Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
A cosmopolitan city-state off southern Malaysia, Singapore is a global financial mecca with a diverse culture and tropical climate. From futuristic Supertree’s to traditional shophouses, Singapore is a contrasting melting pot of old and new. Colonial landmarks sit next to high-rise luxury hotels, and traditional Chinese and Indian food stalls are nestled amongst Michelin star restaurants.
Ready to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most popular vacation destinations? Discover the top things to do in Singapore.
Marvel at the Supertree Grove
What Is It? Science fiction meets nature, Singapore’s top attraction is the awe-inspiring and eco-friendly Supertrees that line the expansive Gardens of the Bay.
Why Do It? Twelve Supertrees tower in the Supertree Grove at 16 story’s high, made up of reinforced concrete core and a street frame trunk, with over 160,000 species of flora and fauna planted on its exterior.
Good to Know: Visitors can explore the adventurous aerial platform called the OCBC Skyway, while an enchanting light show offers an exhilarating show as it dances to coordinated music nightly.
Explore the Magical Cloud Forest
What Is It? One of Singapore’s most impressive attractions, the Cloud Forest is an other-worldly greenhouse-like glass dome with remarkable displays of mountainous ecosystems.
Why Do It? Climate controlled with breathtaking architecture, spiraling walkways, and the world’s largest indoor waterfall, this natural attraction is memorable, to say the least. Here visitors will find tropical blooms, plants, and other natural treasures.
Good to Know: The highlight for nature lovers, photographers, and visitors of all ages, however, is the Tree Top Walk where you can walk across the rainforest floor.
Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
What Is It? An impressive four-story Buddhist temple with Tang dynasty architectural style, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is dedicated to the left canine tooth of Buddha.
Why Do It? Situated inside a 700 solid-gold stupa in an elegantly ornate designed room, this religious relic has historical significance for Buddhists. Boasting richly designed interiors and exhibits covering centuries-old Buddhist art and history, walk through multiple floors of interesting relics and artifacts.
Good to Know: Visitors can also explore the museum’s tranquil rooftop garden and a massive prayer wheel.
Stroll the Singapore Botanic Gardens
What Is It? In the heart of Singapore lies the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site that is consistently ranked in the top attractions in the country.
Why Do It? The main attraction within the gardens is the lush National Orchid Garden that is home to over 1,000 species of orchids, in addition to the park’s lush rainforest and a peaceful waterfall.
Good to Know: An ideal attraction for nature lovers, the Singapore Botanic Gardens has become an important center for conservation and education. A flowering splendor with a kaleidoscope of colors, this 60-acre gem is worth a visit.
Soar Above the City at Singapore Flyer
What Is It? You can’t get much better than the panoramic views at the Singapore Flyer, where visitors can soar above the city’s skyline.
Why Do It? Views are said to stretch as far as Malaysia and Indonesia at the highest point on a good day, but the highlight of the 30-minute ride is the view of Singapore’s CBD, Marina Bay, and Colonial District. Breathtaking and memorable, it is the perfect attraction for photography enthusiasts.
Good to Know: Whether you’re soaking in the sun-kissed skyscrapers in the daytime or catch a glittering view of the city lights, the air-conditioned pods are an appealing attraction at any time of day.
Visit the Iconic Marina Bay Sands
What Is It? Marina Bay Sands is a 5-five-star resort in Singapore, Marina Bay Sands serves as one of the most iconic landmarks in the country.
Why Do It? The hotel is so large that it holds a Las Vegas quality, boasting a casino, live shows, and a massive shopping center. The most popular feature, however, is the breathtaking infinity pool that sits 57 stories in a boat-like structure perched above three towering skyscrapers over the city. It’s so popular that travelers put a visit to the pool on their bucket list, mesmerized by the unrivaled bird’s eye view at the top.
Good to Know: Travelers not staying at the hotel can find similar views at the on-site Observation Deck or at one of the two upscale restaurants.
Go on a Safari at Singapore Zoo
What Is It? One of the best in the world, the Singapore Zoo is home to over 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles in an area that covers 70 acres.
Why Do It? Visitors can observe creatures in their natural habitats at this award-winning attraction, where taking a night safari is popular to spot the abundance of elusive nocturnal animals.
Good to Know: Spacious and interactive, visitors can get up close and personal with orangutans at a Jungle Breakfast or observe free-roaming Malaysian flying foxes, ring-tailed lemurs, and tree-hugging sloths.
Find Delicious Eats in Chinatown
What Is It? Filled with a rich history, Chinatown in Singapore is a vibrant mix of old and new with traditional shops and markets nestled amongst trendy shops and cafes.
Why Do It? Maintaining its original charm, the area encompasses traditional Chinese life even though it is right next to Singapore’s modern Central Business District. Explore temples, browse markets and get a taste of tasty cuisine at intimate eateries along the way.
Good to Know: Dating back to the 1830s, the Chinatown Food Street, Night Market, and Club Street Chinatown are amongst the area’s most popular attractions.
Visit the National Museum of Singapore
What Is It? The oldest museum in Singapore, the National Museum of Singapore is a must-see for those interested in the area’s rich history.
Why Do It? Comprising of two main galleries that include the Singapore History Gallery and the Singapore Living Galleries, visitors can explore exhibits that detail the history of Singapore from the very beginning in the 14th century to now and highlight topics like food, film, fashion, and photography.
Good to Know: You can also browse through audio narratives, archival photos, and period clothes and an impressive Chinese puppet stage that dates back to the 1930s.
Gaze at Thian Hock Keng Temple
What Is It? Beautifully restored, the Thian Hock Keng Temple is one of the oldest and most important Chinese temples in Singapore.
Why Do It? Also one of the most photogenic attractions in the city, this temple was made from some of the best craftsmanship in the 1840s. Designated a national monument in 1973, it is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea.
Good to Know: Visitors will find tranquility in the peaceful symbolic features that include stone lions, phoenixes, and peonies.
