10 Best Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore is a truly global city with a melting pot of peoples and cultures. It’s easily one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia and even worldwide. There’s something for everyone in Singapore from adventure and urban exploring to history and culture. In this article, we’ll cover the best things to do in Singapore, where to stay, and why Singapore is a must-visit destination.
Singapore is one of the world’s few city-states, and quite possibly the only one. It has full autonomy, international borders, and its own currency and military. Many other so-called city-states lack one or more of these elements.
It’s a small island nation located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It’s known for its ultra-modern development, lush green spaces, and blend of traditional and modern cultures.
Singapore ranks well on many aspirational lists including quality of life. It’s one of the wealthiest, safest places on earth, and has one of the highest life expectancies. It’s also one of the world’s busiest ports, and its strategic location has made it a significant financial and trade hub.
Despite its small size, Singapore boasts a highly diverse population, with a harmonious blend of mostly Chinese, Malay, and Indian residents. This diversity is reflected in everything from the local cuisine to the city’s architecture, making it a unique place to visit.
Best Things to Do in Singapore
1. Marina Bay Sands
One of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks, Marina Bay Sands is a resort complex that oozes luxury and grandeur. The resort features a stunning hotel, a world-class casino, and a massive shopping mall with high-end stores.
However, the highlight of Marina Bay Sands is the SkyPark, which offers breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline. The infinity pool at the top of the SkyPark is a perfect spot for Insta-worthy photos. There’s also a nightly light and water show with choreographed lasers, projections, and fountains.
2. Universal Studios Singapore
Located on Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore is a must-visit for theme park lovers. While it’s smaller than the US parks, it crams in a wide range of attractions.
Many rides are based on popular movies and TV shows like Transformers, Jurassic Park, Battlestar Galactica, and The Mummy. There are also some great shows like Shrek 4-D, “Lights, Camera, Action”, and WaterWorld.
The park is suitable for all ages, with some rides and shows for smaller kids. This is set to grow with the addition of Minion Land and Super Nintendo World which are scheduled to open soon.
3. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic park that shows Singapore’s commitment to environmental sustainability within its urban landscape. This 250-acre park features distinct zones, including the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and the iconic Supertree Grove.
The Supertree Grove, has towering vertical gardens on tree-like structures that are 50m tall! There’s a bridge connecting two of the trees similar to a canopy walkway.
The Cloud Forest is a misty environment within a huge greenhouse. It has one of the world’s largest indoor waterfalls and a mountain with a huge variety of plants. And the Flower Dome houses plants and flowers from all around the world.
4. Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and a special place for nature lovers. Spanning over 82 hectares, the gardens offer a peaceful change of pace from the city.
There’s a wide variety of plant species from different biomes, including the stunning orchid garden, palm tree valley, the rainforest, and several themed gardens.
There’s also the beautiful swan lake and a few cultural sites like the SBG Heritage Gallery, the Botanical Art Gallery, and the Forest Discovery Centre.
5. Jewel Changi Airport
Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport is more than just an airport, it’s a destination in itself. This architectural wonder features the world’s tallest indoor waterfall—the Rain Vortex—surrounded by lush greenery.
Jewel offers a wide range of attractions, including a Canopy Park with walking trails, a hedge maze, and a mirror maze. The Shiseido Forest Valley around the waterfall is another highlight, it’s a relaxing environment to walk around.
In addition to its natural beauty, Jewel Changi Airport is a shopping and dining hub, with numerous stores and restaurants offering both local and international dishes.
6. ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum, located in Marina Bay Sands, is a coming together of art, science, culture, and technology. The museum’s unique lotus-shaped exterior is a great example of Singapore’s beautiful architecture.
Inside, you’ll find a rotating series of exhibitions that blend art and science, providing an interactive and immersive experience. Exhibitions include collaborations with renowned artists and scientists, exploring themes like space, nature, and digital art.
The Future World exhibit is particularly popular, featuring interactive installations to engage with.
7. Merlion Park
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Merlion Park, home to the iconic Merlion statue. The Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is a symbol of Singapore.
The statue stands at 8.6 meters tall and spouts water from its mouth into the Marina Bay. Merlion Park is a great place to take photos, with the statue and Singapore skyline in the background.
If you’re lucky enough to be here around Singapore’s National Day it’s a great place to watch the fireworks in the evening. The National Day is celebrated on the 9th August, but they usually have fireworks every Saturday for about 6 weeks leading up to it.
8. National Gallery
The National Gallery Singapore is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in Southeast Asian culture. Housed in two historic buildings—the former Supreme Court and City Hall—the gallery holds the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia.
The architecture alone is worth a visit, as the gallery beautifully blends colonial-era structures with contemporary design elements.
Inside, you’ll find over 8,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations that span centuries. The gallery’s exhibitions often explore themes of regional identity, history, and society.
9. Koon Seng Road Colourful Houses
For a small glimpse of Singapore’s rich Peranakan heritage, head to Koon Seng Road. This charming street is famous for its row of colorful shophouses, which date back to the early 20th century.
The houses feature intricate facades with pastel colors, decorative tiles, and wooden shutters. Koon Seng Road is a favorite spot for photographers and Instagrammers, but it also offers insight into the architectural style and cultural influences of the Peranakan community. When compared with the Marina Bay area, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time here.
10. Old Hill Street Police Station
The Old Hill Street Police Station is a historic building that is iconic for its colorful windows. Built in 1934, this building was once the largest government building in Singapore.
Today, it houses the Ministry of Communications and Information and the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth. The building’s 927 windows are painted in a rainbow of colors, making it a popular photography spot.
The Old Hill Street Police Station is also close to some nice walking areas, like the Singapore River and Fort Canning Park.
Where to Stay in Singapore
As you could probably guess, Singapore is on the expensive side for Southeast Asia. But you can still find options for every budget.
Luxury: For those seeking a luxurious stay, the most popular choice is the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Known for its 57th-floor infinity pool and stunning views of Singapore’s skyline. For something a little different, Raffles Singapore is a historic property with colonial architecture and outstanding service.
Mid-Range: The Oasia Hotel Downtown is a standout choice for mid-range accommodations near the center. The hotel is covered in lush greenery outside and features two rooftop pools. Another good option is Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. It’s a little further out but does mean you get a 5-star stay for a lower price. The hotel is vibrant and colorful, inspired by the local Peranakan aesthetic.
Budget: While expensive for this part of the world, travelers on a budget can find accommodation in Singapore, but it may mean sharing a room. One of the best budget options is The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel, offering a unique capsule experience at a fraction of the cost.
How to Get to Singapore
Singapore is well-connected to the rest of the world by air, sea, and land. The most common way to reach Singapore is by flying into Changi Airport, which is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world. Changi Airport serves as a major hub for international flights, with airlines offering direct flights from cities across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
If you’re traveling from Malaysia, you can also reach Singapore by bus.
Coming from KL? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
Ferries are another option for those coming from nearby Indonesian islands.
Getting Around Singapore
Getting around Singapore is convenient and efficient, thanks to the city’s excellent public transportation system.
The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is the backbone of Singapore’s public transport, covering most parts of the city. The MRT is clean, safe, and usually on time, making it the best mode of transport.
Buses are another affordable way to get around, with an extensive network that combines well with the MRT.
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available if you’d prefer door-to-door service.
Many places are also designed to be pedestrian friendly. There are covered walkways and bridges that make walking safe and convenient.
Singapore FAQs
Is Singapore Worth Visiting?
As one of the most modern cities on earth, Singapore is absolutely worth visiting! It’s a unique blend of cultures, with plenty to offer most tourists. Whether you’re interested in modern architecture, lush gardens, art galleries, or vibrant street food, you’ll find plenty to explore. The city’s cleanliness, safety, and efficiency make it a world-class destination for tourists.
How Long to Stay in Singapore?
A stay of three to five days is ideal for experiencing the highlights of Singapore. This gives you enough time to explore the major attractions, enjoy some local cuisine, and take a day trip to Universal.
What is Singapore Best Known For?
Singapore is best known for its ultra-modern style including its skyline, shopping, and diverse culinary scene. The city is also famous as a major financial hub of Asia as well as its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency. Iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the Merlion are some of the things that come to mind when people think of Singapore.
Is Singapore Safe?
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong rule of law. The city is well-lit, and public spaces are monitored, making it safe for tourists to explore even late at night. However, like any other major city, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Is Singapore a Country?
Yes, Singapore is a sovereign city-state and island country. It gained independence from Malaysia in 1965 and has since developed into one of the world’s most prosperous nations. Despite its small size, Singapore plays a significant role on the global stage, both economically and politically.
Do They Speak English in Singapore?
Yes, English is one of the official languages of Singapore and is widely spoken throughout the country. It’s the primary language used in government, business, and education. In addition to English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil are also official languages, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural society.
10 Best Things to Do in Singapore
Don't Forget to Pin it for Later
More Asia Travel
Find more of our Asia travel guides below:
