Top 35 Must-See Attractions and Activities in Singapore

There is a never-ending list of things to do in Singapore. Having visited Singapore twice, we found that the best way to discover what to see in a city is to ask a local. Hence, we reached out to Singaporeans for their insights!

After exploring this local Singapore travel guide, you will gain a clearer understanding of the top attractions in Singapore and the best tours for a memorable experience. Enjoy this guide to the best Singapore attractions while planning your trip.

Top Things to Do in Singapore

Known as The Lion City, or the Garden City, Singapore is an exotic, unique, mystifying, and colorful destination. If you seek the best things to do in Singapore, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. We cover an array of attractions and tours to fuel your curiosity. To plan a full itinerary, consider a well-structured approach to allocating your time efficiently.

1. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Marina Bay Sands, recognized as a prominent hotel globally, features a Sky-park offering a stunning 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline. Perched 56 stories high, the SkyPark Observation Deck is an essential experience in Singapore.

The Marina Bay Sky Park boasts the world’s largest infinity pool, presenting one of the best views of Singapore’s central business district. For an indulgent experience, consider an overnight stay. See reviews and rates on TripAdvisor.

The Infinity Pool is exclusive to hotel guests; however, you can explore the Skypark without overnight accommodation. For details on visiting, click here.

• Tickets are approximately $17 USD for adults, $15 USD for seniors, and $13 USD for children aged 2-12.
• Opening daily: Mon-Thu 9:30 am – 10 pm, Fri-Sun 9:30 am – 11 pm.
• The hotel connects directly to the Bayfront MRT station. The SkyPark’s entrance is on level B of Tower 3.

2. Gardens by the Bay

A visit to the beautiful Gardens by the Bay is highly recommended in Singapore. Covering a total area of 101 hectares in the city center, it represents the “City in a Garden” concept. Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most cherished tourist spots, adored by locals as well!

The supertree structures, skywalk, and cooled conservatory domes offer a perfect escape within the city. If heights don’t bother you, for around $8 per adult, enjoy a stroll along the 22-meter-high skyway and take in the panoramic views of the Gardens.

You can purchase tickets for Gardens by the Bay, which includes access to the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and the remarkable suptrees. Marvel at the Sun Pavilion, the tallest indoor waterfall, and discover the floral fantasy exhibit.

3. Supertree Grove Light Show

Every night at 19:45 and 20:45, you can experience an enchanting light and music show at the Supertree Grove, bringing these tree structures to life.

The coordinated lights create a magical experience, so make sure you don’t miss this free performance while visiting Gardens by the Bay in the evening.

• Check the website for ticket prices and schedules.
• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00, Outdoor Gardens: Daily 05:00 – 02:00.

4. Cloud Forest

Next to the Gardens is the magnificent Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. These biodomes simulate diverse climates from around the globe. The Flower Dome reflects dry conditions while the Cloud Forest captures cool, damp air akin to mountainous regions.

This complex houses the world’s largest indoor waterfall, where mist cools the air, providing escape from Singapore’s warmth.

This Go-City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass grants access to many prominent attractions, including Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Avatar Experience, and the Singapore Cable Car. Find out more here.

5. Sentosa Island

Dubbed “The State of Fun,” Sentosa is a remarkable man-made theme park and recreation island. The free tram runs throughout the island, stopping at Imbiah, Beach, and Waterfront stations, allowing you to hop off wherever you wish.

You’ll find various attractions and eateries, including the Ola Beach Club, Mega Adventure Park, Butterfly Park, iFly Singapore (indoor skydiving), and the SEA Aquarium.

• Open Daily: 9 am to 6 pm. Mega Adventure Park bundles start from $12.00.
• For price info and discounts, click here.

6. The Merlion

As the mascot of Singapore, the Merlion is among the city’s top attractions.

This national icon, featuring a lion’s head atop a fish body, spouts water from its mouth. Enjoy a free light and water show from Merlion Park, believed to safeguard Singapore’s prosperity. In the evenings, this location is a popular choice for visitors!

• Showtimes: Sunday to Thursday at 8 pm and 9:30 pm, with an additional show on Fridays and weekends at 11 pm.

7. Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

The Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel is legendary. Even if you’re not a guest, trying this gin-based cocktail, created around 1915 by Ngiam Tong Boon, is a must.

Named after Singapore’s founder, Sir Stamford Raffles, it’s widely recognized as the national drink.

While the drink is a draw, the historic Raffles Hotel is the oldest hotel in Asia, built during the Colonial era and an iconic landmark of Singapore.

8. Singapore Flyer

Similar to the London Eye, the Singapore Flyer ranks as one of the world’s largest observation wheels. This observation wheel elevates guests 42 stories for sweeping views of the city. Consider booking dinner on the flyer, complete with a champagne toast for a lovely experience.

9. Chinatown

Bursting with trendy settings, Chinatown is rich in Chinese historical heritage and culture.

Once a landing place for immigrants, you can still explore the traditional Peranakan shop-houses unchanged since the 1960s. Don’t miss the Chinatown Heritage Centre located on Pagoda Street.

Wander through market stalls and restaurants lit by traditional lanterns, while discovering heritage sites like the famous Buddha Tooth Relic and nearby Hindu temples.

10. Buddha Tooth Relic

During your visit to Chinatown, be sure to check out the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, believed to house Buddha’s Sacred Tooth on the fourth floor, attracting numerous tourists and locals seeking blessings.

This expansive museum complex features a grand four-story Buddhist temple, with walls adorned by one hundred Buddha statues.

• Visit the website for services and other info.
• OPENING HOURS: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm (daily) / FREE ADMISSION.

11. Eat in Chinatown

Chinatown is a culinary labyrinth packed with excellent hawker street food and restaurants serving traditional local and authentic Chinese dishes.

If you love spicy food, don’t miss trying Mala in Singapore, just be cautious as it might numb your tongue! Experience a wide array of pure Chinese Sichuan delights like dumplings, traditional noodles, and beloved steaming hot pot!

• Explore the Singapore Hawker Center Food Tour in Chinatown to delve into the diverse culinary history.

12. Kampong Glam

Laced with history, the Kampong Glam district offers a unique cultural experience in Singapore.

Famous for its architectural landmarks and vibrant street art, be sure to visit the iconic Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and the majestic Sultan Mosque, known as Singapore’s oldest mosque. Numerous dining spots can be found around this vibrant neighborhood.

13. Haji Lane

Located near Little India in the Kampong Glam district, Haji Lane is a colorful alley abundant with restaurants, shops, and boutiques.

Noted for its indie boutiques and street art, this area offers a lively atmosphere filled with sights and scents reminiscent of India, making it a popular spot in Singapore.

14. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay serves as a lively party hub in Singapore, attracting both locals and tourist alike!

This bustling area features a plethora of restaurants serving a mix of Asian cuisine and European flavors along the scenic Singapore River.

15. Singapore River

Historically a lifeblood for the city, the Singapore River is now home to various restaurants, bars, and exciting attractions.

Consider a 40-minute bumboat ride through downtown to get a glimpse of local life along the riverside. Enhance your journey with a 7:30 pm or 8:30 pm river cruise, showcasing the laser water and light show at Marina Bay Sands!

16. Eat at the Hawker Centre

Throughout Singapore, hawker centers are the ideal go-to for delicious yet affordable food.

Indulge in authentic Southeast Asian cuisine at these centers where you can feast on local dishes such as Chicken Rice, Laksa, Satay, Carrot cake, and tasty chicken wings.

• Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre – Open 24 hours, located on the corner of Boon Tat Street and Robinson Road.
• Maxwell Road Hawker Centre – Open 08:00 – 22:00, situated at 1 Kadayanallur Street.
• Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre – Open 18:00 – 24:00, located at 20 Kensington Road, Singapore.
• Old Airport Road Food Centre – Open around 08:00 – 23:00, situated at Block 51, Old Airport Road, Geylang.
• Tekka Centre – Open 06:30 – 22:00, located at 665 Buffalo & Serangoon Roads.

17. Shop on Orchard Road

Orchard Road stands as Singapore’s fashionable shopping hub, known globally for its high-end shopping malls and restaurants.

Take time to stroll through this bustling boulevard and admire the wealth of fashion trends while discovering exceptional international brands and local designs.

18. Singapore Botanical Garden

The Singapore Botanical Garden, boasting over a century of history, is located near the city’s central district.

Being the first garden ever recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a national landmark and a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Plan to visit this picturesque tropical garden during your stay.

• Admission is free. For detailed visitor information, check their website.
• Opening Hours: 5 am to 12 midnight daily.

19. The National Orchid Garden

Within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the Orchid Garden showcases one of the world’s most diverse collections of orchids.

For information on visitor details, including admission fees and hours of operation, visit their website.

20. Skyline Luge & Skyride

A popular activity, the Skyline Luge invites both locals and tourists to race down four exciting tracks. Suitable for all ages, this thrilling experience warrants multiple rides.

Enhanced by stunning views from the scenic chairlift, this adventure looks particularly breathtaking during sunset.

21. AJ Hackett Sentosa

A renowned attraction on Siloso Beach within Sentosa Island, AJ Hackett offers adrenaline-packed activities like Bungee Jumping, Giant Swings, and a high-flying Skybridge!

If extreme sports interest you, this venue offers spectacular sunset views from The Sunset Deck.

22. The Wings of Time

Famed for its award-winning outdoor spectacle, The Wings of Time presents an impressive multi-sensory light, fire, and water display.

This event is a captivating experience to include during your visit.

23. Cable Car from Mount Faber

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore and Sentosa Island by riding the cable car from Mount Faber.

This cable car spans 5 kilometers, linking Sentosa with Mount Faber. During this scenic journey, you’ll witness a beautiful landscape unfolding before your eyes.

24. Pulau Ubin

Escape the metropolis and discover the rural charm of Pulau Ubin. This once-thriving granite quarry now serves as a tranquil nature reserve full of wildlife and scenic abandoned quarries, now transformed into serene lakes.

25. East Coast Park

Offering recreational options for everyone, East Coast Park features a beautiful beach, volleyball courts, and watersports. It also accommodates cyclists, campers, and children’s playgrounds.

26. National Gallery Singapore

Occupying the former City Hall and Old Supreme Court Building, the National Gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of modern art from Singapore and Southeast Asia.

This gallery serves as a deep dive into Singapore’s artistic history, notably featuring the popular Siapa Nama Kamu collection, highlighting art from the 19th century.

27. Universal Studios

The first and only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia is located in Singapore. This park features thrilling rides, including the Mummy Ride and water adventures in Jurassic Park among its 28 rides across seven themed zones.

28. Wildlife Nature Park

Another fascinating point of interest in Singapore is the Wildlife Nature Park, which comprises four parks – the Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari, and Jurong Bird Park.

The Singapore Zoo utilizes an “open concept” design allowing visitors to see over 2800 animals in environments similar to their natural habitats. Consider booking an outdoor feast at Jungle Breakfast with the Orangutans for a memorable experience.

29. River Safari

At the River Safari, you can meet some of Asia’s most endangered species in this uniquely themed wildlife park, home to the charming Giant Pandas placed in the Giant Panda Forest.

30. Night Safari

Experiencing the Night Safari is one of the top nocturnal adventures for families. You will traverse the park in comfort via tram, observing the creatures that roam during the night.

31. Treetop Walk

If you’re in the mood for hiking, MacRitchie Reservoir’s Treetop Walk offers a refreshing escape from urban life. The 6 km trail leading to the 250-meter-long suspension bridge takes about two hours to complete.

32. Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi transcends the notion of an airport, providing breathtaking architecture that is highly photographed. Home to the tallest indoor waterfall in the world, it boasts numerous attractions to explore.

33. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Located just 12 km from the city center, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve serves as another nature escape in Singapore.

Here, you can hike to Singapore’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Hill, standing at 163 meters tall, providing views of the lush rainforest ambiance.

34. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

A paradise for nature enthusiasts, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve spans 214 acres and ranks among the best spots in Asia for birdwatching. The raised boardwalk lets visitors stroll through the mangrove areas to spot various wildlife.

35. Eat Durian

This unique fruit is famous for its strong odor, which often deters people; yet, those who try it experience a sweet, creamy taste inside. Widely known as “hell on the outside and heaven on the inside,” it’s a must-try for adventurous eaters!

Things to Know Before You Go

Singapore has a tropical climate and experiences two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season lasts from March to August, while the rainy monsoon occurs from September to February. An umbrella is advised at all times due to unpredictable weather conditions.

Currency is Singapore Dollar (SGD) with current conversions averaging at 1 SGD = 0.74 USD. For real-time conversions, download the XE Currency Converter App.

Our #1 Money-Saving Tip in Singapore

The most efficient means to save money while exploring Singapore attractions is by acquiring a Go City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass. This option allows tailored experiences and offers access to numerous attractions, including the AJ Hackett Giant Swing, SEA Aquarium, and more.

For additional assistance in planning your ideal trip, visit our highlighted Resources Page, featuring companies we trust during our travels.