Planning a trip to Singapore, but not sure what to do? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! I’ve curated my Top 14 Favorite Things to do In Singapore, with a bit of something for every type of traveler. Singapore is one of my favorite cities in the world, so I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
1. TAKE A SWIM IN THE WORLD’S HIGHEST INFINITY POOL
The infinity pool at the Marina Bay Sands is one of the most famous pools in the world and undoubtedly is the most-well known symbol of Singapore. If you can splurge, stay a night or two here and enjoy this pool at sunrise and sunset.
Travel Tip: The pool is only accessible by key-card for guests only. If you are not a guest, you can enjoy a view overlooking the pool at Cé La Vi Restaurant & Skybar.
2. DRINK A SINGAPORE SLING
The Singapore Sling is an iconic classic cocktail that originated at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore at the beginning of the 20th century. This pink gin-based cocktail was created as a ladies’ cocktail so women could disguise their drinks as punch instead of an alcoholic beverage. It’s incredibly refreshing and perfect for those hot and humid Singapore days!
3. ADMIRE THE COLORFUL PERANAKAN HOUSES
The traditional Peranakan Houses or “locally-born” houses are all over the city, but you will find the most colorful and well-preserved ones are eastwards in the Joo Chiat neighborhood on Koon Seng Road. I loved seeing these houses across Singapore, adding some bits of history to the ultra-modern cityscape.
4. SPEND THE AFTERNOON AT THE GARDENS BY THE BAY
You simply cannot visit Singapore without spending time at the Gardens by the Bay. These expansive gardens are located right next to the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and are well-known for their futuristic “Supertree” structures, which host a light show every evening at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm. Entry is free to enter the park and watch the show.
Come spend golden hour at the park once the temperatures drop and walk around until the show starts! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a walk atop the trees on the OCBC Skyway.
5. VISIT THE CLOUD FOREST & FLOWER DOME
Located in the Gardens by the Bay, both the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome are must-see attractions! The Cloud Forest is home to the world’s 2nd largest indoor waterfall (Jewel takes first place) and the Flower Dome is home to world’s largest glass greenhouse and is filled with beautiful floral displays. Tickets for visiting two conservatories are $28.
If you have extra time, check out the floral 4D exhibit at Floral Fantasy. This spot is extra-instagrammable if you’re looking for a photo-op! Tickets are $20.
6. GET CULTURED THE ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM
The ArtScience Museum at the Marina Bay Sands is one-of-a-kind, combining creativity in both realms of art and science into a fluid display of immersive exhibitions. I love museum hopping when I travel and the Future World exhibition has been high on my list for so long! Make sure to check out the Space artwork and watch as the colors change to a rainbow of hues.
7. TAKE A DETOUR AT THE AIRPORT
The airport? I know what you’re thinking, this is not a place I want to spend time at either. Trust me, the Singapore airport is like no other! Get to the airport early before your departure or wander off after your arrival and check out Jewel at Changi Airport. Located just outside of the terminals, Jewel is a premier shopping, dining and nature destination. The Jewel is home to the world’s largest indoor waterfall, measuring 130m and has a range of attractions that explore the canopy. It is UNREAL!
8. EXPLORE LITTLE INDIA
Little India is a vibrant neighborhood in Singapore that serves as a great example of the cultural diversity that is integral in Singaporean culture. Located between Serangoon Road and Race Course Road, this area is filled with shops, temples and delicious and authentic Indian food. Be sure to check out the food stalls and sari shops at Tekka Market and find the most colorful house in Singapore- Tan Teng Niah.
9. TAKE A STROLL AROUND FORT CANNING PARK
Fort Canning Park is a beautiful green space that is home to a lot of history! This park is where both Malay and colonial rulers were once seated and there are many historical buildings and museums that remain in the park. The park also has an incredible spiral staircase that peers up into the trees… you will likely find a queue to take a photo here! If you’re looking for this spot, just type in Spiral Staircase Photo Spot into Google Maps.
10. DISCOVER CHINATOWN & THE BEST HAWKER STALLS
If you’re a foodie, look no further than Chinatown. This area was my go-to in Singapore for authentic, inexpensive and quality local food at the hawker market stalls. Many of the stalls here have been widely recognized by the media and food critics, and two have even received a Michelin star! My favorite hawker stalls were at Maxwell Food Market, located right in Chinatown. After getting some grub, check out the impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple located next door.
11. WITNESS THE BOUGAINVILLEA BLOOMS
Bougainvilleas are a signature plant in Singapore’s tropical climate and their pink blooms can be found throughout the city. If you’re a flower-lover like me, this is heaven! The most beautiful bougainvillea displays can be found at the most unlikely location- the Japanese Cemetery Park. This park was first built at the end of the 19th century to bury Japanese prostitutes who passed away in Singapore and it now serves as a memorial park. The park is quite tranquil despite its past history, and it has rows of gorgeous archways covered in bright pink bougainvillea.
12. FIND THE RAINBOW AT OLD HILL STREET POLICE STATION
The Old Hill Street Police Station is a former police station that has been transformed with 900 brightly painted windows in a rainbow of colors! Singapore if filled with colorful spots, but this one is certainly the largest and most impressive!
13. EXPLORE CREATIVITY IN THE ARAB QUARTER
Filled with boutiques, hipster cafes and lots of street art, Singapore’s Muslim quarter has long-been a creative hub of the city. This neighborhood spans from Bussorah Street, Haji and Bali Lanes and Muscat Street, and it’s definitely worth a stop on your itinerary!
14. WATCH THE SUNSET OVER SINGAPORE
Sunset in Singapore is best seen from above. Find a rooftop bar, restaurant or hotel where you can watch the colors change across the city skyline. My favorites are at Potato Head, Cé La Vi and 1-Altitude.
Ready to take on Singapore? I hope these tips helped you plan your trip!
