Singapore’s Most Popular Tourist Attractions – Top 10

Check out the sights and attractions you can't miss on a trip to Singapore!

By Adam Fraiel
Singapore

For such a small island, measuring just half the size of London, it’s impressive how Singapore packs in so many iconic landmarks and attractions. Around every corner you’ll find something new to explore, a new adventure to have, and a new selfie to take. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 tourist attractions in Singapore. Although they barely scratch the surface, it’s a great start.

  • Marina Bay Sands
  • Gardens by the Bay
  • Sentosa Island
  • Universal Studios Singapore
  • Changi Experience Studio, Changi Airport
  • Bird Paradise
  • Orchard Road
  • Singapore Flyer
  • Chinatown
  • Singapore Botanic Gardens

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Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is an architectural masterpiece. It’s home to many tourist attractions, housing two exhibition centers, two theaters, over 40 restaurants, a museum, a three-story large art gallery, the world’s most expensive standalone casino, two shopping malls, and the world’s longest elevated pool.

The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark is the world’s largest public cantilevered platform with a height of 200 meters and a 150-meter-long infinity pool. It stands on top of the three towers and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

The two observation decks, The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck and the Sands SkyPark Infinity Pool offer unparalleled views, plus unmissable photo opportunities of the city skyline, the Singapore River, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Strait.

 

Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is a 250-acre garden spanning three waterfront parks in Singapore’s Marina Bay area. It features several attractions, including a 22-meter tall cloud forest dome, both indoor and outdoor waterfalls, a 150-meter long hillside garden with 35 terraces, and over 200,000 plants from 100+ species.

Gardens by the Bay is an iconic attraction in Singapore, visited by approximately 1.5 million local and international visitors each year.

Hosting diverse attractions, the Gardens offer unique experiences for people of all ages and interests. These include the Flower Dome for plant lovers, Cloud Forest for nature lovers, the Supertree Grove for adventurers, and the Heritage Gardens for history buffs.

 

Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island - the ultimate playground

Sentosa Island is an island resort off mainland Singapore. The island’s attractions include beaches, theme parks, and Singapore’s first casino. Sentosa Island is part of the Southern Islands of Singapore.

The contrasts of Sentosa Island are striking, from its pristine beaches to its exhilarating activities. The island’s filled with historical landmarks and cultural treasures, offering something for everyone.

On Sentosa Island you’ll find:

  • Universal Studios
  • Adventure Cove Waterpark
  • Resorts World Sentosa
  • Palawan Beach
  • Tanjong Beach Club
  • Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett
  • Many, many more attractions

 

Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore

Without a doubt, Universal Studios Singapore is a must-visit attraction for your itinerary, regardless of how long you’re visiting.

There’s something for everyone, with rides for kids and adults. There’s the Transformers ride, Shrek 4D Adventure, and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure, to name a few. Some are nice and peaceful, while others are white-knuckle thrill rides.

You’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants, and kiosks all offering refreshments. If you need to calm down from the rides or escape the endless sun, head inside one of these air-conditioned oases and catch your breath.

Aside from the rollercoaster and rides, you’ll also find live shows and meet & greets, plus seven themed zones to explore: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar.

 

Changi Airport
Changi Airport

Changi Experience Studio, Changi Airport

The Changi Experience Studio (CES) is one of Singapore’s largest attractions. It houses 18 unique attractions, including the Butterfly Garden and Rain Vortex. This indoor playground features state-of-the-art technology and combines physical and digital interactions to provide a unique, unforgettable experience.

The CES works like a living museum that showcases Singapore’s heritage and culture, as well as the future of air travel. It aims to inspire the curiosity of visitors about the country’s history, culture, and future through interactive exhibits and multimedia shows.

You may have never considered an airport to be a major attraction, but Changi Airport is unlike any other. Waterfalls, art exhibits, high canopy walks, a variety of mazes, and a giant slide. It’s certainly not your standard airport.

 

Bird Paradise
Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve is your chance to peek into a mesmerizing world full of colorful birds. Home to over 3,500 birds, the park is a must-visit for all animal lovers. You'll find perfectly pink flamingos and striking scarlet macaws, as well as some more unique species, such as Shoebills, Southern Cassowaty's and Andean Cock-of-the-rock.

The park has ten different zones to discover, including several vast walk-through aviaries and an impressive penguin habitat. There's also the opportunity to attend presentations where you'll get to see some of the world's most successful winged predators in flight or have fun feeding the pelicans.

For nature lovers, old and young, Bird Paradise is a fine addition to your itinerary.

 

Orchard Road
Orchard Road

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping belt and a top tourist attraction. This mega-shopping destination has become a global symbol of Singapore’s multiculturalism, with shoppers from India, China, and Southeast Asia contributing to the mix of people shopping here.

The shopping district is busiest in the evenings and weekends, when locals and tourists alike flock to the shops for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Treat yourself to luxury brands, high-street fashion, and cutting-edge electronics as you explore the futuristic malls and shopping complexes.

 

Singapore Flyer
Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer

One of the world’s largest observation wheels, standing 165 meters tall with 28 fully air-conditioned capsules, the Singapore Flyer provides breathtaking views of Singapore’s skyline.

The Flyer provides panoramic views from Singapore’s central business districts, Marina Bay, and East Coast Park, providing ample photo opportunities during the ride.

It’s an ideal attraction for couples, families, and groups of friends to enjoy together. It offers a unique experience, especially at night when the skyline is beautifully lit up with vibrant colors, plus there’s a chance you’ll catch a light show or two while you’re making the rotation.

 

Chinatown
Chinatown

Chinatown

Just a short walk from Singapore’s central business district, Chinatown is an iconic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Singapore’s rich Chinese heritage. From stunning cultural architecture to mouth-watering food, Chinatown is an essential part of the Singapore experience.

Whether you are looking for a gourmet family meal or a simple bowl of wonton noodles, Chinatown provides the ultimate dining experience. Whatever your budget, Chinatown has a variety of restaurants offering delicious, authentic dishes.

Chinatown’s also a cultural hub, with the Chinatown Heritage Center showcasing Chinese culture and heritage through traditional arts and performances. You’ll also find an incredible selection of art galleries, traditional street markets, and exquisite temples.

 

Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens is a nature reserve in the heart of the city, and a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Not only a beautiful place to relax, it’s also an educational and scientific research center that houses over 5,000 plant species.

Home to a variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees, it’s the perfect place to learn about plants, insects, animals, and even geology. With walking trails leading you through the gardens, you can spot squirrels, butterflies, and even exotic birds.

The gardens are also a perfect spot to switch off and reconnect with nature. Unwind and relax with a picnic, or stretch your legs on the walking trails or jogging paths. Whatever your energy levels, the Botanic Gardens have you covered.

 

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Go City app

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Adam Fraiel
Go City Travel Expert

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Avatar the experience with Go City Singapore Gardens by the Bay
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Things to do in Singapore in Winter

Bright lights, big city. Singapore conjures images of just this, along with lush landscapes, bustling street markets and world-class shopping. And she won’t disappoint no matter what the season. From breathtaking gardens and sublime beaches to globally-inspired cuisine, visiting Singapore in the winter is the perfect time to experience all the best Singspore attractions without the crazy crowds of summer. Why visit Singapore in the winter? Winter in Singapore runs from December to February and while temperatures and humidity levels remain fairly high, the rains have arrived, and you can expect rainfall and thunderstorms daily. Temperatures range between 28°C and 32°C and humidity levels are high. But don’t be put off by the rain – Singapore is packed with an incredible array of attraction and activities that can be enjoyed whatever the weather. We’ve put together list of the best things to see and do in Singapore in winter. Grab a reliable umbrella and get exploring!
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Woman eating freshly cooked takeaway dumplings inside a hawker center.
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The Best Food Markets in Singapore

Singapore has a bit of an unfair reputation when it comes to cost. While it’s true that it may be expensive for expats living out there or visitors who want to stay in the top-tier hotels (hello, Marina Bay Sands!), it certainly needn’t be the case for your average vacationer. Case in point: you’ll find some of the best eating in the city’s 100+ legendary hawker centers, where authentic Singaporean, Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indonesian dishes start from a mouthwatering couple of Singapore dollars and rarely top more than six or seven bucks, meaning you needn’t ever really splash the cash to give your tastebuds a good time. Read on for our guide to the best food markets in Singapore. What is a Hawker Center? Hawker centers are embedded within Singapore’s very DNA. Here’s where you’ll find decades-old street food stalls that have been handed down through the generations; where locals queue for delicious, affordable meals and catch up on the local gossip over great steaming bowls of noodles, fragrant curries and melt-in-the-mouth grilled meat and fish dishes. There are over 100 of these centers – effectively covered, standalone food courts – dotted around the city, each hosting dozens of vibrant eateries. A literal feast for the senses, you can expect to see (and smell) suckling pig roasting on the spit, roast duck displayed tantalizingly in shop windows and plumes of aromatic smoke and steam rising from pots and griddles at every turn. There’s something to suit every palate here: sweet and savory, spicy and mild, hot and cold, meaty and meat-free – your only challenge is not to be drawn straight to the first stall you encounter by those utterly intoxicating aromas. Singapore Hawker Center Hints and Tips Hawker centers are dedicated standalone premises, usually covered but sometimes open-air and are not to be confused with what Singaporeans call ‘food courts’. Food courts are generally found inside shopping malls; they’re a little less characterful and a mite more expensive than hawker markets, but nevertheless a solid option if you’re out on a shopping spree. Many hawker stalls operate cash-only policies, so be sure to bring some cash as well as a big appetite. We recommend first-timers buy several different small dishes from multiple stalls to get a real (excuse the pun) flavor of what’s on offer. If a stall has a queue, that tends to be a sign the food is top-notch and that the wait will be worth it. Don’t pass busy stalls by! Don't be put off if you find hawker centers a little overwhelming – it really is worth persevering to unlock some of the fantastic flavors on offer within. If in doubt, you can always take a tour with a local guide to help you find your bearings. Singapore Hawker Food – What to Eat Even the most ravenous of visitors may find it difficult to work their way through all the excellent dishes Singapore’s food markets have to offer. But there are a few staples that we’d consider must-eats. Chili crab, for example, is (unofficially) Singapore’s national dish. This stir-fried sensation – crab drenched in spicy sweet-and-savory-sauce – is as ubiquitous as it is delicious and you’ll find it in any hawker center worth its salt. Then there’s sticky skewers of pork and chicken marinated in umami peanut sauce. Again, available everywhere. Other popular favorites include Indian-influence roti canai – a buttery, crumbly melt-in-the-mouth flatbread served with a variety of curry sauces – BBQ pork with rice, pungent fish head curry and chicken with rice. Make like a local and join the morning ritual of spiced teh tarik (tea) or kopi (coffee) sweetened with condensed milk. Feeling adventurous? Turn up the heat by seeking out some of the nation’s most out-there delicacies, among them pufferfish, live octopus and, for the bold gourmand only, fried pigs’ fallopian tubes in spicy kung pao sauce. Nom. Best Hawker Centers in Singapore And now for the main course, the entrée, the bit you’ve all been waiting for: our pick of some of the finest food markets in Singapore. Tuck in! Lau Pa Sat Oozing old-school Singapore charm, the Landmark Lau Pa Sat market is as well known for its distinctive octagonal shape and colonial-style architecture as it is for its satay. Find a spot beneath the soaring wrought-iron Victorian arches and tuck into a huge variety of international cuisines, including Vietnamese, Filipino, Korean and more. East Coast Lagoon Food Village Singapore’s only beachside hawker center provides the picture-perfect setting for a sweet sugar cane juice, fresh coconut or ice-cold Tiger beer. Hit up Song Kee Fried Oyster at stall 15 for perfectly fluffy omelets packed with local oysters and drizzled with a fiery chili sauce. Newton Food Centre Perhaps best known for its appearance in the movie Crazy Rich Asians, this vibrant market near Newton MRT station boasts over 100 stalls serving up some of the best seafood dishes in town. Order spicy sambal stingray in banana leaf for the win. Hong Lim Market and Food Centre Hong Lim is one of the more easily navigable Chinatown hawker centers (more so than the sprawling Chinatown Complex, in any case), so a good option for novices. Authentic Singaporean cuisine abounds here. Try pork braised with Chinese five spice, zingy laksa with crayfish or Teochew porridge served with a variety of meat, fish, veg, eggs and sauces. Clementi 448 Market and Food Centre The long queues at Fried Carrot Cake in Clementi 448 are a dead giveaway. This very literally named hawker stall is something of a local legend around these parts, having been around for over half a century. First things first though: this moreish Singaporean classic (pictured above) has no carrot in it and nor is it really a cake, at least not in the Western sense of the term. But don’t let that (or the queue) put you off this unmissable piping hot melée of sweet, spicy cubed radish cake, egg, garlic and chili sauce. Delish. Old Airport Road Food Centre A little off the beaten track on Singapore’s east coast, the Old Airport Road Food Centre is nevertheless well worth the effort for its vast selection of stalls serving up everything from crab to carrot cake, satay to sambal, dumplings to duck. With close to 200 hawkers to choose from, good luck deciding what you’re going to eat! Tekka Centre This Little India landmark, handily located right next to the MRT station, specializes in Indian food. Head here to make all your dosa dreams come true, and for tandoor grill feasts fit for a maharajah. Tekka Centre is part hawker center, part mall and part wet market, so there are plenty of opportunities for souvenir-hunting and soaking up the old-school Singapore vibes after lunch. Adam Road Food Centre This diminutive hawker center is pretty much right next to the Singapore Botanic Garden, a 200-acre oasis of vibrant flora and tropical rainforest. Work up an appetite with a stroll around the shores of Swan Lake and a visit to the National Orchid Garden before heading to Adam Road for a well-earned laksa. Changi Village Hawker Centre Aromatic nasi lemak, an utterly life-altering dish of rice, coconut milk, chili sauce, crispy anchovies, peanuts and egg, is the one to try here. Located on the island’s northeastern tip, Changi might feel slightly out on a limb, but no day tripper could fail to be charmed by this cute coastal village’s excellent Malay cuisine, fine sandy beaches and lush palm groves. Save on attractions and activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Singapore Zoo
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Things to do in Singapore

When visiting Singapore for the first time it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. It may only be a small island, but it’s packed with activities, attractions, and iconic landmarks. Don't worry. Whatever your budget, and no matter how long you’re staying, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of our favorite attractions so you can get a real feel for the Garden City. Finding Your Way Around Spend a few hours getting to know the city with a ride on the Big Bus Singapore. It’s a hop-on-hop-off bus, so if you see something you like, jump off and explore. It’ll take you all over the city, pointing out the key landmarks and must-see attractions. By the end of the ride you’ll have a much better understanding of where to go and what to do. You can’t visit Singapore without taking a trip to Sentosa Island. Take the Cable Car Sky Pass and treat yourself to a completely different perspective of the city. It’s only a brief ride, but you won’t want to miss out on this experience. Once you touchdown on Sentosa, hop on the Sentosa Island Bus Tour. A local guide will fill you in on the island's rich history, top things to see and do, and share some local knowledge you won’t find in any guidebooks. Singapore on a Budget Yes, it’s an expensive city, but you don’t need to break the bank to have an amazing time in Singapore. Gardens by the Bay will blow your mind with the natural beauty, technical constructions, and at night, the free light shows. Whether you’re alone, traveling with a partner, or vacationing with the family, the Gardens are a must-see attraction. What’s more budget-friendly than lying at the beach all day, soaking in the rays? Whatever your activity level, there’s a beach for you in Singapore. Tanjong beach is the place to be seen, Siloso beach has incredible watersports, and then you’ve got your pick of picture-perfect islands like Lazarus Island and St John’s. Along with Gardens by the Bay, you’ll find plenty more free light shows around the city at night. If you find yourself in front of Marina Bay Sands before sunset you’ll witness to an unforgettable show, all without paying a dime. Explore the Animal Kingdom Get up close and personal with the local wildlife in the 26-hectare award-winning Singapore Zoo. With over 4,200 animals including white tigers, Malayan tapirs, flying foxes, and many more, it’s a treat for the whole family. Alongside the waterpark rides and surfing opportunities, Adventure Cove Waterpark allows you the opportunity to swim with thousands of tropical fish, as you snorkel and explore the magical reefs. If you want to get even closer, hop in a pool with the majestic stingrays. Don’t worry, they’re perfectly harmless. If you've still got energy left after a busy day exploring, consider taking a night safari. Experience nature like never before in the world’s first nocturnal zoo. Watch cats hunting for fish, plus discover exactly what the animals get up to after dark. With a chance to see leopards, hippos, tigers, hyenas, and bears, a night safari is a perfect end to a wild day. Take a Cruise If you want to slow things down and explore Singapore from a unique perspective, hop on a boat and take a river cruise. Drift down the Singapore river and tick off all the iconic landmarks aboard a traditional bumboat. If you want something a little less traditional, consider splashing into Marina Bay with a DUCKtours Cruise. Traveling in an amphibious vehicle, you’ll feel like James Bond as you drive from the land straight into the water. Shop Until you Drop You’ll need to buy some souvenirs for friends and family and, while you’re at it, why not treat yourself? The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a day out in itself. A huge, sprawling complex of luxury shops, restaurants, boutiques, and iconic features, you’ll want to dedicate at least a full afternoon to this experience. Chinatown is home to stunning temples and restaurants, but there are also lots of shopping opportunities too. Find the perfect gift for a loved one, or splash out on yourself and bring home a unique memento to remember your time in The Garden City. If you find yourself in Chinatown and want to learn more while having some fun, Puzzle Hunt in Chinatown is the way to go. Run around finding clues and solving puzzles, all while learning more about the local Chinese culture. Get on your bike If you want to combine sightseeing with a little exercise, take a bike tour of the city. GoGreen Bicycle Rentals offer a two-hour rental so you can get out and explore the green side of the city. It’s a cycle-friendly island, so you’re free to enjoy the many parks, beaches, and promenades in an eco-friendly manner. If you’re still hungry for more peddling, take a two-hour guided Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour. Not only will you get a good workout, but you’ll gain a truly unique perspective of the city. The city transforms at night, and you’ll be in a unique position to see some of the most captivating secrets of the city. 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

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