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

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Things to Do in Singapore

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 🎫

💡 Did you know? Singapore means "Lion City" in Sanskrit, even though no lions have ever lived on the island! The city-state is also very young, having been founded in 1965!

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

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

Chinatown

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

Little India

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

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

Sentosa

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!

🎁 Exclusive Offers For You:
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Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)

Our Top Picks

5 star

9.1/10Great2172 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
First time visit to Singapore. Lovely hotel. Great location, bonus of an outdoor pool that we used early one morning. Rooms very clean, beds super comfy. Immaculately clean. All staff super friendly and helpful with recommendations and directions. Concierge’s always available to sort taxis and help too. Didn’t book breakfast as do many food options close by. Nice touch was at check in they brought out birthday muffins, not just for me but for my two teenagers too. Great introduction.What’s not to love? Will be back.
FromDKK 1,095
9.7/10Amazing1833 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km from city centre
My stay at Marina Bay Sands Singapore was absolutely fantastic and I highly recommend it! The hotel's location is excellent, directly connected to a mall, and within walking distance of famous attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park, making getting around incredibly convenient. Check-in was efficient, and the staff were warm and professional, providing attentive service throughout, truly reflecting a five-star hotel experience. The room was spacious and comfortable, with a modern design and immaculate cleanliness. The bed was soft, and the soundproofing was excellent, ensuring a wonderfully comfortable night's sleep. What truly impressed me most was the room's view – whether it was the city skyline or the Marina Bay night view, both were absolutely stunning. The hotel's infinity pool definitely lives up to its reputation; the views are unforgettable and it's an absolute must-visit spot when in Singapore. The breakfast spread was extensive, with a great variety of both Western and Asian options, all of which tasted delicious. Overall, everything from the environment and facilities to the service was impeccable. It was a very enjoyable and memorable stay. If I ever visit Singapore again, I will definitely choose this hotel, and I'll be recommending it to all my friends and family!
FromDKK 6,843
8.9/10Very Good1115 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|2.11km from city centre
The pictures online were a bit misleading. When I booked for 3 people with 3 breakfasts, it showed a king-size bed with a sofa bed, but upon arrival, there was only one king-size bed. It was quite a squeeze for three of us. When we tried to communicate with the hotel, there was a Chinese-speaking woman who refused to speak Chinese, which was frustrating. We had to contact Trip.com customer service, who said there were no other rooms available. We then tried to communicate with the hotel again to ask for a sofa bed. The hotel said they would charge for it, and it worked out to be over 500 RMB per day, which for 6 days felt unreasonable. In the end, we reluctantly squeezed into one bed. Although we managed to sleep, it wasn't comfortable, and the bed was extremely soft, leaving us feeling tired. The hotel facilities are relatively new, and the room is quite large, especially the bathroom. The shower pressure was excellent, but the water flow from the sink was a bit weak – a suggestion for improvement. The hotel is about a 7-minute walk from MRT Exit 4, but getting into the station itself takes another 7 minutes or so. We used the subway for all our outings, and it was quite convenient. The hotel breakfast wasn't extensive, but it was enough to fill up on if you took your time. The omelets were delicious and made fresh. Fruits and vegetables are very expensive in Singapore supermarkets, so we tried to make the most of breakfast at the hotel, where we could enjoy plenty of fruits, vegetables, and salads. Of course, if you want to eat out, it's also very convenient. There's a Great Wall shopping mall about a 10-minute walk away with many dining options. The hotel is right next to the Singapore River. You can walk through the hotel to get to the river and then stroll along it in the evening towards Merlion Park. Along the way, you'll pass two popular Jumbo Seafood restaurants, which are delicious but quite expensive and always packed with people. There are also many other dining establishments along the way, and the night view is beautiful. Hotel prices fluctuate a lot, so keep a close eye on them, even if you've locked in a rate, it can change. It takes about 1.5 hours to get to Changi Airport by MRT. Overall, it's a decent hotel. There are a lot of foreigners staying here, and I saw many adorable foreign children. If you're looking for a spacious, modernly decorated hotel, this could be a good choice.
FromDKK 1,095
9.1/10Great1958 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km from city centre
I was quite anxious before my trip, worried about bad service or a poor room. However, as soon as I entered the lobby, someone immediately came to help with my luggage without any differential treatment, which instantly put me at ease. I had booked two months in advance, and at check-in, the front desk even specifically mentioned the requests I made in my booking email and assigned the room accordingly – truly excellent! The room was very clean and spacious; even with two 26-inch suitcases open, there was still plenty of room. The bedding didn't feel damp or anything, and I slept very comfortably until morning. The hotel's location is excellent; you can walk to several popular attractions nearby. Downstairs, there are plenty of dining options, and the metro and bus lines are also very convenient. I've already recommended it to friends, and if I visit Singapore again, I'll definitely choose this hotel.
FromDKK 1,063
9.3/10Great2310 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km from city centre
Our family trip to Singapore lasted a full 8 days with the kids. Although the country is smaller than a single district in Beijing, I feel like I've had a fairly in-depth experience. We stayed at four different hotels, and this was our first. It wasn't the most expensive, but I felt it offered the best service: 1. **Food & Service:** I really liked the handmade noodles at the breakfast buffet – they were quite unique. We happened to be there during National Day, and the hotel gave us a box of chocolates. They then followed up with chocolate souvenirs for two consecutive evenings. 2. **Location & Transportation:** The location was excellent. It was only a two-minute walk to catch the Duck Tour, making the exchange and boarding process very convenient. We could also easily access the Sunset Flight. Although this year's National Day fireworks weren't visible from this location, considering we had kids and didn't want to walk much, the location was still very suitable. 3. **Surrounding Amenities:** The MRT station wasn't far from the hotel, and there was a shopping mall nearby. Transportation in Singapore is also very convenient, with clear MRT maps. For getting around, we'd take the MRT whenever possible, and taxis when it wasn't. Taxi fares weren't expensive, and it felt quite worthwhile, especially with kids and a lot of luggage. If I go to Singapore again, this hotel would be my first choice. When we checked in, there were a lot of people, and our luggage took over two hours to be delivered to our room. However, after we called the front desk, they immediately followed up. This was just a minor hiccup and understandable.
FromDKK 2,226

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Business travel

8.7/10Very Good1582 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|1.94km from city centre
The room was relatively spacious, which I really liked. The bathroom even had a bathtub, and we had a view of a church from the window. It's in a quiet location. The service was quite good, and they offered luggage storage. If you exit the hotel and turn left, you'll find the Esplanade MRT station (Exit A) on the Circle Line. There's a laundry room on the 4th floor; washing and drying costs 10 SGD, and you can get coins at the front desk on the ground floor. I didn't get to check out the pool. If you haven't booked breakfast, there are shops across from the hotel where you can grab a bite.
FromDKK 758
8.7/10Very Good1807 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.32km from city centre
Facilities: The room was very small, not big enough to open two suitcases, but it did have a mini-fridge, kettle, and hairdryer. There was a microwave on each floor in the hallway, and you could get drinking water in the lobby on the first floor. Cleanliness: I stayed for two days, and there was no housekeeping service. It seems they only clean every three days. The bathroom trash can was especially small and overflowed after two days. Environment: The room was very damp, and there was a strong musty smell every time I entered. I had to turn on the air conditioning to air it out. Service: The taxi dropped us off directly on the second floor of the hotel. Self check-in was a bit confusing and there was no guidance to go to the first floor for assistance. As a result, our two rooms weren't even on the same floor. I'd recommend going directly to the front desk on the first floor for check-in; they speak basic Chinese. The room truly was super small. The hotel facilities are comparable to a budget hotel in China. They don't provide bottled water or disposable slippers. Singapore prices are definitely high; you could get a much better place in Kuala Lumpur for half the price. The hotel's location is excellent, very convenient for the subway and taxis. There are many eateries nearby. Ya Kun Kaya Toast had a long queue in the morning but was less busy in the afternoon. The Wok Hey chili pan mee next door was pretty good and suitable for Chinese palates. There's a small bar on the first floor with live music at night, creating a nice atmosphere. Overall, it's suitable for young travelers but not ideal for those traveling with children or the elderly.
FromDKK 604
8/10Very Good1028 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.77km from city centre
My stay at Studio M Hotel Singapore was a mixed experience that balanced comfort with a frustrating service encounter. On the positive side, the rooms are thoughtfully designed and stand out from typical city hotels. The loft-style layout gives a sense of space that feels both modern and functional, especially for a short stay. The bed was comfortable, the room was clean, and the overall aesthetic had a sleek, contemporary vibe that makes it appealing for both business and leisure travelers. The location is also a strong advantage. Situated along the Singapore River, it offers easy access to dining spots and is within reasonable distance of key areas like Clarke Quay. It’s convenient enough without being right in the middle of the noise, which I appreciated. However, the experience was let down by the lack of flexibility from the front desk staff. During check-in, I did not have my IC or passport on hand, and while I understand the need for verification, the handling of the situation felt unnecessarily rigid. There was little effort to explore alternative solutions or offer reassurance, which made the process more stressful than it needed to be. In a hospitality setting, a bit of understanding and problem-solving goes a long way, and this was noticeably lacking. That said, once past the check-in issue, the rest of the stay was relatively smooth. The facilities were decent, and housekeeping maintained a good standard throughout. Overall, Studio M delivers well on comfort, design, and location, but the service experience—particularly at the front desk—could benefit from a more guest-centric approach. It’s a great place to stay if everything goes according to plan, but if you run into any hiccups, be prepared for a by-the-book response rather than a flexible one.
FromDKK 685
9/10Great1857 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|2.1km from city centre
Traveling with family, the hotel's location was unexpectedly excellent. It's right next to a large shopping mall that has a Pop Mart where you can find many limited edition items. Downstairs from the mall, there are plenty of food options, a supermarket, and both a subway and bus station just a few minutes' walk away. The facilities are very comprehensive. It's also only a 5-minute walk from Fort Canning Park. While the room was small, it was very clean, making it perfect for those with high hygiene standards. The front desk staff were very prompt with cleaning and always tried their best to accommodate any requests. Plus, there's free ice cream in the afternoon and complimentary drinks provided daily.
FromDKK 793
8.3/10Very Good2103 Reviews
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km from city centre
The room I was given was quite good, larger than pictured, and some staff members speak Chinese. The location is pretty good; you can catch the subway right across the street, and there's a bus stop nearby. They gave us two breakfast vouchers, but whatever you do, don't eat it! The breakfast is really bad. I suggest not booking a room that includes breakfast; there's Ya Kun Kaya Toast in the mall right opposite! The hotel is quite clean, and the service is okay too.
FromDKK 543

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Family friendly

8.1/10Very Good1229 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.
FromDKK 845
9.2/10Great1171 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.46km from city centre
The hotel is right across from Haji Lane, making it super convenient for exploring the night market, and the nearby Ya Kun Kaya Toast is delicious. The room is small but clean and tidy, which is quite good for Singapore. The pool is beautiful with a view of the Ferris wheel, and the night view is stunning.
FromDKK 1,348
8/10Very Good873 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.87km from city centre
The hotel is great. The elevators are quite large and fast, so you never have to wait long. The rooms are cleaned thoroughly and promptly. The bed in the room is big and has just the right firmness. There's plenty of space in the room, easily enough for 6-7 large suitcases. Within about a 10-minute walk, you can reach a large shopping mall, or a 5-minute walk will get you to a food court where you can grab breakfast. The hotel is very close to both bus and metro stations, and it only takes about 20 minutes to get to the city center, making its location very convenient. The front desk service is also excellent. The hotel has a pool and a gym, so the facilities are good.
FromDKK 586
8.4/10Very Good728 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.
FromDKK 636
8.5/10Very Good830 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.59km from city centre
This hotel is super close to Bugis MRT station, just a two-minute walk. The room facilities are a bit dated, but the room itself is significantly larger than other hotels in the same price range, showing its former glory. It's also very near the Sultan Mosque, so you can easily pop over for a visit.
FromDKK 775

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Swimming pool

9/10Great2622 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.61km from city centre
The marina view from the room was absolutely the best part! I really appreciated being given a room with a great view, just as I requested. I also really liked the in-room drink service and the fact that we could use Studio 26. As someone who isn't great at English, being able to communicate requests and ask questions via chat was a great service. However, I did feel that the amenities were fewer than what you'd typically find in a 5-star hotel. Also, as mentioned in other reviews (though I quickly got used to it), there was a noticeable musty smell. Overall, it's a hotel I would definitely want to stay at again!
FromDKK 2,195
8.7/10Very Good1415 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
The Oasia Resort Sentosa is definitely the top choice for your trip to Sentosa! It's just about a hundred meters from the Imbiah Express Station, making transportation incredibly convenient. You can easily get to Universal Studios, the beach, and the Festive Walk for dining and entertainment all in one go. The hotel environment is clean and tidy, and the service is gentle and attentive; any requests are quickly resolved. Overall, it's very suitable for family trips, with a relaxing holiday atmosphere and an excellent location. You don't have to travel long distances to visit the major attractions, which I'm very satisfied with.
FromDKK 1,296
9.3/10Great1726 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|0.83km from city centre
A beautiful hotel surrounded by lush greenery. As soon as you step inside, there's a lovely fresh scent. It boasts an infinity pool and a sky garden, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The location is also excellent, with Clarke Quay and Chinatown within walking distance. The hotel is very committed to environmental protection and sustainability! ♻️
FromDKK 1,889
9.1/10Great4170 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km from city centre
1. It's important to clarify that the Marina Bay room type faces south, and Marina Bay Sands is located to the east of the hotel. 2. The hotel lobby is usually crowded because it's connected to a mall, making it very convenient to buy food and other necessities. 3. There are separate elevator zones for high-rise and low-rise floors. The pool is shared with the Fairmont and is located on the eighth floor. 4. It's very convenient to walk around and explore the surroundings. The high-floor views are worth experiencing. Facilities: Well-maintained, but there are three things to note: First, to shower, you have to step into the bathtub. Second, there's a small tile outside the bathroom that's very slippery, so be careful. Third, the hairdryer outlet is outside the bathroom, so you have to dry your hair there. The hotel also provides a charging adapter. Cleanliness: Good, with attention to detail. Environment: Both the views from the hotel and the interior are impressive. Service: Quick response time; pressing a button in the room immediately gets a response.
FromDKK 1,972
8.8/10Very Good553 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|1km from city centre
This is my go-to hotel for business trips. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, and the hotel's own dining options are excellent. It's a very comfortable stay. The service is outstanding; I was able to check in early, and the room was spotlessly clean and beautifully renovated, with a sleek, modern design.
FromDKK 1,525

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great3328 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
Stayed here for 4 nights and found the location extremely convenient. It sits right in the heart of Orchard Road with excellent connectivity. While the room is on the smaller side and the hotel gets quite crowded, it is a great choice if you are visiting for business and prioritize location and easy transport.
FromDKK 635
8.8/10Very Good2612 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
We booked a family room, which turned out to be two connecting standard rooms. The room was quite small with no wardrobe, just three hangers on the wall. The third-floor pool area is incredible, with a total of four pools. The largest is an infinity pool, which is quite deep, while the other three are all under 0.95 meters. For check-in, you can scan a QR code to register your passport information first, then find the lobby manager to skip the queue. The Indian guy at the front desk was very nice and gave us the keys at 1 PM. Breakfast purchased at the front desk gets an 18% discount, costing 36 SGD per adult. The breakfast was standard; there was no host to seat us, so we had to find our own table. There were noodle and egg stations, but nothing particularly outstanding. The hotel offers a shuttle bus to VivoCity every half hour. It's a 5-minute walk to Resorts World Sentosa. Beach Station is a 10-minute walk away, where you can take a free monorail to the three beaches. Buses A and B can take you around the island.
FromDKK 1,296
7.5/101882 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.59km from city centre
Overall, the room was quite small and the facilities were a bit old. The bedding was clean, no bugs or anything. However, it wasn't a duvet but more like a blanket made of a large bath towel material. Let's just say it kept me from getting cold while sleeping. The air conditioner was clunking loudly at first, but miraculously, it quieted down after I adjusted the settings – I guess I got lucky. My child left the travel adapter in the room. Several hours later, I went to the front desk, and despite my broken English, the lovely front desk staff found it for me. A quick registration and it was all sorted. The overall service was quite warm and welcoming. Staying one night was acceptable. Oh, and by the way, there's no wet/dry separation in the bathroom. If that's important to you, make sure to check before booking. Many hotels in Singapore don't have wet/dry separation, likely due to space constraints. It's within walking distance of Clarke Quay, which I recommend visiting at night – it's very close. It's also not far from the MRT station. If you're up for a walk, you can even stroll to Fort Canning Park.
FromDKK 401
8.3/10Very Good1134 Reviews
Lavender / Kallang Singapore|3.73km from city centre
i have always booked this place whenever im nearby for work and need a place to crash, receptionist are always nice and welcoming. very good place
FromDKK 432
8.5/10Very Good1633 Reviews
Novena Singapore|4.21km from city centre
Had a pleasant stay. Plan to book the same hotel on my next trip. Staff were very helpful. A shout out to Alice, Rina GRO, Spencer Front Desk, Chinese young guy Front Desk, Stevani cleaner & Nadarajah Bell Man Service for being pleasant & helpful. These staff made my stay pleasant. Thank you so much!
FromDKK 646

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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

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

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

Mandai Wildlife Reserve

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

Night Safari

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 🍜

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!

Singapore awaits you with its futuristic skyscrapers, exceptional cuisine, and unique experiences! Whether you're drawn to Marina Bay, authentic cultural districts, theme parks, or hawker food, Singapore is just waiting for you!

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 ❓

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