Looking for the best things to do in Singapore ? See my recommendations below.
Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia next to Malaysia. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world's most prosperous countries and boasts the world's busiest port. With strong international connections, Singapore is an important regional centre for finance and trade.
Singapore has a tropical climate with high temperatures and high humidity all year round. June to September are the wettest months, with heavy rains and thunderstorms.
The population of Singapore is about 5.6 million people. The country has four official languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, Malay, and Tamil.
Singapore may be small, but there's much to do there. It's a beautiful, clean, and multi-cultural country. With so many great places to stay, it makes a great holiday destination, too.
Gardens By the Bay is a colorful, futuristic botanical garden spanning 101 hectares. The high-tech Supertrees are the most recognized features of the park. They support an aerial walkway with views of the surrounding gardens and Marina Bay. The gardens also have space-age bio-domes, whimsical sculptures, the Flower Dome, and the Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is the largest greenhouse in the world and has plants and flowers grouped by country. The Cloud Forest has a small mountain and the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
China Town
Chinatown is a vibrant, cultural neighborhood in Singapore with several unique attractions. Here, you will find traditional Chinese houses, temples, and markets. The area is especially popular for its eateries and shopping.
Little India is another gastronomic and shopping hub that represents Singapore's ethnic diversity. This is the place to go to if you're craving curries and biryanis or if you want to shop for Indian spices, clothing, and flower garlands.
The Singapore Botanic Gardens was founded in 1859 and is the first and only UNESCO World Heritage site in Singapore. It's used for education and conservation. This cool, bucolic haven in the city is a great place to jog, have a picnic, or just relax. The National Orchid Garden boasts the world's largest orchid display, with over 60,000 plants and orchids.
The Singapore Flyer is one of the world's tallest observation wheels. It consists of 28 individual capsules that can carry 28 passengers each. The wheel takes 30 minutes to make a complete rotation, and it offers panoramic views of Marina Bay. On a clear day, it's even possible to see parts of Malaysia and Indonesia from the top.
Singapore Flyer
Sentosa Island is a popular island resort that's home to Universal Studios Singapore, as well as palm tree-lined beaches, golf courses, luxury resorts, and more. Once a military fortress, it's now known as “Singapore's Playground.” It is the perfect holiday island, especially if you are looking for things to do with kids.
Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is a picturesque riverfront destination filled with restaurants offering al-fresco dining, boutique shops, and recreation outlets. It was named after Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second governor, and attracts a steady stream of tourists every day.
These days, Orchard Road is one of Singapore's most iconic streets and its main shopping boulevard. However, in the 1800s, it was lined with nutmeg and pepper plantations, which gave it its name. Flanked by international and local department stores and shopping malls on both sides, it is often compared to London's Oxford Street. It's easy to spend a whole day shopping or window-shopping here.
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic resort and one of Singapore’s key landmarks due to its SkyPark, which is uniquely shaped like a massive, elongated surfboard, perched atop three hotel towers, creating a striking and iconic silhouette against the city skyline. Day visitors can explore the SkyPark which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore from its rooftop observation deck and stunning infinity pool, enjoy world-class shopping at The Shoppes which features luxury brands and fine dining, and visit the ArtScience Museum for engaging exhibitions and interactive displays.
One thing is certain. There is no shortage of things to do in Singapore . Add it to your travel bucket list.
What are your favourite things to do in Singapore ?
Disclosure: 13
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
Sara we loved the vibe in Kampong Glam - the Arab quarters. Haji Lane and Arab Street was vibrant at night. Locals as well as tourists dined at Turkish, Lebanese and Arab restaurants.
Great recommendations, thank you Gillian!
Next time I have a layover in Singapore, I definitely want to extend it to spend time there. Really want to go see the Gardens By The Bay!
Cassidy x