So you’ve decided to visit Singapore – excellent choice! This tiny island country packs a big punch with its vibrant culture, delicious food, natural beauty, and ultra-modern cityscapes. You’re in for a treat with all that Singapore has to offer. As you plan your itinerary, here are some of the must-see places to visit in Singapore to make the most of your trip. From historic temples and lush rainforests to futuristic skyscrapers and world-class theme parks, Singapore has something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure exploring all the diversity this city-state has to offer. The hardest part will be deciding what to see first! Whether you’re a culture vulture, nature lover, thrill seeker or foodie, Singapore won’t disappoint. Here are the best places to start your Singapore adventure.
Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is one of the top spots you have to visit during your trip to Singapore. This giant Ferris wheel stands at a whopping 541 feet high, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from your air-conditioned capsule.
Once you’re strapped in for your 30 minute rotation, sit back and take in the sights. You’ll see the entire skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands resort, Esplanade theater, and the Singapore River. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the views from up there are truly Instagram-worthy!
If you want to make the experience extra special, book a premium capsule with leather seats and a glass floor. Or take a spin on the wheel at night to see the glittering city lights. The Singapore Flyer offers special packages for birthdays, engagements, and other celebrations too.
Other tips:
•Buy tickets in advance on the Singapore Flyer website to save time waiting in line.
•Go early evening around 5 or 6pm to experience both daytime and nighttime views.
•Dress comfortably in weather-appropriate clothing since capsules are air-conditioned.
•Check the website for occasional closures due to weather before your visit.
A spin on this iconic landmark is the perfect way to get a sense of Singapore’s layout while enjoying a thrilling ride. Definitely an experience you won’t forget!
Gardens by the Bay
The Gardens by the Bay is Singapore’s iconic nature park spanning 101 hectares in the heart of the city. You’ll find three waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East and Bay Central. Bay South is the largest, with the world’s largest greenhouse and tallest indoor waterfall.
Supertree Grove
One of the highlights is the Supertree Grove, with 18 unique man-made Supertrees ranging from 25 to 50 meters tall.
They’re each home to tropical plants and an aerial walkway, great for panoramic views of the park. At night, they put on an spectacular light show set to music.
Cloud Forest Dome
The Cloud Forest Dome is a mysterious world of orchids, pitcher plants and ferns. It features the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 35 meters high, with water flowing into a crystal-shaped platform. Take time exploring the mirror maze and tree-top walk.
Flower Dome
The Flower Dome is the largest glass greenhouse in the world showcasing different Mediterranean and semi-arid climate regions like South Africa, Italy and Spain. Stroll through olive groves and lavender fields while enjoying themed floral displays.
With so much greenery, vibrant blooms and state-of-the-art architecture in one place, the Gardens by the Bay is a tropical dream escape right in the heart of Singapore. No visit is complete without seeing this eco-wonder.
Cloud Forest
The Cloud Forest is one of the top attractions in Singapore. This massive nature dome sits atop Marina Bay Sands and is home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Stepping inside this man-made forest in the sky, you’ll be transported into a cool misty world towering over the city.
As you wander the forest floor, follow the winding trails lined with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Exotic orchids, pitcher plants and ferns surround you, with hidden spots to discover at every turn. The highlight is walking around the massive indoor waterfall, complete with rocky cliffs and a canopy walkway at the very top. The sounds of rushing water echo through the dome, creating a peaceful retreat from the bustle below.
For the best views, ride the elevator to the top of the dome. The skywalk offers panoramic vistas of the Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay. At night, you can gaze out at the dazzling light show from this lofty perch. Whether by day or night, the Cloud Forest transports you into a mystical world of natural wonder. No trip to Singapore is complete without visiting this iconic attraction.
Tips:
•Go early and avoid the biggest crowds. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.
• The temperature inside is cool, around 64 F, so pack a light jacket.
• Admission tickets include access to the neighboring Flower Dome. Visit both for a full experience.
• Stop for a drink or meal with a view at one of the restaurants in Marina Bay Sands.
• Check the schedule for special events like evening light shows or guided tours.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the city’s most famous attractions and a must-see on any trip to Singapore. This 74-hectare tropical garden paradise has a rich history dating back to 1859. It is home to a stunning array of plant species, themed gardens and walking trails.
Themed Gardens
Explore themed gardens like the Ginger Garden, Fragrant Garden and Evolution Garden. The latter showcases plant groups arranged according to evolutionary relationships, providing insight into how plants are connected in the tree of life. The Fragrant Garden has aromatic plants from all over the world with clever walkways that lead you to experience different scents in stages.
National Orchid Garden
This is the largest collection of orchids in the region with over 60,000 orchid plants and orchid hybrids. Stroll through the picturesque pathways with orchids in full bloom all year round. The garden has the largest number of orchid species in the world, with new hybrids being developed regularly.
Rainforest
A patch of tropical rainforest right in the city, the Rainforest is home to old-growth trees, palms, vines and rare plant species. Look out for creatures like long-tailed macaques, squirrels and sunbirds in their natural habitat. The fresh, earthy scent of the forest will make you forget you’re in a bustling metropolis.
The Singapore Botanic Gardens has something for everyone. Whether you want to simply relax surrounded by greenery, learn about plant conservation, or get active with the many walking trails, this urban oasis will delight all your senses. Entry to the gardens and most attractions is free, so take your time exploring all it has to offer.
Marina Bay
One of the most iconic places to visit in Singapore is Marina Bay. This vibrant area is home to some of Singapore’s most famous landmarks like the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay.
The Merlion
No trip to Singapore is complete without seeing the Merlion, Singapore’s national icon. This mythical creature with a lion’s head and fish’s body represents Singapore’s history as a fishing village. Head to Merlion Park to see the iconic statue and snap some photos with the Singapore skyline in the background.
Marina Bay Sands
The three towers of the Marina Bay Sands resort are one of the most recognizable sights in Singapore’s skyline. Visit the resort to shop, dine, see a show, or head up to the rooftop infinity pool for panoramic views of the city. The resort also has a huge casino if you want to test your luck.
Gardens by the Bay
For a dose of nature, visit the Gardens by the Bay. This massive nature park spans over 250 acres in the heart of the city. Highlights include the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories, Supertrees Grove, and Children’s Garden. The park is especially stunning at night when the Supertrees come alive with an exhilarating light show.
Marina Bay offers an exciting mix of attractions in a picturesque setting. From modern architecture and lavish resorts to whimsical gardens and historical landmarks, this area encapsulates all the wonders of Singapore. No trip to the city is complete without exploring all this district has to offer.
Merlion Park
One of the most iconic spots in Singapore is Merlion Park, home of the mythical Merlion statue. This half-lion, half-fish creature is Singapore’s national symbol.
The Merlion Statue
The Merlion statue was designed in 1964 as an emblem for the Singapore Tourism Board. Standing at 8.6 meters, the Merlion symbolizes Singapore’s history as a fishing village. Its lion head represents Singapore’s original name—Singapura, meaning “lion city” in Malay—and the fish tail represents the island’s humble beginnings as a fishing village. Today, the Merlion is synonymous with Singapore. No trip here is complete without catching a glimpse of this legendary beast!
The park offers the perfect vantage point to view the Marina Bay skyline and snap photos with the Merlion. The best time for photos is at night when the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands are dramatically lit up. There are also many walking paths to stroll along the Singapore River.
Whether you’re interested in the history, culture, or just want an iconic shot for the ‘gram, Merlion Park should be at the top of your list of must-see places to visit in Singapore. The mythical Merlion, scenic bay views, and pleasant walking paths will captivate you.
Sentosa Island Singapore
Sentosa Island is a popular resort island located just off Singapore’s coast. Easily accessible by bus, tram, or cable car, Sentosa offers no shortage of family-friendly attractions, beaches, and entertainment options to enjoy during your visit.
Beaches and Activities
Sentosa’s 3 km long beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and activity rentals. You can go sailing, kayaking, jet skiing or just lounge in the sun. Head to Palawan Beach for ropes courses and obstacle courses suspended in the air. Or check out the Mega Adventure Park for zip lines, climbing walls and other thrills.
Universal Studios Singapore
No trip to Sentosa is complete without visiting Universal Studios theme park. With over 20 rides and attractions including rollercoasters, simulators, live shows, and movie-themed experiences, there’s something for both kids and kids at heart. Walk through worlds of Shrek, Madagascar, Jurassic Park and more.
SEA Aquarium
One of the world’s largest aquariums, the S.E.A. Aquarium is home to over 100,000 marine animals including manta rays, hammerhead sharks, bottlenose dolphins and other fascinating sea life. The huge oceanarium allows you to observe these creatures up close in a naturalistic habitat. An unforgettable experience for any ocean lover.
Sentosa Island has everything needed for an exciting short getaway without even leaving Singapore. With theme parks, wildlife encounters, adventure sports and scenic beaches, Sentosa offers a perfect combination of recreation and relaxation for people of all ages. No wonder it attracts over 20 million visitors each year! A trip to Singapore isn’t complete without exploring all that Sentosa has to offer.
Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is the only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia and one of the most popular attractions in Singapore.
Attractions
Experience the magic of blockbuster movies at the many exciting attractions. Go on a thrilling adventure through Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, battle villains in TRANSFORMERS The Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle, and plunge into total darkness in the Revenge of the Mummy.For families, check out Shrek 4-D Adventure, Enchanted Airways and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure.
Meet your favorite characters like Woody and Winnie the Pooh, enjoy live shows and be dazzled by the spectacular Crane Dance and nightly fireworks display. With over 20 attractions spread across 7 themed zones, there’s something for both kids and kids at heart.
Dining
Recharge with a variety of dining options in the park like Mel’s Drive-In, Loui’s NY Pizza Parlor, Goldilocks, Discovery Food Court and more. Or grab snacks on the go like popcorn, churros or ice cream.
Tips
Go early and on a weekday to avoid crowds. Buy tickets in advance to skip the queue. Some rides have height requirements so check before going. Take rain gear as some attractions may close in bad weather.
A day at Universal Studios Singapore, filled with thrilling rides, shows, shopping and dining, will delight anyone looking for an exciting escape. Make it a trip to remember!
S.E.A Aquarium Singapore
The S.E.A. Aquarium Singapore is one of the largest aquariums in the world, with over 100,000 marine animals from over 800 species. This massive aquarium is home to majestic manta rays, sharks, dolphins and more. You’ll be in awe at the Open Ocean tank that features a 36-meter wide and 8.3-meter high viewing panel.
As you walk through the aquarium, you’ll journey through 10 different zones – from the Straits of Malacca and Andaman Sea to the Open Ocean. Each zone showcases the amazing biodiversity of that marine habitat. The reef habitats zones feature colorful corals and tropical fish, while the shipwreck zone gives you a glimpse into how sunken ships become artificial reefs.
One of the highlights is the world’s largest oceanarium, housing 7 different species of sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish. The Ocean Dome features an awe-inspiring 360 degree view of the massive tank. You’ll get a chance to see the sharks and manta rays glide gracefully overhead and all around you.
No trip to the S.E.A. Aquarium is complete without watching the dolphin show at Dolphin Island. The talented Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins will entertain you with their jumps, spins and splashes. You can even interact with the dolphins through special encounters like shaking hands or giving them a kiss!
Whether you want to discover mysterious sea creatures, witness colossal sharks or simply enjoy a fun day out, the S.E.A. Aquarium Singapore offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. This world-class attraction should definitely be on your list of top places to visit in Singapore.
Singapore Cable Car
The Singapore Cable Car is one of the most unique ways to take in the city’s skyline. This scenic gondola lift connects Mount Faber Park to Sentosa Island, soaring over the harbor.
The Ride
The cable car ride takes about 15 minutes to complete the full circuit, gliding over the treetops of the rainforest and offering panoramic views of the city, port, and sea. By day, you’ll see landmarks like the Merlion statue and Marina Bay Sands. At night, witness the dazzling light show as the city sparkles below.
For the best experience, go during the late afternoon so you can see the landscape in both day and night. The cable cars seat up to 8 people, with both air-conditioned and open-air cabins available. Fares start around $33 for adults, with round-trip tickets and packages available.
The cable car system has been operating since 1974, but the cars and infrastructure have been modernized to ensure safety, reliability and comfort. Multiple cable wires and emergency backup generators minimize the chance of disruptions. The Singapore Cable Car is a popular attraction, so go early and be prepared for some queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
Once you arrive at Sentosa Island, you’ll find a resort area filled with attractions like Universal Studios theme park, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark. The island is also home to scenic beaches, golf courses, and hiking trails to explore. A perfect spot for a staycation getaway without leaving the city!
The Singapore Cable Car offers a thrilling ride and unique perspective of the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or long-time local, this is an experience not to miss. Soar over the skyline and enjoy the view!
Singapore Discovery Centre
The Singapore Discovery Center is an interactive museum dedicated to the history, culture, and future of Singapore. This family-friendly attraction is perfect for learning about this fascinating city in an engaging way.
Upon entering, you’ll embark on an interactive journey through Singapore’s development from a small fishing village into a global hub. state-of-the-art exhibits let you experience pivotal moments in Singapore’s history, like its time under British rule and the Japanese occupation during World War II. You’ll also glimpse into Singapore’s diverse ethnic groups and vibrant culture.
For a glimpse into Singapore’s future, head to the Futures Gallery. Here, innovative technologies like augmented and virtual reality demonstrate how advancements in science, technology, engineering and math are shaping Singapore’s tomorrow. These hands-on, immersive exhibits are especially fun for kids and students interested in STEM fields.
No trip to the Discovery Center is complete without experiencing its massive interactive model of Singapore. This impressive replica spans over 2,000 square feet and recreates the city in stunning detail. Control different aspects of the model like vehicle traffic, airplane landings, and building lights for a fun, behind-the-scenes look at what keeps this metropolis running.
Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the Singapore Discovery Center is an ideal destination. With activities for all ages, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Singapore’s past, present, and future as a global powerhouse. Admission tickets are very affordable, ranging from $6 to $12 for adults and $3 to $8 for children. It’s a small price to pay for discovering all the wonders of Singapore.
National Orchid Garden
The National Orchid Garden is a must-see when visiting Singapore. Set within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, this is the only garden in the world dedicated solely to orchids. With over 60,000 orchid plants and orchid hybrids across 3 hectares, you’ll be surrounded by these exotic blooms.
As you enter the garden, stroll down the arched walkway lined with vibrant vanda orchids in shades of red, orange and yellow. At the center is a scenic lake, perfect for snapping photos of the delicate dendrobium orchids perched over the water. In the cooler Orchid Plaza, delicate moth orchids in soft pinks and purples cling to trees.
For the ultimate orchid experience, visit the Coolhouse. This climate-controlled glasshouse recreates the cool mountain conditions that many orchids prefer. Inside you’ll find rare orchids like the white phalaenopsis bellina and the sky-blue vanda ‘Miss Joaquim,’ Singapore’s national flower.
The garden also has informative displays on the history of orchids, their biology, and tips for cultivation. You can pick up orchid cuttings and hybrids at the gift shop to start your own collection.
Whether you have a blossoming interest in orchids or simply appreciate floral beauty, the National Orchid Garden is a tropical paradise in the heart of Singapore that will leave you breathless. Spend a couple of hours exploring all it has to offer—your camera will thank you! The garden is open daily from 8:30 am to 7 pm and admission fees apply.
Singapore Zoo
The Singapore Zoo is a must-see attraction when visiting Singapore. Opened in 1973, this world-class zoo is home to over 2,800 animals across 300 species. Set on a picturesque 26-hectare park, the zoo aims to inspire visitors to conserve biodiversity and wildlife.
When you first enter the zoo, head to the Fragile Forest biodome, an open-concept habitat housing ring-tailed lemurs, sloths, and flying foxes up close. The Great Rift Valley zone spotlights animals from Ethiopia’s Rift Valley like hamadryas baboons, Nubian ibex, and rock hyrax.
Wetlands and Grasslands
In the Wetlands Trail, you’ll see creatures like reticulated pythons, sun bears, and white rhinos in recreated habitats. The Grasslands area features grazing animals of the African savanna like giraffes, zebras, and various antelope.
Wild Africa and Frozen Tundra
The Wild Africa zone is home to massive elephants, hippos, and lions. Meanwhile, the Frozen Tundra exhibit provides refuge for polar bears, wolverines, and musk oxen in a climate-controlled enclosure.
With animal encounters, keeper talks, and interactive exhibits, Singapore Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Best of all, with the zoo open 365 days a year, you can visit during any season. Why not head there today for a wild adventure?
Sands Skypark Observation Deck
The Sands Skypark Observation Deck offers some of the best views in all of Singapore. At 200 meters high, you’ll get a panoramic vista of the city skyline, the Straits of Singapore and beyond. It’s the perfect spot for photos you’ll cherish for years to come.
To get there, head to the Marina Bay Sands resort and take the elevator up to the Skypark. Once at the top, you’ll walk across the infinity pool (yes, you can swim in it!) to the observation deck. The deck wraps around the entire top of the building, so you’ll want to walk the entire path to take it all in.
Some of the highlights include:
- The Singapore Flyer ferris wheel in the distance, one of the world’s largest.
- The ArtScience Museum’s futuristic lotus-shaped building.
- The historic Padang field and City Hall buildings.
- The Singapore River winding through the city.
- Hundreds of skyscrapers punctuating the skyline as far as the eye can see.
As the sun sets, watch the city transition from day to night. The skyscrapers slowly light up and transform into a dazzling sea of lights. It’s a spectacular show you don’t want to miss.
Admission to the Sands Skypark Observation Deck may cost a bit, but the views are priceless. It’s worth budgeting for, especially if it’s your first time in Singapore. The deck is open every day of the week during evening hours for the best views of the city at night. Go early and stay late – you won’t regret a single minute.
Supertree Grove
The Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay is one of the most iconic attractions in Singapore. These futuristic structures look like massive trees, but are actually vertical gardens housing exotic plants and vibrant flowers. At night, they come alive with a spectacular light and music show.
When you first enter the Supertree Grove, you’ll be struck by the sheer size and number of these man-made “trees”. Rising up to 16 stories high, the supertrees are home to over 200 species of plants, ferns and tropical flowers. The supertrees are interconnected by walkways, giving you a bird’s eye view of the gardens from up high. The OCBC Skyway, 22 meters high, offers the best vantage point.
As evening falls, the supertrees become the stage for an unforgettable show. At 7:45pm and 8:45pm daily, the supertrees are illuminated with colorful lights dancing to an orchestral soundtrack. The supertrees seem to glow and pulse to the music. This 15 minute extravaganza, called the Garden Rhapsody light show, is a must-see.
Other highlights of the Supertree Grove include:
•The Discovery Slide, one of the tallest slides in Singapore at 12 meters high. Whiz down the spiral slide for a thrilling ride.
•Several F&B options like Supertree Dining, a restaurant right within the branches of a supertree. Enjoy a meal with panoramic views.
•The Heritage Gardens feature Chinese, Malay, Indian and Colonial themed gardens celebrating Singapore’s cultural diversity.
•Several themed trails to explore like the Canyon Trail and Aerial Walkway.
The Supertree Grove is an iconic landmark that showcases Singapore as a City in a Garden. A trip to Singapore isn’t complete without witnessing these architectural and botanical marvels in person. Make sure to catch both the daytime and nighttime views – you’ll be amazed at the transformation. The Supertree Grove is a must-see highlight for both locals and visitors alike.
Orchard Road
No trip to Singapore is complete without exploring Orchard Road. This 2.2 kilometer stretch is a shopper’s paradise, lined with retail stores, dining options, hotels, and entertainment attractions.
Once a quiet residential area, Orchard Road transformed into a bustling retail and tourism hub in the 1970s and today features 22 shopping malls and over 5,000 stores. You’ll find everything from luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Prada to affordable favorites like Uniqlo and H&M. The malls stay open late, some until 11pm, so you have plenty of time to shop and dine.
If you need a break from shopping, duck into the Singapore Botanic Gardens or the National Orchid Garden, both located just off Orchard Road. The Botanic Gardens feature over 60 hectares of gardens, a scenic lake, and rare plant species. The National Orchid Garden houses the largest collection of orchids in the region, with over 60,000 orchid plants and orchid hybrids on display.
When night falls, Orchard Road glitters with colorful lights and digital billboards. The scene becomes almost Vegas-like, dazzling visitors with its energy and spectacle. Head to Emerald Hill for vibrant nightlife, cocktails, and bar hopping on this historic street lined with preserved Peranakan shophouses. Or catch a movie at The Cathay, Singapore’s first skyscraper and a historic cinema venue.
No matter your interests, Orchard Road appeals to all. Shopaholics and foodies, nature lovers and night owls, there’s something for everyone on this iconic Singapore street. Just come prepared to be dazzled by the abundance of shopping and entertainment options in this retail paradise.
Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is one of the most popular entertainment and dining destinations in Singapore. This lively area along the Singapore River comes alive at night, with many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. If you’re looking for a fun night out, Clarke Quay should be at the top of your list.
By day, Clarke Quay is a quiet and pleasant place to stroll. You can walk along the riverfront promenade, browse the shops, or stop for lunch at one of the casual eateries. But as night falls, Clarke Quay transforms into a bustling center of activity. Restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world open their doors, bars start filling up, and music echoes through the streets.
Dining Options Galore
Clarke Quay is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from upscale restaurants to affordable street food. Satisfy your craving for Asian flavors at one of the many Thai, Chinese, or Singaporean eateries. Or sample Mediterranean, European, or Latin American cuisine. Some highly rated options include Jamie’s Italian, Bochinche, and Blu Kouzina.
Lively Nightlife
As the sun sets, head to one of the many bars or clubs along the river for drinks, dancing, and a vibrant party atmosphere. Zouk and Attica are popular nightclubs featuring top DJs and a huge dance floor. Harry’s Bar and Beer Market are more laid back, perfect for grabbing some drinks with friends. Or check out one of the unique concept bars like The Clinic or The Library.
Shopping and Activities
While dining and nightlife are the main draws, Clarke Quay also offers some shopping and family-friendly activities. Browse fashion boutiques, gift shops, and stores featuring home decor and handcrafted goods. Take a riverboat cruise to see the city skyline lit up at night. Or for something more adventurous, try reverse bungy jumping, rock climbing, or trapezing at the G-Max Reverse Bungy.
Whether you’re looking to party the night away or simply enjoy a nice meal with loved ones, Clarke Quay has something for everyone. This vibrant riverside destination should be on the itinerary of any first-time visitor to Singapore.
Chinatown Singapore
Chinatown is one of the most popular historic districts in Singapore, filled with vibrant shops, restaurants, and markets. Originally established in the 19th century, Chinatown is now a bustling mix of old and new.
Shop Till You Drop
Chinatown is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from traditional medicinal herbs to the latest electronics. Head to Pagoda Street and Trengganu Street, also known as “Souvenir Street,” for the widest selection of souvenirs like decorative fans, Chinese silk pajamas, and jade jewelry.
Bargain hunters should check out the Chinatown Street Market on Pagoda Street, which features hundreds of stalls selling clothes, accessories, and knickknacks. For a glimpse into the past, visit Eu Yan Sang, an herbal medicine store that’s been operating since 1879. They offer natural remedies and teas that have been staples of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
A Culinary Adventure
You’ll never go hungry in Chinatown with its plethora of food options. For classic Singaporean-Chinese cuisine, head to Chinatown Food Street, an open-air hawker center on Smith Street. You’ll find stalls dishing up everything from Hainanese chicken rice to fried Hokkien mee.
If street food isn’t your thing, dine at upscale restaurants like Blue Ginger or Cherry Garden, which serve Peranakan and Cantonese fare made from the freshest local ingredients. Or grab a refreshing fruit juice from a historic shophouse on Club Street, now home to stylish cafes and watering holes.
Places of Worship
In between eating and shopping, take some time to appreciate Chinatown’s historic temples. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a magnificent four-story temple housing a sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, is a colorful sight with its ornate gopuram tower. And Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest and most important Taoist temple, is dedicated to the goddess of the sea. These architectural and cultural gems provide insight into the immigrant communities that built Chinatown.
Chinatown has endured for over a century by preserving its traditions while embracing progress. A visit here offers a glimpse into Singapore’s multicultural heritage and a chance to get lost in the rhythms of the past and present. No trip to Singapore is complete without experiencing this cultural heart of the city.
Singapore Night Safari
The Singapore Night Safari is a unique nighttime wildlife park and a must-see attraction when visiting Singapore. Opened in 1994, it is one of the world’s first nocturnal zoos. As night falls, over 2,500 nocturnal animals from 130 species wake up as you embark on an exciting safari adventure.
Trams and Walking Trails
The best way to explore the Singapore Night Safari is via the tram ride that takes you through open, naturalistic habitats or by walking the forested trails. The trams, with informative commentary, travel through geographical zones of the world including the Indian Subcontinent, Equatorial Africa, Asian Riverine Forest, Asian Elephant Forest and Nepalese River Valley. If you prefer walking, the Leopard Trail, Fishing Cat Trail and Wallaby Trail offer opportunities to spot animals up close in their enclosures.
Animal Encounters
Some of the animals you may encounter at the Singapore Night Safari include spotted hyenas, girrafes, Malayan tigers, free-ranging wallabies, fishing cats, and otters. The animals are most active at night, so you’ll see a range of interesting behaviors. For a special experience, book one of the animal encounters to feed giraffes or go on a private guided tour.
Cultural Performances
While exploring the Singapore Night Safari, don’t miss the exciting cultural performances like the Thumbuakar Performance with fire-eating displays, and the Creatures of the Night Show starring otters, hyenas, and civets. These shows highlight the native wildlife and cultures of Singapore.
The Singapore Night Safari is open daily from 7:30 pm until midnight. Admission tickets range from $45 to $65 for adults and $30 to $50 for children. For a complete nighttime wildlife experience in Singapore with animals, culture, and adventure—head to the Singapore Night Safari. You’ll never forget it!
Waterfront Promenade
The Waterfront Promenade is one of the top highlights of any visit to Singapore. This scenic walkway stretches over 3 kilometers along the Marina Bay waterfront, offering spectacular views of the Singapore skyline and access to many attractions.
The Promontory @ Marina Bay
Start your walk at the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort. Head to the rooftop Infinity Pool and Observation Deck for panoramic vistas of the bay. Then make your way down to the promenade, where the first stop is the Marina Bay Promontory. This scenic park sits on reclaimed land in the middle of the bay, connected to the promenade by a curved pedestrian bridge. Relax on the grass, enjoy the gardens and fountains, or get your perfect Instagram shot with the skyscrapers in the background.
ArtScience Museum and Merlion
As you continue your stroll east along the promenade, you’ll pass the iconic ArtScience Museum, with its lotus-shaped design. Pop inside to see fascinating exhibits fusing art and science. Not too far away is the Merlion, Singapore’s mythical creature that is half lion and half fish. This landmark statue spouts water from its mouth and is especially impressive when lit up at night.
Gardens by the Bay
No trip to the Waterfront Promenade is complete without visiting the Gardens by the Bay. This sprawling nature park features futuristic domed conservatories, supertrees, and scenic walking trails. Stroll through the Flower Dome to see exotic blooms from around the world or the Cloud Forest to experience a misty mountain habitat. The outdoor gardens are free to explore and open day and night.
A walk along the scenic Waterfront Promenade offers a little taste of everything Singapore has to offer. With stunning city views, vibrant culture, high-tech architecture, and verdant nature, this is the perfect place to spend an evening getting acquainted with the Lion City.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a Buddhist temple and museum complex located in Chinatown. It is a place of worship and also houses relics of the Buddha.
The architecture of the temple is designed in a mix of Thai and Chinese styles. The temple structure has five floors and a beautiful roof terrace. The relic chamber in the temple contains what is believed to be the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The relic is displayed in a solid gold stupa.
The temple also has an art museum, the Maitreya Hall, and a vegetarian restaurant. The art museum houses many Buddhist cultural relics and artifacts from China, Thailand, Myanmar and other Asian countries. The Maitreya Hall is dedicated to the future Buddha, Maitreya. It contains a 15 meter tall bronze Maitreya Bodhisattva statue.
The Buddhist temple conducts many activities like meditation classes, Dharma talks and celebrations of Buddhist festivals. The temple remains open every day of the week from 8 am to 9 pm. Admission to the temple and museum is free. The dress code is modest and conservative.
This temple provides an insight into the Buddhist faith and culture. A visit here will be an enlightening experience for people of all faiths. The beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of the temple can lift your mood and rejuvenate your senses. If you want to learn about Buddhism and experience an oasis of calm in the bustle of Chinatown, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a must-visit.
Flower Dome
The Flower Dome is one of the most popular attractions at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. This massive conservatory houses a huge variety of plants and flowers from Mediterranean and semi-arid tropical regions.
A Sea of Color
As you enter the Flower Dome, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant colors in every direction. The themed floral displays change regularly and feature blooms like tulips, orchids, sunflowers, and poppies. One display had over 40,000 tulips imported from the Netherlands! The colorful blossoms stand out against the conservatory’s steel and glass architecture.
Bring a camera, as the Flower Dome offers endless photo ops. Capture the rainbow of flowers, palm trees towering overhead, winding walkways, and the dome’s impressive Supertrees in the background. The vibrant and whimsical displays will lift your mood and transport you to floral wonderlands around the world.
Perfect Climate
The Flower Dome maintains a cool Mediterranean climate with low humidity, allowing exotic plants from five continents to thrive. You can comfortably explore the domed gardens for hours. Rest on benches tucked into alcoves along the walkways and simply enjoy the surroundings.
Educational Experience
Informational plaques provide details on the origins and characteristics of the many plants. You’ll gain an appreciation for the diversity of plant life that exists in Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. The creative floral arrangements also demonstrate what can be achieved by cultivating these exotic species.
A visit to the Flower Dome is highly recommended. Its innovative design, diverse plant collection, and world-class floral displays make it a must-see when in Singapore. You’ll find endless beauty in this urban oasis.
Conclusion
After exploring all these amazing places, you’ll never want to leave Singapore. From the stunning Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the historic temples, this tiny island nation packs in a ton of culture, nature, and adventure. And with delicious food around every corner, your taste buds will be just as satisfied as your sense of wonder. The next time you’re planning a getaway, do yourself a favor and book a flight to Singapore. The vibrant cityscape, lush rainforests, and warm hospitality will make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. There’s a reason Singapore is considered one of the best cities in the world—now you know why! Have an amazing trip and bon voyage!