Iconic Places To Visit In Singapore – A Singapore Travel Guide

Singapore is a city and country that is located off the tip of the Malaysian Peninsula. The country goes by the name Republic of Singapore.

Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world, but it has managed to make a mark on the world. For a small space, and a pretty small population, it’s got a lot going for it. Whether you’re looking for the best places to visit in Singapore, interesting places in Singapore or iconic places in Singapore, you’ll always have options.

It’s a global hub for business, education, healthcare, finance, manufacture, design and near enough any other industry that you can think of. Some of the biggest companies around the world are either based in Singapore or have branches here. It’s considered the “most technology-ready” nation by the World Economic Forum, as well as the nation with the best investment potential, the world’s smartest city, the world’s safest country, among other things.

Wages are high, the cost of living relatively low. Healthcare is cheap and readily available. Rates of infant death are low, as is unemployment. That said, all of this business and forward thinking doesn’t mean that it’s an urban centre with nothing for tourists.

It is super clean, with strict laws on vandalism and littering. Dubbed as the “Lion City,” it is also known for its magnificent skyline, which gives a beautiful view of the city from the Marina Bay area at night.

The recent cost of living in Singapore is almost tied with Paris and Zurich, and it was considered the most expensive city in the world for five consecutive years.

The bigger question is, does this mean being a tourist in this country will also break the bank?

In this post, you’ll learn how to tour Singapore when you’re on a budget, so you can fully enjoy your vacation in Singapore without spending a lot of money. Singapore is a thriving country with plenty of affordable places to explore, whether it’s a tourist attraction or famous places. You only have to know where to look.

Being born and bred in Singapore, there are a ton of things I can recommend you to do and see, whether you like the classic Singapore tourist attractions or visiting the local hunts.

Natural parks, entertainment centres, quirky museums and a highly developed cosmopolitan city with all its modern charms and glory – Singapore is the unmatched tourist destination in Asia and beyond. The clean, green, charming and modern Singapore is a full house entertainment for anyone young and old.

There is a fair amount of work that has to go into planning a flawless holiday here especially if you only have a few days and have to cherry pick the best places to visit in Singapore and figure out what Singapore tourist attractions are worth your time.

Here are some of the steps you need to take to ensure a well-deserved, fully accounted for Singapore holiday!

Preparing for Singapore

Before you set out on the places to go in Singapore, there is a need to make sure that the logistics pertaining to your trip are in order. Apart from having a valid passport, you also need to take care of the following:

1. Visa

While travellers from most countries don’t require visas to travel to Singapore, certain countries still do. If you want to save the trouble of doing it on your own, you can go through a Singapore tour package to help you go through the process.

2. Travel Insurance

As safe as Singapore may be, it’s never advisable to go on a holiday trip without the necessary cover, even for a low-risk destination such as Singapore.

Make sure you have cover for medical care and other mishaps that may occur on your Singapore trip such as missing flights or theft.

3. Find the most affordable flight

You can start your trip by finding preferred and reliable flights to Singapore by comparing airlines online on sites such as Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Of course, you should only trust a credible airline to ensure your safety and comfort, with years of experience flying tourists to Singapore.

4. Book your accommodation in advance

Book accommodation well in advance as Singapore receives a lot of tourists and business travellers all year round.

5. Prepare important documents

Get all important documents scanned such as passport, flight tickets and driving license. Carry them with you or upload to Dropbox/ your cloud as you may need them in the event of an unforeseen emergency such as when your luggage gets stolen or if the immigration checkpoint requires them.

6. Medication

Carrying a mini first-aid kit is often overlooked but always crucial. Basic items like plasters and common cold medication can save you the hassle of looking for a local pharmacy when you’re feeling under the weather on the road.

Also make sure that you have valid prescriptions for any drugs that you intend to bring with you on your trip.

Weather in Singapore

When you want to visit Singapore very heavily depends on the kind of weather you enjoy. When planning a visit to Singapore, the first important bit of information that you ought to know is that the country experiences consistent weather throughout the year.

Temperature averages 27ºC and rains are a feature all year round with humidity sometimes making it feel a little hotter.

It rains more in the months of November to January, with notably cooler weather.

The months of May to July are the hottest periods of little to no rainfall.

The major school holidays falls on the months of June and December as well, so expect some of Singapore’s tourist places to be crowded.

Packing for Singapore

The first step to enjoying a sweet holiday anywhere in the world before visiting Singapore’s places of interest is knowing what to pack so that you are adequately prepared.

When packing, you must always include some swimwear, sun gear, mosquito repellent, water bottle, travel adapter, anti-perspirant, and a sturdy day pack.

In terms of clothing, include summer clothing such as t-shirts, as well as some semi-formal clothing that is line with the dress codes at most of the country’s upmarket restaurants and rooftop bars.

You must also include hats and sunglasses to block the sun as you traverse the big city!

You will not need any heavy-duty footwear unless you plan on going hiking. If so, then this handy hiking packing list might be what you would want to refer to.

Where to stay in Singapore

While Singapore is great for every budget, I should also highlight that Singapore is a bit pricey when compared with other destinations in Asia. If you’re travelling on a budget, there are a couple of budget-friendly hostels you can stay at from $20.

If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel, here are my top picks for hotels under $300. These hotels are usually also favourite hotels for the locals to have staycations in Singapore.

What to do in Singapore – A Singapore travel guide

Here are just some of the things to do in Singapore during your visit. With so many places to visit in this epitome of Asia, here we list some famous things to do in Singapore and places to go for your visit to Singapore.

Check out these highly recommended Singapore tourist attractions (some for free) that you can tour solo or with family and friends.

1. Tour Gardens by the Bay

Take the full family for a great stroll in the Gardens by the Bay. The green and colourful world full of unique plants paint and mount the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome here.

The supertrees are awesome in design and decoration, they give you shade from the sunlight at day time and display light show at night.

The Heritage Garden here showcases the history of Singapore in an interactive manner. Children will enjoy the amazing set up of Gardens by the Bay and at the same time, be close to the colourful nature.

2. Enjoy Universal Studios

The Singapore arm of the global Universal Studios attractions is a must see in Singapore, and you should try to spend the whole day there to get the most out of your visit.

Universal Studios Singapore is split into 7 different worlds, all with different themes and attractions. There are rides based on popular movies and franchises, shops and restaurants, museums and more. It’s definitely the place to visit on a family break.

3. Ride the Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is one of the world’s biggest big wheels. It overlooks Marina Bay and is the perfect way to take in the cityscapes and skylines of Singapore.

It’s gorgeous when lit up at night, but if you want to make the most of the 30-minute ride, go on in the day time to fully appreciate the views.

4. Explore Chinatown

Chinatown in any country is worth a visit, but Singapore’s largely Chinese heritage makes this one extra special.

You’ll get to stroll through history as you step into an authentic Chinese experience. Souvenir shops, massage parlours, restaurants, and even the Chinatown Heritage Centre are all waiting for you to explore.

Certainly worth a visit if you want to soak up some culture and history, and see a different side of this modern and vibrant country.

5. Roam around Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo is world-famous for its magnificent wildlife park settings, which is probably the best in the world.

Over 2800 animals are housed here and you will notice efforts the zoo has put in to immerse the animals into a habitat as natural as their own can be. More than 1.5 million visitors come here every year to enjoy the immersive experience of the wildlife.

It is home to wildlife from all around the globe, but also forest canopies, waterfalls, and biomes. You’ll see polar bears, baboons, mongooses, racoons, lions, giraffes, zebras and many, many more.

You may choose for a tram ride or can go for a walk to roam around the astounding forest and have some time with the flying foxes.

Underwater galleries, glass observatories, elevated platforms and other facilities are there to make your wildlife time easier and more enjoying.

There are also rides and a water play areas if you are travelling with kids.

6. Enjoy the Night Safari

Next door to the zoo, there is also an exceptional wildlife park that’s only open in the evenings. It is one Singapore tourist attraction everyone must visit when in Singapore.

This is the nightspot in Singapore for all ages and it has thrills for everyone. Go on a night safari to see over 120 different nocturnal species. The world’s first nocturnal zoo can be a great after-dark activity for your whole family. The nocturnal, wild animals in their natural habitats will amaze you greatly.

You can wander around some areas on paths, but there is also a tram around the perimeter with several stops.

A guided tram ride can take the family to different zones of the safari area that are designated for different geographical locations of the world. Tribal performances in the arena is also an attractive option for those visiting the safari.

The teens may even take the walking trails for thrilling encounters to some of the nocturnal animals roaming around free.

A guided tour is worth it on your first visit as it can be confusing for first-timers.

7. Be with the birds at Jurong Bird Park

More than 8000 birds of around 600 species are housed in an area of more than 20 hectares here. Jurong Bird Park has different attractions inside like the Lory Loft Aviary, Southeast Asian Aviary, African Waterfall Aviary and Bird Discovery Centre.

Avian Hospital and the Breeding and Research Centre here is working towards improving the birds’ welfare worldwide, so your ticket will contribute to their fund. With a great day out in the midst of birds, you will be doing some good for the birds too.

8. Visit National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is another iconic place in Singapore to visit if you want to take in some culture and learn more about the history of Singapore.

It’s got beautiful themed galleries, interactive exhibitions, multimedia elements, and living galleries. You’ll learn about Singapore’s history and heritage, including everything from religion to fashion.

9. Visit ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum is located at the centre of Singapore by the beautiful Marina Bay waterfront. There are always many exciting and educational activities going on in the museum. You and your family may attend some workshops on technology, science or art.

Light and colour workshops are arranged to interactively present the wonders of science, which can be a great experience for the kids. You may enter a dark room and enjoy the dancing colours moving around from the observatories.

When you’re on a budget in Singapore, museum-hopping is a great activity (and an excuse to escape the heat), especially for first-timers in Singapore. It’s also one way to learn Singapore’s culture and history without spending a dime.

Here’s some other museums in Singapore you can visit:

• Peranakan Museum
• Asian Civilization Museum
• Our Museum at Taman Jurong
• Reflections at Bukit Chandu

10. Picnic at Marina Barrage

Picnics and barbecues in Singapore are fun and free, which is a must-do activity on your next trip to Singapore. All you have to do is bring your food, camera, kite, or anything fun to play with while having a picnic or barbecue.

Fly kites and have a picnic in this famous hot spot at Marina Barrage with a vast grassy area that’s perfect for everyone who wants to chill comfortably. Children and adults alike will love this place.

11. Or picnic at Esplanade Roof Garden

The Esplanade roof garden is a heavenly picnic ground with amazing night views of the city’s iconic architectural structures right after sunset when the city lights up.

It’s a great place for a romantic evening date. Stroll with your date after your meal and go to the roof for an enjoyable, unobstructed view of the Marina Bay Sands, One Fullerton, and Singapore River.

12. Visit Xiao Guilin

The main attraction in the lake is a big granite rock with two dome-shaped shelters offering a panoramic view. You can snap pictures and make Xiao Guilin—like the famous scenery in Guilin, China—your backdrop. From here, you can get to Bukit Batok Nature Park, which is just a 20-minute walk.

13. Eating in Singapore

If anything, this should be the first thing to do in Singapore. Food in Singapore is something extraordinary. Restaurants, street food, and other eateries dominate most areas in Singapore.

Meals are mainly simple and based around noodles and rice. That doesn’t mean that they aren’t full of flavour and spice though. Try different flavours, enjoy the fusion of Chinese and Malaysian flavours and find your favourites.

Search up food deals in Singapore – there’s always ongoing promotions at food and drink outlets because of how competitive the food scene is here!

14. Shopping in Singapore

Roaming Singapore’s streets.

Singapore is home to a few bustling shopping areas, as well as some large malls. If you want to see some sights while you shop, head to Marina Bay. It’s a popular waterfront sightseeing walk, but there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the route.

If you prefer smaller, independent stores, showcasing local designers and trades, Haji Lane and Bugis Street (both close to each other) is the place to be. Filled with quirky and unique pieces, it’s definitely where you want to shop if you are looking for something funky and unique to take home.

If you prefer the hustle and bustle of a central shopping district filled with designer stores and global brands, head to Orchard Road, especially if you are looking for fashion and department stores.

15. Walking with Singapore Footprints

This group is led by NTU’s walking enthusiasts who organise walking tours on weekends. No reservations are needed because all you need to do is be present at the meeting point (Raffles Place MRT Exit B) and you’ll get to discover Singapore’s popular attractions, histories, and hidden gems.

This walking tour typically lasts about 2.5 hours.

16. Or roam the streets on your own

Instead of paying for guided tours, explore Singapore by walking for free and delight in taking selfies amidst the city views. All you need to have is your smartphone’s GPS and a brave heart.

17. Visit the Legendary Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This temple is a majestic place of worship and was built under the Tang dynasty. Here, you’ll find monks in procession, and you can try their free vegetarian fare.

18. Go to Kidzania Singapore

Kidzania Singapore offers diverse and interactive fun activities for the whole family. There are role-play activities for kids which would allow the kids to play a real-life character like a pilot flying a plane or a surgeon doing an operation or maybe a chef preparing a staggering meal. Also, let the kids earn a little and pay for services and goods while acting as kidZos.

Together, the life skills here in the form of fun activities may be very engaging and enjoying for your kids.

19. Discover in the Singapore Discovery Centre

This very interesting and world-class entertainment and education facility will drive the younger members of your family in their fantasy. This place is special for presenting the history of Singapore through entertainment and interactive activities.

The centre is designed with creative exhibits that offers a great chance to explore the way of life here. Gateway gallery displays the evolution of Singapore to its present form, while the Visionarium gallery will take you to a futuristic exploration of the panoramic view of the dreams and aspirations.

Nature in Singapore

Singapore is well-known as the land where you can find everything the modern age has to offer. From the most high-tech technology to the world’s most luxurious shops, Singapore is the place to be.

However, there’s so much to Singapore besides the luxury and modern creations of the mankind. There’s also so much of nature’s beauty to see, visit, experience that makes Singapore such an amazing traveller’s destination.

This is where nature plays an important role, as there are many nature getaways in Singapore that are going to make you leave the busy concrete of the cities and venture out into the nature.

Being one with nature in Singapore is possible, and you can be away from the bustles of the metro and the traffic. You’ll find free things to do in Singapore that will move you closer to the natural wonders of life.

Here are some great nature encounters in Singapore you can try:

1. Chestnut Park

Speaking of nature, I might as well give you a personal favourite park in Singapore of mine – Chestnut Nature Park.

Enter Singapore’s newly opened nature park, Chestnut Nature Park! Located between Bukit Panjang Road and Dairy Farm Road, adventurers will enjoy the numerous hiking and biking trail offered. If you’re lucky, you can even spot monkeys gallivanting around.

Since it is way out of the tourist track and not considered a popular Singapore tourist attraction (yet), Chestnut Nature Park is actually really tranquil for a morning or evening jaunt. You definitely have to put this as one of the places to explore in Singapore if you enjoy nature.

Discover unique native tree species on foot or by bike along the largest park in Singapore.

2. Coney Island

Coney Island, a little offshore island at Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, is another local favourite when it comes to nature escapades in Singapore.

It’s not a large island, and so it can be done as a half day trip. You have the option to walk or cycle in that island. It’s a popular spot for cyclists coming either from Punggol Park Connector or Pasir Ris Park. I’ve tried both walking and cycling to Coney Island. The terrain is flat so any exercise here would be considered easy game.

Spanning only 2.4 kilometres in size, it offers a little escape to a nature getaway without being too far away from civilization. Nearby new container food park at Punggol East offers a myriad of bistros to tame the hungry adventurer.

3. Changi Village

Changi Village may not be highest on the list of must-visit places in Singapore, but it sure is every local’s favourite hangout, if not for an evening of quiet stroll by the coastal front then for its famous nasi lemak.

While most would not venture to the eastern corner of Singapore, I love the tranquillity that Changi Village and its park offers. It is popular with locals to hang out in the evening thanks to the famous Nasi Lemak and other great eats at the hawker centre. Come early enough to escape from the urban city and get some downtime in nature.

This is also where the ferry to Bintan, Batam and Pulau Ubin departs from.

4. Sentosa Island

Soothe your soul on Sentosa Island. It’s ideal for escaping the manic rush of the city. Balance out the endless excitement with the soothing beauty of this island.

Your cravings for some soaking in the sun and enjoying kayaking will be satisfied, but there are so many attractions to try. Here’s a handy beach packing list if you’re

It’s the perfect combination of urban and natural surroundings that won’t make you work too hard for your own comfort. Yet, it’ll still give you the sense that you’re in a secluded, natural spot that you have all for yourself.

If you’re content with being pampered beneath the palm trees, and sipping on your favourite cocktail while you dip your toes in the sand, then pay Sentosa Island a visit. We’re quite sure you’ll make best friends!

5. Pulau Ubin

For your very own slice of nature, we recommend you pack your luggage and set off to Pulau Ubin – an island that is known as the last village of Singapore. If you’re up for a serene getaway and a trip back to the past – more precisely the 1960’s – you’ll find yourself bewitched by Pulau Ubin offerings. I

t’s simple yet the slow pace and walking under the coconut palms, exploring and enjoying the secluded beaches can be a pleasant change from the business of Singapore.

6. Chek Jawa

This is a coast located at Pulau Ubin, which is a perfect short getaway from the hectic city life. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen. There, embrace the goodness of nature while discovering the pristine area’s rich biodiversity.

7. East Coast Park

This truly is a pocket of mesmerising natural wonders that make for a restful weekend getaway with the special people in your life.

Make no mistake, it is still considered one of the iconic places in Singapore and a tourist attraction in Singapore, but the scenic coastline that stretches as far as you can see is too tempting for anyone to pass up.

Dine and wine in the sun, sunbathe, join the recreational activities, organise a BBQ or simply stretch your legs and enjoy your getaway. Families adore the East Coast Park, but there is something for everyone.

8. Sisters’ Islands Marine Park

For a dash of mystery in your getaway, Sisters’ Islands is ideal. The legend says that in the place where two sisters were last seen, and most likely have drowned, now lie the Sisters’ Islands.

If you’re into snorkelling, coral reefs, sea horses and everything the mighty water brings you, then dive in. The water is blue, which is a perfect place for snorkelling to discover Singapore’s biodiversity and extremely precious coral reefs.

You can swim, snorkel, and have a picnic under the palm trees. Guided tours are free.

It’s definitely a destination worth visiting, if not for the water attractions, then simply because of the legend.

9. Kusu Island

By far you might have guessed that the best nature getaways near Singapore are islands. Who can deny the healing powers of sand and water?

The Kusu Island is yet another destination we highly recommend for a quick getaway, because it’s truly a sanctuary. Bring your friends and family, play sports on the beach, dip your toes into the gorgeous sand and soak in nature’s glory. Peace and relaxation don’t ask for much, only a quiet getaway spot, and less tainted by civilisation as possible.

Here’s one more reason why you should add it to your bucket list of getaway destinations, especially if you like intrigue:

The Kusu Island is believed to have been a tortoise once that was transformed into an island by the deity. While we won’t go deep into myths and legends, I recommend this as a sweet getaway from the busy streets of Singapore.

10. Mount Faber

Trek with family and friends and take photos with the beautiful views of the fauna, flora, and the cityscape. Take a scenic walk from Mount Faber Loop, where you can park your car and head to Faber Peak Singapore from there.

11. Bukit Timah

This mountain bike trail is a perfect place with its 6 kilometres of safe, fun, and thrilling biking path that is highly recommended for experienced bikers. Hardcore bikers enjoy the trail’s downhill slopes and vigorous climbs.

12. Bintan

It might not be in Singapore (in fact it’s part of Indonesia), but Bintan is so close you’ll practically feel like it’s Singapore. This proximity is perfect for quick getaways, when you have to hit that reset button and give yourself some time off.

It’s the island that has enchanting beaches perfect for leisure and relaxing. It’s basically an effortless escape, where you can take the entire family and simply relax without having to do much.

13. Visit Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa was established by the Tiger Balm founders. Here, you can take selfies with Chinese mythology-inspired dioramas and statues, climb the pagoda, as well as get to know Confucianism. It’s free to enter Haw Par Villa.

14. Treetop Walk in MacRitchie

Get to experience Singapore’s greenery to the next level by taking a treetop walk in MacRitchie. You’ll find a community of plants and animals at the canopy level, which would have been impossible without a suspension bridge.

Along the way, be intrigued by the wild monkeys that swing from tree to tree. Yes, you’ll be surprised that there are still wild animals in Singapore!

15. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Get to enjoy watching free concerts at Singapore Botanic Gardens, with regular performances from the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. Visiting here will also give you the opportunity to take photos of the best botanical attractions in the city.

Although I say Singapore, as a small island nation, can be boring after living for awhile, Singapore does offer a myriad of different unique and iconic places to visit. So much so that so many people have visited the country and have considered moving here. Already, you can see many expats living and working here.

Singapore offers the best of both worlds for tourists. Whether you’re a luxurious or budget traveller, you’ll find that this city is simply amazing.

Get to enjoy the tourist attractions in Singapore on a budget by joining walking tours and visiting museums, or enjoy a close encounter with nature while hiking, swimming, or snorkelling in other iconic places in Singapore.

Enjoy these little areas in Singapore when you visit, and maybe you can fall in love with this clean and wonderfully beautiful country I call home.

Even if Singapore may seem like its own concrete planet that doesn’t offer any natural relief to the hectic urban life, we’ve found out that it does indeed have a few charming nature spots that you can visit to take your mind off every day troubles.

Also, you can have a picnic all you want and enjoy the scenic view of the Singapore River, as well as watch the skyline at night. Surely, you’ll have plenty of Instagram-worthy photos of Singapore to upload in real-time or once you’re home.

So take your pick and pack your bags. It may be only a short getaway, but it sure is a long overdue, deserved break. 🙂