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
- 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.
- 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.
- For a seamless and less crowded outing, avoid Singapore’s public holidays and school holidays. Check the public and school holidays for 2026 and 2027.
Things to do in Singapore this weekend (24 - 25 January 2026)
Look forward to an exciting weekend ahead, with food and shopping at TLM Food Expo 2026 and Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival. If you are planning photo sessions, head to Light to Night Festival 2026 and Singapore Art Week 2026.
Prefer a quick getaway during the weekend? Consider a short staycation in Johor Bahru. Just across the Causeway, it’s a favourite among Singaporeans for its affordable food, relaxing spas, and great shopping.
Late afternoon showers are expected across Singapore this weekend. As a precaution, it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella when heading outdoors, it offers protection from both the sun and sudden rain.
Date: 22 – 31 January 2026 (Thursday – Saturday)
Singapore Art Week 2026 is Singapore’s premier visual arts season for the global arts community organised by the National Arts Council. The festival ignites the city with a vibrant array of exhibitions, sound art installations, photography showcases, and public art projects located in diverse settings, including MRT stations and the Central Business District.
Date: 24 – 25 January 2026 (Saturday – Sunday)
An annual artsy pop-up market in Kampong Gelam featuring over 30 vendors from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with a curated selection of fashion, clothing and accessories.
Date: 23 – 25 January 2026 (Friday – Sunday)
The TLM Food Expo will be back this weekend, making it an ideal stop for CNY shopping. Visitors can explore a wide range of local and international flavours, from dried seafood and frozen goods to ready-to-eat dishes.
Date: 9 – 31 January 2026 (Friday – Saturday)
Can’t get enough of Singapore Night Festival? Light to Night Festival 2026 offers a similar night-time experience, with light installations across the historic Bras Basah–Bugis precinct. Expect striking light projections and immersive installations throughout the area.
Date: 18 January – 18 March 2026 (Sunday – Wednesday)
While the iconic Chinatown light-up installations return on 30 January 2026, the New Year celebration fairs will start earlier, from this Sunday. Visitors can enjoy horse-themed displays in celebration of the Year of the Horse. Come hungry, shop for CNY goodies, and join the familiar queues for bak kwa at this festive event.
Date: 17 – 25 January 2026 (Saturday – Sunday)
The annual home furnishing and renovation fair returns ahead of Chinese New Year, inviting homeowners to refresh homes for the year ahead.
Date: 24 – 25 January 2026 (Saturday – Sunday)
Johor Bahru (JB) is a popular getaway for both Singapore residents and tourists, offering great food, relaxing spas, and exciting shopping experiences. Discover the best ways to travel from Singapore to JB, how to use the e-gates for a smoother entry, and the steps to apply for a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) if you’re driving.
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.
Upcoming Festival: Thaipusam and Li Chun
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 festivals on the horizon are Thaipusam and Li Chun, showcasing Singapore’s cultural diversity. Learn how to celebrate Thaipusam in Singapore and when to deposit money during Li Chun.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Macritchie / Sungei Buloh
Visit during day time
Opening hours: 9:00am to 9:00pm
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.
Jewel Changi Airport, Plaza Singapura
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bird Paradise, Night Safari, River Wonders, Zoo
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.
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.
