Best 20 things to do in Singapore, Singapore

Welcome to Singapore, where you can explore a melting pot of cultures, indulge in incredible food, and marvel at mind-boggling architecture. Prepare to dive into Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic wonderland of Supertrees that will make you feel like you're in a sci-fi film. Don't forget to check out Sentosa Island, where you can frolic on sunny beaches, pet dolphins (yes, pet dolphins!), and imagine you're in your own private tropical paradise. And, of course, no trip to Singapore would be complete without a visit to the iconic Merlion statue; half fish, half lion, and fully confusing – it's a true enigma that you won't want to miss!

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1. Marina Bay Sands

4.6 (39847)

10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956

Welcome to Marina Bay Sands, Singapore's extravagant architectural masterpiece that gives skyscrapers a run for their money. Here, you'll find a towering trio of hotel towers that seem to challenge gravity, as if they were built by mischievous architects who wanted to tease Mother Nature. Step inside and you'll discover a mind-boggling array of amenities, from an infinity pool that dares you to swim to one end and never come back, to a casino that's fuelled by gamblers who are convinced that lady luck only knows how to frown. Overall, Marina Bay Sands is like a luxurious playground for adults who are desperately trying to resist the urge to jump on the beds, but trust me, it's hard to resist!

www.marinabaysands.com

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2. Gardens by the Bay

4.7 (124742)

18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

Welcome to Gardens by the Bay, where nature and technology unite like Batman with a high-tech sidekick. Picture a supercharged backdrop of innovative horticulture that makes Mother Nature go, "Why didn't I think of that?" Flower domes and misty supertrees tower over you, reminding you to inhale deeply and imagine you're in a tropical paradise... until you check your phone for the weather and discover that you're actually in a climate-controlled utopia where pollen allergies go extinct. So bring your camera, your sense of wonder, and your sneeze-resistant smile for a bloomin' good time!

www.gardensbythebay.com.sg

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3. National Museum of Singapore

4.6 (12343)

93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897

Welcome to the National Museum of Singapore, where history and humor come together to give you a uniquely delightful experience! Step through the doors and embark on a time-traveling adventure through the island's past, where you'll encounter ancient artifacts, interactive exhibits, and perhaps even a mischievous museum ghost (though he's surprisingly polite). Get ready to leave with a brain brimming with knowledge and a smile so big, it might even make the Mona Lisa envious!

www.nhb.gov.sg

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4. Sri Mariamman Temple

4.5 (4297)

244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058793

Nestled in the heart of colorful Chinatown, the Sri Mariamman Temple stands tall in all its architectural splendor. It's not just any ordinary building; it's like a colorful carnival ride for your eyes, with intricate sculptures and vibrant paintings that might make you question if you've mistakenly entered the world's most ornate candy store. As you step into this spiritual wonderland, don't be surprised if the statues of gods and goddesses give you a cheeky wink or a sassy wave, as if saying, "Welcome, mortal, to where serenity meets sass!"

www.smt.org.sg

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5. Chinatown

Chinatown, Singapore

Welcome to Chinatown, the land of vibrant colors, mouth-watering aromas, and a million opportunities to get lost amidst the maze of streets! Step into a world where time seemingly stops, and the air is filled with a tantalizing mix of sizzling woks, burning incense, and heated bargaining. Here, prepare to be whisked away into a realm where shopping for exquisite trinkets competes with the art of dodging elbow battles in the bustling street markets.

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6. Fort Canning Park

4.5 (8579)

Singapore

Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Singapore, Fort Canning Park proudly stands as the city's very own hilly oasis. With more greenery than a salad bar on St. Patrick's Day, this park boasts not one, not two, but nine historical gardens, each more fragrant than your grandma's perfume collection. Take a stroll through time as you explore the park's grounds, where ancient artifacts and juicy historical tales await you at every turn.

www.nparks.gov.sg

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7. Haw Par Villa

4.2 (5597)

262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118628

Welcome to Haw Par Villa, where mythology, amusement, and slightly terrifying statues collide! This unique Singaporean attraction promises an enchanting journey through Chinese folklore, complete with peculiarly lifelike sculptures. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable experience as you encounter everything from benevolent deities to mischievous monkeys, all while questioning your aesthetic preferences and the sanity of the artists behind these works of art.

www.hawparvilla.sg

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8. Asian Civilisations Museum

4.5 (4973)

1 Empress Pl, Singapore 179555

Welcome to the Asian Civilisations Museum, where you won't find any civilisations from Antarctica or the lost city of Atlantis! No, no, here we embrace the rich tapestry of Asian history in all its quirky glory. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, this museum offers a cultural buffet that will leave you feeling smarter than Einstein... or at least a little more cultured than your average panda. So grab your magnifying glass (or just use your eyes, really) and get ready to dive into the extraordinary world of Asia.

www.nhb.gov.sg

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9. Little India

Little India, Singapore

Welcome to Little India, where vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and an endless sprawl of bustling activity await you. Stroll along the streets and prepare to be mesmerized by a kaleidoscope of saris, glowing with more shades than a chameleon's fashion show. Spice lovers, fret not—for you shall find yourself in seventh heaven here, with aromas that might just make your nose dance a jig and your taste buds tango with delight.

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10. Sentosa Island

4.8 (1093)

Sentosa, Singapore 098942

Welcome to Sentosa Island, the tropical paradise that's just a hop, skip, and a cannonball away from bustling Singapore! This tiny slice of heaven will make you forget all about the city's skyscrapers and crowded streets, allowing you to discover a world where mermaids sunbathe and dolphins have their own water parks. So, grab your snorkel and get ready for a splash-tastic adventure on an island that's bigger on fun than it is on actual size!

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11. Clarke Quay

4.5 (39300)

3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024

Welcome to the lively and charismatic Clarke Quay, Singapore's answer to "Partying by the River 101"! Brace yourself for a vibrant experience where the charm of the old meets the "woo" of the new. Meander around the riverside, hop onto the enchanting boat tours, and prepare for an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and clubs that will leave you saying "pass me the paracetamol" the next morning!

www.clarkequay.com.sg

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12. Universal Studios Singapore

4.6 (88461)

8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

Welcome to Universal Studios Singapore, where dreams come alive and roller coasters make you question your life choices! The park is like a magical bubble of adrenaline and nostalgia, where you can ride the Battlestar Galactica roller coaster and simultaneously swear off amusement park rides forever. You'll wander through seven themed zones, each with its own unique charm, and discover that queuing for a ride feels oddly like being part of a never-ending human centipede.

www.rwsentosa.com

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13. Raffles Hotel

4.5 (4639)

1 Beach Rd, Singapore 189673

Welcome to the marvelous Raffles Hotel in Singapore – a grand dame of colonial luxury! With its majestic façade, this iconic establishment appears like the posh cousin of the Taj Mahal. Set upon lush tropical grounds, this hotel promises a stay that takes you back in time, where you can relish in the age-old charm of sitting in the lobby while pretending to eagerly await the arrival of the Orient Express (although it probably won't show up). Step into Raffles and allow yourself to be thrown into a world where flaneuring in the halls, martini in hand, is an absolute necessity. The suites here, lush and opulent, have witnessed their fair share of history – from whispered secrets of undercover spies to hushed conversations of early-morning tea enthusiasts plotting the next strategic maneuver. So, be prepared to feel like a character straight out of a lavish period drama, just with better amenities and fewer corsets. And, oh, the food! Delight your taste buds and loosen your belt buckle, as dining options at Raffles Hotel are as diverse as a Kardashian family reunion. From classic high tea to tantalizing local street fare, your culinary adventure here is the perfect opportunity to try the famous Singapore Sling cocktail, while contemplating whether it was invented to cure homesickness or simply as an excuse to liven up an otherwise dreary pink drink.

www.raffles.com

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14. Orchard Road

Orchard Rd, Singapore

Welcome to Orchard Road, the shopping paradise of Singapore! Prepare to be dazzled by the sheer number of malls that line this glamorous strip. From high-end fashion boutiques to budget-friendly outlets, Orchard Road has something to empty even the most resilient of wallets. Don't forget to stretch those shopping muscles before diving into the endless sea of shops, because navigating this retail wonderland is like participating in an Olympic marathon - minus the gold medal, unfortunately. And when you've shopped 'til you dropped, fret not, for the road is peppered with eateries that cater to every palate, offering a well-deserved respite from the relentless pursuit of retail nirvana.

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15. Singapore Zoo

4.6 (39698)

80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

Welcome to the wild side of Singapore, where the lions roar louder than the city-state's karaoke enthusiasts! We present to you the Singapore Zoo, a harmonious blend of impeccable animal habitats and more staggering monkey business than a corporate boardroom. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the sheer awesomeness of this zoo, where the elephants will give you a friendly wave and the tigers might just offer you a cup of tea (or a ferocious growl, you never know). From swinging orangutans to bewildered tourists, this place has it all!

www.zoo.com.sg

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16. Botanic Gardens

4.7 (38618)

1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569

Nestled in the pulsating heart of Singapore, the Botanic Gardens are an enchanting oasis where urban dwellers can escape the concrete jungle and commune with nature. With its lush greenery and vibrant floral displays, this horticultural haven is the perfect spot to indulge in a game of hide and seek with mischievous monkeys, who are notorious for stealing tourists' snacks. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, but be sure to make friends with the resident swans; they may just teach you a thing or two about walking gracefully in high heels.

www.sbg.org.sg

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17. Merlion Park

4.6 (35304)

Singapore

Welcome to Merlion Park in Singapore, where the magic of half-fish, half-lion creatures comes to life! Stroll along the promenade and be mesmerized by the majestic Merlion, a truly unique masterpiece standing tall as if saying, "I'm part fish, part lion, and completely bewildering!" Be sure to make a wish as you witness its water-spouting charm, as legend has it that the Merlion grants your desires, except for the ability to swim like a fish or roar like a lion. So, dream on, my friends, and let the Merlion bless you with everything else your heart desires!

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18. Singapore Flyer

4.6 (18269)

30 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039803

Welcome to the Singapore Flyer, where even the most vertically challenged individuals can feel like towering giants, only without the whole "being able to touch the clouds" thing. This iconic giant Ferris wheel is the epitome of experiencing a city from new heights, giving you a bird's-eye view of the bustling metropolis below. So hop in a capsule and brace yourself for a ride that will make you feel like a high-flying celebrity, minus the paparazzi, of course.

www.singaporeflyer.com

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19. S.E.A. Aquarium

4.6 (24991)

8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269

Welcome to S.E.A. Aquarium, where the enchanted world below the surface will make your jaw drop faster than a clumsy penguin belly sliding on ice. Prepare to be mesmerized as you delve into an aquatic wonderland that's more breathtaking than finding a waterproof wallet. From fluorescent fish flaunting their vibrant attire to majestic manta rays gracefully gliding through the water, this underwater paradise will leave you feeling like a guppy lost in the big fish pond.

www.rwsentosa.com

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20. Singapore River Safari

4.4 (9221)

80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

Welcome to the wild and wacky Singapore River Safari, where you can embark on an aquatic adventure like no other! Hop aboard adorable panda-themed river boats and prepare yourself for a journey filled with surprises. From cheeky otters playing hide-and-seek to gossiping manatees that love to eavesdrop on your conversations, this safari promises a delightful splash of laughter and entertainment for all ages.

www.mandai.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Singapore by plane is to fly into Changi Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the world and offers numerous international flights.

Car

To reach Singapore by car, you can drive through the Causeway from Johor Bahru in Malaysia. Make sure to have the necessary permits and be aware of the traffic conditions at the border crossing.

Train

There is no direct train route to Singapore as it is an island city-state. However, you can take a train to the southernmost railway station in Malaysia, Johor Bahru, and then take a bus or taxi to cross the causeway into Singapore.

Boat

There are no regular passenger boat services to Singapore. However, you can take a tourist boat or private yacht to reach the Marina at Keppel Bay, which is located in Singapore and offers berthing facilities.

Bus

A convenient way to get to Singapore by bus is to take a long-distance coach from various cities in Malaysia. One popular bus terminal is Johor Bahru Larkin Terminal, which offers frequent services to Singapore.

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