Which are the Best Places to Visit in Singapore?
When visiting Singapore, the Lion City, you’ll probably find yourself wondering, “how can Southeast Asia’s smallest country pack so many wonderful things to do?” Founded in 1819 as a British trading post, Singapore became a fully sovereign state in 1965 and has since made a name for itself as one of the world’s leading economies and tourist destinations!
It’s no wonder you’d want to visit a country with such an impressive history. Either that, or you might be interested in taking advantage of its high-end shopping, luxury hotels, and fine dining options. Or both! If you’re looking for an amazing country to visit with your family on your next vacation, you’ve definitely come to the right place. Below we’ve prepared a list of the 5 places we believe you should visit to start off, from there, the sky’s the limit!
1. Marina Bay Sands Park
First on the list, a visit to Singapore’s most iconic district, Marina Bay. Admittedly, the Marina Bay Sands takes the spotlight with its impressively designed hotel’s soaring towers, embodying a boat sitting atop stacked cards. However, the hotel isn’t the only attraction to be found here.
Though the Marina Bay Sands resort comes with its own luxury hotel, it also hosts a mall with a canal that runs through it the Sands Theatre, the ArtScience Museum, and the SkyPark Observation Deck on its 57th floor, offering a perfect view of the city. Be sure to catch the sunset and watch as Singapore’s skyline transitions into a sea of lights that rivals the stars above it.
Marina Bay Sands Light Show
Additionally, Marina Bay Sands’ Spectra – A Light & Water Show is a must-see. This symphony of dancing fountain jets is spread over 4 acts that last a total of 15-minutes. The show is completely free to view from the Marina Bay Event Plaza and its surrounding areas. Shows are at 8pm and 9pm every evening, and an additional show is held at 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Did you know that Singapore has a reputation for being a Garden City? In the Marina Bay district, you’ll find the mingling of nature and metropolis at Gardens by the Bay. This picturesque green space spans 101 hectares and is comprised of three waterfront gardens. Those are: Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central.
While you’re here, make sure to prepare plenty of time to explore the different gardens and see the Supertree Grove, filled with futuristic-looking environmentally-friendly structures, the Flower Dome, and the Cloud Forest Dome, where you’ll find the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Learn about biodiversity, relax your eyes, and enjoy a beautiful walk at the gardens.
Gardens by the Bay Light Show
If you happen to visit these magnificent gardens in the evening, you may just be in time to catch the light show. Garden Rhapsody is a show of music and lights in the Supertree Grove that’ll make you feel like you’ve hopped into another planet!
Set aside some time and come watch the show any day at 7:45pm or 8:45pm. The show lasts a total of 15 minutes, be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot though, it can get a bit crowded.
3. Sentosa Island
An entire island resort dedicated to fun for the whole family (or friends group). Sentosa Island is made up of theme parks, beaches, and fun rides. You can visit Siloso or Palawan beach to relax and work on your tan. Or, for a more exciting dip you can visit the slides at Adventure Cove. There’s even Madame Tussauds wax museum and the Trick Eye Museum for a tour option where you won’t need your bathing suit. For a full day of entertainment, Sentosa’s the perfect place.
Universal Studios Singapore
If you’re looking for some exciting rides, definitely check out Sentosa’s Universal Studios Singapore. Here you can explore the 49 acres of this fun-filled theme park. Each area pays tribute to a location, film, or television show and allows you to step outside of the real world and enter a world of fantasy and fiction!
4. Civic District
At the very core of the city, the Civic District sits in Singapore’s downtown. The District is home to some of the country’s most important government buildings. To get a better understanding and delve into the local culture you can visit the Asian Civilization Museum, the National Gallery Singapore (for a more artistic fix), The Arts House (for the literary arts), and even catch a show at the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall.
5. Chinatown
As a nation largely composed of immigrants, its rich ethnic diversity creates small pockets of culture around the city. The largest of these pockets, or neighborhoods, is Chinatown, a vibrant and colorful market area filled with pedestrians, bright red lanterns, small shops, and plenty of great Chinese and local restaurants.
In Chinatown, you can find the Chinese Heritage Center and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. You will also find tons of souvenirs perfect to bring back home with you. On a similar note, if you’d like to explore the other ethnic enclaves of Singapore you can hop over to Little India or Kampong Glam (Malaysian).
6. BONUS: A Few More Reasons to Visit Singapore
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Nominated as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites, and the first for Singapore, these gardens provide a “wilder” contrast to the skyscrapers and bustle of the city. If you like tranquil lakes, orchids (don’t miss the National Orchid Garden), and a vast array of local flora, this might just be your cup of tea.
Singapore Flyer
Standing at 165 meters above ground, the Singapore Flyer is Asia’s largest observation wheel. If the view at the Marina Bay Sands didn’t quite do it for you, this is a close contender. You can visit the wheel, take in its breathtaking views, and then walk around the area to any of the nearby restaurants, shops, or other facilities.
Orchard Road
As we mentioned before, Singapore is a great place to find culture, history, great people, and delicious cuisine… however, it’s also an amazing place to go shopping. The Orchard Road area boasts an amazing 22 malls and six department stores, including four movie theatres and a few KTVs (karaokes). You’ll find your favorite luxury brands here and plenty of options to grab a bite whenever you feel like having a break.
Getting Around Singapore
Changi Airport to Singapore City, Chinatown, or Anywhere Else!
As with visiting any new city, getting around can be a bit confusing. Though Singapore’s infrastructure is fairly easy to maneuver, it’s understandable that you’d want to use your time wisely. And, rather than risk getting lost, would like to have a local professional taking you where you need to go.
This is why we’d recommend hiring your own trusted and reliable car service. Perfect for your transfers from Changi Airport to your Singapore hotel, or from your hotel to any of the local attractions. It’s a real comfort knowing you’re being driven by a professional local driver. As well as have access to 24/7 customer support. Make the best of your time in Singapore by booking your car in advance and letting the company know of your itinerary ahead of time, so they can cater to your schedule.
Don’t Miss These Must-Visit Attractions in Singapore
Regardless of how long you’re in Singapore, these attractions will always be a great place to start. After that, once you’ve become familiar with the local “hot spots,” you’ll be much better prepared to go off on adventures of your own. Remember not to let this country’s small size deceive you, this island is jam-packed full of culture. Did we mention Singapore is home to over 40 Michelin Star restaurants?
If there are any other attractions we’ve missed here, or that you’ve visited and absolutely loved, let us know in the comments. Most importantly, enjoy your time in the Lion City and take plenty of pictures!
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