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 £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 |
Explore Singapore's unique attractions
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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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Our Top Picks
5 star
Great2140 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
This hotel was the best one our family of three stayed at during our trip to Singapore. Since mid-July is my husband's and my wedding anniversary, I noted it on the booking. The hotel was incredibly thoughtful! Because of a typhoon, I only booked the night before. When we checked in, not only was the room decorated, but there were also cute drawings on the mirror and a lovely little card. When we returned to the hotel after exploring, there was even a row of mini cakes on the table! We were truly touched. Plus, there were many staff members who spoke Chinese and were willing to communicate in Chinese, unlike some of the later hotels where staff clearly understood Chinese but wouldn't use it. Their hotel is also very clean and beautiful! The pool is spotless and the gym has a great selection of equipment. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Singapore!From€157
Amazing1878 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!From€944
Very Good1102 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|2.11km from city centre
The room was decent, comparable to a mid-range hotel like Ji Hotel or Atour in China. For the price in Singapore, it was alright. The service, however, was just okay, not particularly warm. When I arrived, no one helped with my luggage from the car, and when I mentioned I was in a hurry to check out, the front desk staff was unhurried and quite perfunctory. Interestingly, they were exceptionally enthusiastic with English-speaking foreigners. Perhaps many Chinese tourists stay here at this price point, leading to a noticeable difference in service attitude. I wouldn't have stayed here if my wife and kids hadn't changed their plans and returned to China unexpectedly.From€175
Great1950 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km from city centre
First off, the location is incredibly convenient. Getting around is a breeze, and we could walk to most attractions. Even after a concert at 11 PM, we could easily take the subway back, and the walk felt very safe. Secondly, the room was bigger than expected, which was a real treat in high-density Singapore. The facilities were new, and they provided complimentary bottled water. The front desk staff were absolutely wonderful – so warm and attentive. The hotel's overall environment was fantastic too, very quiet and clean. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Singapore. Five stars!From€165
Amazing2239 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km from city centre
The hotel's overall environment is great, with a very stylish design. The room size is quite generous, no problem at all opening a 28-inch suitcase, and there's even a small balcony. Aside from the sink and shower drainage being a bit slow, everything else was fine. Plus, the two beds can be pushed together easily thanks to the wheels underneath, which is quite convenient. The breakfast was also very rich and definitely worth the price.
Not only does the front desk offer Chinese-speaking service, but the dining area does too, which is super convenient for those who aren't very confident with English. Finally, regarding the location, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Merlion and a 2-minute walk to the DUCKtour. Other nearby attractions are also very close, and there's a large shopping mall right next door, making dining and shopping very accessible as well.From€339
Business travel
Very Good1564 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|1.94km from city centre
I booked the Queen Connecting Room. The room size wasn't very big, and the decor felt a bit dated, but the bed was very comfortable, and the service was prompt. The room had local power outlets, so no adapter was needed, which was convenient. The breakfast selection was a bit limited, but items were replenished quickly. The hotel is conveniently located with easy access to public transport, including the subway.From€112
Very Good1771 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.32km from city centre
The room wasn't as small as I expected, which was a pleasant surprise. Having a hot water dispenser was really convenient. The front desk provided slippers and toothbrushes, which was a nice touch. It's within walking distance to the Merlion, making it super convenient for sightseeing. There are plenty of great food options right across the street and a 7-Eleven nearby.From€98
Very Good1011 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.From€127
Great1883 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|2.1km from city centre
Facilities: All essential amenities are provided, including disposable toiletries, towels, bath towels, a hairdryer, and even a mini-fridge and an iron (though I didn't use it). The second floor offers a private space with power outlets and a desk. It's compact but sufficient; a 20-inch suitcase can be laid out on the desk, and downstairs, two 24-inch suitcases can easily be opened simultaneously. The bathroom has drinkable tap water.
Cleanliness: Very clean, no insects or anything of the sort.
Environment: I'm really satisfied. The hallway is very quiet, and the soundproofing is excellent; you can't hear any noise during resting hours. The air conditioning is powerful.
Service: The room includes complimentary snacks, tea bags, and coffee, but beverages are extra. Every morning when I left, I’d encounter the housekeeping staff, with whom I could communicate using simple English. The front desk service is great, and they offer free luggage storage.
Security is also excellent; you need to use your room key card to access your designated floor. From 3 PM to 6 PM, there's complimentary ice cream. Although breakfast isn't included, there are breakfast spots on the first floor and downstairs at the hotel opposite the All Seasons building, as well as in the mall across from the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Transportation is also very convenient! The MRT and bus stops are incredibly close, and Dhoby Ghaut is an interchange for three MRT lines. Bus 36, which goes directly to the airport, is also nearby (just make sure you're going in the right direction).
One more important thing! Fort Canning Park is nearby, and the famous 'tree tunnel' photo spot is right downstairs from the All Seasons building! It's very easy to find, so if you arrive early, you can go take your photos right away. All in all, my trip to Singapore was made even better because of this hotel.☺️From€130
Very Good2077 Reviews
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km from city centre
The location was super convenient for Universal Studios. We spent one day there and another day at Sentosa and the S.E.A. Aquarium. It was also easy to grab a meal at Vivocity on the way back. Plus, the bus stop for Singapore-Malaysia buses was within walking distance, which was a huge plus. Honestly, convenience is the main takeaway here!From€125
Family friendly
Very Good1214 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.92km from city centre
The location is great, right near Siloso Beach on Sentosa. It's about a 10-minute walk from the monorail station. The hotel has its own pool, and the rooms are quite clean. There's also a breakfast buffet on the first floor, which is very convenient.From€116
Great1151 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.46km from city centre
The location is fantastic, just a few minutes' walk from the MRT station. It was super convenient to get to places like Marina Bay, Fort Canning, and Chinatown by subway. Haji Lane is right across from the hotel, with tons of food and shops. Suntec City mall, which has Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, is also an easy 15-minute walk away. The hotel breakfast was quite generous, and the staff were very friendly. Definitely recommend!From€231
Very Good863 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.From€143
Very Good749 Reviews
Singapore Changi Airport Region Singapore|16.02km from city centre
Good deal when you wanted to have rest right away after play at wild wild wet specially when you travel with young kid!From€87
Very Good828 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.59km from city centre
This is an older hotel with basic facilities. It's comparable to a 3-star hotel in China, and the breakfast is about what you'd expect from a 3-4 star hotel there. Of course, the price is also around 300, but in Singapore dollars.
If you're not traveling with family, you'd find much better standard room options and accommodations for the same price. Our family of four stayed here specifically for the two large beds.
The hotel's location isn't far from the MRT station. Haji Lane and BOSS HOTEL (the starting point for the Legoland shuttle) are all within walking distance, and there are many bus routes nearby, making transportation very convenient. There are plenty of food and drink options downstairs, and there's an Indian minimart across the street from the hotel that's much cheaper than the 7-Eleven down the block.
I misplaced something and when I called, they immediately knew which room I was in and what I had lost, which shows excellent coordination between the front desk and housekeeping. Thumbs up for that!From€149
Swimming pool
Great2650 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.61km from city centre
The hotel's location is convenient, connected to a shopping mall, allowing direct access to Marina Square via an escalator from the hotel's passage. After reaching the mall, turn right and walk straight to the end to find a bridge to Suntec City. The lobby is beautiful, and the room is clean and spacious, though it doesn't have a bathtub. The night view is stunning; the photo was taken from the 7th floor. The swimming pool is 1.2 meters deep and the water quality is clean. There's a wide variety of breakfast options, and the food tastes good. This hotel is very popular, so elevator wait times can be a bit longer, and they tend to be crowded. Overall, the check-in experience was satisfactory.From€403
Very Good1411 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
Our original booking was for a deluxe garden room, but even before entering, the door was already very damp. Inside, there was a musty smell, and a lot of mold around the sink. Later, my husband went to the toilet and said there were many bugs... So he rushed to the front desk to report it... Afterward, they moved us to a larger room! But our family of three still felt a bit shaken... Although the lobby and pool are quite beautiful, we still won't be staying here again... We didn't even receive a complimentary greeting for our anniversary celebration... We had the highest expectations for this hotel, but it turned out to be the least satisfactory stay during our 9 days in Singapore, and the service was just mediocre! (The attached photos show the original room first, followed by the room we were moved to!)From€212
Great1751 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|0.83km from city centre
Revisiting Singapore after ten years, I still chose to stay at the same hotel, letting my kids relive their 'embryonic' experience, haha!
The location is superb; major landmarks are within walking distance, and there are three subway lines right outside the door. Getting to a concert is a breeze – blue line to yellow line, and I was there in half an hour. The airport is also convenient, blue line to green line, about 45 minutes. It's close to Chinatown, with endless food options.
The hotel has been well-maintained over the past decade; the facilities are still quite new. The rooms are as eco-friendly and clean as ever, though after ten years, it does lack a bit of modern tech – no bidet, no smart home system. The main gimmick is the mechanical robotic arm at the self-service breakfast.
The room size is average, not particularly large. The window faces the Singapore Attorney-General's Chambers, with its twin towers of a similar architectural style. The infinity pool on the 5th floor was already picture-perfect ten years ago.
The service is good, very responsive to requests, and increasingly friendly towards Chinese tourists. However, it still falls short compared to Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong or Aranya in China. It's more business-oriented, with no special arrangements for families with children.
The Lime restaurant's buffet breakfast is quite average. It's really not worth paying an extra S$23 for children when you can get authentic Nanyang breakfast at Ya Kun or Toast Box nearby.
I must commend the amenities: a full set of Appelles essential oil skincare and haircare products – they smell and feel great. There's also Bacha drip coffee, TWG tea, and a capsule coffee machine.From€278
Great4144 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km from city centre
First off, the location is excellent; it's right by the subway exit, which is super convenient. The Marina Bay night view is also stunning. However, there are no fireworks, no fireworks, no fireworks! What online sources say about seeing fireworks is inaccurate; you can't see them at all. On the night I stayed, it was a National Day fireworks rehearsal, and all I could hear were the sounds, but I couldn't see anything. Regarding hotel service, they claim to have Chinese-speaking staff, but it's very difficult to find them. Most don't speak Chinese and won't help you find someone who does. It's basically a situation where they speak a lot, and I don't understand, and what I say they don't quite get either. Aside from completing the check-in, I didn't really grasp a lot of what they said. However, perhaps because my registration included my son and daughter, when we entered the room, we found they had already thoughtfully added an extra bed for free, which made sleeping quite comfortable and was a great touch.From€278
Very Good538 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|1km from city centre
The room was very clean and the service was excellent. Check-in took a bit long, but the buffet dinner was good. It's conveniently located close to the main hotels. I'll definitely stay here again next time.From€182
Breakfast
Great3238 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
Although the price was quite high during the summer holidays and the room was a bit small, the facilities were comprehensive and the location was very convenient. It's about 200 meters from the Orchard Road MRT station, making it easy to reach places like Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, Chinatown, and Little India, mostly by direct subway lines. It's highly recommended.From€117
Very Good2586 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
Overall, it's pretty good. The location is convenient, and there's an Express and hotel shuttle bus service available, allowing you to explore the entire Sentosa Island freely. The most pleasant surprise was that the hotel is connected to the Kidzania building. After exploring the southernmost point, you can cool down indoors and then return to the hotel via the roof garden, avoiding the need to retrace your steps to wait for and take a bus. The rooms are clean and tidy, and there are four swimming pools, satisfying both adults and children. On the flight back, my kids were excited and felt a connection when they saw clips of the hotel's swimming pools in the airline's safety briefing video.
The only two minor drawbacks are that room cleaning only happens after 5 PM, which isn't ideal for families traveling with young children or those who are easily tired. Even if bed linens and towels don't need changing, it would be nice if they could at least empty the trash. Secondly, the breakfast selection is a bit limited, making the price for breakfast not great value for money. However, I want to give a special shout-out to a middle-aged male waiter during breakfast. I observed him for two days; while all the other staff were good, he was exceptional! 👍🏼 Not only did he greet guests with a smile, but he also politely nodded and said goodbye. This dedicated and professional attitude made guests feel truly at home.From€269
1865 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.59km from city centre
We booked connecting rooms, but on the first night, the two rooms we were given were next to each other on a low floor, and there were some ants. Plus, the air conditioning in one room couldn't be turned off! That wasn't great. Thankfully, the staff were all very nice and helpful, especially with the elderly. On the second day, they moved us to a higher floor connecting room.From€68
Very Good1115 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!From€70
Very Good1596 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!From€91
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 ❓
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What can you do in Singapore in one day?
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What are the must-see attractions in Singapore?
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Where is the best area to stay in Singapore?
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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.
August 16, 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.
August 16, 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.
August 16, 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.
August 16, 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.
August 16, 2026
Trip.com Singapore Travel Deals & Promo Codes - August 2026
Find the latest Trip.com Singapore promo codes, discount codes and voucher deals to save on hotels, flights and attractions across Singapore.
August 16, 2026
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