A trip to Singapore in Southeast Asia is an experience like no other. From the minute you arrive in the city, its cleanliness, modernization, and beauty will captivate you. If you plan to eliminate a few things from your Singapore bucket list, I’ve got you covered.
I was born in Singapore when it was a fishing village with nice beaches. In the 1960s, Singapore transformed into the “Garden City” with the addition of lush greenery. After visiting the botanic garden and Flower Dome, I admit it was a fitting name.
So, when looking for things to do in Singapore, do not forget to sample the local cuisine. You can eat delicious noodles at Hawker Centers and chili crab, which tastes out of this world! And why not wash it down with a signature drink, the Singapore Sling?
Although the island is small, expect your Singapore itinerary to be busy. Use the city’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system to get around.
Additionally, the Singapore Tourist Pass gives you unlimited ridership on its transit system for the number of days you purchase.
Let’s look at some bucket list experiences to enjoy in Singapore.
1. View The City From Marina Bay Sands
As one of the most iconic buildings in Singapore, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel is a feat of engineering. On top of its three tall towers, a cantilever platform features SkyPark and an infinity pool. The three-acre observation deck offers a fantastic bird’s eye view of the city.
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While the hotel reserves the infinity pool for guests, visitors not staying at the hotel can purchase tickets for the observation deck. Skip the line and get your tickets here.
At 200 meters above the ground, you enjoy 360-degree unobstructed views of the city. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal or drink at a rooftop bar or restaurant.
If you can afford to stay at Marina Bay Sands, you’ll also get to swim in the clouds. The 150-meter pool is the largest elevated pool globally.
2. Ride The Singapore Flyer
Almost every metropolitan city has a giant observation wheel, and Singapore is no different. At the time of its construction in 2008, Singapore’s version was the highest Ferris wheel in the world.
Now, at 165 meters, it pails in comparison to the Ain Dubai standing at 250 meters. However, riding the Singapore Flyer will give you a unique view of the cityscape.
If you’re looking for something unique to do in Singapore, consider the ride on a clear day. With 360-degree views, you could see a glimpse of Indonesia to the south and Malaysia to the north.
3. Watch The Rain Vortex At Changi Airport
Changi Airport is arguably the world’s best airport. Inside the Jewel complex, movie theaters, a mall, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall keep air passengers and visitors entertained.
At 40 meters high, its cascading funnel of water is quite mesmerizing. The rain vortex’s stunning display drops water down seven stories and adds visual appeal both day and night. The vortex has a couple of light and music shows in the evening.
Ingeniously, the rain funnel uses collected rainwater. It drops at a volume of 10,000 gallons a minute and cycles around on a continuous feed.
Surrounding the waterfall, a lush rainforest canopy brings the outside in. The canopy has gardens, hedge mazes, and a suspension bridge. On the fifth level, the 14,000 sq. foot Canopy Park provides entertainment and space to relax before a flight.
4. Enjoy The Garden Rhapsody Show
Gardens by the Bay is not one garden but is divided into three parts. Most visitors head to Bay South Garden because it features the Supertree Grove and the Dome Gardens.
Even more impressive than the Marina Bay Sands, the Supertree Grove consists of 12 iconic trees towering 50 meters above the ground. During the day, it is super peaceful and serene and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
In the evening, the grove of contemporary trees comes alive with a light and music show. The signature show often changes, with each one lasting two to four weeks.
Twenty-two meters above the ground, the OCBC Skyway hangs from the trees and offers a unique way to watch the show. While the Supertrees are free to visit, the Skyway platform charges a small fee.
5. Savor Afternoon Tea At Raffles
Raffles Hotel is a world-famous luxury hotel in Singapore that dates back to 1887. It serves traditional Raffles British high tea. While expensive, afternoon tea at Raffles is an experience not to be missed and one of the best things to do in Singapore.
Reservations are required; expect to spend 90 minutes savoring the three-course event. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the experience. Freshly baked scones with clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and cakes. What’s not to love? Afterward, pop in to the Long Bar for a classic Singapore Sling.
Should you stay at the Raffles Hotel, you can enjoy elegant accommodations with exceptional service.
6. Shop At Orchard Road
Orchard Rd is a world-famous shopping street in Singapore. It’s full of high-end shops, designer labels, and luxury goods. Everything’s a bit pricey, but it’s fun to browse. And, who knows – you might bump into a celebrity too since they’re a common sight there.
“Shop till you drop” might be the appropriate phrase for this shopping area. If you prefer not to buy, plenty of good eateries will tempt you with local food.
7. See The Giant Merlion
The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body. Its body represents Singapore’s early inception as a fishing village and when it was called Temasek. The lion’s head symbolizes the city today, Singapura, the Malay word for “lion city.”
The most famous Merlion is at Merlion Park at the mouth of the Singapore River. It’s one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks. The stone statue measures 8.6 meters high and spouts water from its mouth.
The park is beautiful and the perfect place to snap pictures of the city skyline.
8. Try Street Food In Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood in Singapore, and it’s well-known for its delicious street food. We found some of Singapore’s best hawker stalls there. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the selection of food is diverse.
You can also try several different dumplings, including chicken and vegetable ones. They are all super tasty, filled with a variety of flavors.
Food is incredibly cheap. Expect to pay under SGD 5 for fried fish cake, dim sum dishes, satay, pork porridge, or yam cake. Be sure to try the Hainanese chicken rice, a local favorite.
9. Spend A Day At Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is a popular tourist destination in Singapore that’s home to some beautiful beaches. On the island, Resorts World Sentosa offers world-class attractions.
You can go on thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore, see one of the world’s largest aquariums, or explore a historic ship. The island has a water park, iFly, floating aqua park, zip lines, and even a Madame Tussauds attraction.
If you prefer to stay close to the action, the island has a collection of hotels. The Beach Villas’ Ocean Suites provide an underwater view of tropical fish for a unique stay.
10. Visit A Temple
Singapore is a stew pot of multiculturalism. You don’t have to look far to find a beautiful temple that offers insight into a different culture. The temples are big, bright, and some of the Hindu temples are a little garish.
Most of the structures are Hindu or Buddhist temples. There’s none more striking than the Sri Mariamman Temple, the city’s oldest. Located in Chinatown, visitors can recognize it from its colorful exterior, featuring six tiers of Hindu figures and vivid decorations.
Also, in Chinatown, be sure to visit the five-story Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The sacred building houses a Buddhist Culture Museum with artifacts from different Asian countries.
11. Explore Little India
No trip to Singapore is complete without exploring the colorful neighborhood of Little India. It’s an immersive experience with delicious smells, friendly people, and unique temples.
You will love bargaining for spices at the market and eating your way through the fantastic street food. One of the highlights is taking a cooking class where you can learn to make traditional Indian dishes.
To soak up the culture, stop by the Indian Heritage Center. The best thing about this place is that it feels like you’re in a summer tourist spot in India.
12. Visit The Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO world heritage site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
Founded in 1859, the botanical garden charms visitors with vibrant flora, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes. Its star attraction is the National Orchid Garden, home to thousands of orchid species.
Don’t miss the iconic Swan Lake Gazebo or the ginger garden’s spicy aromas. A tranquil oasis in the heart of Singapore, perfect for the nature lover.
13. Admire The Sultan Mosque
A focal point in the Muslim community, the Sultan Mosque dominates the skyline in Kampong Glam. The exterior features two massive golden domes, while the inside has a muted green tone.
While the initial mosque was constructed in 1824 for the first sultan of Singapore, the one seen today was rebuilt in 1932. Also known as Masjid Sultan, it’s an impressive religious structure worth visiting.
Please be aware that it’s a functioning mosque, so non-Muslins cannot enter during prayers. Also, to respect the traditions of Islam, know that you should cover your shoulders and not wear shorts or short skirts.
14. See Its Exotic Birds
With over 135 species of exotic birds, Jurong Bird Park will brighten your day with its colorful creatures. By visiting, a portion of the entrance fee goes to protecting wildlife in southeast Asia. To get in quickly, get your e-tickets here.
Living in North America, our bird varieties like eagles, crows, and sparrows have muted colors. So, I found the hues of the Sun Parakeets and Violet-backed Starling quite refreshing.
The 20-acre park requires uphill walking because it’s on Jurong Hill. Plan your visit around feeding times and daily shows. You can also purchase interactive tours and even enjoy lunch with the parrots.
15. Explore The Forest Canopy
Nestled in Singapore’s metropolitan city is a network of trails. The Southern Ridges Trail stretches for 10 km through a tropical forest. The paths link several parks together.
In some areas, there are elevated platforms and walkways between ridges. Here, you can enjoy fantastic views and listen to the sound of songbirds living in the canopy.
High in the canopy, Henderson Waves links Telok Blangah Park to Mount Faber Park. As Singapore’s highest pedestrian bridge, its futuristic structure adds attractive curves to its natural surroundings.
16. Get Scared At Haw Par Villa
As a child, I often visited Tiger Balm Garden or Haw Par Villa. Its colorful park was created in 1937 by the makers of the Tiger Balm product.
The entire park was based on Chinese Mythology and featured concrete statues which are brightly painted. The dioramas depict scenes from history, legends, and folklore.
But most remember Haw Par Villa’s scary scenes of the Ten Courts of Hell. As a young child, the fighting dioramas, dragon slayers, and acts of people dying were quite frightening. It’s free to explore and a good option if you’re traveling on a budget.
17. Have Breakfast With Orangutans
The famous Singapore Zoo is a popular attraction for visitors. It houses animals from Africa, Asia, and Australia. The orangutans have been the main draw since the park opened in 1973.
For the ultimate experience, the “Breakfast with an Orangutan” allows you to interact with intelligent animals. While costly, the memory meal includes a fantastic buffet and a chance to get pictures with the orangutans.
Your ticket includes pick up at multiple hotels and entry to the Singapore Zoo. So, after food and selfies, you can explore the other 69 acres. Alternatively, you can do the night safari, to see the nocturnal animals.
18. Explore The World’s Largest Greenhouses
Located at Gardens by the Bay, the domes house hundreds of flowers and plants. The Flower Dome holds the Guinness Book of Records as the largest glass greenhouse. With 3,332 glass panels. It’s quite a cavernous space.
Open daily from 9 am to 9 pm, the indoor space has different planting zones, such as the baobabs (bottle trees) and the olive grove. Visitors can explore on their own or take a free tour.
In the adjoining greenhouse, the Cloud Forest houses a tall indoor waterfall in the world. Here, you can feel the cool mist of the cascade as you admire the bromeliads, ferns, and orchids.
18. Make A Trip To Pulau Ubin
Before Singapore developed into a skyscraper city, it was a humble fishing village. To experience an untouched part of the country, take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to the island, which lies between Singapore and Malaysia.
You can rent a bike on the island and explore the wetlands and nature trails. While the natural environment is a haven for birds, you’ll want to avoid encountering wild boars and pesky monkeys, who will attempt to steal your food.
Along with lunch or snack, remember to bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a hat. A trip to Pulau Ubin allows you to see a few kampung houses (homes on stilts), common in the 1960s.
20. Visit The Southernmost Point Of Continental Asia
On an islet connecting to Sentosa Island, you can stand on the southernmost spot of continental Asia. Located 136 km north of the Equator, the point is marked by simple signage in the lush canopy.
To reach the area, take the suspension bridge from Palawan Beach. At the islet, there are two tall towers that provide views across Singapore Strait.
Final Thoughts
In the last sixty years, Singapore has developed from a poor country to a progressive one. Its groundbreaking buildings and attractions are second to none.
Arriving at Changi Airport, visitors can see the rain vortex, and it provides a glimpse of the unexpected pleasures ahead.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Singapore, add some of the above activities to your travel bucket list! You won’t regret it! It is one of those rare places that lives up to the hype.
