Best things to do in Singapore

• Capital: Singapore
• Language(s): English, Malay, Chinese, Tamil
• Currency: Singapore dollar (SGD)
• Dial Code: + 65

Singapore Travel Guide: Exploring the Best Places to Visit and Top Things to Do

Ah, Singapore! A sleek, shiny island city-state that’s so packed with things to do, you might need a holiday just to recover from the sheer number of attractions. Nestled at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, this island paradise is only 137 kilometers north of the equator. But don’t let its small size fool you; Singapore is a powerhouse of culture, history, and modern marvels, making it a must-visit on any global travel bucket list.

From its towering skyscrapers and futuristic architecture to its rich cultural tapestry, Singapore is a place where East meets West, and the old coexists seamlessly with the new. Whether you're into history, shopping, food, or nature, Singapore has something for everyone. Ready to dive in? Here’s your ultimate Singapore travel guide, packed with places to visit, top attractions, and all the things to do that will leave you saying, "Wow, I need to come back!"

Getting to Know Singapore: A Quick Overview

Before we get into all the awesome stuff to see and do, let's take a moment to understand this fascinating city-state. Singapore, officially known as the Republic of Singapore, consists of 63 islands (yes, 63!) and is separated from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor and from Indonesia by the Singapore Strait. It may be small geographically, but Singapore has played a massive role in world history, from being a British colony to being occupied by Japan during World War II and finally gaining independence in 1965.

Now, it’s one of the wealthiest and most developed countries in the world. It’s a global financial hub, a top casino market, and an oil-refining giant. It’s also consistently ranked as one of the easiest places in the world to do business. But enough about the facts, let’s get to the fun part: exploring the top attractions and things to do in Singapore!

1. Marina Bay Sands: A Sky-High Icon

When you think of Singapore, chances are the image of the Marina Bay Sands comes to mind. This iconic, ship-shaped hotel with three towering skyscrapers has become a symbol of modern Singapore. Even if you’re not staying there (though, we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to), the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers one of the most stunning views of the city skyline. From this height, you can see the futuristic cityscape, the nearby Gardens by the Bay, and the entire marina.

Don’t forget to visit the infinity pool if you’re lucky enough to book a room. It’s an Instagrammable moment you won’t soon forget.

2. Gardens by the Bay: A Garden in the Sky

Speaking of Gardens by the Bay, this is one of Singapore's most beautiful places to visit. A haven for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike, this lush paradise is home to the Supertree Grove, which features towering, tree-like structures that light up at night in a mesmerizing display. But the magic doesn’t stop there! Step inside the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome for a truly breathtaking experience. The Cloud Forest replicates a cool, misty mountain climate, and inside the Flower Dome, you’ll find plants from all around the world.

It’s a place where you can stroll, relax, and take in the beauty of nature in the heart of a bustling city.

3. Sentosa Island: The Ultimate Playground

For a day of thrills and chills, head over to Sentosa Island. This man-made island off the southern coast of Singapore is a playground of fun and excitement, making it one of the top things to do for families and adrenaline junkies alike. Whether you’re into relaxing on white sandy beaches, indulging in high-end resorts, or getting your heart racing at Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa has it all.

Want more action? Visit S.E.A. Aquarium to check out over 100,000 marine animals or Adventure Cove Waterpark for some water fun. If you’re a fan of cable cars and panoramic views, hop on the Sentosa Cable Car for a ride above it all.

4. Chinatown: A Walk Through History and Culture

If you love to immerse yourself in culture, Chinatown is one of the best places to visit in Singapore. Here, you’ll find a fascinating blend of history, heritage, and, of course, food! Start at the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn about the area’s past and how it evolved into the bustling district it is today. Then, wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful shophouses, temples, and markets selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce.

Make sure to stop by the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple for a peaceful moment of reflection and, if you’re feeling peckish, grab a bite to eat at one of the many hawker centers offering Singapore’s famous dishes, like chilli crab and Hainanese chicken rice.

5. Singapore Zoo: A Wild Adventure

For animal lovers, the Singapore Zoo is an absolute must-do. Set in a lush, open-concept environment, the zoo is one of the best in the world. It’s home to a wide variety of animals, from majestic white tigers to playful orangutans. But the experience doesn’t end there—be sure to check out the Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo, for an unforgettable adventure after dark.

You can also visit the River Safari and Jurong Bird Park, both of which are top-rated attractions within Singapore’s wildlife parks.

6. Clarke Quay: Dining and Entertainment by the River

Looking for a fun night out? Look no further than Clarke Quay, a vibrant riverside area that’s packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner, a casual drink, or some live music, Clarke Quay has it all. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

For a unique experience, take a Singapore River Cruise and admire the city from the water. You’ll get to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Merlion, the symbol of Singapore.

7. Little India: A Colorful Cultural Journey

For an explosion of color, culture, and spice, make your way to Little India. This vibrant neighborhood is full of life and offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. The bustling streets are lined with colorful shops selling traditional Indian goods, spices, and jewelry. If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, Little India is the place to indulge in authentic dishes like roti prata, dosai, and mutton curry.

Don’t forget to visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest and most iconic Hindu temples in Singapore, or check out the Tekka Market for some fresh produce and local snacks.

8. Singapore Flyer: A Sky-High Experience

For one of the best views of Singapore’s skyline, take a ride on the Singapore Flyer, one of the world’s largest observation wheels. The giant Ferris wheel offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Singapore River, and even Indonesia and Malaysia on clear days. It’s a perfect way to get a bird’s-eye view of all the landmarks you’ve visited and plan your next stops!

Wrapping Up Your Singapore Adventure

Singapore is a city that’s constantly evolving, mixing the old with the new in the most spectacular ways. From its awe-inspiring skyscrapers to its rich cultural neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of places to visit, things to do, and top attractions that will keep you busy and entertained throughout your stay.

So, whether you're marveling at the views from the Marina Bay Sands, wandering through the colorful streets of Chinatown, or enjoying the thrills at Sentosa Island, Singapore is guaranteed to be a trip you’ll never forget. Ready to pack your bags? Your Singapore adventure awaits!