Here’s my list of things to do in Singapore! These are the places I always take family and friends when they come to visit. Sadly, as they usually stay only a few days, we can only cover the highlights – but don’t worry, I’ll be writing another post soon with more ideas if you have a bit more time.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Singapore!
In my opinion, guided tours led by locals are the best way to get to know a new city. I highly recommend the daily walking tours offered by Indie Singapore, which take place in different neighbourhoods across the city. I’ve actually done almost all of them myself because they’re so good!
The tours operate on a pay-as-you-wish basis, and at the end you’re encouraged to make a voluntary contribution. While not entirely free, they’re affordable and incredibly informative. Private tours are also available and I booked one during the Covid restrictions phase, when tourism had ground to a halt. It was absolutely worth it.
Gardens by the Bay
➡️ Read my full guide to visiting Gardens by the Bay (GBTB) here.
These gardens are stunning at any time of day, and they also offer great views of the impressive Marina Bay Sands towers. Entry to the outdoor gardens is free, and there are lots of child-friendly free activities.
Make sure you don’t miss the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest. And try to plan your visit so that you’re there in the evening to see the daily Garden Rhapsody light show, which takes place at 7.45pm and 8.45pm.
This attraction is unique to Singapore and you won’t find anything else like it anywhere in the world!
Photo 1: Cloud Forest with the Jurassic World exhibition
Photo 2: Temporary exhibition at the Flower Dome
Photo 3: Temporary exhibition at the Flower Dome
Marina Bay Sands
The three iconic towers of Marina Bay Sands (MBS) can be seen from many parts of the city, but they are definitely worth admiring up close along the riverfront.
The most common way is to take the Downtown (Blue) Line on MRT, getting off at Bayfront station. Check here for more other options too.
Every night, right in front of the shopping mall, you can enjoy Spectra, a spectacular free light and water show. Check the schedule here to plan your visit.
Tip: It’s possible to see both light shows, at Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, on the same evening. We once saw the MBS show at 8pm, hurried over and made it to the GBTB at 8.45pm show (with kids and loos in between). I don’t necessarily recommend rushing around, but it can be done! 😅
Photo 4: Spectra light and water show in front of Marina Bay Sands
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a luxury shopping centre with every designer brand you could think of and more. It’s also home to the iconic Apple Store, which appears to be floating on the water. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth seeing from the outside thanks to its unique glass dome design.
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, there are restaurants to suit all budgets. For something more affordable, I recommend the food court on the floor no. B2, Rasapura Masters. There are stalls offering a variety of Asian cuisines but just be warned: it’s very popular and waiting 15 minutes or more for a table is common.
Skypark Observation Deck – you can book tickets for the observation deck here. To guarantee entry, especially around the time of the light shows, it is best to book in advance as tickets tend to sell out quickly.
Bar Cé La Vi – another option is the CÉ LA VI Bar, also located at the top of Marina Bay Sands. There’s a minimum spend, which includes a drink, and can actually make this a better value choice. Check out all the details here.
Well, a night here is going to cost you a small fortune, but if you’re ready to splash out for something unforgettable, then it’s definitely worth considering. You can find more details about the hotel in my post Where to Stay in Singapore.
Photo 5: Night view of Marina Bay Sands
Cultural neighbourhoods: Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam
Singapore is a city where several cultures live side by side, and these neighbourhoods are the best reflection of that!
Each neighbourhood deserves its own post and is a must-see! Here are the links and a brief introduction:
This is probably the neighbourhood that takes the longest to explore, especially as I’ve also included Telok Ayer, where there is more to see.
As soon as you exit the Chinatown MRT station, you’re greeted by exit signs in Mandarin which you won’t find in every station. Get out in Pagoda Street and you’ll see immediately a street lined with of colourful shophouses, each with its own story.
Many Chinese immigrants settled in this area when they arrived in the 19th century, at a time when Singapore had already established itself as one of the most important British colonial ports.
Here you can visit Buddhist and Taoist temples, try street food, catch a whiff of the famous (and very smelly) durian fruit, and shop traditional souvenirs.
Photo 6: People’s Park Complex building
Photo 7: A mural by Singaporean artist YC
Photo 8: Prayer wheel on the top floor of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
In Little India you’ll experience an explosion of colours, aromas and sounds. From elaborately decorated Hindu temples to bustling markets brimming with fresh flowers and spices, this neighbourhood is an essential destination for anyone looking to experience the heart of Indian culture in Singapore.
Photo 9: Tan Teng Niah House, the last Chinese villa in Little India
Photo 10: Flower stall along Buffalo Road (these flowers are used, for example, in altars and religious ceremonies)
Photo 11: Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu Temple
If I had to choose the neighbourhood that surprises our visitors the most, I would say it’s Kampong Glam, also known as Malay Quarter.
This area is a true festival of colours, textures and scents. As a conservation area, it has retained its traditional shophouses and narrow streets lined with shops selling textiles, perfumes and Muslim food.
You’ll also find the Sultan Mosque here, as well as colourful street art and an artistic, alternative vibe.
Photo 12: Parkview Square building
Photo 13: Colourful murals in Haji Lane
Photo 14: Sultan Mosque
Orchard
Orchard Road is known as Singapore’s shopping street. The sheer number of shopping centres lining both sides of the street is unbelievable. Although you’ll also find some affordable brands here, this area is mostly famous for its luxury shops. Many of these appear more than once along the same street, with queues sometimes forming just to get in!
Check out the full list of shopping centres here. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, I recommend a visit to experience the scale of Singapore’s consumer culture. Don’t miss the ION Orchard shopping centre, it’s a true piece of architectural design!
Photo 15: Facade of ION Orchard shopping centre
While you’re in Orchard, be sure to stroll down Emerald Hill Road, a charming street lined with beautifully preserved shophouses. Many of these now house bars and restaurants, which are perfect for enjoying a drink at the end-of-day. Further along, you’ll also see shophouses that have been converted into modern homes, while retaining their traditional facades.
Photo 16: Shophouses at Emeral Hill Road
These are my must-see attractions in Singapore. I’ll soon also be sharing a post with more suggestions for walks in case you have more time in the city. As you’ll see, there are soooo many things to do in Singapore!
In the meantime, don’t miss these posts:
