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Interesting Spots You Must Visit in Singapore!
With so much to see and do in Singapore, figuring out the best way to maximise your time there might be a challenge. If you’re not sure where to begin, here’s a list of some interesting and unique places to visit in Singapore.
1. Telok Ayer/Downtown/Central Business District
Did you know you can catch a stunning skyline featuring Singapore’s gleaming skyscrapers from the Singapore River waterfront?
Photo by Anywheel on Facebook
We recommend renting from a shared bicycle service like Anywheel and cruising down the Marina Bay waterfront. All you need to do is to download the app and follow the onscreen instructions to rent a bike. It’s that simple!
Photo by My Awesome Cafe Singapore on Facebook
Once you’ve found your ride, cycle to the bustling area of Telok Ayer — where you’ll find plenty of popular restaurants and bars that come alive at night.
If vintage cafés with secondhand furniture and unfinished walls sound appealing to you, head to My Awesome Cafe. It’s a homely space where you can dig into brunch staples and order from an incredible selection of cocktails and wine. Don’t forget to snap a few photos too!
My Awesome Cafe: 202 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068639
Photo by Shin Gi Tai on Facebook
If you want something a little more unique, head to Shin Gi Tai. This nondescript speakeasy bar might be hard to spot (hint: it’s on the second floor), but once you find it, you’ll find yourself in an ambient space with 180 cocktail options made-to-order, as well as delicious Izakaya-style snacks like duck curry udon.
Shin Gi Tai: 179a Telok Ayer St, #2nd Floor, Singapore 068627
Where to stay
AMOY Boutique Hotel, Singapore
Spend the night at the Chinese heritage-inspired AMOY Boutique Hotel. It’s located just a five-minute walk away from Boat Quay, where you’ll find waterfront restaurants with al fresco seating options by the Singapore River.
Photo (left) by Oasia Hotel Downtown, Singapore; (right) The Clan Hotel, Singapore
Alternatively, you can opt for a stay at the elegant The Clan Hotel, which is located just opposite the Telok Ayer MRT Station, or the beautiful Oasia Hotel Downtown in Tanjong Pagar, the go-to area for Korean and Japanese cuisine in Singapore.
2. Orchard
When in Singapore, one simply must hit up by the 2.2-kilometre long Orchard Road for some retail therapy. However, away from the hustle and bustle of the shopping district lies ION Sky: a 56-storey high art gallery that doubles up as the top vantage point in the city.
At the top, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. Take your time as you admire the cityscape and take in the view. Don’t forget to also check out the immersive digital art exhibits on your way up! Once you’re done, treat yourself to a meal at 1-Atico, one of Singapore’s most stunning rooftop restaurants.
1-Atico: 2 Orchard Turn, #55-01 ION Orchard, Singapore 238801
Photo by Roots Singapore
A short distance away from ION Sky lies the ambient district of Tanglin. Here, there is one unique attraction that you can’t miss: Tudor Court. This colonial-era shopping mall was first built in the 1920s to serve as quarters for civil servants. Today, the 16th-century Tudor building houses a selection of specialty shops like custom jewellers and hair salons on its ground floor, and easily stands out from the modern shopping malls of Orchard Road.
Tudor Court: 131 Tanglin Rd, Singapore 247924
Photo by Battlebox on Facebook
Heading in the opposite direction of Tanglin, history lovers will want to visit Battlebox at Fort Canning Park. This museum was once an underground bunker that served as the headquarters of the army that defended Singapore during WWII. Today, walking through the dark corridors will be a glimpse into a past marking the country’s darkest period.
You’ll even see an exhibit of the very site where the British command made the monumental decision to surrender Singapore to the invading Japanese on 15 Feb 1942.
Battlebox: 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622
Where to stay
Quincy Hotel, Singapore
If you’d like to remain close to Orchard Road while enjoying some peace and quiet, choose Quincy Hotel. This hotel is every foodie’s dream: Instagrammable restaurants along Orchard Road, with the popular and affordable Newton Food Centre not too far away.
Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, which is located near the World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens and the Tanglin district, is another fine choice.
Rendezvous Hotel Singapore
On the other end of Orchard Road near Dhoby Ghaut, you’ll find Rendezvous Hotel Singapore. Art lovers will definitely love this hotel, as it’s in the heart of the country’s museums.
3. Bugis/Little India
Bugis may be known for its shopping malls and the bustling Bugis Street, but did you know that streets of murals and unique eateries populate the area, too?
Photo by Momolato on Facebook
Take the Instagrammable Haji Lane for instance, where the pastel ice cream shop of Momolato lies. This spot is known for its “croffles”, or buttery and flakey croissant-like waffles. Top it off with a scoop of ice cream which comes in a range of flavours; our favourites are Strawberry Cheesecake and Blue Pea Hokkaido Vanilla Creme Brulee.
Momolato: 34 Haji Ln, Singapore 189227
Image credit: Crafune on Facebook
Also on Haji Lane, you’ll find a few hidden novelty shops that allow you to engage in unique experiences. For example, at Crafune, you’ll be able to craft your own bespoke wallets, cardholders, passport holders, and more.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a memorable souvenir, stop by the striking Drunken Balloon where you can find quirky novelty items, board games, and retro memorabilia.
Crafune: 02-01, 38 Haji Lane, Singapore 189231
Drunken Balloon: 84 Haji Lane, Singapore 189273
Where to stay
Village Hotel Bugis, Singapore
Immerse yourself right in the midst of Bugis and its surrounding streets by staying at Village Hotel Bugis. You’re situated right along Arab Street and just under five minutes away from the eatery-lined North Bridge Road.
Further down from Bugis, you’ll find Little India. A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without adding some culture and heritage to it. After your walk down the streets of temples and marketplaces, stop by one of the many Indian restaurants to fuel your appetite.
Village Hotel Albert Court, Singapore
If you’d like to be within walking distance of restaurants and malls in the area, place yourself in the centre of Bugis and Little India at Village Hotel Albert Court.
4. Katong
If café hopping is on your to-do list when in Singapore, then head to Katong. Along with East Coast, Siglap, and Marine Parade, this area boasts streets of Instagrammable cafés, açaí bowl joints, and yoga studios for that midday pick-me-up.
Photo by Katong Antique House on Facebook
Apart from ambient cafes, one of the more secret locations in Katong that you have to visit is Katong Antique House. Here, you’ll be able to dive deep into the Peranakan history of the area and view beautiful antiques from the past.
Upon appointment, you’ll be able to view the house with the owner, Baba Peter Wee, who will be more than happy to teach you about Peranakan culture as you tour the hose together. You can also sample some Peranakan food and buy some books while you’re there.
Katong Antique House: 208 East Coast Road, Singapore
Photo by Visit Singapore
To learn about multiculturalism in Singapore, put Eurasian Heritage Gallery to your must-visit list. This museum in Singapore lets visitors learn about the rich history and culture of the small but vibrant Eurasian community here.
Eurasian Heritage Gallery: 139 Ceylon Rd, The Eurasian Association, Singapore 429744
Where to stay
Village Hotel Katong, Singapore
At Village Hotel Katong, you’re in a prime position to enjoy the area’s cafés, East Coast Park, and shopping malls like Parkway Parade.
5. Sentosa
Sentosa is the sunny destination for Singaporeans looking for a weekend at the beach, a lavish staycation, or attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark. You’ll also find vantage points of offshore islands, lighthouses, marinas, a riverfront mall, and houses boasting impressive architecture at Sentosa Cove.
Photo by Zula
If you’re looking for something a little different on Sentosa, check out Scentopia, its latest attraction. Offering one-of-a-kind tours and workshops, Scentopia is your one-stop solution for all things perfume in Singapore. Discover the heritage and history of aromas, spotlighting Singapore’s Orchid’s and Sentosa’s plants! Make and bring home your very own fragrance as a unique souvenir! What’s more, if you bring along your smart phones with Facebook app pre-installed, you can also experience over 250 augmented reality exhibits.
Scentopia: 36 Siloso Beach Walk, Singapore 099007
Photo by Sentosa
In addition, when in Sentosa, one historical landmark that can’t be missed is Fort Siloso, located on Sentosa’s westernmost point. This military museum depicts Singapore’s time during WWII, where you’ll see batteries that made up “Fortress Singapore” during this period.
Fort Siloso: Siloso Rd, 099981
Photo by Greenwood Fish Market on Facebook
Greenwood Fish Market @ Quayside Isle offers sea-to-table dining by the marina. With a fish market, oyster bar, and a seafood kitchen, this restaurant easily serves one of the freshest seafood in Singapore. From Tuesday evening to Sunday, you can even order dishes with a Japanese and Asian twist!
Greenwood Fish Market @ Quayside Isle: 31 Ocean Way, #01-04/05, 098375
Where to stay
The Barracks Hotel, Singapore
Not many visitors know of Sentosa’s rich wartime history before it became a thriving destination for locals and tourists alike. This is why a stay at The Barracks Hotel Sentosa after your visit to Fort Siloso makes for a memorable stay.
Oasia Resort Sentosa, Singapore
Picture Oasia Resort Sentosa as an oasis within the lush Sentosa island. Activities here focus on mindfulness and wellbeing, with natural amenities and nature trails just outside. Imbiah Monorail Station is also under five minutes away, giving you access to everything else that Sentosa has to offer.
With many neighbourhoods, streets, and plenty of areas to explore, we hope that this list has given you a head start on how to begin your journey around Singapore!
Are you planning on visiting Sentosa with your loved ones? Check out our ultimate guide to enjoying a romantic Sentosa island getaway here.
