Mirella Pandjaitan
Jul 19, 2025
Singapore is where cutting-edge innovation meets timeless culture. Indeed, trying to narrow down the best experiences in Singapore is no easy feat. This dazzling island nation is brimming with world-class attractions, memorable cuisine, and distinctive day trips that blend modern marvels with cultural depth. Singapore's iconic city skylines, lively neighbourhoods, and serene nature escapes cater to every traveller in some sort of way.
You could be a veteran in Singapore, or you could be a first-timer—there’s always something worth your time. Here’s our carefully curated guide to the very best things to do in Singapore—each experience more impressive than the last.
This cosmopolitan gem will leave you inspired and wanting more; that is, if you're seeking indulgence, adventure, or connection. Below are the 20 best things to do in Singapore.
Admire the pastel Peranakan Houses of Joo Chiat
Wander through Koon Seng Road in Joo Chiat to see one of Singapore’s most photogenic streets. The iconic Peranakan terrace houses, painted in soft pastels and adorned with ornate details, reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage. While some are still living today, you’re welcome to take a photo—just be respectful of residents. Arrive early and enjoy a crispy prata breakfast from a nearby local eatery.
Bask on Sentosa’s beaches
Missing the beach life? You’ll find three unique stretches of sand on Sentosa Island. Tanjong Beach is perfect for quiet relaxation, Palawan Beach caters to families, and Siloso Beach is the go-to for volleyball, beach bars, and watersports. It’s the perfect island escape—without ever leaving the city.
Delve into Haji Lane’s street art and indie charm
Tucked in the Kampong Glam district, Haji Lane is a narrow street packed with personality. It’s known for its bold murals—look out for El Lío by Jaba and works by Ceno2 and Prettyfreakyfantasy—as well as its eclectic mix of boutiques and cafés. Shop for vintage-inspired fashion, quirky gifts, or even tarot cards and crystals at local gems like Grammah, Spoilmarket, and Life by Design.
Discover culture in Chinatown
Rich in heritage and buzzing with energy, Chinatown is a feast for the senses. Dive into the area’s history at the Chinatown Heritage Centre, explore the sacred Thian Hock Keng Temple, or marvel at the gold-inlaid interiors of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. When hunger strikes, this is the place to sample some of the city’s best Chinese cuisine.
Eat your way through Little India
A sensory explosion of colour, flavour, and culture, Little India is the heart of Singapore’s Indian community. Sample fiery curries and biryanis at local eateries, stock up on spices and textiles at the vibrant Tekka Centre, and admire ornate Hindu temples dotted across the district. For the ultimate immersion, join a cultural walking tour that weaves together food, faith, and history.
Embrace play on Sentosa Island
Singapore’s beloved Sentosa Island is a one-stop destination for leisure and family fun. Hop on a cable car or MRT and explore pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and action-packed attractions including Adventure Cove Waterpark, the Maritime Experiential Museum, and the world’s largest oceanarium at S.E.A. Aquarium. And yes, this is also where you’ll find the show-stopping Merlion statue—a national icon perched dramatically by the sea.
Experience Clarke Quay’s riverside ambience
By day, Clarke Quay charms with colourful colonial architecture and waterfront cafés. By night, it transforms into Singapore’s nightlife playground. Under its jellyfish-like roof, you’ll find everything from chic cocktail bars and buzzing clubs to riverside restaurants serving up global cuisine. It’s the perfect place to unwind, celebrate, and people-watch late into the night.
Find inspiration at the National Gallery
Art connoisseurs will find paradise at the National Gallery Singapore, home to the world’s largest collection of Southeast Asian modern art. Housed in the former City Hall and Supreme Court, the gallery features more than 9,000 works across two elegant buildings. Complimentary guided tours in English or Mandarin add depth to your visit, and there are frequent workshops and kid-friendly events year-round.
Get close with wildlife at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Just an hour from the city centre lies Sungei Buloh, Singapore’s premier nature reserve for birdwatching and wetland exploration. This 87-hectare sanctuary teems with migratory birds, monitor lizards, and mangrove ecosystems—a rare glimpse into the island’s natural heritage.
Marvel at the Marina Bay Sands and the skyline
Singapore’s most iconic silhouette, Marina Bay Sands, is more than just an architectural wonder—it’s an eclectic lifestyle destination. At the heart of this integrated resort, you’ll find everything from a luxurious casino and high-end shopping to fine dining and nightlife. By night, the Marina Bay skyline comes alive with the Spectra Light and Water Show—an 8 PM and 9 PM spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Pay tribute at Merlion Park
The majestic Merlion stands proudly along the Singapore River, blending the island’s mythical origins with modern city pride. A lion’s head on a fish’s body, this 8.6-metre-tall statue is one of Singapore’s most photographed landmarks—and a must-visit for first-time explorers.
Soar above the city on the Singapore Flyer
Towering above Marina Bay at 165 metres, the Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s largest observation wheels. Take a 30-minute ride for sweeping views of the skyline, Singapore River, and even parts of Malaysia and Indonesia on a clear day. Whether you go by day or night, it’s an unforgettable perspective of the Lion City.
Step into fantasy at Universal Studios Singapore
Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios is an adventure for all ages. Located on Sentosa, the park features over 20 rides and attractions across themed zones—from ancient Egypt and Jurassic jungles to the worlds of Shrek and Madagascar. Expect roller coasters, splash rides, live performances, and non-stop thrills for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Style yourself with the Orchard Road experience
Orchard Road is Singapore’s most iconic shopping strip, lined with gleaming malls, designer boutiques, and department stores. Chase the latest fashion or window-shop here; Orchard is a retail haven worth exploring. Check out our complete guide to shopping in Orchard to get the insider's scoop.
Take to the Treetops at MacRitchie Reservoir
Escape the city bustle and reconnect with nature at MacRitchie Reservoir Park. The star attraction? A 250-metre-long Treetop Walk suspended 25 metres above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of lush greenery and native wildlife. The full 7km loop is a rewarding half-day hike, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Time travel on Pulau Ubin
For a glimpse of Singapore as it once was, hop on a 10-minute ferry to Pulau Ubin. This rustic island village feels like a time capsule, complete with traditional kampung houses, quiet bike trails, and untouched mangroves. Don’t miss the Chek Jawa Wetlands, a thriving ecosystem perfect for walking or cycling through Singapore’s last remaining slice of wild nature.
Tranquillity is at its finest at Singapore Botanic Gardens
Venture into the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where nature, history, and culture intertwine. Spanning 82 hectares, this lush sanctuary offers serene lakes, vibrant blooms, and the world-renowned National Orchid Garden. Meander through tropical rainforests or relax on a shaded lawn; the gardens offer a refreshing escape from the urban rush. It's a living, breathing testament to Singapore’s green spirit and love for nature.
Unravel Singapore’s WWII history at Fort Canning Park
Once a military stronghold, Fort Canning is now a cultural landmark with a dramatic past. Walk through colonial-era barracks, explore the Battlebox underground bunker, and enjoy open-air performances or a tranquil picnic in the landscaped gardens. It’s a peaceful retreat layered with powerful history.
Walk among the clouds on the Southern Ridges
The Southern Ridges is a 9km trail connecting three of Singapore’s most beautiful parks: Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill, and Kent Ridge Park. Highlights include the wave-like Henderson Waves Bridge, elevated forest walkways, and scenic viewpoints that offer a fresh perspective on the city and coastline. It’s one of the best ways to explore Singapore’s green corridors on foot.
Wander the Gardens by the Bay
Futuristic, fantastical, and award-winning, Gardens by the Bay is a nature park unlike any other. Stroll beneath the towering Supertrees, take the elevated OCBC Skyway for panoramic views, and explore climate-controlled conservatories like the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. This is urban greenery reimagined—with innovation and imagination in full bloom.