15 BEST Things to do in Singapore

Planning a trip to Singapore? Let us help you!

This futuristic city-state is known for world-class attractions, diverse culture, and a buzzing street food scene.

Singapore is a very common layover destination, so we travel through here a lot, and we turn our stopovers into city breaks whenever we can. We know the city well by now and have ticked off all of its iconic landmarks as well as some hidden gems.

So if you’re looking for the best way to see the city, then stay tuned, because we’ve got you covered with our top things to do! 

Singapore at a Glance

While visiting Singapore can seem a bit intimidating with its bustling high society and a lot of strange laws (look them up!), a few simple tips can make your visit seamless. 

English is everywhere: English is actually one of the four official languages, so you can expect friendly smiles and easy communication

Getting around is easy: Grab (basically the same as Uber) is the hands-down best way to get around. Download the app before you go – rides are cheap, readily available, and will be a welcome break from the heat. Traffic isn’t really an issue in Singapore, so it never takes too long to get from point A to B, even in rush hour. You can also use the MRT and simply pay with your card (as long as it’s Visa, Master Card, or American Express). 

It’s always humid: Expect it to be quite humid in Singapore year-round, with April and May being pretty unbearable (lucky for us, we visited in April). Pack accordingly – it’s rare you’ll see me in jeans here! The dress code is generally relaxed, except at temples and mosques, where shoulders and knees must be covered.

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Singapore

Singapore isn’t very large, so you actually can cover most important sights and local hot-spots in three solid days. Here’s the same itinerary we followed on our last long weekend in Singapore:

Day 1: Kick off your adventure with a small-group bike tour of the city’s top sights or a private car tour, wander through Nankin Street in Chinatown, and wrap up the night with a guided river cruise and spectacular light shows at the Supertree Grove.

Day 2: Start today diving deep into Singapore’s food scene on a small-group Chinatown tasting tour, then balance it out with museums, gardens, or shopping before ending the night under glowing lanterns in Chinatown and enjoying the famous chili mud crab for dinner.

Day 3: Spend your final day mastering Singaporean dishes in a hands-on cooking class, wandering the colorful streets of Kampong Glam, and toasting your trip with skyline views from Marina Bay.

Things to do in Singapore

1. See Singapore’s top city sights on a private customizable walking tour

This private city tour is the Singapore tour to book when you want total flexibility and a local to help you make the most of it. It’s private, it’s customizable, and you get to build the day around what you actually care about. Street food? Temples? Skyline views? Cool neighborhoods and cafés? You can pick your priorities, and your host will help shape a route that fits.

Before you even meet up, you fill in a quick questionnaire and can message your host directly to plan. That’s the bit we really like, because it means you’re not spending the first part of the tour figuring things out. You show up, you start exploring, done!

Because it’s a walking experience, it works best in areas where Singapore shines up close. Chinatown is an easy win for heritage streets, temples, and hawker center energy. Marina Bay is the go-to for those big skyline moments and classic photos. Gardens by the Bay is the futuristic option, especially if you want the Supertrees and the cooled conservatories. And for local vibes, Fort Canning and Tiong Bahru are great picks, with parks, history, Art Deco buildings, indie shops, and plenty of spots to pause for a drink or snack.

You can also choose the tour length that fits your schedule and budget, which makes it a handy option if you only have a half day free. If you want Singapore to feel personal, not generic, this is the one to book!

2. Pedal your way around the city

Of all of the sightseeing tours we have done of Singapore, this small group bike tour was hands down the best! It’s a fun and engaging introduction to Singapore, and it’s ideal for those who are short on time.

We covered so much ground, and it’s a half-day experience, so we had the afternoon free. 

We kicked off the tour by cruising through Marina Bay, enjoying the views and snapping photos of iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, and the Flyer observation wheel. And I must say, riding along the Formula 1 race track was a real highlight! 

We combined these must-see highlights with some vibrant cultural stops. Our guide, Fred, took us through Chinatown and Little India, and we also loved exploring Kampong Glam, the Arab Quarter, admiring the colorful Moorish architecture, and seeing the street art along Haji Lane.

This tour did an amazing job of showcasing the best of Singapore in just a few hours, and the small group format made it feel super special. In our opinion, it’s the best way to sightsee! And we aren’t alone, just check out the 6,200+ reviews from other travelers!

3. Eat Satay at the famous Lau Pa Sat Market

Lau Pa Sat is one of Singapore’s most famous hawker centers, housed in a beautiful Victorian-style building with ornate ironwork and a lively atmosphere. We loved visiting here because it showcases just how diverse Singapore’s food scene really is. You’ll find everything from local favorites to international dishes, so there’s no shortage of options!

We highly recommend going to the satay section along Boon Tat Street. Here you can try the world-famous satay that is totally worth the hype! Vendors 7 and 8 are the most popular stalls, and you can easily find them from the large signs or crowds around here (don’t worry, they move quickly!). Other must-try dishes here are laksa and Hainanese chicken rice – so good!

The satay vendors are only open in the evening during the week, from 7 pm, and on the weekends from 3 pm. We think the overall atmosphere is more lively and fun at night, so make this your dinner option for one of the days!

4. Visit a local market and learn how to make authentic Singaporean food

Singapore is world-famous for its incredible food, and this 3-hour cooking class is such a fun way to experience it! You still get all the flavors, but you also learn how the dishes actually come together, plus the little tips that make them taste like the real deal back home.

You’ll meet your local instructors, throw on an apron, and get cooking straight away. The class is step-by-step and beginner-friendly, but still interesting if you already love being in the kitchen. You make three dishes during the session, and the menu changes depending on the day. One day it might be laksa with fried spring rolls, another it could be char kway teow with nyonya popiah, or nasi lemak with sambal prawns. Basically, come hungry!

What we really like is the cultural angle. Singapore food is a mashup of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and British influences, and the instructors explain what you are doing and why, so it actually sticks. Then you sit down and eat everything you made with the group in a relaxed setting. All ingredients and equipment are included, along with water, coffee, and tea, so you can just show up and enjoy it.

5. Visit the Chinatown Street Market

The Chinatown Street Market is another iconic market with a bustling atmosphere. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this market is best visited at night or late afternoon, when all the good vendors come out, and locals are off work to enjoy a good meal. 

The market runs along Smith Street and Pagoda Street. It’s best to experience it simply by wandering around and getting amongst the atmosphere. Smith Street has a more authentic feel, with a lot of food and more local shops. Pagoda Street is a bit busier and has more tourist-centric shopping. 

As far as food goes, you can’t choose a bad restaurant! We personally loved ArtiStick on Smith Street – anything served on a stick here will be phenomenal. The Xiang Restaurant is known for its noodles, and Fortune Garden has a great all-around atmosphere!

6. Make your own perfume with Singapore’s famous orchids

Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir from Singapore or just a fun new experience, you can’t go wrong with this perfume-making workshop! We had so much fun discovering our scent profiles and making our own unique fragrances.

But it’s not just the fragrances that are one-of-a-kind; since the class uses Singapore’s native orchids, you really can only do this right here in the city! 

When we arrived at the workshop, we took a fun quiz to reveal our individual scent profiles. It was actually super interesting to learn about how different fragrances connect to different emotions and personality traits! Then, armed with our results, we got to explore over 120 fragrance oils infused with Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim. 

Once we had figured out our likes and dislikes, we got to work making our own perfumes. The class was super hands-on, and our guides were very patient. They took us through the process step-by-step, and I must admit, it felt a little bit like mixing potions as a kid! 

We opted to make 100 mls of fragrance each, since we figured we might as well while we were here! The bottles we were given were beautiful, too, and we will definitely be returning here to fill them up again once they run out.

7. Escape the city and go kayaking through mangroves

As adventure lovers, we couldn’t turn down the chance to get out of the city and kayak around the mangroves of Pulau Ubin Island. And we’re so glad we booked this kayaking tour because we had a blast!

It was easily one of the best things we did in Singapore, but I have to tell you upfront, it sells out pretty fast, so don’t wait too long to book!

This tour was beginner-friendly, but although we have kayaked before, it was still exciting! We started by crossing a short stretch of open sea, and then we felt like we were gliding into another world as we entered the mangroves. It was peaceful, green, and so different from the urban buzz of the main city.

The water was calm, which made paddling easy, but the payoff was huge. The views of Pulau Ubin were beautiful, and we loved kayaking through the mangroves. They were teeming with birds, and our guides, Calvin and Emily, taught us about the ecosystem as we explored. We spotted hornbills, herons, and kingfishers, as well as a black forest cobra – from a safe distance, I might add! 

We loved every second of this kayaking tour, and we will 100% do it again the next time we’re in Singapore! It was so much fun, a great workout, and an awesome escape from the city.

Related Read: If you want help planning, check out our 3- to 5-day Singapore itinerary for an easy-to-follow guide!

8. Visit the Home of the Singapore Sling

If you like history and cocktails, you’d better make your way to Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel. This historic cocktail bar is home to the Singapore Sling – yes, THAT Singapore Sling!

For those who aren’t fully clued in on this world-famous cocktail, it’s made with gin, Grand Marnier, and a few types of liqueur, for a fruity and refreshing drink. Careful, it goes down quick! This particular cocktail was crafted at Long Bar in 1915 with the goal of serving women drinks that looked like fruit juice – and it worked.

It has become a staple at most cocktail bars worldwide since, but nothing is as authentic as Long Bar. We love the colonial-style setting, complete with rattan chairs and peanut shells on the floor, which makes the experience feel like stepping back in time. Of course, we had to order a Singapore Sling; just know that it’s a bit expensive (about $34 USD each), but it’s worth it! 

The other cocktails on the menu were much more affordable and just as good. There might be a short wait to get into the bar, but it moved pretty quickly when we were here. 

9. Taste your way through Singapore

Hawker centers can be a little overwhelming at first, so this gourmet food tour is a brilliant way to dive in with someone who knows exactly where to go. You explore Chinatown with an English-speaking guide and eat as you go, with 9 to 10 tastings (food and drinks), including stops at Michelin Guide and Bib Gourmand hawkers. Come hungry, seriously!

The route weaves through classic Chinatown streets and into big hitters like Maxwell Food Centre and the Chinatown Complex, where hawker culture really comes to life. Between bites, your guide shares the stories behind the dishes and why hawker food is such a big deal in Singapore.

You’ll also pass some of the area’s landmarks, like Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, so don’t forget to snap a photo or two!

Because it is a small group, it’s really relaxed and easy to follow, and you can actually ask questions or get recommendations based on what you like. By the end, you will have tried a ton, learned a lot, and will have a shortlist of stalls you will want to come back to later!

10. Take a day trip to Kuala Lumpur

Singapore is (relatively) close to the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, so don’t miss the chance to visit! We booked this tour to save us the hassle of planning, which proved to be an amazing decision because we truly felt that we saw the whole city in just one day. 

The day started early with prompt hotel pickup, and then we snoozed on the way to Kuala Lumpur, except for when we stopped at a 5-star hotel for breakfast! Then, the first stop of the day was the world-famous Batu Caves, which was the perfect introduction to Malaysia’s rich culture. We walked up the colorful steps and got to check out the cave temple before moving on to other highlights like the National Palace and Independence Square. 

We also got to visit the Putra Mosque and the Central Market, where we had some free time to shop for souvenirs. At every stop, our guide, Amir, shared stories and insights about Malaysian history and culture, so we really felt as though we were getting to know the city. 

Around 4 pm, we headed up to the revolving restaurant inside the iconic Petronas Twin Towers for a buffet meal and panoramic views. It’s not so easy to get a table here, so this was a real treat, and a great note to end on!

11. See Singapore from above

Singapore is a stunning city, and seeing it from above is the best way to take it all in. From the blocks of high-rise buildings to the patches of green space and all the surrounding water, it’s really unlike any other spot in Southeast Asia!

There are a few ways that you can get this view. The most popular option is to go up to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark observation deck – which is certainly a beautiful viewpoint! But it costs $35 USD just to get to the observation deck, and honestly, we didn’t think it was worth it. 

Alternatively, you can visit one of the many rooftop bars in the area to get the same view, plus a little bit more. We loved LAVO Italian Restaurant, which has a $30 USD minimum spend, and that covers food and drinks. So you’re spending nearly the same amount as going to Marina Sands Bay, but you get a lot more for your money.

This makes for a great dinner spot or an afternoon cocktail-and-appetizers break. Whenever you go, I highly recommend making reservations because we aren’t the only ones who know about this travel hack!

12. See Singapore light up on a river cruise

On this 4-hour evening tour, you get the skyline, the river, and both of the big light shows, all stitched together into one easy, well-paced adventure. No stressing over timings, no bouncing between apps, just show up and enjoy.

You kick off at Merlion Park right as the city starts to glow, so you can grab those Marina Bay photos while the light is still soft. Then it is a quick stop at Clarke Quay, where the riverside shophouses light up, and the whole area feels lively and fun.

Next up is the 30-minute Singapore River cruise, and this is where the night really gets going. You’ll glide under illuminated bridges, pass the mix of old waterfront buildings and modern towers, and cruise out toward Marina Bay with the skyline shining ahead. Safe to say you’ll have tons of photos after this!

After the cruise, you head to Gardens by the Bay for Garden Rhapsody at the Supertree Grove. The Supertrees are already cool in the daytime, but at night they go to a whole new level. Then you finish with Spectra at Marina Bay Sands: fountains, lasers, music – the full show. Cap it off with hotel drop-off, or choose Lau Pa Sat for a late-night bite!

13. Explore the entire island with a local guide

Ready to get off the beaten path and see another side of Singapore? We love this private full island tour just for that! While many travelers stick to the downtown core, there’s much more to Singapore to be discovered, and since it’s a private tour, you can tailor it to your interests.

We love how this tour focuses on some unique cultural and outdoor sights. One of the major highlights is visiting the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, which is also called the “temple of 1,000 lights”. But the really impressive sight is the 15-meter (49-foot) statue of Buddha! 

You’ll also get to enjoy some outdoor sights as you take a cruise down the Singapore River, which will certainly be a memorable part of your trip! Mount Faber is also an iconic stop, where you can take the cable car to the top and enjoy sweeping views of the city below.

This tour gives you the opportunity to revisit some classic Singapore highlights, such as Little India, Arab Street, and the National Orchid Garden. But since it’s a private tour, you can adjust the schedule to see what you want. 

We think this is a great chance to discover more of Singapore, and the hundreds of 5-star reviews certainly agree!

14. Take a catamaran cruise to Pulau Ubin

If you like discovering hidden gems, this catamaran tour of Pulau Ubin is a must! This little island is known for its birds, mangroves, and kelongs – aka floating fish farms. And on this cruise, you’ll get to see it all. 

These catamarans are sleek, modern, and comfortable! Led by an expert captain, you’ll get a lot of information and insightful commentary as you glide past mangrove swamps. It’s likely you’ll spot some unique wildlife as you go!

As lovely as the boat ride is, there’s a bit of intrigue with Pulau Ubin and the island’s abandoned resort. Between that and the traditional kelong farms, this tour really feels as if you’re stepping back in time – or should that be cruising back?

You’ll love seeing the kelongs, whose rustic nature was a real contrast to Singapore’s gleaming inner city area. You will even get to step on board one of the kelongs for a closer look at how they operate before stopping for lunch at a floating restaurant. This is on your own account, but it’s worth it for the freshest seafood ever!

This tour is both informative and relaxing, and enjoying a boat cruise is an ideal way to beat the heat. You will see a whole different side to Singapore on this tour!

15. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, simply put, absolutely lovely! This is a great escape from the urban jungle that makes up Singapore’s downtown area, full of shaded paths, sweeping lawns, and tranquil lakes, making it easy to slow down and recharge. 

The gardens actually date back to the 1800s, primarily focusing on orchids. Today, you can find over 3,000 plants working together to create a unique and stunning ecosystem. 

You’ll see a wide variety of sections in the Botanic Gardens, but the most popular is the National Orchid Garden. If you’re pressed for time, this is not to be missed, but honestly, there is so much to see that you could spend a full 3 hours exploring. Most visitors give it about 1 or 2 hours, and that’s fully sufficient. 

There are also restaurants and cafes on the grounds, so it’s easy to linger here and enjoy the view.

Where to Stay in Singapore

With so many amazing things to do in Singapore, having the perfect place to stay will make your trip even more unforgettable. We stayed in Chinatown and would recommend you do the same! It strikes a good balance of value and luxury, location, and local culture. Here are our top hotel options for a range of budgets.

Luxury – $$$

Mondrian Singapore Duxton is a sleek hotel that oozes style. There’s a stunning rooftop pool with skyline views that makes it feel like a mini urban resort. It’s the perfect place to retreat to after exploring Chinatown’s vibrant, bustling streets.

The location is right in the Duxton Hill area, a trendy pocket of Chinatown that’s filled with bars, restaurants, and cafes, and is still close to teh MRT and downtown. Rooms usually range from $230 to $400 USD per night, with suites costing up to $800 USD. Check prices and book your stay on Booking.com!

Mid-range – $$

We stayed at Capri by Fraser China Square on our last visit and loved it! This hotel offers 5-star service and amenities at a moderate price. We loved the rooftop pool, especially in Singapore’s hot climate, and the location was really convenient. It was less than a 15-minute walk to the downtown core!

The rooms were comfortable, modern, and the perfect place to rest after a busy day of exploring. Rooms average around $400 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Bliss Hotel Singapore is a cozy, budget option that’s an ideal base for exploring! It has a fantastic location, right in Chinatown yet close to downtown, so you can enjoy both areas with ease. 

Situated in a historic but renovated building, it’s a charming stay with a variety of room sizes for a range of budgets. The rooms themselves are pretty basic, but exactly what you need for a comfortable rest without breaking the budget. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop garden! 

Prices range from $130 to $180 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Related Read: For more options, see our Where to Stay in Singapore guide for the best areas and hotels!

Thanks for reading!

I hope you enjoy exploring Singapore as much as we did! It’s a fun place to visit whether you’re here on a layover or have a bit more time. There are so many unique and fun activities to keep you busy!

If this guide was helpful, have a look at all our blogs about Southeast Asia. We’ve been traveling and living abroad for a long time, so we have tons of helpful tips and travel guides to share!

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