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Written by: Emily Chen
Landmarks in Singapore
- Updated: September 30, 2023 | Published:
Welcome to the vibrant city-state of Singapore, a melting pot of cultures, architectural marvels, and breathtaking natural attractions. This tropical paradise offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler, from families and couples to history enthusiasts and food lovers.
In this guide, we take you on a journey through Singapore’s top 12 landmarks, where you’ll find iconic structures, lush gardens, bustling neighborhoods, and a rich cultural tapestry. Explore Marina Bay Sands’ luxurious offerings, marvel at the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, or step back in time at the historic Raffles Hotel.
So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure as you uncover the magic and allure of Singapore’s most captivating sights.
Iconic Landmarks in Singapore
1. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: Spectacular architecture, luxury shopping, fine dining, the SkyPark Observation Deck, ArtScience Museum, and Gardens by the Bay
- Ideal For: Couples, families, architecture enthusiasts, luxury travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 6 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Marina Bay
Marina Bay Sands, an iconic integrated resort, dominates Singapore’s skyline with its striking design. The resort comprises a luxury hotel, a shopping mall, a casino, and the Sands SkyPark, which features an Infinity Pool and an Observation Deck offering breathtaking views of the city.
The ArtScience Museum, located within the complex, showcases innovative exhibitions combining art, science, and technology. Nearby, the Gardens by the Bay offers a stunning horticultural attraction with its Supertree Grove and climate-controlled conservatories.
2. Singapore Flyer, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A 30-minute ride on the world’s second-largest observation wheel, panoramic views of Singapore’s cityscape, and the Journey of Dreams interactive gallery
- Ideal For: Families, couples, photographers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 1 million
- Geographical Location: Downtown Core, Marina Bay
The Singapore Flyer, standing at 541 feet, offers an unparalleled view of Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay, and even parts of neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia on clear days. Each air-conditioned capsule accommodates up to 28 passengers, and the entire rotation takes approximately 30 minutes.
The Flyer also houses the Journey of Dreams, an interactive gallery that tells the story of Singapore’s transformation and the creation of the Flyer itself.
3. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: Futuristic gardens, the iconic Supertree Grove, two climate-controlled conservatories, and nightly light shows
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, photographers, architecture enthusiasts
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 6.4 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Marina Bay
Gardens by the Bay, a 101-hectare horticultural attraction, boasts a collection of themed gardens, the Supertree Grove, and two climate-controlled conservatories. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest showcase diverse plants from around the world, while the Supertrees come alive with a mesmerizing light and sound show every evening.
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4. Sentosa Island, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: Beaches, theme parks, golf courses, dining, and shopping
- Ideal For: Families, beach lovers, adventure seekers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 19 million
- Geographical Location: South of Singapore’s Central Region
Sentosa Island, a popular resort destination, offers a variety of attractions and activities, including Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium, and three pristine beaches. With its mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping options, Sentosa caters to all ages and interests.
5.Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the National Orchid Garden, themed gardens, and free guided tours
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, photographers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 5 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Tanglin
The Singapore Botanic Gardens, a 161-year-old tropical garden, holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gardens feature the National Orchid Garden, with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, as well as themed gardens, such as the Evolution Garden and the Healing Garden. Free guided tours are available
6. Merlion Park, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: The iconic Merlion statue, picturesque waterfront views, and photo opportunities with the city skyline as a backdrop
- Ideal For: Families, photographers, city explorers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 2 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Marina Bay
Merlion Park, located at the mouth of the Singapore River, is home to the famous Merlion statue, which symbolizes the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing village. The 28-foot-tall statue, with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is a must-visit spot for taking selfies and photographs with the city skyline and Marina Bay as a backdrop.
7. Chinatown, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: Bustling street markets, traditional shophouses, temples, and authentic local cuisine
- Ideal For: Food lovers, culture enthusiasts, shoppers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 3 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Outram
Singapore’s Chinatown, a vibrant cultural enclave, offers a mix of history, culture, and delicious local cuisine. Visitors can explore the colorful street markets, sample traditional dishes, and visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple, both significant religious sites.
8. Little India, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A lively, colorful neighborhood, street markets, Indian cuisine, and Hindu temples
- Ideal For: Food lovers, culture enthusiasts, shoppers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 2 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Rochor
Little India, a bustling and colorful neighborhood, immerses visitors in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Indian culture. Explore the vibrant street markets, savor authentic Indian dishes, and visit the stunning Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a significant Hindu temple in the area.
9. Clarke Quay, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A vibrant riverside entertainment hub, dining, bars, clubs, and river cruises
- Ideal For: Nightlife enthusiasts, food lovers, couples
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 3 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Singapore River
Clarke Quay, situated along the Singapore River, is a lively entertainment and dining hub. Visitors can enjoy an array of international cuisines, bars, and clubs, or take a relaxing river cruise to admire the city’s illuminated skyline.
10. Orchard Road, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A 2.2-kilometer shopping boulevard, luxury malls, department stores, and dining options
- Ideal For: Shoppers, fashion enthusiasts, food lovers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 4 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Orchard
Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping destination, offers a 2.2-kilometer stretch of luxury malls, department stores, and dining options. With its wide variety of international brands, local designers, and trendy eateries, it’s a must-visit for shopaholics and food lovers alike.
11. Raffles Hotel, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A historic luxury hotel, the famous Singapore Sling cocktail, and guided heritage tours
- Ideal For:History enthusiasts, luxury travelers, couples
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 1 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Downtown Core
Raffles Hotel, an iconic colonial-style hotel, has been a symbol of Singapore’s rich history since its opening in 1887. Visitors can savor the famous Singapore Sling cocktail at the Long Bar, dine at one of the hotel’s fine restaurants, or take a guided heritage tour to learn about its storied past. The hotel also features a shopping arcade with a selection of luxury boutiques.
12. National Museum of Singapore, Singapore
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
- What to Expect: A comprehensive overview of Singapore’s history and culture, interactive exhibits, and temporary exhibitions
- Ideal For: History enthusiasts, families, culture seekers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 1 million
- Geographical Location: Central Area, Museum
The National Museum of Singapore, the country’s oldest museum, offers a comprehensive overview of Singapore’s history and culture through its permanent galleries and interactive exhibits.
Visitors can explore the museum’s diverse collection, which spans from the island’s early history to its present-day multicultural society. Temporary exhibitions also showcase regional and international art and culture, providing a dynamic experience for museum-goers.
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