While Singapore may be smaller than many of its Asian neighbors, this vibrant city-state offers a wealth of experiences.
From its bustling food markets and world-class restaurants to its impressive skyline and rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of things to explore.
Its compact size allows for easy navigation, making it perfect for a quick trip or even a layover. Here are top 10 recommendations for things to do in Singapore!
1. Savor Singapore’s Famous Hawker Fare
While Singapore boasts many fine dining spots, to truly experience the local flavor, head to one of the open-air hawker centers for affordable and diverse street food. These iconic centers are so culturally significant that they were added to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020.
Popular centers include Chinatown Complex (the largest with over 200 stalls), Lau Pa Sat (a historic national monument), East Coast Lagoon Food Village (scenic and by the sea), and the Newton Food Center (famous from Crazy Rich Asians).
Local tip: Many hawkers only accept cash, so bring small notes and coins.
2. Admire the Iconic Marina Bay Skyline
Capture a picture-perfect shot of Singapore's stunning skyline at Marina Bay. This area, once open sea until 2010, now features landmarks like the three towers of Marina Bay Sands, the iconic Merlion statue, and the spiral-shaped Helix Bridge. A leisurely waterfront walk is a must, offering views of the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum and more.
Planning tip: Sunset is the ideal time for a walk; the temperatures cool, and you can enjoy the dazzling light and sound shows at the Marina Bay Sands and Supertree Grove.
3. Experience Nightlife Along the Singapore River
Once the heart of Singapore’s trade, the Singapore River now offers a vibrant nightlife scene. Start at Boat Quay for drinks by the water with relaxed. Robertson Quay provides a quieter retreat with upscale dining and cafes.
Local tip: Hop on a river cruise in a traditional bum-boat for a scenic break from walking.
4. Singapore’s Historic Neighborhoods
Singapore's ethnic neighborhoods, provide insight into the country’s diverse culture. Explore Chinatown, where temples and shop-houses mix with restaurants, Kampong Gelam, home to the stunning Sultan Mosque and former palace, and Little India, alive with aromatic spices and vibrant crowds.
Detour: Visit Tiong Bahru, one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods, now home to a mix of traditional and trendy spots, or head to Joo Chiat to explore the unique Peranakan culture and colorful shophouses.
5. Wander Through Singapore’s Stunning Gardens
Singapore's Garden City nickname is well-earned, with 400 parks and green spaces to explore. Gardens by the Bay is a standout, featuring the futuristic Supertrees and two climate-controlled glass domes—the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, perfect for escaping the tropical heat.
6. Hike Through Singapore’s Nature Trails
For outdoor enthusiasts, Singapore offers scenic hiking trails. The 10km-long Southern Ridges trail provides breathtaking views, including the country’s tallest pedestrian bridge and panoramic coastal vistas.
7. Escape to Singapore’s Offshore Islands
Escape the city’s skyline by hopping on a boat to Singapore’s offshore islands. Sentosa, just a short trip away, offers sandy beaches, Universal Studios, and casinos. For quieter spots, visit the Southern Islands, including St John's, Lazarus, and Kusu Islands.
8. Explore Singapore’s Best Museums
Museum lovers will enjoy Singapore's extensive selection of cultural and historical museums. The National Museum of Singapore offers interactive exhibits on the country’s history, while the National Gallery showcases Southeast Asian art. For WWII history, visit Fort Siloso on Sentosa or the Battle Box in Fort Canning Park.
9. Visit Singapore’s Wildlife Attractions
Head north to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve to experience a variety of animal encounters in a naturalistic setting. The Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise offer unique wildlife experiences, while the S.E.A. Aquarium on Sentosa Island is home to over 100,000 marine creatures in immersive tanks.
10. Uncover Singapore’s Quirky Side
While the big attractions are a must, Singapore also has its fair share of quirky experiences. Haw Par Villa is a park filled with unusual statues and dioramas from Chinese mythology.
