What to Do in Singapore: 20 Best Things for First-Timers

Singapore: Where to Start

Singapore packs an extraordinary amount into 728 square kilometers. From UNESCO-listed gardens and futuristic architecture to centuries-old temples and Asia’s best street food, here are the 20 best things to do — including some less obvious gems.

Iconic Attractions

1. Gardens by the Bay

Singapore’s most photographed landmark. The Supertrees — towering vertical gardens — are free to wander around, and the nightly light show (7:45pm, 8:45pm) is spectacular. The indoor conservatories (Cloud Forest and Flower Dome) are paid but stunning. Allocate at least half a day.

2. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

The observation deck on top of the iconic ship-shaped hotel offers 360-degree views of Singapore’s skyline. SGD 32 for non-guests. Alternatively, the free view from the Helix Bridge at night is nearly as good.

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens

160 years old and UNESCO World Heritage listed — Singapore’s most beloved green space. 82 hectares of tropical gardens, heritage trees, and the National Orchid Garden (SGD 15). Free to enter otherwise, and beautiful any time of day.

4. Sentosa Island

Singapore’s resort island — three beaches (Siloso, Palawan, Tanjong), Universal Studios (SGD 83), S.E.A. Aquarium, adventure activities, and the Imbiah Trail. Take the cable car from Mount Faber (SGD 35) for the approach.

5. Singapore Zoo & Night Safari

Consistently ranked among the world’s best zoos. The Night Safari (SGD 55) is a unique experience — tram-based tour of nocturnal animals in a naturalistic setting. Combine zoo + river wonders + night safari for a full day out.

Neighborhoods to Explore (All Free)

6. Chinatown

Buddhist temples, hawker centres, spice shops, and some of Singapore’s oldest shophouses. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a free highlight. Maxwell Food Centre is the best nearby hawker option.

7. Little India

The most sensory neighborhood in Singapore — turmeric and jasmine in the air, brightly painted temples, flower garland sellers, and excellent South Indian food at Tekka Centre. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is free to enter.

8. Arab Street / Kampong Glam

The golden dome of Sultan Mosque dominates this Malay-Arab neighborhood. Haji Lane is famous for street art, independent boutiques, and cafes. One of Singapore’s most photogenic streets.

9. Tiong Bahru

Singapore’s hippest neighborhood — 1930s Art Deco public housing, independent bookshops, specialty coffee, and a great wet market. The most “local” feeling central neighborhood.

Food Experiences

10. Hawker Centre Breakfast

Start your day with kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and kopi (local coffee) at any kopitiam. SGD 4–6. The quintessential Singapore morning.

11. Chilli Crab Dinner

Singapore’s most famous dish — splurge on it once. Best at Jumbo Seafood (East Coast Park) or Long Beach. Budget SGD 50–80 per person.

12. Hawker Centre Dinner (Maxwell or Chinatown Complex)

Make one evening purely about cheap local food — try five different dishes from five different stalls. Budget SGD 20–30 total.

Outdoor Activities

13. Southern Ridges Walk

A 10km elevated walkway through forest connecting HarbourFront to Buona Vista — includes the famous Henderson Waves bridge. Free, best in the morning before it gets hot.

14. Pulau Ubin Island

Take a bumboat (SGD 4) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to this rustic island. Rent a bicycle and explore kampong villages, mangroves, and Chek Jawa wetlands. A glimpse of old Singapore. Free to explore.

Day Trips

15. Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Cross the Causeway by bus (SGD 2.50) into Malaysia for cheap food, shopping, and a taste of a completely different country just 1km away. Day trip or overnight.

16. Batam, Indonesia

45 minutes by ferry to a completely different world — Indonesian island with cheap seafood, massages, and golf. Very popular with Singaporeans for weekend getaways.

Cultural Experiences

17. National Museum of Singapore

Free on Friday evenings (6–9pm), the National Museum tells Singapore’s story from fishing village to global city-state. Well designed and air-conditioned.

18. ArtScience Museum

The lotus-shaped museum in Marina Bay combines art and science in temporary exhibitions. SGD 14–22 depending on exhibitions. Worth it if the current show appeals.

19. Night Cycling at East Coast Park

Rent bicycles (SGD 8–15/hour) and cycle along the 15km coastal park after dark when it’s cooler. Popular with locals on weekends.

20. Watching the Planes at Changi Beach

Free and unexpectedly memorable — sit on Changi Beach as planes land low overhead at Changi Airport. Bring a beer from 7-Eleven, watch the sunset, and count one of the world’s most satisfying free activities.