Choose from 92 Fun Things to Do in Singapore
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 92 listings.
Katong District
Katong District is one of the more noticeable neighborhoods in Singapore, lined with 19th century villas and mansions belonging to some of the richest folks in the country. With many of its inhabitants coming from the Far East, the town is also known for its restaurants and cafes, which offer Peranakan cuisine as well as spicy local foods.
A taste of old Singapore, the history of Katong features the stories of businessmen from England, Portugal, China and France, who all made their wealth there. Because the town fell under the rule of British colonialism nearly 200 years ago, a lot of the structures that stand today were built using British architecture. Luckily, what does exist is in pristine conditions as Katong is known as one of the cleanest areas in Singapore.
As a known destination that is also conveniently located by the sea, there are a number of modern accommodations as well as lovely souvenir shops and shopping centers.
A taste of old Singapore, the history of Katong features the stories of businessmen from England, Portugal, China and France, who all made their wealth there. Because the town fell under the rule of British colonialism nearly 200 years ago, a lot of the structures that stand today were built using British architecture. Luckily, what does exist is in pristine conditions as Katong is known as one of the cleanest areas in Singapore.
As a known destination that is also conveniently located by the sea, there are a number of modern accommodations as well as lovely souvenir shops and shopping centers.
Address: Singapore
From $ 101
Robertson Quay
Robertson Quay is one of the country’s three wharfs along the famed river offering a diverse mix of internationally renowned restaurants, wine bars and art galleries, covering more than 50 hectares, or about 120 acres, of the Singapore River.
The Quay is a popular destination for expatriates to come relax or take a leisurely walk, as this high-end and fairly quiet part of town also happens to feature a number of boutique shops and cafes offering gourmet cakes and pastries.
What makes the area a favorite for westerners is not just the peaceful open space, but the unique and modern twist on décor and cuisine, such as in Bar Bar Black Sheep, an upscale café-bar with a range of tasty foods from Indian to Thai to Western. The area is also a very desirable residential neighborhood, with some of the best serviced apartments in the city.
Although Robertson Quay is the furthest north of the three quays it is still very convenient, only a few minutes away from Marina Bay and Shenton Way. A little pricey, it is nonetheless an enjoy place to walk around and enjoy a great view of the water.
The Quay is a popular destination for expatriates to come relax or take a leisurely walk, as this high-end and fairly quiet part of town also happens to feature a number of boutique shops and cafes offering gourmet cakes and pastries.
What makes the area a favorite for westerners is not just the peaceful open space, but the unique and modern twist on décor and cuisine, such as in Bar Bar Black Sheep, an upscale café-bar with a range of tasty foods from Indian to Thai to Western. The area is also a very desirable residential neighborhood, with some of the best serviced apartments in the city.
Although Robertson Quay is the furthest north of the three quays it is still very convenient, only a few minutes away from Marina Bay and Shenton Way. A little pricey, it is nonetheless an enjoy place to walk around and enjoy a great view of the water.
Address: Singapore
From $ 37
Palawan Beach
Sentosa Island is home to nearly 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) of white sandy beaches, Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong Beaches. Of the three, Palawan Beach is most geared toward families. This long stretch of sand features a fountain playground, shower facilities, a hawker center selling inexpensive food, themed islets for picnicking and a suspension bridge linking the beach with the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia.
An amphitheater at Palawan Beach hosts the Animal and Bird Encounters, a series of reptile and bird displays included in the price of Sentosa admission.
Practical Info
Lifeguards supervise Palawan Beach, making it a good swimming option for families with young children.
Address: Sentosa Island 099981, Singapore
From $ 30
Images of Singapore
Images of Singapore is a historical museum and interactive attraction situated on Singapore’s Sentosa Island. It explores the culture and history of Singapore using multimedia screens and displays, theatre performances, and life-size exhibitions depicting major events throughout the county’s history.
Images of Singapore LIVE is the latest incarnation of the museum. It takes visitors on a journey through the past, from Singapore’s beginnings as a humble fishing village right up to its present-day existence as a modern, 21st-century city. An interactive 45-minute performance incorporates 15 immersive themed areas with live actors, special effects, and even a boat ride.
The exhibitions here are extensive and span a period of around 200 years, covering Singapore’s pre-British period of Malaysian rule, British colonialism, the founding of colonial Singapore by Thomas Stamford Raffles, the Japanese occupation, and finally its post-colonialist era.
A restaurant and gift shop can be found inside and at the exit of the museum.
Practical Info
Images of Singapore is located on Sentosa Island. It can be reached by taking the North-East Line or Circle Line of the MRT to the HarbourFront stop and taking the cable car across.
Address: 40 Imbiah Road, 099700, Singapore
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10am-6pm / Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays: 10am-7:30pm
Admission: Adult: $39.00 / Children under 12: $29.00 / Senior: $30.00
From $ 32
Marina Barrage
Built across the mouth of Singapore’s Marina Channel, the Marina Barrage serves as both a dam that helps alleviate flooding and supplies 10 percent of the nation's water, and a popular leisure and recreation destination for locals and visitors to enjoy.
The most popular spot at the Marina Barrage is the elevated section of grass that looks out across the city and is ideal for picnics, sunset vistas, and photo opportunities. The Solar Park features one of the largest collections of solar panels in Singapore, with more than 400 panels providing the barrage’s electricity at night. Those interested in green issues will enjoy the Sustainable Singapore Gallery, which features six rooms exploring different aspects of the city’s environmental infrastructure using multimedia displays and interactive exhibits.
Those with a particular interest in Singapore’s eco-friendly culture should join a sustainable Singapore guided tour, which combines a visit to Marina Barrage with the NEWater Plant, Singapore River, and Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay. For a unique perspective of the barrage, join a kayak tour to Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay, and Marina Bay Sands.
Insider’s Tip: A lack of any skyscrapers in the immediate area and the fact that it is right next to the sea makes the Marina Barrage the perfect spot for kite flying. Arrive any evening around sunset and you will see the sky filled with colorful kites set against the impressive backdrop of the city’s key landmarks.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour with transport included, the Marina Barrage can be reached via a path from Gardens by the Bay. There is an information center located in the main building that is open daily from 9am-9pm.
Address: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, 018951, Singapore
Hours: 24 Hours
From $ 26
National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is the definitive historical record for the country as well as its oldest museum. Built in 1887, the impressive structure is one of the 11 national treasures of Singapore and contains several precious artifacts and fine art.
The museum offers free admission to its permanent exhibits including the Goh Seng Choo Gallery, which features a selection of watercolors from William Farquhar. Living in Singapore in the 19th century Farquhar assembled a series of paintings exploring the sights and sounds of the country.
Even with these permanent exhibitions, the museum’s organizers also incorporate new events and exhibits that keep Singaporeans coming back, showcasing new work from local photographers, filmmakers and dance performers on a weekly basis.
Aside from these events, the museum itself is worth exploring, containing intricate designs to its façade and interior. The very dome atop the structure contains 3,000 zinc fish-scale tiles and panels made from stained-glass.
The museum offers free admission to its permanent exhibits including the Goh Seng Choo Gallery, which features a selection of watercolors from William Farquhar. Living in Singapore in the 19th century Farquhar assembled a series of paintings exploring the sights and sounds of the country.
Even with these permanent exhibitions, the museum’s organizers also incorporate new events and exhibits that keep Singaporeans coming back, showcasing new work from local photographers, filmmakers and dance performers on a weekly basis.
Aside from these events, the museum itself is worth exploring, containing intricate designs to its façade and interior. The very dome atop the structure contains 3,000 zinc fish-scale tiles and panels made from stained-glass.
Address: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore City 178897, Singapore
From $ 8
River Safari
Singapore’s River Safari, the world's first river-themed wildlife park, introduces visitors to its 5,000 animal inhabitants. The 30-acre (12-hectare) park presents the world of freshwater aquatic animals to guests with a series of walkthrough exhibits inspired by eight iconic rivers, the Mississippi, Nile, Amazon, Congo, Ganges, Mekong, and Yangtze.
Of the animals on display, representing some 300 species, the giant river otter and giant salamander stand out as rare highlights, but not all animals here are aquatic—you'll also find an ever-popular pair of giant pandas, as well as the Wild Amazonia area's squirrel monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, and Brazilian tapirs.
Of the animals on display, representing some 300 species, the giant river otter and giant salamander stand out as rare highlights, but not all animals here are aquatic—you'll also find an ever-popular pair of giant pandas, as well as the Wild Amazonia area's squirrel monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, and Brazilian tapirs.
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, 729826, Singapore
Hours: Open Daily: 9am - 6pm. Last ticket sale at 5pm.
Admission: Adult: $25, Child (3-12): $16, Senior: $12.50
From $ 28
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
The Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall is a colonial-style villa in Singapore that played a crucial role in the Xinhai Revolution in the early 20th century. Today, the hall is a museum commemorating Sun Yat Sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. It serves to highlight the influence Dr. Sun’s revolutionary activities had on Singapore, as well as Singapore's own contributions.
Ideal for history fans, this two-story museum is divided into five galleries and features around 400 artifacts, including paintings, statues, photographs, books, and calligraphy works. Highlights include a bronze wall mural spanning some 60 meters depicting Singapore's history over a 100-year period, from the 1840s to the 1940s. The bronze statues in the hall’s gardens are also particularly impressive.
The Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall is included in the Singapore ultimate attractions pass, which allows you to explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace with a pass that is valid for two, three, or five consecutive days.
Insider’s Tip: Regular guided tours are available for free at 2pm on weekdays and 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. These tours need to be booked in advance via the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s website.
Practical Info
To reach this attraction by metro, alight at Toa Payoh (NS19) or Novena (NS20) station (it’s a 15-20 minute walk from either station). Alternatively, take the 21, 130, 131, 139, 145, or 186 bus to Zhong Shan Park along Balestier Road.
Address: 12 Tai Gin Road, Singapore
Hours: 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: 6 SDG
From $ 4
Universal Studios Singapore
As Southeast Asia’s first movie-themed park, Universal Studios Singapore offers a slew of exciting attractions, including 24 movie-themed rides, a festive walk, water park, marine life park and maritime experiential museum and aquarium. Opened in 2011 with director Steven Spielberg as a creative consultant, the kid-friendly park takes inspiration from some of Hollywood’s biggest hits, including Transformers, The Lost World, and Madagascar.
The Basics
Universal Studios Singapore, one of Singapore’s most popular family attractions, deserves an entire day to fully appreciate. The park is divided into seven themed zones (Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar), each with its own set of attractions. Park-goers have several pre-book ticket options to choose among, from a basic one-day pass to a VIP guided tour with skip-the-line access.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Universal Studios Singapore is a must for traveling families with kids and movie buffs.
- Book-ahead options include a one-day pass with hotel transfer and a skip-the-line VIP tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the park covers nearly 50 acres (20 hectares).
- The weather in Singapore can be hot and humid, so wear light, breathable clothing.
- The park offers WiFi access, and strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent.
How to Get There
Universal Studios Singapore is on Sentosa Island within the larger Resorts World Sentosa. By public transportation, take the MRT to HarbourFront Station and either walk across the Sentosa Boardwalk or ride the Sentosa Express to the resort.
When to Get There
Universal Studios Singapore is open throughout the year and is busiest on weekends and during school holidays in March, June, September, and December. Head to the park on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Opt for a weekend if the Hollywood Dreams Parade or Lake Hollywood Spectacular fireworks show are on your must-see list. No matter what day you visit, show up before the park opens to be first in line for the hot rides.
Planning the Perfect Day at the Park
Make the most of your day in the park by picking up a Studio Guide and daily schedule at the entrance, and note any not-to-miss shows or meet-and-greets. To beat the queues, consider upgrading to an Express Pass, which gives access to a shorter line at popular attractions such as Transformers the Ride: The Ultimate 3D Battle, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride, and Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon.
Address: 11 Sentosa East Mall, 099054, Singapore
Hours: Open daily at 10am, closing time varies.
Admission: Adults: S$169.00
From $ 26
Mount Faber
Mount Faber Park, one of the oldest green spaces in Singapore, is also one of the best places to go for views over the city and Singapore Harbour. More of a large hill than a mountain, the slopes of Mount Faber are covered in lush rainforest, and if you want to get to the top, you have two options.
Budget travelers looking for something free to do can hike to the peak. The path is paved the entire way up and shaded for most of the way, but bring plenty of water, as Singapore can get hot and humid. If you’d rather save your energy, you can ride the Singapore Cable Car to the top.
No matter how you get to the summit, set aside some time to wander the gardens and take in the views from several lookout points. Mount Faber is also home to the Jewel Box, a shopping, dining and entertainment venue and one of the most romantic spots in the city for dinner.
Budget travelers looking for something free to do can hike to the peak. The path is paved the entire way up and shaded for most of the way, but bring plenty of water, as Singapore can get hot and humid. If you’d rather save your energy, you can ride the Singapore Cable Car to the top.
No matter how you get to the summit, set aside some time to wander the gardens and take in the views from several lookout points. Mount Faber is also home to the Jewel Box, a shopping, dining and entertainment venue and one of the most romantic spots in the city for dinner.
Address: Singapore
From $ 26
Marina Bay Sands Skypark
A highlight of the luxurious Marina Bay Sands resort, the Marina Bay Sands Skypark is a gigantic rooftop complex balanced atop the resort’s three towers. The Skypark, which stretches over 1,115 feet (340 meters), has gardens, restaurants, a huge infinity pool, and spectacular views over Singapore.
The Basics
Guests at the Marina Bay Sands hotel can swim in Skypark’s 492-foot-long (150-meter-long) infinity pool and enjoy free access to all of the rooftop attractions. Nonguests can purchase admission to the Skypark observation deck and visit Skybar, both of which offer 360-degree views of Supertree Grove, the Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore skyline.
A popular choice is to join an evening tour that includes admission to the Marina Bay Sands Skypark as well as a Supertree Grove light show and river cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Facilities including the infinity pool, walkway, and gardens are only available to hotel guests.
- There is an entrance charge to visit the observation deck and a further cover charge for the Skybar.
- Reservations are essential and a cover charge often applies at Skypark’s two restaurants, both open to nonguests.
- Large items and luggage are not permitted at Skypark, and visitors are required to pass through security checks.
- The Marina Bay Sands hotel, Skypark, shopping complex, and casino are all fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Marina Bay Sands is located along the Marina Bay waterfront in downtown Singapore, next to the Gardens by the Bay. The complex is served by numerous buses and water taxis, but the easiest way to get there is on the MRT—the nearest stations are Bayfront, on the Circle and Downtown lines, or Marina Bay, on the NorthSouth and Circle lines. Access to the Skypark is via an elevator in Tower 3.
When to Get There
Time your visit for the early morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light for photographs, or arrive in time to watch the sunset over the city. Alternatively, an evening visit offers the chance to admire Singapore’s glittering nighttime skyline.
Marina Bay Sands
The Marina Bay Sands complex cost an incredible $8 billion to build, so expect the ultimate in luxury. Highlights include an opulent 2,561-room hotel, an upmarket shopping mall, a gigantic atrium casino with over 500 tables and 1,600 slot machines, a nightly light and water show, the Las Vegas–inspired Marquee Nightclub, and two theaters that host award-winning musicals such as The Lion King and Mamma Mia!
Address: Level 57, 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956, Singapore
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Kampong Glam
One of the more famous neighborhoods in Singapore, Kampong Glam is a preserved town once home to the Malay and Muslim elite that inhabited it prior to British colonization in the early 19th century.
Although the town was comprised of a multitude of ethnic groups over the last few hundred years, much of this pristine town has been restored to its former beauty, with strips of colorful shop houses now home to modern businesses.
Among some of its other key features includes one of the most important mosques in the country, the Sultan Mosque. It also has a peaceful pedestrian walk called the Bussorah Mall as well as the recently opened Malay Heritage Center, which contains loads of cultural pieces and history showcasing the lives of Malay Singaporeans.
As a destination for foreign visitors, the town itself now has several local restaurants as well as art galleries textile and carpet shops to peruse.
Although the town was comprised of a multitude of ethnic groups over the last few hundred years, much of this pristine town has been restored to its former beauty, with strips of colorful shop houses now home to modern businesses.
Among some of its other key features includes one of the most important mosques in the country, the Sultan Mosque. It also has a peaceful pedestrian walk called the Bussorah Mall as well as the recently opened Malay Heritage Center, which contains loads of cultural pieces and history showcasing the lives of Malay Singaporeans.
As a destination for foreign visitors, the town itself now has several local restaurants as well as art galleries textile and carpet shops to peruse.
Address: Singapore
From $ 26
Marina Bay Sands
Touted as the world’s most expensive casino complex—costing a cool $8 billion—Marina Bay Sands is Singapore’s most lavish resort, boasting a stunning waterfront location. Alongside the casino, there’s a 2,561-room hotel, luxury shopping mall, a giant rooftop infinity pool, and some of Singapore’s most exclusive bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
The Basics
If your budget doesn’t stretch to a night at the Marina Bay Sands hotel, you can still get a taste of the high life with a visit to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. The huge rooftop observation deck affords 360-degree views of Supertree Grove, the Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore skyline. A popular choice is to combine a sightseeing tour or hop-on hop-off tour of Singapore with an admission ticket to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark or the on-site ArtScience Museum.
Even if you don’t venture inside, the magnificent complex is an unmissable architectural landmark—zip past on a Segway tour, cycle along the waterfront on a bike tour, or sail past on a sightseeing cruise around Marina Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some facilities, such as the infinity pool, are only available to hotel guests.
- Large items and luggage are not permitted at the SkyPark, and visitors are required to pass through security checks.
- The Marina Bay Sands hotel, SkyPark, shopping complex, and casino are all fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to There
Marina Bay Sands is located along the Marina Bay waterfront in downtown Singapore, next door to the Gardens by the Bay. The complex is served by numerous buses and water taxis, but the easiest way to get there is on the MRT—the nearest stations are Bayfront on the Circle and Downtown lines, or Marina Bay station on the North–South and Circle lines.
When to Get There
Marina Bay Sands is atmospheric at all hours of the day or night, but the opening hours of shops, bars, and restaurants vary. Visitors to the SkyPark should opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds or visit in time for sunset for an unforgettable view of Singapore.
Entertainment at Marina Bay Sands
In addition to the 500 tables and 1,600 slot machines that comprise the atrium casino, Marina Bay Sands also has two theaters, where you can watch musicals such as The Lion King and Mamma Mia!; a nightly light and water show held at Event Plaza; a host of restaurants by celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsay and Wolfgang Puck; and the most recent addition, the Las Vegas–inspired Marquee Nightclub. At the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands mall, there are over 300 shops to explore, but shoppers can also cruise the central canal on a traditional sampan or play on the interactive digital art floor.
Address: 10 Bayfront Ave, 018956, Singapore
From $ 11
Sri Mariamman Temple
Located in the middle of Singapore’s Chinatown sits the country’s oldest and most popular Hindu temples. Built in 1827, the Sri Mariamman Temple resembles the colorful Dravidian style of the temples of South India, and many of the temple’s worshippers are South Indian immigrants and their families.
The ornamental entrance tower of the temple, covered in colorful sculptures of deities and mythological beings, has become one of Singapore’s most recognizable landmarks. Within, you’ll find a main shrine area dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, a member of the Hindu pantheon known as a healer. Freestanding shrines surrounding the main prayer hall display statues of many secondary deities.
Admission to the temple is free, but if you plan to take photographs, you may be asked to provide a small “donation,” though this isn’t always enforced. If you visit the temple in late fall, you might get lucky and catch the annual fire walking ceremony, one of many festivals and events hosted by the temple throughout the year.
The ornamental entrance tower of the temple, covered in colorful sculptures of deities and mythological beings, has become one of Singapore’s most recognizable landmarks. Within, you’ll find a main shrine area dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, a member of the Hindu pantheon known as a healer. Freestanding shrines surrounding the main prayer hall display statues of many secondary deities.
Admission to the temple is free, but if you plan to take photographs, you may be asked to provide a small “donation,” though this isn’t always enforced. If you visit the temple in late fall, you might get lucky and catch the annual fire walking ceremony, one of many festivals and events hosted by the temple throughout the year.
Address: 244 S Bridge Rd, 058793, Singapore
Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-12pm, 6pm-9pm
From $ 17
Marine Parade Food Center
The Marine Parade Food Center is a popular and long-standing hawker center located in the Joo Chiat / Katong area of Singapore. An authentic and traditional foodie destination, it has largely resisted efforts to change and upgrade over the years, with stall owners voting instead to leave things the way they are.
There are all manner of dishes to try at the Marine Parade Food Center, and one of the main problems is choosing what to fill up on, as the choice can be overwhelming. Take a stroll around the many stalls and choose from dim sum, curry puffs, seafood soup, a variety of vegetarian options, and a dazzlingly array of noodle dishes. This is also a good place to try out the traditional Malay national dish, nasi lemak.
A must for foodies, the Marine Parade Food Center can be enjoyed as part of a Singapore hawker center food tour, which includes a walk around the vibrant neighborhoods and hawker centers of Chinatown, Geylang, and Little India.
Insider’s Tip: Mr Wong’s Seremban Beef Noodles is one stall to look out for. Mr Wong serves up noodles in a unique gravy sauce that packs a sweet punch that goes well with the kick of his chili sauce and the bitterness of the salted vegetables. Sesame seeds and roasted peanuts add a further layer of complexity to the flavor.
Practical Info
If not arriving via a hotel transfer as part of an organized tour, you can reach the Marine Parade Food Center by taking a taxi, or by using a number 36, 48, 196, or 197 bus.
Address: 84 Marine Parade Central, 440084, Singapore
From $ 113
S.E.A. Aquarium
Welcome to the largest oceanarium in the world! Part of the 8-hectare Marine Life Park complex, the S.E.A. Aquarium houses more than 100,000 animals of 800 species in 45,000,000 liters of water. The aquarium comprises 10 zones with 49 habitats; the Strait of Karimata & Java Sea, the Strait of Malacca & Andaman Sea, the Bay of Bengal & Laccadive Sea, the Persian Gulf & Arabian Sea and the Shark Seas, to name a few, are all represented at S.E.A. Aquarium. Popular species include the bottlenose dolphin, the scalloped hammerhead shark, the goliath grouper, the Japanese spider crab as well as relatively uncommonly exhibited species such as the guitarfish and the chambered nautilus.
The most popular feature of the aquarium, outside its outstanding selection of marine fauna, is its awe-inspiring viewing panel. Officially the world's largest, at 36-meter (118 feet) wide and 8.3-meter (27 feet) tall, it gives visitors the feeling of literally standing on the ocean floor. Other notable features include the world’s largest collection of manta rays (which includes the only giant oceanic manta ray in captivity) and fine specimens of jellyfishes.
Practical Info
The aquarium is located on Santosa Island in Singapore, 10 minutes from Singapore’s Central Business District. It can be reached via train (North-East line or Circle line to Harbour Front station and then Santosa Express until Waterfront station), bus (routes 65, 80, 93, 188, 855, 10, 30, 97, 100, 131, 143, 145 or 166 to Vivo City and then bus RWS8) or by cable car (Imbiah station for Santosa Express). The aquarium is open every day from 10AM to 7PM, although the schedule is subject to change; best call ahead and confirm on the day. Entry costs $38 per adult and $28 per child aged 4-12.
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore
Hours: Daily 10am-7pm
Admission: Adults: $38, Child (4-12) $28
From $ 9
Little India
For subcontinental color, cuisine, and atmosphere, head to Singapore’s Little India, one of the island’s most vibrant districts. Shops, restaurants, street vendors, and colorful Hindu temples line the streets of Little India, making it an excellent place to take a walk. The culture and community center of Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is the neighborhood’s most important Hindu Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
The Basics
Walking tours of Little India take you past fragrant flower shops and through markets teeming with colorful fashions, foods, and traditional crafts. No tour would be complete without sampling some of the area’s best bites, as aromas of spicy curries and dosas waft from the neighborhood’s many street vendors. Many cultural and sightseeing tours of the city stop in Little India, as do the blue and red lines of the Singapore Flyer hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Little India is a must-visit for shoppers and foodies.
- Dive deep into the local culture on a walking tour, or catch the highlights on a citywide sightseeing tour.
- Bring cash with you, as many of the smaller shops and food stalls do not accept credit cards.
How to Get There
Getting to Little India by public transportation is a breeze; the easiest way is to take the MRT to Little India, Farrer Park, or Rochor stations. Over a dozen bus lines also service the neighborhood.
When to Get There
Shops in Little India tend to open mid-morning and often stay open late. Plan to visit at mealtime to take advantage of the great food, and if you want to see the district at its most colorful, plan your trip during a cultural festival like Diwali (Deepavali).
Best Bets in Little India
If you’re planning to do some shopping in Little India, don’t miss the Little India Arcade. This collection of wall-to-wall shops along Campbell Lane sells everything from framed prints of Hindu gods and goddesses to hand-embroidered saris. Open 24 hours, Mustafa Centre is an indoor market packed with all sorts of products. If you’re having trouble deciding what you want to eat, head to the Tekka Centre, Singapore’s best hawker center for Indian fare.
Address: Serangoon Road, 207474, Singapore
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Maritime Experiential Museum
Singapore has long ranked among the world’s busiest ports — at any given moment there are around 1,000 vessels in the port with a ship arriving or leaving every two to three minutes. More than 130,000 ships call on Singapore each year. The Maritime Experiential Museum makes Singapore’s rich maritime history accessible to visitors through a series of interactive, multi-sensory exhibits.
The museum was originally built to house the Jewel of Muscat, and this stunning replica of a ninth-century Arab dhow gifted by the sultanate of Oman remains the crowning jewel of the museum’s collection. Other notable attractions include a collection of artifacts salvaged from the Bakau shipwreck off the coast of Belitung Island, a recreation of an Arab souk, a historic ship harbor with full-scale replicas of five historic vessels and the 150-seat, 360-degree Typhoon Theatre where visitors board a virtual ship bound for Arabia.
Practical Info
The Maritime Experiential Museum is located within Resort World Sentosa and is included in admission to the S.E.A. Aquarium.
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Resorts World Sentosa 098269, Singapore
From $ 83
Lau Pa Sat Market
The Lau Pa Sat Market in the busy business district is great place to go to enjoy some local food and take in the history of a building that is well older than many of the mega-structures that surround it. Built in the 19th century, the Victorian structure is basically a glorified food court, but with tons of great and inexpensive options.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
Address: Singapore
From $ 62
St Andrew's Cathedral
A national monument and the city’s largest cathedral, the St. Andrew’s Cathedral that now stands in civic district of Singapore, has a long history and is actually the latest (and oldest) iteration of the structure. Sir Stamford Raffles chose the site for the church in 1823 and the foundation stone was laid in 1934. Funded by Scottish merchants, the church was given the name of the patron saint of Scotland and is the oldest Anglican house of worship in Singapore. After the original church was struck by lightning—twice—it was deemed unsafe and closed in 1852. The church was rebuilt and consecrated in 1862. During World War II, the church was utilized as an emergency hospital during air raids; it was deemed a national monument in 1973.
It’s easy to spot St. Andrew’s in the midst of the sleek glass buildings that dominate the business district of Singapore. Pristinely white, the exterior of the building gleams in the hot Singapore sun; the interior is blessedly cool and the various historic plaques and beautiful stained glass windows will attract your attention. Grab a pamphlet from the entryway for a self-guided tour, or join one of the free guided tours that take place twice daily.
Practical Info
You can reach St. Andrew’s by bus or by taking the MRT to the City Hall Station. The Cathedral is open to visitors daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Complimentary guided tours, conducted by Cathedral staff, are given daily on Mondays through Saturdays from 10:30 am–12 p.m. and 2:30-4 p.m. (tours are not available on Wednesday mornings and Saturday afternoons).
Address: 11 St Andrew's Rd, 178959, Singapore
From $ 29