8 Must-See Activities in Singapore

Singapore may be small – about the same size as New York City – but this vibrant city-state is packed with rich culture, unique charm, and endless things to explore.

Situated at the southern tip of Malaysia, just one degree north of the equator, this island nation of 5.6 million people is famous for its hawker centers, lush urban gardens, and, of course, the iconic Singapore Sling.

Whether you're here to enjoy the local street food, catch a cricket match, or explore the recently revamped National Gallery, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Here are the eight best things to see, do, and savor in the Garden City:

1. Embark on a Heritage Tour

Having been a British colony for almost 150 years, from 1819 to 1963, Singapore is home to many well-preserved Victorian-era buildings lining the Singapore River, just west of Marina Bay.

A stroll through the heart of the city will lead visitors along a heritage path, showcasing landmarks like the majestic City Hall, Old Supreme Court, Peranakan Museum, Fort Canning Flagstaff, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Victoria Theater and Concert Hall, and The Arts House.

Many of these historic buildings surround the Padang, an expansive open field that houses the Singapore Cricket Club (established in 1870) and the Singapore Recreation Club (established in 1883).

The newly renovated National Gallery Singapore offers stunning views of the cricket field and specializes in Southeast Asian art.

This popular destination is known for its dynamic and interactive exhibits, including a recent showcase by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, where she used infinity mirrors, patterns, and light to craft an unforgettable visual experience.

National Gallery Singapore, 1 Saint Andrew’s Road, #01–01, Singapore 178957; +65 6271 7000

Peranakan Museum, 39 Armenian St, Singapore 179941; +65 6332 7591

St. Andrew’s Cathedral, 11 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178959; +65 6337 6104

2. Savor Every Bite

Singapore is often hailed as one of the world's top food destinations – and it's easy to understand why.

This is just one of the countless hawker stalls where visitors can enjoy delicious noodle dishes and quick bites for just a few dollars.

The choices are endless and all mouthwatering – from flaky roti prata in Little India to grilled satay, kaya toast (a coconut jam served with half-boiled eggs), Hokkien mee noodles, laksa, Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and ice kachang – a dessert made with shaved ice, condensed milk, and a variety of toppings like red beans and mango.

When you're in need of a refreshment, try a cup of traditional kopi-o (strong black coffee with sugar), kopi kosong (black coffee without sugar), grass jelly soy milk, or fresh sugarcane juice – all easy to find.

For a taste of everything, head to Chinatown Complex Food Centre, one of the largest hawker centers in Singapore, featuring over 250 stalls.

Nearby, Maxwell Road Hawker Centre also attracts crowds with its iconic stalls, including the renowned Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hoe Kee Porridge.

For a modern twist on the traditional hawker experience, check out Timbre+ – a vibrant outdoor gastropark offering over 30 food stalls, food trucks, craft beer, and live music almost every night.

Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, 78 Smith St, Singapore 058972

Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, 069184, Singapore; +65 9790 2826

Chinatown Complex Food Centre, 335 Smith Street, #02-127 Chinatown Complex, Chinatown, Singapore

Timbre+, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, JTC LaunchPad, 139957, Singapore; +65 6252 2545

3. Enjoy the Nightlife

While Singapore is famous for its Singapore Sling – best enjoyed at the iconic Long Bar inside the historic Raffles Hotel – there are many other cocktails worth exploring.

The city boasts a vibrant cocktail scene, with hotspots around Clarke Quay, Club Street, Chinatown, and Ann Siang Hill.

Speakeasy 28 Hongkong Street offers American-style classic cocktails and barrel-aged concoctions, while Bitters & Love is known for its Asian-inspired drinks with creative presentations (such as a Kaya Toast cocktail served in a mason jar).

Nearby, Operation Dagger takes mixology to the next level with experimental drinks in a visually striking setting.

For a more laid-back vibe, try one of the hookah bars or outdoor cafes along Haji Lane for a relaxed alfresco experience.

Long Bar, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd, Singapore, 189673; +65 6337 1886

28 Hongkong Street, 28 Hongkong St, Singapore, 059667; +65 6533 2001

Bitters & Love, 118 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068587; +65 6438 1836

Operation Dagger, 7 Ann Siang Hill, #B1-01, Singapore 069791; +65 6438 4057

4. Immerse Yourself in Culture

Singapore is a cultural crossroads, with a diverse population that includes residents from Malaysia, China, India, and beyond.

In Chinatown, the towering skyscrapers of Marina Bay recede into the background as three-story shophouses take you on a journey to the past.

These peaceful lanes, bustling markets, and traditional eateries are a testament to Singapore's rich cultural heritage.

If you look closely, many of the traditional buildings have been transformed into chic boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and hidden speakeasies.

A prime example is the stylish Potato Head, spanning three floors of a heritage shophouse, now featuring a cozy cocktail bar and a rooftop restaurant.

While exploring Chinatown, visitors will likely come across the Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest of its kind in Singapore, along with the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple – a vibrant pastel-colored Hindu temple that reflects the city’s multicultural charm.

In Little India, located on the northern side of the city, vibrant colors and lively energy spill out from sari shops, gold jewelry stores, and cozy eateries.

For a unique dining experience, Lagnaa… barefoot dining – where you eat while sitting on cushions and without shoes – comes highly recommended for its delicious Indian dishes.

Lagnaa… barefoot dining, 6 Upper Dickson Road, Singapore 207466, Singapore; +65 6296 1215

Potato Head Singapore, 36 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089143; +65 6327 1939

5. Explore Marina Bay

Surrounded by cutting-edge skyscrapers, Marina Bay is home to Singapore's stunning collection of modern architecture.

At the heart of it all is Marina Bay Sands – a 55-story hotel and entertainment complex featuring an infinity pool, an observation deck, and the Ce La Vi bar and restaurant on the rooftop.

Inside, it has a slightly airport-like vibe, but its iconic status is undeniable.

For Formula One enthusiasts, a room here offers stunning views of the Marina Bay Street Circuit, where the Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is held every September.

Around Marina Bay, you'll find some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the ArtScience Museum – designed like a blooming flower, the Merlion – a mythical creature with a lion's head and fish body, the Singapore Flyer, and No SignBoard Seafood Restaurant – renowned for its irresistible chili crab.

Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore, 018956; +65 6688 8868

Singapore Flyer, 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039803; +65 6333 3311

No SignBoard Seafood Restaurant, 8 Raffles Ave, 01-14/16, Singapore 039802; +65 6336 9959

6. Discover Gardens by the Bay

Located just behind Marina Bay Sands, an elevated walkway takes you to the award-winning Gardens by the Bay.

Spanning 101 hectares, this futuristic garden features aerial walkways among the treetops, serene lakes, sculpture parks, and the iconic 164-foot Supertrees – vertical gardens that capture solar energy.

Inside the park, you'll find two climate-controlled conservatories – one showcasing a misty cloud forest and the other housing a stunning Flower Dome.

The largest of its kind in the world, this 1.2-hectare glass greenhouse is home to a remarkable variety of plants, including olive trees and massive African Baobab trees.

If you're still craving more greenery, we recommend exploring the Singapore Botanic Gardens to the west.

Founded in 1859 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a variety of walking trails, lush rainforests, vast lawns, and a meticulously maintained Orchid Garden that features over 1,000 orchid species.

Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953; +65 6420 6848

Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569; +65 6471 7138

7. Embark on a safari adventure

A safari in Singapore? It may not be the first place you'd think of for spotting wildlife like monkeys and manatees, but you'd be amazed by what you can find.

With over 6,000 animals, the River Safari is a river-themed adventure located northwest of the city, showcasing ecosystems from the Nile to the Amazon.

Highlights of the park include flamingos, one-horned rhinoceroses, wildebeests, monkeys, pufferfish, red pandas, crocodiles, and more.

Prefer tigers and bears? The neighboring Night Safari offers a thrilling tram ride through the rainforest, home to tigers, leopards, and elephants.

This is all part of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, which includes the Singapore Zoo, bird park, aquarium, and a major research and conservation facility.

To the northwest of the complex, don't miss the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, an ASEAN Heritage Park and another great nature experience.

This vast ecological gem offers fantastic hiking and birdwatching opportunities, featuring over 140 bird species along mangrove boardwalks and wetland trails.

Wildlife Reserves Singapore, located at 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826; +65 6269 3411.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, located at 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925; +65 6794 1401.

8. Take a scenic detour.

Though known as a bustling metropolis, Singapore is surrounded by 62 islands off its coast.

Sentosa Island makes for an easy, family-friendly getaway just a short trip from the city.

Located off Singapore's southern coast, this artificial island features Universal Studios, golf courses, and luxury resorts like Capella Singapore and the glamorous W Sentosa.

For a more rugged escape, explore Pulau Ubin or the Sisters’ Islands, ideal for scuba diving, hiking, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Pulau Ubin, accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, offers camping facilities for those wishing to stay overnight. Travelers must check in at the Pulau Ubin Police Post upon arrival.

The Sisters’ Islands Marine Park is made up of multiple islands and beaches, offering great opportunities for snorkeling in its protected coral reefs.

For a comprehensive visit, it’s recommended to join a guided walk that includes transportation and a detailed introduction to the park's coral and wildlife conservation efforts.

Alternatively, visitors can arrange their own transportation from Marina South Pier to reach their destination.

Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island; +65 6377 8888

W Sentosa, 21 Ocean Way, Singapore 098374; +65 6808 7288