Singapore dazzles with a striking mix of futuristic architecture, lush green parks, and deep cultural roots. It’s compact, but it’s packed with variety. You can chase high-energy attractions, or slow down in calm natural escapes. Whether you have a weekend or a full week, this 2026 guide to the 20 Best Places to Visit Singapore helps you plan an efficient and unforgettable itinerary.

Quick picks

• Best for families: Sentosa Island, Singapore Zoo

• Best for nature lovers: Gardens by the Bay, MacRitchie Reservoir

• Best for one-day visitors: Marina Bay highlights, National Gallery Singapore

Start planning your visit using the sample itineraries, ticket tips, and booking options below. You can also compare tickets to save money. Or jump straight to the sample 3-day itinerary to see how top attractions can fit into a short stay.

1. Gardens by the Bay

Why go: Gardens by the Bay is a must-see urban park where futuristic design meets lush horticulture. It’s great in the day, and it becomes dramatic at night. The attraction mixes free outdoor areas with ticketed conservatories, so you can enjoy it in any weather.

The park sits on reclaimed land and covers roughly 101 hectares. It’s best known for the Supertrees. These are vertical planted structures that rise like living sculptures across the landscape. Two climate-controlled conservatories sit inside the gardens. The Flower Dome recreates a cool-dry Mediterranean environment. The Cloud Forest features a dramatic indoor waterfall and montane flora.

Visitor Information

• Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 (near Marina Bay Sands)

• Opening hours: Outdoor gardens 5am–2am daily; Conservatories 9am–9pm daily

• Admission (2026): Outdoor gardens free; Conservatories S$28 adults, S$15 children

• Getting there: Nearest MRT Bayfront (CE1/DT16). Taxis and rideshares drop off at the main entrance.

Quick tip: Visit early for cooler temperatures and smaller crowds. For iconic skyline shots, stand on the circular platform between Marina Bay and the gardens at dusk.

Each evening, Supertree Grove hosts the Garden Rhapsody light show. The performance is free and typically runs twice nightly. It’s popular, so arrive early to claim a good spot. After the show, pair this stop with a Marina Bay walk. You can also add a SkyPark visit for wider skyline views at sunset.

2. Marina Bay Sands

Why go: Marina Bay Sands is Singapore’s most recognizable complex. It’s the iconic three towers topped by the SkyPark. The site delivers some of the city’s best views. It also bundles shopping, dining, and culture in one place. That makes it perfect for short visits or full afternoons.

Visitor Information

• Location: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

• SkyPark Observation Deck hours (2026): 11am–9pm Mon–Thu; 11am–10pm Fri–Sun

• Admission (2026): S$26 adults, S$20 children

• How to access: Buy timed SkyPark tickets online to skip queues. The observation entrance is on the lobby level near the mall elevators.

Tip: Visit around sunset for the best shift from daylight to city lights. Arrive 30–45 minutes early for better photo positioning.

SkyPark gives panoramic views over Marina Bay and the skyline. The famous infinity pool is for hotel guests only. The mall hosts luxury brands and local boutiques. ArtScience Museum also runs rotating exhibitions. You can combine SkyPark with shopping or a museum visit in the same outing.

3. Universal Studios Singapore

Best for families and thrill-seekers: Universal Studios Singapore sits on Sentosa Island. It packs film-themed fun into seven zones. The park balances big coasters with gentler rides. That makes it a solid full-day option for mixed groups.

Highlights — quick picks by interest

• For thrill-seekers: Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon dueling coasters; Revenge of the Mummy (indoor coaster)

• For families and kids: Madagascar: A Crate Adventure; Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase

• For movie buffs: Transformers: The Ride (3D motion-sim)

Visitor Information

• Location: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

• Opening hours: 10am–7pm daily (check seasonal changes for 2026)

• Admission (2026): S$98 adults, S$78 children

Tip: Buy timed tickets and Express Passes early. Express Passes can sell out on peak days. Arrive at opening to ride popular attractions first. Or use an Express Pass later to fit more in.

Zones include Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar. Each zone has themed dining and photo spots. Check the schedule for the Lake Hollywood show. It’s a fountain-and-projection spectacle that often closes the day. Verify showtimes before you go.

4. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Why go: Singapore Botanic Gardens is the city’s tranquil green heart. It’s also Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gardens blend history, plant collections, and family-friendly spaces. The National Orchid Garden is a major highlight too.

Opened in 1859, the Botanic Gardens cover about 82 hectares. They showcase more than 10,000 plant species. Key zones include the Rainforest, a six-hectare remnant of original primary forest. The Evolution Garden explains plant diversity through an interpretive trail. Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden offers interactive nature play for kids.

Visitor Information

• Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

• Opening hours: Main gardens 5am–12am daily; National Orchid Garden 8:30am–7pm daily

• Admission (2026): Main gardens free; National Orchid Garden S$15 adults, S$3 students & seniors

• Getting there: Nearest MRT Botanic Gardens (CC19/DT9). Taxis and rideshares serve main entrances.

Quick tip: Start at 8:30am with the National Orchid Garden. Temperatures are cooler then. After that, stroll the Rainforest. Finish at Jacob Ballas for an efficient half-day loop.

The National Orchid Garden houses over 1,000 orchid species and about 2,000 hybrids. Some VIP cultivars are named after dignitaries. Photographers can follow color-themed displays. The Cool House is also a welcome break on hot days. It offers unique montane orchid shots.

5. Sentosa Island

Best for families, beachgoers, and thrill-seekers: Sentosa Island is nicknamed the “State of Fun.” It compresses beaches, theme parks, aquariums, and nightlife into one resort area. You can do a half-day beach visit. Or you can fill an entire day with attractions.

Top beach and attraction highlights

• Beaches: Siloso, Palawan, Tanjong

• Family attractions: Adventure Cove Waterpark; S.E.A. Aquarium (one of the world’s largest)

• Thrills: Skyline Luge; zipline experiences

• Culture & history: Fort Siloso (Singapore’s only preserved coastal fort)

Visitor Information

• Location: Sentosa Island, Singapore

• Access: Sentosa Express from VivoCity (S$4 return); cable car from Mount Faber/HarbourFront (approx. S$35); Sentosa Boardwalk (free)

• Opening hours: Many attractions run roughly 10am–7pm (check individual sites for 2026 hours)

Tip: Book tickets in advance for Adventure Cove and S.E.A. Aquarium. Timed slots reduce waiting and can save money.

If you have a half-day, focus on beaches and Wings of Time in the evening. If you have a full day, pair S.E.A. Aquarium with Adventure Cove. Add Skyline Luge for extra action. For sweeping views, ride the Singapore Cable Car from Mount Faber. It doubles as scenic transport into Sentosa.

At night, don’t miss Wings of Time. The show mixes water effects, lasers, and pyrotechnics over the sea. Plan seating early, and consider a Sentosa Fun Pass or individual tickets to streamline entry.

6. Chinatown

Best for food lovers, culture seekers, and photographers: Chinatown blends restored shophouses with hawker culture and heritage sites. It’s compact and walkable. You can eat, learn history, and shop in one loop.

Top things to do (recommended order)

1. Eat: Start at Chinatown Complex Food Centre. Try Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and local desserts. Busy stalls are a useful quality clue.

2. Heritage: Visit Chinatown Heritage Centre for recreated living quarters and early-resident stories.

3. Temples & architecture: See the Tang-style Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Don’t miss the gold stupa and rooftop garden.

4. Shopping: Browse Pagoda Street and nearby lanes for tea, traditional medicines, and festive decor. Bargain politely when appropriate.

Visitor Information

• Location: Chinatown, Singapore

• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple hours: 7am–7pm daily

• Admission: Free (donations appreciated)

Tip: Mornings are cooler and quieter. Evenings are best for hawker dining. If you’re on a budget, follow a self-guided walking route. Link Pagoda Street, Smith Street hawkers, and the Heritage Centre. You don’t need a tour.

Suggested timing: Give it 2–4 hours for a balanced visit. For photos, go early for lane light. Or visit at night for lantern glow. If you want guidance, join a food-focused walking tour. Book ahead in peak travel periods.

7. Little India

Best for food and shopping: Little India is loud, colorful, and full of street life. It’s ideal for a food crawl and bargain browsing. You can also slip into temples and cafés for breaks.

Eat · Shop · Explore

• Eat: Start at Tekka Centre. It serves dosa, biryani, thosai, banana leaf rice, and fresh prata. It’s great value and full of local flavor. For dessert, look for jalebi or coconut-based sweets.

• Shop: Head to Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour emporium. It carries electronics, groceries, and Indian sweets. It’s handy for late-night shopping.

• Explore: Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. It’s the district’s spiritual heart. The ornate gopuram is also a standout for photos. Dress respectfully when entering.

Visitor Information

• Location: Little India, Singapore

• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple hours: 5:30am–9:30pm daily (confirm current visiting times)

• Admission: Free (donations appreciated)

Tip: Weekends, especially Sunday evenings, are lively. Street food is great then, but crowds grow. For cooler weather and better photos, go early morning or late afternoon.

For a compact visit, walk Serangoon Road. Then duck into Tekka Lane and Campbell Lane for spices, fabrics, and independent cafés. On a budget, follow a self-guided route. Sample signature stalls at Tekka Centre, browse textiles, then finish with sweets.

8. Night Safari

Best for a unique nighttime wildlife experience: Night Safari is billed as the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park. It’s designed to show animals when they are most active. Habitats span regions from the Himalayas to Southeast Asian rainforests.

A guided tram ride is the signature experience. It lasts about 40 minutes and passes multiple zones. Guides point out animals and share conservation facts. For closer viewing, use the walking trails. Leopard Trail and Fishing Cat Trail often reveal exhibits you won’t see from the tram.

Visitor Information

• Location: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

• Opening hours: 7:15pm–12am daily (last entry typically around 11:15pm)

• Admission (2026): S$55 adults, S$35 children

Tip: Book a timed-entry slot early. It helps you avoid queues and secure your preferred entry time. Arrive early for the Creatures of the Night show. Use that time to get oriented before the tram.

Highlights and practical tips

• Top trails: Leopard Trail and Fishing Cat Trail reward slow, quiet walking.

• Viewing conditions: Lighting is intentionally low. It minimizes disturbance to animals. Bring a camera that handles low light. Avoid flash photography.

• Accessibility: Some paths are dim and uneven. Wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time. Bring a flashlight if needed.

• Combine visits: Many travelers pair Night Safari with Singapore Zoo. Visit the Zoo in the morning. Return to Mandai after dusk for Night Safari.

9. Singapore Zoo

Best for families and wildlife enthusiasts: Singapore Zoo is known for open-concept habitats. It uses moats and natural barriers instead of cages. This creates lifelike settings and more natural animal behavior. The zoo includes thousands of animals across hundreds of species.

Must-see exhibits & experiences

• Orangutan habitats: Spacious, tree-filled enclosures for close observation. Consider the “Breakfast with Orangutans” program. It’s popular, so book ahead.

• Animal shows: Family-friendly programs like the sea lion “Splash Safari.” Conservation talks run throughout the day.

• Rainforest Lumina: A night walk using light, sound, and storytelling. Check availability before planning for it.

Visitor Information

• Location: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

• Opening hours: 8:30am–6pm daily (last entry usually 5pm)

• Admission (2026): S$48 adults, S$33 children

Tip: Buy tickets online and look at combo passes. Options like Zoo + Night Safari or River Wonders can save time and money. Arrive early for feeding sessions and popular shows.

Practical plan: Set aside 4–5 hours for a full visit. Start with morning feedings. Then visit orangutans and family exhibits before lunch. Families should add rest breaks and interactive zones. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. The zoo is large.

Accessibility & logistics: The zoo offers shaded routes and mobility support options. Check the visitor information page for current details. If you’re short on time, prioritize signature exhibits. Reserve timed programs early.

10. National Gallery Singapore

Best for art lovers and architecture fans: National Gallery Singapore sits inside the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings. Both structures are beautifully restored. The gallery holds one of Southeast Asia’s most significant modern art collections. It also showcases an interesting blend of heritage spaces and modern additions.

Collections & highlights

• Southeast Asian art: UOB Southeast Asia Gallery covers developments from the 19th century to today.

• Singapore art: DBS Singapore Gallery traces local work from colonial-era pieces to contemporary practice. Start here for context.

• Special exhibitions: The gallery hosts major international shows. It partners with institutions like Centre Pompidou and Tate Britain. Check schedules before you go.

Visitor Information

• Location: 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957

• Opening hours: 10am–7pm (Sat–Thu); 10am–9pm (Fri)

• Admission (2026): S$20 adults; free for Singapore citizens and permanent residents

Tip: Give yourself 2–3 hours for the permanent galleries at a relaxed pace. Friday evenings add extended hours, talks, and occasional performances.

For a smooth visit, start with permanent collections. Build historical context first. Then move to special exhibitions. Don’t miss architectural highlights like the former Supreme Court Rotunda and the City Hall Chamber. They reflect the buildings’ civic history and make strong photo backdrops.

11. Clarke Quay

Best for evening drinks, foodies, and skyline photos: Clarke Quay lines the Singapore River. It’s a major nightlife and dining hub. By day it’s calm and good for riverside lunches. At night it lights up with bars, music, and neon reflections.

Visitor Information

• Location: 3 River Valley Road, Singapore 179024

• Opening hours: Many venues open around 11am and stay open late. Hours vary by venue.

Tip: Look for early-evening happy hours. Prices are often lower then. The vibe is also relaxed before the crowds.

For a unique angle, take a traditional bumboat river cruise. These cruises are about 40 minutes. They pass Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Marina Bay. Sunset and night trips are best for photos, especially when lights reflect on the water. If you want adrenaline, check nearby thrill rides like G-MAX Reverse Bungy. Confirm age, height, and safety requirements before booking.

Timing tips: Visit in late afternoon for a mellow walk and rooftop photos. Return after dark for a livelier scene and illuminated views. If you want a cruise, book it for golden hour.

12. Singapore Flyer

Why go: Singapore Flyer is a giant observation wheel with wide skyline views. It’s easy for families and great for photographers. It’s also a low-effort way to see landmarks without long walking routes.

What to expect

• 28 air-conditioned glass capsules

• A full rotation takes roughly 30 minutes

• Views over Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore River

• On clear days you may see the Johor Strait and Riau Islands

• Premium experiences include the Singapore Sling Flight or Champagne Flight (book early for special occasions)

Visitor Information

• Location: 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803

• Opening hours: 8:30am–10:30pm daily (last admission around 10pm)

• Admission (2026): S$40 adults, S$25 children

Tip: Book online for a specific time slot. Sunset and night rides are most popular. Also check the forecast, since visibility affects distant views.

For celebrations, reserve a premium capsule. Some options require private bookings, and slots fill fast. The terminal also includes an interactive gallery and dining. Plan extra time if you want to explore before or after the ride.

13. Kampong Glam

Best for history and creative shopping: Kampong Glam is Singapore’s historic Muslim quarter. Heritage buildings sit beside modern cafés and indie boutiques. The neighborhood centers around Sultan Mosque, with colorful streets nearby that are easy to explore.

Heritage & modern highlights (half-day route)

1. Sultan Mosque: Start here. Enjoy the golden domes and classic design from outside. Check visiting hours and prayer-time closures before entering.

2. Arab Street & Bussorah Street: Browse textiles, Persian carpets, crafts, and perfumes. Great for souvenirs and bespoke pieces.

3. Haji Lane: Finish with indie fashion, quirky cafés, and street art. Morning or late afternoon gives softer light and better photos.

4. Malay Heritage Centre: If you have time, visit this museum in the former Istana Kampong Glam. It adds cultural context.

Visitor Information

• Location: Kampong Glam, Singapore

• Sultan Mosque hours: Visiting hours vary. The mosque closes during prayer times, so confirm before visiting.

• Admission: Most areas are free to view. Museums may charge.

Quick tip: Visit Haji Lane in the morning or late afternoon. You’ll get fewer crowds and softer lighting for murals and shopfronts.

Dress respectfully when entering religious sites. Bargain politely when shopping. Expect a wide range of prices. Ask about alterations or shipping for large purchases. If you’re short on time, follow the half-day route above for a balanced visit.

14. Raffles Hotel

Best for history and classic cocktails: Raffles Hotel is a landmark of colonial Singapore. It’s known for old-world luxury and heritage charm. The hotel opened in 1887 and was carefully restored. Its white façade, cast-iron portico, and tropical gardens evoke a bygone era. It’s a memorable stop even if you are not staying there.

Visitor Information

• Location: 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673

• Long Bar hours: 11am–10:30pm Sun–Thu; 11am–11:30pm Fri–Sat

• Singapore Sling (2026): S$38 per cocktail

Tip: Reserve a table at Long Bar. Weekends and evenings are busiest.

Don’t miss Long Bar, the birthplace of the Singapore Sling. The cocktail was created here in 1915. The bar still honors the tradition, including the playful peanut-shell custom. The hotel also offers guided history tours covering architecture and social history. Dining ranges from casual to upscale.

Practical notes: Dress smart-casual for finer venues. Expect premium prices. Raffles blends historical significance with high-end hospitality, so plan your budget if you want the full experience.

15. Jewel Changi Airport

Why go: Jewel Changi Airport is a destination on its own. Many visitors come specifically for the Rain Vortex and the indoor gardens. It’s ideal for families, shoppers, and layover travelers.

Quick highlights

• Rain Vortex: An indoor waterfall with a reported height of ~40 meters. Evening light-and-sound shows run too.

• Shiseido Forest Valley: Terraced indoor gardens with trails. It feels like a nature walk inside the airport.

• Canopy Park: Sky Nets, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, and Canopy Bridge. Many of these are ticketed.

Visitor Information

• Location: 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666

• Opening hours: Jewel is open 24 hours. Attraction hours vary, so check before going.

• Admission: Entry to Jewel is free. Many Canopy Park experiences require tickets.

• Getting there: Jewel connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Follow airport signage or use the free Skytrain between terminals.

Tip: Visit in the evening for the Rain Vortex light-and-sound show. These shows typically run hourly after dusk. Buy Canopy Park timed tickets online to reduce queues.

Jewel has over 280 retail and dining outlets. Options range from global luxury to local favorites. Families will appreciate kid-friendly attractions and stroller access. Still, check individual attraction pages for accessibility and stroller policies. If you have a short layover, prioritize Rain Vortex and a quick Forest Valley walk. If you have more time, add one or two Canopy Park attractions. Evening slots are best for fewer daytime crowds.

16. National Orchid Garden

Plan 60–90 minutes: National Orchid Garden is the Botanic Gardens’ showpiece. It is Singapore’s top orchid display. Give yourself 1 to 1.5 hours for a relaxed visit. That pace lets you enjoy color zones and the Cool House without rushing.

The garden includes more than 1,000 orchid species and about 2,000 hybrids. It reflects Singapore’s long history of orchid cultivation and hybridization. Paths are organized into seasonal color zones. You’ll see spring yellows, summer reds, autumn purples, and winter whites.

Visitor Information

• Location: Within Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

• Opening hours: 8:30am–7pm daily (last ticket usually sold at 6pm)

• Admission (2026): S$15 adults; S$3 students and seniors

Tip: Buy timed-entry tickets during peak periods and festival weekends. It helps guarantee entry. Visit the Cool House mid-route for a break. It’s cooler and offers unique photo angles.

What to see: Don’t miss the VIP Orchid Garden with cultivars named after visiting dignitaries. Also visit the Tan Hoon Siang Mist House for rare montane species. For photographers, early morning light is softer and crowds are thinner. Pair this stop with other Botanic Gardens zones, and follow signs from the main entrances.

17. S.E.A. Aquarium

Best for families and marine lovers: S.E.A. Aquarium on Sentosa Island is known as one of the world’s largest aquariums. It features tens of thousands of marine animals across hundreds of species. It’s a strong half-day option that also leans into conservation learning.

Must-see highlights

• Open Ocean Habitat: A massive viewing panel with manta rays, schools of fish, and sharks. It delivers a deep-sea feel.

• Shark Seas: A variety of shark species for fans of predators and marine conservation.

• Coral reef zones: Bright reef exhibits that highlight biodiversity and coral fragility.

Visitor Information

• Location: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269

• Opening hours: 10am–7pm daily (last entry around 6pm)

• Admission (2026): S$46 adults, S$36 children

Tip: Weekday mornings are calmer. Crowds are smaller then. Check feeding times and talks so you can plan around interactive moments.

Plan 2–4 hours for a relaxed visit. Families should start at Open Ocean Habitat. Then fit in a feeding session to keep kids engaged. After that, follow the themed zones for ecosystem variety. If you’re spending a full day on Sentosa, consider combo tickets with Adventure Cove. It can cut costs and simplify entry. Wear comfortable shoes, and allow extra time for the main viewing galleries. Book ahead to avoid peak-day lines.

18. MacRitchie Reservoir

Best for hikers, birdwatchers, and leafy escapes: MacRitchie Reservoir Park sits minutes from central Singapore. It offers forest trails, water views, and abundant wildlife. You can do a short family stroll. Or you can commit to the full TreeTop Walk circuit.

Why visit

• TreeTop Walk: A free-standing suspension bridge about 250 meters long. It rises above the canopy for unique views.

• Trails: Options range from easy boardwalks to long forest loops. Pick a route that matches your energy.

• Water activities: Kayak and canoe rentals may be available. Check providers for availability and permit requirements.

Visitor Information

• Location: MacRitchie Reservoir Park, Singapore 298717

• Opening hours: Park 7am–7pm daily; TreeTop Walk hours vary, so check the schedule

• Admission: Free

Tip: The full loop with TreeTop Walk is roughly 10–11 km. It can take 3–5 hours. Start early to beat heat and crowds. Bring water and snacks.

Trail difficulty and suggested itineraries

• Easy (30–60 minutes): Boardwalks along the water. Great for families.

• Moderate (1–2 hours): Prunus Trail (approx. 3.2 km). It’s scenic and steady.

• Challenging (3–5 hours): Full loop plus TreeTop Walk. Bring sturdy shoes, insect repellent, and plenty of water.

Wildlife & safety: Watch for long-tailed macaques, mixed-species birds, and occasional flying lemurs. Secure your belongings and do not feed animals. Trails can get slippery after rain, so wear grippy footwear. For better wildlife viewing, move quietly and scan canopy and understory layers. Binoculars help.

Suggested plans: Arrive early for the boardwalks and a picnic. Or tackle the full loop if you’re ready for a longer day. You can also join a guided early-morning nature walk. It adds biodiversity insight and can improve rare-sighting chances.

19. Arab Street

Best for shopping and food photography: Arab Street sits at the core of Singapore’s historic Muslim Quarter. It blends heritage commerce with a trendy café scene. It’s a strong short stop that pairs well with Kampong Glam and Haji Lane.

What to buy & eat (1–2 hour micro-itinerary)

• Shopping: Start with textiles, batik, Persian carpets, and bespoke perfumes. These make memorable souvenirs. Ask about alterations or shipping for larger items.

• Food: Try murtabak, nasi padang, or briyani. Finish with baklava or Turkish ice cream from street vendors.

• Atmosphere: Walk to nearby Haji Lane for indie boutiques, murals, and cafés. It’s ideal for photos and people-watching.

Visitor Information

• Location: Arab Street, Singapore

• Opening hours: Many shops run roughly 10am–8pm. Hours vary, so check before you go.

Tip: Ramadan evenings can be festive, with lights and food stalls. Crowds also increase then, and seating can be limited. For the best mural photos on Haji Lane, go early morning or late afternoon. Light is softer and foot traffic is lower.

Suggested timing: Plan 1–2 hours for browsing and eating. If you want deeper context, join a food tour. If not, follow a self-guided route between key shops and cafés.

20. Pulau Ubin

How to plan: Arrive early on the first bumboat. It helps you beat heat and maximize time. Rent a bicycle near the jetty and return well before the last boat. Pulau Ubin preserves kampong (village) life, so expect a slower pace. You’ll see wooden houses and rustic scenery. It’s a sharp contrast to the city.

Visitor Information

• Location: Pulau Ubin (bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal)

• Bumboat hours: Typically 6am–7pm daily (boats depart when full)

• Ferry fee: Around S$4 per person, one way (check current rates)

• Tip: Bicycle rental near the jetty is about S$8–15/day. Confirm return schedules so you don’t miss the last bumboat.

How to spend your day

• Chek Jawa Wetlands: A biodiversity hotspot with six intertidal ecosystems. The 1.1-km boardwalk is the main route. Allow 1–2 hours. Aim for low tide for better marine-life viewing, and check tide times.

• Jejawi Tower: Climb for panoramic views and birdwatching. Early morning is often best.

• Mountain biking: Trails range from easy to technical at Ketam Mountain Bike Park. Choose based on skill level.

• Photography & quiet spots: Abandoned quarries, kampong houses, and shoreline views offer great backdrops and peaceful pauses.

Practical tips and safety

• Bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent. Facilities are limited.

• Respect private residences and habitats. Follow signs at Chek Jawa.

• Lock your bicycle when leaving it. Macaques may inspect loose items.

Suggested itineraries: For a relaxed day, cycle to Chek Jawa in the morning. Then visit Jejawi Tower before heading back in late afternoon. For a shorter outing, stay near the jetty and nearby trails for 2–3 hours. You can also join a guided eco-tour for deeper nature and cultural interpretation. Book tours and bike rentals early on busy weekends.

Plan Your Singapore Adventure

Singapore balances rich cultural heritage with bold innovation. It offers experiences for every traveler. From futuristic Gardens by the Bay to kampong life on Pulau Ubin, these 20 Best Places to Visit Singapore can be mixed into many itineraries. You can build a trip that matches your time and energy.

Quick sample itineraries (with suggested times to avoid peak heat)

2–3 day highlights (compact)

Day 1 (afternoon → evening): Marina Bay. Do SkyPark at sunset. Then visit Gardens by the Bay (conservatories + Supertree Grove light show). End with Singapore Flyer at night.
Day 2 (full day): Sentosa Island. Start with S.E.A. Aquarium in the morning. Do Universal Studios or Adventure Cove in the afternoon. Finish with Wings of Time in the evening.
Day 3 (half-day): Choose Chinatown + Little India. Or choose National Gallery in the morning to beat crowds.

4–5 day relaxed pace (recommended for first-time tourists)

Days 1–2: Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay. Add National Gallery and ArtScience Museum. Visit galleries in the morning. Save light shows for the evening.
Day 3: Sentosa attractions and beaches. Mix kids’ activities with thrills.
Day 4: Nature day. Choose MacRitchie Reservoir or Pulau Ubin for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
Day 5 (optional): Singapore Zoo + Night Safari. Split the day between zoo exhibits and the nocturnal park.

Planning tips

Buy timed-entry tickets for key attractions. These include Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, SkyPark, and S.E.A. Aquarium. Timed tickets help guarantee entry and reduce time lost in lines. Group nearby sights to cut travel time. Marina Bay + Gardens by the Bay + National Gallery make a smooth day, and they look best at sunset. Leave flexibility for weather and local events. Evening attractions also feel cooler. Light shows, river cruises, and Night Safari are especially memorable after dark.

Transport is easy. Singapore is compact and the MRT network is efficient. Taxis and rideshares help with short gaps. Still, expect walking between clustered sights, so wear comfortable shoes. For many first-time visitors, 4–5 days gives you enough time for major highlights plus a few quieter gems without rushing.