55 Best Things to Do in Singapore for an Unforgettable Trip

When we were living in Bali, Singapore quickly became our favorite escape. Just a short flight away, it always felt like stepping into a completely different world. A place where futuristic skylines, lush green spaces, and some of the best food on the planet all come together in one tiny, dynamic city.

Every time we visited, we found something new to fall in love with, whether it was wandering through colorful neighborhoods, chasing down late-night satay at a hawker center, or watching the city light up from above. That’s the magic of Singapore. No matter how many times you go, there’s always another layer waiting to be discovered.

To help you make the most of your own trip, I’ve rounded up the 55 best things to do in Singapore — from the big icons you’ve seen on postcards to the smaller experiences that make the city unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Unforgettable Things to Do in Singapore for Every Traveler

Iconic Landmarks & Attractions in Singapore

Gardens by the Bay – Set just behind Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay is where nature meets imagination on a spectacular scale. This award-winning attraction combines futuristic design with lush greenery, showcasing how innovation and sustainability can coexist beautifully. From its towering Supertrees to its climate-controlled conservatories and tranquil waterfront gardens, every corner feels designed to surprise and inspire. We’ve visited several times, and it never loses its magic, whether you’re walking beneath glowing lights at night or exploring the cool mist of the domes during the day. Here are the highlights:

• Supertree Grove – The Supertree Grove is the heart of Gardens by the Bay, a collection of towering vertical gardens that rise up to 50 meters high, covered in ferns, orchids, and tropical plants. They’re even more spectacular at night during the Garden Rhapsody light and music show, when the trees pulse with color against the skyline. Standing beneath them feels like being in another world.
• OCBC Skyway – For panoramic views of the gardens and Marina Bay skyline, the OCBC Skyway is a must. This 128-meter-long aerial walkway connects several Supertrees, offering a stunning perspective both day and night.
• Supertree Observatory – At the top of the tallest Supertree, the Supertree Observatory offers one of the best panoramic views in Singapore. From this open-air deck, you can look out across the entire Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay Sands towers, and even the Singapore Strait on a clear day. Inside, there’s a small café and air-conditioned lounge, a welcome break from the heat.
• Cloud Forest – Inside the glass dome of the Cloud Forest, you’ll find one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls surrounded by lush, misty vegetation. The elevated walkways spiral through different climate zones, offering breathtaking views of the greenery below.
• Flower Dome – Next door to the CloudForest, the Flower Dome is a celebration of blooms from around the world. Its ever-changing floral displays transform with the seasons, from tulip fields to Mediterranean gardens. We visited during the cherry blossom exhibition, and it was like stepping straight into spring.
• Floral Fantasy – Tucked near the Bayfront MRT entrance, Floral Fantasy is a whimsical indoor garden that blends art, flowers, and technology. Each of its themed zones feels like walking through a dream, suspended blooms, floral sculptures, and gentle mist effects create an almost fairytale atmosphere. There’s even a 4D ride that takes you on a virtual flight over the gardens.

Marina Bay Sands Resort Complex – Few places capture Singapore’s modern spirit quite like Marina Bay Sands. This massive integrated resort is more than just a hotel, it’s an experience in itself, combining luxury, entertainment, and architecture on an extraordinary scale. Here are some highlights:

• Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Rising high above Singapore’s skyline, the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers one of the most spectacular views in the city. From the observation deck, you can see sweeping panoramas of Marina Bay, the Supertrees, and even as far as the Singapore Strait on a clear day. While the infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests, anyone can purchase a ticket to the SkyPark for that unbeatable vantage point. We timed one of our visits around sunset, and it was magical watching the city lights flicker on as the sky turned gold and pink. It does get busy in the evenings, so booking tickets in advance is a smart move. You can check times and availability on the official Marina Bay Sands website.
• ArtScience Museum – Shaped like a blooming lotus beside Marina Bay, the ArtScience Museum is one of Singapore’s most iconic modern landmarks. Inside, its galleries blur the lines between creativity and innovation, hosting world-class exhibitions that explore everything from space exploration and nature to digital art and design. The rotating exhibits often feature collaborations with international names like TeamLab, the Smithsonian, and NASA, making every visit feel new. We spent an afternoon here and were completely drawn in by the interactive displays.
• Spectra – A Light & Water Show – Every evening, Spectra – A Light & Water Show transforms the Marina Bay waterfront into a dazzling performance of color, music, and motion. Set against the skyline outside The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, the 15-minute show combines dancing fountains, laser projections, mist screens, and orchestral music to tell a story about Singapore’s journey from its origins to its modern-day brilliance. We just love this show, the reflections on the bay and the city lights made it feel almost cinematic. The best part is it’s completely free, and there are two nightly showtimes, with an extra one added on weekends.
• The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – More than just a mall, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is an experience in luxury and design. Beneath soaring glass ceilings, you’ll find flagship stores from the world’s top brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Cartier, alongside elegant cafés and celebrity-chef restaurants. Inside, a canal runs through the center of the mall, where you can take a tranquil Sampan Ride under arched bridges.
• Want to stay at Marina Bay Sands? Book your stay here with Booking.com.

Singapore Botanic Gardens – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens are the city’s oldest and most beloved green space. Spread across 82 hectares, the gardens are home to the famous National Orchid Garden, a swan lake, and themed areas like the Ginger Garden and Rainforest Trail. Orchids are my favorite flower, and I was amazed by the sheer variety here — from delicate hybrids to rare species I had never seen before. Entry is free for most of the gardens, though the Orchid Garden has a small admission fee.

Merlion Park – No trip to Singapore is complete without a stop at Merlion Park, home to the city’s iconic half-lion, half-fish statue that has become a national symbol. The 8.6-meter Merlion spouts water into Marina Bay, with Marina Bay Sands rising dramatically in the background, making it one of the most photographed spots in the city. It’s free to visit and open 24/7, so you can come by day or night, though the skyline at sunset is especially striking. On one of our visits, we stopped here after an evening walk along the bay and found it buzzing with both tourists and locals. For the best photos, go early in the morning before the crowds or later in the evening when the city lights reflect off the water.

Singapore Flyer – The Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world, standing at 165 meters. A 30-minute ride in one of its spacious, air-conditioned capsules gives you sweeping views over Marina Bay, the city skyline, and even parts of Malaysia and Indonesia on a clear day. Unlike the fast-paced vibe of the city below, the Flyer feels slow and calm. A chance to take it all in from above. We’ve been on the Flyer a few times because my son loves the view (we all do), and honestly, it’s just as fun even on a rainy day when the clouds roll past the skyline as it is on a sunny day. Tickets can be booked online, and it’s worth checking combo packages that include nearby attractions like the Time Capsule experience. More info is available on the official Singapore Flyer website.

Jewel Changi Airport – Calling Jewel Changi Airport just an airport feels like an understatement. It is one of Singapore’s top attractions in its own right. At the heart of Jewel is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cascading 40 meters through a glass-domed forest. Surrounding it are walking trails, canopy bridges, and gardens that make you forget you’re inside an airport. On one of our layovers, we spent hours here, just wandering between the waterfall, shops, and gardens. It makes waiting for a flight feel like part of the trip. Beyond the nature, Jewel is also home to more than 280 shops and restaurants, from local brands to international favorites. Even if you’re not flying, it’s connected to the MRT and open to the public, so it’s worth a visit. More info is available on the official Jewel Changi website.

Raffles Hotel –Few hotels are as legendary as the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, a colonial-era landmark that has been welcoming guests since 1887. With its whitewashed façade, grand verandas, and lush courtyards, stepping inside feels like stepping back in time. Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth visiting for a stroll through the elegant arcade of boutiques or to sip the original Singapore Sling at the Long Bar, where this iconic cocktail was invented. We stopped in on one of our trips just to experience it, and while the drink itself is famously touristy, the atmosphere makes it something you really shouldn’t miss. It’s a slice of Singapore’s history wrapped in timeless style. More info is on the official Raffles Hotel website. Want to stay here? You can book your stay through Expedia.

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – Nicknamed “the durians” for its spiky twin domes, the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is Singapore’s premier performing arts center. Inside, you’ll find world-class concert halls and theaters that host everything from international symphonies to local dance performances. Even if you’re not catching a show, it’s worth visiting for the striking architecture and the breezy waterfront promenade, which offers some of the best views of Marina Bay. For events and ticket information, check the official Esplanade website.

Singapore River Cruise – Taking a Singapore River Cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to see the city. The traditional bumboats glide past key landmarks like Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Fullerton Hotel, offering a unique perspective on Singapore’s mix of old and new. As the boat moves along the water, you’ll spot colonial bridges, restored shophouses, and sleek skyscrapers side by side. We took the cruise one evening, and it was such a peaceful way to end the day, watching the lights ripple across the bay. Cruises run throughout the day, but dusk is especially beautiful. You can find schedules and tickets on the Singapore River Cruise website.

Looking to make the most of your visit? Book guided tours and skip-the-line tickets easily through GetYourGuide.

Singapore’s Most Vibrant Cultural Neighborhoods

Chinatown – Vibrant, historic, and full of energy, Chinatown is one of Singapore’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Here, centuries old temples sit beside lively food stalls and heritage shophouses painted in bright colors. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is the highlight. A stunning Tang-style building with intricate interiors and a serene rooftop garden. We learned quickly that the best time to visit Chinatown is in the early evening when the markets glow under lantern light and the food stalls come alive. Between bites of satay and the scent of incense from the temples, it’s a feast for every sense.

Little India – Stepping into Little India feels like entering another world, one filled with color, music, and the scent of spices drifting through the air. The neighborhood is a vibrant blend of temples, markets, and traditional shops selling everything from gold jewelry to fragrant flower garlands. Don’t miss the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, richly decorated with intricate carvings and bright statues of deities. We spent a long afternoon here wandering through Tekka Market, sampling Indian sweets, and admiring saris in every imaginable shade. We also had an incredible Indian meal nearby. We enjoyed rich curries, warm naan, and flavors so authentic it felt like a trip to India itself.

Kampong Glam & Haji Lane – Once the historic seat of Singapore’s Malay royalty, Kampong Glam is now one of the city’s most vibrant and creative districts. At its heart stands the Sultan Mosque, with its massive golden dome gleaming above rows of shophouses. Around it, streets like Haji Lane and Arab Street are filled with colorful murals, local boutiques, and cozy cafés. We stopped for mint tea at a café tucked between fabric shops and ended up people watching for ages as the narrow street buzzed with life. It’s an easy mix of culture, history, and modern cool that captures Singapore’s spirit beautifully.

Clarke Quay & Boat Quay – Set along the Singapore River, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are where the city comes alive after dark. Once bustling trade hubs, these restored riverside warehouses now house restaurants, rooftop bars, and live music venues that spill light and laughter across the water. It’s the perfect spot for dinner with a view. We’ve enjoyed evenings here watching the bumboats glide past as the skyline reflected on the river. If you prefer something a little quieter, Boat Quay has a more relaxed, local vibe, ideal for riverside strolls or casual drinks. The area is easy to reach by MRT or as part of a Singapore River Cruise, making it a great way to end your day in the city.

Orchard Road – Singapore’s most famous shopping boulevard, Orchard Road, is a paradise for anyone who loves to shop, dine, or simply soak up the city’s energy. Stretching over two kilometers, it’s lined with gleaming malls like ION Orchard, Paragon, and Ngee Ann City, offering everything from global luxury brands to local designers. Even if shopping isn’t on your list, it’s worth visiting just to experience the buzz.

Katong-Joo Chiat – The Katong–Joo Chiat neighborhood is one of Singapore’s most charming areas, known for its colorful Peranakan shophouses, heritage eateries, and old-world charm. This area beautifully preserves the architecture and traditions of Peranakan culture. We spent a sunny morning wandering down Koon Seng Road, where rows of pastel Peranakan shophouses stood side by side, each one more intricate and photogenic than the last. We ended up staying for lunch at one of the family-run restaurants serving spicy laksa and homemade kueh.

Looking to make the most of your visit? Book guided tours easily through GetYourGuide.

Top Cultural & Historic Attractions in Singapore

Singapore Art Museum – Dedicated to contemporary art from Singapore and across Southeast Asia, the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) showcases bold, thought-provoking works that reflect the region’s creativity and changing identity. Exhibits range from large-scale installations and video art to experimental projects that blur the line between art and technology.

Asian Civilisations Museum – Sitting along the Singapore River, the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) explores the rich tapestry of Asia’s cultures and how they’ve shaped Singapore’s heritage. Its galleries are beautifully curated, covering Chinese ceramics, Indian textiles, Islamic art, and Southeast Asian craftsmanship, each piece telling a story of connection across centuries of trade and migration. I loved how the exhibits flow like a journey through time, tracing how cultures met and influenced one another right here in Singapore. The museum itself is housed in the historic Empress Place Building, a landmark of colonial architecture that complements its theme perfectly.

National Museum of Singapore – The National Museum of Singapore is the country’s oldest museum and still one of its most fascinating. Blending interactive exhibits with historic artifacts, it tells Singapore’s story from its early days as a trading port to the vibrant, modern nation it is today. The multimedia displays are so well done that even my son was completely absorbed, especially in the Singapore Odyssea and Singapore History Gallery, where immersive projections bring the past to life.

National Gallery Singapore – Housed within two beautifully restored national monuments, the former Supreme Court and City Hall. The National Gallery Singapore is one of the most impressive art spaces in Asia. Inside, vast galleries showcase the world’s largest public collection of modern Southeast Asian art, alongside international exhibitions that explore the region’s diverse voices and histories. I’ve always loved art, and this was the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon in Singapore.

Haw Par Villa – There’s nowhere in Singapore quite like Haw Par Villa. This open-air park is an eccentric, colorful maze of over a thousand statues and dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, folklore, and morality tales. Hell’s Museum, a fascinating exhibition that explores how different cultures view death and the afterlife. Entry to the main park is free, while admission to Hell’s Museum is S$20 for adults. We wandered through on a hot afternoon, completely absorbed by how surreal and detailed it all was, part art, part history, part fever dream.

Fort Canning Park – Rising quietly above the city, Fort Canning Park is one of Singapore’s most historic green spaces. Once the site of royal palaces, colonial residences, and a World War II command center, it’s now a peaceful hilltop park filled with shaded walking trails, spice gardens, and centuries of layered history. You can explore landmarks like the Battlebox Museum, an underground bunker from the war, or visit the Fort Gate, part of the original fortifications.

Singapore’s Best Nature Spots and Outdoor Escapes

Southern Ridges – The Southern Ridges is one of Singapore’s most scenic walking trails, connecting several parks across the southern part of the island. Stretching for about 10 kilometers, it links Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park through elevated walkways and forest paths. The highlight is the Henderson Waves, a striking, wave-shaped pedestrian bridge that offers sweeping city and harbor views. We walked part of the trail one morning, and it was amazing how quickly the sounds of traffic faded into birdsong and rustling leaves, it’s easy to forget you’re still in the middle of a city. Go early to beat the heat and bring water; there’s plenty of shade, but the humidity can sneak up on you.

East Coast Park – Stretching for more than 15 kilometers along the southeastern coast, East Coast Park is Singapore’s favorite seaside escape. Locals come here to cycle, rollerblade, picnic, or just relax under the palm trees with views of the water and passing ships. You can rent bikes right from the park or stop for a meal at one of the many beachfront cafés and hawker centers. East Coast Lagoon Food Village is especially popular for barbecued seafood and satay.

MacRitchie Reservoir & Treetop Walk – If you’re craving a dose of nature without leaving the city, MacRitchie Reservoir Park is the place to go. The highlight is the Treetop Walk, a 250-meter suspension bridge that stretches high above the forest canopy, offering incredible views of the lush jungle below. The park’s network of trails winds around the reservoir, perfect for hiking, running, or even kayaking on the calm waters.

Pulau Ubin – A short bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal takes you to Pulau Ubin, a small island that feels like stepping back in time to Singapore’s rural past. Here, life moves at a slower pace, think wooden kampong houses, dirt paths, and coconut trees swaying in the breeze. You can rent a bike to explore the island’s trails, visit the Chek Jawa Wetlands to spot marine life and migratory birds.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – Home to Singapore’s highest natural point, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a lush pocket of primary rainforest right in the heart of the island. Dense jungle, towering trees, and a surprising amount of wildlife. The trails range from gentle walks to steep climbs up to the summit, rewarding you with sweeping views of the city below. My son loved spotting the long-tailed macaques along the paths.

Top Family Attractions and Entertainment in Singapore

Sentosa Island – Just a short ride from the city center, Sentosa Island is Singapore’s playground. A sunny escape packed with beaches, theme parks, attractions, and luxury resorts. It’s one of those places where you can do everything from zip-lining through the jungle to lounging on the sand with a coconut in hand. We’ve visited several times, and every trip feels different. Some days are all about family fun, others about relaxing by the water. You can reach Sentosa by monorail, cable car, or even on foot via the Sentosa Boardwalk.

Here are the top attractions that make Sentosa worth a full day (or two):

• Universal Studios Singapore – The island’s biggest draw, Universal Studios Singapore brings Hollywood to Southeast Asia with themed zones, live shows, and rides ranging from kid-friendly to thrill-seeker level. The highlights for us were Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs. CYLON roller coaster and Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure. I have to admit I am a big fan on the Minions, so Minion Land was really fun.
• Singapore Oceanarium – One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Singapore Oceanarium offers an incredible underwater journey through the planet’s diverse marine habitats. Giant viewing panels let you see sharks, manta rays, and schools of fish drifting past in massive tanks designed to mimic natural ecosystems.
• Adventure Cove Waterpark – Perfect for cooling off in Singapore’s tropical heat, Adventure Cove Waterpark mixes water slides and lazy rivers with snorkeling in a reef filled with thousands of colorful fish. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can go from a waterslide to a coral lagoon in the same afternoon.
• Fort Siloso – History lovers shouldn’t miss Fort Siloso, Singapore’s only preserved coastal fort. The site dates back to the late 19th century and played a crucial role in World War II. You can explore tunnels, gun batteries, and interactive exhibits that bring the island’s military past to life, all with panoramic sea views from the Skywalk.
• SkyHelix Sentosa – For one of the best views on the island, hop on the SkyHelix Sentosa, an open-air rotating gondola that slowly ascends 79 meters above sea level. It’s a gentle ride with 360-degree views of Sentosa and the Singapore skyline, we went just before sunset, and the colors were incredible.
• Madame Tussauds Singapore – From movie stars to world leaders, Madame Tussauds Singapore lets you snap photos with lifelike wax figures and the Marvel Universe 4D experience was really fun.
• Sentosa Beaches – Sentosa is home to three main beaches, each with its own personality. Siloso Beach is the liveliest stretch, lined with beach clubs, bars, and volleyball courts that keep the energy high from morning to night. Palawan Beach is the most family-friendly, with playgrounds, calm waters, and a suspension bridge that leads to the “Southernmost Point of Continental Asia.” For something more peaceful, Tanjong Beach offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere, spend an afternoon lounging under the palms or enjoying a cocktail at Tanjong Beach Club.

Looking to make the most of your visit to Sentosa Island? Book guided tours easily through GetYourGuide.

Mandai Wildlife Reserve – North of the city, the Mandai Wildlife Reserve is a vast nature and conservation hub that brings together four world-class wildlife parks. Each park offers a different way to experience the natural world, from up-close encounters with orangutans and tigers to tranquil walks through lush aviaries and rainforest trails. We’ve spent entire days exploring Mandai. The reserve is easy to reach by car or public transport, and you can bundle park tickets to make the most of your visit.

• Mandai Singapore Zoo – Widely regarded as one of the best zoos in the world, the Singapore Zoo is known for its open, natural habitats that make you feel like you’re stepping right into the animals’ world. Instead of cages, the enclosures use moats and hidden barriers, allowing visitors to see wildlife up close while keeping the environment as natural as possible. You can wander through the Fragile Forest, a walk-in biodome filled with butterflies, lemurs, and free-roaming birds, or watch orangutans swing overhead during their feeding sessions. We loved how spacious and beautifully designed it was, with shaded paths and plenty of spots to stop and watch the animals.
• Mandai River Wonders – Next to the zoo, Mandai River Wonders. The park blends aquatic habitats and lush rainforest enclosures, home to manatees, giant river otters, and over 7,500 animals representing freshwater ecosystems. The highlight for most visitors is the Giant Panda Forest, where Kai Kai and Jia Jia live among bamboo groves and chilled air that mimics their mountain habitat. We took the Amazon River Quest boat ride, which felt like drifting through a tropical jungle, spotting Brazilian tapir and jaguars along the way.
• Mandai Night Safari – The world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, the Night Safari is one of Singapore’s most unique experiences. Once the sun sets, the rainforest comes alive with the sounds of the night. Owls calling, frogs croaking, and the rustle of animals moving through the dark. Visitors can ride the open tram or walk one of the illuminated trails to see over 900 animals, from tigers and elephants to smaller nocturnal species like civets and pangolins. We took the tram on our first visit and were amazed at how close some of the animals came their silhouettes visible just beyond the soft lighting.
• Mandai Bird Paradise – Mandai Bird Paradise is a breathtaking bird park. Home to over 3,500 birds from more than 400 species, it features eight expansive walk-through aviaries that recreate habitats from around the world. The Heart of Africa and Crimson Wetlands aviaries are especially stunning, filled with free-flying birds that swoop right past you. My son was completely fascinated by the vibrant macaws and flamingos, and we ended up spending hours just watching the feeding sessions and live presentations.
• Mandai Rainforest Wild ASIA – Rainforest Wild Asia brings the lush jungles of Southeast Asia to life in a way no other park does. It spans 12.6 hectares of dense, tropical habitat designed to mimic the real rainforests of Borneo and Indochina. Visitors can walk through elevated canopy trails, explore underground caves, and even cross suspension bridges surrounded by wildlife. Highlights include Malayan tigers, sun bears, and orangutans.

Looking to make the most of your visit to Mandai Wildlife Reserve? Book guided tours easily through GetYourGuide.

Best Food Experiences and Hawker Centres in Singapore

Maxwell Food Centre – Located in the heart of Chinatown, Maxwell Food Centre is one of Singapore’s most famous hawker centers and a must for anyone who loves good food. The star here is the legendary Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, a Michelin-recognized stall that regularly draws a line of locals and visitors alike. But there’s much more to explore, stalls selling fish soup, char kway teow, laksa, and fresh sugarcane juice fill the air with the kind of aromas that make it impossible to choose just one dish. We came for the chicken and rice, but my husband is such a food lover that we ended up with several entrées from neighboring stalls, everything from satay skewers to noodles, all equally delicious. Conveniently located on Maxwell Road, it’s an easy stop if you’re sightseeing in Chinatown or visiting the nearby Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

Lau Pa Sat – In the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, Lau Pa Sat is a stunning example of how history and food culture blend seamlessly in this city. This hawker center dates back to the 19th century and still feels like the soul of downtown. By day, it’s filled with office workers grabbing quick lunches of laksa, nasi lemak, and Hokkien mee. But after dark, it transforms completely, when Boon Tat Street closes to traffic and becomes Satay Street, lined with grills smoking under strings of lights. Our favorites here were Pin Wei Chee Cheong Fun, Lixin Teochew Fishball Noodles, and Warong Pak Sapari, all delicious and worth seeking out.

Chinatown Complex Food Centre – The Chinatown Complex Food Centre is the largest hawker center in Singapore, with more than 260 stalls serving every kind of local dish imaginable. It’s also home to Liao Fan Hawker Chan, famous for earning the world’s first Michelin star for a hawker stall and yes, their soya sauce chicken rice is worth the hype. Beyond that, you’ll find incredible char kway teow, rojak, and claypot rice, all at local prices. We loved wandering through the rows of stalls here, chatting with vendors and sampling small plates. The food center sits above a bustling wet market, adding even more color and authenticity to the experience.

Mark Wiens: Singapore’s BIGGEST Street Food!! 5 Things You HAVE TO EAT at Chinatown Complex!!

Tiong Bahru Market – Located in one of Singapore’s most charming heritage neighborhoods, Tiong Bahru Market is a local favorite that perfectly blends tradition with everyday life. The food center upstairs is always buzzing. Downstairs, you’ll find a wet market selling fresh produce, flowers, and spices, it’s a great place to soak in the rhythm of daily life in Singapore. For first-timers, Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice and Lee Hong Kee Roast Meat are local favorites, but honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here.

Newton Food Centre – If there’s one hawker center that truly captures the energy of Singapore’s food scene, it’s Newton Food Centre. In the movie Crazy Rich Asians, this open-air market comes alive at night with the sounds of sizzling woks and the aroma of grilled seafood. It’s especially famous for chili crab, barbecued stingray, and Hokkien mee. We came hungry and left absolutely full, thanks to my husband’s, I’ll take the menu philosophy.

Old Airport Road Food Centre – Ask any Singaporean where to find the best hawker food, and chances are they’ll mention Old Airport Road Food Centre. This longtime local favorite has been serving some of the city’s most beloved dishes since the 1970s, and it’s still where residents go for a comforting, no-fuss meal. The food here leans classic, think Hokkien mee, char kway teow, prawn noodle, and rojak, all prepared by vendors who’ve been perfecting their recipes for decades. It’s less polished than some of the more touristy hawker centers, but that’s exactly what makes it special.

Looking to make the most of your visit to Singapore? Book a Singapore food tour easily through GetYourGuide.

Practical Info for Visiting Singapore’s Attractions

Before diving into the list, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time at Singapore’s top sights:

Getting Around
Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the fastest and most affordable way to reach almost every attraction on this list. Stations are well-marked in English, and most major landmarks, from Gardens by the Bay to Chinatown, are just a short walk from an MRT stop. For places a little further out (like the Singapore Zoo or Pulau Ubin), taxis or Grab (ride-hailing app) are convenient. Walking is great in shaded areas but expect heat and humidity.

Opening Hours
Most attractions open around 9–10 AM and close by 6–8 PM. Some exceptions:

• Gardens by the Bay outdoor areas are open early until late, but domes and OCBC Skyway have set hours (usually 9 AM–9 PM).
• Night Safari opens in the evening (7:15 PM until midnight).
• Hawker centres vary, but many stalls open for breakfast and close late at night.
• Mustafa Centre in Little India is famously open 24 hours.
  Always double-check official websites before you go, as hours can shift for holidays or special events.

Tickets & Passes

• Popular attractions like Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and the Night Safari can sell out during weekends and holidays. Book tickets online in advance to skip the queues and lock in your spot.
• Combo passes (like the Singapore City Pass or Sentosa Fun Pass) can be good value if you’re planning to visit multiple paid attractions.
• Many museums and parks (including the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Fort Canning Park) are free to enter, though special exhibitions may require a ticket.

Timing Your Visits

• Early morning is best for outdoor sights like the Botanic Gardens or MacRitchie Reservoir before the heat builds.
• Late afternoon into evening is ideal for Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and Clarke Quay when the city lights up.
• Avoid weekends for big attractions, if possible, they’ll be busiest with both tourists and locals.

Plan Your Trip

Ready to start planning your Singapore adventure? Here are more guides and resources to help:

• Singapore Travel Guide: 15 Essential Tips and Best Things to Know – For a full travel guide to Singapore, including when to go, how to get around, and insider tips to make the most of your visit
• Asia Travel Guide – Discover more must-visit destinations across the region.
• Travel Resources – Trusted tools for flights, insurance, and booking essentials.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Finding the right hotel makes all the difference. Here are five of the best places to stay, each offering a unique experience of the city:

• Marina Bay Sands – The most iconic hotel in Singapore, with its famous rooftop infinity pool and breathtaking skyline views.
• Raffles Hotel Singapore – A legendary colonial landmark, known for timeless luxury and the birthplace of the Singapore Sling.
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore – A beautifully restored heritage building on the waterfront, blending history with modern comfort.
• Capella Singapore (Sentosa Island) – A luxurious retreat surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a resort-style stay.
• Hilton Singapore Orchard – Stylish and central, with easy access to the shopping and dining along Orchard Road.

Book Your Stay

• Booking.com – widest selection of hotels, boutique stays, and special deals in Singapore.
• Expedia – great for package deals on hotels + flights if you want everything in one place.

Top 10 FAQs About Visiting Singapore

1. How many days do I need in Singapore?
Most travelers spend 3 to 4 days in Singapore, which is enough to cover the highlights like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, and the cultural neighborhoods. If you want to include nature spots like Pulau Ubin or Bukit Timah, plan 5 days.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Singapore?
Singapore is a year-round destination with hot, humid weather. The driest months are February to April, which many consider the best time to visit. For festivals, Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb), Deepavali (Oct/Nov), and Christmas (Dec) are especially vibrant, but can get busy.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?
Travelers from the U.S., Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 30–90 days. Others may need to apply in advance. Always check the official ICA Singapore website before traveling.

4. Is Singapore expensive?
Singapore is one of the more expensive cities in Asia, especially for hotels and drinks. But you can balance costs by eating at hawker centers (where a meal is $4–6 SGD) and using public transport. Attractions range from free parks to $20–$40 SGD tickets for major sights.

5. What’s the easiest way to get around?
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is fast, clean, and affordable, covering nearly all major attractions. For areas not served directly by MRT, taxis and Grab are reliable. Walking is great in shaded areas, but expect heat and humidity.

6. Is Singapore safe?
Yes — Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is rare, and public spaces feel safe even late at night. That said, be mindful of strict local laws (no littering, jaywalking, or chewing gum in public).

7. What should I wear in Singapore?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate. Pack an umbrella for sudden showers and comfortable shoes for walking. If visiting temples or mosques, modest dress is required (covered shoulders and knees).

8. What food should I try in Singapore?
Don’t miss chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, satay, and roti prata. The best place to try them is at hawker centers like Maxwell or Lau Pa Sat, where locals eat daily.

9. Can I drink the tap water in Singapore?
Yes — tap water is safe to drink in Singapore. Most visitors use refillable bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.

10. Do I need travel insurance for Singapore?
While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Healthcare in Singapore is excellent but expensive, and insurance can also cover flight delays or lost baggage. Travelex Insurance is one reliable option to consider.