One of Asia's most popular tourist destinations is Singapore, a city-state renowned for its breathtaking skyline, verdant parks, and lively cosmopolitan culture. Singapore provides a diverse range of experiences by fusing contemporary and tradition, from futuristic buildings and busy marketplaces to tranquil parks and districts steeped in culture. Everything you need to make the most of your trip to Singapore is included in our list of the top ten things to do there.
1. Marina Bay Sands and SkyPark Observation Deck
One of Singapore's most recognizable buildings, Marina Bay Sands is renowned across the world for its contemporary architecture and stunning city skyline vistas. On the 57th level, visitors may explore the well-known SkyPark Observation Deck, which offers a 360-degree view of the Singapore Strait, Marina Bay, and Gardens by the Bay. Even more gorgeous is the hotel's infinity pool. See the Spectra light and water show, a stunning display of lasers, fountains, and colorful lights, on the boardwalk in the evening. Marina Bay Sands offers a full range of luxury amenities, including a casino, upscale eating establishments, and a retail center.
2. Gardens by the Bay
One of Singapore's most striking attractions is this futuristic park, which is well-known for its tall Supertrees and two climate-controlled conservatories called the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. It's a great place for nature lovers because each section features a variety of biomes and plant species from across the globe. Wander along the OCBC Skyway, an elevated walkway that provides breathtaking views of the Supertree Grove, or meander through the Cloud Forest, a foggy paradise with a 35-meter waterfall. The Supertrees are brought to life at night with a light and sound performance, which gives the gardens a mystical aura.
3. Sentosa Island
With its abundance of beaches, entertainment, and activities, Sentosa Island is Singapore's playground. Sentosa, which is home to Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and S.E.A. Aquarium, is ideal for both thrill-seekers and families. Try your hand at different water activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, or just unwind on Siloso Beach. The Skyline Luge allows you to sprint downhill on a gravity-powered rollercoaster, while the AJ Hackett Sentosa Bungy Jump offers the only bungy experience in Singapore for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Additionally, Sentosa has beautiful locations like Fort Siloso, which provides a glimpse into Singapore's past during World War II.
4. Singapore Botanic Gardens and National Orchid Garden
One of Singapore's oldest parks, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a serene haven in the middle of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 82-hectare grounds have beautiful walking routes, picnic areas, and thousands of plant varieties. The National Orchid Garden at the Botanic Gardens is home to more than 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids, making it Singapore's national flower. Explore themed areas with stunning color-coded displays, such as the VIP Orchid Garden, which has orchids named after notable people like Princess Diana and Nelson Mandela.
5. Chinatown
Chinatown in Singapore is a center of culture that combines both contemporary and traditional attractions. There are vibrant shophouses, busy street markets, and ancient temples in the region. Begin with the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a stunning Tang-style temple that provides information about Buddhist culture and holds a treasured relic. From there, visit stores offering crafts, traditional remedies, and souvenirs as you meander through Chinatown's crowded alleyways. With hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre and Chinatown Complex Market serving classic meals like Hainanese chicken rice and char kway teow, Chinatown is also renowned for its thriving culinary scene.
6. Little India
One of Singapore's liveliest areas is Little India, which is home to several vivid temples, aromatic spice stores, and real Indian food. One of Singapore's oldest Hindu temples, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, is a good place to start your research. Discover traditional saree shops, jewelry stores, and paintings illustrating Indian culture as you meander through the winding lanes. One of the highlights is the busy Tekka Centre, which has a hawker center serving tasty and reasonably priced Indian food. See how Little India is transformed with lights, music, and special activities honoring the holiday of Lights when you visit during the Deepavali holiday.
7. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay
Visit Clarke Quay and Boat Quay for food, entertainment, and nightlife along the river. With a variety of eateries, pubs, and clubs overlooking the Singapore River, these ancient riverbank quays are well-known for their exciting nightlife. Clarke Quay is well-known for its vibrant architecture, inventive food options, and thrilling riverboat excursions. A little more sedate, Boat Quay is well-known for its seafood and ethnic culinary establishments along the water. In the evening, take a Singapore River Cruise to see the city's skyline, which includes the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands, both of which are exquisitely illuminated.
8. Orchard Road
With its mix of local shops, upscale boutiques, and global brands, Orchard Road is Singapore's shopping haven. More than 20 retail centers, including ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon, flank this 2.2-kilometer section. From luxury couture at ION to reasonably priced retail therapy at Far East Plaza, every mall provides a different kind of shopping experience. Orchard Road is an excellent area to stop and enjoy some local or foreign food because it includes a lot of cafes and restaurants. Orchard Road is transformed with themed decorations and sparkling Christmas lights during the holiday season.
9. Kampong Glam and Haji Lane
Singapore's Malay-Arab neighborhood, Kampong Glam, combines Islamic culture with contemporary art and gastronomy. Sultan Mosque, an architectural wonder with a huge golden dome and elaborate details, is the focal point of the area. Arab Street in Kampong Glam is a bustling neighborhood with a lot of textile merchants, Middle Eastern restaurants, and boutiques. Nearby, Haji Lane is a hip alleyway renowned for its independent stores, eccentric cafés, and street art. This neighborhood is well-liked by both residents and visitors because of its distinctive blend of modern design, art, and culture, which makes it a great place for shopping and photography.
10. Jewel Changi Airport
The Rain Vortex, the highest indoor waterfall in the world, is located inside Jewel Changi Airport, which is a fascinating destination in and of itself. Jewel is surrounded by the verdant Shiseido Forest Valley and has several attractions, such as a Canopy Park with viewing platforms, bouncing nets, and garden mazes. There are many alternatives for dining and shopping, including both local and worldwide brands. Jewel offers access to nature-themed activities and is ideal for passengers on layovers, making it a fun way to start or finish your trip to Singapore.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Singapore Trip
- 1. Use the MRT: Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is effective, reasonably priced, and links to all of the country's main attractions. To make traveling easier, get an EZ-Link card.
- 2. Plan for the Weather: Because Singapore is hot and muggy all year round, wear loose clothing, drink plenty of water, and pack an umbrella because it rains a lot.
- 3. Sample Local Cuisine: For a taste of Singapore's renowned cuisine, visit hawker centers including Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell, and Newton.
- 4. Respect Cultural Sites: Every region of Singapore has its own traditions and culture. In mosques, temples, and other places of worship, always show respect.
- 5. Best Times to Visit: Singapore is less busy from February to April, although the weather is stable throughout the year. The Singapore Food Festival, Deepavali, and Chinese New Year are all excellent occasions to visit if you enjoy festivals.
