Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia that’s known for its diverse culture, food, and nightlife.
If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, be sure to add these 14 fun activities to your itinerary!
Marvel At Changi Airport
You’ll likely arrive in Singapore by plane, landing at one of the world’s most beautiful airports, Changi Airport.
From its stunning rainforest to its breathtaking butterfly garden, Changi Airport is truly a sight to behold.
Nestled among lush greenery and surrounded by stunning blue waters, Changi Airport is truly a nature lover’s paradise.
Explore Marina Bay
Marina Bay is a waterfront area that’s home to attractions like the Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel, Gardens by the Bay, and the Merlion statue. There are also plenty of great shopping and dining options in the area.
The area has been transformed since the 1970s when land reclamation works started.
Today, Marina Bay is a lively mix of new city living and a scenic waterfront promenade.
Marina Bay offers some of the most stunning views in Singapore. From the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel, you can get a 360-degree view of the cityscape.
Or, take a walk around the bay and enjoy the skyline views from different angles.
If you want to get up close and personal with the skyline, take a ride on the Singapore Flyer – Asia’s largest Ferris wheel.
Marina Bay is home to some of Singapore’s most iconic buildings, such as the Esplanade theatre, Marina Bay Sands hotel, and ArtScience Museum.
The area is also home to many green spaces, such as the Supertree Grove and Gardens by the Bay. These gardens feature over 200 species of plants from all over the world, including a 50-meter tall Supertree that comes alive with a spectacular light and sound show at night.
In recent years, Marina Bay has become a hot spot for new city living. The area is home to luxury apartments, trendy restaurants, and chic bars.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Marina Bay, there are plenty of hotels to choose from, such as the Mandarin Oriental and Ritz Carlton.
One of the best things about Marina Bay is its scenic waterfront promenade. The 3-kilometre-long promenade stretches from Marina South all the way to East Coast Park.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of things to do, such as taking a leisurely stroll, renting a bicycle, or going for a jog.
There are also numerous food and drink options available if you need to refuel during your walk or run.
Marina Bay is also where you can experience some of Singapore’s vibrant nightlife scene; the area is home to many bars and nightclubs.
Visit Sentosa Island
Just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Singapore lies Sentosa, a tropical island paradise.
Relax on the beach, explore nature or get your adrenaline pumping with some thrilling attractions.
Before it was known as Sentosa, the island off of Singapore’s southern coast was a British military fortress. The island was renamed “Sentosa”, meaning “peace and tranquillity” in Malay after the Japanese Occupation in World War II when Singapore returned to British rule.
Today, Sentosa is best known for its tropical beaches, luxurious hotels and thrilling attractions and provides an array of activities for visitors to enjoy
Sentosa boasts three main beaches – Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach and Tanjong Beach – each with its own unique atmosphere.
Siloso Beach is the most bustling stretch of Sentosa’s coastline with various restaurants and attractions, while Palawan Beach is perfect for families with playgrounds, parks and a lagoon. Tanjong Beach offers a more tranquil getaway experience.
Nature lovers can explore Sentosa Nature Discovery, an interactive gallery that teaches visitors about the diverse range of plant and animal life found on the island.
There are also two nature trails – the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Boardwalk and the Mangrove Boardwalk – where you can catch a glimpse of rare birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
A visit to Universal Studios is a must for any movie fan, while the SEA Aquarium is perfect for those who want to learn more about the underwater world.
Families will enjoy the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the Sentosa Boardwalk is a great way to explore the island at a leisurely pace.
The Madame Tussauds wax museum is also well worth a visit, and the cable car provides stunning views of the island and cityscape.
Pulau Ubin
Nestled off the coast of mainland Singapore, Pulau Ubin is a small island steeped in history and natural beauty.
Although it is only a 10-minute boat ride from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pulau Ubin feels like a world away.
With its sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and quaint villages, Pulau Ubin is the perfect place to escape the crowded streets of Singapore and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The easiest way to get to Pulau Ubin is by bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The journey takes about 10 minutes and costs S$3 per person. Once you arrive on the island, you can rent a bicycle or an electric scooter to get around. There are also plenty of walking trails if you prefer to explore on foot.
Pulau Ubin is home to several interesting attractions, including Chek Jawa Wetlands, Ubin Quarry, and the abandoned village of Kampung Melayu.
Chek Jawa Wetlands is a nature reserve with mangrove forests, coral reefs, and various plant and animal species.
Ubin Quarry was once a granite quarry that supplied material for many of Singapore’s iconic buildings; today, it is a popular spot for rock climbing and abseiling.
Kampung Melayu was once a thriving Malay village but was abandoned in the 1970s; today, it is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a great place to go for authentic Chinese food and souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Chinese Heritage Center and the Buddhist Temple Street Market while you’re there.
Explore the many temples and historic sites that dot the neighbourhood. From the ornate Thian Hock Keng Temple to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, there’s plenty to see and learn about Chinese culture.
Of course, no visit to Chinatown would be complete without sampling the local cuisine.
From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget.
And for those looking to shop, Chinatown is home to a wide variety of stores selling everything from traditional medicines to souvenirs.
Baba House
Baba House is a beautiful, traditional Peranakan shophouse located in the heart of Singapore’s Chinatown.
Once the home of a wealthy Peranakan merchant, it has been turned into a museum that allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like for the Peranakans during the early 20th century.
Baba House is one of the best-preserved Peranakan shophouses in Singapore. It was built in 1912 by Wee Bin, a wealthy Peranakan merchant.
The house is three stories tall and features an ornate facade with intricate carvings and colourful tiles.
Inside, the house is divided into two sections – the public and private areas.
The public area consists of the shopfront, which sold goods, and the reception room to entertain guests.
The private area consists of the family’s living quarters and bedrooms.
Baba House has been turned into a museum that allows visitors to learn about the Peranakans and their culture.
Visitors can also see how the Peranakans lived during the early 20th century. The museum is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Admission is free for Singapore citizens and permanent residents and S$10 for foreigners.
Orchard Road
Orchard Road in Singapore is a 2.5km strip packed with every brand you can think of.
This tree-lined boulevard was a road lined with spice plantations and orchards but has now evolved into a shopaholic’s dream.
After a day of shopping, enjoy the many restaurants and street vendors that line the streets.
Orchard Road is home to many high-end retailers as well as budget-friendly stores. If you are looking for designer clothes, handbags, and shoes, head to Paragon or Takashimaya Department Store.
Check out H&M, Forever 21, Uniqlo, or Zara for more affordable fashion.
Plenty of stores sell traditional handicrafts and snacks if you need to pick up some souvenirs or gifts.
After a long day of shopping, you will probably be feeling hungry. Orchard Road has no shortage of dining options.
From fast food to fine dining, there is something to suit every taste and budget.
For a quick bite, try McDonald’s, KFC, Subway, or one of the many other fast food chains on the street.
If you are looking for something more substantial, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. For Chinese cuisine, head to Din Tai Fung or Crystal Jade Kitchen. For Japanese food, try Sushi Tei or Sakae Sushi. There are steakhouses, cafes, and pizzerias galore if you want Western food.
Raffles Hotel
Raffles Hotel is a luxury hotel that’s famous for its colonial architecture and Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling was invented. The hotel is also home to several restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
The Raffles hotel in Singapore has been offering superb service to many notable visitors for over 100 years.
Recognised by the Singaporean government as a national monument, the Raffles hotel now includes a shopping arcade, a museum, long romantic courtyards and a Victorian-style theatre, Jubilee Hall.
Over the years, Raffles Hotel has played host to many famous guests, including Charlie Chaplin, Joseph Conrad, Rudyard Kipling, Noël Coward, Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson.
Guests can relax at the Amrita Spa or by the rooftop pool, which offers stunning views.
Visit the Long Bar to experience The Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink, which was first created in 1915 by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon.
For dining options, guests can choose from one of 6 restaurants and 3 bars offering a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, French and Italian.
The Tiffin Room at Raffles Hotel Singapore is a popular spot for North Indian cuisine. The restaurant has been around since 1892 and still offers delicious dishes served in special tiffin boxes. You can enjoy the room’s beauty while eating and chatting with chefs who will serve your food at the table.
Jurong Bird Park
Jurong Bird Park is home to more than 3,500 birds from 400 different species. Visitors can get up close and personal with the birds at the various exhibits or take a leisurely stroll through the scenic gardens.
Jurong Bird Park is located in the western part of Singapore and covers an area of 20 hectares.
The park has four main sections – the Waterfall Aviary, Pelican Cove, Penguin Coast, and the World of Birds. Each section offers a different experience for visitors.
The Waterfall Aviary is the largest aviary in Asia and houses more than 600 birds from over 30 different species. The aviary features a 25m waterfall and a pond where visitors can feed the fish.
Pelican Cove is home to over 50 pelicans and other waterbirds such as herons, cormorants, and flamingos. Visitors can get up close to the pelicans at the daily feeding sessions or watch them being trained by their handlers.
Penguin Coast is home to more than 60 penguins of three different species – Humboldt, King, and Gentoo penguins. Visitors can learn about the different types of penguins at the exhibit and watch them being fed twice a day.
The World of Birds is an educational exhibit showcasing more than 2,500 birds from over 150 species. The exhibit features interactive displays that teach visitors about the different types of birds found in Singapore.
Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a nature lover’s paradise. This sprawling park is home to more than 10,000 species of plants, flowers, and trees, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
In addition to being a beautiful place to walk around, the Botanic Gardens also offers several educational programs and events throughout the year.
Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore and a skilled naturalist, established the first ‘Botanical and Experimental Garden’ at Fort Canning in 1822, laying the groundwork for the concept of a national garden in Singapore.
In 2015, the Singapore Botanic Gardens was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Singapore’s one and only.
The Orchid Garden is one of the most popular attractions at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This garden is home to more than 60,000 orchids, making it one of the largest collections in the world. The Orchid Garden also contains a variety of other flowers and plants, including ginger lilies, heliconias, and gingers.
The National Orchid Garden is another must-see attraction at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This garden contains more than 1,000 species of orchids, including some that are rare or endangered.
The National Orchid Garden also has a special VIP Orchidarium that houses orchids that have been gifted to dignitaries from all over the world, including Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela.
Little India
Little India is one of the most vibrant and colourful neighbourhoods in all of Singapore.
The food in Little India is incredible. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll be able to find it here.
Be sure to try some of the street food vendors – they might not look like much, but they’re serving up some of the best food in the city.
If you’re not feeling so adventurous, plenty of restaurants will be more than happy to serve you a delicious meal.
In addition to being a food haven, Little India is also home to some of the most beautiful temples in Singapore.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the city, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
If you’re looking for something a little more modern, take a walk to The Indian Heritage Center – an interactive museum that tells the story of Singapore’s Indian community.
And no trip to Little India would be complete without stopping by Sri Mariamman Temple, one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks.
Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is a neighbourhood in Singapore that is steeped in history and culture.
Once a fishing village, Kampong Glam has been transformed into a bustling neighbourhood full of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Kampong Glam was once a fishing village inhabited by the Malay community. In recent years, Kampong Glam has undergone gentrification. The area has been transformed into a chic neighbourhood full of boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and hip cafes.
Despite the changes, Kampong Glam still retains its rich history and culture. You can see this in the architecture of the buildings, which range from traditional shophouses to modern skyscrapers.
If you’re interested in shopping, numerous boutiques sell clothes, jewellery, and other items. You can also find traditional handicrafts such as batik fabric and kris knives.
If you’re looking for something to eat, there are many great restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.
And if you want to learn more about the history and culture of Kampong Glam, there are several museums worth visiting.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Nestled in the heart of Singapore, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise.
This hidden gem is home to an abundance of flora and fauna and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers more than 50 kilometres of hiking and biking trails.
There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker. The terrain is also varied, so you can choose trails that suit your fitness level.
If you’re looking for a challenge, try tackling one of the reserve’s hilltops. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding jungle!
For a bird’s eye view of the jungle, head to the Canopy Walkway. This 40-meter-long suspended bridge links two towering trees and gives you a unique perspective of the forest canopy. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you walk along the bridge.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is also a great place to have a picnic with family or friends. Several picnic areas are located around the reserve, so you can choose one close to your favourite hiking trail.
Singapore Zoo and Night Safari
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day or night out, look no further than the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.
Singapore Zoo is home to over 2,800 animals representing 300 species, while the Night Safari houses over 1,000 nocturnal animals across 110 hectares.
The Singapore Zoo was founded in 1973 with the mission of being a “living classroom” where visitors could learn about the importance of conservation.
Today, it is one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions, with over 1.7 million visitors annually.
One of the zoo’s highlights is the Fragile Forest, home to over 50 species of tropical birds. The forest is designed to recreate the natural habitat of these birds, and visitors can even walk through aviaries and get up close to these feathered friends.
Another must-see is the Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia exhibit, which is home to zebras, lions, and more.
Be sure to catch one of the animal shows, too—the orangutan show is especially popular!
The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo and opened its doors in 1994.
The Night Safari is divided into four zones—the walled jungle gardens of Leopard Trail; East Lodge Asia, where you can see tigers and tapirs; Savanna, where you can find lions and bison; and Central Plains, where you can see elephants and rhinos.
You can explore these zones on foot via various trails or take a tram ride for a guided tour.
Final Thoughts On Things To Do In Singapore
Singapore is an exciting city with plenty of things to see and do! Whether you’re interested in exploring Marina Bay or Sentosa Island or you want to check out Chinatown or Orchard Road, there’s something for everyone in Singapore.