Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is one the top tourist destinations in South East Asia. It is a small island city-state, located off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, with the South China Sea to the east and the Strait of Singapore to the south.
Singapore is famous for being one of the most expensive countries in the world. It is also known for its hot & humid climate, efficiency, cultural diversity, as well as strict laws and regulations.
Some best things to do and see in Singapore include visiting the Marina Bay Sands, a luxurious hotel with a rooftop infinity pool, taking a walk through Gardens by the Bay, a nature park with towering supertrees and a flower dome, and exploring the ethnic neighborhoods of Little India and Chinatown.
Additionally, foodies will love trying the local street food at hawker centers such as Maxwell Food Centre and the famous food court at Lau Pa Sat.
For those interested in history, the National Museum of Singapore and the Peranakan Museum are must-sees. Other popular activities include shopping at Orchard Road, visiting Sentosa Island, and taking a night safari at the Singapore Zoo.
35 Best things to do in Singapore
1. Marina Bay
Marina Bay is located in the central area of Singapore that is famous for its Marina Bay Sands resort & casino, Gardens by the Bay, Merlion statue, Singapore Flyer, Esplanade, and Marina Barrage.
Marina Bay is also a popular venue for events and activities such as the annual Singapore Grand Prix and the Marina Bay Sands Light Show.
The idea for the bay area was unveiled to the public in 1988 through a two-week exhibition that highlighted how the project would establish Singapore as a prominent destination. This was followed by a multi-billion dollar investment, resulting in the construction of various architectural wonders along the waterfront.
The Marina Bay Sands hotel was designed by Moshe Safdie and opened in 2010. The complex has 561 rooms, a convention exhibition center, a shopping mall, a museum, theaters, fine-dining restaurants, the $8 billion casino and the boat-shaped rooftop infinity pool.
The most notable feature of the resort is the infinity pool called SkyPark, on the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore. It has a giant observation deck and magnificent views. Visitors can access SkyPark by purchasing a ticket or by being a hotel guest.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is one of the top attractions in Singapore that you shouldn’t miss while visiting the country. It is a nature park with futuristic Supertree structures and the flower dome, located on the Marina Bay Waterfront in the center of Singapore.
Some best things to do and see in the Garden by the Bay include:
- Flower Dome, which features a changing display of flowers and plants from around the world
- Floral Fantasy, a collection of more than 50,000 flowers and plants arranged in a variety of different gardens and exhibits.
- Cloud Forest, a cooled conservatory that simulates a high-elevation tropical rainforest.
- Supertree Grove, a collection of vertical gardens that reach up to 50 m in height.
The tickets for the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome are SGD 28 for adult tourists and discounted prices for local residents.
3. Sentosa island
Sentosa island is one of the best things to do and see in Singapore for visitors of all ages due to its pristine beaches, thrilling attractions, theme parks, and luxurious hotels.
You can relax and swim at beautiful beaches such as Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach. Palawan is ideal for families, Siloso for action and Tanjong for couples.
There is also Sentosa Nature Discovery for nature lovers that shows tropical flora and fauna from Southeast Asia. The S.E.A. Aquarium is ideal for families to spend a fun day exploring one of the largest oceanariums in the world.
The S.E.A. Aquarium is a part of Resorts World where you can find the Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Water Park, Trick Eye Museum, and Dolphin Island.
You can meet famous people from the Madame Tussauds Singapore, as well as try some of the thrilling activities such as indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore, mountain zip at Mega Adventure Park, and take a ride on the Cable Car Sky Network.
4. Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is one of Asia’s most visited theme parks that provides a good selection of attractions and rides for the whole family.
There are seven themed zones with thrilling rides, live performances. You can find the Transformers rides, the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase, and the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, which are based on movies and TV shows
The park also features a variety of dining and shopping options. It is operated by Resorts World Sentosa, and was opened in 2010.
5. Singapore Chinatown
Chinatown is a culturally rich neighborhood known for its traditional Chinese architecture, street markets, and food. It is located in the Outram district.
Some of the popular attractions in Singapore Chinatown are the Chinese Heritage Center, the Thian Hock Keng Temple, and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
You can also try a wide variety of Chinese cuisine at the many street food stalls and restaurants. Famous places to grab affordable dishes are at Chinatown’s Street Markets and Telok Ayer Street.
6. Orchard Road
Orchard Road is often considered Singapore’s premier shopping street. It is a busy boulevard that is packed with luxury shopping malls, department stores, and countless dining establishments including street vendors & international restaurants.
You can do shopping at TANGS, and of the oldest department stores in Singapore, as well as at ION Orchard where you can find all kinds of luxury and high street brands. If you love whiskies, you must check out the Grande Whisky Collection, on the ION Orchard’s 5th floor.
7. Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is one of the most vibrant nightlife areas in Singapore and is the must-see area for party lovers. It is the most popular quay on the Singapore River and is packed with nightclubs, bars, and pubs.
In addition to the lively nightlife, Clarke Quay is also home to numeros attractions such as the Asian Civilisations Museum, Statues of Sir Stamford Raffles, Fort Canning Park, Raffles Place, Boat Quay, and G-Max Reverse Bungy.
8. MacRitchie Nature Trail & Reservoir Park
MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a popular place for those interested in nature and outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, and canoeing.
It is known for the 11 km nature trail MacRitchie Reservoir trails, part of a tropical rainforest of Central Catchment Nature Reserve. There are also opportunities to spot wildlife such as monkeys, snakes & lizards.
MacRitchie Reservoir Park has a café and facilities such as a parking garage and restrooms.
9. Raffles Hotel
Raffles Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in the world and is named after Singapore’s founder, Sir Stamford Raffles. The hotel is famous for its colonial-style architecture and its Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling cocktail was invented.
Raffles Hotel was originally built in 1887 in the heart of Singapore’s central business and cultural district. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years.
Raffles Hotel has more than 100 suites and rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, and a fitness center. It has welcomed numerous famous guests including literary figures such as Joseph Conrad and Rudyard Kipling.
10. Singapore Flyer
Singapore Flyer is one of the best things to do in Singapore because it is a giant observation wheel, largest of its kind in Asia. It is a must-see place for stunning views over the city.
Singapore Flyer was opened 8 years after the London Eye, in the center of Marina Bay. It has 28 air-conditioned glass capsules, and each ride is about 30 minutes.
The best time to go for a ride is at sunset, and at night falls, it is illuminated by the lights.
11. Marina Bay Sands Casino
While visiting Singapore, you can try your luck at the Marina Bay Sands Casino, which is one of the biggest casinos in the world with 15000 square meters, 500 gaming tables, and over 30 private gaming rooms.
The casino required smart casual wear, valid government-issued ID, and you must be at least 21 years olds. It is a free entrance for locals. It is open 24/7.
12. Lau Pa Sat
Lau Pa Sat, or Telok Ayer Market, is one of the best things to do in Singapore to try authentic local food. This historic hawker center was originally founded in the 19th century, during the time of Sir Stamford Raffles, Singapore’s founder.
Lau Pa Sat was designed by James MacRitchie, British colonial engineer. It is located between Cross Street, Boon Tat Street and Robinson Road, and can be reached by MRT or bus.
13. G-Max Reverse Bungy
The G-Max Reverse Bungy is a type of amusement ride that uses bungee cords to propel riders into the air. It typically consists of a tall tower or platform, with a launch capsule or seating area at the top.
Riders are strapped into the capsule or seating area and then launched into the air, experiencing a feeling of weightlessness as they are pulled upward by the bungee cords. The ride typically lasts for several minutes and can reach heights of over 200 feet.
Singapore’s bungy jumping industry has become one of the world’s most innovative. G-Max Reverse Bungy is known for its high levels of excitement and thrills.
Reverse Bungy, also known as G-Max Reverse Bungy, is located at the nightlife hub of Clarke Quay. The riders must be 1.2 meters tall and over 12-years-old.
14. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a haven for wildlife in the northwest of Singapore. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including mangroves, mudflats, and a large number of migratory birds.
The reserve is a popular spot for birdwatching and nature walks, and offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Singapore’s wetlands.
It is also a popular tourist attraction and education center for biodiversity and conservation.
15. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
Fullerton Hotel Singapore is a five -star hotel, situated in the Central Business District, within a short distance from the Raffles Place MRT Station, Boat Quay, and Clarke Quay.
The hotel has a spa, infinity pool, a fitness center, and on-site restaurants. You can enjoy local and international dishes at the Town Restaurant, The Courtyard, and Chinese cuisine at the Jade.
16. Cruises and boat rides on Singapore River
One of the best things to do in Singapore is taking a river cruise to see the city from the water and learn about Singapore’s history and culture.
Some of the popular boat rides are:
- the Bumboat Ride, a traditional boat ride that offers a scenic tour of the river.
- the Singapore River Cruise, a more modern boat ride that takes visitors on a tour of the river’s modern developments.
- the DUCKtours, which are amphibious vehicles that take visitors on a land and river tour, and the Marina Bay Sands Light and Sound show.
17. Singapore Night Safari
Singapore Night Safari is one of the must-see attractions in Singapore. It is the first nocturnal wildlife park on the planet.
Located in Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Night Safari is home to more than 900 animals with 100 different species.
You can explore the Singapore Night Safari by a guided tram ride, or walking trails such as the Fishing Cat Trail, Leopard Trail.
Some of the animals that can be seen at the Night Safari include tigers, lions, leopards, elephants, and various species of primates and nocturnal animals.
The park also features a number of shows and performances, including the Creatures of the Night Show and the Thumbuakar Performance.
18. Singapore Expo
Singapore Expo is a large exhibition and convention center and is one of Southeast Asia’s biggest event spaces.
Singapore Expo is used for exhibitions, conventions, conferencing, meeting, and incentives. The complex includes several exhibition halls, meeting rooms, dining options and parking facilities.
The Singapore Expo was closed for redevelopment and it is now known as Singapore EXPO & MAX Atria.
19. The Singapore Turf Club
The Singapore Turf Club is a learning hub for equestrian skills and is a place for sports and recreation. This horse racing organization was founded in 1842 and is responsible for organizing horse races at the city-state’s only racecourse, Kranji Racecourse.
The club also operates a horse training center and a horse breeding program. The club is known for its major horse racing events such as the Singapore Derby and the Singapore Gold Cup.
20. Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi is one of the top attractions in Singapore, located in Changi Airport. Jewel Changi is home to lush gardens, great shopping, dining, and recreation.
Jewel Changi is connected to Changi Airport Terminal 1 and serves as a major transportation hub for the city-state. Top attractions in Jewel Changi Airport are:
- Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall with 40-meter tall
- Forest Valley, tropical forest inside a transport hub
- Canopy Park, offers Discovery Slides and Topiary Walk
- Manulife SkyNets, where you can jump up
- Foggy Bowls, walking amongst clouds
- Canopy Bridge, a glass-bottomed bridge
- Hedge Maze & Mirror Maze
- Changi Experience Studio, see behind the scenes of the Changi Airport operations
21. Southern Ridges Walking Trail
Southern Ridges Walking Trail is a great place for outdoor activities such as walking and hiking. It is 10 km of open spaces linking Kent Ridge Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, and the Labrador Nature Reserve.
The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding area, including the city skyline and the harbor. The trail includes several suspension bridges, including the Henderson Waves Bridge, which is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore.
22. Asian Civilisations Museum
The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) is one of the best things to do and see in Singapore for history buffs and culture vultures. You can learn about the art, culture, and heritage of Asia at the museum.
The museum has a collection of thousands of artifacts, such as ceramics, sculptures, textiles from ancient times. The ACM also has exhibitions and events about the pan-Asian arts and culture scene.
23. Little India
Little India is a community of Indians in Singapore, offering vibrant culture and incredible shopping. It is a great place to experience Indian culture, Hindu temples, and Indian food.
Some of the best things to do and see in Singapore’s Little India are:
- Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples
- Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, 19th century Hindu temple
- Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, Temple of a Thousand Lights
- House of Tan Teng Niah, bright rainbow hues building
- Mustafa Centre, one of Singapore’s most reasonable shopping destination
- Tekka Centre, home to a hawker center with cheap street food
- Indian Heritage Centre, artifacts shows the story of the diverse Indian
- Little India Arcade, numerous shophouses that date back to the 1920s
- The Banana Leaf Apolo, traditional Indian food is served on banana leaves.
- Ponga, home to annual four-day Pongal Festival
24. Jurong Bird Park
Jurong Bird Park is the Bird Paradise and is the largest bird park in Asia. It has a wide variety of bird species from around the world. The park is known for its large, walk-in aviaries that allow visitors to get up close with the birds.
Some of the park’s most popular exhibits include the African Waterfall Aviary, the Lory Loft, and the Pelican Cove.
Jurong Bird Park also has a number of shows and presentations that give visitors an opportunity to learn more about the birds and their habitats.
25. Geylang Red Light District
Geylang is known for its vibrant nightlife and being a center of the city’s red-light district. The area is known for its legal brothels and prostitution, as well as its many restaurants and street food vendors.
There is criminal activity, such as drug trafficking and illegal gambling. The Singapore government has made efforts to clean up the area and reduce criminal activity.
26. Peranakan Museum
If you are interested in the Peranakan heritage and culture, you must visit the Peranakan Museum. It has ten permanent galleries showing a collection of Peranakan artifacts.
The Peranakan is a person of mixed Chinese and Malay/ Indonesian heritage. Singapore Peranakans have a history dating back to the 15th-century Malacca, with ancestors believed to be Chinese traders married to local women.
27. National Museum Of Singapore
The National Museum Of Singapore is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Singapore. It is the nation’s oldest museum, with a history dating back to 1887.
Originally started at an area of a library at the Singapore Institution, it relocated to several locations, and its current location is on Stamford Road.
The museum has more than 1,700 artifacts that tell the story of Singapore’s history, from its early days as a British colony to its present-day status as a modern, multicultural nation.
28. Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park is a hilltop landmark that was once the site of a fort in the 19th century and later served as the residence of Singapore’s colonial British governors.
The park features several historical buildings and monuments, including the Battle Box, a World War II bunker, and the Spice Garden, a botanical garden showcasing the region’s unique spices and herbs.
Fort Canning Park is also a location of events and festivals, concerts, theater productions like Shakespeare in the Park, Ballet Under the Stars, Shakespeare in the Park.
Fort Canning Park is located close to Fort Canning MRT and Bras Basah MRT stations.
29. Gillman Barracks
Gillman Barracks is a contemporary arts cluster and a vibrant cultural hub, set on the site of a colonial British military barracks. Gillman Barracks is named after a famous officer of the British Army, General Sir Webb Gillman.
The site features galleries, art institutions, and artist studios, and hosts exhibitions, events, and educational programs.
Gillman Barracks is also home to the Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore, which is a non-profit organization that focuses on contemporary art from Southeast Asia.
30. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
Esplanade is a beautiful waterfront area, and an arts center that has a 1,600-seat Esplanade Concert Hall, a 2,000-seat Esplanade Theatre, as well as art installation spaces, and several other smaller performance spaces.
The complex also includes a library, art gallery, and various dining and shopping options. The Esplanade is known for hosting a wide range of performances, including music, theater, dance, and comedy shows.
31. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
If you are a nature lover, you can visit the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, which is within a short drive from the city center. It covers an area of 163 ha, home to the Bukit Timah Hill, the highest hill in Singapore.
There are many of Singapore’s native flora and fauna, as well as species of Malayan plants. It was declared an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2011.
32. Haji Lane
Haji Lane is the narrowest street in Singapore, famous for the 19th century shophouses, and a popular hangout of tourists and youngsters.
It is also a popular spot for street photography with vibrant street art, trendy cafes, and restaurants.
33. Merlion Park
Merlion Park is one of the best things to do in Singapore because it is Singapore’s major attraction. It is famous for its Merlion Statue, a mythical symbol of Singapore.
It is a popular place to take selfies with a half-fish, half-lion statue. The statue is conveniently located within walking distance from Raffles Place MRT Station.
34. S.E.A. Aquarium
S.E.A. Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Singapore for families and children. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world with more than 10,000 sea animals.
The aquarium is divided into many zones where you can see the South China Sea, Red Sea,Strait of Karimata, Java Sea, East African lakes, Bay of Bengal, Laccadive Sea.
35. Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the best free things to do and see in Singapore. It is the country’s first UNESCO Heritage Site.
Covering an area of 60 acres, the garden is a popular place for jogging, dining, and relaxing. It is also a botanical and horticultural research’s center.
You can see the world’s largest orchid plants, the SBG Heritage Museum, the CDL Green Gallery, and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you not miss in Singapore?
Some things that you shouldn’t miss in Singapore are Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, The Merlion, Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, and Sentosa Island. You can also visit Little India, Chinatown and sample delicious local dishes at hawker centers.
What are fun things to do in Singapore?
Some fun things to do in Singapore are visiting Singapore Botanic Gardens, taking a ride on the Singapore Flyer or a boat ride on the Singapore River, shopping at Orchard Road, and trying local street food at hawker centers.
Is 3 days enough to visit Singapore?
Three days may be enough to visit Singapore if you plan your itinerary well and prioritize what you want to see and do. However, you may want to consider staying longer to fully experience all the city has to offer.
How many days in Singapore is enough?
Singapore is a small country, a minimum of 3-4 days in Singapore is enough to see Singapore’s top sights such as the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
What are the best things to do in Singapore for couples?
Some of the romantic things to do in Singapore for couples are stroll the Gardens by the Bay, take a photo from Helix Bridge, see the famous statue at Merlion Park, experience Clarke Quay’s nightlife, dine at a rooftop restaurant, enjoy a sunset cruise, take a cable car ride to Sentosa Island.
What to do in Singapore for free?
Some of the free things to do in Singapore are visiting the Gardens By The Bay, strolling around Little India, Kampong Glam, Chinatown, exploring Fort Canning Park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, taking a photo next to The Merlion, and watching the light show at Marina Bay.
What to do in Singapore for a week?
Visit Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, Clarke Quay, and Little India, try local food at hawker centers, and shop at Orchard Road.
What to do in Singapore with friends?
Singapore offers a variety of activities for friends to enjoy, such as visiting Gardens by the Bay, trying local street food at hawker centers, shopping at Orchard Road, and experiencing the nightlife in Clarke Quay.
What are the best things to do in Singapore with kids?
Visit Singapore Zoo, take a ride on the Singapore Flyer, explore Gardens by the Bay, and check out Sentosa Island’s Universal Studios and Adventure Cove Waterpark for fun-filled family activities in Singapore.
What are the cheap activities to do in Singapore?
Some cheap activities to do in Singapore include visiting the Botanic Gardens, Gardens by the Bay, eat cheap food at Little India and Chinatown, taking photos at the Merlion statue, visiting Singapore Zoo & Night Safari, relaxing on the beach at Sentosa Island.
See more:
- Where to Stay in Singapore first time
- Where to Stay in Singapore with Family
- Where to stay in Singapore on a budget
So there you have it, the best things to do in Singapore for your next trip. If you enjoyed my post, please leave a comment below.