Things to Do in Singapore (2024 / 2025)

Discover Singapore - Attractions and Activities for Tourists, Couples, Families, and Kids
Discover the top things to do in Singapore for 2024 / 2025, curated by locals. We recommend only the must-try activities for an authentic experience.

Activities in Singapore

Although Singapore is frequently noted as one of the most expensive cities to live in, exploring the city can be both affordable and enjoyable if you avoid tourist traps. Singapore boasts a range of well-maintained attractions and things to do that offer excellent value.

While many resources may list hundreds of things to do in Singapore, we, as local Singaporeans, have carefully curated a selection of must-try activities. Our recommendations highlight the top experiences that truly reflect the essence of Singapore, ensuring a memorable visit while keeping costs in check.

In this article, we offer essential tips for traveling and provide a detailed guide on worthwhile things to do in Singapore categorised by various interests, including spiritual experiences, arts and culture, outdoor adventures, indoor attractions, and family-friendly options. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, cultural immersion, or fun for the whole family, there’s a theme to suit every traveller.

Tips before traveling

  1. You can always trust online reviews by Singaporeans. They rarely post positive reviews for things that don’t deserve them and are quick to post negative reviews if something isn’t up to standard.
  2. Always check the weather before leaving home in Singapore and have a backup plan if you’re travelling with kids. See the weather forecast for this week below.
  3. For a seamless and less crowded outing, avoid Singapore’s public holidays and school holidays. Check the public and school holidays for 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Things to do in Singapore this weekend (26 - 27 October 2024)

October is a vibrant month for cultural festivals in Singapore, with the Kusu Pilgrimage and Deepavali celebrations taking place. Attend these events to experience the unique traditions of distinct cultures.

Meanwhile, don’t miss Singapore Airlines’s travel fair this weekend, happening at Suntec and online as well.

The weather is partly cloudy across Singapore this weekend, and if you’re heading outdoors, remember to carry an umbrella as precaution.

Date: 25 – 27 October 2024 (Friday – Sunday)

The SQ Travel Fair 2024 is back with incredible promotions! Enjoy S$200 off your Singapore Airlines flight tickets when you purchase online, available at this Trip.com’s link. Alternatively, visit its travel fair at Suntec to snag one of 200,000 discounted return tickets to 78 exciting destinations!

Date: 25 – 27 October 2024 (Friday – Sunday)

Celebrate art and literature this weekend with Singapore Art Book Fair 2024 at Singapore Art Museum. It will feature over 100 artists, designers, publishers, galleries and more from all over the world.

Date: 3 – 31 October 2024 (Thursday – Thursday)

Now is the perfect time to visit Kusu Island, as the annual Kusu Pilgrimage takes place throughout October to honour Tua Pek Kong, a Taoist deity. In case you’re unsure, Kusu Island is part of Singapore, so no passport is needed, though you will require a ferry ticket. Discover how to go to Kusu Island and what to do once you’re there.

Date: 14 September – 17 November 2024 (Saturday – Sunday)

Deepavali, a public holiday in Singapore, will be celebrated on 31 October 2024. However, festivities have already begun with the iconic light-up along Serangoon Road, running from 14 September to 17 November. Discover how and where to celebrate Deepavali in Singapore in 2024.

Spiritual, Arts & Culture

Singapore is a melting pot of races, cultures, and religions. You can find a diverse array of spiritual, artistic, and cultural expressions flourishing throughout the city.

In addition to the major festivals and events recommended by Visit Singapore, there are many more activities in Singapore for spiritual, arts, and culture enthusiasts to enjoy.

Things to do in Singapore - Festival Celebrations - Experience Singapore's vibrant year-round celebrations of religious and cultural festivals

Upcoming Festival: Deepavali

In Singapore, you can find at least one festival to attend almost every month. Even if you’re not typically interested in cultural events, Singapore’s vibrant celebrations will amaze you. Check out the list of the most popular festivals in Singapore.

The next festival on the horizon is Deepavali, which will be celebrated on 31 October 2024.

Things to do in Singapore - Watch Getai - Mandarin and dialect singing performances dedicated to deities and spirits

Happening all year round

While Getai is predominantly featured during the Hungry Ghost Festival, you can also find it at Taoist temples and various Chinese festivals.

Getai is a unique form of entertainment dedicated to spirits or deities. Discover where to watch Getai in Singapore.

Things to do in Singapore - Arts & Culture - Experience cultural performances by Singapore's diverse ethnic groups (Chinese, Malay and Indian)

Happening all year round

Singapore, a vibrant metropolitan city, hosts a wide range of arts events. Explore the list of arts and culture events in Singapore, including performances, screenings, dance, film, photography, literature, theatre, music, and more.

Places to visit in Singapore - Kampong Glam - Pathway leading to the iconic Sultan Mosque

Busiest during Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Aidilfitri), when Ramadan Bazaars are held

At Kampong Gelam, you can visit the majestic Sultan Mosque, capture photos of unique and artistic wall murals, and stroll along Haji Lane. It also offers plenty of shopping and dining options. 

Tips: The area can get very hot during the day, so it’s best to start your visit just before sunset around 6pm.

Places to visit in Singapore - Chinatown - Tourists and locals shop along the streets in the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year

Chinatown

Busiest during Chinese New Year and Mid Autumn

Chinatown is undoubtedly the best place to experience the cultural side of Singapore. The four areas around Chinatown, namely Telok Ayer, Kreta Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, and Bukit Pasoh are designated conservation areas. Telok Ayer was developed as early as the 1820s, just shortly after modern Singapore was founded in 1819.

Popular attractions in Chinatown include wall murals, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, the Temple of the Heavenly Jade Emperor, and Thian Hock Keng Temple. You can explore places to visit in Chinatown here and discover each hidden gem.

Outdoor & Nature

Singapore’s numerous national parks are managed by the National Parks Board under the National Environment Agency (NEA), aiming to create a sustainable environment.

If you are a nature trekking enthusiast, we recommend visiting one of Singapore’s well-planned national parks instead of the Botanic Gardens. The national parks are wildlife reserves where you can experience real nature and encounter wildlife such as monkeys, crocodiles, and rare birds.

Places to visit in Singapore - Sungai Buloh Wetland Reserve - Elevated pods overlooking Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Macritchie / Sungei Buloh

Visit during day time

Out of all the national parks, We recommend Macritchie Reservoir (Map) and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (Map).

MacRitchie is the oldest reservoir in Singapore, while Sungei Buloh is the country’s first ASEAN Heritage Park and a regular habitat for migratory birds.

Places to visit in Singapore - Gardens by the Bay - Cloud Forest - Home to one of the world's tallest indoor waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery

Opening hours: 9:00am to 9:00pm

Although Cloud Forest is a man-made attraction, it is a must-visit within Gardens by the Bay. It is also the best backup plan for extreme weather, whether it’s blazing sun or rain, as it is indoors with a cool temperature maintained between 23°C and 25°C. Please note that it will be closed for regular maintenance on the following dates: 19 Aug 2024, 9 Sep 2024, 14 Oct 2024, and 11 Nov 2024. Buy your tickets online before going.

Indoor & Shopping

As the weather heats up, both Singaporeans and tourists flock to the city’s shopping malls. These malls offer a cool respite from the outdoor heat, providing a comfortable environment to shop, dine, and enjoy various entertainment options.

Places to visit in Singapore - Plaza Singapura - A local shopping mall situated at the end of the Orchard Road shopping belt

Jewel Changi Airport, Plaza Singapura 

CapitaLand owns many of the major malls in Singapore, and the stores are often similar across them. Therefore, visiting just one is usually sufficient. For a top-notch shopping experience, we recommend Jewel Changi Airport (Map), Plaza Singapura (Map), or Ion Orchard (Map).

Places to visit in Singapore - Changi City Point - Outlet mall for discount sportswear, just two MRT stations from Changi airport

Photo via Changi City Point / Website

Outlet Mall

Changi City Point (Map) has outlet stores for many of the big brands such as Adidas Outlet, Asics Outlet, Clarks Outlet, Coach Outlet, Converse Outlet, Crocodile Outlet, Crocs Outlet, Fitflop Outlet, Fossil Watch Outlet, G2000 Outlet, Hush Puppies Outlet, Lacoste Outlet, New Balance Outlet, Nike Unite Outlet, Puma Outlet, Samsonite Factory Outlet, Skechers Outlet, and more.

Food Scene

Singapore’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of cuisines from around the world, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, Korean, Japanese, Mediterranean, and more. However, our hearts remain with the local dishes that define Singapore’s culinary identity.

Places to visit in Singapore - Pasar Malam - Explore Singapore's roving night markets for delicious local snacks and treats

Singapore-styled night markets

Pasar Malam, which means ‘night market’ in Malay, differs from the night markets in Bangkok or Malaysia as it moves around the city. It’s the best place to find local food and enjoy dinner in Singapore. Check out the nearest Pasar Malam to you for a local culinary experience.

Food to eat in Singapore - Hawker food - Bak Kut Teh (Peppery Pork Soup)

Note: Hawker food

Instead of the pricey Michelin-starred restaurants, we recommend trying the hawker food that falls under the Bib Gourmand category. These dishes are not only affordable but are also local favourites.

Things to do in Singapore - Late night supper - Savour Dim Sum at a 24-Hour Chinese Restaurant

24-hour food options

Craving Nasi Lemak, Dim Sum, Bak Chor Mee, Ramen, Laksa, or Roti Prata at any time of the day or night? Check out this comprehensive list of 24-hour food places.

Family-Friendly & Kid-Friendly

Singapore is a family-friendly destination with stroller-accessible roads, public transport, and malls, making it easy to navigate with young children.

Places to visit in Singapore - Singapore Zoological Garden - Experience wildlife at one of the world's best zoos

Bird Paradise, Night Safari, River Wonders, Zoo

Mandai Wildlife Reserve features Asia’s largest bird park, the world’s first nocturnal park, Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park, and is renowned as one of the best-maintained zoos globally. Did you know that the bird park was relocated from Jurong to Mandai to centralize all attractions? A visit to Mandai is sure to be a rewarding experience. Buy your tickets now.
Places to visit in Singapore - Marina Square - Kiztopia - Indoor playground offering a day of endless fun for children

Family-friendly mall

Marina Square (Map) offers a range of indoor playgrounds for kids, including Kiztopia, Pororo Park, and the Singapore Ski & Snowboard Academy. These attractions are weatherproof and air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable experience with less sweat and more fun.

Trails off the beaten path

Once you’ve explored most of Singapore’s attractions, you can indulge in a favourite local pastime by travelling north to Malaysia.

Places to visit in Singapore - Johor Bahru - Eateries and retail shops adjacent to the Malaysian immigration checkpoint

Favourite shopping destinations

Johor Bahru, Malaysia, located just north of Singapore, is a popular destination for Singaporeans. They often take advantage of the strong Singapore Dollar to enjoy shopping, dining, massages, spas, haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and more.

Haven’t been to Johor Bahru? Learn how to go to JB from Singapore. If you have more time to explore Malaysia, consider traveling further north to the historic city of Malacca and the bustling capital, Kuala Lumpur.

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Will T
A frequent traveler who loves to act like a local, dress like a local and eat like a local wherever he travels. Loves food. Loves to write about everything in Singapore.

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