Singapore is a bustling city-state in Southeast Asia, known for its unique blend of cultures, futuristic architecture, delicious food, and excellent shopping. If you're planning a trip to Singapore and wondering what to do, here are some of the best things to do in this beautiful city.
1) Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic integrated resort located in the heart of Singapore. It features three soaring towers topped by a 340-meter long SkyPark that offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Singapore Strait.
The resort is home to over 2,500 luxury rooms and suites, ranging from deluxe rooms to grand suites with panoramic views of the city. Each room is elegantly designed with modern furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities.
One of the main attractions of Marina Bay Sands is the SkyPark, which is located on the 57th floor of the hotel. The SkyPark features an infinity pool that is suspended 150 meters above the ground, making it one of the world's most stunning rooftop pools. Visitors can take a dip in the pool while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.
The resort also features a wide range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual cafes and bars. Celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, and David Myers have restaurants within Marina Bay Sands, offering visitors a chance to indulge in world-class cuisine.
For those interested in shopping, Marina Bay Sands is home to one of Singapore's largest luxury shopping malls, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. The mall features over 800,000 square feet of retail space and is home to a wide range of luxury brands, including Chanel, Prada, and Gucci.
Marina Bay Sands also features a state-of-the-art convention and exhibition center, as well as a theatre that hosts world-class performances and shows including UK touring productions such as The Lion King.
2) Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a massive nature park that features a variety of unique plants and flowers, as well as beautiful sculptures and light displays. The park is also home to the famous Supertree Grove, a collection of towering tree-like structures that light up at night.
This 101-hectare nature park features a diverse range of plants and flowers from around the world. The park is divided into three sections: Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. The most famous attraction in Gardens by the Bay is the Supertree Grove, which features towering tree-like structures that light up at night. Visitors can also explore the Cloud Forest Dome, Flower Dome, and the outdoor gardens.
3) Singapore Zoo
Singapore Zoo is a world-renowned attraction that is home to over 2,800 animals from over 300 different species. It is spread over 69 acres of lush rainforest, providing a natural and immersive environment for the animals.
One of the most unique experiences offered by the Singapore Zoo is the Breakfast with the Orangutans program. This program allows visitors to have breakfast while watching the zoo's resident orangutans play and interact in their natural habitat.
During the breakfast, visitors can indulge in a delicious buffet spread of local and international dishes while enjoying close-up views of the orangutans. The program also includes a guided tour of the zoo and an opportunity to learn more about the orangutans and their conservation efforts.
Aside from the Breakfast with the Orangutans program, the Singapore Zoo offers a wide range of attractions and experiences. The zoo is divided into different zones that showcase animals from different regions of the world, including the Australian Outback, African Savannah, and Southeast Asian Rainforest.
Visitors can watch animals such as lions, tigers, and elephants being fed, attend animal shows, and even participate in behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about the zoo's conservation efforts. The other main attraction is the Night Safari which is also highly reccomended.
4) Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the most iconic and historic neighbourhoods in Singapore. This vibrant area is a hub of cultural activity, where locals and tourists alike come to experience traditional Chinese culture, sample delicious food, and shop for unique souvenirs. In this blog post, we will explore the history, attractions, and must-visit spots of Chinatown in Singapore.
One of the main attractions in Chinatown is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. This impressive temple is a striking example of Chinese architecture, with a red and gold exterior, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. Inside, visitors can see a collection of Buddhist artifacts, including a sacred tooth relic said to belong to the Buddha himself.
Another must-visit spot in Chinatown is the Chinatown Heritage Center, a museum that tells the story of Singapore's early Chinese immigrants. The museum is housed in a restored shophouse, and features exhibits and displays that showcase the daily life and struggles of the early Chinese settlers in Singapore.
Food is a major attraction in Chinatown, with a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. One popular spot is the Maxwell Food Centre, a hawker center that serves up some of the best local food in Singapore. Visitors can sample dishes like chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow, all prepared by local chefs and vendors.
Another must-try food experience in Chinatown is a visit to a traditional tea house. These elegant and atmospheric tea houses serve up a variety of teas, along with snacks like dumplings, pastries, and cakes. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood, while savoring the flavors of Chinese tea and cuisine.
5) Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is a popular resort island in Singapore that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. You can spend your day lounging on the beach, playing at the Adventure Cove Waterpark, visiting Universal Studios and the S.E.A. Aquarium, or taking a cable car ride to enjoy the panoramic views of the island.
The island is also home to several beaches, including the popular Siloso Beach and Tanjong Beach which is the perfect way to unwind in the Lion City.
6) Merlion Park
Looking for a unique Insta pic? Merlion Park is one of the most iconic and popular tourist attractions in Singapore. Located in the Marina Bay area, it is home to the famous Merlion statue, which is a half-lion, half-fish creature and the national symbol of Singapore. In this blog, we will explore the history and significance of Merlion Park and what makes it such a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
The Merlion statue was first designed in 1964 by the late Mr. Fraser Brunner, a curator of the Van Kleef Aquarium. The statue was originally intended to be the logo for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) but was later adopted as the official symbol of Singapore. The name "Merlion" is a combination of the words "mermaid" and "lion," representing Singapore's history as a fishing village and its evolution into a prosperous city-state.
7) Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is a historic riverside quay in Singapore, located in the central business district. It is named after Sir Andrew Clarke, a British Governor of the Straits Settlements in the late 1800s. Today, Clarke Quay is a popular entertainment and dining destination, attracting both locals and tourists. The area is known for its colorful shophouses and bustling nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the riverfront.
One of the highlights of Clarke Quay is its vibrant nightlife scene. The area comes alive after dark with live music performances, DJ sets, and other entertainment. There are many bars and nightclubs in the area, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink with friends or a night of dancing and partying, you'll find plenty of options in Clarke Quay.
In addition to its nightlife, Clarke Quay is also a great spot for foodies. The area is home to numerous restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines, from local favorites like chilli crab and laksa to international fare like Italian and Japanese. Many of the restaurants offer al fresco dining with stunning views of the river, making for a memorable dining experience. For those interested in history and culture, Clarke Quay also has several attractions worth visiting. The Asian Civilisations Museum is located nearby, showcasing the art, culture, and history of Asia, while the Singapore River Cruise provides a scenic tour of the river and its landmarks.
Overall, Clarke Quay is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Singapore's nightlife and dining scene. Its unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and its stunning riverfront views make for a memorable visit.
8) Jewel Changi Airport
It's rare for an Airport to feature in a list of attractions for a country but Jewel Changi Airport is a world-class lifestyle destination located within Singapore's Changi Airport. Opened in April 2019, it has quickly become one of the city-state's most popular attractions, attracting both locals and tourists.
Jewel Changi Airport features a stunning glass and steel facade that houses a myriad of attractions, including over 280 retail and dining outlets, a 40-meter indoor waterfall, and a five-story garden filled with over 2,000 trees and plants.
One of the highlights of Jewel Changi Airport is the Rain Vortex, which is the world's tallest indoor waterfall. The waterfall stands at 40 meters tall and cascades through the center of the building, providing a stunning visual spectacle. Visitors can enjoy a light and sound show that takes place at night, making for a truly immersive experience.
In addition to the Rain Vortex, Jewel Changi Airport also features the Canopy Park, a 14,000 square meter indoor garden located on the top level of the complex. The park features several attractions, including a hedge maze, a topiary walk, and a suspension bridge that offers panoramic views of the complex.
For those interested in shopping and dining, Jewel Changi Airport has something for everyone. The complex is home to over 280 retail and dining outlets, ranging from luxury brands to local street food stalls. Visitors can shop for everything from high-end fashion to souvenirs, and enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences from around the world.
Jewel Changi Airport also offers several services and amenities for those visiting Singapore or staying over for 1 night, including a 24-hour cinema, a fitness centre, and a transit hotel. It is also directly connected to Terminal 1, 2, and 3 of Changi Airport, making it easy for travellers to access.
9) Hawker Centres
Hawker centres are a ubiquitous feature of Singapore's food culture, offering a wide variety of affordable and delicious local cuisine in a communal dining setting. These centers are typically large, open-air food courts that house many different food stalls selling a range of dishes, from traditional Chinese, Malay, and Indian food to more modern fusion cuisine.
One of the most popular hawker centres in Singapore and my personal favourite is the Maxwell Food Centre, located in the heart of Chinatown. This centre is home to over 100 food stalls, offering a diverse range of food options, including Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow (stir-fried noodles), and satay (grilled meat skewers).
Another popular hawker center is the Tiong Bahru Market, which is known for its traditional local breakfast items such as kaya toast (coconut jam toast) and soft-boiled eggs. It also has a variety of stalls serving savory dishes such as fish soup and roast pork.
Visitors to hawker centres are encouraged to try a variety of different dishes, often ordering from different stalls to create their own personalized meal. Prices at hawker centres are generally very affordable, with most dishes costing between SGD 3-8.
Aside from the delicious food, hawker centres are also a great place to experience the local culture and way of life. The communal dining setting allows visitors to mingle with locals and observe the daily hustle and bustle of the city.
10) Little India
Little India is a vibrant and colourful neighbourhood located in the heart of Singapore. It is a melting pot of Indian culture and heritage, and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and diversity.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Little India is the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple is famous for its intricate architecture and colorful sculptures, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the local culture and religion.
Another must-visit destination in Little India is the Tekka Centre, a bustling market that offers a wide range of local food, fresh produce, and clothing. Visitors can sample traditional Indian cuisine such as roti prata (flatbread) and biryani (spiced rice with meat or vegetables), or browse through the many stalls selling colourful textiles and clothing.
For those interested in learning more about Indian history and culture, the Indian Heritage Centre is a great place to start. The museum houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits that explore the history and contributions of the Indian community in Singapore.
Aside from these landmarks, Little India is also known for its vibrant street art, colorful buildings, and bustling markets. Visitors can wander through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the neighbourhood, or attend one of the many festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year, such as the Thaipusam festival or the Deepavali (or Diwali) festival.
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