Day Trips from Singapore

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Dom Bewley
day trips from singapore

Vacations are great, aren't they? They give you an escape from the busyness of your everyday life, so your mind and body get a well-deserved rest. However, after a few days of exploring your chosen destination, you may begin to wonder what adventures lie beyond. It's in our nature as human beings - no matter how much we already have, we always want more. Greed is bad, but greed for new experiences is good.

So why not flex those adventurous muscles on your vacation in Singapore? Explore the best day trips from the city and discover the many delights that lie just a few minutes away. Presumably, that's why you're here. Right? Good. In that case, settle in, lean back, and adorn your most hilarious reading utensils, as we explore the best day trips from Singapore. In no time, you'll realize just how many of them are utterly unmissable!

Including:

  • Sentosa Island
  • Pulau Ubin
  • Bintan
  • Johor Bahru
  • Malacca
  • and more!
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Sentosa Island

If you've planned a vacation to Singapore, then you probably already know about Sentosa Island. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, with heaps of things to do and see, and places to relax. On top of exciting attractions like the Giant Swing and Skybridge, as well as mind-bending experiences like Sentosa 4D Adventureland, you'll also find hiking trails, casinos, and shops galore. They even have a Universal Studios theme park, just to top it all off.

With something for everyone, and just a short trip off the southern part of Singapore, Sentosa Island practically begs for a visit. Combine your trip there with some amazing views by taking a cable car to the island.

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Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is something special - an island paradise that's the perfect remedy to Singapore's bustling metropolis. It's one of the most popular day trips from Singapore, but don't expect anywhere near the same amount of foot traffic.

Featuring a breathtaking coastline, beautiful wetlands, and the last remaining village in Singapore, it'll make quite the change from Singapore's sprawling urban landscape. Why not experience the serenity of Pulau Ubin on a nature kayaking adventure? It's a great way to make the most of the weather, and your guide will be able to clue you in on the flora, fauna, and culture you'll find on your journey.

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Bintan

A short boat ride from Singapore's shores, you'll find Bintan - a beach-laden paradise island in Indonesia. With a perfect mix of untouched jungle, sprawling white sand, and high-end entertainment, it deserves a place on this list of the best day trips from Singapore!

Watersports fans will rejoice at the choice of activities at many of the local facilities, and even relax-seekers are welcome at many of the laidback bars, restaurants, and hotels. If it's adventure you seek, take a tour into the nearby treeline and explore the more exotic parts of Bintan. Then, simply hop on the ferry back to Singapore. What a day.

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Johor Bahru

Head to Malaysia's shores, and you'll find Johor Bahru. JB to its friends, Johor Bahru is one of the largest cities in the country. So if you want to pick up some sweet deals, it's worth a visit. Oh, and did we mention prices there are significantly cheaper than in Singapore? Probably should have led with that.

You'll also find a brilliant mix of cultural sites, from temples to mosques. All of that, and it's only an hour out of Singapore. So what's stopping you?

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Malacca

Malacca is a trading port - one of the most important in the region's history. Surprisingly, it even still has much of its colonial architecture intact, which brings throngs of history-seeking tourists to its shores every year.

And while people might come for the heritage, they stay for the food. Featuring a mix of cuisine inspiration from all over the world, you'll not taste anything quite like it anywhere else. It's not unusual to find Portuguese-Malay infusions on many menus.

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Iskandar Puteri

Heading to Malaysia once more, our next recommendation is Iskander Puteri. Home to Malaysia's own Legoland, and even a theme park dedicated to the worldwide kids' brand Hello Kitty, there will be plenty for kids to do if you're bringing them along.

You'll also be treated to some fantastic food from one of the many renowned restaurants that call Iskandar Puteri home. Sure, those same kids might settle for fish sticks and chips, but you'll be dining on some classy plates from all over the world. End your trip with a visit to the excellent shopping district and pick up some treats for back home.

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Desaru

Another island paradise that lies just 30 minutes from Singapore is Desaru. One look at its pearl-white beaches, and you'll agree. If the weather's good, hop on the ferry from Changi Airport and go get some much-needed sunbathing!

When you've soaked up enough rays to roast a chicken, what do you do next? Well, you could visit Desaru Ostrich Farm. Remarkably, it's a farm for ostrich. Go bask in the big bird's glory, and even try some ostrich egg on toast. Weird.

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Kusu Island

And finally, we'll end our jaunt through the best day trips from Singapore with another ferry trip, this time to Kusu - or Tortoise - Island. With a perfect mix of relaxing natural beauty and religious sites, it could make for one hell of a day trip!

Explore the island's tropical flora, visit the beaches, and then gaze at the many animals that live there - from a distance, preferably. Then, follow the pilgrimage path to visit Kusu Island's many temples. Nice.

And here ends our list of the best day trips from Singapore! Whatever you're hoping to explore outside the city, you're bound to find something on this list that ticks all your boxes. Wondering what other Singapore-related activities to experience on your vacation? Check out Go City! With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can book your spots way in advance and get the best prices around.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Singapore sushi
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Best brunch in Singapore

Brunch: The most indulgent meal of the day. Maybe you skipped breakfast because of visiting an early attraction, or maybe you slept in after sampling the incredible nightlife. Whatever the reason, you deserve a decadent dish to recharge your batteries and get you fired up for more exploring. We’ve listed our top 10 places in Singapore to grab brunch. Bon appetite! Boomerang café and bistro Singapore Resting on the Singapore River you’ll find Boomerang Cafe and Bistro, serving fresh, authentic Australian cuisine day and night. Australians know that to keep your energy levels up you need some good grub, and there’s plenty of that at Boomerang. With opening hours between 6am and 3am, you’ve got plenty of time to explore the menu. Breakfast runs until 11:30, after which it switches to the lunch menu. There’s a vast selection of breakfast options, including light and airy pancakes, to a fully Ozzy steak and eggs. The lunch menu contains a vast array of starters and sharing platters, although we’d recommend the garlic prawn and mango salad for the perfect brunch meal. If you’re craving more Boomerang action, Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 5pm until 8pm, and 2pm until 8pm on Sundays. Kinki Restaurant + Bar If bold Japanese cuisine is more your thing, try Kinki Restaurant + bar. Found near Marina Bay and Raffles Place, the views from the rooftop bar are breathtaking. The food’s a delight for all your senses, with bright colorful dishes created using exquisite ingredients. While we could talk about the menu all day long, the real show-stopper is the bottomless brunch. Available Saturdays and public holidays, the all-you-can-eat brunch includes fresh sashimi slices, a variety of maki rolls, various mains, and much more. For $68 you can feast on the smorgasbord of delights, and for an additional $38, you can add unlimited Sake, Beer, Prosecco, or Shochu to the mix. LAVO Restaurant & Rooftop Bar Enjoy classic Italian American food and hand-crafted cocktails from the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The view from the outdoor balcony is worth the visit alone. The prices reflect the exclusive location, with the Free Flow Dom Pérignon & Buffet Menu coming in at $398 per person. A seafood feast awaits with fresh lobster, tiger prawns, crab, and enough dessert options for even the sweetest of teeth. We also recommend ordering a slice of the 20-layer cake. You’ll thank us later. Carrotsticks and Cravings If healthy living is your thing, Carrotsticks and Cravings is the destination for you. Using the freshest ingredients and packed with superfoods, they cater to all dietary requirements. There’s no poor option on the menu, as everything looks and tastes delicious. The signature smashed avocado toast is a great start, with a baked chia parfait or superfood salad providing an excellent backup plan. If gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and vegetarian-friendly foods make your stomach smile, add Carrotsticks and Cravings to your brunch itinerary. Butcher’s Block If you’re a carnivore who loves their meat flame-grilled, you may find your dream brunch at Butcher’s Block. Raffles Arcade houses this avant-garde steakhouse where fire is the star of the show, whether you’re ordering meat or fish. Smoking with wood, slow roasting, or grilling directly over embers, Butcher’s Block knows how to extract every drop of taste out of their meals. Brunch is available on the weekends with a mouth-watering a la carte menu, or an option to upgrade to the Sommelier’s Selection which includes a 90-minute high-end wine-tasting experience. Waffle Place If you’re looking for somewhere unique or unusual to enjoy brunch, look no further than Waffle Place in Singapore. This halal cafe serves premium waffles with a multitude of toppings. With a variety of interesting flavor combinations, you’re unlikely to have the same waffle twice. There are some ‘classic’ topping options such as apple pie or ice cream, as well as more unusual toppings like duck in kerutuk sauce, or crispy chicken with a fried egg, spicy mayo, and maple syrup. A truly unique experience awaits you at Waffle Place, Singapore. Astor Bar Astor Bar at The St. Regis Singapore offers an adult-only cocktail brunch every Saturday, but don’t worry - it’s not just a liquid lunch. A luxurious platter of seafood on ice, including crab, oysters, and shrimp, ensures a decadent brunch to remember. Add in a soundtrack of live jazz music performed by the resident band and you’re only missing one thing; cocktails. Whatever your tipple of choice, it’s on the menu at Astor Bar. A Sip of Gilded Age, the iconic Chilli Padi Mary, or a chocolate martini are just a tiny sample of the cocktails on offer. Luckily, if you’re spoiled for choice and tormented by indecision, the helpful mixologists will guide you through the flavor profiles. Red House Seafood With influences from the Malay, Indian, and Peranakan traditions, Red House Seafood provides a brunch filled with exquisite Singaporean seafood dishes. Chili crab and satay chicken are classic Singapore mains, but here they’re handled with finesse and elevated to new levels. As one of Singapore’s oldest seafood restaurants, they know how to treat diners to something special. The Dim Sum lunch buffet allows you to choose from a menu of 50 items, including delicious steamed fish, prawn rolls and, of course, the delectable dim sums. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel
Overhead view of colored warehouses and the river at Clarke Quay in Singapore
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Things to do in Clarke Quay

Despite its central location and world class airport, Singapore is more than just a place to pass through – it’s a buzzing, cosmopolitan city with many contrasting districts to explore. While the Marina may be where most people head first, if you’ve got time then it’s worth detouring off the main tourist trail for the historic and pretty waterfront promenades of Clarke Quay. Named for the 19th century Governor Sir Andrew Clarke, this slice of Singapore forms part of the Singapore River Precinct and was originally lined with warehouses and docks for the moving and unloading of goods up and down the river. It’s since been renovated and revamped, and now serves as a lively open-air entertainment and commercial district popular with locals and tourists alike. While you’re there, take the opportunity for: Retail therapy A historical bicycle tour A river cruise A walk to Merlion Park Nightlife Exploring Fort Canning Park Chinatown Retail therapy Clarke Quay Central is the first place you should head if you’re in the mood for a bit of bargain hunting. It’s an enormous riverside mall with five levels to explore, so whether you’re on the hunt for the latest fashion or need to stock up on ‘I went to Singapore’ shirts for the folks at home, this is the place to come. There are plenty of restaurants with riverside views, and if you haven’t filled your bags by lunch time there’s the Riverside Point Shopping Center and the Clarke Quay Shopping Mall nearby. Historical bicycle tour If you like to combine your history with movement, or find it all easier to take in when someone’s explaining it to you, how about joining a four-hour historical bike tour of the city? You’ll get to know the city from a local’s perspective by visiting a residential area and a local market, as well as learning about the city’s history through its districts, museums and monuments. Your tour will include a stop at Clarke Quay, so be sure to ask your guide for some hot tips on the best shops and restaurants to come back to! River Cruise One of the best ways to explore a riverside district is from the water itself – the same way the bargemen and dock workers would have done in the days of the warehouses. Take a break from shopping and exploring by joining a River Cruise in a wooden bumboat – traditionally used to ferry goods from ship to shore – and relax as you wind up the river from Clarke Quay to the Marina and back again, if you like. Sit back, enjoy the fresh river breezes and discover that there’s more to the Lion City than Supertrees and skyscrapers. If you time it right, you’ll be able to watch the sunset from the water. Walk to Merlion Park If you feel the need to stretch your legs, and want to see a bit of everything, take yourself on a self-guided tour from the Quay to Merlion Park. It’s about a mile, though a couple of diversions and photo stops will stretch it out a bit. Start at Clarke Quay Central and head across Elgin Bridge to cross the river. Stop and admire the painted warehouses on either side, then divert north for a glimpse of the rainbow-colored (and somewhat unmissable) Old Hill Street Police Station. From here you can either cross back and walk along Boat Quay, or take the northern side past the former Parliament House (now the Arts House), the Victoria Concert Hall and the marble statue of the city’s founder Sir Stamford Raffles, believed to mark the spot where he first landed in 1819. You’ll also pass the Asian Civilizations Museum, which has an extensive collection of artifacts showcasing the continent’s major religions. From there, cross over the historic Cavenagh Suspension Bridge to Merlion Park, where you’ll find the half-lion, half-fish emblem of the city presiding over a busy square on Marina Bay. Nightlife Clarke Quay may be a busy retail hub during the day, but it’s in the evening when things really start to come to life. Even overnight the temperature in Singapore barely dips below 75 degrees, and it can be humid, so the riverfront is the perfect place for a refreshing evening stroll. It’s lively here most nights, and alfresco dining choices include Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Thai and Western cuisines. After dinner there are plenty of bars and clubs that will be buzzing with activity – the famous club Zouk, in a converted warehouse, always has an impressive line-up of guest DJ’s, there’s a Holey Moley if you fancy a round of mini-golf, or for a late-night snack try Hai Di Lao, which serves a traditional Hot Pot until the very early hours. Fort Canning Park Cross over to the northern bank of the river and not far away you’ll find the enormous Fort Canning Park, a grassy hilltop which often hosts concerts and plays, but during the day is a history-hunter’s playground. You’ll find Raffles House and Garden, the Fort Canning Lighthouse and the Battlebox, which is an underground bunker and network of tunnels that was used as a hub for coordinating war efforts in the 1930s and 40s. If you find the park a little overwhelming or need a fun activity to do with your friends and family, try a Fort Canning Puzzle Hunt – play as a soldier to solve clues and learn about Singapore's military history as you explore the hidden secrets of this remarkable site. Chinatown Less than ten minutes’ walk from the river is Singapore’s oldest district, Chinatown, which is worth at least half a day of exploring. As well as finding plenty of shops and restaurants – selling everything from lucky cats to the city’s signature Hainanese chicken rice – you’ll find the impressively modern Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. The district is also home to several of the city’s oldest temples, the oldest Chinese Tea House and several museums – though if you’re looking for more family-oriented entertainment you could try a Virtual Reality Experience or perhaps an Outdoor Escape Room puzzle hunt through the narrow, colorful streets. Explore Clarke Quay with Go City Whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, day or night, feet, water or wheels, there’s something for everyone in Singapore’s Clarke Quay district. Save money and see it all with Go City!
Karleen Stevens
Things to do in Singapore's Civic District
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Things to do in Singapore's Civic District

Heading to Singapore's Civic and wondering what things you can do while you're there? In this article, we'll explore the best activities to try out on your visit. So, whether you're looking for culture, fun, or relaxation, we've got you covered. Read on, and discover the Civic District's best bits! Including: National Museum of Singapore Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park The Battlebox The National Gallery Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar and more! Visit the National Museum of Singapore We'll start with one of the joys of taking a vacation - exploring and understanding a new culture. And with a melting pot of so many seemingly disparate cultures found in Singapore, you'll need to explore the state's past, present, and future to get the bigger picture. That's where the National Museum of Singapore comes in clutch. Journey through its galleries, and you'll discover what drives the beating heart of Singapore. Through world-class exhibitions, visually captivating art installations, and an exploration of local festivals, you'll learn about Singapore's rise into one of the most visited places on the planet. And you'll see where it all began. Try a Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park If you're looking for things to do in Singapore's Civic District, put your thinking cap on and try your hand at a puzzle scavenger hunt in the area's Fort Canning Park. Think outdoor escape room mixed with roleplay. Embody the life of a soldier as you search for the secrets to Singapore's army. Hunt for clues, solve riddles, and work your way across the city to see if you can win the ultimate prize. Fun solo, but more fun in a group; it's a great way to get outdoors and see the sights while putting the grey matter to the test. Get historical at the Battlebox Keeping on the military theme, if you like exploring the history and tactics of war, then you should definitely visit The Battlebox. Located on the top-secret site where officers directed the Battle of Singapore in the Second World War, you'll be able to explore recreations of the men, the machinery, and the maps they used to direct the assault. Worm your way through the actual rooms and corridors they walked, and see some authentic wartime artifacts while you're at it. Take a guided tour, or dare to travel the labyrinth of underground tunnels yourself. However you choose to explore The Battlebox, you'll learn how the allies won and discover the tension and drama behind the decision to surrender the much-vaunted 'Singapore Fortress' on 15 February 1942. For history buffs with a penchant for war, it doesn't get much better than that. Image courtesy of Miguel Vidal/Shutterstock Take a look around the National Gallery If you like your culture with a hefty spoonful of brush strokes, then the National Gallery is one of the best things to do in Singapore's Civic District. Held in the city's old City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, the National Gallery offers a massive 64,000 square meters of artwork. You'll find plenty of mainstay exhibitions along with rotating exhibits, including 'Siapa Nama Kamu?', or 'What's your name?'. It explores the life and times of Singaporeans through local art, examining the effect art has on the community. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in art and local culture in one fell swoop. But that's just one of the many fantastic installations you'll find inside this massive space, so head inside and get exploring. And when you're done, pick up a keepsake from one of the many shops you'll find on-site. Get refreshed at Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar After a long day of sightseeing, you might want to put your feet up and enjoy a refreshing beverage. If so, head to Raffles Hotel and check out the Courtyard Bar, where you can get a drink from us. Raffles Courtyard is something else, mimicking a beachside paradise replete with palm trees and tiki tents. It's the perfect place to relax, and take a moment to drink in the city. Of course, that's not the only thing you'll be drinking in, thanks to the complimentary offering you can get with Go City! And hey, if you stay for a few more - no judgments here. See a show at Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall Another of Singapore Civic District's biggest draws is the Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, where you'll find plenty of live performances throughout the year. Having been recently refurbished, you'll be treated to a top-tier experience from the moment you walk in the door. Home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. or SSO, we're sure they appreciate the improved acoustics that transforms the theatre's already impressive sound. Check out their site to see when the SSO, or a variety of performers, are playing, and grab a ticket! Game on at Zero Latency If you want thrills, spills, and chills in a virtual space, then Zero Latency has got you covered. This Virtual Reality hotspot features tons of immersive experiences that will have you sweating, laughing, and screaming - in that order. Team up with a crew to slay zombies, robots, and other cannon fodder, or work together to solve puzzles. You can even take part in some sports activities, if Singapore's famous weather swings towards the wetter end. Whichever you pick, you're bound to have a grand time. Relax at The Thai Spa We'll end our guide of things to do in Singapore's Civic District with the ultimate relaxation experience. If you need your back kneaded and your joints cracked, head to The Thai Spa and let them do their thing. Alongside massages, you can try aromatherapy, and even take part in some ancient Thai rituals, if you're feeling adventurous. With a focus on organic goodies, you'll be sure to refresh both your body and soul. So, if you need a break from all your exploring, go knock on their door. And that about does it for our guide to Singapore's Civic District. Looking for more things to do in Singapore? Check out Go City! With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can experience all the best bits of Singapore for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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