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  • Singapore Tips and Tricks: Tourist Attractions and Travel Essentials for First-Timers

    Susmita Banerjee
    Susmita Banerjee
    Last updated 2 Jan 2025
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    Singapore Best Attractions

    Image credits to Klook & Alicjia Ziaj from Unsplash

    Looking for fun times at unforgettable places? Visit Singapore! Tourist attractions in the Lion City are countlessly unique and overflowing with fun. You can explore amusement parks in Resorts World Sentosa, stop by a wildlife park in Mandai Wildlife Reserve, or relax at Siloso Beach. With its beautiful cityscape, exciting itineraries and a welcoming atmosphere that feels just like home, your first trip to Singapore will surely become a precious memory.
    Don't be overwhelmed by the many Singapore tourist attractions open in its bustling metropolis! If you're a first-time visitor, read on for our guide to Singapore tourist places and travel tips to make the most of your visit.

    Travel Documents You Need for Your Singapore Visit

    Travel documents
    Make sure to have all your travel documents on-hand as you head to Singapore! Credits: Curated Lifestyle from Unsplash
    If you have a non-Singapore passport, you need at least a 6-month validity period on it to be able to enter the country.
    You can check if your country needs a visa on the website of Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. Apply for a visa through a Local Contact with a Singpass/Corppass account, or at a Singapore Overseas Missions.
    Singapore requires all foreign visitors to submit a Singapore Arrival Card within three days before arrival through either the SGAC e-Service or MyICA Mobile app.
    Once you've submitted all these documents, proceed through the airport's immigration checkpoints, and get ready to kick off your visit to all the places to visit in Singapore!

    What to Pack When Visiting Singapore

    Merlion Park Singapore
    Don't forget to pack your outfit for that obligatory Merlion Park tourist selfie! Credits: Alicjia Ziaj from Unsplash
    There are many outdoor spots to visit in Singapore, like the Chinese Outdoor Gardens, Sentosa Island, and the famous Merlion Park, so pack accordingly with sunscreen, breathable clothing, and comfortable shoes.
    Depending on your itinerary, you might have places to visit that require a swimsuit, like Adventure Cove Waterpark and Siloso Beach.
    Of course, don't forget these travel essentials!

    Amazing Singapore Tourist Attractions

    Singapore skyline and Marina Bay Sands in evening
    Home to beloved tourist attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, and the National Gallery Singapore, this world-class city state is on every traveler's bucket list! Credits: Getty Images from Unsplash
    Once you've landed, you've got plenty of activities to choose from. Here are the best tourist attractions to visit in Singapore!

    1. Jewel Changi Airport

    Largest indoor waterfall in the world at the Canopy Park in Changi International Airport
    Stand in awe of the largest indoor waterfall in the world at the Canopy Park! Credits: Klook
    If your flight lands in the Jewel Changi Airport, you're already in one of the best places to visit in the entire city-state! In 2023, Jewel Changi was crowned the best international airport in the world, as it featured shopping hubs, dining areas, eye-catching attractions, and an indoor theme park.
    Rain Vortex in Changi International Airport
    Spend time with your family near Rain Vortex Credits: Klook
    Nature lovers will be delightfully surprised to see the Rain Vortex, which is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, as well as the Canopy Park and Petal Garden, inside the airport.
    Klook Tip: Is your flight touching down elsewhere? Don't worry, the Jewel Changi is open to tourists and locals alike, even if you don't have a plane ride booked on its runway!

    2. Universal Studios Singapore

    Hollywood in Universal Studios Singapore
    Your family vacation isn't complete without a visit to Universal Studios Singapore! Credits: Klook
    Universal Studios Singapore is the only Universal Studios in Southeast Asia. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, it boasts thrilling rides, memorable live performances, and a chance to meet your favorite characters!
    Resorts World Sentosa
    Resorts World Sentosa is home to Universal Studios and more must-see places to visit in Singapore! Credits: Klook
    Located on the Southern Coast, Universal Studios Singapore is part of Resorts World Sentosa, which also includes the Adventure Cove Waterpark, Siloso Beach, and the S.E.A. Aquarium for any fans of marine life.

    3. Gardens by the Bay

    The Carnival of Flowers at Gardens by the Bay reimagines Aussie wildlife as floral arrangements!
    The Carnival of Flowers at Gardens by the Bay reimagines Aussie wildlife as floral arrangements! Credits: Klook
    Nature lovers will feel at home in Gardens by the Bay, one of Singapore's top tourist attractions. It contains a collection of nature-friendly parks and conservatories, from the Supertree Grove to the Flower Dome.
    Especially beautiful is its waterfront promenade, where the Bay East Garden is located, which features a view of Singapore's shoreline.
    Klook Tip : Gardens by the Bay often hosts themed events like carnivals, art exhibitions, and floral shows. Keep an eye out in case any of these activities fall on the dates of your Singapore stay!

    4. Museum of Ice Cream

    Museum of Icecream
    With tasty sweets and quirky playgrounds, you're in for a treat when you visit the Museum of Ice Cream! Credits: Klook
    With exhibits you can see, touch, and taste, the Museum of Ice Cream is one of the most unique Singapore museums! Indulge in unlimited ice cream treats while playing in its sprinkle pool and unicorn playground.
    Klook Tip: The Museum of Ice Cream is open daily in Singapore. Opening hours usually span from 10 AM to 7 PM, with the last entry being 5:45 PM.

    5. Singapore Zoo

    Have a hearty interaction with adorable tuskers at the Singapore Zoo
    Have a hearty interaction with adorable tuskers at the Singapore Zoo. Credits: Klook
    As an award-winning wildlife park home to over 2,800 animals, Singapore Zoo is a must-visit in Singapore.
    Make new friends with the animals at Singapore Zoo!
    Make new friends with the animals at Singapore Zoo! Credits: Klook
    You can find Singapore Zoo in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which also features the Singapore Night Safari, River Wonders (the only river-themed wildlife park in Southeast Asia), and Bird Paradise.

    6. Singapore Flyer

    As you ride the Singapore Flyer, stand tall above Singapore's beautiful cityscape.   Credits: Klook
    As you ride the Singapore Flyer, stand tall above Singapore's beautiful cityscape. Credits: Klook
    As the largest observation wheel in Asia, the Singapore Flyer is one of the top tourist attractions in Singapore. Spot the famous Merlion Park and other stunning landmarks from the Flyer's birds' eye view.
    Sight-seeing on the Singapore Flyer is an unforgettable adventure for the whole family!   Credits: Klook
    Sight-seeing on the Singapore Flyer is an unforgettable adventure for the whole family! Credits: Klook
    The Singapore Flyer also hosts premium dining experiences and multi-sensory immersive activities for you to enjoy alongside its stunning view of the city skyline.

    Get Easy Access to Singapore Tourist Attractions

    Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass
    Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass Credits : Klook
    Adventure Cove Waterpark
    Get access to Singapore Cable Car, Adventure Cove Waterpark, Trick Eye Museum, and more with Klook Pass Singapore! Credits: Klook
    From visits to Gardens by the Bay and Madame Tussauds' Wax Museum, to rides on the Singapore River Cruise, Singapore Flyer, and Singapore Cable Car, enjoy entry to Singapore tourist attractions with just one purchase of Klook Pass Singapore.

    How to Travel Around Singapore

    Klook Transport Pass

    Klook Transport Pass for Singapore
    Sport a pop of color as you carry the limited-edition Klook Transport Pass on a cashless Singapore commute! Credits: Klook
    Tourists and locals alike usually use the subway, which spans Singapore's entire island city-state. Use the NETS FlashPayCard for cashless payments on public transport. You can also use it to pay at food courts, convenience stores, and even some hawker centers!
    Klook Tip: Klook's limited edition NETS FlashPayCard also doubles as a souvenir, as it is decorated with famous Singapore icons!

    Rent a Car around the Lion City

    新加坡環球影城交通方式包車
    Rent a private car around the Lion City. Credits: Klook
    You could also rent a car to travel around Singapore!
    Choose your pick-up and drop-off locations, whether at Changi Airport or Universal Studios Singapore. You can also select your car size and model to find the right fit for you.

    Wi-Fi and SIM Cards While Sightseeing in Singapore

    SIM 4G/5G Ở Singapore (Nhận Tại Sân Bay Singapore Và Thành Phố) Của Singtel
    Stay connected with your loved ones even across the Indian Ocean. Credits: Klook
    The Klook eSIM Singapore allows you to activate a data plan without a physical SIM card.
    It is compatible with most models of iPhone, Samsung, or Pixel. You can check if your device is eSIM-compatible in this detailed list and through these steps.
    With easy activation via the Klook app, the Klook eSIM allows multiple data plans on a single device.

    Basic Etiquette for When You Visit Singapore

    First time visiting Singapore? Here are some do's-and-don'ts when it comes to Singapore manners:
    Singapore's hawker centers
    Keep your table manners casual but polite in Singapore's hawker centers. Credits: Klook
    When you try Singapore's famous street food, note that seating in hawker centers is first-come, first-serve. It's common to leave placeholder items, like tissues, on tables to "reserve" them as you are lining up to order.
    When visiting tourist destinations, remember that spitting and littering are strictly illegal.
    Because punctuality is highly valued in Singapore society, hotel guests are expected to arrive by check-in time.
    Klook Tip: Singapore's ethnic diversity results in a vibrant cultural heritage. Whenever you visit a cultural site like a Hindu temple or Buddhist shrine, don't forget to research that culture's specific customs.

    Where to Stay In Singapore

    marina-bay-sands-singapore
    Marina Bay Sands' world-class amenities are the pride of Singapore tourism. Credits: Klook
    Marina Bay Sands is internationally acclaimed for its stellar locations and top-notch amenities. Overlooking Marina Bay, the Marina Bay Sands is near many of Singapore's most popular sites, like the Merlion Park and the Marina Centre.
    Book your room at Marina Bay Sands now!
    Singapore also offers a wide range of unique accommodations beyond Marina Bay Sands. From boutique hotels in Chinatown to luxurious stays on Sentosa Island, prepare to be spoilt for choice. Explore vibrant neighborhoods and find your perfect place to stay in Singapore.

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