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

9.1/10Great2188 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
Booked 1 night stay for mother’s birthday. Hotel and the staff was excellent. Especially frontdesk staff named Shathees. Helpful and efficient. Requested for a room changed and he settled immediately without any waiting. Thumbs up Shathees for the excellent service. Food was superb.
From€157
9.7/10Amazing1747 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km from city centre
The hotel's facilities and services were impeccable. It was my mother's birthday during our stay, and they surprised her with a cake and upgraded our room to a suite, which I found incredibly touching. The infinity pool experience was superb; although we couldn't see the sunset due to hazy weather, the night view was absolutely captivating. We also visited the pool the next morning, and since there were very few people, I was able to swim without any obstructions for a long time, feeling like I had the entire massive infinity pool to myself. Before bringing my mother, I just wanted to try it out, but the experience far exceeded my expectations, so I would definitely love to come back again if I have the chance.
From€624
9/10Great1153 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|2.11km from city centre
The location is pretty good, and the rooms facing the river are quiet. However, the hotel's internal soundproofing isn't great; you can hear people talking in the hallway. Still, it's a decent stay. Breakfast is just average, but then again, most hotel breakfasts in Singapore are. There's a mall about 300 meters away, so food and drinks are convenient. I really liked the window view, so I'm giving it five stars. Check-in was too slow.
From€229
9/10Great1998 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km from city centre
The hotel upgraded me to a corner top 3 floor unit without being prompt as they aware it was my birthday that day. A birthday cake greeted me personally by a staff member. Facilities were a bit run down, no bathrobe were provided. Water closet do not have bidet function water pressure can be improved, wash basin hot water takes quite a while to heat up. TV channels were limited especially sports channel and entertainment channel. AC is cold enough but noises were evident especially in middle of night. All day dining not available as Cafe at lobby were closed at between meals and no one picked up phone for room service at about 3pm but luckily plenty of food options at surrounding area like Chijmes. Pool a little too small but service staff were lively and cheerful and gym facilities were modern but shoulder/chest compression station was sorely missed.
From€149
9.4/10Amazing2400 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km from city centre
The environment and facilities are excellent, living up to the image of a high-end hotel. The lobby decoration is particularly outstanding. Large malls are located on both sides, making shopping and dining very convenient. The service is professional and attentive. I'd like to share two small details: Firstly, the room has a capsule coffee machine. When I first checked in, I wasn't familiar with its operation and accidentally wasted the first capsule. It wasn't broken, just had a few small holes poked in it. I casually placed it with the other unused capsules. The next day, I found it had been replaced with a new one, which shows that the room was thoroughly cleaned and organized. Secondly, because I had an early flight, I needed to check out in the early morning. The hotel offers an express check-out process. You just need to fill out the check-out form in advance, drop it along with your room card at a designated spot, and you can leave directly. This definitely deserves praise.
From€289

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Business travel

8.7/10Very Good1631 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|1.94km from city centre
The room was spacious, and the staff cleaned it thoroughly every day. Free cold water was available in the hallway, and the hot water supply was excellent. Compared to other hotels, it offered great value for money. Public transport, including buses and the MRT, was accessible right outside. Within about 300 meters, you could find Ya Kun Kaya Toast and Toast Box. It's also conveniently located next to SMU, with a church nearby, and the overall environment is very pleasant.
From€102
8.6/10Very Good1842 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.32km from city centre
Cool youth hotel. There's a bar called Mars downstairs with live music (probably only on weekends), and a cafe-like place outside. I also liked the neighborhood; it's conveniently located near several art universities, so there's an art vibe everywhere. I understand this is a budget option for Singapore, so the rooms are small but very well-designed, and all amenities were provided. No deposit was required at check-in! There are various eateries and a 7/11 nearby.
From€115
8.1/10Very Good1034 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 💖💕💓♥️😘🌺🩷🎊🎉😻🥰😘😋🤩🥳🤩🎊🎉
From€124
9/10Great1828 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|2.1km from city centre
Location : Good and within 8mins walking distance to Dhoby G train station and bus station Water Pressure : Overhead shower was ok but handheld shower need more pressure Good with - Room was small but equipped with most items required for a short stay. - Convenient with pickup/drop off area - Able to accommodate early check in with some fees when they have next available room - Complimentary mini bar - Courteous service - Good water pressure Even better if - It will be better if they also have additional/bigger space for luggage placement - Better if they have self service laundry room with washing machine and dryer - They could send our delivery up to our room - If only they could accommodate early check in without additional fees - Additional clothes hanging string in the toilet
From€112
8.4/10Very Good2085 Reviews
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km from city centre
Greater than I expected! ❤️ I had a really good stay at Travelodge Harbourfront Singapore, and honestly, the hotel was greater than I expected. First, let’s talk about the location. It’s located just opposite VivoCity, so everything is really convenient. The MRT station is about a 5-minute walk away, and if you’re looking for breakfast or a quick meal, you can easily walk over to VivoCity. There’s even a linkway connecting the hotel to the mall, which makes getting around so easy, especially after a long day outside. The lobby is cozy and comfortable, with plenty of seating areas. The staff were also really nice and welcoming. I was especially glad that they kindly offered us an early check-in, which was really helpful. The room is small, but honestly, it was good enough for two people. The highlight for me was definitely the bed — SO comfortable! I slept really well every night after a long day of walking around Singapore. I also liked that the bathroom separates the dry and wet areas. And the shower pressure was surprisingly strong! After being out the whole day, having a good hot shower was one of the little things I really enjoyed. They also provide bottled water, disposable slippers, coffee and tea, as well as some basic necessities tucked away in the drawers, which was convenient. Overall, I had a really comfortable and pleasant stay here. I especially loved how comfy the bed was — after a long day out, coming back to a comfortable room and a good shower was exactly what I needed. ❤️ Would definitely consider staying here again the next time I’m in Singapore!
From€86

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Family friendly

8/10Very Good1258 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.
From€114
9.2/10Great1237 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.46km from city centre
Had a really pleasant stay at PARKROYAL on Beach Road. The hotel is in a convenient location, making it easy to get around Singapore and explore nearby attractions and dining spots. The room was comfortable, clean, and well-maintained, with everything I needed for a relaxing stay. I especially enjoyed the overall atmosphere of the hotel — modern, welcoming, and comfortable without feeling overly formal. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, and the service was attentive and professional. The facilities were also well-kept, making the hotel a great choice whether you’re staying for a short getaway or a business trip. Overall, I had a very enjoyable experience and would definitely consider staying at PARKROYAL on Beach Road again. A comfortable hotel with a great location and good service.
From€207
7.9/10Good896 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.87km from city centre
Positives: - very child friendly hotel. With free small indoor playground, san pit, children golf, toys to play at the swimming pool just to name a few - 7/11 on site and various vending machines to settle most necessities without leaving hotel - laundry room - 2 chargeable indoor playgrounds within the hotel - room tv allows logging into YouTube, Netflix, Disney etc - each floor has a lounge area where there is a microwave oven and you can pick up items like towels, cotton buds, tea bags, instant coffee etc.. Negatives - sound insulation quite bad. Can hear the next room and sound along the corridor - water pressure slightly weak and takes a bit of time for water to become hot - very limited tv channels
From€118
8.4/10Very Good721 Reviews
Singapore Changi Airport Region Singapore|16.02km from city centre
When we checked in, we were greeted by a lovely lady. We were all looking tired from our travels and seeing that, she gave us a complimentary upgrade to 2 queen beds. When we entered in the room it was soooo spacious! Please pass on my gratitude to this lady. This hotel was definately in a walkable distance from Wild Wild Wet - water theme park and also a shopping mall so it was really convenient. I chose this place as it was so near to the airport and we didnt have to travel to far as well. Thank you for an amazing stay with you and we hope to be back soon.
From€102
8.4/10Very Good859 Reviews
Bugis Singapore|2.59km from city centre
The room was large, but dated with old furnishings. I have to commend the housekeeping staff, they did an amazing job with the cleaning despite the age of the place, and their service was excellent. The front desk staff, however, were quite mediocre. Maybe it's a local thing, whatever. 😐
From€156

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Swimming pool

9.1/10Great2569 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.61km from city centre
This was my first time bringing my mom to Singapore, and we booked two nights here. It took about 20-25 minutes by taxi from the airport to the hotel. As soon as we stepped out of the car, we felt right at home. The staff at the entrance helped us with our luggage, and a friendly bellhop guided us to the reception for check-in. The whole check-in process was very smooth, and the front desk staff spoke Chinese, which made communication very easy. Our room was on the 29th floor. The hotel has separate elevators for high and low floors. Our high-floor elevator was on the outside of the building, offering great scenic views. The room facilities were all good, especially the bathroom. The shower had excellent water pressure and was very comfortable, and the bathtub was convenient. The faucet even had direct drinking water, which was of good quality. The breakfast offered a wide variety of choices, including Western, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Indian, and Singaporean cuisines. All the ingredients were fresh, and I especially loved the fishball noodles and the omelette – truly unforgettable. The pool had two areas, one deep and one shallow, with clean water and a beautiful environment, offering direct views of the Marina Bay Sands hotel. After seeing the pools of other hotels from the scenic elevator, I felt none were as good as this one. The hotel's location is also excellent. You can directly access Suntec City and Marina Square shopping malls from the second floor. Suntec City, in particular, has a ton of great food options, including Song Fa Bak Kut Teh! Getting to the MRT station is also very convenient, and it's just one stop to Gardens by the Bay. I especially want to commend the front desk staff (the one standing inside the door, not the one outside assisting taxi passengers). The first time I took a taxi to the Botanic Gardens, I asked him if my pickup location was correct. He directly called the driver for me and communicated with them to come to the correct spot. Later, I asked him for the shortest way to Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (Google Maps showed a 10-minute walk around a long way), and he told me I could just go up to the second floor. He was patient throughout! It's a pity I forgot his name, but if you could offer him an award, please contact me, and I can confirm who he is. I will definitely come back to Singapore! And I'll stay at this hotel again!
From€322
8.6/10Very Good1418 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
I stayed here ten years ago when it was still Le Meridien. I remembered there was a path directly to Universal Studios, so I booked it. Turns out the path has been permanently closed, and you can't enter and exit Universal multiple times anymore 😂. First, the pros: 1. Convenient location, very close to the Imbiah MRT station. 2. Free bottled water provided, not direct drinking water with unknown filter elements. 3. The pool is beautiful and photo-worthy. Now, the cons: 1. Proactive service awareness is lacking. I presented my child's passport during check-in, but no children's amenities were offered proactively. 2. I stayed for two nights. On the second day, housekeeping only made the bed and emptied the trash. They even wrapped my compression socks directly into the bedding 😂. The hair left in the bathroom from washing my hair on the first day wasn't cleaned either. No toothbrushes, cotton swabs, or anything were provided. 3. The lighting is dim, which I don't particularly like; it felt eerie at night. 4. The pillows were extremely high. I left a note asking for a flatter pillow, but it wasn't replaced. It was too late, so I just made do. The bed felt so soft it sagged, and I woke up with a backache. 5. I only found out it was a connecting room upon check-in. I could hear coughing from next door in the middle of the night.
From€177
9.3/10Great1675 Reviews
Chinatown Singapore|0.83km from city centre
Overall, my stay was great. The hotel is conveniently located, making it easy to get around. The room was clean and tidy with complete amenities, and the soft bedding made for a very comfortable sleep. The bathroom had a separate wet and dry area, and the hot water supply was stable. The staff were enthusiastic, polite, and responsive. Breakfast offered a good variety of options and tasted decent. The environment was quiet, ensuring a good night's rest. It offers good value for money, and I would definitely prioritize this hotel for my next visit.
From€320
9.2/10Great4205 Reviews
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km from city centre
Before checking in, I read some reviews and thought it wouldn't be that great, but to my surprise, the stay was excellent. The room was spacious, and the service was good. When I checked in, there was an issue with the name on the reservation, but the staff patiently helped me find a solution, and I was able to check in smoothly. I'm very grateful for that. I stayed for four nights, and any request I made to housekeeping was attended to promptly. They even gave my child a set of drawing pens. The food at the restaurant was also very abundant, offering specialty breakfasts from various countries. The hotel's location is also superb. Overall, I was satisfied with everything. The only drawback was the hotel's toiletries – the toothbrushes, shampoo, and shower gel were really bad, quite low-grade, and poor quality.
From€253
8.9/10Very Good562 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!
From€236

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great3489 Reviews
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km from city centre
I booked Yotel Singapore Orchard Road online, and it was very convenient and reasonably priced for an overseas trip. The hotel service wasn't extensive, but the breakfast was decent and quite varied. The hotel is in a prime location in Singapore, with great surroundings.
From€97
8.8/10Very Good2617 Reviews
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km from city centre
Was disappointed with the closure of the infinity pool but my hubby was told during check-in that a notice was put up in website although I don’t see it here during booking. :( Came here 2 years before, but I stayed at Outpost. Loved the pool experience, hence decided to return but trying a different hotel. The pools we used this morning were great, looked clean Except for the one in the middle, water looked “milky” and murky, I feedback to the front desk after we checked out. Showed the girl, Farah pic, not sure if there’s any follow up. Otherwise, pools were great plus the guy who did the workout and dance with the guests. Posted the pics and u can see the differences for yourself, the clarity of the water. For the room, I am not sure when’s the last time they thoroughly vacuum or mop their floor in the room as the room is not carpeted. I saw a lot of stains and hairballs in the corners… No view and it’s just a very basic room, small for us to stay 1 night.
From€165
7.5/101923 Reviews
Riverside/ Clarke Quay Singapore|1.59km from city centre
THIS HOTEL IS CYLINDRICAL BECAUSE THEY'VE CUT EVERY CORNER! I really wanted to like this hotel. The location is excellent and the pool and surrounding gardens are genuinely lovely. Unfortunately, what started out as a promising stay (from the photos) turned into one of the most unsettling hotel experiences I've ever had. On my second night, at around 10pm, I encountered two men entering the rooftop pool on the 3rd floor. They asked me to hold the door open as I was returning to my room next door after a moonlit swim because they were laden with several carrier bags. I thought they were staff. The following morning, around 8am, I returned for a sunrise swim and recognised the same two men. They appeared to have spent the night sleeping on the sun loungers. They were smoking and drinking - polishing off an entire bottle of whisky at around 10am. There was no staff presence and seemingly nobody had checked the pool area for approximately 12 hours. I didn't feel safe swimming and reported what I had found to reception. Rather than feeling reassured, I was interrogated by reception staff and told there was no manager on duty. Their reaction was remarkably casual - they seemed fairly nonplussed, simply saying, ”We'll send someone up.” What concerned me most is that the lifts are not guest-card activated, meaning anyone entering the bustling hotel lobby can gain access to all guest floors. My room was on the third floor, adjacent to the pool. I later asked reception about the men. ”Oh yes, they're gone now.” No apparent apology, concern or urgency and still no manager available. When I left the following day, I specifically asked to speak to a manager and, once again, there was nobody on duty. Unfortunately, lax security and two unidentified men bedding down for the night at the pool wasn't the only problem. The thin mattress was so old and worn that the coiled springs were digging into my back, hips and elbows. The bedding was a scratchy brown blanket rather than a proper duvet. An enormous construction site next door started work at exactly 8am every day. The pool itself has seen better days. The sun loungers were worn, tired, smelly and in need of replacement. Even the blue pool slide advertised by the hotel was bone dry and completely out of use. There was no drinking water provided. When I asked for a bottle for the first night, I was told no. When I asked about a filtered water tap, I was told no - I could boil the kettle, drink the bathroom water or go to 7-Eleven. Their lackadaisical response was borderline laughable! One final warning for non-smokers: cigarette smoke is a significant issue. The Level 2 corridors are thick with smoke which permeates the hotel. If you are sensitive to smoke, I recommend requesting Level 3 or above, which benefits from an open atrium allowing air to circulate. Smoking around the pool was also constant during my stay. The Wi-Fi was patchy and there was absolutely no Wi-Fi around the pool. The irony is that the hotel has a beautiful rooftop pool and an excellent location. I gave both 5/5 because they genuinely deserve it. But I gave the service 1/5 because the lack of security, staff presence and management response left me deeply uncomfortable as a solo traveller. There wasn't a single corner of this hotel where I didn't feel like something had been cut back and, by the end, I couldn't help wondering whether I'd inadvertently booked myself into a budget youth hostel rather than a 3.5-star hotel, as advertised. What makes this all such a shame is the hotel's potential. With its riverside views, excellent location, beautiful rooftop pool and gardens, this could be an exquisite venue with a complete refurbishment and, crucially, the right management team. The bones are there - it just desperately needs care, investment and proper management. Beautiful location. Lovely pool. Enormous potential. Very uncomfortable stay.
From€51
8.3/10Very Good1159 Reviews
Lavender / Kallang Singapore|3.73km from city centre
I had a very pleasant stay at Arton Boutique Hotel. The room was clean and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The location was convenient with easy access to public transport, restaurants and nearby shops. Overall, it was a good experience and I would stay here again.
From€66
8.4/10Very Good1709 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.
From€84

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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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