Things to Do in Singapore: A First-Timer’s Guide

If you’ve just started planning a trip to Singapore and you’re not quite sure what there is to see and do, you’re in the right place.

Here you’ll find all the big-name attractions – the places people talk about, the ones you’ve probably seen online, and the essential sights that give you a great feel for the city.

There are so many things to do in Singapore you could be here for months, but these ideas will help you to cover those first big things – and then you can come back for more.

Think of this as your simple starting point. Once you know the highlights, it’s much easier to build the rest of your plans around them.

I’ve visited Singapore more than ten times now, sometimes for a day, sometimes for a whole week, and these are the places I always recommend to anyone visiting for the first time.

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A large outdoor floral clock is surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery, with a modern glass-domed building and trees in the background—a must-see among the things to do in Singapore.

Visit Gardens by the Bay

Nearest MRT: Gardens by the Bay (TEL) or Bayfront (DTL/CEL)
Best time to visit: Afternoon into evening

Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most iconic attractions – and it’s huge.

Wander the outdoor paths to see the Supertrees, then visit the indoor conservatories if you have time.

The Cloud Forest is always a crowd favourite with its misty waterfall, and the Flower Dome showcases plants from around the world.

Stay for the Garden Rhapsody light show at the Supertree Grove. It’s free and runs twice every night and is absolutely worth the effort to see.

Walk the Marina Bay Waterfront

Nearest MRT: Bayfront

The Marina Bay area is perfect for a late afternoon walk. You can enjoy the views, browse The Shoppes or grab a drink along the waterfront.

If you want big views, book a ticket to the SkyPark Observation Deck on Level 56.

Each night, the Spectra Light & Water Show plays outside the mall. It’s short, free and easy to fit in with other plans.

Snap a Selfie with the Merlion

Nearest MRT: Raffles Place or Downtown

A quick but iconic stop. You’ll get classic postcard views of Marina Bay Sands from here.

It’s busiest during the day, so morning or evening makes the experience nicer – or do as I once did, visit during a downpour and get it all to yourself!

Ornate Chinese temple with intricate roof carvings, golden decorations, and a large incense burner in the foreground on a patterned tile floor.

Explore the Streets of Chinatown

Nearest MRT: Chinatown or Maxwell

Chinatown is an easy neighbourhood to explore on foot. You’ll find temples, markets, colourful streets and one of Singapore’s most popular hawker centres – Maxwell Food Centre.

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is worth a look if you’re nearby.

Explore by yourself, or join in on a tips-based walking tour.

Dive into Colour in Little India

Nearest MRT: Little India

Full of colour, food and energy, Little India is great for wandering. You can visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, explore shops along Serangoon Road, and stop into Tekka Centre for a cheap and tasty meal.

This is another area where a walking tour is fantastic to fill in all the information for the places you are seeing.

Wander Through Kampong Glam

Nearest MRT: Bugis

This area blends culture, cafés and creativity.

The Sultan Mosque sits at the heart of the neighbourhood and the nearby lanes – especially Arab Street and Haji Lane – are filled with murals, shops and great food.

Again, you can wander through here by yourself, or join a free walking tour to learn more about the history and the landmarks.

Tip: Need a place to cool down after your visit. Head to the iconic Atlas Bar for a drink.

The large, white "Sentosa" sign is perched atop a rocky hill covered in greenery on Sentosa Island, Singapore. The scene includes lush tropical plants, a wooden footbridge, and clear blue skies, giving the area a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

Escape to Sentosa Island

Nearest MRT: HarbourFront, then Sentosa Express or Sentosa Boardwalk

Sentosa is where Singapore goes to have fun.

Ride the cable car over, then choose from activities like the Skyline Luge, Adventure Cove Waterpark or Singapore Oceanarium.

Alternatively explore the history of Sentosa with a visit to Fort Siloso.

Or if that’s all too much, enjoy a day on the beach at one of the many beach clubs.

It’s easy to spend half a day or a full day here.

Have a Fun Day at Universal Studios Singapore

Nearest MRT: HarbourFront → Sentosa Express

Adding to the popular international brand, a visit to Universal Studios Singapore is a popular choice for families and theme-park lovers.

The park is compact, easy to navigate and filled with well-themed zones, shows and rides.

It’s recently opened Minion Land, which is always fun.

Browse and Cool Down on Orchard Road

Nearest MRT: Orchard or Somerset

This famous shopping strip is full of malls, food courts and arcades. Even if you’re not planning a big shopping day, it’s a good place to cool down and grab something to eat.

In December an evening visit Orchard Road is a must as the Christmas lights get even the biggest Scrooge into the festive mood.

A tiger walks behind a chain-link fence in an outdoor enclosure, partially obscured by green plants in the foreground.

Meet the Animals at the Mandai Wildlife Parks

Nearest MRT: Khatib → Mandai Shuttle

Singapore’s wildlife parks are some of the best in the world, and they’re all in the same area.

You can visit just one or combine a couple depending on your energy levels and how much time you have.

Here’s a quick overview:

Singapore Zoo – Known worldwide for its open-style habitats and thoughtful layout. Mornings are usually best.
River Wonders – A freshwater-focused park featuring pandas, manatees and iconic river species.
Night Safari – A very Singapore experience. The tram ride gives a great overview, and exploring after dark feels special.
Bird Paradise – Huge aviaries, bird shows and great opportunities for photography.
Rainforest Wild Asia – Elevated boardwalks and rainforest animals in a more immersive setting.

If you’re not sure which park suits you, take a look at my guide: Which Mandai wildlife park to choose?

Marvel at the Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport

Nearest MRT: Changi Airport

You don’t need to be flying to enjoy Jewel Changi Airport, and it’s absolutely worth the trip.

The Rain Vortex – the world’s tallest indoor waterfall – is the big drawcard, but you’ll also find shops, restaurants and family-friendly attractions spread across multiple levels.

It’s an easy place to spend an hour or a whole afternoon.

If you’re flying in or out of Singapore, take a little time to explore Changi Airport’s terminals too.

Each one has its own attractions, from gardens to play areas to free movie theatres, making it one of the most enjoyable airports in the world.

If you’d like more detail to plan your visit, I’ve written guides to help:

Take a River Cruise at Clarke Quay

Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay

This lively area is full of restaurants, bars and colourful lights at night. Even if you’re not planning to party all night, an evening visit here for dinner lets you soak up the atmosphere.

A river cruise is a relaxed way to see Singapore from a different perspective and if you time it right, the light show in Marina Bay is a bonus attraction.

A modern building with white petal-like structures, set against Singapore's cityscape with palm trees and soaring skyscrapers in the background.

Step Inside the ArtScience Museum

Nearest MRT: Bayfront

The ArtScience Museum is great for interactive exhibitions and digital art. The permanent teamLab Future World exhibition is always fun, and the visiting exhibitions just add to it.

It’s also a perfect option if the weather turns hot or wet.

Relax at the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens

A lovely spot for a morning walk and Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Look out for the surprising wildlife, including otters, monkeys, lizards and birds.

If you have time, the National Orchid Garden is a highlight.

See the Collection at the National Gallery Singapore

Nearest MRT: City Hall

The National Gallery of Singapore will be a delight for art lovers – or even those (like myself) who just enjoy a casual browse.

It’s a fantastic museum spread across two beautiful heritage buildings.

The rooftop viewing deck offers pretty views across the Padang and Marina Bay.

Two Singapore Sling cocktails garnished with pineapple sit on a table beside a burlap bag labeled "Raffles Singapore," capturing the perfect moment from a 7 Day Singapore Itinerary in an elegant restaurant setting.

Sip a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel

Nearest MRT: City Hall or Esplanade

The Singapore Sling was invented at the iconic Long Bar at Raffles Hotel and you can still call in today to enjoy the drink, the atmosphere and throwing peanut shells on the floor (trust me, it’s expected!).

Yes, it’s expensive and touristy – but it’s also one of those “I’m in Singapore!” moments that many travellers enjoy ticking off. A must in my book!

Eat at a Hawker Centre

Best places to try: Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, Chinatown Complex, Amoy Street, Tekka Centre

Hawker centres are the heart of everyday eating in Singapore and you really have to eat at at least one. Although one youu start, you might want to try them all.

You’ll find everything from chicken rice to satay to bee hoon, all at great prices. They’re fast, fun and a must-do for every visitor.

Learn about the etiquette and some of the best hawker centres to try in my hawker centre guide.

Have Breakfast Like a Local (Kaya Toast!)

Where to try: Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Tong Ah Eating House, Killiney Kopitiam

A classic Singapore breakfast includes kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs and a cup of kopi or teh. It’s completely unique, and always my first breakfast (and most others!) when I visit.

It’s simple, comforting and a great introduction to Singapore’s kopitiam culture.

Learn what it is and where to get it here.

Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore at dusk, with Marina Bay Sands hotel in the background and people walking on the elevated walkway—a must-see when planning how many days in Singapore you’ll need to explore its iconic sights.

Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

You can tap on public transport with your credit card – no need to buy a separate card.
Carry water and take regular breaks, because Singapore’s heat is no joke.
Book big-ticket attractions like the Mandai parks and Universal Studios ahead during busy periods.
Outdoor attractions feel best early in the morning or after 5pm.
Make time for a hawker centre meal – it’s delicious and budget-friendly.

Join Singapore Stopovers

If you’re planning a visit and want even more tips, ideas and friendly advice, come and join my Facebook community Singapore Stopovers. It’s a helpful, welcoming space where travellers share questions, experiences and suggestions in real time.

Whether you’re stopping over for a night or exploring for a few days, you’ll find plenty of inspiration – and you can ask anything you like.

Join here now: Singapore Stopovers

Singapore is one of those destinations that feels easy and enjoyable from the moment you arrive.

With world-famous attractions, reliable public transport and incredible food around every corner, it’s simple to fill your days with a mix of sightseeing, neighbourhood wanderings and relaxed meals.

The experiences in this list will give you a great starting point, especially if it’s your first visit.

Once you’ve ticked off a few highlights, you’ll quickly discover how much more Singapore has to offer – and chances are, you’ll already be thinking about your next trip back.

If you’d like more support while you plan, don’t forget to join Singapore Stopovers. It’s the perfect place to ask questions, swap ideas and get travel-friendly tips from people who’ve been there recently.

TRAVEL PLANNING ESSENTIALS

Find flights – I always use Skyscanner as my starting point when searching for flights. One search will give many options including airlines I may not have thought of. This means I can find the best possible flights to suit my needs

Book accommodation – my go to is always Booking.com for the best places to stay. It’s not just hotels anymore, but hostels, apartments, B&Bs and more. I love that the bookings are usually cancellable, and that I can book now and pay later.

Hire a rental car – RentalCars.com is my go to here. It allows me to do just one search and it finds cars from many of the different supplies, so no checking multiple websites to compare.

Get travel insurance – you would have heard by now that saying “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel”. If we’ve learnt anything from the last couple of years it should be how essential travel insurance is. I use CoverMore for my insurance.

Pick up an eSIM – I tried an eSIM on my last trip and it was fantastic. I set it up before I went so it was ready as soon as I landed, and I still had access to my home number for emergencies. Get your own eSIM at Airalo.

Book activities, tours & attractions – I use a few different websites for this. Viator and Get Your Guide tend to be the first places I look. In Asia, Klook often has more options, and in Australia it’s Experience Oz.

Manage your money – the best way to manage your different currencies is with an account from Wise. You can hold money in many different currencies, and use them with the ATM card or from your phone.