Marjolein Dilven
What is iconically Singapore? The Marina Bay Sands and the Jewel Changi Airport? What is one of the Singapore landmarks you can’t skip when visiting the country?
Singapore is a treasure trove of tourist attractions that seamlessly blend history, culture, and modernity.
Blending modern trends and traditional influences, Singapore’s cityscape teems with a diverse and fascinating array of human-made structures and natural wonders that are uniquely Singaporean.
This article will take you on a virtual tour through this fascinating city to inspire you to add some of these destinations to your Singapore itinerary. Let’s go!
Top 15 Landmarks in Singapore
1. Marina Bay Sands – Most Iconic Singapore Landmark
The iconic integrated resort, the Marina Bay Sands, is instantly recognizable for its unique boat-shaped rooftop, known as the SkyPark, offering breathtaking panoramic city views. It houses a casino, luxury hotel, shopping mall, and numerous restaurants.
Visiting any time is perfect, with the day and night offering beautiful photo opportunities. It’s by far my personal favorite landmark in Singapore.
Location: Singapore Central Area.
Unique Features: SkyPark, resort casino, luxury hotel, Shopping Mall, World-class Restaurants, and an Infinity Pool.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by MRT at Bayfront Station, a scenic walk via the Helix Bridge, or by taxi.
What to Expect: Luxurious experience with SkyPark’s stunning vistas, a rooftop pool (for hotel guests), a casino, high-end shopping, and diverse dining options.
Expected Costs: Costs vary by chosen activities. SkyPark Observation Deck is about 36 Singapore Dollars (27 US Dollars) for adults and dining ranges, and hotel stays offer opulence with varying prices.
Tour: Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck tour offers breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline from a stunning rooftop vantage point.
2. Merlion Park – Most Iconic Singapore Landmark
The Merlion statue, which is half-lion and half-fish, symbolizes Singapore. It is a popular tourist attraction with a great view of Marina Bay Sands in the background.
Location: In the heart of Singapore, near the Central Business District, One Fullerton, Singapore 049213.
Unique Features: Iconic Merlion statue, breathtaking city skyline views
How to Get There: Easily accessible via MRT to Raffles Place or walking distance from nearby attractions like Marina Bay Sands.
What to Expect: Mesmerizing Merlion statue, stunning photo opportunities, and a picturesque waterfront setting for leisurely walks with city skyline views.
Expected Costs: Typically free entry; guided tours and souvenirs may have additional costs.
3. Gardens by the Bay – Singapore’s Natural Landmark
The futuristic park called Gardens by the Bay is home to the Supertree Grove, towering tree-like structures covered in plants and equipped with environmentally sustainable features.
We visited once during the day and once at night, giving two completely different experiences. It’s fun to walk around the park during the day and check out the shopping center nearby.
Location: Within Gardens by the Bay.
Unique Features: Towering tree-like structures, lush vegetation, and captivating nighttime light shows, OCBC Skyway where you can walk along the treetops.
How to Get There: Walk within Gardens by the Bay or take the MRT to Bayfront station.
What to Expect: Mesmerizing light shows in the evening, s-eye views on the OCBC Skyway, and lush green surroundings.
Expected Costs: Free entry to the Supertree Grove; 14 SGD ($11) for OCBC Skyway access.
Tour: Gardens by the Bay Tour explores Singapore’s remarkable commitment to sustainability through its futuristic supertree structures and biodomes.
4. Sentosa Island – Singapore’s Natural Landmark
Sentosa Island is a renowned resort spot with entertainment, including Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and beautiful beaches.
Location: Southern coast of Singapore.
Unique Features: Theme parks, aquarium, waterpark, beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks.
How to Get There: Access via Sentosa Express, Boardwalk, or car/taxi.
What to Expect: Diverse entertainment for all ages, from thrilling rides to relaxing beaches, dining, shopping, and more.
Expected Costs: Varies by age, residency, and chosen activities.
5. Singapore Flyer – Popular Singapore Building
The giant Singapore Flyer observation wheel presents panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. It’s one of the largest observation wheels in the world and provides stunning vistas, especially at night.
Location: 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803.
Unique Features: Giant observation wheel for panoramic city views
How to Get There: Accessible from Promenade MRT station.
What to Expect: A 30-minute ride with spectacular vistas
Expected Costs: Varies based on age, residency, and experience.
6. Chinatown Heritage Centre – Popular Singapore Building
The Chinatown Heritage Centre Museum offers a glimpse into the history, culture, and traditions of the Chinese community in Singapore. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s diverse heritage.
Unique Features: A cultural museum preserving Chinatown’s history and heritage through immersive exhibits about early Chinese migrants
How to Get There: Reach via MRT, Chinatown station exit, or bus.
What to Expect: An engaging journey through Chinatown’s past with period settings, artifacts, and immigrant stories
Expected Costs: Typically, 54.51 SGD ($ 41) for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
Tour: Historical Chinatown Walking Tour dives into the rich trading history of Chinatown, taking you through its vibrant streets and showcasing the cultural gem, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
7. Little India – Most Iconic Singapore Landmark
The vibrant neighborhood of Little India is well-known for its colorful streets, bustling markets, and authentic Indian cuisine. It’s a sensory delight with the aroma of spices and the sounds of Indian music.
Little India is one of my favorite Singaporean neighborhoods, especially since the food is extremely good in the neighborhood. I would recommend you stop by Indian Express on 38 Race Course Rd.
Location: Located in the heart of Singapore.
Unique Features: Vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood with colorful streets, bustling markets, and historic temples.
How to Get There: Accessible via MRT, Little India station, or bus.
What to Expect: Immerse in Indian culture, explore markets, savor authentic cuisine, visit ornate temples, and soak in a lively atmosphere.
Expected Costs: Exploring Little India is typically free. Costs vary for dining and shopping.
Tour: Singapore Little India Self-guided Tour offers an immersive experience in the vibrant neighborhood of Little India, with its colorful streets, aromatic spices, and intricate temples
8. Sultan Mosque – Famous Singapore Monument
Also known as Masjid Sultan, the Sultan Mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture in Singapore. It’s an important religious site and a historical landmark.
Location: 3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833, nestled in Kampong Glam.
Unique Features: Stunning Islamic architecture, intricate details, and immense cultural significance
How to Get There: Easily accessible via MRT, Bugis station, or a short walk from nearby attractions.
What to Expect: Explore the mosque’s captivating interior and discover its history and cultural importance while adhering to a modest dress code.
Expected Costs: Typically free, with appreciated donations.
9. National Museum of Singapore – Popular Singapore Building
The oldest museum in Singapore houses a vast artifacts and exhibit collection that provides insight into the nation’s history and culture.
Location: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897.
Unique Features: Singapore’s oldest museum offers a blend of heritage and contemporary exhibits with a rich history.
How to Get There: Reach via the MRT at Dhoby Ghaut station, bus, or taxi.
What to Expect: Engaging displays on Singapore’s history, culture, and art, including rotating exhibitions and interactive installations
Expected Costs: General admission is approximately 12 SGD ($9) for adults, with discounts available for children, seniors, and residents.
Tour: National Museum tour provides an engaging journey into Singapore’s history, culture, and art through its rich heritage displays and interactive installations.
10. Raffles Hotel – Popular Singapore Building
The Raffles Hotel is a historic hotel known for its colonial architecture and luxurious accommodations. It is also the birthplace of the famous Singapore Sling cocktail.
Location: Situated in the heart of Singapore, 1 Beach Rd, Singapore 189673.
Unique Features: Colonial architecture, famous Singapore Sling cocktail, and cultural significance.
How to Get There: For MRT, you can take the North-South Line (Red Line) or the East-West Line (Green Line) to get to City Hall. From there, it’s a short walk to the Raffles Hotel.
What to Expect:
- Experience colonial-era grandeur.
- Savor classic cocktails.
- Dine at renowned restaurants.
- Explore the hotel’s storied past.
Expected Costs: Standard rooms begin at SGD 550 ($400) per night, with suites and special packages at higher rates. Dining at Raffles Hotel features The Long Bar, famous for the Singapore Sling, at about 30 SGD ($22) per cocktail. Restaurant meals range from 80 SGD to 150 SGD ($58 to $110) per person for multi-course options, excluding beverages.
11. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – Popular Singapore Building
Locally known as “The Durian” for its resemblance to the spiky fruit, this iconic building hosts diverse cultural events in its theaters and concert halls.
Location: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981.
Unique Features: An iconic performing arts venue with a distinctive spiky roof design
How to Get There: Conveniently accessed by MRT, Esplanade station, bus, or taxi.
What to Expect: World-class performances, stunning waterfront views, and a mall for dining and shopping
Expected Costs: Ticket prices vary from affordable to premium depending on the event and seating.
12. Singapore Botanic Gardens – Singapore’s Natural Landmark
The Singapore Botanic Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the city. It boasts lush greenery and the impressive National Orchid Garden with diverse plant species.
Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569.
Unique Features: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with lush greenery, a swan-filled lake, themed gardens, and the National Orchid Garden.
How to Get There: Accessible by MRT, Botanic Gardens station, or bus.
What to Expect: A serene oasis with diverse flora and scenic walking trails.
Expected Costs: For adults, entry to most areas is free, with National Orchid Garden admission at approximately 10.64 SGD ($8).
Tour: Private Half-Day Tour with Singapore Botanic Garden offers a personalized exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring lush greenery, serene landscapes, and vibrant floral displays.
13. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – Famous Singapore Monument
The stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is an architectural marvel and a vital religious site. It holds an alleged tooth relic of Gautama Buddha and boasts intricate Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture.
Location: 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058840.
Unique Features: A striking temple with a sacred relic, intricate Tang-style architecture, and cultural artifacts.
How to Get There: Conveniently reached via MRT, Chinatown station, or bus.
What to Expect: Explore the temple’s rich heritage, view cultural relics, and witness serene rituals, all while adhering to a modest dress code.
Expected Costs: Entry is typically free, with appreciated donations.
14. Haji Lane – Most Iconic Singapore Landmark
The Haji Lane is a vibrant street that has indie shops, street art, and trendy cafes, making it ideal for shopping, photography, and experiencing Singapore’s street culture.
Unique Features: A colorful, narrow lane with street art, indie boutiques, and quirky cafes.
How to Get There: Accessible via MRT, Bugis station.
What to Expect: A trendy and eclectic atmosphere for unique fashion, street art, and diverse cuisines.
Expected Costs: Browsing Haji Lane is typically free, while costs vary for shopping, dining, and beverages.
15. Clarke Quay – Popular Singapore Building
The historic riverside Clarke Quay turned lively entertainment and dining hub is known for colorful buildings and vibrant nightlife.
Unique Features: A bustling riverside quay with vibrant nightlife, diverse dining, and entertainment
How to Get There: Accessible by MRT, Clarke Quay station, or by bus
What to Expect: A lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, bars, and nightclubs
Expected Costs: Costs vary for dining and entertainment, with some venues offering happy hours and promotions. Nightclub admission fees may apply.
Frequently Asked Questions – Singapore Landmarks
What Singapore Is Famous For?
Singapore is renowned for Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, with a rooftop infinity pool and casino. It’s celebrated for its street food, cultural diversity in Chinatown and Little India, and cleanliness and safety.
What Are the Top Three Landmarks in Singapore?
Singapore’s top landmarks include Sentosa Island, Marina Bay Sands with its rooftop SkyPark, and Gardens by the Bay showcasing the Supertree Grove and conservatories. Sentosa Island offers diverse attractions, from Universal Studios to pristine beaches and iconic landmarks, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
What is Singapore’s Oldest Landmark?
The Old Parliament House, also known as The Arts House, is prominent in Singapore’s history as one of its oldest landmarks. Constructed in 1827, it is the country’s first Parliament House, making it historically significant.
What Is the Newest Landmark in Singapore?
The newest landmark in Singapore is “Jewel Changi Airport.” Opened in April 2019, Jewel is a mixed-use development at Changi Airport. It’s known for its stunning architecture, featuring the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Jewel houses a wide range of retail, dining, and entertainment options, making it a unique and vibrant addition to the airport.
Conclusion – Singapore Landmarks
With the sheer number of top sights in Singapore, it would not be hard to overlook the less popular ones. That would be unfortunate and kind of selling Singapore short. There simply are a lot of memorable Singaporean landmarks that are bucket list-worth.
We hope this post has given you an idea about the landmarks to include in your travel plans.
Lest you suffer from choice overload when picking the best Singaporean landmarks to visit, isn’t it comforting to know that you can always visit the country again?
Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources
Skyscanner is my trusted ally for booking flights, guiding me to the perfect travel options while making the journey planning process a breeze with its user-friendly interface and extensive search capabilities.
12Go Asia is my ultimate travel companion in Asia, offering the best budget service platform for seamless booking of trains, buses, ferries, and flights, ensuring every adventure unfolds smoothly and effortlessly.
Booking.com is my ultimate lodging partner. It offers many accommodations worldwide and simplifies my travel experiences with its user-friendly platform and unbeatable deals.
Get Your Guide is my go-to for personalized travel experiences, enriching my journeys with unique tours and activities curated to my interests, making every adventure unforgettable and tailored to my preferences.
SafetyWing is my peace of mind on the go, offering comprehensive travel medical insurance with affordable plans and hassle-free claims, ensuring I can explore the world worry-free, knowing I’m protected wherever I roam.
LifeStraw Go Bottle is my trusted hydration companion for outdoor adventures, filtering water on-the-go to keep me safe and hydrated, ensuring every hike or travel experience is worry-free and enjoyable.
Related Reads:
- Where To Stay In Singapore: Perfect Stay Spots Now!
- Best Time To Visit Singapore: Guide For Unique Getaway
Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.