Best places to visit in Singapore
Singapore is a vibrant city-state blending modern innovation with rich cultural heritage. Known for its iconic skyline, lush green spaces, and diverse cuisine, it offers world-class attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
1. Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore's most iconic landmarks, blending luxury and innovation. Its SkyPark observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, Marina Bay, and beyond, making it a prime spot for photography. The infinity pool on the rooftop is a luxurious experience, but it’s exclusive to hotel guests. Within the complex, you'll find a world-class casino, luxury shopping boutiques, and fine dining options by renowned chefs. At night, the light and water show at the event plaza illuminates Marina Bay with mesmerizing colors and music.
Visitors can also explore the ArtScience Museum, located nearby, which features cutting-edge exhibitions blending art and science. Whether you're admiring the skyline or indulging in high-end experiences, Marina Bay Sands captures the essence of modern Singapore, offering something special for everyone.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a stunning showcase of nature and technology. The Supertree Grove, with its towering, tree-like vertical gardens, is a highlight, especially during the nightly light and sound show, Garden Rhapsody. The Cloud Forest, a misty conservatory, features the world's tallest indoor waterfall and a lush mountain teeming with exotic plants. Meanwhile, the Flower Dome offers a global botanical experience, showcasing plants from diverse climates.
This futuristic garden also has outdoor areas, including the Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lakes, which are rich with biodiversity. Families can explore the Far East Organization Children's Garden, while art enthusiasts will appreciate the sculptures throughout the park. Located near Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay is both an educational and visual treat, making it a must-see for visitors looking to experience Singapore's green transformation.
3. Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is Singapore's ultimate destination for entertainment and relaxation. Home to Universal Studios Singapore, visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, exciting shows, and movie-themed attractions. The S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, offers an incredible underwater journey through its massive tanks teeming with marine life. Adventure Cove Waterpark is perfect for adrenaline seekers, with water slides, wave pools, and snorkeling experiences. For those who prefer relaxation, Sentosa's golden beaches—Palawan, Siloso, and Tanjong—are ideal for sunbathing or beach sports.
History enthusiasts can visit Fort Siloso to learn about Singapore’s wartime past. Other attractions include the Sentosa Cable Car, Madame Tussauds Singapore, and the Sentosa SkyHelix for breathtaking views. With its blend of leisure, adventure, and scenic beauty, Sentosa Island promises a memorable day for everyone.
4. Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple stands as a majestic centerpiece, housing a sacred Buddhist relic in a stunning architectural setting. Explore the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn about the lives of early Chinese settlers. The bustling streets are lined with colorful shophouses, where you can shop for souvenirs, traditional crafts, and Chinese medicines.
Maxwell Food Centre, a must-visit, serves local delicacies like chicken rice and dim sum. Chinatown is especially lively during Chinese New Year, with festive decorations and cultural performances. Along Pagoda and Smith Streets, enjoy the aroma of street food stalls and the energy of the night markets. A harmonious blend of the old and the new, Chinatown is a cultural treasure in the heart of modern Singapore.
5. Little India
Little India is a sensory delight that immerses visitors in Singapore's Indian heritage and vibrant street culture. The colorful shophouses along Serangoon Road are filled with textile shops, jewelry stores, and traditional Indian goods.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, is an architectural masterpiece dedicated to the goddess Kali. Tekka Centre is a bustling hub for Indian cuisine, offering favorites like biryani, dosas, and chai. Stroll along Campbell Lane and immerse yourself in the scents of spices, incense, and fresh flowers. Little India comes alive during festivals like Deepavali and Thaipusam, with dazzling lights and cultural processions. Don't miss Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping complex where you can find almost anything. Little India offers a rich cultural experience that contrasts beautifully with Singapore's modern skyline.
6. Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is a riverside hotspot for dining, nightlife, and entertainment. By day, it’s a charming area to stroll along the Singapore River, with colorful restored warehouses housing restaurants and boutique shops. As the sun sets, the area transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include Zouk, one of Asia’s top nightclubs, and the lively Crazy Elephant bar.
Take a scenic boat cruise along the river to admire historical landmarks like Boat Quay and the iconic Fullerton Hotel. For food lovers, Clarke Quay offers a range of cuisines, from seafood specialties to international dishes. The buzzing atmosphere, combined with the backdrop of the river and city lights, makes Clarke Quay a must-visit for those seeking energy and excitement in Singapore.
7. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari
The Singapore Zoo is renowned for its open-concept enclosures that mimic natural habitats, allowing for close-up animal encounters. Home to over 2,800 animals, the zoo features exhibits such as Fragile Forest, showcasing rainforest species, and Wild Africa, with majestic lions and giraffes. The orangutan breakfast program offers a unique dining experience with wildlife. Adjacent to the zoo, the Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, offering a magical journey through the animal kingdom under the stars. Guests can explore via tram rides or walking trails to see creatures like leopards, tapirs, and fishing cats in naturalistic settings.
These two attractions provide an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife in a sustainable and engaging way, making them a must for families and animal lovers.
8. Orchard Road
Orchard Road is Singapore’s premier shopping destination, stretching 2.2 kilometers with luxury malls, high-end boutiques, and department stores. From global designer brands to local labels, Orchard Road caters to every shopper's taste and budget. Malls like ION Orchard and Paragon offer upscale experiences, while places like Orchard Gateway and Far East Plaza are great for unique finds.
Apart from shopping, Orchard Road features trendy cafes, international restaurants, and art installations. The Christmas season transforms the area with dazzling lights and festive displays, attracting both locals and tourists. For a break from shopping, visitors can explore the nearby Singapore Botanic Gardens or catch a movie at one of the high-tech cinemas. Orchard Road is more than a shopping haven—it’s a vibrant lifestyle district offering endless options for leisure and entertainment.
9. Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is a vibrant neighborhood that blends history, culture, and modern creativity. Its centerpiece, the Sultan Mosque, is a stunning architectural landmark with a golden dome and intricate details, attracting visitors and worshippers alike. The surrounding streets are a treasure trove of history, with traditional Malay shophouses now home to hip boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Haji Lane, a narrow alley adorned with colorful murals, is a must-visit for Instagram-worthy moments and independent shops selling quirky fashion and crafts. Arab Street is famous for its textiles, perfumes, and Middle Eastern restaurants serving delicious dishes like hummus and kebabs. Kampong Glam is especially lively during Ramadan and Hari Raya celebrations, with night bazaars and cultural performances. This neighborhood is where old-world charm meets contemporary energy, offering a rich and colorful experience for all.
10. Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis and the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning 82 hectares, it offers lush landscapes perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. The highlight is the National Orchid Garden, showcasing over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids, including VIP varieties named after world leaders. The gardens also feature attractions like Swan Lake, where elegant swans glide gracefully, and the Learning Forest, a restored tropical rainforest teeming with biodiversity. Kids will enjoy the Jacob Ballas Children’s
Garden, designed to educate and entertain young explorers. Live performances at the Symphony Lake amphitheater create a magical atmosphere, especially during the evenings. With its mix of nature, history, and art, the Botanic Gardens is a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Singapore is a vibrant city-state blending modern innovation with rich cultural heritage. Known for its iconic skyline, lush green spaces, and diverse cuisine, it offers world-class attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
Cheap Flight Booking
Skyscanner is a popular online platform that simplifies finding cheap flights for travelers. Acting as a search engine, it compares fares from airlines and travel agencies to deliver the best deals. Its user-friendly interface allows filtering by price, duration, stops, and more, ensuring customized results. The "Whole Month" feature highlights the cheapest travel dates, making it ideal for flexible plans. Skyscanner’s mobile app is equally robust, offering real-time price alerts and seamless booking options. Additionally, it supports searches for hotels and car rentals, making it a comprehensive travel tool. Trusted worldwide, Skyscanner is a go-to for budget-conscious travelers.
Best budget hotels in Singapore
Here are some budget-friendly hotel options in Singapore from Booking.com, including approximate prices:
ibis budget Singapore Selegie
Location: Near Little India MRT Station
Price: From approximately SGD 120/night
Features: Rooftop swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, compact rooms with en-suite bathrooms. This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking affordability and accessibility to public transportation
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ibis budget Singapore Gold
Location: Geylang area
Price: From approximately SGD 100/night
Features: Newly renovated, spacious rooms (by Singapore standards), free parking, and proximity to public buses. A great option for budget travelers seeking clean and simple accommodations
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Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay
Location: Central, close to Clarke Quay MRT
Price: From approximately SGD 180/night
Features: Includes breakfast, a rooftop pool, and a gym. It's more mid-range but offers excellent value with its central location
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Lloyd’s Inn
Location: Orchard Road vicinity
Price: From approximately SGD 118/night
Features: Boutique-style hotel with minimalist design, rooftop terrace, and small pool
Here are some great budget-friendly hostels in Singapore, sourced from Hostelworld:
Wink Capsule Hostel (Chinatown)
Price: From SGD 45 per night.
Features: Pod-style beds with privacy, soundproofing, and personal lighting; lockers; ladies-only dorms available.
Highlights: Located in Chinatown, close to MRT and local attractions. Offers a tech-savvy and stylish stay.
Rating: 8.1/10 (Cleanliness: 8.4, Location: 9.6)
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CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel (Chinatown)
Price: From SGD 50 per night.
Features: Capsules with USB ports, dim lighting, and soundproofing; free breakfast; female-only rooms available.
Highlights: Near Chinatown MRT, surrounded by dining options, including Michelin-star chicken rice.
Rating: 8.3/10 (Cleanliness: 7.3, Location: 9.3)
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Atelier Hostel (Chinatown)
Price: From SGD 40 per night.
Features: Capsules with blackout curtains and personal storage; complimentary breakfast; modern interiors in a historic shophouse.
Highlights: Excellent staff service, prime location near Chinatown attractions, with a French café downstairs.
Rating: 9.2/10 (Cleanliness: 9.1, Location: 9.8)
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All these hostels combine affordability with excellent amenities and prime locations in Chinatown, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers.