tourist things to do in singapore

Singapore   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things To Do in Singapore

Updated February 11, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay

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

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

Marina Bay Marina Bay free

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

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

Singapore Botanic Gardens Singapore Botanic Gardens free

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

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

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Cloud Forest Cloud Forest

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

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

Singapore's Chinatown Singapore's Chinatown free

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

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

Singapore Zoo Singapore Zoo

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

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

Orchard Road Orchard Road free

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

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

Merlion Park Merlion Park free

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

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

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Sentosa Sentosa

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

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

Little India Little India free

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

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

Singapore Flyer Singapore Flyer

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

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

East Coast Park East Coast Park free

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

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

The Southern Ridges The Southern Ridges free

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

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

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National Gallery Singapore National Gallery Singapore

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

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

Singapore Cable Car Singapore Cable Car

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

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

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Bukit Timah Nature Reserve free

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

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

Asian Civilizations Museum Asian Civilizations Museum

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

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

Jurong Bird Park Jurong Bird Park

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

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

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From the Marina Bay to the hawker centers, here are Singapore's best unmissable experiences © lechatnoir / Getty Images

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 October 2021 and updated March 2024

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The 101 best things to do in Singapore

From outdoor explorations to culinary adventures, this is your ultimate checklist to getting the best of the city

The Lion City may be one of the smallest cities in the world but it is undeniably an exciting place to be. It’s home to beautiful gardens , impressive architecture and iconic attractions that top every tourist’s bucket list, even locals who are still discovering their very own backyard. You know the usual suspects: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa. But if you scratch beneath the surface, you’ll find dozens of things to do and see – you just need to know where to look. 

Not sure where to start? Leave it to us to show you around. Our Time Out Do List not only takes you to the world’s longest elevated infinity pool and first safari park for nocturnal animals but also to the forested nature reserves , offshore islands and hawker centres for some of the best (and cheap) food to refuel. We’ll even take you to hell and back via Haw Par Villa. And if you still have some energy to burn, check out the best things to do in Singapore this week and this weekend .

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutSG. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the 50 best things to do in the world right now .

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The best things to do in Singapore

1.  Gawk at the rain vortex at Jewel Changi Airport

What is it?  This majestic airport mall is home to the tallest indoor waterfall and over 280 dining and retail outlets.  

Why go?  If there's one thing to see, it's the HSBC Rain Vortex – and there's no missing it. When you're done gawking at that, you can head to other spots to chill out: Shiseido Forest Valley, Shaw IMAX, and Petal Garden, just to name a few. There are tons of retail shops and dining venues too. Standouts include The Backyard Bakers (awesome brownies), Birds of Paradise (botanical-inspired gelatos), Violet Oon (Peranakan fare), In Good Company, and Don Don Donki. 

Don't miss The hourly light and sound show at the HSBC Rain Vortex, the mall’s 40m-tall indoor waterfall, from 7.30pm to midnight.

2.  Stop and smell the roses at Singapore Botanic Gardens

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

What is it? A beautiful 165-year-old tropical garden that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why go? There’s tons to explore in this sprawling garden. Watch the stately black swans glide across the swan lake, check out fossilised remains of ancient trees at Evolution Garden Walk, or let the kids romp about at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. On the weekends, there might even be an outdoor concert to watch at the Symphony Lake. There are galleries dedicated to art and natural history, as well as cafés and restaurants for a leisurely meal.  Don’t miss The National Orchid Garden, home to the world’s largest collection of orchids. There are some 1000 species and 2000 hybrids, as well as Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim.

3.  Walk on the wild side at Mandai Wildlife Reserve

• Raffles Place

What is it? Home of the world-famous Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise.

Why go? Mandai Wildlife Reserve is your opportunity to visit an incredible breadth of animal species and habitats in virtually one place. With four establishments in this cluster, you can view over 10,000 animals from over 1,000 species ranging from giant pandas and leopards to polar bears and penguins. Don’t miss Breakfast in the Wild, where you can enjoy a scrumptious buffet spread while interacting with animals like elephants, orangutans, and macaws. Be sure to stop by the photo spots to capture a lasting memory.

4.  Get your hawker fix at Maxwell Food Centre

• Restaurants

What is it?  This vast hawker centre stands at the heart of Tanjong Pagar, perfect for the wandering tourist or hungry CBD worker who needs a place to fuel up. 

Why go?   Home to a plethora of food stalls that champions different local fare – from flavourful Hainanese chicken rice and nasi lemak to wholesome porridge and mee pok – Maxwell Food Centre is a one-stop-shop for the best of Singapore's colourful food scene. 

Don't miss  Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice’s signature dish — even Michelin-starred heavyweight Gordon Ramsay and celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain were impressed with its take on our national dish . For something less intense, check out Zhen Zhen Porridge where its steaming hot bowls of chicken and fish porridge topped with ginger shreds will leave you satisfied for cheap.

5.  Plan a day trip to The Palawan @ Sentosa

• Things to do

What is it? Sentosa’s newest leisure destination, The Palawan @ Sentosa, brings eight experiences to the island of fun, including beach clubs, food venues, and an electrified go-kart experience and mini-golf venue.

Why go? It’s a one-stop day out for the whole family. There’s something for everyone – adults, kids, and pets too. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s on Sentosa, which is one of the best places in Singapore to feel like you’re on an overseas vacation. Don’t miss HyperDrive , an electric go-kart circuit that’s Mario Kart brought to life. Take a spin around its three-level racetrack and celebrate your win with a delicious cocktail at one of +Twelve ’s cosy cabanas afterwards.

6.  Seek out quirky finds and street art at Haji Lane

What is it? A narrow lane in the Bras Basah-Bugis district filled with indie shops, hole-in-the-wall cafes, hip bars and graffiti art lining its walls.

Why go? Haji Lane is the original hipster hideout in the city. It’s lined with colourful shophouses occupied by independent boutiques carrying unique goods that you can’t find anywhere else in Singapore. Home to a spree of charming cafes and watering holes, Haji Lane comes to life in the evenings with people heading down to grab some grub along with a drink, or two, for a chilled night out with friends.

Don’t miss:  Go on a wall crawl for eye-catching murals, street art, and Singapore's first outdoor art gallery – Gelam Gallery.

7.  Join in craft workshops at 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace

What is it?  The imposing building at 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace used to be the upper barracks of a police station. What was once the centre of surveillance and control (over the crime-ridden alleys of Chinatown), is now a hub of freedom and creativity. There's something poetic about that.

Why go?  In sanitised and 'straight' Singapore, places like 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace are true gems, and one can easily spend a whole day there exploring the many unique creative workshops and studios, or even the occasional fair. 

Don't miss:  Trying your hand at one of their many workshops, whether a   taxidermy session  or a   pottery-on-the-wheel experience .

8.  Take on the Rail Corridor

What is it? A 24-kilometre green passage that features lush natural landscapes and restored landmark bridges and elements. This includes the recently reopened four-kilometre central stretch as well as the newly revamped Bukit Timah Railway Station .

Why go? The Rail Corridor was once the epicentre of commuting and transporting goods between Singapore and Malaysia from the beginning of the 20th century until 2011. Now it has been enhanced for another form of travelling – hiking. The trail is remarkably accessible, with sensitive restoration of landmarks such as the Bukit Timah Railway Station and two steel truss railway bridges, as well as lookout decks and paths that allow for total immersion in the rainforest experience. Don't miss Head to the nearby Singapore Quarry where you can spot rare birds, fishes, turtles and even monitor lizards if you're sharp. For a blast to the past, check out the restored Bukit Timah Railway Station where you can get schooled about its history and enjoy a cup of coffee at the cafe housed in the former staff quarters.

9.  Try Singapore’s most iconic dish at Katong Mei Wei Chicken Rice

• Singaporean

What is it? A humble chicken rice stall in Katong Shopping Centre, which serves up the iconic dish on signature purple plates.

Why go? Chicken rice is Singapore’s national dish, and Katong Mei Wei Chicken Rice makes some of the best. The chicken is silky and succulent and the rice is fluffy and fragrant as it should be. You might do a double-take at the $8 price tag, but it’s well worth it because the rice dish comes with a generous serving of achar and soup of the day too. 

Don’t miss The cabbage soup, which is light and peppery. There’s no saying what the soup of the day is though, so you’ll have to keep your fingers crossed.

10.  Get a glimpse of old island life at Pulau Ubin

What is it? An offshore island lush with greenery and one of Singapore’s last surviving kampongs.

Why go? Head over to the wilder side of life and take a trip back to the past as Pulau Ubin allows you to you to experience the essence of what Singapore was like in the 1960s. The island is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with 1,020-hectares of gravel roads, lush forests and abundant wildlife. Make sure you check out the southeastern end of Ubin for the island’s main attraction: Chek Jawa.

Don’t miss: The wetlands and its rich ecosystem are best seen during low tide, so keep your eyes peeled for vibrant sea critters like the peacock anemone as you stroll down the boardwalk.

11.  Surf, snow and skate at Trifecta

What is it? Singapore’s first surf-snow-skate facility in the heart of Somerset, run by the cool folks at The Ride Side . 

Why go? Where else in Singapore can you surf, snowboard or ski? Where we lack in powerful waves and powdery snow, Trifecta has brought in deep water wave pool technology and a virtual-reality powered snow arena to provide endless waves and snow. Take beginner lessons to pick up the basics in either sport or sign up for a season pass to practise your moves any time, any day. Trifecta also has a free-to-enter hybrid skate bowl for the skateboarders and surfskaters among you.  Don’t miss Trifecta’s regular programming of art and music-centric events, from live music backyard sessions to open deck DJ nights. There’s also Butter, a café and bar in collaboration with Two Men Bagel House.

12.  Meet lifelike dinosaurs along the Jurassic Mile

What is it? The city’s largest permanent outdoor display of life-sized dinosaurs that doubles up as a scenic cycling route. 

Why go? Dinosaur enthusiast or no, the Jurassic Mile is a unique opportunity to see (and take photos with) massive dinosaur exhibits in Singapore. There are more than 20 dinosaurs along the 1 kilometre stretch – the tallest towers to a height of five metres! Dinosaur eggs dot the Jurassic Mile too, alongside nuggets of information about their behaviour, diets, and habitat.   Don’t miss Everything else on the 3.5 kilometre Changi Airport Connector, which the Jurassic Mile is part of. Enjoy the lush greenery and sea breeze as you cycle, and take a breather at glasshouse café Hub & Spoke.

13.  Take your wining and dining to new heights at High House

What is it? Giving other rooftop destinations in Singapore a run for their money is High House, a restaurant, bar, and nightlife venue on levels 61 and 62 of One Raffles Place. 

Why go? It’s not often you can look down on Marina Bay Sands, but at High House, you can. The venue sports floor-to-ceiling windows with unparalleled views down onto Padang and Marina Bay. The space still maintains an intimate vibe, with plush booths and dining tables and even a private karaoke room that you can rent for a private get-together. Executive chef Sam Chin, who’s worked with Michelin-starred chefs, heads up the kitchen. Meanwhile, award-winning bar specialist Jay Gray has curated a fine selection of cocktails inspired by the Pacific Coast.  Don’t miss It’s nightly programme of electronic dance music, spanning genres like house, techno, and disco. Art lovers will also appreciate High House’s collection of art, featuring artists like Naoko Tosa (Japan), Willem van Weeghel (Netherlands), and Nicholas Ong (Singapore).

14.  Excite all your senses at Sentosa Sensoryscape

What is it? A 350-metre-long connector in Sentosa that’s dotted with multi-sensorial gardens and immersive night experiences.

Why go? To take pictures for the gram, of course. The six sensory gardens along Sentosa Sensoryscape are architectural marvels in themselves. Add in sound design, fragrances, light projections, and tactile elements, and you have something that teases all five senses. It’s an easy walk that conveniently links the north of Sentosa Island to the beaches on the south too, so you might as well check it out. Don’t miss The ImagiNite experience that comes alive every night at 7.50pm. Each sensory garden has a unique light and augmented reality show, featuring dancing butterflies, marine animals, and more.

15.  Eat zi char at Kok Sen Restaurant

What is it?  This popular zi char joint has been a mainstay on Keong Saik Road and continues to pull crowds on evenings and during the weekend. 

Why go?  With mismatched tables and stools for seats, Kok Sen is loud, crowded and unrefined – but it's just the kind of local dining you should experience. Helps that their food is authentic and flavourful too.  

Don't miss:  What everyone comes here for – its plate of prawn hor fun ($16-$48). Unlike typical hor fun dishes, the sauce here is less starchy and has a soup-like consistency. Each spoonful delivers a broth made from prawn stock that’s rich in umami with a hint of heat from fresh red chillies. Other specialties include claypot yong tau foo ($14-$28), vegetables and tofu stuffed with fish and squid paste, and braised pork ribs in black bean sauce ($14-$28).

16.  Feast on chilli crab at Jumbo Seafood

What is it?   If we had to choose one national dish for Singapore that you have to try while you're here, it has to be our chilli crab. It’s sweet, savoury, tangy and spicy all in one bite and is best mopped up with deep-fried mantou (bun).

Why go?  Jumbo Seafood is one of the best places to get elbow-deep into a plate of chilli crab. Not only do you get to enjoy the sea breeze, but the seafood is absolutely stellar as well.

Don't miss:   The chilli crab, of course (from $118/kg). But if you're up for something even spicier, the black pepper crabs are as much of a local favourite. Not a fan of spice? Crabs tossed in creamy salted egg yolk sauce is another uniquely Singaporean offering that's equally delicious.

17.  Try Singapore’s most iconic fruit at 99 Old Trees

What is it? A durian café, where you can try durian straight from the husk or in desserts like puffs and chendol. 

Why go? For both first-timers and durian lovers, the 99 Old Trees café provides a pretty and comfortable setting to try all things durian. Located in a corner shophouse in Chinatown, the space is painted with colourful murals and has air-conditioning on full blast. Try six different variants of durian, from the ever-popular Mao Shan Wang to the lesser-known Black Thorn. Don’t miss Housemade durian desserts under its Stinky series – from Stinky Bowl (a kind of durian mousse made from pure D24 durian pulp) to Stinky Bomb (Mao Shan Wang durian in choux puff pastry).

18.  Get your fill of lush greenery at Rifle Range Nature Park

• Bukit Panjang

What is it?  It's a new 66 hectare park situated south of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. 

Why go?  It adds on 7km of trails and boardwalks to the sprawling Central Nature Park Network, and includes pleasant boardwalks and animal crossings to accommodate both human visitors and wildlife.

Don't miss  Highlights like the Quarry Wetland, which has been transformed from the former Sin Seng Quarry into a tranquil habitat for wetland animals. From here, you can head up to the Coluga Deck, which is perched 31 metres above the former quarry for a bird's eye view of the park. Keep your eye on the rope bridges and colugo poles overhead too, because you might see long-tailed macaques and Sunda colugos dashing across.  

19.  Stop and smell the roses at Gardens by the Bay

What is it? A Singapore icon, this majestic, gargantuan gardens is a sight to behold. Surrounded by exotic foliage, it's home to various outdoor and indoor gardens.

Why go?  T he outdoor Heritage Gardens spotlights the country's rich history through plants, while the indoor  Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and Floral Fantasy feature themed displays of colourful blooms from all around the world.  The main stars, however, are the colossal Supertrees. For panoramic vistas of the gardens, head up to the new  Supertree Observatory.

Don’t miss: You won’t want to miss the Garden Rhapsody light and music performances which take centre stage daily at 7.45pm and 8.45pm at Supertree Grove. It’s also set a different theme each month.

20.  Catch incredible skyline views on the Singapore Flyer

What is it? Marina Bay’s 42-storey giant observation wheel. 

Why go? For breathtaking, 360 degree views of the city. Each flight takes 30 minutes, so there’s plenty of time to take in Singapore’s famous skyline. On a clear day, you can see as far as Malaysia as Indonesia too. The Singapore Flyer has 28 air-conditioned UV-protected capsules, so we promise you’ll be comfortable during. Don’t miss National Day or New Year’s Eve flights – basically, any that take place during a fireworks event. You’ll get absolutely stunning views of the festivities.

21.  Admire the colourful shophouses of Katong

• Buona Vista

What is it? The charming two and three-storey shophouses in Joo Chiat and Katong, rich in Peranakan and Eurasian heritage and culture.

Why go? Crowned as Singapore's first Heritage Town in 2011, the neighbourhood's identity is defined by its pre-war architecture adorned in ceramic Peranakan floral motifs, geometrical tiles, pastel hues and even Chinese couplets which are said to bring good fortune. It’s also synonymous with the famous Katong Laksa and Nonya delicacies –perfect for a refuel after hours of exploring! Don't miss Take a jaunt down Koon Seng Road for the iconic pastel-coloured shophouses. If you fancy a wagyu sando and a cappuccino, grab a table at Café Natsu which overlooks the Koon Seng shophouses. While you can’t photograph its interiors, Rumah Bebe has eye-catching cerulean exteriors and bright Peranakan tiles that your social media feed desperately needs. For something less in-your-face, take a stroll down Lotus @ Joo Chiat, a stretch of 18 white conserved shophouses with green windows and doors that feature intricate carvings.

22.  Dive into the intricate world of batik at Galeri Tokokita

What is it? A batik boutique in the heart of Kampong Gelam. 

Why go? Every visit to Galeri Tokokita is a fascinating deep dive into Indonesian culture. Batik makers and craftsmen have painstakingly made every piece of batik cloth sold here. What’s more, each holds a special meaning expressed through intricate motifs – whether it’s a Merdeka jacket printed with parang (blade) prints to symbolise valour, or hidden poetry meant as a love letter from the craftsmen to the wearer.  Don’t miss The best thing you can do is head down to the shop, where you can browse its collection and try on ready-to-wear pieces. You’ll also can an education on the history and symbolism behind each collection – a win in our books.

23.  Indulge in elevated nasi lemak at The Coconut Club

• 3 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

What is it? A restaurant on Beach Road that’s known for its delicious $20 nasi lemak.

Why go? $20 may sound like overkill, but The Coconut Club’s nasi lemak is truly something to experience. There’s the fluffy coconut rice made with milk cold-pressed from Kampong and Mawa coconuts. Then there’s the fried organic chicken, which has been marinated for 12 hours in a housemade rempah. Try it all in The Coconut Club’s signature ayam goreng berempah nasi lemak ($21).  Don’t miss The Coconut Club’s wide variety of sharing plates, such as housemade otah, sambal sotong, and chilli kangkong.

24.  Slurp down traditional Chinese desserts at Ah Chew Desserts

What is it? A traditional Chinese dessert store, eponymous with its owner, Ah Chew.

Why go? Loved by locals and tourists alike, this homely, unpretentious establishment has been in operation for 2 decades and counting, with humble beginnings in a cramped half-unit space at Liang Seah Street. Today, they operate out of two units in the same location, in addition to a newer branch at Orchard Cineleisure. Despite their popularity, prices are kept wallet-friendly, with most hot and cold desserts in the $3 to $4 range. Don’t miss The crowd-favourite mango sago with pomelo, warm almond paste, or durian sago for fans of the king of fruits. The glutinous rice with ice cream is also a great choice for a party of textures.

25.  Reminisce the past at Kampong Lorong Buangkok

What is it?   The last remaining village cluster on mainland Singapore.

Why go? It gives you a glimpse of the city's kampong past including the humble abodes of the yesteryears that still stand.

Don't miss:  Take a walk through the small village and get transported back to a time when life was simpler in Singapore. But remember to be respectful as these are people's homes after all. 

26.  Stroll down Changi Bay Point

What is it?  Changi Bay Point has a  140-metre-long boardwalk made out of slip-resistant glass fibre and reinforced concrete, providing a beautiful view of the waterfront.  Though a lot of new materials are used to revamp this park connector, it still retains a natural and rustic feel with the amount of timber used and the landscaping efforts with include plenty of lush trees and plants (like lalang by the coast) that makes every corner you turn photogenic. 

Why go?  For a picturesque break from city life, take a leisurely stroll down the boardwalk – you'll be right on the water's edge.  Sit yourselves down at the pavilion near the boardwalk for a rest and enjoy the waterfront views while you're at it. 

Don't miss:  Since it's part of the  recently opened Changi Bay Park Connector , which connects Changi Beach Park to the East Coastal Park Connector Network, it'll make for a fun day out. Best times to come are the early mornings to avoid the crowds. 

27.  Explore the island via the Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail

• Jurong East

What is it?  A 36-kilometre trail that  cuts across the island, linking Coney Island in the northeast with Jurong Lake Gardens in the west.

Why go? If you're feeling ambitious,  this challenging trek can be conquered in a day (or less if you choose to cycle). But nonetheless, it covers some of the best parks and nature reserves in Singapore like Bukit Batok Nature Park and Hindhede where you can witness the majestic granite quarry, the waterside views at MacRitchie Reservoir and Punggol Waterway Park and the rustic wildness of Coney Island.

Don't miss:  Pit stop-wise, if you're going to be passing through Adam Road, a visit to the hawker centre is a must.

28.  Take in incredible skyline views at CÉ LA VI

• Bars and pubs

What is it? One of the top lifestyle and entertainment destinations in Singapore. And by ‘top’, we mean that it’s perched on level 57 of Marina Bay Sands. 

Why go? For incredible city skyline views to go with your flute of bubbly. Besides open-air seating and the Sands Skypark Infinity Pool, CÉ LA VI has expanded its space with the breezy Sky Lounge. Get signature cocktails from the SkyBar to pair with contemporary Asian bites from the restaurant – then kick back and enjoy the view. Don’t miss CÉ LA VI’s party programme. Some of the most incredible local and international DJs have spun here, including Armin van Buuren, Fedde le Grand, and Bob Sinclair, so there’s lots to look forward to.

29.  Go on a musical journey at Swee Lee Clarke Quay

What is it? A rad music experience store by homegrown musical instrument retail brand, Swee Lee. This is its third location in the city. 

Why go? When we say ‘music experience store’, we mean that Swee Lee Clarke Quay has taken care of the whole musical journey from discovery, to experience, to playing and performance. There are the vinyl listening booths, which you can rent by the hour to listen to more than 500 records from Swee Lee’s library – don’t forget to order food and drink from the café and bar. Then there’s the Artist Lounge and Creator Corner, for jam sessions and all sorts of music creation masterclasses. Not to mention the retail space, which stocks at least 150 brands including Fender, Taylor, Ibanez, and MONO. Make an appointment to visit the Guitar Cellar too, which has an impressive collection of limited edition and exclusive guitars.  Don’t miss Open mic nights, DJ sessions, and a whole roster of events that Swee Lee Clarke Quay has in the works. If you’re a budding musician looking for a platform to showcase your original tunes, simply write in to Swee Lee and you might soon find yourself serenading an audience in the Great Hall. For the rest of us, simply show up and enjoy the music.

30.  Catch a late-night indie flick at The Projector

• Independent

What is it?  An alternative cinema decked with bean bags and retro seats, all housed in the historic Golden Theatre atop the Golden Mile Tower.

Why go?  The Projector screens a selection of flicks such as cult favourites, arthouse, documentary, foreign and local, as well as new releases that aren’t screened anywhere else in the city.

Don’t miss:   Look out for its special-themed nights as well as exclusive showcases. Tickets tend to sell out fast, so best book 'em in advance before it's too late.

31.  Soak in the tranquil vibes at Raffles Marina Lighthouse

• Towers and viewpoints

What is it? A free-to-visit lighthouse at the edge of Tuas’ waters.

Why go? It might be a little out of the way if you live anywhere other than the west of Singapore, but the unobstructed sea views that await will be well worth the trip. This tranquil spot has even appeared in many a wedding photoshoot – a testament to its beauty. Stroll along the pier and you’ll spot a fleet of yachts parked at Raffles Marina. Plus, it’s a stone’s throw from Marina Bistro so you know where to make a beeline for if your tummy starts rumbling.  Don’t miss Brilliant sunsets that bathe the area in a warm glow on clear days. As the sun sets in the west, this is the perfect spot for chasing golden hour.

32.  Savour seriously delicious Indian fare at Komala Vilas

What is it? A fuss-free Indian vegetarian eatery that has been around since 1947.

Why go? Komala Vilas is an institution, and rightfully so, because its hearty meals never disappoint. Don’t be deterred by the inevitable queue at the door – it moves pretty quickly – or you’ll miss out on some of Singapore’s best dosas, chapatis, thosais, and vadais. Order a cup of lassi and you’re set.  Don’t miss The classic dosai meal, which comes with paper or masala dosai, three vegetables, sambar, chutney, and kulambu.

33.  Get a taste of rare gin at Atlas

• 4 out of 5 stars
• price 2 of 4

What is it?   With over 1,000 bottles of gin available, Atlas has the most diverse collection of the spirit in the world. It's definitely a shrine all gin lovers should make a pilgrimage to.

Why go?  Not a fan of gin? That's still no reason not to visit. The  grand art deco-inspired bar looks exactly like a European hotel lobby of the era is a spectacle in itself – with m agnificent champagne-hued tapestries line the ceiling, intricate gold and bronze balconies surround the space. It also offers an extensive food, tea, coffee and non-alcoholic menu for the teetotalers.

Don't miss:   For an introduction to what the bar can do, get The Atlas Martini ($25), a blend of gin, Ambrato vermouth, orange bitters, champagne vinegar and pomelo.

34.  Zoom into the future at ArtScience Museum

What is it?   A lotus-shaped museum located within the Marina Bay Sands showcasing high-tech artworks that seamlessly weaves art, science, design, architecture and technology.

Why go?  Observe how the two seemingly contrasting entities –  art and science –  come together in the world’s first ArtScience Museum. Open your mind to the futuristic sphere of cutting-edge interactive installations and explore how art and science shape the world that we live in.

Don’t miss:  Its permanent exhibition  Future World   is a mind-bender – it takes visitors on an interactive journey of lights, digital art, and magic. Together with digital art installations by teamLab, it features  over 170,000 LED lights that change colours, as well as an 8-metre-tall digital waterfall where water particles tumble down logs in accordance with the laws of physics.

On top of that, the museum has staged international exhibitions in partnership with renowned museums and galleries from around the world including the British Museum and Science Museum in London; the American Museum of Natural History, New York; the Biblioteca Ambrosiana, Milan; the Mori Art Museum, Tokyo; the Australian Centre for Moving Image, Melbourne and many other institutions. 

35.  Explore the past at National Museum of Singapore

What is it?  T he largest museum in the city, it comprises two main galleries – the National Museum of Singapore History Gallery and Modern Colony Gallery – that takes you back to Singapore's past.

Why go?  T he Singapore History Gallery, which traces the history of Singapore from its beginnings in the 14th century to the present day, and the Singapore Living Galleries, which focus on four lifestyle themes – food, fashion, film and photography.  It’s also worth a visit just for the building, an imposing neoclassical structure, complemented by modern glass additions.

Don’t miss:  Look out for film screenings, massive art installations and more at its lush outdoors.

36.  Appreciate local art at the National Gallery Singapore

What is it?   An art museum in the heart of Singapore that holds an extensive collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art.

Why go?  Home to the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, the National Gallery Singapore is a result of combining the two structures. This beautifully restored space is now a whole new monument with over 8,000 works of art reflecting the heritage and art history of Singapore and surrounding regions lining its walls. There are various exhibitions taking place on a rotational basis to keep the visuals fresh.

Don’t miss:   Download the   Gallery Explorer Map , which doubles as your own personal digital tour guide around the art wonderland. 

37.  Cross a suspension bridge at MacRitchie Reservoir

• Walks and tours
• Central Water Catchment

What is it? Singapore’s oldest and most popular nature park with lush rainforest bordering the country’s first reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

Why go? MacRitchie Reservoir is a haven for joggers, families and weekend strollers with trails around the reservoir ranging from three to 11-kilometres in length, from easy treks to ambitious hikes that can go up to five hours long for a round trip. One of the highlights of the reserve is the TreeTop Walk which features a 250-metre suspension bridge connecting the two highest points of the nature reserve, offering panoramic views across the treetops.

Don’t miss:  It's also a sanctuary for a type of monkey that is native in Southeast Asia – the crab-eating macaque. While it's friendly by nature, you're encouraged not to feed them. The nature reserve also has turtles and other jungle creatures crawling around.

38.  Be one with nature at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

• Lim Chu Kang

What is it? A wetland reserve of mangrove swamps, ponds, and home to 140 species of birds and a diversity of local wildlife.

Why go? Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a change of scenery for your weekend walk, you can choose between three nature trails to soak up the views of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Look out for the mudskippers, monkeys, and climbing crabs on the mangrove boardwalks.

Don’t miss: The early bird catches the worm. Head down to the observation hides at the crack of dawn for some bird watching. Binoculars are available to rent if you haven’t got one.

39.  Fly a kite at Marina Barrage

What is it?  Built across the mouth of the Marina Channel, the massive green space attracts couples and families all year round thanks to its breathtaking 360-degree view of the bay area. 

Why go? Back in the good old kampong days, children entertained themselves with homemade kites fashioned from scraps they found littered around the compound. Relive those days by taking your own FOC DIY kite up to Marina Barrage and watch it take flight.

Don't miss: Besides flying kites, the park is a popular venue for a picnic, yoga, jogging, and sunset watching – and there are even a few restaurants nearby.

40.  Support small, local brands at Margaret Market

What is it? An urban marketplace for homegrown brands that used to be a neighbourhood wet market and food centre. 

Why go? No big conglomerates and chain brands here. Instead, Margaret Market features passionate local brands alongside old trades from Tanglin Halt (an old estate that is currently being demolished). The two-storey marketplace has everything from local food and artisanal bakes to medical and fitness services – a unique one-stop-shop for those in the neighbourhood or curious tourists.  Don’t miss Clam-based dishes from Wawa Lala Beehoon, acai bowls and ‘jaffles’ from Urban Folks, and spicy hot Indonesian smashed chicken from Fangko. Beloved ice cream brand Creamier makes a great stop for dessert too.

41.  Be greeted by cats at St. John’s Island

• Southern Islands

What is it?  St John’s Island is the go-to for friendly felines, with one sleuthing around almost all the landmarks that dot the island.  

Why go?  Other than cat-watching (not that you need to do anything else), you can feel the sand in between your toes, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or visit the Sisters' Islands Marine Park Public Gallery to check out Singapore's efforts in preserving our marine biodiversity. Lazarus Island is also just a short walk away – you can stay over in glamping tents, rent kayaks from the water sports centre, or simply enjoy its lovely bay. 

Don't miss: To get the island, just board a boat at $15. You can book your tickets online in advance. The ferry departs from Marina South Pier for St John's Island then Kusu Island, before returning to Marina South Pier. Take note: during the ninth lunar month, ferry services to the island will halt for the Kusu pilgrimage.

42.  Type your next heartfelt letter on Type8ar’s vintage typewriters

What is it? A cosy bar dedicated to an impressive range of vintage typewriters.

Why go? There’s no place like Type8ar. Switch up your conventional greeting cards by crafting them using vintage typewriters instead. There are also workshops held by the friendly and knowledgeable owners for all to learn more about the classic machine. Don’t miss There are workshops for both complete newbies and people that would like to rent the machine for a couple of hours to simply slow down and chill out. Sessions come with a complimentary beverage of your choice too.

43.  Pour some tea at Tea Chapter

• Tanjong Pagar

What is it?  Tea Chapter is the first pre-war shophouse to have been carefully restored in the late 80s. Now, it's a Chinese traditional teahouse. 

Why go?  If it's good enough for heavyweights and dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II and our own PM Lee Hsien Loong, then it's good enough for all of us. 

Don't miss:  Tea Chapter's tea appreciation workshop, which is offered in English or Mandarin. Book   here . 

44.  Uncover rich Peranakan heritage at The Intan

What is it?  Embrace the rich heritage of the Peranakans – descendants of Chinese immigrants who married local Malay women from the Straits Settlements – with a tour of this shophouse residence of collector Alvin Yapp, 40, located along Joo Chiat Terrace. Why go?  The Intan tour lasts 90 minutes for tea or three hours for dinner, and Alvin’s mother prepares the authentic Nonya dishes. "The worst thing to ask a Peranakan boy is to recommend a Peranakan restaurant, because mother’s cooking is always the best. And also because we don’t eat Peranakan food outside," he says.

Don't miss:  Besides a stunning collection of Peranakn furniture, costumes, and trinkets, the Intan also occasionally holds private parties, book launches and small concerts.

45.  Live the high life at Marina Bay Sands

What is it? Considered as one of Singapore’s most iconic structures, the stunning hotel features three floor-to-ceiling windowed towers, ascending at 200-metres high.

Why go? Besides having the chance to live the high life, the Marina Bay Sands also houses some of the city’s top restaurants and bars for guests to wine and dine while basking in a bird’s eye view of Singapore. Alternatively, you can snap stunning pictures while taking a dip in the rooftop infinity pool.

Don’t miss: Only hotel guests are allowed access to the rooftop pool, so book yourself a room pronto.

46.  Go for a night ride with Skyline Luge Sentosa

What is it? A gravity-fuelled cart ride down from the top of Sentosa. Why go? The adrenaline rush. This is one of Singapore’s most thrilling outdoor activities. In fact, it’s suitable for both kids and adults with four different tracks to choose from: Dragon, Jungle, Kupu Kupu, and the Expedition. While some have unexpected twists and turns, others have straightforward gentle slopes. Whichever Luge track you coast down, you’ll be enjoying the breeze while making your way through lush tropical forests. Don’t miss Night luge, especially when it’s a cool night out – you’ll enjoy the gentle sea breeze in your hair. 

47.  Have a wild night out at Marquee

What is it?   A colossal nightclub that stretches over 2,300-square-metres across three floors with sky-high ceilings that tower up to 30 metres – plenty of room for party animals to run riot.

Why go?   Marquee's pride and joy is the giant indoor, eight-armed Ferris wheel that offers revellers an unparalleled view of the nightclub. The nocturnal playground also comes complete with three-storey slides. Just be sure to hold on tight to your belongings as you make your way down. Don't miss   Killer sets that feature heavyweight entertainers and DJs from the dance music spectrum. Previous trailblazing acts include Tiesto, Afrojack, A$AP Rocky, Above & Beyond, Steve Aoki and Armin van Buuren. Backed with a slick sound system and a 20-metre-high, 8K-resolution LED screen that frames the DJ booth with stunning visuals (think EDM festivals), it’s a heady experience you won’t want to miss.

48.  Get your adrenaline pumping at Adventure HQ

• Sport and fitness

What is it? A mega indoor adventure playground with high elements obstacle circuits, a ninja course, and interactive climbing features.

Why go? Adventure HQ is sure to excite even the most seasoned of thrill-seekers regardless of age, with its double-tiered Sky Venture ropes course at 15 metres high, the Roll Glider aerial ride that simulates hang-gliding, and 24 dynamic climbing routes that offer an elevated experience compared to the usual rock walls. Best part? You won’t be subjected to the outdoor heat as you tackle each challenge in air-conditioned comfort.

Don’t miss The mysterious Fossil Labyrinth that realistically resembles a prehistoric cave. Get ready to uncover marvels like stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils as you explore its dark tunnels.

49.  Shake up a gin cocktail at Tanglin Gin Distillery

What is it? The distillery of homegrown gin brand, Tanglin Gin, nestled in lush Dempsey Hill. 

Why go? This is any gin lover’s paradise. Take the distillery tour for a behind-the-scenes look at how the Tanglin Gin team concocts its uniquely flavoured gin. Of course, the tour ends with a tasting session at the cosy Tanglin Gin Jungle, where you can try in-house infusions and clever cocktails.  Don’t miss Tanglin Gin’s cocktail masterclasses. Experience what it’s like to shake up cocktails behind the bar with expert mixologists as your guide.

50.  Go glamping at East Coast Park

• Marine Parade

What is it?  East Coast Park stretches along the east coast of Singapore from Changi Airport (great for plane watching the A380), past the numerous restaurants at East Coast Seafood Centre to Fort Road. 

Why go?  There are dedicated cycle and walking paths, bicycle and rollerblade hire stalls, a skate park, and barbecue and camping areas.

Don't miss: Hate camping but love the outdoors? Try glamping at East Coast Park. With the sea at your feet, fairy lights, wine and balloons, the romantic experience courtesy of Glamping Society is one for the love birds.

51.  Fuel up on award-winning eats at Gourmet Park @ RWS

What is it? Singapore’s largest food truck and container park, located in Resorts World Sentosa.

Why go? With so much to do on the island of fun, you’ll need a proper place to recharge and refuel. Gourmet Park @ RWS is just the venue, stuffed as it is with 18 local and international food concepts. These are not just any food stalls either, but ones run by award-winning chefs and beloved global brands. There’s gourmet wanton mee by Chun Noodle Bar, juicy plant-based burgers by The Goodburger, artisanal doughnuts by Spank My Dough, and more.   Don’t miss The party vibes every weekend, when Gourmet Park @ RWS comes alive with DJ sets and pop-up parties.

52.  Sip on third wave coffee at Chye Seng Huat Hardware

What is it? A cool coffee bar and café housed in an Art Deco shophouse in Jalan Besar. 

Why go? Chye Seng Huat Hardware is the flagship store of PPP Coffee – which just means, very good coffee. Here’s where you can see the whole coffee-making process: start at the Roastery to see the transformation of green coffee beans, sit at the CSHH Coffee Bar for a 360-degree view of the baristas at work, shop for coffee products and equipment at the Annex, or head upstairs to the C-Platform where Chye Seng Huat Hardware houses more coffee gadgets and machinery. Of course, there’s hearty food too, including brunch items, cakes, and bakes.  Don’t miss The coffee appreciation and coffee-making workshops usually held at C-Platform. PPP Coffee offers a range of courses to suit casual coffee drinkers and more serious enthusiasts.

53.  Beat the heat with a dessert from traditional ice cream carts

What is it? Often operated by elderly vendors, ice cream carts are now most easily found at Orchard Road and can be recognised by their brightly-coloured umbrellas and long queues.

Why go? Traditional ice cream carts hold a special place in Singapore’s foodie landscape. It’s a dying trade, but many will remember ‘ice cream uncles’ (and aunties) pulling up at HDB estates, announcing their presence with some vigorous bell ringing. Here, you can get an affordable dessert to beat the heat – often consisting of a block of ice cream served in a plastic cup, sandwiched between two wafers, or folded into rainbow-coloured bread.  Don’t miss Popular ice cream flavours like raspberry ripple, choco mint, and sweet corn.

54.  Embark on a spirited adventure at Jigger and Pony

• Cocktail bars

What is it?  Placed on the number one spot of Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2020, Jigger and Pony shines a spotlight on uncommon based spirits you don't usually find in our local bars.

Why go?   A great way to explore the flavours of the world, one drink at a time.   Start your spirituous adventure with a Hall of Fame drink, one that’s from across the Causeway: Jungle Bird ($28). Kuala Lumpur’s calling card of Phraya rum, lemongrass, clarified granny smith apple juice, Campari and lime.

Don't miss:   As K-fever sweeps the world, fans can get a taste of the Korean-inspired boilermaker ($28) which combines the soju infused with hops and passion fruit a la American IPA, backed by malty and woody notes of Scotch whisky.

55.  Rave like you’re in Berlin at Headquarters

What is it? An underground nightclub in Boat Quay.

Why go? If it’s good enough for the likes of Eric Duncan, Kaiser Souzai, and Mat.Joe, then it’s good enough for you. The mastermind behind this space is Thugshop, which has built a stellar reputation for bringing in the coolest regional and international acts across a myriad of electronic music genres. They also run nightlife venues and concepts like Tuff Club, Eat Sum Thing, and Higher Ground.  Don’t miss Any of the parties, period.

56.  Swim with the fishes at SEA Aquarium

What is it? One of the world's largest aquariums, housing over 100,000 marine animals of over 1,000 species, across 50 different habitats. It also has the title of the largest collection of manta rays in captivity.

Why go? Indulge in an immersive experience and be among other underwater creatures including nurse sharks, hammerhead sharks, eels, clownfish, giant octopuses, bottlenose dolphins, and seahorses. You can even catch the feeding session in action at the Shipwreck zone at 10.30am on all operating days.

Don't miss: Savour the freshest Mediterranean-Californian cuisine with a breathtaking, front-row seat to the massive undersea habitat at Ocean Restaurant.

57.  Broaden your kid’s knowledge about wildlife at Kidzworld

What is it? Singapore Zoo’s activity area for kids to learn more about wildlife.

Why go? There’s no better way to learn about animals than getting up close to them and engaging in interactive play. Enter Singapore Zoo’s very own petting zoo and pet the friendly animals in an enclosed area, watch animal presentations at the Animal Buddies Theatre, or immerse your children in the sensory play tree where they’ll be exposed to different sounds of nature. Don’t miss The Rangers Buddies Quest. Here, go on missions from one outpost to another to uncover animal facts and gain inspiration on how to be a hero in one’s life, as well as to conserve mother nature.

58.  Challenge yourself at Singapore Sports Hub

What is it?  A massive enclosure that hosts a myriad of sporting events including the HSBC Rugby Sevens and the International Champions Cup, as well as arena concerts at its 55,000 seat National Stadium.

Why go?  It has everything from an Olympic-sized pool, a sheltered running track,  a water sports centre,  a sports library, and more for you to get your fitness on. It also hosts various sports programmes and mass exercise sessions like Zumba and yoga for free. However, these programmes are currently temporarily suspended.

Don't miss:  Check out the adjoining three-storey mall complete with a rooftop water park and even a vertical playground for climbing enthusiasts called Kallang Wave – named after the classic crowd gesture seen at football matches during Singapore’s footballing heydays. 

59.  Frolick in a farm at Bollywood Veggies

What is it?  An organic countryside farm way out in Kranji that's the brainchild of Ivy Singh, the straight-talking former president of Netball Singapore.

Why go?  Learn more about local produce by going on a tour of the farm and find out more about the history of food at the Bollywood Food Museum. Kranji Countryside is also home to other local farms such as Jurong Frog Farm and Hay Dairies so feel free to spend the day on a farm-hopping expedition.

Don't miss:   Tuck into organic vegetables grown on-site at Poison Ivy Bistro. Don't be shocked by the colour of the nasi lemak here – it's naturally died with butterfly blue pea flower that they grow onsite.

60.  Zen out at Jurong Lake Gardens

What is it?  Deemed as the largest nature wonderland in the heartlands, Jurong Lake Gardens is Singapore's latest national garden, spanning a whopping 90-hectares.

Why go?  The gardens include Lakeside Garden, Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and Garden Promenade – previously known as Jurong Lake Gardens West, Jurong Lake Gardens Central, and Garden Promenade respectively. The grounds are specially landscaped and designed for families and the community to come together to play, learn, and bond.

Don't miss: Take a walk on the bridge by the waters, chill out in hammocks overlooking the pagodas, or unleash your inner kid at the obstacle course and playground.

61.  Experience the mythological Ten Courts of Hell at Haw Par Villa

What is it? A themed park filled with multi-coloured statues depicting scenes from Chinese history and mythology.

Why go? The stuff of nightmares, this little park of horrors features statues and dioramas that are painted in bright, gaudy colours making it look more menacing than it should.  One thing’s for sure, you will probably never see anywhere else like it.

Don’t miss: Responsible for childhood nightmares since its opening in 1937, the infamous Ten Courts of Hell features small-scale tableaux show human sinners being punished in multiple methods in gory and graphic detail. Now it’s part of Hell’s Museum, a gallery with specially curated displays that offer a deeper understandling of the world's major belief systems and their take on the afterlife.

62.  Get your adrenaline pumping at Universal Studios Singapore

What is it?  At the heart of the State of Fun – aka Sentosa – is a massive theme park featuring seven themed zones, and over 25 rides and attractions for families and thrill-seekers.

Why go?  The perfect getaway for adrenaline junkies, USS prides itself for having the world’s tallest dueling rollercoasters, an indoor thrill ride, a 3D Transformers experience, and a soaking white water rafting that ends in a hair-raising drop. There are also kid-friendly attractions for the young and faint-hearted like a Shrek 4D cinematic experience, a train trip through Sesame Street, and the canopy flyer for an aerial view of Jurassic Park.

Don’t miss:  While its signature live performances, award-winning stage shows, and spectacular firework displays are temporarily suspended, you'll still be able to meet-and-greet movie characters such as the lovable Minions and Sesame Street gang.

63.  Overcome your fears at Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett

• Parachuting and skydiving

What is it?  Great for adrenaline-junkies, it's Singapore's first and only bungee jump that's right over Siloso Beach.

Why go?  Besides the bungee, there are also other high-element activities including a giant swing where you link arms to 'fly'.

Don't miss: Ready to take a leap off the 50-metre-high bungy tower? You've got two options – bungy jump ($89) or hurtle off towards the beach at 120km/h on a giant swing ($59). If you fancy taking things slower, the 40-metre Skybridge ($15) offers you seethrough sections of the view below without any act of falling.

64.  Raise your glasses at the Manhattan Bar

What is it?  Manhattan Bar at Regent Singapore is a portal to New York City where ladies are decorated in pearls and gentlemen dressed to the nines.

Why go?  The menu takes you through the ages of NYC, from the 1520s to the 1970s, and recreates iconic drinks of the era. It also houses a large collection of American whiskeys if you're a bourbon connoisseur.  While it's no longer   number one in Asia's 50 Best Bars this year,  Manhattan Bar at Regent Singapore  has enjoyed its time at the top spot for two years in a row – 2017 and 2018.

Don't miss:  The classic Manhattan ($25). Made with Michter’s US1 Straight Rye, house cherry brandy, Mancino Rosso vermouth, and angostura bitters, this cocktail is the bar's signature for a reason.

65.  Stuff your face at Amoy Street Food Centre

What is it?  Whether you’re on a hunt on the city’s best street art or hungry for an assortment of noodle dishes, look no further than the two-storied Amoy Street Food Centre.

Why go?  It is decked with wall art that reflects its heritage, as well as a smorgasbord of hawker choices, from spicy Thai dishes and hearty congee to delicious pasta and traditional nasi padang. 

Don't miss:   Michelin-approved A Noodle Story for a local spin on Japanese ramen is a must-try. For some rice, pair it with deep-fried, smashed chicken and spicy sambal from Rayyan's Waroeng Penyet. Han Kee Fish Soup is a top favourite too with its generous servings of sliced fish in deliciously fragrant broth. And you can't leave without grabbing some curry puffs from the J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff stall.

66.  Tear into Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata

What is it?  One of Singapore's best-kept secrets for prata.

Why go?  The prata kosongs here are super crispy on the outside and much fluffier on the inside.

Don't miss:  This small stall is only open five days a week (closed Wednesday and Thursday) and even so, tends to run out pretty early so it might take you a few tries before you finally get to try it.

67.  Eat breakfast like a local at Tong Ah Eating House

What is it?  An old-school breakfast institution that's been serving the quintessential Singaporean breakfast of kopi, kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs since 1939.

Why go?  For a taste of nostalgia that you won't find at chains like Killiney Kopitiam or Toast Box.

Don't miss:  A robust cup of kopi pulled the traditional way through a sock, crisp and fluffy kaya butter bread and perfectly cooked soft-boiled eggs best topped with a dash of pepper and soy sauce (from $4.90). 

68.  Watch a play or concert at the Esplanade – Theatres by the Bay

What is it?   The city’s premier performing arts centre with exteriors that resemble two giant durians.

Why go?   It holds a 1,600-seat concert hall, a 2,000-seat theatre and several intimate performance venues. It has played host to a plethora of mega events such as musicals   We Will Rock You   and   Les Misérables , as well as local music favourites including Baybeats and the Mosaic Music Series. Don't miss   Besides ticketed programmes, the Esplanade also hosts free performances every evening at the Esplanade Concourse, and every weekend and public holiday at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre. It’s an ace way to discover local talents under a blanket of stars.

69.  Enjoy amazing orchestral performances at Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall

What is it? Previously known as Victoria Memorial Hall, Victoria Concert Hall is an iconic landmark that was first built in 1862 and is one of the oldest existing purpose-built performance venues.

Why go? Some of the best classical music performances are held here. The Victoria Concert Theatre boasts amazing sound acoustics that will elevate any concert experience. Also, its award-winning design makes a pretty amazing photo-taking spot. Don’t miss The tours and concerts held frequently is the perfect date idea for couples, or friends.

70.  Get schooled in the past at the Asian Civilisations Museum

What is it?  One of Singapore's largest and most impressive museums with  seven galleries showcasing more than 2,000 artefacts from the civilisations of China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and West Asia.

Why go?  The first floor of galleries charts the story of trade across the region, while the second floor presents systems of faith and belief, and the third features materials and design used in Chinese ceramics from the Han to the Qing dynasty.

Don’t miss:  Grab a colourful activity booklet at the museum which comes complete with stickers and postcards, and follow the trails to discover how the different faiths and beliefs were spread across Asia through religious art.

71.  View cutting-edge art at Gillman Barracks

What is it?  Originally built in 1936 as a military encampment for the British Army, this art cluster is a result of a $10-million renovation and the country's aggressive plans to become a global arts destination.

Why go?  There are over ten galleries filled with cutting-edge art spread out across five buildings. Not to mention some chilled-out dining options, including Naked Finn, Handlebar, and Creamier. 

Don't miss  There are plenty of galleries to explore, but some favourites include  FOST Gallery ,  Sundaram Tagore Gallery  and  Ota Fine Arts . 

72.  Crate dig at Hear Records

• Music and entertainment

What is it? A music lifestyle and record store in Singapore labeled as one of the ‘world’s best record shops’ by UK vinyl lifestyle website The Vinyl Factory.

Why go? Enter into Hear Records and be awed by the wall lined with a vast, specially curated selection of records handpicked specifically by the owner Nick Tan. Expand your collection and dig through crates upon crates of 10,000 used vinyl and 5,000 new ones with weekly additions to keep things fresh.

Don’t miss: Here’s a tip: sign up for Tan’s monthly newsletter for special updates on the crates he hauls back from Japan, the UK, and the US.

73.  Snag rare luxury vintage handbags at The Née Vintage Store

What is it? A luxury vintage fashion boutique specialising in branded handbags and accessories, nestled within a quaint shophouse in Chinatown.

Why go? This treasure trove is where fashionistas can score extremely rare, out-of-production designer bags from labels including but not limited Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior – along with curated vintage accessories like watches, jewellery, and other small leather goods. While everything is pre-loved, it has all been refurbished to good-as-new condition. On the flip side, those looking to clear out their closets can also have their pre-loved pieces appraised and sold on their behalf with the store’s consignment service. Don’t miss Elegant vintage kitchenware such as dinner plates and tea sets from brands like Tiffany & Co. and Frank Muller – all carefully sourced from Japan.

74.  Try your hand at and learn the ins and outs of recycling at Plastify

• Workshops and classes

What is it? Singapore’s first community-based plastic recycling workshop.

Why go? You’ll be able to learn the process of recycling and work with like-minded individuals on projects that close the plastic loop. Volunteers will also get to bring home their very own recycled plastic products – from carabiners to coasters. Don’t miss There is a range of workshops you can participate in. Looking to contribute but prefer to take things outdoors? Sign up for their community beach clean-ups instead.

75.  Sip on innovative tipples at Native

What is it?  With a focus on all things regional – everything from its spirits, music and furniture is sourced from around these parts – Native pushes the boundaries of what an Asian bar should and can be.

Why go?  The cocktails are as delicious as they are inventive. There's a sour and spicy kimchi and strawberry cocktail, a Peranakan-inspired tipple made with local goat's milk as well as a showcase of Singaporean spirits and mead.

Don't miss:   The pineapple arrack ($26). The only cocktail that's been on Native's menu since day one. It's one that both whisky and rum lovers will enjoy but it's different enough to make you do a double take.

76.  Stay for satay at Lau Pa Sat

What is it?   Also known as Telok Ayer Market, Lau Pa Sat is a stunning combination of striking architecture, rich history and delectable local dishes – a feast for the senses!

Why go?   Built in the 19th century, the market was once a rendezvous for push-cart street vendors. Today it's one of the most popular hawker centres in Singapore, drawing crowds from every corner of the city – and even abroad – for authentic local and international fare. But unlike your usual hawker centre, the CBD landmark is known for its distinctive octagonal shape, soaring arches and Victorian columns. It was even gazetted as a national monument in 1973. Don't miss   Come sundown, the Boon Tat Street side of Lau Pa Sat makes way for satay, adding more bustle to the place. Take a whiff of the sweet barbecue smell and revel in old-world charm while you tuck into 10, 20 or even 30 pieces of skewered meat.

77.  Savour the flavour of nasi padang at Hjh Maimunah

What is it?  This Michelin Bib Gourmand-listed Malay eatery serves favourites like tahu telor, Sundanese grilled chicken and beef rendang.

Why go?   No visit to Kampong Glam is complete without a plate of glorious nasi padang. L ike any other mixed rice stall, you get to choose whichever dishes you want and face the consequences at the cash register after. 

Don't miss:   If you're feeling adventurous, try the lemak siput sedut (sea snails in a rich coconut broth). And if  you’re really frugal with your choices, a plate can set you back less than $10.

78.  Dabble in heritage at Chilli Padi Nonya Restaurant

What is it?  A traditional Peranakan restaurant that's been doling out local classics like ayam   buah   keluak  and  itek   tim for years. It's a favourite among families and it's not uncommon to see three to four generations sitting together at a table here.

Why go?   You've come to the right place for an authentic taste of Peranakan food. For those unfamiliar with Peranakan culture, a trip to Katong is the perfect place to start. From the colourful shophouses rich in heritage that line the street to the array of Peranakan restaurants that call the area home, Katong provides a feast for all your senses.

Don't miss:  They do all the classics right here. We're talking beef rendang, ayam buah keluak, sambal goreng, chap chye and more.

79.  Dine in a 110-year-old restaurant at Zam Zam

What is it?  Zam Zam – its name refers to ‘holy water’ in Arabic – has been an institution in the Kampong Glam neighbourhood since the Kerala-born Abdul Kadir opened the restaurant there in 1908. The recipes have largely remained unchanged.

Why go?  Zam Zam has been serving up its briyani (from $6) and murtabak (from $5) for well over a century, so you can be pretty much assured of getting the legit stuff.

Don't miss:  Go for the mutton murtabak with a side of fish curry. It’s crispy on the edges and has more folds than an origami crane, within which you’ll find layers of onions, eggs and meat. If it’s briyani you’re after, Zam Zam makes its version Hyderabadi dum style: the meat is cooked together with the orange-flecked basmati, which makes the rice that much more fragrant. 

80.  Snap up a good deal at Mustafa Centre

• Shopping centres

What is it:   Despite being known as Little India’s seven-storey shopping mall that's open ‘round the clock, it has reduced its opening hours from 9.30am to 2am.

Why go?  It has a chock-full of offerings – from groceries to electronics and apparel to quirky paraphernalia at affordable prices – that are bound to delight all intrepid bargain hunters looking for a good deal.

Don’t miss:   Skip the weekend crowds and head down during weekday afternoons for a breezy shop. Also, a word of warning: your bags will be cable tied upon entering, so carry a small crossbody bag or a tote to avoid getting your phone and wallet stuck in the bag.

81.  Find the best reads at National Library Singapore

• Literary events

What is it? An all-in-one central borrowing library, reference library and digital library.

Why go? For starters, the building’s award-winning facade is an architectural gem. Study rooms on the top floor also have the best views of the city for anyone looking to get some work done, or read a book in peace. Don’t miss The library’s seasonal exhibitions. These cover a wide range of topics: from history, to photography and architecture.

82.  Discover local brands at Design Orchard

What is it?  Loud, proud and local, the newly-opened Design Orchard features a fresh selection of Singaporean designers and makers.

Why go?  Over 60 brands calling the two-and-a-half-storey space home. Shop activewear from Kydra, home accessories from Onlewo, quirky knick-knacks from Pew Pew Patches, swimwear from Pinksalt, skincare from Pera and more.

Don’t miss:  Take a break at its rooftop garden which offers a birds-eye view of Orchard Road amongst lush greens.

83.  Find vintage furniture and antiques at Tan Boon Liat Building

• Tiong Bahru

What is it? There’s nothing else in Singapore like Tan Boon Liat Building – this iconic blue building's been along Outram Road since the 70s.

Why go?  It’s a treasure trove of all things furniture and decor: one-of-a-kind statement pieces, modern Scandinavian furniture, and even rare antiques that have been sourced from far-flung places like Northern China. Since it spans 14 floors, with furniture shops around every corner, it might be a little perplexing for first-time visitors.

Don't miss:   No need to hunt high and low for a rare Tiffany lamp or rattan bar stools, you can check out our guide to the best furniture shops in Tan Boon Liat Building .

84.  Bring home a piece of history from Thow Kwang Pottery

What is it?  Formed by a group of Singaporean clay artists, this rustic hideaway is replete with local flavor and history.

Why go?  Be sure to visit this cultural gem and feed the 'Dragon' – an elongated kiln that 'eats' and 'breaths' fire - before rumored urban redevelopment projects reclaim this humble pottery abode.

Don't miss: If you have time, sit in for a session and craft your own piece.

85.  Create a unique scent at SIFR Aromatics

• Gifts and souvenirs

What is it? If you’re looking for the latest designer fragrance, you won’t find it at SIFR Aromatics. What you will find are gorgeous, uniquely shaped bottles that house a myriad of scents, all lovingly handmade by owner Johari Kazura.

Why go? Far from your ordinary, run-of-the-mill perfumery, the shop offers a unique, customised approach where a range of ingredients are presented and used to get the right scent.

Don't miss: With a wide range of original perfume ‘recipes’ collected over the years, Kazura now has perfumes he’s perfected for people to buy off the shelf. He’s branched out into creating his own moisturisers and aromatherapy mixes too.

86.  Shop for a cause at The Fashion Pulpit

• Vintage shops

What is it?  Championing the sustainable movement in Singapore,  The Fashion Pulpit is a physical store where you can swap preloved clothes and accessories, and even buy them.

Why go?   Their collection is vast – you can find both high street and designer pieces in the mix and prices are kept affordable.

Don’t miss:  S ign up to be a 'swapper' and enjoy benefits like racking up those swap points for an incredible item and joining in on the fun events.  

87.  Sort out home decor at Hock Siong

What is it? Don’t expect a furniture boutique. This cosy, industrial store is home to antiques and second-hand furniture – great for injecting a little eclecticism into your home.

Why go?  This sprawling Tai Seng store is neatly (and tightly) packed with a wide range of styles from vintage rosewood to mid-century and the occasional upcycled item – these are sourced from hotels, show flats, defunct furniture shops and the like. Prices range from $15 for a lamp to $3,000 for a plaster statue of Stamford Raffles.

Don’t miss: Spend a good few hours sniffing out the hidden gems here. Put your bargaining skills to the test. If you succeed, you might even score your loot at a much cheaper price.

88.  Sample the bakes of Poh Guan Cake House

What is it?  There are over 30 different varieties of mooncakes available, ranging from the typical Cantonese bakes to those that follow traditional Teochew recipes.

Why go?  The signature is the   da lao bing, a Teochew-style flaky pastry is filled with green or red bean paste. There are also the white sesame mooncakes as well as other bakes like the la gao (black glutinous rice cake) that are getting increasingly difficult to find.

Don't miss:   Sample tau sar piah and other time-honoured bakes from Poh Guan Cake House.

89.  Knock back a cold pint from Smith Street Taps

What is it?  Smith Street Taps offers craft beer in a casual way with its pop-up kopitiam space in Chinatown Complex.

Why go?  The bare-bones stall can dispense up to five fresh brews at any given time.

Don't miss:  While creatures of habit will find comfort in the more commercial offerings like Sapporo and wheaty Weihenstephaner on tap, the thirsty craft beer fan will appreciate the roster of rarer, more experimental pours with the likes of Brewdog’s MashTag and Libertine Black. Note that the menu rotates to offer drinkers different variety.

90.  Get cultured at Indian Heritage Centre

What is it?  With a glowing glass façade inspired by stepwells that are commonly found in South Asia, the Indian Heritage Centre is a museum with a wealth of artifacts dotted around its five galleries.

Why go?  It documents and explores the history and culture of Indians, especially in relation to Singapore, all the way from the 1st century to the present day.

Don’t miss:  Navigate through the special exhibition,  From the Coromandel Coast to the Straits - Revisiting Our Tamil Heritage , for a collection of narratives that recount the experiences of Tamil diasporas in Southeast Asia and Singapore from pre-modern to contemporary times.

91.  Hear the stories at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre

• Cultural centres

What is it?  New to the cultural scene, the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) first opened doors in 2017.

Why go?  The centre teams up with arts and cultural groups and community partners around the city to showcase the rich Chinese culture through engaging exhibitions, performances, workshops, and more.

Don’t miss:  Its   inaugural permanent exhibition Singapo人: Discovering Chinese Singaporean Culture which debuted in March this year. Explore what it means to be uniquely Chinese Singaporean through five specially curated interactive zones that spotlight elements that shaped the distinctive Chinese Singaporean identity – from food, language, and traditions to popular culture and music.

92.  Celebrate Asian cinema at Oldham Theatre

• Public and national theatres

What is it?   A cinema where  long-time movie fans and a new generation of audiences are able to discover and appreciate  a curated mix of acclaimed classic and contemporary Asian films in its  true cinematic experience.

Why go?  Housed in the restored National Archives of Singapore building, the wheelchair accessible, 134-seater theatre has 4K digital and 35mm film format projections for all your viewing pleasure.

Don't miss: Relive the magic of Singapore's golden era in film. Presented by the Asian Film Archive, the old films are repaired, digitised and screened with subtitles so that they can be enjoyed by a wider audience. Past screenings include  the thriller  Sumpah Orang Minyak  starring P. Ramlee and the epic duel of  Hang Jebat .

93.  Vibe all night at Offtrack

What is it?  A relatively new addition to Singapore's nightlife scene, Offtrack is music-centric bar that you'll keep going back to.

Why go?  Besides the good vibes, Offtrack also serves up delicious pan-Asian food. Think Massaman curry made with young jackfruit, Korean gnocchi, and charcoal grilled banana cake. 

Don't miss:  The brainchild of local electronic label Darker than Wax and party collective Ice Cream Sundays, you can bet that Offtrack will have a great line-up of local and international DJs spinning its decks. Stay updated about live DJ nights at its Instagram page . 

94.  Dance in the moonlight at Tanjong Beach Club

What is it?  A top-notch restaurant, bar and club decked with plush daybeds and a pool by the sunkissed Sentosa beach.

Why go?  Not only does it serve laid-back chill and all-around good vibes to work up a tan by the sea, Tanjong Beach Club also serves refined plates inspired by coastal cuisines from around the world and innovative cocktails for a tropical wind down. Come night time, it turns into a nightlife playground where you can rave the night away to a blaring mix of Balearic house, beach boogie and sunshine soul.

Don’t miss:  Make a splash at the pool for that refreshing cool-down. Plus, stay to catch the sunset by the beach.  Reservations are strongly encouraged to enter Tanjong Beach Club.

95.  Burn your energy at Funan

What is it?  After three years of redevelopment, the mall formerly known as Funan DigitaLife Mall is starting a new chapter. It is now home to a variety of more than 190 brands clustered around the themes of tech, craft, play, fit, chic and taste.

Why go?  Keeping it modern, industrial-chic is the aesthetic of the mall with many vibrant corners and spaces within the mall like the Tree of Life, the Kinetic Wall, a seven-storey green wall and even an urban farm operated by Edible Garden City on the rooftop.

Don't miss: Flex your climbing skills at the largest indoor climbing facility in the middle of Funan.

96.  Take a break from the city at Sky Garden @ CapitaSpring

What is it? A rooftop garden on the 51st floor of CapitaSpring.

Why go? Just look at those views. Perched at the top of CapitaSpring, Sky Garden offers enviable views of the Central Business District. If looking at glass and steel skyscrapers doesn’t rock your boat, then there’s plenty of greenery in the garden itself for you to catch a breather. Best thing is that entry is free – though you do need to make an appointment ahead . 

Don’t miss The Green Oasis on levels 17 to 21, in case you can’t get enough of mid-air gardens and city skyline views.

97.  Enter the Lost World at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

• Natural history

What is it?   The museum houses a collection of rare sauropod dinosaur fossils and a million zoological specimens belonging to at least 10,000 species. 

Why go?  A dinosaur fossil, a sperm whale skeleton, the only specimen of the largest species of turtle ever recorded, and an Asian Brown Flycatcher specimen collected by the famed British naturalist Alfred Wallace himself – these are just some of the highlights you’ll see here.

Don’t miss:  Surrounding the museum are four gardens such as the Phylogenetic garden, which charts the evolution of plants and habitats. The other gardens – themed after mangroves, swamps, and dryland forests – feature plants that are unique to these habitats.

98.  Tuck into the freshest catch at Smith Marine Floating Restaurant

What is it?  Take a 15-minute boat ride to the Smith Marine Floating Restaurant where you can tuck into a wide spread of seafood. This unique restaurant offers the freshest catch of the day at a modern kelong, floating on the waters between Pulau Ubin and Changi Point Ferry Terminal Why go?   Over at the restaurant's pond, you can catch your very own seabass or snapper for just $35. 

Don't miss:   Order up a hearty sprawl of the fresh seafood – think sambal mussel, chilli crab, steamed garlic scallop, steamed Hong Kong fish, and deep fried lobster with shredded potatatoes. A seven-course menu for up to five people starts from $580, and you get the best of each. The price also included a two-way ferry trip.

99.  Grocery shop at Tekka Market

• Markets and fairs

What is it?   Home to one of the best wet markets in town with a greater offering of halal-slaughtered meats than most, the pasar’s adjoining food centre has become a hawker institution offering great grub from a range of cuisines. 

Why go?  Great things are always said about the biryani at Tekka Centre, and tangled in vicious rivalry are the plates offered by Yakader (#01-259) and Allauddin (#01-229).

Don't miss:   Set an alarm and get up early to do some grocery shopping at Tekka Market. It has great butcheries and a vegetable stall that plays salsa music.

100.  Pick up unique souvenirs at Supermama

What is it?  If you're looking for the perfect place to pick up thought, one-of-a-kind gifts for that special someone (or yourself), look no further than Supermama. 

Why go?  This minimalist husband-and-wife co-owned souvenier shop stocks painstakingly handmade items – think asymmetrical bowls, dimpled cups and handpainted plates inspired by modern Singapore culture. It's just the right touch of local flavour for a souvenir. 

Don't miss  Most items are available in limited quantities, so your best bet's to pop in and find out what's in stock. 

101.  Splurge on heartfelt French fare at Odette

• 5 out of 5 stars
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  Co-owned by chef Julien Royer of JAAN fame, this internationally lauded restaurant dishes out modern French cuisine in the cultured surrounds of National Gallery Singapore. 

Why go?  It's a three-starred fine-dining stalwart in Singapore that in 2021, came out eighth on The World's 50 Best Restaurants list, also making it the best restaurant in Asia. Inspired by his grandmother Odette, chef-owner Julien Royer infuses the menu with heart and sophistication. 

Don't miss:   Whether you select the classic six-course menu ($298) or the full-blown seasonal indulgence menu ($398), one thing's for sure is that you'll be treated to a curated dining experience that is tailored to the very last detail – from appetiser to dessert.

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60+ Best Things to do in Singapore

Marianne Rogerson

June 1, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Top Singapore Attractions

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

Tours & Sightseeing

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

Singapore Flyer

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

Click here to find out more and check availability .

Singapore Cable Car

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

Click here to find out more and book tickets .

River Cruise

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

Trishaw Tour

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

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

Captain Explorer DUKW Tour

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

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

Sidecar Heritage Tour

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

Self-guided walking tour

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

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

Click here to learn more .

For Thrill Seekers

Universal Studios Singapore

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

Click here to book discounted tickets to Universal Studios Singapore .

Adventure Cove Waterpark

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

Click here to find out more and book discounted tickets .

Skyline Luge Sentosa

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

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

Mega Adventure

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

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

Sky Dive at iFly

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

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

Bungy Sentosa

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

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

Click here to find out more and check availability.

Forest Adventure

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

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

Animal Attractions

Singapore Zoo

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

Night Safari

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

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

River Wonders

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

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

Bird Paradise

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

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

Click here to buy a Mandai Pass and save money.

SEA Aquarium

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

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

Museums & Galleries

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

National Museum of Singapore 

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

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

National Gallery Singapore

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

ArtScience Museum

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

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum

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

Asian Civilisations Museum

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

Click here to find out more and book tickets.

Fort Siloso

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

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

The Battle Box Tour

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

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

Changi Museum

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

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

Peranakan Museum

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

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

Parks, Gardens and Beaches

Gardens by the Bay 

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

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

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

Click here to learn more and book tickets .

Sentosa Beaches

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

Botanic Gardens

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

National Orchid Garden

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

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

MacRitchie Reservoir

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

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

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

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

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

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

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

East Coast Park

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

Jurong Lake Gardens

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

Labrador Nature Reserve

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

Shop til you Drop

Browse a Wet Market

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

Cruise the malls at Orchard Road

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

Souvenir shopping in Chinatown

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

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

Bargain shopping in Little India

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

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

Explore Haji Lane

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

Singapore Foodie Experiences 

Eat at a Hawker Centre

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

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

Tuck into some Chilli Crab

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

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

Go for Dim Sum

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

Join a Food Tour

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

Sip Cocktails at a roof bar

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

Laze at a beach club

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

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

Enjoy a Singapore Sling at Raffles

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

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

Read more about the Raffles Singapore Sling here.

High Tea at Raffles

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

Cultural Heritage Centres 

Chinatown Heritage Centre (currently closed)

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

Click here to learn more.

Malay Heritage Centre (currently closed for revamp)

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

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

Indian Heritage Centre

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

Places to Snap a Selfie

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

Merlion Park

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

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

Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck

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

The Jewel Waterfall

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

Gelam Gallery

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

Madame Tussauds

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

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

Museum of Ice Cream

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

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

Haw Par Villa

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

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27 best museums and galleries in singapore.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Terence Toh Chin Eng / Shutterstock

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

Karan Bunjean / Shutterstock

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

Luriya Chinwan / Shutterstock

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

Sam’s Studio / Shutterstock

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

Andy Tan Hong Wei / Shutterstock

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.

• Deutschland
• Itineraries

Enjoy Singapore in 7 days

Discover how East meets West, nature and urban beauty intertwine, and the past meets present, with our guide to Singapore’s most iconic attractions.

Find gorgeous views of the Singapore cityscape on your trip here.

Day 1: Urban nature, modern marvels

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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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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51 Seriously Cool Things to Do in Singapore [2024]

Uncover hidden islands, villages lost in time, and secret hikes.

If you are looking for things to do in Singapore that are different, and more interesting - we got you! Here, you'll find hidden nature trails that could belong in Indiana Jones, fascinating heritage walks led by ex-gang members, and villages lost in time.

Want more? Check out our favourite ideas for couple activities , family-friendly activities and even team bonding activities !

Sightseeing

Learn meaningful and alternative stories of Singapore, beyond the shiny attractions.

1. Step into Singapore's Swinging 1960s

Imagine stepping onto a theater set, but instead of actors, you've got headphones, and instead of a stage, the whole city unfolds! This is Singapore like you've never experienced it: evocative sounds, hidden alleys transformed, and a '60s love story that unfolds as you walk the streets. If you love photography and art, you'd love this alternative art experience .

2. Visit Singapore's Last Kampong

We love seeing Singapore's last kampong , because it reminds us of unique the Singapore story is - from third world to first within a single generation. Back in 1956, the kampong housed over-40 families. Today, it is the last kampong in Singapore, with 26 families remaining.

We would highly recommend coming with a guide as this kampong is actually privately owned. With your guide, you'll get to chat with the residents, and learn about one of the last reminders of Singapore's past.

3. Visit Quirky Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is a mix of a cultural artefact, and a semi-terrifying theme park lost in time. The park is an homage of sorts to super traditional 'Chinese values' exhibited in terrifying ways! If you didn't study for your exams or if you were rude to your parents, a gory fate would befall you. It's a great off-beat place to visit to better understand traditional value systems, and it's just fun and unexpected!

4. Discover Singapore's Gritty Past with Ex-Gang Member

Singapore may be super safe now, but it has a hidden past of gangs and untold stories. Discover this lesser-known side with Alvin, a former secret society member turned guide. This social enterprise tour offers a raw, eye-opening look at Singapore's history and how people like Alvin find a path to change. If you're up for something unique and meaningful, this is definitely it!

5. Uncover Haunted Stories of Singapore

This spooky adventure delves into the real spine-tingling stories of Changi. Your guide, a local history buff with a flair for the dramatic, will weave together chilling tales of hauntings with fascinating tidbits about Singapore's past. Prepare to hear about everything from restless spirits of war to local folklore creatures like the pontianak (get ready to Google that one!).

This isn't just about jump scares - it's a mind-blowing exploration of Singapore's unique blend of Asian supernatural beliefs and the island's rich history. And with these areas planned for redevelopment, this experience might not be around for long, making it even more unique.

6. Make Singapore Your Giant Game Board

Turn Singapore's streets into your gigantic game board! Crack a Chinatown murder case , battle a virus on St. John's Island , or unlock hidden treats at Marina Bay Sands – all through outdoor escape games or puzzle hunts. Choose your adventure and explore the city like never before!

7. Learn the Disappearing Art of Traditional Pastry Making

As Singapore modernises, we are rapidly losing a lot of the traditional trades that our parents would take for granted. One of them is the art of traditional pastry making. Here at an award winning pastry shop , you'll get to learn the heart of this culinary tradition that is slowly fading away. You'll also gain a deep understanding of our local heritage through stories of Chinese weddings, customs, and festivals.

8. Cycle Around Little India, CHIJMES & More

This colourful cycling sightseeing experience is a fun and chill way to check off ALL your sightseeing spots. Pedal to iconic spots at Little India, Chinatown, CHIJMES and find hidden spots you'd miss if you were travelling by bus/car. Your guide is also happy to make pit stops for some history-sharing, cute photo-taking sessions or a chill snack time.

9. See the Skyline at a Hidden Rooftop

Not many people know this but the top of Funan Mall is one of the best places to see Singapore's skyline! It's only accessible from the lift at Lobby B - and when you take the lift to the top you'll find a roof garden overlooking the spaceship-like Supreme Court, Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, the Singapore Flyer etc!

10. Discover Singapore's Hidden Bars with an Insider

Even if you're a regular to Singapore's bar scene, this bar-hopping adventure will take you beyond your usual haunts. Uncover hidden speakeasies with an insider who knows everyone, and every cool new bar. Expect expertly crafted cocktails, insider access to all the coolest bars, explore quirky themed bars you never knew existed, and get a true taste of Singapore's vibrant nightlife.

Art & Culture

Meet local artisans passionate about sharing their art and see a vibrant side of Singapore.

11. Try a Quirky Creative Workshop

In recent years, lots of really cool crafty experiences have popped up in Singapore. We love this because it's a sign of Singapore being more open and creative as a city, and Singaporeans wanting to chase their creative passions!

You name it and we have it - you can do pottery in cute backyard gardens , paint a skateboard or camera , perfume making with scent engineers and make your own plushie !

12. Learn Leather Crafting

Most people don't know this but Singapore is actually home to some of the world's best leather, with a LVMH owned crocodile farm. Head to a leather making workshop to learn from Singapore's leather artisans. Craft with Hermes leather , and even use a vintage Kinsley stamping machine!

13. Watch a Local Play

Singapore's local theatre scene has been getting increasingly exciting in recent years, and we'd highly recommend catching a play! One of our favourite playhouses is Wild Rice - they tell uniquely Singapore stories in ways that are both moving and incredibly thought provoking. Another favourite is Pangdemonium , which has consistently great performances.

Ps: Wild Rice Theatre is based in Funan so you can check out the rooftop skyline view after the play!

14. Batik Painting with Local Artist

Batik looks like Southeast Asia's version of a Hawaiian shirt, but few know that it's an intricate art form that's traditionally worn for big occasions. One traditional Batik shirt can take months to make as each pattern is painstakingly painted with hot wax.

Learn this intricate wax-art form from a passionate Peranakan artist and create your own Batik masterpiece! Choose your own design or paint iconic Singapore landmarks like the Merlion. Discover the techniques, get hands-on, and leave with a beautiful piece of art infused with Singaporean spirit.

15. Vandalise Freely!

While actual public space graffiti remains a no-no in Singapore, there IS a tucked-away hideout (located in a super cool warehouse location!) for you to blow off some steam by vandalising as you'd wish . Hidden warehouse, check. Otherwise illegal activity, check. It's a seriously cool thing to do in this most straight-laced of cities!

16. Art of Film Photography

Step back in time! Ditch the filters, discover the art of film photography , and channel your inner retro star with a vintage-inspired photoshoot. Get those old-school vibes flowing and make memories that stand out. It's a really fun way to spend the afternoon for anyone who is curious about film photography, or just wants a fun nostalgic photoshoot!

17. Paint Tingkat with a Nyonya Artist

To us, the humble Tingkat isn't just a practical food container - it's a window into the vibrant Peranakan heritage that defines Singapore.

In this Tingkat painting experience , you'll step into the vibrant world of Nyonya art with a passionate Peranakan painter in Singapore. In her intimate studio, you'll learn about symbolic motifs that tell stories of community and heritage. You'll create your own stunning mini-Tingkat to cherish, while gaining a deeper understanding of Singapore's unique Nyonya culture.

Outdoors & Nature

Uncover Singapore's incredible rainforest and amazing biodiversity (even locals will be surprised!).

18. Go Back in Time at Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is one of our favourite places in Singapore. A trip into the past, the sleepy little village island has always held a special place in our hearts as an untouched paradise. To get to this tranquil little island off Singapore, you'll need to take a rustic bum boat that already feels like an adventure!

Here you can go mangrove kayaking (very Lord of the Rings vibes!), hike up to gorgeous viewpoints, and just enjoy the rustic village vibes. Spend half a day here - kayaking, fishing, then having food at a seafood shack!

19. Explore Sentosa's Hidden Rainforest

Who knew Singapore had rainforests to explore?! Not us. If you want to see the closest thing to untouched nature in Singapore, head to Sentosa's rainforest with a naturalist guide and a pair of binoculars. Here you'll get close to Singapore's unique fauna, and if you're lucky you might catch sight of endangered wildlife!

20. Explore Sentosa's Hidden Fort

Most of us have been to Sentosa. But did you know that deep in the forest of Sentosa is a hidden fort that’s been reclaimed by the jungle? It’s like Singapore’s very own Angkor Wat! Its location is so secret that you’re blindfolded on the way in 😯 If you're looking for an adventure, this is for you!

21. Cycle Around Coney Island

Need a nature escape but short on time? Swap Pulau Ubin for Coney Island. This rustic gem offers a slower pace, perfect for wandering. Keep an eye out for the resident otter family! Our favourite spots include the towering Casuarina trees (they feel so European!), the mangrove walk, and hidden beaches.

Top Tip: Rent a bike at Punggol, and and pair your Coney Island trip with nearby Pasir Ris Park or the picturesque Punggol Waterway for an extended adventure.

22. Discover Secret WW2 Bunkers

If you love off-grid trails, head to the gigantic underground Marsiling WW2 bunkers . These bunkers were used to store ammunition during the war, and we were surprised by how vast they were. The bunkers are super hidden and in order to find them, you'll need to walk off-trail into the jungle!

23. Hike the Rail Corridor!

The Rail Corridor is a 24km trail on abandoned railway tracks, and one of our fave hikes. Our fave part is the hidden tunnel – perfect for photos! To get to the tunnel, start at Greenleaf View, detour at Bukit Timah Railway Station (ask for Clementi Forest), and end at the tunnel. Grab breakfast at Springleaf Prata after. Top tip: Come early (6-7am!) to beat the crowds and snag epic shots – it's like a movie!

24. Uncover Hidden Marine Life in Singapore's Intertidal Zones

Did you know that along Singapore's beaches are intertidal zones that are incredibly biodiverse and teeming with hidden marine life? Going on an intertidal walk with a marine guide is as close to a wildlife safari as you'll get in Singapore. Here you'll explore Singapore's very own oceanic wildlife and see things you could've never with the naked eye! Perfect for families and wildlife lovers!

25. Nocturnal Animal Safari

Forget the night safari, go wild instead! During this wildlife night walk , head to Sentosa's little known rainforest to see Singapore's nocturnal creatures' in their natural habitat. With a small torch in your hand, you'll be venturing into the dark rainforests to spot Singapore's wildlife with your knowledgeable guides who'll be sharing about these fascinating creatures and their way of life!

27. See Giant Reptiles at our Wildest Park

Sungei Buloh is our favourite nature reserve in Singapore because it's the wildest. Here you'll easily see several huuuge monitor lizards walking alongside you, crocodiles, herons, kingfishers and more. Once, we even saw a 4-metre long King Cobra here!

A walk in Sungei Buloh gets better with an experienced guide to share about the wildlife that thrive in this local mangrove and how the ecosystem changes with the environment. You may catch various migratory birds in action, as well as reptiles like the shore pit viper and the estuarine crocodile.

Watersports and Island Hopping

Head out onto the water to get close to nature, and explore Singapore's 64 islands (yes, 64!).

28. Go Mangrove Kayaking

Kayaking in Singapore is hands down one of our favourite ways to get outdoors and recharge. There are a lot of really cool kayaking adventures you can head on. You can kayak through mysterious Lord of the Rings-looking mangrove trees, go kayak fishing , try night kayaking , or even visit disappearing kelongs.

Along the way you may spot wildlife like eagles, herons and otters if you're lucky!

29. MBS Skyline Cruise with Local Food

On this cruise that takes you to see the Singapore skyline on a private yacht, you'll get to see Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer from a boat while enjoying classic Hainanese Chicken Rice and Sugarcane Juice. It's a fun and yummy way to sightsee!

30. E-foiling- Fly on Water!

Watersports fans are going to love this super cool alternative to surfing - eFoiling ! eFoils are battery-powered surfboards with a motor that lets you tour up to 14km - you'll feel like you're basically flying over water! It's beginner-friendly so you'll learn the ropes pretty quick 🏄

31. Try Your Hand at Fishing!

Fishing is a really chill way to spend the day in Singapore. You can try pier fishing , head out on a fishing boat with expert anglers (and BBQ your own catch onboard!) or you can even do kayak fishing . You can even pair your fishing trip with mussel harvesting - how cool is that?!

32. Sail to the Southern Islands on a Private Yacht

Everyone thinks of Singapore as this tiny island, but Singapore is made up of over 64 different tropical islands! Heading to nearby islands on a yacht is one of our favourite ways to explore Singapore's nature, and see different parts of Singapore that we never knew existed. You can sail to Lazarus Island or less-known Hantu Island, and you can do water activities, karaoke and BBQ!

It is also a lot more affordable than you'd think - a yacht trip can be S$50-$100 per person for a 4 hour getaway!

Food and Drink

Find innovative twists on traditional cuisines, some of the best cocktail bars in the world and experimental private dining.

33. Try Private Dining

One of our favourite dining trends that has emerged is private dining . It's a really interesting, once-in-a-lifetime experience to have a passionate chef curate an experience for you in the privacy of their home. You can try a fancy pan-European omakase in a gorgeous flat in Tiong Bahru, a lovely Mediterranean feast in a historic Joo Chiat shophouse or a foraging walk with incredible Asian seafood feast .

34. Try Drinks inspired by Street Food

Singapore food.. but in a drink?! If you're a curious foodie, you'd love this. Try locally-inspired handcrafted spirits (rojak gin, anyone?), learn about traditional techniques and get hands-on with the art of Southeast Asian spirit-making. It's a delicious crash course in Singapore's unique multicultural spirit.

35. Roast Coffee & Brunch!

This is probably Singapore's first and only coffee roasting experience , where you'll experience coffee farm-to-table. See the coffee plant growing on the farm; select and roast raw coffee beans over a fire; grind them up by hand; and experiment with different brewing techniques. When you're done, you'll also get to enjoy a brunch of bagels and churros with your coffee!

36. Try Asia's First Gin School

When the founder of this iconic brewery realised that Singapore was famous for its Singapore Sling, but there were no local breweries that made gin, she set out to change that. She travelled around the world from farm-to-table Portland, to traditional Black Forest where she learnt tricks and techniques of gin from the master distillers in the world. Now you can learn the secrets of Gin at Asia's very first Gin school!

37. Bean to Bar Chocolate

This is Singapore's first and only live chocolate making workshop , designed for anyone who loves chocolate or who is curious about where their chocolate comes from. Explore the origins and creation of chocolate, roast raw cacao beans and slowly transform them into an edible bar of chocolate! YUM.

38. Gin Tasting in the Jungle

We never knew we had gin distilleries until a couple of years ago, and turns out, we actually have world-class gin in Singapore. Here at Singapore's original gin distillery , you'll get to both try out the distillery process yourself AND have your stomach's fill of gin. The venue is really chic - perfect for a date or showing around out-of-town visitors!

39. Make Singapore Sling with Local Gin

If you love the super iconic Singapore Sling, why not learn to make the Singapore Sling with local Singaporean gin no less! Here you can taste a bunch of unique local gins, and use homebrew gin to make the iconic Singapore Sling cocktail🍹

40. Make Traditional Kueh on a Rooftop Farm

Relive your childhood by learning how to make old-school kueh-kuehs and snacks in a unique farm-to-table kueh experience !

Start off by harvesting the freshest leaves from banana trees and pandan plants growing atop a super cute rooftop farm, and learn how to hand-make them into 3 different delicious tea-time snacks. During this session, you'll learn to make yummy Kueh lapis, Naga sari, and Putu ayu!

Urban Farms

Singapore aims to be semi-self-sufficient in food by 2030, and urban farms are key! See how we grow everything from microgreens to fish in creative spaces.

41. Bee Rescue + Honey Tasting

This whimsical rooftop farm is one of the coolest urban farms we've seen in Singapore. It's got a really interesting story - it houses bees that have been rescued from homes all around Singapore, that would otherwise have been killed as pests.

Here, the rescued bees are in paradise as they feed all-day on the plants on the rooftop and produce honey. As well as beekeeping, you'll also learn about organic farming and end your day with a honey tasting session here!

42. Check Out a Veggie Farm

Bollywood Veggies is more than just a farm, it's a local institution. It's a place where people can learn about sustainable agriculture, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple things in life. You can head to their bistro for yummy food cooked with their fresh produce (the nasi lemak with blue butterfly pea flower rice, and chicken curry are yummy!). Come early on weekends as it does get packed at mealtimes!

Ps: This is a short drive from Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve , so you can pair this with a nature walk there!

43. See Singapore's Disappearing Kelongs

Singapore's floating fish farms (kelongs) are a vanishing part of our heritage, yet they offer a window into the old ways. Witness this fading tradition alongside modern fish farms on a unique boat trip . See Singapore's past and future side-by-side, all through the lens of fish farming.

44. Try Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku) is an ancient Japanese practice of 'bathing' your senses in nature and the environment around you. In a way this is the perfect thing to do in Singapore. Though in our garden city, we are surrounded by trees, we're also so plugged into our devices that we're disconnect from nature.

This forest bathing experience takes place in a nature park in Singapore with an experienced therapist guide who will lead you into meditation in nature. You'll feel recharged, and a lot more connected with nature and your surroundings afterward - at least that's how we felt after our own session!

45. Floating Yoga with Gorgeous MBS Skyline

If you want to try something cool & super IG worthy, this floating yoga experience is it! It takes place on a rooftop pool - with a gorgeous backdrop of the skyline of iconic Marina Bay Sands! While yoga-on-water is new to many, there's NO need to be a pro - simply take it easy and have fun! After all, falling into the water just means more time to admire the view.

46. Chill with a Sound Bath

If you're looking for a day of relaxation, a sound bath session is perfect for you. Head over to try this Tibetan Singing Bowl therapy 🥣 - a sound bath experience that helps your body release stress! Simply close your eyes and immerse yourself in the gentle sound waves.

Sports & Games

47. zovb down a hill in a giant bubble.

If you thought that you've run out of things to do in Singapore, think again. Rediscover play by rolling down a slope in a giant bubble (Zovb!), and let your adrenaline take over! Feel what it’s like to be a space traveller with the ball’s anti-gravity weightlessness 🤩

48. Laser Clay Shooting

If you've always wanted to try clay pigeon shooting - this laser clay shooting is a safer version! Here you'll use a shotgun to fire laser beams at actual targets. Unlike clay shooting, these shotguns don't have any recoil and don't cause bruising! This is a great and unexpected way to spend time with your friends - see who can get the highest score on the scoreboard!

49. Learn Longboarding Tricks!

If you're looking to try something new, try long boarding ! We especially love the community vibes here where boarders beginner & experienced support each other. Under the guidance of passionate instructors, you'll learn the basic techniques of longboarding, which includes pushing, carving, and braking. Who knows, if you're a natural skater, you'll pick up a cool trick or two!

50. Underwater Spinning!

If you love spinning, why not mix it up and spin... underwater! At this unique underwater spin class , you'll find yourself spinning while partially submerged in a pool, pumping away to the energizing high tempo beats. Great for a challenge, or just a good time with friends!

51. Dragon Boating

We can't think of anything more iconically Singapore than having a dragon boat race against the gorgeous MBS skyline . Experienced trainers will share the history and stories of dragon boating, and you'll cap off the experience with a 200m race. It's fun, educational and really memorable all at the same time. You'll need at least 6 persons for this experience, so bring your friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Singapore is best known for being a densely populated financial centre, with a world class airport, and lots of trees! Thanks to Sir David Attenborough, Singapore has more recently become known for its otters and other wildlife that co-exist with people in the city. Singapore has also been glamorised in Crazy Rich Asians as a glitzy playground for the rich, and is also known for its UNESCO hawker food and iconic Gardens by the Bay/Marina Bay Sands skyline view.

There are SO many fun things to do in Singapore! It wasn't the case even five or ten years ago, so even locals sometimes fall into the trap of thinking Singapore is boring. But that couldn't be further from the truth. If you love museums, Singapore has some word-class museums like the gorgeous National Gallery, the amazing National Museum and Art-Science Museum. If you love the outdoors and hiking, Singapore is pretty much connected end-to-end by park connectors so you can do an urban hike along the Southern Ridges, hike the water pipes from Mandai to Dairy Farm or even do a off-the-beaten-path hike to the enormous abandoned Marsiling WW2 Bunkers. If you love shopping, Singapore has boutique and high-end stores at the fancy shopping malls at Orchard Road & Marina Bay Sands, as well as thrift markets. And if you love food, Singapore is a paradise of super cheap & yummy street-food, to award-winning Michelin Star restaurants, to amazing private dining.

Touristy (but worthwhile!) things to do in Singapore are: the Singapore Zoo, Botanic Gardens (UNESCO), Universal Studios Singapore, National Gallery Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport (for the indoor waterfall!), Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. We would recommend pairing a touristy visit with a slightly less touristy one so you can see the authentic side of Singapore as well as what the shiny attractions are. We would also highly recommend Pulau Ubin (for hiking and kayaking - to see Singapore as it was as a sleepy fishing village), wandering the colourful streets of Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam, and having brekkie at Tiong Bahru Market!

We're glad you asked - this is close to our hearts at Seek Sophie! For outdoors/nature, we would highly recommend kayaking and hiking in sleepy Pulau Ubin (or cycling around Coney Island if you can't spare half a day), doing an intertidal walk to see Singapore's hidden marine life, and going to Sungei Buloh nature reserve with a naturalist to see crocodiles, monitor lizards and birdlife.

If you're super adventurous, we would recommend the Marsiling Bunker trek to see enormous abandoned WW2 bunkers, and Fort Serapong in Sentosa. If you want something chilled in nature, do an island hopping yacht trip so see lesser-known islands around Singapore! Singapore also has a ton of heart beneath its gleaming skyscrapers, and we would recommend going on a walking tour with triad members to understand some little known history of Singapore.

Finally, for foodie adventures, we would highly recommend going for private dining (peek into a local's home with yummy food!), prata breakfast/supper at Springleaf Prata (coupled with a hike at railway corridor!), and enjoying Peranakan food that's unique to Singapore/Malaysia.

These days instead of meeting up with friends for dinner and drinks, we prefer to go hiking, a gallery or play instead! Usually this means we have even more to talk about and it's also a fun bonding experience of trying something new together. For hiking our favourites for a catch up are: Railway Corridor (top it up with a Springleaf Prata!), Fort Canning Park, Botanic Gardens and Dairy Farm Reserve as it's so quiet. If you want to do something creative, why not try an art jam or something like pottery, rug tufting or even leather making? You can do something fun and chilled, and catch up at the same time! Or wander around National Gallery Singapore as they always have new exhibits coming in. If you opt for the gallery, you can go for coffee/lunch at Funan beforehand or even yummy Burmese food at Peninsula!

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The Best 10 Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia known for its strict rules, vibrant food scene, and green spaces. While some visitors stop in Singapore on their way to somewhere else in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend making Singapore a destination to specifically visit, spending 3-5 days in Singapore to fully explore everything that the city has to offer. Here are the best things to do in Singapore along with Singapore travel tips and Singapore transport tips.

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As a multicultural society, Singapore is really impressive. It has achieved incredible success since gaining independence in 1965 and now boasts the strongest economy in Southeast Asia along with world-class attractions. With its cultural enclaves, amazing restaurants, and vibrant colors throughout the city Singapore packs in plenty of attractions.   

#1 THING TO DO

Visit Singapore’s Gardens of the Bay

These stunning gardens are fabulous during the day, but incredible at night. It’s like being in your own personal sci-fi movie. Book skip-the-line tickets.

How to get around Singapore

You will most likely arrive at Changi Airport located about 24 kilometers (15 miles) from downtown Singapore.  If you want to get around Singapore, you have several options: public transportation, regular taxis, and Grab (a ride-sharing app that is an equivalent of Uber) that you will also find in other Southeast Asian countries.

Public transportation in Singapore

The city is very compact and you can easily get to most tourist landmarks in Singapore on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), the city’s subway system. From the city to the surrounding suburbs, it will take you from 30-40 minutes to get to most places including Changi Airport.

When you arrive at Changi Airport, purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited travel on public transport for between one and three days. It can be purchased at one of the vending machines at the train stop. You can save time and buy it online in advance here. A three-day pass costs 30 SGD ( Singapore dollars).

The pass provides access to trains and buses around Singapore and is super handy if you want to get around quickly and inexpensively. Trains in Singapore are much faster than buses, while buses go to some destinations in suburban parts of Singapore that trains don’t serve.

The Grab app is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber. If you want to get around, you need to download the app and request a ride. Grab is especially handy when you are traveling during the wee hours when other forms of transportation are unavailable. Unfortunately, you have to pay cash if you take Grab as it doesn’t allow credit cards.

Taxis in Singapore

Regular taxis in Singapore often have inflated prices, especially if you take them on the spot. Try to use taxis in Singapore only when you are in a rush and don’t have any other options available.

Singapore currency

The currency in Singapore is Singapore Dollar abbreviated SGD. Several foreign currencies including the U.S. dollar are widely circulated in many major shopping malls in Singapore.

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Get a WISE Card to take to on your travels. Two free ATM withdrawals per month, plus free to use to pay by card with zero foreign transaction fees.

As a side note, I recommend you always carry cash while traveling in Singapore. While major restaurants and stores accept credit cards, small shops and stalls at ethnic markets often only take cash.

Singapore languages:

The country has four official languages: Mandarin Chinese, English, Malay, and Tamil. English is widely spoken in Singapore, so don’t assume people don’t understand English just because it’s Southeast Asia. It sort of reminds me of Belize where everyone speaks English although it is surrounded by Spanish speaking countries.

Don’t leave Singapore without visiting these places:

There’s certainly a lot packed into this small city-state – and you’ll be spoiled for choice as to what to do and what to see.  Here are 10 favorite things to do in Singapore for the first-time visitor.

1. Visit Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by The Bay is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore and it’s easy to see why. The majestic trees populating this venue that are covered by orchids, ferns, and other vegetation look like they were taken straight from a sci-fi movie. (rather like the scenes that we saw in Zhangjiajie, China !)

Gardens by The Bay has several parts: The Supertree Grove which has trees towering over the rest of the venue. This part of the Gardens by The Bay doesn’t require a paid entrance. Two of the trees are linked by the OSBC Skyway which provides a magnificent view of the Gardens by the Bay and the surrounding areas. The ticket to OSBC costs about 5 USD.

Other parts, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome do require a fee.  You can pick up skip-the-line tickets here Walking through a Cloud Forest, almost feels like walking through a tropical rainforest in Belize, with its mist, greenery, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Covered by a huge glass dome, this forest boasts an impressive Cloud Walk and Treetop Walk that take visitors through lush vegetation and several interactive exhibits.

Flower Dome is home to an impressive collection of exotic plants from all over the world that are organized in themed exhibits. Spend no less than 1.5 hours at Gardens the Bay. If you want to take photos, arrive by 9 am when the venue opens, as it quickly gets crowded.

Every night, the Supertree Grove puts on a colorful light show accompanied by retro music. It’s a truly amazing sight, and if you visit Singapore, you should watch this show at least once.

Closest MRT to Gardens by the Bay: Bayfront

2. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

It’s really hard to imagine Singapore’s skyline without Marina Bay Sands. The world-famous hotel features a high-end resort, a large shopping area, integrated public transportation, and countless amenities on its premises. And yet, it was completed only in 2010.

If you are not staying at Marina Bay Sands, purchase a ticket to Marina Bay Sands SkyPark , an observation deck on the top floor of the hotel that is also open to the general public. It’s really hard to beat the view, especially at night when the city’s skyline is lit by a myriad of lights.

The famous Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show plays at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. every night and is spectacular from above.

However, if you don’t want to spend money on tickets, you can also watch the show from the deck in front of the Shops. Due to the popularity of this show, you should arrive early to get a good spot, especially if you plan on filming or taking photos.

PRO TIP: After watching Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show at 8 p.m., head over to Gardens by the Bay. The show at Supertree Grove starts at 8:45 p.m. and the distance between the two venues is about 15-20 minutes, so you will arrive right in time for the second show.

3. Visit the ArtScience Museum in Singapore

Located within Marina Bay Sands complex, ArtScience Museum is really hard to miss because of its lotus-like shape. Inside the museum, visitors enjoy exhibits, educational activities, and many events that are focused on bridging creativity and technology.

While some exhibits at ArtScience Museum are temporary, others are permanent. Perhaps the most popular exhibit is Future World, an interactive high-tech display that features amazing visual effects.

Tickets to ArtScience Museum can be purchased at the ticket office or online here .

4. Head to Merlion Park, Singapore

On the opposite side of Marina Bay Sands sits the waterfront Merlion Park, a major Singapore landmark named after the Merlion, a mythical creature with a body of a fish and the head of a lion.

According to the legend, the founder of Singapore, a Malay prince who founded the city first saw a half-lion and half-fish when he stepped on the soil that later became Singapore. The word “Sinapore” takes its origin from Sanskrit words “Singa” – lion and “Pura” – city. Hence Singapore’s nickname, lion city.

The Merlion is used as Singapore’s mascot and you will find it on many souvenir goods sold throughout the city.

How to get there: Take the East West Line and get off at Raffles Place in the middle of the Central Business District.

5. Visit Singapore’s Botanical Gardens

Conveniently located next to a train stop, Singapore Botanical Gardens is an absolute must-stop in Singapore. Not many visitors know that besides being a popular tourist attraction, this place also serves as Southeast Asia’s leading center for plant science and conservation. It is also Singapore’s first UNESCO heritage site.

Within Singapore Botanic Gardens, there are numerous portions including themed gardens that aim to educate visitors about plants and scientific research.

The National Orchid Garden is arguably the most popular part of the Botanical Gardens which features the largest collection of orchids in the world. While entrance to the Singapore Botanical Gardens is free, you will have to pay a fee to enter the National Orchid Garden.

Closest MRT: Botanical Gardens

6. Go to China Town in Singapore

A visit to Chinatown is a must for anybody who comes to Singapore. After all, there is nowhere that represents Singapore’s large Chinese community better, than here. Take a walk through Chinatown and enjoy cheap street food, buy some souvenirs from street vendors, and visit a few temples in the area.

Chinatown’s Maxwell Food Centre is the most popular hawker center in Chinatown that attracts both locals and tourists. Due to the popularity of this place, it’s not uncommon to have to wait in line, but if you don’t feel like standing in line, there are tons of other options available.

Prevalent throughout Southeast Asia, hawker centers are large open-air complexes that sell inexpensive food. Singapore is known around the world for its delicious food and its hawker centers are considered some of the best places to get authentic food throughout the city.

Take a walk along South Bridge Road. Here you will find Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore that dates back to 1827. And if you walk down the road, you will see the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, an ornate complex that boasts ancient artifacts and Buddhist relics.

Admission to the temple is free of charge. The temple also offers free weekly guided tours. Register online for a tour here .

Another prominent part of Chinatown that has less than a stellar history is Keong Saik Road. Formerly a red-light district, this place has gradually transformed into a hipster neighborhood with trendy coffee shops, authentic eateries, and residential apartment buildings.

How to get to Chinatown: China Town MTR

7. Explore Singapore’s Little India

Another ethnic neighborhood of Singapore, Little India packs in plenty. It’s one of the most colorful and lively neighborhoods in the whole city thanks to its authentic restaurants, temples, and countless stalls with cheap street food, vegetables, and other produce.

If you need to shop, stop at Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping mall that sells everything that you can think of at very good prices.

While Little India is a great place to take photos, perhaps one of its most photographed features is the House of Tan Teng Niah.

The house is popular because of its bright colors and you can’t miss it as there are almost always tourists around it. Few people know that this is one of the last remaining Chinese villas in Little India that was constructed by a Chinese businessman Tan Teng Niah for his wife.

How to get there: Little India MRT

8. Head to Kampong Glam in Singapore

Kampong Glam is the center of Muslim culture in Singapore. Here you will find shops selling traditional Middle Eastern goods such as lamps and Persian carpets along with multiple restaurants that serve Middle Eastern food.

If you want to do some shopping head over to Arab Street or Bussorah Street where you will find tons of souvenirs. The most prominent feature of Kampong Glam is the Masjid Sultan, a colorful mosque that can be seen from any part of the neighborhood thanks to its large golden dome.

I happened to visit Kampong Glam during Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month, and had a chance to see the vibrant bazaar right in front of Masjid Sultan.

If you are in the mood for sightseeing, check out the colorful Haji Lane, a narrow street that is home to many vintage stores, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

It’s also a very popular location for taking photos thanks to numerous bright murals that adorn the street’s walls.

How to get there: Bugis MRT

9. Explore Singapore’s Koon Seng Road

While the name of this place is not likely to ring a bell, there’s a good chance that you have seen it at least once on social media. This road is home to a row of pretty pastel houses that were built between the 1920s and 1930s.

Until the 70’s the area was populated by Perankans, descendants of Peranakan Chinese who immigrated to the Malay archipelago. Peranakans left the area in later years after violence in the 70s.  There’s more on Peranakan history in Georgetown, Penang

Today this place is a popular location for tourists looking to take photos against a colorful backdrop. If you come here in the middle of the day, you are unlikely to be alone. The place has become a popular location for professional photographers and it’s not uncommon to see a photoshoot here.

The Peranakan Houses are located in a residential area away from downtown Singapore and requires some commuting, so make sure to have a map with you when you go on your adventure.   There’s also a lot of Peranakan history in Melaka in Malaysia.

How to get there: The easiest and fastest way to get to Koon Seng Road is to take a taxi. However, if you travel on a budget, there are plenty of options available. There are several buses that will take you to this place or nearby areas, depending on what your departure point is.

10. Get Away from the City at MacRitchie Reservoir Park

If you need to get away from the city, visit McRitchie Reservoir Park, a popular spot for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Here you can take an 11 kilometer (6.8 mile) walk along the area known as the MacRitchie Nature Trail. If you don’t feel up to the task, the park also offers several shorter trails. You can check a map of all the trips here .

As you walk around, you will probably encounter some wildlife including monkeys, lizards, and squirrels. Be sure to keep your distance and respect the animals’ territory.

The most prominent feature of this park is the Treetop Walk, a suspension bridge that links the two highest points of MacRitchie.   Located within a tropical rainforest, this park has amazing greenery and also very high humidity. If you plan on taking a walk, make sure to bring plenty of water and some snacks. There are some water fountains throughout the park, and tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Singapore.

How to get there: Unfortunately, there are no nearby MRT stations, but luckily, there is a bus station on Thompson Road right near the entrance of the park. Two other bus stops are located along Upper Thomson Road.

BONUS: When you leave Singapore, don’t forget to stop at Changi Jewel adjacent to the international terminal to take in its magnificent view. Located within a mixed-use complex, this indoor waterfall opened in 2019 and has already gained a lot of attention thanks to its spectacular features.

It also features an impressive light show and is surrounded by a lush rainforest-like area. Grab a snack at one of the nearby restaurants and sit down for a short break!

Singapore Travel Tips

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Get online immediately in Singapore with an eSIM
• Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Singapore > discount coupon here
• Get your Singapore airport transfer here with Welcome Pickups.
• Book the best Singapore tours and guides on Klook
• Save money in Singapore with a Wise debit card
• Book accommodation in Singapore with Booking

Thanks to Daria for this guide to traveling to Singapore.  Daria is an adventure travel blogger who covers her adventures on theDiscoveryNut.com as well as ExploreBajaCalifornia.com

Final Words on the Best Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore is a spectacular blast of all the senses.  There are stunning views to be had here, world-class experiences, and a host of amazing places to eat.  You’ll want to immerse yourself fully while here, and jump in and see, and taste it all!

Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.

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The Top 19 Interesting Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the Lion city, is not a big country, but it is definitely a colorful and enjoyable travel destination. What are the top things to do on a Singapore trip? Read on to know what you should not overlook in Singapore.

1. Take a Picture with the World Famous Merlion

The Merlion (a mythical-lion headed, fish-tailed creature) is the symbol of Singapore and where the city's name comes from. In Sanskrit, Singapore translates as 'Lion City'. The 8.5-meter (28-foot) Merlion statue is always a must-see for a (first) Singapore trip.

Merlion Park is by the famous Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade , a 3.5-km (2-mile) bay-side walkway offering excellent views of Marina Bay.

Besides Merlion Park, you can see "Wonder Full", Helix Bridge, the Singapore Flyer (a tall ferris wheel), and ArtScience Museum when strolling along Marina Bay. "Wonder Full" is the largest light and water show in Southeast Asia and is best seen at night. You should not miss the beautiful fireworks show over Marina Bay if you visit Singapore for Chinese New Year.

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2. Travel all Over Singapore on an Amphibious Duck Tour

If this is your first time to Singapore, you must try a one-hour DUCKtour, during which you can see many landmark buildings of Singapore in one go and learn about the general history and culture of Singapore from the guide's commentary.

If you travel with kids to Singapore, you should not miss the duck tour — the boats are refurbished amphibious vehicles used in the Vietnam War and remodeled into lovely duck shapes, which are popular with kids . Contact us for a family trip to Singapore.

You will have a 30-minute land tour to see Capitol Building, St. Andrew's Cathedral, Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, and Raffles Hotel (Singapore's oldest hotel), and then have another 30 minutes on the water to see the Singapore Flyer, Garden by the Bay, and Merlion Park. It is a quirky and interest-packed sea-and-land experience.

3. Get Yourself Lost in the Cloud Forest

Covering an area of 1 square kilometer (0.4 square miles), a little smaller than Hyde Park in London, Gardens by the Bay is a super modern garden located in the center of Singapore. The Park is divided into three parts: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden connecting the South and East.

In Gardens by the Bay, you can see more than 250,000 exotic flowers and plants in world's largest greenhouse , Flower Dome; or you could see a tall indoor waterfall (about 30 meters high) and lose yourself in Cloud Forest. The misty spray from the waterfall can make you feel like you are in a fairyland surrounded by clouds.

• The waterfall operating times in the Cloud Forest (for the magical spray) are 10 a.m. and 12, 2, 4, 6, and 8 p.m. every day.
• The indoor temperature of cloud forest is kept at between 23 and 25 °C (73–77°F). It might feel cool (compared to Singapore's usual tropical heat), so it is recommended to bring a thin coat.

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4. Immerse Yourself in Chinese Culture in Chinatown

Chinatown is the most concentrated area of Singaporean Chinese people with traditional Chinese snacks, various hawkers, century-old shops, modern shopping malls, art galleries, and specialty hotels.

The night market in Chinatown is brightly lit, a bit like a Chinese temple fair . There you can fully experience Chinese traditional culture and customs. When dusk falls, it becomes the Chinatown Food Street where vehicles are not allowed and you can feast on various foods and snacks.

Besides food hunting, you can stay for a while at the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn more about the history and culture of the area and explore the life of the earliest Chinese immigrants in Singapore.

In addition, there are also some famous religious landmarks such as Sri Mariamman Temple, Jamae Mosque (Singapore's oldest pilgrimage site) , and the magnificent Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , where the precious Buddha's tooth relics are enshrined. If you are interested in such things, you should not miss them when you tour Singapore.

5. Shop Freely at Singapore's Fifth Avenue —Orchard Road

Singapore is one of the world's famous shopping paradises, and Orchard Road is " the Fifth Avenue of Singapore" . There are all kinds of shopping centers, and all the world brands you know can be found there.

It is a 2.2-kilometer (1.4-mile) long street, housing ION Orchard (lifestyle + fashion), NgeeAnn City (brand-name mall), Centrepoint ("a food haven" [TA]), DelfiOrchard (boutique mall), FarEastPlaza (trendy fashion), DUTY FREE SHOP (T Galleria by DFS)…

It is a high level one-stop shopping experience center, including various restaurants and luxury hotels. If you go during The Great Singapore Sale (from mid-June to July) , you can get what you want at a big discount.

After shopping, you could go to The Grande Whisky Collection on the fifth floor of ION Orchard Shopping Center to see a wide range of aged and rare whiskies, and/or go to ION Art Gallery to enjoy progressive visual art. Every Christmas, Orchard Road will have a big celebration, which is very lively.

6. Feel the Colorfulness of India in Little India

Little India is the gathering place of the Indian ethnic groups in Singapore. It is like a microcosm of India. Once you enter Little India, strong curry flavors and all kinds of spicy aromas will compete to occupy your sense of smell.

The colorful buildings, doors, and windows and the bright India-theme graffiti will impact your vision. Indian-style garlands, Indian women in various saris, and small Indian-style grocery stores will make you feel as if you are already in India. During Deepavali (Diwali, usually in November) and Pongal (mid-January) Little India will be decorated up into a splendid Hindu-centric world.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore and a unique landmark in Little India. The most famous shopping mall in Little India is Mustafa Center, which is well-known throughout Singapore for its 24-hour operation, high quality, and low prices, and comprehensive variety. Tekka Centre there is Singapore's largest indoor "wet market". There is also Qiandeng Temple in Little India, which was built by a Thai monk is and famous for its 15-meter (50-foot) tall Buddha statue.

Haji Lane , about 1,000 meters (1,100 yards) from Little India, is one of the best places to visit in Singapore for street art.

7. Walk into Kampong Glam to experience Islamic Culture

Kampong Glam is a vibrant Muslim neighborhood that combines profound historical culture and modern fashion.

The Sultan Mosque, located on Muscat Street, is an iconic building in Kampong Glam, with an onion-shaped golden dome and a huge prayer hall. Sultan Mosque is the largest mosque in Singapore. If you want to learn more about the history of Kampong Glam, you can go to the Malay Heritage Centre , which was a Malay palace.

Haji Lane is a famous alley in the Kampong Glam area. In this trendy alley, there are more than 20 local designer brands, emerging fashion boutiques, and rare shops, which are very popular among young people.

In addition, Kampong Glam is also a paradise for food lovers . You can taste traditional Singaporean cuisine and various Middle-Eastern cuisines there. If you come during Ramadan, you will find food stalls and cultural performances everywhere, and it is livelier at night.

Contact us for a Singapore food tour!

8. Have a Visual Feast in National Gallery Singapore

Housing more than 8,000 works, National Gallery Singapore is the newest and largest modern art museum in Southeast Asia. National Gallery was formed from two converted representative historical buildings: the former Singapore Government Building and the Supreme Court.

Singapore's first art education center — Keppel Centre for Art Education — is also located in the National Gallery, which brings a unique artistic experience for family and kids.

In addition to viewing a dazzling array of fine arts and art exhibitions, you can also taste the delicious food of Singapore and Southeast Asia at the restaurants in the museum.

9. Experience the Charm of Lion City's Night in Clarke Quay

Located on the north bank of the Singapore River, Clarke Quay is an old pier in Singapore, named after Sir Andrew Clark, the second Governor of Singapore. It has now been transformed into a new gathering place for food and entertainment in Singapore, with restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment facilities.

You can also take a boat tour to see Singapore from Clarke Quay. The charm of Clarke Quay is best seen after nightfall, when the colorful little houses are reflected in various lights, making the whole pier transform into a grand party scene. Crazy Elephant, The Pump Room, and Clarke Quay Satay Club are the popular night bars there and stars of the night life of Singapore!

The wharf becomes a flea market on Sundays. There are more than 70 stalls selling antiques and art, and you can always buy something interesting there.

10. Ascend into the Sky on the Singapore Flyer

With a height of 165 meters (540 feet), which is equivalent to a 42-story building, the Singapore Flyer was the world's tallest observation wheel between 2008 and 2014. The Flyer has 28 cabins, and the ride is about 30 minutes per revolution. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view in the sky, admire the iconic buildings of Singapore's Marina Bay, and even view the neighboring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia if the weather is good.

Have you ever thought of having a dinner in the sky? You can do it in the Singapore Flyer, with tasty wine and food on offer in the evening, accompanied by the stunning night views of the city.

Let us prepare a dinner in the sky for you!

11. Walk on the Treetops at MacRitchie Reservoir

Built in 1868, MacRitchie Reservoir is the oldest reservoir in Singapore. Adjacent to a large area of dense primitive forest, there is a famous walking route with a total length of about 12 kilometers (7 miles) . MacRitchie Reservoir is a paradise for runners and hikers.

Starting from Venus Drive Carpark, you can enjoy a challenge on the treetop walk, which is 25 meters high and 250 meters long and passes through the Jelutong Tower. You may encounter monkeys, various birds, and tropical plants at any time along the way. If you are not up for a long hike, you could just stroll on the wooden boardwalk trail along the lake to appreciate the beautiful lake views.

12. Watch the Birds in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, covering an area of about 87 hectares (215 acres), is the only protected Swamp Nature Park in Singapore. In 2003, the reserve was listed as an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Heritage Park.

There are more than 500 species of tropical animals and plants, but it is especially famous for its large mangroves, lizards, and migratory birds. From September to March, many migratory birds pass through the wetland park . These are the best months for bird watching on the wetland. In the reserve, you can walk on the boardwalks to see the mangroves and observe the animals from the viewing platforms all over the park from a distance. You do not need to worry that the wildlife will be disturbed. Watch out, though! There are really crocodiles there!

13. Say Good Night to the Wild Animals on the World's First Night Safari

Singapore Night Safari is the world's first safari park dedicated to nocturnal animals. More than 2,500 animals live in the park. From the rugged foothills of the Himalayas to the swampy banks of the forests of the SE Asia's Rivers, you can take a tour bus to shuttle through seven different geographic regions of the world.

You can also hike on the winding walking trails of the rainforest, and have close encounters with leopards, fishing cats, Malay flying foxes, sand kangaroos, etc., on a safari adventurer tour. In addition to animal adventures, the Creatures of the Night Show and the fire breathing show performed by the indigenous tribes of Borneo should not be missed.

1. The opening hours of the night park are from 7:15 p.m. to midnight. The tour bus departing times are: 7:15, 8:15, 9:15, and 10:15. The Creatures of the Night Show times are: 8:00, 9:00, and 10:00.

2. You are not allowed to use flash photography in the park.

14. Find Your Favorite Orchid in Singapore Botanical Gardens

Covering an area of 74 hectares (183 acres), Singapore Botanical Gardens contain 12 themed gardens and 3 lakes. The garden was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015, and it is the first and only tropical botanical garden listed on the World Heritage list.

National Orchid Garden , with more than 3,000 varieties and more than 60,000 rare orchids, is the most distinctive and attractive garden in Singapore Botanical Gardens.

Open air concerts are held at Symphony Lake from time to time, so if you are lucky (or timed your visit to coincide), you could enjoy a concert. If you travel with your kids, you should not miss the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden.

15. Drink a Singapore Sling in Raffles Hotel

Officially opened on December 1, 1887 and named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, Raffles Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Singapore. It is known as the epitome of Singapore's colonial history and one of the greatest hotels of the 19th century in the world.

It was once a place of inspiration for many famous writers and movie stars. Many cultural celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, British novelist Rudyard Kipling, and Michael Jackson have stayed at Raffles Hotel.

You can take a stroll in the open-air garden of the hotel, revisit the hotel's past in the hotel museum, or watch a drama in its Victorian-style theater (Jubilee Hall). The famous Singapore commander cocktail was also born in Raffles Hotel. Don't forget to take a sip.

16. Take an Island Adventure in Sentosa

Sentosa, a highlight of the south of Singapore, is a resort island integrating theme parks, tropical resorts, natural parks, and cultural centers. Sentosa is taken from the Malay Sanskrit santosha, which means 'peace' and 'ease'. You can reach this peaceful and easygoing island from Singapore city by bus, taxi, or subway in about 10–15 minutes.

In Sentosa, you can walk into Universal Studios Singapore to enjoy a glorious movie world; encounter marine life at SEA Aquarium, the world's largest aquarium; challenge yourself at Adventure Cove Waterpark, or gamble with your luck at the 24-hour casino.

Strolling on the beach is always a great way to relax. Sentosa's sandy beaches stretch for 3.2 kilometers (2.0 miles) and are divided into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

The most fascinating attraction of Palawan Beach is the suspension bridge, which connects with a small island across the sea of Palawan. The other end of the suspension bridge leads to the southernmost point and the closest point to the equator on the Asian continent.

You can also climb to the Tiger Sky Tower, Singapore's tallest viewing tower, and look out on the spectacular scenery of Sentosa Island and its surrounding islands.

Sentosa is a small but busy island, so a one-or-two-night stay is recommended. Generally, we recommend staying in the Resorts World district , because it is more convenient for attractions and restaurants. Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Hotel Michael Hotel, and Festival Hotel are always good options.

Let us customize a Singapore trip including Sentosa for you.

17. Have a Unique Airport Transit Experience in the World's Most Beautiful Airport

Located in front of Singapore Changi Airport's Terminal 1, Jewel Changi is a multi-function building that gathers aviation facilities, shopping and leisure, accommodation and dining, amusement projects, and landscaped gardens.

Changi Airport is known as the world's most beautiful airport. The most eye-catching thing about Jewel Changi is the 40-meter (130-foot) tal l Rain Vortex, which is the highest indoor waterfall in the world, creating an indoor rainforest wonder. You can see the water of the Rain Vortex dance every night with the sound-and-light show. You can also stroll in the forest valley amongst various plants and flowers from all over the world.

Besides, there are so many fun facilities in Jewel Changi, and it is really a great place for everyone to enjoy their stopover time. You can jump into the 25-meter-high (80-foot-high) sky net for an experience like flying, as if walking through the clouds. You can challenge yourself in Singapore's largest hedge maze and mirror maze; and you can also walk on the 23-meter-high (75-foot-high) sky bridge to watch the rain vortex, as if hiking in a tropical rainforest.

Jewel Changi is seamlessly connected to Changi Airport's Terminals 1, 2 and 3, and you can easily travel between the terminals on foot or by taking the elevated light rail train . It is very convenient, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free wait for your flight, while dining, shopping, relaxing, and having fun. Whether you are visiting Singapore or transiting, Jewel Changi should be an essential stop for you!

18. Camp in the Last Village of Singapore — Palau Ubin

About a 15-minute boat trip from Changi Point Ferry Terminal , Pulau Ubin, the third largest outer island of Singapore is mainly composed of granite, hence it is called 'Stone Mountain'. On Palau Ubin, you can rent a bike to cycle around the island, join a kayaking trip to explore the mangroves, or go for a walk to discover the different creatures in Chek Jawa wetlands.

There are also many camping areas on the island. Camping a night on this idyllic island is highly recommended.

Contact us for a camping trip in Singapore.

19. Hunt Food in Singapore's Most Charming Food Court — Lau Pa Sat

Built in 1894, Lau Pa Sat is the largest existing Victorian Cast Iron building in Southeast Asia, and it has been listed as a part of Singapore's national historical culture. Lau Pa Sat was originally a wet market, and now it has become a famous food paradise — from satay to seafood barbecue, you can taste all kinds of Singapore snacks there.

As a bonus, it is open 24 hours every day. No matter when you come, you can find the delicious food you want.

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore has it all: fantastic museums, an incredible food scene, and beautiful gardens. If you’re looking to try some Michelin-starred street food, explore one of the world’s most famous airports, or grab a drink at one of the best bars in Asia, then you’ll want to put this Southeast Asia country on your radar. Ahead, all of the best things to do in Singapore. 

Visit Gardens by the Bay

As one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore, a visit to the Gardens by the Bay is a must on your trip to Singapore. To maximize the experience, plan to spend at least one hour in each of the main attractions, including the Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. The attraction has a gorgeous light show every evening from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. 

Grab a Drink at Jigger + Pony 

For one of the best cocktails in the city, you’ll want to stop by Jigger + Pony. The popular bar, which has rankings on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and the World’s 50 Best Bars, is housed in a cozy space. It’s beloved for its intimate environment and innovative cocktails, so don’t miss out on ordering popular drinks like the Super Lemon Highball, Ugly Tomatoes, or Cloudy Kangaroo on your visit. 

Explore the Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi Airport is no regular airport terminal. It’s actually rated as the world’s best airport by Skytrax because of its unrivaled passenger experience. Once inside the terminal, you’ll find the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest and largest indoor waterfall, along with restaurants, shops, a rooftop park, and much more. While you could visit before your flight, most opt to see their own because it’s an attraction in its own right. 

Visit the ArtScience Museum

For a family-friendly activity, the ArtSciece Museum is a fantastic option. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits, including one in collaboration with teamLab (the company behind the viral TeamLab Planets in Tokyo). Since the exhibits are always changing, there will always be something new. 

Eat at the Hawker Centers

If you’ve ever watched Crazy Rich Asians, you’ve seen Hawker Centers. The open-air food halls have some of the most affordable (and delicious) food in the entire city. However, the centers are beloved for their rows and rows of food vendors who serve up dishes from around the world. Everything you’ll eat will be delicious, which is why some of the stalls have even earned themselves Michelin-recognition. 

Experience a Scalp Treatment at the TikTok Viral Johwa Spa 

Scalp treatments are all the rage on social media, and Jo:Hwa Hair & Living is one of Singapore’s most popular spots. The experience, which begins with a personal consultation, has you working with a specialist to pick a multi-step treatment that works to help clear dirt, improve circulation, and leave your hair healthier. It’s one of the best ways to treat yourself when you need a little vacation R&R and this pick came highly recommended by many. 

Visit the National Gallery of Singapore 

With over 8,000 pieces of art, the National Gallery of Singapore is one of the largest art collections in Singapore and Southeast Asia. It features art from the 19th century to the present day and is spread across two beautiful national monuments, City Hall and the country’s former Supreme Court. 

Stroll in Merlion Park

You’ll want to stroll around Merlion Park for fantastic views of the iconic Marina Bay Sands. The park is famed for its statue of a Merlion, a mythical creature that highlights Singapore’s origins as a fishing village. The statue and park are meant to serve as a reminder of the country’s journey to become a global hub from a humble fishing village. 

Walk around the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Since its establishment in 1859, the Singapore Botanic Gardens have been a city favorite. The gardens are home to the largest orchid exhibit in the world, have stunning grounds, and house an abundance of rare plant species. It’s a lovely place to take in all the beautiful landscape that Singapore has to offer. 

Hit the Cafes of Katong

As one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Singapore, Katong seamlessly blends the old and the new. Alongside trendy cafes, you’ll find family businesses, small shops, hip boutiques, and specialty stores. The melting pot of old and new is a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs to bring back to friends and family. 

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Sensational Singapore: Best Things To Do In This Stunning City-State

Posted: January 20, 2024 | Last updated: January 22, 2024

Treat your senses in Singapore

This tiny island country and city-state just off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia is a dream to visit. Think iconic landmarks beautifully placed to make up a stunning skyline that mixes seamlessly with natural beauty; a world-class airport; food to die for and four official languages that add to its vibrant culture. Attractions and experiences here are plentiful; your biggest decision will be what to enjoy first.

From taking in the breathtaking views atop Marina Bay Sands to sampling the delights of Satay Street, these are the best things to see and do in Singapore…

1. Tour Ang Mo Kio

For a glimpse at Singapore’s modern living, the cool neighborhood of Ang Mo Kio is worth a wander. You’ll see how this forward-thinking country cleverly utilizes space and high rises in its HDB (Housing Development Board) properties, in which 80% of Singaporeans live. Exercise is vital to locals' way of life and the 22-mile Park Connector Network cycle route connects every major estate in the country and encourages an outdoor lifestyle. The unusual hobby of bird singing is popular here; look out for the older generation encouraging their pet birds to out-warble the rest ahead of a fortnightly competition where S$100,000 is up for grabs.

2. Experience Little India

Transport yourself to a corner of Singapore that is a real assault on the senses. Everywhere you turn in Little India, there’s a vibrancy that’s infectious. Think colorful neighborhoods and stores, cool street art, majestic temples and mosques, and fragrant foods begging to be guzzled. The traders tend to leave you to it here, rather than enticing you in, and all stalls in the Tekka Center (which features a wet market selling fresh meat and fish, as well as a food hall and stores) are individually owned. Be sure to watch the prata men stretch and flip the roti-esque flatbread (from Chennai in southern India) before sampling some with a dollop of dhal.

3. Eat at a hawker center

No trip to Singapore is complete without a meal or three at a hawker center. These covered complexes have dozens of affordable food stalls selling traditional Singaporean dishes that include Chinese, Indian, Malay and Indonesian cuisine. The Hainanese chicken rice will probably be the tastiest rice you’ve ever eaten. Hawkers vary in size and quality, and will be busy, but as long as you ‘chope’ (reserve) a table – with a tissue will do – it's yours. The grand 19th-century Lau Pa Sat in the CBD is probably the country’s most famous, and any short wait will be worth it. Wash down your food of choice with juice made from fresh calamansi (small sweet limes).

4. Take a sidecar tour

For a unique way of seeing Singapore, take a sidecar tour  by night. The brainchild of Simon Wong, this Vespa adventure will whip you around different neighbourhoods and you'll get to choose your route, which can include heritage sites, the island’s landmarks or specific areas such as the beautiful Muslim Quarter, Kampong Gelam. Lasting from one to three hours, you’ll cover a lot of Singapore. Strangers will give you a wave from the sidewalks and if you spot a photo opportunity, fear not, your dedicated rider will happily stop for a snap.

5. Drop by Raffles Hotel

Drenched in history, the famed Raffles Hotel opened in 1887 during the colonial era and has hosted the likes of Charlie Chaplin, John Wayne, Michael Jackson and British royalty within its glamorous walls. Named after the founder of modern Singapore, British diplomat Sir Stamford Raffles, it became the most fabled hotel in the Far East. Oozing elegance from every inch, this 115-suite complex is regularly named one of the top three hotels in the world. Don’t forget to order a Singapore Sling in the Long Bar, where snacking on monkey nuts then throwing the shells on the floor remains a centuries-old tradition.

6. Grab a bite at Satay Street

When the sun goes down, Boon Tat Street, outside hawker center Lau Pa Sat, transforms into something special for satay fans. In a custom that’s been going for 30+ years, cars are forbidden from 7pm until midnight and 10 satay hawkers set up carts on the road ready to welcome hundreds of hungry customers to dine al fresco. Choose from mutton, beef, chicken and shrimp grilled skewers and order as many as you like. They come with a lightly spiced peanut sauce and ketupat (tiny rice cakes) and are best washed down with a few jugs of Tiger beer or soda. As locals mingle with tourists, the atmosphere is lively and unlike anywhere else in Singapore.

7. Shop at Orchard Road

Singapore’s longer, livelier version of London’s Oxford Street is famous for its thousands of retail and restaurant establishments, and a visit here will leave your wallet empty but your heart full. Orchard Road is a bustling boulevard boasting everything from cheap and cheerful souvenirs to expensive haute couture in shopping malls, with plenty of food courts and hotels to refuel in. Tree-lined and neat as a pin (like most places in Singapore), it’s a pleasure to while away a few hours here even if you aren’t up for splashing the cash.

8. Lunch at Coconut Club

If you fancy trying the nation’s favorite dish nasi lemak in smart surroundings, head to the Coconut Club on Beach Road. The fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, accompanied by side dishes such as roasted nuts, anchovies, fried egg, cucumber and a spoonful of sambal (chili paste), is superb. Order the Ayam Goreng Berempah (fried chicken in a specialty hot sauce) too. Save room for ice cream at Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique a few doors down, where the unique botanical flavors are irresistible.

9. Visit Kampong Gelam

One of Singapore’s oldest urban neighborhoods, the Muslim Quarter of Kampong Gelam is a beautiful area that mixes age-old traditions with modernity. Just off Muscat Street, in the heart of the district, sits the stunning Sultan Mosque, a magnificent landmark dating back to 1824. Built for Singapore’s first sultan, Hussein Shah, the prominent mosque featuring huge golden domes is open to visitors (you must dress appropriately). Meanwhile, trendy favorite Haji Lane is an Instagrammer’s dream; the eclectic street is filled with trendy boutiques, quirky cafes and colorful murals, offering a striking contrast to the area’s high-rise buildings which peer above.

10. Relax at Aramsa Spa

Alongside the wonderful hustle and bustle that a trip to Singapore brings, you might want to take an afternoon to slow down and relish in some R&R – and Aramsa Spa, tucked away in the serene 62-acre Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, is the place. A holistic treatment at this award-winning spa will make you feel like a new person. The staff blend their own essential oils, which you can choose as part of a 60-minute Signature Massage. The spa has 13 therapy rooms surrounded by 30 different types of plants in the lush gardens. Beauty therapist Claira says: “Coming here is like a retreat in an overseas escape; it doesn’t feel like Singapore. Bringing the outside in creates a chance to relax away from the city.” After your treatment, sip on a freshly brewed ginger tea and take a moment to pause.

11. Cross the Helix Bridge

12. Experience Marina Bay Sands

Singapore’s skyline changed for the better back in 2010 when the striking Marina Bay Sands  (MBS) resort complex was added to it. The now iconic three-tower structure (a fourth will be built by 2028) stands proud at 680-feet tall, and houses a luxury hotel with 478-foot-long infinity pool on the roof, shopping mall decked out with 170 boutiques, 45 globally acclaimed and Michelin-starred restaurants and bars, an exhibition and entertainment space, plus an incredible observation deck. You can easily spend a whole day here.

13. See amazing views at Skypark Observation Deck

The vistas from atop MBS’ Skypark Observation Deck are simply breathtaking. Perched 56 storeys high, this 1.2 hectare space showcases a 360-degree panoramic view of Singapore’s unique cityscape. When you’ve finished taking photos – there are plenty of perfect backdrops – refuel at LAVO restaurant and rooftop bar, wander the lush gardens or simply sit and stare for a while. You can head up to the famous infinity pool, but only hotel guests can use it. 

14. Spoil the kids at the Art Science Museum

Just outside the main towers of MBS, you can’t miss the quirkily-shaped Art Science Museum. Said to symbolise the welcoming hand of Singapore with 10 fingers, each fingertip filters natural light inside to present a particular exhibition in all its glory. Twenty-one galleries are spread out across three stories, while the permanent exhibition Future World: Where Arts Meets Science is an immersive, fun experience children will love. It’s a 16,145 square foot digital universe of art installations that revolve around nature, towns, parks and science. Kids won’t want to leave the multi-sensory light-up forest.

15. Dine at Rempapa

Dinner at renowned Singapore chef Damian D’Silva’s Rempapa restaurant should be high on your eating agenda, whether you’re a foodie or just appreciate honest yet spectacular fusion cooking. D’Silva champions heritage cuisine by combining the flavors of Chinese, Peranakan, Eurasian, Indian and Malay cuisine and serving up dishes such as Baca Assan (slow-cooked beef cheek) and Ayam Pelencheng (boneless chicken with chilies, garlic and spring onion). For dessert, a kueh platter (traditional Singaporean cakes) are as pretty as they are delicious.

16. Visit Gardens By The Bay…

You’ll spot the huge futuristic supertrees of this horticultural paradise everywhere you look in central Singapore, and they’re just as bloomin' lovely up close too. When you enter this scenic sanctuary you’ll be spoiled for choice with what to look at first. There are two huge structures; Flower Dome is full of plants from dry climates and is currently the largest glass greenhouse in the world; while Cloud Forest features vegetation native to mountains and wet terrain. The domes are often themed, and if you visit Cloud Forest – home to one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls at 115 feet high – during misting hours at night, you’re in for a real treat.

17. …and stay for the nightly lights show

Stay at Gardens By The Bay until nightfall and you can witness the stunning Garden Rhapsody light and music show. The twice-nightly performance grips everyone in its vicinity, as people lie on the lawn beneath the metal trees and take in the dazzling 15-minute show for free. Each month takes on a new theme, but one constant is the trees’ ability to entertain. Sure, take some videos and a few snaps, but remember to also just lie back and soak up this surreal atmosphere in such special surroundings.

18. Have a drink at Mama Diam

Thought a night out in such a busy financial district would be all boring bars featuring stuffy soirées? Think again. Prinsep Street is your typical pub and bar strip where you’ll find everything from smart wine bars to cocktail clubs, but head to Mama Diam for a trip down memory lane. The ‘mama store’ – a small family-run provisions and toy store from the 1980s – has a hidden entrance to a secret speakeasy, where drinks and food are served with a side of nostalgia. 

19. Get your culture on at the Peranakan Museum

In Singapore, Peranakans are defined as native people who have mixed Malay or Indonesian heritage, and a unique culture to boot. Head to the Peranakan Museum for a taste of this vibrant community and learn about the fascinating history through fun exhibitions and artifacts. Set in a former Palladian-style school, the grand building feels more like a hotel than a museum, and while you don’t need a reservation, book onto a tour (maximum 15 people) with a Peranakan guide for the ultimate experience. Don’t forget to visit the cute little gift shop on your way out, filled with beautifully painted trinkets and jewelry.

20. Watch the world go by at Boat Quay

21. Eat lunch at Violet Oon

On the Peranakan theme, lunch at Violet Oon will not disappoint. Named after the owner and former chef, Violet Oon herself is Peranakan and although the food is fancy, there is still a nod to her heritage. You must order the Ngoh Hiang to start: deep fried shrimp, crab meat, chicken and water chestnut rolls; followed by the VO Curry Chicken: chicken and potatoes stewed in Nyonya curry powder (named after the Peranakan women who ground the spices), curry leaves and coconut cream. Save room for dessert, namely the Pulot Hitam – black glutinous rice stewed with Gula Melaka (a type of palm sugar) and coconut milk, topped with coconut ice cream. It tastes so much better than it looks, we promise.

22. Ride a cable car to Sentosa Island

Make like the locals and head to the sunny island resort of Sentosa, just off Singapore’s southern coast. Once a British military fortress, the island now boasts three small but beautiful beaches, natural landscapes, cool attractions including an aquarium, the world’s largest wind tunnel for indoor skydiving, a zip wire course, aquapark, theme park and even a Madame Tussauds. There are plenty of hotels here, but a day trip is equally popular. Simply board the cable car from HarbourFront MRT station and soak up the views. The 15-minute journey includes a stop at Mount Faber park, where you can hop off if you wish.

23. Absorb nature at the Botanic Gardens

Get your camera ready at Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1859, the 82-acre Botanic Gardens are free to visit, but you’ll pay a small fee to enter the piece de resistance , the National Orchid Garden. There are four different entrances, each with their own highlights: take a peek inside the art gallery at the Gallop entrance, where you’ll see 2,000 botanical paintings; the heritage museum in the Tanglin core is filled with interactive exhibitions detailing the garden’s past; and youngsters will love learning about the ecology of plants in the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden – the first in Asia that’s dedicated to kids.

24. Sundowners at Clarke Quay

Another historical riverside spot where merchants would trade decades ago, Clarke Quay has been transformed into a colorful array of converted warehouses where you’re more likely to go clubbing than crabbing. Restaurants, pubs and clubs – some of which are on static boats – thrive when the sun goes down and there’s nothing better than enjoying a drink while watching the river cruises sail past.

25. Spend the day at the Jewel

It’s unusual to want to spend a whole lot of time at the airport on holiday, but the Jewel at Changi is a day out with a difference. Connected to the arrivals hall in Terminal 1 since 2019, this incredible nature-themed retail, dining and entertainment complex has to be seen to be believed. The first thing that will blow you away is the magnificent Rain Vortex, which stands at a whopping 131 feet and is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. If you can tear yourself and your camera away from its unique lightshow, go wild in the hundreds of stores, while youngsters are equally catered for on the top floor, where two mazes, bouncing nets and giant slides await. It beats trailing around duty free, but don’t get distracted and miss your flight!

26. Eat at Keng Eng Kee

From the outside, Keng Eng Kee looks like your typical, cheap, open-air, hawker-style set up, with plates of steaming, overflowing plates coming out of the kitchen every few minutes. But, pull up a plastic chair, don an apron and prepare for what could easily be your best meal in Singapore. Family-run for 50 years, this no-frills eatery, which specializes in seafood, dishes up everything from the country’s signature chili crab to butter cereal squid and claypot pig liver. Not convinced? Order the coffee pork ribs, salted egg shrimp and Moonlight horfun with beef. You'll want to come back night after night.

27. Stay at Oasia Hotel Downtown

With plenty of hotels to suit all budgets, choosing where to stay in Singapore is simple enough. For a decent price, a perfect location and super smart, well-equipped rooms, Oasia Hotel Downtown is ideal. The 27-story, 314-room tropical skyscraper stands out from the crowd in the city’s CBD, just up the road from China Town. Treat yourself to a Club Lounge suite and get access to a private infinity pool, gym, lounges plus separate dining room with all-day refreshments available. Free activities such as rooftop yoga are also included, as well as a laundry service and late check-out. Suites have all the usual mod-cons, including a freestanding bath and drench shower. The mini fridge is restocked daily too.

For more information and to plan your next trip, head to  visitsingapore.com

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