For couples

Romantic dating is all about the moves. The timeless tradition of love locks is very popular for couples promising their endless love to each other. Did you know that there is a Love Locks Space near the Singapore River? But if you’re looking for something more unique, here are some spots in Singapore for a romantic and memorable time.

1. SEA Aquarium and Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora

Instead of having a romantic candlelight dinner and heading to the cinema, why not spend the special occasion at the S.E.A. Aquarium? The S.E.A. or South East Asia Aquarium at Sentosa Island houses more than 100,000 sea creatures from over 1000 species. The aquarium used to be the world’s largest from 2013 to 2014 containing 42.8 million litres of water spread over seven attractions and habitats. Get up close and behold the stunning display of marine life in the ocean depths. Spoil your special one with this ultimate adventure plus a memorable underwater dining experience at the Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora. The restaurant not only serves fine international cuisine; but being Southeast Asia’s only underwater aquarium dining spot, it offers spectacular views of the Open Ocean habitat where you can keep watch of the 40,000 fish including Manta Rays, Groupers and other sea giants as you dine.

SEA Aquarium

Address: Sentosa Island, Singapore

Directions: The best way is to take Singapore MRT’s Northeast/Circle Line and alight at the Harbourfront MRT station. Follow the signs to Vivo City. Then, transfer to the Sentosa Express.

Website: SEA Aquarium

2. Raffles Hotel and The Singapore Sling

Indulge in a romantic evening of luxury at the Raffles Hotel. This five-star hotel is named after Sir Stamford Raffles who founded Singapore as part of the British Malay Army in 1819. The hotel first opened its doors in 1887 and has hosted many superstars and royalties in its halls such as Nobel prize winner Rudyard Kipling, Charlie Chaplin, Michael Jackson and Queen Elizabeth II. In 1987, the Singapore Government gave Raffles Hotel the honour of being designated as a national monument. It would be a sin to leave the hotel without trying the Singapore Sling!

This cocktail was created in 1915 at the hotel when ladies could not consume alcohol in public. The deceiving fruit juice-looking cocktail was then infused with gin and other liqueurs for ladies to enjoy. To this very day, drinking a Singapore Sling is a must-do for tourists in Singapore.

Raffles Hotel

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673

Directions: The closest MRT station is the Esplanade station in the Circle Line. Take Exit F and walk 100 metres to reach the hotel.

Website: Raffles Hotel

3. Romantic dinner at Singapore Flyer

Make your evening extra special. Enjoy a truly fabulous four-course gourmet dining experience atop Asia’s Largest Observation Wheel. Be mesmerised by the superb views of the Singapore skyline, looking over the Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Marvel at the fabulous views of Singapore as it lights up at night. Listen to our knowledgeable in-flight host as he shares with you the history of celebrated landmarks and other attractions in Singapore. A perfect time to “pop the question” don’t you think?

Singapore Flyer

Address: 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803

Directions: The Promenade Station (Downtown Line / Circle Line) allows you easy access to the attraction. Take Exit A and follow the blue pedestrian signs to Singapore Flyer.

Website: Singapore Flyer

4. Stargazing at the Science Centre Observatory Park

Science is not just for kids! Whatever level of astronomy knowledge you have, you can always have as much fun as kids at Singapore’s Science Centre Observatory. Every Friday night between 7:45pm and 10pm, enjoy a great evening gazing under the moon and stars. Look through huge telescopes and see at least one planet in our solar system. Check out galaxies and constellations. On some nights, you might be able to see magnified craters on the moon. Observe crescent moons and half-moons, and even see a star’s colour. Look at Jupiter’s wind storms and its four Galilean moons, out of its total of 67. The Singapore Science Centre Observatory is located next to the Equator making it an excellent astronomical observation site. Its strategic position gives a wider panoramic view of the sky allowing us to see more distant planets, constellations, celestial objects, and whatever is up there. Staff are available to operate the telescopes and give explanations on the objects in the sky. It surely is an interesting and informative evening.

Science Centre

Address: 5 Science Centre Rd, Singapore 609081

Directions: The nearest MRT Station is Jurong East Station (East-West Line and North-South Line). From there you can walk towards the Science Centre Singapore. You can also take the Free Shuttle Bus from their Tampines Hub on scheduled hours.

Website: Science Centre

At night

They say you will truly know a city by feeling the pulse of its nightlife. Singapore’s nightlife scene has come a long way. Its bubbly ambiance during daytime transforms into a different vigour when the night dawns upon it. The city becomes packed with the coolest after-dark attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for dancing the night away or hipster bar hopping, or even mesmerising at sky-high viewing decks, or just simply mingling with locals watching spectacular shows, Singapore is one of the best places on earth for the night owls.

5. Visit a rooftop bar

Nightlife sizzles in Singapore’s rooftop bars! It just gives you everything you need for a good night out: a great vibe with majestic views of the city. Dolled up in elegant themes, you will be spoilt for choice. While some bars have smartly decorated lounges, tables and chairs for you to dine so you’ll never go hungry, others are tucked in a quiet location for a good night conversation. One takes its pride from its infinity pool while another boasts its atop-the-tree dining experience. If you seek something different from conventional party venues or simply just to get a dusk city view after a tiring day, check out this link for our list of the top 10 rooftop bars and restaurants in Singapore!

6. Gardens by the Bay

True to this day, Singapore’s advocacy of a green and clean environment is well-manifested at the Gardens by the Bay. This 101-hectare (250-acre) nature park is spread over three distinctive waterfront gardens with different sections: Cooled Conservatories (Flower Dome, Cloud Forest), Outdoor Gardens, Children’s Garden and ODBC Skyway. The Outdoor Gardens include Supertree Grove, Sun Pavilion, Heritage Gardens, World of Plants, Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes. If you love Gardens by the Bay, be sure to stay for the spectacular Rhapsody Night Show at the Supertree Grove area. Let the beautiful gigantic trees bathed in colour and light captivate you as they dazzle at the sound of music. Sit at the front overlooking the grove or directly under the Supertrees and you are in for a fabulous evening! Admission to the Outdoor Gardens and the light show is free. The show times are at 7:45pm and 8:45pm.

Gardens by the Bay

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

Directions: The easiest way is to get on the MRT’s Circle or Downtown Line. Then, get off at Bayfront station and take Exit B. Cross the Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge into Gardens by the Bay.

Website: Gardens by the Bay

7. Go to the Night Safari

The Night Safari is the world’s first wildlife night park. Take a tram journey along the Lion & Tiger trail and get a close look of their dens. Learn more about the gentle giants in an Asian elephant feeding session. See leopards, fishing cats, nocturnal creatures, hyenas and many more in the wild. Add to the excitement the Creatures of the Night Show, an interactive show where animals display their natural talents. As a designated rescued wildlife centre, learn about what the various efforts zoo does to conserve our ecosystem. Plus get to see a lively display of fire twirling, fire breathing and fire eating in a show. What is not to like? All the elements of a good night out are right here - enjoyable, thrilling and educational!

Night Safari at Singapore Zoo

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

Directions: To reach the Singapore Zoo, the easiest way is to alight at North South MRT line, Ang Mo Kio MRT station. Walk towards the bus interchange and take bus number 138 and get off at the last stop. The zoo is just right at the front of bus stop.

Website: Night Safari at Singapore Zoo

8. Go clubbing

Editor’s note: Kilo LOunge is permanently closed

Clubs of varied genres have spawned in the country in recent years. Here are three clubs that are worth-visiting:

Kilo Lounge is just a new kid on the block yet it’s becoming popular for being a great party venue. On some days, have fun dancing to the beat of songs played by world-renowned DJs. On other days, listen to soul music and a dash of rhythm and blues. There’s always something for everyone. Enjoy the fantastic food menu and their wide selection of cocktails, wines, and sprits.

Headquarters by The Council is an underground club offering a range of genres from house to dance music with techno persuasion to more mainstream sounds like disco and tribal. Expect an industrial room with dim red lighting filled with clubbers dancing the night away. This intimate club also hosts local and international acts regularly. And don’t miss the Donkey Kong arcade game as you queue for drinks or the bathroom.

Lulu’s Lounge comes with a 1960’s New York club with a stylish and sophisticated vibe. Relax your senses to the sound of soul jam (R&B and neo soul) and live jazz music. Get into the groove with disco, pop, hip-hop, acoustic music and retro DJ acts. Plush interior decors and neon lights fill this classical venue. On Saturdays, enjoy an animated evening of entertainment with burlesque star guests, mind-blowing juggling acts and bizarre stripteases.

Kilo Lounge

Address: 21 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088444

Website: Kilo Lounge

Headquarters by The Council

Address: 66 Boat Quay, Singapore

Website: Headquarters by The Council

Lulu’s Lounge

Address: Pan Pacific Hotel, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 39595

Website: Lulu’s Lounge

With friends, family or groups

When you walk along the streets in Singapore, notice that everyone, whether a relative or not, or even a stranger, regardless of age, ethnicity, or religion is either an Auntie or an Uncle. It’s how Singaporeans affectionately accord respect for someone older than them. Singapore has many venues where you can have bonding moments with your family, friends, neighbours, co-workers. We have listed some of them here.

9. Singapore Zoo

Take your friends and introduce them to an exciting adventure. Singapore Zoo is home to 2,400 animals of over 300 species. With its relatively unique ‘open concept’ and 26 hectares (64 acres) of lush rainforest, the animals grow and roam in their natural habitat and at times they are just right there, a ditch away from you. Daytime attractions include wildlife tours to learn how the animals are cared for. There are also feeding sessions, sea lion shows, and reptile tours. Plus, kids will surely love the water playground at the Rainforest Kidzworld. Or better yet, cap your visit with a jungle breakfast with the orangutans!

Singapore Zoo

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

Directions: To reach the Singapore Zoo, the easiest way is to alight at North South MRT line, Ang Mo Kio MRT station. Walk towards the bus interchange and take bus number 138 and get off at the last stop. The zoo is just right at the front of bus stop.

Website: Singapore Zoo

10. Universal Studios

Join Optimus Prime and the Autobots in a Transformers ride, go on a thrilling roller coaster Revenge of the Mummy ride, or just enjoy the view as you soar over Jurassic Park. In Lights, Camera, Action, experience magic as you witness behind the scenes and special effects of movie-making. Watch Shrek and Elmo. Meet the residents of Sesame Street, the minions of Despicable Me and the Egyptian royalty. End your day with an enchanting fireworks musical show. With exciting rides, shows and attractions, it’s a fantastic way to be a kid again.

Universal Studios Singapore

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

Directions: The best way is to take Singapore MRT’s Northeast/Circle Line and alight at the Harbourfront MRT station. Follow the signs to Vivo City. Board bus RWS8 from bus stop 14141 at Vivo City. Alight at Resorts World Sentosa drop-off point.

Website: Universal Studios Singapore

11. Eat local food

Singaporean cuisine is an explosion of different flavours. It is so diverse that it is often difficult to describe it with a single dish or with just one word. Like its neighbouring countries, Singapore’s staple food are rice and noodles dishes. But with the influx of many races, there is so much more! Feast on bak kut teh (pork ribs soup) served with Chinese tea, char kway teow or Hokkien mee. Craving seafood? Get your hands on the famous chilli crab smothered in tomato sauce and paired with fried ‘man-tou” (fried buns). Or why not try the fish head curry? Don’t let the traditional Hainanese chicken rice escape your taste buds. It’s a popular dish for lunch or dinner. And what about popiah? Never miss kaya toast, a local breakfast of toasted bread with soft-boiled eggs. For dessert, don’t be deceived by the carrot cake, which is made of radish. Rojaks, roti pratas and satay dishes are also a sight to behold. You’ll never go hungry in Singapore. Why not take your family and friends to a fancy food crawl? Check these links for some suggestions:

Hawker Stalls

Local Food

12. Sentosa

Sentosa, derived from the Malay word ‘Santosha’, which means peace and contentment, is a small island in the southern part off the coast of Singapore. It is inarguably one of the most visited adventure hub as multiple activities can be found here. From exploring unspoilt beaches, reliving history, experiencing nature and the great outdoors, to more adrenalin-pumping feats, Sentosa has it all. With three white sand beaches in Sentosa, there’s plenty of space. The hanging bridge on Palawan beach takes you to the southernmost point of Continental Asia. Or take a dip at the tranquil Tanjong Beach before savouring the nightlife at the bars fronting South China Sea at Siloso Beach. For a piece of history, visit Fort Siloso’s museum and exhibits chronicling the fall of Singapore (to the Japanese) in 1942. It is said to be the British Army’s greatest defeat. It also shows how life was under the Japanese Empire until 1945, when Singapore was returned to British colonial rule. If you’re nature lover, take a walk at the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom. The Mega Adventure Park caters for individual, group or team-building activities such as ziplining (flying fox) and tree-climbing. Sentosa is an ideal gateway for enjoyment and bonding time with family and friends!

Sentosa

Address: Sentosa Island, Singapore

Directions: The best way is to take Singapore MRT’s Northeast/Circle Line and alight at the Harbourfront MRT station. Follow the signs to Vivo City. Then, transfer to the Sentosa Express.

Website: Sentosa

For free

For Asian standards, Singapore is considered an expensive country. Hotel accommodations and fine dining restaurants are costly compared to places like Indonesia and Thailand. A simple rice meal at a hawker centre (food court) may be reasonably priced at 4 SGD (3 USD), yet it is still nearly twice the price of the same dish in bordering Malaysia. Even with that, you will be pleasantly surprised that there are plenty of ways to discover Singapore without breaking your bank! Catch three evening light shows for free: Spectre at Marina Bay Sands, ODBC Rhapsody at the Gardens by the Bay, and Crane Dance at Sentosa Resort. Plus, there are dance feats every weekend at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre. Visit the rooftop park of Marina Barrage and snap photos of the city skyline. Here’s more to add to your list, all for you to explore for free!

13. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and walk around Chinatown

A trip to Singapore is not complete without visiting its Chinatown. Like a world of its own, this traditional Chinese neighbourhood is lined with pagodas and Buddhist temples, souvenir shops at bargain prices, massage parlours, and food stalls waiting for you to discover.

In the heart of Chinatown, clad with vivid gold, red and green colours, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple easily stands out. Its architecture and interior are inspired by the Tang Dynasty. The temple features many aspects of Buddhist religion, education, arts, culture and most importantly the relics of Buddha. The ground level consists of the Avalokiteshvara Hall, and the Maitreya Hall where prayers are being said. Here, devotees kneel and say their prayers before the image of Buddha, offer flowers or candles, and burn incense. Walk up the second level to visit the library and gift shop. The museum housing numerous Buddhist art collections from neighbouring countries is at the third level. The fourth level is a shrine for the sacred left canine tooth believed to be from Buddha himself. It is encased in massive sold gold stupa and is only unveiled for public viewing at specific times of the day. So, be sure to check the schedule. The temple opens daily, including public holiday, from 7:00am to 7:00pm.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Address: 288, South Bridge Road. Singapore 058840

Directions: The temple is close to Chinatown MRT station (North East/Downtown Line). Take Exit A at Pagoda Street and take the right turn towards South Bridge Road.

Website: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

14. Haw Par Villa

Singapore’s cultural and historical heritage is influenced mainly by the Chinese. Haw Par Villa is an outdoor art gallery showcasing Chinese beliefs, spirituality and folklore. It is said that Haw Par Villa was historically used by parents and teachers to instil Chinese values to their kids. The park is adorned with over 1000 fascinating statues like the Laughing Buddha and other Taoist deities. It also features colourful sculptures depicting a storyboard from a Chinese legend. There are bizarre yet thought-provoking scenes like a woman with a crab body, a pig head in a human body, giant gorillas, purple koala, white snake, and a lot more. One of highlights of the park is the Hell’s Museum, showing different scenes based on Buddhist perception of hell. Note that some images can be too graphic and disturbing and may not be recommended for young children. The park opens daily from 9:00am to 7:00pm.

Haw Par Villa

Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628

Directions: Get on the MRT Circle Line and alight at Haw Par Villa. It’s conveniently located right outside the station.

Website: Haw Par Villa

15. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Step into nature and enjoy this UNESCO world heritage site. Visit the Orchid Garden and know more about Vanda Miss Joaquim, its national flower. It’s the country’s first hybrid orchid, a cross-bred of two flower species in the 1890s. The flower has made iconic representations: in souvenirs and postcards, accessories, in bank notes and coins, in street names, and even as a signature scent of Singapore Airlines! Take a walk in the forest and around the lakes. Visit the Bonsai Garden and Palm Valleys. With over 20 gardens, it is a delightful oasis in the heart of the city.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569

Directions: Take the MRT to the Botanic Gardens station (Downtown / Circle Line). Take Exit B and continue walking towards the Visitor Centre of the garden. Bus numbers 855, 961, 5N, 48, 93, 153, 165, 174, 186 and 564 are also plying the route.

Website: Singapore Botanic Gardens

16. Kampong Glam Heritage Trail

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While the majority of Singaporeans have Chinese lineage, it is important to mention that the country also takes considerable influence from its Malay population. Embedded in rich history and culture, Kampong Glam is the centre of commerce and religions activities for the Malay communities. It is one of Singapore’s most colourful districts lined with heritage sites, mosques, shophouses filled with unique characteristics, restaurants, and street arts. The word ‘Kampong’ is Malay for 'village’ and 'Glam’ is derived from a paperbark tree 'Gelam’. The area became one of the seats of Malay royalty after Sir Stamford Raffles designated it to the Malays, Arabs and Bugis (ethnic group from Indonesia) in 1822. Legend has it that the very first wall in Singapore was said to have been built in Kampong Glam, preserved today at Istana (Malay Heritage Centre). Visit Gedung Kuning, the yellow mansion that used to be the residence of Tunku Mahmud, a grandson of Sultan Hussein. Stop by Pondok Java, the centre for Javanese culture. Walk along North Bridge Road, one of the earliest roads built in Singapore. Then make your way to the entrance of the charming Masjid Sultan at Muscat Street. The mosque is important for Muslims in Singapore, especially during the observance of Ramadan. Other interesting landmarks are: Madrasah Alsagoff (Islamic School), Arab Street, and Kampong Kaji (pilgrim site for the Javanese). Take a stroll to truly understand this part of Singapore culture.

Istana (Malay Heritage Centre) in Kampong Glam

Address: 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501

Directions: Begin your walking trail at the Istana located along Orchard Road. Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station and take Exit C. Istana is two minutes’ walk from the station.

Website: Istana Malay Heritage Centre in Kampong Glam

17. Merlion Park

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As a symbol of Singapore, the Merlion with a lion’s head and the body of a fish, combines two elements of Singapore’s identity. The lion head is meant to represent Singapore’s original name (Singapura which means lion city). While the body represents the country’s origin as a fishing village and seaport. There are five official Merlion statues in Singapore. The tallest one is in Sentosa Island at 37 metres (121 feet) high. The most prominent spot where you can get up close to the statue and take that all-important Instagram snap is at Merlion Park. At 8.6 metres (28 feet) high, the statue is in front of Fullerton Hotel overlooking Marina Bay.

Merlion Park

Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213

Directions: Catch the MRT to Raffles Place station on the East West Line. Look for the exit towards the UOB Plaza. From the UOB Plaza, you can see the Fullerton Hotel. The park is just behind the hotel.

Website: Merlion Park

18. Jewel Changi Airport

The 137,000-square-meter extension of Changi Airport’s already luxurious facilities offers plenty of diversions for travellers stuck in the airport on a long layover as well as visitors looking for better shopping experiences. Upon entering the Jewel, visitors are greeted with a magnificent sight of a 40-meter-tall (around 130 feet) Rain Vortex, with hundreds of gallons of water spilling over the rim of a huge oculus and cascading down seven stories of shopping space supplemented with lush garden terraces, activity areas, restaurants and more. All of which makes for a marvellous trip at this recreational wonderland.

Jewel Changi Airport

Address: 78 Airport Blvd, Singapore 819666

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Access: Take the MRT to the Changi Airport Station (CG2). Jewel is accessible via link bridges located at level 2 of Terminals 2 and 3.

From Terminal 1: Jewel is connected to the Arrival Hall (level 1) of Terminal 1.

From Terminal 2: a 5 to 10-minute walk via a link bridge from the Departure Hall (level 2) of Terminal 2 (near row 1)

From Terminal 3: a 5 to 10-minute walk via a link bridge from the Departure Hall (level 2) of Terminal 3 (near row 11)

From Terminal 4: Take the free airport shuttle bus service that plies between Terminal 4 and Terminal 2 and then proceed from Terminal 2

Website: Jewel Changi Airport

On your own

Singapore is a very safe, clean and tourist-friendly country. It has an efficient and well-connected public transport system that allows you to explore the country on your own. It has all the modern conveniences: 24/7 supermarket and food stalls, cash machines, WIFI connectivity, etc. Locals speak English and they are happy to help you when asked. So, if you’re travelling to Singapore solo, fret not, just gear yourself up for a smashing experience! Here are some fun things to do alone in the island state:

19. Book a Tour

It is often unthinkable that for such a small country, there is an endless list of activities to do and immense areas to explore. No single tour can capture the spirit of Singapore.

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20. National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery distinguishes itself as the world’s largest public collection of art in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Opened in 2015, it carries 8,000 pieces of art masterpieces dating as far back as 1800s. It is spread over seven galleries and is housed within two restored national monuments: former Supreme Court and former City Hall building which makes it unique and even more worth-visiting. At the DBS Singapore Gallery, learn the transformation of Singapore with its Siapa Nama Kamu (What is your name) Exhibit. Join a free guided tour and explore the history of the monumental buildings, the DBS gallery, Southeast Asia gallery, and highlights of Wu Guanzhong, and Minimalism. Plus, join curator-led tours to understand the development of Singapore’s constitution. The gallery is opened daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm, on some days up to 9:00pm.

National Gallery Singapore

Address: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore 178957

Directions: The Gallery is approximately a 7-minute walk from City Hall MRT station (East West / North South Line). Take Exit B and head southwest on North Bridge Road towards Coleman Lane. Then, turn left to Parliament Place and you will see the National Gallery Singapore.

Website: National Gallery Singapore

21. ArtScience Museum

ArtScience Museum located at Marina Bay Sands. Its distinctive lotus flower-shaped building creates an interesting layout for the exhibits and galleries inside. Since it opened its doors in 2011, it has hosted to world-class exhibits featuring works of Vincent Van Goh, Leonardo da Vinci and Salvador Dali. It has featured Titanic, and Cartier watches. Learn about Big Data and envision the technology of the future. With three floors to explore and a lot of interactive exhibits, it is an engaging experience not to be missed!

ArtScience Museum

Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974

Directions: The easiest way is to get on the MRT’s Circle or Downtown Line. Then, get off at Bayfront station and take Exit A which connects to Bayfront Avenue street level.

Website: ArtScience Museum

22. Souvenir shopping

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It’s easy to fall in love with Singapore. Everything just seems to be at the right place at the right time! If you could take a piece of Singapore with you, what would it be? For foodie fanatics, supermarkets and hawker centres come in handy for that ultimate ‘tapao’ (takeaway). Shops like Bee Cheng Hiang (home of famous Bakkwa) and Bengawan Solo (traditional Chinese cakes and pastries) are household names in the country. If you’re hunting for souvenir items at great bargains, these spots are a must-visit: Bugis Night Market (Bugis), Lucky Plaza (Orchard Road), the 24-Hour Mustafa Centre (Little India), and Chinatown. You will be able to find t-shirts, keychains, fridge magnets, miniature Merlions, traditional clothes, silk scarves, herbal medicines, Chinese teas, collectible coins and a lot more. Here are some tips on what and where you can buy items that are uniquely Singapore.

23. Check out famous buildings

Singapore never runs short of things to see and do. Its architecture is a meeting of the East and the West, a confluence of varied cultural elements from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, India and other countries in the region, as well as from Europe and America. From colonial heritage sites to ultra-modern skyscrapers, there is a latitude of unparalleled beauty on offer to foreign voyagers and wandering locals. Check out our article on famous buildings in Singapore for an inspiration!

Nature walks

If you love nature parks and walks, Singapore’s pockets of green sceneries are great breathing spaces. In the City of Gardens, you will surely find many parks to give you respite from the city’s busy life.

24. MacRitchie TreeTop Walk

MacRitchie Park is anchored to the oldest and largest reservoir in the country and is home to numerous species from birds, insects and even mammals. The park attracts nature lovers and sport fanatics not only because of its lovely scenery but also because of its famous TreeTop Walk (TTW). It may take a little time to get to the TreeTop but the walk itself isn’t hard and is suitable for all ages. To get to the TTW, walk 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from the Venus Drive car park. Alternatively, from the entrance of MacRitchie Reservoir Park, you can follow the well-marked trails and walk 4.5 km (2.7 mi). Double the distance for the entire loop. It’s the most chosen trail; eventually arriving to the free-standing suspension bridge connecting the two highest points in MacRitchie: Bukit Pierce and Bukit Kalang. The total length of the walkway is 250 metres (820 feet) with its highest point at 25 meters (82 feet) above the ground. Be sure to take a moment to see the amazing sight of the forest canopy.

TreeTop Walk

Address: 601 Island Club Rd, Singapore 578775

Directions: MacRitchie is located is located off Thomson Road. You can take SMRT bus to MacRitchie (132, 163, 165, 166, 167, 640, 55 and 980) or to Venus Drive (132, 163, 165, 166, 167, 855 and 980). The nearest MRT station is the Marymount station on the Circle Line which is 2 km (1.2 mi) from MacRitchie.

Website: TreeTop Walk

25. Mount Faber (Henderson Waves)

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Mount Faber is the second highest hill and one of the best vantage points in Singapore. From its peak (Faber Point), you can soak up panoramic views of Singapore’s urban landscape, take in views of Sentosa Island and Keppel Harbour, and see as far as the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsula. It also has the Bell of Polish Friendship, a Merlion statue and an orchid garden.

A cable car ride from the Harbourfront MRT station can quickly get you to Faber Point. But for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, instead of taking the cable car ride, take the Marang Trail for a little adventure. The trail starts from the base of Mount Faber and then walking up the long flight of wooden stairs going through the rainforest before reaching Faber Point. An alternative trail is the Faber Trail, a more scenic route, walking along the side roads passing Mount Faber Park and Jewel Box. Continue walking towards Henderson Waves Bridge, Singapore’s tallest pedestrian bridge which connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. Its name comes from its artistic design made from seven waved-curved steel.

Mount Faber Park

Address: Kampong Bahru Road and Telok Blangah Rd, Singapore 099448

Directions: The best way is to take Singapore MRT’s Northeast/Circle Line and alight at the Harbourfront MRT station.

Website: Mount Faber Park

26. Pulau Ubin

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Pulau Ubin is a fascinating island carrying a reputation as among the last surviving kampong (village) reminiscent of the old Singapore. Just a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Village’s jetty port, it is a popular destination when it comes to historical journeys. The island has well-laid trails that cater to the novice and experienced cyclists. Take leisure walks with the Pulau Ubin Tree Trail and get a good insight of village life. Walk through narrow trails and dense woodlands. Get to view Singapore’s only two mangrove trees listed in the Heritage Tree Register of Singapore. See different species of evergreen trees. Cocoa, jackfruit, banana, durian, and palm trees are aplenty. You can also explore the rubber farm. Travel back in time as you walk past a traditional Malay kampung house. You can also visit Chek Jawa Wetlands and stroll on the boardwalk. Witness this gorgeous sight of sandbars, lagoon, and mangrove jungle with impressive marine life.

Pulau Ubin

Address: Pulau Ubin, Singapore 000701

Directions: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah MRT Station (East West Line) and go out through Exit B. Board Bus No. 2 to Changi Village and alight at the last stop. Walk towards the Changi Jetty and take a bumboat to Pulau Ubin.

Website: Pulau Ubin

27. Fort Canning Hill

Fort Canning is an 18-hectare (44-acre) beautiful park with fascinating history. Sir Stamford Raffles built his first home here and this eventually became the seat of rulers in Singapore. Fort Canning was used as military stronghold during different eras: Malay royalty, British, and Japanese. Its walls have literally seen many things! Right in the heart of a busy Singapore, on a steep hill just off Orchard Road, Fort Canning is a perfect getaway to unwind and enjoy the scenic views and prominent landmarks inside the park. Stroll and surround yourself with an oasis full of green foliage. It is the best place for a good workout with its uphill and downhill vale. Check out the Spice Garden and other heritage landscapes such as the Royal Garden and Jubilee Park. Learn more about historical buildings, artefacts and some remnants of the World War. There is plenty to explore!

Fort Canning Hill

Address: River Valley Rd, Singapore 179037

Directions: Take the MRT to the Clarke Quay station (North East Line) and walk towards Exit E. Take a left turn and walk along Coleman Bridge. At the end of Coleman Bridge, turn left and head towards the pedestrian overhead bridge along River Valley Road. Cross the overhead bridge and enter Fort Canning Park.

Website: Fort Canning Hill

A perfect getaway!

In 2018, an estimated 18 million tourists visited the country, roughly 3x of its current population of 6 million! Families, group of friends, lone travellers are lured by Singapore’s openness, diversity, rich history, and impressive landmarks. If you’ve never been to Singapore, never has there been a better time to fulfil that trip you’ve been dreaming of! Book your flight and pack your bags, the city is waiting for you!