Top Ten Things To Do in Singapore: Video Guide

Top Ten Things to Do in Singapore

Welcome to Singapore, the Lion City! This vibrant city-state is a melting pot of cultures, a foodie’s paradise, and a futuristic urban jungle all rolled into one. From towering skyscrapers to lush gardens, from bustling markets to tranquil parks, Singapore offers a unique blend of experiences that will captivate every type of traveler. Let’s jump into the top 10 things you absolutely must do when visiting this incredible destination!

1. Stroll Along Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade

Begin your Singapore adventure at the iconic Marina Bay. This waterfront promenade offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, including the architectural marvel that is Marina Bay Sands. As you walk along the promenade, you’ll encounter various attractions like the Merlion Park, home to Singapore’s mythical mascot, and the Helix Bridge, a stunning piece of engineering art.

Evening Tip: Stay for the free light and water show, Spectra, at the Event Plaza in front of Marina Bay Sands. It’s a magical display that brings the bay to life after dark.

2. Explore Singapore’s Diverse Neighborhoods

Singapore’s charm lies in its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and history. Don’t miss these cultural enclaves:

• Kampong Glam: Once the seat of Malay royalty, now a hip district with colorful shophouses, Middle Eastern cafes, and the stunning Sultan Mosque.
• Chinatown: A bustling area where traditional meets modern. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in delicious street food.
• Little India: A sensory overload in the best way possible. Wander through vibrant streets, visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and savor aromatic Indian cuisine.

Culture Vulture Tip: Join a guided walking tour in each neighborhood to delve deeper into their fascinating histories and hidden gems.

3. Have a Blast at Sentosa Island

Sentosa is Singapore’s playground, an island resort that offers fun for all ages. Here you can:

• Relax on beautiful beaches like Siloso or Palawan
• Get your adrenaline pumping at Universal Studios Singapore
• Explore the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the world’s largest
• Zip line through the jungle at Mega Adventure Park

Adventure Seeker Alert: Try the luge ride for a thrilling descent down the hill, then take the scenic skyride back up for another round!

4. Step Back in Time at Fort Canning Park

For a dose of history and nature, head to Fort Canning Park. This hilltop landmark has witnessed many of Singapore’s historical milestones. Explore its ancient artifacts, colonial-era buildings, and lush greenery. Don’t miss the Fort Canning Spice Garden, a nod to the hill’s history as a nutmeg plantation.

History Buff Tip: Join the “Battlebox Tour” to explore the underground bunker where the British decided to surrender Singapore to the Japanese in World War II.

5. Shop Till You Drop

Singapore is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end boutiques to bustling street markets. Here are some must-visit shopping destinations:

• Orchard Road: A 2.2km stretch of malls, department stores, and boutiques.
• Clarke Quay: A riverside development with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Bugis Street: A vibrant market with hundreds of stalls selling clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.
• Marina Bay Sands: For luxury brands and high-end shopping.

Bargain Hunter Tip: Visit Mustafa Centre in Little India, a 24-hour shopping complex where you can find almost anything at competitive prices.

6. Experience Changi Airport (Yes, the Airport!)

Changi Airport is an attraction in itself and worth a visit even if you’re not flying. With its stunning architecture, indoor waterfall (the Rain Vortex in Jewel Changi Airport), butterfly garden, and countless dining and shopping options, it’s no wonder Changi is consistently voted the world’s best airport.

Layover Idea: If you have a long layover, take the free Singapore Tour offered by the airport. It’s a great way to see the city highlights if you’re short on time.

7. Dive into Chinese Mythology at Haw Par Villa

For a truly unique experience, visit Haw Par Villa. This theme park is unlike any other, featuring over 1,000 statues and 150 dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese folklore, legends, and mythology. The famous “Ten Courts of Hell” exhibit is both fascinating and slightly eerie.

Quirky Fun: Look out for the diorama of a human head on a crab’s body – it’s based on a famous Singapore folktale!

8. Wander Through Singapore Botanic Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a tropical paradise in the heart of the city. Stroll through themed gardens, including the stunning National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids.

Nature Lover’s Delight: Visit the Learning Forest, a network of boardwalks and elevated walkways that let you explore habitats ranging from a lowland forest to a freshwater forest wetland.

9. Indulge in Singapore’s Food Scene

No visit to Singapore is complete without diving into its incredible food scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble hawker stalls, Singapore is a gastronomic wonderland. Don’t miss these food hotspots:

• Lau Pa Sat: A historic hawker center in the heart of the financial district, famous for its satay.
• Maxwell Food Centre: Home to the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice.
• Tiong Bahru Market: A mix of traditional and hip, offering everything from chwee kueh (steamed rice cake) to artisanal coffee.
• East Coast Lagoon Food Village: For seafood lovers, try the famous chili crab here!

Foodie Challenge: Try to eat at a different hawker center for every meal – it’s the best way to experience Singapore’s diverse culinary landscape!

10. Marvel at Gardens by the Bay

Cap off your Singapore adventure at the futuristic Gardens by the Bay. This award-winning horticultural destination spans 101 hectares and houses over 1.5 million plants. Key attractions include:

• Supertree Grove: 18 vertical gardens that come alive with a light and sound show every evening.
• Cloud Forest: A 35-meter tall mountain covered in lush vegetation, complete with the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
• Flower Dome: The largest glass greenhouse in the world, showcasing exotic plants from five continents.

Sky High Experience: Don’t miss the OCBC Skyway, a 128-meter long aerial walkway that connects two of the Supertrees, offering panoramic views of the gardens and Marina Bay skyline.

Bonus: Take a Night Safari

While not on the original list, the Night Safari deserves a mention. It’s the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park and offers a unique chance to see over 2,500 animals in their nighttime habitats. Take a tram ride through the park or explore the walking trails for an up-close encounter with the animals.

Plan Your Singapore Adventure

Singapore may be small in size, but it’s packed with incredible experiences. From its cutting-edge architecture to its rich cultural heritage, from its world-class attractions to its mouth-watering cuisine, the Lion City offers something for every type of traveler.

As you plan your visit, remember that Singapore’s weather is hot and humid year-round, so pack accordingly. The city’s public transportation system is excellent, making it easy to explore all these attractions.

Ready to experience the wonders of Singapore? Start planning your trip today:

• Find the best flight deals to Singapore Changi Airport here.
• Discover perfect accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, here.
• For hassle-free airport transfers, book your ride in advance.
• Explore tours and tickets for attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, Night Safari, and more here.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Lion City!