19 Spellbinding Places To Explore In Singapore

1. Gardens by the Bay

I thought this place was a very surreal beauty spot! I was completely in awe of its futuristic skyline, which featured the iconic Supertree Grove and the visually stunning, climate-controlled Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories. I also loved the attractive plant collections and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and its backdrop of gorgeous greenery and marine bay views.

It had a really futuristic yet peaceful vibe that combined nature and technology perfectly. During the day, it felt very calm, but at night, I really loved how the Supertree Grove transformed into something out of a sci-fi movie, completely with synchronized lights dancing to music!

It was located right in the heart of Marina Bay, just beside the Marina Reservoir and it was easy to get to – I took the MRT to Bayfront Station, and from there, it was just a short walk to the entrance. Opened in 2012 as part of the country’s “City in a Garden” vision it spanned 101 hectares and I found out from staff that its welcomed over 50 million visitors since its launch.

I spent a visual feast of a day exploring the towering Supertree Grove and its dazzling light show and walking around the world’s largest glass greenhouse in the Flower Dome. 

I also gazed at the mist-filled Cloud Forest which was also home to a breathtaking indoor waterfall, walked along the vertigo-inducing OCBC Skyway and saw superb panoramic city views, relaxed in the themed gardens of the Heritage Gardens and Sun Pavilion and gawped at the exotic plant life and incredible art installations!

• Location: South part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy the outdoor gardens and scenic views without rain).
• Activities on offer: Walking through Supertree Grove, visiting the Cloud Forest, exploring the Flower Dome, and enjoying light shows.
• Accommodation: Marina Bay Sands, The Fullerton Hotel, and nearby luxury hotels.
• Map Location and Directions
• Gardens by the Bay Website

My personal highlights…

• Seeing the workers abseiling down the massive structures to maintain the gardens in the Supertree Grove – it was a great insight into how this huge place was run!

2. Singapore’s Southern Islands

I personally thought these gorgeous islands were very attractive – I found pristine beaches, sparkling waters, and a surprising amount of wildlife, all set against the backdrop of Singapore’s gorgeous skyline. The whole place had a very laid-back and nostalgic feel to it – it felt very far away from the hustle and the bustle of the city! 

They were located in the Singapore Strait, around five to six kilometers south of the mainland and getting there was easy, as I just took a 30-minute ferry from Marina South Pier. Originally home to native Malay islanders and Orang Laut sea nomads, the islands dated back to the 3rd century and were once used as quarantine stations and even wartime outposts, but now they remain mostly unpopulated.

I stayed for three days and relaxed on the gorgeous beaches of St. John’s Island, visited the very interesting sacred shrines and turtle sanctuary on Kusu Island, explored the wartime history and nature trails on Sentosa, snorkeled the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, visited the famous Universal Studios theme park and stayed overnight at a luxurious resort on Sentosa.

• Location: South part of the country, offshore.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for ideal beach weather and clear waters for snorkeling).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, snorkeling, hiking, and visiting shrines and temples.
• Accommodation: Resorts World Sentosa, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, and beachfront chalets.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens

I loved this stunning escape from the city, with its ancient rainforest trees, peaceful lakes, and interesting colonial-era landmarks. It felt very calm and rejuvenating, a huge contrast to Singapore’s usual bustling vitality!

Located on the fringe of Orchard Road, the gardens spanned 82 hectares between Holland Road and Bukit Timah Road, and I reached it easily by taking the MRT to Botanic Gardens station, which led me directly to one of the entrances.

Originally established in 1859 during British colonial rule, the gardens became Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 and I found out they now attract over 4.4 million visitors annually while housing more than 10,000 species of plants.

I spent a charming afternoon strolling through the beautiful National Orchid Garden which had a superb collection of over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, relaxed by the zen-like Swan Lake which had gorgeous swan sculptures, explored the very unique rainforest section, and learnt all about plant conservation and horticultural practices at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and the Ethnobotany Garden!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to explore the gardens and enjoy outdoor activities).
• Activities on offer: Walking tours, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the National Orchid Garden.
• Accommodation: Shangri-La Hotel, Orchard Hotel, and nearby luxury hotels.
• Map Location and Directions
• Singapore Botanic Gardens Website

My personal highlights…

• Watching swans glide across the water in front of the famous Tembusu tree which was actually featured on Singapore’s $5 bill! 

4. Little India

Little India was one of the most colorful places I visited in Singapore. It was also very picturesque in a very quaint way, with eye-catching shops, ornate Hindu temples and streets filled with the scent of spices and incense. I loved how it was loud, lively, and energetic it was – here with music playing from every building, people chatted in the streets and markets overflowed with fresh produce and fabrics.

It was situated to the east of the Singapore River, north of Kampong Glam and directly across from Chinatown, it was centered around Serangoon Road, which was packed with temples, goldsmiths, and some of the best food spots I found in the city.

Originally designated by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822 for Chinese immigrants, I found out that the area evolved into a hub for Singapore’s Indian community. Home to about 3,030 residents, it now attracts millions of visitors each year.

I spent an afternoon enjoying the lively Tekka Centre which was home to a market and diverse food stalls, visited the ornate Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, shopped for gorgeous textiles and traditional goods along Serangoon Road, enjoyed the aromatic scents of spices at Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping mall, admired colorful murals along back alleys, and browsed the endless rows of gold jewelry shops.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for easier street exploration and food tours in pleasant weather).
• Activities on offer: Shopping, exploring markets, enjoying Indian cuisine, and visiting temples.
• Accommodation: Wanderlust Hotel, Hotel 81 Dickson, and boutique hotels in the area.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Devouring a huge plate of vegetable biryani served on a banana leaf at the Tekka Centre which was an incredible part food centre and part shopping mall!
• The tiny shops which were selling cute hand-painted clay lamps for Deepavali.

5. Clarke Quay

I thought this vibrant riverside development was very easy-on- the-eye with its colorful waterfront stores, restored warehouses, and floating restaurants set along the Singapore River. I loved how it felt very chilled in the day, but by night, the entire area lit up with bright neon signs, live music, and crowds spilling out of bars!

I found it located along the Singapore River, just upstream from Boat Quay and near the Central Business District, Clarke Quay was within walking distance of Chinatown, and I reached it easily by taking the MRT to Clarke Quay station, which was only a few minutes from all the action. Originally a 19th-century dock for cargo loading and unloading, Clarke Quay was redeveloped in the 1990s into a commercial and entertainment district.

I enjoyed a lively evening out with riverside dining on a delicious Sichuan-style hotpot at Hai Di Lao went dancing at the iconic Zouk nightclub, took a scenic river cruise and saw views of the incredible skyline, tried the fun G-Max Reverse Bungee, stopped by the Asian Civilisations Museum where I explored the country’s cultural influences, and strolled through the historic area gazing at the interesting architecture!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for riverside dining and nightlife in cooler, drier weather).
• Activities on offer: River cruises, dining, bar-hopping, and enjoying live music and nightlife.
• Accommodation: Swissotel Merchant Court, Park Hotel Clarke Quay, and riverside hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• I loved how the entire district felt noticeably cooler thanks to an innovative misting system that kept temperatures about four degrees lower than surrounding areas.
• Seeing The River House (one of the oldest surviving Chinese mansions in the country) just before sunset when the area shifted into its full, neon-lit nightlife mode!
• Visiting the cool and casual bar, the Crazy Elephant and watching live music and drinking craft beers at the funky Pump Room. 

6. Raffles Hotel

I always wanted to visit Raffles Hotel and I wasn’t disappointed! I thought it was a truly extraordinary place with its pristine white colonial-era façade, high-ceilinged hallways, and manicured gardens which gave it a very charming air of elegance. It had a wonderful luxurious feel – when I walked along grand archways and polished teak floors and felt like I was stepping back to a much classier time!

I found it located at 1 Beach Road in the heart of Singapore’s Civic District, and the hotel was within walking distance of Marina Bay and Orchard Road. Originally opened in 1887 by the Armenian Sarkies brothers as a 10-room beachfront hotel it grew into a 115-suite national landmark, was declared a National Monument in 1987, and now welcomes over 1.5 million visitors annually.

I was lucky enough to stay overnight in an incredible colonial-style suite and I really made the most of my stay! I ordered an iconic Singapore Sling at the Long Bar, dined on superb traditional North Indian cuisine in fine Tiffin Room restaurant, explored the lush gardens, shopped at the Raffles Arcade for unique souvenirs, and then went on an interesting guided heritage tour!

• Visitor Center Address: 1 Beach Rd, 189673
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy walking tours and exploring nearby attractions).
• Activities on offer: Touring the historic hotel, enjoying afternoon tea, sipping on a Singapore Sling, and shopping at luxury boutiques.
• Accommodation: Raffles Hotel Singapore (on-site), nearby options include Fairmont Singapore and Carlton Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions
• Raffle Hotel Website

My personal highlights…

• I loved how the bar still kept the old tradition of letting us guests toss peanut shells on the floor – which I thought was a hilarious and unexpected contrast to Singapore’s famously strict cleanliness rules!
• The 24-hour butler service – I overheard a guest casually requesting coffee at midnight as if it was completely normal, and the very attentive staff responded without any hesitation!
• I really liked how outside each suite, two chairs and a small table were set up for guests to enjoy room service in the open-air hallways.

7. Punggol Beach

I thought this was a gorgeous gem with pristine sandy shores, large smooth boulders scattered along the coastline, and breathtaking views of the Johor Strait. It felt both calm and nostalgic, it was another welcoming zen-like escape from all the city’s craziness.

Located at the northeastern tip of Singapore, at the end of Punggol Road, it was a 40 minutes from the city to get there and I found that the beach faced the Straits of Johor with a direct view of Pulau Ubin. It was once a fishing village and later the tragic site of the Sook Ching Massacre during World War II but today it’s a simply a popular recreational spot.

I walked along the Punggol Point Park boardwalk and saw gorgeous coastal views, explored the nearby Coney Island Park, cycled along the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, and ended the day dining on local cuisine at the Punggol Settlement.

• Location: Northeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for beach activities and nature walks in clear weather).
• Activities on offer: Beach walks, picnicking, cycling, and birdwatching.
• Accommodation: Nearby Punggol Ranch Resort, budget guesthouses, and boutique hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• I really liked how the beach had unusually calm tides so I could really enjoy a long, quiet walk along the shore.
• Discovering the hidden amphitheater near the boardwalk and also the very sad Sook Ching Massacre memorial plaque which was tucked away near the entrance.

8. Chinatown

This was such an eclectic and interesting beauty spot! I discovered a fascinating mix of old and new with its vibrant heritage shophouses, intricate Sri Mariamman Temple, and the modern Chinatown Heritage Centre, all set against a backdrop of lively streets and colorful night markets which illuminated the neighborhood! I loved how there was a constant hum of chatter which made it feel like every corner was bursting with energy!

Located in the Outram district of Singapore’s Central Area, it spanned four main sub-districts: Telok Ayer, Kreta Ayer, Bukit Pasoh, and Tanjong Pagar and I got there by taking the MRT to Chinatown station.

I wandered through Ann Siang Hill and Club Street, an area that felt completely different from Chinatown’s main markets, with chic bars, boutique cafes, and restored heritage buildings, and I ended up at a speakeasy-style bar, sipping on a cocktail while looking out at the lantern-lit streets below.

I also explored the rich heritage at the Chinatown Heritage Centre, visited the stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, shopped for souvenirs along Pagoda Street, and experienced the traditional Chinese practices of tea appreciation at the Tea Chapter.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for street exploration, markets, and cultural festivals).
• Activities on offer: Shopping, exploring temples, enjoying street food, and visiting cultural heritage sites.
• Accommodation: The Scarlet Singapore, Hotel 1887, and boutique heritage hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Standing in line for the famous Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle Stall at the awesome Chinatown Complex Food Centre – the stall had which gained international fame for being one of the cheapest Michelin-starred meals in the world and after dining on their veggie noodles I can confirm it was seriously worth every bit of the hype! 

9. Bukit Batok Hill

I thought scenic park known was a gem! I found serene landscapes and the striking Bukit Batok Memorial, set against the backdrop of an attractive quarry pond and lashings greenery. It felt peaceful and reflective with shaded pathways and just the sound of birds chirping in the distance.

I found it located in the Bukit Batok area of western Singapore. Originally a granite quarry and later a significant World War II battleground, it was transformed into a nature park in 1988 and I saw it now served as a green retreat within the Bukit Batok area.

I spent an afternoon exploring and walking in the Bukit Batok Nature Park, I also visited the very moving WWII memorial site at Bukit Batok Memorial, enjoyed leisurely walks along well-maintained trails and gazed in the stunning views of the quarry pond.

• Location: West part of the country, can be accessed from Bukit Batok East Avenue.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for hiking and exploring the historical site without rain interruptions).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, exploring WWII memorials, and visiting nearby shopping malls.
• Accommodation: Resorts World Sentosa, Genting Hotel Jurong, and nearby budget hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Stumbling across the foot reflexology path which was tucked away in the forest and I walked across it barefoot to try and get the reported health benefits and it was only a little uncomfortable!

10. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

This was a stunning Tang-style temple! I was really taken with its striking red and gold façade, intricate traditional Tang-style architecture, and the majestic five-story main building that housed richly adorned artifacts and a giant stupa made with 320 kilograms of gold! I really enjoyed its serene and spiritual vibe which made a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Chinatown!

I found it located right in the heart of Chinatown and it was built in 2007 at the cost of S$75 million. It was specifically designed to house a sacred tooth relic (which was believed to belong to Buddha), and it has since become an iconic religious and cultural site, drawing over 1.5 million visitors annually.

I spent an afternoon exploring the ornately adorned Sacred Light Hall, admiring the intricate Buddhist art in the museum, witnessing the interesting daily ceremonies which included the offering of blessings and the chanting of sutras.

I also explored the Hundred Dragons Hall, where golden Buddha statues lined the walls as devotees prayed in flickering candlelight, ascended to the Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic Chamber on the fourth floor, where the relic was enshrined inside a massive golden stupa, turned the world’s largest Buddha prayer wheel on the rooftop garden and even came back to participate in a meditation session, which was an incredible experience!

• Visitor Center Address: 288 South Bridge Rd, 058840
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to explore the temple and surrounding Chinatown area).
• Activities on offer: Touring the temple, visiting the museum, and attending cultural performances.
• Accommodation: Amoy Hotel, Chinatown Hotel, and nearby boutique hotels.
• Map Location and Directions
• The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

My highlights… 

• Stopping  vegetarian dining hall in the basement, where the temple served meals to both visitors and the monks – I loved the simple veggie local noodle soup Laska which was flavored with coconut milk and potent spices.
• Learning from the guide that the temple’s lacquered exterior was unique in Singapore – unlike most buildings, which are painted, the temple was coated in a special Chinese lacquer designed to withstand the elements!

11. Changi Beach

This is one of the oldest beach parks in the country! I thought it was a very attractive place with tranquil sandy shores, swaying coconut trees, stunning sunsets over calm waters, nearby colonial-era bungalows and traditional seaside eateries which added to its nostalgic charm! 

It had a very relaxed vibe and I loved how it still retained a nostalgic village atmosphere which felt like being back in the 1960s and 1970s, complete with rustic-looking eateries! It was once a fishing village but it also has a tragic past. During WW II it was location of the Sook Ching Massacre (where the Japanese military executed hundreds of Chinese civilians). A notorious prisoner-of-war camp was also located nearby. Today it was just a popular beauty spot used by both locals and visitors.

I took a 40 minute taxi ride and I spent an afternoon here. I took a peaceful stroll along the scenic Changi Beach Park, went for a picnic on the sandy shores while watching planes fly overhead near Changi Airport, sampled local cuisine at Changi Village Hawker Centre, took a quick boat trip to Pulau Ubin (which was only a 10 minute journey) and explored the historic Changi Chapel and Museum and learnt about the beach’s moving wartime past.

• Location: East part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for beach picnics and family activities in clear weather).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, barbecuing, cycling, and exploring historical sites.
• Accommodation: Changi Cove, Village Hotel Changi, and beachfront chalets.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

• Sampling local cuisine at the Changi Village Hawker Centre – the Nasi Lemak made with fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, peanuts, cucumber, and spicy sambalmfrom from the International Muslim Food Stall was especially awesome! 

12. Tanjong Beach

I loved this serene and upscale beach! I thought it was stunning spot with soft golden sand, swaying coconut palm trees, and calm light blue waters. I loved it laid-back but chic charm which felt like a relaxed island retreat during the day and then transformed into a stylish social hotspot in the evening, especially at the lively Tanjong Beach Club! 

I discovered located on Sentosa Island, off the southern coast of Singapore. Once part of the island state’s coastal defense system, it’s now been transformed into a popular leisure destination but has no permanent residential population.

I took the Sentosa Express to Beach Station and walked 15 minutes to the beach and spent a day there. I relaxed and took a picnic on the beach, swam in the calm waters, enjoyed cocktails and gourmet dining at Tanjong Beach Club, went for a scenic stroll along the coastline, watched a stunning sunset over the South China Sea, and experienced the lively and fun weekend beach parties! 

• Location: South part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for a peaceful beach day and enjoying nearby bars and restaurants).
• Activities on offer: Beach relaxation, swimming, visiting nearby bars and restaurants.
• Accommodation: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, Tanjong Beach Club (day visit), and nearby luxury resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Sipping on a Lychee Mojito at an awesome pool party while DJ Aldrin was playing house music at Tanjong Beach Club! 

13. Labrador Nature Reserve

This was another great escape the city’s hustle and bustle! I also discovered the coastal park was very attractive with a gorgeous mix of lush coastal cliffs, serene rocky shores, scenic boardwalks, and even interesting remnants of WWII bunkers and a historic fort. To me, it felt peaceful and historic – it was a tranquil escape but with a touch of nostalgia thrown in!

I found it nestled in the southern part of the country, along the coastline near Pasir Panjang. It was once a key coastal defense site during World War II, but now it’s protected area home to bunkers, a former British fort, and Singapore’s last remaining rocky sea cliff! I found out from the local guide that it was home to 70 bird species, lots of different butterflies, squirrels, and the rare flying lizard.

I took the MRT to Labrador Park Station on the Circle Line and walked 10 minutes to the park, spending an afternoon here. I strolled along the Labrador Boardwalk and saw picturesque coastal views, explored Labrador Battery and saw WWII bunkers and tunnels, visited the Dragon’s Teeth Gate, and relaxed at the Rocky Shore, enjoying the cooling sea breeze!

• Location: South part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for nature walks, wildlife viewing, and historical exploration).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, birdwatching, exploring WWII relics, and enjoying scenic views.
• Accommodation: Park Hotel Alexandra, Fraser Suites Singapore, and nearby serviced apartments.
• Map Location and Directions
• Labrador Nature Reserve Website

My personal highlights… 

• Walking the well-maintained boardwalk and seeing  mangroves, rocky shores and even the remnants of old WW2 fortifications and artillery pieces.

14. Sentosa Island

This was a much-lived island resort destination! I was completely charmed by the scenery here too which consisted of golden sandy beaches, dreamy tropical landscapes mixed in with fun attractions, sleek modern resorts, waterfront villas, and fine architectural landmarks. Like many of these island resorts in Singapore it had a relaxed vibe in the day and then livened up at night when the clubs opened! 

I found it nestled off the southern coast of Singapore, connected to the mainland by a bridge, cable car, and monorail. It was originally a British military base and later renamed from Pulau Blakang Mati in 1972, but now has transformed into Singapore’s premier resort island, attracting millions of visitors annually!

I took the Sentosa Express from VivoCity and walked to it via the Sentosa Boardwalk which was a 20 minute journey in total and I spent a fun-packed three days here. I relaxed on the pretty Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong Beaches, went on a rollercoaster ride at the family-friendly Universal Studios Singapore, and walked the scenic Fort Siloso Skywalk.

I also saw awesome panoramic views from the Sentosa Cable Car and SkyHelix, experienced indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore, explored the interesting WWII tunnels at Fort Siloso, kayaked at Ola Beach Club, rode the vertigo-inducing Skyline Luge, and zip-lined at Mega Adventure Park. I skipped the captive dolphins located at Dolphin Island and Resorts World Sentosa for ethical reasons though and I decided I didn’t want to support it!

• Location: South part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy beach activities, outdoor adventures, and tourist attractions).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, zip-lining, skydiving, visiting theme parks, and dolphin watching.
• Accommodation: Capella Singapore, and beachside resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Going on a guided tour of the WWII tunnels at Fort Siloso and hearing about how it was manned by both British and Sikh soldiers from the British Indian Army who endured the humid and harsh conditions of the island.

15. Henderson Waves Bridge

This was the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore! I also discovered this unique, elevated pedestrian bridge in Singapore was very easy-on-the-eye with its striking wave-like structure made of curved wooden slats and stunning views of the lush greenery and the city skyline. It felt peaceful and scenic – a tranquil modern escape amidst nature! 

I found it was located in the southern part of the country, and connected Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. Opened in 2008, it stands at 36 meters (118 feet) above ground and is 274 meters (899 feet) long, it also has a role as being part of the Southern Ridges trail. 

I took MRT to HarbourFront Station, then took a short walk or bus ride to Mount Faber Park. I strolled across the amazing bridge taking in breathtaking views of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and the Harbourfront and experienced the natural beauty of the Southern Ridges Trail.

• Location: South part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for panoramic views and scenic walks along the bridge).
• Activities on offer: Walking, photography, enjoying panoramic views, and visiting nearby parks.
• Accommodation: Hotel Alexandra, Fraser Suites Singapore, and nearby serviced apartments.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Seeing the bridge illuminated when I stayed until 7 PM which transformed it into a stunning display of lights – I loved how the lights really enhanced its wave-like structure! 

16. Pasir Ris Park

This was a large, family-friendly park! I thought it was very scenic with lush landscapes, a tranquil lagoon, scenic cycling paths, and coastal views and the iconic Pasir Ris Beach. It felt relaxed and had the vibe of a peaceful retreat. 

It was located in the eastern part of Singapore, near Pasir Ris Beach and the Pasir Ris MRT Station. Opened in the 1980s, I saw that the large recreational park was used by both locals and visitors use for both outdoor activities and relaxation.

I took the MRT to Pasir Ris Station and from there it was a short walk to Pasir Ris Park and I kicked back and relaxed for an afternoon there. I went cycling or walking along scenic trails, ate a picnic on the Pasir Ris Beach while gazing at the gorgeous coastal views, explored the Nature Park and its mangrove boardwalk, and took a boat ride at the Fishing Pond. I also saw sports equipment such as volleyballs and barbecue sets for rent there too.

• Location: Northeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for quiet beach walks, family activities, and picnics).
• Activities on offer: Beach walks, cycling, barbecuing, and birdwatching.
• Accommodation: CherryLoft Resorts, D’Resort at Downtown East, and family-friendly resorts.
• Map Location and Directions
• Pasir Ris Park Website

My personal highlights… 

• Going on the awesome Mangrove Boardwalk and seeing mud crabs, mudskippers, and mangrove birds.

17. Granite Island (Pulau Ubin)

This small, rustic island was a hidden gem! I thought it was very picturesque with its untouched natural landscapes, rugged granite outcrops, tranquil beaches, and traditional kampong-style buildings. It felt peaceful and nostalgic, with a rustic, laid-back charm that transported me back in time to Singapore’s rural past! 

I discovered it located off the northeast coast of Singapore, accessible by boat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal and it was once a bustling granite quarrying island, but now it was a rural retreat known for its preserved kampong-style villages and natural beauty. It was also popular for summer camps and outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, kayaking, and nature walks and home to monkeys, wild boars, monitor lizards, and a number of bird species such as hornbill, kingfisher, sunbirds, and the white-bellied sea eagle.

I came here on a 10 minute ride ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to Pulau Ubin and spent a day exploring. I learnt about the island’s rich history at the Ubin Heritage Trail, cycled along scenic paths to Chek Jawa Wetlands for birdwatching, hiked through Ketam Mountain and saw for panoramic views and visited the interesting traditional kampong-style villages.

• Location: Northeast part of the country, offshore.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for outdoor exploration, biking, and wildlife viewing).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, cycling, wildlife viewing, and exploring mangroves.
• Accommodation: Ubin Living Lab (camping), Celestial Ubin Beach Resort, and nearby budget lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Going on the really interesting Ubin Heritage Trail – it was great to see the mysterious remains of the traditional Malay kampongs (villages) which were houses built on stilts and long abandoned granite quarries which had since turned into lakes.

18. Masjid Sultan

This was a grand and iconic mosque! I thought it was very striking with its stunning golden dome, intricate detailing, and grand minarets, set against the vibrant backdrop of Kampong Glam’s historic streets. It felt both serene and spiritual – to me, it was a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city! 

It was located in the Kampong Glam neighborhood, near Arab Street and was built in 1824. Masjid Sultan is one of Singapore’s oldest and most important mosques, serving as a key religious and cultural center for the Malay and Muslim community.

I took the MRT to Bugis MRT Station and from there it was a 10-minute walk. I admired the stunning architecture and the golden dome, explored the traditional Mediterranean and Turkish cafes and shops around the Kampong Glam area, visited the Malay Heritage Centre and learnt about the history of the Malay community, strolled along Arab Street which was filled with vibrant shopping and local handicrafts, and took in the tranquil atmosphere of the mosque’s courtyard.

While I didn’t take a guided tour myself, it was possible to visit inside either through a tour or outside of prayer times. Modest attire, including headscarves for women, was required, and shoes had to be removed before entering.

• Visitor Center Address: 3 Muscat St, 198833
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to explore the mosque and surrounding cultural sites in cooler weather).
• Activities on offer: Touring the mosque, attending cultural events, and exploring nearby cafes and shops.
• Accommodation: Hotel Clover 769, Village Hotel Bugis, and boutique hotels in the Kampong Glam area.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Dining on Baklava, stuffed grape leaves and strong Turkish tea served in a tulip-shaped glass at the nearby Sofra Turkish Cafe & Restaurant. 

19. Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

This was a large and serene Buddhist monastery! I thought it was very attractive with is its majestic architecture, serene surroundings, lush green gardens, intricate Buddhist sculptures and vibrant colors. It felt both calm and spiritual, with a serene atmosphere.

I found it was located in the Bishan area of central Singapore and was established in 1920. It’s one of the largest and most prominent Buddhist monasteries in the country serving as a spiritual and cultural center for the local Buddhist community and is frequented by both worshippers and visitors.

I took the MRT to Bishan Station, then it was a 20 minute walk and then I explored the grand Buddhist temple and admired the intricate Buddha statues and sculptures. 

I also strolled through the peaceful monastery gardens, visited the Buddhist Library, participated in meditation (there were also Buddhist ceremonies visitors could take part in), and soaked up the tranquil vibes of the Green Lotus Pond! 

• Visitor Center Address: 88 Bright Hill Rd, 574117
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture).
• Activities on offer: Exploring the temple grounds, visiting the Koi pond, and attending cultural events.
• Accommodation: Hotels in nearby Bishan or central Singapore, such as Ibis Novena or Days Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• The serene Koi pond with a small waterfall behind the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery, which added to the zen-like vibe. There was also a small market on the grounds where I browsed the Buddhist-related souvenirs.

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