Singapore, often referred to as the Lion City, is a unique island city-state in Southeast Asia renowned for its fusion of modernity and rich cultural heritage. As a global financial hub, it is home to one of the world's busiest ports and offers a high standard of living. The city's meticulous urban planning, efficient public transportation, and strict regulations ensure a clean and safe environment. This delightful metropolis is known for its clean streets, abundant greenery, and diverse cultural tapestry, making it a prime destination for travellers seeking a blend of traditional charm and modern attractions.
Unique Places to Visit in Singapore: A Journey Through the Lion City
These attractions are just the tip of the iceberg in a city brimming with culture, innovation, and natural beauty. Singapore's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore, while its diverse culinary scene ensures that every meal is an adventure.
1- Gardens by the Bay
Singapore's Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit destination, offering an unforgettable experience that is made even more memorable when viewed from the observation deck at Marina Bay Sands. While the gardens are stunning during the day, they are transformed into a magical spectacle at night with coloured lights. This expansive garden complex features breathtaking waterfront views, scenic walking paths and the iconic Supertrees vertical gardens that light up in a mesmerising display of colour. With its beautiful outdoor gardens and two large open-air gardens, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, Gulf Gardens offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Attractions: The Garden Rhapsody light show and the OCBC Skyway. Bay East Garden, Supertree Grove, the world's Tallest Indoor Waterfall at Cloud Forest Dome
Location: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 20-minute drive from Changi Airport & 10-minute walk from Gardens by the Bay MRT Station. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Bayfront Station (Circle Line/Downtown Line) and follow the signs to the gardens.
2- Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic integrated resort located in Singapore's Marina Bay area. It features three interconnected towers topped by the Sands SkyPark, which offers stunning city skyline views. The resort includes a luxury hotel, a shopping mall with premium brands, various dining options, theatres, and the ArtScience Museum. The infinity pool on the SkyPark is one of the most famous attractions, offering a unique swimming experience with panoramic views of the city. Marina Bay Sands is also known for hosting world-class events and conventions, making it a key destination for both tourists and business travellers.
Attractions: ArtScience Museum, and luxury shopping. Infinity Pool at Skypark Hotel, The Helix, and Gardens By The Bay.
Location: 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 19-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, use the MRT to Bayfront Station (Circle Line/Downtown Line). Taking a taxi, private car or bus is also an available and easy feature.
3- Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is a popular resort destination in Singapore and is known for its diverse range of attractions and activities. Located just off the southern coast of Singapore, it is easily accessible via a bridge, cable car, or monorail. Key attractions include Universal Studios Singapore, an exciting theme park with various rides and shows; S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the world's largest aquariums; and Adventure Cove Waterpark, known for its thrilling water slides and marine encounters. The island also features historical sites like Fort Siloso, recreational facilities such as golf courses, and natural attractions like the Sentosa Nature Discovery.
Attractions: Enjoy activities like kayaking, skimboarding, and beach volleyball at Siloso Beach. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Merlion statue and explore Fort Siloso, Singapore's only preserved fort. Experience the thrills of Universal Studios, and engage in various water sports at Wave House.
Location: Sentosa, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 25-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to HarbourFront Station (North-East Line), then transfer to the Sentosa Express monorail or take a bus.
4- Chinatown
Chinatown in Singapore is a lively cultural district known for its rich Chinese heritage. It features colourful shophouses, the Chinatown Heritage Centre, and notable religious sites like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Sri Mariamman Temple. The area is famous for its diverse culinary scene, offering traditional dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and street food. Chinatown also has markets and shops selling a variety of goods, making it a popular destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. It is especially vibrant during festivals, such as the Chinese New Year.
Attractions: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Chinatown Complex, and Thian Hock Keng Temple.
Location: It is located within the Outram district in the Central Area of Singapore.
How to Reach: A 20-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Chinatown Station (Downtown Line/North-East Line).
5- Little India
Little India in Singapore is a vibrant district known for its rich Indian culture and heritage. Located along Serangoon Road, it features colourful shops, traditional Indian eateries, and a variety of temples, including the famous Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. Little India offers a diverse shopping experience with markets and stores selling Indian spices, textiles, jewellery, and traditional clothing. The area is particularly lively during festivals like Deepavali, with decorative lights, cultural performances, and festive bazaars. It's a must-visit for experiencing Indian culture, cuisine, and shopping in Singapore.
Attractions: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Mustafa Centre, and the Little India Arcade.
Location: East of the Singapore River – across from Chinatown, located west of the river – and north of Kampong Glam.
6- Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a lush, expansive park located in the heart of Singapore. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring a wide variety of plants and flowers, including a stunning collection of orchids at the National Orchid Garden. The gardens also house the Rainforest, Swan Lake, and various themed gardens. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a tranquil escape from the city and is popular for leisurely walks, picnics, and educational tours. The gardens also host various cultural and musical events throughout the year.
Attractions: National Orchid Garden and Swan Lake. Which makes it one of the best Singapore tourist spots.
Location: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 25-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to HarbourFront Station (North-East Line), then transfer to the Sentosa Express monorail or take a bus.
7- Orchard Road
Orchard Road is Singapore's premier shopping and entertainment district, renowned for its lively atmosphere and extensive range of retail options. Stretching over 2.2 kilometres, this iconic boulevard is lined with shopping malls, luxury boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Orchard Road is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering everything from high-end fashion and electronics to local delicacies and cultural experiences. It's also known for its festive decorations during events like Christmas, making it a lively and must-visit spot in Singapore.
Attractions: ION Orchard, TANGS, and Plaza Singapura.
Location: Orchard Rd, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 20-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Orchard Station (North-South Line)
8- Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park is a significant historical and cultural site in Singapore. Key attractions include the Battlebox, an underground bunker from World War II, and various gardens like the Raffles Garden and the Spice Garden, which showcase the region's botanical diversity. Visitors can also explore the remnants of colonial-era fortifications, such as the Fort Gate and the Gothic Gates. The park is also home to sculptures and murals, including the ASEAN Sculpture Garden and historical sites like Keramat Iskandar Shah.
Attractions: A historical site with WWII bunkers and gardens, accessible via Fort Canning MRT station.
Location: Located in central Singapore, Fort Canning Park is bordered by Hill Street, Canning Rise, Clemenceau Avenue, and River Valley Road.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to the Downtown Line, alighting at Fort Canning Station.
9- Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is a historic neighbourhood in Singapore known for its rich cultural heritage. Originally a fishing village, it later became a significant area for the Malay and Muslim communities. The neighbourhood is renowned for the Sultan Mosque, with its distinctive golden dome, which stands as a prominent landmark and a symbol of Kampong Glam's deep-rooted history and traditions.
Attractions: Sultan Mosque, Haji Lane, and the Malay Heritage Centre.
Location: Kampong Glam, Singapore.
How to Reach: A 15-minute drive from Changi Airport. From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Bugis Station (East-West Line), then walk to Kampong Glam.
10- Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay
The Esplanade, often referred to as "The Durian" due to its unique architectural design, is a premier performing arts centre in Singapore. It features a concert hall, theatre, recital studio, and various other performance spaces. The venue hosts a wide range of performances, including theatre, dance, music, and visual arts exhibitions. Outdoor performances and festivals also take place at the Esplanade, offering a vibrant cultural experience. The venue includes several dining options and retail outlets, making it a comprehensive cultural hub.
Attractions: A premier arts centre with various performances, located near Esplanade MRT station on Marina Bay.
Location: Situated on Marina Bay, the Esplanade is centrally located in Singapore, making it easily accessible and a focal point for cultural events and activities.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Esplanade Station on the Circle Line, or City Hall MRT on the North-South Line.
11- Singapore Zoo
The Singapore Zoo is one of the best of Singapore tourist attractions. It is a renowned wildlife park known for its open-concept enclosures that mimic natural habitats. Opened in 1973, the zoo is situated in a rainforest environment and spans over 26 hectares. It houses more than 300 species, including many rare and endangered animals. The zoo is particularly famous for its "open" exhibits, where barriers between animals and visitors are often hidden, creating an immersive experience. The Singapore Zoo is also involved in various conservation efforts and educational programs, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
Attractions: Night Safari and River Safari.
Location: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio Station (North-South Line), then transfer to Bus 138 to the zoo.
12- National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum is an exciting place to see in Singapore. It is the oldest museum in the country, established in 1887. Located in a striking neoclassical building, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Singapore's history and culture. It features a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions that cover various aspects of Singapore's past, including its colonial history, nation-building, and contemporary culture. The museum also hosts interactive displays and multimedia presentations, making it an engaging experience for visitors. It is a key institution for understanding the rich and diverse heritage of Singapore.
Attractions: Singapore History Gallery and Living Galleries.
Location: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station (North-South Line), then walk to the museum.
13- Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport is a mixed-use development at Singapore's Changi Airport, known for its unique architectural design and attractions. Opened in April 2019, Jewel features the world's tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, which stands at 40 metres. The complex also includes a lush indoor garden called the Shiseido Forest Valley, a variety of dining and shopping options, and the Canopy Park, which offers recreational facilities like walking trails, mazes, and slides. Jewel serves as a major attraction for both travellers and locals, providing a unique blend of nature and modern amenities within an airport setting.
Attractions: Rain Vortex, Canopy Park, and dining options.
Location: located at 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore, within Changi Airport, one of the world's busiest and most well-regarded airports.
How to Reach: Located directly at Changi Airport, accessible from all terminals via pedestrian walkways.
14- Bukit Batok Nature Park
Bukit Batok Nature Park is a peaceful green space located in the Bukit Batok area of Singapore. The park is built around an old quarry, now filled with water, forming a tranquil pond surrounded by lush vegetation. It offers walking trails, viewpoints, and a serene environment for nature lovers. The park is also known for its WWII memorial site, a tribute to the soldiers who fought during the Japanese occupation. It's a popular spot for jogging, bird watching, and enjoying a quiet escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Attractions: Quarry pool and WWII memorial site.
Location: It is located in the Bukit Batok area of Singapore. The park's main entrance is situated along Bukit Batok East Avenue 2, near the junction with Bukit Batok East Avenue 6.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Bukit Batok Station (North-South Line), then transfer to Bus 173.
15- Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is a giant observation wheel located in Singapore. Standing at 165 metres (approximately 541 feet) tall, it was the world's tallest Ferris wheel when it opened in 2008. The Flyer offers panoramic views of the Marina Bay area, including landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore skyline. A complete rotation takes about 30 minutes, providing visitors with a leisurely experience to enjoy the cityscape. The Singapore Flyer is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals, offering a unique perspective of the city, especially during sunset and nighttime.
Attractions: Scenic flights and Sky Dining experiences.
Location: It is located at 30 Raffles Avenue, in the Marina Bay area, a central and accessible part of Singapore.
How to Reach: From Changi Airport, take the MRT to Promenade Station (Downtown Line or Circle Line), then walk to the Flyer.
Best 4 Free Places to Visit in Singapore
Singapore offers a range of cost-free experiences for visitors to explore. Here are some top spots:
East Coast Park
A perfect place to relax by the beach, go for a swim or have a picnic. It's a favourite among locals for its recreational activities.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Home to Singapore’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Hill, this reserve offers hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity.
Cultural Sites
Explore the lively neighbourhoods of Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam, each offering a unique cultural experience. Don’t miss visiting temples like the Sri Mariamman Temple and the Sultan Mosque.
MacRitchie Reservoir Park
This nature reserve offers hiking trails, including the popular TreeTop Walk, which provides a stunning aerial view of the forest.
5 fun Family-Friendly Places to Go in Singapore
Here are some fun places to go in Singapore so you can enjoy a perfect holiday full of different activities and create unforgettable memories.
Jewel Changi Canopy Park
Located at Changi Airport, this lush park features walking trails, gardens, and interactive installations like the Sky Nets and Discovery Slides. It's a great place for families and travellers to relax and enjoy unique attractions.
LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort
Just a short trip from Singapore, this resort offers themed rides, water attractions, and a variety of LEGO-inspired activities. It's ideal for a day trip, especially for families with children
Wild Wild Wet
One of Singapore's largest water parks, Wild Wild Wet is packed with water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. It's perfect for a fun-filled day under the sun.
Sentosa 4D Adventureland
Experience immersive 4D simulations and interactive games. This entertainment zone offers a range of experiences, from thrill rides to animated adventures, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
Peranakan Museum
Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Peranakan community. The museum showcases artefacts, textiles, and art that highlight the unique blend of Chinese and Malay cultures.
MINT Museum of Toys
A treasure trove for toy enthusiasts, this museum features an extensive collection of vintage toys and memorabilia from around the world, spanning various eras and genres.
ArtScience Museum
Situated at Marina Bay Sands, this museum combines art, science, culture, and technology through its innovative exhibitions. It's a space where visitors can engage with interactive displays and learn about various topics.
FAQs About The Best Places to Visit in Singapore
Q1 What is the best time of year to visit Singapore?
The ideal time to visit Singapore largely hinges on your business objectives and the activities you're planning. Typically, the period from November to April is regarded as the most favourable for tourists, while the months from June to September experience higher humidity and increased rainfall
Q2 Are there any cultural etiquette or dress codes in Singapore that should be known?
A unique rule in Singapore is the prohibition of chewing gum in public.
Learning basic phrases in Malay or Mandarin demonstrates courtesy and respect towards the locals.
Use polite titles like "Mr." or "Ms." as a sign of respect, and be mindful of non-verbal gestures.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Singapore, as it keeps the space clean and shows respect for the host.
When interacting socially, offer and receive items with both hands as a gesture of respect.
Q3 How can I get around Singapore using public transport?
Singapore boasts an excellent public transportation system known as the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) or SMRT. This system spans the entire island, including 79 railway stations and an extensive LRT network. Alongside buses and taxis, this comprehensive network ensures that every part of Singapore is easily accessible via public transport.
Q4 What are the interesting places to visit in Singapore?
MINT Museum of Toys
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay
LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort
Singapore Zoo
ArtScience Museum
Q5 Can I visit Singapore during the layover?
Singapore ranks among the top cities worldwide for layovers, offering a safe, clean, and conveniently compact environment, along with an exceptional culinary scene. Even if you don't venture into the city, Changi International Airport is a remarkable destination.
Q6 What are the best places to visit in Singapore?
Jewel Changi Canopy Park
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