What to do in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide
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Singapore completely amazed me! From the moment I arrived, its stunning skyline, lush gardens, and vibrant culture had me hooked. It’s a city where modern meets traditional, and every corner offers something exciting. Whether you’re here for a short layover or a longer stay, there’s so much to experience.
Here are my top recommendations—places I visited, loved, and highly recommend!
Introduction
Singapore is a city that never fails to impress. From futuristic skyscrapers and lush gardens to vibrant street markets and Michelin-starred street food, this island nation offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a culture lover, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top attractions and hidden gems that make Singapore such a must-visit destination. Get ready to explore, eat, and experience the best of the Lion City!
1. Gardens by the Bay – A Futuristic Dream
One of my first stops in Singapore was Gardens by the Bay. This stunning blend of architecture and nature that perfectly reflects the city’s vision. Spanning 101 hectares, this futuristic park is packed with breathtaking attractions and is an absolute must-visit.
The Supertree Grove, with its towering vertical gardens (25 to 50 meters tall), felt like stepping into a sci-fi movie. These massive structures aren’t just eye-catching—they also collect rainwater and harness solar energy. By night, they come alive in a dazzling display of lights and music, creating a truly magical experience.
Another highlight is the Cloud Forest Dome, home to a spectacular 35-meter indoor waterfall cascading down a mist-covered mountain. As I wandered through its levels, I discovered rare tropical plants, hidden walkways, and a refreshing cool mist—an ideal escape from Singapore’s heat.
Pro Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to see the gardens in daylight. Then visit in theevening for the Garden Rhapsody Light Show (7:45 PM & 8:45 PM). The synchronized lights and orchestral music create a truly enchanting experience—and best of all, it’s free!
2. Singapore Botanic Gardens: A UNESCO Heritage Site
A short escape from the city’s modern skyscrapers, the Singapore Botanic Gardens provided a tranquil oasis of greenery and history. Established in 1859, it’s one of the oldest tropical gardens in the world. It si also the only UNESCO World Heritage-listed tropical garden. Covering 82 hectares, the gardens house over 10,000 species of plants, winding trails, scenic lakes, and charming gazebos.
One of my favorite spots was the National Orchid Garden. This garden is home to over 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids, including the rare Vanda Miss Joaquim—Singapore’s national flower. This beautifully landscaped garden is a dream for photographers. There are themed sections like the VIP Orchid Garden, where orchids named after world leaders and celebrities bloom in vibrant colors.
Pro Tips: Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy cooler weather, fewer crowds, and the serene sounds of nature.
3. Little India: A Colorful Cultural Experience
Little India was a sensory explosion in the best way possible—the scent of freshly ground spices, the dazzling colors of sarees hanging in shop windows, and the sound of Bollywood music in the background made this district one of the most vibrant and energetic places in Singapore.
I wandered through Serangoon Road, where rows of heritage shophouses sell everything from gold jewelry to fragrant flower garlands. A must-visit stop was Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, adorned with intricate sculptures of Hindu deities.
For a true local experience, I headed to Tekka Centre, a multi-story wet market and food hall where I sampled some of the best South Indian cuisine in the city. The crispy masala dosa, paired with coconut chutney and spiced sambar, was absolutely divine, and the fragrant Hyderabadi biryani was a game-changer!
Pro Tip: If you’re shopping for spices, souvenirs, or textiles, Mustafa Centre (open 24/7) is the best place for budget-friendly finds.
4. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: Panoramic City Views
For a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of Singapore, I made my way to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, perched on the 57th floor of the city’s most iconic hotel. The panoramic vistas stretched across the Marina Bay area, the Singapore River, and even parts of Indonesia and Malaysia on a clear day!
While the famous infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests, the SkyPark offers an equally stunning experience with its observation deck and an elegant rooftop bar. Watching the sunset from here was unforgettable, as the city skyline lit up with dazzling lights.
Tickets: The observation deck costs around $30 SGD per adult, but if you grab a drink at CÉ LA VI SkyBar, you get a similar view without paying for entry!
Pro Tip: Sunset for breathtaking golden-hour views, or at night to see the skyline twinkle.
5. Chinatown: A Blend of Culture and Cuisine
Exploring Chinatown felt like stepping into a time capsule where history, tradition, and modernity blend seamlessly. The neighborhood is alive with ornate temples, heritage shophouses, bustling street markets, and sizzling food stalls. The vibrant red-and-gold lanterns strung across the streets add to its charm.
A must-visit landmark is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a magnificent four-story temple built in the Tang Dynasty architectural style. Inside, I marveled at the intricate carvings, golden Buddha statues, and the sacred relic itself, believed to be a tooth of Buddha. The temple’s rooftop houses a tranquil prayer wheel garden, perfect for a moment of reflection.
Food lovers, take note! Chinatown is home to some of Singapore’s best hawker food. Chinatown Complex Food Centre, the largest hawker center in the city, is where I devoured an authentic plate of Michelin-rated Hawker Chan’s soya sauce chicken rice for just a few dollars!
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can explore the shops and temples by day, then enjoy the lively atmosphere of Chinatown Food Street by night.
6. Orchard Road: Shopper’s Paradise
If you love shopping, Orchard Road is the ultimate playground. Stretching for 2.2 kilometers, this bustling boulevard is home to luxury boutiques, flagship stores, massive malls, and trendy fashion outlets. Whether you’re looking for high-end brands or affordable local designers, Orchard Road has something for every shopper.
I started at ION Orchard, one of the most luxurious malls, where I browsed through brands like Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. For a more local and unique shopping experience, I ventured into Tangs and Design Orchard, which showcase Singaporean designers and artisan crafts.
Pro Tip: Visit ION Sky, the rooftop observation deck on the 56th floor of ION Orchard—it’s free and offers panoramic city views!
7. Sentosa Island: Fun and Relaxation
A quick monorail, cable car, or even a scenic walk from the mainland, Sentosa Island is Singapore’s playground for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a beach lover, thrill-seeker, or nature enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone.
I started my day at the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums, home to over 100,000 marine animals. Walking through the 360-degree ocean tunnel, with manta rays and sharks swimming overhead, felt surreal.
For some adrenaline-pumping action, I headed to Universal Studios Singapore, where I rode the Battlestar Galactica roller coasters and got soaked at the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure.
Later, I relaxed on the soft, sandy beaches of Sentosa, where I found Tanjong Beach Club—the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon with a book and good vibes.
Pro Tip: Skip the entry fee by walking across the Sentosa Boardwalk (it’s free and offers great skyline views).
8. Hawker Centers: Culinary Delights
No trip to Singapore is complete without a hawker center food adventure! These bustling food courts offer a variety of authentic local dishes at unbeatable prices, making them a must-visit for any foodie.
At Maxwell Food Centre, I devoured a plate of Hainanese Chicken Rice—tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice, garlic chili sauce, and a drizzle of dark soy sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly represents Singaporean cuisine.
Over at Lau Pa Sat, I indulged in satay skewers grilled fresh over charcoal, served with a rich peanut sauce and ketupat (compressed rice cakes). The smoky aroma of sizzling meats filled the air, making it an unforgettable experience.
I also made my way to Old Airport Road Food Centre, where I tried char kway teow, a stir-fried noodle dish with prawns, Chinese sausage, and crispy pork lard. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors was incredible!
For dessert, I couldn’t resist a bowl of chendol—a refreshing treat made of shaved ice, coconut milk, pandan jelly noodles, and a generous drizzle of gula melaka (palm sugar syrup).
Pro Tips: Bring cash (many hawker stalls don’t accept cards).
10. Singapore Flyer: A Giant Observation Wheel
For a breathtaking perspective of the city, I took a ride on the Singapore Flyer, Asia’s largest observation wheel. The 30-minute ride offered a 360-degree panoramic view of Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay, and even glimpses of Indonesia and Malaysia on a clear day.
I timed my visit for sunset, watching the city light up as the sun dipped below the horizon. The transition from day to night, with skyscrapers reflecting golden hues before transforming into a dazzling display of city lights, was truly mesmerizing.
For an extra special experience, opt for the Sky Dining package, where you can enjoy a private capsule with a gourmet meal and wine. It is such an unforgettable way to soak in the city views, especially at night!
Pro Tip: Book a Sky Dining Experience for a romantic meal in the air!
10. Clarke Quay: Nightlife and Dining
Once the evening hits, head to Clarke Quay, a vibrant riverside hub packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs housed in colorful, restored shophouses. The lively atmosphere, illuminated by neon lights reflecting off the Singapore River, makes for a perfect end to your day.
You can start your evening with dinner by the water, savoring a plate of chili crab—a Singaporean delicacy with a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce. Spoiler alert – It is extremely messy but absolutely delicious!
After dinner, take a stroll along the river, watching boat cruises glide by before stopping at Level Up, a retro arcade bar where you can play all of the classic games that we all played (I hope I am not aging myslef here).
For a more upscale experience, you checked out Ce La Vi at Marina Bay Sands, a rooftop restaurant/bar with stunning skyline views. The menu is pricey, but the views are spectacular!
11. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari: Wildlife Encounters
If you love animals, the Singapore Zoo is an absolute must-visit. This world-class zoo is famous for its open-concept enclosures, allowing you to see animals in spacious, naturalistic habitats rather than traditional cages. Walking through, I felt completely immersed in the wild as I watched orangutans swinging freely, white tigers lounging by the water, and giraffes gracefully grazing. The Rainforest Kidzworld is fantastic for families, offering interactive exhibits where kids can feed animals.
At night, the experience takes on a whole new level with the Night Safari—the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park! Imagine spotting leopards, elephants, and hyenas under the moonlight as you ride a guided tram through different zones designed to mimic real ecosystems. Walking along the Leopard Trail, I was just feet away from these majestic big cats as they prowled through the dark! The Creatures of the Night show was another highlight, featuring animals like binturongs and otters showing off their intelligence and skills.
Pro Tip: Get there early to catch the animal feeding sessions and live shows, like the Rainforest Fights Back show, which showcases incredible wildlife conservation efforts. Book your Night Safari tickets in advance—they sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Also, sit on the right side of the tram for the best views!
12. ArtScience Museum: Where Art Meets Science
Stepping inside the ArtScience Museum, I was immediately struck by how futuristic and immersive the space felt. The museum itself, shaped like a giant lotus flower, is one of the most unique buildings in Singapore. Inside, the exhibits blur the line between technology, creativity, and imagination.
One of the highlights for me was the “Future World” exhibition by teamLab, which features interactive digital art installations. Imagine walking through a room of cascading waterfalls that respond to your touch or stepping into an endless galaxy of LED lights—it was like being inside a dream!
Pro Tip: This is one of the most Instagrammable places in Singapore! Be sure to charge your phone or camera because you’ll want to capture every moment.
13. Singapore River Cruise: A Different Perspective
To wrap up my Singapore adventure, I took a river cruise along the Singapore River—one of the most relaxing ways to see the city. Gliding along the water, I got a front-row seat to Singapore’s past and present. On one side, historic buildings and bridges told the story of Singapore’s colonial days. On the other, the sleek, futuristic skyline reflected the city’s modernity.
One of the most breathtaking sights was the Merlion, Singapore’s iconic half-lion, half-fish statue, which looked even more majestic from the water. As the boat passed Clarke Quay, I could feel the energy of the riverside restaurants and bars coming to life. The cruise even went by Marina Bay Sands, offering an unbeatable view of the city’s most famous hotel from below.
Pro Tip: Go just after sunset to see the city lights reflecting off the water—it’s absolutely magical! If you time it right, you can even watch the Spectra Light and Water Show from the boat at Marina Bay Sands.
Conclusion: What to do in Singapore
Singapore is so much more than its iconic attractions. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, the city is full of hidden gems that offer a unique glimpse into its history, culture, and natural beauty. From charming neighborhoods and art precincts to nature reserves and quirky attractions, these lesser-known spots will make your trip to Singapore unforgettable.
So the next time you’re in Singapore, go beyond the tourist trail and explore some of these hidden gems. You’ll experience the city in a whole new way—and have some amazing stories to share!
Pack your bags, and I can’t wait to hear about the hidden gems you discover in Singapore!
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