Situated just over 200 miles southeast of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, lies the vibrant city-state of Singapore at the heart of Southeast Asia. It is a cultural melting pot, showcasing diverse influences from India, China, and Malaysia in its cuisine and architecture. On a visit to Singapore, you will encounter a unique blend of old and new, with bustling markets and temples alongside soaring skyscrapers and modern shopping malls.
Despite its urban character, Singapore is also known as the ‘City in a Garden’ and offers plenty of green spaces. The city is dotted with parks and forests, including the Botanic Gardens, which are one of only three in the world to be recognized as a UNESCO site. However, the most renowned natural wonder is Gardens by the Bay, a stunning nature park featuring tropical flowers, a cloud forest, and the otherworldly Supertree Grove – an attraction not to be missed on your Singapore holiday.
Things to do in Singapore
1. Marina Bay Sands
Opinions vary on the appearance of this distinctive feature of Singapore’s impressive skyline, with some comparing it to a futuristic ironing board while others liken it to a surfboard standing on tall legs. Nevertheless, Marina Bay Sands is a striking complex composed of three interconnected towers that soar above the spectacular Gardens by the Bay. The top section of the structure is a gravity-defying feat that houses an infinity pool and sundeck, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape beyond. At 57 floors high, taking a dip in this pool will undoubtedly be a memorable experience that you won’t soon forget.
2. Raffles
Undoubtedly the most iconic hotel in Singapore, if not the whole of Asia, Raffles is much more than just a lodging, it is an establishment steeped in history and tradition. Its fabled past is the stuff of legend. Initially conceived as a humble beach house, the hotel expanded gradually during the British colonial period in the 19th century. It was named in honor of Sir Stamford Raffles, who arrived on the island in 1819 as a representative of British colonial rule and is credited with the “founding” of modern Singapore (although the island’s indigenous inhabitants would strongly disagree).
3. Gardens by the Bay
The fact that the iconic symbol of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is not a plant but the legendary ‘Supertree’ speaks volumes about the city-state’s affinity for technology. These towering sculptures, standing 16-stories tall, are inspired by nature but boast a futuristic and alien appearance. The tallest Supertree even features a viewing platform at its peak, providing spectacular panoramic views of the gardens and the Singapore skyline. Despite its impressive architectural design, the Gardens by the Bay remains primarily a botanical garden, with the addition of fascinating structures such as Wilkinson Eyre’s bulbous glass conservatories on the waterfront.
4. Sentosa
Singapore’s holiday island, linked to the city’s southern shore by a causeway, offers the perfect escape for travelers seeking respite from the frenzied pace of city life. Sentosa is an entertainment hub, boasting championship golf courses and the renowned Palawan Beach, where sun-seekers and swimmers congregate on a sparkling strip of sand. Families from Singapore often visit the island to relax, with ample opportunities to enjoy nature through walking trails among the trees and breathtaking sea vistas. Sentosa is also an ideal location for leisurely dining, with numerous alfresco cafes and restaurants.
5. Pulau Ubin
Pulau Ubin, once known for its granite quarries, saw a decline in jobs and residents when they shut down in the 70s. Nowadays, only a few dozen people live there, choosing to maintain the traditional way of life. This is precisely what draws visitors to the island, as it offers a glimpse of Singapore’s past. To reach the island, you must take a 10-minute ride on a rustic bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. This is an enriching experience for those on a tight budget and a great day trip option for those seeking to explore Singapore’s history or venture into its wilderness.
6. The Jewel
The latest attraction in Singapore is sure to leave visitors awestruck upon arrival in the country. A mere 10-minute walk from the arrivals area at Changi Airport will take you to this architectural masterpiece that blends futuristic modern materials with living nature, making it a perfect starting or ending point for your Singapore sightseeing itinerary. Dubbed ‘The Jewel’, this attraction is more than just a shopping mall. The main highlight is the enormous indoor waterfall at its center, where the magic truly happens. Standing tall at 40m, it is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, and water cascades from a colossal hole in the roof into an indoor rainforest, covered by a geodesic canopy.
7. Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is divided into three primary areas known as cores. The Tanglin core, which is the oldest is the first section visitors encounter as they enter through the historic Tanglin Gate. The Tyersall-Gallop core is integrated into the existing rainforest of the park, while the Bukit Timah core features a children’s garden with treehouses, a suspension bridge, and a farm. Don’t miss the National Orchid Garden, which showcases over 1,000 species of orchids and 2,000 hybrids.
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