Best things to do in Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant metropolis that blends modernity with heritage and offers a wealth of experiences for both residents and travellers. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems and from the entertaining to the educational, this article delves into the best things to do in Singapore.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a foodie or an adventure seeker, Singapore has something extraordinary to offer you. Join us on a journey through the top attractions and activities that make the Lion City a remarkable place to explore.

(With so many new attractions and activities being created all the time, we will keep updating this list. If you have a recommendation, please tell us!)

Eat Hawker Food

Hawker centres are regarded as gems of Singapore’s culinary heritage not just by locals and visitors but even UNESCO. These bustling food complexes are integral to Singapore’s identity, acting as cultural touchstones that preserve and promote the diverse food traditions of our multicultural society.

Here are 3 hawker centres that you should check out:

Remember to try Singaporean classics such as chicken rice, laksa and Hokkien mee when you visit! Want even more? Here are the 300 best of the best.

You can even get a Tour of Singapore’s Must Try Local Vegetarian Food + Buddhism Culture at FeverUp

Get stunning photos for the ‘gram

Our best rooftop bars list shows you all the best places to eat and drink while enjoying a spectacular view. Here are some other iconic spots around Singapore you have to visit to get the best photos.

1. The Merlion

Before there was MBS, the structure most closely associated with Singapore was the Merlion. Part lion, part fish, it is still the official mascot of the Lion City and regarded as our national personification.

The City Highlights: Singapore River & Marina Bay Guided Tour takes you to Merlion Park where the Merlion sits, constantly gushing water from its mouth. Irreverent locals use the term ‘merlioning’ to refer to vomiting. Installed in 1972, the 8.6-meter, 70-ton statue has since been joined by a 2-metre, 3-ton Merlion cub.

This tour introduces you to other iconic landmarks and architecture, including the Singapore Flyer and the Esplanade Theatre.

(Note: The Merlion statue is under repair from 23 Oct to 13 Dec 2023. The Merlion cub will be holding the fort on its own during this period)

5 Raffles Place, Singapore 048618
Tickets from S$85 at  FeverUp

2. Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer offers a breathtaking experience 165 meters (541 feet) in the sky. This colossal observation wheel gives you an unrivalled perspective of the Lion City’s skyline from its glass-enclosed capsules. See Singapore’s stunning blend of modern architecture, lush greenery, and shimmering waters all the way to the horizon.

The Singapore Flyer is an unforgettable part of any visit to the Lion City. Get your combo tickets now for Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay or Marina Bay Sands!

30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 03980
Tickets for Singapore Flyer & Marina Bay Sands from $58.95 at  FeverUp

3. Photobooth session @ Haji Lane

If you love the Y2K aesthetic and want to join the photobooth craze, head down to vibrant Haji Lane. As you walk down the street, you will notice numerous photobooth studios available for you to choose from.

From classic Korean-style photobooths to fun-themed and different-angle booths, there is one for everyone to try.

There are also many fun and quirky props you can use when snapping your shots at the booths. Be sure to scan the QR codes after your photo-taking session to receive digital copies of your photos.

Some photobooths to check out:

• Solace Studios
  30 Haji Ln, #01-00, Singapore 189223
• PicUp!
  82 Haji Ln, #01-00, Singapore 189272
• Pickypic
  Haji Ln, 32 Haji Ln, #01-01, Singapore 189225
• One Click Studio
  33A Haji Lane, 2nd Floor, Singapore 189226
• Photobytes
  61A Haji Ln, Singapore 189254

So, drop by Haji Lane for your next hangout and snap your memories at their wide selection of photobooths. 

Haji Lane (nearest MRT – Bugis MRT station)

4. The Library @ Orchard

Located on Level 3 of Orchard Gateway, this National Library branch is the most stylish and aesthetically pleasing in Singapore.

With its wavy, maze-like shelves, this two-storey library is the perfect place to take your Instagram photos while unwinding in the calm vibe of the library.

277 Orchard Road, Orchard Gateway #03-12 & #04-11, Singapore 238858 

For Serenity

1. Float Therapy

Floatation therapy is a scientifically proven method of reducing stress and accelerating recovery, and it even has the potential to rewire your brain. This magic happens inside an enclosed pod of water with 600 kg of dissolved Epsom salt, so anyone can float effortlessly. Users say it feels like a safe, womb-like cocoon and the perfect space to rest.

Sessions have been shown to increase mental acuity and concentration, deepen meditative and spiritual experiences, and boost mental acuity and learning speed.

66 Kampong Bugis Kallang Rivergreen Building, 5th Floor, Singapore 338987
1 hour from S$89 at  Palm Ave Float Club

2. Relax at a Japanese Onsen

Tired of your busy schedule? What better way to relax than by spending your time at a Japanese onsen? If you have been to Japan and stayed at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or visited an onsen spa, you will be familiar with these hot spring facilities.

Typically at over 25 degrees Celsius, these onsen baths can improve blood circulation and metabolism. Additionally, they can help nourish and rejuvenate your skin while easing tension and body aches.

So, unwind and pamper yourself at a Japanese onsen in Singapore and enjoy a relaxing day away from the daily hustle and bustle.

Here are some options for you: 

For the Adrenaline Junkie

Enough serenity? It’s time to kick it up a notch with some of the most exciting adventures Singapore-wide.

3. Escape from escape rooms

If you are a thrill-seeker and enjoy challenging your brain, spending an exhilarating day in an escape room is an experience you do not want to miss.

As one of the largest escape room operators in the country, Xcape SG offers a wide variety of room types and genres, with over 52 game chambers to choose from. Whether you are interested in crime, horror, or even a VR escape room experience, it is sure to be a fresh and thrilling activity for you and your friends. 

So, gather your friends and explore the numerous escape rooms in Singapore. 

Here are some other options to check out:

61 Rochor Road, Bugis Village, Singapore 188436

Attractions & Theme Parks

1. Singapore Zoo

With over 4,200 specimens of wildlife across over 300 species, Singapore Zoo in Mandai more than pulls its weight within tiny Singapore. From the fierce and majestic king of the jungle to the cute and hyperactive meerkats to the gentle, swaying giraffes, there is an enclosure that will appeal to you.

With so much to see and do, it’s best to get a package that lets you experience it to the max. Here are 3 that you should try:

• Singapore Zoo: Meet orangutans, snakes & more from S$31.95 at  FeverUp
• Singapore Night Safari with Tram Ride from S$34.15 at FeverUp
• 2-in-1 Park Hopper: Singapore Night Safari + River Wonders from S$61.95 at  FeverUp

80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826 

2. Wild Wild Wet

Singapore is notorious for its heat and humidity, and that makes an escape to Wild Wild Wet an unmissable entry on our list. It is one of Singapore’s biggest water parks and promises a day of fun and laughter for the whole family.

The expanded park now has 16 exciting slides and water features, including the Kraken Racer, Free Fall and Kidz Zone. It’s not all adrenaline-rushing rides, though; there are also relaxing family-friendly attractions such as the lazy River so it’s perfect for all ages and personalities.

1 Pasir Ris Close, Singapore 519599
Skip-the-line tickets (adult) from S$27.69 at  FeverUp

3. Omni-Theatre: 8K 3D Digital Dome Theatre

Southeast Asia’s first 8K 3D digital dome theatre gives the whole family an immersive edutainment experience like no other. The powerful digital planetarium system lets you peer into space at 8K resolution on a 23-metre diameter dome screen in a 221-seat theatre that also screens a range of digital movies and live planetarium shows. These shows are conducted by science educators.

21 Jurong Town Hall Road, Singapore 609433
Tickets (all ages) from S$13.95 at  FeverUp

The Arts

1. Tuesdays at Cool Cats: The Tuesday Blues Revue in Singapore

Immerse yourself in a unique fusion of primal blues, reimagined and brought back to life! Step into a world where the vintage allure of the American Deep South converges with contemporary Asian aesthetics. With Greg Tucker-Kellogg’s lap steel serving as the soundtrack, savour the remnants of bygone cotton plantation days when melodies told stories of old.

Enhancing this soulful ambience, you’ll be serenaded by the harmonious melodies of the violin and flute, reminiscent of the fiddle and fife that once dominated communal gatherings in the Deep South.

2. Paint in the Dark

Let the creativity flow with Paint in the Dark. Participants can create art in a unique setting with limited visibility using glow-in-the-dark or luminescent paints to produce artwork in a darkened environment, which adds an exciting and mysterious element to the creative process. It’s a creative and entertaining experience that allows individuals to explore their artistic side while embracing the element of surprise in their creations.

169 Joo Chiat Road, #02-01, Singapore 427729

Tickets from S$69 at  FeverUp

3. Museum hopping

Immerse yourself in creativity and explore Singapore’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Discover the city’s numerous museums, where you can enjoy learning new things and absorb the unique atmosphere each museum has to offer.

National Museum of Singapore

Visit the National Museum of Singapore for free (Singapore citizens and PRs) and enjoy the different exhibitions and galleries. Dubbed the largest and oldest museum in Singapore, it offers a rich insight into Singapore’s history and culture for all to appreciate.

93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

Singapore Art Museum

The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) adopts a contemporary approach, showcasing works by local talents and regional pieces from China, India, Korea, and Japan. Currently housed in Tanjong Pagar Distripark due to renovations at its original location, SAM remains a favoured destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in unique and contemporary art. Admission is free for everyone, local and foreign.

39 Keppel Road, #01-02 Tanjong Pagar Distripark, Singapore 089065

Hell’s Museum

If you are into dark art and culture, Haw Par Villa Hell’s Museum will definitely pique your interest. This unique museum dives into the Buddhist concept of the 10 Courts of Hell, providing an insight into this belief system. 

Additionally, it explores the diverse perspectives of death from different communities, offering a rich, enlightening experience that challenges and broadens your views on the afterlife.

262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628

Therefore, if you are looking for a day filled with creativity and culture, consider visiting the various museums around Singapore. 

Here are some other museums to check out:

For animal lovers 

1. Visit the animal farm

Looking for a fresh adventure? Spend a day immersed in the great outdoors, engaging with fluffy rabbits, adorable goats, and ponies, or marvelling at aquatic life at various animal farms. 

Singapore offers a variety of animal farms, each providing unique and exciting activities. Some notable farms include Hay Diaries, Gallop Stable, and Qian Hu Fish Farm.

Hay Diaries

Join a farm tour at Hay Diaries for a fun-filled day of feeding, petting, and learning the milking process of the endearing goats. With over 800 goats, Hay Diaries is the only animal farm that specifically houses goats in Singapore. 

In addition, you can get to taste fresh goat’s milk and purchase some souvenirs such as handmade goat soap, drawstring bags and many more. 

250 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 719866

Gallop Stable

Spend an exhilarating time at Gallop Stable, riding horses and ponies! Located at Horsecity @ Bukit Timah and Pasir Ris Park, Gallop Stable offers various activities for you to experience at their recreational and lifestyle hub. 

From riding adorable horses and ponies to participating in creative activities such as horseshoe painting and window art, visiting Gallop Stable will surely be an exciting and enjoyable time. 

Furthermore, you can also feed these adorable ponies after your rides. 

Bukit Timah – 100 Turf Club Road, Singapore 287992
Pasir Ris Park – 61 Pasir Ris Green Carpark C Singapore 518225

Qian Hu Fish Farm

Housing over 1,000 species and varieties of ornamental fish from all over the world, Qian Hu Fish Farm is a hot spot for marine life enthusiasts. 

Take part in their guided tour, join in on the longkang fishing, and enjoy a relaxing 30-minute fish spa to exfoliate your feet and have a fruitful day at the farm. Don’t miss out on checking out the aquatic animals and plants in their retail section as well. 

71 Jalan Lekar, Singapore 698950

2. Visit animal cafes 

If you love cafes and animals, visiting an animal cafe is the perfect day out for you. 

Relax and de-stress with these furry companions while dining with delightful food and beverages. Here are some cafes for you to visit on your next day out. 

NekoTown SG Cattery

Located in the East of Singapore, NekoTown SG Cattery is a haven for cat lovers. Offering a homey atmosphere, adorable cats, and a free flow of drinks for just S$9/hr, it is the perfect escape. The cafe also features grooming services and pet products for your furry friends at their Tanjong Katong branch. 

Cafe: 658 Geylang Road, Singapore 389588
Pet shop & grooming service: 188-5 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 436990

Chow Cute Cafe

Puppy enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Chow Cute Cafe in Seletar Aerospace Park. It is a perfect spot to unwind and play with lively furry friends. Enjoy petting resident chow chows and Samoyeds, and feel free to bring your own pets for a fun and relaxing day out.

16 The Oval, Seletar Aerospace Park, Singapore 797873

What the Pug Cafe

If you’re a fan of irresistibly charming pugs, then What the Pug Cafe is the perfect spot for you. Situated on Haji Lane, this cafe serves as an oasis for pug lovers to interact and enjoy quality time with these adorable dogs. Remember to book your visit in advance, as entry is by appointment only.

80 Haji Ln, Singapore 189271

Whether you are a pet owner or simply an animal lover, visiting these animal cafes provides a fantastic opportunity to relax, interact, and cuddle with newfound furry friends.

Activities and workshops 

Experience various activities and workshops to fill your day with fun and excitement. 

1. Pottery class @ Orchard Central

Experience Singapore’s largest Korean pottery classes at Am I Addicted Korean Pottery Studio for a day of engaging and creative pottery-making. Located in Orchard Central, this expansive 10,000 sq ft studio offers both a la carte and workshop sessions suitable for all skill levels.

Register for a trial class for S$55/hr, get your hands dirty, and immerse yourself in the art of ceramic making.

181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central, #05-37 Singapore 238896

2. Sing your hearts out @ Karaoke 

If belting out tunes at the top of your lungs is your guilty pleasure but you are concerned about disturbing your family and neighbours, visiting the karaoke would be an excellent alternative for you.

Here are a few karaoke studios where you can have fun singing and unwinding.

HaveFun Karaoke

HaveFun Karaoke, featuring multiple locations islandwide, welcomes guests to its aesthetically themed rooms equipped with neon lights, a broad range of songs, and a selection of snacks and drinks. VIP rooms with billiard tables and darts are also available. 

Kommune

Kommune by 85soho, located at Orchard Gateway, is a multi-entertainment hub featuring karaoke studios, video gaming rooms, board games and a restaurant. Experience the unique Korean karaoke system, which features the finest sound technology from South Korea’s leading karaoke company, and unleash your inner idol.

Orchardgateway, 277 Orchard Road, Singapore 238858, Unit 03 – 18

K.STAR

Open until 4am, K.STAR stands out as Singapore’s first themed karaoke studio, boasting an array of unique thematic rooms. With locations at Orchard Central, Plaza Singapura, Clarke Quay, and PLQ Mall, it provides guests with a diverse selection of rooms to choose from. In addition, their massive Party Suites can accommodate approximately 25 people, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.

So, next time you want to belt out a tune, visit these karaoke studios and sing to your heart’s content.

Glamping 

If you love the idea of pretty tents, enchanting lights and a comfy environment, glamping is your ideal escape. It is the perfect blend of having the adventure of camping with the luxury of a staycation. This fusion offers a unique experience without sacrificing comfort or style.

1. Outdoor Glamping @ East Coast Park

Go Glamping SG hosts one of Singapore’s most beloved glamping spots. Here, you can enjoy the scenic sea views and the refreshing sea breeze from the comfort of your fully equipped glamping tent. Each tent comes with portable air conditioners or fans and comfortable beds, ensuring a delightful blend of nature and luxury.

Book your tents here for a unique and hassle-free experience. 

2. Indoor Glamping @ Burnout Space

For those less inclined towards the outdoors but eager to explore the glamping experience, Burnout Space presents Singapore’s first indoor glamping option. This unique setting features fully air-conditioned rooms and movie screenings for your enjoyment.

Ideal for hosting special occasions like bridal showers, birthdays, anniversaries and proposals, the venue also provides a full dining setup, customisable message boards, and additional tailored services to enhance your celebration.

Book your rooms here to have a one-of-a-kind experience. 

So, grab your families, friends, and loved ones and make your reservation for a short glamping getaway in Singapore.

 

Did we forget your favourite attraction or activity? If you want to see it on this list, please tell us!