Singapore is an incredible city-state with a fascinating history that draws travellers in. This place was once a remote fishing village but became a global powerhouse. Today, Singapore is a vibrant mix of cultures and a popular tourist spot. You can explore its rich heritage by visiting historical landmarks like the iconic Raffles Hotel and the magnificent Sultan Mosque. But Singapore is not all about the past — it is also a city of innovation and modern wonders. Let’s see some best places to visit in Singapore.
Top Places to Visit in Singapore
- Marina Bay
- Sentosa Island
- SEA Aquarium
- Bukit Batok Hill
- National Orchid Garden
1. Marina Bay
Marina Bay is a prominent waterfront district located in the southern part of Singapore. One of the most noted landmarks here is the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, which opened in 2010. It features three hotel towers topped by a massive rooftop SkyPark, a luxury shopping mall, and a convention centre.
Another prominent feature of Marina Bay is the Gardens by the Bay, a sprawling nature park spanning 101 hectares. The gardens are home to various themed gardens, including the iconic Supertree Grove, which consists of towering tree-like structures covered in vertical gardens.
Things to do in Marina Bay:
- Visit the ArtScience Museum to enjoy captivating exhibitions that blend art, science, and technology.
- Visit Esplanade to enjoy a range of concerts, theatre productions, and other cultural performances.
- Don't miss the spectacular Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show, which takes place in the evening at the Event Plaza.
2. Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is among the iconic places to visit in Singapore, just off the southern coast. It is a renowned leisure and entertainment destination. While it is now a bustling hub of attractions, resorts, and recreational activities, the island has an exciting history that has contributed to its transformation.
Historically, Sentosa Island was known as Pulau Blakang Mati, which translates to “Island of Death from Behind” in Malay. The island served as a strategic military outpost due to its advantageous location, guarding the entrance to the Singapore Strait.
After Singapore gained independence in 1965, the island’s military significance diminished, and Sentosa became a recreational haven.
Things to do on Sentosa Island
- Witness a mesmerising multimedia show featuring water jets, lasers, fire effects, and captivating music at the Wings of Time show.
- If you are seeking thrilling adventures, head to Mega Adventure Park.
- Explore Universal Studios featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and immersive experiences based on popular movies and TV shows.
3. SEA Aquarium
The SEA Aquarium on Sentosa Island is one of the world’s largest aquariums and among the must-visit places in Singapore. The aquarium opened to the public on November 22, 2012. However, one can trace its origin to the previous attraction, Underwater World Singapore, which operated on the same site from 1991 to 2016.
The aquarium has multiple zones, with each one representing different aquatic environments in Southeast Asia and beyond. The SEA Aquarium is home to over 100,000 marine animals, representing over 1,000 species. It features a vast collection of fish, sharks, rays, jellyfish, seahorses, and many other fascinating creatures.
Things to do in SEA Aquarium
- Get hands-on at the interactive touch pools, where you can touch and feel certain marine animals under the guidance of aquarium staff.
- Join a behind-the-scenes tour to get an exclusive glimpse into the operations and care of the aquarium.
- Visit the aquarium’s gift shop to browse a wide selection of marine-themed souvenirs, toys, and books.
4. Bukit Batok Hill
Bukit Batok Hill is a prominent natural landmark in the western part of the island. Also known as Bukit Batok Nature Park or Little Guilin, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Bukit Batok Hill has unique rock formations reminiscent of the famous Guilin region in China. These towering granite cliffs result from quarrying activities that took place in the past. Today, the disused quarries have been transformed into beautiful lakes, adding to the park’s charm.
Things to do in Bukit Batok Hill
- Pay a visit to the Bukit Batok Memorial, which commemorates the lives lost during World War II.
- Golf fans can play a round of golf at the Warren Golf & Country Club, located in Bukit Batok.
- This place has several parks and recreational areas to engage in outdoor activities.
5. National Orchid Garden
The National Orchid Garden in Singapore is a magnificent and world-renowned botanical garden dedicated to showcasing the beauty and diversity of orchids. Situated within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Orchid Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and flower enthusiasts alike.
This place is home to a vast collection of over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids, making it one of the largest orchid displays in the world.
Things to do in National Orchid Garden
- Learn about Orchid cultivation.
- Explore the themed sections. Wander through areas dedicated to cool-growing orchids, VIP orchids, and hybrids.
- Attend Orchid talks and workshops. Check their schedule to see if any events align with your visit.
Best Time to Visit Singapore
Singapore is a year-round destination with a relatively consistent climate, making it suitable for travel at any time of the year. However, the Lunar New Year, which usually falls in January or February, is a vibrant and exciting time to experience Singapore’s Chinese heritage.
Due to school holidays and pleasant weather, December and February are generally considered the peak tourist season. If you prefer fewer crowds, you may consider visiting Singapore during the shoulder seasons, such as April to June or September to November.
Travel Insurance for Singapore
Travel insurance is a crucial investment for all travellers. With its comprehensive coverage and peace of mind, this policy protects you against unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trips. Whether it is a medical emergency, trip cancellation, lost baggage, or flight delays, travel insurance provides financial assistance and support when needed.