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Introduction
Singapore is one of those destinations I never get tired of visiting.
I’ve been to Singapore 11 times already—some trips with my family and three as a solo traveler—and every visit feels different. Even after more than a decade of returning, I still discover new attractions, cafes, and hidden corners of the city.
Some of my favorite areas include Sentosa for attractions, Marina Bay for iconic views, and Haji Lane for colorful photo spots. When it comes to shopping for pasalubong, I always find myself returning to Bugis and Chinatown.
One thing I love most about Singapore is how easy it is to explore. The transportation system is efficient, attractions are easy to reach, and traveling solo feels safe and convenient.
If you’re planning your first Singapore trip, these are the 12 places I personally recommend.
Why I Keep Coming Back to Singapore
I’ve visited Singapore 11 times, including 3 solo trips and multiple family vacations. The recommendations in this guide are based on places I’ve personally visited and hotels I’ve personally stayed at.
My Top 12 Places To Visit In Singapore
1. Jewel Changi Rain Vortex
Why Visit:
The world’s tallest indoor waterfall is usually my first or last stop in Singapore. It’s free to visit and makes a great introduction to the city.
tip: Visit in the evening for the light show.
2. Old Hill Street Police Station
Why Visit:
One of the most colorful buildings in Singapore and a favorite photography spot.
Tip: Stand across the street to capture the entire facade.
3. CHIJMES
Why Visit:
A beautiful heritage complex filled with restaurants, cafes, and stunning architecture.
tip: Visit during golden hour.
4. Haji Lane
Why visit?
One of my favorite areas in Singapore for Instagram-worthy photos. The colorful murals, cafes, and boutique shops make every visit enjoyable.
tip: Visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
5. Chinatown
Why visit?
Chinatown is one of my favorite places to visit in Singapore for its vibrant mix of culture, food, shopping, and history. It’s also where I usually shop for pasalubong because there are plenty of souvenir stores and affordable finds.
Tips:
Visit in the late afternoon so you can explore during the day and experience the lively atmosphere at night.
Wear comfortable shoes because the best way to explore Chinatown is on foot.
6. Singapore River Cruise
Why visit?
One of the best ways to see Singapore’s skyline and historic landmarks from a different perspective.
tip: Book a sunset cruise.
7. Singapore Flyer
Why visit?
A relaxing way to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
tip: Choose a sunset timeslot.
8. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Why visit?
One of my favorite places in Singapore. The observation deck offers incredible views of Marina Bay and the city skyline.
tip: Visit before sunset and stay until the city lights turn on.
9. Cloud Forest
Why visit?
A beautiful indoor rainforest featuring waterfalls and lush greenery.
tip: Bring a wide-angle lens for the waterfall.
10. Harry Potter: Visions of Magic
Why visit?
A fun immersive attraction for Harry Potter fans.
11. Universal Studios Singapore
Why visit?
One of Sentosa’s most popular attractions and perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
must-try: Transformers Ride and Revenge of the Mummy.
12. Singapore Oceanarium
Why visit?
An immersive marine attraction that is perfect for both kids and adults.
Where I Stayed In Singapore
As a solo traveler, I always choose hotels that are near MRT stations and have convenience stores or food options nearby.
Hotel Boss
Nearest MRT: Lavender MRT
Why I Like It:
Walking distance to the station and food options nearby.
V Hotel Lavender
Nearest MRT: Lavender MRT
Why I Like It:
Direct access to the MRT station and very convenient.
Hotel Bencoolen
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT
Why I Like It:
Easy access to attractions and shopping districts.
V Hotel Bencoolen
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT
Why I Like It:
Convenient location for sightseeing.
Furama City Centre
Nearest MRT: Chinatown MRT
Why I Like It:
Close to Chinatown and great for souvenir shopping.
“Looking for a convenient place to stay? These are the hotels I’ve personally stayed in during my Singapore trips.”
Transportation Tips
One reason I keep returning to Singapore is how easy it is to get around.
From Changi Airport, it is simple to reach hotels and attractions using public transportation.
During my earlier trips, I used an EZ-Link card. These days, I usually use my GCash Visa card or GoTyme card for tap-and-go payments on buses and MRT trains.
I also use my GoTyme card to withdraw Singapore dollars from UOB ATMs at Changi Airport whenever I need cash.
Klook.comMy Favorite Areas In Singapore
Sentosa
Perfect for attractions, beaches, and family-friendly activities.
Marina Bay
Home to some of Singapore’s most iconic views.
Haji Lane
One of my favorite photo spots in the city.
Bugis
Great for affordable shopping and souvenirs.
Chinatown
One of my favorite places to buy pasalubong and explore local culture.
Related video
Singapore Travel Essentials
Before Your Trip:
✓ Hotel Accommodation
✓ Universal Studios Singapore Tickets
✓ Singapore Oceanarium Tickets
✓ Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Tickets
✓ Airport SIM Card or eSIM
✓ Airport Transfers
✓ MRT-Friendly Payment Card
Final Thoughts
After 11 visits, Singapore remains one of my favorite destinations in Asia.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, there’s always something new to discover—from iconic attractions and hidden photo spots to delicious food and unique neighborhoods.
And if you’re like me, one trip to Singapore is rarely enough.
“Some places are worth visiting once. Singapore is the kind of place that keeps calling you back.”
Klook.com💰 Sample Singapore Travel Costs
One of the biggest misconceptions about Singapore is that it’s extremely expensive. While some attractions and hotels can be pricey, I find that Singapore can still fit different budgets depending on your travel style.
Here’s a rough estimate based on my own trips:
Budget Traveler
Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 80–150 (₱3,500–₱6,500)
Includes:
- Budget hotel or hostel
- MRT and bus transportation
- Hawker center meals
- Free attractions and sightseeing
Mid-Range Traveler
Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 180–300 (₱8,000–₱13,000)
Includes:
- 3-star to 4-star hotel
- MRT transportation
- Mix of hawker centers and restaurants
- Paid attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, or Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Family Traveler
Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 350+ (₱15,000+)
Includes:
- Family-friendly hotel
- Attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and Singapore Oceanarium
- Restaurant dining
- Shopping and souvenirs
Typical Costs
🏨 Hotels
- Budget: SGD 80–150 per night
- Mid-range: SGD 150–300 per night
- Premium: SGD 300+ per night
🚇 Transportation
- MRT/Bus rides: SGD 1–3 per trip
- Airport to city via MRT: SGD 2–4
- Taxi/Grab: SGD 15–40+
🍜 Food
- Hawker Center Meal: SGD 5–10
- Fast Food Meal: SGD 8–15
- Casual Restaurant: SGD 15–30
- Specialty Coffee: SGD 6–10
- Bubble Tea: SGD 4–8
🎟️ Popular Attractions
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Singapore Oceanarium
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
- Singapore Flyer
- Gardens by the Bay
Prices vary throughout the year, so I always check the latest rates before my trip.
My Personal Budget
When I travel solo to Singapore, I usually budget around SGD 100–150 per day excluding flights and hotel. This comfortably covers MRT transportation, food, coffee stops, attractions, and a little shopping for pasalubong.
💡 Mommy Helena Tip
Because Singapore’s MRT system is so efficient, I save a lot on transportation by staying near MRT stations like Lavender, Bencoolen, or Chinatown. It may cost a little more for the hotel, but I usually spend less on Grab rides and save a lot of time getting around.
Hi, I’m Helena! 👋
I’m the creator of Mommy Helena, a travel blog where I share detailed itineraries, hotel reviews, food discoveries, and travel tips based on my personal experiences across Asia.
As a solo traveler from the Philippines, I love exploring destinations like Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and beyond. My goal is to help fellow travelers plan smarter, save time, and make the most of every trip.
✈️ Follow my adventures and discover practical travel guides, budget tips, and honest recommendations from my journeys.