The Nation’s Very Best: Famous Landmarks in Singapore
Singapore may be a tiny dot on the world map, but this island nation is teeming with iconic attractions. The best part is that there’s such a wide variety, so you can go from a temple to a beautiful natural landscape to a modern building in no time!
If you’re vacationing in Singapore, why not embrace your touristy side and see all the famous landmarks here? This article lists some of the most popular sights, so be sure to add them to your itinerary.
Merlion Park
Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact Number: +6567366622
The Merlion is Singapore’s official mascot, so you can’t just visit the country without ever seeing a Merlion statue. There are actually only six approved Merlion statues, and the one in Merlion Park is the most popular.
This particular Merlion statue stands almost 9 meters tall and weighs about 70 tons. It also spews out water and lights up at night—truly a sight you don’t want to miss!
Pro Tip: If you’re an early riser, I recommend coming here before the sun rises. Seeing the sun rising from the horizon and painting the statue and the whole of Marina Bay with strokes of gold is absolutely breathtaking!
Singapore Flyer
Address: 30 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039803
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 10 pm
London has the London Eye, Las Vegas has the High Roller, and Singapore has the Singapore Flyer. Standing 165 meters tall, the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world!
Because of its majestic structure, it’s hard for people—both locals and tourists alike—to resist its pull. It also helps that riding the wheel lets you enjoy a gorgeous view of the bay and the city center!
The Singapore Flyer also has other entertainment options that you might want to try. You can embark on a journey with Time Capsule, an immersive museum-like experience, or treat yourself to a fancy dinner aboard the Flyer.
Pro Tip: If you’re hungry, grab a bite at Sky View Pavilion (this restaurant specializes in Cantonese cuisine). If you prefer a cup of kopi, you can eat at Daily Kopi instead.
Marina Bay Sands
Address: 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
Contact Number: +6566888868
Marina Bay Sands is one of the most featured landmarks in Singaporean postcards and official photos. For that reason, visiting this five-star destination is on the bucket list of many people!
There are many reasons why Marina Bay Sands is iconic. Firstly, it’s an architectural marvel (the three towers holding a boat-shaped structure is impressive), and secondly, it’s an integrated resort, so it has many fun activities.
You can enjoy luxury shopping at The Shoppes, gamble away at the casino, or drink in the panoramic view at the SkyPark, an observation deck. You can also check in at the hotel for the ultimate experience!
Pro Tip: While you’re in Marina Bay Sands, don’t miss out on Spectra. It’s a nightly show featuring water jets, lasers, and a majestic orchestra soundtrack.
Plus, it’s free!
ArtScience Museum
Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +6566888888
Technically, the ArtScience Museum is part of Marina Bay Sands, but it deserves to be placed in the spotlight.
Just like Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum is architecturally stunning; it’s built to look like a giant lotus! Additionally, its design is environmentally friendly; it has rainwater harvesting systems that are used for irrigation.
Of course, you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to check out the exhibitions inside this amazing museum. They examine the intersections of design, science, and technology.
Pro Tip: If you want an in-depth exploration of the museum, you might want to join a guided tour. A tour has a dedicated guide who will discuss the museum’s history and the concepts behind the art installations and exhibits.
Esplanade—Theatres on the Bay
Address: 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Contact Number: +6568288377
Singapore has no shortage of uniquely designed buildings because here we have yet another perfect example. The Esplanade is designed to look like a durian, also known as the king of fruits (or the controversial fruit with the pungent scent).
The Esplanade is dedicated to the performing arts, and their main mission is to provide access to education and entertainment. Their calendar of events is always so full of lectures, talks, and performances.
There are also festivals hosted here, so be sure to celebrate the talents of the local arts communities here.
Pro Tip: Do you want to learn more about the performing arts? Check out the public library available here.
The Helix Bridge
Address: By the ArtScience Museum, near Marina Bay Sands
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Right by the ArtScience Museum is the Helix Bridge, which is actually one of the most popular bridges in Singapore. It’s famous partly because it’s the country’s longest pedestrian bridge and partly because of its eye-catching design.
Essentially, the bridge looks like the DNA structure, and its steel curves are so precise that you have no choice but to be impressed.
Walking this bridge also allows you to enjoy the scenery of Marina Bay, including landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.
Pro Tip: I recommend coming by this bridge at night. This is because the whole thing lights up, making it even more pleasing to look at.
The Istana
— From: halimahyacob
Address: Orchard Rd, Singapore 238823
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—8:30 am to 6 pm
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Contact Number: +6587206021
The Istana is one of the most important buildings in Singapore. It’s the official residence and office of the president, and it’s also a heritage building; it was built in 1867, making it one of the country’s oldest structures!
The best part is that you can actually visit and even tour this magnificent mansion. If you’re an architectural nerd, you’ll admire the mansion’s Palladian style; it looks like it’s taken straight from ancient Greece!
If you want to take home a souvenir, there’s a merchandise booth offering limited-edition Istana-themed items. The proceeds will go to agencies supported by the president, so you’re doing something good as well.
Pro Tip: Directly opposite the main gate, you’ll find the Istana Heritage Gallery, which captures the mansion’s transition throughout the years. I recommend stopping by here to learn more about this important Singaporean building.
The Arts House
Address: 1 Old Parliament Ln, Singapore 179429
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6563326900
The Arts House is oftentimes referred to as the Old Parliament House because it was once home to the Parliament of Singapore. Now, it’s a venue dedicated to multi-disciplinary arts.
Visit this heritage building and admire it in its majestic glory. This has been around since 1827, making it the oldest government building in Singapore—what an impressive feat!
Aside from that, you can also come here to catch a show or art exhibition. There are festivals being held here as well, so feel free to join in on the fun!
Pro Tip: Planning an extravagant event? You can rent a venue here!
Whether it’s an intimate birthday celebration or a film screening, the Arts House has something that fits your needs.
National Gallery Singapore
Address: 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +6562717000
Another iconic landmark in Singapore you should visit, especially if you’re into art, is the National Gallery. Dedicated to art and culture, this gallery houses the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean art!
Aside from Singaporean art, the National Gallery houses artifacts and other regional art of the Eastern World, especially from Southeast Asia. All in all, there are over 9,000 items here.
Exhibitions are constantly being held here, and their topics change every month. So, if there’s something that interests you, be sure to catch it because you won’t see it again in the future.
Pro Tip: You can also enjoy fine dining in the National Gallery because there are several award-winning restaurants here. In particular, you don’t want to miss out on Odette, which has three Michelin stars!
National Museum of Singapore
Address: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 6:30 pm
Contact Number: +6563323659
If you’re more of a history nerd, then the National Museum of Singapore should be on your itinerary. This museum was established in 1849, making it the oldest museum in the country; it’s also one of the largest museums in Asia.
Here, you can find a treasure trove of sculptures, paintings, drawings, and archaeological finds, which altogether depict Singapore’s past. There are also various interesting exhibitions if you want a more in-depth exploration.
You should also keep an eye out for some hidden sights. Examples include the Gemmill Fountain, which is tucked away in a courtyard, the banyan tree, and the spiral staircase.
Pro Tip: The National Museum is also one of the venues for the annual Singapore International Film Festival. So, if you happen to be visiting the country during the festival, I recommend stopping by the museum and watching a movie.
Who knows—you might come across a few international stars!
Gardens by the Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—5 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +6564206848
When you’re in the Marina Bay area, it’s impossible to overlook Gardens by the Bay. With a grove of imposing, majestic, man-made Supertrees, this public park is a sight to behold!
The Supertree Grove isn’t the only worthwhile attraction here. Two destinations I’d also recommend you check out are Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, conservatories hosting countless species of plants and flowers.
Because of the many unique attractions inside Gardens by the Bay, it’s not a surprise that it attracts millions of visitors every year.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the Garden Rhapsody. It’s a nightly show where the Supertree Grove lights up and a grand orchestra music plays in the background.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—5 am to 12 am
Contact Number: +6564717138
Another iconic destination for botany lovers is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This public garden was founded in 1859, so it has quite a long history; it was actually recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015!
Aside from being a heritage site, the Botanic Gardens is a leading institute in botany. Various species of orchids are cultivated here, especially Vanda Miss Joaquim, a hybrid orchid that’s currently regarded as Singapore’s national flower.
Do you just want to take a break from the city? The Botanic Gardens has got you covered as well! Simply head to any of the themed gardens and bask in the serenity.
Pro Tip: This park is quite massive, so walking around might get you tired pretty fast. Instead of walking, I recommend renting a bike and biking around the park; it’s a great way to exercise, plus it’s fun!
Fort Canning Park
Address: Along Hill Street, Canning Rise, Clemenceau Avenue, and River Valley Road
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact Number: +6518004717300
When you step foot in Fort Canning Park, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. This hilltop landmark has seen countless moments in Singapore’s history—from the 14th century to World War II.
One notable historical landmark here is the Battle Box, a hidden museum that was once the Underground Far East Command Center during the war. Here, you can find the original rooms and bunkers used by the soldiers at the time.
Aside from being a historical landmark, Fort Canning Park is an Instagram-worthy spot. There are walls covered with vines that are so pretty to look at; the spiral staircase with creeper plants above is particularly popular.
Pro Tip: Go on a guided tour if you want a more meaningful exploration of the park. Tours are provided by the park’s volunteers and free of charge; joining one lets you see the park’s different historical artifacts.
Clarke Quay
Address: 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024
Speaking of attractions that have witnessed many of Singapore’s historical milestones, Clarke Quay is another perfect example. And it’s conveniently located near Fort Canning Park, so it’s easy to visit if you’re already there.
Clarke Quay used to be a mooring space for bumboats from the 19th century up to the latter half of the 20th. Nowadays, the area has become a tourist destination; there’s a shopping mall full of restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines.
At night, the quay becomes a pretty sight because of all the lights reflecting on the water. It’s the perfect time to go on a leisurely stroll, be it alone or with a special someone.
Pro Tip: I recommend going on a boat tour along the river; that way, you’ll be able to see some of the city landmarks from a new perspective.
Lau Pa Sat
— From: foodfolks.sg
Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact Number: +6562202138
Hawker centers play an integral part in Singapore’s local culture, so it would be remiss of you if you don’t visit at least one during your visit. If you’re looking for recommendations, you can’t go wrong with Lau Pa Sat.
Lau Pa Sat’s origins can be traced back to the 1820s, so this hawker center is also a historical landmark. Now, it’s home to many stalls selling a wide variety of cuisines—from local favorites to Western dishes.
And since this hawker center is open 24 hours, it can also serve as a nightlife destination. You can come here with your friends during the wee hours of the night, drinking and eating to your heart’s content.
Pro Tip: If eating is all you want to do, I recommend coming during the day because that’s when most food stalls are open. However, if you want a chill time drinking with your friends, during the evening is the best time to visit.
CHIJMES
Address: 30 Victoria St, Singapore 187996
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
CHIJMES, pronounced as “chimes,” stands for Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Middle School, and as you can guess from the name, it was once a convent and an educational institution. Now, it serves as an entertainment center.
The roster of restaurants here is impressive; both casual and fine-dining options are available, so you can enjoy a food trip. If you’re feeling tired, you can book a massage; there’s also a hair salon if you want to have a makeover.
Don’t forget to take photos as well. The building’s architectural style is stunning, making it a perfect background for your selfies.
Pro Tip: CHIJMES also has a Mexican grocery shop named La Mexicana. This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on your favorite Mexican ingredients, such as authentic salsas and guacamoles, because you might have a hard time finding them elsewhere.
Sultan Mosque
Address: 3 Muscat St, Singapore 198833
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 9 pm
Contact Number: +6562934405
Also known as the Masjid Sultan, the Sultan Mosque is a highlight if you’re walking along Arab Street, and why shouldn’t it be? It’s a building with a shiny golden dome for a roof; your eyes can’t help but be drawn to it!
Aside from its eye-catching architectural design, the Sultan Mosque is a heritage building. It has been around since colonial times, and it’s been an important monument for the local Muslim community.
Even if you’re not Muslim, you can still visit this mosque to admire its beauty. Don’t miss out on the Sultan Gate as well, just a few paces away from the mosque. It’s just as impressive-looking, and it’s perfect for your photos.
Pro Tip: During important Islamic events like Hari Raya, the Sultan Mosque becomes lively with celebrations. If you’re interested, you can stop by here and join in on the festivities.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Address: 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058840
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—7 am to 5 pm
Contact Number: +6562200220
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the most popular temples in Singapore. It’s known for the Sacred Buddha Relics, which allegedly include the Buddha’s brains, blood, muscle, and left canine tooth (hence the museum’s name)!
These relics are believed to be more than 2,500 years old. Additionally, the canine tooth is placed in a stupa that’s made of 320 kg of gold!
Aside from the historical relics, the temple is a beautiful sight to see. Its architecture is inspired by the Chinese Tang Dynasty, and there are several chambers inside, including a museum and a vegetarian restaurant.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling stressed, you might want to join the meditation sessions held here. You can also stroll through the roof garden and embrace the serenity there.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8:30 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6562693411
Located all the way up north, the Mandai Wildlife Reserve is a haven of wild animals. This area comprises several themed parks, and you can choose which to visit (though I recommend checking out all of them).
The Singapore Zoo is the most popular choice; it houses 4,200 animals across 300 species, and around 34% are threatened. The enclosures also mimic the animals’ natural habitats, so you’ll feel immersed during your visit.
Aside from the Singapore Zoo, you can find River Wonders (a river-themed zoo—you can even go on a boat ride here!), Bird Paradise (a bird park with 3,500 birds), and Night Safari (the first nocturnal park in the world).
Pro Tip: For a more seamless experience, download the Mandai app before you visit the reserve.
This app gives you interactive digital maps and reminders (so you won’t get lost or forget about a presentation you’ve booked), suggested itineraries, and more.
Henderson Waves
Address: Along Henderson Road, Singapore
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
If you haven’t noticed by now, many of the structures in Singapore go all in when it comes to architecture. Henderson Waves, a pedestrian bridge, is no exception.
There are many impressive things about this bridge. First is its design, which is arguably its main highlight; its shape curves and twists like waves, and it’s made of steel arches and curved slats of Balau wood!
Secondly, it’s long and tall. It towers above a green forest, so you can enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of nature; for this reason, hikers love hiking here.
Pro Tip: If you’re a bird enthusiast, be sure to bring binoculars when walking on the Henderson Waves. There are also spotting zones where you can stake your spot as you hunt for avians like Pacific swallows, house crows, and Japanese sparrowhawks.
Mount Faber
Address: 109 Mount Faber Rd, Singapore 099203
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday—8:45 am to 9:30 pm
- Friday and Saturday—8:45 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +6563779688
Mount Faber is mostly associated with the Singapore cable car since you can find a station there. It’s also a pit stop to Sentosa since all cable cars are heading to this resort island.
But aside from all this, Mount Faber is an attraction in its own right. You can hike up to the peak, make a wish on a bell, or say hello to one of the approved Merlion statues.
For foodies, there are a few dining options available here. If you can afford it, you should definitely try the cable car sky dining; it’s fine dining with a view!
Pro Tip: Traveling with your partner? The two of you might want to ring Poland’s Bells of Happiness.
Rumor has it that doing so will grant you eternal happiness in your relationship.
SkyHelix Sentosa
Address: 41 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore 099707
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6563610088
SkyHelix Sentosa is one unique way to enjoy a panorama of the island. It’s an open-air gondola that slowly rotates as it goes up to a height of 79 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest vantage points on Sentosa!
This is definitely not for people who are scared of heights, but even if you are, you won’t want to miss this ride because the view is breathtaking. It stretches from Sentosa to Keppel Bay and even to the Southern Islands!
You’ll also receive a complimentary drink, so you’ll be able to stay refreshed all throughout. If you don’t want a drink, you can choose to bring home a complimentary exclusive souvenir instead.
Pro Tip: I recommend visiting at night because the view during this time is absolutely breathtaking. The skyscrapers are all lit up, so it looks like the harbor and the skyline are twinkling!
Sentosa SkyJet
Address: Beach Station, 21 Beach View Road, Singapore 099699
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 10 pm
The Sentosa SkyJet is kind of new in the Sentosa scene, but it’s definitely worth checking out. It’s a water fountain that can spew water up to 80 meters high (or a 24-story building), making it the tallest fountain in Southeast Asia!
It’s even better if you stop by at night because this water fountain is illuminated by 24 LED lights. The colors dance and twinkle on the water, which creates such a beautiful sight!
Pro Tip: Sometimes, there are light and water shows held here. If your schedule permits it, wait for these shows. They’re so fun to watch!
Universal Studios Singapore
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +6565778888
Universal Studios is a world-renowned amusement park, and it has a location in Singapore. In fact, this is the only Universal Studios park in Southeast Asia, so you better make the most out of it!
This particular branch has six themed zones, each with its own rides and aesthetics. Hollywood lets you walk down the iconic Walk of Fame, The Lost World transports you to the age of dinosaurs, and Far Far Away is all about fairy tales.
Don’t forget to try the thrilling rides that will get your heart pumping! And if you’re hungry, stop by Cairo Market to get a refreshing snack.
Pro Tip: If you can afford it, I recommend buying an express pass. An express pass lets you cut the line of certain rides; that way, you don’t have to wait for hours just to get on your favorite rides.
S.E.A. Aquarium
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 5 pm
Located near Universal Studios is S.E.A. Aquarium, and it’s another iconic landmark of Singapore that’s perfect for animal lovers.
This aquarium’s sheer size is enough to take your breath away. It holds about 45 million liters of water and houses over 100,000 marine animals from 1,000 species!
There are also 10 different zones, each housing certain groups of animals. And if you really want to have a memorable experience, you can even go camping for a night or two inside the aquarium!
Pro Tip: The tickets to the S.E.A. Aquarium tend to sell out fast, so if you really want to visit this attraction, you have to do it beforehand. It’s also recommended that you purchase directly from the Resorts World Sentosa’s official website.
Siloso Beach
Address: Siloso Beach Walk, Singapore
Singapore is located along the Earth’s equator, which means that it can get really hot down here. Luckily, there are several amazing beaches here, and one of them is Siloso Beach in Sentosa.
What makes this beach great is that it’s teeming with exciting things to do. Of course, you can swim in the sea or sunbathe on the sandy shores, but you can also play volleyball or go canoeing with your friends.
For more fun, be sure to head to Skypark Sentosa and cross out bungee jumping off your bucket list; it’s terrifying but definitely worth it! Aside from bungee jumping, you can also try the Giant Swing, which makes you feel like you’re flying high in the sky.
Pro Tip: At night, Siloso Beach becomes a party paradise. So, don’t be afraid to dance along to the lively music or befriend new people at bustling bars.
Fort Siloso
Address: Siloso Road, Singapore 099981
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6567368672
Discover the lesser-known history of Sentosa by stopping by Fort Siloso. This fort was built in the late 1800s and became an active battleground during World War II; now, it’s decommissioned, but it’s been transformed into a war museum.
This historical landmark is filled to the brim with war memorabilia. There are even wax figures of soldiers scattered around, so you’ll feel as if you’re back in the day when the fort was still used as military ground!
There’s also the Fort Siloso Skywalk where you can enjoy the view of Sentosa’s green forests. This is also a perfect spot to watch sunsets if that’s something you’d like to do.
Pro Tips:
- You’re free to tour Fort Siloso by yourself; if you prefer this setup, I recommend downloading the brochure so that you won’t get lost around the area.
- You can also join a guided tour if you want to have a more knowledgeable person to take you around the fort. This tour is free, and you have to sign up on this page to secure your spot.