand Spa, Angeles City, Pampanga

Puning Mudpack in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning Mudpack, Angeles City, Pampanga

Puning Hot Springs in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning Hot Springs, Angeles City, Pampanga

Puning Hot Springs located on the cliffside of lahar-covered hills in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning Hot Springs, Angeles City, Pampanga

11. Puning 4×4 Off-Road Adventure

Wet and wild canyon crossing on the Puning 4×4 off-road adventure, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

The 4×4 jeep ride to Puning Hot Springs is an adventure worth a spot on your bucketlist as well! This exhilarating drive will take you through spectacular canyons formed by lahar mudflows, river crossings, and rock formations. Enjoy spectacular views of what’s left behind by Mt. Pinatubo’s catastrophic 1991 eruption and a chance to visit the unique cultural landscape of the Aeta community.

Puning 4×4 off-road adventure, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning 4×4 Adventure in Pampanga, Philippines

Wet and wild canyon crossing on the Puning 4×4 off-road adventure, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning 4×4 Adventure in Pampanga, Philippines

Canyon crossing photostop on the Puning 4×4 off-road adventure, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning 4×4 Adventure in Pampanga, Philippines

Puning 4×4 Off-Road Adventure, in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Puning 4×4 Adventure in Pampanga, Philippines

Angeles City

12. pamintuan museum (museum of philippine social history).

Pamintuan Museum (Museum of Philippine Social History) – roadside view, in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

The Pamintuan Mansion, also known as the Museum of Philippine Social History, is a must-visit heritage house and historical site. Standing for over a century, the well-preserved structure features beautiful interiors and exterior architecture. Here, you can learn about the history of the Pamintuan Mansion and get a glimpse of everyday life back in the day. The site is where the first anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence was celebrated, spearheaded by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.

Location  — Santo Entiero St, Angeles, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Pamintuan Museum (Museum of Philippine Social History) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pamintuan Museum, Angeles City, Pampanga

Pamintuan Museum (Museum of Philippine Social History) – grand staircase, in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pamintuan Museum, Angeles City, Pampanga

Pamintuan Museum (Museum of Philippine Social History) – bedroom, in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pamintuan Museum, Angeles City, Pampanga

13. Holy Rosary Parish Church

Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Angeles City is a historical place with many well-preserved heritage sites. Standing prominently in the old town center is the Holy Rosary Parish Church, formerly known as Santo Rosario Church and today fondly called by locals as “Pisambang Maragul” (“Big Church”). Built in the late 1800s during the Spanish-colonial era, the church is one of the most famous landmarks of the city.

Location  — Santo Rosario St, Angeles, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Holy Rosary Parish Church, Angeles City, Pampanga

14. Angeles Museum (Museu ning Angeles)

Angeles Museum (Museu ning Angeles) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Located across the street from the Holy Rosary Church, the Angeles Museum or Museu ning Angeles houses exhibits about the history of the city and its people, and the rich culinary culture of Pampanga Province. The building is a heritage site as well, built in 1922 as the Municipio del Pueblo (Town Hall) of Angeles City.

Location  — Heritage District, Santo Rosario St, Angeles, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Angeles Museum (Museu ning Angeles) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Angeles Museum, Angeles City, Pampanga

15. Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy

Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy (Pampanga-Filipino local food) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy is the place to go if you want to try Pampanga’s local dishes including their famous Tokwa’t Baboy (fried tofu and boiled pork), crispy Sisig (deep fried port cheek, seasoned with onions and chili peppers), Paco Salad and Chicharon Bulaklak. This humble hole-in-the-wall eatery has been serving patrons for over 30 years.

Location  — San Andres St, Angeles, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Mila's Tokwa't Baboy (pork tofu) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

Pampanga Sisig at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

Ensaladang Pako (fern salad) at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

Mila's Tokwa't Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

16. 25 Seeds Restaurant

25 Seeds Restaurant in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

25 Seeds serves traditional Kapampangan favorites with a modern twist. Located in the Dycaico Ancestral House in historic downtown Angeles, this farm to table restaurant maintains a homey ambiance complemented by stylish interiors. 25 Seeds is a tasty and visual treat reflecting the old and the new.

Location  — 2F Dycaico Ancestral House, Sto. Rosario Street, Angeles, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

25 Seeds Restaurant (Pampanga farm-to-table fusion food) in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines 25 Seeds Restaurant, Angeles City, Pampanga

25 Seeds Restaurant in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines 25 Seeds Restaurant, Angeles City, Pampanga

Ensaladang Pako (fern salad) – 25 Seeds Restaurant in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines 25 Seeds Restaurant, Angeles City, Pampanga

17. Prado Farms, Lubao

Prado Farms in Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines

Prado Farms is a cool and unusual places to visit in Lubao town, Pampanga. This 5-hectare eco-resort is Instagram-worthy, filled with whimsy and a rustic feel. Here you can also indulge in farm-to-table food and a unique eco-lodge experience. Click below to book online.

Prado Farms Eco Resort

See room rates

Location  — Lubao, Pampanga. Save on Google Maps .

Prado Farms in Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines Prado Farm, Lubao, Pampanga

Where to go near Clark

Location  — Metro Manila, Luzon, northern Philippines. Save on Google Maps .

Manila Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Tours + discounts Check Fares

See more : Manila travel tips

Location  — Benguet province, Cordillera region, Luzon, northern Philippines. Save on Google Maps .

Baguio Travel Essentials

See more : Baguio travel tips

Book your way to Singapore

How much does it cost to travel to Singapore? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Singapore

Book your stay near MRT train stations if you plan on getting around conveniently by public transport.

Clark Quay (Riverside), Chinatown, Little India & Bugis are the most popular places to stay for backpackers and budget travelers.

You can find most of the mid-range and luxury hotels in Orchard Road, Marina Bay, Promenade/City Hall area & Sentosa Island.

Marina Bay Sands ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Upscale / Marina Bay

JEN Orchardgateway by Shangri-La ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Upscale / Orchard Rd

V Hotel Bencoolen ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Mid-range / Bencoolen

Hotel 81 Bugis ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget / Bugis

Butternut Tree Hotel ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget / Chinatown

Galaxy Pods Chinatown ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget Backpacker / Chinatown

7 Wonders Hostel Upper Dickson ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget Backpacker / Little India

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Singapore hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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January 9, 2016 at 3:47 pm

Do you have a sample “budget-friendly” itinerary for first timer Filipino’s wanting to go to Singapore? Complete with estimated costs for travel, food, accomodations, etc? If so, please e-mail it to me at [email protected] . My family already booked tickets for Singapore this year, and it would be of great help if an experienced traveller would share something he knows in Singapore.

January 9, 2016 at 10:52 pm

Hi Kirk, you can find more of my posts about Singapore here: https://www.detourista.com/place/singapore/

May 15, 2016 at 11:55 am

Been planning to go to Singapore for a while now. This has been very helpful!

May 15, 2016 at 12:02 pm

Thanks Marie

November 27, 2016 at 8:59 am

How much will it cost for two-person stay for 3days and 2nights in SG? A budget-friendly maybe

November 29, 2016 at 2:28 pm

Hello Alexander, your budget will hugely depend on what kind of activities you plan on doing in Singapore. You can find more Singapore tips here: https://www.detourista.com/place/singapore/

March 26, 2018 at 6:57 pm

I had been there in Singapore for official meet and literally its a fabulous city on earth. I’d visited some the places you’ve mentioned above.

I would also like to specially mention here that Singapore is one of the safest places on Earth. There is little to no crime, and violent crime against women is virtually unheard of. The punishments are so severe that they are a major deterrent to antisocial or criminal behavior.

Thanks for exploring other places :)

November 17, 2020 at 12:00 pm

Hello Singapore!I.love to take pictures whenever I went to the nice places in Singapore!I really amazed those lovely and very nice view in many places that I been there..thanks Singapore for the cleaness and greeness nature I love it..exploring SG is one.my greatest adventure in my life.❤🥰🙏

December 13, 2020 at 7:21 pm

Excellent ..

August 20, 2021 at 10:16 pm

That’s Amazing

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Top Singapore Tourist Spots: Guide to 12 Iconic Places to Visit

Singapore is a truly thrilling travel destination for tourists of all ages. This island city-state is filled with natural wonders, historical landmarks, luxury shopping centers, and many other photo-worthy Singapore tourist spots. Add these 12 beautiful destinations and tourist attractions in Singapore to any trip itinerary and enjoy a Singapore vacation that will excite and inspire.

1. Ride the SINGAPORE FLYER for a stunning view of the city

View the entire Singapore skyline from above from the Singapore Flyer , the island’s tallest Ferris wheel. The tallest point is 165 meters from the ground. Tickets can be purchased on site and cost $33 SGD for an adult fare. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes. Within the capsule, there are also interactive televisions that display information about all of the Singapore tourist spots seen from above, like Merlion Park , the Singapore River , and Helix Bridge . The Singapore Flyer is conveniently located in the downtown core near plenty of shopping and dining spots.

Check In to Marina Bay Sands , Step Out to the Singapore Flyer

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2. Experience the history of Singapore at the NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE

Open since 1887, the National Museum of Singapore is Singapore’s oldest museum and an important Singapore landmark. The exhibits at this museum focus on telling the story of Singapore’s history using music, photographs, and creative storytelling. The museum also hosts different events throughout the year like concerts, film screenings, art installations, and theater performances. Admission is between $10-15 SGD for tourists and guided tours of the main gallery are available in English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, and French. (Note: some languages are only available on certain days of the week.)

3 more can’t-miss Singapore museums

• National Gallery Singapore – an art museum in the downtown core
• ArtScience Museum – a kid-friendly modern art and science museum
• Asian Civilisations Museum – a history museum with a focus on Asian civilizations

Check In to Mandarin Orchard Singapore , Step Out to National Museum of Singapore

BOOK A HOTEL IN SINGAPORE TODAY

3. Marvel at the beauty of Singapore’s GARDENS BY THE BAY

For guests who only have time to visit one garden in Singapore, Gardens by the Bay is a great choice. This 101-hectare nature park is beautiful, creative, and conveniently located in the central region of Singapore. Gardens by the Bay features three waterfront parks: Bay South Garden (the largest garden), Bay East Garden , and Bay Central Garden . Bay South Garden has two important conservatories called Flower Dome and Cloud Forest , both of which grow dozens of lush and colorful plant species. There is also a Children’s Garden complete with a treehouse and a kid-friendly adventure trail.

3 more Singapore parks and gardens to explore

• Singapore Botanic Gardens – an expansive tropical garden founded in 1859
• Fort Canning Park – a historic park near Orchard Road
• Chinese and Japanese Gardens – a beautiful park with Chinese and Japanese influences

Check In to Carlton Hotel Singapore , Step Out to Flower Dome

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4. Shop for luxury souvenirs on ORCHARD ROAD

The best shopping in Singapore is found along Orchard Road , a true retail paradise. The road is lined with hundreds of retail outlets, department stores, and luxury boutiques. During the visit, stop by ION Orchard to shop for luxury brands like Prada and Dior. ION also features an art gallery and an observation deck. Singapore’s oldest department store, TANGS , is also worth a visit. For tourists willing to spend some time searching through their hundreds of clothing and electronics stores, Far East Plaza is where guests will find the most unique items and the best bargains. Orchard Road is also home to many bars, restaurants, and fast food outlets where weary tourists can stop to refuel.

Check In to Grand Park Orchard , Step Out to Far East Plaza

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL IN SINGAPORE TODAY

5. Get an up-close look at exotic animals at SINGAPORE ZOO

Home to over 300 animal species, a visit to Singapore Zoo is a can’t-miss activity for tourists of all ages. Unlike traditional zoos, the animals are not kept in cages. The zoo does use hidden glass barriers to keep tourists safe but the animals are free to roam around in spacious landscaped enclosures. Included with the $40 SGD admission, guests may also enjoy daily animal shows featuring orangutans, elephants, seals, and dolphins. Plan to spend between half a day to a full day exploring everything there is to see in the park.

4 more Singapore tourist spots to see wildlife

• Night Safari – a nocturnal zoo with tigers, hippos, and more
• Singapore River Safari – a zoo and aquarium featuring a riverboat ride
• SEA Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa – a giant aquarium with hundreds of marine species
• Jurong Bird Park – an aviary and bird park with ducks, penguins, and thousands of colorful birds

Check In to YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road , Step Out to Singapore Zoo

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6. Explore the temples and market stalls in CHINATOWN SINGAPORE

While much of the city-state is filled with skyscrapers and modern buildings, Singapore’s Chinatown is a traditional paradise of Chinese culture. Be sure to take photographs of the stunning architecture of Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , a Buddhist temple, and Sri Mariamman Temple , a Hindu temple. Both temples are open daily for tourists to see the gorgeous interiors up close and learn more about their religious and cultural significance. Another key spot is Chinatown Street Market , home to hundreds of stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs, delicious street food, clothing, and much more. Visit the market at night to see the vibrant streets all lit up.

2 more multicultural tourist spots in Singapore

• Little India Singapore – a district with traditional Indian shops and restaurants
• Kampong Glam – a beautiful neighborhood with Malay and Muslim influences

Check In to Sofitel Singapore City Centre , Step Out to Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

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7. Visit the iconic MERLION STATUE in MERLION PARK

One of the most well-known landmarks in Singapore lies within Merlion Park , a waterfront park located at the edge of Marina Bay . The Merlion Statue features the head of a lion and the body of a fish with a mouth that spits water into the bay. The original statue was constructed in 1972 and a smaller “ Merlion Cub ” was added later. The statues are must-visit Singapore tourist spots as they are said to truly represent Singapore: the fish body reflects the city’s history as a fishing town and the lion’s body reflect’s Singapore’s original name, Singapura (“Lion City” in Sanskrit).

Check In to Peninsula Excelsior Hotel , Step Out to Merlion Statue

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL IN SINGAPORE

8. See a show at ESPLANADE – THEATRES ON THE BAY

Watch a theater performance, concert, or dance presentation at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay , a performing arts center with thousands of shows per year. The theater is located near the beautiful Singapore River so guests can stroll by the water before or after watching a show. Another tourism feature is the theater’s overall design. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is made up of two rounded glass domes with triangular aluminum cladding which gives it a spiky outer appearance. It is known affectionately as the “durian” after the spiky, tropical fruit it resembles.

Check In to Marina Mandarin Singapore Hotel , Step Out to Esplanade- Theatres on the Bay

Discover more hotels and apartments near Singapore River Cruise

9. Make a wish at FOUNTAIN OF WEALTH

One of the largest fountains in the world is Fountain of Wealth , located in Singapore’s Suntec City . The fountain was constructed in 1955 and consists of a large bronze ring with streams of water flowing downwards, representing wealth and life. When the main fountain is turned off, a smaller fountain is accessible which tourists can walk around three times for good luck and to make a wish. At night, the fountain is lit with beautiful colored lights. Suntec City , one of the largest malls in Singapore , is also worth a visit after seeing the fountain.

Check In to Grand Park City Hall Hotel , Step Out to Suntec City

10. Take a day trip from Singapore to PULAU UBIN

After exploring some of the more modern and busy Singapore tourist spots, spend a relaxing day visiting Pulau Ubin . Pulau Ubin is a calm and beautiful island located northeast of Singapore , about 10 to 15 minutes away from Changi Village Ferry Terminal by bumboat (a small tourist boat). Pick up a free map from the information center and explore the beauty of nature. Some key sights to see are Butterfly Hill (a butterfly sanctuary), Pekan Quarry (a gorgeous lake) and Jejawi Tower (a tall viewing tower).

6 more islands and beautiful day trips from Singapore

• Sentosa Island , Singapore
• Bintan Island , Indonesia
• Desaru , Malaysia
• Batam , Indonesia
• Malacca , Malaysia
• Johor Bahru , Malaysia

Check In to Celestial Ubin Beach Resort , Step Out to Butterfly Hill

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11. Cruise the SINGAPORE RIVER and experience the nightlife at CLARKE QUAY

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Singapore River by boarding a bumboat near Clarke Quay Station . From the river, tourists can glimpse many of the best Singapore tourist spots like Hong San See Temple and Raffles Place . A boat ride on the river makes a relaxing afternoon activity or the perfect end to a long day of sightseeing. Clarke Quay is also a hotspot for Singapore nightlife, with dozens of restaurants, nightclubs, rooftop patio bars, and live music venues to choose from.

5 Singapore nightlife spots near Clarke Quay

• Attica – a fun nightclub with a wide selection of drinks
• Crazy Elephant – a casual bar with live music
• F. Club – a fashion-themed nightclub
• Harry’s Clarke Quay – a classic bar with comfort food
• Zouk – a popular dance club

Check In to Furama RiverFront Hotel , Step Out to Crazy Elephant

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12. Spend a wild day at theme parks like ADVENTURE COVE WATERPARK or UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE

Tourist couples or families will have a wild time riding the water rides at Adventure Cove Waterpark on Sentosa Island . For adventure seekers, the park has twisting, high-speed water slides, and water roller coasters. Relaxing lazy river rides, wave pools, and children’s pool areas make it fun for the whole family. There is also a special section of the park where guests can go snorkeling amongst thousands of colorful fish and sea creatures.

Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island is another popular Singapore tourist spot for family adventuring. The park features two dozen fun attractions based on different TV and movie franchises. Themed restaurants and themed characters who walk through the park make the experience feel more real. After riding the rides, move indoors to watch an interactive show or head to higher ground to watch a late-night fireworks show on select days.

Check In to Capella Singapore Hotel , Step Out to Adventure Cove Waterpark

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Home » Southeast Asia » Singapore » Places to Visit

22 BEST Places to Visit in Singapore (2024)

The small Southeast nation of Singapore sure packs a punch! A fabulous destination for foodies and shopping lovers, the country also has a wealth of cultural, religious, and historical sites, fun theme parks and family-friendly attractions, and an exciting night scene. There’s never a dull moment in the Lion City and no shortage of tourist attractions in Singapore to explore.

Singapore has a reputation for being on the pricey side compared to neighbouring countries. Many people are put off visiting because of the higher travel costs.

There’s no need to worry, though! Our expert team of travel writers have compiled this list of the best places to visit in Singapore, including both pocket-friendly places and attractions where you’ll definitely want to splurge. It’s not that difficult to balance your budget while still making the most of Singapore.

With popular tourist destinations and attractions that are off the beaten track, the best places to visit in Singapore are sure to amaze you! From Sentosa Island to the Merlion Park and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, there’s so many Singapore attractions to explore.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Singapore:

These are the best places to visit in singapore, faq on the best places to visit in singapore.

Singapore is simply incredible and we know you can’t wait to get started, but before you do, be sure to check out where to stay in Singapore ! Choose your favourite area and book yourself a great stay.

If you’re on a budget and you’re backpacking in Singapore , you’re probably going to want to check out cheaper digs like some of the great hostels in Singapore .

For those with a slightly more flexible budget, check out the Airbnb’s in Singapore for something a bit different.

Then, on to the good stuff…

Marina Bay is one of Singapore’s prettiest and most desirable neighbourhoods. Located in the centre of the city, Marina Bay overlaps with the Central Business District, the Civic Quarter, and trendy Clarke Quay, so you’re never far from the action.

• Take in the stunning views from the Sands Skypark, a platform perched 55 stories above the ground.
• Sip on a pint of artisanal beer at LeVel 33, the world’s highest microbrewery.
• Visit Merlion Park and see the famous Merlion (half-fish, half-lion) statue, a symbol of Singapore.

For a pretty tiny city-state , there’s still a dizzying array of things to do in Singapore and it can be hard to know which ones to pick, especially if you’re on a short trip like a weekend to Singapore . So we’ve compiled a rundown of the best tourist attractions in Singapore, as well as some more off the beaten track places to add to your Singapore trip.

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#1 – Singapore Food Trail – Explore the Epic Hawkers Centres

• Travel back to the Singapore of old
• Unusual and rare dishes
• Great place to sample an array of local cuisine
• Energetic atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: The Singapore Food Trail is a culinary exploration around the many incredible Hawker Centres around the city. Travel around the many different cuisines of the city through your taste buds and sample dishes made from recipes that have been passed down through the generations. Dishes combine Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, and you’ll find Peranakan delicacies and meals with European influences too. The centres are often busy, showing their popularity.

What to do there: Be sure to come hungry to the Singapore Hawker centres and let your senses guide you! Order a variety of dishes to share with your friends so that you can all sample a range of tasty treats and authentic Chinese food alongside Malay and Indian cuisine. Sink your teeth into things like chilli crab, oyster omelette, satay skewers, steaming bowls of noodles, Hainanese rice, BBQ fish, and rojak. The prices are reasonable so there’s little excuse not to indulge! Be sure to explore the many different Hawker centres around the city.

Insider tip: The best centres to check out are – Adam Road Food Centre, Amoy Street Food Centre, Ghim Moh Market, Maxwell Food Centre, Newton Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, Tekka Market Food Centre and Tiong Bahru Market.

#2 – Raffles Hotel – One of the most romantic places to visit in Singapore!

• Colonial vibes
• Old-world elegant atmosphere
• Home of the Singapore Sling cocktail
• Iconic building

Why it’s awesome: Named after Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the founder of colonial-era Singapore, visiting this historic location is a throwback to a long-ago time when the British aristocracy wined and dined here. This hotel is possibly the most famous hotel in the city, well, it was before that ‘other one’ was built over at the areas. But here that one is all about modernity, here it’s all about history. That history dates back to the early 1830s when it was a beach hut, the hotel as we know it was founded here in 1887! That’s not the only history here, it’s the place the Singapore Sling was invented too!

What to do there: Well, of course, if you’ve got the cash you could splash out for one of the super expensive rooms and fully indulge in the grandeur of this colonial palace. But I suspect if you’re a fellow broke backpacker then you’re probably going to be relegated back to a hostel! Never fear though, because you don’t have to be an overnight guest to indulge in a piece of Singapore’s history. Pull up a stool at the bar and sample the original Singapore Sling for yourself! Ok, it’s not the cheapest bevvie you’ll ever have, but it’s probably the fanciest!

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#3 – National Museum of Singapore – A fascinating educational place to visit in Singapore

• Singapore’s oldest museum
• Top place to learn more about Singapore’s history and culture
• Huge collections and displays
• Home to most of Singapore’s National Treasures

Why it’s awesome: Originally named the Raffles Library and Museum, the National Museum of Singapore dates back to the late 1840s. Today, the diverse collections tell the story of Singapore’s history and is home to many hidden gems . The museum’s aim is to preserve and revive the nation’s cultural heritage. Most of the country’s National Treasures can be found in the large museum. The building itself is impressive both inside and out, with stained glass, a sweeping spiral staircase, wooden details, a glorious dome, glass rotundas, beautiful tiling, and stucco motifs. It’s an essential place to visit for anyone interested in hitting up some of the historic tourist attractions in Singapore.

What to do there: Admire the Neo-Palladian and Renaissance building from the outside before stepping inside to enjoy the impressive interiors and collections. See the eleven National Treasures housed in the museum, including a Peranakan coffin cover, drawings by William Farquhar, the Singapore Stone, Munshi Abdullah’s will, and the Gold Ornaments of the Sacred Hill. Other artefacts include glass pieces from the Victorian era, artworks, costumes used in Chinese opera, photographs, and old containers. The Singapore History Gallery really helps to bring the past to life, with an array of early items and household objects. Check the events calendar to see if there are any special lectures or workshops being held during your visit to Singapore.

#4 – Bukit Batok Nature Park – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Singapore

• Peaceful outdoor attraction
• Large urban park
• Off the beaten track
• Historical significance

Why it’s awesome: Bukit Batok Nature Park covers 89 acres (36 hectares). The large urban park was developed in an old disused quarry. The quarry is now filled with water and the surrounding lush parkland is home to various flora and fauna. There are beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. The picturesque setting and limestone rocks have led to the area being called the Little Guillin of Singapore. There are historic sites in the park too, including the remains of an old Japanese memorial.

What to do there: Follow the verdant forested nature trails around the park and look out for diverse bird species and creatures like the green crested lizard and other reptiles. If you’re feeling active, it’s a great place for an early morning jog. You’ll also find various fitness equipment if you want to work up more of a sweat too. You can also climb Bukit Batok Hill and visit viewpoints for stunning vistas. See the 100-plus concrete steps and pillars that remain from the Japanese memorial that honoured soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.

#5 – Universal Studios Singapore & Sentosa Island

• Fun theme park on Sentosa Island
• Enter the world of movies
• Diverse rides and shows
• First Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia

Why it’s awesome: Located on Sentosa Island (often referred to as Singapore’s island of fun), Universal Studios Singapore is a large theme park spread across seven cool-themed areas. Areas include Hollywood, New York, The Lost World, Ancient Egypt, Sci-Fi City, Madagascar, and Far Far Away. There are rides and shows to suit people of all ages, with adrenaline-inducing rides for thrill-seekers and tamer rides for the kids. There are attractions based around popular films, and you can learn more about the movie-making process. Universal Studios theme park is also set in the beautiful location of Sentosa Island which in itself is a great place to visit.

What to do there: Spend a fun-filled day enjoying the diverse rides, shows, and other film-based attractions in Universal Studios Singapore. Step back in time at Hollywood, designed to replicate Hollywood Boulevard in the 1970s, and see the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Broadway-style theatre. See the bright neon lights and skyscrapers in New York, complete with the Lights! Camera! Action! show and characters from Sesame Street.

Visit the Lost World to step right into Jurassic Park and Waterworld and ride the Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride and Treasure Hunters in the Lost World. Explore Shrek’s World in Far Far Away, peek into the future at Sci-Fi City, and soak up the tropical jungle vibes of Madagascar. There are numerous places to eat and drink and you can also pick up some themed merchandise at Universal Studios, Sentosa Island.

#6 – Gardens by the Bay – Great place to visit in Singapore at night!

• Unusual and photogenic attraction
• Diverse beautiful gardens
• Home to the famous Supertrees
• Romantic vibes

Why it’s awesome: Gardens by the Bay is a picturesque nature park with various gardens and features to enjoy, it’s one of the most popular attractions for tourists, locals, and backpackers exploring Singapore alike.  Each individual garden and conservatory has its own appearance and ambience. As well as being able to see a wide range of different plants and flowers the gardens offer different ways to relax and a number of leisure options. Helping to cement Singapore’s reputation as a Garden City, the Gardens by the Bay are one of the country’s must-see attractions.

What to do there: Lap up the views of the spectacular Singapore skyline from the Bay East Garden, designed like tropical leaves with various botanic and water-inspired themes. Take a scenic walk alongside the waterfront in the Bay Central Garden and take kids to the specially designed Children’s Garden, complete with an adventure trail with hanging bridges, swings and trampolines. Explore Singapore’s main ethnic groups in the Heritage Gardens, with gardens dedicated to the Malay, Indian, and Chinese groups, and see the significance of plants in Singapore’s history in the Colonial Garden. You’ll find even more to appreciate in the Flower Dome (the world’s biggest glasshouse without columns) and the Cloud Forest, which even features a tropical-like waterfall. Don’t miss the stunning and futuristic Supertree Grove, and try to see the gorgeous trees lit up in the evenings too.

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#7 – Clarke Quay – A great place to visit in Singapore at night

• Riverside key with a strong sense of history
• Restaurants and bars in converted warehouses
• Popular place for a night out along the Singapore River
• Have a go on the rush-inducing reverse bungee

Why it’s awesome: Clarke Quay is located next to the Singapore River and it was a major trade hub in times gone by. An important commercial area during the colonial period, Clarke Quay has been redeveloped to create a lively centre for leisure and entertainment. The area really comes into its own at night with five blocks of warehouses that now house top-class restaurants and nightclubs. Floating bars and eateries are contained in traditional Chinese junks (sailing vessels) and there are awesome views. Many of Singapore’s top-name nightclubs can be found at Clarke Quay and it’s popular with locals and visitors alike looking for a lively night on the tiles along the Singapore River.

What to do there: Savour a tasty meal in one of the beautiful riverside restaurants, with establishments serving Singaporean favourites alongside international menus. Walk along the riverside, seeing restored warehouses, moored boats, and old shophouses. There’s plenty of colonial-period architecture seamlessly woven into the modern city too. Brave the G-Max Reverse Bungee and see the structure magnificently illuminated at night. Other attractions at Clarke Quay include the Art-2 Gallery and the 100-year-old Hong San See Temple. Don your best clothes and comfortable dancing shoes for a night of revelry in one of the many swanky bars and clubs—this is a place to see and be seen! DJs spin the latest hits and there’s a wide range of drinks to loosen you up and get you well and truly in the party mood.

#8 – Merlion Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Singapore

• Symbol of Singapore
• Rich mythology
• Lovely river views and pleasant park
• A major tourist attraction

Why it’s awesome: Merlion Park is a major landmark in Singapore. Opened in 1964, it contains the original Merlion statue. The Merlion is a symbol of Singapore, designed with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It represents Singapore’s early beginnings as a fishing village and the original name of Singapora (Lion City). The tall statue sprays water from its mouth, taking pride of place in the leafy park. There’s also a smaller Merlion statue within the park, known as the Merlion Cub. There’s no charge to visit the park and see the famous statues which is perfect for travellers worried about the expenses in Singapore .

What to do there: Take lots of pictures of the Merlion and smaller Merlion Cub and admire the views of the river, the nearby skyscrapers towering over the park, and the even closer colonial architectural gem of One Fullerton Hotel. Cross the Esplanade Bridge for even more great views and find a quiet spot in the park to sit for a while in peaceful contemplation. While you’ll spot the Merlion symbol on many things, from promotional materials to souvenirs, there are a further six official Merlion statues around the country if you want to spot even more depictions of the emblematic mythical creatures.

#9 – Pulau Ubin – A must visit place to visit in Singapore on the weekend!

• One of Singapore’s last places to immerse yourself in rural life
• Laid-back vibe
• One of Singapore’s National Parks
• Lots of native flora and fauna
• Interesting local legends

Why it’s awesome: The island of Pulau Ubin, which means Granite Island, is said to have been created when an elephant, pig, and frog challenged each other to race across the water. Those that failed the challenge would turn to stone. All met with difficulties and were thus turned into stone. In the past, the island had several major quarries. Today, just a few residents remain on the island, living a way of life much different to that on the main island. Indeed, Pulau Ubin is often said to be one of the few places in Singapore where kampong life still truly prevails. Free from urban development, homes are fairly simple. The island is also known for its array of flora and fauna and is an especially great place for bird watching.

What to do there: Cross to the island by bumboat and rent a bicycle to leisurely explore Pulau Ubin, cycling past traditional wooden homes and jetties, an area that is rich with wildlife, mangroves, green plantations, and abandoned quarries. Feeling more active? Follow the diverse terrain along the mountain biking trail in Ketam Mountain Bike Park. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere and look out for creatures like majestic hornbills, wild boars, and various other birds, small mammals, and small reptiles. Walk along the boardwalk at Chek Jawa, a place known for its rich eco-diversity.

#10 – Haw Par Villa – A beautiful & colourful place in Singapore!

• Unusual religious-themed attraction park
• Fascinating peek into Chinese mythology
• Discover the Courts of Hell
• Created by the inventors of Tiger Balm!

Why it’s awesome: Haw Par Villa is one of Singapore’s more unusual attractions and yet it’s a place that sees relatively few tourists. There are large dioramas and hundreds of statues that show scenes from local lore and legends, history, and Chinese mythology. One of the most fascinating (and gruesome!) parts of the park is often the Courts of Hell where you can gain insights into what awaits people in hell for a range of misdeeds during their life. The religious-themed park was created by Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, two Burmese brothers who also created Tiger Balm. It aimed to teach traditional Chinese values and was opened to the public in the mid-1950s.

What to do there: Learn more about Chinese beliefs and local legends as you gaze at some 1,000 statues in all sizes and colours. Brave the grisly, eerie, and monstrous Ten Courts of Hell to find out what punishments are given for various earthly sins. See the memorial dedicated to the brothers’ parents and learn more about local beliefs and history from the large dioramas. Scenes include the Legend of the White Snake, Journey to the West, and the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

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#11 – Sri Mariamman Temple – One of the most religious places to see in Singapore

• Oldest Hindu temple in Singapore
• Active place of worship
• Colourful and attractive
• National Monument

Why it’s awesome: Singapore’s eye-catching Sri Mariamman Temple is the country’s oldest Hindu temple. It’s also a National Monument that was established in 1827 by an Indian businessman and community leader. Initially a fairly simple wooden temple with a statue of the Mother Goddess, the temple grew and became more ornate over the years. Many of the striking details that you can see today were created by master craftspeople from India’s Tamil Nadu. The temple has an ornate and colourful entrance tower, known as a gopuram, many statues, and several shrines. It is an active place of worship and there is a serene spiritual air. The temple is also a major hub for the local community.

What to do there: Marvel at the colourful six-tier tower, complete with intricate carvings of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, animals, flowers, and other figures. Statues of Lords Krishna and Murugan flank the towering beauty. Pass through the main door and ring the small bells as you enter the temple complex. Stroll around the inner walls and admire the rich decorative details and see lovely statues atop the walls. Allow plenty of time to fully appreciate the site, paying your respects to the Goddess Mariamman at the main shrine before visiting the smaller shrines to Murugan, Rama, Ganesh, Shiva, and Durga. You can enjoy great views of the complex from the viewing platform.

#12 – Fort Canning Park – One of Singapore’s coolest historical sites!

• Long history
• Thought to be haunted
• Believed to have been the centre of ancient Singapura
• Diverse attractions and recreational activities

Why it’s awesome: Fort Canning Park sits on Fort Canning Hill, one of the highest points near the city centre.  Known as the Forbidden Hill in Malay, many people believe that the area was once at the heart of ancient Singapura and was the place where kings of old were buried. There have been settlements on the hill for a long time. In 1819, when the Singapore Treaty was signed, the hill was where the British flag was first raised. Sir Stamford Raffles had a home on the hill and he initiated the nation’s first botanical garden there too (though plans were later abandoned). A fortress was built on the hill in the 1860s, although little remains of the fort today. There are various attractions and activities around the hill, as well as the reservoir and park.

What to do there: See the remains of an old cemetery, complete with a Gothic archway and a number of old gravestones and monuments. The walls surrounding the site contain several tombstones too. You can also see what remains of the old fort, namely the gateway and two large cannons. An old bunker was used as a strategic military base by the British during World War II, later used by the Japanese after the British surrendered. Today you can explore the large underground network of passageways and rooms at the Battle Box. The Sally Port is a secret door and the Spice Garden is a pleasant place to relax. You can also unwind at Canning Green. Architectural highlights include pretty cupolas, Raffles House, and the sacred Keramat Iskandar Shah. Art lovers should add the Fort Canning Arts Centre to their travel list.

#13 – Singapore Flyer – One of the most amazing places in Singapore!

• The Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s biggest Ferris wheels
• Terrific views
• Photogenic landmark
• Waterside location

Why it’s awesome: A ride on the Singapore Flyer offers spectacular views across the water and city and is among the biggest observation wheels in the world. Rides are available by both day and night, letting you see the city from different perspectives. The Singapore Flyer is a huge 165 metres (541 feet) tall. The large capsules can hold up to 28 people and a revolution takes around 30 minutes. It is also possible to book private rides and a variety of cool experiences. The Singapore Flyer is one of the classic tourist attractions in Singapore.

What to do there: See the iconic structure next to the water before hopping into an air-conditioned glass capsule to see famous Singaporean sights from above. Views include Raffles Place, the Singapore River, Marina Bay, and Padang. If you’re feeling flush or want to go all out to impress that special someone you can book a private trip on the Singapore Flyer with champagne and/or dinner add-ons. The wheel is well worth seeing at night time too when it’s illuminated.

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#14 – Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – A perfect place to visit in Singapore if you are on a budget!

• No admission charge
• Impressive religious building
• Houses sacred Buddhist relics

Why it’s awesome: A fairly recent addition to Singapore’s diverse religious buildings, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was built in 2007. An impressive vision of red tiers from the outside, the interiors boast lavish designs, stunning spiritual artwork, and interesting artefacts. The temple also contains one of Buddha’s teeth, said to have been recovered from his cremation site. The revered tooth is housed within a gigantic gleaming golden stupa. There are peaceful spots where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment and there’s no charge to enter the temple or join a free tour.

What to do there: Be dazzled by the colourful details and intricate designs of the beautiful place of worship, see the sacred tooth from the viewing platform, and watch as devotees make merit and pay their respects through various rituals and prayers. Learn more about the life of the Lord Buddha and admire lots of religious art and statues. Visit the Buddhist Culture Museum to see religious artefacts and attend a cultural show or talk in the Eminent Sangha Museum. For some peace and quiet, head up to the tranquil roof garden.  Take a volunteer-led temple tour for greater insights into the various parts of the temple, relics, and exhibits.

#15 – ArtScience Museum – An awesome place to visit in Singapore for an immersive experience

• Unusual architecture
• Educational experience
• Sustainable eco-friendly practices
• Great for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: ArtScience Museum is a terrific blend of the arts and the sciences, hosting many temporary displays and collections from globally renowned museums. The permanent collection, Future World, has many interactive art exhibits that cover themes like town, park, nature, and science. The actual building looks a lot like a pale lotus flower. The design is meant to represent ten fingers and symbolise Singapore extending a warm welcome to all. The building has several sustainable features too, such as the collection of rainwater to use in the bathrooms.

What to do there: Appreciate the unusual building from the outside before discovering the 20-plus galleries inside, each with something new to educate, enthral, and excite you. The hands-on displays are especially great for younger visitors and curious minds. Learn how Nobel Prize inventions have helped to change the world, discover more about the oceans and their lifeforms, see huge accomplishments in the fields of the sciences and the arts, admire treasures from the Tang Dynasty, and see cargo from the Belitung shipwreck.

#16 – Sisters’ Islands – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Singapore!

• Lesser-visited islands
• Away from the typical tourist trail
• Surrounded in local legends
• Great spot for swimming and snorkelling

Why it’s awesome: Singapore may not be known for its beaches and water sports, but there are, nonetheless, several places around the country that will keep water-lovers happy. The twin Sisters’ Islands are among those spots. The sandy beaches offer prime relaxation in the sun and the waters are home to an array of aquatic life. The atmosphere is tranquil and there are great views. Accessible by ferry, the islands are easy to reach from the main island. Legends surround the islands, with several variations that include a story of two ill-fated sisters.

What to do there: Walk along the sandy stores and laze in the sunshine with a good book as you top up your tan. Take a dip in the sea and spot creatures like corals, octopus, fish, and nudibranchs in the water on a snorkelling trip. Diving is also possible for deeper explorations. Pack a picnic for a delightful al fresco lunch, though do be wary of the cheeky macaques that live on the larger of the two islands. Take a guided walk to learn more about the biodiversity on the islands.

#17 – Chinatown

• Explore the story of the Chinese population of Singapore
• See where the old meets the new in this amazing city
• See some of Singapore’s most amazing temples
• Enjoy some amazing food

Why it’s awesome: Singapore’s Chinatown is one of the city’s ethnic enclaves where you can take in the different people that make up Singapore and what makes it such a fascinating place to visit. Here you’ll find the streets lined with traditional shophouses and intricately decorated Buddhist temples. The colourful and energetic region of the city developed in the 1830s and gradually spread over an even larger area.

What to do there: Well, Singapore is all about the cuisine, so obviously you need to indulge in some authentic Chinese food when visiting, or, more accurately, Singaporean Chinese food! You should also visit places like NUS Baba House, once a typical family home, it’s not a museum to the area and remains preserved from the early days of Chinatown. Explore temples such as the Thian Hock Keng Temple to see the religious side of this region and then swing by the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn even more about the district and its inhabitants.

#18 – Little India

• Discover the Indian heritage of Singapore
• Indulge in some amazing food
• Experience some beautiful architecture
• See a less polished side to Singapore

Why it’s awesome: So, you thought Chinatown was an explosion of colour, well, get ready for Singapore to one-up itself again! Welcome to Little India where the streets are alive with a rainbow of shades, tints and pigmentations on every imaginable surface, from technicolour houses to pastel saris dancing gently in the breeze! It’s a true treat for the senses, as delicious spices waft from the many restaurants and Bollywood tunes fill the air.

What to do there: Visit the multicoloured Tan Teng Niah, an old colonial-era Chinese villa that will blow your mind! want more colour, we’ve got it! Next visit the intricately detailed Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess and destroyer of evil. After that, you’ll have worked up an appetite to explore the Tekka Centre, one of the best hawker centres in the country, but also a bustling market too and a great place to rub shoulder with locals going about their daily business. If you want to learn even more whilst visiting this fascinating area, then swing by the Indian Heritage Centre to discover the wonderful history of the Indian community in Singapore.

#19 – Kampong Glam

• Take advantage of the budget accommodation around here
• Party the night away at the Blu Jaz Café
• Indulge in yet more incredible food
• Visit the Malay Heritage Centre to see the history of this ethic group

Why it’s awesome: Well, we’ve seen the Chinese and Indian sides to this multicultural city, so why not chuck another one in! Singapore really is a testament to how all different cultures and religions can get along side by side. The Kampong Glam area of the city is traditionally an Arab/ Muslim area and is home to many incredble restaurants covering a myriad of cuisines as well as carpet and fabric shops and some seriously stunning mosques. It’s also quite a trendy area to visit too with a thriving cafe and art scene in the area.

What to do there: First things first, you just have to (and you can’t miss it) visit the incredible Masjid Sultan, the largest Mosque in the country. The golden-domed temple looks like something from Aladdin and the palm tree-lined streets leading to it are super photogenic. Then take a walk down Arab Street and Haji Lane for a look at a different side of this area, with street art, boutique shops and trendy cafes, it’s a fun and lively area to explore. There’s good reason Singapore is hailed as foodie heaven and here is another reason why, you’ve had your fill of Malay, Chinese and Indian treats, now it’s time for a Middle Eastern culinary journey. Here you’ve got everything from Turkish to Lebanese, Egyptian to Iranian and beyond to try out!

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#20 – Peranakan Museum – A great place to visit in Singapore if you are alone/traveling solo

• A fabulous place to learn more about Singapore’s Peranakan heritage
• Designed like bungalows from Straits Settlements
• Contains many interesting items
• Housed in an old school

Why it’s awesome: The Peranakan Museum is the perfect place for anyone interesting in knowing more about the Peranakan people of Singapore. Peranakan is the name given to people born in the Straits with mixed parentage. The fine museum takes an in-depth look at Straits Chinese and it has a large collection of Peranakan items, many of which feature dazzling designs. There’s everything from clothing, jewellery, and textiles to ceramics, household furnishings, and ornaments. The three-level museum is in an old school, and the layout was designed to be like a traditional Straits home.

What to do there: Travel back in time to the days of wealthy traders who married local women and see how they lived their lives in the Singaporean Straights in the 19 th century. The blend of cultures and traditions resulted in some fine items and customs. As well as being able to see many items from Peranakan homes the museum also has splendid interactive displays and multimedia exhibitions. See how Peranakans have evolved over time and be wowed by elaborate wedding rituals. Don’t miss the charming Father and Kid statue outside.

#21 – Orchard Road – A great place in Singapore if you love to shop!

• Singapore’s premier place for shopping
• More than 5,000 shops and restaurants
• Once a quiet pastoral area of orchards, farms, and plantations
• Interesting street art and installations

Why it’s awesome: With simple beginnings as an agricultural area, Orchard Road has grown to be one of the best places in Singapore to indulge in some retail therapy. There are shops selling almost everything you could imagine from a broad array of brands, and the abundance of restaurants and cafes help you to keep your strength up on shopping outings. Establishments serve dishes from all over the world. There’s also a fabulous art gallery along Orchard Road and many interesting statues and sculptures.

What to do there: Prepare for a long day of exciting shopping and make your way around Orchard Road’s many retail establishments. Be sure to check out the area’s first shopping centre—Tangs, which has been keeping customers happy since 1958. The futuristic ION Mall is a great place for fashion and luxury items and the Far East Plaza offers a wealth of affordable items. Follow the Orchard Art Trail to see spectacular works like the Dragon-Riding Bodhisattva, Mother and Child, Eulogy to Singapore, Vitality, Harmony Fountain, Love, and Dancer. Stop for a bite to eat at any time of the day or evening in one of the numerous restaurants and rest over a drink in one of the street’s cool and classy bars.

#22 – Singapore Botanic Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Singapore

• Gorgeous tropical garden
• More than 150 years old
• Relax in nature
• UNESCO world heritage site

Why it’s awesome: The Singapore botanic gardens were the country’s first UNESCO world heritage site. It can trace its roots back to the late 1850s when an old plantation was turned into a pleasant garden. Home to myriad plants from various parts of the globe, the different gardens cover various themes. Furthermore, the Botanic Gardens has the biggest collection of orchids in the world, with displays that include the country’s national flower. Galleries and museums present more learning and cultural opportunities and there are great places to eat and drink.

What to do there: Enjoy the romantic vibes and pretty plants as you follow one of the walking trails around the picturesque Botanic Gardens. It’s also a popular place for jogging enthusiasts and one of the most wonderful Singapore attractions for escaping the concrete jungle. See a wide variety of orchid species, including the Vanda  ‘ Miss Joaquim ‘. Visit the SBG Heritage Museum to discover all about the site’s heritage and delve deeper into the world of botany at the CDL Green Gallery. Kids can run and play as they learn about plant life at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.

#23 – Marina Bay Sands – A great place to see in Singapore if you love views

• Amazing Singapore skyline views
• Luxury place to stay
• One of the key tourist attractions in Singapore
• Action-packed casino

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2010, the remarkable and distinctive Marina Bay Sands is set next to the water and designed to look like a boat atop a stack of cards. With three soaring towers and a stunning sky deck, the complex has a luxury hotel, a casino, a shopping arcade, restaurants and bars, an exhibition centre, a museum, theatres, an observation deck, and an indoor ice skating rink, among other features. Although you can’t miss the building from the outside, it’s well worth visiting even if you don’t plan on staying here. If you are looking for luxurious accommodation in Singapore, however, you can book here to experience the glamour and grandeur of exceptional services as well as being able to relax in the high infinity-edge pool.

What to do there: Give your credit cards a workout at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, a boutique shopping centre with designer brands and excellent restaurants. Wander alongside the indoor canal and add some romance with a ride on a Venetian-style gondola. Buy tickets for a theatre show, observe incredible vistas from the high observation point, and test Lady Luck in the casino. The whole place is so much more than just a fancy hotel and it’s now a major tourist attraction in the city.

Get insured for your trip to Singapore!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Singapore

What is the most visited place in Singapore?

The most visited attraction in Singapore is Marina Bay Sands or the Gardens by the Bay.

What is the best place to visit in Singapore with children?

Gardens by the Bay has its own garden for children and is a wonderful place to explore as a family.

What is a good place to visit in Singapore at night?

Night Safari is the best thing to do at night as it’s the world’s first nocturnal zoo, so you won’t have many opportunities in life to see this.

What is a fun place to visit in Singapore?

Universal Studios Singapore is one of the most fun attractions in the city.

There really is so much to see and do in Singapore. full of delights for the senses that certainly won’t disappoint. Visit Haji Lane for a spot of bargain hunting in the vibrant market, chill with the locals in East Coast Park, and learn more about the country and wider region in the world-class Asian Civilisations Museum.

Outlying islands like St. John’s Island and Pulau Hantu offer respite from the busy city life and places like MacRitchie Reservoir let you enjoy nature and the great outdoors. Sentosa Island has a well-deserved reputation for fun, you can just grab a ride on the Singapore cable car to get over there!

From shopping, dining, and partying, to cultural experiences and travelling back through Singapore’s history, there are many awesome places to visit in Singapore. Just make sure you don’t get caught chewing gum here !!

With something for all ages and interests and a captivating blend of old and new, Singapore is a fantastic all-around destination. You might even want to consider moving here. If that’s the case, check out our Cost of living in Singapore guide – it’s filled will all of the insider knowledge you need!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Monique MacPhail

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20 Best Things to Do in Singapore + Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

Planning to visit Singapore? This is your comprehensive Singapore Travel Guide featuring the best things to do in Singapore, must-visit tourist spots, places to stay, and sample itinerary and estimated budget.

Singapore is a country that truly has it all. A bustling metropolis with stunning modern architecture and world-class attractions, it’s also a place where history and tradition are deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands complex to the colorful shophouses of Chinatown , there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and dynamic city-state.

What makes Singapore genuinely unique is its ability to blend diverse cultures and traditions into a harmonious whole. As you walk through its bustling streets and colorful neighborhoods, you’ll see Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences come together in a way that’s both fascinating and beautiful.

But Singapore is more than just a cultural melting pot. It’s also a foodie’s paradise, with hawker centers serving up some of the world’s most delicious and diverse street food. It’s a shopper’s haven, with everything from luxury malls to quirky boutiques and street markets. And it’s a place where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously, with stunning parks and gardens providing an oasis of green amidst the bustling cityscape. Find cheap flights to Singapore

START YOUR JOURNEY HERE

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled trip with friends, Singapore has it all. With its warm and welcoming people, incredible food, and an endless array of things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Singapore is one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia. So why not come and experience it for yourself? You won’t be disappointed. Here are the 20 best things to do in Singapore to make your vacation an unforgettable one.

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Explore the Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is a truly breathtaking and unique destination that has become an icon of Singapore. This stunning waterfront park is a true testament to the city-state’s commitment to creating a harmonious blend of nature and technology. As you explore this sprawling park, you’ll be greeted by an array of fantastical “supertrees” that tower over the landscape and light up the night sky.

The massive conservatories are home to an incredible collection of floras and faunas from around the world, making this an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re walking along the waterfront promenade, admiring the view from the top of the supertree grove, or simply taking in the breathtaking beauty of this one-of-a-kind attraction, Gardens by the Bay is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Singapore .

Take a ride on the iconic Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s largest observation wheels , offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from a height of 165 meters. The ride takes about 30 minutes and you can enjoy stunning views of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding islands.

For a truly unforgettable experience, you can also book a private capsule, complete with butler service and champagne, and take in the stunning views of the city in total luxury. The Singapore Flyer is a must-do attraction for anyone visiting Singapore, offering a unique perspective on this beautiful city that you won’t find anywhere else.

Visit the Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore’s most iconic and recognizable landmarks, a true architectural marvel that has become a symbol of the city’s modernity and innovation.

This towering complex features a stunning hotel with over 2,500 rooms, a massive convention center, an upscale shopping mall, and the world-renowned Marina Bay Sands Skypark .

At the top of the hotel, the Skypark offers unparalleled views of the city, with a 360-degree observation deck that allows visitors to take in the panoramic skyline. In addition to the observation deck, the Skypark also features an infinity pool that is one of the world’s most Instagrammed locations.

Discover the history and culture of Singapore at the National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is one of the city’s most important cultural institutions, providing a fascinating insight into the country’s rich history and diverse heritage. The museum’s stunning neoclassical building is an attraction in itself, but the real treasures lie within.

The galleries feature a wide range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts and archaeological finds to multimedia installations that bring the city’s history to life. There are also immersive exhibitions that explore the social and cultural traditions of the many different communities that make up Singapore, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the country’s unique identity.

One of the highlights of the museum is the stunning Glass Rotunda, which features a mesmerizing digital art installation that takes visitors on a journey through the history of the natural world. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating city, the National Museum of Singapore is a must-visit destination that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich culture and heritage of this incredible country.

Walk around the historic Chinatown neighborhood

Singapore’s Chinatown is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that is steeped in history and tradition. This colorful district is filled with ornate temples, bustling street markets, and delicious food stalls, offering a unique and authentic experience for visitors.

One of the highlights of Chinatown is the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , a stunning four-story temple that houses a sacred relic said to be a tooth of the Buddha. The temple is a true masterpiece of architecture and design, with ornate carvings, intricate paintings, and a peaceful rooftop garden that offers a welcome respite from the busy streets below.

Other must-visit spots in Chinatown include the Sri Mariamman Temple , the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and the Chinatown Heritage Centre , a fascinating museum that provides a glimpse into the lives of Singapore’s early Chinese immigrants.

And of course, no visit to Chinatown would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisines, from steaming bowls of noodles to savory dumplings and crispy fried snacks. Whether you’re interested in history, or culture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood, Singapore’s Chinatown is an absolute must-visit tourist spot in Singapore .

Experience stunning architecture and art at the ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum is a unique and fascinating destination in Singapore, showcasing the intersection of art and science in a way that is both educational and engaging. This stunning museum is shaped like a lotus flower and sits on the edge of Marina Bay, offering stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.

The museum’s exhibits are diverse and engaging, ranging from immersive installations that explore the mysteries of the human mind to interactive displays that showcase the latest innovations in technology and design. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is Future World, a multimedia art installation that takes visitors on a journey through a digital universe, featuring stunning light displays, interactive sculptures, and immersive environments that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Explore Resorts World Sentosa

Resorts World Sentosa (RSW) is a sprawling integrated resort complex located on Sentosa Island, offering a wide range of attractions and entertainment options for visitors. This massive destination features a range of luxurious hotels, upscale dining options, a massive casino, and a host of world-class attractions and entertainment venues.

There are many things you can do at RSW, and here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Universal Studios Singapore

A must-visit theme park home to thrilling rides, live shows, and immersive experiences that are inspired by blockbuster movies and popular TV shows.

S.E.A. Aquarium

It is one of the world’s largest aquariums, which features over 100,000 marine animals and more than 1,000 different species.

Adventure Cove Waterpark

A thrilling water park with water slides and aquatic rides.

Dolphin Island

A place where you can get up close and personal with these playful and intelligent creatures.

Join the FunVee Night Tour

The FunVee Night Tour is a unique and memorable way to experience the stunning skyline of Singapore after dark. This tour takes you on a leisurely journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, giving you an opportunity to see the city in a whole new light.

The tour begins at the Suntec City Mall, where you’ll board a comfortable open-top bus and embark on a 3.5-hour journey that takes you past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as Marina Bay Sands , Clarke Quay , and Chinatown . The bus also stops at several vantage points, allowing you to take stunning photos of the glittering skyline.

Visit the iconic Merlion statue

The Merlion statue is one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore and a must-visit destination for any traveler to the city. Located at the Merlion Park, near the Central Business District and Marina Bay, this iconic statue stands at an impressive 8.6 meters tall and features the head of a lion and the body of a fish. The statue symbolizes Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village, and the lion head represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, which means “lion city” in Malay.

The Merlion statue is an important part of Singapore’s cultural heritage, and it has become a symbol of national identity and pride for the people of Singapore. Visitors can get up close to the statue, take photos and selfies, and enjoy the stunning views of Marina Bay and the surrounding skyline.

Explore the futuristic shopping and dining complex at the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a premier shopping destination that offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for visitors to Singapore. This high-end shopping mall is located at the base of the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel and features more than 800,000 square feet of retail space, making it one of the largest malls in Singapore. The mall is home to a wide range of luxury and designer brands, including Chanel, Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as other international and local brands.

Apart from shopping, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is also a dining and entertainment hub, offering a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to every taste and preference. There’s also a range of entertainment options available, such as a skating rink, a 3D museum, a theater, and a casino, making this mall a one-stop destination for fun and relaxation.

The architecture of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is also worth noting. The mall boasts an impressive indoor canal that runs through the center of the mall, complete with gondola rides that offer a unique way to explore the mall’s different sections. The mall’s grand architecture and design, as well as its stunning location at the heart of Marina Bay, make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Singapore .

Take a food tour of Singapore’s famous hawker centers

Singapore is famous for its street food, and you can find some of the best hawker centers in the world here. You can sample a wide range of local dishes, including laksa, char kway teow, and chili crab.

Some of the most famous hawker centers in Singapore that are worth visiting include:

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

This hawker center is one of the largest in Singapore, with over 260 food stalls serving a wide variety of local and international cuisine.

Maxwell Food Centre

Located in the heart of Chinatown, this hawker center is famous for its Hainanese chicken rice, one of Singapore’s national dishes.

Tiong Bahru Market

This hawker center is situated in a hip and trendy neighborhood and offers a wide variety of local dishes, including chwee kueh, a steamed rice cake topped with preserved radish.

Visit the iconic Raffles Hotel and enjoy a Singapore Sling cocktail at the Long Bar

The Singapore Sling is a famous cocktail that was created at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in the early 20th century. The drink is a delicious and refreshing blend of gin, cherry brandy, triple sec, pineapple juice, lime juice, Cointreau, Benedictine DOM, and grenadine, topped off with a dash of Angostura Bitters.

The Long Bar is a historic and iconic establishment that exudes old-world charm and elegance. The bar is known for its classic colonial decor, with rattan chairs, ceiling fans, and wooden floors. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy a drink, with live music and a lively atmosphere.

When you order a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar , you’ll receive a drink that’s made to the original recipe, using only the finest ingredients. The drink is served in a tall glass and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a cherry, making it a visual feast as well as a delicious one.

Drinking a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar is a quintessential Singaporean experience that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail connoisseur, or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, a visit to the Long Bar is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Singapore.

Walk around the picturesque and historic district of Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam is a historic neighborhood in Singapore that is known for its vibrant and colorful culture. This neighborhood is located in the north of the city center and is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.

One of the main attractions of Kampong Glam is the Sultan Mosque , which is one of the most important and recognizable landmarks in Singapore. This impressive mosque is an architectural marvel, with its golden dome and intricate details, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Another popular attraction in Kampong Glam is Haji Lane, a narrow street that is famous for its colorful shophouses and eclectic mix of boutique shops, cafes, and bars. This street is a great place to explore and discover unique gifts, souvenirs, and locally made products.

Kampong Glam is also home to a wide range of restaurants and cafes, serving up delicious local and international cuisine. Visitors can try local delicacies like nasi padang, murtabak, and satay, or indulge in western-style brunches and coffee.

Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a world-renowned botanical garden and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the heart of Singapore. The garden spans over 82 hectares and is home to a vast collection of over 10,000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species.

One of the main attractions of the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the National Orchid Garden, which is home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids. The garden is a feast for the eyes, with colorful blooms and exotic scents, and is a must-see for any visitor to Singapore.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens also features a wide range of other attractions, including several themed gardens, a rainforest trail, and a lakeside boardwalk. Visitors can also enjoy live performances and cultural events at the garden’s historic Bandstand.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is also an important center for research and conservation, with a focus on tropical botany and plant conservation. Visitors can learn more about the garden’s conservation efforts and ongoing research at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and the Botany Centre.

Enjoy a night safari at the Singapore Zoo

The Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to see a variety of nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Located in the northern part of Singapore, the Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo and offers a one-of-a-kind experience for animal lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

The Night Safari features a wide range of activities and exhibits, including a tram ride through the zoo’s seven geographical zones, each featuring different types of animals and habitats. Visitors can also take guided walking tours, watch live animal shows, and participate in a range of interactive exhibits and activities.

One of the highlights of the Night Safari is the Creatures of the Night show, which showcases the unique behavior and abilities of nocturnal animals such as owls, civets, and hyenas. The show also features an impressive display of fire-dancing and pyrotechnics, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Explore the street art and murals in the Tiong Bahru neighborhood

The Tiong Bahru neighborhood in Singapore is a hub of street art and murals, showcasing some of the most vibrant and exciting street art in the city. Tiong Bahru is a popular destination for art lovers, photographers, and anyone interested in exploring Singapore’s thriving street art scene.

One of the highlights of Tiong Bahru’s street art is the Tiong Bahru Art Walk, a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the neighborhood’s alleys and side streets, showcasing a wide range of murals and street art. The walk includes several notable pieces, such as the large-scale murals on the walls of Tiong Bahru Market, the playful and colorful pieces on Eng Watt Street, and the whimsical illustrations and typography on Seng Poh Road.

Tiong Bahru is also home to several dedicated street art galleries and studios, such as the Street Art Studio, which offers a range of workshops, classes, and tours focused on street art and urban culture. The neighborhood is also a popular destination for art events and festivals, such as the annual Tiong Bahru Arts Festival, which showcases a wide range of art and performances from local and international artists.

In addition to its street art scene, Tiong Bahru is also a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, with a range of cafes, bars, and shops that are popular with locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood’s unique blend of historic architecture, hip boutiques, and trendy eateries makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Singapore’s thriving cultural scene.

Go shopping at Orchard Road

Orchard Road is one of the most famous shopping destinations in Singapore, and for good reason. This bustling street is lined with more than 20 shopping malls and department stores, as well as countless boutique shops and designer outlets, making it a true shopper’s paradise.

The shopping experience on Orchard Road is nothing short of spectacular, with a wide range of stores and brands to suit every style and budget. Visitors can find everything from high-end luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, to more affordable fashion chains like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo. There are also plenty of local boutiques and specialty stores, offering unique and one-of-a-kind finds that can’t be found anywhere else.

One of the highlights of shopping on Orchard Road is the variety of experiences on offer. In addition to traditional stores and boutiques, visitors can also find cutting-edge tech products at places like the Apple Store and the Samsung Experience Store, as well as luxury car showrooms and pop-up shops showcasing the latest trends in fashion and lifestyle.

Another key feature of shopping on Orchard Road is the atmosphere. The street is always bustling with activity, and there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to take a break from shopping and enjoy a coffee, a meal, or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the street.

Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore

iFly Singapore is an indoor skydiving facility located near Sentosa Island in Singapore. Here, visitors can experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe and controlled environment, with the help of state-of-the-art equipment and experienced instructors.

The experience begins with a training session where visitors learn the basics of indoor skydiving, including body position and hand signals. After that, visitors are outfitted in a jumpsuit, helmet, and goggles and led to a wind tunnel, which simulates the experience of freefalling from an airplane.

Once inside the wind tunnel, visitors are lifted into the air by powerful fans, creating a sensation of weightlessness that is both exhilarating and unforgettable. The experience is suitable for visitors of all ages and skill levels, and the instructors are trained to work with visitors with special needs or physical limitations.

iFly Singapore is a unique and exciting way to experience the thrill of skydiving, without the risks associated with the real thing. It’s perfect for those looking for a fun and memorable activity in Singapore, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a day out with friends or family.

Take a selfie at the iconic Jewel Changi

Jewel Changi is a world-class lifestyle destination located at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The iconic building features a stunning glass and steel dome, surrounded by lush gardens and waterfalls, making it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.

One of the most popular things to do at Jewel Changi is taking a selfie against the backdrop of the stunning HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. This magnificent waterfall stands at 40 meters tall, and it’s surrounded by lush greenery, making it an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Another popular selfie spot at Jewel Changi is the Shiseido Forest Valley, which is a four-story indoor garden that’s home to over 900 trees and 60,000 shrubs. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admiring the beautiful flora and fauna, and take plenty of selfies along the way.

Jewel Changi also offers a wide range of other photo-worthy spots, including the Canopy Park, which is a rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the airport and city skyline, and the Hedge Maze, which is a unique and fun maze made of hedges that provides plenty of opportunities for fun and playful selfies.

chase sunset at siloso beach

Siloso Beach is a slice of paradise nestled on Sentosa Island, one of Singapore’s top tourist destinations. Known for its sparkling azure waters, soft sandy beaches, and lush tropical greenery, Siloso Beach offers visitors the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With a range of activities to enjoy, from water sports to beach volleyball, live music performances, and delicious food and drinks, Siloso Beach is the ideal spot to soak up the sun, have fun, and make unforgettable memories. And, when the sun sets, the beach transforms into a magical place, offering a breathtaking view of the horizon and the perfect backdrop for romantic walks, picnics, or selfies. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a honeymoon, or a family on vacation, Siloso Beach is the perfect place to unwind and experience the best of what Singapore has to offer.

Top Tourist Spots in Singapore You Shouldn’t Miss

Here are 10 top tourist spots in Singapore that you shouldn’t miss:

• Marina Bay Sands – The iconic Marina Bay Sands is an architectural wonder, featuring a luxurious hotel, a massive shopping mall, and the famous SkyPark Observation Deck.
• Gardens by the Bay – These beautiful gardens feature stunning waterfront views, diverse plant life, and the spectacular Supertree Grove.
• Sentosa Island – Located just off the southern coast of Singapore, Sentosa Island is a popular attraction for beach lovers, thrill-seekers, and nature enthusiasts.
• Universal Studios Singapore – Part of the Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore features thrilling rides, live shows, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
• Merlion Park – The Merlion is a symbol of Singapore and a must-visit for first-time visitors. The park offers beautiful views of Marina Bay and the iconic Merlion statue.
• Chinatown – This colorful district is a hub of history, culture, and delicious food. The streets are lined with traditional shops, food stalls, and historical landmarks.
• Clarke Quay – This bustling riverside district offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.
• Singapore Botanic Gardens – This UNESCO World Heritage site features stunning gardens, tropical flora, and the famous National Orchid Garden.
• Little India – A vibrant and colorful neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Indian culture and traditions, with beautiful temples, shops, and street markets.
• ArtScience Museum – Located within Marina Bay Sands, this museum showcases a range of fascinating and interactive exhibits, exploring the intersection of art and science.

Singapore Itinerary & estimated budget

Here is a sample itinerary for a 4-day trip to Singapore, along with an estimated budget for each activity and total trip cost. Please note that these are estimates and may vary based on your preferences and travel style.

• Visit the Merlion Park
• Visit the ArtScience Museum (Php826 admission fee) – Buy discounted ticket
• Explore the Marina Bay Sands (Php950 to access the SkyPark Observation Deck) Buy discounted ticket
• Enjoy the light show at the Gardens By the Bay (7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 9:00 pm)
• Catch Spectra, Singapore’s nightly light show at MBS
• Estimated budget: Php3,000 inclusive of food, transportation
• Visit the National Museum of Singapore (Php620 admission fee) – Buy discounted ticket
• Explore Singapore Chinatown (free)
• Go shopping at Orchard
• Estimated budget: Php2,000 for attractions , food, and transpo + shopping allowance
• Visit Resorts World Sentosa (Php3,389 for a one-day pass to Universal Studios) – Buy discounted ticket
• Enjoy the FunVee Night Tour (Php950 for a 3.5-hour tour) – Buy discounted ticket
• Try the Singapore Sling cocktail at the Long Bar (Php1,200)
• Estimated budget: Php7,500
• Visit Kampong Glam (free)
• Go on a food trip
• Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens (free)
• Enjoy the Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo (Php2,046 admission fee + tram ride) – Buy discounted ticket
• Estimated budget: Php4,000

Total estimated budget for the 4-day trip: Php20,000 (excluding accommodation and airfare to Singapore ). Please note that this is just an estimate, and your actual budget may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.

More sample and detailed Singapore itinerary :

• 2-3 days Singapore itinerary
• 5 Days 4 Nights Singapore itinerary

Where to Stay in Singapore

Singapore has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are a few popular areas to consider when looking for a place to stay:

• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
• Marina Bay Sands Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental Singapore
• Hilton Singapore Orchard – Luxury
• YOTEL Singapore Orchard – Mid-range
• Hotel Supreme – Budget
• Park Regis Singapore – Luxury
• ibis budget Singapore Clarke Quay – Mid-range
• BEAT. Capsule Hostel – Budget
• Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Beach Road – Luxury
• Hotel Grand Pacific – Mid-range
• Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel @ Kampong Glam – Budget
• Bliss Hotel Singapore
• Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel @ Chinatown
• ibis budget Singapore Crystal
• Hotel 81 Premier Hollywood
• CapsulePod@Aljunied

Singapore is truly a destination that promises a one-of-a-kind travel experience. From its stunning architecture to its rich cultural heritage, and from its bustling shopping districts to its tranquil parks, Singapore surely has something to offer for every type of traveler. So why not start planning your next adventure to this amazing city-state? With its world-class attractions, excellent infrastructure, and friendly locals, you’re sure to have a memorable and unforgettable trip to Singapore!

Discounted Singapore Tours

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Singapore Travel Guide

Asia's smallest and most diverse country, where modern skyscrapers meet traditional temples and luscious rainforests.

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Singapore has tropical rainforest weather for most of the year, bringing high humidity and temperatures. The monsoon season occurs from November to January, whereas June to August sees drier, hotter days.

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Why is Singapore worth visiting?

A fantastic blend of cultures, languages, traditional buildings, and towering skyscrapers exist in harmony in cosmopolitan Singapore! The jaw-dropping skyline, home to innovative architecture, is peppered with traditional Buddhist and Hindu temples — set against a backdrop of luscious rainforests.

Is Singapore cheap to visit?

There’s no doubt that Singapore is one of the world’s most expensive cities to visit. Luxury is in the air, with upscale hotels costing around $200-400 a night and hostels upwards of $25. Although it might not be a backpacker’s dream, there’s still a way to visit Singapore on a budget; head for the hawker stalls in the markets or Little India, where you can find cheap local eats from $5.

Can I drink tap water in Singapore?

Singapore has some of the best hygiene standards in the world, with exceptional water quality treatment. This means you can drink from the tap worry-free! Pack your reusable water bottle in an effort to reduce plastic and fill up at hotels and restaurants throughout your trip. 

Do I need a visa for traveling in Singapore?

Great news! Most tourists can enjoy Singapore visa-free for between 30-90 days, depending on your nationality. However, checking your country’s entry requirements in advance is always recommended, as some places are subject to stricter visa rules. 

What language do they speak in Singapore?

Singapore is a melting pot of different nationalities, meaning you’ll hear several languages spoken on the streets. Although Malay is the national language used for road signs and important documents, the primary language spoken by most people is Mandarin (you’ll also hear Tamil). Moreover, due to its colonial British past, most of the population also widely uses English, so you’ll always be able to be understood on your trip.

Do I need travel insurance for Singapore?

Travel insurance is your safety net for your vacation in Singapore, protecting you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care. Go indoor surfing or bungee jumping, get a bird’s eye view from the Singapore Flyer, or zoom around on Sinapore’s thrilling Formula 1 Circuit.

Is Singapore safe?

Singapore has strict laws designed to keep locals and travelers safe. The crime rate is extremely low, and cleanliness is paramount. In fact, it’s illegal to chew gum in order to keep the streets as clean as possible. As with all destinations, keep an eye on your belongings in case of pickpockets, especially if you find yourself in busy places like the subway, festivals, or events. 

What power plug type does Singapore have?

Singapore uses type G (the same as in the UK), a three-rectangular-pronged electrical plug. However, type C (European) plugs are also used throughout the nation, meaning it’s a good idea to carry an adapter. Don’t worry if you forget; you can always buy one at the airport or stores in the city.

Why do people love Singapore?

Singapore has a unique atmosphere that is hard to beat, teeming with people from all over the world who have chosen to call this tiny country home. This cosmopolitan city offers luxury vacation experiences for travelers with endless 5-star hotels, infinity pools, spas, and rooftop cocktail bars across the skyline. However, it’s also popular for backpackers who want to dive into its buzzing markets, street food, botanical gardens, and fantastic free activities like the Sky Garden.

Traveling in Singapore

A vacation in Singapore is second to none; you get all the benefits of exploring an entire country but with the compact size of a city! The incredibly safe and vibrant metropolis offers everything a traveler could want: dine on cheap street food and peruse bustling markets, sip on zesty cocktails in luxury rooftop lounges, or head into the neighboring jungle for nature adventures.

How to Plan Your Trip to Singapore

Follow our Singapore travel guide to plan your ideal city trip, where you’ll find all our top tips for cultural and gastronomical highlights. Singapore is often a stop-off point for travelers heading to Australia or other destinations in Asia , and as such, it caters excellently to those looking to relax and refresh. Luxury is found on every street corner here, where you’ll find five-star hotels with rooftop pools, endless cocktail bars, high-end restaurants, and spas aplenty. There’s even a rooftop pool at Singapore Changi Airport for those who want a quick dip before or after their flight! Discover all the best places in Singapore by following our complete travel guide.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Looking for the best time to plan your Singapore holiday ? Find out about the climate in Singapore with this seasonal information.

Hot Season (June-August): Singapore is nearly always humid; however, June to August sees the lowest humidity and the hottest and driest months. During this time, temperatures soar to between 32-34 °C. Although this season is the warmest, it’s the most popular because of the lower humidity, attracting sightseers and those looking to escape the cooler temperatures in countries like Australia and New Zealand . This makes it the busiest season for tourism, with hotel prices rising and tours and accommodation getting booked quickly. 

Tip: Book a hotel with a rooftop pool to cool down after a morning of sightseeing.

Wet Season (November-Jan) : Singapores sees heavy rainfall during this time, but rest assured, it won’t last long! The wet season in Singapore sees short, heavy rains (generally accompanied by mesmerizing thunderstorms), so although you might have to shelter for a moment, you’ll be back out sightseeing in no time. This is also the best time for backpacking in Singapore as it’s the low season with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. 

Cool Season (December-February): Temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round in Singapore, but for the coolest temperatures, consider December to February the best time to visit Singapore. During this time, temperatures are milder (25 – 30 °C), making it an excellent time for exploring the city and making the most of outdoor activities in the city’s jungle fringes. Please note that Christmas makes December one of the most popular times to visit, and accommodation and tours can be more expensive, so book well in advance.

Coastlines and Beaches in Singapore 

Although Singapore is not known for its coastline, it is home to some beautiful urban beach spots. Sentosa Island, in particular, is deemed by locals as one of the best places to visit in Singapore , home to several lovely beaches like Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach. The island is mainly known for its water parks and beach clubs and is considered more of an entertainment destination rather than for beach relaxation.

East Coast Park is another popular spot, offering respite from the city and popular with families who flock to its shores for rollerblading, picnics, and BBQs. Although the waters aren’t the clearest, locals and tourists alike love the space for outdoor activities — it’s the perfect place to rent a bike and explore the unexpected natural surroundings of this sprawling urban jungle.

More natural experiences can be found in the jungle and nature reserves surrounding the city, which are just a bus ride away! Spend your vacation in Singapore spotting monkeys in the rainforest canopy in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Faber, or get your adrenaline pumping as you look for crocodiles and monitor lizards in the spectacular Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. 

Wherever you choose, the countless natural experiences in Singapore make it one of the most unique cities to visit in the world! There’s nowhere else where you can sip coffee under lofty skyscrapers in the morning and be immersed deep in a serene jungle landscape by afternoon. Zipline across Sentosa Island, gaze in wonder at the waterfalls of the cloud forest, and cross suspension bridges in the forest canopy at MacRitchie Reservoir —  Singapore is not to be missed!

Food, Culture, and Religion in Malaysia 

As a city-state with a long history of colonization and immigration, Singapore is one of the most incredible melting pots of different cultures and religions. Instead of these differences being divisive, the community is incredibly harmonious, with groups of people from all different backgrounds coming together to share and enjoy various traditions. This makes Singapore travel a truly fascinating experience. 

Religion: There is not one predominant faith in Singapore. Instead, the city sees the practice of Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, and the lesser-known Taoism (a philosophy indigenous to China). Because of the unique range of religions that co-exist here, travelers will find an incredible array of temples in the city, with some of the most famous being the beautiful red Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the pristine white cathedral of St Andrews, which stands out among the contemporary skyscrapers of Singapore’s central business district. 

Food: The food scene in Singapore is iconic and is one of the main things to enjoy about a holiday in Singapore ! The city’s multiculturalism has created a haven of flavors, from the spices of authentic Indian food to the cheap and fragrant hawker stalls in Chinatown. Chinese and Malaysian influences come together to produce Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Nasi Lemak. Alternatively, you can dine on the most delicious Roti and Biryani curry under the colorful facades of vibrant Little India. International dishes have also made their way to the city, with an upscale dining scene led by famous chefs from all over the world, each pushing new innovational recipes and gastronomical wonders. 

Experience a mix of everything; eat curry with your hands as you sit on stools on the street edge in Little India, sample a delicacy from each vendor in the busy hawker centers, or reserve a table at one of the Michelin Star restaurants, dining on regional delicacies while drinking in night time city views. There’s a dish and a restaurant for every traveler; enjoying the food is one of the best things to do in Singapore ! 

Tip: Make sure to try the Hawker favorite: Char Kway Teow, a delicious wok noodle dish from China (usually served on a banana leaf with a squeeze of lime!).

Culture: The culture in Singapore is vibrant, warm, and a testament to the harmony and cohesion of the community. With so many languages, faiths, and nationalities living together in the same area, the city offers a unique social landscape where blended families and friends come together to celebrate each other’s religious holidays, traditional plates, and dialects. In fact, the icon of Singapore represents precisely this: look out for the Merlion, a statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish that represents the humble beginnings of Singapore as a fishing village and a fusion of cultures. On your vacation in Singapore , celebrate world-famous religious festivals like Chinese New Year and Deepavali, and learn more about the arts, such as Malay dance, Chinese opera, or Indian songs. 

The intermingling of religion , culture , and delicious food makes traveling in Singapore a multicultural feast for the senses!

Why You Should Travel to Singapore

A city of endless possibilities; that’s why Singapore is so infectious! Exciting contrasts meet you at every corner, from the fusion of cultures and religions to the juxtaposition between tradition and modernity. In no city can you find such a landscape of extremes, where a monkey-inhabited rainforest grows between innovative architectural wonders. With so much to explore and the addictive personality of this magical city, there’s always more to see on another vacation in Singapore !

Visitors are mainly drawn to Singapore for the luxury restaurants, hotels, and fantastic shopping in one of the world’s cleanest and most beautiful cities. But Singapore isn’t just about glamor – there’s ancient history and tradition to be found, too, among the numerous temples, colonial buildings, and authentic streets of districts like Little India and Chinatown. It’s something special that in 24 hours, you can wander under traditional lanterns and temples, see monitor Lizards in the wild, and dine on the most luxurious food — all in one place!

For a bucket list activity on your Singapore holiday , head to the unforgettable Gardens by the Bay, where you can see one of the most spectacular free light shows, accompanied by music that echoes from avatar-like structures. Or for those who like their days accompanied by a little adrenaline, ride the rollercoasters at Universal Studios, go ziplining at Sentosa Island, or be blown away by the G-force of the cars at the Singapore Grand Prix! 

Safety and Travel Advice in Singapore

Singapore is one of the safest countries to travel to, with the government working hard to ensure the security of travelers and residents. However, like any destination, it’s always good to exercise precaution on your travels. Use the following information to help you get the most out of your journey. 

Natural Disasters: Singapore is unlikely to experience any natural disasters. However, thunderstorms are frequent during the wet season (November to January). Always keep an eye on the weather, and take shelter indoors during storms. Stay informed by registering with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip.

Crime and safety in Singapore: Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates globally! Nevertheless, exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night, sticking to well-lit spots with more people, and being extra vigilant in crowded places and when withdrawing cash at ATMs. 

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic in Singapore: The infrastructure in Singapore is fantastic, and strict traffic rules keep people safe. The government has enforced high costs to own and drive a car in Singapore (to keep congestion low), so it’s unlikely you’ll drive on your trip. Rest assured, though, the public transport system is fantastic and is the best way to get around on your vacation in Singapore .

Cultural Sensitivity: Singapore has an incredibly diverse range of faiths, and everyone lives harmoniously and respectfully. Adhere to their customs and traditions by covering up when visiting places of worship, removing shoes before entering temples and people’s homes, and asking permission to take photos of local people. Please note that public displays of affection are often frowned upon.

Drugs and Drinking: Singapore has very strict drug laws and high penalties for possession. Always consume alcohol responsibly, bearing in mind that drunken and disorderly behavior is sanctioned and can lead to fines or even arrest.

Note: Chewing gum is not sold in Singapore (its sale is completely banned!). You can be fined for chewing, so avoid bringing it into the country. This is part of the government’s efforts to keep the city clean. 

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things you must do before your Singapore holiday is purchase travel insurance. This gives you assurance for unexpected accidents – for example, an injury, canceled flight, or lost baggage. Please note that Singapore has high medical care costs, so ensure you have comprehensive insurance covering high medical expenses. Check out these best travel insurances .

11 things to know before visiting Singapore

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan for your trip to Singapore with these things you should know and insider tips © Jakub Zajic / Getty Images

Singapore has a well-cultivated image of being a safe country .

Too safe perhaps for some, who balk at its infamously strict rules and fines for flouting them, and find the gleaming modern city too sanitized for their liking. Others appreciate the clean streets and manicured gardens amidst the tall buildings along with the intriguing mix of people that make up Singapore’s multifaceted culture.

As a Singaporean who’s lived here all her life (and who has always had to explain the country to fellow travelers in foreign hostel common rooms) here’s what you need to know about Singapore, its cultural landscape, and its local customs and quirks, to help you plan your trip to the Little Red Dot.

1. Singapore is small, but with lots to see and do

Compact Singapore takes less than an hour to drive from end to end but there’s a lot packed into this small country. For a first-time visitor, three to four days is usually sufficient to see the main highlights and get a feel of the top things to do in Singapore . 

If you’re really short on time, plan a layover with at least 5.5 hours and you can join one of three free transit tours organized by the excellent Changi Airport for a quick taster of what the country has to offer.

2. Pack for the tropics

Practically located on the equator, expect hot tropical weather ranging from 25 to 35ºC (77 to 95ºF) every single day in Singapore. A small umbrella is essential in case of scorching rays or sudden downpours.

What can be tough for those used to temperate climates is Singapore’s high humidity – 60 to 90% on average throughout the year, so be prepared to sweat it out. Pack light materials or bring a small fan or hankie around with you. Anyone basking under the afternoon sun who’s not on the beach is definitely a tourist – be sure to slap on the sunblock!

Funnily enough, it tends to be a lot colder indoors than outdoors because shopping malls and central cooling overcompensate for the heat.

A scarf or a light jacket will keep you warm, offer extra sun protection and are the perfect cover-up if you plan to visit religious buildings.

3. Singapore is an independent country 

With a majority Chinese population, some people mistakenly assume that Singapore is a part of China, which is not the case. Most Chinese Singaporeans are descendants of southeastern Chinese immigrants who sailed across the seas decades ago. 

Singapore may be hard to spot on a map, but you’ll find it just south of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia, four hours away from China by plane. On that note, despite its proximity and commonalities in shared culture and history, Singapore is also not a part of Malaysia, though it was very briefly back in 1963 before Singapore became fully independent in 1965, making next year – 2025 – the 60th anniversary of the republic.  

4. Most Singaporeans speak excellent English

Singapore is an easy place for Western tourists to explore on their own because of the widespread use of English here. Fun fact: Singapore actually has four official languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil represent the three major ethnic groups found here (Chinese, Malay and Indian respectively), and English is the main language used in schools and for business, which also allows for conversation across ethnicities.

5. Natural disasters are unlikely in Singapore 

Singapore may not have scenic mountain ranges or awe-inspiring topography, but it’s also out of the path of any major tectonic movement. You are unlikely to face any major natural disasters – no earthquakes, volcanos, typhoons or sandstorms here.

In the worst case, there may be flash floods during particularly rainy periods or haze blanketing the island from forest fires around the region, but these are usually temporary and minor inconveniences.

6. Singapore is a safe and stable place to visit 

Singapore is also well-known for its generally stable political and business climate, often ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Strikes that can disrupt travel plans are practically nonexistent here.

The crime rate in Singapore is also relatively low with lots of surveillance and a police force that people trust in. As a single woman, I’ve never been too worried about wandering around Singapore on my own even at night, but do maintain some common sense for your own safety as one of our popular slogans here goes: low crime doesn’t mean no crime.

7. Carry both cash and credit cards

How many Singapore dollars you change before your trip largely depends on where you plan to go . Most major tourist attractions and shops in shopping malls will accept credit cards, and other cashless options like contactless payments and smart wallets are also common.

Those planning to take public transport in Singapore can use their credit cards on the public buses and MRT card readers for convenience, but purchasing a local EZ-Link card or transport pass may be more worthwhile depending on how much travel you plan to do. However, do carry some cash around with you as it remains the prevalent method of payment for most small businesses, eating at hawker center stalls, or taking a taxi. Try to break notes of larger denominations ($50/$100) into smaller ones ($2/$5/$10) when possible.

8. Prebook attractions to avoid waiting in line

There’s a joke that a Singaporean’s favorite pastime is to queue for things, but that’s not something you want to waste time on. If there is an option to prebook tickets online or make a reservation, just do it. This is key on busy weekends and peak vacation periods like the mid- and year-end school holidays.

An attraction’s official website is usually the best place to get tickets, but browse other booking platforms before you check out as these sites may offer special seasonal discounts or multi-bundle prices. Also check the Visit Singapore website as it sometimes runs incentive programs for tourists.

9. Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not expected in Singapore. If you’re eating out in a restaurant or cafe, there is usually a 10% service charge included in the bill. Some places may have a tip box but otherwise, additional tips are not mandatory or expected, though they are appreciated in the service line.

10. Understand the art of "chope-ing"

If you are eating at food centers or working at co-working spaces, particularly within the central business district, you may notice empty tables with strategically placed items like umbrellas, tissue packets or lanyards on the seats. This is a local practice to "chope" or reserve a seat while everyone is queuing up at the stalls. Most people honor this informal reservation system and will look elsewhere for available seats.

11. Yes, you can drink the tap water

There's no need to buy bottled water in Singapore. The tap water here is treated and perfectly safe to drink. You'll find that most attractions have water coolers where you can refill your reusable bottles while you're out and about during the day.

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

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TOP THINGS TO DO in SINGAPORE in 2024

Huin Ling Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Singapore may be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but it has also acquired a slew of other recognitions, including cleanest, best developed, and possibly most entertaining. With that in mind, here are the activities to remember Singapore by.

Pro Tip: Save this post into a Singapore folder on your browser or mobile so you don’t have to scramble for inspiration (or simply plan them straight into your itinerary!).

Top 13 Things To Do In Singapore 

Singapore may be one of the world’s smallest cities, but there are plenty of major attractions, sights to visit, grounds to start exploring, and off-the-beaten-path spots to uncover in this modern city!

Visit the Lion City for a few days and smell the blooms at Gardens by the Bay, brace yourself for the highest dual Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon rollercoaster at Universal Studios, and learn about Singapore’s rich culture and people at the museums.

Don’t know where to begin? Allow us to show you the best of what Singapore has to offer in terms of things to do, see, eat, shop, and simply enjoy yourself.

13. Get your hawker food fix at Lau Pa Sat

The market’s unique octagonal shape and ornate columns, located in the center of the business district, were designed by George Coleman. Many of Singapore’s notable colonial buildings, such as the Old Parliament House, were planned by the famed Irish architect.

Prepare to be amazed by the numerous delectable dining options available within this historic structure. From local cuisines to well-loved international specialties, you’ll sure be spoiled for choices all in one place! Simply alight at the Downtown MRT Station and walk 300m down Central Boulevard road to reach this food paradise.

Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582

12. Explore contemporary African cuisine at Kafe Utu

$$$ | African | Indoor & Outdoor Seating

As a café by day and a bar by night, Kafe Utu has a unique concept. The first of its sort in Singapore, Kafe Utu used a Kenyan theme for its design and menu.

Simply a five-minute walk from Outram Park MRT, its location is somewhat hidden, so blink and you might miss it. Check out our article to find out the Top 10 Restaurants we highly recommend.

Remember to take some great shots of yourself enjoying the food with your loved ones because this café is brimming with Instagrammable beauty!

Address: 12 Jiak Chuan Rd, Singapore 089265

11. Say ‘Cheese’ at the Madame Tussauds

In this internationally renowned waxwork museum, rub shoulders with A-listers – sort of – and take photos with Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp and their Hollywood friends. Aside from international superstars like Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee, tourists can also pose with local heroes and celebrities like Gurmit Singh and Jack Neo.

I recall going to the museum at 2pm and staying for around 3 hours, so you can roughly estimate how long you’ll be there. We had a fantastic time during our visit because of the variety of activities inside. The wax figures are really remarkable, and the majority of them are extremely lifelike. 

I’d say it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re visiting Sentosa island because they have more than just the wax figures; they also have the Spirit of Singapore boat ride and Marvel Universe 4D unique to the Singapore branch in Asia!

Address: 40 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore 099700

Admission Cost: Depends on the package chosen

10. Take a speed thrill down Skyline Luge Sentosa

All Mario Kart enthusiasts, take your go-kart adventures from your mobile screen to real life with the Luge! It’ll take you twisting and turning through a sloped trail in a momentum-powered kart.

You don’t need a driver’s license to ride the Skyline Luge. The roads winding through the forest are beautiful on their own. But here’s a tip: If you want to see the entire track illuminated up with multi-colored neon lights, go at night.

You can also choose to ride the Skyride, a chairlift that will take you above the treetops, for another round of Luge ride! All these are within a short walking distance from Madame Tussauds.

Address: 1 Imbiah Rd, Singapore 099692

Admission Cost: Depends on the combo package chosen

9. Go on a bicycle adventure in Coney Island

Coney Island is tucked away in Punggol, near Punggol Waterway Park. This beautiful island is home to wild flowers, wildlife (including otters, butterflies, and birds), and peaceful beaches. Excellent for a day of cycling!

There are two ways in. The West Entrance is for visitors arriving from Punggol, while the East Entrance is for visitors arriving from Pasir Ris.

To avoid the scorching sun, visit early in the morning. Although large trees shade most of Coney Island, places beyond the park and at Punggol Settlement don’t. Remember that the park is closed between 7pm and 7am.

Address: Serangoon Island

Admission Cost: Free

8. Uncover Orchard Road’s history at our conservation site, Emerald Hill

Emerald Hill is a residential and conservation neighborhood adjacent to The Centrepoint mall. It is located near Orchard Road and was originally home to numerous members of the Peranakan population in the city state. Many of its homes are designed in the Chinese Baroque style.

It’s the place to go if you want to learn about heritage culture, and I’m sure it’ll be “food” for your camera. If you’re in the neighborhood of Orchard Road, this gorgeous and colourful ancient street is worth a stroll to see the amazing architecture.

Please keep in mind that there are people living in those houses, thus noise should be kept to a minimum and privacy should be honoured.

Address: Emerald Hill

7. Get (temporarily) tattooed with henna designs in Little India

Henna art is influenced by Arabian and Moroccan cultures. It is a natural dye that is used to stain skin and hair for many many years. In Indian culture, henna is a popular beauty art and is used to create swirling patterns that can last up to three weeks.

In the Little India Arcade building and along Buffalo Road, you’ll be able to find henna artists. Expect to pay as little as S$5 for a modest design on one hand and as much as S$15 for complex designs on both. If you’re confident with your artistic abilities, you can also buy henna paste in Little India.

Address: 48 Serangoon Rd, #02-07, Singapore 217959

Cost: Depends on the type of design chosen

6. Stay at a heritage hotel

Stay at Raffles Singapore, our most exquisite colonial-style hotel, and travel back in time. If you like romantic strolls down the Singapore River, stay at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore , which was previously a post office — it’s luxurious, though expensive rooms will have you exclaiming in joy.

The Lion City may be a young nation, but she sure has its rich history. Discover more heritage hotels in Singapore and treat yourself to a culturally enriching stay during your visit.

Location, Photos, and Booking

5. Shop til you drop at Singapore’s largest outlet mall, IMM

This enormous mall in the West is a shopper’s paradise. Serious consumers may take advantage of discounts from high-end retailers such as Calvin Klein Jeans, Club 21, British India, Benjamin Barker, Charles & Keith, Adidas, Club 21 and others. 

Don’t want to spend full price for athletic equipment or designer clothes? There are plenty of bargains to be grabbed at IMM, where over 90 brands house their previous season collections. All year long, prices are reduced by up to 80%, ensuring that you get the best bargain possible.

Address: 2 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore 609601

4. Seek inspirational street arts at Haji Lane

Some artists, such as the world-famous Banksy, take their work to the streets. While Singapore has tight rules regarding street art in public areas, we do have hotspots that are (legally) brimming with unique and stunning art. 

This lively, all-night neighborhood in the colourful Kampong Glam neighbourhood is dotted with chic bars, cafés, and restaurants – not to mention those gorgeous murals. It’s no surprise that we keep returning to one of our favorite areas.

Address: Haji Ln

3. Visit Gardens by the Bay and smell the blooms

This magnificent, colossal garden is a Singapore landmark. It is surrounded by exotic flora and houses a variety of outdoor and indoor gardens.

The outdoor Heritage Gardens highlight the country’s rich history via flora, while the air-conditioned indoor Flower Dome, Cloud Forest and Floral Fantasy showcase themed displays of vibrant blossoms from different countries. The gigantic Supertrees, on the right side of the illustration, are the major draw. Head there for panoramic views of the gardens!

When everything is back to normal, you may not want to miss the Garden Rhapsody light and music performances with different themes set in different months in Supertree Grove at night. 

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

For more info on tickets & admissions, read my article on How to Visit Gardens by the Bay !

2. Spend the evening strolling in Jewel Changi Airport

This magnificent dome has the world’s biggest indoor waterfall (40 meters tall) as well as over 280 restaurants, retail businesses, and entertainment facilities. 

A&W and Shake Shack’s comfort foods to Violet Oon and Jumbo Seafood’s popularity, a range of eating choices will please your stomach. Then shop at the world’s first Pokémon Center outside of Japan, Singapore’s largest Nike store, and more, all with a breathtaking waterfall in the backdrop!

When everything has returned to normal, enjoy the hourly sound and light show at HSBC Rain Vortex at night, or let your inner kid loose at Canopy Park. There’s also the Changi Experience Studio, which houses a variety of interactive games that demonstrate the effort required to keep Changi Airport running smoothly.

Address: 78 Airport Blvd., Singapore 819666

1. Visit our Jia Jia and Kai Kai, and their Newborn Baby at River Safari

River Safari is an ideal place for outdoor activities for the family. This is a river-themed safari park, known to be the largest freshwater aquarium in the world, with more than 5,000 animals. 

Hop on a boat or walk, face to face with the creatures of the largest rivers in the world (including the Amazon and the Nile). Also, say hello to the giant pandas Jia Jia and Kai Kai, who recently became the parents of Singapore’s first panda cub. Born a few days after Singapore National Day, it is definitely worth a visit! 

Visit the Singapore Zoo and Jurong Bird Park next door, all next to each other to maximize your trip. Buying a Multi-Park ticket package can save money, allowing you to enter the River Safari and its neighbors. And your whole day is sorted!

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Singapore Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Singapore is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s a foodie’s dream, bursting with tasty hawker stalls, delicious Indian food, and fresh seafood. There are hiking trails where you can stretch your legs and beaches for chilling out and soaking up the sun.

Home to around 5.7 million people, Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that gained independence from the British in 1965. It is now one of the world’s leading economic centers in shipping and banking.

Because of its status as a global economic hub, Singapore is expensive by Southeast Asian standards, with everything costing almost double what it does elsewhere in the region. In fact, it consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world!

For this reason, visiting Singapore isn’t as popular with budget travelers compared to affordable destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, or elsewhere in Southeast Asia .

But while most people come here for a couple of days just to see the highlights, the city actually has a lot to offer and requires more time than you might think. Don’t rush your visit if you can afford it; Singapore can fill any schedule.

Use this Singapore travel guide to help plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this lively multicultural metropolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Singapore

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. Eat at the Boat Quay

Boat Quay is the place to go for dining and entertainment. The alfresco pubs and restaurants make Boat Quay ideal for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Try Wakanui for quality Japanese steak cooked over a white oak fire, or Kinara for reasonably priced North Indian cuisine.

2. See the supertrees at Gardens by the Bay

This urban landscaping project is a series of towering metal “supertrees.” There are roughly 200 species of orchids, ferns, and other tropical plants coating their structure. It’s free to walk through the outdoor gardens, but you have to pay 8 SGD for the canopy walk (which is worth doing!) as well as for the stunning Flower Dome and Cloud Forest biodomes .

3. Hang out (and party) on Sentosa

This little island is home to a nighttime light show on the beach and a host of bars, restaurants, and beaches to enjoy. Hang out at Bora Bora Beach Bar or splash out and try the cable car sky dining experience (it isn’t cheap). You can get to Sentosa via the Sentosa Express train (4 SGD). Entering on foot/bicycle is free.

4. Tour the Singapore Zoo

Spanning 70 acres, the Singapore Zoo is massive, boasting over 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are lions, tigers, sun bears, Komodo dragons, primates, and much more! The zoo offers a night safari featuring over 900 different nocturnal animals (41% are endangered). Admission is 44 SGD and the night safari is 48 SGD.

5. Hang with the Merlions

The Merlion is Singapore’s mascot and has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. The original statute (and most impressive Merlion) can be found in Merlion Park, but the 37-meter-tall (121-foot) replica on Sentosa is also pretty cool to see. There is no entrance fee for Merlion Park.

Other Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. admire thian hock keng temple.

Thian Hock Keng (Palace of Heavenly Happiness) is one of the most photogenic buildings in Singapore. The temple originated as a small building that served the local Chinese population. It was expanded in 1840 and made from the finest materials available at the time, paid for by years of donations from the local community. It’s the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea (Chinese immigrants came here to ask for safe passage before leaving to cross the South China Sea). The temple was designated as a national monument in 1973. Admission is free.

2. Explore Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah, located within Singapore’s only remaining stretch of rainforest, is the country’s premier eco-tourism attraction. On the hiking and biking trails, you’ll be able to get up close to the macaques, squirrels, flying lemurs, and various species of birds. The reserve covers over 400 acres and is 30 minutes from the city center. It’s open daily from 7am-7pm. The weekends get really busy, so come during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

3. Wander around Chinatown

Chinatown encompasses two square kilometers of traditional Chinese life, nestled beside the modern Central Business District. This remains the place to get a real sense of Chinese culture within Singapore. The streets are filled with temples, craft shops, stalls, and restaurants and are a great place to pick up a bargain. Head down Chinatown Food Street to find some char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or grilled meats. If you can, eat at Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (aka Hawker Chan), the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is another Michelin-starred hawker stall worth a visit. Like Hawker Chan’s, it’s located in the Maxwell Hawker Center.

4. Eat hawker food

Singapore’s hawker food scene is one of the best in the world. It has been recognized by Michelin in 2016 with the world’s first street food Michelin star and by UNESCO in 2020 with Cultural Heritage status. Whether you go to Newton Food Center (of Crazy Rich Asian fame), to the Old Airport Hawker (many locals’ favorite), or to one of the other 103 centers across the island, you won’t be disappointed and you can grab a cheap meal surrounded by locals. Don’t miss the chili crab, satay, dim sum (dumplings), or nasi lemak (fried chicken with coconut rice). If you’re not sure where to go or what to eat, take a guided food tour!

5. Take a trip to Pulau Ubin

This island lies off the northeastern coast. It’s incredibly different from the modern city; locals still use a diesel generator for electricity and fetch water from wells. Rent a bike and explore the sights, villages, and beaches of this island. To get there, hop on a bumboat from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which costs about 3 SGD and takes 10-15 minutes. There are no fixed departure times — just line up and wait. Very few tourists make it out this way; it’s one of the most off-the-beaten-path things you can do here.

6. Relax in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens lie close to the city and consist of 128 acres of gardens and forest. Founded in 1859, the main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species of orchids. There is also a ginger garden, a rainforest, and various streams and waterfalls to explore. The Botanic Gardens are Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site (and the only tropical botanic garden on UNESCO’s World Heritage List). It’s open daily from 5am-12am, and admission is free to everything except the National Orchid Garden, which is 15 SGD.

7. Eat in Little India

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Little India, where you can get amazing, cheap, and delicious food, fresh vegetables, snacks, and souvenirs. Seek out local favorites like roti prata (pancakes) and teh tarik (“pulled” tea). Make sure you stop off at the Tekka Center, a hawker center with Indian clothing, groceries, and food. The food here is cheap and delicious and makes for an authentic Little India experience.

8. Learn about Singapore’s History

For a more cultural experience, visit the former British naval base of Fort Siloso located on Sentosa. It’s a decommissioned coastal artillery battery the only preserved fort on the coast of Singapore, providing a fantastic look into the city-state’s complicated history. You’ll get to see the coastal guns and the remains of tunnels under the fort. It’s a well-constructed, interactive attraction. Entrance is free.

9. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple

This extremely colorful, ornate temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, built in 1827 in Chinatown. It was constructed in what is known as the Dravidian style and is devoted to the goddess Mariamman, known for curing illnesses and diseases. During the post-war colonial period, it was a hub for community activities and was even the Registry of Marriages for Hindus. Admission is free.

10. Watch a free concert

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts various free concerts at different venues around the country. You might just be lucky enough to catch one of their shows — just check their website for details during your visit.

11. Visit the MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, dating back to 1868. Today, this beautiful and lush city park is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Walk the 8-kilometer (5-mile) treetop hike, with bridges suspended high above the forest floor, where you might see long-tailed macaque monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, owls, and even flying lemurs. In addition to the TreeTop Walk, there’s also a network of walking trails. Admission is free.

12. Visit the National Museum of Singapore

First opened in 1849, this is the oldest museum in Singapore . Learn about the country’s history, culture, and people through the various permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are gold ornaments, 18th-century drawings and artwork, the mace used by King George VI when he declared Singapore a city in 1951, and the Singapore Stone (an indecipherable stone with inscriptions from the 10th century). Admission is 15 SGD.

13. Admire the street art

Singapore has some really incredible street art to admire. While none of it is spontaneous (unauthorized graffiti is illegal), it can be found all over the island. Yip Yew Chong is probably the best-known artist as he has murals everywhere from Chinatown to the East Coast. His images depict scenes from days gone by and range from small pictures to entire walls. Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Little India all have masses of art to look at, as does the east coast, but you can find it on random buildings in most areas. Take a walking tour if you want more detail, or Art Walk Singapore has three self-guided walks outlined on their website.

14. Marvel at the rain vortex in Jewel

Located adjacent to Changi International Airport, Jewel Mall is home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Cascading from the roof, the water falls seven stories (around 130 feet) to the basement through a huge tiered garden. At night it is lit up for a light and music show. There’s more to do at Jewel if you have time including two mazes, a canopy bridge, sky nets, slides, and a topiary walk. It’s free to see the rain vortex and prices range from 5-22 SGD each for the other activities. You can get bundles that work out cheaper.

15. Explore Kampong Glam

Also known by its most popular street, Haji Lane, and as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods. The shophouses here are now stores selling textiles, rugs, and Turkish homewares such as dishes and glass lamps. There are some great Arabic restaurants around here all under the shadow of the enormous golden-domed Sultan Mosque. There’s some street art around here and Haji Lane has some cool eclectic shops by day and a buzzing nightlife with outdoor live music by night. If you have time, check out the Malay Heritage Center (admission is 8 SGD).

16. Get spooked at Haw Par Villa

Hands down the quirkiest thing you can do or see in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is a huge outdoor art gallery. It was built in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw, a millionaire philanthropist one of the men behind Tiger Balm, for his younger brother. Once a theme park for locals, Haw Par Villa was also used as an observation point by the Japanese army during World War II. It’s filled with dioramas depicting Chinese mythology and has recently reopened after a 9-month refurbishment and renovation project. Entry to the grounds is free but the museum — called Hell’s Museum as it includes an exhibit depicting the 10 Courts of Hell — is 18 SGD.

Singapore Travel Costs

A budget hotel room with amenities like air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a TV starts around 65 SGD per night. Most larger chain hotels cost at least 80-110 SGD per night.

Airbnb is available in Singapore, with private rooms starting at 25 SGD per night (though they average closer to 60 SGD). Entire homes/apartments average 85 SGD per night.

Food – As a cosmopolitan hub, Singapore has food from all over the world, however, there is an abundance of Chinese and Indian food, which is usually around 8-9 SGD per meal. Rice or noodles are usually the backbone of most meals, and popular dishes include steamed chicken, chili crab, fishhead curry, satay, and nasi lemak (coconut rice cooked in a pandan leaf). The city’s hawker centers (large halls full of various food stalls) are one of the most popular and cheapest places to try Singapore’s vibrant cuisine.

As for Singaporean specialties, try the seafood, which costs around 20-35 SGD for a main dish. For drinks, beer is typically 8-10 SGD, a glass of wine is about 10-16 SGD, and a cappuccino is around 5 SGD.

There are also plenty of low-cost eateries around Singapore, with street stalls typically selling food for less than 6 SGD per meal. A fast-food burger is around 8-10 SGD while sandwiches at a café are around 11-14 SGD. There are many restaurants offering a set lunch menu for around 12-16 SGD, and a dish at dinner in most casual restaurants is around 20 SGD. After that, the sky is the limit.

If you want to cook your own meals, expect to pay 95 SGD per week for basic staples like rice, noodles, vegetables, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Singapore Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Singapore, expect to spend around 90 SDG per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating at the cheap hawker stalls and in Little India, cooking some meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying nature.

On a more mid-range budget of 175 SGD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheaper hawker stalls, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the zoo and the botanic gardens.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 SGD or more per day, you can eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, stay in a hotel, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SGD.

Singapore Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Singapore isn’t a super cheap destination so you’ll need to tread carefully if you want to avoid blowing your budget. Here are some ways you can save money during your visit:

• Take public transit – Singapore’s public transit system is fast and efficient, making it the best way to get around. Unlimited travel on public transport is 10 SGD per day with a Singapore Tourist Pass. If you’re staying a few days, the pass gets cheaper per day, as a two-day pass is 16 SGD and a three-day pass is 20 SGD.
• Eat on Smith Street – The stalls here offer food for less than 6 SGD and are a great place to sample local snacks.
• Eat cheap – Save money on food by eating in Little India, Chinatown, or the hawker stalls throughout the city. Meals in these places cost only a few dollars and are some of the tastiest around!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with a local for free. You’ll not only save money but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stick to happy hour – Alcohol is expensive in Singapore, so limit your drinking to save money. If you do plan on drinking, stick to the happy hours.
• Avoid bottled water – The tap water here is perfectly fine to drink, so avoid buying water and just refill your bottle. It will save you money and it’s better for the environment! LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Singapore:

• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel

How to Get Around Singapore

Like the MRT, Singapore’s bus system is extensive and efficient. You can use your Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses as well. You can also pay with cash, but it has to be the exact change. A single trip costs between 1.40-2.50 SGD.

Trishaws – Trishaws (like rickshaws) are less popular these days in Singapore, and now they’re largely used for guided tours that cost around 40 SGD for a 30-minute run. Trishaw Uncle is the only licensed trishaw tour operator in the city, offering various guided tours by trishaw.

Taxi – Taxis are comfortable and convenient, but they’re not cheap! All cabs are metered, but there might be surcharges depending on the company and where you’re going. For example, if you’re hiring a taxi from midnight to 6am there is a 50% surcharge on the total metered cost, while rides in the mornings and evenings carry a 25% surcharge. Prices start at 3.20 SGD and then increase by 0.22 SGD every 400 meters. Skip them if you can!

When to Go to Singapore

It’s always a good time to visit Singapore! The island is warm year-round with a tropical climate that boasts daily temperatures in the high 20s°C (80s°F). December to June is the busiest time to visit, especially during the Chinese New Year. February-April is the driest period with the most sunshine and least amount of rain.

Monsoons occur between December-March, with December usually being the rainiest month. The weather is windy, cloudy, and humid.

Late summer and early fall (July to October) are also a good time to visit if you’re hoping to avoid all the tourist traffic. The weather is still pleasant, averaging around 30°C (87°F) each day, and accommodation might be a bit cheaper during this time as well.

How to Stay Safe in Singapore

Singapore is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. In fact, it’s one of the safest countries in the world (it’s currently the 11th safest country).

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t walk home alone at night, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.)

Be aware that penalties for breaking the law here are stiff. For example, you’ll be fined up to 1,000 SGD for things like littering, spitting, and smoking in public. Singapore is also notoriously strict on drugs. If you’re caught even with marijuana in your system you could do jail time. In short, say no to drugs here!

Scams are rare in Singapore, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it when you’re in Singapore. Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Singapore Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Singapore Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Singapore travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

18 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Singapore

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Singapore Travel Guide 2024

Singapore has been in the top ten list of the most visited cities in the world for years. Our small yet beautiful island deserves it as the city has everything to satisfy any need of visitors: a green and safe environment, cultural diversity, delicious food, world-class shopping malls, the latest fashion and electronics, vibrant nightlife, cheap and convenient public transport, and many more.

You are reading the most comprehensive Singapore travel guide [2024 Guide], which covers everything you need to know to have a satisfying trip. Scroll down to discover them all.

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Singapore’s growth trajectory remains intact on improving exports, tourism boost: MAS

SINGAPORE – The Singapore economy is on track for faster growth in 2024, aided by resilient global demand for its exports and above-trend growth in tourism-related industries, the central bank said on April 26.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) maintained its estimate of 1 per cent to 3 per cent GDP growth in 2024, made in November, after the 1.1 per cent expansion in 2023. The main clusters of the economy are converging towards their pre-pandemic growth rates, it said.

“Growth in the trade-related and modern services clusters are expected to improve from last year, while that in the travel-related and domestic-oriented clusters will continue to moderate but stay above trend,” it said in its latest twice-yearly macroeconomic review.

The trade-related sector includes manufacturing and wholesale trade, while the modern services cluster is made up of financial, professional, information technology and media services companies.

The economy will be propelled by the ongoing recovery in the global electronics industry and the expected peaking of interest rates worldwide, said MAS.

Its optimism over Singapore’s outlook follows the International Monetary Fund’s April 16 upgrade of its 2024 global growth forecast to 3.2 per cent, from the 3.1 per cent projection in January 2024 and 2.9 per cent in October 2023.

MAS estimates that the global economy will expand by 3 per cent in 2024, slightly lower than the 3.3 per cent recorded in 2023, as the impact of past interest rate hikes and less supportive fiscal policy in most economies continues to exert a restraining effect on growth.

“Still, the global economy is likely to emerge unscathed in 2024 from the tightening of financial conditions, with economic growth set to become gradually more broad-based over the year,” MAS said. It added that global growth is set to improve to 3.3 per cent in 2025 as central banks start to cut interest rates.

The World Trade Organisation forecasts global merchandise trade to expand by 3.3 per cent in 2024, up from 0.8 per cent in 2023. In tandem, Enterprise Singapore expects the Republic’s non-oil domestic exports to increase by 4 per cent to 6 per cent in 2024 – a turnaround from the 13.1 per cent contraction in 2023.

While manufacturing activity slowed in the first quarter of 2024, MAS said the sector should continue to benefit from the ongoing global recovery in demand for electronic goods, especially for memory chips – a type of semiconductor that stores data.

Meanwhile, major central banks are unlikely to further tighten their monetary policies after having raised interest rates aggressively in the past two years to fight inflation. The benign policy-rate outlook should bolster financial sector activity here, MAS said.

Separate data released later on April 26 showed Singapore’s manufacturing output shrank 9.2 per cent year on year in March. For the first quarter of 2024, manufacturing contracted 1.8 per cent from a year ago, reversing from the 1.8 per cent expansion in the previous quarter.

MAS, in its briefing, said the pullback in electronics output was likely because of some short-term fluctuations in output of the crucial semiconductor segment as the underlying improvement in the global tech cycle remains broadly intact.

Nonetheless, Singapore’s short-term prospects will be underpinned by the upturn in the global tech cycle, and the expected start of the reversal of global monetary policy tightening, said MAS.

The modern services cluster also contracted in the January to March period, led by weaker performances across finance and insurance, professional services, and information and communications.

MAS said growth in the tourism-related industries should taper from the first-quarter boost from an unprecedented line-up of large-scale concerts.

Singapore experienced a surge in tourism activity as concerts held by internationally renowned artists Coldplay in January and Taylor Swift in March drew more than half the audience from abroad.

International visitor arrivals rose by 26 per cent in the first quarter from the previous three months and were up a significant 50 per cent compared with the same period in 2023.

Private sector analysts have estimated the tourism receipts generated by the concerts in Singapore ranged from $350 million to $450 million, depending on the assumptions made, such as the proportion of foreign visitors among the concertgoers and the length of stay in Singapore. But the concert bonanza is unlikely to be sustained through the rest of 2024.

Still, tourism-related growth will be underpinned by upcoming events of a smaller scale, as well as the continued recovery of Chinese tourist arrivals following the removal of remaining travel frictions, MAS noted.

The global economy has been surprisingly resilient, despite significant central bank interest rate hikes to restore price stability. However, the pace of disinflation in Singapore’s major trading partners, especially the advanced economies, has slowed after significant progress last year.

MAS warned that a delayed and slower pace of monetary easing in advanced economies could trigger latent financial vulnerabilities and consequently weigh on growth. Additionally, geopolitical risks or extreme weather events could result in supply-driven price hikes of goods and commodities.

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