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Things to Do
Singapore Attraction Guides
Which famous sights are worth your time and money, how long they take and how to skip the queues.
This page gathers EatStays Singapore attraction guides. Use them to decide which famous sights are worth your time and money, how long each one takes and how to skip the queues. Below, you will find our quick picks by area, with tips on tickets, timing and free alternatives.
Plan it with EatStays: Top Attractions and Gardens by the Bay.
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How to use these Singapore attraction guides
These Singapore attraction guides help you plan the big sights without wasting time or money. Singapore is small, but its top attractions are spread across Marina Bay, Sentosa and the north of the island. Group sights by area, book the paid ones online and mix in free spots. That way you see more and queue less.
Marina Bay: the city's showcase
Most first-time visitors start at Marina Bay. Several top sights sit within walking distance of each other.
- Gardens by the Bay (half a day): free outdoor gardens and Supertrees, plus two paid, cooled glass domes.
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck (about an hour): a paid viewing deck at the top of the hotel towers.
- Singapore Flyer (under an hour): a giant observation wheel with views over the bay.
- Merlion Park (free): the city's famous half-lion, half-fish statue.
- ArtScience Museum (one to two hours): changing exhibitions in a lotus-shaped building.
Read What Is Marina Bay Famous For? Its Landmarks Explained to plan the area.
Sentosa and the Mandai wildlife parks
Sentosa is a resort island off the south coast. Universal Studios Singapore takes a full day. The Singapore Cable Car is a scenic way to arrive. For beaches and smaller attractions, see Sentosa Island Day Out.
In the north, Mandai is home to Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari and Bird Paradise. Pair the zoo by day with the Night Safari after dark. There is no MRT station at Mandai, so allow time for a shuttle bus or taxi.
Other popular sights
- Jewel Changi Airport: the Rain Vortex indoor waterfall inside a glass-domed mall. It is easy to add before a flight.
- Singapore River Cruise: a short boat ride past Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Marina Bay.
- Singapore Botanic Gardens: a free UNESCO World Heritage Site with a paid orchid garden.
- Orchard Road: the city's main shopping street, lined with malls.
- Bugis Street: a busy market for low-cost clothes, snacks and souvenirs.
How to skip the queues and save money
- Book online. Most big attractions sell dated tickets online, often at a lower price than the counter.
- Go early on a weekday. Crowds build from late morning and peak at weekends and on public holidays.
- Look for bundles. Some attractions sell combined tickets. Compare them with single tickets before you buy.
- Use express passes wisely. They cost extra but can save a lot of time at Universal Studios Singapore on busy days.
- Mix in free sights. The Supertree Grove, Merlion Park and the evening light shows cost nothing.
Prices change often, so check the official sites for the latest prices. Visit Singapore, the official tourism site, lists events and attraction news. For free ideas, read 20 Free Things to Do in Singapore. For a full plan, try The Perfect 3-Day Singapore Itinerary.
Tips for a better day of sightseeing
- Plan by area. Pair Gardens by the Bay with the SkyPark, or the zoo with the Night Safari.
- Beat the heat. Do outdoor sights early, then head indoors at midday.
- Carry an umbrella. Storms come and go fast, and it also gives shade.
- Use the MRT. It reaches most top sights. See How to Use the MRT in Singapore: A Tourist Guide.
FAQs about Singapore attractions
What are the top attractions in Singapore for first-time visitors?
Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay, Sentosa, the zoo and the Night Safari are the most popular. Add a walk through Chinatown or Little India for local culture.
How many days do I need to see Singapore's main sights?
Three to four days cover the main sights at a relaxed pace. Add a day if you want both Universal Studios Singapore and the Mandai parks.
Is the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark worth it?
It gives a wide view over the bay and the city. If you would rather not pay, Merlion Park and the Helix Bridge offer free views from ground level.
Which Singapore attractions are free?
Merlion Park, the Supertree Grove, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Jewel's Rain Vortex and the Marina Bay light shows are all free.
Should I buy attraction tickets in advance?
Yes, for the big parks and observation decks. Advance tickets often save money and time, especially at weekends and in school holidays.