🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 115 (from laksa177)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa115.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/","crawl_time":1776114664,"first_indexed_time":1639833274,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,neverendingfootsteps!www,\/things-to-do-singapore\/ s443","src_root_hash":"17789643994333734315","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"25 Incredible Things to Do in Singapore","meta_descriptions":["There are so many things to do in Singapore; I've experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"There are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together.\nI took my first steps in this country\nway\nback in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world.\nAnd my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring.\nIt was clean and polished and\nexpensive\n, with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like\ntravel on easy mode\n.\nIt sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11.\nNeedless to say, I no longer feel this way!\nThese days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just\nworks\n. I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety.\nVisiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city.\nDon’t forget your travel insurance!\nSingapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly.\nI’ve been using\nSafetyWing\nas my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling.\nAs I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices\nstart from $2 a day.\nHit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay\nI was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay!\nThere’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay.\nIf you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is\nsuch\nan impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world.\nMost people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go:\nDespite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you\nreally\nfind yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit.\nThe entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S$3 ($2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time.\nThe ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does\nnot\noffer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations\non Get Your Guide\nthan there is on\nthe official park’s website\n! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend:\nIf you want to see it all, go for the\nFlower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket\n, which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the\nOCBC Skyway ticket\n, which takes you up on the elevated walkway\nIf you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for\nthe Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket\n. Again, pair it with the\nOCBC Skyway ticket\n.\nIf you’re on a tight budget, get the\nCloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket\n, as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park.\nSee what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated?\nStill, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie.\nWatch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay\nYes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay!\nEvery single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above.\nI would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible.\nThe problem is:\neverybody\nwants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex!\nDedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens\nI’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best!\nFeaturing the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes.\nYou can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam.\nIt goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names.\nHave Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands\nOne of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset!\nThere’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore\nhas\nto be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it\nlooks\nlike a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city.\nThe infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore.\nStays at the hotel start from $500 a night\n, so this is definitely one for a special occasion.\nIf your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access\nthe SkyPark Observation Deck\nat the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too:\nYes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands!\nGrab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular.\nYou’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above.\nI saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special.\nGo Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown\nThis was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown!\nWith such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore.\nBegin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets.\nChinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown.\nSpend a day at Sentosa Island\nSentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there\nFamous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island.\nThe island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach.\nIf you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained.\nGo to Clarke Quay\nOnce a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River.\nClarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music. \nRide the Singapore Flyer\nChecking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay!\nReaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience. \nAs you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia!\nComplete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk\nGuiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross.\nIt takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home.\nGo on a walking tour\nI love the streets of Kampong Glam!\nSometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot.\nOn this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide.\nFor something a little different,\nthis military-focused walking tour\nexplores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort.\nEmbark on a Night Safari\nI was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari!\nTired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight.\nAs you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials.\nA big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats. \nShop til you drop on Orchard Road\nThe area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos\nSteps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out.\nAlong the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd. \nBefore heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art.\nTake the Kids to Universal Studios\nBringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk.\nSome of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes\nGiant Journey in Far Far Away\nand the\nSesame Street Show\n, a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found.\nOther thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising\nRevenge of the Mummy\nrollercoaster. Grab yourself a\nSentosa FUN Pass\nto skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island.\nVisit Fort Canning Park\nThe Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot\nIf you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19\nth\ncentury as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War. \n103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic.\nBefore heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war.\nLearn More at the National Museum of Singapore\nI spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum\nIf Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits.  \nAs the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965.\nDine in Little India\nAlongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go.\nAs you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist!\nAnother must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking\ncultural and food tour\n. Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way.\nSee Haw Par Villa\nI couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa\nFor all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values.\nOne of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk.\nComplain About the Prices at Raffles\nWhen in Singapore…\nIt’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill.\nYes, they’re expensive.\nBut it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated.\nSo you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD\/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it.\nTo be fair, this was an\nexperience\n. The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate.\nStill, there are alternatives.\nIf you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops.\nA fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks. \nJoin a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food\nContrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore.\nFor a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called\n10 Tasting with Locals\n. The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way.\nSpend time in Merlion Park\nWith the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion!\nA representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea.\nThe Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore.\nGet your art fix at the National Gallery\nYou can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline\nOffering a strong focus on modern art from the 19\nth\ncentury to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art.\nThe gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works.\nSingapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids.\nExplore Pulau Ubin\nA time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50. \nThose that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride.\nGet to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex\nAs someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub. \nAside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old.\nYou may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport. \nShield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral\nWithin Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy.\nThe cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic.\nWalk the Southern Ridges\nOne of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge\nComprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way.\nMt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park.\nBut prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place.","attrs_markdown":"- [Home](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n  - [About Lauren Juliff](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n  - [Where I’ve Been](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/where-ive-been\/)\n  - [Lauren in The Media](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/lauren-media\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/archive\/)\n- [Destinations](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/travel-guides\/)\n- [Travel Expense Reports](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/travel-expenses\/)\n- [How to Start a Travel Blog](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/how-to-start-a-travel-blog\/)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Neverendingfootsteps \"Facebook\")   [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/nefootsteps \"Twitter\")\n\n[![Never Ending Footsteps](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_3000,h_600\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Copy-of-Copy-of-Untitled-1.png)![Never Ending Footsteps](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%203000%20600%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/)\n\n- [Africa](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/africa\/)\n- [Asia](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/asia\/)\n- [Central America](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/central-america\/)\n- [Europe](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/europe\/)\n- [The Middle East](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/the-middle-east\/)\n- [South America](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/south-america\/)\n- [Oceania](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/oceania\/)\n- [United States](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/united-states\/)\n\n[Asia](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/asia\/ \"View all posts in Asia\")[Singapore](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/singapore\/ \"View all posts in Singapore\")\n\n# 25 Incredible Things to Do in Singapore\n***\n[Lauren Juliff](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/ \"Posts by Lauren Juliff\")\n\nMarch 31, 2026\n\n\\|\n\nThere are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together.\n\nI took my first steps in this country *way* back in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world.\n\nAnd my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring.\n\nIt was clean and polished and *[expensive](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget\/)*, with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like *travel on easy mode*.\n\nIt sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11.\n\nNeedless to say, I no longer feel this way\\!\n\nThese days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just *works*. I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety.\n\nVisiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city.\n\n**Don’t forget your travel insurance\\!** Singapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly.   \n  \nI’ve been using [SafetyWing](https:\/\/safetywing.com\/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) as my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling.   \n  \nAs I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices [start from \\$2 a day.](https:\/\/safetywing.com\/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador)\n\n## Hit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1049\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Inside-Gardens-by-the-Bay-Cloud-Forest-Singapore.jpg)\n\nI was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nThere’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay.\n\nIf you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is *such* an impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world.\n\nMost people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go:\n\n- Despite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you *really* find yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit.\n- The entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S\\$3 (\\$2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time.\n- The ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does *not* offer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations [on Get Your Guide](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) than there is on [the official park’s website](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/)! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend:\n  - If you want to see it all, go for the [Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true), which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/ocbc-skyway\/GB22SWPD), which takes you up on the elevated walkway\n  - If you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for [the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Again, pair it with the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/ocbc-skyway\/GB22SWPD).\n  - If you’re on a tight budget, get the [Cloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/cloud-forest-%2B-supertree-observatory\/CFSO2024), as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park.\n\nSee what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated?\n\nStill, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie.\n\n## Watch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024,h_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Singapore-Gardens-By-the-Bay-night-show-1024x768.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201024%20768%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nGarden Rhapsody from the ground…\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Garden-Rhapsody-Singapore-Walkway.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n… and from the Skyway\\!\n\nYes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nEvery single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above.\n\nI would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible.\n\nThe problem is: *everybody* wants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex\\!\n\n## Dedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-Botanic-Gardens-lake.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nI’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best\\!\n\nFeaturing the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes.\n\nYou can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam.\n\nIt goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names.\n\n## Have Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/View-from-Marina-Bay-Sands-at-night.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nOne of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset\\!\n\nThere’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore *has* to be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it *looks* like a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city.\n\nThe infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore. [Stays at the hotel start from \\$500 a night](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/sg\/marina-bay-sands.en.html?aid=1514105&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=singapore-activities), so this is definitely one for a special occasion.\n\nIf your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access [the SkyPark Observation Deck](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/marina-bay-sands-skypark-l87298\/marina-bay-sands-skypark-observation-deck-ticket-t131787\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too:\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Marina-Bay-Sands-night-view.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nYes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands\\!\n\nGrab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular.\n\nYou’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above.\n\nI saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special.\n\n## Go Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Shoemaking-mural-in-Chinatown-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nThis was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown\\!\n\nWith such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore.\n\nBegin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets.\n\nChinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown.\n\n## Spend a day at Sentosa Island\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_906\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Sentosa-Island-from-above.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20906%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nSentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there\n\nFamous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island.\n\nThe island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach.\n\nIf you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained.\n\n## Go to Clarke Quay\nOnce a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River.\n\nClarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music.\n\n## Ride the Singapore Flyer\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-Flyer-at-night.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nChecking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nReaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience.\n\nAs you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia\\!\n\n## Complete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk\nGuiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross.\n\nIt takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home.\n\n## Go on a walking tour\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Kampong-Glam-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nI love the streets of Kampong Glam\\!\n\nSometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot.\n\nOn this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide.\n\nFor something a little different, [this military-focused walking tour](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-walking-tour-of-graves-guns-battles-t61981\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) explores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort.\n\n## Embark on a Night Safari\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Lion-Singapore-Night-Safari.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201000%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nI was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari\\!\n\nTired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight.\n\nAs you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials.\n\nA big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats.\n\n## Shop til you drop on Orchard Road\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Emerald-Hill-Road-Orchard-Road-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nThe area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos\n\nSteps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out.\n\nAlong the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd.\n\nBefore heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art.\n\n## Take the Kids to Universal Studios\nBringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk.\n\nSome of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes *Giant Journey in Far Far Away* and the *Sesame Street Show*, a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found.\n\nOther thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising *Revenge of the Mummy* rollercoaster. Grab yourself a [Sentosa FUN Pass](https:\/\/www.sentosa.com.sg\/en\/deals\/fun-pass\/) to skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island.\n\n## Visit Fort Canning Park\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_933\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Fort-Canning-Tree-Tunnel-edited.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20933%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nThe Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot\n\nIf you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19th century as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War.\n\n103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic.\n\nBefore heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war.\n\n## Learn More at the National Museum of Singapore\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Inside-Singapore-National-Museum.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nI spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum\n\nIf Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits.\n\nAs the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965.\n\n## Dine in Little India\n![little india buildings](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/12\/singapore-e1523458326898.jpg)\n\n![little india buildings](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201000%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nAlongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go.\n\nAs you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist\\!\n\nAnother must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking [cultural and food tour](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-chinatown-little-india-guided-walking-tour-t418215\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way.\n\n## See Haw Par Villa\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Haw-Par-Villa-Singapore-shipwreck-scene.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nI couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa\n\nFor all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values.\n\nOne of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk.\n\n## Complain About the Prices at Raffles\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Two-Singapore-Slings-at-Raffles-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nWhen in Singapore…\n\nIt’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill.\n\nYes, they’re expensive.\n\nBut it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated.\n\nSo you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD\/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it.\n\nTo be fair, this was an *experience*. The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate.\n\nStill, there are alternatives.\n\nIf you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops.\n\nA fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks.\n\n## Join a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food\nContrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore.\n\nFor a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called [10 Tasting with Locals](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-private-food-tour-10-tastings-with-locals-t130482\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way.\n\n## Spend time in Merlion Park\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Lauren-Juliff-in-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nWith the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion\\!\n\nA representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea.\n\nThe Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore.\n\n## Get your art fix at the National Gallery\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-National-Gallery-rooftop-views.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nYou can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline\n\nOffering a strong focus on modern art from the 19th century to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art.\n\nThe gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works.\n\nSingapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids.\n\n## Explore Pulau Ubin\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_935\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Pulau-Ubin-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20935%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nA time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50.\n\nThose that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride.\n\n## Get to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/girl-at-jewel-changi-waterfall-lightshow.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nAs someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub.\n\nAside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old.\n\nYou may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport.\n\n## Shield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1050,h_1400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Exterior-of-St-Andrews-Church-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201050%201400%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1050,h_1400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Interior-of-St-Andrews-Church-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201050%201400%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nWithin Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy.\n\nThe cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic.\n\n## Walk the Southern Ridges\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Henderson-Waves-Bridge-Singapore.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nOne of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge\n\nComprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way.\n\nMt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park.\n\nBut prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place.\n\n**Related Articles on Singapore**  \n  \n🇸🇬 [How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Singapore?](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget\/)  \n🐯 [Is Singapore Zoo the Best Zoo in the World?](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/singapore-zoo-best-world\/)\n\nAbout the author\n\n#### Lauren Juliff\nLauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents.  \n   \n Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.\n\n[Read more about Lauren](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/ \"Read more about Lauren\")\n\n### Related Posts\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Choijin-Lama-Temple-ulaanbaatar-225x125.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [How to Spend Three Days in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/ulaanbaatar-mongolia-itinerary\/)\n\n![monkey forest ubud](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/09\/IMG_9987-225x125.jpg)\n\n![monkey forest ubud](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [Attacked by Monkeys in Bali’s Monkey Forest](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/attacked-by-monkeys-monkey-forest-bali\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Nan-Lian-Garden-Hong-Kong-2-edited-225x125.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [How to Spend Four Days in Hong Kong (and Macau!)](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/four-day-itinerary-hong-kong\/)\n\n![Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/IMG_2126-225x125.jpg)\n\n![Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [The Cost of Travel in Malaysia: My 2026 Budget Breakdown](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-malaysia-budget\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/sisowath-quay-phnom-penh-cambodia-edited-225x125.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [How to Spend Two Days in Phnom Penh](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/phnom-penh-cambodia-itinerary\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_225,h_125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Lotus-Temple-New-Delhi-edited-225x125.jpg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20225%20125%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n##### [How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/three-days-new-delhi-itinerary\/)\n\n### 4 Comments\n1. Adila\n   \n   May 26, 2023\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/#comment-446178)\n   \n   Thank you so much for this exhaustive list! I am planning to travel to Singapore in July and your posts have helped me understand more about the tourist attractions in Singapore and what to look for when I’m there – and not to mention the budget-friendlier options. Also been binge-reading your blog and I’m thoroughly enjoying it! You have sparked a strong desire in me to travel the world.\n   - [Lauren Juliff](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n     \n     February 11, 2026\n     \n     [Reply](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/#comment-480665)\n     \n     You are so welcome, Adila! I hope you have a wonderful time in Singapore :-)\n2. Tatjana\n   \n   January 17, 2025\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/#comment-472039)\n   \n   Thank you for recommending Gerri’s food tour, it was the highlight of our Singapore trip. And I can verify that you maintain a clear separation between your recommendations and those that might benefit. Gerri didn’t know you or your blog – I fixed that : )\n   - [Lauren Juliff](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n     \n     February 11, 2026\n     \n     [Reply](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/#comment-480664)\n     \n     Tatjana, I’m so thrilled to hear I could send you Gerry’s way! And happy to hear it was the highlight of your trip :-) I don’t know that I’ll ever find a food tour that will be able to top his one\\!\n### Leave a reply [Cancel reply](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-singapore\/#respond)\n\n## Meet Lauren Juliff\n![Lauren Juliff at Australia's 12 Apostles at sunset](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024,h_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Lauren-Juliff-12-Apostles-sunset-copy-2-1024x768.jpg)\n\n![Lauren Juliff at Australia's 12 Apostles at sunset](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201024%20768%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\nHi! My name's Lauren and I'm the founder of Never Ending Footsteps. I'm here to help you explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably.\n\nIt was back in 2011 when I quit my job to travel the world. Thirteen years, 100 countries, and one successful travel blog later, I'm still going.\n\nThis website is the result of tens of thousands of hours of my own, personal on-the-ground research. I pay for all my travels myself, don't take sponsored trips, travel anonymously, and refuse to touch AI; all to ensure my recommendations are ones you can trust.\n\n[My Full Story](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n\n## Where I've Been\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1188,h_726\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Screenshot-2024-07-24-at-09.34.24.png)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201188%20726%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n[![](https:\/\/a.impactradius-go.com\/display-ad\/18144-2264464)![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20300%20600%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/trustedhousesitters.pxf.io\/c\/1244584\/2264464\/18144?subId1=BA2)\n\n![](https:\/\/imp.pxf.io\/i\/1244584\/2264464\/18144)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%20210%20140%22%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n## About\n- [About Lauren](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/blog\/)\n- [Frequently Asked Questions](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/faq\/)\n- [Where I've Been](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/where-ive-been\/)\n- [Contact Form](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/privacy-policy\/)\n\n## Currently Trending\n- [How to Spend Two Weeks in Japan](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/two-week-itinerary-japan\/)\n- [How to Start a Travel Blog](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/how-to-start-a-travel-blog\/)\n- [How I Overcame a Fear of Flying](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/how-i-overcame-my-fear-of-flying\/)\n- [How to See Bora Bora on a Budget](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/bora-bora-on-a-budget\/)\n- [How to Spend Three Days in Delhi](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/three-days-new-delhi-itinerary\/)\n- [The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/taj-mahal-guide\/)\n\n## Latest Articles\n- [What's it Like to Travel in Kuwait?](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-kuwait\/)\n- [The Cost of Travel in Mauritius](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-mauritius-budget\/)\n- [The Cost of Travel in Singapore](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget\/)\n- [The Ultimate Guide to Iguazu Falls](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/iguazu-falls-guide-argentina-brazil\/)\n- [30 Things to Do in Melbourne](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/things-to-do-melbourne-australia\/)\n- [How to Spend a Week in Mauritius](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/mauritius-itinerary\/)\n\nCopyright Lauren Juliff © 2010-2026 All rights reserved.\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Neverendingfootsteps \"Facebook\")   [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/nefootsteps \"Twitter\")\n\n### MENU\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/)\n- [About Lauren](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/about-lauren\/)\n- [Where I’ve Been](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/where-ive-been\/)\n- [Blog archives](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/archive\/)\n- [Articles about Africa](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/africa\/)\n- [Articles about Asia](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/asia\/)\n- [Articles about Europe](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/europe\/)\n- [Articles about the Caribbean](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/the-caribbean\/)\n- [Articles about Central America](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/central-america\/)\n- [Articles about the Middle East](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/the-middle-east\/)\n- [Articles about Oceania](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/oceania\/)\n- [Articles about North America](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/north-america\/)\n- [Articles about South America](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/south-america\/)\n- [Travel expense reports](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/travel-expenses\/)\n- [Travel itineraries](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/travel-itineraries\/)\n- [What’s it like to travel in?](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/whats-it-like-in\/)\n- [How to start a successful travel blog](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/how-to-start-a-travel-blog\/)\n\nBack","attrs_readable_markdown":"There are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together.\n\nI took my first steps in this country *way* back in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world.\n\nAnd my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring.\n\nIt was clean and polished and *[expensive](https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget\/)*, with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like *travel on easy mode*.\n\nIt sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11.\n\nNeedless to say, I no longer feel this way\\!\n\nThese days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just *works*. I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety.\n\nVisiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city.\n\n**Don’t forget your travel insurance\\!** Singapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly.\n\nI’ve been using [SafetyWing](https:\/\/safetywing.com\/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) as my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling.\n\nAs I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices [start from \\$2 a day.](https:\/\/safetywing.com\/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador)\n## Hit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1049\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Inside-Gardens-by-the-Bay-Cloud-Forest-Singapore.jpg)\n\nI was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nThere’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay.\n\nIf you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is *such* an impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world.\n\nMost people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go:\n\n- Despite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you *really* find yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit.\n- The entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S\\$3 (\\$2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time.\n- The ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does *not* offer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations [on Get Your Guide](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) than there is on [the official park’s website](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/)! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend:\n  - If you want to see it all, go for the [Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true), which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/ocbc-skyway\/GB22SWPD), which takes you up on the elevated walkway\n  - If you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for [the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Again, pair it with the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/ocbc-skyway\/GB22SWPD).\n  - If you’re on a tight budget, get the [Cloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket](https:\/\/ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg\/events\/cloud-forest-%2B-supertree-observatory\/CFSO2024), as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park.\n\nSee what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated?\n\nStill, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie.\n\n## Watch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay\nYes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nEvery single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above.\n\nI would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible.\n\nThe problem is: *everybody* wants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex\\!\n\n## Dedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-Botanic-Gardens-lake.jpg)\n\nI’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best\\!\n\nFeaturing the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes.\n\nYou can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam.\n\nIt goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names.\n\n## Have Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/View-from-Marina-Bay-Sands-at-night.jpg)\n\nOne of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset\\!\n\nThere’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore *has* to be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it *looks* like a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city.\n\nThe infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore. [Stays at the hotel start from \\$500 a night](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/sg\/marina-bay-sands.en.html?aid=1514105&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=singapore-activities), so this is definitely one for a special occasion.\n\nIf your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access [the SkyPark Observation Deck](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/marina-bay-sands-skypark-l87298\/marina-bay-sands-skypark-observation-deck-ticket-t131787\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too:\n\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Marina-Bay-Sands-night-view.jpg)\n\nYes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands\\!\n\nGrab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular.\n\nYou’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above.\n\nI saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special.\n\n## Go Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Shoemaking-mural-in-Chinatown-Singapore.jpg)\n\nThis was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown\\!\n\nWith such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore.\n\nBegin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets.\n\nChinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown.\n\n## Spend a day at Sentosa Island\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_906\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Sentosa-Island-from-above.jpg)\n\nSentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there\n\nFamous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island.\n\nThe island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach.\n\nIf you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained.\n\n## Go to Clarke Quay\nOnce a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River.\n\nClarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music.\n\n## Ride the Singapore Flyer\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-Flyer-at-night.jpg)\n\nChecking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay\\!\n\nReaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience.\n\nAs you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia\\!\n\n## Complete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk\nGuiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross.\n\nIt takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home.\n\n## Go on a walking tour\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Kampong-Glam-Singapore.jpg)\n\nI love the streets of Kampong Glam\\!\n\nSometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot.\n\nOn this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide.\n\nFor something a little different, [this military-focused walking tour](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-walking-tour-of-graves-guns-battles-t61981\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) explores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort.\n\n## Embark on a Night Safari\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Lion-Singapore-Night-Safari.jpg)\n\nI was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari\\!\n\nTired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight.\n\nAs you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials.\n\nA big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats.\n\n## Shop til you drop on Orchard Road\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Emerald-Hill-Road-Orchard-Road-Singapore.jpg)\n\nThe area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos\n\nSteps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out.\n\nAlong the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd.\n\nBefore heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art.\n\n## Take the Kids to Universal Studios\nBringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk.\n\nSome of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes *Giant Journey in Far Far Away* and the *Sesame Street Show*, a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found.\n\nOther thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising *Revenge of the Mummy* rollercoaster. Grab yourself a [Sentosa FUN Pass](https:\/\/www.sentosa.com.sg\/en\/deals\/fun-pass\/) to skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island.\n\n## Visit Fort Canning Park\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_933\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Fort-Canning-Tree-Tunnel-edited.jpg)\n\nThe Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot\n\nIf you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19th century as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War.\n\n103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic.\n\nBefore heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war.\n\n## Learn More at the National Museum of Singapore\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Inside-Singapore-National-Museum.jpg)\n\nI spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum\n\nIf Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits.\n\nAs the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965.\n\n## Dine in Little India\n![little india buildings](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/12\/singapore-e1523458326898.jpg)\n\nAlongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go.\n\nAs you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist\\!\n\nAnother must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking [cultural and food tour](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-chinatown-little-india-guided-walking-tour-t418215\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way.\n\n## See Haw Par Villa\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Haw-Par-Villa-Singapore-shipwreck-scene.jpg)\n\nI couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa\n\nFor all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values.\n\nOne of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk.\n\n## Complain About the Prices at Raffles\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Two-Singapore-Slings-at-Raffles-Singapore.jpg)\n\nWhen in Singapore…\n\nIt’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill.\n\nYes, they’re expensive.\n\nBut it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated.\n\nSo you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD\/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it.\n\nTo be fair, this was an *experience*. The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate.\n\nStill, there are alternatives.\n\nIf you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops.\n\nA fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks.\n\n## Join a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food\nContrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore.\n\nFor a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called [10 Tasting with Locals](https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/singapore-l170\/singapore-private-food-tour-10-tastings-with-locals-t130482\/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way.\n\n## Spend time in Merlion Park\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Lauren-Juliff-in-Singapore.jpg)\n\nWith the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion\\!\n\nA representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea.\n\nThe Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore.\n\n## Get your art fix at the National Gallery\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Singapore-National-Gallery-rooftop-views.jpg)\n\nYou can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline\n\nOffering a strong focus on modern art from the 19th century to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art.\n\nThe gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works.\n\nSingapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids.\n\n## Explore Pulau Ubin\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_935\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Pulau-Ubin-Singapore.jpg)\n\nA time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50.\n\nThose that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride.\n\n## Get to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/girl-at-jewel-changi-waterfall-lightshow.jpg)\n\nAs someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub.\n\nAside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old.\n\nYou may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport.\n\n## Shield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral\nWithin Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy.\n\nThe cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic.\n\n## Walk the Southern Ridges\n![](https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Henderson-Waves-Bridge-Singapore.jpg)\n\nOne of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge\n\nComprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way.\n\nMt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park.\n\nBut prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	There are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together. I took my first steps in this country way back in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world. And my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring. It was clean and polished and expensive , with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like travel on easy mode . It sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11. Needless to say, I no longer feel this way! These days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just works . I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety. Visiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city. Don’t forget your travel insurance! Singapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly. I’ve been using SafetyWing as my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling. As I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices start from $2 a day. Hit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay I was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay! There’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay. If you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is such an impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world. Most people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go: Despite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you really find yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit. The entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S$3 ($2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time. The ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does not offer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations on Get Your Guide than there is on the official park’s website ! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend: If you want to see it all, go for the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket , which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the OCBC Skyway ticket , which takes you up on the elevated walkway If you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket . Again, pair it with the OCBC Skyway ticket . If you’re on a tight budget, get the Cloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket , as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park. See what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated? Still, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie. Watch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay Yes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay! Every single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above. I would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible. The problem is: everybody wants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex! Dedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens I’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best! Featuring the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes. You can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam. It goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names. Have Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands One of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset! There’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore has to be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it looks like a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city. The infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore. Stays at the hotel start from $500 a night , so this is definitely one for a special occasion. If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access the SkyPark Observation Deck at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too: Yes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands! Grab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular. You’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above. I saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special. Go Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown This was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown! With such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore. Begin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets. Chinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown. Spend a day at Sentosa Island Sentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there Famous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island. The island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach. If you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained. Go to Clarke Quay Once a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River. Clarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music. Ride the Singapore Flyer Checking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay! Reaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience. As you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia! Complete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk Guiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross. It takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home. Go on a walking tour I love the streets of Kampong Glam! Sometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot. On this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide. For something a little different, this military-focused walking tour explores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort. Embark on a Night Safari I was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari! Tired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight. As you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials. A big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats. Shop til you drop on Orchard Road The area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos Steps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out. Along the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd. Before heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art. Take the Kids to Universal Studios Bringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk. Some of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes Giant Journey in Far Far Away and the Sesame Street Show , a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found. Other thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster. Grab yourself a Sentosa FUN Pass to skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island. Visit Fort Canning Park The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot If you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19 th century as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War. 103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic. Before heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war. Learn More at the National Museum of Singapore I spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum If Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits. As the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965. Dine in Little India Alongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go. As you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist! Another must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking cultural and food tour . Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way. See Haw Par Villa I couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa For all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values. One of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk. Complain About the Prices at Raffles When in Singapore… It’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill. Yes, they’re expensive. But it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated. So you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it. To be fair, this was an experience . The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate. Still, there are alternatives. If you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops. A fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks. Join a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food Contrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore. For a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called 10 Tasting with Locals . The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way. Spend time in Merlion Park With the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion! A representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea. The Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore. Get your art fix at the National Gallery You can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline Offering a strong focus on modern art from the 19 th century to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art. The gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works. Singapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids. Explore Pulau Ubin A time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50. Those that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride. Get to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex As someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub. Aside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old. You may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport. Shield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral Within Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy. The cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic. Walk the Southern Ridges One of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge Comprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way. Mt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park. But prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place.
Markdown	- [Home](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/) - [About](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/about-lauren/) - [About Lauren Juliff](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/about-lauren/) - [Where I’ve Been](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/where-ive-been/) - [Lauren in The Media](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/lauren-media/) - [Blog](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/archive/) - [Destinations](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/travel-guides/) - [Travel Expense Reports](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/travel-expenses/) - [How to Start a Travel Blog](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/how-to-start-a-travel-blog/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Neverendingfootsteps "Facebook") [Twitter](https://twitter.com/nefootsteps "Twitter") [![Never Ending Footsteps](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_3000,h_600/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Copy-of-Copy-of-Untitled-1.png)![Never Ending Footsteps](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%203000%20600%22%3E%3C/svg%3E)](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/) - [Africa](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/africa/) - [Asia](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/asia/) - [Central America](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/central-america/) - [Europe](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/europe/) - [The Middle East](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/the-middle-east/) - [South America](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/south-america/) - [Oceania](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/oceania/) - [United States](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/united-states/) [Asia](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/asia/ "View all posts in Asia")[Singapore](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/singapore/ "View all posts in Singapore") # 25 Incredible Things to Do in Singapore *** [Lauren Juliff](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/about-lauren/ "Posts by Lauren Juliff") March 31, 2026 \\| There are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together. I took my first steps in this country way back in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world. And my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring. It was clean and polished and [expensive](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget/), with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like travel on easy mode. It sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11. Needless to say, I no longer feel this way\! These days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just works. I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety. Visiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city. Don’t forget your travel insurance\! Singapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly. I’ve been using [SafetyWing](https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) as my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling. As I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices [start from \$2 a day.](https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) ## Hit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1049/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Inside-Gardens-by-the-Bay-Cloud-Forest-Singapore.jpg) I was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay\! There’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay. If you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is such an impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world. Most people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go: - Despite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you really find yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit. - The entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S\$3 (\$2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time. - The ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does not offer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations [on Get Your Guide](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) than there is on [the official park’s website](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/)! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend: - If you want to see it all, go for the [Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true), which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/ocbc-skyway/GB22SWPD), which takes you up on the elevated walkway - If you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for [the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Again, pair it with the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/ocbc-skyway/GB22SWPD). - If you’re on a tight budget, get the [Cloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/cloud-forest-%2B-supertree-observatory/CFSO2024), as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park. See what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated? Still, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie. ## Watch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024,h_768/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Singapore-Gardens-By-the-Bay-night-show-1024x768.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201024%20768%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Garden Rhapsody from the ground… ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Garden-Rhapsody-Singapore-Walkway.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) … and from the Skyway\! Yes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay\! Every single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above. I would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible. The problem is: everybody wants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex\! ## Dedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-Botanic-Gardens-lake.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) I’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best\! Featuring the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes. You can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam. It goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names. ## Have Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/View-from-Marina-Bay-Sands-at-night.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) One of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset\! There’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore has to be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it looks like a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city. The infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore. [Stays at the hotel start from \$500 a night](https://www.booking.com/hotel/sg/marina-bay-sands.en.html?aid=1514105&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=singapore-activities), so this is definitely one for a special occasion. If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access [the SkyPark Observation Deck](https://www.getyourguide.com/marina-bay-sands-skypark-l87298/marina-bay-sands-skypark-observation-deck-ticket-t131787/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too: ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Marina-Bay-Sands-night-view.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Yes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands\! Grab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular. You’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above. I saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special. ## Go Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Shoemaking-mural-in-Chinatown-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) This was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown\! With such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore. Begin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets. Chinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown. ## Spend a day at Sentosa Island ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_906/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sentosa-Island-from-above.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20906%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Sentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there Famous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island. The island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach. If you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained. ## Go to Clarke Quay Once a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River. Clarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music. ## Ride the Singapore Flyer ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-Flyer-at-night.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Checking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay\! Reaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience. As you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia\! ## Complete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk Guiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross. It takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home. ## Go on a walking tour ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kampong-Glam-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) I love the streets of Kampong Glam\! Sometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot. On this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide. For something a little different, [this military-focused walking tour](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-walking-tour-of-graves-guns-battles-t61981/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) explores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort. ## Embark on a Night Safari ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Lion-Singapore-Night-Safari.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201000%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) I was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari\! Tired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight. As you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials. A big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats. ## Shop til you drop on Orchard Road ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Emerald-Hill-Road-Orchard-Road-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) The area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos Steps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out. Along the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd. Before heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art. ## Take the Kids to Universal Studios Bringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk. Some of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes Giant Journey in Far Far Away and the Sesame Street Show, a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found. Other thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster. Grab yourself a [Sentosa FUN Pass](https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/deals/fun-pass/) to skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island. ## Visit Fort Canning Park ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_933/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Fort-Canning-Tree-Tunnel-edited.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20933%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot If you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19th century as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War. 103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic. Before heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war. ## Learn More at the National Museum of Singapore ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Inside-Singapore-National-Museum.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) I spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum If Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits. As the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965. ## Dine in Little India ![little india buildings](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/singapore-e1523458326898.jpg) ![little india buildings](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201000%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Alongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go. As you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist\! Another must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking [cultural and food tour](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-chinatown-little-india-guided-walking-tour-t418215/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way. ## See Haw Par Villa ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Haw-Par-Villa-Singapore-shipwreck-scene.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) I couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa For all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values. One of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk. ## Complain About the Prices at Raffles ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Two-Singapore-Slings-at-Raffles-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201500%201125%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) When in Singapore… It’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill. Yes, they’re expensive. But it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated. So you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it. To be fair, this was an experience. The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate. Still, there are alternatives. If you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops. A fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks. ## Join a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food Contrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore. For a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called [10 Tasting with Locals](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-private-food-tour-10-tastings-with-locals-t130482/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way. ## Spend time in Merlion Park ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Lauren-Juliff-in-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) With the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion\! A representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea. The Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore. ## Get your art fix at the National Gallery ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-National-Gallery-rooftop-views.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) You can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline Offering a strong focus on modern art from the 19th century to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art. The gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works. Singapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids. ## Explore Pulau Ubin ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_935/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Pulau-Ubin-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%20935%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) A time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50. Those that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride. ## Get to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/girl-at-jewel-changi-waterfall-lightshow.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) As someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub. Aside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old. You may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport. ## Shield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1050,h_1400/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Exterior-of-St-Andrews-Church-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201050%201400%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1050,h_1400/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Interior-of-St-Andrews-Church-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201050%201400%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Within Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy. The cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic. ## Walk the Southern Ridges ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Henderson-Waves-Bridge-Singapore.jpg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201400%201050%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) One of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge Comprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way. Mt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park. But prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place. Related Articles on Singapore 🇸🇬 [How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Singapore?](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget/) 🐯 [Is Singapore Zoo the Best Zoo in the World?](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/singapore-zoo-best-world/) About the author #### Lauren Juliff Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet. 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Adila May 26, 2023 [Reply](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/#comment-446178) Thank you so much for this exhaustive list! I am planning to travel to Singapore in July and your posts have helped me understand more about the tourist attractions in Singapore and what to look for when I’m there – and not to mention the budget-friendlier options. Also been binge-reading your blog and I’m thoroughly enjoying it! You have sparked a strong desire in me to travel the world. - [Lauren Juliff](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/about-lauren/) February 11, 2026 [Reply](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/#comment-480665) You are so welcome, Adila! I hope you have a wonderful time in Singapore :-) 2. Tatjana January 17, 2025 [Reply](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/#comment-472039) Thank you for recommending Gerri’s food tour, it was the highlight of our Singapore trip. And I can verify that you maintain a clear separation between your recommendations and those that might benefit. Gerri didn’t know you or your blog – I fixed that : ) - [Lauren Juliff](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/about-lauren/) February 11, 2026 [Reply](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/#comment-480664) Tatjana, I’m so thrilled to hear I could send you Gerry’s way! And happy to hear it was the highlight of your trip :-) I don’t know that I’ll ever find a food tour that will be able to top his one\! ### Leave a reply [Cancel reply](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/things-to-do-singapore/#respond) ## Meet Lauren Juliff ![Lauren Juliff at Australia's 12 Apostles at sunset](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024,h_768/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lauren-Juliff-12-Apostles-sunset-copy-2-1024x768.jpg) ![Lauren Juliff at Australia's 12 Apostles at sunset](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=%22http://www.w3.org/2000/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201024%20768%22%3E%3C/svg%3E) Hi! My name's Lauren and I'm the founder of Never Ending Footsteps. I'm here to help you explore this planet safely, adventurously, and affordably. It was back in 2011 when I quit my job to travel the world. Thirteen years, 100 countries, and one successful travel blog later, I'm still going. This website is the result of tens of thousands of hours of my own, personal on-the-ground research. I pay for all my travels myself, don't take sponsored trips, travel anonymously, and refuse to touch AI; all to ensure my recommendations are ones you can trust. 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Readable Markdown	There are so many things to do in Singapore; I’ve experienced most of them. And so, after my most recent visit, in late-2024, I decided it was high time I put this guide together. I took my first steps in this country way back in 2011, when I was just four months into this… well, rather extended trip around the world. And my first impressions? I’ll confess I thought Singapore was boring. It was clean and polished and [expensive](https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/cost-of-travel-singapore-budget/), with numerous rules and regulations. It felt safe and organised, and almost everybody spoke English. Let’s just say it felt like travel on easy mode. It sounds like a ridiculous reason not to vibe with a place, but hey, I was in my twenties and travelling for the very first time; I was kind of an idiot. At that stage in my trip, I craved chaos, confusion, and misadventure at every turn. I wanted my culture shock to be cranked all the way up to 11. Needless to say, I no longer feel this way\! These days, I delight in every return trip I get to make to Singapore. I regularly rock up in this city on yet another three-day layover with dozens of new attractions on my list to check out. I love travelling in a country where everything just works. I don’t have to worry about getting scammed or lost or sick or taken advantage of. I can walk around at night on my own and not feel concerned for my safety. Visiting Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air and I can’t get enough of it; this year, I’ve been twice already. At this stage in my Singapore travel career, I feel like I’ve experienced the vast majority of attractions in the country. And so, today, I’m going to be sharing all of the best things to do in the city. Don’t forget your travel insurance\! Singapore is one of the safest cities on the planet, but their hospitals aren’t exactly budget-friendly. I’ve been using [SafetyWing](https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) as my travel insurance provider for years, because the last thing I need in a medical emergency is a six-figure bill at the end of it. I’m a huge fan of their budget-friendly prices, easy-to-use website, and ability to buy once I’ve already started travelling. As I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. SafetyWing’s prices [start from \$2 a day.](https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_source=NEFOOTSTEPS&utm_medium=Ambassador) ## Hit Up the Impressive Gardens by the Bay ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1049/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Inside-Gardens-by-the-Bay-Cloud-Forest-Singapore.jpg) I was so impressed with the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay\! There’s nowhere on earth quite like Gardens by the Bay. If you were to come to Singapore and do only one thing, I’d insist you make it Gardens by the Bay. This huge, futuristic park is such an impressive complex, especially if you love immersing yourself in nature. You’ve got soaring Supertrees, giant greenhouses, elevated walkways, and flower-filled domes; all of them packed full of plants from around the world. Most people find they need a minimum of three hours to fully explore it all but I’ve often found myself spending four hours wandering around. Here’s what you need to know before you go: - Despite the fact that my photo was taken at sunset, I actually recommend heading to Gardens by the Bay when it opens to beat the crowds. I arrived at the Cloud Forest at 8:55 a.m. on my most recent trip, five minutes before opening time. Amazingly, I was the very first person to step foot inside the dome! What an incredible experience. Visiting in the morning also means that if you really find yourself delighting in the greenery, you won’t have to worry about the impending closure of the domes; speaking from experience here, as I ran out of time during my first visit. - The entrance to Gardens by the Bay is a solid 15-minute walk from both of the nearest MRT stations (Gardens by the Bay and Bayfront); Bayfront station runs a S\$3 (\$2.27) round-trip shuttle to the entrance for those of you who don’t want to walk in the heat. Plan accordingly if you’re aiming to get there at opening time. I arrived at the Gardens by the Bay MTR station at 8:35 a.m. to give myself plenty of time. - The ticketing situation is inexplicably complex. For some reason, Gardens by the Bay does not offer a single all-in-one ticket that gives you access to every attraction in the park. They don’t even offer the option to buy access to one single conservatory. Instead, they offer a series of combo tickets, with each including two or three different parts of the park. Even more strangely, there’s a wider variety of ticket combinations [on Get Your Guide](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) than there is on [the official park’s website](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/)! All that to say, figuring out what to buy was a massive pain in the ass, so here’s what I recommend: - If you want to see it all, go for the [Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy ticket](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true), which gives you access to all three of the conservatories, then buy the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/ocbc-skyway/GB22SWPD), which takes you up on the elevated walkway - If you just want to see the best parts of the complex, skip the Floral Fantasy area and instead, opt for [the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest ticket](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-gardens-by-the-bay-day-admission-tickets-t117975/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Again, pair it with the [OCBC Skyway ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/ocbc-skyway/GB22SWPD). - If you’re on a tight budget, get the [Cloud Forest and Supertree Observatory ticket](https://ticket2.gardensbythebay.com.sg/events/cloud-forest-%2B-supertree-observatory/CFSO2024), as that’ll give you a good overview of the most impressive parts of the park. See what I mean about it all being unnecessarily complicated? Still, I promise you that it’s worth battling through the ticket-purchasing rigmarole, as you’ll get to spend half a day feeling as though you’ve wandered on to the set of a sci-fi movie. ## Watch Garden Rhapsody; the Free Light Show at Gardens by the Bay Yes, there’s still more to do at Gardens by the Bay\! Every single night, the park runs Garden Rhapsody, a light-and-music show that’s completely free to visit. There’s no reason not to check it out while you’re in town! You’ve also got two different options for watching this magical show; both pictured above. I would say that if it’s possible for you to experience the Garden Rhapsody from the Skyway, you should absolutely make the effort to. I thought that strolling along that walkway while music and lights pulsed around me was one of the most magical moments of my life; at times, I had a lump in my throat because it felt so incredible. The problem is: everybody wants to experience the light show from the Skyway! I really lucked out here, as I managed to time my Skyway walk perfectly; I stepped outside of the elevator right as the first note sounded out across the complex\! ## Dedicate an Afternoon to the Sizeable Botanic Gardens ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-Botanic-Gardens-lake.jpg) I’ve been to botanic gardens in 50-odd countries and I’d say that Singapore’s is the world’s best\! Featuring the most extensive orchid garden in the world, the Botanic Gardens is the definition of an urban oasis and one of the top things to do in Singapore. Just west of the bustling malls along Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is flush with tranquility, along with manicured gardens and pristine lakes. You can explore the green space along the boardwalk that snakes through a section of ancient rainforest which outdates the gardens and features over 150 rare plants. Next up, visit each of the three lakes, the best of which is Swan Lake home to mute swans sent over from Amsterdam. It goes without saying that the major attraction in the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Since the late 1920s, orchids have been planted right here with the space now displaying 1000 species and 2000 hybrids. At any given time, you can see 600 orchids each with their own interesting names. ## Have Sunset Cocktails at the Marina Bay Sands ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/View-from-Marina-Bay-Sands-at-night.jpg) One of my Singapore highlights was drinking Singapore slings at Marina Bay Sands at sunset\! There’s no doubt about it: the most iconic structure in Singapore has to be the Marina Bay Sands. This trio of towering buildings is connected at the top by a ship (well, at least it looks like a ship), which in turn is home to most incredible infinity pool overlooking the city. The infinity pool isn’t for everyone. In fact, only guests of the hotel can access the pool — and it’s one of the priciest properties in Singapore. [Stays at the hotel start from \$500 a night](https://www.booking.com/hotel/sg/marina-bay-sands.en.html?aid=1514105&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=singapore-activities), so this is definitely one for a special occasion. If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a small taste of the hotel’s luxury, because everyone is free to access [the SkyPark Observation Deck](https://www.getyourguide.com/marina-bay-sands-skypark-l87298/marina-bay-sands-skypark-observation-deck-ticket-t131787/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) at the Marina Bay Sands. Located on the 57th floor, the views from up here are unrivaled. In my opinion, the best time to visit is at sunset — you can see the epic views in my photo above, but here’s the view from another angle, too: ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Marina-Bay-Sands-night-view.jpg) Yes, you can even see the Gardens by the Bay light show from the Marina Bay Sands\! Grab yourself a cold Singapore sling and wait for the sunset; in either direction, the views are spectacular. You’ll either be looking towards the dense city, packed full of skyscrapers, or out towards the water, with greenery, gardens, and dozens of ships. To me, that summarises Singapore perfectly: skyscrapers, ships, and scenery! And yes, one of the best parts of being up in the SkyPark is getting to watch the Gardens by the Bay light show from above. I saved visiting Marina Bay Sands for my final night in Singapore and it was the perfect send-off for my time in the city. I got to toast to a wonderful trip, watch the city begin to light up, and point out all the spots that had made my trip so special. ## Go Mural-Spotting Through Chinatown ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Shoemaking-mural-in-Chinatown-Singapore.jpg) This was one of my favourite murals in Chinatown\! With such strong connections to China, it’s no surprise that visitors will find an air of authenticity about Singapore’s Chinatown. The neighborhood comes with a flurry of tiny mom-and-pop shops and delicious home-style restaurants in one is one of the oldest districts in Singapore. Begin your experience at the local metro station and walk down Pagoda Street. Teeming with your typical gift shops, parlors and restaurants, continue on until you reach the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating past through a series of exhibits before returning to the bustle of the local streets. Chinatown is also home to a number of temples, including the Hindu Sri Mariamman temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic. If you’re staying nearby, you may hear the ceremony drum beat from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple as early as 4am. When jumping between attractions, shops and restaurants, you’ll find heritage markers placed throughout, further guiding you through the importance of Singapore’s Chinatown. ## Spend a day at Sentosa Island ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_906/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sentosa-Island-from-above.jpg) Sentosa Island from the cable car ride to get there Famous for its highrises, technology and business, you’d be forgiven for thinking you won’t have a beach day in Singapore. But if you’re traveling around South East Asia and are missing the beach bum lifestyle, then you can get your fix at the magical Sentosa Island. The island is where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and the Insta-worthy Merlion statue, but the three local beaches are all the more reason to visit. Each of the trio offers something different. If you just want to relax away from the city, then make your way to Tanjong Beach for peace and a drink on the golden sands. For families, you can’t go wrong with Palawan, while if you want some action, lie down your towel at Siloso Beach. If you want to see more of the island, then have your choice between the world’s largest aquarium, the Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Universal Studios! As you can see, you won’t have a hard time staying entertained. ## Go to Clarke Quay Once a worldwide centre of commerce and trade, today Clarke Quay has to settle for being one of the biggest hubs for dining, nightlife and entertainment in Singapore. During the day, you’ll find plenty of shopping, waterside eats and river taxis ready to take you up and down the Singapore River. Clarke Quay covers both sides of the river and goes to another level at night, when the quay’s mix of rainbow lights reflects on the water, making it an intriguing destination. Travelers join locals and young professionals fresh from a day in the central Business District with the beers flowing, food flying in every direction and a great concentration of live music. ## Ride the Singapore Flyer ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-Flyer-at-night.jpg) Checking out the Singapore Flyer from Gardens by the Bay\! Reaching the dizzying height of 540ft (165m) the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest observation wheels on earth. The wheel’s sheer size and presence has made it as much a part of the Singapore skyline as the more famous skyscrapers. A popular alternative to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, visitors can capture exceptional views across the 30-minute experience. As you continue to slowly rise from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Marina Bay and the downtown streets. But keen observers will be able to make out Sentosa Island, beyond to the Singapore Strait and even the northwest islands of Indonesia\! ## Complete the MacRitchie Treetop Walk Guiding you through the largest reservoir in the country, the MacRitchie Trail is the local choice for a run or hike through beautiful nature. The trail features 6.8 miles (11km) of pathways, with the main highlight being the enormous suspension bridge complete with excellent views as you cross. It takes a couple of hours to complete the entire walk, but with little elevation gain, there’s no stopping anyone from doing the whole thing. But remember to bring along plenty of water to stay hydrated under the searing sun. Exploring the reservoir doesn’t have to be done on foot as you can also rent kayaks to get a better look at the wetlands. Keep your eyes and ears open for the flying lemurs that call the reservoir home. ## Go on a walking tour ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kampong-Glam-Singapore.jpg) I love the streets of Kampong Glam\! Sometimes there is no better way to get to know a place than to walk the streets and take it all in at a slow pace. Singapore is home to a wide range of walking tours that cover a whole breadth of topics, from history and architecture to food and nature. While we have listed a great food tour below, you can really get to know Singapore on any of these experiences on foot. On this history and culture walking tour, see all the cultural highlights within Civil District, Marina Bay and Chinatown with a wonderful guide to guest ratio. Rather than just taking photos and moving on, receive invaluable insight into each location with the help of your expert guide. For something a little different, [this military-focused walking tour](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-walking-tour-of-graves-guns-battles-t61981/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true) explores Singapore’s wartime history. Over 2.5 hours visit some of the key battle sites, including a historic colonial fort. ## Embark on a Night Safari ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Lion-Singapore-Night-Safari.jpg) I was excited to spot a lion on my Singapore Night Safari\! Tired of the usual zoo experience? Spice things up on with a night safari next to the amazing Singapore Zoo. The exceptional experience occurs within the neighboring wildlife park, which is only open at night between 7.30pm and midnight. It guarantees to differ from any zoo experience you’ve had before as you get to look into the lives of the animals under the moonlight. As you prepare to experience the jungle at night, over 100 species are already roaming in the distance, including alligators, tigers, and elephants. From your seat aboard the electric tram, which runs around the perimeter, visit four different sections that divide up the big cat species with native animals, Malayan tigers and Australian marsupials. A big highlight for traveling families is the Creatures of the Night Show, along with the bat enclosure that brings the entire family up close and personal with giant fruit bats. ## Shop til you drop on Orchard Road ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Emerald-Hill-Road-Orchard-Road-Singapore.jpg) The area where Emerald Hill Road meets Orchard Road is great for taking old-meets-new-style photos Steps away from the world’s largest orchid garden, you won’t find a single such flower on Orchard Road. But that’s not what makes this stretch of pavement one of the busiest in Singapore. As the city’s major shopping street, you can easily spend a whole day jumping between stores until your legs give out. Along the road, you’ll have your choice of several major malls with prominent department stores and high-end brands. Head to Paragon for your designer fashion, including Singapore’s own Raoul. ION Orchid is all about streetware, while 313@Somerset will be a hit with the younger crowd. Before heading on home, if your legs have some life left, make your way to the Tanglin Shopping Centre for ornamental gifts, craftwork and local art. ## Take the Kids to Universal Studios Bringing the sights and sounds of Hollywood to Singapore, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to make the trip to Universal Studios. On Sentosa Island, the theme park steals the show with a range of attractions that will keep the young ones busy and happy with plenty of excitement on offer for us older folk. Some of the best kid-friendly rides include the Puss in Boots themes Giant Journey in Far Far Away and the Sesame Street Show, a dancing extravaganza. If you’re feeling ready for a heart-in-mouth experience, then head to Sci-Fi City, where the world’s tallest dueling rollercoaster can be found. Other thrilling parts of Singapore’s Universal Studios include Ancient Egypt, where you can ride the hair-raising Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster. Grab yourself a [Sentosa FUN Pass](https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/deals/fun-pass/) to skip the line and enjoy all the other attractions on the island. ## Visit Fort Canning Park ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_933/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Fort-Canning-Tree-Tunnel-edited.jpg) The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel provides one of the most aesthetic views in all of Singapore! Go early or you’ll be queueing behind 30 influencers to take your shot If you embarked on the military walking tour of Singapore, you would have crossed paths with the Fort Canning stronghold. The fort was built in the mid-19th century as a way to defend Singapore from any attacks. But it wasn’t until almost a century later that it became a major bunker during the Second World War. 103 years after the last brick was laid down and Fort Canning opened, the building was surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As of August 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic, Fort Canning is no longer in the hands of the Japanese and has become a prominent cultural hub. The building and surrounding park is home to regular performances and festivals, along with being a lovely spot for a picnic. Before heading off, experience the Battlebox, a museum that explores the WWII defeat through its subterranean rooms that replicate scenes from the war. ## Learn More at the National Museum of Singapore ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Inside-Singapore-National-Museum.jpg) I spent a fun morning learning all about Singapore’s history at its National Museum If Fort Canning has piqued your interest, then receive the full-scale of Singapore’s storied past at the National Museum. Within the architectural marvel, which opened in 1849, the museum does an incredible job of bringing the city’s stories to life through a variety of multimedia exhibits. As the original home of the city’s historical records and an artifact repository, the space was always destined to become a world-class museum. Inside you’ll find a variety of halls that dive into different topics, spanning from Singapore’s beginnings as Temasek (sea town), its colonial era, wartime efforts and the prominent “We Built a Nation” exhibit that explores Singapore’s first ten years of independence after 1965. ## Dine in Little India ![little india buildings](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/singapore-e1523458326898.jpg) Alongside Chinatown and the eclectic arts’ districts, Little India is one of the most vibrant parts of Singapore. With the powerful aromas floating through the air, temples around every corner and, of course, some amazing food. In fact, if you’re after cheap eats, then this is the place in Singapore to go. As you wander around town, looking for a place to eat, keep an eye out for any place with guests eating by hand. Go there for the most authentic Indian food in the city. Just be sure you can handle the heat and being the only tourist\! Another must-visit part of Little India is the Tekka Center, a hawker hub with local eats, fresh produce and plenty of energetic shopping. But the best way to see the entire district is on this walking [cultural and food tour](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-chinatown-little-india-guided-walking-tour-t418215/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). Your guide will take you far off the tourist trail, embarking on a trip to the cultural and historical highlights of Little India with plenty of food along the way. ## See Haw Par Villa ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Haw-Par-Villa-Singapore-shipwreck-scene.jpg) I couldn’t stop giggling as I made my way around the dramatic scenes at Haw Par Villa For all Singapore’s finely tuned and manicured parks, it’s nice to know there’s one that is a little rough around the edges. A veritable gem and a cultural highlight of Singapore, Haw Par Villa is one of the most unique attractions in the South East Asian city. Founded in the 1930s by the man that brought your Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw, the park began with over 1000 ornate sculptures and displays that taught traditional Chinese values. One of the most enlightening parts of Haw Par Villa is the Ten Courts of Hell, a series of dioramas that show what Hell is in Chinese spirituality. Raw and unapologetic, the park is a fascinating look into Chinese mythology and doesn’t concern itself too much with pleasing the masses. As a result, it’s far from a tourist trap and with recent renovations, it’s a wonderful place to take a walk. ## Complain About the Prices at Raffles ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1125/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Two-Singapore-Slings-at-Raffles-Singapore.jpg) When in Singapore… It’s a rite of passage when it comes to travel in Singapore: practically every visitor to this nation decides to drink a Singapore sling in its birthplace. And off they go to the Raffles Hotel, queue up for access to the Long Bar, order their cocktails, then wince when they’re greeted with the bill. Yes, they’re expensive. But it’s also an absolutely iconic experience that you can only have in one place in the world. To me, that’s what travel is all about: those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that simply can’t be replicated. So you bet I went straight to the Raffles Hotel upon arriving in Singapore and yes… I did shudder when I saw the 39 SGD (29 USD/24 GBP) price tag. And then I paid it. To be fair, this was an experience. The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel has a fascinating history and the vibes it offers up are immaculate. Still, there are alternatives. If you’re planning on visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck in the Marina Bay Sands resort, then get more bang for your buck by heading straight to Ce La Vi (the bar inside Marina Bay Sands) and use the ticket price on a Singapore Sling. Enjoy much the same view without having to pay to enter, just be sure to avoid wearing your flip-flops. A fantastic alternative is One Altitude Rooftop Bar, within one of the tallest buildings in Singapore. Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Marina Bay Sands. Entrance is a bit steep, but it includes two free drinks. ## Join a Food Tour for an Introduction to Singapore’s Amazing Food Contrary to almost all of South East Asia, Singapore isn’t a notably cheap place to eat out. But with such amazing culinary experiences to be had, tucked into every nook and cranny in town, spare some money in the budget to taste the best of it on a food tour around Singapore. For a food tour with tons of variety, join a highly rated culinary experience called [10 Tasting with Locals](https://www.getyourguide.com/singapore-l170/singapore-private-food-tour-10-tastings-with-locals-t130482/?partner_id=5OA45ES&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=singapore-activities&mkt_cmp=true). The private tour brings you to the best eats in town while seeing plenty of cultural highlights along the way. ## Spend time in Merlion Park ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Lauren-Juliff-in-Singapore.jpg) With the two most famous structures in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion\! A representation of Singapore’s humble beginnings as a small fishing village and its growth into the “Lion City”, Merlion is one of the top attractions in Singapore. Placed on Sentosa Island, the colossal statue is of a mythical creature by the same name. At the top is the head of the lion, which soon makes way for the body and tail of a fish with “Mer” meaning the sea. The Merlion statue found its forever home in Merlion Park back in 2002. Along the Singapore River, the structure is flanked by a large raised platform offering magnificent views of the city and the beguiling art piece. Alongside Merlion is its cub, while you can also find five more replica statues around Singapore. ## Get your art fix at the National Gallery ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Singapore-National-Gallery-rooftop-views.jpg) You can head up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden for free views of the city skyline Offering a strong focus on modern art from the 19th century to now, the National Gallery has the largest collection of art from this era, in all of South East Asia. Visitors can split their time between two buildings which combine to host over 9000 pieces of art. The gallery’s buildings are City Hall and a part of the city’s former Supreme Court. For an elevated experience, you can sign up for a free tour, held in either Mandarin or English, which will help you uncover a new perspective of the many outstanding works. Singapore’s National Gallery also plays host to many workshops throughout the year along with live performances and presentations just for kids. ## Explore Pulau Ubin ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_935/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Pulau-Ubin-Singapore.jpg) A time capsule that will take you back in time by 50 years, Pulau Ubin is a fascinating look into Singapore as it once was. Pulau Ubin was once a mining hub, home to large granite quarries that sustained the local community. But when the quarries closed, most left leaving a community with a population of less than 50. Those that remained continued their way of life, making it one of the most fascinating experiences to have in Singapore. After taking the brief 10-minute ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll be swept up by the peaceful island, a world away from one of the world’s iconic cities. Aside from exploring local villages, Pulau Ubin is home to one of the few examples of natural habitat around Singapore, the Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can stroll through the park on a meandering boardwalk or rent a bicycle for a leisurely ride. ## Get to the Airport Early to See the Famous Rain Vortex ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/girl-at-jewel-changi-waterfall-lightshow.jpg) As someone that experienced a 24-hour layover in Singapore and never left the airport, I can verify that Jewel Changi Airport deserves its spot on the list of the world’s best airports. Far more than a place to arrive and leave, the massive airport is part shopping mall, part dining mecca and entertainment hub. Aside from the free PlayStations, highlights of Jewel Changi include the enormous 7-story indoor waterfall, 300 stores with infinite possibilities for that last-minute gift along with an interior forest with elevated walkways. Each of the three terminals has their own garden, while you can also choose between two cinemas and a 4-story-tall slide for young and old. You may be in no rush to leave Singapore, but we won’t blame you for checking in early to experience this one-of-a-kind airport. ## Shield Your Eyes From the Gleaming St. Andrew’s Cathedral Within Singapore’s Civic District is a Neo-Gothic monument that stands out in sheer beautiful contrast to the many modern skyscrapers. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, surrounded by lush vegetation with the minimalist spire rising out of the canopy. The cathedral was built in the middle of the 1800s and was the first Anglican church in the country. For almost a century, it held mass until it was transformed into a makeshift hospital during the Second World War. Today you can appreciate the ornate architecture up close, while also admiring the interior designs. The surrounding grounds are also a lovely place to enjoy an afternoon picnic. ## Walk the Southern Ridges ![](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_1050/https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Henderson-Waves-Bridge-Singapore.jpg) One of my favourite hikes in Singapore is the one that leads to the Henderson Waves bridge Comprising 5.6 miles (9km) of easy to moderate walking trails, the Southern Ridges is the perfect way to experience the best parks in the city. The innovative trail connects Singapore’s MT Faber, Kent Ridge and Telok Blangah Parks on an often elevated walkway with plenty of views along the way. Mt Faber is one of the oldest parks in the city and home to Singapore’s second tallest hill. Covered in forests, hikes through the park offer far-reaching views of southern Singapore along with the ocean and islands beyond. From there you can complete the roughly 60-minute walk to Kent Ridge Park. But prepare to stop and admire the scenery along the way as the trail guides you through the undulating canopy called the Henderson Waves, before reaching Telok Blangah for panoramic city views. Next up is the Elevated Walkway that takes you high into the forest for a walk among the birds and butterflies. Finally, you’ll reach Kent Ridge Park, where one of the last defeats in the Battle of Singapore took place.
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