top 20 places to visit in singapore

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.

More on Singapore

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Courtesy of Westend61 | Getty Images

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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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.

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Mark Ellwood

Chris Schalkx

Emily Saladino

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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30 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Singapore

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 10, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Of all the beautiful destinations of the Pacific island-nations, there is something uniquely magical about the island of Singapore.

You may be wondering what makes Singapore distinctive from the other island-nations in the Pacific, you can rest assured that there are a wide variety of things to do in Singapore—many of which do not require swimwear.

The essential attractions to see, places to visit , and the top points of interest in this lush and scenic garden paradise are multiple, and utilizing a well-researched travel guide will save you time by selecting the attractions that are indispensable in the Lion City.

For a quicker read, here is a comprehensive list compiled just for you.

Table of Contents

1. Explore The Gateway To Singapore At Jewel Changi Airport

Square Box Photos / Shutterstock

Few destinations bring the distinctive wonder of their locale to life like Singapore—which presents a grand overview of their island culture before you even leave the airport.

The Jewel Changi Airport is the latest attraction in Singapore and you will not find it listed in most travel guides.

It is an easy point of interest for your trip as it greets you as soon as your plane lands.

Jewel Changi combines the paramount features of a high-end airport terminal with several innovative features that integrate shopping and dining convenience with the essential themes of Singaporean culture.

Upon departure from terminals one through three, a walkway guides you to a dome-shaped paradise of lush natural beauty and modern shopping, dining, and relaxation comforts.

The highlight of this eco-infused multiplex is the one-hundred and thirty-one foot high Rain Vortex, which holds the record as the world’s largest indoor waterfall.

This marvel of this aquatic architecture flows seamlessly into the lush, tropical oasis of the Shiseido Forest Valley, featuring nearly sixty-one thousand trees, shrubs, and lush vegetation from around the world.

Your tour of the Shiseido isn’t complete without viewing the mist-filled vistas of the vortex via the Canopy Park on Jewel Changi’s upper level.

If you have children, there will be no lack of attractions to keep them occupied and invigorated.

The Hedge Maze and Mirror Maze offer intriguing puzzles with natural beauty, while the artistic-themed playground in the Discovery Slides section will provide endless opportunities for your kids to enjoy the natural splendor.

Topiary Walk presents a walking tour with hedges trimmed and colored into the form of some of Singapore’s most famous animals.

The dreamlike splendor of the Foggy Bowls will allow your kids to jump and hide in clouds of mist and puffs of fog that emerge randomly from the lawn.

One travel hack that can help to reduce the cost of your trip is to utilize the globe-spanning shops and local retailers that makeup Jewel Changi’s “First in Singapore” shopping complex.

All of your shopping needs can be fulfilled before you even step out into the city.

Some of Singapore’s foremost shopping is available upon your arrival, with trendy global brands mixing perfectly with local brands that represent the optimum of Singaporean fashion and accessories.

Culinary curation is the benchmark for any nation to represent their own distinctive flavors.

At Jewel Changi Airport, a wide array of international favorites are complimented by the very best creations that Singapore has to offer.

The centerpiece of Jewel’s dining selections are the open air terraces that allow diners to experience the tranquility of al fresco dining in a serene garden environment.

It makes for a stunning introduction and time-saving experience if you are left wondering what to do in Singapore.

Address: 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666

2. Tour The Endless Wonders Of Singapore Zoo

bezikus / Shutterstock

Singapore holds the distinction of having one of the planet’s most diverse and singularly exotic collections of wildlife.

Spanning over twenty-six hectares of a lush rain forest, the Singapore Zoo features an open concept that allows you to experience a zoo unlike ever before while still maintaining visitor safety.

Species are given plenty of space in their preferred, indigenous habitat, which creates a humane and incredibly fascinating viewing experience.

Naturalists act as tour guides to educate you and your family about each species as you tour a surreal habitat that places you directly in the animal’s natural habitat.

The Great Rift Valley features a realistic cascading waterfall that is home to smaller primate species, while the Primate Kingdom section allows you to see larger primates in stunning close-ups.

The Frozen Tundra offers a view of polar bears, while the Fragile Forest biodome offers aerial wonderment with a stunning view at the summit of the canopy.

The Singapore Zoo is a seminal destination for any traveler visiting Singapore.

The interactive, open concept layout of the zoo offers you and your family a unique insight into exotic species in their natural habitat.

As one of the world’s most conservation-minded wildlife refuge centers, you can rest assured that all of the center’s species are properly maintained in replicas of their native habitats.

Address:  80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

3. View Singaporean Art At The National Gallery Singapore

Meng Chatchai / Shutterstock

Your experience in downtown Singapore should always include a visit to the premier visual arts exhibit in Southeast Asia, the National Gallery Singapore .

In all international travel tips , you will usually see sections that focus on cultural enrichment destinations to balance out the more popular attractions.

Often times, it is easy to focus on popular tourist attractions and forget about the cultural enrichment that can provide you with the best way to experience a destination’s distinctive culture.

The National Gallery Singapore utilizes innovative technology to display the vibrant art and heritage of Singaporean art and culture from its European-infused colonial beginnings to its singularly unique avant-garde artistic creations of today.

National Gallery Singapore is spread across two heritage sites—the old Supreme Court building and City Hall, which adds a historical context to the visual splendor of the gallery.

You could easily spend a full day within the gallery, so if you are looking to save time be sure to visit the historical exhibit “Between Declarations and Dreams”, which explores Singaporean art since the 1800s.

Also check out the “Law of the Land”, which explores Singapore’s constitutional history through official documents dating from the early nineteenth century to the nations turbulent events of the 1960s.

4. Experience The Iconic Beauty Of Koon Seng Road

EQRoy / Shutterstock

Have you ever been enchanted by a road or lane in a movie that looks like a beautiful creation of opulence straight out of a fairy-tale?

Singapore’s Koon Seng Road brings the pictures in your camera to colorful life in one of the nation’s most unique places to visit.

Accessible by bus from downtown, or a taxi for quicker arrival, the road is famous for its vibrant colors and geometrically adjoined houses that pop with bright, luminescent colors.

As one of the city’s most photographed destinations, Koon Seng Road is one of the essential things to see as it holds the record as the most Instagrammed destination in Singapore.

Many visitors enjoy wearing apparel that matches the bright colors of the houses, so it is safe to say that your pictures when touring the road will have unintentional artistic merit.

If you wish to make a day out of the tour, be sure and visit the local shops in close proximity to the road for a perfect chance to experience both a shopping excursion and cultural enrichment.

Address: 10 Koon Seng Rd, Singapore 426960

5. Walk Along A Kaleidoscope Of Natural Beauty At Singapore Botanic Gardens

Janelle Lugge / Shutterstock

If Jewel Changi Airport offered a gateway to Singapore’s natural beauty, then Singapore Botanic Gardens is a mecca for experiencing the island’s pristine landscapes.

Founded in 1822 by Sir Stamford Raffles, this historic landmark features an ancient rainforest surrounded by keenly cultivated greenery and serene orchards that is breathtaking to behold.

A good starting point of your tour is the Bandstand Garden.

Featuring a one-hundred and eight-foot-tall gazebo in its center, this postcard ready image is framed by surrounding Yellow Rain Trees, which inspire the hues of autumn, even though the yellow is due to a genetic mutation from the original color of green.

Bonsai Garden is an homage to Japanese horticulture and features perfectly trimmed trees in over forty-nine different species are the versatile plant.

The Sun Garden features a multitude of arid plants, including many species of cacti.

The Swan Lake forms the main tourist attraction of the gardens with an endless visual cornucopia of lush vegetation, mesmerizing small islands, and the singular beauty of Dutch swans that glide across the lake with a natural rhythm and elegance.

If you only have time for one garden and are wondering what to see to take away the best representation of the beauty of the gardens, the National Orchid Garden is your answer.

Tropical orchids, with species numbering in the thousands, are immaculately presented amidst tranquil fountains and stunning brooks.

Singapore Botanic Gardens is easily accessible from downtown and features prominently in travel guides as a must-see attraction.

Address:  1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

6. Sunbathe And Swim In The Pacific Island Paradise Of Sentosa Island

Sammy Wee / Shutterstock

Taking a detour to Sentosa Island is one of the most popular things to do in Singapore, and for good reason.

Sentosa Island is a tourist attraction in and of itself, with luminous sandy white beaches and opulent resorts.

The island features numerous elegant hotels, most of which are equipped with spas and fine dining restaurants to complement endless hours of beach activities and water sports.

The Adventure Cove Waterpark offers exciting water slides and snorkeling adventures that make for a thrilling underwater adventure, while the interactive Dolphin Island allows you to touch and feel bottlenose dolphins.

If aquatic activities are not your forte, the island features many cultural activities to keep you dry.

The Palawan Theater and the Butterfly Park and the Insect Kingdom provide up-close exhibits of flora and fauna that are indigenous to the island.

A walking trip along the Fort Siloso Skywalk, an eleven-story high walking trail, allows you to experience a bird’s-eye view of Sentosa, which was constructed by the British in the late nineteenth century to protect the island from an invasion.

7. Have Fun At Universal Studios Singapore

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Located in the Resorts World mecca of Sentosa Island, Singapore’s branch of Universal Studios is an island-themed feast for the fun-loving adventurer within.

If you simply cannot decide on what to see first in Sentosa, you can never go wrong with this iconic haven of endless fun with a uniquely Singaporean vibe.

Seven zones form the layout of the park with “Hollywood” providing an entrance full of Hollywood themed shopping and dining options, as well as the “Sesame Street Show” which is highly popular with children.

Sesame Street characters roam the “ New York City ” zone, adding a colorful twist to the world’s most fast-paced urban city.

If you like adrenaline, “Sci-fi City” provides the world’s largest roller coaster that uses an inverted, duel mechanism that makes for a thrilling experience.

For a more ambient and dark experience, “Ancient Egypt” houses the Revenge of the Mummy ride that combines a roller coaster with plenty of jump-out scares.

Address:  8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

8. Stare In Amazement At The Aquatic Beauty Of S.E.A. Aquarium

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Located on the island of Sentosa, the S.E.A. Aquarium holds the distinction as one of the world’s largest aquariums and a necessity in Singapore points of interest.

Over one-hundred thousand ocean animals within one thousand species, S.E.A. Aquarium offers an exhilarating marine journey into some of the most multifaceted underwater ecosystems in our oceans.

Your trip to Singapore is brimming with the readily available ambiance that characterizes the South Pacific and S.E.A Aquarium is a perfect opportunity to capture the essence of the surrounding ocean.

The Bay of Bengal exhibit is a must-see with its large selection of endangered species, many of which are native to Southeast Asia.

The otherworldly specimens include the garden eel, which resembles a tubeworm as well as the iconic clownfish, forever immortalized in Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo.

If you are curious, the Ocean Journey exhibit will present to you an aquatic world that you only thought existed in science fiction, with the giant spider crab and giant octopus specimens showing the strange diversity of life in our ocean depths.

S.E.A Aquarium is definitely worth the price of admission, especially if you are a marine science enthusiast or have small children.

It offers a more leisurely-paced and mental excursion to the highly physical attractions on Sentosa.

With a wide selection of endangered species, including the rare giant manta ray, this aquarium offers one of only a handful of exhibits in the world that both presents and protects these disappearing animals.

Address:  8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, 098269

9. Walk And Swim Amongst the Clouds At Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

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Often in life, you may have noticed that when we are going about our daily tasks, we only ever view the world from the ground level.

The SkyPark Observatory at the luxury Marina Bay Sands hotel is one of Singapore’s coolest tourist attractions, with an emphasis on top.

The observation deck located on the fifty-seventh floor of the hotel is accessible without a hotel stay and will provide you with some of the most stunning views in Southeast Asia.

An added benefit to this attraction is provided if you choose to stay in one of the hotel’s exquisite and ornate rooms.

Registered guests can utilize the rooftop pool, which gives a whole new feeling to the term – lounging at the world’s peak.

The views from this vantage point are absolutely breathtaking as you look down at the Lion City.

Address:  10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956

10. Tour A Night Safari

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A traditional safari is always a must when figuring out how to plan a trip to Southeast Asia.

Singapore builds upon the wonder and excitement of these excursions and sets the scene at night.

These incredible adventures allow pickup and return from most hotels and provide a rare glimpse into exotic wildlife when we see them the least.

The tour offers glimpses of both gentle and carnivorous wildlife which is thrilling to behold due to the mysterious and tranquil glow of moonlight as the only light source.

The most exhilarating part of the safari takes place on the weekends–where tigers are fed right in front of your eyes.

For the brave at heart, a guided walking tour is also available, which allows you to become even closer to animals as they perform their nightly tasks.

If you want to take a night safari , be prepared to stand in line for quite some time.

This is an incredibly popular attraction, especially on the weekends. It is definitely worth your time and is essential for any trip to Singapore.

Most wildlife is active at night, due in part to more comfortable temperatures, so be prepared to see predatory animals observing their natural instincts.

11. Stroll The Biodomes Of Singapore’s Gardens By The Bay

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Singapore is an ultra-green city that prides itself on its conservation principles with a vast selection of plants and horticultural pursuits.

If you are a naturalist at heart, Gardens by the Bay will serve as a perfect complement to your tour of Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Gardens by the Bay focuses on versatility in their presentations, which is aided by the temperate atmosphere of Singapore.

Resembling a massive garden of the distant future, this attraction is one of the best examples of what a biodome can achieve.

Situated near Marina Bay, the experience of this attraction is similar to Disney’s Epcot, with nature as the overriding theme.

The most distinctive aspect of this attraction is the massive supertrees that tower above the skyline of Bay South Garden, which is constructed in the design of the city’s official flower, the Vanda.

Do not miss the opportunity to walk along the vertical levitating walkway amongst the supertrees that will give you a stunning view of the gardens below.

For a nighttime extravaganza of natural beauty, be sure to attend the Garden Rhapsody, which will give your camera a colorful workout.

Gardens by the Bay may very well be one of the most innovative natural gardens on the planet.

With the Cloud Forest compounds, it is also one of the most majestic.

This section of gardens features a mist covered mountain, one-hundred and fifteen feet tall, that looks as if it was transported from the early ages of Earth.

Dining and shopping are also covered at this attraction, with a uniquely-themed indoor replica of the gardens.

Address:  18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

12. Take In Singapore’s National Monument At Merlion Park

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National identity is a key tool for establishing a nation’s enculturated composition.

The Merlion statue is to Singapore what Big Ben is to London and the Christ the Redeemer statue is to Rio de Janeiro.

Standing twenty-eight feet in height and located in a small enclosure overlooking Marina Bay and the Esplanade, this iconic structure is shaped in the form of a fish that transforms into the head of a lion.

The statue is enclosed inside of a small park that offers one of the best views of downtown Singapore.

As a relatively brief excursion, a visit to this park will allow you to take in a physical representation of the spirit of Singapore.

The Merlion statue is shaped like a fish–to highlight the nation’s maritime past and a lion to represent the city’s moniker.

This attraction is perfect when touring downtown Singapore and is a relatively easy checkpoint on essential things to see in the city.

Address:  1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213

13. Experience An Intimate Shopping Excursion On Haji Lane

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If you have ever been to the French Quarter in New Orleans , then you are familiar with the small and intimate atmosphere of closely connected shops.

Haji Lane in Singapore holds the distinction as the narrowest street on the globe, with vendors and artists only a handshake away to exhibit their products for your consideration.

Located north of the Singapore River in the Kampong Glam district, Haji Lane has the composition and feel of a medieval shopping district with an eclectic mix of products native to Singapore.

With a wide selection of designs both indie and mainstream, you will certainly find something to pique your curiosity.

Part of the fun of this attraction is being amongst designers and artists in a small space, which makes it feel as if their selections are being presented solely to you.

Middle Eastern cuisine litters the lane due to the districts strong Middle Eastern history.

If you only shop at one destination while in the city, the ambiance and cozy atmosphere of Haji Lane should rank high on your list.

Address: 21A Haji Lane ,  Singapore 189214

14. Experience Nature At Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

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Nature and Singapore are synonymous with one another; there are many natural exhibits functioning as tourist attractions, but if solitude is what you require, this attraction is a must.

Located nearly eight miles outside of the bustling city, Bukit Timah allows you to be the guide and set your own timetable for viewing the untamed lush paradise of the country.

The most popular way of experiencing the reserve is hiking, so two travel hacks to remember about Singapore is to be sure to dress appropriately and pack comfortable shoes.

Bukit Timah is four hundred acres of preserved rainforest located in the center of the city.

A recreational day at this reserve will allow you to experience a rainforest up close, with all of the relevant wildlife surrounding you.

When hiking the reserve, the slopes of Bukit Timah Hill, the highest natural point in the city, are rated according to difficulty, with easy to moderate being the most accessible.

If you are an experienced hiker, the yellow trail will test your prowess with an energetic workout concluding at the summit of the hill.

Mountain biking and running are also popular activities that offer the same level of accessibility as hiking.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers you a refreshing away day from the city and a chance to become one with the tropical landscape of the Lion City.

Be on the lookout for the crab-eating macaque monkeys that regularly interact with visitors and are known to join visitors in their hiking excursions.

Address:  Hindhede Drive, Singapore 589318

15. Shop Till You Drop At Orchard Road

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Singapore’s primary retail hub and a neon-infused wonderland of bright colors and luminescent design schemes at night make the Orchard Road the heart of Singapore’s social scene.

Featuring hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, this district is a city in and of itself and will provide you with hours of endless selections to peruse.

Conveniently located in the city’s center, this fast-paced district of consumer comforts will give you ample things to see in the downtown area.

The Ion Orchard mall is actually a massive shopping mall that is connected to a large, residential condominium.

This quirky composition makes for a sleek, cool, and innovative appearance for the housing of several high-end fashion brands of both Asian and international prominence.

The Ngee Ann City shopping complex houses all of the city’s haute couture shops, including globally recognized brands such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Chanel.

If shopping is not your forte, the Orchard Road is a prime destination for photography, specifically at night.

All of the buildings are aglow in neon splendor, which resembles the appearance of a mini Tokyo.

This is also one of the essential areas in the city for you to meet locals and become accustomed to contemporary Singaporean culture.

Address (ION Orchard Mall):  2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801

16. Absorb The Local Art Scene At The Esplanade

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Singapore is renowned for its artistic flourishes in both architecture and visual grandeur, both of which are on full display at the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay .

Situated on the edge of the Singapore River within the city’s vibrant Downtown Core, this performing arts venue features an ornate concert hall and a theatre that seats upwards of two thousand people.

The venue is stunning in its state-of-the-art presentation of some of the Lion City’s best performers and musicians and makes for an unforgettable evening after your day of downtown festivities.

Named after its close proximity to Esplanade Park, the venue is a marvel of contemporary architecture, which makes for a visual feast for the senses before you enter the venue.

Shaped in a dome, with aluminum sunshades covering the roof, the exterior of the building lights up at night and forms part of Singapore’s iconic nocturnal city lights.

The interior of the venue pays homage to the concert halls of European capital cities of the nineteenth century, with a glass-covered foyer that showcases stunning views of the city en route to the concert hall.

The horseshoe-shaped concert hall features both recitals and full-scale productions that play in luminous splendor to your ears due to the design of the hall.

The Lyric Theatre features popular performances both local and international, while an intimate recital hall features some of the best chamber music performances in Southeast Asia.

Whether you want to attend a performance or simply photograph the beautiful exteriors, the Esplanade offers you one of the most formal and visually alluring things to do in the city.

Address:  1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

17. Levitate Above The City Skyline On The Singapore Flyer

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Singapore offers many opportunities to observe the beauty of the city from the highest points of the city skyline.

The Singapore Flyer is a gigantic Ferris Wheel that provides you with an unforgettable view of the city skyline.

With incredible views of Marina Bay and the city below, this attraction offers you a great way to see the city from a birds-eye-view.

If you choose to ride the Flyer at night, you will have a perfect opportunity to snap some award-worthy photographs of the city in aerial splendor.

If you choose to ride during the day, the air-conditioned capsules will provide comfort from the tropical heat.

This is one of Singapore’s iconic attractions, with only a twenty-eight person capacity in thirty-minute intervals, so prepare for a wait–which is definitely worth it.

This attraction is a perfect fit if you cannot decide what to do in Singapore between your main attraction visits.

Address:  30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039803

18. Marvel At Aquatic Wildlife In A River Safari

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Singapore’s Wildlife Reserves is a worldwide destination for any nature enthusiast and their newest addition, River Safari , is another innovative addition to these exotic wonderlands of excitement.

Like an ancient explorer drifting down an untamed river wilderness, this exhibit allows you to see plant and animal life that would otherwise be too dangerous to observe while trekking through these natural habitats.

As the only operational river safari in Asia, this attraction is a must see.

Drift along with an open space river environment, where rare and fragile plant and animal life go about their natural habitat.

This exhibit also provides one of the only opportunities to see the elusive giant panda within its natural habitat.

Each exhibit is structured to mirror some of the world’s most famous rivers, including the Mississippi, Nile, Congo, Ganges, Mekong, and Yangtze.

Each river zone features plant and animal species indicative of the river’s region.

The Yangtze River zone includes the giant panda exhibit, where this eclectic species roams freely in complete view.

The Amazon Flooded Forest Zone offers you a chance to see the unique and solemn manatee up close as well as the equally lovable giant river otter.

For a more thrilling adventure, the Ganges River Zone features the enigmatic Indian gharial crocodile named Shant–who may just respond if you call his name.

Address:  80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

19. Flex Your Artistic Skills At STPI

STPI – Creative Workshop & Gallery / Facebook

When you are in the Singapore River area, be sure and head over to the Robertson Quay district, a tour of the STPI-Creative Workshop and Gallery will offer you an innovative experience where you can put your design skills to work.

STPI seeks to reinvigorate the artistic merits of print and paper creations by utilizing state-of-the-art technology to revive and renew this fascinating sphere of artistic endeavor.

In addition to hands-on experimentation, STPI also features a large art gallery, where you can see the work of this fields top designers, many of which have been featured at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City .

In operation since 2002, this eclectic art museum offers an alternative to more mainstream art such as painting, which is perfect if you are seeking to expand your artistic horizons.

You can purchase artworks by world-renowned artists in this field and attend artist lectures and question and answer sessions to fully understand the meaning behind their creations.

If you plan your trip accordingly, you can catch one of the six-eight art fairs that the gallery holds throughout the year.

Address:  41 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238236

20. Spend A Day Celebrating Art At The Gillman Barracks

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Singapore works hard to secure its reputation as the premier destination for contemporary art in Southeast Asia.

Located inside of a former slate of military barracks, this exhibit offers a full day of activities through multiple art galleries featuring art from all over the world.

The concept of the museum is just as much a part of the attraction as the artwork as you tour art inside of living Singaporean history.

The barracks were former military outposts during the city’s colonial period in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Tours are available directly from a friendly staff, which can give you a full breakdown of the museum’s past as you take in the international display of art.

If you are visiting Singapore in the month of January, the Art Stage Singapore art fair provides a vibrant opportunity to tour a collection of some of Southeast Asia’s best artwork.

In addition to the international art for both purchase or perusal, the Gillman Barracks is also home to many international cuisine offerings.

Many of these exhibits dining options take an artistic approach to their offerings which complements the surrounding art hub.

There are many chances to take in the art world while in the Lion City and the Gillman Barracks will provide a full day of satisfaction for your artistic passions.

Address:  9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937

21. Experience The Chinese Culture With A Tour Of Chinatown

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Long a regional destination for Chinese culture, Singapore’s Chinatown district is one of the island city’s oldest residential enclaves and also one of its most densely populated.

Today, a blending of cultures make up the enclave and this attraction will offer you a chance to see the true identity of Singapore outside of tourism.

Located in the center of the city in the Outram district, there are many avenues of exploration in Chinatown that represent some of the city’s most iconic attractions.

An initial stop at the Chinatown Heritage Center will offer you a brief and colorful history of the region that branches out into the district’s most famous street, Pagoda.

Here you can tour eclectic Chinese souvenir shops in an atmosphere that calls back to the streets of Imperial China.

Hinduism and Buddhism have long been the philosophies of China and offer many on Chinatown’s must-see attractions.

The Sri Mariamman Temple is located on South Bridge Road and features an exterior that is lavishly decorated with Hindu and Buddhist spirits in the Dravidian style on a roof that rises into the clear blue sky.

As you enter the elaborately detailed “gopuram,” the ornate shrines to Hindu deities form the centerpiece of the Temple’s interior.

Be sure to aim your camera at the ceiling to capture shots of the intricately-designed mandala diagram.

China’s long imperial past receives a state-of-the-art replication in the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.

Located on South Bridge Road, this opulent temple is authentically designed in the style of China’s Tang Dynasty, who ruled China in the pre-medieval era.

With striking artwork and meticulously crafted architecture, be sure to view this landmark at night where the temple’s lights illuminate the exquisite exterior of the attraction.

On the temple’s fourth floor, a replica of the ancient Buddha’s tooth relic is displayed, although the serene views of the previous three floors are lone worth the price of admission.

Address (Chinatown Heritage Center):  48 Pagoda Street, Singapore 059207

22. Take In Singapore’s Storied History In The Lush Greenery Of Fort Canning Park

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In the city’s southeast, stands the looming Fort Canning Hill, an area of land that serves as a focal point of Singaporean history.

Revered by indigenous Singaporean’s, the hill is believed to be the resting place of the city’s ancient monarchs, this historical attraction provides both cultural enrichment as well as stunning views.

Fort Canning Park is located within the hill and features many activities to educate you on the hill’s long history.

The Battle Box Museum is one of the park’s highlights and features the Fort Canning Bunker, an underground bunker used by the British during the Second World War.

The Bunker saw the surrender of British Singapore to the Japanese in 1942 and is illuminated in vivid recreations of detail by the museum’s knowledgeable tour guides.

This museum offers a claustrophobic tone as you tour the cramped quarters of the bunker, allowing you to experience an eerie facet of Singapore’s military past.

Fort Canning Park is also a wonderful place to soak in the natural wonder of Singapore.

Numerous outdoor music festivals and fairs utilize the park’s serene beauty and large size.

Be sure to visit the park’s iconic nine-foot canon and wander in and out of the hill undetected through the underground sally port.

Address:  River Valley Road, Singapore 179037

23. Learn About Singapore’s History In The National Museum Of Singapore

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Many of the city’s museums combine multiple arts and humanities, but if you want a strictly historical survey of the Lion City, this exhibit is your best bet.

Located in a voluminous, intricately detailed building in the city’s central region, the National Museum of Singapore has served as the city’s official repository of historical records and artifacts since 1849, making the museum a historical replica in and of itself.

Grand hallways and stunning, renaissance-themed architecture will guide you along this historical tour.

The entrance to the museum is a visual marvel with the glass rotunda beaconing your eyesight to its majestic peak.

Encased in glass, the Singapore History Gallery provides luminous transparency in a structural environment that innovatively blends the classical and the modern.

This large gallery maintains an interactive atmosphere, as stories of Singapore’s seven-hundred-year history are projected onto the museum’s massive walls.

The history presented is broad in nature, with impactful highlights of some of the island nation’s most important events.

Descend down a spiral ramp to behold the city’s most prized artifacts, including the Singapore Stone which dates to the thirteenth century, as well as gold ornaments of the Sacred Hill dating to the medieval era.

The museum features numerous classrooms and lecture halls that regularly feature historians giving vibrant tutorials on the nation’s history.

A structural marvel of visual splendor as well as a uniquely composed historical resource center, the National Museum of Singapore is one of the city’s most educational tourist attractions.

Address:  93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

24. Learn About Peranakan Culture At The Peranakan Museum

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The Peranakans are one of the indigenous ethnic groups of the island nation.

Descending from China beginning in the fifteenth century, the Peranakans settled in what would become the island of Singapore and formed one of the island city’s first cultures.

The Peranakan Museum will provide you with a comprehensive education of the main highlights of Peranakan history and culture.

Housed inside of the former Old Tao Nan School, this perfectly curated museum features ten different galleries that span the entire scope of Peranakan culture.

In the “Origins” gallery, you will tour exquisitely detailed exhibits that highlight the beginnings of the culture.

The successive galleries will highlight all of the many facets of the Peranakan, including an ornate wedding chamber that details the multi-faceted components of an authentic Peranakan wedding.

Gallery eight features an innovative recreation of Peranakan culture’s most famous individuals and which leads into the museum’s final exhibit called “Conversations”.

This is where you will hear from contemporary Peranakans as they describe their experiences in the modern world with a commitment to maintaining the historical customs of their past.

Peranakan Museum is a great way for you to learn about one of the city’s native populations in a unique and educational attraction.

UPDATE: The Peranakan Museum is currently closed for renovation work until the first half of 2023.

Address:  39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941

25. See The Sights In Geylang: Singapore’s Red Light District

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Like an Eastern-tinged version of New Orleans Bourbon Street, the Geylang area located in Singapore’s Eastern Central Region is a cultural sightseeing adventure by day and an adult playground at night.

As a historic district that was made distinctive by Singapore’s working class, Geylang maintains its working-class roots inside of a constantly advancing modern metropolis.

The Geylang area offers a great way to experience the true identity of Singapore beyond the most popular tourist attractions.

Singapore passed legislation to protect this area’s distinctive shophouses, which align the area’s roads in narrow streets.

As a highlight of Singapore’s historic past, a stroll along this region’s streets will allow you to view Singapore from an insider’s view, with no tourist filter to tamper your interpretation.

Several eateries and karaoke lounges add a local ambiance to the district and an architectural display of mixed heritage touches harken to Singapore’s history of multiculturalism.

Address: 214 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389274

26. Tour The Largest Avian Sanctuary In Asia At Jurong Bird Park

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Located in Western Singapore at the scenic Jurong Hill, the Jurong Bird Park is a forty-nine-acre aviary that houses numerous bird species indigenous to both Southeast Asia and the wider world.

With fifteen exhibits and over five-thousand birds, this attraction provides another natural landmark to see in a city renowned for its naturalism.

In operation since 1971, the aviary provides both public enjoyment and conservation efforts in an educational atmosphere.

The Waterfall Aviary exhibit features birds from Africa with a breathtaking waterfall forming the centerpiece of the attraction.

The Lory Loft exhibit features a suspension bridge that will guide you into the flying zone of lories and lorikeets as they soar above and under you, while the Penguin Coast exhibit features five different species of penguins that freely walk in rhythm with you.

Perhaps the most beautiful exhibit is the Flamingo Pool and Lake exhibit.

Here you can spot several colorful species of flamingo, including the beautiful Caribbean flamingo.

Address:  2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925

27. Visit Singapore’s Famous Raffles Hotel

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A legendary attraction for celebrities, royalty, and politicians, the Raffles Hotel is Singapore’s most influential lodging destination and remains a popular tourist attraction to this day.

Opening in 1887 during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Britain’s Queen Victoria, the Raffles was a signature achievement in colonial architecture that became a haven for travelers as well as the elite.

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit.

The hotel’s most famous area is the Long Bar, which is known for the Singapore Sling–the most famous drink to come out of Singapore.

Made from gin and cherry brandy, this refreshing concoction will place you firmly in the ambiance of the hotel’s iconic history.

The Arcade is the hotel’s shopping and dining destination that features several boutique stores and fine dining options.

Raffles is open for the casual visitor, or if you are feeling particularly indulgent, your stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious suites will make for a stay you won’t soon forget.

Address:  1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673

28. Experience The Indian Culture In Little India

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Singapore is a melting pot of Asian cultures that coalesce to form a single national identity.

Like Chinatown, the Little India area of the Lion City offers a small sample of Indian culture that presents an intimate atmosphere of a distant nation.

Located in close proximity to Chinatown, Little India was formed out of Singapore’s colonial past, which called for segregation among cultures.

Replete with Indian architecture and customs, this attraction is perfect for experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of India.

Walking along Serangoon Road, Buddhist iconography blends with modern shops and eateries, many of which specialize in Indian products and cuisine.

The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is an ornate spectacle of Hindu shrines and spiritual atmosphere.

The Abdul Gafoor Mosque is equally as striking in appearance and resembles an Indian palace in both its size and majestic exterior.

If you time your trip appropriately, Little India comes alive in a feast of lights, parades, and Hindu rituals during the Deepavali season in the autumn months.

Address: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042

29. Visit The Asian Civilisations Museum

Many of Singapore’s museums offer a historical survey of the diversity of the island nation’s population and the Asian Civilisations Museum offers a great way to experience that diversity in one place.

Located within close proximity of the Peranakan Museum and the National Museum of Singapore, this intricately designed museum showcases art and historical artifacts ranging from Ancient China to contemporary Southeast and Western Asia.

With fascinating historical artifacts that examine Singapore’s importance in trade throughout history, this is a great way to explore the island nation’s global relations throughout history.

The China exhibit contains artifacts that highlight Chinese art and spiritual expressions throughout its history.

The South and Southeast Asian exhibits present artifacts that highlight both the aristocratic and working class divisions of society throughout the respective regions.

The Khoo Teck Puat Gallery houses a replica of a sunken ship with items recovered from the shipwreck over 1,100 years ago.

In nature with Singapore’s inclusive nature of celebrating diversity, the Asian Civilisations Museum offers you one of the best ways to experience how a wide group of nationalities gave the island its unique multiculturalism.

Address:  1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555

30. Take A Walking Tour Of The Southern Ridges

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You may be wondering when is the best time to visit Singapore and the answer is virtually any time of the year.

Singapore has some of the most beautiful national parks in the world, and the Southern Ridges Walking Trail offers you a scenic way to reach them.

Mount Faber, Telok Blangah, and Kent Ridge Parks are all connected in an innovative walking trail that offers a scenic view long before you reach any of the parks.

If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to walk in Singapore’s lush landscapes, a tour of the Southern Ridges offers both.

The Marang and Faber trails offer Oriental architecture in steps, bridges, and canopies as you take in the natural wonder.

The Henderson Waves in the highest bridge in Singapore and features scenic views from an aerial perspective.

The Forest Walk will take you directly into the treetops as you take in the one-of-a-kind green beauty of the city.

Address: 9 Preston Road, Singapore 109347

Start Planning Your Trip To Singapore

This island nation may be small in geographic size, yet the endless amount of activities and singular beauty of its natural features make it a very special place to visit.

Your trip will be breathtaking to behold, so a good way to remember this experience would be to invest in a good quality camera; cell phone lenses just don’t do it justice.

The two themes of a trip to the Lion City are nature and art, with many more unique extracurricular activities to complement those themes.

Southeast Asia is a social hub for multicultural experience and this small, pristine city offers one of the most exciting options to fully experience that atmosphere.

25 Best Things to Do in Singapore – Top Singapore Attractions

Home | Travel | Asia | Singapore | 25 Best Things to Do in Singapore – Top Singapore Attractions

We found many interesting things to do in Singapore during our visit to the Lion City. This was the first stop on our Southeast Asia trip , so it will always feel a little special. Even though we only spent 2 days there, we immediately felt the welcoming attitude of the locals and the modern advancements of the city.

You might be hesitant about visiting such a globalized urban center, but Singapore was a pleasant surprise. The smaller country in Southeast Asia is great for all types of travelers, including backpackers. That said, while most of Southeast Asia is relatively cheap, Singapore is an expensive city. As one of the world’s largest economies and a bustling center of commerce, it’s not only rich in terms of money, but also regarding culture.

There are also many places to visit in Singapore, whether on the main island or its 63 satellite islands and islets. This newborn country with only 60 years of history is the perfect mix of urban attractions and nature.

Since Singapore’s international airport is a popular location for flight layovers, travelers to Asia are bound to end up here. I recommend the airport shuttle if you want a quick transfer to the city center without paying for a taxi. The Singapore Tourist Pass is also very useful because it includes unlimited access to public transportation, and if you want to visit different paid Singapore attractions , you may want to get the Singapore City Card in advance.

Now, here are the 25 best things to do in Singapore to help you plan your trip.

1. Enjoy Marina Bay, an exciting thing to do in Singapore

Marina Bay is one of the top places to visit in Singapore . Here, you can see just how modern the city is, thanks to its skyscrapers, architecture, and beautiful waterfront.

The centerpiece is the Marina Bay Sands resort, which you can identify by its three towers that are over 650 feet tall and are connected by a boat shaped platform on the roof. The resort is known for its incredible infinity pool, the longest in the world, which overlooks the city. However, you can only enjoy it if you stay at the hotel.

Also on the rooftop is the Skypark Observation Deck , a 360° lookout point that is included with the Singapore City Card . However, if you don’t get the card you can still visit it with this ticket that includes the Skypark Observation Deck and Gardens by the Bay, one of the nearby Singapore attractions .

Just in front of the resort is the Event Plaza, the best place to enjoy the Spectra Light & Water Show , one of the coolest free things to do in Singapore at night. It starts at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 8 p.m., 9 p.m., and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is another huge draw for many visitors. It has over 300 high-end stores. Here, you can also see the Digital Light Canvas, an interactive art collaboration that uses lighting and sound effects on the floor and walls.

Once outside, be sure to walk across the Helix Bridge, pass the Esplanade Theater by the Bay and see the Merlion Statue , which is the national symbol of Singapore. From there, you can spot the famous Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel, which I’ll talk about later.

2. Gardens by the Bay, one of the most popular attractions in Singapore

Behind Marina Bay Sands, you’ll find Gardens by the Bay , one of the most popular attractions in Singapore . It covers 130 acres and contains over 1.5 million plants, as well as several conservatories and interactive exhibits.

The SuperTree Grove is the main attraction of the gardens. It features nearly 20 imaginative ecologic tree-like sculptures ranging from 80 to 160 feet tall, positioned among thousands of exotic plants. These trees collect water from the rain for the gardens’ maintenance. They also generate energy through photovoltaic panels that are used to light them during the Garden Rhapsody light show (7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.).

For the best views of the show, go to the OCBC Skyway , an elevated walkway above SuperTree Grove and one of the best places to go in Singapore at night.

The two main conservatories in the gardens are the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is the largest glass greenhouse in the world and displays flowers and plants from the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. On the other hand, the Cloud Forest replicates the tropical highlands showcasing orchids, pitcher plants and ferns from the cool-moist Tropical Montane region. It also features an indoor waterfall.

Another impressive attraction is Floral Fantasy , a collection of artistic garden landscapes and a 4D ride. This space will transport you to tropical rainforests, caves, and a wonderland of blooms. It truly is one of the most beautiful places in Singapore .

Some parts of the Gardens are free, including the Children’s Garden, so visiting this place is one of the fun things to do in Singapore with kids . However, if you want to visit the Flower Dome or Cloud Forest Conservatories, the OCBC Skywalk, or Floral Fantasy, and you don’t have the Singapore City Card , you will need to purchase admission in advance.

3. Sentosa, a must-visit in Singapore

Sentosa is a popular island off the southern coast of Singapore’s main island. This small isle packs in a lot of adventure and luxury, so it’s the best vacation destination in Singapore.

One of its most successful attractions is Resorts World Sentosa which boasts two casinos and 7 hotels (the most popular are Beach Villas and Crockfords Tower ). RWS also includes a water park, and a Universal Studios theme park, which I’ll talk about later. It also hosts the iconic Crane Dance, one of the largest animatronic shows in the world, which has free admission and happens every evening at 8pm.

However, the most popular night show in Sentosa is “ Wings of Time ”, which you can enjoy daily at 7:40 pm and 8:40 pm next to Beach Station. You will have to pay for admission in advance, but it’s very worthwhile.

From there, you can walk the beautiful Merlion Walk to visit the huge 120-feet tall Sentosa Merlion statue. You can even get up its mouth to have stunning views of Sentosa, for a fee.

Of course, as an island, Sentosa also offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Singapore , including Palawan Beach (the southernmost point of Continental Asia), Tanjong Beach , and Siloso Beach. It’s also full of history, as you can see at the westernmost corner of the island, at Fort Siloso , a restored WWII fort.

Sentosa is packed with adrenaline-boosting activities. My favorite ones are Mega Adventure Park, which has one of the longest and steepest ziplines in Asia (1,475 feet), and the AJ Hackett Giant Swing. You can purchase advance tickets for the zipline here and the swing here . However, check the Singapore City Card first, since it includes these and other things to do in Sentosa, Singapore , like the Skyline Luge Sentosa , iFly Singapore , and the Madame Tussauds wax museum .

4. Singapore Cable Car, the best thing to do in Singapore for families

If you want to get to Sentosa, you have a few options. The Sentosa Bus costs 3 SGD ($2.20) each way, while a one-way Sentosa Express train ticket costs 4 SGD ($2.90). Both options depart every 15 minutes or so from the Harbour Front Station, and the trip lasts less than 20 minutes.

That said, I recommend taking the Singapore Cable Car which you can get with a discount here. While it’s a bit pricier, it’s a fun thing to do in Singapore, and the views are much better. From your cabin, you’ll see the jungle, harbor, and city from a birds-eye view.

At 5,410 feet long, it is the first aerial gondola system in the world to span a harbor. Singapore’s cable car system has two lines and six stations, four in Sentosa island and two on Singapore’s main island, including Mount Faber Park . This hill has an elevation of nearly 310 feet and provides lovely panoramic views of the city.

It’s also one of the top areas to visit in Singapore if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Several footpaths and walking trails lead up the hill, although the main ones are the Marang Trail and the Southern Ridges Park Connector.

Mount Faber contains lush rainforests, relaxing parks, gardens, and hilltop restaurants. If you’re traveling with a partner, a scenic sunset dinner there is one of the most romantic things to do in Singapore .

5. Universal Studios, the best thing to do in Singapore with kids

As I mentioned earlier, Sentosa is home to Universal Studios Singapore , a huge theme park that’s open year-round. A visit here is one of the top things to do in Singapore with kids , although it will appeal to people of all ages.

The 49-acre park is only open Thursday through Sunday, and you can purchase an entry ticket with hotel pick-up in advance.

As one of the top Singapore tourist attractions , Universal Studios offers rides, shows, live entertainment, shopping, and dining. Children will love doing meet-and-greets with some of their favorite cartoon characters from Sesame Street, Transformers, Minions , and more. The park is divided into seven themed zones: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Jurassic Park’s Lost World, Madagascar, and Shrek’s Kingdom of Far, Far Away.

Even if you’re not a thrill-seeker, Universal Studios is still a must-see in Singapore .

6. Singapore Flyer, the perfect way to see Singapore

For the best sightseeing in Singapore , I recommend taking a ride on the Singapore Flyer . This Ferris wheel is located at Marina Bay and is one of the world’s tallest, at 541 feet. If you’re brave enough to climb aboard, you’ll be rewarded with the best panoramic views of the city. When the skies are exceptionally clear, you can even see Malaysia and Indonesia in the distance.

Riding the Flyer is among the top things to do in Singapore and was designed to be a stunning touristic experience. This huge observation wheel features 28 air-conditioned cabins, and each one can accommodate 28 passengers. A complete ride on the Flyer lasts about 32 minutes, so it’s well worth the money.

If heights aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy some parts of this Singapore attraction since the Flyer sits above a 3-level mall. Inside, you’ll find a 6D cinema and flight simulator, a beautiful tropical rainforest display and many cafes and restaurants.

7. Singapore Botanic Gardens, the most spectacular place to visit in Singapore

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Singapore . It’s over 160 years old and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the only tropical garden in the world to receive such an honor, and once you see it, you’ll understand why.

The gardens cover over 200 acres and include several unique zones, most of which are free. The only one that requires an entry fee is the National Orchid Garden , and you can purchase admission in advance here .

The National Orchid Garden contains over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrid plants. It features four distinct zones, each one reflecting one of the four seasons. As one of the main attractions in Singapore ’s botanic gardens, you could spend hours strolling through the exhibits and admiring the colorful blossoms.

There is also a small rainforest here, which predates the creation of the Botanic Gardens. Next to the National Orchid Garden, you’ll find the Ginger Garden , which has a small waterfall. The Children’s Garden includes areas for play and exploration, as well as a rope bridge.

Through the gardens, there are streams, gazebos, and other relaxing elements. You may even forget that you’re in one of the busiest cities in the world! Along with the interior location, there is also an outdoor area with manicured lawns and a few lakes. The most prominent one, Symphony Lake , features a large stage that hosts monthly performances by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.

Without a doubt, a visit to the Botanic Gardens is one of the best things to do in Singapore . The 4.5 million people who visit annually would agree!

8. Take a stroll along Clarke Quay, one of the best things to do in Singapore at night

If you’re wondering what fun things to do in Singapore in the evening, check out Clarke Quay . This historical pier runs along the Singapore River and features a riverside walkway and pedestrian mall.

In the past, this area was a big trading hub where bumboats and barges would moor to the pier. Today, it’s more of a nightlife and entertainment spot, encompassing five blocks of food stalls, clubs, and bars. Taking a stroll along the quay is one of the best things to do in Singapore at night , especially if you want to try some local street food or do some barhopping.

Clarke Quay is also an access point for cruises and river taxis. If you’re looking for some Singapore sightseeing tours, I recommend this boat tour , which takes you along the river to see the city skyline and some nearby iconic sites, like the Merlion.

That boat tour has 7 stops where you can hop onboard, however, once you disembark you can’t get back on. Therefore, I suggest start your boat tour at Water B Fort Canning.

The next stop would be Boat Quay , another nice spot to enjoy a meal or drinks. From my experience, Boat Quay is a bit cheaper than Clarke Quay, but you may find the restaurant waiters are a little pushy compared to the posh Clarke Quay. Since they are within walking distance, I recommend checking both.

In any case, if you are traveling on a budget, you can simply enjoy a leisurely walk through these riverfront areas. Whether you visit during the day or at night, it’s one of the best free things to do in Singapore .

9. ArtScience Museum, something to do in Singapore if it rains

The ArtScience Museum , located in Marina Bay, is one of the top attractions in Singapore . The museum’s exhibits blend art, culture, science, and technology to create an intriguing, one-of-a-kind experience.

This is one of the best museums to visit in Singapore , as it appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds. There are 21 gallery spaces, each one an encounter into the latest innovations in art and science. There are explorations into future technology, as well as interactive exhibits showcasing historical events and pop culture.

The ArtScience Museum’s primary permanent exhibition is Future World , an interdisciplinary collaboration with international artists from teamLAB. The showcase features interactive art installations depicting cityscapes, natural elements, digital games, and more. These large-scale works have a way of transporting you to an ethereal world and has become one of the most photographed placed in Singapore with its Crystal Universe.

Even from the outside, the ArtScience Museum is impressive. The building’s architecture resembles a giant white lotus flower, which lights up in a fabulous array of colors and patterns at night. Even if you’re not very into museums, visiting this one is a cool thing to do in Singapore . It’s so popular that I recommend booking your entrance in advance .

10. Chinatown, one of the most popular places to visit in Singapore

Chinatown is one of the top areas to visit in Singapore . It’s an interesting blend of old and new, with its traditional temples intermingled with modern bars and shops. Today, it still has a large population of Chinese residents, making it a great cultural hub to visit in the city.

One of the first things to do in Singapore’s Chinatown is to see the historic buildings and temples. The Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest temple in Singapore. Its name translates to “Palace of Heavenly Happiness”, and was built for the worship of Mazu, a Chinese sea goddess. As you walk through the courtyard and main temple, you’ll notice the traditional curved roofs and decorative elements.

The Singapore Yu Huang Gong Temple is not as popular, but it’s well worth visiting for its colorful wall sculptures and carved columns depicting Taoist deities. Also known as the Temple of the Heavenly Jade Emperor, the three-story pagoda still has its original floor tiles, which date back to 1847.

Surprisingly, Chinatown is also home to one of Singapore’s oldest mosques, the Masjid Jamae . Constructed in the 1820s, it remains a prominent landmark among the city’s Tamil Muslim community. The mosque’s architecture features two domed minarets, and it’s well-known for its beautiful pale green color.

Other popular buildings include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple , which I’ll talk about in the next section.

In addition to sightseeing, you can also find great food in Chinatown. I recommend Smith Street, a pedestrian-only section where you’ll find dozens of food stalls. You can also check out the Maxwell Food Center , one of the most famous hawker centers in the area. This Chinatown night tour includes dinner, a bumboat ride, and a visit to a Chinese Medicine Hall.

11. Visit Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

As I mentioned above, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is an important landmark in Chinatown. It’s also a museum and holds various Buddhist ceremonies that are open to the public. Adhering to Buddhist tradition, the temple doesn’t charge an entry fee, but donations are accepted and help to financially support the museum.

Visiting this interesting temple is one of the top things to do in Singapore’s Chinatown. It gets its name from a tooth relic that is said to be from the Buddha. However, the tooth, which measures 7.5 centimeters, is too long to be a human tooth. Still, it holds cultural and religious significance, and it’s worth visiting.

11. Visit Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, something great to do in Singapore

The temple is just stunning, reflecting Tang Dynasty architectural elements, such as bracketed roofs and pillars. Also, 700 pounds of gold were used as embellishment for the interior, which is truly impressive.

For some reflective contemplation, the temple’s roof garden is something nice to visit in Singapore . There, you’ll find a Buddha prayer wheel and pagoda surrounded by native plants. Whether you’re spiritual or not, a stop at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the best free things to do in Singapore , but remember to cover your shoulders because it’s mandatory to cover up before entering.

12. Sri Mariamman Temple, something interesting to visit in Singapore

The Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, and surprisingly it’s not in Little India but in Chinatown. It is one of the top Singapore attractions and has even been named a National Monument.

The temple was built nearly 200 years ago and, over the years, has been a welcoming refuge for South Indian Tamil Hindus in the city. While serving as a place of worship, the temple also helps with social, cultural, and educational services. Not only that, but it’s a popular spot for tourists who are sightseeing in Singapore .

Right away, you’ll notice the detailed ornamental gopuram (tower entrance) that makes the temple an instantly recognizable landmark. It features six tiers of Hindu deity sculptures in bright colors.

Once you go inside, you’ll find the main prayer hall with a shrine dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, who is known for her disease-healing powers. Embellished columns and ceiling frescos adorn the hall, which leads to an open courtyard.

Anyone can enter the temple, but you must take your shoes off and wear something to cover your shoulders. If you forget, you can borrow a shawl for free at the entrance.

This is among the most mystical places to visit in Singapore , and it’s easy to know why. We visited it on a Sunday at 1 pm and were surprised by the songs of the devotees accompanied by percussion instruments. We entered the temple, and despite knowing that it is one of the most touristy places, we felt like it was just us and hundreds of prayers.

After that magical experience, they even invited us to eat delicious (and very spicy) vegetarian food. No napkins, no cutlery, not even a glass of water, but it was the most special lunch of my life.

13. Little India, one of the can’t-miss attractions in Singapore

Little India is another cultural place to go in Singapore . Here, you’ll find multicultural food stalls, and historical and religious buildings, both Buddhist and Hindu. In fact, the temples in Little India are some of the most interesting places to go in Singapore, so get ready to take your shoes off.

One of the most popular ones is the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple , a Buddhist monastery founded in 1927 by a Thai monk. Also known as the Temple of 1,000 Lights, it features a nearly 50-foot-tall statue of the Buddha. By giving a small donation, you can light one of the bulbs around the statue.

In the same street, you will find another Buddhist temple, but with a very different style. It’s the Leong San See Temple (Dragon Mountain Temple in Mandarin), that contains an altar dedicated to Confucius.

Among the Hindu temples in Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple stand out for their beautiful gopurams that resemble the one at Sri Mariamman. The first one features art and shrines depicting the powerful goddess of destruction, while the second one is one of the oldest temples in Singapore, built in 1830.

Another of the oldest temples you should visit in Singapore’s Little India is the Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman Temple, completed in 1855, and with a completely different aesthetic from the other Hindu temples you’ll see in Singapore.

Besides temples, I also recommend visiting the House of Tan Teng Niah . This colorful home, built in 1900, is the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India. There is also the Mustafa Center Mall , where you can shop for just about anything and enjoy a range of Asian dishes.

This walking tour through Little India includes a visit to the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a spice market, and interesting facts from a local guide.

14. Kampong Glam, something fun to do in Singapore

Rounding out the cultural districts in Singapore is Kampong Glam , also known as the Arab Quarter. While it began as a Muslim neighborhood, the area is now multi-ethnic and has undergone commercial development. Like many other places of interest in Singapore , Kampong Glam is a unique mix of old and new.

Among its most important religious attractions is the Sultan Mosque, also known as Masjid Sultan . Named after Sultan Hussain Shah, the national monument is recognized for its massive golden domes and huge prayer hall. The interior is decorated with floral motifs and gold-plated accents and is open to visitors between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. In the evening, the building lights up and is a beautiful place to go in Singapore at night.

There are other majestic places of worship along Arab Street, such as bazaars where you can buy carpets, perfumes, and Arabic food intermingled with trendy cafes and artsy shops. I also recommend walking on the pedestrian  Bussorah Street . At night, it is quite lively as restaurants set up tables outside to entice passersby to dine on their terraces.

Besides that, don’t miss Bali Lane, where you’ll find colorful buildings, hip restaurants, and artistic murals, and Haji Lane , a hotspot for young people and creatives. Here, you can peruse independent shops and boutiques and grab a bite at one of the Middle Eastern cafes.

With so many things to do, Kampong Glam is one of the top Singapore areas to visit and to know more about its history, I recommend taking this guided walking tour.

15. Visit the best cultural museums in Singapore

While Singapore is full of modernity and futuristic architecture, it also has a rich cultural history. I couldn’t mention this destination in Southeast Asia without recommending a few of the best museums to visit in Singapore , like the Asian Civilisations Museum, the Peranakan Museum, the National Museum of Singapore, and the National Gallery of Singapore. I suggest adding one or two to your list of things to do in Singapore on rainy days .

The Asian Civilisations Museum specializes in pan-Asian cultures and history. These societies reflect the ethnic heritage of many people in Singapore, so it’s a nice place to visit to get a deeper sense of Singapore’s national identity and culture. The Chinese collection is particularly interesting and contains exquisite porcelain figures, Taoist and Buddhist monuments and statues, and other decorative art.

The Peranakan Museum is the sister museum to the Asian Civilisations Museum and focuses on Peranakan culture. This ethnic group descends from the Malay Peninsula and the islands of Indonesia. Some of the museum’s highlights include an elaborate Peranakan wedding bed, beadwork, embroidery, and religious altars.

The oldest museum in the region is the National Museum of Singapore . It is known for housing some of the most precious Singaporean artifacts, such as the Singapore Stone and a traditional Peranakan coffin lid.

Finally, the National Gallery of Singapore features the largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art in the world. There are over 9,000 fine art pieces, providing a retrospective of Singaporean lifestyle, culture, history, and development.

If you’re looking for stuff to do in Singapore to learn more about this country’s history and culture, these museums are worth checking out.

16. Fort Canning Park, the most stunning lookout in Singapore

If you’re itching to get out into the fresh air, then Fort Canning Park is a beautiful place in Singapore I suggest visiting. This historic park is between the National Museum of Singapore and Clarke Quay and has a long and iconic history. The hilly area was once the site of 14 th -century palaces and a military headquarters back in the 1940s.

Today, it’s a lush refuge from the busy city streets. Here, you can find several gardens, including the historic Spice Garden . Relics from the past remain, such as The Battle Box underground bunkers from WWII, and the 9-Pound Cannon .

One of the landmarks of the park is the Gothic Gates , which was built in 1846. You can find them atop Fort Canning Hill , the nearly 160-foot summit of the park. It’s a popular venue for celebratory events and musical concerts, so you might run into a festival or group during your visit. The area is traditionally known as Forbidden Hill due to an old belief that it’s the final resting place of the ancient kings of Singapore.

The hill overlooks Orchard Road , a popular Singapore tourist attraction . This 1.5-mile strip winds through a central area of the city where you can shop, dine, and sightsee. If you’re wondering where to go in Singapore after visiting Fort Canning Park, check out this shopping and entertainment center.

Or, if you’re into history and want to learn more about Fort Canning’s role in WWII, this Battlebox tour will guide you through the military museum.

17. Haw Par Villa, another unforgettable place to go in Singapore

Haw Par Villa is a theme park, as well as Singapore’s largest outdoor art gallery, based on Chinese mythology. The park features over 1,000 statues and 150 huge dioramas depicting scenes from ancient folklore and legends. It’s sort of like walking through a living history book, and it’s a quirky thing to do in Singapore.

As you approach this Singapore attraction , you’ll walk through the traditional Tiger Balm Garden archway entrance. From there, you can explore the 21-acre park, which is full of all kinds of interesting sights.

For example, one of the first displays you’ll see is the Ten Courts of Hell , which are based on the traditional Buddhist concept of the afterlife. Large-scale figurines of the two guardians of the underworld, Horse-Face, and Ox-Head, will greet you.

As you walk through the park, you’ll see various illustrations depicting aspects of Confucianism and Buddhism, as well as lots of mythological creatures, such as mermaids and the Monkey King. There are also colorful statues of sumo wrestlers, a Laughing Buddha, and a beautiful 5-story pagoda.

Visiting Haw Par Villa is one of the best free things to do in Singapore and the park is a one-minute walk from the Haw Par Villa MRT station.

18. Changi World War II Tour, something interesting to do in Singapore

If you’re looking for things to do in Singapore near the airport , check out the Changi Museum . The museum is dedicated to honoring and remembering those who served and died in Changi during World War II. More specifically, the museum documents the events that took place at Changi prisoner-of-war (POW) camps during the Japanese Occupation from 1942 to 1945.

There is no fee to enter the museum, so a visit here is another nice free thing to do in Singapore if you’re short on time. The exhibits feature wartime art, personal belongings from Singaporean POWs, and a visual history of Changi Prison life throughout the war. The museum grounds include the Changi Chapel , which is a replica of the original.

Nearby is the Johore Battery , a former British artillery battery, where you can view a replica of a 15-inch naval gun. A few blocks away is the Selarang internment camp , which was the site of a revolt of Australian and British POWs. A bit further south is the Changi Prison , and to the west is the Kranji War Cemetery, the final resting place for fallen Allied soldiers who died during the Battle of Singapore.

Most people might not realize the deep military history in this country. This WWII tour is a must-do in Singapore for anyone who’s interested in this kind of thing. The guided tour includes stops at the sites above and Changi Beach Park , which overlooks the Straits of Johor .

19. Canopy Park, an incredible thing to do in Singapore airport

If you’d rather look for fun things to do in Singapore with family , you must check out Canopy Park . Located on the upper level of Jewel Changi Airport, Canopy Park is a wonderland of colorful gardens. It is also home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex .

Without a doubt, a visit to Canopy Park is the top thing to do in the Singapore airport . Encompassing 150,000ft², it features two primary gardens. The Petal Garden is a collection of perfectly manicured flower beds with blooms of all colors. The Topiary Walk is an imaginative display of flower sculptures in the shape of iguanas, crocodiles, and other fun creatures.

You can purchase a full admission ticket in advance, which includes the Petal Garden and Topiary Walk, as well as the Discovery Slides and Foggy Bowls , where you can let the kids (or yourself) play. The Canopy Bridge isn’t included in general admission, but it’s worth the small extra fee. This suspension bridge is nearly 165 feet long and hovers 75 feet above the gardens. It’ll give you great views of the Rain Vortex. If you go at night, you can catch the waterfall’s light-and-sound show.

Canopy Park is a great place to visit in Singapore if you have a layover in the city. However, it’s also worth checking out if you’re staying longer. Plus, on the airport’s 4 th level, you can check out the Changi Experience Studio , an immersive virtual reality attraction.

20. MacRitchie Treetop Walk, one of the top places to visit in Singapore

For some outdoor greenery, I suggest visiting the MacRitchie Reservoir Park . Here, you’ll find several long hiking routes where you can get some fresh air and catch a break from the whirlwind of the city.

Strolling through the forest and listening to the sounds of birds is one of the most relaxing things to do in Singapore . If you want something more exciting, consider renting a canoe or kayak at the park’s Paddle Lodge , a popular place for water sports.

The best part about the park, in my opinion, is the MacRitchie Treetop Walk . This free-standing suspension bridge was the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. It connects the two highest points in the park, Bukit Peirce, and Bukit Kalang, offering an aerial view of the forest canopy and city.

The Treetop Walk is one of the best attractions in Singapore , and it’s free. However, I will say that it’s not the easiest to get to. You will need to take bus 166 or 167 to Flame Tree Park and walk 10 minutes to the MacRitchie Treetop Walk Trailhead .

From there, it’s around 1.3 miles (30 min approx.) to the bridge, but you won’t be disappointed. The suspended walkway is about 820 feet long and is the highlight of the park. At its highest point, you’ll be 82 feet above the ground and feel on top of the world. Just be aware of the monkeys in the area and leave your valuables at your accommodation.

21. Go to Pulau Ubin, another must-do in Singapore

If you have the time and you’re looking for places to go near Singapore’s main island , I highly recommend Pulau Ubin . This island in the northeast has a charming rural atmosphere and offers a nice respite in nature.

Today, the island is managed by the National Parks Board, which has preserved the land from urban development. The main hub on the island is Ubin Town and, while it’s small, it has a very welcoming vibe. In fact, most of the businesses and restaurants are focused on appealing to visitors to the island, so you’ll feel quite safe here.

Take some time to explore Ubin’s wooden jetties and house villages, as well as the diverse flora and fauna. And if you want some activity, I suggest renting a bike and heading to the Ketam Mountain Bike Park . The island is also a good spot for recreational activities and outdoor sports like camping, hiking, and swimming.

Two lovely Singapore attractions in Pulau Ubin are the Chek Jawa Wetlands and the Ubin Fruit Orchard . The Wetlands cover nearly 250 acres and include mangroves, beaches, lagoons, and coastal forests. I recommend walking along the boardwalk and climbing to the top of the 65-foot-tall Jejawi Tower . The Ubin Fruit Orchard is a fruit tree arboretum where you can learn about the tropical trees in the area and find some uncommon varieties of mango.

Pulau Ubin is just a 10-minute bumboat ride away. From Singapore’s city center, you can take public transportation to the Changi Bus Interchange. The Changi Point Ferry Terminal is a 3-minute walk from there, and you’ll see bumboats waiting at the pier. A one-way ride is usually under $3.00 and the departure times are at the discretion of the individual boat operators.

22. Swim at Wild Wild Wet Waterpark, something fun to do in Singapore

On those hot days in Southeast Asia, a visit to the Wild Wild Wet Waterpark is a fun thing to do in Singapore with the family .

With 13 attractions across more than 9 acres, Wild Wild Wet is the largest waterpark in Singapore. It also has the first raft slide in Southeast Asia, Ular-Lah. There are also speed and racing slides, a waterslide half-pipe, a lazy river, and a wave pool.

Wild Wild Wet is one of the top places to visit in Singapore with kids , too. The park has child-friendly areas and there is even a jacuzzi section for parents and older kids. If you forgot to bring swim gear, there is a shop in the park, although the prices will be higher than average. There’s also a café on-site.

The best way to get to the park is taking public transportation to the Pasir Ris station. From there, it’s about a 6-minute walk. Wild Wild Wet is only open Thursday through Monday, so be sure to plan accordingly.

23. 1-Altitude Viewing Gallery, one of the most spectacular views over Singapore

For a unique thing to do in Singapore , I suggest visiting 1-Altitude, an upscale viewing tower and lounge. The 925-foot-tall building is the highest viewing gallery in the country, and it’s one of the most romantic places to visit in Singapore .

The viewing gallery provides a stunning 360° view of the Singapore cityscape, making it one of the most popular tourist spots. It’s also an attractive venue for weddings and corporate events, so if you want to go, I would check the availability and book a ticket in advance . This isn’t the cheapest place in Singapore, but the views are worth it. Plus, there is an open-air bar, making it a nice date spot for couples.

While you enjoy the sunset from 1-Altitude, you can catch glimpses of some of Singapore’s main attractions , such as the Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer. The rooftop bar presents great photo opportunities, too.

For a luxurious thing to do in Singapore at night , consider dining at the alfresco rooftop restaurant on the lower level. The dining space serves casual-contemporary Australian cuisine. There is also an indoor gastro-lounge one floor below that serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Again, be sure to book a reservation in advance so you can partake in the finest sky-high dining in Singapore.

24. Visit Batam Island, Indonesia, one of the top places to go near Singapore

If you’re looking around for what to do in Singapore for a week , I suggest taking a trip to Indonesia’s Batam Island . It is less than an hour away from Singapore and is famous for its relaxing beaches, delicious food, and outdoor activities. You can book ferry tickets in advance here .

Batam is the largest city in the Riau Islands of Indonesia and one of the most popular vacation spots for Singaporeans. Those who are wondering where to go near Singapore need to look no further than Batam! This island has something for everyone, whether you want to take in the culture and sights, sunbathe on the sand, or enjoy the nightlife scene.

Just like Singapore’s city center, Batam has some beautiful historical gems worth checking out. One of these is the Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple , known for its Buddha statues and intricate carvings depicting the twelve Chinese zodiac signs. Visitors are free to walk through the prayer hall and look at the shrines dedicated to Maitreya Bodhisattva, who is believed to be the next Buddha.

For a more thrilling experience, check out the Ocarina Waterpark or Batam Cable Ski Park . The latter is a testament to Batam’s signature aquatic sport, waterskiing. Here, you can also canoe or snorkel, or hang out on land and watch the adrenaline junkies on the water.

As a prime vacation destination, Batam also offers plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and self-pampering. Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall is the prime retail center, and you can find delicious seafood at many of the restaurants. I also suggest hanging out at Nongsa Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Batam.

25. Day trip to Melaka, Malaysia, the best place to visit around Singapore

Around three hours away from Singapore is the Malaysian city of Melaka , which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re looking for where to go near Singapore , Melaka is a great choice.

It’s also a fascinating destination for history buffs and art lovers. The city has a complex history dating back to the Portuguese and Dutch domination from the 16th century.

Surprisingly, you can find St. Paul’s Church , built in 1521, and which is now a museum documenting the Roman Catholic presence in Malacca; and 10 minutes away, the Kampung Kling Mosque , and the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple. The mosque reflects Sumatran, Chinese, Hindu, and Malay architecture, and is decorated with Portuguese glazed tiles, Chinese carvings, and Corinthian columns in the interior; while the Buddhist temple is the oldest temple in the country, dating from 1645.

Other interesting places to visit in the city are the A Famosa fortress , built by the Portuguese in 1511 and Stadthuys , the former city hall built sometime around 1650 by the Dutch.

Melaka also offers boat rides along the Malacca River , which is especially stunning in the evening. You should also check out the Jonker Street Night Market that opens on Fridays and Saturdays, and for daytime adventure, the Skytrex Adventure zipline.

If you are short in time but you really want to immerse yourself in Malacca’s culture, I recommend this guided one-day tour from Singapore.

And there you have it, 25 awesome places in Singapore. I bet there are more things to do in Singapore than you may have thought! To help you plan your trip, I have also marked the best places to visit in Singapore on the map below.

Do you already know which attractions in Singapore you don’t want to miss? If you have any questions, leave them below and I’ll do my best to answer them. Happy travels!

Ascen Aynat

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35 of the Best Things to do in Singapore

Written By: Charmaine Leow

Updated On: June 21, 2023

There is a never-ending list of things to do in Singapore. We have had the opportunity to visit Singapore twice, but we have found that when it comes to finding out what to see in a city, the best advice is to ask a local. So we did!

After reading this local Singapore travel guide, you will get a clear picture of the top attractions in Singapore and the best tours to make for a memorable experience. Enjoy this local’s guide to the best Singapore attractions to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Singapore

Known as The Lion City, or the Garden City, Singapore is exotic, unique, mystifying, and colorful. If you are looking for the best things to do in Singapore, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve covered the best attractions, tours and things to see and do to ignite your curiosities. To plan a full itinerary, check out The Perfect 3 Days in Singapore Itinerary

There are some affiliate links in the post below where theplanetd will earn a commission if you make a purchase but there is no extra cost to you!

1. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Marina Bay Sands is the most renowned hotel in the world, topped by a Sky-park giving you a 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline. Located 56 stories up, the SkyPark Observation Deck is something you really must do in Singapore.

The Marina Bay Sky Park holds the world’s largest Infinity pool offering you one of the best views of Singapore’s central business district. If you want to splurge you can book a night or two for the ultimate experience. See reviews and rates on TripAdvisor

Only hotel guests have exclusive access to the Infinity Pool at Marina bay but you can visit the Skypark and experience one of Singapore’s top attractions without booking accommodation, click here out find out how.

• Tickets cost around $17 USD for adults, $15 USD  for Seniors, and $13 USD  for Children 2 – 12 years of age.
• Opening daily – Mon – Thu: 9:30 am – 10 pm – Fri – Sun: 9:30 am – 11 pm
• If you would like to experience the lion city on a whole new level, you can book your accommodation at the Marina Bay Sands here now!
• The hotel is linked directly to the Bayfront MRT station. The entrance to the SkyPark is on the B level of Tower 3

2. Gardens by the Bay

Exploring the beautiful Gardens by the Bay is a must do in Singapore. Spanning a total of 101 hectares in the heart of the city, it is an integral part of a “City in a Garden” concept. Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions that the locals love too!

Its supertree structures, skywalk, and Cooled Conservatory domes make it a perfect city escape. If you are not afraid of heights, you can pay a small fee of $8 per adult to stroll along the 22-meter-high skyway and enjoy the panoramic views of the Gardens.

You can purchase these tickets for entry to Gardens by the Bay which includes entrance to the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and the 16-story trees. You’ll see the Sun Pavillion, the tallest indoor waterfall, and admission the Floral Fantasy.

3. Supertree Grove Light Show

Every night (at 19:45 and 20:45) there is a beautiful light and music show at the Supertree Grove, where the tree structures come alive.

The lights are choreographed to music making you feel like you are having a mystical, fairy-tale-like experience. Don’t miss this free light & music show when you are at the Gardens of the Bay in the evening.

• For complete info of ticket prices and schedule, Click Here
• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00, Outdoor Gardens: Daily 05:00 – 02:00

4. Cloud Forest

Not far away is the magnificent Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. This pair of biodomes simulate climates from around the world. The Flower Dome simulates the dry climate while the Cloud Forest simulates the cool damp air from the mountains.

It also houses the world’s largest indoor waterfall. The mist from the waterfall cools the air creating a cool and comfortable escape from the Singapore heat.

This Go-City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass gives you access to most of the top attractions in Singapore. It includes Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Avatar Experience, Singapore Cable Car and Sky Experience, Sentosa AJ Hackett Swing, Sky Helix, and 4D Adventure plus so many more Singapore attractions. Get details here.

5. Sentosa Island

Well-known as “The State of Fun,” Sentosa is a man-made mega theme-park and recreation island. The free tram runs within Sentosa island that stops at Imbiah station, Beach station, and Waterfront Station and you can hop off at any station.

There is also a theatre and many restaurants to choose from including the Ola Beach Club, Mega Adventure Park, Butterly Park and iFly Singapore (indoor skydiving), and SEA Aquarium.

• Open Daily: Mon to Sun, from 9 am to 6 – The Mega Adventure Park Bundles starts from $12.00.
• If you want to experience all the highlights of Sentosa Island, get the best deal here.
• For complete Price info and Discounts  Click here .
• You can also book a hotel right on the island.

6. The Merlion

The Merlion is the Mascot of Singapore and is one of the most popular places to visit in the lion city. 

This national icon depicts a lion’s head with a fish body spouting water from its mouth. You can catch a free light and water show from Merlion Park.

Merlion Park and is believed to guard Singapore’s prosperity. If you are looking for what to do in Singapore at night, this is the place to be! This mythical creature is located at the Singapore waterfront.

• Showtimes open daily: Sunday to Thursday: 8 pm and 9:30 pm  (Friday & Weekends extra show added at 11 pm.

7. Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

The Singapore Slings of the Raffles Hotel are legendary. Even if you are not staying at Raffles, be sure to try the famous sticky sweet Singapore Sling. It is a gin-based cocktail developed around 1915 by Ngiam Tong Boon.

Named after Singapore’s founder Sir Stamford Raffles, It is widely regarded as Singapore’s national drink.

Not only is it worth visiting for the Singapore Sling, but Raffles Hotels is and the oldest hotel in Asia. Built during the Colonial era, it is one of the most iconic buildings of Singapore.

You can stay at this 5-star colonial-style hotel in the heart of the city offering the most exceptional amenities in town. See availability and rates on Booking.com

8. Singapore Flyer

Like the London Eye , the Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s largest observation wheels. One of Singapore’s top attractions the observation wheel takes guests 42 stories above ground for a panoramic view of the city. You can book dinner on the flyer complete with a champagne toast.

9. Chinatown

Chinatown is bursting with a trendy setting yet the place is still rich in Chinese historical heritage and Chinese culture.

Once a place for Chinese immigrants, you can still find old Peranakan Shop-houses that have remained unchanged since the 60s. Make sure to visit the Chinatown Heritage Centre, on Pagoda Street. 

There are market stalls and restaurants still lit by traditional lanterns. In Chinatown, you will enjoy a mix of heritage sites, the famous Buddha Tooth Relic, and nearby Hindu temples.

10. Buddha Tooth Relic

When in Chinatown, be sure to visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. It is believed to hold Buddha’s Sacred tooth on the 4th floor and has attracted tons of tourists and locals to receive blessings.

It is a large museum complex with an incredible four-story Buddhist temple. The walls on the first floor are lined with one hundred Buddha statues.

• Visit this  website for services and other info
• OPENING HOURS – 7.00am to 7.00pm (Monday to Sunday) / FREE ADMISSION

11. Eat in Chinatown

Singapore’s Chinatown is a labyrinth of small roads packed with excellent hawker street food and restaurants serving traditional local dishes and authentic Chinese food.

If you are a fan of spicy food, be sure  to try Mala in Singapore. Just beware that it makes your tongue go numb! You will find a vast range of pure Chinese Sichuan delights like dumplings, traditional noodles and our most loved steaming hot pot!

You will also find some indie boutiques, souvenir shops, and chic clubs with stylish wine bars around the area.

• Grab this special offer of Singapore Hawker Center Food Tour in Chinatown  to discover the diverse culinary history of Singapore’s Chinatown.
• Each of the food stalls has its own opening hours; some stalls are open 24 hours daily.

12. Kampong Glam

Little India is another historic district in the Kampong Glam district of Singapore to visit.

Kampong Glam is a historic neighborhood in Singapore known for its cultural and architectural landmarks, as well as its vibrant street art and fashion scene.

Some of the top things to see while visiting Kampong Glam include Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, The Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple aka Temple of a Thousand Lights, and The House of Tan Teng Niah. Visit the Sultan Mosque, a beautiful and iconic mosque located in the heart of Kampong Glam. The mosque is open to visitors, and guided tours are available.

A great place to grab some lunch is at the Tekka Hawker Centre.

13. Haji Lane

Not far from Little India in the Kampong Glam Malay Heritage District is a single lane filled with restaurants, shops and boutiques in the Haji Lane neighborhoods. Haji Lane is Arab Street which is known for its colorful shop houses, independent boutiques, and street art. The colorful buildings will remind you of Chinatown and the area is vibrant with the sights and smells of India.

This narrow street is one of the most popular places in Singapore and is easy to get to as it is close to the city center. With tattoo parlors, graffiti murals, and vintage stores, it’s the hip strip of Singapore.

14. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is a party hub in Singapore. A vibrant place for tourists and locals to drink and party all night is Clark Quay!

Here you will find excellent restaurants with a mix of Asian cuisine and European culture.

Located along the Singapore River it offers exciting nightlife and gleaming lights, packed with beautiful people. It offers a range of alternative Singapore things to do like cruising along the Singapore River or even trying out Bungy Jumping at G-Max Reverse Bungy!

15. Singapore River

For many decades this was the lifeline of Singapore. It is now home to a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and other attractions.

Ride the 40-minute  Bumboats  that cut through the heart of the city, and get a glimpse of local life while cruising down the riverside. Sail away on this historic waterway and grab your  skip the line tickets here!

To spice up your trip down the River, catch the 7:30 pm or 8:30 pm River cruise and you will be able to see the laser water and light show at Marina Bay Sands!

16. Eat at the Hawker Centre

Hawker centers can be found everywhere in Singapore and they are the only place in Singapore where you can find delicious food at a reasonable price!

This is the best place for locals and travelers to indulge and experience the authentic cuisine of Southeast Asia.

Some of these Hawkers Centre serves delicious local dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa, Satay, Carrot cake, and Tasty Chicken wings.

Best Hawker Centers in Singapore

• Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 24 hours. Location: On the corner of Boon Tat Street and Robinson Road, not far from the Raffles Place MRT station.
• Maxwell Road Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:00 daily Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street
• Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 18:00 – 24:00. Address: 20 Kensington Road, Singapore
• Old Airport Road Food Centre – Opening Hours: Around 08:00 and close at 23:00. Address: Block 51, Old Airport Road, Geylang, Singapore
• Tekka Centre – Opening Hours: 06:30 – 22:00. Address: 665 Buffalo & Serangoon Roads, Singapore
• Get  this culinary food bundle  and tasting experience without getting over budget and trying the best of best!

Hawker centers can be found everywhere in Singapore and they are the only place in Singapore where you can find delicious food at a reasonable price! This is the best place for locals and travelers to indulge and experience the authentic cuisine of Southeast Asia. Some of these Hawkers Centre serves delicious local dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa, Satay, Carrot cake, and Tasty Chicken wings.

17. Shop on Orchard Road

Orchard Road is Singapore’s home of fashion and it is famously known as a major shopping belt.

An iconic street flanked by world-class shopping malls, flagship creator boutiques, distinctive restaurants, and entertainment it is the place to be in Singapore.

Stroll his bustling boulevard to people watch the ultra-rich and trendsetters who love fashion. If you love shopping and want quality finds of international, luxury brands as well as local design, head on to this street while in town.

Check this website –  What’s on this Month in Orchard Road for the latest and current events.

18. Singapore Botanical Garden

The Singapore Botanical Garden is more than a one-hundred-year-old tropical rainforest located near the fringe of Singapore’s central area district.

It is the first and only garden recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a national landmark of Singapore. And it is a star attraction for locals, tourist,s and nature lovers.

Be sure to include this stunning tropical garden  in your Singapore itinerary.

• Admission is free, check out the Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Information on their website. 
• Opening Hours – 5 am to 12 midnight daily

19. The National Orchid Garden

Located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens and surrounded by a verdant environment, the Orchid Garden is one of Singapore’s top attractions.

It displays a wide collection of some of the rarest orchids in the world. For the Visitor Information, Admission Fee and Hour of Operation, visit their website for complete details.

• Opening hours – -8.30am – 7.00pm daily (last ticket sales and entry at 6.00pm) Admission Fee: $5.00 for adults / $1.00 for senior citizens (60 years and above) / Free for children below 12 years
• You can get the latest price and lowest deal and skip the line by booking your ticket ahead of time. 

20. Skyline Luge & Skyride

It is a favorite activity for both locals and tourists to race down four exciting tracks on a go-kart. This luge is suitable for all ages and once is definitely not enough.

I loved the luge, especially the spectacular views through the Skyride! In addition to that, you get to ride on a scenic chairlift which gives you a bird’s eye view of Sentosa Island.

It is gorgeous in the evening when the sun is about the set.

• Prices start at $23.50 per person includes 2 Luge & 2 Skyrides. For the latest events and promos visit their website here
• Skyline Luge Sentosa is open from 10 am – 9:30 pm

21. AJ Hackett Sentosa

A popular attraction located in Sentosa Island on Siloso Beach is a place for adrenaline-charged activities like Bungee Jumping, Giant Swings, and a Skybridge!

If you like extreme sports, this is the place for you. In the evening, at The Sunset Deck, you can catch the best sunset view in Singapore from Siloso Beach!

• Buy the Mega Adventure package for the best deal with three adventures in one bundle – regular price for Bungy cost $199 and $79 (Singapore dollars)

22. The Wings of Time

Well-known for its award-winning outdoor show, you get to experience the multi-sensory Wings of Light and water effects at the Wings of Time.

This is a must do in Singapore as you will be mesmerized by an awe-inspiring display of fire, lights, water and laser effects.

• Check out the events and select your tickets. This is a perfect attraction to include in your Singapore Pass with 3 or 5 attractions.
• USD 56 – 7-hour tour package from 1:30 pm
• Catch the Wings of Time and other inclusive great deals offered here.

23. Cable Car from Mount Faber

Experience the thrill of traveling high up in the sky. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore and Sentosa Island by hopping on a cable car from Mount Faber.

Spanning a total of 5 kilometers the cable car links Sentosa to Mount Faber. During your ride, you’ll get to see the picturesque landscape unfold during the ride as you fly over Mount Faber Peak. Faber Peak is a tourist attraction unto itself

There are two different stations the cable car stops at; You can choose to board at Harbourfront or Sentosa Island.

Here’s a guide for Singapore’s Mount Faber Cable Car offering one of the amazing aerial views of Singapore and get a glimpse of this captivating city.

• Opening Hours: Singapore Cable Car: Daily 08:45 – 22:00 (Last Boarding at 21:30, Last Ticket Sale: 21:15)
• Tickets cost 22 USD for adults and 14 USD for children for a round trip.
• For the selections of Singapore’s Mt. Faber Cable Car tour and other inclusive packages, click here. 

24. Pulau Ubin

Get away from the bustle of the city and experience another side of Singapore in Pulau Ubin. This popular tourist attraction was once a thriving granite quarry in the 1900s.

Today, Pulau Ubin is a nature reserve full of monkeys, wild pigs, and deserted quarries that have been transformed into lakes. To get to the island, take a 15-minute boat ride from the Changi Point Ferry terminal.

25. East Coast Park

Another city escape is East Coast Park offering recreation for all. There’s a beautiful beach for relaxing, beach volleyball, and watersports. East Coast Park also houses a cycling park, camping facilities, and a children’s playground.

26. National Gallery Singapore

National Gallery Singapore occupies the former City Hall and Old Supreme Court Building.

The National Gallery of Singapore houses the world’s largest collection of modern art from Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Located in the historic buildings that were formerly the Singapore City Hall and National Supreme Court, it is worth a visit to explore Singapore’s history through art. The most popular collection is Siapa Nama Kamu displaying art dating back to the 19th Century.

27. Universal Studios

The very first and only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia is in Singapore! There are only 4 Universal Studios around the globe and this is one of the top attractions in Singapore. For those who love the thrills of a roller coaster, screaming through the Mummy Ride, or getting soaked on water rides and river rapids of Jurrassic Park and 4D movie experiences, you get it all here! There are a total of 28 rides in seven themed zones Universal Studios Singapore. .

• Universal Studios Singapore Adult One-Day Ticket with $4 Retail Voucher (min spend $26) at $56
• Open: Monday – Sunday: 10am–7pm
• Friday – Saturday: 10am–10pm
• This all access entry ticket gives access to all seven zones of Universal Studios.

28. Wildlife Nature Park

Another Singapore point of interest is the Wildlife Nature Park. There are a total of 4 Wildlife Nature Parks – the Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari, and Jurong Bird Park.

The first three places are located at Mandai Road while the Bird Park is at Jurong. The largest bird paradise in southeast Asia. Jurong Bird Park is home to over 5,000 birds.

The Singapore Zoo is an “Open concept” which gives you an opportunity to see the wonders of nature and learn about 2800 animals living in an environment similar to their natural habitat. If you are up for an exhilarating experience, you can book an outdoor feast at Jungle Breakfast with the Orangutans. For the breakfast package, click here.

29. River Safari

Witness some of the biggest and most endangered animals at the River Safari, Singapore. It is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park where you can catch a glimpse of the famous Giant Pandas in the Giant Panda Forest to the Jurong Bird Parks and the rugged highlands of China named Jia Jia and Kai Kai!

30. Night Safari

One of Singapore’s best experiences at night is to experience a nocturnal adventure at the Night Safari with your family. You will embark on a multi-sensory after-dark adventure on the tram to catch a glimpse of creatures at night.

• You can access these parks easily with public transportation.
• The Park Hopper ticket is a perfect way to save money and visit all the parks.
• You can purchase the 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 Park Hopper ticket.
• Adult price starts at $22, for the purchase of tickets, discounts, and additional information, click here .

31. Treetop Walk

If you want to do some hiking, the Treetop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir is a great escape from the city. The trail leading to the 250 meter long suspension bridge is 6km return and takes about 2 hours.

During yoru walk be sure to keep an eye out for Long-tailed Macaque and Monitor Lizards and anteaters, known as scaly anteaters.

32. Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi is more than just an airport. It’s one of the most photographed attractions in Singapore due to its breath-taking architecture.

Designed by the best in class architects the Jewel Changi airport is not only one of the busiest airport in the world but also boosts of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Enjoy the rain vortex light show, take photos at the canopy bridge, or visit the canopy park. For a moment, you forget you’re in an airport as the garden experience is one of a kind here.

There also lots of shops and amazing selection at the food courts to make your visit to the Jewel Changi airport well worth it.

A suspension bridge made of rope, high in the jungle canopy – Sungei Buloh, Singapore

33. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Located 12 km from the city center, this Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another nature getaway from Singapore.

Here you’ll be able to hike to Singapore’s higest peak, Bukit Timah Hill standing 163 meters tall. Okay, so it’s not very high, but it does offer views of the rainforest. It is one of the first reserves in Sinapore.

34. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Nature lovers will enjoy the sungei buloh wetland reserve. This 214 acre nature park is one of the best places in Asia to see migratory birds. The raised boardwalk lets you walk through the park spotting wildlife among the mangroves.

35. Eat Durian

This one-of-a-kind fruit with a distinct strong stench that is not pleasant to smell but once you eat it, it is sweet and has a unique custardy taste. Its smell has gained the popular title “hell on the outside and heaven on the inside.” Either you love it or hate it, but I love it and would recommend you to try it!

Things to Know Before You Go

Singapore is not as seasonal as the other countries in the world. Singapore has only two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is from March to August, while the wet monsoon season is from September to February. However, it can get cloudy and rainy during the dry seasons too. It is advisable to carry an umbrella in your daypack as the weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Singapore is on the Singapore Dollar (SGD). 1 SGD = 0.74 USD. For up to date conversions, get the  XE Currency Converter App .

Cars drive on the left in Singapore. Be sure to look right before crossing the streets. When standing on the escalator, stand on your right. The left side is for people to walk.

Singapore is a tiny city, and it is easy to walk around! Attractions are located very near each other as well. There are several modes of transport that you can choose from.

• If you have time and would love to experience like a local,  you can choose to take the MRT and Buses to navigate around.
• Singapore doesn’t have Uber but it does have it’s own rideshare programs:  GrabCar, GOJET or TADA At times, you can get SGD$5 off your rides!
• There are also taxis in Singapore.

Our #1 Money-Saving Tip in Singapore

The best way to save money and explore all the sights in Singapore is to get yourself a  Go City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass . You can order this before your trip and pick it up at the airport. This is what it includes:

• Choose between 35+ attractions that include Sentosa Island Skybridge, a city river cruise, or the AJ Hackett Giant Swing, S.E.A. Aquarium, Gardens by the Bay, and more.
• Enjoy discounted entry at Singapore’s biggest tourist draws for 2 – 7 days
• Select from a list of more than 50 top Singapore attractions
• Save up to 57% compared to individual entry
• The most popular activities require advanced reservations

What I love about this pass is that it not only offers a great discount, but it allows you to customize which attractions are most important to you and gives you access to tours that are not available with other passes.

You can also opt for the more reasonable  Singapore Tourist Pass .

For more information on Singapore you may enjoy these articles:

• 3 Days in Singapore – The Perfect Singapore Itinerary for First Timers
• Where to Stay in Singapore – The Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation

How to Travel Singapore Like a Local

• Outdoor Activities in Singapore
• A Tour of Haw Par Villa in Singapore
• The Best and Biggest Festivals Around The World

Have you ever been to Singapore? What do you suggest are the best Singapore attractions and activities? Did I miss anything?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

The Perfect 3 Days in Singapore Itinerary

Where to Stay in Singapore – The Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation

About Charmaine Leow

Charmaine Leow has traveled to many parts of the world from the most developed to the exotic ones. She shares them on  Bunnyhoptravels  to Help Travelers go on a Budget and get the most Maximum experience out of each and every trip!

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6 thoughts on “35 of the Best Things to do in Singapore”

As we all know the fact that Singapore is one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Everyone wants to visit this beautiful place once in their life. So Singapore is filled with perfect tourist spots, shopping malls, nightlife and modern environment. You can do a lot of things in Singapore and there be it adventure sports, wildlife, historical landmarks, casinos and big restaurants, or risque entertainment that’s why Singapore has too much to offer to tourists.

Great information here! Makes it much more appealing than I thought it would be.

I’m wondering if there is such a thing as budget accommodation anywhere in Singapore? Say under $40usd/night? Or is that just impossible thinking?

You can get budget accommodation in Singapore, you just may have to look at Hostels and shared rooms. Charmaine also wrote an article for us breaking down the best places to stay in Singapore including neighbourhoods with suggestions from Luxury to Budget hotels in Singapore.

Thank you for sharing this information. I didn’t even know much about these beautiful places. I am planning this year to visit Singapore with family. Your post helps me a lot. Keep travelling and let us know more about the beautiful places.

Hey Charmaine, I think I found this blog of yours at the right time. I’ll be going to Singapore next month and couldn’t have asked for a better ‘things to do’ list. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Keep traveling!

I might not want to leave if I go to Singapore.

Visit Singapore: Top 30 Things To Do And Must See Attractions

Things to do in singapore: the 30 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Singapore , in Southeast Asia? You’re looking for the best things to do in Singapore?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 30 best things to do in Singapore , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

You will find all the places of interest to explore, with links to book your guided tours or tickets for the most popular attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Singapore in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Singapore? Where to stay?

1. Gardens by the bay

2. marina bay sands, 3. the merlion, 4. the colonial district of singapore, 5. the raffles hotel, 6. chinatown, 7. little india, 8. kampong glam: the malay neighbourhood, 9. katong district, 10. singapore botanical garden, 11. museums to visit in singapore, 12. shopping in singapore, 13. singapore flier, 14. the southern ridges, 15. henderson waves bridge, 16. sentosa, 17. singapore aquarium, 18. singapore zoo, 19. cruise on the singapore river, 20. singapore rooftops, 21. night safari, 22. bird park, 23. the beaches of singapore, 24. taste the local cuisine, 25. macritchie reservoir park, 26. pulau ubin, 27. the islands of indonesia, 28. thailand, 29. vietnam, 30. cambodia, visit singapore with your family, how many days to visit singapore, visit singapore in 1 day, visit singapore in 2 days, visit singapore in 3 days, visit singapore in 4 days, visit singapore in 5 days, visit singapore in a week, where to stay in singapore, where to eat in singapore, where to go in singapore at night, how to get around singapore, visiting singapore: flight prices, tourist map of singapore, you’re traveling to singapore these articles will help you, visit singapore: all must see attractions.

This is the unmissable tourist site in Singapore: Gardens by the bay.

Even if the name doesn’t remind you of anything, no doubt you have already seen the famous Supertrees in pictures.

These giant metal trees are over 65 feet tall, covered with vegetation and LEDs, and are the main attraction of the bay gardens. And they are particularly impressive!

When they are lit up at night, it’s one of the best spots to take photos in Singapore . Moreover, every evening (at 7.45pm and 8.45pm), there is a nice free sound and light show.

You can also climb on the footbridge (OCBC Skyway) that connects the trees, more than 22 metres in the air. You will be able to enjoy an amazing view over Singapore , if vertigo doesn’t take over! 😅

In addition to the Supertrees, there are 2 other places to see in Gardens by the bay:

• The Flower Dome , which reproduces the ecosystems of some countries, particularly with an Australian or Chinese garden. There is an entrance fee.
• The Cloud Forest with a giant waterfall under a huge dome. Several footbridges perched a few metres high allow you to move around and climb up to the Secret World. There are also exhibitions, films and other gardens. Here too, there is an entrance fee.

You can walk around the gardens of the bay of Singapore free of charge to admire the spaces with different plants. You can also enjoy the view of the famous Marina Bay Sands (see below) and the Ferris wheel (details a little further).

In Garden by the bay you will also find several bars, restaurants, playgrounds for children and a toilet.

To avoid queuing at the entrance of the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest , you must buy your tickets in advance, by clicking on the button below:

If you would like to go to OCBC Skyway , you can buy tickets on site for $8.

To reach the gardens by the bay, the easiest way is to take the underground metro to Bayfront station.

Marina Bay Sands is the other unmissable place to see in Singapore.

This is the city’s most famous luxury hotel! With 3 buildings taller than 50 floors , it has the distinction of hosting the longest and highest infinity pool in the world at its summit!

Nicknamed the Infinity Pool , it is located at a height of 200 metres and offers unobstructed views across Singapore and the giant trees in the bay gardens. But there is only one way to get there: book a night in the hotel. The swimming pool is reserved for guests only.

If you feel like spending a night in Singapore’s iconic hotel, check rates here: Marina Bay Sands 5* Hotel.

But rest assured, if you can’t afford a night at the Marina Bay Sands on your trip to Singapore, you can still access the observation deck next to the pool.

The Sands SkyPark offers a splendid panorama of the bay. 

But since it is crowded, it is better to book your tickets in advance to go up to the observation platform. You can buy them by clicking on the button below:

In addition to the hotel complex, the Marina Bay Sands also has a large shopping centre with several luxury shops and a casino . And if you prefer a kitschy option, you can even take a gondola ride through the criss-crossing canals.

From the Marina Bay Sands, take the lift to Tower 3 to reach the Gardens by the Bay. The connecting bridge offers a nice view of the hotel, the Ferris wheel and the Supertree Grove.

If you want to visit Marina Bay and the gardens by the bay in a unique way while enjoying the views, you must book this 3 hour guided segway tour:

As long as we are discussing the emblematic and popular places, you can explore the Merlion.

This statue with the body of a fish and head of a lion spouting water, is one of the major tourist attractions of Singapore and one of the symbols of the city. 

The fish serves as a reminder that Singapore was a mere fishing village in the beginning, and the lion refers to the name of the city itself, meaning ‘Singapore’ which translates to ‘Lion City’ in Malaysian.

Taking a selfie in front of the Singapore Merlion has now become a must-do for all tourists. It is located in the business district on the esplanade, and on the banks of the Singapore river.

From here you will also have a beautiful view of the Marina Bay Sands and the Art Science Museum building.

You’re going to Singapore?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Singapore 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Singapore on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Singapore.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Singapore, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Singapore!

Mandatory step in your tour in Singapore: the colonial district.

This is where Sir Stamford Raffles founded the city of Singapore in 1819. The former fishing village quickly transformed into an important trading post of the British East India Company.

There are still a few colonial buildings from this era to admire.

On your walk in the colonial district of Singapore, you must visit:

• The Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall: Singapore’s first city hall
• The city hall where Singapore’ s National Art Gallery is located
• The Padang, a large cricket ground, is a historical landmark in the history of the city. The Japanese used it to pile up prisoners during World War II before sending them to the camps.
• Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, completely white and neogothic style
• The Old Parliament , which is now transformed into the House of Arts
• Fort Canning located on the forbidden hill: so called by the first inhabitants of the island who considered it a sacred place. The Fort park is the ideal place to go for a walk or a picnic.
• The Fine Arts Museum

To discover all monuments in the colonial district and have detailed explanations, the best way is to opt for a guided visit. The guide is really interesting and you will get to know everything about the history of Singapore.

This guided tour of Singapore’s Old Colonial District can be booked here:

The Raffles Hotel is a legendary hotel in Singapore . It is also located in the colonial district.

As much as the Marina Bay Sands is known for its modernness, the Raffles is historical in nature. A true institution of the city, it is one of the most famous hotels in Singapore and is considered a very important part of the architectural and cultural heritage.

Opened in 1887, the colonial style palace, welcomed many famous personalities, politicians and writers.

The Raffles bar, the Long Bar , is ranked among the best in the world for its homemade cocktail, the Singapore Sling . A must-try for your trip to Singapore!

To reserve one of the sumptuous suites in this emblematic establishment, just click on the following link: Hotel Raffles Singapore.

Amongst the districts to visit in Singapore, I recommend going to Chinatown.

Climbing down from the “Chinatown” metro station, you will arrive directly on the main street with many shops and restaurants.

The unmissable spots in Singapore’s Chinatown:

• Chinatown Visitor Centre: the information desk where you can get a map of the district
• Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn all about the lives of the first inhabitants of Chinatown, Chinese immigrants. The museum recreates the interior of a shophouse, these typical South-East Asian residences that served as shops on the ground floor and houses on the first floor.
• Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple
• The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a very nice temple with typical Chinese architecture
• The Ann Siang Hill Park, a covered lane leading to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, a Taoist temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea
• Masjid Jamae (or “Chulia”) mosque, one of the oldest in the city.

If you are feeling peckish, you can also go to the Coconut Club to enjoy a gourmet Nasi Lemak Bib, recommended by the Michelin Guide!

If you want to immerse yourself in Chinese culture, why not opt for a guided tour?

With your guide, you can walk the lively streets and discover the monuments. Dinner at a local restaurant, a trishaw ride and a night cruise along the Singapore River are also included.

To book your guided tour of Chinatown , just click on the button below:

This guide to Singapore continues with another district to discover: Little India.

The main places of interest in the Indian district of Singapore:

• Tan Teng Niah House, a very colourful house built by a Chinese merchant and very popular as an Instagram spot!
• Sri Veeramakaliamman, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, wife of Shiva
• Little India Arcade: a building housing souvenir shops and boutiques selling Indian fabrics, saris, clothes and sculptures
• Tekka Centre: a large covered market selling fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and which is crowded with people. Very picturesque place!
• Indian Heritage Centre, a new museum about the culture and history of the Singapore Indians
• Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple: dedicated to Vishnu, it has a 20 m tall gopuram (a tower)
• Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, also known as the Temple of 1000 Lights. There is a giant Buddha statue, 15 metres tall and 300 tons heavy.

Just like the colonial or Chinatown districts, there are also tours of Little India .

They can be booked here:

Kampong Glam is one of the oldest neighbourhoods to see in Singapore. It was in 1822 that Sir Stamford Raffles allocated this area to the Arab and Malay community.

Today the neighbourhood has remained quite authentic and picturesque with many traditional stalls and beautiful houses.

What are the things to see in Singapore, in Kampong Glam:

• Haji Lane: a street with colourful houses and lined with trendy bars and cafes with a lot of street art
• Arab Street: a street parallel to Haji Lane with boutiques selling traditional carpets, fabrics and clothes
• Bussorah Street: where you will find pretty classy houses, Lebanese or Moroccan restaurants and souvenir shops
• Malay Heritage Centre for Malay History and Culture
• The Masjid Sultan mosque and its imposing golden dome

For all the historical details, you can also choose a guided tour to explore the streets of the Malay district. Click here to book:

We end this tour of Singapore’s must-see districts with Katong.

Located to the east of the city , Katong is one of the oldest neighbourhoods and houses beautiful houses with colourful façades and old shophouses. To admire them, you can take a walk along Koon Seng Road.

Most of these shops were owned by Peranakans , Chinese immigrants who married locals, and out of this mix a new culture was born.

Katong is also known for being home to many small and very nice restaurants where you can taste the local cuisine.

Where are the places to go in Singapore to enjoy some greenery and take a nice walk?

The Singapore Botanical Garden is a direct metro ride away. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the place is super pleasant and perfectly maintained.

It is the most visited botanical garden in the world and it is free of charge (except the entrance to the national orchid garden, which costs $5).

There are several themed gardens to see, lakes, museums on the history of the garden or temporary exhibits. There are also several cafés and restaurants.

Expect your visit to take 2 to 3 hours because it’s a really big place. It is an ideal place to walk, with a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.

If you want to do some cultural tourism in Singapore, you will find many museums to visit:

• Asian Civilisations Museum for Asian art and culture in general
• The National Gallery Singapore for Modern Art
• The National Museum of Singapore for the history of Singapore, from its creation to the present times
• Indian Heritage Centre dedicated to the history of the Indian community of Singapore
• Malay Heritage Centre for discovering the Malay people
• Chinatown Heritage Centre recreates scenes from the daily lives of the city’s first Chinese residents
• Peranakan Museum to better discover this unique community
• Singapore City Gallery to learn more about Singapore’s architecture and urban development over the years
• Art Science Museum at Marina Bay Sands and its various sections on art, culture, science and technology.

Going to Singapore and returning without having done a bit of shopping ? Unimaginable!

You must go to Orchard Road for a small shopping spree at one (or more) of the huge shopping centres nearby. H&M, Victoria’s Secret or luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Hermès…), there is a plethora of choices.

Just to clarify, even though you are in Asia, don’t expect to find low prices like in Bangkok ( Thailand ) for example. Singapore remains one of the most expensive cities in Asia, even if you include the duty-free aspect.

If you haven’t found what you were looking for at Orchard, don’t worry, you can always continue to the VivoCity (HarborFront subway), one of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia, or to the shopping centre at the Marina Bay.

And for affordable accessories or souvenirs, I suggest you go to Bugis Street, a covered market where you will find everything and nothing in a jolly mess!

For your purchases of photo or electronic equipment, avoid Sim Lim Square at all costs , guaranteed scams! I won’t dwell on the subject, but if you do a little research, you’ll quickly realise that this place must be avoided.

An idea for a nice activity to do in Singapore to admire the city: a Ferris wheel ride. It is not far from Marina Bay.

At 165 metres tall , the Singapore Flier has long been the world’s biggest ferris wheel . During the tour, you can enjoy the view of the buildings, the bay and the Supertree.

To book your ticket for the Singapore Flier, simply here:

We continue our Singapore guided tour with a walk through nature.

The Southern Ridges is a 10 km -long trail connecting several parks in Singapore , located in the south of the city. With footbridges between the trees and the canopy , the place allows you to discover the local flora and fauna.

Guests can visit the Kent Ridge Park, Hort Park, Telok Blangah Hill, Labrador Nature Reserve and Mount Faber Park. 

You don’t have to go all the way because there are several places from where you can begin. For example, I got off at Telok Blangah metro station to reach the Telok Blangah park and walk down the footbridges to the hill.

From here you will not be far from the Henderson Waves Bridge and the cable car to Sentosa Island. I’ll explain everything below.

Take the Southern Ridges trail to the Henderson Waves Bridge.

This futuristic -looking wooden bridge is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and a very popular spot for photos. It has to be said that its shape, full of waves and curves, is very original and also allows you to admire the view of the city , 36 metres tall.

Sentosa is an island entirely dedicated to leisure , and you will find plenty of tourist attractions in Singapore (click on the orange links to book your tickets):

• Universal Studios Singapore: an amusement park similar to the one in Los Angeles but smaller
• The Trick Eye Museum: to take pictures in all sorts of 3D environments
• The SEA Aquarium: a gigantic aquarium, I’ll tell you about it below
• The Adventure Cove Waterpark: a water park with slides, wave pool, snorkelling pool and more
• The Sentosa 4D Adventureland to experience 3 short sessions of 4D movies
• KidZania where children can immerse themselves in adult life by experimenting with several professions thanks to super realistic role-playing: policemen, doctors, firefighters, plane pilots…
• Madame Tussauds: the famous wax museum.

You can also indulge in a number of activities: segway, toboggan , bicycle, surf , tree-climbing , skydive (indoor free fall) or even bungee jump.

A bit of advice: avoid the Butterfly Park Insect Kingdom which contains 3 poor butterflies and some animals.

To reach Sentosa island , you can take the metro to Harbourfront station and then go on a cable car.

The departure point is at Mount Faber , just before the Henderson Waves Bridge, where you can admire the view of the entire south of the city. You can book your tickets for the Singapore cable car directly by clicking here:

As I said, you can also visit the Singapore Aquarium on your day in Sentosa.

Jellyfish, colourful fish, rays, sharks, there are really many underwater species to see! The aquarium is also well designed and maintained.

To avoid queuing at the entrance, I advise you to book your tickets in advance by clicking here .

This is really a must-see if you have decided to go to Singapore with your family.

To spend time among animals and family outings, if you don’t know what to do in Singapore, you can go and visit the city zoo.

The Singapore Zoo is one of Asia ‘s most famous zoos, with its 170 acres and more than 2,500 animals. You can see tigers, lions, leopards, giraffes and much more. Tickets available here.

Just next to the zoo (but at an additional cost) is the River Safari park, which is more focused on the different ecosystems of the aquatic world.

But strangely, it’s in this River Safari that you can see the giant pandas. It’seasy to see why they are not actually in the zoo: to “force” you to buy tickets for the 2 parks.

So if you want to see the pandas, you have to buy your River Safari passes too. They can be booked here.

During your vacation in Singapore, you can also relax on a cruise on the Singapore River.

Departing from Clarke Quay , you can take a boat ride to explore the skyscrapers of the financial district, the Merlion, the theatre or the monuments of the colonial district.

A pleasant 40-minute trip to get a different view of the city.

What could be better than a rooftop (roof terrace) in one of the highest buildings in Singapore to gaze upon the city at night and enjoy an excellent cocktail.

Here is my selection of the best rooftops in Singapore:

• The Ce La Vi located at the top of the Marina Bay Sands
• The 1-Altitude located on the 63rd floor, at 1 Raffles Place. One of the highest bars in the world!
• LeVel 33 overlooks the Singapore Marina and boasts the highest microbrewery in the world.
• The Loof for a more relaxed atmosphere
• The Kinki and its panoramic view of the business district
• The Lantern in the Fullerton Bay Hotel
• The SuperTree by Indochine is located in one of the giant trees of Gardens By the Bay, one of the most spectacular rooftops in Singapore!
• The New Asia Bar is located at the 71st stop of the Swissôtel hotel and hosts the world’s most famous DJs

Most of these rooftops are quite chic, so you’ll have to take your best outfit out of your bags to go here!

Cocktail prices are quite high and generally start at around $20.

If you have decided to visit Singapore with your family , you can’t take the rooftop option for your evening. But no worries, I found a more suitable activity: a night safari.

The Night Safari is one of the main tourist attractions of Singapore at night. You can discover many animals such as lions or elephants.

The first part of the tour is on foot and you will then climb into the tram for the visit and enjoy from the audio commentary.

Book your Night Safari tickets in Singapore here:

If you plan to visit the Singapore Zoo and do the Night Safari , I suggest you opt for a combined ticket. This will save you money.

The zoo + night safari ticket is available here.

Finally, in Singapore, you can also visit the world’s largest bird park.

The Bird Park has no less than 5,000 birds of 400 different species. Like the zoo, River Safari and Night Safari, it is managed by the NGO Wildlife Reserves Singapore . Most birds are found in large aviaries and the park is quite well designed.

To avoid queuing at the entrance , you can book your tickets to Singapore’s Bird Park in advance:

Would you like to take advantage of your visit to Bangkok to go to the beach?

Well, be warned, don’t expect paradisiacal beaches and unspoilt surroundings such as around Koh Lanta or Phuket , Thailand. The beaches in Singapore are not as pretty but if you want to take a breather and cool-off, they do the job.

The most accessible beaches in Singapore are on the island of Sentosa:

• Palawan beach: very busy and surrounded by restaurants
• The Siloso beach where you can indulge in several water activities
• Tanjong beach, a little quieter during the day

South of Singapore, you can also find East Coast Park , the largest park in the city with a large sandy beach.

On your trip to Singapore, you will obviously have the opportunity to taste local cuisine.

Among the specialities to try , you must have:

• The Dim Sum: delicious, steamed bite-sized treats filled with vegetables or meat
• Laksa, a spicy noodle soup made from coconut milk and served with eggs and shrimp
• Nasi Lemak: a coconut cream rice with fish or chicken and a sauce made with chilli, ginger and lemon (among others)
• The Chilli Crab: crab served with special bread (mantou), which is dipped in a delicious sauce
• Fish head curry which, as its name suggests, is a fish head marinated in a curry
• The Hokkien Mee: 2 types of noodles cooked in a shrimp and squid broth
• Durian: Singapore’s national fruit known for its horrible smell and banned on public transport and most hotels! Once you get over this, it actually seems good!

To discover the typical dishes of Singapore, you can also choose a guided tour with tasting several specialities like Nasi Lemak and Dim Sum.

This food tour is very nice and includes about ten tasting sessions in the Malay village, Chinatown and Little India .

Just click the button below to book this private guided tour:

Another nice park for taking a stroll in Singapore: the MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

This park has a complete change of scenery with its lush vegetation, and a large population of monkeys.

You can choose between several marked paths (the longest is 11 km long), but you must absolutely not miss the Treetop Walk, a suspension bridge offering a nice panoramic view of the park.

You will find signs for the routes at each entrance to the park. Remember to bring water, good sneakers and mosquito repellent!

To conclude this list of the top things to do and see in Singapore, you must go to Pulau Ubin.

This island is located in the northeast of the city and easily accessible by boat (only 10 minutes for the crossing). The boat can be taken at the Changi Point Ferry Terminal. No timetables, it leaves when it is full, but the process is fast because it can only accommodate a dozen passengers.

Spending a day in Pulau Ubin during your stay in Singapore allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and get a little change from the skyscrapers.

You can explore the island on foot or by bicycle to discover the traditional village, the ancient quarries, the jungle and the mangrove.

You must also climb to the Puaka Hill viewpoint , which offers a clear view of the surroundings!

The best things to do around Singapore?

After seeing all these interesting spots in Singapore, it is time to find out what you can do in the nearby areas.

In fact, there isn’ t much to do in the immediate vicinity of Singapore, but on the other hand, you can get to other destinations very easily in just a few hours by plane or boat.

Batam Island and its neighbour Bintan , are the closest islands to visit around Singapore. Located in Indonesia , they are just a 1-hour boat ride away.

In Batam, you can enjoy several beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Golf lovers can also indulge in their passion at one of the world-class golf courses.

Quite touristy, the islands also offer duty-free shops, luxury hotels and resorts and water sports activities.

It is the ideal destination for a relaxing weekend near Singapore.

And if you want to go a little further Bali is only a 2h30 flight away, so your trip to Singapore can be the opportunity to go and discover this beautiful island of Indonesia!

From Singapore, you can also easily fly to Thailand.

If you are looking for an island with beautiful beaches , then you have Phuket , Koh Lanta , Koh Yao Noi , or Krabi .

If you’re not fed up with visiting urban areas, head for Bangkok , the Thai capital.

To help you organise your trip to Thailand , you can ready read my dedicated articles for the country: Destination Thailand.

Another country to discover around Singapore: Vietnam.

A 2-hour flight will take you to Ho Chi Minh , formerly known as Saigon.

The unmissable spots in Ho-Chi-Minh:

• The war museum, recounting all the horrors of the Vietnam War
• Temples and pagodas
• The Reunification Palace 
• The Cu Chi tunnels where tens of thousands of people hid
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• The central post office and its typical French architecture
• Enjoy an ice-cold coffee, a sumptuous experience!

And once in Vietnam, you can discover the wonders of the country , such as the famous Halong bay or the terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai.

Cambodia is also one of the destinations close to Singapore easily accessible by plane.

You can visit the capital Phnom Penh (the royal palace, the national museum) or, of course, go to Angkor Wat to discover the temples, it is Cambodia’s most touristic site.

Here is a list of things to do in Singapore with your children:

• Gardens By the Bay during the SuperTree sound and light show
• Singapore’s botanical garden to take a stroll
• Sentosa Island and its many attractions
• Singapore Aquarium
• The zoo , the River Safari , the Night Safari and the Bird Park for all sorts of animals

Considering the number of places to see in Singapore, I recommend staying there for a minimum of 3 days. It’s an ideal period of time to discover most of the places that I discussed in this top things article.

Here are a few examples of how to visit Singapore in 1, 2, 3 days or more .

If you are planning to go on paid attractions in Singapore , there is a city pass that saves money.

It gives you free access to more than 35 tourist attractions and activities in Singapore that are all in my top things article. However, you will have to plan your visits in advance to combine the ones that are included and to make the most of it.

Indeed, as it is valid for 2, 3, 5 or 7 days, this leaves little room for manoeuvre in case of bad weather or unforeseen events: for example, you will have to count one day if you want to go to the zoo, the River Safari and the Night Safari and another day for Sentosa. This rather imposes a sustained pace for your excursions.

If you are planning to visit the city in its entirety, book your unlimited Singapore sightseeing pass by clicking on the button below:

And if you want to be less rushed, it’s better to book your tickets one by one for each attraction using the links I gave you throughout the article.

If you only have one day to visit Singapore , for example, on a long stopover, you can easily reach the areas you’re most interested in by subway and then walk around .

It all depends on your interests, but the most spectacular place in the city remains the Gardens By the Bay and the outskirts of Marina Bay and Merlion.

A good, quick and inexpensive way to get an overview of the city and its main neighbourhoods is also to choose to visit Singapore by multi -stop bus.

You need to book your tickets here:

If you have 2 days in Singapore , you can follow the following itinerary:

• Discovery of Chinatown
• Visit to the Singapore City Gallery
• Going to the Marina Bay Sands
• Visit to the Gardens by the bay
• SuperTree Sound and Light Show
• Visit to the Little India and Kampong Glam neighbourhoods
• Dine at the Raffles Hotel to sip a Singapore Sling
• A walk in the colonial district
• Photo with the Merlion
• Take a ride on the Ferris wheel and/or enjoy the panoramic view from one of Singapore’s rooftops

In 3 days in Singapore , you can continue from the schedule for the first two days and then you have the following options:

• A walk to the Southern Ridges and a visit to the Henderson Waves
• Take the cable car to Mount Faber
• Spend the rest of the day in Sentosa: you can visit one or more attractions or go to the beach

You also have another option for the 3rd day in Singapore:

• Visit the Singapore Botanical Garden in the morning
• Spend an afternoon shopping on Orchard Road 

For a 4 day stay in Singapore , you can go the places that you did not choose in day 3.

If your trip to Singapore lasts 5 days , you can choose between:

• 1 day at MacRitchie Reservoir
• 1 day to visit the Singapore Zoo and also the Night Safari if you feel like it
• 1 day at Pulau Ubin

In 7 days in Singapore, you won’t have to choose, continue with the itinerary till day 5.

On the sixth and seventh day , you can go to 2 other places . You will have then visited most of the tourist sites in Singapore!

There’s no hiding it, unlike other Asian cities, Singapore is not really an inexpensive place.

The prices of the rooms are quite high and it is better to book them as early as possible to get reasonable prices. The good news is that you will still have plenty of choices because there are hundreds of hotels in Singapore.

As far as the location is concerned, it doesn’t matter as long as your hotel is not far from a subway station, as this is the main means of transport you will use to get around.

To help you choose, I have prepared my selection of the best hotels to stay in Singapore, based on your budget:

The capsule hotels (hostel style) – the cheapest accommodation in Singapore:

• Spacepod@com Located 100m from the metro and 3 km from the colonial district. Capsule bed (called “pods”) from €40, breakfast included. Strong points: Very near to the subway, functional and comfortable capsule.
• The Atlas Station: Capsule hotel located 2 km from the Singapore Art Museum and 3 km from the Singapore Flier. Double space capsule from €50, breakfast included. Strong points: air-conditioning and a screen with Netflix in each pod, friendly staff.
• Wink Capsule Hostel @ Chinatown: Located in Chinatown. Capsule bed from €60, breakfast included. Strong points: location in Chinatown, subway a 2 minute walk away, cleanliness. This is our recommendation for a cheap stay in Singapore.

The best hotels for a budget between €100 and €200:

• Hotel Boss: Located between Kampong Glam and Little India. Modern double room with city view from €110, breakfast at €8. Strong points: swimming pool, good location, view.
• Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon: Located in Little India. Comfortable and well equipped double room from €150, breakfast at €13. Strong points: soundproofing, comfortable bedding, swimming pool. An excellent choice to stay in Singapore!
• YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road: Located in the heart of the shopping district, on Orchard street and 270 metres from the metro station. Very modern and functional double room from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor swimming pool, comfortable bed, excellent breakfast. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Singapore!
• Swissotel Merchant Court Singapore: Located in Clarke Quay, just next to the colonial district and not far from Chinatown. Warm double room with views of the river or the swimming pool from €200, breakfast at €28. Strong points: very friendly and helpful staff. The best choice to stay in a 5* hotel in Singapore for a “reasonable” price for the city.

Luxury hotels in Singapore:

• Parkroyal on Pickering: Located in Chinatown. Designer and warm double room from €250, breakfast at €25. Strong points: swimming pool, hanging gardens and leafy setting, magnificent decoration, excellent breakfast. An exceptional place to stay in Singapore!
• Marina Bay Sands: This emblematic 5 star hotel in Singapore is known for its famous swimming pool: the largest infinity pool in the world, with a superb view of the Gardens By the Bay. Double room with contemporary decoration and large bay windows to enjoy the view, from €400. Strong points: quality of service, access to the Infinity Pool, services. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Singapore!
• The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore: Luxury hotel located in Marina Bay. A very classy double room with uncluttered furniture, from €460, breakfast at €37. Strong points: quality of service, comfortable rooms, delicious food.
• Raffles Hotel Singapore: Another emblematic 5 star establishment in Singapore. The Raffles Hotel offers very elegant rooms in the colonial style from €600, breakfast at €47. Strong points: setting, architecture, ambiance, luxury and refinement. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Singapore!

I don’ t really have specific recommendations for a restaurant in Singapore.

It will really depend on where you stay and where you are at meal time. But you will find places to eat at any time of the day.

You must visit the the food courts of the shopping centres, or the hawker centre , open-air or semi-covered spaces (more typical) that bring together all the cuisines of the world.

Choose what you want to eat from any of the stands and you can sit on the tables in the centre to enjoy it. If you see a bunch of tissues on the table or chair, it is reserved!

A super convenient option if you are together and everyone wants to eat a different dish.

In addition to all the rooftop locations I’ve talked to you about, if you want to party in Singapore or have a drink in a relaxed atmosphere, you have the following options:

• Haji Lane street for its many bars where DJs and live musicians perform
• The Telok Ayer Street is also very lively in the evening
• The Zouk (Clarke Quay underground), ranked in the top 10 best nightclubs in the world

There are also bar tours in Singapore. Ideal if you’re visiting Singapore solo but want to meet other travellers for an evening.

The tour includes free shots, discounts on other drinks and a VIP entrance to a club.

Book your pub crawl in Singapore by clicking here.

To get around Singapore, the best way is taking the subway. The network is super developed and you will avoid all the traffic jams that are inevitable if you are travelling by bus or taxi.

Upon arrival at the Singapore airport, you must take the Singapore Tourist Pass which gives unlimited access to public transport for 1, 2 or 3 days for $10 per day or $30 for 3 days.

The rate includes the $10 deposit that will be returned to you when you bring your transportation cards back. This is the best pass for transportation.

Since flight prices for Singapore vary greatly, it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner.  You can rest assured that you will get the best rates.

To help you visualise the city a little better, I made you a tourist map of Singapore listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 30 things to do in Singapore and nearby. You can display the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow.

So what have you planned to do during your trip to Singapore?

Discover all my articles about Singapore : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Singapore are listed there.

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The best places to visit in Singapore

Make the most of your visit and tick off the essential spots in your checklist

Don’t be fooled by the size of Singapore. We've explored every nook and cranny in search of ace spots to check out and we've found aplenty. It's safe to say that this tiny island-city has heaps of things to do and see ranging from scenic nature trails and floral fantasias to immersive art exhibitions and thrilling theme parks. But for an easy-to-digest guide, we've narrowed them down to eight of our favourite areas. Whether you’re a longtime local and a regular visitor, here are some of the best places and attractions you should at least visit once .

RECOMMENDED: Do List: 101 best things to do in Singapore  and the best time to visit Singapore

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It should come to no surprise that the city's hottest tourist destination makes it to the list. Not only can you marvel the impressive structure of the 57-storeyed Marina Bay Sands , but you can head up to the boat-shaped SkyPark for a bird's-eye view of the city. You can also check out the infinity pool, but no dipping please, that's for hotel guests only.

While you're there, indulge in some retail therapy at designer boutiques like Chanel, Fendi, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and more occupying The Shoppes at Marina . When you're feeling peckish, stop by one of its many celebrity-chef restaurants for the A-List treatment.

Not looking to splurge? Book front-row seats to the latest musical gracing the stage of Sands Theatre or step through the doors of the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum for immersive art, science, culture and technology exhibitions.

For a change of scenery, smell the roses at Gardens by the Bay or lay out the mat for a romantic picnic at  Marina Barrage . And don't forget that mandatory selfie with the Merlion by the Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore .

An island dedicated to all things fun under the sun? Now we're talking! Work on your tan on the sand at either of its pristine beaches – Siloso or Palawan – or relax on a lounge chair with a tropical cocktail in hand at Tanjong Beach Club  or Coastes . 

Adrenaline junkies can hop on any of the thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore or go down the epic slides and make a splash at Adventure Cove – remember to pack your swimwear. Take your heart-pumping fun to new heights with a bungee jump at AJ Hackett  or soar at breathtaking speeds at Mega Adventure Sentosa .

For the faint-hearted, head indoors, pose and snap some pics for the 'gram at Madame Tussauds or Trick Eye Museum  instead.

Check out this extensive guide for the full lowdown on where to chill, play and eat at Sentosa.

Civic District

Right at the very core of the city, the Civic District is home to important government buildings, stunning architectures, towering offices, memorial spaces and eye-opening art galleries and museums. And history has it that this is where modern Singapore began.

Get a culture fix at Asian Civilisations Museum , marvel at visual masterpieces at National Gallery Singapore , celebrate the intricacy of literary art at The Arts House and catch a staging at Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall .

After, cross over to the nearby Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay for live performances and a quick bite at its many restaurants and bars.

A shopping mecca, Orchard Road is brimming with everything you can possibly splash your cash on. Update your wardrobe with the latest designer duds from luxury brands like Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton and Prada, or fast-fashion frocks from the likes of Zara, Pull & Bear, Topshop and Topman at ION Orchard . Continue your luxury haul at Paragon and Mandarin Gallery .

Prefer shopping without breaking the bank? Check out Far East Plaza for the best bargain buys. Stop by the eateries for cheap, delicious nosh, get kitschy trinkets and even get tattooed and pierced while you're there.  

Once you're done with your retail therapy, order an innovative cocktail at Manhattan Bar (third on the World's 50 Best Bars list), soak up the views while unwinding from Salt Grill & Sky Bar or indulge in a boozy slushie at OverEasy Orchard .

Beyond cookie-cutter shopping malls, here 's how you can tackle Singapore's famous shopping strip.

Clarke Quay

So many bars and clubs, so little time – Clarke Quay is a veritable hub of leisure from the down and dirty to the sleek and sophisticated. Everywhere you look there's something vying for your attention.

Fill your nightlife schedule with a spot of rocking at Crazy Elephant , catch a football match with a pint of Guinness in hand at McGettigan's , round the mates for flavoured shots at Chupitos  or a play a game of mini-golf at Holey Moley .

Dance alongside sweaty bodies to the hottest club bangers at Zouk , Canvas , Attica ,  f.club and Headquarters by the Council . 

To help you amp up your nightlife experience here, we list out our favourite spots in the area and what they offer.

Round up the family and surround yourself with nature and wildlife at Mandai. Say hello to more than 4,000 animals, including the world’s largest colony of orangutans, the exotic white tiger and the Hamadryas baboons at the Singapore Zoo . Take a boat ride at the Singapore River Safari where the wildlife park houses the biggest freshwater aquarium in the world. Hop on a tram ride and catch over 900 nocturnal animals in their natural habitat at the Night Safari .

In order to cover all basis, start the morning at the Singapore Zoo, followed by the River Safari, and lastly, conclude the day at the Night Safari.

Busy, noisy, filled with people, that’s the general consensus of the Chinatowns of the world, Singapore included. The Chinatown here is an absolute riot of colour – it's home to some of the hippest spots like Ann Siang Hill, Club Street, Amoy Street, Duxton Hill and Keong Saik Road with  a stellar mix of hawker centres and swish eateries, history and  architecture.

Sink into the juicy meats of Burnt Ends , enjoy a hot cuppa joe at Kafe Utu , unwind with a tipple or two at The Old Man , get spiritual at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , try the cheapest Michelin meal at Chinatown Complex Market Food Centre , or simply walk down memory lane at Chinatown Heritage Centre .

Plan your trip to Chinatown and Keong Saik Road with our guides.

Bugis-Bras Basah

Welcome to the hip 'hood of Bugis-Bras Basah. With modern developments like   Andaz , the National Design Centre , the National Library and malls Bugis Junction and Bugis+ lining the streets alongside shophouses and the famous Bugis Street , this precinct is a great example showcasing the juxtaposition of Singapore's old and new.

Head for one of the city's  quirkiest streets – Haji Lane. Stroll down the narrow alley for hole-in-the-wall boutiques and cafés, as well as bold  street art and murals  – the perfect backdrop for the ‘gram. Feeling peckish? Satiate your hunger at  I Am… , The Hangar , or  Zam Zam Restaurant , one of the oldest resto in the neighbourhood. Right around the corner are the grand Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre for some culture fix.

For more visuals, check out  Aliwal Arts Centre  where you can find its back wall bathed in graffiti art. Then make your way towards Queen Street for an  epic mixed-media collage – think bizarre one-eyed monsters, tigers and dragons framed by gaudy fonts – that covers the bleak industrial walls. Next door is 222+51 , an arts centre offering an eclectic medley of lifestyle spaces for art, music, dance and fitness. Enter the corridor for walls decked with doors painted with scenes from Singapore’s past by artists Yip Yew Chong and Yuen Kum Cheong.

Katong and Joo Chiat

Take a trip down to this vibrant Eastern suburb.  Due to its rich heritage, this charming  neighbourhood  makes a great excursion to discover both old and modern Singapore, as well as the Peranakan and Eurasian cultures.  The East Coast enclave is also peppered with colourful shophouses, hipster cafes and indie boutiques – all worth a feature on your Instagram.

Start your day at the OG kopitiam Chin Mee Chin Confectionery with kaya bun and kopi. It's also home to the muchly-raved 328 Katong Laksa where laksa noobs can get an introductory taste of the local dish. Call it a night at the Peranakan-style Hotel Indigo .

Make the most of your visit at Katong and Joo Chiat with our handy guide .

Bukit Timah

Make the most of verda nt beauty and space of this buzzy neighbourhood.  Lace up for a morning nature stroll and scale up Singapore's highest peak at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve . Alternatively, giddy up for a horse ride at Gallop Stables .

Take a break at one of its many hipster cafes for brunch (or a sweet treat for the much-needed sugar). Chow down a $5 burger at Hambaobao , satisfy cupcake craving at Plain Vanilla , tuck into authentic Nyonya cuisine at Violet Oon or lunch with a view at Riders Cafe (pro tip: the best seats in the house are by the balcony overlooking the horses’ paddock and training circle).

Explore Bukit Timah further with our guide .

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10 of the best things to do in Singapore in 2024

Mar 7, 2024 • 7 min read

From the Marina Bay to the hawker centers, here are Singapore's best unmissable experiences © Jirath Ninchaikovit

Singapore may be small compared to its Asian neighbors, but there's a  lot  packed into this city-state. Between the incredible food markets and high-end restaurants, gleaming skyline and cultural wealth, your main problem will be knowing where to start.

Its compact size makes it easy to get around quickly, meaning you can pack a lot into a short trip or even a layover. Here are my 10 top things to do in Singapore .

1. Dine on Singapore's famous hawker food

There are plenty of fine dining establishments in Singapore, but if you want to eat like a local , head to any of the country's open-air hawker centers and fill your belly with a range of cheap and diverse street food. So culturally significant are these hawker centers that they were inscribed to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020. 

Wondering which one to choose first? Every Singaporean will recommend a different favorite, but some good options include: Chinatown Complex , the largest with over 200 stalls; Lau Pa Sat , one of the most historical as a gazetted national monument; East Coast Lagoon Food Village by the sea, perhaps one of the most scenic; and the famous Newton Food Center featured in the movie Crazy Rich Asians.

Local tip: Most hawkers only take cash, so bring small notes and coins.

2. Admire Singapore's iconic skyline at Marina Bay

Show off that you're in Singapore by snapping that postcard-worthy shot of the iconic architecture surrounding Marina Bay. It may be hard to believe, but this area was empty swathes of land until 2010 – and before that, it was open sea. 

Taking a walk along the waterfront is one of the best things to do in Singapore for free . Admire the three towers of the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, take a goofy shot with the water-spouting Merlion statue and stroll across the Helix Bridge (with its DNA-inspired swirls) towards the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum . 

Planning tip: Sunset is a good time to start your walk around Marina Bay. It's cooler, the building lights blaze in their full glory, and if you time it right, you can catch the light and sound shows at the Marina Bay Sands waterfront and Supertree Grove along the way.

3. Indulge in nightlife along the Singapore River

The Singapore River was once the historic center of Singapore in its early entrepôt trading days, and it's the nexus from which the city expanded as it prospered. The warehouses that stored goods along the river banks have since been converted into some of Singapore's top nightlife districts.

Located closest to the river mouth, Boat Quay is the place to enjoy drinks at more laidback pubs with the best waterfront views. Further down, Clarke Quay is home to trendier clubs and watering holes; if you keep going, Robertson Quay offers a quieter enclave with a cluster of nice dining establishments and cafes.

Local tip: Take a river cruise in an old bumboat – these small boats used to trawl the river loaded with goods, and they are a convenient way to sightsee if you need a break from walking.

4. Explore Singapore's historic neighborhoods

Singapore's heritage ethnic neighborhoods were created as a result of British colonial policy that divided the population into different districts according to where they came from. Today, these neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the major ethnic groups that make up Singapore's diverse culture. 

Colorful Chinatown – located near the mouth of the Singapore River – has a delightful mix of temples and shophouses alongside hip restaurants and trendy bars. Kampong Gelam, where the Malays and Arabs lived, centers around the former Sultan's palace and the magnificent Sultan Mosque . And it's easy to lose a few hours wandering the lanes of Little India amidst a mix of aromatic spices, vivid pagodas and bustling weekend crowds.

Detour: Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore's oldest neighborhoods, and today it's gentrified into an intriguing mix of traditional and trendy shops. Meanwhile, Joo Chiat in the east is the best place to learn about the unique mixed Peranakan culture and to see colorful shophouses.

5. Stroll through Singapore's finest gardens

Singapore's "Garden City" nickname is well deserved, thanks to the 400 parks and green spaces all across the island. Gardens by the Bay is one of the most popular thanks to the alien-like Supertrees and the twin glass hemispheres that house the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – the perfect climate-controlled escape when the tropical humidity gets too sweltering.

Pay a visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens , one of the few tropical gardens that have been inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage list to date. It's also home to the National Orchid Garden, which has the world's largest orchid display.

6. Hike Singapore's nature trails

Nature lovers can't miss the 10km-long (6.2 miles)  Southern Ridges , one of the most scenic trails in Singapore; highlights include the country's tallest pedestrian bridge and panoramic views of the southern coastline from Mount Faber . Other great options include trekking the 25m-high (33ft) canopy-level Treetop Walk in MacRitchie Reservoir or summiting Singapore's highest peak (a mere 163m/534ft high) in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve .

Detour: For a real challenge, hike the full 24km-long (15 miles) Rail Corridor that traverses Singapore from south to north along the former railway line that linked Singapore to Malaysia.

7. Visit Singapore's offshore islands 

If you're looking to escape Singapore's ubiquitous tall buildings, your best bet is to hop on a boat and sail to its islands for the day. Sentosa  is the easiest to get to, and it's home to a wide range of attractions, including white sandy beaches, Universal Studios and a casino. 

For quieter spots filled with nature, take a ferry to the Southern Islands cluster of St John's , Lazarus and Kusu Islands, or head up north to Pulau Ubin for the excellent Chek Jawa Wetlands Reserve , outdoor adventure trails, and a throwback to what early Singapore village life might have been like.

Planning tip: Weekends and holidays may see more people visiting the islands, but there will also be a higher frequency of ferries available.

8. Delve into Singapore's history at its best museums

Museum lovers will rejoice at Singapore's array of well-maintained and cutting-edge national museums that showcase the country's culture and history. The National Museum of Singapore , the country's oldest museum, houses immersive multimedia exhibits that trace Singapore's history from past to present, while the majestic National Gallery located in the former City Hall and Supreme Court has the largest collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art. 

For those interested in WWII history, Fort Siloso on Sentosa Island is the last remaining preserved coastal fort, while the Battle Box in Fort Canning Park lets visitors access the former command center of the British troops. A more remote option worth checking out is the Changi Museum & Chapel , which features stories collected from the POWs of the Japanese Occupation and a replica of the Changi Murals painted by a POW.

9. Spend a day at Singapore's wildlife attractions

As space for natural landscapes and wildlife is scarce in Singapore, the Mandai Wildlife Reserve up north offers the best way to experience animal encounters in a controlled environment. Here you'll discover the famous Singapore Zoo with its naturalistic enclosures, the nocturnal Night Safari for animal experiences after dark, River Wonders with river-themed habitats and the Giant Panda enclosure, and the aviaries of Bird Paradise .

For those with a love for the deep blue sea, the S.E.A Aquarium on Sentosa Island houses over 100,000 marine creatures across its two floors of immersive tanks.

Planning tip: Taxis to Mandai Wildlife Reserve incur an additional $3 surcharge because of its remote location. Make the most of Singapore's excellent public transport system and take the MRT to Khatib Station where a $2  Mandai Khatib Shuttle delivers you right to the park's doorstep.

10. Experience Singapore's quirky side

Singapore's big-name attractions are must-sees, but there are plenty of activities that will show you more unusual sides of this island nation. Haw Par Villa is a park filled with statues and dioramas from Chinese stories and mythology – some of which are rather… eccentric. The MINT Museum of Toys is a small private museum next to the renowned Raffles Hotel with the largest collection of vintage toys in Asia.

This article was first published Oct 18, 2021 and updated Mar 7, 2024.

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Best things to do in Singapore

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An easy entry point for first-time visitors to Southeast Asia, the absorbing city-state of Singapore has evolved from a colonial port into a slick shrine to wealth and consumerism. With fascinating Chinese and Indian quarters, excellent museums, world-renowned restaurants and great shopping, there’s plenty here to keep you occupied for days. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Singapore.

1. Stay in Chinatown

2. enjoy the views of the singapore skyline, 3. hit the dancefloor in the many clubs of singapore, 4. get to know the local arts scene, 5. visit the buddha tooth relic temple, 6. explore the delights of little india, 7. hike in bukit timah nature reserve, 8. enjoy the river view by night in boat quay, 9. watch the fire walkers at thimithi festival, 10. visit changi prison museum, 11. immerse into the arab culture in arab street, 12. visiting zoo and night safari is one of the best things to do in singapore with kids, 13. go on an orchard road shopping spree, 14. have some fun experiences at universal studios, 15. visit the national museum, 16. taste delicious local street food, 17. enjoy the nature of the botanic gardens, 18. cross the macritchie treetop walk, 19. go to sentosa island, 20. visiting siloso beach - one of the best things to do in singapore for swimming.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Singapore — your essential guide for travelling in Singapore .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Singapore, created by local experts

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Indulgent Singapore

From the infamous Singapore Sling to fabulous shopping and nightlife, colourful neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine, the small city-island of Singapore packs a punch. Come here for a relaxing break or a luxury respite before heading on to one of its more frantic neighbours.

5 days  / from 850 USD

Uniquely Singapore

There’s plenty to enjoy in Singapore, from visiting ethnic neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown, to night safaris, authentic street food and sampling the eponymous cocktail, or two. Singapore is, in short, the ideal introduction to Asia in one fell swoop.

12 days  / from 1250 USD

Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

Combine Southeast Asia's smallest country Singapore with its largest country: Indonesia. Spend a few days exploring the metropolis before flying to the magical island of Bali. Temples, volcanoes and ceremonies are part of your itinerary, as are the gorgeous beaches of Nusa Lembongan.

Chinatown’s once characterful shophouses have been rendered improbably perfect by restoration, but the area is still home to many shrines and shops specializing in Chinese food, medicine and other products. Exploring Chinatown is among the essential things to do in Singapore.

Chinatown was one of the most colourful districts of where to stay in old Singapore. Unfortunately, after independence, the government chose to grapple with its tumbledown slums by embarking upon a redevelopment campaign that saw whole streets razed. Getting a taste of the old ways of Chinatown now often means heading off the main streets into the concrete municipal housing estates, where older trades linger.

Find some attractive accommodation options to stay in Chinatown in our guide to the best places to stay in Singapore .

The Buddha's Relic Tooth Temple in Singapore's Chinatown © Chris howey/Shutterstock

The towers of the Financial District are amazing viewed from the Singapore River or Marina Bay . The skyline of Singapore is a spectacular sight, featuring a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks and you should add visiting this area to your list of things to do in Singapore.

Some of the most iconic buildings in the city's skyline include the Marina Bay Sands, a resort complex featuring three 55-story towers connected by a rooftop sky garden and infinity pool; the Singapore Flyer, a giant Ferris wheel with panoramic views of the city; and the ArtScience Museum, a distinctive lotus-shaped building that houses a variety of interactive exhibits.

Marina Bay, Singapore © Pixabay

Singapore’s clubbing scene is small but seriously happening, with space-age decor and regular visits by world-famous DJs. Clubbing, or going to nightclubs, is a popular activity in Singapore, and the city has a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of clubs and bars to choose from.

Many of the clubs in Singapore are located in the central business district or in the Orchard Road area, and they generally stay open until the early hours of the morning. There are clubs that cater to a variety of musical tastes, including electronic dance music (EDM), hip hop, and pop. Some popular clubs in Singapore include Zouk , which is known for its electronic music, and Attica , which is known for its hip hop and R&B music.

There are also a number of rooftop bars and clubs in Singapore, which offer panoramic views of the city skyline and a more laid-back atmosphere. It's worth noting that Singapore has strict laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol, and it is illegal to drink in public places.

Clubbing is one of the most fun things to do in Singapore © Shutterstock

Even on a brief visit, it’s hard not to notice how much money has been invested in the arts: Singapore offers an excellent range of cultural events in all genres, drawing on both Asian and Western traditions. Prime downtown property has been turned over to arts organizations in areas like Waterloo Street and Little India, and prestige venues like Theatres on the Bay bring in world-class performers – at top-dollar prices.

This isn’t to say that all is hunky-dory: questions remain over whether creativity is truly valued when censorship lingers. Not as openly as in the 1970s and 1980s, but still within established red lines regarding party politics, ethnicity and religion that no one dares cross. More cynically, some say that support for the arts is a way to keep Singapore attractive to expats and its own occasionally restive middle class.

Esplanade © Burachet/Shutterstock

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Chinatown’s biggest, newest and brashest temple has its own museum, roof garden and, most memorably, thousands upon thousands of Buddha figurines. Right at the end of South Bridge Road is something of an upstart – the imposing Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, the most in-your-face addition to Chinatown’s shrines in many a year.

The place simply clobbers you with its opulence – even the elevators have brocaded walls – and with its thousands upon thousands of Buddhist figurines lining various interior surfaces. It also boasts its own museum and a gallery of Buddhist art.

On this tailor-made trip to Unique Singapore you will enjoy plenty of entertainment, from visiting ethnic neighbourhoods like Little India and Chinatown, to night safaris, authentic street food and sampling the eponymous cocktail, or two. Singapore is, in short, the ideal introduction to Asia in one fell swoop.

The Buddha's Relic Tooth Temple in Singapore's Chinatown © Chris Howey/Shutterstock

Little India is easily the most atmospheric of Singapore’s historic quarters, with colourful south Indian-style shrines, spice shops and outlets blaring Tamil music. Visiting this area is one of the best things to do in Singapore for an authentic experience.

Little India is a neighbourhood in Singapore that is known for its vibrant Indian culture and heritage. Located in the central part of the city, Little India is home to a large number of Indian-owned businesses and restaurants, as well as temples and other cultural landmarks. The area is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to experience the sights, sounds, and flavours of India.

Explore the infamous Singapore Sling and fabulous shopping and nightlife, colourful neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine with our tailor-made tour to Indulgent Singapore .

Colourful facade of building in Little India, Singapore © Sean Hsu/Shutterstock

Crisscrossed by several easy trails, this pocket of primary rainforest offers an authentic jungle experience, minus leeches but with the prospect of coming face-to-face with hyperactive macaques. The nature reserve at Bukit Timah was established in 1883 by Nathaniel Cantley, then superintendent of the Botanic Gardens.

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Anything genuinely wild seems to be anathema to Singapore’s park authorities, so don’t expect a full-blown jungle-trekking experience. All four trails, colour-coded on maps, consist largely of family-friendly boardwalks, steps and stretches of proper road. Most people tackle the red trail which is the road up to the summit at a paltry 164m. A flight of narrow steps halfway along – the Summit Path – offers a shortcut to the top.

Bukit Timah Public Nature Park in Singapore © N8Allen/Shutterstock

Boat Quay is alfresco dining at its best, the reflected lights of its myriad riverside bars and restaurants dancing on the waters of the Singapore River by night. Boat Quay is a historic waterfront area in Singapore located along the Singapore River. It was once a busy centre of trade and commerce, with boats coming and going from the river carrying goods from around the region.

Today, Boat Quay has been transformed into a popular dining and entertainment destination, with a range of restaurants, bars, and clubs along its waterfront promenade. The area is known for its lively atmosphere and picturesque setting, with views of the river and the nearby financial district.

Boat Quay, Singapore © joyfull/Shutterstock

The annual fire-walking festival is centred on the Sri Mariamman temple , a Hindu shrine that, in true multicultural Singapore style, happens to be in the heart of Chinatown. Dramatic Hindu ceremony sees devotees proving the strength of their faith by running across a four-metre-long pit of hot coals at the Sri Mariamman Temple.

Outside the temple, devotees in their hundreds line up awaiting their turn, and building up their courage by dancing, shouting and singing

Fire walk at Thimithi Festival in Singapore © Shutterstock

Centred on a replica wartime chapel, this is a hushed and moving memorial to the horrors perpetrated in Singapore during World War II. The infamous Changi Prison was the site of a World War II POW camp in which Japanese jailers subjected Allied prisoners, both military and civilian, to the harshest of treatment.

Those brutalities are movingly remembered in the Changi Museum. It was once within the prison itself – where drug offenders are still periodically executed – but was moved wholesale just up the road when the prison was extended in 2001.

Changi Prison temple © Sam DCruz/Shutterstock

The area around Arab Street is a fascinating mix of curio shops and alternative boutiques, and its informal Arab and Malay restaurants are a great place to chill out in the evening.

Some of the notable attractions in Arab Street include the Sultan Mosque, a grand mosque with a golden dome and intricate architectural details; the Arab Street District, a shopping destination featuring a range of stores selling traditional Middle Eastern goods and the Haji Lane, a narrow street lined with colourful shophouses and independent boutiques.

There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area serving a variety of Middle Eastern and North African cuisines, including falafel, shawarma, and kebabs. Arab Street is a great place to visit to experience the culture and history of Singapore's Arab community.

Arab Street in Singapore © Richie Chan/Shutterstock

Spot polar bears and Malayan tigers at this excellent zoo. One section is entirely devoted to nocturnal animals and open, appropriately, at night. On a promontory jutting into Seletar Reservoir are the Singapore zoo and its offshoots, the Night Safari and River Safari.

All are consistent crowd-pleasers, which is partly down to their more “open” philosophy. Many animals are confined in spacious, naturalistic enclosures behind moats, though creatures such as big cats still have to be caged. It’s a thoughtful, humane approach that may well please even those who don’t generally care for zoos.

Enjoy lush rainforests and cool night safaris, a glittering skyline and gorgeous Sentosa beaches on this tailor-made Singapore Family Fun Adventure

White tiger in zoo, Singapore © bezikus/Shutterstock

Orchard Road is a bustling shopping district in Singapore known for its wide range of stores, malls, and entertainment options. Located in the heart of the city, Orchard Road is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is known for its vibrant atmosphere and endless shopping opportunities.

Some of the notable shopping malls on Orchard Road include Ion Orchard, a high-end mall featuring designer brands and luxury goods; Ngee Ann City, a multi-level mall with a range of stores, including fashion, electronics, and home goods; and Plaza Singapura, a popular mall with a mix of local and international brands.

Orchard Road © Shutterstock

Packed with hair-raising rollercoaster rides and fantastic re-creations of everything from big-city America to ancient Egypt. Universal Studios is divided into seven themed zones, encompassing everything from ancient Egypt – the least convincing of the lot – to DreamWorks’ animated hit Madagascar. Taking your kids here is one of the best things to do in Singapore on a family holiday.

Standard tickets offer unlimited rides, but there’s much more to do than get flung around on cutting-edge roller coasters or, in the case of the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, on a circular yellow raft: museum-type exhibits unwrap the world of film production, and you can watch musical spectaculars in a recreation of Hollywood’s Pantages theatre.

Universal Studios in Singapore © Panuwat_Ham/Shutterstock

Take stock of Singapore’s transformation from a rustic island to hi-tech metropolis, a story enlivened by plenty of oral-history clips. The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in Singapore, and it is a leading cultural institution in the city. The museum is home to a wide range of exhibitions and programs that showcase the art, culture, and history of Singapore and the region.

The museum has a number of permanent exhibitions that cover a wide range of subjects, including Singapore's history, art, and cultural traditions. There are also temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes or topics, such as modern art, photography, and design. The museum also hosts a range of educational programs and events, including workshops, lectures, and film screenings.

The National Museum of Singapore © Adwo/Shutterstock

Singapore is nothing if not a foodie nation: along with shopping, eating is a mass pastime here. A mind-boggling number of food outlets on just about every road cater to this obsession. One of the joys of the eating scene is its distinctive and affordable street food, featuring local Chinese and Indian dishes you won’t find in China or India, served up in myriad hawker centres and food courts, as is great Malay and Indonesian food.

Also worth discovering is Nonya cooking, a hybrid of Chinese and Malay cooking styles developed by the Peranakan community. Western food of all kinds is plentiful too, though it tends to be pricier than other cuisines from Asia, which are equally available. Quite a few of the more run-of-the-mill restaurants swing both ways by offering Western and Asian dishes, and there’s no shortage of upmarket places serving a fusion of the two.

Choose the best places to eat in our guide to where to eat in Singapore .

Tasting the variety of local street food is one of the best things to do in Singapore © Shutterstock

Genuinely world-class, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens feature everything from the jungle and ornamental tropical shrubs to a dazzling collection of orchids. Singapore has long made green space an integral part of the island’s landscape, but none of its parks comes close to matching the refinement of the Singapore Botanic Gardens – aptly anointed as the island’s sole UNESCO World Heritage Site.

These days the park extends all the way north to Bukit Timah Road, where the Botanic Gardens MRT station gives access to newer, less interesting parts of the gardens; the itinerary that follows assumes the classic approach up Tanglin and Napier roads to the Tanglin gate at the start of Cluny Road.

Southeast Asia is arguably one of the best places to travel, to choose a destination that suits you, read our guide about cool places to visit in Southeast Asia .

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore © R. de Bruijn_Photography/Shutterstock

The Treetop Walk is a popular attraction in Singapore located in the MacRitchie Reservoir Park. It is a 250-meter-long suspended bridge that takes visitors on a guided tour through the treetops of the rainforest, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

The Treetop Walk is a great way to experience the beauty of Singapore's rainforest, and it is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The walkway is suitable for all ages and abilities, and it is wheelchair-accessible. There are also a number of other attractions in the MacRitchie Reservoir Park, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a children's playground.

Tree top walk in MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore © Shutterstock

Sentosa Island is a popular tourist destination in Singapore known for its beaches, attractions, and entertainment options. Located just off the southern coast of Singapore, the island is accessible by a short causeway or cable car ride from the mainland.

Sentosa Island is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and the Wings of Time outdoor show. The island also has a number of beautiful beaches, including Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach, which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Sentosa island, Singapore © Shutterstock

Siloso Beach is a popular beach located on the island of Sentosa in Singapore. It is known for its fine, white sand and crystal clear waters, and it is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. The beach is located near a range of amenities and facilities, including restaurants, bars, and water sports rental shops.

Siloso Beach is a great place to spend a day relaxing in the sun and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. There are a number of beachside restaurants and bars that offer a range of food and drinks, as well as tables and chairs for lounging.

Aerial view of Siloso beach in Sentosa island, Singapore © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Singapore:

• Best for luxury: Marina Bay Sands
• Best for unique design: Hotel Pickering, Singapore
• Best for families: Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa
• Best for budget: KINN Capsule Hotel
• Best for location: The Scarlet Singapore

Find more accommodation options to stay in Singapore

Discover some more exotic travel destinations in our guide to the most exotic places to travel in the world .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Singapore without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Singapore ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Singapore . If you travel further in Singapore, read more about the best time to go and best things to do in Singapore. For inspiration use the itineraries from The Rough Guide to Singapore and our local travel experts . A bit more hands-on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © Travel man/Shutterstock

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Top 18 Most Enchanting Sites to Visit in Singapore

A heady mix of the modern and traditional with lashings of the exotic, the Southeast Asian island state has often been overlooked in favor of its neighboring rivals but is now gaining more popularity.

With pristine lush gardens, wide beaches, picturesque islands, a melting pot of cultures, a fascinating colonial past, and a thriving economy, Singapore draws more and more curious visitors. From my many trips, here are my all-time favorite spots that I think you shouldn’t miss…

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1. Gardens by the Bay 

Not many people know just how much natural beauty and wonder there is in this island state! In my opinion, the Gardens by the Bay are a great place to start! It’s quite an extraordinary spot and offers unique natural sights, including the world’s largest indoor waterfall.

I suggest including a visit to Supertree Grove, which is also a must. Here, you’ll see futuristically designed structures performing environmentally sustainable functions, their nature, and the future.

Gardens by the Bay is a wonderland that celebrates nature’s biodiversity in all its forms. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, I highly recommend heading here! 

2. Singapore’s Southern Islands

The Southern Islands are well worth visiting; you can even tour many of them! This gorgeous collection of islands was once home to native Malay islanders and sea nomads (before they were relocated to the mainland). 

With many Islands to visit, there is something for everyone, the Kusu Island (also known as Turtle Island) being one of the most mysterious.

It’s home to a Chinese temple and many shrines telling the story of shipwrecked sailors saved by a turtle who lived on the Island.

The nearby Lazarus Island is also worth visiting; it features a beautiful beach and apparent waters. With so many islands to see, the south has plenty to offer.  

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens

These are other beautiful gardens that I would highly recommend visiting. Originating in 1859, I think it still has an old-fashioned kind of air, quite different from the more modern Gardens by the Bay. 

I particularly love the super-cute Victorian-style gazebos, the stunning foundations, the pavilions and the bandstand, and I would recommend spending a peaceful (and very photogenic!) afternoon here. 

3. Little India

Singapore celebrates Indian culture and cuisine with the sprawling Little India . With beautiful bright colors, excellent food, and great music, I think Little India is a perfect place to visit for a sensory treat.

The food court and markets are a must for authentic Indian cuisine. There are all kinds of shops, and you must see some of the fantastic street art.

Some hotels are nearby, so you can stay nearby if you love Little India. I would suggest trying as many restaurants as you can while visiting.

4. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay was one of Singapore’s leading commerce sectors during the 19th century and still thriving today! With fantastic waterfront views, it’s a beautiful place to visit whether you’re shopping.

You can take a river cruise to see the magnificent structures in a whole new way, visit the Asian Civilization Museum, or even opt for a bungee jump for an adrenaline rush! There is something for everyone at Clarke Quay.

5. Raffles Hotel

It might seem strange to recommend visiting a hotel, but there’s plenty to see and do at Raffles without needing to stay there!

You can admire the beautiful architecture and even visit many tremendous onsite shops and restaurants in the hotel complex.

Whether you’re staying for a visit or want to see its wonderous architecture up close, the Raffle Hotel is well worth visiting.

6. Punggol Beach

Singapore isn’t a beach location for most people, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few to visit. The Punggol Beach, Coney Island experience differs from your typical beach experience.

The Island is designed to be as natural as possible, and I think it is a fantastic place to relax and unwind. You can go hiking and cycling around the island, visit bird-watching settlements, and explore a tiny island forest.

Coney Island celebrates nature and allows you to experience a new side of the country.

7. Chinatown

Singapore’s Chinatown is designed to offer visitors an authentic experience. You’ll find traditional mom-and-pop-style shops, fantastic street food, authentic Chinese restaurants, and more here.

You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and numerous ancient temples. The neighborhood also has free Wi-Fi, which is very handy for tourists.

8. Bukit Batok Hill

Bukit Batok Hill is home to the Bukit Batok Memorial, which was built by POWs to commemorate the dead who fought in the Battle of Bukit Timah.

The memorial was destroyed after the war, but the stairs and remnants of them still exist today.

It’s well worth visiting to see these alone, but the surrounding town of Bukit Batok is also worth seeing. The West Mall has everything you could want, including a library, cinema complex, restaurant, shops, and much more.

If you want a shopping extravaganza, then in my opinion, this is a great choice! 

9. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

In Chinatown, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is one of the newer attractions in Singapore. Built in 2007 and named after the left canine of Buddha, the temple and museum are the perfect places to spend a day.

The sacred Light Hall holds a stunning relic of 320 kilograms of gold. Although you can’t enter the relic chamber, there is a public viewing platform.

Cultural and artistic performances are also available. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is the perfect place to explore Buddhism more, but it also offers some beautiful examples of art, history, and culture.

10. Changi Beach

Changi Beach, located in Eastern Singapore, offers fantastic views across its 28 hectares. It’s one of the oldest beach parks in Singapore and still retains the village atmosphere of the 1960s and 1970s.

It’s got a very unique charm and is well worth seeing. It’s a popular picnic spot, and you can also enjoy onsite exercise equipment, barbeque pits, and a playground, making it perfect for families.

11. Tanjong Beach

Jong Beach is a relaxing and tranquil must-visit spot on Sentosa Island Tan! It’s a little patch of paradise with lush white sand, sparkling water, and beautiful coconut trees.

Further out, you’ll find some nearby bars and clubs that can be great spots to visit later. But this beach is known for its more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, so I suggest just kicking back and taking it all in!

12. Labrador Nature Reserve

The Labrador Nature Reserve is another excellent opportunity to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and return to nature. You’ll find a great variety of trees, plants, and wildlife. You can enjoy listening to the insects and relax in any way, apart from everything else.

The nature park also has a lot of historical importance as it was one of the most critical defence points during World War 2. So, it’s a historic location, and it’s fantastic to see how it’s changed over the years.

You can also enjoy some brilliant skylines at night, which makes it the perfect spot for photographs.  

13. Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island offers many wonderful activities, including floorboarding, skydiving, exploring ancient tunnels, kayaking, dolphin swimming, and more.

So, if you plan to visit Singapore, I recommend stopping by Sentosa Island. You’ll find some fantastic beaches and even visit the famous Merlion statue! With the head of a lion and the body of a fish, it certainly isn’t something you see every day.

14. Henderson Waves Bridge

The Henderson Waves Bridge is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore! If that doesn’t make it worth visiting, wait until you see the views.

The bridge connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park and is the perfect vantage point for photographs and video recordings! You can see some fantastic views and visit twice, night and day!

The bridge lights up from 7 PM and transforms with some stunning lights. Whether it’s for the architecture, the scenes, or just a nice walk, the Henderson Waves Bridge is worth seeing.  

15. Pasir Ris Park

The Pasir Ris Park offers a quieter, more secluded location away from the crowds. The natural, undisturbed stretch of beach is perfect for long walks.

It’s also an excellent spot for families to rent sports equipment like volleyballs and barbe. There’s also available. It’s a quieter, more relaxed setting with its unique charm.

16. Granite Island (Pulau Ubin)

Officially known as Pulau Ubin, this North Eastern Island was known for its granite quarry, which used to support thousands of settlers. Nowadays, the Island is a popular tourist spot for Summer camps and outdoor activities.

The Check Jawa Cape is one of the most famous areas to visit; it features a natural rocky shore and supports numerous ecosystems.

The wildlife is incredibly varied all around the Island, and you can see the marine life up close! With some famous mountain bike trails, Granite Island is also the perfect place to visit for a long, relaxing ride.

17. Masjid Sultan

The Masjid Sultan, also known as the Sultan Mosque, can be found in the Rochor district of Singapore. Construction was completed in 1932, and you can still enjoy much of its fantastic architecture today. So I highly suggest a visit! 

Exploring the interior of the Masjid Sultan will be a very enriching experience; every room is a work of art. Some fabulous authentic Mediterranean and Turkish cafes and shops surround the Mosque.

I recommend squeezing these in after seeing the magnificent Masjid Sultan up close! 

18. Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

The Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is the perfect place to visit, whether you are spiritual or not. It offers fantastic scenery, with colorful Buddha statues decorating many great halls.

Behind the temple is a Koi pond with a small waterfall and a market, which are well worth visiting. The monastery can get very busy during religious festivals, and you must wear appropriate clothing.

But most of the time, the Monastery is a very peaceful and serene place to visit, the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh - writer and photographer With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

6 thoughts on “Top 18 Most Enchanting Sites to Visit in Singapore”

Hey Becky, thanks for the wonderful article. Been to Singapore once and reading this post of yours flashed all my memories. Amazing.

Great Blog……… Singapore is surely the best country I have visited so far….. Thanks for sharing…

Singapore is defeintly on my bucket list! I would love to explore: Henderson Waves bridge and Gardens by the Bay. I am in awe!

Love this blog as it helps many people who are looking for some travelling tips and places to visit.i have recommended many viewers this blog so they can get their desired knowledge about it.Love to see more blogs like this.

This is a beautiful article about places which give you real insight about what this lovely country has to offer. I never knew that Singapore has so many lovely beaches. It’s amazing to know that you can actually find a ‘Little India’ in Singapore. I have already added all these places to my travel list. Thank you so much for the wonderful information you have shared.

The Clarke Quay is indeed a stunning historical riverside quay! The photo shows how alive the place at night!

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The 25 Incredible Places to Visit in Singapore- Visit the Iconic Lion City of Singapore

I recently visited Singapore which made me realise just how amazingly well-planned and coordinated efforts of people can create the most incredible things. Singapore is not just the world’s leading financial centre, it is also the land of the most amazing architectural wonders.

With a world-class airport named Changi Airport, High-end Hotels like Marina Bay Sands and the most unique gardens like Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia . Although Singapore is a very small country, it has so many amazing places where you can visit and have a great time.

Here is a list of the top 25 places to visit in Singapore and experience this country’s rich cultural diversity and innovative techniques of harmonising nature with Urban living.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Singapore

Singapore is full of wonderful Urban landscapes and there are just so many incredible places you can visit and things you can do while in Singapore. Here are the top 25 places in Singapore that you must not miss!

1. Merlion Park: Visit Singapore’s Iconic Statue 

Of course, the first on the list of must-visit places in Singapore had to be Merlion Park where the iconic statue of a half-lion and half-fish is located, spouting water majestically. This statue is Singapore’s most prominent icon and is based on the local legend. In fact, this statue represents Singapore’s popular name- the Lion City.

You must visit Merlion Park because if you skip this place, your visit to Singapore is not yet appropriately finished.

At Merlion Park, you also get to enjoy an absolutely marvellous panoramic view of Singapore’s Skyline and Marina Bay’s stunning structures. Also, do visit the waterfront Promenade here, especially at night when various lightings create a wonderful ambience around this place.

Entrance fee: No fee

Timings : It is open 24 hrs.

Address : 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore

2. Universal Studios Singapore: Visit Southeast Asia’s first Hollywood theme park

The second most popular place to visit in Singapore is Universal Studios Singapore . It is a Hollywood theme park located in Resorts World Sentosa and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia!

This park has many themed locations which are dedicated to various blockbuster movies and TV shows. For example, the animated movies Madagascar, Shrek’s Far Far Away, and popular destinations like L.A.’s Hollywood and the New York City, whose streets here resemble the ones you see in movies.

There are many other such themed locations, like the Sci-fi city based on Battlestar Galactica and thrillers like Revenge of the Mummy. Other than visiting the themed areas, you can also have rides, go shopping and dine while enjoying live shows. While in Singapore, you just have to visit Universal Studios Singapore because this place is like no other!

Note: Avoid visiting on weekends.

Entrance fee : A ticket for an adult cost S$ 72.45.

Timings: it opens at 11 am and closes around 8 pm.

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, at Resorts World Sentosa

3. Changi Airport: Visit the World’s Best Airport

During your travel adventures, you might have visited many big and small airports, but I guarantee that Changi Airport Singapore is on the whole another level. Changi Airport has not only been voted the world’s best airport 8 times in a row, but it has also become a major hub for tourist attractions. This airport is so huge that you will need to get on a Skytrain to get from one terminal to another!

Changi airport is not just an airport, but it is also a resort and a shopping mall in itself! It is a 10-story high building that truly reminds one of a sci-fi movie with its modern architecture and incredibly unique features like a 40-metre-high HSBC Rain Vortex which is an indoor waterfall that is surrounded by 2000+ trees.

There are also other amazing features like two movie theatres, around 300 shops, a vintage arcade, and even a 4-story high slide that both adults and children can enjoy!

Not only this but the three terminals of this airport feature their own garden like a cactus garden in Terminal 1, a sunflower garden in T2, a famous butterfly garden at T3 and various attractions and activities that you can take part in at Jewel Changi airport . This is why Changi Airport is the World’s best airport and a place in Singapore that you must visit at least once!

Timings : 24 hrs. 

Address : Airport Blvd.

Jewel Changi airport attractions

4. Madame Tussauds Singapore: Visit Singapore’s Wax Museum

Next on this list is the branch of a popular Wax Museum known as Madame Tussauds Singapore . You must come and get your pictures shot with the life-size and utterly realistic wax statue of your favourite Hollywood and Bollywood celebrity, Korea Oppa, and other popular personalities at Madame Tussauds Singapore.

Here, you will find yourself amid the Marvel Avengers cast, Malaysia ‘s badminton star, Lee Chong Wei, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and many more such amazing people. At Madame Tussauds Singapore, you can also have a 4D Marvel movie experience which is the first and the only one yet in Asia.

Here, you can also go down memory lane and find out how Singapore transformed into the vibrant metropolis that it is today from being a mere small village. You can also go on a voyage on The Spirit of Singapore Boat Ride which will take you around an exotic tropical garden. You can also try your hand at wax painting and shaping and take them back as a souvenir!

Entrance fee : One standard ticket will cost you S$32 per child when bought on the spot while S$25 per child if bought online. The most popular ticket is the ‘standard ticket + VR Racing Experience’ which costs S$45 per child when bought on the spot and S$35 per child when tickets are booked online.

Timings : It opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm with their last entry at 5 pm.

Address : 40 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore

5. Marina Bay Sands: Stay Overnight at the World’s Most Expensive Casino Property.

One of the most popular structures of Singapore is the Marina Bay Sands and it is a major source of tourist attraction too. Not only is its magnificent architecture a thing of beauty but it is also one of the most luxurious places in Singapore if not the entire Southeast Asia.

Marina Bay Sands is the perfect getaway location if you can afford it with an iconic infinity pool that is also one of the most incredible infinity pools I have ever been to. Not only do you get to enjoy food at the restaurants that are owned by Celebrity chefs, but you also get to enjoy the lush nightlife of Singapore here. You can enjoy world-class entertainment here as well as amazing shops to go shopping too!

While you stay here, you can visit famous places too like the Observation Deck at Sands SkyPark and enjoy the 360 views of Singapore. In fact, you get a perfect view of Garden by the Bay from here.

You are bound to make unforgettable memories here and have one the most luxurious experiences of your life at Marina Bay Sands , so do visit and stay here.

Price Range : S$795 to S$830 for one night stay

Address : 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore

6. Singapore Flyer: Visit Asia’s largest Giant Observation Wheel.

One of the best places to come and view the entirety of the Lion City is at Singapore Flyer which is the largest Observation wheel in Asia. Standing majestically amid the skyscrapers of the Singapore Skyline, you must come and visit the Singapore Flyer to go on a spin with the most fantastic views.

It will take you 165 metres above the ground in a fully air-conditioned glass capsule (there are 28 capsules in total) and the ride lasts only for half an hour. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore and even locals like to come here and enjoy the stunning view.

The night view of the city is even more gorgeous from the Singapore Flyer. You can spot various other prominent landmarks of Singapore like Marina Bay, Raffles Place, and Merlion Park and if you are lucky, you can even spot the Changi Airport and Sentosa Island from this flyer too!

Tickets : there are basically four kinds of tickets you can purchase . You can opt for the ‘Singapore Flyer and Time Capsule’ ticket for only S$40 per adult or you can opt for more premium packages which can cost up to S$352 per adult.

Timings : 2 pm to 10 pm

Address : 30 Raffles Ave., Singapore at Marina Bay Street Circuit

7. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: Observation Deck for Singapore’s Panoramic view

Another great place to view the iconic skyline of Singapore is the Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck. You can enjoy the best view of Singapore’s main attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Supertree Grove.

The Sand SkyPark Observation Deck is about 200 metres high, located on top of three towers of the resort complex. It offers the perfect sight for watching the Sunset when the clear sky transforms into a beautiful hue of orange, red and pink with the azure of the sky and the sea.

At Marina Bay Sands SkyPark , you can go for a relaxing ride in a gorgeous Sampan boat along the Canal at The Shoppes. You can also shop for some really awesome souvenirs to bring back home as well!

Don’t forget to click several pictures here, especially during the Spectra Light and Water Show that takes place at Event Plaza on the first floor at 8 pm every day.

Tickets : The starting price of a ticket is S$25.

Timings : It opens at 11 am and closes down around 9 pm

Address : 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore at Marina Bay Sands Singapore

8. Gardens by the Bay: Visit Singapore’s most incredible Nature Park and Botanic Garden

The next on the list of the best places to visit in Singapore is Gardens by the Bay . You must have seen pictures of this place online with its towering Supertree Grove being an iconic sight in Singapore. Gardens by the Bay is the most incredible, paradise-like Nature Park and Botanic Garden and a true paradise for every nature lover and horticulturalists as the beauty of this lush place will most definitely take your breath away.

Gardens by the Bay has also been rewarded with many prestigious awards like the ‘Landscape Award’ from World Architecture News in 2013 and ‘The best Attraction Experience’ at the 2019 Singapore Tourism Awards.

Here are the four conservatories that you must not miss at Garden by the Bay:

Flower Dome

This thriving space is full of lush green plants and flowers that are collected from five continents. These plants include charming magnolias, orchids, thousand-year-old olive trees and many more. It has even earned itself a Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Glass Greenhouse. Flower Dome of Garden by the Bay is truly a heaven for every flower enthusiast.

Timings for Flower Dome:   9 am to 9 pm with the last admissions accepted at 8:30 pm

Floral Fantasy

Garden of the Bay’s Floral Fantasy is an absolute dream with its history and fairytale-inspired design. It has a Hanging Gardens of Babylon which consists of cavernous expanses, floral art and driftwood sculptures.

Timings for Floral Fantasy : from Monday to Friday, timings are 10 am to 7 pm with the last admission at 6: 30 pm. On weekends and Public Holidays, timings are 10 am to 8 pm with the last admission at 7: 30 pm.

Supertree Grove

Supertree Grove consists of soaring groves known as Supertree which are about 25 to 50 metres high and as the perfect example of biophilic architecture. These groves provide shade during the day and lights during the night to provide the most stunning light and music show.

Timings for Supertree observatory: The timings are 4 pm to 9 pm with the last admission at 8: 30 pm.

Cloud Forest

Aptly named the Cloud Forest, this conservatory contains rare vegetation that surrounds Cloud Mountain which is a 35-metre-tall structure covered in mist. This place will provide you with a unique experience and make you feel as though you are hiking through tropical highlands and searching for rare herbs.

Timings for Cloud Forest : 9 am to 9 pm with the last admissions accepted at 8:30 pm

Make sure that you visit the OCBC Skyway too and enjoy a leisurely walk on the aerial walkway that connects the six Supertrees at the Supertree Grove.

Tickets : The ticket for one adult starts from S$10.

Timings of Outdoor Gardens : 5 am to 2 am.

Address : 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

9. Singapore Botanic Gardens: Visit Singapore’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Another great place to visit in Singapore is the Singapore Botanic Garden . This Botanic Garden is popularly for being Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and it has rightly earned its title too. The Botanic Garden has done an excellent job of preserving the Wilder heritage of Singapore while it has risen from a third world nation to a First World nation.

At Singapore Botanic Garden, you can go on a long walk through the trails that lead to heritage trees. You can easily spend around 1-2 hours roaming around this garden. You can also visit its eco-garden, bonsai garden, eco-lake and various other gardens and sculptures.

Among these various gardens at Singapore Botanic Garden, you must not skip visiting the National Orchid Garden of Singapore. It is the largest tropical Orchid display in the World and is located at the highest hill of the Botanic Garden. The National Orchid Garden has over 3600 different kinds of species of orchids here which are planted into four different colour zones.

If you are a garden enthusiast like me, do not visit Singapore Botanic Garden!

Tickets for National Orchid Garden : The ticket for an adult is S$15 for non-residents of Singapore and for locals (citizens of Singapore), it is S$5. Students get a discount as the standard tickets cost S$3 and S$1 for local students (Valid Student ID required). There is no ticket required for children below the age of 12.

Tickets for Singapore Botanic Garden : No Fee.

Timings : 8: 30 am to 7 pm with the last ticket sold and last admission at 6 pm.

Address : 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore

10. National Gallery Singapore: View the World’s largest collection of Colonial and Post-Colonial Asian Art

The next place on this list is the National Gallery Singapore . It is an art museum which holds the world’s largest collection of Southeast and Asian art from both Colonial and post-colonial times. Located in the Civic district of Singapore, this Art Museum consists of two national monuments- the City Hall and the former Supreme Court. It is also the leading institute for Global Visual Arts in Asia with over 1,000 artworks and various exhibitions.

It is the perfect place to learn about Singapore and its history in the form of art as well as the art of Southeast Asia. As this museum is always working with other Art institutes and museums overseas, you can also view some special exhibitions of foreign artists. You must visit this awesome place at least once while in Singapore!

Tickets : One ticket costs S$20 per adult for general admission and S$25 more for Special Exhibitions. A combined ticket for both general admission and special exhibitions would cost S$30. Concession is granted for tickets for children between the age group of 7 to 12 years old, senior citizens (60+), Full-time National Servicemen and oversea teachers and students. Tickets are free for locals and children below the age of 6.

Timings : 10 am to 7 pm

Address : 1 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore

11. National Museum of Singapore: Visit the Oldest Museum of Singapore

Another great place to visit in Singapore is the National Museum of Singapore . It is the oldest museum here and it is the holder of Singapore’s 700 years of legacy. Here, you can explore over 1700 historic artefacts and numerous exhibits on display here. The National Museum of Singapore is a celebrated architectural and cultural landmark which has adopted modern display techniques and enhanced the traditional museum experience.

You can also visit the National Museum of Singapore for the various festivals, incredible performances, and film screenings that they host regularly. Don’t skip this place on your visit to Singapore because this place is bound to provide you with a unique experience and new knowledge about this country’s legacy.

Tickets : The ticket price for a standard ticket is S$15 per adult with a special concession for senior citizens and students, praising their tickets at S$10. There is no admission fee required for Singapore residents and children below the age of 6 years.

Timings : 10 am to 7 pm with the last entry for Glass Rotunda At 6: 15 pm and for other galleries, at 6: 30 pm.

Address : 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore

12. ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay: Visit Singapore’s Fantastic Art & Space Exhibitions

ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay is one of the most remarkable Museums in Singapore. It is a wonderful place where you can explore art, space, technology and other fields of science in an innovative way. The museum’s building itself is a wonderful architectural structure that is designed with a unique circular base with 10 ‘fingers’ branching out from this base situated in the middle.

You will have an amazing educational and fun experience here visiting its interactive exhibition called MENTAL: Colours of Wellbeing and Patricia Piccinini: We Are Connected. Both of these are a must-visit at the ArtScience Museum!

Tickets : The Standard Museum ticket cost S$50 per adult and S$43 for the locals. Concession tickets (for children between the ages of 2 to 12 years old, senior citizens 60+, Persons with Disabilities and NSF) cost S$38 for tourists and for locals, S$34. There are additional tickets that you can purchase here for the VR gallery and special and permanent exhibits which cost between S$23 to S$14 for non-residents and for locals, S$20 to S$12.

Timings : 10 am to 7 pm.

Address : 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore at Marina Bay Sands Singapore

13. Asian Civilisations Museum: Visit the Top Ranked Museum of Asia

Another fantastic Museum to visit in Singapore is the Asian Civilisation Museum . It is one of the top-ranking museums in Asia. Quintessentially, it is situated on the bank of the Singapore River with amazing colonial architectural design and an equally incredible interior of all modern with greys, whites and glass designs.

Asian Civilisation Museum is the perfect place to explore and find out about the rich artistic heritage of Asia because this museum holds loads of incredible collections of masterpieces and special exhibits.

You should visit the Asian Civilisation Museum in Singapore because the artefacts on display here are focused on the themes of trade and spirituality, wonderful themes which are not as common. This museum is definitely worth the visit!

Tickets : The All-access ticket for the Museum cost S$25 per adult and S$12 for the locals. Admission is free for children below 6 years of age. Concession ticket of S$20 for non-residents who is able to present Pink or Blue NRIC for verification purposes.

Timings : The timings are 10 am to 7 pm every day of the week except on Fridays, when the timings are 10 am to 9 pm with the last entry accepted 30 minutes before the closing time.

Address : 1 Empress Pl, Singapore 

14. Haw Par Villa: Visit Singapore’s Largest Outdoor Art Gallery.

Another beautiful place to visit in Singapore is the Haw Par Villa which used to be known as Tiger Balm Garden. It is essentially an Asian culture theme park and the largest outdoor art gallery in Singapore.

This place was created by a millionaire philanthropist named Aw Boon Haw who is famous for his ointment called Tiger Balm. This place is incredibly interesting with its creator’s own dilemma and philosophies influencing the displays here that depict how he came to peace with his mortality as death stalked the Aw family. 

Here, you can view the infamous 10 Courts of Hell and even catch the progress of the upcoming Hell’s Museum in which different perspectives of death and the afterlife are shown. You can also learn how the King of Ghosts got his title while exploring Haw Par Villa.

You must visit this place and see bizarre sculptures and dioramas here and learn about the philosophies and cultures that influence them!

Tickets : It is free.

Timings : 9 am to 8 pm

Address : 262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 

15. Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum: Visit Singapore’s Unique Museum of Dinosaur skeletons & nature exhibits

If you enjoy visiting Museums, then make sure you check out the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum that is located at the National University of Singapore. It is a magnificent 7 story building that houses over a million regional specimens. At this Museum, you get to see three sauropod dinosaur fossils which are about 80% complete.

At the museum, you get to travel back in time and find out about the diversity of life on Earth. You also get to learn about various plants, amphibians, mammals and dinosaurs in 16 thematic zones. It is one of the newer Museums in Singapore, but it contains the oldest collections that it got passed on from the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

Do visit the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum while in Singapore Because it is seriously worth it!

Tickets : The standard ticket for this museum cost S$21 per adult and S$13 for children, Students, senior citizens and Persons with Disability who are non-residents. For Locals, tickets cost S$16 per adult and  S$9 for others.

Timings : 10 am to 6 pm

Address : 2 Conservatory Dr, Singapore at National University of Singapore

16. Southeast Asia Aquarium (S.E.A.): Visit One of the Largest Aquariums in the World

The next amazing place to visit in Singapore is the Southeast Asia Aquarium also known as the S. E. A. Aquarium. It is in fact the world’s largest aquarium with over 100,000 marine lives of a thousand species that have 45 different habitats.

At S.E.A aquarium, There are 9 different zones you can visit which all have wonderful, interactive and stimulating educational features. You can explore the exhibits of 80 different endangered species like the Napoleon wrasse, various corals, Manta rays and various other such beautiful water creatures that live here in clean and safe aquatic environments.

You have to just visit this aquarium to make unforgettable memories and have up-close encounters with these amazing creatures.

Tickets : The ticket for this aquarium cost S$43 per adult and S$33 for children.

Timings : 9 am to 5 pm.

Address : 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa

17. Jurong Bird Park: Visit Asia’s largest Bird Park

If you love birds and like birdwatching, then Singapore’s Jurong Bird Park is a must-visit place for you. It is the largest bird park in Asia with a nine-storey Lory Loft aviary, a stunning waterfall, an open Flamingo Lake and many other special features.

This bird park is the perfect place to try hand-feeding birds and learn more about these majestic creatures through interactive shows. The best thing about these shows is that they feature a star-studded lineup of birds and fierce flying predators.

Here, you can learn so much about your favourite birds like lorikeets, ostriches, pelicans, etc. You can even get on board a guided tram ride and explore the whole Bird Park leisurely.

Don’t skip this place because you will not find another such place where you can have such a wonderful experience with our feathered friends and partake in their feeding sessions too.

Tickets : The ticket for this aquarium cost S$38 per adult and S$25 for children who are non-residents of Singapore. For locals, The ticket for this aquarium cost S$35 per adult and S$23 for children and S$20 for senior citizens.

Timings : 8: 30 am to 7 pm

Address :  2 Jurong Hill, Singapore

18. Singapore Zoo: Visit One of the Best Zoos in the World

If you are in Singapore and don’t visit Singapore Zoo , then I am afraid you will be missing out on tons of fun and amazing experiences. At Singapore Zoo, you can see over 300 species of animals that reside here in glass observatories. There are 6 different zones at this zoo, and you get to meet majestic and some very rare wild animals like white rhinoceroses, and other cute animals like elephants, goats, etc.

You can hop aboard the tram which will show you around the zoo and provide informative commentary along the way. You also get a chance to feed these animals here which is a pretty unique experience. If you are bringing your kids here, make sure you take them to the Houbbi Rope Course and have fun swinging around.

This is why Singapore Zoo is one of the best places to visit in Singapore where you can have the time of your life with your loved ones!

Tickets : The ticket for Singapore Zoo cost S$48 per adult, S$20 for senior citizens and S$33 for children who are non-residents of Singapore. This ticket includes a complimentary tram service. Locals can purchase a wild card and save up to 20% on tickets.

Timings : 8: 30 am to 6 pm

Address : 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore

19. Singapore River Wonders: Visit Asia’s first River-themed Aquarium and Zoo

The next best place to visit in Singapore is Singapore’s Mandai River Wonders . It is a Zoo and an Aquarium which are inspired by the mighty rivers in the World. This river-themed park is the first of its kind in Asia. Here, you get to learn so much about the important rivers of the world. For example, at Singapore River Wonders, you learn about the religious significance of the Ganges in India.

At Singapore Mandai River Wonders, you get to have a close look at the quintessential Giant Panda. Their exhibition is located in the Yangtze River zone. Another such zone is the Congo River zone where you can view the fish exhibition which consists of various vibrant coloured fishes and old-looking creatures.

You can also go for a boat ride here at the Amazon River Quest and experience the atmosphere of the Amazonian jungle also known as the lungs of earth along with the sights and sounds of its resident creatures.

Tickets : The ticket for Singapore River WInders cost S$40 per adult and S$28 for children between the age of 3 to 12 years who are non-residents of Singapore. For the locals, this ticket is S$36 per adult, S$26 per child and S$20 per senior citizen.

20. Singapore Night Safari: Visit World’s First Nocturnal Zoo

While in Singapore, you must go for the Night Safari which is the first Nocturnal Zoo in the World. It is going to be one of the most memorable adventures of your life when you get to see wild animals like Leopard, Wallaby, Fishing Cat, and East Lodge out in the open at night!

There are a total of 4 trails that go through 7 different geographical regions here where you will find yourself having close exposure to these animals. You can also enjoy a popular show here called Creatures of the Night in which cute animals like otters perform tricks and show their various talents.

After you are done with the animal sighting, you can enjoy a delish dinner at the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant which is reminiscent of the kampungs. You also get the option to dine al fresco out in the company of the animals.

Everything at Singapore Night Safari is unique, so don’t skip visiting this place!

Tickets : The ticket for Singapore Night Safari cost S$55 per adult, S$20 for senior citizens and S$38 for children. This ticket includes a complimentary tram service. Locals can purchase a wild card and save up to 30% on tickets.

Timings : 6: 30 pm to 12 am

21. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Visit Singapore’s Chinese Buddhist Temple

Another amazing place to visit in Singapore is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple . Located in Chinatown, you must visit this Chinese Buddhist temple to spend some quality, peaceful time. Here, you can learn how the Chinese Buddhists of Singapore do their prayers.

This temple was named after the left canine tooth of lord Buddha, which was taken from his pyre, now displayed on the temple ground. It is truly a magnificent temple and is located only three minutes away from another prominent religious place- Sri Mariamman Temple.

Entrance fee : No Fees

Timings : 7 am to 5 pm

Address : 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore

22. Sri Mariamman Temple: Visit Singapore’s Oldest Hindu Temple

While in Singapore, you have to go and visit its oldest Hindu temple, Sri Mariamman Temple . It is a beautifully crafted Hindu temple with all the iconic hallmark features of South Indian temples. Sri Mariamman Temple is dedicated to the deity of the Lord Mariamman. It is truly a wonderful place with its most striking feature being the gopuram.

You should visit this temple to pay your respect and pray to this deity that holds the power of curing epidemic illnesses and diseases. It is a truly peaceful, beautiful and calming, peaceful place to visit in Singapore.

Timings : 6 am to noon and then, 6 pm to 9 pm

Address :  244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore

23. Clarke Quay: Visit Singapore’s Popular Riverside Quay

Popular as the most stunning riverside Quay of Singapore, Clarke Quay is the perfect place to enjoy Singapore’s nightlife. It has several waterside restaurants as well as amazing clubs and bars where you can party with your friends! Not only this, but you can also enjoy various family-friendly activities during the day here and enjoy the gorgeous views!

At Clarke Quay, you can go explore Raffles place, visit the statues of Singapore’s founder, Sir Stamford Raffles as well as visit the Hong San See Temple and trek through Fort Canning Park.

Clarke Quay is full of fun stuff you can do, making it one of the best places to visit in Singapore!

Tickets : No fee

Timings : 10 am to 11 pm

Address : 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore

24. Fort Canning Tree Tunnel: Visit Singapore’s Iconic Photo Spot

Located within Fort Canning Park, Fort Canning Tree Tunnel is honestly one of the most stunning spots to get your pictures clicked at. It is built in a spiral staircase in such a way that when you look up, you are provided with the most unique tunnel view of the tree above. This particular tree that you will see is a Yellow Rain Tree also known as the Samanea Saman (the yellow kind).

It is a really popular spot for nature photographers and wedding photoshoots. It is always crowded between 9 am to 10 am when the lighting is best suited for photographs. But waiting for your turn here is totally worth the time and effort when you get yourself an Instagram-worthy picture!

Entrance fee : No ticket is required

Timings : it is open 24 hrs.

Address : River Valley Rd, Singapore

25. Adventure Cove Waterpark: Visit One of the Best Amusement Parks in Singapore

If you are visiting Singapore and find yourself in the mood to spend time outdoors having fun in the water, then Adventure Cove Waterpark is the perfect place for you to visit. It is in fact the only combined aquatic and marine life park in Southeast Asia! It is an aquatic amusement park that offers you to partake in various water activities.

You can go snorkelling, and sea trekking, as well as drifting lazily by the river and various other PADI-certified scuba activities. If you are in the mood for something even more adventurous, then you also have the option to go shark diving!

There are several high-speed water slides that you can go on for an adrenaline rush. There is a water roller coaster ride here called Riptide Rocket which is the first hydro-magnetic coaster in Southeast Asia.

You are truly going to have the time of your life here, so make sure you don’t forget to visit this place while in Singapore!

Tickets : The starting ticket would cost you S$35 per person.

Timings : 10 am to 5 pm daily except on Wednesdays when it is closed.

Address :  8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island in Resorts World Sentosa

Where to go Shopping in Singapore?

Singapore is a great place to go shopping and here are the top 3 shopping destinations in Singapore where you can find great deals on amazing high-quality products without breaking your wallet:

1.  Chinatown Street Markets

If you are looking for traditional Chinese outfits, trinkets, wedding chopsticks, authentic calligraphy scrolls and fortune cats, you have to visit Singapore’s Chinatown Street Market . There are some really great bakeries and Dim Sum restaurants here which you must try out. This entire market is so vibrant and full of colours that you will yourself be mesmerised!

Timings : 11 am to 11 pm

Address : Chinatown, Pagoda Street, Trengganu Street, Sago Street, Smith St, Singapore

2.  Bugis Street

Bugis Street is one of the busiest street markets in Singapore and the best place to shop as you will find everything you need here at cheap prices. Be it souvenirs, jewellery, bags, or clothes, you are bound to find yourself a bargain here!

Timings : 11 am to 10 pm

Address : 3 New Bugis Street, Singapore

3.  Orchard Road

Popular as the main shopping street of Singapore, make sure to put Orchard Road on top of your list of places to visit in Singapore. At Orchard Road, you have the best luxury retail shopping experience!

Tips for Travelling to Singapore

Here are a few tips that could help you to have a pleasant trip in Singapore , especially if it is your first time here:

1. Use the Public transport

One of the best things about Singapore is its impressive, well-maintained public transport. Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) will help you save both money and time and you can easily reach any place through it. Taxis are very expensive in Singapore so make sure to get yourself an MRT when you reach Singapore.

2. Explore Local food

Although you can enjoy the cheapest Michelin-starred meals in Singapore, you must try the local food here too. Singapore cuisine is absolutely delicious, and you can try a lot of different dishes here at hawker stalls and food courts.

3. Arrive early at Garden by Bay

Being one of the most popular tourist attractions of Singapore, Garden by Bay can get really busy. As Conservatives like Flower Dome and Cloud Forest open around 9 am, make sure to arrive at least at 8: 30 am to get a ticket first. Since the Outside garden opens at 5 am, you can easily explore it before moving forward with the other conservatives.

4. Drinking Tap is Safe

Another great thing about Singapore is that its tap water is completely safe for drinking. You don’t have to spend extra bucks on purchasing bottled water here.

5. No tipping Culture

Just like many other Asian countries, Singapore doesn’t have a tipping culture. You are not expected to tip but if you are really impressed by the food or the service, your tip will most certainly be appreciated.

6. Pack your clothes accordingly

Singapore enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year so make sure you pack all your cotton clothes. Make sure you pack your sunscreen too because it gets really hot here.

Singapore is a truly amazing country to visit with so many amazing places to explore here. You can visit its majestic landmarks, visit old temples, go hiking and explore various Urban architectures that are harmonised with nature. Being a land of multiple cultures has not hindered its growth but added to its rich heritage. And this shows in its various structures, foods and languages.

Singapore has done a first class at maintaining its cultural identity and heritage and nature while moving ahead toward a futuristic world. Don’t you also wish to visit a place that shows just how far humans have come?

If you enjoyed reading about the best places to visit in Singapore, then do check out more of our travel inspiration blogs.

Don’t forget to share your views by leaving a comment down below. We love to hear about your adventures!

1. What is Singapore best known for?

Singapore is known as the global financial centre as well as having some of the finest architecture. It is also known for being one of the most densely populated places in the World. It is home to a world-class airport and a World Heritage Site which is a Botanic Garden.

2. What is the cheapest time to visit Singapore?

If you want to visit Singapore when it would cost you the least, then make your plans during the peak summer. During summers, as the temperature rises, the prices start to go down.

3. What is the best month to visit Singapore?

The best months to visit Singapore are from December to June. These are the dry and cooler times in Singapore which make the entire visit a much more relaxing and pleasant experience rather than visiting during hot summers where humidity is a bummer.

4. Is Singapore a cheap place to visit?

No, Singapore is not a cheap place to visit. Even compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, Singapore is far more expensive. You can totally expect to spend around S$160 per day here.

5. Are 3 nights in Singapore Enough?

Yes, you can explore the majority of Singapore’s main attractions in three days and have a great time too!

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The best 30 free things to do in singapore that won’t cost you anything, the 22 thrilling things to do in singapore at night, the 20 best cheapest hotels in singapore worth checking out, the 6 best ways to travel from malaysia to singapore your ultimate guide from malaysia.

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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

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• 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!

With a Singapore City Pass , you can experience the best of Singapore at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#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.

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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!

Monique MacPhail

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Top 20 Places To Visit In Singapore

The small city-state of Singapore has been called a playground for the wealthy, and it does indeed have a certain sheen of wealth. Singapore, however, provides more than just upscale shopping centers, five-star hotels, and fine dining. There are a lot of things to do during your 3-day stay in Singapore . Discovering this slightly futuristic city’s vibrant history, diverse ethnic neighborhoods, numerous family-friendly attractions, and lovely public spaces is worthwhile.

Singapore has a first-rate public transportation system that makes exploring the city simple and convenient. You won’t have any trouble navigating the metro map once you’ve developed a sense of it. English is widely spoken, and signs are also written in English. One of Southeast Asia’s easiest and most comfortable countries to travel through is Singapore.

Places To Visit In Singapore

1. marina bay sands.

A high-end luxury hotel, a shopping center with a canal running through it, the ArtScience Museum, and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck—a vantage point for viewing the entire city—are all part of the opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex. The viewing deck and infinity pool for the Skypark are located on the ship that sits atop the hotel. The infinity pool is only accessible to hotel guests, but anyone may visit the observation deck.

The innovative double helix bridge, the port, the Gardens by the, and the striking skyline can all be seen from the Skypark. While perched atop the city, visitors can stop by the rooftop restaurant for a snack or a coffee and pick up some keepsakes from the gift shop. You can pay $50 Singapore dollars to have a green-screened picture taken of you in front of the enormous hotel when it is all lit up at night, but it would be better to ask a fellow traveler to take the picture instead. The Marina Bay Sands’ opulent elegance perfectly captures Singapore’s style and place as a major international city in Southeast Asia.

2. Gardens By The Bay

You won’t be able to resist visiting this exquisitely planned green space once you see it. Take a stroll through the Bay East Garden to take in the colorful plant life and temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Supertree Grove, a collection of iconic, futuristic buildings made to serve environmentally sustainable purposes, is a sight not to be missed. After that, proceed to the Cloud Forest Dome to view the tallest indoor waterfall in the world and discover a little bit about biodiversity. For information on ticket prices and tour dates, visit the website.

3. Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens, not to be confused with the Gardens on the Bay, are also worthwhile a visit. For its botanical gardens, Singapore received its first nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage List. Although clean and comfortable, the city can occasionally feel like a concrete jungle, but Singapore’s wilder past is preserved in the botanic gardens.

Here, a strolling path leads to the gardens’ historic trees, which are preserved as part of a campaign to safeguard the mature tree species of the city. Don’t forget to check out the magnificent National Orchid Garden as well. Visits to the eco-garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculptures, and various other formal gardens are also popular activities.

4. Singapore Zoo

The Singapore Zoo, which calls itself the best rainforest zoo in the world, is a pretty impressive facility. The facility is pristine and welcoming, and the animals seem to be in good hands thanks to the abundance of lush vegetation and habitat space. Visitors can watch babies and adults alike swing high above their platforms and munch on fruits while viewing the orangutans, which are particularly impressive. In addition, there are numerous other animals, including a sizable chimpanzee family, zebras, meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, and kangaroos.

5. Orchard Road

Singapore is a world-class city for style and designer chic, so one could be excused for only shopping when visiting. Due to the abundance of upscale shops there, the Orchard Road neighborhood is a great place to start a shopping expedition. Nothing less would be expected from a neighborhood that has six department stores and 22 malls. Additionally, there are four movie theaters, including an IMAX theater, and a KTV karaoke venue. There are many restaurants serving international cuisine in the area if you get hungry while spending all that money.

6. Singapore Flyer

Try enjoying high tea while taking in city views from the Singapore Flyer, the largest giant observation wheel in the world, if the Marina Bay Sands observation deck isn’t quite your thing. Choose from a variety of packages to be served and pampered while taking in a view that includes not only the Singapore skyline but also as far away as Malaysia’s Straits of Johor and Indonesia’s Spice Islands. The multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit, which explores Singapore’s history and the development of the Singapore Flyer, is included in each of the various ticket packages available.

7. Raffles Hotel Singapore

The Colonial District of the city, where the Raffles Hotel Singapore is situated, is also home to a number of other historic sites, making it a good place to base yourself while visiting the area. The Raffles Landing Site is where Sir Stamford Raffles, the man who founded Singapore, is reputed to have set foot on land in 1819. According to the legend, he visited a small fishing community and saw its potential as a port. As a result, he bought the land from the Sultan of Johor and invited Chinese and Indian immigrants to settle here. Thus, the foundations of Singapore’s multicultural identity were laid.

8. Chinatown

The Chinatown area of Singapore will instantly transport you back to China if you’ve ever been there. This neighborhood is bustling with activity, from the little mom-and-pop shops and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns. With these, you can shop on a budget when in Singapore . The impressive and lovely Sri Mariamman Hindu temple is located in the Chinese Heritage Center. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is an additional temple well worth visiting. The morning drum ceremony can be heard if you are awake early enough. Alternately, you could just attend the closing ceremony in the evening after seeing the artifact.

9. Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is the place to go if you’re in the mood for some beach fun even though Singapore isn’t exactly known as a beach destination. Siloso Beach is a great place to spend time at the beach. There are free volleyball courts there, as well as opportunities for kayaking and skimboarding. There are a number of additional beachside attractions, in addition to the Underwater World aquarium where you can go dolphin swimming.

The Merlion, a famous statue in Singapore with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is a must-see on Sentosa Island. The statue’s top can be reached via an escalator, where you can take in sweeping views of the surroundings. Adventurers should visit The Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports at Wave House, where you can try out flying while wearing a jet pack that is propelled by the water.

10. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay, which was the “center of commerce during the 19th century,” continues to be a bustling hub. After a long day of shopping on Orchard Road, visitors can happily make their way to Clarke Quay for an evening of waterfront dining and entertainment because it now has a more polished sheen. Also leaving from here are river taxis and cruises that allow visitors to admire some of the city’s historic bridges and take in landmarks like the Merlion from the water. The Quay’s most popular attraction with younger visitors is a huge bungee-jumping attraction that is an exhilarating thrill ride.

11. Universal Studios Singapore

49 acres of Resorts World Sentosa are occupied by Universal Studios Singapore. The park is set up thematically, with each section paying homage to a setting, movie, or television program. There are trips to New York City, Hollywood, Madagascar, and Ancient Egypt. There are fiction-themed areas like Shrek’s Far Far Away, Lost World, and Sci-Fi City where the thrill rides are dominated by Battlestar Galactica-themed dueling roller coasters and an indoor dark coaster called Revenge of the Mummy.

In addition to the numerous rides, which range from family-friendly to daredevil, the park offers a variety of dining establishments, shops, and live performances both during the day and at night.

12. Night Safari Singapore

By providing visitors with a glimpse into the residents’ nocturnal lives, Night Safari Singapore gives the classic zoo experience a fresh spin. There are four distinct habitat areas in the park, each with a trail that allows you to see these elusive creatures going about their daily lives. 

13. Merlion Park

The Merlion in Singapore is exactly what it sounds like—a representation of a mythical animal with a lion’s head and a fish’s body and tail. The Merlion symbolizes both the city’s traditional Malay name, Singapura, the lion city and its modest beginnings as a fishing village.

14. Asian Civilization Museum

Visit the Empress Place Building if the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven’t sated your desire for colonial architecture. It was built in 1865 in the Neoclassical architectural style, and Queen Victoria’s name was given to it. The Asian Civilizations Museum, which explores the various Asian cultures that shaped Singapore, is now housed there.

The museum’s holdings are centered on trade and spirituality, two topics that had a significant impact on Asian cultures. The Indian Ocean trade, tales of faith and belief, and a look at the significant role that scholars played in Chinese culture for centuries are just a few of the topics covered in the exhibits.

15. Pulau Ubin (Granite Island)

Visit Pulau Ubin, a small island where fewer than 100 people still live simply as they did in the 1960s, to get a glimpse of life in Singapore before it was all about glitz and skyscrapers. The name of the island, which is Malay for “Granite Island,” was given as a result of its historical prominence as a quarry town.

Today, it is a serene, undeveloped location where visitors can appreciate pristine forests and a variety of wildlife. The Chek Jawa Wetlands, which are located on the island and contain a coral reef teeming with marine life, are also there.

16. Fort Canning Park

Fort Canning has had a lengthy and interesting history as far as military strongholds go. The fort, which was constructed in 1859 with the intention of defending Singapore against attacks, ended up being used as a bunker during World War II, and it was eventually given to the Japanese in 1942. The original structure now houses contemporary performing arts groups, and the park frequently hosts picnics, concerts, theater productions, and festivals.

The park also houses artifacts from Singapore’s early history, dating back to the 14th century, as well as Sir Stamford Raffles’ private bungalow. Additionally, visitors can see a replica of the spice market Raffles built in 1822 as well as sculptures of the ASEAN nations that were built in the 1980s.

17. The Maritime Experiential Museum

This indoor-outdoor museum is situated right on the water and offers a fun, interactive way to learn about Singapore’s maritime history. You can see several ships anchored here before you even enter the building.

The Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a sailing ship that went down in 830 CE while en route from Africa to China, is the museum’s centerpiece inside. Additionally, Typhoon Theater offers a special effects simulation of a 9th-century shipwreck along with large-scale replicas of trading ships that traveled the Silk Route, instruction in navigation and how to read nautical charts, and access to the exhibits mentioned previously.

18. Fort Siloso

Sentosa Island is home to Fort Siloso, the only fort that has been preserved in the nation and a military museum. The Fort Siloso Skywalk trail, an enormous steel bridge that rises 11 stories, connects to the fort. The bridge, which is surrounded by a lush tropical canopy, can be reached either by a glass elevator or a set of straightforward stairs. However, taking the elevator gives you sweeping open views of Keppel Harbor, which you can’t really see if you decide to climb the stairs. Great views of the nearby islands and the jungle floor are provided by the 181-meter-long bridge.

19. National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery, which houses Southeast Asia’s largest collection of modern art, has a strong emphasis on local and Asian artists’ creations going back to the 19th century. Over more than 64,000 square meters, the 9,000+ works of art are spread across two buildings—City Hall and the former Supreme Court. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery presents transient exhibitions of unusual subjects like Chinese calligraphy, modern photography, and Vietnamese lacquer painting.

20. Jewel Changi Airport

The 10-story-high Jewel Ghangi Airport, frequently ranked as the best airport in the world, is not your typical transportation hub. In fact, you ought to include it on your list of Singapore’s must-see attractions. The 40-meter-high HSBC Rain Vortex, an indoor waterfall surrounded by over 2,000 trees, is the airport’s most well-known feature in addition to its over 300 shops. The three airport terminals each have their own gardens. There is a sunflower garden in Terminal 2, a cactus garden in Terminal 1, and a very well-known butterfly garden in Terminal 3 with more than 40 different species of butterflies, a six-meter waterfall in a grotto, and a lot of flowering plants.

Two movie theaters, an amusement area with vintage arcade games, an indoor canopy park with garden mazes and breathtaking viewing decks, and a 12-meter-tall slide that is open to both adults and children are also located within the airport.

Top 20 Tourist Places to Visit in Singapore

Located just off the southern tip of Malaysia the wonderful city of Singapore is every tourist’s retreat. The vibrant city is full of interesting elements which would definitely be an experience of a lifetime. Along with the colorful day time the nightlife of Singapore has a personality of its own. You truly have to be there to fully be a part of the magical vibe of Singapore. The perfect place for family vacation, honeymoon holiday or an outing with your group of friends, this island city has something for everyone. If you are looking for a place to visit without spending a bomb then Singapore is the holiday destination you are looking for.

Here are 20 of the top must-visit tourist places in Singapore that will make you book your plans tickets right now:

1. Marina Bay Sands

• Timing: 9:30 am to 10 pm
• Entry Fee: 1,600/-
• How to Reach: 20 minutes of road journey distance from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Shopping, swimming, relaxation, indulging in delicious Singaporean cuisines etc.

2. Merlion Statue

• Timing: 8 am to 9 pm
• Entry Fee: Free entry
• How to Reach: 30 minutes journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Take pictures by the statue, take a stroll by the bay, visit the waterfront, devour on some delicious Singapore delicacies etc.

3. Suntec City

• Timing: 10 am to 10 pm
• Entry Fees: Free entry
• How to Reach: 20 minutes from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Visit fountain of wealth, Water Sports Activities, Boat Tours, Thai Spa, Alive museum etc.

4. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

• Timing: 7 am to 7 pm
• Entry Fee: Free entrance
• How to Reach: 22 minutes of road journey distance from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Offer prayer at the temple, observe peace in its surroundings, visit shrines etc.

5. Gardens By The Bay

• Timing: 5 am to 2 am
• Entrance Fee: 1,972/-
• Things to Do: Witness the future of urban environmental revolution, take pictures lots of it, walk along the greenery, explore the indoor gardens etc.

6. Singapore Flyer

• Timing: 8:30 am to 10:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 2,324 /-
• How to Reach: 20 minutes of road journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Observe the world from above, witness the majestic sunset, have a thrilling ride to the top etc.

7. Helix Bridge

• Timing: 6 am to 12 am
• Things to Do: Walk on the bridge, get a view of the river below, have a refreshing stroll, witness the enigmatic lifestyle etc.

8. Masjid Sultan

• Entry Fee: free entry
• Things to Do: Offer your prayer at the mosque shrine, witness the architectural brilliance here, walk along the scenic gardens and maintain peace etc.

9. Sentosa Beach

• Entry Fee: NA
• How to Reach: 30 minutes of road journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Relax by the beach, soak in the sun, indulge in fun beachside activities, Savour on some delicious meals etc.

10. Chinatown

• Things to Do: Stroll along the streets of China Town, savour some delicious, witness the soulful culture of China etc.

11. Universal Studios

• Timing: 10 am to 7 pm
• Entry Fee: 2,881/-
• How to Reach: 22 minutes of road journey from the airport in Singapore.
• Things to Do: Adrenaline pumping rides, attend various shows, meet and greet your Favourite Characters, enjoy street entertainment, souvenir shopping, enjoy delicious food etc.

12. Night Safari

• Timing: 7:15 pm; 8:15 pm; 9:15 pm and 10:15 pm
• Entry Fee: 4,620/-
• How to Reach: Half an hour of road journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Go on walking trails, explore the night animals in their natural habitat, go on jeep rides etc.

13. Singapore Botanic Garden

• Timing: 5 amt o 12 am
• Entry Fee: 351/-
• How to Reach: 22 minutes from airport in Singapore.
• Things to Do: Go through the wide variety of plants collection, take a walk in nature, spend some peaceful time in the lush garden etc.

14. Little India

• Timing: NA Entry fee – NA
• How to Reach: 22 minutes of scenic road journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Try some delicious Indian food, shop for Indian items in Singapore and walk through the streets which reminds you of India etc.

15. Clarke Quay

• How to Reach: 22 minutes from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Go on the boat journey, take in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings, experience the thumping nightlife etc.

16. Jurong Bird Park

• Timing: 8:30 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fee: 1,403/-
• How to Reach: 34 minutes of road journey from Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Visit the world of darkness, visit the famous waterfall aviary, attend kings of sky show etc.

17. Singapore Cable Car

• Timing: 8:45 am to 9:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 1,700/-
• How to Reach: 45 minutes of Singapore airport
• Things to Do: Take the cable car ride which will be a breathtaking experience, view the world from above etc.

18. Pulau Ubin

• How to Reach: 45 minutes of journey from Singapore airport.
• Things to Do: Take a cycling tour, go on eco-village tour, stroll along the walking pathways etc.

19. Fort Canning Park

• Timing: open 24 hours
• Things to Do: Take a river cruise, have a thrilling ride at the extreme swing, experience spa and wellness care etc.

20. Sri Mariamman Temple

• Timing: 5:30 am to 12 noon and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
• How to Reach: 30 minutes from airport in Singapore
• Things to Do: Observe peace here, offer prayer at the shrine, witness the grand architecture etc.

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