10 Activities To Do in Singapore: Discover Singapore's Best
- Almosafer
- Jul 1
- 7 min read
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a tiny island in Southeast Asia that packs a powerful punch. It is a captivating blend of cultures, modernity, and natural beauty. With its gleaming skyscrapers, lush greenery, and diverse population, Singapore offers a unique experience for every traveller.
Immerse yourself in the best activities to do in Singapore, from the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the serene Gardens by the Bay, the city boasts an array of attractions catering to different interests.
Top Activities in Singapore: Iconic Singaporean Landmarks to Visit
Explore Singapore Botanic Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is more than just a park; it's a living testament to Singapore's rich botanical heritage. This 165-year-old oasis, located in the heart of the city, has earned its prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Explore lush greenery, serene lakes, and diverse flora, including the world's largest orchid collection. Discover ancient tree fossils and more! Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the best free thing to do in Singapore for you.
Location: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569.
Time to visit: The Botanic Gardens are open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Entry fees: Free to enter. Note that guided tours are also free, but booking them begins 15 minutes before they start.
Gardens by the Bay: A Floral Oasis
Gardens by the Bay is a breathtaking masterpiece, a testament to Singapore’s commitment to being a City in a Garden. With multiple domes to explore, tourists have a wide array of options to choose from. Wander through the iconic Supertree Grove, towering structures covered in lush vegetation, or step into the climate-controlled conservatories.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Flower Dome, a floral wonderland bursting with colour, or explore the misty Cloud Forest, home to a cascading waterfall and lush rainforest vegetation.
Gardens by the Bay is a living laboratory dedicated to research, conservation, and education, with guided tours to each of the domes to tutor people about the huge significance plants hold in human life.
Location: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953.
Time to visit: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Entry fees: Admission fees vary depending on the domes you wish to visit. Expect to pay around S$35 for Singapore residents and S$59 for international visitors. Note that entrance to the Gardens by the Bay itself is free.
Marvel at Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay
The iconic Esplanade, also known as the Durian, is a vibrant hub for the arts. This distinctive twin-domed building houses a concert hall, a theatre, and several smaller performance spaces. Since its opening in 2002, it has hosted countless performances, from world-class acts to local talents. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual spectator, the Esplanade is an unforgettable activity to do in Singapore.
Location: 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981.
Time to visit: Open from Sunday to Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 2:00 AM, and from Thursday to Saturday: 6:00 AM - 3:00 AM.
Entry fees: Prices differ depending on what show/tour you are interested in; generally, prices are around $20, so please check on the official website for all the updated prices.
Experience Art and Culture at the ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum is a striking lotus-shaped building that houses a unique blend of art, science, and technology. This innovative space explores the intersections of these areas through captivating exhibitions and interactive displays with its 21 gallery spaces spanning nearly 5,000 m². Immerse yourself in the world of digital art, mind-bending installations, and thought-provoking concepts.
Location: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974.
Time to visit: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Note that the last entry is at 6:00 PM.
Entry fees: Entry prices differ depending on the tour/film screening/exhibition you are interested in, so please check the official website for the latest prices.
Explore Singapore's Rich History at the National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is a captivating blend of history and modernity. Since it first opened its doors in 1887, the museum invites visitors to delve into the nation's past through immersive exhibitions that showcase its evolution from a humble trading post to a global metropolis.
Location: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897.
Time to visit: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Entry fees: General admission for adult tourists is 10$, for seniors and students it's $7, and it's free for children. To book your ticket, please refer to the official website.
The best things to do in Singapore at night: Singaporean Nightlife For All!
Shop, Dine, and Be mesmerised at Marina Bay Sands
The Marina Bay Sands is an iconic architectural marvel that defines Singapore’s skyline. Its three towering structures, crowned by a breathtaking pool, offer unparalleled luxury and stunning views. This breathtaking hotel boasts world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination.
Location: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956.
Time to visit: The standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and the check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Soar Above the City With Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is a majestic observation wheel that offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city at a breathtaking 165 meters above the ground, stretching from the bustling Marina Bay to the distant horizon. This iconic landmark is more than just a ride; it's an unforgettable experience.
Location: 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803.
Time to visit: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, last admission at 9:30 PM.
Entry fees: Tickets for the Singapore Flyer are as follows:
Singapore Flyer + Time Capsule tickets: Adults (ages 13 and above) are 40 SGD, and children are 25 SGD.
165 Sky Dining by Singapore Flyer: 260 SGD.
Skyline Lunch Experience tickets:150 SGD.
Singapore Sling Experience: 79 SGD for adults and 31 SGD for children.
Premium Experience: 79 SGD.
Unique, free, and fun things to do in Singapore
A Culinary Journey at Maxwell Food Centre
Maxwell Food Centre is a bustling food haven in the heart of Singapore. Since 1986, this iconic hawker centre has been offering a delicious array of local dishes, from the famous Hainanese chicken rice to comforting bowls of porridge. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you savour authentic Singaporean flavours amidst a lively crowd.
Location: 1 Kadayanallur Street, near Chinatown.
Time to visit: Open from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily.
Entry fees: Free to enter, you will need to pay for the food upon ordering it. For the complete menu, please head on over to their official website.
Get Lost in The Street Art At Haji Lane
Taking a tour down Haji Lane is easily among the most unique and amazing free things to do in Singapore. Known for its eclectic shops, trendy cafes, and, most notably, its colourful street art, Haji Lane is a vibrant, narrow street bursting with personality. Immerse yourself in the creative energy as you explore the unique murals and discover hidden gems.
Location: Haji Lane, Singapore.
Experience A Prehistoric Adventure At The Jurassic Mile
If you happen to be flying into Singapore through the Singapore Changi Airport, or you are a dinosaur fanatic, then The Jurassic Mile is the perfect activity for you! This one-kilometre stretch features life-sized dinosaur replicas, making it a thrilling outdoor experience for families and nature enthusiasts alike. From towering giants to curious creatures, experience more than 20 different prehistoric creatures from nine different species. Or combine your dinosaur expedition with a leisurely bike ride or jog along the scenic Changi Airport Connector.
Location: Airport Blvd., Singapore. Located near Changi Terminal 4.
Entry fees: Admission is free.
Singapore Tips and Tricks
Transport and Getting Around
Singapore boasts an efficient and reliable public transportation system, making it easy to explore this vibrant city-state:
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): Singapore's subway system is clean, efficient, and affordable. It's the quickest way to get around the city. There are 3 types of tickets used in the MRT:
Standard: Single-use tickets can be purchased at General Ticket Machines (GTMs) located in all metro stations.
Tourist Pass: Enjoy unlimited MRT and bus rides with a Singapore Tourist Pass. Choose from 1, 2, or 3-day options. These can be purchased at a TransitLink office at these stations:
Changi Airport
Orchard
Chinatown
City Hall
Raffles Place
Ang Mo Kio
HarbourFront
Bugis
EZ-Link Card: The EZ-Link card is Singapore's go-to smart card for public transport. This rechargeable card simplifies travel by bus and train. Pick up an EZ-Link card at TransitLink Ticket Offices and Passenger Service Centres. Recharge it easily at GTMs, manned ticket counters, and post offices.
Buses: A comprehensive bus network covers the entire island, offering flexibility for reaching various destinations.
Taxis: While more expensive, taxis provide door-to-door convenience, especially during peak hours.
Bike rentals: Explore the city at your own pace, but be aware of traffic conditions.
Car Rentals: For group travel or specific itineraries, renting a car might be convenient, though traffic can be an issue.
Best Times to Visit Singapore
Singapore enjoys a tropical climate year-round, making it a suitable destination at any time of the year. However, we recommend a visit between December and April, as this period encompasses the city's dry season, which is mainly characterised by its minimal rain and pleasant weather.
Local customs in Singapore
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures, offers a unique blend of traditions and modern charm. Here are some local customs to keep in mind:
Greetings: A firm handshake is the standard greeting for both formal and informal occasions.
Respect for Elders: Show respect to elders by addressing them as "uncle" or "auntie."
Modesty: Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
Tipping: Tipping in Singapore is generally not expected. Most restaurants and hotels include a service charge in the bill, which covers staff compensation.
Shoes: It's customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and mosques in Singapore.
Chopsticks: Avoid placing your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl. This is considered a bad omen as it resembles funeral rituals.
Chewing Gum: Chewing gum is banned for import and sale in Singapore.
FAQs about Singapore
Q. What is the official language of Singapore?
English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil are recognised as official languages in Singapore.
Q. Are there any safety tips I should be aware of when travelling to Singapore?
There are no specific safety tips for Singapore; it is generally considered one of the safest places to travel to, as Singapore was named the safest and most peaceful country in Asia in 2022 by the Global Peace Index.
Q. What is the official currency of Singapore?
The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD)(S$)
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