For years, the scents of countless bakeries and luxurious malls permeated my memories whenever I thought of Singapore. Recently, I returned for the first time in 12 years. My visit made clear the city’s persistent evolution and proved that even the smallest country still has plenty to discover.
These might be some of Singapore’s classics, but after a week and a half of eating, wandering, and photographing everything in sight, I’m ready to share my guide of the places that genuinely won me over.
1. Explore malls
One of the most iconic streets in Singapore is Orchard Road, a line of luxurious shopping malls where each feels more fancy than the last. From the famous Tiong Bahru Bakery to photobooths, luxury brands, nail salons, and tea shops, each mall had something fun to browse. One of my personal highlights was the skyline view from the ION Mall. The large windows were a helpful guide to orient myself to the city, with markers pointing to different neighbourhoods and as far as Malaysia. There’s even a bar at the top for those who want to sip a drink to soak in the view.
However, my most anticipated mall was the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. As a child, it wasn’t just the high-end shops that pulled my mouth agape, but also the indoor central canal patrolled by tourists in boats. 12 years later, I still enjoyed a stroll to appreciate the luxurious shops and restaurants. However, the main attraction for a budget traveller like myself was the view from the top floor overlooking the Merlion and the Singapore River.
ABOVE: Christmastime in the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. (RIGHT) The view of the city skyline from the rooftop.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Just a walk from the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands are perhaps some of Singapore’s most famous spots today: Gardens by the Bay and the Cloud Forest. As you make your way to the main attractions, take a moment to enjoy some of Singapore’s most iconic views—from Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer to the lush gardens filled with over 1.5 million plants.
Our first stop in Gardens by the Bay was the towering Supertrees, whose suspension bridges guide visitors along the city skyline and the Singapore River. Next, we had to stop at the iconic Flower Dome and mist-enshrouded Cloud Forest. Both were impressive, innovative feats. More than 72,000 plants thrive in the Cloud Forest, and more than 50 of those species can be traced to the Jurassic Period. The Flower Dome is a love letter to the beauty of the unique habitats that span our globe, and offers a cool escape from the humidity.
We ended the visit with a delicious lunch at Satay by the Bay, a little walk down the path from the Cloud Forest. On the way, we appreciated the views of the ocean and even spotted the infamous monitor lizard.
Tip: Most attractions charge a higher ticket fee for tourists, so be sure to keep this in mind when budgeting for your trip.
ABOVE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) One of the many monuments throughout the lush, quiet trails leading to the domes; The waterfall and greenery at the heart of the Cloudforest dome; The Singapore flyer and frangipani spotted along the walk to Satay by the Bay.
Discover the rest of Singapore’s must-see spots on our travel site here: What to Do in Singapore: Top Attractions, Neighbourhoods & Insider Tips – Travel Trek and Tour
