The best things to do in Singapore mix futuristic gardens, a world famous skyline, island beaches, and some of Asia's finest street food. This guide ranks 20 experiences worth your time, grouped so you can build a two, three, or four day plan without backtracking.
New to the city? Start with our Singapore travel guide for timing, budget, and transport, then use the list below to fill your days.
What are the top things to do in Singapore?
If you only have one day, prioritise Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay waterfront, and a hawker dinner. The table below sorts the headline sights by the traveller they suit best. Prices are approximate adult rates in Singapore dollars.
| Experience | Area | Best for | Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gardens by the Bay (Cloud Forest and Flower Dome) | Marina Bay | Everyone | About 32 combo |
| Marina Bay Sands SkyPark observation deck | Marina Bay | Skyline views | About 32 |
| Singapore Zoo and Night Safari | Mandai | Families | 48 and 55 |
| Universal Studios Singapore | Sentosa | Families and thrill seekers | About 83 |
| Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO site) | Central | Nature lovers | Free |
| S.E.A. Aquarium | Sentosa | Families | About 44 |
What can you do at Marina Bay?
Marina Bay is the heart of modern Singapore and the easiest area to spend a full day. Do not miss these highlights:
- Supertree Grove light show: the free Garden Rhapsody show runs nightly at about 7.45pm and 8.45pm.
- Cloud Forest and Flower Dome: two cooled conservatories with a 35 metre indoor waterfall.
- Spectra light and water show: free, nightly at the Marina Bay Sands waterfront.
- ArtScience Museum and the Merlion: the lotus shaped museum and the classic photo spot are a short walk apart.
What are the best free things to do in Singapore?
Plenty of the city's best moments cost nothing. The following are all free:
- The outdoor gardens and Supertree light show at Gardens by the Bay.
- The Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Spectra show at Marina Bay Sands and photos at Merlion Park.
- Wandering Haji Lane, Little India, and the Southern Ridges walkway.
Where should families go in Singapore?
Sentosa island is the family hub, home to Universal Studios Singapore, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and swimmable beaches, all reachable by cable car or the Sentosa Express. Beyond Sentosa, the Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, and Night Safari in Mandai are among the best in Asia. Layover with kids? Our Changi Airport guide covers Jewel and its indoor waterfall.
What are the best cultural things to do?
Singapore's heritage districts are compact and walkable:
- Chinatown: the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Maxwell Food Centre.
- Little India: the colourful Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and the House of Tan Teng Niah.
- Kampong Glam: the golden domed Sultan Mosque and the murals of Haji Lane.
For a full neighbourhood by neighbourhood plan, see our guide to the best places to visit in Singapore.
Where do locals eat in Singapore?
Hawker centres are the answer. Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Newton serve chicken rice, chilli crab, laksa, and satay for a few dollars a plate. Our Singapore food guide lists the dishes and stalls to seek out.
What should you do in Singapore at night?
Evenings are when the city sparkles. Catch the free Garden Rhapsody and Spectra light shows, ride the Singapore Flyer observation wheel, walk the riverside bars of Clarke Quay, or join the Night Safari tram for a look at nocturnal wildlife.
Would you rather have the highlights, transfers, and stays bundled together? Browse our Singapore holiday packages for ready made itineraries.
Things to do in Singapore FAQ
How many days do you need to see Singapore's top sights?
Three days is enough for the headline experiences, food, and one theme park or nature day. With four to five days you can add Sentosa, the zoo, and slower neighbourhood walks.
What is the number one thing to do in Singapore?
Gardens by the Bay is the signature experience, combining the Supertree Grove, the Cloud Forest waterfall, and the free nightly light show in one location.
Is Universal Studios Singapore worth it?
Yes for families and roller coaster fans. It is compact enough to cover in a day and sits on Sentosa alongside beaches and the S.E.A. Aquarium.
What can you do in Singapore for free?
The outdoor gardens and Supertree light show, the Botanic Gardens, the Spectra show at Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, and the heritage streets of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam are all free.
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