12 Things Famous In Singapore - Updated 2024

Melissa
Melissa 
Updated
| 6 min read

Maybe you’re traveling to Singapore but not quite sure about what to do when you land there? Well, don’t worry as there’s plenty to do in this small yet exciting country. Being home to diverse cultures and traditions, there are places and activities for just about everyone. You could go sightseeing and take in the views of their skyline, gardens, or quaint neighborhoods. If you love shopping and eating, there’s also a street and place just for that. Those looking to squeeze in a little adventure will also love their local zoo or aquariums. And to top it all off, those who are a fan of Formula 1 or racing will surely enjoy Singapore’s night races. The country is also home to some of best luxury escapes and business-friendly hotels. We know it can be overwhelming, given the many choices of things to do and try, but we’ve listed our top picks on things famous in Singapore to help you get started.

1. Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore
Source: Photo by Flickr user Nan-Cheng Tsai used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Singapore may seem like it has such a cutthroat culture that’s only suitable for adults, but it is truly a family-friendly destination. One such place that all ages will enjoy is Universal Studios Singapore (USS) which is an amusement park inside Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island. The park spreads to about 20 hectares (49 acres) and officially opened to the public in May 2011. USS is the second Universal Studios theme park in Asia, the one in Japan being the first. Some of its themed areas include Hollywood, New York, Ancient Egypt, and Madagascar.

Universal Studios Singapore

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

Website: Universal Studios Singapore

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2. Clarke Quay

1 clarke quay singapore night 2014
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chensiyuan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the most picturesque parts of Singapore is Clarke Quay. It is a riverside quay located along the Singapore River and Boat Quay. It derived its name from Sir Andrew Clarke who served as the country’s second governor. Presently, Clarke Quay is home to restaurants, nightclubs, and a pedestrian mall. While it is beautiful at all times of day, locals highly recommend seeing the historic quay at night, when all the bright and colorful neon lights illuminate the river, making for one of the best sights in the country.

Clarke Quay

Address: 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024

Website: Clarke Quay

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3. Changi Airport (from USD 19.0)

Did you know Singapore is also famous for its beautiful airport? Yes, we’re talking about Jewel Changi Airport. There’s nothing much to say except that you’ll love the interiors of this place. It’s clean and green, almost as if it is the representation of the city itself. For a small price, you can tour the airport with an experienced guide. You’ll be brought to the best picture-worthy spots in the airport as well as some of their best shops and learn and hear stories about the Singaporean businesses and traditions. Most shops and restaurants are local and have been serving in the airport for a long time now.

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Singapore Jewel Changi Airport Guided Highlights Tour

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

5 reviews

4. Merlion (from USD 37.0)

If you have friends or family who have already visited Singapore, you might notice that they all have pictures with what they call the Merlion. The Merlion is a popular tourist spot and an unmissable icon in Singapore. This half-fish, half-lion statue actually represents the country’s humble beginnings that it is believed that you can pray to it for good luck. Maybe for good fortune and fun travel, first-time travelers should visit the Merlion. After, you can explore the colorful and busy streets nearby.

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Singapore Morning City Sightseeing Tour

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

1156 reviews

5. National Orchid Garden (from USD 7.0)

Did you know Singapore is pegged as one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the world? When you travel to Singapore, you’ll know why. You’ll find yourself with clean surroundings and green gardens everywhere so it’s a must-visit. Check out the National Orchid Garden and inhale all the good and clean energy. Walk yourself through the gardens and appreciate their orchids and flowers. If you like that, you can also visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens. While you’re at it, be sure to take plenty of pictures.

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National Orchid Garden Admission Ticket

Duration: 1 to 2 hours

37 reviews

6. Orchard Road (from USD 43.0)

Maybe you love shopping? You can now literally shop until you drop at this 2.2-kilometers (1.4 miles) long street dedicated just for shopping. Orchard Road is every shopper’s dream as it is complete with the fanciest shops and entertainment services you can imagine. This place is filled with international and luxurious retail stores. Although there are local boutiques down the road, they aren’t exactly as cheap as those you’d find in thrift stores or flea markets. Still, Orchard’s Road is a place you can consider shopping in Singapore. Just expect the crowd to be bustling with busy shoppers.

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Singapore Night Tour: Gardens by the Bay, Bugis, Chinatown

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

83 reviews

7. Inaugural F1 night race (from USD 259.0)

If you’re into all that racing, you would probably know Singapore is home to Formula 1 street racing. Once here, don’t miss out the chance and attend the inaugural F1 night race in this city. Get your hearts pumped up as you cheer on your favorite racers. And if you’d like to take your trip to a whole new level, try driving a Ferrari, a McLaren, or a Lamborghini yourself. Race in Singapore’s very own Formula 1 track or let a professional drive your dream car and enjoy the F1 Street Circuit Driving Experience tour.

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F1 Street Circuit Driving Experience in Singapore

Duration: 15 minutes

6 reviews

8. Singapore Zoo (from USD 28.0)

If you’re traveling to Singapore with family or kids, you also might want to visit Singapore Zoo. For a small fee, you can get a head start to your day and visit the 26-hectare (64.2 acres) zoo. This well-maintained zoo caters to more than 2,800 animals of 300 species and above. The zoo even has underwater aquariums and conservation facilities. You can learn more about animals and wildlife through their interactive exhibits. We recommend you book your tickets in advance to secure your entry to the famous Singapore Zoo.

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Singapore Zoo Admission Ticket

Duration: 6 to 12 hours

8 reviews

9. Sentosa Island (from USD 71.0)

sentosa island
Source: www.viator.com

Treat yourself to a night out and go visit one of the most popular spots in Singapore, Sentosa Island. Sentosa Island is a resort located in the south of Singapore and can be reached either via road, cablecar, or pedestrian walking. Here you’ll never be bored as there’s plenty to do. Go check out their themed attractions, relaxing spas, sandy beaches, and other must-visit events. There’s even an aquarium and daily animal shows for kids to enjoy. For a hassle-free stay, we suggest you book your ticket or tour and take a cable car to Sentosa Island for the full experience. Be sure to wait up for the ‘Wings of Time’ show too.

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Singapore Sentosa Island Tour with Cable Car Ride and Wings of Time Night Show

10. The Marina Bay Skyline (from USD 54.0)

What is Singapore famous for, you ask? You haven’t seen the best of the country if you haven’t witnessed the beauty of the Marina Bay Skyline. Those who looking for some sights will love the go ol’ view of this city. You’ll be able to see the skyline by day, but we highly recommend that you go see the skyline even more during the night, with all the city lights. Go on a Singaporean night out tour and enjoy a light and music show at Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay. End the night by experiencing a cruise on the Singapore River itself.

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Singapore Night Tour with Gardens by the Bay and River Cruise

Duration: 3 hours

725 reviews

11. Singapore Flyer (from USD 46.0)

Another famous must-visit on our list is the Singapore Flyer. Grab a nice lunch or dinner with a view at this giant “observation wheel” downtown. Standing at 160 meters (525 feet) and traveling at 0.21 meters (0.6 feet), the Singapore Flyer is the best place to experience a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. Although fun and safe, the Singapore Flyer is not recommended for those who are afraid of heights.

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Singapore Flyer Ticket + Lunch

Duration: 30 minutes

1 review

12. Hawker food (from USD 86.0)

Although Singapore is home to diverse cultures including cuisines, hawker food is just one of those things that Singapore is known for. Go treat yourself to a plate or two of some delicious hawker food with rice and spring rolls and delight in this Singaporean treat. If you like it, you should also try out Singapore Hawker Center Food Tour in Chinatown which includes a guide to take you through the city’s culinary world. You also get to sample dishes every now and then. The best part is that it is a walking tour so you won’t feel bloated or full even after feasting. This is perfect for traveling foodies.

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Singapore Chinatown Street Food Small-Group Tour with Tastings

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

10 reviews

Experience the best of Singapore

There’s plenty to do, see, eat, and even try in Singapore.No wonder tourists easily flock to the country for a quick and fun getaway. Of course, with plenty to do, it could get overwhelming but don’t let that stop you get the best out of your trip. Enjoy and experience Singapore and be sure see some of the famous things we’ve listed above. Happy vacation!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Melissa is a 20-something-year-old storyteller from Manila. She's been to Europe and Asia but still dreams of going around her home, the Philippines. When she's not traveling, you can find her in...Read more

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