15 Best Things to Do in Singapore: Must-See in 2025
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Singapore may be small, but deciding which experiences to prioritise can still feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. On our first trip, we tried to squeeze in everything in four days and ended up more tired than inspired.
After spending over three months here across several visits, we’ve learned which Singapore highlights are actually worth it (like watching the Supertrees glow at Gardens by the Bay, walking the Southern Ridges trail, and eating satay at Lau Pa Sat’s night market).
If you want the highlights without wasting hours in queues or chasing overhyped spots, this guide keeps the focus on the experiences worth your time. You’ll also find a handy interactive map, practical planning tips, and answers to common questions, so you can explore confidently and leave knowing you’ve seen the best of the city.
Short on time?
Here are our top picks for visiting Singapore:
Must-See: If you’re heading to Singapore and only have limited time, these are our top five things to do:
Hotels: We’ve stayed in quite a few hotels across Singapore, but these are the ones we’d happily return to:
Saving Money: If you’re planning to visit a few attractions, city passes like the Klook Pass Singapore, Go City Singapore Pass or the Sentosa Discovery Pass (if you’ll be spending a lot of time on Sentosa Island) can be good value.
15 Best Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore might be one of the smallest countries in the world, but it’s not quite as tiny as you might expect. London is about 2.2 times bigger, and even New York City is only a little larger.
There’s loads to do here, and it never feels repetitive. The city strikes a great balance between urban life and nature, with plenty of green spaces woven into the mix.
Did you know? Singapore is made up of 64 islands, not just the main one. So if you’re up for exploring beyond the city, there’s a whole extra side of Singapore waiting just offshore.
1. Explore Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is massive, and you could easily spend a whole day here. There’s loads to see, but two spots you really shouldn’t miss are the Supertree Grove and the Cloud Forest. We’ll go into both a bit more below.
Gardens by the Bay: Supertree Grove
Visiting Singapore without checking out the Supertree Grove is like missing the main act of a show! These gigantic Supertrees stand tall in Gardens by the Bay, which is easily one of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
The iconic Supertree Grove consists of 12 large artificial trees that reach up to 50 metres (164 feet) above ground, equivalent to a 16-storey building. These futuristic-looking structures house over 160,000 plants.
Walking around the Supertrees is free. There’s an option to pay and stroll on an elevated walkway between two of the Supertrees, called OCBC Skyway, but honestly, it’s a short bridge – you’ll be done in about 15 minutes. We’d say, save your money. There are better spots for panoramic views of the Supertree Grove.
These tree-like structures are impressive during the day, but they truly shine at night.
We’re fans of light shows and have seen many amazing ones around the world, from Seville’s Las Setas to Busan’s drone light show. The ‘Garden Rhapsody’ light show in Gardens by the Bay is another must-see!
Every evening at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm, the Supertree Grove transforms into a stunning symphony of lights and music. It’s like a colourful dance party in the sky, synchronised to catchy tunes. A truly unforgettable experience!
Our top tip: For the best panoramic view of the show, find a spot at the Supertree Grove, preferably near the central area. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to the Supertree Grove and the ‘Garden Rhapsody’ light and sound show is free. The Supertree Grove is open daily from 5am to 2am.
Gardens by the Bay: Cloud Forest
The Cloud Forest is an indoor botanical garden inside Gardens by the Bay. As soon as you step in, you’ll feel the cool air and come face to face with a towering indoor mountain draped in lush greenery.
The main highlight of the Cloud Forest is a huge 35-metre (115-feet) waterfall – one of the tallest indoor waterfalls in the world. You can walk on elevated walkways to explore the different levels of the mountain. Each level represents various ecological zones found in high-altitude regions.
One of our most memorable experiences was walking into the mist-filled walkways. They release mist at intervals, making it feel like you’re in a cloud (that’s why it’s called ‘Cloud Forest’). The height, mist and sounds make this very atmospheric. Make sure you check it out!
Our top tips: Try to arrive early in the day, as the Cloud Forest is one of Singapore’s most popular attractions and can get quite crowded later on. It’s also a good idea to book your tickets online ahead of time to save time at the entrance. Don’t forget to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it’s much cooler inside the dome.
Admission and opening hours: The entrance fee for the Cloud Forest is S$32 (≈ £19 or €21 or US$24) for adults. It’s open daily from 9am-9pm.
2. Discover the colourful streets of Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam (also known as Kampong Gelam) is one of Singapore’s most vibrant cultural districts. Once a Malay and Arab settlement, it was also the royal seat of the Sultan of Singapore in the early 1800s.
Today, it’s a great place to explore the heritage of these communities through its colourful streets, shops and historic landmarks.
Start your visit with a walk down Haji Lane. This narrow street is packed with independent boutiques, colourful street art and one-of-a-kind shops. It’s a great spot for a relaxed browse and a few unexpected finds.
Next to Haji Lane is Arab Street. It’s a bustling thoroughfare known for its shops selling fabrics, carpets, and traditional Middle Eastern eateries.
Next, visit the iconic Sultan Mosque, a beautiful place to visit with its golden domes and intricate architecture. Take a moment to enjoy the calm and beauty of this important cultural spot.
Our top tip: If you want to learn more about the area and the stories behind Kampong Glam’s landmarks, a walking tour with a local guide is a great way to do it. We really enjoyed this walking tour that covers Kampong Glam, Chinatown and Little India!
3. Hop on a Singapore River Cruise
For a fresh perspective of the city, hop on a Singapore river cruise. You’ll pass by landmarks like Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Merlion Park. The captains often share interesting stories about Singapore’s history, making your journey more engaging.
Our top tip: For a magical experience, try the evening cruise when the city lights up the river.
Our favourite cruise in Singapore was on a bumboat, a traditional wooden boat that was once used for transportation and cargo handling in Singapore’s early days.
We recommend purchasing your river cruise in advance, as tickets sell out fast. It can also help you save money, as some river cruises come at a discounted rate.
4. Unwind on Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island was once a British military fortress known as Fort Siloso back in the late 1800s. These days, it’s a laid-back tropical escape just minutes from the city. The name “Sentosa” means “peace and tranquillity” in Malay, which feels fitting once you’re there.
Today, it’s home to beaches, resorts, theme parks and family-friendly attractions, all within easy reach of central Singapore.
Whether you love excitement, beaches, or just relaxing, Sentosa has endless stuff to do. Here are our top 5 Sentosa picks:
Our top tip: To get the most out of your time on Sentosa, consider picking up a Sentosa Discovery Fun Pass. It’s a digital pass that gives you access to a range of attractions and experiences, with savings of up to 55%. Each attraction is worth a certain number of tokens, so you can choose a pass based on how many you want to visit.
Another great option is the Resorts World Sentosa Pass, which gives you bundled access to some of the island’s top attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium and more (ideal if those are high on your list).
5. Eat like a local at a hawker centre
Hawker centres are a big part of Singapore’s food scene and a must-visit for food lovers. These outdoor food courts have lots of stalls with different foods, from local dishes to international ones.
And the best part is that the food is tasty and affordable! Try local favourites like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and satay skewers.
Did you know? Singapore’s hawker culture is so special that it’s been added to the UNESCO list of important cultural traditions. It highlights the incredible diversity of food in the city and the strong sense of community that comes from gathering around shared tables.
When you visit a hawker centre, get ready for a lively and casual food experience. Walk around, see what catches your eye (and nose), and don’t be shy about asking locals what they recommend – most are more than happy to point you in the right direction.
Not sure what local food to eat? Check out our dedicated section ‘Where (and What) to Eat‘ for a rundown of the must-try dishes and where to find them while you’re in Singapore.
Our Top Picks for Hawker Centres in Singapore
If you’re wondering where to try hawker food, we’ve got three favourites from our three months in Singapore:
- Newton Food Centre – If you’ve seen Crazy Rich Asians, you might recognise Newton Food Centre. It’s a lively place with nearly 100 stalls, and it’s been a top eating spot for a long time.
- Maxwell Food Centre – In Chinatown, Maxwell is well-known for its variety of local dishes, like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa.
- Lau Pa Sat – This market has a long history, dating back to the 1830s. Now it’s restored and home to local and international foods, from North Indian to Korean and Vietnamese. It’s a great spot for hawker food in the Central Business District.
In case you prefer to explore the best of Singapore’s UNESCO hawker culture and nightlife with a local guide, consider taking a food tour.
6. Take in the city skyline from the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Marina Bay Sands is a world-renowned resort in Singapore that stands out in the city’s skyline. It’s got three tall towers with a unique roof that looks like a surfboard.
Besides being a hotel, it also has a convention centre, a shopping mall, and several entertainment options. If you love luxury, entertainment, architecture, or great views, it’s a must-visit destination!
Did you know? You’ve probably heard about the massive rooftop pool at Marina Bay Sands. It’s the world’s largest infinity pool at that height. Just a heads-up, though: it’s only open to hotel guests. A night here starts from around S$559 (about £334, 381€, or US$416), so it’s more of a special occasion stay.
You don’t need to check into the hotel to enjoy the views from its rooftop. The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck is open to everyone and offers panoramic views over Marina Bay and the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay.
It’s a great spot to take in the skyline, whether you’re snapping photos or simply soaking up the view.
Admission and opening hours: A ticket to Sands SkyPark starts from S$28 (≈ £16 or €19 or US$21). It’s open every day 11am-4:30pm and 5pm-9pm.
7. Soak up the nightlife at Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is a lively area along the Singapore River known for entertainment, dining, and nightlife. It was once a busy trading port during the colonial era. Now, it’s a popular spot with colourful buildings containing restaurants, bars, and clubs.
When you walk around Clarke Quay, you’ll find various international cuisines, from sushi and hot pot to local dishes. The nightlife scene comes alive after dusk with live music performances, DJs, and entertainment venues.
Also, many boat tours start from Clarke Quay. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the iconic sights from a different perspective while sitting back and relaxing. The tours let you enjoy Singapore’s beauty from the calm waters of the river.
8. Walk the Southern Ridges trail
The Southern Ridges is a scenic walking trail that stretches for 10 kilometres (6.2 miles), linking several of Singapore’s prettiest green spaces. The elevated walkways offer a peaceful way to experience nature with some brilliant views of the city along the way.
One of our favourite parts is the Henderson Waves Bridge, with its distinctive wave-like shape. It stands 36 metres (118 feet) above the ground and is especially striking in the evening when it’s lit up.
There’s also the Forest Walk and Canopy Walk, where you can walk surrounded by greenery and see the landscape from up high.
While walking the Southern Ridges, you might spot a few macaque monkeys along the way. They add a bit of unexpected wildlife to the experience, but make sure to keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding them.
Our top tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the trail includes a mix of uphill and downhill paths. Singapore sits close to the equator, so the sun is much stronger than in places like Europe or the US. Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you’re heading out on a sunny day. To avoid the heat, it’s a good idea to start your walk early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
9. Learn about local heritage at the Peranakan Museum
The Peranakan Museum is the best place to learn about Peranakan culture in Singapore. Peranakans are descendants of Chinese immigrants who married local Malays, creating a unique mix of customs, cuisine and design that’s still seen across the country today.
The museum displays an impressive collection of artefacts, textiles and jewellery that give a closer look at Peranakan life. You’ll find beautifully embroidered kebayas, delicate beaded shoes, and intricately decorated wedding chamberswith carved woodwork and traditional furniture.
Admission and opening hours: A ticket costs S$18 (≈ £10 or €12 or US$14) for foreign residents and tourists, but Klook often has discounted entry tickets. The museum is open daily from 10am-7pm (Fridays until 9pm).
10. Wander around Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the liveliest parts of Singapore and a great place to experience the city’s Chinese heritage.
Traditional shophouses line the streets, often decorated with red lanterns and detailed facades. You’ll find everything from Chinese medicine and handicrafts to souvenirs and snacks being sold at the many market stalls.
A highlight in Chinatown is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a remarkable four-story temple believed to house a sacred relic – the Buddha’s tooth. Explore the temple’s chambers and prayer halls.
Another significant landmark in Chinatown is the Sri Mariamman Temple. It’s the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, dating back to 1827. Admire the colourful sculptures on the temple’s facade, showing different deities from Hindu mythology.
And for Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple, stop by Thian Hock Keng Temple (or “Temple of Heavenly Happiness”). Built in 1839, it’s now surrounded by bars and restaurants and serves as an ornate reminder of Chinatown’s beginnings.
Our top tip: When you’re in Chinatown, don’t miss the chance to try some of the local food. From flavourful dim sum and roast duck to comforting herbal soups, it’s a great area for anyone who enjoys eating well!
Admission and opening hours: You can visit Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Thian Hock Keng Temple for free, and they appreciate any donations. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is open every day from 7am-5pm. Sri Mariamman Temple is open daily from 6am-noon and again from 6pm-9pm. Thian Hock Keng Temple is open daily from 7:30am-5pm.
11. See the waterfall at Jewel Changi Airport
An airport making it to a list of the best things to do in a city may come as a surprise. But Changi Airport in Singapore is not your usual airport – it’s so good it’s been named the world’s best airport in 2025.
The star of Jewel Changi Airport is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, creating a peaceful oasis with greenery and gardens.
Explore the different levels of Jewel, each with its own charm. There are plenty of shops if you fancy some shopping, and a variety of eateries, from fancy restaurants to casual spots, if you’re feeling hungry.
Jewel isn’t just for travellers; it has also established itself as a sought-after mall destination among locals. Whether you’re on a layover or just want a break from the city, Jewel offers a mix of entertainment, relaxation, and convenience.
Admission and opening hours: The entrance to Jewel is free. There are a few attractions you can pay for, like the Canopy Park and the Hedge Maze, but in our opinion, they’re not worth the money. Jewel is open 24/7, but most shops operate from 10am-10pm.
12.Experience the buzz of Little India
Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant and lively neighbourhoods, and we always love how quickly it pulls you into the energy of Indian culture. From the colours to the scents coming from nearby eateries, it’s an area that feels full of life.
A definite highlight for us is the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. The colours are bold, the sculptures incredibly detailed, and it’s one of those places that really sticks with you after visiting.
Another cool spot is the Tan Teng Niah, a colourful house with both Chinese and European architectural styles. It’s the perfect backdrop for capturing some Instagram-worthy pictures.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during Diwali, the festival of lights, you’ll see the area all lit up with decorations and celebrations. It’s quite a sight!
13. Sip a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel
The Singapore Sling is a famous cocktail created in the early 1900s at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel. The drink has since become a symbol of Singapore’s colonial past and a testament to the city’s cosmopolitan appeal.
With its British colonial-style architecture and old-fashioned charm, Long Bar provides the perfect setting to enjoy the blend of gin, cherry brandy, pineapple juice, lime juice, and a few other ingredients. The full recipe is a secret, known only to a few Raffles Hotel bartenders.
Yes, it costs S$37 (≈ £21 or €24 or US$28), but it’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.
While the Singapore Sling is undoubtedly the star of the show, take time to explore Raffles Hotel, built in 1887. It originally opened as a ten-room bungalow and has since grown to 115 hotel suites.
You can shop at Raffles Arcade, wander through elegant corridors, and enjoy the serene lawns, even if you’re not staying there.
14. Enjoy the views around Marina Bay
Marina Bay is a vibrant waterfront area that reflects Singapore’s modern side, with striking architecture and some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
Start your walk at the Helix Bridge, which is inspired by the shape of DNA. It’s a great spot to take in the surroundings and get a first glimpse of the skyline.
Then head over to the Esplanade, Singapore’s world-class performing arts centre. Its spiky exterior, made up of over 7,000 aluminium sunshades, has earned it the nickname the durian (a nod to the tropical fruit that’s well known in this part of the world). You’ll often find free live performances here, featuring both local and international acts.
From there, take a walk along the Esplanade Waterfront Promenade for some of the best views of the city skyline.
Next to Esplanade, you’ll find the iconic Merlion statue, the city’s national icon. It represents the city-state’s roots as a fishing village (represented by the fish body) and its original name, Singapura (represented by the lion head).
Our top tip: Marina Bay is at its best in the evening when the skyline lights up, and the whole area takes on a different energy. Don’t miss Spectra, the free light and water show in front of Marina Bay Sands. It’s a great way to end your walk around the bay.
Admission and opening hours: Marina Bay is open 24/7 and free to visit. ‘Spectra’ happens daily at 8 pm and 9 pm (and an additional show at 10 pm on Friday and Saturday).
15. Shop (or window shop) along Orchard Road
Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping street, lined with luxury boutiques, high-end malls and popular fashion stores. The stretch runs for 2.2 kilometres (1.4 miles), and there’s no shortage of places to browse, shop or grab a bite.
Back in the early 1800s, this area was home to nutmeg plantations and pepper farms, a far cry from the bustling retail hub it is today.
Take your time exploring the different malls, and don’t forget to pause at one of the many cafés, restaurants or food courts along the way.
Interactive Map: Must-See Spots & Activities in Singapore
To help you plan your time in Singapore, we’ve created an interactive map with all the top sights and activities mentioned in this guide.
Just click on the map below to see where everything is. It’s a handy way to organise your itinerary and get your bearings as you explore the city.
How to use this map: Click the icon in the top left to see the full list of locations. For a bigger view, open it in a new tab via the top-right icon. You can also save it to your own Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
Other Sights and Activities Worth Your Time
For our city guides, we always carefully select the activities we think are the best to do and see. However, if you have a bit more time during your time in Singapore, consider these additional sights:
Singapore Flyer – A large observation wheel with panoramic views. The views are decent, though nearby spots like the Sands SkyPark offer stronger city views overall.
The Intan – A small private museum with an impressive collection of Peranakan artefacts. It’s compact, but the personal insights and attention to detail make it a memorable stop.
Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) – A well-curated museum in the civic district that explores cultures from across Asia. The collection includes sculptures, ceramics, textiles and more. It’s a solid choice if you’re interested in the region’s history and cultural traditions.
Pulau Ubin – A small island off Singapore’s northeast coast. Known for its kampong-style villages, cycling trails and biodiversity, it offers a real contrast to the city.
Night Safari – An open-air night-time zoo with over 2,500 animals. We found it a bit tricky to spot animals in the dark, but if you’re in Singapore for a week or more, it can be worth checking out.
Haw Par Villa – A quirky theme park filled with vivid statues and dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology and folklore. It’s one of Singapore’s more unusual attractions, and worth a visit if you’re after something a bit different.
St Andrew’s Cathedral – A Gothic-style Anglican cathedral with colonial-era roots. While simpler than many European cathedrals, it’s a reminder of Singapore’s time as a British colony.
National Gallery Singapore – A major art museum with a large collection from Singapore and across Southeast Asia. If you’re into art, it’s well worth a visit.
MacRitchie Nature Trail & Reservoir Park – A peaceful spot for hiking and wildlife spotting, right in the middle of the city. The Treetop Walk offers panoramic views above the forest canopy, making it one of the best free nature experiences in Singapore.
Singapore Cable Car – A scenic ride between Mount Faber and Sentosa Island, with brilliant views along the way.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve – A peaceful spot full of mangrove habitats, birdlife and boardwalk trails. Great for a quieter day and spotting a bit of wildlife.
Mustafa Centre – A 24-hour megastore in Little India packed with everything from electronics to snacks. It’s chaotic, a bit overwhelming, but also oddly fun (especially if you’re after something specific or just love a good browse).
Singapore Botanic Gardens – A lush, sprawling garden space with themed areas and the National Orchid Garden. Entry is free, though there’s a fee for the Orchid Garden. If you’re short on time, Gardens by the Bay might be the better choice.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – Home to Singapore’s highest point at 163 metres (535 feet). It’s more of a hill than a mountain, but still a lovely spot for a hike with plenty of greenery.
Best Time to Visit Singapore
Perfect month to visit: February
Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s a solid year-round destination, but there are a few differences in rainfall, sunshine hours and visitor numbers that can help you choose the best time to go.
Our top pick is February. It tends to have fewer rainy days, more sunshine and smaller crowds – a great combination if you want to explore comfortably.
May and September are also excellent choices, boasting fewer rainy days and tourists, along with a generous amount of sunshine, as shown in our graphic. March, April, June, and October also offer favourable weather conditions and manageable tourist numbers.
January, November and December are usually a bit cloudier and wetter, but if you don’t mind a passing shower, they’re still good months to enjoy the city’s culture and lively atmosphere.
How Long to Stay
Some travellers might squeeze the highlights into 2 or 3 days, but we recommend spending 4 to 7 days if you can. That gives you time to see the big sights, try more local food, and take things at a more relaxed pace.
With a bit more time, you can also fit in a day trip to places like Kusu Island or Universal Studios Singapore.
Where to Stay
Popular Neighbourhoods in Singapore
Singapore might be small, but picking the right area to stay in can make a big difference (especially if it’s your first visit). Thanks to the city’s excellent MRT system, most places are within easy reach. But for a smoother experience, we recommend choosing a hotel near an MRT station and in a well-connected part of town.
Some of the best areas for visitors include Marina Bay, Bugis, Kampong Glam, City Hall, Esplanade, and Raffles Place. These neighbourhoods are central, safe, and perfect for exploring Singapore’s top sights.
Recommended Hotels in Singapore
After spending over 12 weeks in Singapore (and testing more than 20 hotels), we’ve found a handful we’d happily book again:
FAQ: Visiting Singapore
Here are some commonly asked questions about visiting Singapore, along with answers to each question.
Is 3 days enough to visit Singapore?
Yes, 3 days is enough to see Singapore’s main attractions. You can visit spots like Marina Bay Sands, Supertree Grove, and sample local food at hawker centres. While it’s enough for highlights, staying 4–7 days lets you explore more culture, nature, and hidden gems.
What is the most famous thing in Singapore?
The most famous thing in Singapore is Marina Bay Sands. Its striking rooftop infinity pool and futuristic design have become global icons. While Singapore is known for its food, gardens, and diverse culture, Marina Bay Sands stands out as the city’s most recognisable landmark.
What Are the Don’ts in Singapore?
In Singapore, avoid chewing gum unless it’s for medical reasons, as it’s heavily restricted. Don’t litter, spit, or jaywalk – these carry hefty fines. Speaking loudly on public transport is also frowned upon. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes to show respect.
What is Singapore’s famous dish?
Singapore’s most famous dish is Chilli Crab. It features fresh crab cooked in a sweet, spicy tomato-based sauce and is often served with fried buns. Other iconic dishes include Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, and Satay, but Chilli Crab is the standout favourite among locals and tourists.
Final Thoughts
Few places balance heritage and innovation quite like Singapore. We’ve shared some of our favourite spots and experiences, and if it’s not already on your travel list, we hope this guide has nudged it a bit higher.
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