Singapore is a futuristic, multicultural city-state defined by its striking blend of lush vertical greenery and ultra-modern architecture. It is best visited between February and April to avoid the heaviest monsoon rains while enjoying its world-class hawker culture and pristine urban parks.
Top Things to Do in Singapore
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Getting Around Singapore
From the Airport
Train. The MRT train connects Changi Airport to the city center via the East West Line with a transfer at Tanah Merah; it is the most affordable way to travel. Rideshare. Grab is the primary rideshare app in Singapore and provides convenient door-to-door service from all terminal pickup points. Taxi. Official metered taxis are readily available at designated stands outside every terminal 24/7.
Once You're There
Metro. The MRT system is clean, efficient, and covers almost every major tourist site in the city. Rideshare. Grab is the standard app for booking private cars and is widely used throughout the city. Walking. Central areas like Marina Bay and the historic districts are very walkable, though the tropical heat makes short distances feel longer.
Where to Stay in Singapore
Hotel picks for Singapore are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Singapore
Odette★ 4.7 (1,483)1 St Andrew's Rd, #01-04 National Gallery, Singapore 178957Located in the National Gallery, this restaurant offers exquisite modern French cuisine in a beautiful, light-filled space.
Burnt Ends★ 4.5 (2,600)7 Dempsey Rd, #01-02, Singapore 249671A world-renowned barbecue restaurant that centers its menu around a massive custom-built oven and grill.
Labyrinth★ 4.5 (594)8 Raffles Ave., #02 - 23, Singapore 039802This Michelin-starred restaurant elevates traditional Singaporean hawker dishes into sophisticated, innovative fine-dining plates.
Lau Pa Sat★ 4.4 (39,041)18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582A stunning Victorian-era market building that transforms into a vibrant satay street at night.
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh★ 4.4 (8,164)11 New Bridge Rd, #01-01, Singapore 059383Specializes in peppery, fall-off-the-bone pork rib soup that is a comforting staple of local Singaporean dining.
Candlenut★ 4.4 (2,067)17a Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249676The world's first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, serving refined takes on traditional Straits Chinese flavors.
Jumbo Seafood★ 4.3 (10,247)30 Merchant Rd, #01-01/02 Riverside Point, Singapore 058282The go-to destination for Singapore's iconic chili crab, served in a lively atmosphere along the river.
Zam Zam★ 4.2 (9,819)697-699 N Bridge Rd, Singapore 198675A historic eatery in Kampong Glam known for its hearty, flavor-packed murtabak and biryani dishes.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Singapore
Iconic Bayfront & Gardens
Morning. Start your Singapore adventure at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, where you should head straight to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the skyline. Once you have captured the perfect photos, walk across the Helix Bridge toward the ArtScience Museum to admire its unique lotus-inspired architecture. Spend time exploring the exhibits before grabbing a coffee at a nearby cafe. Be sure to arrive early to beat the cruise ship crowds that often swarm the bay area by mid-morning. From there, it is a short, scenic walk to the entrance of the Gardens by the Bay.
Afternoon. Dedicate your afternoon to the lush wonders of Gardens by the Bay, starting with the climate-controlled Cloud Forest to see the massive indoor waterfall. Afterward, wander through the Flower Dome to witness rare plant species from across the globe. As the heat of the day peaks, find refuge inside the air-conditioned Supertree Grove walkways for a unique perspective of the vertical gardens. If you have extra energy, walk toward the nearby Satay by the Bay for a quick snack in a tropical setting. It is best to wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are expansive and require significant foot traffic.
Evening. As dusk settles, head to Merlion Park to see the city's most famous statue illuminated against the backdrop of the Marina Bay Sands light show. The view of the water reflecting the city lights is truly magical and serves as the perfect introduction to Singapore's evening vibe. Wander along the Singapore River toward Clarke Quay to soak in the lively waterfront atmosphere filled with bars and music. For dinner, find a spot at the bustling Lau Pa Sat to enjoy charcoal-grilled satay under the open sky. Finish the night with a stroll back through the colonial district to see the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall lit up.
Cultural Heritage & Streets
Morning. Begin your second day in the vibrant heart of Chinatown, starting with the ornate Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The intricate architecture and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful start to your morning exploration. Walk through the narrow streets of the Pagoda Street market to browse traditional crafts and souvenirs before the midday heat becomes intense. Stop by the Maxwell Food Centre early to avoid the longest queues for the famous chicken rice. This area is a sensory delight, so keep your camera ready for the colorful shophouses that line the surrounding blocks.
Afternoon. Travel north to the colorful streets of Little India, where the scent of jasmine and spices fills the air. Start your visit at the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest and most vibrant Hindu temples in the country. Wander through the bustling Tekka Centre to observe the local produce and textiles on display. Afterward, visit the Indian Heritage Centre to gain a deeper understanding of the community's history and contributions to Singapore. Before leaving the neighborhood, treat yourself to a refreshing cup of pulled tea at a local stall.
Evening. Conclude your cultural tour in Kampong Glam, the historic Malay-Arab quarter centered around the golden-domed Sultan Mosque. Walk down Arab Street to browse through beautiful textiles and perfumes, then explore the trendy boutiques and cafes along Haji Lane. The street art here is some of the best in the city, making it a perfect spot for photography. For dinner, head to a traditional restaurant on Bussorah Street to enjoy a hearty meal of murtabak. The atmosphere in this district is particularly lively in the evening as the outdoor seating fills up with locals and tourists alike.
Nature & Modern Luxury
Morning. Escape the urban sprawl with a morning visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your walk at the Tanglin Gate and head toward the National Orchid Garden to see the stunning collection of hybrid orchids. The lush greenery and peaceful ponds offer a refreshing contrast to the city's concrete jungle. Spend a few hours wandering through the rainforest trails and enjoying the quiet shade of the ancient trees. It is best to arrive right when the gates open at 5:00 AM if you want to avoid the crowds, but anytime before 9:00 AM is perfectly pleasant.
Afternoon. Head toward the Orchard Road district, Singapore's premier shopping belt, to experience the city's modern retail luxury. Spend your afternoon browsing the high-end boutiques at ION Orchard or exploring the sprawling levels of Ngee Ann City. If shopping isn't your priority, visit the nearby National Museum of Singapore to dive into the country's rich history through interactive galleries. The museum is beautifully housed in a historic building that offers a great reprieve from the afternoon sun. Grab a quick, upscale lunch at one of the many cafes tucked inside the various shopping malls along the boulevard.
Evening. Finish your trip with a visit to Jewel Changi Airport, a destination in itself that showcases Singapore's innovative spirit. Marvel at the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, which is surrounded by a lush forest canopy. Spend your final hours exploring the Canopy Park at the top level, which offers great views of the waterfall from above. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many world-class restaurants inside the Jewel complex before heading to your departure terminal. It is a spectacular way to end your Singapore journey, ensuring your last memory of the city is as impressive as the first.
