Top Things to Do in Singapore: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Fancy discovering Singapore, one of the most forward-thinking cities in the world? You've come to the right place!
This fascinating city-state blends futuristic modernity with ancient traditions. Whether you're a nature lover exploring the Gardens by the Bay, an adventure seeker hitting the theme parks, or looking for authenticity in its colourful neighbourhoods, Singapore has something for everyone!
Tempted? Trip.com reveals all its top tips: from must-do activities and neighbourhoods to explore, to our best deals, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your Singapore getaway.
Popular Things to Do in Singapore at Great Prices 🎫
- 🎢 Universal Studios Singapore ⭐ From £39.22 — Theme Park 🎬
- 🌳 Gardens by the Bay 🌸 From £13.85 — Supertrees & conservatories 🌺
- 🦁 Mandai Wildlife Reserve 🐘 From £25.96 — Zoo & Safari 🦒
- 🌙 Night Safari 🦉 From £31.32 — A unique night safari 🌃
- 🛷 Skyline Luge Singapore 🎿 From £17.75 — Luge at Sentosa 🏝️
- 🎮 Playon Park ⭐ From £16.73 (lower than official prices) — Digital Sports & Entertainment 🎯 24 Jul–30 Sep 2026
What to Do in Singapore Based on Your Stay 📅
Before we dive into the must-see sights and neighbourhoods of Singapore, take a moment to decide how long you'll be staying.
Naturally, the number of things to do will depend on the length of your trip. Whether you have a flying visit or a full week, here are our suggested itineraries to suit every type of traveller!
Duration | Couples | Family | Friends | Solo |
1 day | Marina Bay Sands + Gardens by the Bay sunset | Gardens by the Bay + Sentosa Beach | Chinatown + Clarke Quay evening out | Colonial District + Merlion Park |
2-3 days | Romantic dinner at Marina Bay + Sentosa | Universal Studios + S.E.A. Aquarium + hotel swimming pool | Night Safari + hawker centres + rooftop bars | Little India + Kampong Glam + shopping on Orchard Road |
4-5 days | Luxury Spa + Singapore Flyer + Cruise | Singapore Zoo + Mandai Wildlife + swimming pools + Science Centre | Sentosa Water Sports + Pulau Ubin Cycling + Fort Canning | Museums + MacRitchie Reservoir + Southern Ridges hike |
1 week | Bintan Excursion + All Districts + Gourmet Dinners | All attractions + water parks + Johor Bahru Legoland excursion | Malaysia Excursion + Full Nightlife Experience + Pulau Ubin | Full exploration + excursions + local cooking classes |
Explore Singapore's unique attractions
See all attractions
49 booked
Must-Visit Areas in Singapore 🏙️
Visiting Singapore is no small feat, given the sheer number of discoveries to be made and the variety of its neighbourhoods. From the almost futuristic waterfront to the traditional alleyways, every district offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
To help you make the most of your trip, here is our selection of the neighbourhoods you simply cannot miss during your stay.
Marina Bay: A Symbol of the Futuristic City
Marina Bay is the beating heart of modern Singapore and truly the symbol of its spectacular development in recent years.
This iconic district is home to the city's most popular and visited attractions: the famous Marina Bay Sands with its infinity pool perched 200 metres up (which is also a hotel), the glowing Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, and the water-spouting Merlion, a true national symbol.
When evening falls, you can catch the magical free "Spectra" show, a light and water display that illuminates the bay at 8 pm and 9 pm every single day (yes, really!). Even the locals never tire of it, coming out for a stroll each evening to soak up the magical atmosphere in such an impressive setting. Marina Bay is also the perfect spot for a romantic walk along the Esplanade, with views of the glittering skyline.
📌 Trip.com tip: don't miss the stunning Apple store by Marina Bay; it's one of the most beautiful in the world and is literally ON the water!
Chinatown: A blend of tradition and Singaporean authenticity
The second must-visit neighbourhood: Chinatown! It is undoubtedly the most authentic and traditional district in Singapore.
Its narrow streets lined with colourful shophouses transport you back to the Asia of yesteryear. Don't miss the Sri Mariamman Hindu temple, the oldest in Singapore, and the Buddha Tooth Relic Buddhist temple with its magnificent architecture.
Food lovers will adore the Maxwell Food Centre, one of the city's best hawker centres (local food courts), where you can tuck into the famous chicken rice and other local specialities at bargain prices. Pagoda Street is packed with shops selling souvenirs, medicinal herbs, and traditional Chinese goods.
Little India: An explosion of colour and flavour
In the same vein, Little India is Singapore's vibrant and colourful Indian district. As soon as you arrive on Serangoon Road, you'll be enveloped by the scents of spices, the dazzling colours of saris, and Bollywood music.
The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali, is simply breathtaking with its intricate carvings and impressive scale. Likewise, the Tekka Centre is the go-to hawker spot for savouring authentic Indian delicacies: fragrant biryani, crispy dosas, and masala tea.
The shops are bursting with colourful fabrics, gold jewellery, and handcrafted items, perfect for picking up souvenirs from your trip. The atmosphere is especially festive during Deepavali, the festival of lights, when the whole neighbourhood glows with twinkling fairy lights.
Kampong Glam: The trendy and artistic Arab quarter
Kampong Glam, a designated historic district since 1989, is one of Singapore's oldest neighbourhoods.
The majestic golden dome of the Sultan Mosque dominates the neighbourhood and stands as one of the city's most beautiful religious buildings. Likewise, Arab Street is an absolute must-visit, with its shops full of Persian rugs, shimmering fabrics, and oriental perfumes.
Finally, you absolutely must visit Haji Lane; it's THE most popular alley in the neighbourhood. This narrow street, with its facades covered in colourful street art, is home to trendy cafes, designer boutiques, and fashionable restaurants.
Sentosa: The island of leisure and beaches
Finally, Sentosa is Singapore's very own resort island, which you can reach by cable car, monorail, or footbridge.
This seaside destination is a fantastic mix of theme parks, sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts. Universal Studios Singapore is the star attraction, but you'll also find the S.E.A. Aquarium, Skyline Luge, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and a giant zip line to keep the adventure going.
The three main beaches (Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong) offer calm waters that are perfect for a family swim. It's the ideal spot to relax away from the city!
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)
Our Top Picks
5 star
Great2172 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
The hotel reception offers Chinese-speaking service, and the standard rooms are quite spacious for Singapore. While the hotel is a bit far from Marina Bay, its location in the Orchard Road shopping district makes dining and shopping very convenient, and subway access is also easy.FromAU$247
Amazing1808 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km from city centre
Complete facilities with room wine, complimentary chocolates, a dyson hairdryer, nail clipper kit and more. Location is also of course very strategic with the downtown and circle line mrt connecting to the hotel. Near the hotel is lau pa sat which is a very popular hawker center for tourists and also very close to places such as esplanade theatres by the bay, city hall, bras basah and raffles place.FromAU$1,223
Great1132 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|2.11km from city centre
The room is quite spacious, and there's no deposit required, which makes checking out very convenient. The location is decent. The front desk staff can speak Chinese, and there are also Chinese-speaking employees among the service staff. Several attractions are within walking distance, though it can get hot. Havelock MRT station is just 400 meters away.FromAU$330
Great1975 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km from city centre
This is an honest review of Carlton Hotel Singapore, where my mother and I stayed in the second week of August!
I'll summarize what I felt during my stay.
Floor: I requested a high floor when booking, but unfortunately, it wasn't accommodated, and we were assigned the 8th floor. However, the room condition was pleasant, so we didn't experience much inconvenience during our stay.
Bed Type: The room type was an Executive Room. We requested twin beds so my mom and I could sleep comfortably, and they provided a room with two beds, which was perfect. The bedding was fresh, and the mattress was soft, so we slept soundly every night.
Deposit & Cancellation Period: A deposit of $200 (SGD) is authorized upon check-in. Even if you use paid services, they are not deducted from the deposit; you pay for them separately upon check-out. It's been about 3 days since we checked out, and the deposit cancellation hasn't been processed yet, likely because it's an overseas authorization. It usually takes a few days to 1-2 weeks depending on the card company, so it's best to wait patiently.
Bathroom & Amenities: Toothpaste and toothbrushes were provided, and shampoo, body wash, and conditioner were well-stocked, which we used comfortably throughout our stay. A hairdryer was also available.
Cleaning & Refill: If you press the 'Please Clean Up' switch in the room, they will clean the room and replenish water, towels, toothpaste, and toothbrushes generously every time.
Tip for Bedding Change: If you want to have the bed sheets completely changed, make sure to place the green sign provided in the room on the bed, and they will replace them with fresh bedding.
Upon arriving at night, the magnificent glass chandelier stretching across the lobby ceiling immediately caught my eye. The high ceiling and luxurious feel made a great first impression.
The swimming pool is quite small. However, Singapore's weather is extremely hot and humid, so people were constantly in the water regardless of the time of day. It was sufficient for cooling down and chilling out lightly during the day or evening.
Gym: Across the swimming pool, there's a gym. It was clean and a simple hotel gym, perfect for a light workout.
Breakfast/Hotel Dining: I didn't book breakfast because of the pressure to wake up early to eat breakfast when traveling. Instead of using the hotel's breakfast, lunch, or dinner buffets, we creatively handled our meals with delivery food and restaurants in nearby shopping malls.
Raffles City Shopping Mall: The Raffles City shopping mall right next to the hotel was incredibly convenient! The restaurant and food court options were so good that we often went to Raffles City for our meals during our stay.
Room Service: On the first night, we arrived at the hotel around 10-11 PM and were tired, so we ordered room service. The food tasted really delicious and satisfying, but as expected with Singapore prices, it was quite expensive. The taste is guaranteed, so it might be nice to use it once for a treat!
Location & Transportation: On the map, I thought Merlion Park was within walking distance, but Singapore's August weather was hotter and more humid than I imagined, so walking was definitely not an option.
Instead, there were well-located bus stops near the hotel, and we consistently took buses to major attractions, including Merlion Park. The routes were so well-established that we got around very conveniently. When it's hot, always use public transport!
This was a trip with my mom, and thanks to the nearby shopping mall, meals were convenient. Overall, it was a satisfying hotel stay. I recommend it to anyone looking for a well-located accommodation in the heart of Singapore.FromAU$239
Great2356 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km from city centre
The hotel is very clean, and the staff are all very friendly and welcoming. When checking in, you just hand your luggage directly to the staff, and after you complete the check-in process on the fourth floor, someone will bring your luggage directly to your room. When checking out, you leave your luggage on the fourth floor, and then pick it up on the first floor when you're ready to leave, which is super convenient. The hotel also has drinking water available, so remember to fill up your water bottle before heading out. It's also close to two subway lines, making getting around very easy.FromAU$556
Business travel
Very Good1606 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|1.94km from city centre
Excellent value for money! The hotel is incredibly well-located, with the metro and bus station just a minute's walk to the left. Raffles City is also a short stroll straight ahead. Plus, there's Ya Kun and Killiney breakfast spots right across the road. We paid a little over 400 for three adults with an extra bed. The only minor drawback was the hairdryer.FromAU$157
Very Good1826 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.32km from city centre
The hotel is ideally located and exceptionally clean. Although the rooms are small, they are fully equipped with everything you need. One feature I especially loved was the water dispenser with adjustable temperature settings. It is incredibly convenient and a huge plus for anyone who loves drinking warm water, as you don't have to wait for a kettle to boil. The lobby also offers complimentary local snacks, which the kids absolutely loved. They also have a self-service luggage storage room. I will definitely choose to stay at this hotel again next time!FromAU$152
Very Good1038 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.77km from city centre
The Walkable Budget Stay: ”Mind-blowing! The hotel is in a quiet area, but not far from the shops and restaurants. The room was tidy and fresh, and the staff are polite and offer a warm smile.” its very good staying and booking here in 💖💕💓♥️😘🌺🩷🎊🎉😻🥰😘😋🤩🥳🤩🎊🎉FromAU$170
Great1843 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|2.1km from city centre
I've honestly lost count of how many times I've stayed at Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore.
At this point, it really does feel a little like coming home. The Front Office team even remembers my name whenever I check in, and that small gesture always makes me feel genuinely welcome. A special thank you to the lovely Front Office team — Mr. Shaun, Fajmi, Izham, Sherlyn, and everyone else whose warm, smiley faces I definitely remember even if I can't remember all the names (sorry! :(). Every stay has been consistently smooth, warm, and professional. It's not just about efficiency, but the sincerity behind the service that really makes a difference and keeps guests coming back. It's not just the comfortable rooms and convenient location, but the people who make each stay feel easy, familiar, and welcoming. Looking forward to my next stay already!FromAU$207
Very Good2095 Reviews
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km from city centre
Perfect for solo business travelers!I stayed in the Super Single room for a business trip and had an excellent experience. The hotel is exceptionally clean, and the check-in process was quick and easy. The location is unbeatable, being just a short walk to the MRT. Best of all, the breakfast was awesome and gave me a great start to my workday. Highly recommended for solo travelers!! Thanks 🙏FromAU$110
Family friendly
Very Good1241 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.92km from city centre
The hotel's environment is truly exceptional. Check-in is on the 8th floor, and the ground floor provides direct access to the restaurant and the beach. Right outside, there's a beach tram shuttle service that takes you to Beach Station MRT in just two stops, or about a 5-10 minute walk. During our stay, there was a beachside barbecue market starting at 2 PM every afternoon, which was when the shuttle service stopped.
We stayed on the 5th floor, and the swimming pool was right outside our door. The kids absolutely loved it! There were also swings and a seesaw, and we even spotted a hammock while walking around.
However, I can't help but mention the ants. There were always tiny ants on the bedsheets, which might be due to the area being so close to nature.FromAU$186
Great1205 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.46km from city centre
Maybe it was because we checked in in the middle of the night, but we originally booked three single beds and ended up with just one large bed. They then squeezed in a small bed, which made the hallway very cramped. The room change for the next two nights was much better! Otherwise, everything was pretty good!
The subway is a bit far, but the bus stop right outside is convenient. There's also a photo op spot directly across the street.FromAU$200
Very Good882 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.87km from city centre
I had been here several times, staying at both wings. I like the pool. This time, like the previous time..the wifi wasn’t working well but this time, it has caused some “major” issues and inconvenience! I can’t be reached for hours! I called reception for help and eventually they sent staff to my room to settle the issue for me! Thankful and grateful for that. All the rest are good for a short stay.FromAU$189
Very Good723 Reviews
Singapore Changi Airport Region Singapore|16.02km from city centre
Right next to Wild Wild Wet, my kids, who weren't very enthusiastic at first, became super excited once they saw the facilities. Being able to get to the ocean quickly and encountering wildlife we don't usually see was also a plus. We had trouble because there was no tissue or drinking water (though you can buy it at the shop), and while there's nothing that can be done about it, I was surprised by how ants appeared out of nowhere. I don't think we left any ant-attracting food out, but perhaps something happened. Despite these minor issues, the location was excellent, and the room was clean. I think this is a great hotel for families with small children.FromAU$143
Very Good854 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.59km from city centre
Overall, it's an okay stay.
Pros: The room is spacious, much better than the previous one, probably about 10 square meters larger.
Location: It's within a 10-minute walk from the subway station, and there's a 7-Eleven downstairs.
Cons: It's a bit old, just slightly better than a guesthouse.FromAU$231
Swimming pool
Great2615 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.61km from city centre
## Lobby & Public Areas
Upon entering the lobby, you're immediately struck by the spaciousness. The high atrium feels airy and open, never oppressive. The overall architecture features strong, clean lines, and the geometric interplays have a distinct deconstructivist feel – great for photos.
The front desk layout is efficient, and check-in was quick, with almost no waiting.
## Breakfast
The variety is excellent, with Western, Singaporean, Indian, and other Asian stalls. There were also very friendly Chinese-speaking staff. The freshly prepared egg dishes and fresh juices were high quality. The dining area is spacious, so it never felt crowded or noisy.
## Room
I stayed in a club room this time, and the space was noticeably larger than hotels in a similar price range. The layout is expansive, not at all cramped, which is a rare find in land-scarce Singapore. The mini-bar, ironing facilities, coffee machine, and tea set were all comprehensive. The bathroom fixtures and amenities felt high-quality, and the oversized bathtub with bath salts was perfect for washing away a full day's travel fatigue.
## Service
Overall, the service was professional and understated. From the doorman to housekeeping, everyone was polite and measured in their approach – not overly fawning, but you still felt well-cared for. A special shout-out to the Korean lady at the 38th-floor club; even though she didn't speak Chinese, she communicated meticulously in English with a constant smile, which was both elegant and warm.
## Summary
High-end facilities, excellent service – perfect for guests who prioritize quality and spaciousness. I would definitely stay again.
### Complimentary Pacific Club Access:
I missed both afternoon tea and happy hour due to being out sightseeing. A reminder to fellow travelers checking in next time: definitely try to experience them!FromAU$567
Very Good1415 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
Our one king-size bed and one sofa bed comfortably accommodated our family of two adults and two children! The hotel staff were also excellent and very polite! The only drawback was that the soundproofing from the outside wasn't great; there was a lot of noise from the next-door room around 1 or 2 AM, which slightly affected our sleep. The hotel's pool was also very clean and comfortable for swimming!FromAU$387
Great1717 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|0.83km from city centre
Staying at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering for this trip to Singapore far exceeded my expectations! The building, like an urban oasis, is incredibly distinctive with lush greenery all around, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The location is superb, within walking distance to Chinatown and Clarke Quay, and incredibly convenient for subway travel. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained; the rooftop infinity pool had an amazing vibe. All staff members were polite, thoughtful, and promptly responsive. The food was exquisite and delicious. Whether for leisure sightseeing or urban exploration, this is an incredibly worthwhile hotel choice in Singapore. I will definitely prioritize staying here again on my next visit to Singapore. Highly recommended!FromAU$513
Great4194 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km from city centre
On my holiday visit to Singapore again, I still chose the Swissôtel The Stamford. The hotel's location is superb, right next to landmarks like Merlion Park, City Hall, the Art Museum, and St Andrew's Cathedral. It offers direct views of Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer. Downstairs, you'll find Raffles City shopping mall and the City Hall MRT station, making shopping, dining, and transportation incredibly convenient. The hotel's facilities and decor are great, and the housekeeping service is excellent. Check-in was very smooth; there are plenty of self-service check-in kiosks in the lobby, and staff are always on hand to assist if needed. Many European and American tourists, as well as airline crews, also choose to stay here. Overall, the stay experience was fantastic.FromAU$544
Very Good563 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|1km from city centre
The location is very convenient, small but beautiful, with a small shopping mall next to it where you can eat and drink. You can walk to Chinatown, and there's a supermarket opposite for daily necessities. The connected buildings are very unique and are all restaurants and cafes. The whole street is very pleasant to walk along, and you can even see roosters, which is very interesting. The room also has a small water dispenser for daily drinking water, which I really liked. They also provide two pillows with different firmness options, and the bed was very comfortable!FromAU$316
Breakfast
Great3397 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
I loved absolutely everything! It's trendy, stylish, and technologically advanced. In such a small space, they managed to fit everything necessary, even an ironing board and iron. The idea of a bathroom with a city view was interesting, and I was pleasantly surprised by the second-level loft bed for a child – it's very convenient, thank you! The double bed that expands is pure high-tech; I'm thrilled! The breakfasts were incredibly delicious, truly. All the activity zones were beautiful: the pool, restaurant, and gym. The hotel's location is simply amazing! Super convenient, right in the heart of Orchard Road, the main shopping street! All the best shopping malls are here! The best souvenirs are here! I'm delighted with this hotel and grateful for the warm welcome. It exceeded all my expectations. The rooms are a bit cramped, but that's typical everywhere in Asia. Singapore is amazing! ❤️🔥FromAU$145
Very Good2614 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
I think we hit the jackpot with this hotel. Very thankful that we experienced all the positives for this hotel.
What we like:
Clean. No ants nor bugs. Bedding and pillows also clean and no weird smells.
Very welcoming and polite staff at check in. She helped to distract my kids with some check in entertainment when she saw that they kept asking for my attention while I was trying to check in. Staff at Native Kitchen also very helpful and polite. They still gave a small discount even though we ate there after we checked out. Staff are also fast and efficient when we requested for more pillows.
Pool area (4 pools) is super pretty and my son had a great time playing 2 ball games in the pool during their entertainment hours. The Aqua Zumba (I think - unsure of the name) was also good and the instructor made every second fun! My girl and I loved dancing in the water to his music and moves!
Both noons also we had some free snacks courtesy of Village, at the reception area. These made my kids giddy with joy.
We were not celebrating anything but we saw reception pass out birthday favours for those that are. This is a plus point for me. It shows they make an effort.
What we don’t like:
Pool walking area is dirty in the late noon but can’t be helped as it got very crowded and it’s quite hard to clean the floor up with so many people around. Also, not enough chairs. We reached about 9am and majority taken up. We went back in the noon and also no seats. Do go early if you want to grab seats for your things. The rainfall water feature at the lazy river is also very strong pressure and might border on being painful or scary if you have young kids or are sunburnt. Some mould at lazy river walls too. Not a fan, but not something that ticks my no list.
Overall- definitely definitely definitely recommended. Room is small but you won’t be inside most of the time with so much to do in Sentosa.FromAU$321
1896 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.59km from city centre
The lady on duty on the Singapore public holiday after the National Day was a bit crafty.
Wanted to charge us $100 for checking in at 14h00, one hour earlier than official checkin. The notices on the counter clearly mentioned it cost $25 for a one hour early checkin. We did not request an early checkin. Then came the carrot. The same lady offered one room with 4 beds instead of the two rooms we had booked with free early checkin. Nice try, but we were not falling for that old trick. My wife is Chinese and she sniffed a rat in that deal instantly when she realised we would be giving up a second bathroom and some privacy of interleading doors between the two rooms we had booked. Pretty sneaky lady that receptionist
Very convenient location along the river. Hotel has a leisure pool for a casual dip. Coffee and tea in the room, even a kettle but you guessed it, the only hotel I have ever stayed at that does not provide bottled water in the room. Msybe they thought the river is close enough to fill the kettleFromAU$103
Very Good1126 Reviews
Lavender / Kallang Singapore|3.73km from city centre
The room was nice and the surrounding area was very quiet! I stayed for several days, and on some of those days, my neighbors were Indian or Malaysian families with kids who made a lot of noise late into the night and started up again very early in the morning. However, the bedding was clean and comfortable, and the room design was sensible, making it look very tidy. Overall, it was a good check-in experience, though the check-out time of 12 PM was strictly enforced!FromAU$94
Very Good1661 Reviews
Novena Singapore|4.21km from city centre
Absolutely fantastic, and very affordable! Overall, it's a great value, and I highly recommend it. My stay far exceeded expectations; I was very satisfied with everything. The location is excellent, close to transportation hubs, making taxis and public transport super convenient. The room was spacious and tidy, with meticulous cleaning details. The bathroom had a separate wet and dry area, and the toiletries were well-stocked. The bed was just the right firmness, and the soundproofing was good, so it was quiet at night, ensuring a high-quality rest. The front desk service was patient and efficient, responding promptly to any requests. The entire environment was clean and comfortable. It's suitable for both short layovers and longer stays, definitely worth recommending to everyone.FromAU$141
Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Singapore 🎯
After exploring the city's iconic neighbourhoods, discover the top activities that have made Singapore so famous.
Here is our hand-picked selection of must-do experiences, perfect for a trip with family, friends, or your other half!
Universal Studios Singapore: The ultimate entertainment hub
Universal Studios Singapore is the must-visit theme park in Singapore, located on Sentosa Island.
This theme park features seven immersive zones inspired by Hollywood blockbusters:
- Shrek,
- Transformers,
- Jurassic Park,
- Madagascar,
- Despicable Me,
- And many more...
Must-see attractions include Battlestar Galactica, a high-octane rollercoaster, and Transformers The Ride, a breathtaking 3D adventure.
Plan a full day to enjoy all the attractions and shows. The Hollywood atmosphere and the quality of the sets make it a memorable experience for all ages!
Gardens by the Bay: nature reimagined
Gardens by the Bay is Singapore's iconic "nature" attraction and a true architectural masterpiece.
This 101-hectare futuristic garden is home to the famous Supertrees, artificial structures standing 25 to 50 metres tall and draped in climbing plants. They light up every evening during the free Garden Rhapsody show at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm. These iconic trees are world-famous!
The two climate-controlled conservatories, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, recreate mountain and Mediterranean ecosystems, featuring rare and impressive botanical collections. The 35-metre indoor waterfall in the Cloud Forest is truly spectacular too!
💡 Handy tip: the outdoor gardens are free and open from 5 am to 2 am, perfect for a morning or evening stroll. Allow 4 to 5 hours to explore the entire site.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve: an immersive journey into the wild
The Mandai Wildlife Reserve is home to the world-famous Singapore Zoo, one of the finest zoos on the planet, renowned for its open-air enclosures and immersive concept.
Once there, you'll find over 300 species thriving in naturally recreated habitats, including orangutans, white tigers, Asian elephants, and kangaroos. The zoo focuses on interactive experiences, such as breakfast with the orangutans or feeding sessions. River Wonders also offers a cruise where you can drift past giant pandas and manatees.
Allow at least half a day to explore the main zoo.
Night Safari: a one-of-a-kind nocturnal adventure
Finally, the Night Safari is a truly unique experience in Singapore, allowing you to observe over 900 nocturnal animals in their natural habitat!
This twilight safari is the world's first nocturnal wildlife park and remains an iconic Singaporean attraction. Aboard a silent tram, you can journey through seven geographical zones that recreate the habitats of Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
You'll encounter lions, leopards, hyenas, tapirs, and deer, all set within a mysterious atmosphere illuminated only by the moon and subtle lighting.
💡Trip.com tip: don't miss the Creatures of the Night show with its trained animal performances, and arrive by 6:30 pm to make the most of the park!
Best Time to Visit Singapore 🌤️
Singapore enjoys a warm and humid equatorial climate all year round, though some times are more pleasant than others. Temperatures hover between 25°C and 32°C in every season.
Here's a complete guide to help you choose the perfect time for your trip, tailored to your preferences.
Season | Weather | Overview | Things to Do & Festivals |
🌸 Peak season (Feb–Apr) | Sunny (28–32 °C) | Best time to visit, with less rain | Chinese New Year, Chingay Parade |
☀️ Summer (May–Aug) | Hot with storms (28–33 °C) | Short tropical showers, often in the afternoon | Great Singapore Sale (Jun–Jul), National Day (9 Aug) |
🍂 Monsoon (Nov–Jan) | Humid and rainy (25–30 °C) | More frequent rain, but usually brief | Christmas on a Great Street, festive light displays |
🌈 Off-season (Sept–Oct) | Variable (26–31 °C) | Good balance of weather and prices | Mid-Autumn Festival, Deepavali (Little India lights), F1 Grand Prix |
Day Trips from Singapore 🚢
Staying in Singapore for a few days and looking to explore further afield? You're in luck – the city-state is perfectly positioned for some international getaways!
From Singapore, Trip.com recommends two excursions in particular:
Bintan, Indonesia: Paradise beaches and relaxation
Bintan Island is an idyllic tropical getaway just a stone's throw from Singapore.
- Travel time: 50 minutes by ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
- Transport: regular ferries (frequent departures, booking recommended)
- Must-sees: pristine white-sand beaches, luxurious resorts with spas, world-class golf courses, traditional temples, and mangrove forests. Perfect for a lazy day or a relaxing weekend away from the urban hustle and bustle.
Johor Bahru, Malaysia: Shopping and Malay culture
Johor Bahru, a Malaysian border city, offers a unique cultural experience and great value for money.
- Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour from Singapore city centre
- Transport: bus via the Woodlands Causeway checkpoint or train
- Must-sees: Legoland Malaysia (perfect for families), giant shopping malls (prices are much lower than in Singapore), authentic Malaysian street food, the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque with its panoramic views, and colonial heritage. Don't forget your passport to cross the border!
Singapore, the Gastronomic Capital of Southeast Asia 🍜
When you want to fully discover Singapore, tasting its local cuisine is a must! The city-state is a true gastronomic capital where Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences blend together.
Trip.com has hand-picked the must-try local specialities for you:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: THE national dish of Singapore, featuring tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice and sauces;
- Laksa: a spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, prawns, and curry paste;
- Chilli Crab: crab in a sweet tomato-chilli sauce, best enjoyed with fried buns;
- Satay: marinated meat skewers grilled over a barbecue, served with a delicious peanut sauce;
- Char Kway Teow: wok-fried rice noodles with eggs, seafood, and soy sauce;
- Roti Prata: a crispy Indian flatbread served with curry.
Hawker centres: temples of street food
Hawker centres are the culinary soul of Singapore and an unmissable experience. These open-air food courts bring together dozens of stalls offering authentic dishes at unbeatable prices (£2.50–£5 per meal). The friendly atmosphere, communal tables, and diversity of flavours make them truly unique spots. The "chope" culture (reserving your table with a packet of tissues) is a fun local practice.
The best hawker centres:
- Maxwell Food Centre (Chinatown): famous for its Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Lau Pa Sat (Financial District): Victorian architecture and a buzzing night-time atmosphere
- Tekka Centre (Little India): authentic Indian specialities
- Old Airport Road Food Centre: a local favourite with over 100 stalls
🥇Our golden rule: follow the queues where the locals are – it's a guaranteed sign of quality!
Start planning your trip on Trip.com now to take advantage of the best deals on hotels and activities.
Have a great trip to Singapore! ✨
FAQ – Things to Do in Singapore ❓
-
What can you do in Singapore in one day?
-
What are the must-see attractions in Singapore?
-
Where is the best area to stay in Singapore?
-
What can you do in Singapore when it rains?
Explore Singapore & beyond 🧩
Singapore MRT: Map, Lines, Fares, Usage & Ride Guide
Explore the Singapore MRT with maps, lines, fares and operating hours. Learn how to use tickets and EZ-Link cards to get around the city easily.
September 26, 2026
Best eSIM for Singapore from £0.16
Singapore eSIM Tourist Guide: Find the best eSIM for Singapore with 5G & cheap plans. Compare options for Malaysia, Bali & more. Get connected in minutes.
September 26, 2026
What to Do at Singapore Airport: Guide for Your Layover in 2026
What to do in Singapore Airport? From the best places to eat and relax to duty-free shopping and free Wi-Fi—make the most of your layover at Changi.
September 26, 2026
How to Get from Singapore Airport to city center
Find the best ways from Singapore Airport to the city. Compare the MRT, bus, taxi, and private transfers. Get local tips for the fastest & cheapest ways.
September 26, 2026
Where to Stay in Singapore: Best Areas, Hotels & Attractions
Where's the best place to stay in Singapore? Choose between luxury near Marina Bay, family fun in Sentosa, or cultural stays in Chinatown.
September 26, 2026
Trip.com Singapore Travel Deals & Promo Codes - September 2026
Find the latest Trip.com Singapore promo codes, discount codes and voucher deals to save on hotels, flights and attractions across Singapore.
September 26, 2026
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Trending Searches
-
Travel guides