Best Tourist Area in Singapore: Top 8 Spots

Singapore is a small island country located in Southeast Asia. Despite its size, Singapore is one of the most prosperous countries in the world and is known for its cleanliness and safety.

The country offers a variety of attractions for tourists, ranging from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers.

If you’re looking for the best tourist area, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, I will share 8 tourist areas where you can experience the best of Singapore.

1. Singapore River

There are many ways to enjoy the 2.95 km long Singapore River. You can walk along the river, cruise, or visit the many bars and restaurants.

To enjoy the iconic Singapore River, both Boat Quay and Clarke Quay is the best place for you. The area is full of bars and restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out.

Boat Quay is located in the Central Business District (CBD), and Clark Quay is near Fort Canning Hill. Both are easily accessible by public transport.

Boat Quay offers stunning river vistas complemented by a breathtaking skyline. It’s ideal for those seeking a serene spot to appreciate the scenery.

If you’re looking for a place to drink and party, Boat Quay and Clark Quay offer something for you, and the nightlife there is vibrant and exciting.

You can walk along the Singapore River from Clark Quay to Boat Quay and vice versa. It is a great way to see both sides of the river.

You can also take a river cruise to enjoy the views of the Singapore River and get a different perspective of the city.

Nearest MRT Station: Raffles Place, Clark Quay, Fort Canning, Havelock

Attractions

• The Fullerton Waterboat House was the Master Attendant’s Office in the late 18th century. The Singapore harbor moved to Keppel in 1852. Still, before that, the Master Attendant oversaw all water activities from within this building.
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is a colonial-style architecture built in 1928, located on the banks of the Singapore River’s mouth. Named after the first governor of the Stratis Settlement, it was initially known as the General Post Office Building.
• Victoria Concert Hall is a concert hall located in the central area of Singapore. It is the principal concert venue for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. It occasionally plays host to other musical performances and events.
• Asian Civilisations Museum is one of the best museums in Singapore. It is located along the banks of the Singapore River. The museum focuses on Pan-Asian cultures and civilizations, making it a great place to learn about Asian history and culture.
• Cavenagh Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the lower Singapore River Downtown. It was opened in 1869 and is the oldest bridge in its original form in Singapore that still exists today.

2. Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the best tourist areas in Singapore, and history or culture fans will love this place.

The area is known for its Chinese culture, heritage, and delicious food, and it is also a great place to find cheap souvenirs and gifts.

The area is rich in history; you can see this from the architecture and street art. The buildings are a mix of old and new, some dating back to the early 1800s.

Chinatown also has several temples, such as the Sri Mariamman Temple and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

There are many shops in Chinatown where you can find cheap clothes and souvenirs.

Many restaurants and cafés offer different cuisines, including high-end serving such as fine dining can also be found in the area.

According to its official Website, Chinatown consists of 5 precincts.

1. Kreta Ayer
2. Ann Siang / Club Street
3. Telok Ayer
4. Tanjong Pagar / Duxton
5. Keong Saik / Bukit Pasoh

Nearest MRT: Chinatown Station, Outram Station, Telok Ayer Station, Maxwell Station, Tanjong Pagar Station

Attractions:

• Chinatown Heritage Centre is the place for you if you want to learn more about the history of Chinatown. (Temporarily Closed)
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum is a Buddhist temple that houses one of Buddha’s teeth and is located on Chinese Street.
• Sri Mariamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, dating back to 1827. The temple is located on South Bridge Road.
• Masjid Jamae is one of the oldest mosques in Singapore, dating back to 1827. The mosque is located on South Bridge Road. 
• Singapore City Gallery is located inside the URA Center. The gallery is free and open to the public. It is a great place to learn about the history and planning of Singapore.
• Jinrikisha Station is a historic two-story building. Built-in 1903, Jinrikisha Station was once used as the main deport for rickshaws. The building was one of the first structures in Tanjong Pagar to be reconstructed by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) in 1987.
• Baba House is a museum in Singapore that showcases the Peranakan history, architecture, and heritage. It is a traditional Peranakan pre-war terrace house that was formerly owned by the family of a 19th-century shipping tycoon who settled in Singapore.

Official Website: chinatown.sg

3. Orchard Road

If you’re looking for a place to shop till you drop, Orchard Road is the best tourist area in Singapore for you.

Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping street and is often called the shopping paradise.

The street is home to several high-end malls, such as ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Tangs Plaza. They come with many luxury brands, department stores, and local boutiques.

If you’re a shopaholic, Orchard Road is the place for you. Be sure to bring your credit card or prepare enough cash.

There are lots of restaurants and cafes on Orchard Road as well. You can find almost any cuisine, from local to Western to Asian food.

There are many hotels in the area, so you can easily find a place to stay. However, do note the hotels in this area are more expensive than in other areas.

Orchard Road is also home to many events and festivals throughout the year. The street comes alive during Christmas with festive decorations and lights.

If you’re looking for a place to shop, dine, and have fun, Orchard Road is the best tourist area in Singapore for shoppers and foodies alike. 

The best time to visit this place is during the annual Great Singapore Sale (GSS) event. During the GSS, you can enjoy up to 70% discounts at participating stores.

Nearest MRT: Orchard Station, Somerset Station, Dhoby Ghaut Station

Attractions

• Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though not located at Orchard Road, it is located along Holland Road, which is not far off.
• Fort Canning Park is a small hill formerly known as Government Hill, as Sir Stamford Raffles built his residence there.
• National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in Singapore, dating back to 1849. 
• Peranakan Museum is a museum dedicated to the Peranakans, also known as Straits-born Chinese. It is not located near Orchard Road but is not far away. 

4. Marina Bay

Marina Bay is a place worth visiting when in Singapore. The attractions, restaurants, and views make it one of the top tourist destinations in the city.

Located in the downtown region south of Singapore, Marina Bay is one of Singapore’s most iconic tourist destinations.

The area is home to several attractions, including the world-famous Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Merlion, and Singapore Flyer. You will find lots of tourists around the Marina Bay area.

Marina Bay is a great place to enjoy views of the city skyline if you’re looking for a place to take some great photos.

Plenty of food options can be found around the bay area. Chinese, Japanese, Western, and other international cuisine restaurants are all available. You can also easily find a food court located in Marina Bay Sands and other shopping malls.

If you’re looking for things to do in Marina Bay, check out the Marina Bay Sands Casino. The casino has everything from table games to slot machines. If gambling isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other things to do at the Marina Bay Sands.

The Gardens by the Bay is a must-see in Marina Bay. The garden is home to various plants and trees and two impressive conservatories. The Supertree Grove in the park will also be illuminated at night, making for some great photos.

There are many events around the Marina Bay area, such as the New Year’s eve countdown or the Formula One night race, where you can enjoy fireworks. For those looking for a place to stay, many hotels in the area offer excellent views of Marina Bay.

Nearest MRT: City Hall Station, Raffles Place Station, Esplanade Station, Bayfront Station, Promenade Station, Gardens by the Bay Station

Attractions

• ArtScience Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum showcasing exhibitions that blend art, science, culture, and technology. It is located at Marina Bay Sands.
• Marina Barrage is a dam built across the Marina Channel to create Singapore’s 15th reservoir, providing water and recreation to the city.
• Red Dot Design Museum is a boutique museum that showcases 300 award-winning design works that have won the Red Dot award.
• Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is Singapore’s premier arts center. “The Durian” resemblance structure holds a 1,600-seat Concert Hall and a 2,000-seat Theatre.
• Apple Store at Marina Bay Sands is a must-visit for users and fans. It is the first Apple Store in the world located on an artificial island surrounded by water. It provides an unobstructed 360-degree panoramic city view with an impressive skyline.
• SkyPark Observation Deck is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Singapore. The deck is located on the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands hotel and offers stunning city skyline views. Visitors can also see the Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay and more from up high.

5. Bras Basah and Bugis

The precinct is a hub for creativity, history, and design located in the central part of Singapore. The area contains many famous museums and landmarks that attract tourists from all over the world.

Bras Basah is one of Singapore’s oldest districts, and it got its name from the Malay term ‘wet rice.’ Wet rice was once laid out on the banks of the Bras Basah River (which is now the Stamford Canal).

Every August, the heart of Lion City comes alive with a medley of night-time celebrations, with the Singapore Night Festival (SNF) illuminating the heritage district of Bras Basah.Bugis.

This precinct is a beautiful mix of rich heritage and modern art and architecture, representing Singapore’s thriving creative communities while also honoring our forefathers’ legacy.

It has recently become a hub for artists, students, and creatives, with its abundance of art schools, museums, galleries, and cultural collectives.

The School of the Arts, Singapore Management University, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, and LASALLE College of the Arts are all located here. While each has its unique architecture, visitors may wish to visit to appreciate the atmosphere.

You also should check out these two malls in this area if you are looking for laptops, computers & electronic devices.

Nearest MRT: Bugis Station, City Hall Station, Bras Basah Station, Bencoolen Station,

Attractions

• Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a popular spot for local worshippers. Many believe praying to the Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) idol inside will bring good luck.
• National Library is a 16-story, two-block building located on Victoria Street on an 11,304–square meter site. The flagship library of Singapore is the country’s largest public library.
• Bras Basah Complex is a well-known hub for textbooks, educational resources, and art materials among Singapore locals. Built-in 1980, Bras Basah Complex is a place worth exploring to learn about young locals in their education.
• MINT Museum of Toys contains a renowned international collection of vintage toys and collectibles housed in an award-winning building. The collection consists of over 50,000 toys and other objects from childhood dating back to the mid-19th century until the mid-20th century.
• St. Joseph’s Church served as the home base for the Portuguese Mission in Singapore. The church was constructed in the Latin cross layout and designed using neo-gothic principles.
• Singapore Art Museum was the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary visual arts when it opened in Singapore. The museum has an extensive collection of artwork by local, Southeast, and East Asian artists.
• The Jews of Singapore Museum exhibits the Jewish community’s history in Singapore, dating as far back as the early 1800s. As the Jewish population grew, the Maghain Aboth Synagogue was established to serve the Jewish community. 
• Nation Design Centre occupies the 120-year-old premises of the former St. Anthony’s Convent. The development of the NDC comprises the restoration and adaptive reuse of the conservation buildings, consisting of three pre-war Art Deco blocks and one Modern post-war block.

6. Kampong Gelam

Sometimes also referred to as Kampong Glam. ‘Kampong’ in Malay refers to a ‘compound,’ while ‘gelam’ refers to the long-leaved paperbark tree.

This is an excellent place for someone interested in exploring culture and heritage, something different from the usual tourist traps.

Kampong Gelam is one of the most historic districts in Singapore, tracing its origins back to when Sir Stamford Raffles allocated the area to different Muslim communities in the 1800s.

Since restored and refurbished, new life has been breathed into the area. It is now known for its vibrant street art and unique shops, and the site has become quite the hotspot for art and culture.

Kampong Gelam is not only about culture and heritage. It is also a great place to shop for unique items you cannot find anywhere else. For example, some boutique stores offer a mix of clothes, accessories, home decor, and more.

Walking through the streets of Kampong Glam, you will be surrounded by an array of colors, with the majestic Sultan Mosque standing as a backdrop to the wall of eclectic mix-the indie boutiques.

These include modern boutiques and trendy cafes that offer great views for patrons who want to sit outside on their porches while they enjoy some espresso or tea.

As dusk falls, Haji Lane and Bussorah Street come alive with late-night revelers. You can find restaurants and bars while music can be heard throughout this heritage area that delivers these rich experiences.

Nearest MRT Station: Bugis, Nicoll Highway

Attractions

• Malay Heritage Centre, the former palace of Sultan Hussein Shah, displays specially curated exhibitions, activities, and programs highlighting Malay culture in Singapore.
• Vintage Camera Museum is Singapore’s only museum dedicated to antique photography. It has around 1000 cameras of all sizes on display.
• Sultan Mosque was built in 1824. This grand architecture of the national monument is the biggest mosque on the island.

Official Website: visitkamponggelam.com.sg

7. Little India

Little India is an excellent place for those looking for a cultural experience. It’s charming and full of history, and you can find many beautiful things reflecting Singapore’s Indian community.

The best way to experience Little India is by wandering around and taking it all in. The area is full of color and life, and there’s always something interesting to see.

Some of the highlights include the colorful shops and markets, the beautiful temples, and the delicious Indian food. There’s also a lively atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else in Singapore.

The best time to visit Little India is during October or November during the Hindu festival of Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights. During this time, the whole area is decorated with lights.

The area is home to many Hindu temples, such as Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. You can also find many Indian shops and restaurants there.

The area is also home to the famous Mustafa Centre. This 24-hour shopping mall sells almost everything, but the things they sell might not be suitable for all types of crowds.

If you are looking for Indian spices, saris, and gold jewelry, you can begin your search from Tekka Centre and the nearby places.

Tekka Centre also has a traditional wet market or food court that sells fresh meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and dry goods.

Nearest MRT: Little India Station, Jalan Besar Station, Farrer Park Station

Attractions

• The former House of Tan Teng Niah is believed to be the last Chinese villa in Little India. The house was restored and conserved in the 1980s for commercial use. Tan Teng Niah was a respected Chinese businessman who owned several sweet-making factories along Serangoon Road.
• Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a historical building in Singapore, constructed in 1855, dedicated to the worship of Vishnu. The temple was built on the land purchased from the East India Company in 1851. It was officially designated as a National Monument of Singapore in 1978.
• Masjid Abdul Gaffoor is one of Singapore’s most iconic and well-known mosques. It was constructed in 1859 and boasts a unique fusion of styles from Southern India, the Moghul Empire, and Europe.
• Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu Temple was a place where Hindus worshipped the goddess Kali. The temple began as a small shrine in 1855. It was expanded into a full-fledged temple in 1881.

8. Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is a popular tourist destination just off Singapore’s southern coast. The island has many attractions, including Madame Tussauds Singapore, Universal Studios Singapore, and more.

Sentosa Island offers various tourist activities, from its beaches and golf courses to amusement parks and casinos.

Visiting Sentosa Island during the weekdays is best as weekends get crowded. The best time to go would be in the morning as there are fewer people and you enjoy more of the attractions.

There are places to stay on Sentosa Island. Some of the best hotels on Sentosa Island include Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa, Capella Singapore, Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, Hotel Michael, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, and Equarius Hotel.

These luxurious accommodations offer stunning island views and various amenities and activities, including spas for guests.

Nearest MRT Station: HarbourFront

Attractions

• Universal Studios Singapore is an amusement park with six themed zones, each with its own rides and attractions. Visitors can experience the thrill of riding a roller coaster. There is also a water park and a movie studio where visitors can learn about movie making.
• Madame Tussauds Singapore – The attraction features wax figures of celebrities, politicians, and other notable figures. Visitors can take photos with their favorite stars or pose for a selfie.
• Sentosa Merlion is a 37-meter tall statue of a mythical creature that is half lion and half fish. The figure is on Sentosa Island, one of Singapore’s most popular photo spots. Visitors can take a picture with the Merlion or enjoy the views from its observation deck.
• SEA Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It is a must-visit for any tourist in Singapore. The aquarium houses more than 100,000 marine animals from over 800 species, making it one of the world’s most diverse collections of marine life. 
• SkyPark Sentosa by AJ Hackett is a 47-meter-high bungee jump platform. Visitors can take a leap of faith and bungee jump off the platform or enjoy the views of Sentosa Island and Singapore from the observation deck.
• Skyline Luge Singapore is a gravity-powered ride that takes riders down a track on a sled. There are 4 tracks to choose from, each longer than 600 meters.
• Adventure Cove Waterpark features seven exciting water rides that will pump your adrenaline. For a thrill, try Pipeline Plunge, where you’ll drop down a high chute and careen across banked turns and radical twists before splashing out in a pool of water. 
• iFly Singapore has a world-renowned wind tunnel that is 16.5 feet wide and 56.5 feet tall, making your flying dreams come true. This indoor skydiving experience is inside a wind tunnel with 18-foot-tall acrylic glass walls. You’ll enjoy the beautiful South China Sea and Siloso Beach views while guided by a professional instructor.