If you plan on visiting the island nation of Singapore , just know that you are about to embark on one the greatest adventures around. One of the many attractions of this gorgeous location is the fact that there are plenty of things to do in Singapore!
With the most incredible tropical climate, fantastic weather all year-round (with just a bit more rain than usual in February), and an array of fun things to do in the city – especially for the first-timer in Singapore – Singapore is the ultimate destination.
What adds to the charm of this island country is the fact that it is perfect for all types of travellers, including couples, families, solo travellers, foodies, and party lovers. There’s an abundant list of restaurants and bars to try out and numerous family-friendly attractions to explore that will both shock and delight you.
With so many places to visit and things to do in Singapore, it can get overwhelming for a first-timer in the city. So, if you’re planning your first trip to Singapore below is a list of the top things to do in the city for a first-timer in Singapore.
Things to Do for the First-Timer in Singapore
1. City Walking Tour
A great way to get a quick overview of a new city is by doing a walking tour, you always seem to experience so much more exploring a city on foot than by a bus. It also gives you a better feel for the area when you can see, taste and smell your way through the streets. Thankfully, there are numerous walking tours in Singapore, including a few free ones to look out for.
The people around are pretty helpful and friendly, so feel free to ask the locals about these free walking tours. Walking tours are recommended to do on your first day in the city as you can then get a better idea about which areas you’re keen to explore further over your next few days. Keep some kind of notebook or open your notes app on your phone so that you remember all the places you want to visit.
2. Gardens by the Bay
No first-timer in Singapore guide would be complete without mentioning the ever-popular Gardens by the Bay. It is without a doubt one of the best examples of responsible tourism Singapore has to offer. This beautiful nature park is knownfor its super-trees which are 16 stories tall, and will definitely keep you entertained for hours, so make sure to allocate enough time to viewing this Gardens by the Bay in Singapore.
Also keep in mind that a few of the super-trees are connected by a skywalk where you can get an aerial view of the gardens. It’s recommended to stay until the evening when the lights come on and the trees perform a ‘Garden Rhapsody’ light and music show. Trust us when we say that this is something that you have to experience before you leave.
3. Marina Bay Sands
This is another epic landmark of Singapore. This luxury hotel complex is made up of three high-rise buildings connected by the most unreal infinity swimming pool overlooking the city at the top. If you can’t quite afford to swim in one of the highest infinity pools in the world (it’s reserved for guests of the hotel only), you can still catch a glimpse of it along with some stunning city views by going to one of the rooftop bars for a drink – it’s worth the views! Bring a camera along, you will want to snap pictures.
4. Orchard Road
If you consider yourself to be quite the shopaholic, then you most likely already know all about the infamous 2.2-kilometer-long Orchard Road. It’s packed with all sorts of shops, from discount retailers to high-end boutiques. Even if you’re not a keen shopper, Orchard Road makes for a lovely stroll in the city with the huge Angsana trees shading the streets.
If you start walking at Orchard Road, you can literally walk through three of the city’s main shopping areas (including Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut) all the way to City Hall. It’s also a great place to grab a few souvenirs for friends back home!
5. Museum Hopping
If you are looking for a more cultural experience then you will be happy to know that there are some really good museums in Singapore, featuring a mix of both cultural and futuristic exhibitions. The National Gallery Singapore is the art hub of the city, with a gallery of unique art showcasing the heritage and history of the region. Singapore Art Museum features contemporary art from Singapore and Southeast Asia, including sculptures, paintings, moving media and installation art. Better yet, it also has free entry on Friday evenings!
6. Sentosa Island
You’ll find the Universal Studios Singapore theme park within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island. For families, this is a must visit. Though, even if you aren’t traveling with kids, this theme park is great fun and an awesome way to enjoy a day in the glorious sunshine. There are seven movie-themed zones, and each is uniquely designed with breath-taking and thrilling rides and attractions.
If you’re not too keen on spending the full day in a theme park, then you can head over to the nearby man-made Sentosa beach, with loads of restaurants and bars to visit nearby. When it comes to beaches in Singapore, this is definitely one of the favourites.
7. China Town
If you are a total foodie, you will absolutely fall in love with China Town! Singapore’s China Town is renowned for its delicious street food and fascinating markets. You’ll be able to try the ‘smelliest fruit in the world’, the Durian fruit here as well as various other Asian cuisines. Be prepared to be inundated with numerous different smells and a busy buzz of action all over the place. It’s best to go at night to fully experience the hustle and bustle of the area while grabbing a tasty dinner.
8. Little India
Like China Town, Singapore’s Little India will take your senses on a whirlwind journey. You’ll find some of the tastiest Indian food in the city here, including loads of vegetarian options. There are also lovely little shops selling fragrances, oils, flowers, and spices. It’s a great taste of the Indian culture. It truly is an experience that cannot be missed.
9. Clarke Quay
Located along the Singapore riverside, Clarke Quay is a busy hub packed with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It’s busy any day of the week and makes for a fun (and slightly glamorous) night out on the town. There is also a boat ride that you can take from here to explore the riverfront and enjoy the scenery. If you are looking for things to do in Singapore, make sure that this is one of the top things that you experience.
10. Rooftop Sundowners
With so many rooftop bars spread throughout the city it would be a shame to not visit at least one of them during your visit. Sip on a delicious Singapore Slinger while watching the sun go down while the city’s night lights come alive.
If there is one thing that you should take away from this blog it should be that there is plenty of things to do in Singapore, whether you are a foodie, adventure-seeker or shopaholic, as a first-time to Singapore, just know that numerous adventures await you.
