Singapore has it all: fantastic museums, an incredible food scene, and beautiful gardens. If you’re looking to try some Michelin-starred street food, explore one of the world’s most famous airports, or grab a drink at one of the best bars in Asia, then you’ll want to put this Southeast Asia country on your radar. Ahead, all of the best things to do in Singapore.
Visit Gardens by the Bay
As one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore, a visit to the Gardens by the Bay is a must on your trip to Singapore. To maximize the experience, plan to spend at least one hour in each of the main attractions, including the Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. The attraction has a gorgeous light show every evening from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
Grab a Drink at Jigger + Pony
For one of the best cocktails in the city, you’ll want to stop by Jigger + Pony. The popular bar, which has rankings on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and the World’s 50 Best Bars, is housed in a cozy space. It’s beloved for its intimate environment and innovative cocktails, so don’t miss out on ordering popular drinks like the Super Lemon Highball, Ugly Tomatoes, or Cloudy Kangaroo on your visit.
Explore the Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport is no regular airport terminal. It’s actually rated as the world’s best airport by Skytrax because of its unrivaled passenger experience. Once inside the terminal, you’ll find the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest and largest indoor waterfall, along with restaurants, shops, a rooftop park, and much more. While you could visit before your flight, most opt to see their own because it’s an attraction in its own right.
Visit the ArtScience Museum
For a family-friendly activity, the ArtSciece Museum is a fantastic option. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits, including one in collaboration with teamLab (the company behind the viral TeamLab Planets in Tokyo). Since the exhibits are always changing, there will always be something new.
Eat at the Hawker Centers
If you’ve ever watched Crazy Rich Asians, you’ve seen Hawker Centers. The open-air food halls have some of the most affordable (and delicious) food in the entire city. However, the centers are beloved for their rows and rows of food vendors who serve up dishes from around the world. Everything you’ll eat will be delicious, which is why some of the stalls have even earned themselves Michelin-recognition.
Experience a Scalp Treatment at the TikTok Viral Johwa Spa
Scalp treatments are all the rage on social media, and Jo:Hwa Hair & Living is one of Singapore’s most popular spots. The experience, which begins with a personal consultation, has you working with a specialist to pick a multi-step treatment that works to help clear dirt, improve circulation, and leave your hair healthier. It’s one of the best ways to treat yourself when you need a little vacation R&R and this pick came highly recommended by many.
Visit the National Gallery of Singapore
With over 8,000 pieces of art, the National Gallery of Singapore is one of the largest art collections in Singapore and Southeast Asia. It features art from the 19th century to the present day and is spread across two beautiful national monuments, City Hall and the country’s former Supreme Court.
Stroll in Merlion Park
You’ll want to stroll around Merlion Park for fantastic views of the iconic Marina Bay Sands. The park is famed for its statue of a Merlion, a mythical creature that highlights Singapore’s origins as a fishing village. The statue and park are meant to serve as a reminder of the country’s journey to become a global hub from a humble fishing village.
Walk around the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Since its establishment in 1859, the Singapore Botanic Gardens have been a city favorite. The gardens are home to the largest orchid exhibit in the world, have stunning grounds, and house an abundance of rare plant species. It’s a lovely place to take in all the beautiful landscape that Singapore has to offer.
Hit the Cafes of Katong
As one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Singapore, Katong seamlessly blends the old and the new. Alongside trendy cafes, you’ll find family businesses, small shops, hip boutiques, and specialty stores. The melting pot of old and new is a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs to bring back to friends and family.
