Singapore   Travel Guide

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top 10 places to visit singapore

18 Best Things To Do in Singapore

Updated Feb. 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

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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. 

top 10 places to visit singapore

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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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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. 

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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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top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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.

top 10 places to visit singapore

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. 

top 10 places to visit singapore

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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PlanetWare.com

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

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

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

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

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

1. Marina Bay Sands

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

Marina Bay Sands

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

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

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

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

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

Gardens by the Bay

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

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

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

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

Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

Address: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore

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

Singapore Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore

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

Orchard Road

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

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

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

Singapore Flyer

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

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

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

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore

Official site: www.singaporeflyer.com

Raffles Hotel Singapore

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

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

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

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore

Official site: www.raffles.com/singapore

Chinatown

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

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

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

Official site: www.chinatown.sg

Sentosa Island

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

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

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

Sentosa Island Map - Tourist Attractions

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

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

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

Universal Studios Singapore

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

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

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore

Night Safari Singapore

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

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

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

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

Merlion Park

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

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

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

Address: One Fullerton, Singapore

Asian Civilisations Museum

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

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

Address: 1 Empress Pl, Singapore

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

Pulau Ubin (Granite Island)

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

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

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

Fort Canning Park

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

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

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

Address: 51 Canning Rise, Singapore

The Maritime Experiential Museum

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

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

Fort Siloso

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

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

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

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

Address: Siloso Road, Singapore

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

National Gallery Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

HSBC Rain Vortex in Jewel Changi Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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23 Best Things to Do in Singapore

By Ashlea Halpern

Singapore Pulau Ubin

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

Click the link to read our complete Singapore guide .

Gardens by the Bay Singapore

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

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National Gallery Singapore Arrow

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

Singapore Kampong Glam  Expansion of Haji Lane

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

Jewel at Changi Airport in Singapore

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

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The Intan Singapore Interior

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

Singapore Pulau Ubin

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

Merlion at Marina Bay Sands Singapore

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

Marina Bay Sands

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

Singapore Haw Par Villa

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

Singapore St Andrews Cathedral

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

Thian Hock Keng Temple Singapore

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

Sentosa Tanjong Beach Singapore

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

National Parks Board Southern Ridges Singapore

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

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Arrow

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

Singapore East Coast Road

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

Singapore Botanic Gardens including the National Orchid Garden

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

Singapore Night Safari

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

Singapore Clarke Quay

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

Esplanade  Theaters on the Bay Singapore

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

Old Airport Road Food Singapore Hawker Center Market

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

Mint Museum of Toys Singapore

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

Singapore shop Sfir Aromatics perfume aroma

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

Singapore Art Museum

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

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Singapore

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 22, 2024

Singapore is one of the great cities of the world, with its blend of Asian and European cultures. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world’s most prosperous city states and boasts one of the world’s busiest ports.

Graceful colonial buildings co-exist alongside centuries-old street markets and modern high-rises. Though the government can be strict with residents and visitors who misbehave, travelers who follow the rules can’t help but be fascinated by this multi-cultural city. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Singapore:

18. The Southern Ridges

The Southern Ridges

Escape Singapore’s urban bustle and discover the tranquility of the Southern Ridges, a 10-kilometer network of parks offering diverse landscapes and experiences. Start at Mount Faber Park for panoramic city and harbor views before exploring lush forests, meandering trails, and picturesque bridges via elevated walkways.

Along the way, travelers can marvel at the architectural wonder of Henderson Waves. It’s the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and is known for its stunning design. Birdwatchers can spot native species, while photographers capture the abundant flora and fauna. Whether you seek a peaceful escape, a recreational adventure, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, the Southern Ridges will leave you inspired.

17. Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam

Discover the vibrant neighborhood of Kampong Glam in the heart of Singapore. Here Malay heritage, artistic expression, and culinary delights converge. Engage with its vibrant cultural tapestry by strolling past colorful shophouses and visiting the historic Sultan Mosque, renowned for its golden domes and intricate details.

Later, wander along Haji Lane, adorned with vibrant street art and stylish boutiques, and try the diverse local cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering Nasi Padang or savor the fragrant spices of Middle Eastern cuisine. Better yet, sample delectable fusion creations that blend the best of both worlds.

After indulging in your shopping spree, stay until nightfall. Under the city lights, experience the transformed ambiance of Kampong Gelam, where live music bars and trendy restaurants come to life.

16. National Gallery Singapore

National Gallery Singapore

Standing as Singapore’s newest art gem, the National Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of modern Singaporean and Southeast Asian art. Located within the meticulously restored former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, this iconic institution offers an extensive showcase of over 8,000 pieces from Singapore’s National Collection.

One of the world’s largest public collections of Southeast Asian modern art, spans from the 19th century to the present day. With that uncovered, visitors can also explore the Keppel Centre for Art Education, the city-state’s inaugural art education hub. With engaging educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits on offer, it is a perfect destination for art lovers of all ages.

15. Merlion Park

Merlion Park

Discover Singapore’s beloved national symbol, the Merlion, at Merlion Park. With the body of a fish and the head of a lion, this legendary creature captivates visitors as it spouts water into Marina Bay.

For those wondering why a Merlion? The fish represents Singapore’s origins as a fishing village, while the lion head pays homage to Singapura, translating to “Lion City” in Malay.

Take a leisurely stroll along the park’s promenade, conveniently located near attractions like the Esplanade, Theatres on the Bay and Marina Bay Sands complex. Merlion Park offers an ideal starting point for further exploration, providing picturesque views and a glimpse into Singapore’s rich cultural heritage.

14. National Museum of Singapore

National Museum of Singapore

Housed within a magnificent neo-classical structure, the National Museum of Singapore boasts a wealth of artifacts, exhibitions, and interactive showcases. Dating back to 1887, it stands as the nation’s oldest museum and a prominent architectural landmark in the city.

Among its permanent exhibits are the Singapore Gallery and Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years. These galleries intricately weave together the historical narrative of the nation. For a richer experience, we suggest joining a guided tour, where knowledgeable guides animate the exhibits with fascinating stories and facts. These captivate your attention and enhance your understanding of Singapore’s heritage.

13. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Embark on an adventure through Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore’s tallest natural peak, located just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant city center. This lush rainforest reserve is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.

Here you can step into the reserve’s dense tropical canopy, where an array of flora and fauna awaits. The highlight of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is its iconic hill, offering well-marked trails for an energizing hike.

After reaching the summit, you can behold sweeping vistas and a sense of achievement. Alternatively, explore leisurely walking paths catering to various fitness levels, allowing yourself to bask in the calming embrace of the forest’s serenity.

12. Chinatown

Chinatown

For culture enthusiasts delving into Singapore’s vibrant multi-ethnic scene, Chinatown offers an unparalleled experience. Unique among Chinatowns worldwide, it hosts a Buddhist temple, mosque, and Hindu temple on a single street.

Begin your cultural odyssey at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, where the mandala-inspired architecture symbolizes a universal connection in Buddhist and Hindu spirituality. Explore hidden treasures like a rooftop garden featuring a magnificent pagoda within the temple compound.

For those unsure when to plan their trip, Chinatown truly comes alive during festive seasons like the Chinese New Year. Expect streets adorned with vibrant decorations and filled with the lively sounds of lion dances and traditional music, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

11. National Orchid Garden

National Orchid Garden

Whether you’re an avid orchid enthusiast or simply a lover of natural elegance, get lost in the mesmerizing beauty of nature at the National Orchid Garden. Located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the Orchid Garden allows you to step into a world adorned with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids.

A standout feature of the garden is the Orchidarium, a glasshouse sanctuary showcasing rare and endangered orchid species. Wander through this enchanting garden, where each turn unveils a new array of vivid colors and delicate blooms. The result of successful conservation efforts.

To finish up, take in the ambience of Swan Lake as you look up to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

10. Marina Bay

Marina Bay

This iconic waterfront area, with its glittering skyscrapers and architectural marvels, is a testament to Singapore’s vision as a global city and a must-visit destination for any traveler.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the area comes alive with a kaleidoscope of lights, casting a radiant glow over the waters. The bay area is a seamless blend of recreational spaces, fine dining, casual eateries and entertainment hubs, each offering a unique slice of the city’s dynamic pulse.

At the heart of Marina Bay stands the architectural wonder that is the Marina Bay Sands resort. Comprising three towering hotel towers linked by the renowned rooftop SkyPark, it offers unparalleled views from its 360-degree observation deck.

9. Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is a giant Ferris wheel, only with benefits, that only start with the stunning views below. Cars hold up to 28 people as they circle above the city. When it opened in 2008, it was the highest Ferris wheel in the world, reaching 165 meters (541 feet) up into the Singaporean sky.

With advance notice, the Flyer can accommodate disabled guests in wheelchairs. Located on Marina Bay, the Flyer’s terminal has three floors of restaurants, shops and other services.

8. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The Chinese build temples to a lot of gods and other things, but the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the more unusual. In the late 1980s when a Buddhist temple was first proposed for Singapore’s Chinatown, it was supposed to become a more traditional temple.

Somewhere along the line it became the Tooth Relic Temple, a home for a tooth relic from Buddha. The temple, located in central Chinatown, also features other arts and culture of Singaporean Buddhists.

7. Night Safari

Night Safari

Travelers who enjoy nightlife but are tired of the club scene should head over to Night Safari where nocturnal, not party, animals are on display. Since it opened in 1984, it is one of Singapore’s top attractions, with more than one million people annually enjoying a tram ride through seven of the world’s geographic regions.

Visitors also can take a trail walk to learn more about animal habits while another section features a show on the organization’s work to preserve threatened species through captive breeding programs. Three restaurants features menus and entertainment that reflect life in the jungle or rainforest.

6. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Travelers on a budget will appreciate the Singapore Botanic Gardens as most of the gardens are free; there is only a charge for the National Orchid Garden, the most visited section of the garden. The garden contains more than 60,000 species of plants and animals, and is home to the world’s first children’s garden. Past visitors rave about the tropical greenery of the gardens.

5. Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is a recent addition to Singapore’s tourist attractions, but is one that gardeners won’t want to miss visiting. Open less than a decade, Gardens by the Bay is built on reclaimed land in central Singapore.

It consists of three gardens: Bay Central, a garden with a waterfront walk that will eventually connect the other two gardens; Bay East, which is opening in phases as sections are completed, and Bay South, the largest garden, which showcases tropical horticulture and includes tree-like structures up to 50 meters (160 feet) high that dominate the Gardens’ landscape.

4. Raffles Hotel

Raffles Hotel

Raffles Hotel, with its graceful colonial style, is the face of Singapore. Since it opened in 1887, it quickly became THE place to stay in Singapore, with writers Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Ernest Hemingway, among others, adding to its fame. This epitome of luxury boasts 15 restaurants and bars, including the Long Bar where the cocktail Singapore Sling was invented. The Raffles Hotel is legendary the world over, down to the uniformed Sikh doormen who introduce guests to this bit of Southeast Asian history. The lobby of the main building is open to the public while the hotel museum is hidden away on the 3rd floor.

3. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is another part of Singapore’s past that is still a happening place today. One of the key tourist attractions in Singapore, the quay, at the mouth of the Singapore River, was the city’s hub of commerce in the late 19th century.

It still hustles and bustles today, but with a different kind of commerce: trendy restaurants, unique boutiques, pushcart vendors and more, all of which blend Asian and European influences. Once a market, always a market, except at night when Clarke Quay teems with chic nightspots.

2. Resorts World Sentosa

Resorts World Sentosa

Resorts World Sentosa is a Singaporean destination unto itself. Located on an island off Singapore’s south coast, the property features hotels, restaurants, a casino, theme parks – in short, something for everyone no matter how old they are. With this location, attractions obviously center around the sea: Marine Life Park, Dolphin Island, a water park and an aquarium.

Other attractions include Universal Studios Singapore and nightly entertainment. The casino offers a variety of table games sand 2,400 slot machines; be forewarned, it does enforce a dress code. The resort offers more than 60 dining options for hungry guests.

1. Orchard Road

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is the main shopping street of Singapore, regularly frequented by the locals as well as foreign tourists. Named after the fruit orchards that the road led to, Orchard Road is flanked by malls, numerous upmarket restaurants, coffee chains, cafés, nightclubs and hotels.

It is also the site of the official residence of the President of Singapore, the Istana. The Christmas decorations along Orchard are famous and entirely over the top, with reindeers cavorting through palm trees and gingerbread houses topped with fake snow.

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Reader interactions.

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October 30, 2018 at 11:56 am

I believe Raffles is still closed for renovations.

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August 4, 2017 at 8:19 am

Why is the famous Landmark of Singapore (Merlion) not mentioned ? Because one’s visit to Singapore is not complete if he has not seen and known of the story of the “Merlion”.

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December 31, 2015 at 6:57 pm

im in singapore and i cant wait to see these places soon 🙂

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December 20, 2014 at 8:07 pm

Whatever happened to Haw Par Villa?

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Marina Bay, Merlion

The best places to visit in Singapore

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

Cam Khalid

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

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

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Marina Bay

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

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

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

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

Sentosa

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

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

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

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

Civic District

Civic District

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

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

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

Orchard

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

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

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

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

Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay

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

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

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

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

Mandai

Round up the family and surround yourself with nature and wildlife at Mandai. Say hello to more than 4,000 animals, including the world’s largest colony of orangutans, the exotic white tiger and the Hamadryas baboons at the Singapore Zoo . Take a boat ride at the Singapore River Safari where the wildlife park houses the biggest freshwater aquarium in the world. Hop on a tram ride and catch over 900 nocturnal animals in their natural habitat at the Night Safari .

In order to cover all basis, start the morning at the Singapore Zoo, followed by the River Safari, and lastly, conclude the day at the Night Safari.

Chinatown

Busy, noisy, filled with people, that’s the general consensus of the Chinatowns of the world, Singapore included. The Chinatown here is an absolute riot of colour – it's home to some of the hippest spots like Ann Siang Hill, Club Street, Amoy Street, Duxton Hill and Keong Saik Road with  a stellar mix of hawker centres and swish eateries, history and  architecture.

Sink into the juicy meats of Burnt Ends , enjoy a hot cuppa joe at Kafe Utu , unwind with a tipple or two at The Old Man , get spiritual at Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , try the cheapest Michelin meal at Chinatown Complex Market Food Centre , or simply walk down memory lane at Chinatown Heritage Centre .

Plan your trip to Chinatown and Keong Saik Road with our guides.

Bugis-Bras Basah

Bugis-Bras Basah

Welcome to the hip 'hood of Bugis-Bras Basah. With modern developments like   Andaz , the National Design Centre , the National Library and malls Bugis Junction and Bugis+ lining the streets alongside shophouses and the famous Bugis Street , this precinct is a great example showcasing the juxtaposition of Singapore's old and new.

Head for one of the city's  quirkiest streets – Haji Lane. Stroll down the narrow alley for hole-in-the-wall boutiques and cafés, as well as bold  street art and murals  – the perfect backdrop for the ‘gram. Feeling peckish? Satiate your hunger at  I Am… , The Hangar , or  Zam Zam Restaurant , one of the oldest resto in the neighbourhood. Right around the corner are the grand Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre for some culture fix.

For more visuals, check out  Aliwal Arts Centre  where you can find its back wall bathed in graffiti art. Then make your way towards Queen Street for an  epic mixed-media collage – think bizarre one-eyed monsters, tigers and dragons framed by gaudy fonts – that covers the bleak industrial walls. Next door is 222+51 , an arts centre offering an eclectic medley of lifestyle spaces for art, music, dance and fitness. Enter the corridor for walls decked with doors painted with scenes from Singapore’s past by artists Yip Yew Chong and Yuen Kum Cheong.

Katong and Joo Chiat

Katong and Joo Chiat

Take a trip down to this vibrant Eastern suburb.  Due to its rich heritage, this charming  neighbourhood  makes a great excursion to discover both old and modern Singapore, as well as the Peranakan and Eurasian cultures.  The East Coast enclave is also peppered with colourful shophouses, hipster cafes and indie boutiques – all worth a feature on your Instagram.

Start your day at the OG kopitiam Chin Mee Chin Confectionery with kaya bun and kopi. It's also home to the muchly-raved 328 Katong Laksa where laksa noobs can get an introductory taste of the local dish. Call it a night at the Peranakan-style Hotel Indigo .

Make the most of your visit at Katong and Joo Chiat with our handy guide .

Bukit Timah

Bukit Timah

Make the most of verda nt beauty and space of this buzzy neighbourhood.  Lace up for a morning nature stroll and scale up Singapore's highest peak at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve . Alternatively, giddy up for a horse ride at Gallop Stables .

Take a break at one of its many hipster cafes for brunch (or a sweet treat for the much-needed sugar). Chow down a $5 burger at Hambaobao , satisfy cupcake craving at Plain Vanilla , tuck into authentic Nyonya cuisine at Violet Oon or lunch with a view at Riders Cafe (pro tip: the best seats in the house are by the balcony overlooking the horses’ paddock and training circle).

Explore Bukit Timah further with our guide .

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The 10 best things to do in Singapore

By Rachel Everett

Chinatown singapore

The word is finally out, Singapore is now a destination in its own right – it’s no longer just a stopover. Singapore has grand designs on being the green champion of the world according to The Singapore Green Plan 2030 and has a Singapore-style focused efficiency on all such matters. The ‘Garden City’ has its moniker for a reason: there are flourishing parks and gardens, a wealth of rainforest and nature trails and gorgeous green is woven into the landscape at every given opportunity. On arrival, there’s a taste of what’s to come at Changi Jewel , followed by a coastal drive under swaying palms to the city’s tree-lined heart. The green vision is becoming a reality.

But natural (or well-designed) assets and green credentials aside, Singapore has a lot going on for such a small yet mighty city-state. The balmy, tropical island has an innovative and futuristic outlook yet preserves and celebrates its heritage well – in a microcosm, you can see fresh-faced executives rub shoulders with aunties or uncles at the hawker or kopitiam . Singapore is an epicurean playground with an explosive food scene covering all price points and it offers a rich, cultural journey for the traveller with its incredible all-singing attractions, botanical outdoor spaces, historical museums and sights, modern galleries and art installations, and polished private island resorts – but, only true insiders know where to experience the best of it. Take note: the city that was once labelled ‘dull’ is literally blooming.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens

Explore the green city

Singapore is sticking to its commitment as the ‘ Garden City ’. Almost 50 per cent of the city is green space – no easy feat given it’s also one of the most densely populated places in the world. One of the best things to do in Singapore is to grab your trainers and explore. Walking through Singapore’s CBD with its skyscrapers, Marina Bay Sands and past Moshe Safdie’s (famed architect of MBS and Jewel Changi) lotus-inspired “Welcoming hand of Singapore” might be a bit sci-fi, but look around and you’ll always see pockets of green. Always forging the way in the sustainability stakes, Singapore has big ambitions to become the world’s most sustainable urban destination with the  Singapore Green Plan 2030  – the nation’s plan to achieve net-zero emissions for the country.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is probably the most beloved garden in the city (it’s free) and the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Though it’s rooted at the city’s core, it’s an urban jungle of over 200 acres with vast swathes of green and towering trees at Palm Valley, the Ginger Garden and its outdoor restaurant The Halia (the Malay word for ginger) and the iconic bandstand and gazebo overlooking The Swan Lake. The National Orchid Garden has over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids on display: afterwards, go back to school at The Learning Forest. Locals linger for a picnic by the Symphony Stage, which floats dreamily on a water lily-filled lake.

In the botany-brimmed city, must-visit parks, gardens and trails include Fort Canning Park, The Green (or Rail) Corridor, the Coast-to-Coast Trail, MacRitchie Reservoir, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, and Mount Faber Park, not forgetting the masterful human engineering of the ‘supertrees’ and elevated walkways at Gardens by the Bay. It doesn’t matter which district you are staying in, there’ll be green space at hand – Singapore has 400 parks and four nature reserves to choose from.

Raffles Hotel Singapore

Check into the Raffles Hotel

The historic Raffles Hotel  is the most famous hotel in Singapore . Before the pandemic in 2019, Raffles was refreshed with a 150m makeover. The Emir of  Qatar  bought Raffles for £226m back in 2011. Alexandra Champalimaud helmed an interior transformation and brought the legendary luxury hotel firmly into the future while restoring the hotel’s historic legacy.

The Long Bar can be packed with tourists, and a stay at the recently redesigned landmark hotel is not cheap – but is most definitely memorable. The hotel’s sophisticated suites all come with personal butlers. Once inside, there’s dark wooden flooring and muted-white walls, ornate Asian antiques and tiles, and a glassy rooftop pool and swish spa. The design captures the old and new: new tech is embraced yet the signature Raffles hospitality remains steadfast.

There are lots of other choices it comes to booking a hotel, of course. Many have world-class features, and service standards remain best-in-class; Singapore is a place where efficiency rules.  The Fullerton Hotel  has an iconic status with its old-world Colonial glamour – the grand neoclassical building housed the General Post Office and dates back to 1928. Book a suite with a bay or river view.

Near Orchard Road, make reservations at St. Regis for luxury writ large. The hotel houses £5 million of art and has super-swanky interiors and dining options (four restaurants, no less) - no detail has been spared. Step outside the door and you’re moments from the wonders of  Singapore’s shopping hubs  such as  ION Orchard  and  Takashimaya .

For a boutique stay, try  The Warehouse Hotel , a design dream in a former spice warehouse or  Sofitel So  with its designer French touches on the cusp of Chinatown.

The ArtScience Museum

Book tickets at one of Singapore’s cultural spots

With more investment in the arts, Singapore’s cultural scene is hopping. There are plenty of outdoor music and theatre venues too, book tickets to a play or concert at Fort Canning Park, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens or the  Esplanade  - the latter has a bursting calendar of international cultural events, and gigs, shows and performances.  The ArtScience Museum  is an impressive futuristic structure and hosts global collections and exhibitions, the  Asian Civilizations Museum  is a rich chapter book on the city and region's history and cultures, and visiting the  National Gallery Singapore  is one of the best things to do in town with its interactive galleries and bright and beautiful cafe - it’s also a coveted wedding location if you spy a photo shoot. For a spectacular experience book tickets to a musical or show at the exquisite  MBS theatre .

Chinatown singapore

Go to Chinatown

When in Singapore, go to Chinatown – it is (arguably) the best in the world. There are prolific markets and local street vendors; the  Chinatown Complex Food Centre  with its boisterous maze of stalls; the beautiful Buddha Tooth Relic Temple; and rainbow-bright Sri Mariamman Temple – the oldest Hindu temple. Take in the cultural highlights and then wander past Singapore’s uncles playing Chinese chess in the square. Come nightfall, eat tasty tapas at Esquina, an upmarket Spanish and Catalan restaurant set in an airy shophouse. Try the smoked sardines, tuck into French bistro hits such as steak frites with a fine wine or two at  Les Bouchons  on Ann Siang Road or get your Singapore-Chinese fix at the hawker for around $5. If you’re there around Chinese New Year remember many businesses close but look out for CNY dragon dances: they are a theatrical experience not to be missed.

A grill and skewer expert at work on Lau Pa Sat hawker center's famous Satay Street Singapore.

Dig into Singapore’s dynamic food scene

“Have you eaten yet?” is the golden question. Where to get the best (good value, speciality) food always comes first in Singapore, be it a hawker centre, food court or Michelin-starred restaurant. Singapore has a total of 49 Michelin stars and three establishments that hold three stars, including French restaurant  Les Amis  helmed by Chef Sebastien Lepinoy and  Zén  - the sister restaurant to Stockholm’s Frantzén which is a culinary experience served over three floors of a spectacular shophouse.

Singapore’s food inclusivity is impressive too. It’s possible to eat Michelin-grade chicken rice at down-to-earth Hawker Chan for just $3 SGD (£1.75). The hawker landscape is so diverse it’s on  UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity  (2020).

Swing by the only beachside hawker centre in Singapore, East Coast Lagoon Food Village or Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown for Singapore-style Chinese dishes. At the former hawker, we like Haron Satay, delicious juicy satay sticks with a zingy chilli peanut sauce – best served with a cold brew of your choice – either an icy beer or young coconut. Don’t skip the chicken rice and curry puffs either, but make sure to ‘chope’ your way around the city when at hawkers like Singaporeans, by placing a packet of tissues on an empty table to reserve it.

Singapore food recommendations always come thick and fast, with everyday tables offering outstanding fare: for excellent French food, book  Saveur  on Purvis Street – the duck confit gets full marks. For Japanese mini plates in a retro location, seek out  Nanbantei Japanese Restaurant  which is tucked away in a 1970s-style plaza, Far East Plaza. Sit at the bar and sample dainty sticks of yakitori such as asparagus wrapped in bacon, sashimi or sushi. When it’s time for a curry,  Samy’s Curry  at Dempsey has to be experienced and is known as one of the best Indian restaurants on the island serving curry on a banana leaf circa the 1960s, washed down with a cold mango lassi.

Infinity Pool and Singapore skyline at dusk from Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Imbibe with a city view

Get all the highs atop  Marina Bay Sands SkyPark infinity pool,  the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool at 150-metres. Travel 57 levels to the three-acre SkyPark, and swim (or sip) in the clouds above the city – by the dramatic, city-view pool designed with a ‘vanishing edge’. MBS, the pinnacle of superstar architect Safdie’s masterpieces, is worth visiting itself for the sheer spectacle of its mindblowing design. Other lofty places for a tipple include  Level 33 , the world’s highest urban microbrewery with views to match, for cocktail artistry  Smoke and Mirrors  at The National Gallery rooftop, and  Lantern  at The Fullerton Bay for a panoramic of the glittering bay at night. Go for the Pineapple Mojito.

F1 in Singapore

Watch the F1

If you’re visiting in autumn, don’t miss the  Singapore Grand Prix  when there’s a definite energy in the city as visitors descend on Singapore from around the world for the night race. But there is more than one way to do the F1. Though it’s exciting to be trackside, if you don’t want the headache, watch it in 5-star surrounds from the heights of  The Mandarin Oriental  (which has great track views) – over a champagne buffet. The annual race is popular with tourists, and tickets can run a pretty penny. Book a table with friends at one of the city’s finest hotels and get your F1 thrills minus the tinnitus. What to expect? An international buffet spread includes seafood on ice, food stations for global cuisines and a dessert display with a chocolate fountain. Watch the race from the hotel balcony instead and your eardrums will thank you for it. A general insider tip for the weekend: book a hotel Sunday buffet brunch, it’s a Singapore thing – we recommend going al-fresco on the terrace at  Town  too.

Aerial View of Tioman Island coast line

Take a trip to a paradise island

Singapore’s enviable location means that you get easy access to more rugged parts of the continent. There are numerous short-haul flights to out-of-this-world Asian beach destinations such as nearby  Tioman Island  or  Redang Island . But, for those in the know, paradise is only a boat ride away.  Nikoi Island’s  sustainable luxury ethos is not the only thing that attracts residents and tourists alike, this remote tropical island is technically in Indonesia, but just two hours from Singapore by ferry (and a short drive and boat transfer). And it has everything a person could want from a sleepy beach break: stylish, private beach houses made from local driftwood, luxurious spa treatments, superb sandy shores and turquoise waters, wildlife spotting and birdsong, a handsome pool to lounge by, an excellent private restaurant focusing on local ingredients and a cinema on the sands. Owner Andrew Dixon supports the community with his foundation: offering employment opportunities, education and Nikoi’s sustainability actions. The good news – kids are welcome: there are tons of nature-driven, once-in-a-lifetime activities for them at Nikoi. Sister island  Cempedak  is equally dashing but adults-only, please. The best thing is it’s just a short (flight-free) jaunt from Singapore to serenity.

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Palawan Beach on Sentosa Island

Hit the beach (or cycle it)

Singapore’s ship-lined shores can’t compete with the bevvy of isolated Asian beaches in the region but it has a bounty all of its own. To explore on two wheels, cycle the breezy 15-kilometres of tropical beach at East Coast Park . Cycling past swaying coconut palms and seaside picnic benches, it’s a relaxing route rimming the big blue.

For more of a challenge, cycle to the quieter sands of older Changi Beach Park and get the bumboat to the tiny island of Pulau Ubin, one of the last two remaining kampongs – or traditional villages – in Singapore. There’s also an airport connector (3.5km) from the East Coast Park to the nature-inspired Jewel Changi Airport , that doubles as a fun lifestyle venue and includes the Rain Vortex (a seven-story tall indoor waterfall), the Shiseido Forest Valley (an indoor forest with 900 trees), Canopy Park and Discovery Slides. The Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail (36km) across the island can be cycled or hiked.

For some downtime on Sentosa , Singapore’s island resort, Palawan Beach is the best bet with fewer crowds and gentle, sheltered shores. Part of Singapore’s Southern Islands, uninhabited Lazarus Island , Pulau Sekijang Pelepah , has a lesser-known dazzling white stretch of sand accessible from St John’s Island - the secret spot is just 15-minutes from Sentosa.

Colorful buildings in Katong district in Singapore

Stop by the hip cafes in Katong

The Peranakan heritage and picture-perfect shophouses of Katong are much better in real life, rather than on Instagram. So much so, that Katong was named one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world. More importantly, in food-obsessed Singapore, a culinary education awaits in this food-driven district. This innovative part of Singapore is a burgeoning lifestyle enclave of its own: a magic mix of hip cafes, hawkers and restaurants, fashion, art and craft boutiques, speciality shops and galleries and a very distinct flavour of its own. You can’t visit without a trip to one of the oldest coffee shops in Singapore,  Chin Mee Confectionary  - a nostalgic Hainanese-style coffee shop, or  kopitiam , set in an old-school shophouse serving strong coffee and kaya toast - toast with butter and coconut jam. Other top picks for eats and drinks include Din Tai Fung, Absolutely Chocolate and The Cider Pit.

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

Things To Do In Singapore

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

Jewel Changi Airport

Square Box Photos / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666

2. Tour The Endless Wonders Of Singapore Zoo

Two white tigers in 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

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

terrace houses on 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

Singapore botanic garden

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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

Sentosa Island in Singapore

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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

Universal Studio 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

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

Marina Bay Sands Hotel 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

Night Safari Singapore

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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

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

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

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

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

Ion Mall orchard

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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

Esplanade Theatres on the Bay

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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

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

Singapore River Safari boat tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address:  80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

19. Flex Your Artistic Skills At STPI

STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery

STPI – Creative Workshop & Gallery / Facebook

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address:  41 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238236

20. Spend A Day Celebrating Art At The Gillman Barracks

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

street vendor in 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

Fort Canning Park Singapore

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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

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

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

Geylang, Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 214 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389274

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

Jurong Bird Park, Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address:  2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925

27. Visit Singapore’s Famous Raffles Hotel

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

Little India, Singapore

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

Asian Civilisations Museum interior

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

Southern Ridges, Singapore

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.

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10 Best Amazing Things to Do in Singapore 2024

best-things-to-do-singapore

1. Create Your Own Signature Singapore Perfume @ Scentopia

2. visit jewel @ changi airport while in transit, 3. stroll along marina bay waterfront promenade, 4. explore orchard road – the fashion street of singapore, 5. explore downtown singapore on a bumboat, 6. visit gardens by the bay, 7. have a city view from sands skypark, 8. souk up chinese culture in chinatown, 9. go clubbing at clarke quay, 10. enjoy orchid at national orchid garden, 11. bonus: spend a day in sentosa.

Singapore is a city of many contrasts .

It is small in size but big in surprises that are hidden in every nook and cranny.

The city attracts the rich to come and play yet it is also endearingly claimed as the second home of simpler folks.

Historical shophouses and pre-war buildings stand strong against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers and architectural wonders.

The gustatory delights range from the exquisite creations of classy restaurants to the tasty treats of hawker stalls.

Shoppers can splurge on luxurious stuff at high-end shops or haggle for a good bargain at the street markets.

The diversity of attractions is evident in the following list of the 10 best things to do in Singapore [updated 2024] . Choose what tickles your fancy or dive into an adventure that you have never done before. The choice is yours!

scentopia perfume making singapore review

  • Ticket Entrance: Free Guided tour: S$25 Perfume-making: From S$55
  • Phone +65 8031 7081
  • Opening hours Daily 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
  • Website Scentopia Singapore

WHAT: Scentopia is a new attraction at Sentosa that showcases the unique floral heritage of Singapore with a particular focus on orchids. Visitors can create their own signature scents using bottled oils from orchids around the world. For the past 8 years, researchers at Scentopia have been working hard to develop products that best represent the Singaporean culture using vegetarian-approved and halal-certified ingredients. As a result, Scentopia now has more than 6,000 oils that can be used to create your signature perfume. If you don’t have time for a whole perfume-making experience, you can buy ready-made orchid-infused products like perfumes, essential oils, and bath salts at the retail shop. Scentopia is also open for group bookings, corporate team-building activities, school trips, and other special events. WHY: Have you ever dreamed of creating a perfume that is uniquely your own? You can make that dream a reality at Scentopia! This Sentosa destination offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Asia. It also gives visitors a unique perspective in learning more about Singaporean culture and history through scent. Scentopia is best recommended for tourists who want a different kind of fun that is out of the ordinary while visiting Singapore.

  • Scentopia’s main attraction is its fully digitized & touchless perfume-making bar . Choose from over 6,000 scents that can be combined to create the scent that best reflects your personality.
  • You can explore Scentopia on your own for free or join a guided tour for S$25. Check out the daily schedules as tour topics vary throughout the day. Participants of the guided tour will receive a special gift to take home.
  • Prepare your smartphone and have a magical time with Scentopia’s augmented reality exhibits. There are more than 300 augmented reality artworks that can be viewed and used in the metaverse.

Note: Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside Scentopia premises.

Visit Jewel @ Changi Airport While in Transit

  • Ticket Jewel: Free Canopy Park: S$8
  • Phone +65 6956 9898
  • Opening hours 24/7 Shops and restaurants: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Website Jewel Changi Airport

WHAT: Jewel at Changi Airport is Singapore’s grand welcome to visitors of the Lion City. This mixed-used wonder is the brainchild of the Changi Airport Group and CapitaLand. What resulted is an awe-inspiring landmark right at the airport premises where travelers can shop, dine, and have fun. The Jewel is a tourist attraction in itself with several attractions, gardens, hotels, shops, restaurants, and other airport support facilities. WHY: Jewel at Changi Airport offers a glimpse of what the rest of the island has to offer. It is a must-visit especially if you are a first-time visitor to Singapore. Whether you are flying in or out of Singapore, make sure to allot some time to explore Jewel. You will not run out of things to do and even one whole day is not enough to explore the whole area. It is a shopper’s paradise with more than 100 stores as well as a foodie’s delight showcasing Michelin-starred restaurants, favorite local brands, and popular international chains. Kids and kids-at-heart will also love the various attractions at Jewel.

  • The HSBC Rain Vortex is located at the heart of Jewel. It is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cascading down 7 storeys! Catch the Light & Sound show at various hours in the evening.
  • Are you up for more fun and exploration? Head to the Canopy Park where you can visit different attractions and gardens such as Topiary Walk, Petal Garden, Discovery Slides, Foggy Bowls, Canopy Bridge, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, Bouncing Net, and Walking Net.
  • Singapore is known as the Garden City and the Forest Valley at Jewel is a reflection of that. This tranquil garden offers a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Enjoy the year-round spring setting amid 900 palms and trees and 60,000 shrubs that make up this verdant indoor paradise.

Note: Some attractions at Canopy Park require a separate admission fee.

Marina-Bay-Waterfront-Promenade-Singapore

  • Ticket Free
  • Opening hours 24/7

WHAT: As its name would suggest, Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is a 3.5-kilometer along-the-bay walkway that brings people across many attractions at Marina Centre, Collyer Quay, and the Bayfront.

The promenade is designed as an environment-friendly recreation area. There are mist sprays to relieve guests from the blazing Singapore heat; breeze shelters with motion sensor fans to provide visitors with a cool stop from a tour walking around the bay.

Singapore’s Marina Bay is a real beauty of nature, adorned with the most glitzy skyscrapers and unique architectural buildings. The promenade is there to give locals and tourists an up-close view of the bay.

It also serves as a viewing area for various public events.

WHY: The Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is an excellent site for a number of fun and cost-free activities along the bay.

Children can frolic at the fountain. Lovers can take a romantic walk with a picture-perfect view. Health buffs can have outdoor yoga sessions at the lower boardwalk. And everyone can sit at the bayfront and enjoy the sunset.

Free outdoor performances are also regularly held at the waterfront.

HIGHLIGHTS AT THE PROMENADE:

  • Wonder Full is considered the largest light and water show in Southeast Asia. This free nightly spectacle features a delightful show of laser lights and water projections, accompanied by orchestra music. It is best viewed from the Event Plaza, which also holds concerts and other performances.
  • The Helix Bridge connects Marina Centre to Marina South that is home to Gardens By The Bay. This uniquely designed pedestrian bridge has a double helix that resembles the DNA. Four viewing platforms are strategically located along the bridge for sightseers to enjoy breathtaking views of Singapore skyline.
  • The ArtScience Museum is a lotus-designed building that forms part of Marina Bay Sands. Explore the museum’s 21 galleries and delve into the world of art and science that helped shape the human society of today.

Orchard-Road-Singapore

  • Shopping mall operating hours 10:00 - 22:00

WHAT: Orchard Road is a 2.2-kilometer shopping and entertainment avenue in the heart of Singapore. The boulevard is splendidly filled with luxury shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels.

Orchard Road owes its name to its history as a farming area filled with fruit orchards. Gone are all the fruit trees. Modern-day Orchard sees all the lavish shopping centres rising and shining. ION Orchard, Paragon, Orchard Central, Nghe Ann City, Plaza Singapura, and Tangs are the most loved malls in this famous street.

WHY: A walk along Orchard is a chance to know how glitzy and glamorous Singapore is. A lot of creativity and love were put into decorations and lighting to make the place sparkling.

There is a bevy of shopping malls and retail shops on Orchard Road and an entire day is not enough to explore them all!

Once there, you will be awed by the wide array of goods for sale from various shops, especially during Great Singapore Sale, an annual sale season.

POPULAR SHOPPING MALLS ON ORCHARD ROAD:

  • ION Orchard is considered the most glamorous shopping complex in Singapore. It has over 300 stores, some of them offering 10% discounts for tourists through the Ion Orchard Tourist Wallet. Got cash to burn? Go and splurge at the flagship stores of Giorgio Armani, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Dior.
  • Ngee Ann City is another much-loved mall on Orchard. It houses Takashimaya department store and Kinokuniya – Singapore’s largest bookstore. Popular brand shops and Asian restaurants can also be found there.
  • In the world of Orchard luxury shopping, Lucky Plaza survives as a bargain hunter’s paradise. It is most notable for affordable deals on electronic goods, cameras, and mobile phones. Lucky Plaza is also recommended for souvenir purchasing.

Bumboat-Singapore

  • Tickets River Cruise: S$25 (adult), S$15 (child) River taxis: S$5 per trip

WHAT: In Singapore, bumboat refers to a small boat or water taxi that is used for quick transport and river tours. These bumboats are often painted with eyes and face supposedly to “see the danger ahead.”

There are two bumboat service companies in Singapore – Singapore River Cruise and Singapore River Explorer. They follow a similar route with stops at the Esplanade, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Clemenceau, and Robertson Quay.

A one-stop trip costs SGD5.00 (USD3.60). 40-minute river tours are also offered at SG$25.00 (US$18.00) per adult passenger.

WHY: A bumboat ride down the Singapore River is the cheapest and fastest way to see the stunning sights of downtown Singapore.

You can relax at the boat deck and enjoy the breeze as the boat chugs along the river.

Go in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and get the best of day and night views of the waterfront. A nighttime bumboat trip is a great chance to enjoy the light show at Marina Bay from a different yet amazing angle.

LANDMARKS TO SEE ALONG THE BUMBOAT ROUTE:

  • The Merlion is undoubtedly the most identifiable representation of Singapore. Built by a local sculptor, Lim Nang Seng, this 8.6-meter statue sits at one end of the Marina Bay waterfront.
  • Marina Bay Sands is an iconic resort complex located at the Bayfront. The landmark consists of three towers connected at the top by a 1-hectare roof terrace. Don’t forget to take a selfie on the bumboat with MBS in the background!
  • The statue of Sir Stamford Raffles stands at the Raffles Landing Site near the Boat Quay. Sir Raffles was the founder of modern-day Singapore. The statue is a reminder of Singapore’s olden days and the single point in history that changed the destiny of this Lion country.

Gardens-by-the-Bay-Singapore

WHAT: Gardens by the Bay is a modern green space that occupies 101 hectares in central Singapore.

This innovative tourist heaven was born from an international design competition to create an urban garden in the city center. The project was aimed to seal Singapore’s title as a “City in a Garden”.

The park is divided into three major sections: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden.

Since its opening in 2012, Gardens by the Bay has been visited by more than 20 million visitors.

WHY: Gardens by the Bay is a design achievement that should not be missed by anybody who sets foot in Singapore.

The garden’s advanced concept perfectly combines nature and modern technology, creating an awe-inspiring futuristic wonderland.

Gape in wide-eyed wonder at every dome and garden feature. Enjoy the free access to the sky walk and see the gardens from above!

At Gardens by the Bay, you could easily forget the time, spend the whole day, and still not want to leave at closing time.

GARDENS BY THE BAY HIGHLIGHTS:

  • The Supertrees are the first things you notice when approaching Gardens by the Bay. These vertical gardens serve as hosts to a variety of plants like ferns, vines, and orchids. Walk along the elevated walkway that winds between the Supertrees and enjoy an aerial view of the garden. Don’t miss the amazing light and sound show of the Garden Rhapsody!
  • Get lost in the Cloud Forest ! Replicate the experience of being on top of a mountain and make your way down amid a lush green forest with a jaw-dropping waterfall. Wait for the mist spray before going down for that feeling of being above the clouds in this tropical heaven!
  • Go Mediterranean at the Flower Dome ! This giant greenhouse was named the Largest Glass Greenhouse in the World by the Guinness World Records in 2015. The dome’s cool-dry climate gives it a year-round spring condition that is suitable for the housed plants. Explore the seven sectors of the Flower Dome and be transported to the gardens of Spain, Italy, South America, South Africa, Australia, and other semi-arid tropical regions.

Sands-SkyPark-Singapore

WHAT: The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck is a popular tourist attraction that overlooks Singapore from the top of the iconic Marina Bay Sands.

The wood-floored viewing area is located at the “stern” of the ship-shaped SkyPark and can hold up to 900 guests.

The observation deck offers a spectacular 360-degree view of Singapore with guided tours conducted daily on a first-come, first-served basis.

WHY: A trip to Singapore is not complete without visiting the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark.

Go up 57 levels and delight in the panoramic view of Marina Bay, the promenade, and the Singapore skyline. You can also observe the busy movement of ships going in and out of the Singapore Strait.

Avail of the guided tour to gain more insights into Singapore’s history and present-day landmarks. The tour also comes with access to the exclusive infinity pool, which is normally reserved for hotel guests.

Go in the afternoon to catch the sunset and witness the transformation of Singapore from a bustling city by day to a dazzling metropolis at night.

Nothing can beat the bird’s eye view of the Wonder Full light show when enjoying it at the Sands SkyPark.

VISITOR INFORMATION:

  • Marina Bay Sands is located at 10 Bayfront Avenue and is accessible by private vehicle, taxi, bus, MRT, or river ferry.
  • Sands SkyPark Observation Deck is open from Monday to Thursday from 09:30 to 22:00 and up to 23:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
  • Admission costs SG$23 (US$17) for adults, SG$17 (US$12.50) for children aged 2 to 12 years, and SG$20 (US$15) for senior citizens aged 65 years and above.

Chinatown-Singapore

WHAT: Singapore’s Chinatown is a delightful mix of old and new in the city’s central area.

It is a gold mine of Chinese heritage and culture with its old temples, historic shophouses, and traditional wet markets. Family-run stores and teahouses can also be found here, giving visitors a glimpse of the old Chinatown.

In contrast, boutique hotels, chic restaurants, and hip bars also exist and lend a modern touch to this fascinating town.

WHY: Chinatown offers a distinct Chinese charm that cannot be found in other areas in Singapore, a predominantly Chinese city.

Get lost in the narrow alleyways and immerse in Chinese culture and tradition. Explore the temples, visit museums, and check out the local shophouses. Hungry? Head to the hawker stalls and gorge on mouthwatering street food. A myriad of culturally rich souvenirs is available at the area’s night street market to complete your Chinatown tour.

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN CHINATOWN:

  • Go back in time at the Chinatown Heritage Centre and get a glimpse of early life in Singapore. The center is a wonderful recreation of old houses and street scenes that tell the fascinating story of the old Chinatown.
  • Explore the four-story Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and see over 300 Buddhist artifacts from different parts of Asia. The sacred relic is stored in a 2-meter solid gold stupa on the temple’s 4th floor. Free English tours are offered every Tuesday and Thursday. Book in advance to secure your slot.
  • Relish the fun and excitement at Chinatown’s street market . Haggle your way with the vendors to get the best deals on a wide variety of merchandise. Follow the scent of grilling barbecue at Food Street and pig out on satay, dim sum, seafood, noodles, and many more.

Clarke-Quay-Singapore

WHAT: Clarke Quay is the premier nightlife hub in Singapore. As soon as the sun sets, Clarke Quay transforms into a lively and vibrant nightspot.

This historical riverfront district was named after Singapore’s 2nd Governor, Sir Andrew Clarke. The quay was home to warehouses that stored commercial goods transported from the nearby Boat Quay.

Today, the old warehouses have been converted into blocks of bars and restaurants that attract partygoers to this side of Singapore.

WHY: Clarke Quay’s riverfront location makes it a perfect spot to hang out and unwind after a day touring Singapore. The cool breeze from the river lends fresh air to the crowded night scene.

Everyone is guaranteed to have a good time at Clarke Quay with its varied choices of trendy dance clubs, live music bars, and beer pubs.

Break a sweat on the dance floor, chat with bartenders at the bar counters, or go al fresco and enjoy your drink by the river beneath the moon and stars.

BEST BARS AND CLUBS IN CLARKE QUAY:

  • Chupitos Shots Bar is a favorite starting point for a quick shot before heading to other bars. Select one or two from the dizzying 130 shots that range from mild to life-threatening!
  • If you have the talent or the guts, you can jam with the bands at Crazy Elephant . This casual blues and rock ‘n’ roll bar is the favorite hangout of live music fans.
  • Dance the night away at Attica ! There’s plenty of room at this waterfront club with two dance floors that can fit up to 500 people. If you’re not into dancing, you can just relax and chill out with your cocktail of choice at the club’s bar on the river.

National-Orchid-Garden-Singapore

WHAT: National Orchid Garden is located within Singapore Botanic Gardens. It sprawls across three hectares on the botanical garden’s highest hill.

The garden’s landscaped slopes display more than 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. This gorgeous garden is divided into four zones that follow the four seasons with a distinct color theme for each zone.

The garden opened to the public in October 1995.

WHY: The National Orchid Garden is a green oasis where you can admire the beautiful blooms of Singapore’s national flower.

Most businesses in Singapore open late so why not spend your early morning at the garden? Breathe fresh air and flower scents into your lungs before heading out to enjoy the rest of Singapore.

Once inside, pretty natural treasures will make you forget about the outside life. Use some time there to find the rarest orchids among the 60,000 plants and be amazed at the huge size of the flowers.

Take the English guided tour and learn more about the characters of the different kinds of orchids.

  • Singapore Botanic Gardens is located along Cluny Road. It is accessible by private car, taxi, bus, and MRT.
  • The orchid garden is open daily from 08:30 to 19:00 . The admission fee is SG$5 (US$4) for adults, SG$1 (US$0.75) for students and senior citizens. Children aged 12 years and below can enter for free.

Sentosa-Island-Singapore

WHAT: Sentosa Island is dubbed as “Asia’s Favorite Playground”. It is located 15 minutes away from the city center and features exciting attractions that make it a wonderful island resort for rest and recreation.

The island served as a fortress in the 19th century and became a military base after the Second World War. These days, Fort Siloso still stands as a military museum that displays old guns and war memorabilia.

Some locals describe Sentosa Island today as Las Vegas in a forest on the beach. This is an apt description given Sentosa’s choices of fun-filled attractions like casinos, forest adventures, and beach resorts.

WHY: Sentosa Island is a huge fun playground filled with innumerable activities. The trip from the mainland to Sentosa is an adventure in itself, especially if you go by cable car.

Visitors of all ages are guaranteed to have a grand time at Sentosa Island’s treasures that are sprawled across sandy beaches and verdant rainforests.

Say hello to the tallest Merlion statue in Singapore and explore popular attractions such as Resorts World Singapore, Universal Studios, and SEA Aquarium.

At Sentosa Island, you will forget the meaning of boring!

FUN THINGS TO DO AT SENTOSA:

  • Zip down from the hill to the beach at Mega Adventure ! Conquer the aerial obstacle and make your way to the top of the trees! Burn some more energy and try out myriad activities that provide fun and thrill to anyone who dares.
  • Climb to the top of Singapore’s highest observation tower – the Tiger Sky Tower . The air-conditioned viewing deck offers a spectacular view of Sentosa and the surrounding islands. On a cloudless day, you can see as far as Malaysia and Indonesia!
  • Frolic on the beach and get a tan! Sentosa’s 3.2-kilometer sandy stretch is divided into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach , and Tanjong Beach . Sunbathe at the edge of continental Asia at Palawan Beach!

What are free activities to enjoy in Singapore?

10 New and Upcoming Attractions in Singapore

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Home » Southeast Asia » Singapore » Places to Visit

22 BEST Places to Visit in Singapore (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Then, on to the good stuff…

Marina Bay, Singapore

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

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

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

top 10 places to visit singapore

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

Singapore Food Trails

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

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

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

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

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

Raffles Hotel

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

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

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

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

National Museum of Singapore

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

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

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

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

Bukit Batok Nature Park

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

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

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

#5 – Universal Studios Singapore & Sentosa Island

Universal Studios Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

Gardens by the Bay

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

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

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

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

Clarke Quay

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

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

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

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

Merlion Park

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

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

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

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

Pulau Ubin

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

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

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

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

Haw Par Villa

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

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

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

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

Sri Mariamman Temple Singapore

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

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

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

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

Fort Canning Park Singapore

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

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

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

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

Singapore Flyer

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

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

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

top 10 places to visit singapore

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

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

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

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

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

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

ArtScience Museum

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

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

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

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

Sisters Islands

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

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

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

#17 – Chinatown

Ethnic enclaves

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

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

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

#18 – Little India

Little India Singapore

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

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

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

#19 – Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam Singapore

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

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

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

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

flickr-singapore-museum

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

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

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

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

Orchard Road

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

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

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

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

Singapore Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

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

Marina Bay Sands

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

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

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

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

What is the most visited place in Singapore?

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

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

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

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

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

What is a fun place to visit in Singapore?

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

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

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

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

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

top 10 places to visit singapore

Monique MacPhail

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The best 13 free things to do in Singapore

Jaclynn Seah

Aug 31, 2023 • 7 min read

top 10 places to visit singapore

Walk through Singapore's atmospheric Chinatown © kitzcorner / Getty Images

Singapore may be one of the most expensive countries in the world to live in, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of free things to do that are fun and meaningful ways to experience the city.

We’ve rounded up our favorite cultural, historic and outdoor freebies – a little something for everyone.

1. Enjoy Sentosa’s beaches and trails

Spending a day on the resort island of Sentosa with its theme parks and casino can be an expensive affair, but there are a surprising amount of free activities for a budget day out. Bask in the tropical weather on any of the island’s three lovely white sand beaches, stroll through historical bunkers and exhibits about WWII at Fort Siloso and enjoy an 11-story view of the southern coast from the Siloso Skywalk.

Local tip: The Sentosa Express monorail is a cheap and convenient way to enter the island at just $4, but if you walk across the Sentosa Boardwalk and catch the island’s internal shuttle buses, it’s completely free.

2. Watch free arts performances at the Esplanade

Recognizable thanks to its unusual spiky durian-like rooftops, the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is Singapore’s national performing arts center and one of the busiest in the world, hosting frequent free dance, music and theater showcases evenings and weekends. Its outdoor waterfront theater is particularly scenic, set against the backdrop of Marina Bay.

3. Capture Singapore’s iconic skyline at Marina Bay

Get that postcard-worthy shot of Singapore – for free – by strolling around the scenic Marina Bay, especially pretty at night when the city lights are out in full force. Marvel at some of Singapore’s most iconic architecture here: the three towers of Marina Bay Sands , the swirling spirals of the Helix Bridge and the spouting half-lion half-fish Merlion statue .

Planning tip : There is a 15-minute Spectra show with projections, lasers and dancing fountains every evening on the waterfront in front of Marina Bay Sands. There are two shows at 8pm and 9pm on weekdays and an additional 10pm show on Friday and Saturday.

4. Get up close with the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay

While the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest observatories, the Floral Fantasy Supertree Observatory and OCBC Skyway walk require admission tickets, you can actually see a lot of Gardens by the Bay for free. There are several outdoor gardens with different landscapes and art sculptures to check out, as well as the famous alien-like Supertrees. 

Planning tip: Swing by the Supertree Grove in the evenings just before 7:45pm and 8:45pm every night to catch Garden Rhapsody , a spectacular 15-minute light and sound show amidst the Supertrees. If you catch the 8pm Spectra show, you can take a slow stroll over to Gardens by the Bay with time to spare for the 8:45pm Garden Rhapsody show.

Singapore Supertrees and Skywalk in Gardens by the bay

5. Trace the historic Singapore River

The mouth of the Singapore River was once the heart of trade and the spot from which modern-day Singapore grew after the British set up port here in 1819. You could pay to ride one of the bumboats that transported goods along the river, but it’s more fun (and free) to walk along its river banks.

The warehouses of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay have been turned into restaurants and clubs in bustling nightlife districts, while former government offices like the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall and Asian Civilisations Museum  are now heritage architecture. Keep an eye out for the many bridges that span the river as well – Anderson Bridge, Cavenagh Bridge and Elgin Bridge are gazetted National Monuments. 

6. Relive the old days in Chinatown

You can learn plenty about how the early Chinese settlers once lived while wandering the streets of Singapore’s Chinese heritage district, Chinatown. Look out for wall murals around the neighborhood by local artist Yip Yew Chong that depict his memories growing up in Singapore in the 1970s. 

Several important temples are located here and can be visited for free – the five-story Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is rich in finery and apparently home to the Buddha’s left canine, while Thian Hock Keng , dedicated to sea goddess Mazu, is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Singapore. Chinatown Complex Food Centre is also the largest hawker center in Singapore and the best place to pick up a cheap meal in the area.

7. Invigorate your senses in Little India

Colorful Little India, the epicenter of the South Indian population in Singapore, is a fascinating place for a stroll. Pop by the Tekka Centre early in the morning for a glimpse of daily life, or pay a visit to the Hindu Sri Veerakaliamman Temple with its intricate decorations. 

The rainbow-hued Tan Teng Niah House is a popular spot for Instagrammers looking for that perfect shot, but keep an eye out for murals around the neighborhood that evoke the area’s unique history, like the buffalo that were tended by early Indian settlers here and the horse racing track that gave Race Course Road its name.

8. Marvel at the mix of cultures in Kampong Gelam

The former Malay and Arab quarter is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods, and today it's a gentrified hip hangout. Most people make a beeline for hip Haji Lane nearby with its traditional shophouses and colorful shopfronts, but you’ll find plenty of murals all around this area – Gelam Gallery in the back alleys in front of the mosque is a good place to start, and you’ll find graffiti and art galleries around Aliwal Arts Centre and Sultan Art Village too.

And don't miss the majestic Sultan Mosque with its twin golden onion-shaped domes – enter outside of prayer time to better appreciate its architecture from inside as well as outside. 

People enjoying a walk on the canopy walkway in the Southern Ridges.

9. Walk the Southern Ridges for lofty views

Some of the best views of Singapore’s skyline can be seen along the Southern Ridges , a 10km trail that stretches from the country’s second-highest hill,  Mount Faber , to the historic Kent Ridge Park . Highlights along the route include the Henderson Waves (the tallest pedestrian bridge in Singapore), the majestic Alexandra Arch, elevated canopy walks and the manicured gardens of HortPark .

10. Visit the Botanic Gardens, Singapore’s first Unesco heritage site

Inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2015, the Botanic Gardens are the first (and currently only) tropical gardens on the list. These lush gardens sit surprisingly close to the Orchard Road shopping stretch and are perfect for those who need a break from city life. Most of the gardens are free to enter except for the National Orchid Garden .

11. Explore the mangrove forests of Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve

Nature lovers can enjoy a hike in any of Singapore’s public parks for free, but if you only have time for one, make a trip to the remotely located Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve in northwestern Singapore. Bird watchers will appreciate the many migratory birds that can be found here, along with the rich biodiversity in its varied mangrove forests, mudflats and tropical rainforests.

Planning tip: Buy a $5 pass to ride the Kranji Farms Shuttle on weekends and you can also visit Singapore’s rare remaining farms nearby after exploring the nature reserve. 

Family looking at work at the National Museum of Singapore

12. Check out Singapore’s free museums

Singaporeans and permanent residents generally enjoy free or discounted tickets at most museums, but a handful offer free entry to everyone regardless of nationality. With over 8000 artifacts and artworks about Singapore's development, the  NUS Museum  is great for historians, while the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s Singapore City Gallery offers a great bird’s eye view and scale model of the city’s growth.

Local tip:  Even if you aren’t planning to pay for an admission ticket to the art galleries, you can walk through the National Gallery Singapore building for free to admire the restored colonial architecture of the former City Hall and Supreme Court.

13. Hang out at Changi Airporta

Have some time to kill before catching your flight home? Spend some time at Changi Airport. The 40m-tall Rain Vortex in the Jewel extension is the tallest indoor waterfall in the world, and the surrounding greenery of the Forest Valley makes for a great photo backdrop. There is a light and sound show every hour in the evening from 7:30pm -11:30pm. 

The freebies don’t stop after check in. In the transit area, there are several gardens to wander, free 24-hour movie theaters and TV lounges, and transit passengers with at least 5.5 hours to spare can even take a free short tour of Singapore.

Local tip: Sign up for the free Changi Rewards membership and you can ride the four-story-tall Slide@T3 up to ten times, along with other perks if you plan to shop at the airport.

This article was first published Jul 25, 2018 and updated Aug 31, 2023.

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Top 10 Places To Visit In Singapore

Ariana smith.

Sep 22, 2021

  • Destinations

Despite being a tiny city-island state, There are many popular tourist places in Singapore. This is not just because of deliberate action by the Singaporean government to attract tourists but also due to the rich and vibrant cultural and historical experience the country provides.

But the sheer variety of places to visit often tends to confuse some travelers who are pressed for time. They would prefer a list of the best places to visit, which will help them organize their trip and make the most of their time.

Although making such a list is difficult in a country that offers myriad options, here are 10 of the top places to explore Singapore . Keep in mind that many of these attractions have an admission fee, and it would be a good idea to carry a travel card with you for a secure, hassle-free experience.

Top 10 Singapore Tourist Attractions

Tourist places in Singapore are pretty famous among all-age travelers. The Singapore tourist destinations are not only famous for their cultural diversity. The law and the social structure are also other noticeable things.

Here is the list of Singapore sightseeing top 10 Singapore tourist attractions.

1. Resorts World Sentosa

Resorts World Sentosa image

Perhaps the best place to visit in Singapore is not on the main island itself but on one of the adjacent resort islands, known as Sentosa, off its southern coast. Resorts World Sentosa is a destination resort spread across almost 50 hectares of land with several unique attractions in it. Among all Singapore’s special places, this place belongs to our top priority list.

Some of these include the Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Dolphin Island, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and a wide range of restaurants. In fact, if you are a food explorer, this is an ideal place for you because it has more Michelin star outlets than any other single destination. Other attractions at Resorts World Sentosa include a casino, spas, and frequent concerts and shows.

2. Marina Bay

Marina Bay image

Marina Bay is considered one of the most happening tourist places in Singapore in the whole country. In fact, some even call it the epicenter of tourism in the country. At the heart of this is the Marina Bay Sands, a resort that has almost everything to satisfy your senses. Whether it is nightclubs, casinos, spectacular shopping centers, performances, or even luxurious accommodation, Marina Bay Sands has them all.

But the attractions of this spot don’t stop there. Offering a wide range of exhibitions, there is the ArtScience Museum in a lotus-shaped building. You will also be able to find The Float at Marina, which is the biggest floating stadium in the world, and the Merlion Park, which has the iconic statue that has a lion’s head and the body of a fish.

The tale of the ever-booming and flourishin g business sector in Singapore never gets old. The business industry is a highly developed one with a mixed market economy. But in the midst of work chaos, a few vocational escapes never hurt anyone. Thus, Marina Bay also acts as a retreat for many business vacations and trips in Singapore.

3. Gardens By The Bay

Gardens by the Bay image

One of the best things about tourist places in Singapore is that it has something for everyone. For instance, if nature is your thing, but you are not looking for an exhausting trek through the wilderness, head to Gardens by the Bay. This urban jungle is located at Marina Bay itself but requires a special mention for the one-of-a-kind experience it offers.

Top attractions within this nature park include a Cloud Forest and a Flower Dome. The former is home to the tallest indoor waterfall in the world on a mini-mountain. Things get more scientific in the Flower Dome, which is a greenhouse with plants categorized by their native countries. Apart from these, don’t miss The Supertree Grove, a cluster of tall structures supporting a skyway.

4. Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer image

If you have seen the London Eye in the UK or the High Roller in Las Vegas, US, and wanted to try a Ferris wheel in Asia, tourist places in Singapore are the best place to do it. This 42-story-tall observation wheel will give you a panoramic view of not just Singapore but places as far as Malaysia and Indonesia.

There are different options to choose from when taking a trip on the Flyer. These range from a Singapore Flight that costs about S$33 per person to a more luxurious Premium Champagne Flight that would set you back by S$79. Use your travel card and enjoy a breathtaking experience.

5. China Town

China Town image

Fancy an experience of Chinese culture in Singapore ? The country is home to a significantly large migrant Chinese population and this has played a major role in its development. Located in the Central Area of the country, Chinatown, with its characteristic stores and food stalls, is an ethnic enclave where you can get a taste of authentic Chinese culture.

Different parts of Chinatown are known for different attractions and makes this place a unique tourist place in Singapore. Pagoda Street, for instance, is the place to go if you are looking to pick up some souvenir trinkets. The district of Tanjong Pagar has several pubs, bars, and quintessentially Asian karaoke stores.

6. Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo image

If you are an animal lover and wish to see wildlife in their natural habitat without worrying about your safety, the Singapore Zoo would be a great place to visit. Located within an artificial rainforest, this zoo has over 2,800 animals housed across a staggering 26-hectare compound.

One of the most attractive features of this place is the chance to experience wildlife as they would in their native regions, such as the African savannah grasslands. Among all the tourist places in Singapore, this place is like a smooth touch of nature.

There are other enticing activities to engage in as well. For instance, you can have breakfast with orangutans for company. How much closer to nature can you get?

7. Little India

Little India image

Besides the Chinese, Singapore has a thriving Indian community as well. And if you want to get a taste of India without actually going over to the subcontinent, Little India is worth checking out. 

From aromatic spices to bright, colorful clothes and scrumptious food, this place will feed your appetite for an authentic Indian experience. If you visit during any of the Indian festivals like Deepavali, you would even be able to get a glimpse of how the celebrations go.

Little India is also a popular shopping and tourist place in Singapore. Its Mustafa Centre is open around the clock, and Tekka Centre is popular for sarees and gold. For seeing the diversity of the culture, these are the unique tourist places in Singapore.

8. Orchard Road

Orchard Road image

If you are looking for an incredible shopping experience, head to Singapore’s commercial avenue, Orchard Road. The place got its name from orchards that existed in the area during the 19 th century, but it has come a long way since then. Orchard Road is now a vibrant stretch of malls and food outlets.

When venturing out to shop till you drop, a good idea would be to use your travel credit card to ensure safe and secure transactions. These places are the famous tourist places in Singapore among shopaholic travelers.

9. Asian Civilisations Museum

Asian Civilisations Museum image

Little India and Chinatown are guaranteed to get you a taste of Singapore’s migrant culture , but if you want to have a more comprehensive experience, head to the Asian Civilisations Museum. 

With over 1,300 artifacts that include religious scriptures, relics, and ceramics from across the continent, this museum is a great place to learn and understand the different Asian cultures.

Apart from the permanent exhibition, the Asian Civilisations Museum frequently hosts various events that throw light on different cultural aspects. 

10. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens image

Spread across 60 acres of land, the Singapore Botanic Gardens was the first site to get the UNESCO World Heritage title in the country. Whether you are just interested in being close to nature or are an avid scholar of botany, this place has enough attractions to keep you engaged for hours.

Start with its famous library if you are interested in checking out some academic resources on the subject. There is an orchid garden if flowering plants in a multitude of colors excite you. 

The whole place is great for activities such as picnicking or even a casual jog, although the weather can get rather hot during the day. Among all Singapore tourist attractions, these natural tourist places in Singapore are a little bit different experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular things to do in singapore with children.

The popular things to do with children in singapore,

1. Singapore Mass Rapid Transit

2.National Orchid Graden

3.Grdens by the bay

4. Singapore Botanic Gardens

5. Cloud Forest

Is Gardens by thr bay free?

It is free to visit Gardens by the Bay and you can watch the light show. You can also access the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome and OCBC Skyway by buying tickets. When you buy it in person, you get access on both conservatories at Gardens by the bay is for an adult you will have to pay $28 SGD, and for a child $15 SGD.

How much does it cost to go on the Singapore Flyer?

Tickets for a flight to Singapore Flyer cost $33 for visitors aged 13 or above, $21 for children aged 3 to 12, and $24 for residents or citizens of Singapore aged 60 or above. Children under the age of 3 has a free entry.

Where can i go in singapore for free?

1.Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay.

2.Merlion Park.

3.Singapore Botanic Gardens.

4.Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

5.Sri Mariamman Temple.

7.MacRitchie Reservoir.

8.Jurong Lake Gardens.

How long is Singapore flyer ride?

For you tyo reach Singapore flyer ride, it will take you more or less 30 mintues.

All Set to Go? Don’t Forget These

In the excitement of deciding what to see and do & visit Singapore , do not forget to take some basic precautions to avoid any difficulties during your trip to tourist places in Singapore. 

The most important among them is to buy travel insurance that would cover things like medical expenses and loss of personal possessions when you are at your destination.

Check with popular insurance companies to know what they offer and purchase a plan that suits you. If you are planning to use your credit card abroad, remember to inform your card-related issuer of the same to avoid transactions being blocked on fraud-related concerns. 

As mentioned before, a safe option is to carry a travel credit card that would be accepted anywhere you go.

Claire Huang  Is Financial Advisor & Travel geek and has also interest in entrepreneurship & Digital marketing world. He is also working as a freelancer in Sales Team: www.bankbazaar.sg

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Exploring Canada By Boat: A Journey Through The Country’S Most Picturesque Waterways

BY  Ankita Tripathy Jan 2, 2024

Canada, with its vast and diverse landscapes, offers some of the most stunning and unique boating experiences in the world. From the enchanting archipelago of the Thousand Islands in Ontario to the remote and majestic Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories, there’s a boating adventure waiting for every kind of traveler. Let’s embark on a journey through Canada’s most picturesque waterways. Sailing Through The Thousand Islands, Ontario The Thousand Islands region, set in the Saint Lawrence River, is a boater's dream. This region is a mosaic of over a thousand islands, each with its own character. Boaters can navigate around these islands, discovering hidden coves and quaint island communities. The Thousand Islands Marina is the ideal starting point for this exploration. Here’s an interesting tidbit: the region is home to the famous Boldt Castle, a symbol of the area’s rich history. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories: A Northern Adventure Heading north, Great Slave Lake beckons with its deep, clear waters and stunning scenery. Known for its tranquility and vastness, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a more solitary boating experience. The Hay River Marina is your gateway to this northern paradise. As you sail, remember you’re on North America’s deepest lake, with depths reaching over 2,000 feet. Tranquil Waters Of Lake Louise, Alberta In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Lake Louise, a gem known for its turquoise waters set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. The serene environment here is ideal for a peaceful day of boating. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse provides access to these pristine waters. Fun fact: the lake was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria. Navigating The Gulf Islands, British Columbia Off the coast of British Columbia, the Gulf Islands offer a temperate climate, vibrant wildlife, and a strong artisan community. Cruising through these islands, you might spot orcas, seals, and bald eagles. Start yStraddling the border of Ontario and Manitoba, Lake of the Woods is a captivating destination with its waterways, islands, and diverse wildlife. With over 14,500 islands, it offers endless exploration possibilities. Northern Harbour in Kenora is the perfect launch point for your journey across this vast lake.our journey at Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park on Galiano Island, a popular launch spot for many explorers. The Majestic Bras d'Or Lake, Nova Scotia On the east coast, the large saltwater Bras d'Or Lake in Nova Scotia is a haven for boaters. Known for its beautiful landscapes and excellent sailing conditions, Bras d'Or Lake has inspired many, including the famous inventor Alexander Graham Bell, who had a summer home here. For easy lake access, head to the Baddeck Marine. Georgian Bay, Ontario: A Freshwater Wonderland Part of Lake Huron, Georgian Bay is celebrated for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. Boaters here can explore thousands of islands along the bay. Beacon Bay Marina is a popular choice for starting this adventure. A remarkable feature of Georgian Bay is that it contains the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, the Thirty Thousand Islands. Lake Of The Woods, Ontario/Manitoba: A Boater’s Labyrinth Straddling the border of Ontario and Manitoba, Lake of the Woods is a captivating destination with its waterways, islands, and diverse wildlife. With over 14,500 islands, it offers endless exploration possibilities. Northern Harbour in Kenora is the perfect launch point for your journey across this vast lake. As we conclude this tour of Canada’s most beautiful boating destinations, it’s clear that whether you seek a tranquil sail, a fishing expedition, or an exploration of uncharted waters, Canada’s diverse waterways offer an unparalleled experience. These destinations not only provide stunning natural beauty but also a chance to connect with Canada’s rich maritime heritage. Remember, when exploring these beautiful waters, it's important to prioritize safety and respect the local environment. This ensures that these magnificent destinations continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. So, grab your Canadaian boating license, and life jacket and set sail on an unforgettable journey through Canada's most picturesque waterways! Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love

Great Barrier Reef

How To Choose The Perfect Snorkeling Tour Of The Great Barrier Reef

BY  Abdul Aziz Mondal Dec 8, 2023

The Great Barrier Reef, a crown jewel in Australia's natural landscape, extends over 2,300 kilometers along the enchanting Australian coastline. Renowned for its kaleidoscopic marine life as well as diverse ecosystems, it presents an unparalleled opportunity for snorkelers as part of a luxurious trip to Australia. In this section, we will immerse ourselves in the unique allure of the Reef, underscoring its global significance as well as the captivating beauty that draws enthusiasts from across the globe. As a key highlight of any luxurious Australian journey, the Great Barrier Reef isn’t just a destination. It's an experience that encompasses the wonders of nature, wrapped in the splendor as well as the comfort that such a trip promises. Snorkeling Basics Snorkeling is an accessible and thrilling way to explore marine environments. It requires minimal equipment as well as training, making it suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. This section provides an overview of snorkeling, including basic techniques as well as tips for first-timers, setting the stage for a more in-depth exploration of snorkeling in the context of the Great Barrier Reef. Understanding The Reef Reef Diversity The Great Barrier Reef is not just a single entity. It is a collection of thousands of individual reefs and hundreds of islands, each with its own unique characteristics. In this section, we'll explore the astounding biodiversity of the Reef. From its colorful coral gardens to its myriad fish species. They vary across different parts of the Reef. Conservation Awareness As one of the most delicate ecosystems on the planet, the Great Barrier Reef faces numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and tourism impacts. This section discusses the importance of conservation efforts and how snorkelers can contribute to preserving this natural wonder for future generations. Selecting The Right Tour Tour Types There's a wide variety of Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tours available. They range from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures and from large group tours to private charters. This section helps readers understand the different types of tours available and what each offers. It helps them to choose one that best suits their interests as well as needs. Price Considerations The cost of snorkeling tours can vary greatly based on factors like duration, exclusivity, as well as additional amenities. This section provides insight into what to expect in terms of pricing and how to find a tour that fits your budget without compromising on the experience. Equipment And Preparation Gear Essentials Proper equipment is crucial for a safe as well as enjoyable snorkeling experience. This section lists the essential gear for snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, including options for renting versus buying, as well as tips for choosing the right fit and quality. Skill Requirements While snorkeling is generally accessible, certain skills can enhance the experience. This section discusses basic swimming skills, snorkeling techniques, and physical fitness considerations, as well as how to prepare for your snorkeling adventure in the Great Barrier Reef. Safety And Etiquette Safety Tips Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef is generally safe, but awareness of certain safety aspects is important. This section covers safety tips related to weather conditions, marine life interactions, and what to do in case of emergencies. Reef Etiquette Respecting the delicate marine environment of the Great Barrier Reef is crucial. This section outlines best practices for snorkelers. It includes how to minimize environmental impact, guidelines for interacting with marine life, and the importance of following local regulations and guidelines. Conclusion This final section summarizes the key points from the article. It reiterates the importance of choosing the right tour, being prepared, and respecting the Reef. It aims to leave readers with a sense of excitement as well as responsibility as they plan their snorkeling adventure in this magnificent natural wonder. Read Also: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Top 5 Used Japanese Vehicles In Australia Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures

Top 10 Places to Visit in Singapore

by Adriana John updated August 27, 2017, 10:54 am

At this point, I trust everybody ought to have heard that Singapore was a dull angling town ever. In 1965, Singapore abruptly got itself a free state as it was requested that leave by different states after racial and political strains prompted riots in the between Chinese and Malays. With no characteristic assets and couple of commercial ventures, Singapore went from quality to monetary quality, adding to its port offices, budgetary administrations, IT industry and refineries, building swathes of streets, open lodging and healing facilities. Even still, there are plenty of places to visit in Singapore today.

Individuals had now thought that it was difficult to monitor the progressions Singapore had, particularly in tourism industry . So Singapore pumped various shots of adrenaline in this industry by having Formula One Night Race, Arts and Musical scenes from universal acts and working on incorporated resorts and clubhouse. Along these lines, be it a stopover or only a getaway, you need to see the main 10 attractions in Singapore.

10. Raffles Hotel

places to visit in Singapore

To start off our list of places to visit in Singapore, we look at Pools Hotel, an incredible lodging and a national landmark, was opened in 1887. It is a serene shelter of white, veranda-encased, provincial style structures with terracotta-tiled pitched rooftops. The lodging has now obtained an overall notoriety for fine administration and nourishment, with a beguiling mix of traditional design and tropical greenery enclosures. At the back of the building is the Raffles Courtyard where it serves a menu of Italian dishes in a perfect in the open air eating space.

There are night alternatives in Raffles Hotel. The Jubilee Hall has a wide range of functions and occasions consistently, shopping arcade having bespoke tailors, classical stores, extravagance boutiques and Raffles memorabilia, bars and eateries having beverages and mixed drinks.

9. The Singapore River

places to visit in Singapore

The Singapore River is a spot where Singapore advanced history starts. At the point when Sir Stamford Raffles initially arrived at this spot, there were marshes, coolies, throws out and stockrooms. Presently the waterway is lined with verdant walkways, shops and diners. There are stream travels where one can take to appreciate the sights along the bank.

Toward the begin of the waterway bank, you can see a high statue of the water-heaving Merlion. This statue remains at a tallness of 8.3m and is a tourism symbol of Singapore. It was said that the old Singapore author, Sang NilaUtama, had recognized a lion on the lion around 14the century.

The waterway voyage will wend its approach to Boat Quay and Clarke Quay, going under a few authentic scaffolds and will take around 30 minutes. On the off chance that you had decided on a 45 minutes voyage, it will bring you promote down to Robertson Quay. Robertson Quay was loaded with distribution centers in the long time past days. Presently, the stockrooms were changed over to bars and eateries and some are supplanted by extravagance condo.

8. The Singapore Flyer

places to visit in Singapore

Opened in 2008, the Singapore Flyer one of the most popular places to visit in Singapore, is a monster Ferris wheel in Singapore . Remaining at the edge of Marina and a noteworthy stature of 541ft, you can see the engineering of Marina Bay Sands and astounding perspective of Singapore all through the ride. There are 28 containers and every aerated and cooled case can take up to 28 individuals. The ride takes around 35 minutes and there is editorial on the points of interest all through the ride. There is additionally a three-story air terminal style working at the base of the wheel, including shopping and eating choices.

7. Marina Bay Sands

places to visit in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands, ranks among the places to visit in Singapore, is the most costly improvement worked by the American gambling club resort goliath, Las Vegas Sands. The resort had turned into a notorious piece of Singapore horizon when it opened in 2010.

The Israeli draftsman, Moshe Safdie, had planned this engineering perfect work of art to look like a surfboard sitting on top of three skyscraper lodging structures. This super recreation amusement and cordiality complex components a club, lavish lodgings, tradition offices, top of the line boutiques, theater, dance club, bars and eateries. Nearby the building is the Art Science Museum , an one of a kind white shaded lotus-formed building, where it houses displays showing craftsmanship, science and media innovation. This building will consolidate into a laser light demonstrate each night.

6. Gardens by the Bay

places to visit in Singapore

The Gardens by the Bay ranks among the best places to visit in Singapore. It’s a grant winning green fascination that offers more than 250,000 uncommon plants in a finished patio nurseries and centers. This 100 hectare complex is part into three water-front spaces, in particular Bay South, Hothouses and Dining in the recreation center.

Narrows South, a 16-story tall vertical greenhouse , is intended to gather water, produce sunlight based power and go about as venting conduits for the recreation center’s studios. OCBC Skyway is a walkway between two Supertrees where one can get a 10,000 foot perspective of the patio nurseries and the Marina Bay range.

Nurseries are extraordinary for a night walk where there are tropical trees and blooms. The Cloud Forest has the world’s biggest indoor waterfall and the Flower Dome has plants from the Mediterranean and semi-and subtropical areas. Feasting in the recreation center is a spot where there is an assortment of eating choices. Not just it offers a Mediterranean-impacted, advanced European cooking , it additionally offers an easygoing setting of Supertree Dining from noodles and fast food choices to Singapore staples.

5. Esplanade Park

places to visit in Singapore

The Esplanade Park was a standout amongst not just places to visit in Singapore but also among the most well known open air spots for both the European and Asian groups amid the pilgrim time. There is a Tan Kim Seng Fountain at the recreation center’s northern end where it develops out of appreciation for the altruist who set up the main freshwater supply in Singapore. At the recreation center ‘s southern end, Lim Bo Seng Memorial was worked to devote to the World War II saint who drove the counter Japanese resistance development, Force 136.

In the event that you see two enormous, spiked shells complex, this is the Esplanade-Theaters on the Bay. This complex is planned by British draftsman Michael Wilford and Singapore DP Architects where it is a performing expressions venue which incorporates a show lobby theater, open air theater and in addition exhibition space, a performing expressions library and a shopping center.

places to visit in Singapore

Sentosa is situated at the south of Singapore and is the biggest recreational seaward island. The British had utilized the island as an army installation until 1967. Today, Sentosa is a relaxation play area with galleries, authentic sights, amusement parks , nature trails and wearing exercises.

Sentosa has magnificent transport system where you can take to achieve the sights you needed to see. Throughout the years, Sentosa has gotten significant facelifts and got to be mass business sector traveler paradise. There is Underwater world where you can stroll through the fish tanks in glass burrows, Resorts World which has an oceanium, water park, Universal Studios, clubhouse and inns. On the off chance that you are an enterprise seeker, you can go to Siloso Beach where you can experiment with an indoor skydiving wind passage and Wave House for a recreated surf experience.

3. Singapore Botanic Garden

places to visit in Singapore

In 1822, Sir Stamford Raffles had built up Botanic Gardens at the base of Government Hill and the gathering was moved to its present site at 1859. Throughout the years, the greenhouses had been broadened and arranged. Today, the Botanic Garden is currently an UNESCO World Heritage and in among the top to-visit places to visit in Singapore. The National Orchid Garden is the highlight of the Botanic Garden. It has the most noteworthy presentation of the tropical orchids on the planet. With a Cool House for a high elevation of Orchids in common settings, it has more than 1,000 species and 2,000 half and halves. The greenery enclosure is prevalent with its local people, who run and excursion and go to the incessant outside shows in Palm Valley. The patio nursery is best investigated in the relative cool morning or at night.

2. Singapore Zoo and River Safari

places to visit in Singapore

Path back to 1960s, the British had left a ragbag of family pets when they hauled out of Singapore. The 69 sections of land Singapore Zoo was formally opened in 1973 where it is currently home to more than 300 species, for example, tigers, orangutans, komodo mythical serpents, brilliant lion and jeopardized species . There is reproducing programs started for imperiled species, which had made some progress.

At the passageway, you can observe the creature appears and nourishing times posted with the goal that you can arrange the visit. There is a cable car administration (at additional charge) where you can take to visit the zoo. Waterway Safari, the main Asia stream themed safari park, was opened in 2013. The recreation center is partitioned into various zones – Mississippi, Congo, Nile, Gangers, Murray, Mekong and Yangtze waterways and one can walk around the recreation center and experience local untamed life to the waterways.

The recreation center is home toward the Southeast Asia’s biggest panda show, Jia and Kai and the world’s biggest freshwater aquarium. One can take a ride on the Amazon River Quest and to appreciate the pontoon enterprise that buoys past more than 30 types of creatures, which incorporates mammoth insect eating animal and panthers.

1. Jurong Bird Park

attractions in Singapore

Jurong Bird Park is the greatest in Asia Pacific and very natural came first in our list of places to visit in Singapore. This 49 sections of land flying creature park is home to more than 5,000 fowls with 380 species from everywhere throughout the world. The Waterfall Aviary is the most terrific range in the recreation center where it is a 5 sections of land woods containing more than 1,500 African winged creatures and has a 100-feet man-made waterfall. On the off chance that you would prefer not to visit the recreation center by foot, you can jump on a cable car to have an outline of the recreation center.

On the off chance that you need to spot nearby species, you can go to Southeast Asian Bird Aviary where it contains more than 260 types of feathered creatures. There is likewise the African Wetlands display where you can see the African renowned crane. There is Jungle Jewels where it is a stroll through aviary containing hummingbirds and other South African species.

There is likewise amusing Birds Show where there is group of onlookers cooperation from the recreation center’s winged animals. All in all, there is a ton of data at the Changi Airport and lodgings. You can likewise go to Singapore Visitor Center on the off chance that you would need to know more about vacation spot .

  • Jurong Bird Park
  • Singapore Zoo and River Safari
  • Singapore Botanic Garden
  • Esplanade Park
  • Gardens by the Bay
  • Marina Bay Sands
  • The Singapore Flyer
  • The Singapore River
  • Raffles Hotel

Written by: Tinky Wee

© 2024 wonderslist.com

Top 10 activities to do in Singapore for an unforgettable visit in 2024

May 30, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Visit Gardens by the Bay

This iconic Singapore attraction features futuristic Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. In 2024, they might have new installations or events.

Credit: Unsplash

Explore Sentosa Island

Whether you're into theme parks, beaches, or just relaxing at a resort, Sentosa offers a variety of activities for all ages.

Marina Bay Sands

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Marina Bay Sands, and if you're feeling adventurous, take a swim in the infinity pool on the rooftop.

Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

Experience wildlife up close in one of the world's best-designed zoos during the day, or explore the nocturnal activities of animals in the Night Safari.

Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam

Immerse yourself in Singapore's diverse cultural heritage by visiting these vibrant neighbourhoods, each offering unique sights, sounds, and tastes.

Try Singaporean Cuisine

Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chilli crab, and roti prata. Singapore is a paradise for foodies!

ArtScience Museum

Explore the intersection of art, science, culture, and technology at this fascinating museum located at Marina Bay Sands.

Singapore Flyer

Get a bird's eye view of the city from one of the world's largest observation wheels.

Singapore River Cruise

Take a leisurely cruise along the Singapore River and learn about the city's rich history while enjoying beautiful views of its skyline.

Attend Events and Festivals

Check out what events, festivals, or exhibitions are happening during your visit. Singapore hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from music festivals to cultural celebrations.

9 famous beaches in Turkey you must visit

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Safest Countries in the World 2024

Iceland has been the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row, according to the Global Peace Index.

The Nordic countries of Europe (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland) rank among the 25 safest globally, most of them also being among the top 10 happiest nations worldwide.

Common attributes of the world's safest countries include high levels of wealth, social welfare, education, effective criminal justice systems, and positive government-citizen relationships.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. This report is published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, which defines itself as "an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to shifting the world's focus to peace as a positive, achievable and tangible measure of human wellbeing and progress." The report researches countries to determine which are the safest and which are the most dangerous .

A total of 163 countries are featured in the GPI report, which ranks each country's level of safety or danger based upon 23 different indicators. The indicators used to compile the GPI include the number of internal and external violent conflicts, level of distrust, political instability, potential for terrorist acts, number of homicides, and military expenditures as a percentage of GDP. These indicators are grouped into three broad categories—Ongoing International Conflict, Societal Safety and Security, and Militarization—and a score is calculated for each of the 163 nations featured in the report. The lower the score, the higher the nation is ranked in terms of safety.

Top 15 Safest Countries in the World (Global Peace Index — lower is better):

The United States ranked 129th in the Global Peace Ranking for 2022. The United States' ranking has fallen every year since 2016, a drop usually attributed to a decrease in life satisfaction, rising political division, and an increasing wealth gap.

Is the World Becoming More or Less Safe?

According to the 2022 GPI report, the world has become less safe over the past 14 years, with per-country scores deteriorating by 3.2% on average. The report further notes that safety and peacefulness have decreased for eleven of the past fourteen years. For example, global peace declined by 0.3% overall between the 2021 and 2022 GPI reports. While safety improved in 90 countries, it dropped in 71 countries (and remained stable in two), for a net loss.

The 2022 report also states that declines tend to happen more swiftly and precipitously than do improvements, and pointed out that the most significant deterioration occurred in countries in conflict, such as Russia , Ukraine , Guinea , Burkina Faso , and Haiti . Europe remained the most peaceful region in the world, a position it has held for all the 16 years in which the Global Peace Index has existed.

World peace also decreased between the 2020 and 2021 reports, though by a much smaller margin of 0.07%, with 87 countries improving and 73 deteriorating. The COVID-19 crisis and increasing tensions among major world powers were cited as two main causes for the decrease. A comparison of the 2020 and 2019 reports, to step back a year, reveals a total of 81 countries growing more peaceful and 80 deteriorating. The average country score deteriorated by 0.34%.

The Safest Continent in the World

A majority of the top 25 safest countries are European countries. Most notable are the Nordic countries of Europe. Norway , Sweden , Denmark , Iceland , and Finland are not only among Europe's safest countries , they are among the top 25 safest countries anywhere on Earth. This region is thus considered the safest in the world, with a homicide rate of 0.8 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants. These five Nordic countries are all in the top 10 happiest countries in the world as well. The second-safest region among the top 25 safest countries is Asia . Both Europe and Asia have the world’s lowest homicide rates of 3 or fewer per 100,000 inhabitants.

Qualities the World's Safest Countries Have in Common

There are some commonalities among the safest countries in the world. For instance, safe countries tend to display high levels of wealth, social welfare, and education. Additionally, safe countries typically have effective criminal justice systems and governments that maintain very healthy relationships with their citizens.

Profiles of the World's 10 Safest Countries

According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000. Iceland has a very low level of crime, which is typically attributed to its high standard of living, small population, strong social attitudes against crime, a high level of trust in its well-trained police force, and a lack of tension among social and economic classes. Iceland has no military, and the police do not carry firearms (only extendable batons and pepper spray). Iceland also has laws in place to guarantee equality, such as legal same-sex marriage and same-sex adoptions, religious freedom, and equal pay for men and women.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is the second-safest country in the world. Like Iceland, New Zealand has a very low crime rate, and violent crime is especially rare. Theft is still worth guarding against, especially in tourist areas (which holds true in every country in the world), but overall risk is minimal. Unlike its neighbor Australia , which is known for its dangerous wildlife (box jellyfish, taipan snakes, stonefish, funnel web spiders, and more), New Zealand has no deadly animals. New Zealanders are generally open-minded and have laws in place to prevent the violation of anyone's freedom of speech or expression. As in Iceland, police in New Zealand do not carry personal firearms.

Ireland became notably more peaceful in 2021 and vaulted from 11th place to 3rd in the 2022 rankings as a result. Crime is quite low outside of a few city neighborhoods ( as in any country, one should be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist-dense areas), and there is little threat of cultural violence or terrorism. In fact, the Irish landscape may pose a greater safety risk than its people—the country's breathtaking cliffs and winding country roads must be treated with respect, especially during a sudden rainstorm or in areas with no cell reception.

Ranked fourth on the 2022 Global Peace Index, Denmark is another one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Denmark is one of the few countries where people report feeling safe at any time of day or night, even children. Denmark has a high level of equality and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare — two qualities that contribute to its citizens' feelings of safety and happiness.

Corruption is rare in Danish business or politics, as honesty and trust are top priorities. While Denmark has a high personal income tax , it funds social programs that ensure all people receive services and perks that help them live comfortable lives. For example, everyone in Denmark has access to tuition-free higher education and healthcare with no additional fees to them, and the elderly are provided at-home care helpers.

Austria ranked as the fifth-safest country in the world for 2022. While violent demonstrations in the wake of ongoing social unrest remain a concern, these are relatively easy to avoid, and otherwise, Austria is a very safe country to visit. Serious crimes are uncommon (with the usual caveat to watch for pickpockets and purse-snatchers). Additionally, Austria has been spared any major acts of terrorism in recent years.

6. Portugal

Portugal comes in sixth in the most peaceful countries rankings for 2022. In 2014, Portugal was ranked 18th globally and has since made significant strides. Unlike Iceland and New Zealand, Portugal has armed police; however, an increased police presence has resulted in a decreased crime rate in the country. In recent years, Portugal has experienced an economic resurgence, decreasing its unemployment rate from over 17% to under 7%. Portugal consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement , due in no small part to its high level of safety.

7. Slovenia

One of the former constituents of Yugoslavia , Slovenia has a high safety ranking that can be attributed to its excellent scores in three categories: travel security, medical risks, and road safety. Like many Slavic states , Slovenia installed a democratic government in the mid-1990s and is now focused on improving quality of life in many areas, including safety and sustainability.

8. Czech Republic

Crime rates in the Czech Republic have steadily decreased over the years, with rates of violent crime in particular dropping significantly. The Czech Republic also has a low incidence of terrorism and natural disasters. Finally, the country boasts many clean and efficient hospitals and a state-run health insurance system that offers affordable rates and enables near-universal coverage.

9. Singapore

Singapore ranks ninth on the GPI for 2022. In a Gallup report from 2018, Singapore residents felt the highest sense of personal security and had more positive experiences with law enforcement than did residents of any other country. Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, possibly due to the severe penalties that are issued for even small crimes. The government and police strictly control guns and other firearms, and violent and confrontational crimes are rare in Singapore.

As a city-state, Singapore also ranks as the second- safest city in the world according to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). In 2019, Singapore ranked first for infrastructure security and personal security, second for digital security, and eighth for health security.

The tenth-safest country in the world for 2022 is Japan. Japan has been in the top ten countries in the Global Peace Index for 14 years, consistently receiving high marks for low crime rates , minimal internal conflict, and virtually nonexistent political unrest. Japan's proximity to potentially hostile neighbors China and North Korea could become a threat to its safety at some point, but has not thus far.

Japan is known for citizens having limited access to firearms, as the Japanese do not view carrying a firearm as an individual's right. According to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo was the safest city in the world in 2019, ranking first in cybersecurity, second for health security, and fourth for infrastructure security and personal security.

IEP applies a rigorous research process to arrive at its GPI rankings. According to IEP , “The GPI covers 163 countries comprising 99.7 percent of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources.”

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What is the safest country in the world?

Iceland is the safest country in the world, with a Global Peace Index of 1.124 .

What are the 5 safest countries in the world?

The 5 safest countries in the world are Iceland , Denmark , Ireland , New Zealand and Austria .

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Global Peace Index 2022 - Institute for Economics and Peace
  • These Are the Safest Countries - US News
  • Most Dangerous and Safest Countries Index - TravelSafe Abroad

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COMMENTS

  1. 18 Best Things to Do in Singapore

    Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023. Ranking of the top 18 things to do in Singapore. Travelers favorites include #1 Gardens by the Bay, #2 Marina Bay and more.

  2. 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

    Nearby attractions include the Asian Civilisation Museum; the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery located in Singapore's oldest fire station; and the Hong San See Temple, a picturesque century-old Buddhist place of worship. 11. Universal Studios Singapore. Universal Studios Singapore.

  3. 10 of the best things to do in Singapore

    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.

  4. 26 Best Singapore Attractions To Visit For Tourists and Locals

    18. Singapore Flyer. Things to do. Marina Bay. Marina Bay's giant, 42-storey, 165m observation wheel continues to pull a mix of tourists and locals who come for the breathtaking, 360-degree ...

  5. THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Singapore (UPDATED 2024)

    2023. 1. Gardens by the Bay. 60,550. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Admission tickets from ₹947. An integral part of Singapore's "City in a Garden" vision, Gardens by the Bay spans a total of 101 hectares of prime land at the heart of Singapore's new downtown - Marina Bay. Comprising three waterfront….

  6. 25 Unmissable Things To Do In Singapore (2024)

    16 - LONG BAR RAFFLES. Raffles is a luxury colonial-style hotel in the heart of Singapore. Having a drink in the Long Bar at Raffles is one of the most famous things to do in the city. Although it's had many homes within the hotel, the current Long Bar retains the earthy décor inspired by Malay life in the 1920s.

  7. 23 Best Things to Do in Singapore

    The Southern Ridges. The Southern Ridges is a 6.2-mile recreational trail that connects five parks along the southern ridge of Singapore—Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill, HortPark, Kent ...

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    10. Sands Skypark Observation Deck. 17,015. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Admission tickets from £22. Located on the roof of Marina Bay Sands, the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck boasts scenic views of the panoramic vistas of Marina Bay and Singapore's world-class cityscape. See ways to experience (22) 11.

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    5. Mandai. A natural sanctuary with world-class facilities. The Singapore Zoo consistently places itself as one of the world's best animal parks and a must visit when visiting the country, thanks to its naturalistic habitats that cater to the wildlife.

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    Since it opened in 1984, it is one of Singapore's top attractions, with more than one million people annually enjoying a tram ride through seven of the world's geographic regions. ... 10 Best Places to Visit in Uruguay. 10 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan. 10 Best Cape Verde Islands. 12 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Madagascar ...

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    Bukit Timah. Make the most of verdant beauty and space of this buzzy neighbourhood. Lace up for a morning nature stroll and scale up Singapore's highest peak at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve ...

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    Imbibe with a city view. Get all the highs atop Marina Bay Sands SkyPark infinity pool, the world's largest rooftop infinity pool at 150-metres. Travel 57 levels to the three-acre SkyPark, and swim (or sip) in the clouds above the city - by the dramatic, city-view pool designed with a 'vanishing edge'.

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    1. Gardens by the Bay. 60,541. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Admission tickets from ₱643. An integral part of Singapore's "City in a Garden" vision, Gardens by the Bay spans a total of 101 hectares of prime land at the heart of Singapore's new downtown - Marina Bay. Comprising three waterfront….

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    6. Sunbathe And Swim In The Pacific Island Paradise Of Sentosa Island. Sammy Wee / Shutterstock. Taking a detour to Sentosa Island is one of the most popular things to do in Singapore, and for good reason. Sentosa Island is a tourist attraction in and of itself, with luminous sandy white beaches and opulent resorts.

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    9. Go Clubbing at Clarke Quay. 10. Enjoy Orchid at National Orchid Garden. 11. Bonus: Spend a Day in Sentosa. Singapore is a city of many contrasts. It is small in size but big in surprises that are hidden in every nook and cranny. The city attracts the rich to come and play yet it is also endearingly claimed as the second home of simpler folks.

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    Visiting the Singapore Flyer, Asia's largest giant observation wheel, to enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of the pictorial country, is one of the best activities in Singapore to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city.; It is Asia's tallest Ferris wheel, holding 28 passengers in 28 air-conditioned capsules. The giant wheel is 165 metres above ground, providing a magnificent scenic view ...

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

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    If you're planning a trip to Singapore, here are the top 10 best places to visit for an unforgettable experience. 1. Marina Bay Sands. Marvel at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, a resort complex that dominates the city's skyline. Enjoy breathtaking views from the SkyPark or relax by the infinity pool (if you are a hotel guest).

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    Head to Marina Bay and hit up the SkyPark Observation Deck to take in the sprawling views of the bay and Singapore's city skyline, or get a seat on Singapore Flyer, one of the world's largest ...

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    Uncover the beauty of a city in nature from must-visit places and attractions to off-the-beaten spots, neighbourhoods, and festive events. Visit Singapore now!

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    By 1TraveltheWorld. 980. Singapore. As Asia's undisputed capital of cool, Singapore's street food, luxury lifestyle options, and sci-fi-like architecture entrance visitors from the very beginning. Top attractions such as the futurist feel of Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands casino symbolize the nation's state of affluence.

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    Its outdoor waterfront theater is particularly scenic, set against the backdrop of Marina Bay. 3. Capture Singapore's iconic skyline at Marina Bay. Get that postcard-worthy shot of Singapore - for free - by strolling around the scenic Marina Bay, especially pretty at night when the city lights are out in full force.

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    Here is the list of Singapore sightseeing top 10 Singapore tourist attractions. 1. Resorts World Sentosa. Perhaps the best place to visit in Singapore is not on the main island itself but on one of the adjacent resort islands, known as Sentosa, off its southern coast. Resorts World Sentosa is a destination resort spread across almost 50 ...

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    1. Gardens by the Bay. 60,549. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Admission tickets from S$15. An integral part of Singapore's "City in a Garden" vision, Gardens by the Bay spans a total of 101 hectares of prime land at the heart of Singapore's new downtown - Marina Bay. Comprising three waterfront….

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    Admission tickets from $12. Elevated walkway through a futuristic garden, with panoramic views of lush landscapes and city skyline, complemented by a vibrant evening light show and aromatic flower dome. See ways to experience (81) 2023. 2. Singapore Botanic Gardens. 20,065.

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    7. Marina Bay Sands. Marina Bay Sands, ranks among the places to visit in Singapore, is the most costly improvement worked by the American gambling club resort goliath, Las Vegas Sands. The resort had turned into a notorious piece of Singapore horizon when it opened in 2010. The Israeli draftsman, Moshe Safdie, had planned this engineering ...

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    May 30, 2024. By: Ayush Mehrotra. Visit Gardens by the Bay. This iconic Singapore attraction features futuristic Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. In 2024, they might have new ...

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    From Tonk to Ajmer and the haunted Bhangarh Fort, discover the top 10 must-visit places near Jaipur. AjmerAjmer is renowned for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a significant Islamic pilgrimage site. The city also houses the Ana Sagar Lake and the majestic Akbari Fort. ... 10 Hidden Gems You Never Knew Existed In Singapore.

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    1. Gardens by the Bay. 60,549. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Admission tickets from AU$17. An integral part of Singapore's "City in a Garden" vision, Gardens by the Bay spans a total of 101 hectares of prime land at the heart of Singapore's new downtown - Marina Bay. Comprising three waterfront….

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    This region is thus considered the safest in the world, with a homicide rate of 0.8 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants. These five Nordic countries are all in the top 10 happiest countries in the world as well. The second-safest region among the top 25 safest countries is Asia. Both Europe and Asia have the world's lowest homicide rates of 3 ...