Singapore is a vibrant destination that effortlessly bridges the gap between ancient traditions and a daring, futuristic vision. Often referred to as the Garden City, this island nation has spent decades weaving lush tropical flora into its towering steel-and-glass skyline.
To help you discover all the city’s highlights and hidden gems, we have put together the best things to do in Singapore for your upcoming itinerary.
When is the Best Time to Visit Singapore?
Singapore is a year-round destination with a constant tropical warmth that rarely dips below 24°C. For the clearest skies and least rainfall, the months between March and August are generally considered the best time to visit Singapore. During this window, lower humidity makes outdoor sightseeing at the Botanic Gardens Singapore or the Marina Bay far more comfortable.
While the official Singapore rainy season runs from November to January, tropical showers are common regardless of the month. These short, sharp bursts often provide a refreshing break from the heat, and the city’s extensive network of covered walkways ensures that your plans remain uninterrupted. Whether you are visiting for the lush landscapes or the urban landmarks, any month offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the Lion City.
What To Do In Singapore
Whether visiting for the first time or returning to see how the skyline has evolved, the sheer breadth of places to visit in Singapore ensures that no two trips are ever the same. From the moment you land at the world-class Jewel Changi Airport, it becomes clear that this is a city designed to inspire. Singapore sightseeing is a seamless blend of heritage and high-tech; one hour you might be navigating the historic Civic District, and the next, you could be marvelling at the bioluminescent glow of the Supertrees.
Enchanting Flora at Gardens By The Bay In Singapore
The incredible views offered by the city’s urban landscapes and manicured gardens should be your first port of call. Take the Gardens by the Bay, for example. Adjacent to the island’s famous Marina Bay Singapore, spanning a total of 101 hectares, this multi-award-winning attraction features over half a million plants. It’s home to two climate-controlled conservatory domes, the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, where some of the most fascinating vertical plant displays on Earth reside. Within the Cloud Forest, you will find the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, measuring an incredible 35 metres tall. For many travellers, this is the definitive must-see in Singapore.
Aerial Splendour on the Singapore Flyer
You can take in the entire city from above on the Singapore Flyer, which remains one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. At a height of 165 metres, each of its 28 capsules rotates slowly to provide panoramic views over the Singapore River and iconic Singapore landmarks such as the Padang.
On a clear day, your gaze can extend as far as Sentosa Island and even the coastlines of Malaysia and Indonesia.
Iconic Horizons at Marina Bay
One of the most exciting places to visit in Singapore is undoubtedly Marina Bay. This area acts as the city's centrepiece, where you can admire stunning views of the water against a backdrop of world-class architecture. The waterfront features a promenade measuring over 3.5km, linking together many of the area’s key Singapore tourist attractions, including the ArtScience Museum and the Marina Bay City Gallery. From watching the nightly light and water show to strolling during the golden hour, it’s a top part of any trip.
A Walk Through History in the Civic District
We recommend spending time in the Civic District if the history of the island intrigues you. Often considered the birthplace of modern Singapore, this area includes a dedicated heritage trail that walks you through a timeline from the colonial period and wartime through to the present day. Significant sites include the Raffles Landing Site, where Sir Stamford Raffles is reputed to have first set foot on the island in 1819, and the tranquil Esplanade Park.
For those travelling on our Spectacular New Zealand tour, the Civic District is an ideal area to explore during your initial stopover. You can use your Freedom Day to wander the heritage trail at a leisurely pace.
Strategic Stopovers: Gateway to the Antipodes
Many travellers find that the Lion City serves as the perfect opening chapter to a wider exploration of the Southern Hemisphere. Far more than just a transit point, Singapore is a dazzling destination in its own right, offering a seamless transition from the UK to the wonders of Australasia. By beginning your journey here, you can ease into your holiday pace, soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere and world-class hospitality before continuing your adventure.
For those embarking on the Treasures of New Zealand tour or Australia & New Zealand Discovery tour, these itineraries, expertly designed for solo travellers, feature a curated two-night stay in the heart of the city. This initial stop is the perfect way to find your feet and immerse yourself in Singapore's vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Practical Wisdom for the Modern Traveller
Before you depart, it’s worth noting a few logistical details to ensure your journey is seamless. Regarding Singapore entry requirements, currently, British citizens do not require a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days, though you must complete a digital SG Arrival Card within three days of landing.
When packing your electronics, the Singapore plug type is Type G, which is the same three-pin plug used in the UK. The Singapore time zone operates eight hours ahead of London during the winter months.
Communication and Culture
Singapore is proudly multilingual, with Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil widely spoken. English is the main language in Singapore for business, administration, and daily life. You will find that almost everyone speaks English fluently, making it an incredibly easy destination to navigate for British travellers.
Sourcing the Best Restaurants and Singapore Street Food
If you’re on the hunt for the best restaurants in Singapore, you will find everything from high-end French bistros in the CBD to fresh, handmade pasta near the Botanic Gardens. However, for a truly authentic taste of the island, head to a Singapore food market. The Singapore street food scene is legendary, with hawker centres like Maxwell or Tiong Bahru offering Michelin-recognised dishes for just a few pounds.
Begin Your Extraordinary Journey Today
If the allure of the Lion City has captured your imagination, why not make it the first chapter of your next extraordinary adventure? Whether you choose to cross the globe on our Australia & New Zealand Discovery tour, or prefer the focused wonder of our Treasures and Spectacular New Zealand itineraries, Singapore is waiting to welcome you with open arms. For those flying with Singapore Airlines, our homebound Singapore stopovers are also available on our Very Best of Vietnam & Cambodia, Discover Vietnam & Cambodia and Classic Vietnam & Cambodia tours.
Our dedicated travel specialists are on hand to help you plan every detail of your journey, ensuring your stopover is as seamless as it is memorable. Contact the friendly team at Distant Journeys today to request a brochure or discuss your travel plans, and take the first step toward a holiday that stays with you forever.
First published 20/05/2026
