19 Best Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore is a stunning island country and city-state nestled on the southern tip of Malaysia. Tourists flock here from around the globe to indulge in the diverse culture, cuisine, and landscape. And, English is the most widely spoken language, so this is one of the easiest places to visit in Southeast Asia.

Singapore’s name derives from Singa Pur, which means “Lion City”. Thankfully, you’re unlikely to see lions roaming the streets, but you will see plenty of equally exciting sights during your stay. Let’s discover the 19 best things to do in Singapore.

1. Feast in Singapore’s Hawker Centers

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Foodies flock to Singapore to discover an incredible array of cuisine, and “hawker centers” are at the heart of this. In fact, hawker centers are so important to daily Singaporean life that they have been recognized by UNESCO.

These food halls are where you can eat delicious and affordable street food such as traditional Haianese chicken rice. Here are three of our favorite hawker centers:

• Chinatown Complex – a huge hawker center with more than 260 food stalls.
• East Coast Lagoon Food Village – the only beachside hawker center, offering delicious food and stunning views.
• Newton Food Center – a lively hawker center that was famously featured in the “Crazy Rich Asians” movie.

2. Explore Chinatown

This popular neighborhood is a must-see for the temples, nightlife, and food scene. Strolling down Chinatown’s narrow streets will transport you to China. Don’t miss these experiences:

• Chinese food – follow your nose to find authentic dim sum and fresh noodles on every corner.
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – an ornate Buddhist temple and museum open to visitors.
• Night Hawk – an intimate cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe.

3. Meet the Animals at Singapore Zoo

Photo Credit: Trong Nguyen

Meet more than 4,000 animals in this tropical rainforest-themed zoo. The open-concept design feels less like a zoo and more like you are engaging with creatures in their natural habitat. Visitors can even take a night safari to discover what the zoo’s residents get up to after dark.

4. Sip a Singapore Sling in its Birthplace

The iconic Singapore Sling cocktail was first mixed in 1915 at the Long Bar in Singapore’s Raffles Hotel. Fans of the delicious gin-based drink shouldn’t miss a chance to have one in its birthplace.

Tip: This is the only place in Singapore where littering is encouraged because it’s traditional to brush peanut shells off the bar onto the floor.

5. Explore Changi Airport

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Most travelers usually spend the least amount of time possible in an airport. However, Changi Airport is regularly voted as one of the best in the world and there are dozens of things to do that make it an attraction in itself. Here are three of our favorites:

• Indoor waterfall – the 40-meter cascade at Jewel Changi Airport is the world’s largest indoor waterfall and a popular selfie spot.
• Butterly garden – stroll among 1,000 butterflies in the hot and steamy tropical garden.
• Slide – Singapore’s tallest slide goes impressively fast as it zooms down four stories of terminal three.

6. Embark on a Day Trip to Sentosa Island

If you aren’t staying on Singapore’s Sentosa Island, be sure to head there on a day trip instead. There’s lots to see and do and it’s easy to get there — you can go by road but taking the cable cars means you can enjoy stunning aerial views en route. Here’s how to spend your day on Sentosa Island:

• Relax on the beach – Palawan Beach is a vibrant beach with bars and food stalls, or head to Tanjong Beach for a more tranquil experience.
• Ride rollercoasters – Universal Studios Singapore is Southeast Asia’s only theme park from the Universal brand and makes an exciting day out for thrillseekers of all ages.
• Meet marine animals – S.E.A Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums. It’s home to more than 100,000 creatures including sharks and rays.

7. Take A Spin on The Singapore Flyer

Photo Credit: Peter G Unger

The Singapore Flyer is one of the biggest observation wheels on Earth, and seeing the city’s skyline from the glass capsules is an unforgettable experience. For the ultimate treat, book the capsule dining experience to add a four-course meal to your adventure.

8. Take a Stroll in Little India

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Little India is another must-visit neighborhood with its own unique culture and atmosphere. Head here for colorful shophouses and street art as well as impressive mosques and delicious food from authentic Indian eateries.

9. Experience Singapore’s Fine Dining

Singapore’s food scene is a foodie’s dream. There’s plenty of delicious cuisine on offer in the hawker centers, but Singapore also has an incredible array of Michelin fine dining to indulge in. Make reservations in advance for these three world-class eateries:

• Odette – located in the National Gallery, this three-Michelin star restaurant represents the very best of Singapore’s food scene.
• Art di Daniele Sperindio – the tasting menus are inspired by Daniele’s Italian heritage and the Italian wine list is almost as impressive as the food itself.
• Jaan by Kirk Westaway – cuisine inspired by British ingredients such as delicate scallops from Scotland.

10. Sip a Cocktail at Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is one of the most famous hotels in the world and visitors who can afford to stay here will have the unique experience of a dip in the iconic rooftop pool.

For a more affordable way to enjoy the rooftop and its incredible views, swing by for a drink at the hotel’s Lavo rooftop bar. There’s nothing quite like sipping an expertly crafted cocktail while enjoying views of the surrounding skyscrapers from 57 floors up.

Tip: if you aren’t interested in drinking, booking a ticket for Marina Bay Sand’s SkyPark observation deck may be a more cost-effective option for enjoying the views.

11. Shop ‘til You Drop on Orchard Road

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Orchard Road is an iconic strip of Singapore’s famous shopping belt and is where you can find everything from luxury global designers to Singapore’s best homegrown fashion talent.

Here’s where to shop around Orchard Road:

• Design Orchard – a treasure trove of products from over 90 local designers and brands. This is the best spot in the city for unique souvenirs.
• ION Orchard – one of Singapore’s best shopping malls. Head here for international brands plus panoramic views from the 56th-floor lounge.
• TANGS – Singapore’s first department store. You’ll find everything from fashion and beauty to homeware here.

12. Go Museum and Gallery Hopping

As one of Asia’s most culturally fascinating destinations, it may come as no surprise to learn that Singapore is home to a fantastic collection of museums and galleries. Here are three of the best:

• ArtScience Museum – a family-friendly art and science museum with an ever-changing collection of interactive exhibits.
• National Gallery – an incredible visual arts institute and home to the world’s biggest collection of Southeast Asian modern art.
• Hell’s Museum – located in Haw Par Villa, this unique museum looks at how different cultures around the world draw meaning from death and dying.

13. Get to Know Arab Street

Photo Credit: Richie Chan

Arab Street is part of the Kampong Glam area and is one of the most popular strips for tourists to stroll along. Here, you’ll find colorful shophouses selling textiles and handicrafts, alongside cafes and eateries selling mouthwatering food and drink. To visit Arab Street, hop off the MRT at the Bugis station.

14. Discover Singapore’s Nature

Singapore is best known as an urban location but is actually one of the world’s greenest cities. You’ll have no trouble finding abundant nature if you know where to look. Here are a few of our favorite spots:

• Pulau Ubin – explore this nature reserve via the trails that wind through the hills and keep a lookout for the kingfishers that call the Chek Jawa wetlands home.
• Sungei Buloh – this is Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park — head here to spot many species of migratory and native birds.
• Jurong Lake Garden – wander along the boardwalk to discover the lake and swamp forest, or let your furry friend burn off steam in the dog run if you’re traveling with pets.
• Singapore Botanic Gardens – this is the only tropical garden to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Don’t miss the tranquil Orchid garden.

15. Take a Singapore River Cruise

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Hop aboard a traditional “bumboat” for an easy way to bask in panoramic views of Singapore’s must-see landmarks. Experienced guides share stories from Singapore’s history while you sail through Clarke Quay and Marina Bay. Most cruises are around 40 minutes long and include the architecturally impressive Esplanade Performing Arts Center and the Merlion — Singapore’s official mascot with a lion’s head and a fish’s body.

16. See Katong’s Colorful Shophouses

Katong is said to be one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world, and its colorful shophouses are extremely Instagrammable. Wander down Koon Seng Road to see some of the city’s prettiest two and three-story shophouses — look out for the floral ceramic Peranakan motifs and the Chinese couplets which are thought to bring good fortune.

17. Visit Gardens by the Bay

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Said to be one of the top ten attractions in the entire world, Gardens by the Bay is a must-see while in Singapore. There’s so much to see here that you could easily dedicate an entire sightseeing day to this spot, but these three attractions should be prioritized if you’re short on time:

• Cloud Forest – home to an incredible indoor waterfall and exotic plants from all over the world.
• Flower Dome – learn about plants and flowers from far-flung habitats including South Africa and the Mediterranean.
• Supertree Grove – find shade below the 50-meter tree structures, or visit during the evening for a free light and music show. Head up to the observatory for a treetop walk and a unique vantage point.

18. Walk the Southern Ridges

Photo Credit: Danny Ye

The Southern Ridges comprise six miles of walking trails that connect three parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park. The lush jungle trails make a welcome break from the busy city, and the bridges throughout the trail are pretty photo-taking spots. Don’t miss the Labrador Nature Reserve for its picturesque ocean views.

19. Take a Day Trip to Malaysia

Malay culture can be experienced throughout Singapore, but for an exciting day trip, hop across the border and see the country for yourself. Choose from the following places to spend your day:

• Kuala Lumpur – KL is Malaysia’s capital city and a vibrant destination boasting incredible food and iconic landmarks.
• Malacca – a top pick for architecture, culture, and history. This is also a great place for antique shopping.
• Johor Bahru – a causeway across the Straits of Johor connects this city to Singapore, making it the easiest way to spend a day in Malaysia.

Get Ready to Explore Singapore

This Southeast Asian gem is the perfect destination for a fun-packed long weekend. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, or a beach bum, you’re certain to fall in love with Singapore.