Singapore Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Singapore? Main activities and attractions

Singapore combines colonial charm and futuristic design in a compact cultural ecosystem. History enthusiasts can explore the National Museum of Singapore or stroll the heritage-rich streets of Chinatown and Little India, where beautifully preserved architecture meets colorful temples. At Raffles Hotel, visitors can experience colonial luxury and sample the iconic Singapore Sling cocktail. The Civic District features grand 19th-century buildings, art museums, and colonial landmarks perfect for photography and cultural enrichment.

Nature lovers will appreciate the lush landscapes of Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Supertree Grove or a walk along the OCBC Skyway. Food is central to the Singapore experience: sample hawker center delicacies like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa, or venture into the vibrant night markets of Geylang and Lau Pa Sat. Take a bumboat ride along the Singapore River or explore the nearby Pulau Ubin for a throwback to rustic, undeveloped Singapore. This fusion of culinary, coastal, and green experiences makes every itinerary fresh and diverse.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Singapore

Singapore’s size belies its depth when it comes to hidden treasures and lesser-known activities. For those willing to venture beyond Marina Bay, surprises await in its quieter corners and unconventional attractions.

Start with Haw Par Villa, a surreal theme park filled with vividly painted dioramas depicting Chinese mythology. Located in the Pasir Panjang area, it’s a quirky yet educational spot that defies mainstream tourism. For a bit of nature and local flavor, take a ferry to Kusu Island. This peaceful islet features a sacred Chinese temple and Malay shrine, visited by pilgrims but overlooked by standard tour guides.

In the north, discover Singapore’s rustic side with a cycling excursion along the Kranji Countryside. Here, you’ll find organic vegetable farms, a goat dairy, and even a frog breeding farm open for visits. It’s a green escape rarely associated with this urban state. For urban explorers, the gritty charm of Tiong Bahru district combines 1930s Art Deco architecture with hip cafés, independent bookstores, and old-school bakeries, offering a refreshing alternative to the glitzy Orchard Road.

Exploring Singapore off the beaten path reveals a rich, layered identity beneath its polished exterior. These authentic, less commercial experiences offer the curious traveler a more personal and nuanced connection with the territory, emphasizing that travel to Singapore doesn’t have to follow the usual script.

When to visit Singapore? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Singapore

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK, and US citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required upon entry. Visitors must also complete the SG Arrival Card online prior to arrival, which includes health and customs declarations.

🚗 Driving rules

Singapore drives on the left side of the road. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if your original license is not in English. Car rental is available but discouraged due to high congestion charges and reliable public transport.

🔌 Electricity

Singapore uses type G plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a 50Hz frequency. European travelers will need a plug adapter but do not require a voltage converter for most personal electronics.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Mobile coverage is excellent nationwide. Main providers include Singtel, StarHub, and M1. SIM cards and tourist packages are easily available at the airport or convenience stores, with 5G services expanding rapidly.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Singapore is among the safest cities globally. Still, travelers should remain vigilant for petty crime in crowded areas. Avoid engaging with unauthorized vendors. In emergencies, dial 999 (police) or 995 (ambulance/fire).

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Singapore has strict laws against littering, jaywalking, chewing gum, and smoking in public areas. Controlled substances, including some medications, may require proper documentation or be banned entirely.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Always show respect through modest behavior, avoid pointing with your feet, and remove shoes before entering homes or certain temples. Dress conservatively in places of worship and avoid loud public displays of affection.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

The dominant religions in Singapore include Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism. When visiting temples or mosques, wear modest clothing and remove shoes. Religious holidays like Deepavali and Hari Raya are vibrant yet culturally respectful events.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Singapore, Singapore National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025