Top Things to Do in Singapore: Best Activities & Must-Sees

By Amber
June 24, 2026

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 £50.14 — Theme Park 🎬
- 🌳 Gardens by the Bay 🌸 From £26.82 — Supertrees & conservatories 🌺
- 🦁 Mandai Wildlife Reserve 🐘 From £2.92 — Zoo & Safari 🦒
- 🌙 Night Safari 🦉 From £33.82 — A unique night safari 🌃
- 🛷 Skyline Luge Singapore 🎿 From £18.37 — Luge at Sentosa 🏝️
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 |
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!
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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?
If you've only got one day, focus on Marina Bay. Start your morning at Gardens by the Bay (Supertrees and conservatories), stop by the Merlion Park around midday, then explore a cultural area like Chinatown Singapore or Little India Singapore in the afternoon. In the evening, watch the Spectra light show at Marina Bay Sands. Don't miss eating at a hawker centre for a proper local experience. -
What are the must-see attractions in Singapore?
Top highlights include Gardens by the Bay with its Supertrees, the skyline at Marina Bay Sands, the historic district of Chinatown Singapore, local hawker centres for authentic food, and Sentosa Island for beaches and attractions. -
Where is the best area to stay in Singapore?
Marina Bay is ideal for a central and luxury stay with stunning views. Chinatown Singapore offers great value and a lively, authentic atmosphere with easy metro access. Orchard Road is perfect for shopping lovers. For families, Sentosa Island or hotels near the Singapore Zoo are excellent options. -
What can you do in Singapore when it rains?
There's plenty to do indoors. Visit the cooled conservatories at Gardens by the Bay, explore the huge shopping centres along Orchard Road (many are connected by covered walkways), or check out museums like the ArtScience Museum or the National Museum of Singapore. You can also relax at a spa or visit the S.E.A. Aquarium on Sentosa. Hawker centres are often covered too, making them perfect for a dry and tasty break.
Explore Singapore & beyond 🧩
Things to Do in Singapore
- 1. Popular Things to Do in Singapore at Great Prices 🎫
- 2. What to Do in Singapore Based on Your Stay 📅
- 3. Must-Visit Areas in Singapore 🏙️
- 4. Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Singapore 🎯
- 5. Best Time to Visit Singapore 🌤️
- 6. Day Trips from Singapore 🚢
- 7. Singapore, the Gastronomic Capital of Southeast Asia 🍜
- 8. FAQ – Things to Do in Singapore ❓
- 9. Explore Singapore & beyond 🧩
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