Singapore sits at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, a small island nation with a reputation far bigger than its size. Travellers often think of it as just a stopover, but the list of incredible things to do in Singapore proves otherwise.
Once a British trading post and later a battleground in World War II, Singapore transformed itself after independence in 1965. Today, it’s a multicultural hub where futuristic skyscrapers rise beside temples, markets, and lush pockets of rainforest.
Related Posts:
People talk about the food scene more than anything else, and for good reason. Hawker stalls dish out unforgettable flavours that represent its diverse population. But beyond the chilli crab and laksa, there’s history to dig into, neighbourhoods to wander, and unexpected green escapes.
This guide to the best things to do in Singapore will show you why this city-state is so much more than a layover. Get ready for vibrant streets, jaw-dropping architecture, and experiences you’ll brag about long after the flight home.
15 Incredible Things To Do in Singapore
1. Jewel at Changi Airport
Jewel at Changi Airport isn’t just somewhere to kill time waiting for your flight; it’s one of the coolest places in Singapore to visit. Before you even think about boarding your flight home, go check out the HSBC Rain Vortex. It’s the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, and honestly, it’s jaw-dropping. The whole thing is wrapped in the Forest Valley, an indoor jungle you can wander for free.
Believe it or not, Jewel is actually a huge 10-floor mall with lots of designer and high street brands. If you’d rather sort out souvenirs before you get to the airport, Orchard Road is Singapore’s most notable shopping street.
If you’ve got extra time at Jewel, head upstairs to Canopy Park. That’s where you’ll find ticketed attractions like the Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, Sky Nets, and the Canopy Bridge (it’s see-through under your feet). It’s open from 10:00 AM-10:00 PM every day.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Sprawling across more than 100 hectares right on the waterfront, Gardens by the Bay is a mix of futuristic design and lush greenery that feels almost otherworldly.
If you’re ticking off iconic things to do in Singapore, this one belongs right at the top. It only opened in 2012, but it’s already iconic!
The Supertrees steal the show. These are giant vertical gardens up to 50 metres tall with a Skyway connecting them for unbeatable views. Then there’s the Cloud Forest, a misty indoor mountain with waterfalls tumbling down and walkways suspended in the air. Don’t miss the Flower Dome either; it’s the world’s largest glass greenhouse, bursting with blooms from every corner of the globe.
Go around sunset if you can, because when night falls, the Supertrees come alive with the Garden Rhapsody light and music show. It’s free and so magical!
3. Green Heart at Marina One
It’s so refreshing for an ultra-modern city to understand the importance of green spaces. Another leafy place to visit in Singapore is Green Heart in the urban Marina One tower.
This multi-level, three-dimensional biodiversity garden is free and open 24/7. Designed to resemble a lush rainforest valley, it features diverse tropical flora and 700 trees across 37,000 square metres.
4. PARKROYAL Collection Pickering
PARKROYAL Collection Pickering isn’t just a hotel; it’s basically a vertical garden in the middle of the city. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth swinging by to see the lush greenery wrapped around the building and the tiered sky gardens.
Pop in for a drink at the lobby bar or just wander the public spaces and snap a few photos. You don’t have to stay long, but you’ll be glad you did when you see the unreal, lush flora scaling this five-star hotel.
5. Chinatown
Chinatown is where old rituals meet buzzy bars and coffee-fueled creatives. Start around Amoy Street, Ann Siang Hill & Club Street, and Keong Saik Road for cafés, speakeasies, and glossy shophouses.
Duck into side lanes between Temple Street and Pagoda Street for street art. Smith Street and Mohamed Ali Lane have a few nice murals too. Wander to indie boutiques and apothecaries selling traditional medicines, tea, and incense.
Make time for the Sri Mariamman Temple and the stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple on South Bridge Road. Take off your shoes, keep your shoulders covered, and reserve your photos until after prayers.
6. Haji Lane & Little India
Haji Lane is a narrow alley filled with indie boutiques, colourful murals, and the famous selfie wall outside Piedra Negra. Over in Little India, you’ll find the dazzling Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and bustling Tekka Centre. Both spots showcase Singapore’s vibrant culture and are perfect for exploring on foot.
7. Marina Bay Area
Marina Bay Sands isn’t just a hotel; it’s the crown jewel of Singapore’s skyline. You can head inside and buy a ticket for the SkyPark Observation Deck, with sweeping city views.
The rest of the area is well worth exploring, too. Check out gardens, art installations, nightly light shows over the waterfront, and a promenade in a prime position for a scenic walk.
8. Joo Chiat Road (Colourful Peranakan Houses)
Joo Chiat Road is hands down one of the prettiest streets in Singapore, lined with pastel Peranakan shophouses that look straight off a postcard. It’s part of Katong, a neighbourhood where heritage and hip cafés mix. If you’re hunting for fun stuff to do in Singapore that’s a little off the usual tourist trail, this is it.
Koon Seng Road, just off Joo Chiat, is also stunning. Interested in the history of these houses? Pop into the Peranakan Museum afterwards for a deeper dive into the culture behind those vibrant tiles and intricate designs.
9. MacRitchie Treetop Walk
MacRitchie Treetop Walk is a suspended bridge that takes you right through the forest canopy between Bukit Peirce & Bukit Kalang. Yes, above the trees! It’s a fun way to escape the city bustle without jetting off on a plane.
The hike to get there is a bit sweaty, but the views are worth it. Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and enjoy the monkeys keeping you company along the way. Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Tuesday to Friday and half an hour earlier on weekends.
10. 1-Arden Rooftop Bar
For sunset drinks without the tourist chaos, head to 1-Arden Rooftop Bar on the 51st floor of CapitaSpring. It’s wrapped in lush greenery, giving it a secret-garden feel, and the skyline views are unbeatable. Way calmer than the hyped spots you see everywhere on social media, and perfect for cocktails with a view.
11. Eat at Hawker Centres
We mostly ate at Hawker centres, which are open-air food courts with independent food stalls. They’re affordable, authentic, and so good.
Our must-eat Hawker stalls are Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Bak Kut Teh, Popiah, Rojak, Laksa, Chicken Rice, Lao Chen Carrot Cake (not what you think!), and Chendol for dessert.
12. Book a Food Tour
Skip tourist traps! Book A Chef’s Tour for a real hawker deep-dive. We absolutely loved the tour we took in Bangkok, so we knew this one would be amazing too! Small groups (max. eight) roam Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam with 12+ tastings.
It’s around 3.5-4 hours, and the price includes subway hops and bottled drinks. Expect Michelin-rated stalls and a food-obsessed local tour guide.
13. National Museum of Singapore
Want to know what to do in Singapore during a downpour? There’s nowhere better to dry off than in the National Museum of Singapore. It’s located in the Civic District, near the former Supreme Court, which is now the National Gallery.
Inside, you’ll find exhibitions that document the history of the city-state, natural history, and maritime heritage. Tickets cost around £10 and the museum is open 10:00 AM-6:30 PM every day.
14. Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the top tourist attractions in Singapore, and for good reason. Think less futuristic Supertrees and more leafy, calm, colonial charm, and centuries of history tucked into 82 hectares.
Founded back in 1859, you’ll find rainforest trails, sprawling lawns, and heritage trees. The star of the show, the National Orchid Garden, has over 1,000 species on display. It’s a totally different vibe from Gardens by the Bay, but just as worth your time.
Literature and film lovers should note that this is where the fictional Tyersall Park mansion from Crazy Rich Asians is located! Entrance is free except for the National Orchid Garden.
15. The Raffles Hotel
Finally, the Raffles Hotel is one of the most famous Singapore places because it invented the Singapore Sling cocktail. Founded in 1887, this colonial-style five-star hotel bar is the place to go if you are visiting Singapore on a special vacation.
You should know (or be warned) that the Singapore Sling costs the equivalent of £25! It’s not surprising that it’s pricey, but you should know how pricey. There are definitely other bars that serve this delicious, local drink for a fraction of the cost.
Where To Stay in Singapore
Choose a central location as your base in Singapore. We loved staying in Chinatown as it was super easy to explore the whole city from this location.
There are many accommodation options, so you’ll absolutely find something to fit your budget. Plus, Marina Bay is next door, which is such a beautiful part of the island.
How To Get Around Singapore
Singapore’s automated subway system, the MRT, is a super-fast and easy way to get around. The best part is you don’t have to spend time squinting over a ticket machine. Just use your contactless credit card or debit card (either the physical card or in your phone’s wallet) to tap in and out at the stations.
For taxis, download the Grab app. It’s similar to Uber or Lyft, but it’s the preferred ride-sharing app used in Southeast Asia.
Use This Singapore Travel Guide to Plan Your Trip
Those are just 15 awesome things to do in Singapore during your stay! Honestly, you’ll never run out of food to try, neighbourhoods to explore, or random fun stuff to stumble into. Yes, despite its size! Go and book the flight already, because Singapore’s way too good to just pass through.
FAQs
- Can tourists drink tap water in Singapore?
- Yes! Singapore’s tap water is drinkable, and there are many refill stations, so bring a reusable water bottle.
- Is Singapore expensive to visit?
- Singapore is the most expensive country in Southeast Asia, but it doesn’t have to be expensive to visit. Singapore offers tonnes of budget accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
- What items are banned in Singapore?
- Some of the household items that you cannot take into Singapore are chewing gum, pistol-shaped cigarette lighters, adult materials, and some medicines.
- What else is illegal in Singapore?
- Don’t drink or eat on public transport (not even water!), don’t spit, don’t connect to someone else’s Wi-Fi, don’t feed birds, and don’t litter (obviously) in Singapore.
- Are 3 days enough for Singapore?
- Three days in Singapore is a great amount of time to spend here. It deserves longer than a one-night stopover, but three days is enough time to see most of the top sights in Singapore.
