Singapore: A guide to the best places to visit and must-do activities

Singapore, a vibrant city-state in the heart of Southeast Asia, is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, innovation, and nature. If you're planning a visit, the best time to travel is from March to August. During these months, you'll enjoy the least amount of rain, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures, making exploring the city much more comfortable.

To help you plan your itinerary, we've compiled a list of must-see places and activities that you really can't miss.

Places You Must See in Singapore

1. Gardens by the Bay

You can't leave Singapore without visiting these futuristic gardens, perhaps the city's most famous green space. The experience here is truly unique. You'll feel tiny beneath the towering Supertrees , 18 vine-covered metal structures that soar to 16 stories high. For an incredible perspective, walk across the OCBC Skyway , a suspended bridge connecting two of the tallest trees and offering panoramic views of the entire garden. It's also worth exploring the Heritage Gardens and venturing into the refreshing biomes of the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest . Entry to the gardens is free, though there is an admission fee for the indoor exhibits.

2. Henderson Waves Bridge

As part of the Southern Ridge Trail, the Henderson Waves Bridge is a functional work of art. It is Singapore's tallest pedestrian bridge, and its undulating wooden design creates a striking silhouette that blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Crossing it is a delightful experience in itself. From its highest point, you can enjoy exceptional panoramic views of the greenery and the distant city skyline. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll, away from the urban bustle.

3. Singapore Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in history at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis dating back to 1859. This is more than just a park; it's a world-class orchid research center. Strolling through its expansive and relatively quiet grounds will allow you to discover over 10,000 plant species.

small monitor lizard

Don't be surprised if you encounter some of the local residents, such as impressively large monitor lizards; they're harmless and add to the charm of the place. Entry is free, making it a perfect and affordable getaway.

4. Mount Faber Park

If you plan to take the cable car, chances are your journey will begin or end on the slopes of Mount Faber. This park offers some of the most panoramic and scenic views of Singapore's Central Financial District. Use the telescopes available at the observation deck to glimpse the southern islands and even the city's farthest reaches, lost in the ocean. It's a fantastic spot for a sunset photo.

5. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

To truly grasp the essence and scale of Singapore, head to the SkyPark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands. The view from here is simply unparalleled. From this elevated vantage point, you can observe the city's constant evolution, with its skyscrapers, cargo ships along the waterfront, and the majestic Gardens by the Bay in the distance. It's the perfect opportunity to see Singapore's architectural and geographical diversity from a single vantage point.

6. MacRitchie Reservoir Park

If you're a nature lover, this is the place for you. Surrounding Singapore's largest reservoir, this park offers a network of walking trails that lead you deep into a secondary rainforest. It's home to exciting wildlife, where it's common to see monkeys, monitor lizards, and, with a bit of luck, flying lemurs. Keep in mind that the only convenience store is at the entrance, so bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Activities You Can't Miss

1. Hike along the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

This activity goes hand in hand with a visit to the reservoir park. The TreeTop Walk is a 250-meter-long suspension bridge that soars 25 meters above the forest floor. The entire hike to the bridge and back can take a few hours, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. The reward is a unique perspective of the forest canopy and a true sense of adventure. Afterward, relax with a stroll along the boardwalk that borders the reservoir.

2. Explore the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands

The building itself, with its shape reminiscent of a half-open lotus, is an architectural marvel. Designed by Moshe Safdie, this museum is a beacon for curious minds. Inside, world-class traveling exhibitions explore the intersection of art, science, technology, and culture. Don't miss the permanent exhibition Future World: Where Art Meets Science , a visually stunning and interactive experience that will delight visitors of all ages. It's a must-see to enrich your understanding of Singapore's creative innovation.

Singapore is a constantly reinventing destination, balancing the urban with the natural in a way few cities can. With this guide, you're ready to discover its many facets and have a truly unforgettable travel experience. Pack your camera, your best walking shoes, and your sense of adventure!