Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Singapore for Every Traveler
We've shared our first impressions of Singapore, budget travel tips, and unique experiences in previous articles. Now, discover our top five essential spots that no visitor should miss—even on a short trip of just a couple of days.
Here are the five places we recommend prioritizing during your Singapore adventure:
Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island offered the perfect escape from Singapore's vibrant city life. We arrived via the scenic cable car and headed straight to its stunning beaches—a hidden gem we didn't expect in this urban hub. As the southernmost point on continental Southeast Asia, Sentosa boasts endless entertainment: Universal Studios, Butterfly World, Underwater World, Dolphinarium, Sky Tower, and Adventure Park. Reach it by MRT and explore via bus.
Kampong Glam
Known as Singapore's 'Muslim Quarter' for its vibrant community and mosques, Kampong Glam is our favorite neighborhood. Wander through colorful shophouses, sip coffee in cozy teahouses, or browse textiles on Arab Street. Don't miss the iconic Sultan Mosque, Singapore's most impressive.
Marina Bay
Contrasting Kampong Glam's charm, Marina Bay is Singapore's financial heart, lined with skyscrapers housing global institutions. Admire the Marina Bay Sands' iconic infinity pool from above. Stroll the bay: visit the Merlion statue, Esplanade theaters, ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge, and modern sculptures. For the best views, head to the 57th-floor bar at Marina Bay Sands—drinks cost around $20 with unobstructed panoramas. 
Chinatown
Singapore's ethnic enclaves shine, from Kampong Glam's Muslim vibe and Little India's affordable eats to Chinatown's allure. Enjoy budget-friendly restaurants (cheapest alcohol in town), traditional Chinese medicine shops, and restored architecture along Pagoda Street. Once notorious for vice, it's now one of Singapore's loveliest areas, especially aglow with red lanterns at night.
Haw Par Villa
This quirky, free attraction delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. Built in 1973 by Tiger Balm's founders, its gardens feature over 1,000 statues depicting Chinese mythology—from bizarre scenes like breast-milking elders to the Ten Courts of Hell. Unfamiliar with the folklore? It's still unforgettable and utterly unique.
Have you visited Singapore? What are your must-see recommendations?
