There is a never-ending list of things to do in Singapore. We have had the opportunity to visit Singapore twice, but we have found that when it comes to finding out what to see in a city, the best advice is to ask a local. So we did!
After reading this local Singapore travel guide, you will get a clear picture of the top attractions in Singapore and the best tours to make for a memorable experience. Enjoy this local’s guide to the best Singapore attractions to help you plan your trip.
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Top Things to do in Singapore
Known as The Lion City, or the Garden City, Singapore is exotic, unique, mystifying, and colorful. If you are looking for the best things to do in Singapore, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve covered the best attractions, tours and things to see and do to ignite your curiosities. To plan a full itinerary, check out The Perfect 3 Days in Singapore Itinerary
There are some affiliate links in the post below where theplanetd will earn a commission if you make a purchase but there is no extra cost to you!
1. Marina Bay Sands Skypark
Marina Bay Sands is the most renowned hotel in the world, topped by a Sky-park giving you a 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline. Located 56 stories up, the SkyPark Observation Deck is something you really must do in Singapore.
The Marina Bay Sky Park holds the world’s largest Infinity pool offering you one of the best views of Singapore’s central business district. If you want to splurge you can book a night or two for the ultimate experience. See reviews and rates on TripAdvisor
Only hotel guests have exclusive access to the Infinity Pool at Marina bay but you can visit the Skypark and experience one of Singapore’s top attractions without booking accommodation, click here out find out how.
- Tickets cost around $17 USD for adults, $15 USD for Seniors, and $13 USD for Children 2 – 12 years of age.
- Opening daily – Mon – Thu: 9:30 am – 10 pm – Fri – Sun: 9:30 am – 11 pm
- If you would like to experience the lion city on a whole new level, you can book your accommodation at the Marina Bay Sands here now!
- The hotel is linked directly to the Bayfront MRT station. The entrance to the SkyPark is on the B level of Tower 3
2. Gardens by the Bay
Exploring the beautiful Gardens by the Bay is a must do in Singapore. Spanning a total of 101 hectares in the heart of the city, it is an integral part of a “City in a Garden” concept. Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions that the locals love too!
Its supertree structures, skywalk, and Cooled Conservatory domes make it a perfect city escape. If you are not afraid of heights, you can pay a small fee of $8 per adult to stroll along the 22-meter-high skyway and enjoy the panoramic views of the Gardens.
You can purchase these tickets for entry to Gardens by the Bay which includes entrance to the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and the 16-story trees. You’ll see the Sun Pavillion, the tallest indoor waterfall, and admission the Floral Fantasy.
3. Supertree Grove Light Show
Every night (at 19:45 and 20:45) there is a beautiful light and music show at the Supertree Grove, where the tree structures come alive.
The lights are choreographed to music making you feel like you are having a mystical, fairy-tale-like experience. Don’t miss this free light & music show when you are at the Gardens of the Bay in the evening.
- For complete info of ticket prices and schedule, Click Here
- Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00, Outdoor Gardens: Daily 05:00 – 02:00
4. Cloud Forest
Not far away is the magnificent Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. This pair of biodomes simulate climates from around the world. The Flower Dome simulates the dry climate while the Cloud Forest simulates the cool damp air from the mountains.
It also houses the world’s largest indoor waterfall. The mist from the waterfall cools the air creating a cool and comfortable escape from the Singapore heat.
This Go-City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass gives you access to most of the top attractions in Singapore. It includes Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Avatar Experience, Singapore Cable Car and Sky Experience, Sentosa AJ Hackett Swing, Sky Helix, and 4D Adventure plus so many more Singapore attractions. Get details here.
5. Sentosa Island
Well-known as “The State of Fun,” Sentosa is a man-made mega theme-park and recreation island. The free tram runs within Sentosa island that stops at Imbiah station, Beach station, and Waterfront Station and you can hop off at any station.
There is also a theatre and many restaurants to choose from including the Ola Beach Club, Mega Adventure Park, Butterly Park and iFly Singapore (indoor skydiving), and SEA Aquarium.
- Open Daily: Mon to Sun, from 9 am to 6 – The Mega Adventure Park Bundles starts from $12.00.
- If you want to experience all the highlights of Sentosa Island, get the best deal here.
- For complete Price info and Discounts Click here.
- You can also book a hotel right on the island.
6. The Merlion
The Merlion is the Mascot of Singapore and is one of the most popular places to visit in the lion city.
This national icon depicts a lion’s head with a fish body spouting water from its mouth. You can catch a free light and water show from Merlion Park.
Merlion Park and is believed to guard Singapore’s prosperity. If you are looking for what to do in Singapore at night, this is the place to be! This mythical creature is located at the Singapore waterfront.
- Showtimes open daily: Sunday to Thursday: 8 pm and 9:30 pm (Friday & Weekends extra show added at 11 pm.
7. Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel
The Singapore Slings of the Raffles Hotel are legendary. Even if you are not staying at Raffles, be sure to try the famous sticky sweet Singapore Sling. It is a gin-based cocktail developed around 1915 by Ngiam Tong Boon.
Named after Singapore’s founder Sir Stamford Raffles, It is widely regarded as Singapore’s national drink.
Not only is it worth visiting for the Singapore Sling, but Raffles Hotels is and the oldest hotel in Asia. Built during the Colonial era, it is one of the most iconic buildings of Singapore.
You can stay at this 5-star colonial-style hotel in the heart of the city offering the most exceptional amenities in town. See availability and rates on Booking.com
8. Singapore Flyer
Like the London Eye, the Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s largest observation wheels. One of Singapore’s top attractions the observation wheel takes guests 42 stories above ground for a panoramic view of the city. You can book dinner on the flyer complete with a champagne toast.
9. Chinatown
Chinatown is bursting with a trendy setting yet the place is still rich in Chinese historical heritage and Chinese culture.
Once a place for Chinese immigrants, you can still find old Peranakan Shop-houses that have remained unchanged since the 60s. Make sure to visit the Chinatown Heritage Centre, on Pagoda Street.
There are market stalls and restaurants still lit by traditional lanterns. In Chinatown, you will enjoy a mix of heritage sites, the famous Buddha Tooth Relic, and nearby Hindu temples.
10. Buddha Tooth Relic
When in Chinatown, be sure to visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. It is believed to hold Buddha’s Sacred tooth on the 4th floor and has attracted tons of tourists and locals to receive blessings.
It is a large museum complex with an incredible four-story Buddhist temple. The walls on the first floor are lined with one hundred Buddha statues.
- Visit this website for services and other info
- OPENING HOURS – 7.00am to 7.00pm (Monday to Sunday) / FREE ADMISSION
11. Eat in Chinatown
Singapore’s Chinatown is a labyrinth of small roads packed with excellent hawker street food and restaurants serving traditional local dishes and authentic Chinese food.
If you are a fan of spicy food, be sure to try Mala in Singapore. Just beware that it makes your tongue go numb! You will find a vast range of pure Chinese Sichuan delights like dumplings, traditional noodles and our most loved steaming hot pot!
You will also find some indie boutiques, souvenir shops, and chic clubs with stylish wine bars around the area.
- Grab this special offer of Singapore Hawker Center Food Tour in Chinatown to discover the diverse culinary history of Singapore’s Chinatown.
- Each of the food stalls has its own opening hours; some stalls are open 24 hours daily.
12. Kampong Glam
Little India is another historic district in the Kampong Glam district of Singapore to visit.
Kampong Glam is a historic neighborhood in Singapore known for its cultural and architectural landmarks, as well as its vibrant street art and fashion scene.
Some of the top things to see while visiting Kampong Glam include Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, The Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple aka Temple of a Thousand Lights, and The House of Tan Teng Niah. Visit the Sultan Mosque, a beautiful and iconic mosque located in the heart of Kampong Glam. The mosque is open to visitors, and guided tours are available.
A great place to grab some lunch is at the Tekka Hawker Centre.
13. Haji Lane
Not far from Little India in the Kampong Glam Malay Heritage District is a single lane filled with restaurants, shops and boutiques in the Haji Lane neighborhoods. Haji Lane is Arab Street which is known for its colorful shop houses, independent boutiques, and street art. The colorful buildings will remind you of Chinatown and the area is vibrant with the sights and smells of India.
This narrow street is one of the most popular places in Singapore and is easy to get to as it is close to the city center. With tattoo parlors, graffiti murals, and vintage stores, it’s the hip strip of Singapore.
14. Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is a party hub in Singapore. A vibrant place for tourists and locals to drink and party all night is Clark Quay!
Here you will find excellent restaurants with a mix of Asian cuisine and European culture.
Located along the Singapore River it offers exciting nightlife and gleaming lights, packed with beautiful people. It offers a range of alternative Singapore things to do like cruising along the Singapore River or even trying out Bungy Jumping at G-Max Reverse Bungy!
15. Singapore River
For many decades this was the lifeline of Singapore. It is now home to a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and other attractions.
Ride the 40-minute Bumboats that cut through the heart of the city, and get a glimpse of local life while cruising down the riverside. Sail away on this historic waterway and grab your skip the line tickets here!
To spice up your trip down the River, catch the 7:30 pm or 8:30 pm River cruise and you will be able to see the laser water and light show at Marina Bay Sands!
16. Eat at the Hawker Centre
Hawker centers can be found everywhere in Singapore and they are the only place in Singapore where you can find delicious food at a reasonable price!
This is the best place for locals and travelers to indulge and experience the authentic cuisine of Southeast Asia.
Some of these Hawkers Centre serves delicious local dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa, Satay, Carrot cake, and Tasty Chicken wings.
Best Hawker Centers in Singapore
- Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 24 hours. Location: On the corner of Boon Tat Street and Robinson Road, not far from the Raffles Place MRT station.
- Maxwell Road Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:00 daily Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street
- Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre – Opening Hours: 18:00 – 24:00. Address: 20 Kensington Road, Singapore
- Old Airport Road Food Centre – Opening Hours: Around 08:00 and close at 23:00. Address: Block 51, Old Airport Road, Geylang, Singapore
- Tekka Centre – Opening Hours: 06:30 – 22:00. Address: 665 Buffalo & Serangoon Roads, Singapore
- Get this culinary food bundle and tasting experience without getting over budget and trying the best of best!
Hawker centers can be found everywhere in Singapore and they are the only place in Singapore where you can find delicious food at a reasonable price! This is the best place for locals and travelers to indulge and experience the authentic cuisine of Southeast Asia. Some of these Hawkers Centre serves delicious local dishes like Chicken Rice, Laksa, Satay, Carrot cake, and Tasty Chicken wings.
17. Shop on Orchard Road
Orchard Road is Singapore’s home of fashion and it is famously known as a major shopping belt.
An iconic street flanked by world-class shopping malls, flagship creator boutiques, distinctive restaurants, and entertainment it is the place to be in Singapore.
Stroll his bustling boulevard to people watch the ultra-rich and trendsetters who love fashion. If you love shopping and want quality finds of international, luxury brands as well as local design, head on to this street while in town.
Check this website – What’s on this Month in Orchard Road for the latest and current events.
18. Singapore Botanical Garden
The Singapore Botanical Garden is more than a one-hundred-year-old tropical rainforest located near the fringe of Singapore’s central area district.
It is the first and only garden recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a national landmark of Singapore. And it is a star attraction for locals, tourist,s and nature lovers.
Be sure to include this stunning tropical garden in your Singapore itinerary.
- Admission is free, check out the Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Information on their website.
- Opening Hours – 5 am to 12 midnight daily
19. The National Orchid Garden
Located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens and surrounded by a verdant environment, the Orchid Garden is one of Singapore’s top attractions.
It displays a wide collection of some of the rarest orchids in the world. For the Visitor Information, Admission Fee and Hour of Operation, visit their website for complete details.
- Opening hours – -8.30am – 7.00pm daily (last ticket sales and entry at 6.00pm)
Admission Fee: $5.00 for adults / $1.00 for senior citizens (60 years and above) / Free for children below 12 years - You can get the latest price and lowest deal and skip the line by booking your ticket ahead of time.
- You can get the latest price and lowest deal and skip the line by booking your ticket ahead of time.
20. Skyline Luge & Skyride
It is a favorite activity for both locals and tourists to race down four exciting tracks on a go-kart. This luge is suitable for all ages and once is definitely not enough.
I loved the luge, especially the spectacular views through the Skyride! In addition to that, you get to ride on a scenic chairlift which gives you a bird’s eye view of Sentosa Island.
It is gorgeous in the evening when the sun is about the set.
- Prices start at $23.50 per person includes 2 Luge & 2 Skyrides. For the latest events and promos visit their website here
- Skyline Luge Sentosa is open from 10 am – 9:30 pm
- Skyline Luge Sentosa is open from 10 am – 9:30 pm
21. AJ Hackett Sentosa
A popular attraction located in Sentosa Island on Siloso Beach is a place for adrenaline-charged activities like Bungee Jumping, Giant Swings, and a Skybridge!
If you like extreme sports, this is the place for you. In the evening, at The Sunset Deck, you can catch the best sunset view in Singapore from Siloso Beach!
- Buy the Mega Adventure package for the best deal with three adventures in one bundle – regular price for Bungy cost $199 and $79 (Singapore dollars)
22. The Wings of Time
Well-known for its award-winning outdoor show, you get to experience the multi-sensory Wings of Light and water effects at the Wings of Time.
This is a must do in Singapore as you will be mesmerized by an awe-inspiring display of fire, lights, water and laser effects.
- Check out the events and select your tickets. This is a perfect attraction to include in your Singapore Pass with 3 or 5 attractions.
- USD 56 – 7-hour tour package from 1:30 pm
- Catch the Wings of Time and other inclusive great deals offered here.
23. Cable Car from Mount Faber
Experience the thrill of traveling high up in the sky. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore and Sentosa Island by hopping on a cable car from Mount Faber.
Spanning a total of 5 kilometers the cable car links Sentosa to Mount Faber. During your ride, you’ll get to see the picturesque landscape unfold during the ride as you fly over Mount Faber Peak. Faber Peak is a tourist attraction unto itself
There are two different stations the cable car stops at; You can choose to board at Harbourfront or Sentosa Island.
Here’s a guide for Singapore’s Mount Faber Cable Car offering one of the amazing aerial views of Singapore and get a glimpse of this captivating city.
- Opening Hours: Singapore Cable Car: Daily 08:45 – 22:00 (Last Boarding at 21:30, Last Ticket Sale: 21:15)
- Tickets cost 22 USD for adults and 14 USD for children for a round trip.
- For the selections of Singapore’s Mt. Faber Cable Car tour and other inclusive packages, click here.
24. Pulau Ubin
Get away from the bustle of the city and experience another side of Singapore in Pulau Ubin. This popular tourist attraction was once a thriving granite quarry in the 1900s.
Today, Pulau Ubin is a nature reserve full of monkeys, wild pigs, and deserted quarries that have been transformed into lakes. To get to the island, take a 15-minute boat ride from the Changi Point Ferry terminal.
25. East Coast Park
Another city escape is East Coast Park offering recreation for all. There’s a beautiful beach for relaxing, beach volleyball, and watersports. East Coast Park also houses a cycling park, camping facilities, and a children’s playground.
26. National Gallery Singapore
National Gallery Singapore occupies the former City Hall and Old Supreme Court Building.
The National Gallery of Singapore houses the world’s largest collection of modern art from Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Located in the historic buildings that were formerly the Singapore City Hall and National Supreme Court, it is worth a visit to explore Singapore’s history through art. The most popular collection is Siapa Nama Kamu displaying art dating back to the 19th Century.
27. Universal Studios
The very first and only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia is in Singapore! There are only 4 Universal Studios around the globe and this is one of the top attractions in Singapore. For those who love the thrills of a roller coaster, screaming through the Mummy Ride, or getting soaked on water rides and river rapids of Jurrassic Park and 4D movie experiences, you get it all here! There are a total of 28 rides in seven themed zones Universal Studios Singapore. .
- Universal Studios Singapore Adult One-Day Ticket with $4 Retail Voucher (min spend $26) at $56
- Open: Monday – Sunday: 10am–7pm
- Friday – Saturday: 10am–10pm
- This all access entry ticket gives access to all seven zones of Universal Studios.
28. Wildlife Nature Park
Another Singapore point of interest is the Wildlife Nature Park. There are a total of 4 Wildlife Nature Parks – the Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari, and Jurong Bird Park.
The first three places are located at Mandai Road while the Bird Park is at Jurong. The largest bird paradise in southeast Asia. Jurong Bird Park is home to over 5,000 birds.
The Singapore Zoo is an “Open concept” which gives you an opportunity to see the wonders of nature and learn about 2800 animals living in an environment similar to their natural habitat. If you are up for an exhilarating experience, you can book an outdoor feast at Jungle Breakfast with the Orangutans. For the breakfast package, click here.
29. River Safari
Witness some of the biggest and most endangered animals at the River Safari, Singapore. It is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park where you can catch a glimpse of the famous Giant Pandas in the Giant Panda Forest to the Jurong Bird Parks and the rugged highlands of China named Jia Jia and Kai Kai!
30. Night Safari
One of Singapore’s best experiences at night is to experience a nocturnal adventure at the Night Safari with your family. You will embark on a multi-sensory after-dark adventure on the tram to catch a glimpse of creatures at night.
- You can access these parks easily with public transportation.
- The Park Hopper ticket is a perfect way to save money and visit all the parks.
- You can purchase the 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 Park Hopper ticket.
- Adult price starts at $22, for the purchase of tickets, discounts, and additional information, click here.
31. Treetop Walk
If you want to do some hiking, the Treetop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir is a great escape from the city. The trail leading to the 250 meter long suspension bridge is 6km return and takes about 2 hours.
During yoru walk be sure to keep an eye out for Long-tailed Macaque and Monitor Lizards and anteaters, known as scaly anteaters.
32. Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi is more than just an airport. It’s one of the most photographed attractions in Singapore due to its breath-taking architecture.
Designed by the best in class architects the Jewel Changi airport is not only one of the busiest airport in the world but also boosts of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Enjoy the rain vortex light show, take photos at the canopy bridge, or visit the canopy park. For a moment, you forget you’re in an airport as the garden experience is one of a kind here.
There also lots of shops and amazing selection at the food courts to make your visit to the Jewel Changi airport well worth it.
A suspension bridge made of rope, high in the jungle canopy – Sungei Buloh, Singapore
33. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Located 12 km from the city center, this Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another nature getaway from Singapore.
Here you’ll be able to hike to Singapore’s higest peak, Bukit Timah Hill standing 163 meters tall. Okay, so it’s not very high, but it does offer views of the rainforest. It is one of the first reserves in Sinapore.
34. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Nature lovers will enjoy the sungei buloh wetland reserve. This 214 acre nature park is one of the best places in Asia to see migratory birds. The raised boardwalk lets you walk through the park spotting wildlife among the mangroves.
35. Eat Durian
This one-of-a-kind fruit with a distinct strong stench that is not pleasant to smell but once you eat it, it is sweet and has a unique custardy taste. Its smell has gained the popular title “hell on the outside and heaven on the inside.” Either you love it or hate it, but I love it and would recommend you to try it!
Things to Know Before You Go
Singapore is not as seasonal as the other countries in the world. Singapore has only two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is from March to August, while the wet monsoon season is from September to February. However, it can get cloudy and rainy during the dry seasons too. It is advisable to carry an umbrella in your daypack as the weather conditions can be unpredictable.
Singapore is on the Singapore Dollar (SGD). 1 SGD = 0.74 USD. For up to date conversions, get the XE Currency Converter App.
Cars drive on the left in Singapore. Be sure to look right before crossing the streets. When standing on the escalator, stand on your right. The left side is for people to walk.
Singapore is a tiny city, and it is easy to walk around! Attractions are located very near each other as well. There are several modes of transport that you can choose from.
- If you have time and would love to experience like a local, you can choose to take the MRT and Buses to navigate around.
- Singapore doesn’t have Uber but it does have it’s own rideshare programs: GrabCar, GOJET or TADA At times, you can get SGD$5 off your rides!
- There are also taxis in Singapore.
Our #1 Money-Saving Tip in Singapore
The best way to save money and explore all the sights in Singapore is to get yourself a Go City Singapore All-Inclusive Pass. You can order this before your trip and pick it up at the airport. This is what it includes:
- Choose between 35+ attractions that include Sentosa Island Skybridge, a city river cruise, or the AJ Hackett Giant Swing, S.E.A. Aquarium, Gardens by the Bay, and more.
- Enjoy discounted entry at Singapore’s biggest tourist draws for 2 – 7 days
- Select from a list of more than 50 top Singapore attractions
- Save up to 57% compared to individual entry
- The most popular activities require advanced reservations
What I love about this pass is that it not only offers a great discount, but it allows you to customize which attractions are most important to you and gives you access to tours that are not available with other passes.
You can also opt for the more reasonable Singapore Tourist Pass.
For more information on Singapore you may enjoy these articles:
- 3 Days in Singapore – The Perfect Singapore Itinerary for First Timers
- Where to Stay in Singapore – The Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
- How to Travel Singapore Like a Local
- Outdoor Activities in Singapore
- A Tour of Haw Par Villa in Singapore
- The Best and Biggest Festivals Around The World
Have you ever been to Singapore? What do you suggest are the best Singapore attractions and activities? Did I miss anything?
As we all know the fact that Singapore is one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Everyone wants to visit this beautiful place once in their life. So Singapore is filled with perfect tourist spots, shopping malls, nightlife and modern environment. You can do a lot of things in Singapore and there be it adventure sports, wildlife, historical landmarks, casinos and big restaurants, or risque entertainment that’s why Singapore has too much to offer to tourists.
Great information here! Makes it much more appealing than I thought it would be.
I’m wondering if there is such a thing as budget accommodation anywhere in Singapore? Say under $40usd/night? Or is that just impossible thinking?
Thanks.
You can get budget accommodation in Singapore, you just may have to look at Hostels and shared rooms. Charmaine also wrote an article for us breaking down the best places to stay in Singapore including neighbourhoods with suggestions from Luxury to Budget hotels in Singapore.
Thank you for sharing this information. I didn’t even know much about these beautiful places. I am planning this year to visit Singapore with family. Your post helps me a lot. Keep travelling and let us know more about the beautiful places.
Hey Charmaine, I think I found this blog of yours at the right time. I’ll be going to Singapore next month and couldn’t have asked for a better ‘things to do’ list. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Keep traveling!
I might not want to leave if I go to Singapore.