22 Unforgettable Things to do in Singapore: Our Favorites
Singapore proves that great things come in small packages. This island nation delivers an incredible concentration of futuristic wonders, cultural gems, and urban oases. Discover the essential experiences that make it truly unforgettable.
HOW MANY DAYS | 3 to 6
BEST TIME TO VISIT | December to March
WHERE TO STAY | ST Signature Jalan Besar
TOP THINGS TO SEE | Gardens by the Bay, Night Safari, Chinatown, Pualau Ubin
HOW TO GET AROUND | MRT or take a Grab
What really stood out to us is the diversity different cultures Chinese, Malay, Indian, and many other communities all live together. Traditions are not just present, they’re celebrated everywhere you go. One moment you’re walking through colorful temples in Little India, the next you’re tasting dumplings in Chinatown, and later you might be relaxing in a trendy café or futuristic garden. We loved how natural it all feels and how well it’s embraced across the whole country. We were also impressed by how green Singapore is, believe it or not but nearly half the city is covered in parks or tree-lined streets. Let’s not even start with the food culture embracing all the diversity at once. You will best experience this at hawker centers.
Everywhere we went, it felt like there was something new to discover, and we quickly fell in love with the city. In this guide, we’re sharing the things to do in Singapore that really made our visit special. During our time here, we explored both the must-see highlights and some quieter corners, and in this guide we’re sharing the things to do in Singapore that we think are worth your time.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE
Gardens by the Bay: Rhapsody Show
The Garden Rhapsody light show is an absolute must-see, where the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay come alive in a spectacular display. For 15 minutes each night, these futuristic structures dazzle with colorful lights perfectly synchronized to a themed soundtrack, creating a truly mind-blowing experience. It’s so captivating that we found ourselves returning on multiple nights—and as a free attraction, it’s arguably the best way to experience the park after dark.
Since it’s very popular, the area gets easily crowded. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot. The second show of the evening is usually less busy, which makes it a great alternative. For the best experience, lie down on the benches and look up as the Supertrees glow and pulse with the music.
From our own visit, we’d also recommend bringing a beach towel or mat to sit on. It had rained earlier that evening, and we quickly realized how useful that would have been.
LIGHT SHOW | daily at 7:45 p.m. & 8:45 p.m.
OPEN | 24 hours
COSTS | Free
Spectra Light & Water Show
Another free show we really enjoyed is the Marina Bay light and water show, Spectra. It also runs for 15 minutes and combines music, fountains, and colorful lights reflecting off the bay, such a beautiful way to end the evening. The best place to watch is from the Event Plaza on the promenade. We’d suggest arriving 15–20 minutes early so you can grab a good spot without rushing. If you want a different angle, you can even catch the show from one of the boats on the water.
We actually ended up staying longer and saw both shows in one night. To our surprise, the second one was different, so it was totally worth hanging around a bit.
And before you leave the area, don’t miss a walk across the Helix Bridge. The design is inspired by the shape of DNA, and when it lights up at night it’s a really fun spot to stroll and take photos.
LIGHT SHOW | daily at 8:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.
BOOK | Singapore River Cruise
TIP | You can combine a visit with the Garden Rhapsody show on the same night
Night Safari
If you're looking for something genuinely different to do one evening, the Night Safari is a great choice. We absolutely loved it and can say, was one of our favorite things to do in Singapore. The Night Safari is the world's first safari park built specifically for nocturnal animals. That means you get to see creatures like leopards and flying squirrels when they're actually awake and moving around. You will see many endangered species and animals you’ve probably never seen.
Booking your entrance slot in advance is secured when you buy your tickets. It is a very popular attraction and you might not be able to visit, if you do not book a few days or weeks beforehand. Our advice is to book the earliest slots through Klook to see some of the animals before it gets completely dark.
OPEN | 6:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$58 | €38 | US$45 single foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | Night Safari Single Ticket or Mandai Pass
TIP | Don’t forget your mosquito repellent.
Cloud Forest & Flower Garden
The Cloud Forest is one of those places that you cannot miss in Singapore. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and a misty mountain covered in lush greenery. It is a beautiful mix of nature and architecture. When we visited they had the temporary Jurassic Park exhibition, with huge dinosaurs all over. Walking along the elevated paths gives you the feeling of floating above the treetops, with different layers of vegetation, orchids, and tropical plants all around you. If you only have time for one conservatory, make it this one.
While the Flower Dome is impressively large and home to thousands of beautiful plants from around the world, we found it less fascinating than the Cloud Forest. Since it's included in the same bundle ticket, it's still well worth a walk-through, especially for gardening enthusiasts. However, if you're short on time, prioritize the Cloud Forest as the main attraction.
TIP | Go earlier in the day before it gets crowded, and bring a light sweater if you get cold easily.
OPEN | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$46 | €30 | US$36
SuperTree Grove
The Supertree Grove is one of the most iconic attractions in Singapore. You can wander around the towering tree-like structures, enjoy the gardens, and take as many photos as you like without spending a cent. It’s already impressive during the day, but at night it becomes unforgettable when the Garden Rhapsody light show begins.
On top of that, there are two paid experiences that give you an even closer look. The OCBC Skyway is a suspended walkway between two Supertrees, offering incredible views over the park. We loved this one the most, walking high above the ground with the Supertrees all around was a highlight and it is the best for pictures. The Supertree Observatory is higher up and offers panoramic views from the top of the tallest Supertree over the whole area.
TIP | Arrive in the late afternoon to see the Supertree Grove bathed in golden sunset light—perfect for photos. Then stay for the magical Garden Rhapsody light show after dark.
BOOK | Gardens by the Bay: Observatory and Skyway Tickets
ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum is one of those places that makes you feel like a kid again. Housed in the iconic lotus-shaped building right by Marina Bay Sands, it’s a fun mix of art, technology, and imagination. We visited on a rainy afternoon, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. Inside, you don’t just look at the art, you make it. The immersive exhibits feel like walking through a digital dreamscape, where you can interact, play, and even become part of the installations.
What makes it extra special is that the exhibits change every few months, so there’s always something new to discover. They’re usually very interactive and of course great for photos. Before you go, it’s worth checking online to see what’s currently showing, since the themes can be quite different.
We’d say this is one of the best indoor activities in Singapore, especially for a hot afternoon when you want to escape the heat or on a rainy day like we did. It’s playful, inspiring, and a little magical.
TIP | It’s cheaper to buy the Museum Pass Singapore on Klook
OPEN | 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$39 | €26 | US$30 foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | ArtScience Museum Single Ticket or Museum Pass Singapore
National Museum of Singapore
If you want to get a real sense of how Singapore became the vibrant city it is today, the National Museum is the perfect place to spend a few hours. It’s the oldest museum in Singapore, but don’t let that make you think it’s boring. We loved how the museum brings history to life with films, soundscapes, and interactive displays that make learning feel fun and engaging.
Walking through the galleries, you really get a sense of the city’s journey from past to present. It’s the kind of museum where you can lose track of time because there’s always something new to discover.
OPEN | 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$24 | €16 | US$19 foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | National Museum Single Ticket or Museum Pass Singapore
The Real Traveler’s Tip: Buy Tickets Online with Klook!
For attractions that require tickets in Singapore, Klook is the leading travel and experiences booking website in Asia.
We use it all the time while traveling and highly recommend it!
We get cheaper tickets online, earn credits for future bookings, and enjoy a smooth, tried-and-tested experience, especially in Singapore where Klook is widely used.
BOOK | Singapore Pass | Mandai Pass | Singapore Museum Pass
Little India
The moment you get off the MRT, you're hit with the smell of spices and flowers, the sound of Bollywood music, and sight of buildings in every color. It's a burst of energy that instantly reminded us of our time traveling through India.
You have to see the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, the detailed statues covering the roof are beautiful. If possible, take a free guided tour at the Indian Heritage Centre, we loved how much we understood about the Indian-Singaporean Community. We were not impressed by the Mustafa Center, but it is a huge and popular mall selling anything your heart might want. And don't leave without eating at the Tekka Hawker Centre! The roti prata at JOM MAKAN and fresh coconuts are a must.
To truly appreciate the depth of history and culture in this vibrant neighborhood, join this guided tour for local insights and stories you'd likely miss on your own.
Singapore Zoo
The Singapore Zoo is honestly one of the best zoos we've ever been to. What makes it special is the kind of animals that you will see, many of them endangered. If you worry, as we did about the wildlife they are in big, open enclosures with moats instead of cages. This is an activity we would normally skip for ethical reasons, and debated long about visiting. But after seeing how well the animals are cared for, we’re really glad we decided to go.
We only had time for the Zoo and the Night Safari, but Mandai is home to several other wildlife experiences that you might consider. River Wonders is a river-themed wildlife park featuring freshwater animals from around the world. You can see giant pandas, otters, manatees, and a huge variety of fish. It’s perfect if you love aquatic life. You can also consider visiting the Bird Paradise, which showcases exotic birds in lush aviaries, and the upcoming Rainforest Park, which promises more immersive wildlife experiences. If you plan on visiting more than one Wildlife attraction, consider saving some money with the Mandai Pass.
Each attraction focuses on conservation and education, so even if you’re not usually a zoo person, you might find these experiences rewarding.
OPEN | 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$49 | €32 | US$32 single foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | Singapore Zoo Single Ticket or Mandai Pass
China Town
We loved wandering around finding some street art on our way to the main attractions. Your first stops should be the stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Then visit the colorful Sri Mariamman Temple to soak in the Hindu culture. Lastly, visit the Thian Hock Keng Temple one of oldest Chinese temples in Singapore. If you want to learn about the Chinese culture in Singapore, visit the China Heritage Centre.
You might be hungry by then, so head straight to Maxwell Food Centre to join the queue for the legendary Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, it’s a non-negotiable must-eat.
Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park is this great green hill right in the middle of the city that feels like a green peaceful escape. You can explore old historical sites like the Battle Box bunker from WWII, but most people come for the famous "tree tunnel" at the spiral staircase, which is a really popular spot for photos. We waited for an hour at 8:00 a.m. If you are short on time, then skip the photo and wander around the park instead.
It's a lovely place for a walk under the canopy, and you'll often see people just relaxing on the grass. Our tip is to apply plenty of mosquito repellent.
Pulau Ubin
We loved taking a day trip to Pulau Ubin as a break from the city. It is a small island, where you will step back in time to see what Singapore was like decades ago. We rented a bicycle to get around. The whole experience starts with a fun, 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
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Big Bus Tour
We love to give our feet a break and sometimes a Big Bus Tour is the best option to explore fast and easy. So if you want an easy and flexible way to see Singapore, a Big Bus Tour is a great option. We loved how it let us hop on and off at the sights we were most interested in, from Marina Bay Sands to Chinatown and Little India, without worrying about transport or planning routes. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or want an overview of the city before exploring more on foot.
BOOK | Singapore Big Bus Tour Ticket
Kampong Glam & Haji Lane
Kampong Glam it’s centered around the beautiful golden-domed Sultan Mosque. If you're planning to go inside the mosque, robes will be provided for free at the entrance. It is one of the neighborhoods to go to eat some delicious Middle Eastern food. It is a very crowded area, selling mass-produced souvenirs. In Arab Lane, you will find independent boutiques, cool vintage shops, and colorful street art covering every wall. The best time to visit Haji Lane is in the late afternoon so you can see the area in the daylight and then the vibrant life in the small bars and cafes in the evening.
Merlion Park
Visiting Merlion Park is one of those classic Singapore things everyone has to do once. It's where you get that iconic shot of the water-spouting lion-fish with the Marina Bay Sands skyline in the background. We did not love this spot, but hey it is a must. It’s definitely touristy and can get packed, so I’d recommend going early in the morning if you want a crowd-free photo. It’s a quick stop to snap a photo and then continue walking along the waterfront. It’s beautiful in the evening when the city lights start to come on.
BOOK | Singapore Historical Lion City Bike Tour
Hawker Centers
Eating at a hawker center is a must in Singapore. Hawker centers are open-air food courts found all over Singapore, bringing together dozens of small, independent food stalls under one roof. They’re where locals grab their daily meals, and you can find a huge variety of dishes at very affordable prices. The atmosphere is buzzing, the smells are amazing, and the food is affordable and delicious. You can sample classics like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, laksa, and fresh fruit juices all in one meal.
Eating here is not just about food; it’s about experiencing Singaporean culture and everyday life. In 2020, Singapore’s hawker culture was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, which means it’s celebrated for its cultural importance and the community of hawkers who keep these traditions alive.
Some of the most popular hawker centers to visit are Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, Chinatown Complex, and Tiong Bahru Market.
TIP | Follow the queues long lines usually mean the dish is worth it. Bring cash, go hungry, and enjoy the lively local vibe.
Baba House
The Baba House not a big museum, but the Peranakan Museum is a real gem. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s heritage home, it gives you a glimpse into a unique part of Singapore’s history. The Peranakan culture blends Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences, and you can see this mix everywhere: from the vibrant tiles and intricate furniture to the delicate decorations throughout the house.
The only way to explore the museum is through a guided tour, and spots fill up quickly, so be sure to book online in advance. The guides are fantastic, sharing fascinating stories about the family who lived there and the culture behind every detail. It’s one of those experiences where you come away feeling like you’ve really stepped back in time.
BOOK | Baba House Tour
ENTRANCE FEE | S$23 | €15 | US$15 foreigner adult ticket
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Singapore Botanic Garden
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is the perfect escape when you need a break from the city buzz, it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the National Orchid Garden inside; it’s paid entry but totally worth it for the stunning displays of orchids in every color.
OPEN | 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. daily
ENTRANCE FEE | S$15 | €10 | US$10 foreigner adult ticket
Duxton Hill
Duxton Hill is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Singapore for a relaxed stroll. The charming shophouses with their colorful facades and unique architecture alone make it worth a visit. If you’re on a budget, the boutique cafes and trendy bars might be a skip, but you can still enjoy wandering the quiet streets, soaking up the atmosphere, and stopping for a coffee in this calm area.
We especially loved Queic by Olivia’s, where the cheesecake quiche is a must-try, it’s the perfect treat while taking a break from exploring. In the evening, the area comes alive with cozy restaurants and a few lively bars, but even during the day, it’s a peaceful and stylish spot to slow down for a bit or take pictures.
Clarke Quay & Boat Quay
Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are the go-to spots along the Singapore River if you're looking for a lively evening out. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay is all about energy, with its brightly colored buildings packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs. It's best to visit in the late afternoon or evening when the lights come on and the atmosphere really kicks in. It's the perfect area for a nice dinner or drinks with a view.
Joo Chiat Road
Joo Chiat Road is for those who want to see the colorful architecture and local culture. The main draw is the stunning stretch of Peranakan shophouses, they're painted in beautiful pastel colors and decorated with intricate, colorful tiles that are perfect for photos. It's a living neighborhood to experience the more charming era of Singapore, with great local eateries and chic cafés.
Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport is much more than a transit hub, it’s a destination in itself. The highlight is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by the lush Shiseido Forest Valley. Walking along the winding pathways and glass bridges feels surprisingly peaceful and almost magical, even in the middle of a busy airport. This is not inside of the airport gates, but you will have to go through customs and exit into the Jewel Mall.
Even if you’re not flying, it’s worth spending a couple of hours here just wandering, taking photos, and grabbing a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes.
Keep in mind that there are many other attractions in the transit area, with which you will need a valid flying ticket to enter and go through customs.
WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE?
When choosing where to stay in Singapore prioritize good connections to the public transport as makes it easy to explore the whole city. If you want to be right in the heart of the action, stay near Marina Bay or the Civic District, where you’ll be close to the skyline views, museums, and iconic attractions. For a more cultural vibe, Chinatown and Little India offer boutique hotels and hostels surrounded by temples, markets, and incredible food.
BUDGET | We loved our stay at ST Signature Jalan Besar where we booked a private room with bathroom. The place felt modern and spotless, right in the middle of vibrant Little India. Having the MRT just in front and plenty of affordable eateries around made it super convenient.
COMFORT | Stay at the Claude Hotel in stylish and beautiful modern rooms in a prime location at China Town. The hotel has an outdoor pool and common areas.
ESCAPE | Have the best of stays at Carlton City Hotel Singapore here you’ll find stunning city views from the outdoor pool, terrace, and gym, along with an exceptional breakfast to start your day right.
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HOW TO GET TO SINGAPORE?
The main way to reach Singapore is by flying into its world-class Changi Airport (SIN), a major hub with great global connections. You'll find direct flights from all over Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Americas.
We're putting together a full guide to the airport, but the highlight is definitely the Jewel complex with its incredible indoor waterfall. It's so impressive that we recommend planning at least two extra hours to see it. Getting downtown from the airport is a breeze—the MRT (metro) gets you there in about 30 minutes, or you can grab a taxi or use the Grab app for a direct ride.
If you're traveling overland, comfortable buses run directly from both Kuala Lumpur and Melaka. We took the bus from Melaka ourselves, and the 3.5-4 hour trip was smooth and easy. They arrive at a central bus terminal where you can quickly connect to the MRT or find a taxi to your hotel.
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HOW TO GET AROUND SINGAPORE?
We used and fully recommend the MRT for most of your sightseeing as it’s quick and cheap. Buses are also reliable and a good way to see more of the neighborhoods along the way. Save Grab (e-hailing app) or taxis for late nights, when you’re carrying luggage, or when traveling to areas not well connected by MRT. You can use the public transport by tapping with your credit card or e-wallet. We used our WISE card for all the transactions in Singapore, as it makes it very easy to travel.
READ | Save on ATM Fees and Exchange Rates: Credit Card for Travelers
Ever found yourself lost without a map or struggling to translate a menu in a foreign country? We’ve been there too! Nothing kills travel vibes faster than losing connectivity when you need it most. Avoid those moments with an eSIM. We’ve had the best experience with Saily, which offers great value and a reliable connection.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
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In 3 days you can prioritize to that what interests you. But up 7 days are ideal to cover all the highlights with a full schedule.
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Plan your visit during the dry season (December to February) to enjoy street art and outdoor markets comfortably. Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for less crowded streets.
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Singapore is almost completely cashless, so you’ll be paying for nearly everything with your card. We recommend keeping a little cash on hand for hawker centers. If you’re traveling, a Wise card is a great option. You can pay like a local, avoid high fees, and still have the flexibility of withdrawing some cash when you need it.
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Yes, Singapore is very safe! We felt completely comfortable walking around both day and night, even in the busy tourist areas and along the river. As with any city, it’s always smart to keep an eye on your belongings in crowds, but overall, we found it welcoming, relaxed, and easy to explore without any worries.
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The most widely spoken language in Singapore is Malay, English, Tamil, and Mandarin are also commonly used.
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