4 Best Things to Do in Singapore for First-Time Visitors

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Singapore, also known as the Lion City and Garden City, is such a vibrant destination! Traveling here for the first time, I was immediately struck by how it blends nature, futuristic vibes, and a super clean city feel. This small tropical country packs in a ton of experiences that feel both global and uniquely local. Keep reading for the top things to do in Singapore — you won’t want to miss these!

1.) Visit Gardens by the Bay

No trip to Singapore is complete without experiencing the iconic Gardens by the Bay. It quickly became one of my favorite attractions to wander through. From the futuristic Supertree Grove to the indoor Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, everything felt so surreal. Don’t miss the magical light and sound show at night either. It’s the perfect mix of nature, art, and innovation — great for a relaxing daytime stroll or snapping photos in the evening.

Recommended time: 2 to 3 hours

Admission:

  • Supertree Grove: Free
  • Cloud Forest + Flower Dome (bundle): SGD $35 for adults, $20 for children
  • OCBC Skyway: SGD $12 for adults, $8 for children
  • Book on Klook for more package options

2.) Explore Chinatown

Chinatown in Singapore is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and incredible food. It’s a great area to get lost in (which I accidentally did haha). I found myself strolling through colorful streets, exploring the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and visiting Sri Mariamman Temple — the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. You can shop for unique souvenirs at the street markets, and the hawker food scene here is unmatched. Be sure to stop by Maxwell Food Centre, famous for its Michelin listed Tian Tian Hainanese chicken rice, and the nearby Chinatown Complex Food Centre.

Recommended time: 4 to 6 hours

Admission:

  • Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Free (donations welcome)
  • Sri Mariamman Temple: Free (donations welcome)

3. Experience the ArtScience Museum

Located at Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum blends creativity, technology, and innovation — all inside a building shaped like a lotus flower. Inside, you’ll find immersive exhibitions that explore where art and science meet. As I walked through the exhibits, it felt like all my senses were engaged. Plus, it was the perfect indoor spot to cool off from Singapore’s heat!

Recommended time: 2 to 3 hours

Admission:

  • Rotating exhibitions: between SGD $22–$53 per exhibit depending on the show
  • Combo tickets (bundle multiple exhibits): SGD $30–$70, depending on selection
  • Book on Klook for more package options

4. Stop by Jewel Rain Vortex at Changi Airport

Whether you just landed or are departing Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport is worth a stop — especially to see the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery in the Shiseido Forest Valley, it’s a stunning mix of nature and architecture that feels like stepping into a futuristic jungle. At night, the waterfall transforms with a light and sound show that’s totally free to enjoy.

Recommended time: 1 to 2 hours

Admission:

  • Rain Vortex and Forest Valley: Free

Know Before You Go

Before your trip, you might be wondering what you need to know to prepare for Singapore. Check out my blog 7 Helpful Tips to Prepare for Your Trip to Singapore for everything you should know before you go. I hope you enjoy Singapore as much as I did!

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