Whether you're visiting for the first time or are a returning traveler, there's always something new and exciting to explore in Singapore. Read along for the most popular family-friendly destinations in Singapore.
Getting Around Singapore
Commute Options
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): The MRT is the most efficient way to get around Singapore, with frequent trains and extensive coverage.
Buses: Public buses are extensive and reliable, with routes covering areas not serviced by the MRT.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Grab are popular and convenient.
Biking: Singapore has a growing network of bike paths, and bike-sharing services like SG Bike are available.
Passes Available:
Singapore Tourist Pass: Offers unlimited travel on the MRT and buses for 1, 2, or 3 days Singapore Tourist Pass.
EZ-Link Card: A stored-value card for convenient travel on public transport, which can also be used for purchases at select retailers.
This is an easy way to see the city - 19 stops and 30 points of interest
Explore Iconic Neighborhoods
Start your journey in Marina Bay, home to iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the ArtScience Museum.
The Marina Bay Sands Hotel is an architectural marvel by itself. There was a Netflix documentary about how big it is and how efficiently it operates. There is a huge infinity pool at the top for hotel guests. Consider going to the CÉ LA VI SKYBAR for an amazing skyline view of the city and this pool - Go in the afternoon, it's less crowded and more family-friendly. You can also go up to the Observation Deck which is ticketed.
Spend at least half a day at the Gardens by the Bay. There is always something blooming :) Don't miss out on the flower dome, the cloud forest and the Supertree Observatory. It stays open until 8 PM - and looks very different during the night.
In addition, stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy the stunning architecture, and don’t miss the nightly Spectra light and water show. It's a must-see, family-friendly, free 15-minute event over the water at the Event Plaza. Get details here.
Next, head to Orchard Road, Singapore's premier shopping district. From luxury boutiques to local brands, this bustling street offers a plethora of retail options. When you need a break, indulge in the diverse dining options available.
Chinatown is rich in history and culture. Wander through the vibrant streets, visit temples like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and enjoy authentic local cuisine. Nearby, Little India offers a sensory overload with its colorful shops, temples, and delicious Indian food.
For nightlife and dining, Clarke Quay is the place to be. This lively riverside quay is perfect for an evening out, with numerous restaurants, bars, and nightclubs offering a variety of entertainment options.
Landmarks to See
Merlion Park
This iconic statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish is a symbol of Singapore and offers fantastic photo opportunities with Marina Bay Sands in the background.
Singapore Flyer
Experience panoramic views of the city skyline from Asia’s largest observation wheel. See details here.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage site, these gardens offer a serene escape with lush greenery and the stunning National Orchid Garden.
National Gallery Singapore
Home to an extensive collection of Southeast Asian art, this gallery is housed in two beautifully restored national monuments.
Unique Experiences
Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Select a park or buy a ParkHopper Plus to visit four parks: Birds Paradise, Night Safari, River Wonders and Singapore Zoo.
Our recommendation? Night safari, hands-down because it is quite unique! You can get a night safari ticket + transfer to your central Singapore hotel package. Explore this night safari package option.
OR - You can consider this 9-hour tour which has both River Wonders (safari) and the night safari.
Sentosa Island
Sun, sand and surf await you! Beach experiences, zip-lining, floating aqua park, live events, beautiful reefs and luxury hotels! Your Singapore stay could be just all about Sentosa and relaxing on Palawan Beach or Siloso Beach.
You can also plan on visiting Universal Studios, Singapore which is located in Resorts World, Sentosa. Buy those tickets in advance, and as any theme park, be prepared for long lines, more rides for kids than for adults and expensive food! See details here.
This is another tour called the Funtasy Sentosa Experience which is fun: Fly above the hill from Faber Peak Singapore, through a skyscraper and cross the harbor on the Mount Faber Line. First stop after the Cable Car ride, enjoy any 2 rides at 4D AdventureLand. Proceed to Madame Tussauds, get ready for the world famous celebrity wax attraction and then enjoy the Wings of Time – a dazzling display of laser lights and fireworks!
Hawker Centers
For an authentic taste of Singapore, dine at hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat, where you can sample a variety of local dishes. Remember to pick up after yourself as you can get fined for not bussing your table.
Kampong Glam
Explore this historic Malay-Muslim quarter, home to the majestic Sultan Mosque, hip boutiques, and trendy cafes.
Enjoy the Water
Experience Singapore from the water with a Singapore River Cruise. This boat tour along the Singapore River offers a unique perspective of historic bridges and landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.
If you're looking for an adventurous water activity, try kayaking at MacRitchie Reservoir or enjoy water sports at East Coast Park.
Shopping Paradise
Singapore is a shopper's paradise, offering a mix of luxury brands, local designers, and unique finds.
Orchard Road: The main shopping district with malls like ION Orchard, Paragon, and Ngee Ann City.
Bugis Street Market: Known for affordable fashion and souvenirs.
Haji Lane: A hip but narrow street in Kampong Glam with independent boutiques and quirky shops.
VivoCity: Singapore's largest shopping mall, located near Sentosa Island, offering a wide range of retail and dining options.
Amalgamation of Cultures
Singapore is diverse and people from all different cultures live together in harmony. Imagine starting your day at Maxwell Food Centre, savoring a spicy bowl of Hainanese chicken rice, rich with fragrant ginger and garlic. By lunchtime, you might be in Little India, enjoying a plate of biryani at Tekka Centre, surrounded by the colorful sights and sounds of Indian fabrics, spices, and music. As the day winds down, you find yourself in Chinatown, sipping on a cup of traditional herbal tea at a local teahouse, watching families gather for a meal of dim sum. This seamless blend of cuisines isn't just a culinary delight—it's a real-life example of the city's multiculturalism.
Walking through the streets, you'll see how language weaves its magic into the daily interactions of Singaporeans. It's not uncommon to hear conversations switch effortlessly between English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. From a young age, children learn to appreciate different languages and cultures - Multilingualism is a natural part of their lives!
Religion and traditions also play a significant role in shaping Singapore's unique cultural landscape. The cityscape is dotted with temples, mosques, and churches, all coexisting peacefully. For instance, on Waterloo Street, you can find the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, Sri Krishnan Temple, and Maghain Aboth Synagogue, all within walking distance of each other. During the festive season, the streets light up with vibrant decorations for Diwali along Serangoon Road, Hari Raya in Geylang Serai, and Chinese New Year in Chinatown.
For a cultural experience, consider this tour that takes you to 3 ethnic neighborhoods and introduces you to UNESCO Street Food sites - Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India
Culinary Delights
No trip to Singapore is complete without savoring its national dish, Hainanese Chicken Rice. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and cucumber garnishes.
Vegetarian? Not to worry. You will find plenty of delicious options, including Vegetarian Laksa, a spicy noodle soup with coconut milk and tofu, and Vegetarian Hokkien Mee, stir-fried noodles with savory sauce and vegetables. Other popular vegetarian dishes include Vegetarian Satay with peanut sauce, Vegetarian Char Kway Teow, and Rojak, a traditional fruit and vegetable salad. Look up HappyCow.net to find vegetarian or vegan options near you.
Savor Michelin-Star Vegetarian Dining
Singapore's culinary scene is world-renowned, with several Michelin-star restaurants offering vegetarian options.
At Odette, enjoy contemporary French cuisine with beautifully crafted vegetarian dishes. Seafood dishes are swapped with plant-forward dishes upon request. This restaurant is in the National Gallery, Singapore
Visit Shisen Hanten, renowned for its Sichuan cuisine. Request their ala carte menu for vegetarian options
For all the famous / celebrity chef restaurants, head over to Marina Bay Sands. Here you will find familiar names such as Ippudo, Cut by Wolfgang Puck, Lavo, Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsey, Spago, Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda, Din Tai Fung, Punjab Grill, etc.
Cultural Experiences
Peranakan Museum: Learn about the unique culture of the Peranakan community through exhibits and performances. The tours are free but if you wish to go to the museum, you will need to buy separate tickets
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay: Singapore’s premier arts center, hosting a variety of performances from dance to theatre to music. Free programs are also offered!
Singapore Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy world-class classical music performances at the Esplanade Concert Hall
Chinatown and Little India Festivals: Experience festivals and cultural events, especially during Chinese New Year and Diwali
From seamless immigration processes, free WiFi and engaging free tours, here’s a detailed look at maximizing a layover at Changi Airport.
