The sparkle of Singapore is hard to capture in a single photo. That’s why so many people from around the globe have Singapore on their list of places to visit in person!
Singapore is an island country and maritime city-state located on the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. In addition to being a global financial center, Singapore is a place where trends in fashion, technology, and architecture are set.
There’s no other place on the globe where you can explore indoor waterfalls, massive temples, orchid gardens, streets lined with luxury stores, a world-class zoo, and real rainforest terrain in a single afternoon!
Singapore’s metallic skyline invites travelers to dream bigger, explore deeper, and see the world in an entirely new way.
Experiencing the way that Singapore preserves history and culture while simultaneously forging ahead with futuristic, awe-inspiring innovation is truly incredible. Check out my list with the best things to do in Singapore.
40 Best things to do in Singapore
1. Visit the National Gallery Singapore
Known simply as the National Gallery to locals, this incredible institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art and culture of Singapore.
In fact, the National Gallery has a collection featuring more than 9,000 items from throughout all of Southeast Asia. As you walk the halls, you’ll discover the largest public collection of modern and contemporary Southeast Asian art in existence.
With more than 2 million visitors walking through its doors annually, the National Gallery is one of Singapore’s biggest attractions. While touring the incredible cultural exhibits here, visitors can also enjoy several upscale and globally acclaimed restaurants.
2. Take a Singapore River Cruise
If you want to experience the best of Singapore’s riverfront area, hang around the Clark Quay neighborhood. This well-developed area is home to waterside restaurants, bars, and clubs that make it one of the top nightlife spots in Singapore.
The Clarke Quay Jetty is actually where cruise operators launch their “bumboats.” During these 40-minute tours, guests can enjoy many of Singapore’s most popular buildings and landmarks from the river angle.
Cruising offers the best way to see the incredible juxtaposition of Singapore’s rustic and futuristic elements.
3. Take in the Views at Merlion Park
Did you know that Singapore actually translates to mean Lion City? This little tidbit makes this attraction even more interesting.
The famed promenade that overlooks the marine here is home to the 28-foot Merlion statue that depicts a fish-lion creature shooting water into the bay. This massive stone structure has been synonymous with Singapore since it was erected in 1972.
Merlion Park also offers gorgeous skyline views that are worth checking out both during daytime hours and when buildings twinkle against the darkened sky. The marine area is always buzzing with activity!
4. Hike the Southern Ridge
What if you feel like you want to take a break from the tall and mighty buildings of Singapore? While it may seem surprising when you glance at photos of Singapore’s futuristic skyscrapers, hiking on lush trails is one of the best things to do in Singapore.
Escaping to nature is easy once you know about a 6-mile recreational loop called the Southern Ridges.
This incredible trail connects the five parks of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve to offer a carefully planned, beautifully manicured route for enjoying shaded trails that are canopied in leafy trees and bushes.
The big reward of hitting the trails in Singapore is that this network of paths delivers incredible panoramic views of the city, harbor, and surrounding islands!
5. Kampong Glam
Visiting Kampong Glam is one of the best things to do in Singapore. Once home to Malay royalty, this vibrant enclave is now a melting pot of tradition, art, and creativity.
Stroll down Arab Street, the heart of this neighbourhood, and be transported to a world of eclectic boutiques, colourful shophouses, and aromatic cafes.
At the heart of Kampong Glam stands the majestic Sultan Mosque, an architectural masterpiece with its gleaming golden domes and towering minarets.
Step inside to marvel at the intricate stained glass windows and ornate calligraphy adorning the interior, a testament to the area’s Islamic heritage.
Art enthusiasts will delight in exploring the hip Haji Lane, a narrow alleyway lined with quirky street art, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Kampong Glam offers various eateries serving traditional Malay and Middle Eastern delights.
6. Snap Photos at Henderson Waves
Photographers from around the world are enamored with a landmark within the Southern Ridge trail network that’s called Henderson Waves. Henderson Waves is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over Henderson Road.
As Singapore’s tallest pedestrian bridge, 36-meter-tall Henderson Waves is a great spot for views! However, it’s the curvy, snake-like body of this bridge that seems to defy physics that actually has photographers and visitors more interested in seeing the bridge than taking in the views that can be enjoyed from the bridge.
7. Look for Great Food at East Coast Road
Nestled in the neighborhood of Marine Parade, East Coast Road is a two-way road that was constructed along Singapore’s southeastern coastline.
Rows of colorful homes and storefronts span two miles to create one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Singapore. Over the years, East Coast Road has developed a reputation for being one of the best food spots in Singapore.
This is the perfect spot to sample noodles, coconut rice, fried chicken, sourdough sandwiches, ice cream, and so much more! After indulging, you can continue to explore the neighborhood with a relaxing seaside stroll.
8. Savor Floral Fragrances at Singapore Botanic Gardens
Established in 1859, this blissful world of topiaries is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than 4 million visitors come to the gardens each year to explore stunning tropical landscapes.
The National Orchid Garden that is contained within the campus is considered one of the top things to see in Singapore. In addition, Singapore is one of the few cities in the world to have a portion of primary rainforest contained within city limits.
In addition to being a wonderland of trees, flowers, and statues for all ages to enjoy, Singapore’s beautiful garden is also an important spot for biological research related to horticulture and micropropagation.
Buy online: Gardens by the Bay Admission E-Ticket
9. Catch a Performance at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a world-class venue that houses a concert hall, half-circle theater with an orchestra pit, recital studio, outdoor concert space, and outdoor theater.
As you explore Singapore, you’re sure to see the spiky dome of Esplanade juxtaposed against the skyline from several angles.
While getting tickets to a performance that coincides with your visit is sure to create an unforgettable experience, it’s also perfectly fine to simply swing by to take some photos of this iconic venue.
10. Go Wild at Singapore Zoo
Covering 68 acres of land along the rim of the Upper Seletar Reservoir, Singapore Zoo welcomes visitors into a rainforest environment inhabited by nearly 3,000 animals spanning more than 300 species!
Recently, visiting with orangutans has become one of the biggest things to do in Singapore. The major attraction at Zoo Singapore is the free-ranging orangutan island that houses Bornean and Sumatran orangutans.
In addition, more than 2 million visitors from around the world visit the zoo annually to catch glimpses of zebras, cheetahs, African lions, African painted dogs, white rhinos, kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, Asian elephants, African penguins, and Sri Lankan leopards.
11. Be Shocked by the Views at Sands Skypark Observation Deck
Looking for the best views you will see in Singapore? The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck located on top of Marina Bay Sands is a top contender for providing the best view of Singapore’s skyline.
Visitors zip 56 stories up in the air to take in once-in-a-lifetime views of the Esplanade, Gardens by the Bay, Supertree Grove, and more! Access to the top is open to the public as long as you purchase a ticket ahead of time.
In addition to standard access, visitors can choose a Sunset in the Sky experience that includes premium seating and dining.
Entry Ticket Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck
12. Explore Marina Bay
There’s a good chance that you’ll end up in Marina Bay during your trip even if you never actually mark this spot on the map. However, it’s still good to be intentional about making time to explore Marine Bay as you plot your itinerary of things to do in Singapore.
You may already know Marina Bay for being the setting of the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix. This is also the spot where Singapore’s official New Year’s Eve countdown and fireworks celebrations take place annually.
Located in Singapore’s Central Area, Marine Bay is buffered by Marina South, Marina East, Straits View, and Downtown Core.
The Marina Bay Financial Center, Asia Square, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and many more of Singapore’s biggest tourist attractions are all contained within Marina Bay. This beautiful waterfront area is also the epicenter of Singapore’s luxury scene!
13. Climb to the Stars at Supergrove Tree
Supergrove Tree truly looks like a creation from another world! These unique vertical gardens are designed to resemble large, towering trees that drip with bountiful canopies and ripples of light.
Rising 50 meters above the ground, the gardens provide an incredible place to stand in awe of lights and music from the ground.
However, the real magic happens when you climb the Supertree Observatory located in the garden’s tallest tree to be treated to incredible views of Marina Bay.
14. Experience Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay
If you’re drawn to Singapore because of its reputation for nearly surreal levels of innovation, a visit to ethereal Cloud Forest should make your list of things to do in Singapore.
Home to a massive indoor waterfall and misty mountain covered in plants from around the globe, Cloud Forest invites you to stroll along a suspended walkway in a large, dome-shaped glass greenhouse.
You won’t know what’s real as you get lost in the haze! This futuristic exhibit has become one of Singapore’s biggest attractions in recent years.
15. Eat, Shop, and Explore in Singapore’s Chinatown
Hip meets history in this culturally rich neighborhood that offers some of the best gathering spots for outgoing tourists! Singapore’s eclectic Chinatown is home to temples, murals, shrines, spas, apothecaries, shops, bars, and restaurants.
The Amoy Street Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Food Centre, and Maxwell Food Centre offer hundreds of stalls and vendors selling spring rolls, clay-pot rice, red bean soup, curry puffs, and fusion favorites!
What’s more, many of the bars in Singapore’s Chinatown are counted among the best bars in Asia!
16. Visit Sentosa for a Beach Day
Sentosa is an island resort that’s connected to Singapore’s southern coast. Visitors can access the island using a road, cable car, monorail, or pedestrian bridge.
Gorgeous Palawan Beach is a lively spot filled with food stalls and fun bars. For those seeking seclusion, tranquil Tanjong Beach is a crescent-shaped oasis lined with palm trees.
17. Play at the Palawan at Sentosa
The Palawan opened in 2023 to provide fun for all ages. Spanning 183,000 square feet, this beach club on a sunny Singaporean island called Sentosa features eight exciting experiences for all ages.
This wonderland has a floating aqua park, 18-hole mini golf, indoor go-karts, and many other high-tech pleasures!
18. Visit Universal Studios Singapore
Singapore is home to one of the five Universal Studios theme parks located around the world! Universal Singapore is divided between seven zones offering rides, live shows, and other attractions.
The big rides here include Battlestar Galactica, Enchanted Airways, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, and Transformers: The 3D Ride.
Like all of the other Universal Studios parks, Universal Singapore has rides and attractions for all ages.
Entry Ticket: Universal Studios Singapore
19. Learn About Animals at the Mandai Wildlife Preserve’s Bird Paradise
Put Asia’s largest bird park on your list of things to see in Singapore! This amazing preserve allows visitors to feel as though they are truly stepping into the habitats of wild birds instead of merely observing birds in captivity.
Visitors of all ages can delight in views of flamingos, hornbills, and spoonbills in a terrain consisting of bamboo groves and lush terraces.
A highlight of the preserve is a penguin cove where these adorable flightless birds thrive in an underground kelp forest surrounded by a rocky beach. Guests can feed the birds, enjoy presentations, and have special encounters with magical birds!
20. Do a Night Safari Experience
Night Safari in Singapore is the world’s first nocturnal zoo! Have you ever wondered what happens at the zoo once night falls?
This incredible, one-of-a-kind attraction allows you to explore various trails on a safari tram adventure that takes you through the secret nocturnal world of your favorite animals.
The park features Asian elephants, Malayan tapirs, aardvarks, Tasmanian devils, North Island brown kiwis, big cats, and so much more!
Available Online: Night Safari Admission Ticket with Tram Ride
21. Plan a River Wonders Tours
River Wonders is Asia’s only river-themed wildlife park. Visitors get the pleasure of embarking on a river quest that will bring them to nearly 11,000 land and aquatic animals representing more than 250 species!
What’s more, this park is home to the world’s largest freshwater aquarium! Guests can delight in views of manatees, giant river otters, and more.
A highlight of the park is the Amazon River Quest experience that takes guests on a boat ride to identify majestic animals that are native to the Amazon.
There are also many opportunities to go behind the scenes with park employees and researchers to learn more about your favorite animals.
Recommended tour: Singapore River Cruiser
22. Find Serenity at Changi Bay Point
Get a little break from city life at this boardwalk made of slip-resistant glass that extends for 140 meters to provide you with stunning waterfront views! A walk down the boardwalk will bring you to a quiet area near the water’s edge not all tourists know about.
There’s a pavilion here that provides a great place for taking a rest from the fast-paced walking that’s often required when enjoying Singapore’s urban landscape.
The seaside view here makes you feel like you are walking in the water without the need to get wet! If you feel inspired to spend a little more time enjoying the coast, you can pick up connecting walks to Changi Beach Park and East Coast Park from Changi Bay Point.
23. Chill at Changi Beach Park
Changi Beach park is one of Singapore’s oldest coastal parks. It offers 28 hectares of beautiful coastal terrain for visitors to enjoy! What many people don’t know is that this beach is also one of the most important places on the globe for seahorse research.
If you’re a jogger, this beach is an incredible place to get in a few loops. The hidden secret of Changi Beach Park is that you can simply have fun watching airplanes land in the city!
The beach is especially spectacular during sunrise and sunset because you’ll see the jeweled lights of airplanes blending with orange and purples skies!
It’s also fun to simply listen to the laughter and chatter of families who are camping or barbequing at the park.
24. Go See the Haji Lane Street Art
Haji Lane is a narrow stretch in Singapore’s Bras Basah-Bugis heritage district that just might be the coolest spot you’ll find during your trip. This neighborhood is peppered with independent shops and cool bars.
It’s also famed for its extensive collection of graffiti art and street murals. You’ll also find a nice collection of art galleries where you can plot to take home a piece of magic to hang on your own wall!
The Haji Lane area is a great spot to be at night if you’re looking for an upbeat scene full of “hipsters.”
25. Have an Intimate Experience With Art and Artifacts at the Intan
The Intan is home to the world’s finest collection of Peranakan items and artifacts. Peranakan refers to people with Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage who represent the first wave of Chinese settlers to maritime Southeast Asia.
If you want to tour the incredible collection at the Intan, you’ll need to contact the museum ahead of time because this is a private museum that welcomes visitors by appointment only.
While that may seem intimidating, the result is a very intimate and special experience that allows you to focus on the interesting pieces you’ll be viewing during your visit.
26. Explore Aquatic Living at S.E.A. Aquarium
This large aquarium and resort on Sentosa Island boasts more than 800 species of marine life. The stunning campus consists of many different habitats that accommodate fish and sea creatures from around the world.
For shark lovers, the exhibit featuring apex predators of the seas provides an opportunity to see 12 shark species in person! It’s also fun to attend live feedings to see divers boldly swim among sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
27. Admire the Architecture at Katong
If you’re looking for a fun passive activity that you can do for free in Singapore, don’t miss an opportunity to simply tour the Katong neighborhood.
This famed residential neighborhood in Singapore is peppered with colorful bungalows and stately heritage buildings.
It’s a great place for taking photos! Additionally, Katong has a vibrant food scene that allows you to savor authentic street food that consists of spicy noodles and frog porridge.
28. Visit the Statues at Haw Par Villa
Haw Par Villa is a one-of-a-kind theme park that’s famous for containing more than 1,000 epic statues depicting scenes for Chinese folklore and mythology.
The park also contains 150 bigger-than-life dioramas depicting scenes from both lore and history. Walking through this park feels like walking through a fever dream of illustrations that have come to life!
The most popular attraction at Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell that depicts scenes from hell based on elements of Buddhism and Chinese mythology.
29. Go Higher Than Ever at SkyHelix Singapore
SkyHelix Singapore is Singapore’s highest open-air panoramic ride. Once you board, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the skyline, neighboring islands, and beyond!
This incredible attraction features open-air gondolas that rock gently as they ascend into the air! You’ll be dangling at 79 meters above sea level when reaching peak height on this ride.
The fun part about this attraction is that you can sip a drink while enjoying a thrill ride that doesn’t require any walking or hiking to get the best views imaginable.
30. Have a Sweet Time at the Museum of Ice Cream
If you’ve ever dreamed about diving into a pool of candy sprinkles, Singapore’s Museum of Ice Cream is a top place to see in Singapore.
This is a great place to learn about the science of ice cream if you’re enamored with this frosty treat. The museum also has tons of fun interactive exhibits that bring out the kid in everyone!
Additionally, every visitor gets free ice cream treats in five different forms and shapes.
31. Shop on Orchard Road
Shopping is one of the most exciting things to do in Singapore. Orchard Road is considered the “glam” shopping designation of Southeast Asia!
Covering 2.2 kilometers, this stretch of luxury retailers and megamalls allows you to take your pick from designer brands. You’ll even find some good discount shops.
Orchard Road also has tons of high-end eateries. Mandarin Gallery, Paragon Shopping Center, ION Orchard, and Orchard Central are the big malls full of recognizable and elite brands.
Be sure to stop into Tangs to experience one of Orchard Road’s original shopping destinations, Founded in 1932, Tangs is a top spot for authentic Asian designs.
Far East Plaza is the place to go for deals. You can truly spend a full day exploring the shops!
32. Tour Singapore’s Central Business District
Singapore’s Central Business District is a global financial district that is home to an endless array of leading financial institutions. The district spans from Raffles Place to Shenton Way, Robinson Road, and Cecil Street.
The best way to get a full taste of the neighborhood is to start at Raffles Place. Encircled by skyscrapers, this spot offers easy access to the public viewing room at the top of UOB Plaza One that offers spectacular views of the Singapore River.
33. Do a Temple Tour
Singapore has a mesmerizing collection of temples that are beautifully integrated into the urban landscape to provide little oasis points between skyscrapers.
Most people put Bright Hill Temple on the essential list of things to see in Singapore. Covering 12 hectares, this structure consists of grand halls, shrines, statues, gardens, and a turtle pool. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown is another popular attraction.
Other temples to put on your list include the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple on Waterloo Street, the Leong San See Temple on Race Course Road, the Temple of 1,000 Lights on Race Course Road, the Siong Lim Temple at Jalan Toa Payoh, and the Thian Hock Keng Temple on Telok Ayer Street.
34. Attend the Lantern Festival
Plan a trip to coincide with Singapore’s Lantern Festival in February! Taking place on the full moon during the first month of the Chinese calendar, the Lantern Festival is a day of driving out darkness in anticipation of a hopeful new year.
As part of the tradition, children release paper lanterns of different shapes and sizes into the night sky! It’s also traditional to eat round rice dumplings that can be filled with pastes made black sesame, peanut, fruit, custard, or red bean.
35. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban life in Pulau Ubin
Escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and discover the serene beauty of Pulau Ubin, a rustic island getaway in Singapore. Just a short bumboat ride from the mainland, this place transports you to a bygone era with its tranquil villages, lush forests, and idyllic beaches.
Rent a bicycle and pedal your way through the island’s scenic trails, passing by traditional kampongs, mangrove swamps, and granite quarries.
Stop by Chek Jawa Wetlands, a biodiverse ecosystem teeming with marine life and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Visit the island’s village centre, where you can sample fresh seafood at rustic eateries or browse shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
36. Marvel at the Innovation at Jewel Changi Airport
There are very few spots in the world where the local airport is considered a tourist attraction. However, Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport is considered by many to be the best airport in the world.
Seeing this airport in person is one of the top things to do in Singapore if you want to have a “conversation starter” for life!
If you’re flying into Jewel Changi, schedule some extra time to take in this game-changing hub. In fact, the airport is such a big draw that most airlines that operate here actually allow passengers to check in 24 hours in advance in order to maximize their pre-flight fun.
If you’re not flying in or out of Jewel Changi, do whatever you can to carve out a few hours to walk through it. This airport is a carefully planned wonderland featuring top-notch shopping and dining at more than 300 establishments.
A highlight of the complex is an indoor waterfall called the Rain Vortex that cascades down seven stories. There’s also an indoor forest featuring high-tech suspended walkways.
37. Visit Little India
Another neighbourhood I recommend you to visit is Little India. Stroll along Serangoon Road, the main thoroughfare of Little India, and be enveloped in a tapestry of bustling markets, sari shops, and spice stalls.
Let the scent of exotic spices wafting through the air guide you to traditional eateries serving biryanis, dosas, and rich curries bursting with flavour.
As you explore the narrow lanes and alleyways, you’ll encounter a few ornate temples adorned with intricate carvings and colourful statues. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, with its stunning Dravidian architecture, is the most interesting one.
Little India offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of its residents. Watch locals bargain for fresh produce at the bustling Tekka Market or join in the festivities during cultural celebrations such as Diwali or Thaipusam.
38. Take a Gander at St. Andrew’s Cathedral
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is Singapore’s largest cathedral. Anyone with an appreciation for architecture will adore the way this marshmallow-white church with a massive spire stands out in the landscape.
The church is surrounded by beautifully manicured park grounds. Its location in the Civic District makes it a must-see spot that’s so easy to pop into while touring attractions in the business district or downtown.
39. Tiong Bahru Market
If you are a foodie, another interesting thing to do in Singapore is to discover the culinary delights and local charm at Tiong Bahru Market.
This historic hawker centre offers a feast for the senses, with stalls serving authentic Singaporean fares like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and chwee kueh.
Wander through bustling aisles, sampling fresh fruits, aromatic spices, and tempting street food. Don’t miss the chance to mingle with locals and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of one of Singapore’s oldest markets.
40. A night out in Clarke Quay
Experience the pulsating nightlife of Clarke Quay, Singapore’s vibrant riverside entertainment district. As the sun sets, the area comes alive with a kaleidoscope of neon lights, thumping music, and bustling crowds.
Explore an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the picturesque Singapore River. Sip on creative cocktails, dance to live music, or indulge in delicious cuisine with waterfront views.
Some of my favourite bars and clubs in Clarke Quay are Zouk, Shanghai Dolly, Phuture, and Yang Club Singapore
Clarke Quay promises an electrifying atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an unforgettable night out in the Lion City.