Singapore it is one of the main economic and financial centers of Southeast Asia and the world. Those who think of Singapore imagine a city made up only of buildings, skyscrapers and shopping malls. Obviously these buildings are there and are part of the landscape.
But there is also much more: a good local life, temples of all faiths, excellent restaurants, panoramic roofs, huge urban landscapes, small designer shops. Let yourself be enchanted by this beautiful destination and its gigantic and modern architectural works. Here are the things we think are worth seeing in Singapore:
What to see in Singapore
Marina Bay Sands and the highest swimming pool in the world
Il Marina Bay Sands is the hotel that changed the Singapore skyline. The opulent tourist complex includes a hotels with 2560 rooms, a casino, for an shopping center, the Art Science Museum and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark: an ideal vantage point to enjoy the whole city and its imposing skyline.
Skypark's observation deck and infinity pool are located in the ship-shaped structure at the top of the hotel. Only hotel guests can use the infinity pool, but anyone can visit the observation deck. And if you want to avoid paying for admission to the SkyPark, you can go for a drink at Ku De Ta Bar.
Another must see in Singapore is the Wonder Full Light and Water Show, lo spettacolo of video music and fireworks that takes place every evening, in front of the Marina Bay Sands, from 20:00 to 21:30 (and Sundays at 23:00).
Singapore Flyer
If the observation deck at Marina Bay Sands isn't your thing, try drinking tea while gazing over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the largest observation wheel in the world. Choose from different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that includes not only the Singapore skyline, but reaches the Spice Islands of Indonesia and lo Strait of Johor of Malaysia.
The rides on the Ferris wheel last 30 minutes each and run from early morning to late at night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy - the start of another lively day or Singapore lit up at night.
Book your Singapore Flyer ticketGardens by the Bay
The must-see attraction in Singapore is Gardens by the Bay. Once you've glimpsed this beautifully designed green space (perhaps from the top of Marina Bay Sands) you won't be able to stay away. Stroll through the Bay East Garden, perfect for enjoying the vibrant plant life and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a moment.
With the entrance to the Gardens by the Bay, you can go for free ai Supertree Grove, the trees that inspired the landscapes of the Avatar movie. These iconic and futuristic structures, designed to perform eco-sustainable functions, are covered with plants and measure between 25 and 50 meters in height (you will find a bistro on the roof of the largest).
Every evening there is a sound and light show that illuminates the Singapore skyline. So, head to Flower dome to admire flowers from various climatic zones of the world and to Cloud forest to see the tallest indoor waterfall in the world and learn about biodiversity.
Buy your ticket to Gardens By The BayBotanical gardens
Botanical Gardens are also on the list of must-see attractions in Singapore and are not to be confused with Gardens by the Bay. These botanical gardens hold pieces of Singapore's wild heritage.
The gardens have a wonderful collection of plants of world importance that can be visited via a walking path. Be sure to visit the imposing National Orchid Garden. Other attractions include an eco-garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculpture and many other unique gardens and sites.
Chinatown
If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back there. From small shops and authentic Chinese cuisine to vibrant red lanterns, there is a particular excitement and frenzy in this neighborhood.
You can visit the Chinese Heritage Center and see the impressive and beautiful Hindu temple Sri Mariamman. Another temple worth visiting is the temple of Buddha Tooth Relic.
Explanations in English, Japanese and Simplified Chinese are installed throughout the neighborhood so that visitors can better understand the significance of the area.
But this neighborhood isn't just a testament to the influence of the Chinese in Singapore's past. This is a progressive neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all) and is home to the trendy neighborhood of Ann Siang Hill.
Little India e Arab Street
One of the most exciting aspects of Singapore is the diversity of its neighborhoods. Yes, the country is a shopper's paradise, but in its oldest neighborhoods you will also find rich traditions, delicious food and local character. Nowhere is this more true than in Little India and Arab Street (also known as the Arab Quarter).
The Indian community has a rich history in Singapore, and this enclave dates back more than 200 years. Today, the neighborhood is a lively and colorful place where traditional festivals are celebrated and visitors can observe places of worship such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
In the Arab quarter, we recommend that you visit the historic one Sultan Mosque, originally built in 1825. Non-Muslims are not allowed in the prayer hall, although you can appreciate the characteristic golden domes and the craftsmanship of the external structure. The streets of Haji (Haji Lane) and Bali are great places to shop for something a little more unique than a designer bag.
Changi Chapel and Museum
Singapore was not spared the horrors of World War II, and the Changi Chapel and Museum tells the story of those who suffered under the Japanese occupation. The museum displays the letters, photographs, drawings and personal effects that are now witnesses to the detention of over 50.000 civilians and soldiers in Changi Prison.
Singapore Zoo
Known as the best rainforest zoo in the world, lo Singapore zoo it's a really impressive place. The property is clean and inviting, and the animals look well-groomed with an abundance of lush greenery. Orangutans are particularly impressive. There is also a large family of chimpanzees, zebras, meerkats, a Komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos and many other creatures.
If the zoo does not satisfy the need to get close to nature, there is also the Night safari, River safari (including a forest of giant pandas) and the Jurong bird park. Park tram passes are available if you plan to visit more than one of the natural parks.
Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning military fortress has had a long and varied life. Built in 1859, the fort was an essential site for Singapore's defense. Now in peacetime, the original building is home to modern performing arts companies, and the park regularly organizes picnics, concerts, plays and festivals.
Other attractions in the park include relics of Singapore's ancient history, dating back to the 14th century, and Sir Stamford Raffles' personal bungalow.
Buy your ticket hereSentosa island
Singapore isn't exactly known as a beach destination, but if you're really looking for fun in the sun, Sentosa Island is the place to find it.
La Siloso beach it's a good place to go to the beach and visitors can play volleyball on free courts or go kayaking and skim-boarding. There are many other beach attractions in addition to a Underwater World aquarium where you can swim with dolphins. here you will also find the beautiful amusement park Universal Studios.
An unmissable stop on Sentosa Island is the Merlion, the famous Singapore statue which has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. You can take an escalator to the top of the statue and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding area. Fort Siloso, the country's only preserved fort, is located on Sentosa Island.
Raffles Hotel
Un legendary hotel: the Raffles. Named after the city's British founder (Thomas Stamford Raffles), this legendary hotel has hosted Joseph Conrad, Rudyard Kipling, Maughan's Sommerset, Ernest Hemingway ... Colonial architecture, legendary place, was once close to the beach - but Singapore's enlargement has pushed the beach away.
To be seen the beautiful Victorian facade lined with trees. Some stop there to enjoy the famous Singapore Sling cocktail ($ 30). It is here, in the Long Bar, that it was invented. It is especially interesting to walk in the corridors to feel the atmosphere. Dizzying lobby, fine fabrics, antique furniture, wooden floors, ceiling fans.
Raffles Hotel is located in Singapore's colonial district, which is also home to several other historic sites.
Orchard Road
It is a great starting point for shopping, as there are high-end shops on every corner. You wouldn't expect anything less from a neighborhood that boasts 22 shopping malls and six department stores. There are also four cinemas, including an IMAX and a KTV karaoke.
Museum of Asian Civilizations
If the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven't satiated your taste for colonial architecture, pay a visit to theEmpress Place Building. It was built in 1865 and built in the neoclassical style.
It now houses theAsian Civilizations Museum, which delves into the many Asian cultures that helped shape Singapore.
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- Singapore guide: how and when to visit
