Often referred to as the Lion City, Singapore stands as the urban jewel of Southeast Asia. It is an amazing place for visitors of all ages, offering a wealth of activities, sights, and culinary experiences. This melting pot of cultures is especially renowned for its diverse and affordable culinary scene, featuring some of the best Indian and Chinese cuisine. Whether you're on a brief stopover during a long flight or planning a longer stay, Singapore has numerous must-see attractions and experiences that you shouldn't miss! Here, we help you plan the perfect bucket list of things to do when you’re there.
1. Visit the Gardens by the Bay
This futuristic park, famous for its Supertree Grove, is a must-visit in Singapore. The towering Supertrees, some as high as 16 stories, are vertical gardens that light up spectacularly at night. Inside the park, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome offer a glimpse into diverse ecosystems, with plants from various climates and regions. An interesting fact is that the Supertrees are equipped with environmentally sustainable functions like photovoltaic cells to mimic the ecological function of trees. If you’re here with family or even alone, this is one place you shouldn’t miss out on.
2. Savor a Singapore Sling at the Raffles Hotel
The Singapore Sling, a gin-based cocktail, was first created in 1915 at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. Visiting this colonial-style luxury hotel and enjoying its signature drink offers a taste of Singapore's history (plus, you get to tickmark something really unique in your list of things to do!) The hotel's elegant ambiance, combined with the sweet, fruity flavor of the cocktail, makes for a memorable experience. Fun fact: The original recipe was almost lost to time, but a lot of research helped to recreate this iconic drink!
3. Swim in the Infinity Pool at Marina Bay Sands
The Marina Bay Sands Hotel's rooftop infinity pool, perched 57 stories above ground, offers an unparalleled view of Singapore's skyline. This architectural marvel, stretching 150 meters, is the world's largest rooftop infinity pool. While swimming, you can see the city's landmarks from a unique, elevated perspective. Note: Access to the pool is exclusive to hotel guests, making it a more exclusive experience. So, plan in advance to spend a day and night here, if you can!
4. Explore the S.E.A. Aquarium
Home to over 100,000 marine animals of over 1,000 species, the S.E.A Aquarium is one of the world's largest. Its Open Ocean tank, with a capacity of 18 million liters of water, provides a nearly panoramic view of an awe-inspiring underwater world. A visit here is not just entertaining but educational, highlighting the importance of marine conservation. Insider tip: Try to catch the feeding sessions for a truly mesmerizing experience!
5. Take a Photo with the Famous Merlion
The Merlion, with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is a mythical symbol of Singapore. Located at Merlion Park, near the Marina Bay Sands, this iconic statue stands at 8.6 meters tall and is a popular spot for photos. The fish body represents Singapore's origin as a fishing village, while the lion head represents its original name, Singapura, meaning 'lion city' in Sanskrit. Get your customary shot here!
6. Visit Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is a world of its own, with beaches, theme parks, golf courses, and more. It's a fantastic getaway from the city hustle. The island is home to attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the Adventure Cove Waterpark. Unique to Sentosa is the 'Songs of the Sea' show, a spectacular display of water jets, lasers, and fire geysers, set against the backdrop of the open sea. Make sure you plan your day to catch it!
7. Stroll Through People's Park Complex
People's Park Complex, located in Chinatown, is a vibrant example of Singapore's multicultural landscape. This complex is a bustling hive of activity, known for its affordable shopping and a wide array of authentic Chinese cuisine. The building, with its unique green and yellow façade, is a notable example of Brutalist architecture in Singapore. Psst: On the rooftop car park of level 6 in the complex you can see a huge yellow building that is fast becoming one of the most popular Instagrammable places in Singapore.
8. Wander on Haji Lane
Nestled in the heart of the Muslim quarter, Haji Lane is a narrow alley known for its indie boutiques and Mediterranean-style cafes. The street is a canvas for street artists, featuring vibrant murals that change regularly, making each visit unique. Haji Lane is a testament to Singapore's support for local artists and entrepreneurs, and a stroll here offers a different flavor of the city's culture.
Did you know: If you have time, you can also walk not far around the corner to the very famous mosque, Masjid Sultan. Certainly a place worthy of a photo!
9. Admire the Old Hill Street Police Station
This historical building is instantly recognizable for its rainbow of 927 windows, painted in the colors of the spectrum. Originally a police station, it now houses several government departments. The building's colorful façade makes it a favorite among photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. The color scheme was implemented as part of a government initiative to enliven public buildings.
10. Immerse Yourself in Little India
Little India is a bustling neighborhood that offers a sensory feast. From the vibrant flower garlands sold at street stalls to the tantalizing aroma of spices, this area captures the essence of the Indian subcontinent. Must-visit spots include the 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre and the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
11. Dine at a Hawker Centre in Singapore
Singapore's hawker centres are an integral part of its food culture, offering a wide array of affordable and delicious food options. These bustling centers showcase the diversity of Singapore's culinary scene. A hidden gem is the Old Airport Road Food Centre, known for its wide variety of local dishes and long-standing food stalls.
12. Watch a Famous Singapore Light Show
The Marina Bay area hosts two nightly light shows – 'Spectra' at Marina Bay Sands and the 'Garden Rhapsody' at Gardens by the Bay. These stunning displays of light and sound illuminate the night sky, creating a magical experience against the city's skyline. The best part? Both shows are free, making them accessible to everyone.
13. Experience the Night Safari
The Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo, offers a unique glimpse into the mysterious world of nocturnal animals. It's an exhilarating journey through the dark, showcasing animals from all over the globe in their naturalistic night-time environments. Traveler tip: Be sure to catch the Creatures of the Night show, an interactive and educational experience highlighting the abilities of nocturnal animals.
