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19 Iconic Landmarks in Singapore You Must Visit
- Marina Bay Sands
- Merlion Park
- Supertree Grove
- Cloud Forest
- Henderson Waves Bridge
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Kranji War Memorial
- Clarke Quay
- Lau Pa Sat
- National Museum of Singapore
- Singapore Botanic Gardens
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
- CHIJMES
- Esplanade
- Singapore Flyer
- Old Parliament House
- The Istana
- Helix Bridge
- The Cenotaph
Singapore is a city-state that’s known for its impressive landmarks. From towering skyscrapers to historic structures, this island nation has something for everyone to explore and admire.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the most iconic landmarks in Singapore that you simply must visit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, these landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
Marina Bay Sands
Website: https://www.marinabaysands.com/
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue
Contact details: +65 6688 8826
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday, 9:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday, 9:30 AM to 11 PM
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic Singapore landmark known for its three hotel towers.
Visitors can take in the panoramic views from the SkyPark Observation Deck or enjoy a swim in the infinity pool, which appears to extend endlessly over the edge of the building.
Marina Bay Sands is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the ArtScience Museum and the Sands Theatre. Throughout the year, there are various exhibits and performances available for visitors to enjoy.
Merlion Park
– By javan
Address: Fullerton Road
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
The Merlion Park is home to the mythical creature that has become the nation’s beloved mascot, the Merlion. Its statue weighs 70 tons and stands 8.6 meters tall.
With the head of a lion and the body of a fish, it symbolizes Singapore’s unique heritage as a maritime trading nation.
The lion represents the city’s historical name, “Singapura,” which means “Lion City” in Malay, while the fish represents its island nation status and its past as a fishing village.
Supertree Grove
Website: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/supertree-grove.html
Address: Gardens by the Bay, 1 Bayfront Avenue
Contact details: +65 6601 4910
Operating hours: Daily from 5 AM to 2 AM
Stepping into Gardens by the Bay, your eyes will be instantly drawn to the Supertree Grove.
These 18 man-made “supertrees” aren’t just architectural masterpieces. They’re living, breathing vertical gardens full of plant life and serving essential functions for the sustainability of the Gardens.
Over 162,900 plants from more than 200 species cling to the supertrees including bromeliads, orchids, ferns, and flowering climbers.
Cloud Forest
– By annika_vossen
Website: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/cloud-forest.html
Address: Gardens by the Bay, 1 Bayfront Avenue
Contact details: +65 6601 4911
Operating hours: Daily from 9 AM to 9 PM
Cloud Forest is a bioclimatic dome in the Gardens by the Bay.
“Bioclimatic” means that the dome maintains a specific climate that’s suitable for a variety of plant species to grow and thrive.
The Cloud Forest replicates the cool, misty conditions of Southeast Asian highlands and houses over 3,000 plant species such as pitcher plants, Venus Flytraps, and a diverse array of orchids.
It also houses the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, which is 35 meters from the dome’s peak.
Henderson Waves Bridge
– By andrewista
Website: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/the-southern-ridges
Address: Southern Ridges, Henderson Road
Contact details: +65 6377 1140
Operating hours: Daily from 7 PM to 7 AM
The Henderson Waves Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that’s as much a work of art as a pathway.
The 274-meter-long bridge curves through the trees like a set of connected waves. Its structure is held by steel arches and adorned with curving Balau wood ribs.
This 36-meter bridge stands above Henderson Road and provides great views of the Southern Ridges, Mount Faber Park, and the surrounding area.
Universal Studios Singapore
Website: https://www.rwsentosa.com/en/attractions/universal-studios-singapore
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway
Contact details: +65 6577 8888
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday, 10 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday to Monday, 10 AM to 8 PM
Universal Studios Singapore isn’t just a theme park. It’s the first and only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia.
It plays a vital role in Singapore’s tourism scene by attracting millions of visitors and generating substantial revenue. It has also created numerous job opportunities for locals.
The park boasts a thrilling collection of rides and shows based on popular Universal franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Transformers. It continuously undergoes upgrades and introduces new attractions to ensure its relevance over time.
Kranji War Memorial
– By arivucr7
Website: https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2053500/singapore-memorial/
Address: 9 Woodlands Road
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM
The Kranji War Memorial is a solemn, majestic structure that isn’t just a landmark. It’s a sacred space dedicated to the thousands of Allied soldiers who fought during World War II.
Towering over the Kranji Military Cemetery, the memorial’s walls bear the names of more than 24,346 brave Allied personnel.
Families of fallen soldiers visit to pay their respects, while visitors from all over the world come to honor the sacrifices made for freedom.
Clarke Quay
Website: https://www.capitaland.com/sg/malls/clarkequay/en.html
Address: 3 River Valley Road
Contact details: +65 6337 3292
Operating hours: Daily from 10 AM to 11 PM
Located along the picturesque Singapore River, Clarke Quay has transformed from a colonial quay into a vibrant entertainment hub.
Restored shophouses and warehouses now house a diverse array of bars, restaurants, and shops.
Clarke Quay also hosts cultural events and festivals, fostering a sense of community and national pride among Singaporeans.
Lau Pa Sat
Website: https://www.laupasat.sg/
Address: 18 Raffles Quay
Contact details: +65 6220 2138
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
Lau Pa Sat, meaning “old market” in Hokkien, is a historic, Victorian-era covered hawker center.
Originally built in 1824 as a fish market on the waterfront, it has been relocated and redeveloped multiple times throughout its history This has made Lau Pa Sat a landmark and hub for local cuisine.
Lau Pa Sat boasts over 80 food stalls today offering an array of local and international dishes. Families gather for weekend outings, office workers grab a quick lunch, and locals catch up over plates of steaming food.
National Museum of Singapore
Website: https://www.nhb.gov.sg/nationalmuseum/
Address: 93 Stamford Road
Contact details: +65 6332 3659
Operating hours: Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM
Founded in 1887, the National Museum is the nation’s oldest museum and a repository of history and culture. Its neo-classical architecture stands as a testament to Singapore’s colonial past and its evolution into a modern metropolis.
The museum houses an extensive collection of over 800,000 artifacts from archaeology and ethnography to art and numismatics pieces.
It also hosts educational programs and workshops that offer interactive experiences for all ages.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
– By ferminquejado
Website: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg
Address: 1 Cluny Road
Contact details: +65 6471 7138
Operating hours: Daily from 5 AM to 12 AM
The Singapore Botanic Gardens earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2015. This recognition highlights its role in plant conservation, botanical research, and education.
This 82-hectare garden boasts over 10,000 plant species from around the world including the orchid Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore’s national flower.
Lush rainforests, vibrant flower gardens, and tranquil ponds create a diverse and breathtaking landscape that captivates nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Website: https://www.buddhatoothrelictemple.org.sg/
Address: 288 South Bridge Rd
Contact details: +65 6220 0220
Operating hours: Daily from 7 AM to 5 PM
The Buddha Tooth Relic is believed to be one of the left canine teeth of the historical Buddha.
Housed in a 3,500 kg gold stupa or shrine, this sacred relic draws pilgrims and visitors from all corners of the world seeking blessings and spiritual connection.
The temple’s architecture is modeled after the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, with intricate carvings, soaring pillars, and traditional Chinese rooflines.
CHIJMES
Website: https://chijmes.com.sg/
Address: 30 Victoria Street
Contact details: +65 6235 2095
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
Originally built in 1840 as a convent school for girls, CHIJMES stands as a testament to Singapore’s colonial past.
The neo-classical architecture, with its elegant arches, grand staircases, and Gothic Revival chapel, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
After its closure as a school in 1983, CHIJMES underwent a remarkable transformation, emerging as a vibrant lifestyle destination. Today, it boasts a diverse array of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops, catering to every taste and mood.
Esplanade
Website: https://www.esplanade.com/
Address: 1 Esplanade Drive
Contact details: +65 6828 8377
Operating hours: Daily from 12 PM to 6 PM
The Esplanade’s unique durian-shaped design is clad in thousands of triangular glass panels. It was designed by award-winning architect Michael Wilford and has become a beloved symbol of Singapore’s cultural scene.
Boasting two concert halls, a theater, a recital studio, and a studio theater, the Esplanade is a haven for world-class performances.
From classical concerts and musicals to contemporary dance and experimental productions, the Esplanade offers a diverse range of artistic experiences for all tastes.
Singapore Flyer
Website: https://www.singaporeflyer.com/en
Address: 30 Raffles Avenue
Contact details: +65 6333 3311
Operating hours: Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
Towering 165 meters above the city, the Singapore Flyer is one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world.
It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Marina Bay skyline, Sentosa Island, and beyond.
Each capsule is air-conditioned and offers comfortable seating for up to 28 passengers. Some capsules even boast luxurious amenities like champagne bars and private dining options.
Old Parliament House
Website: https://artshouselimited.sg/
Address: 1 Old Parliament Lane
Contact details: +65 6332 6900
Operating hours: Daily from 10 AM to 9:30 PM
Built in 1827, the Old Parliament House is the oldest government building in Singapore and perhaps the oldest surviving building in the city.
Its neo-classical architecture with whitewashed columns and arched windows stands as a testament to Singapore’s colonial past.
After serving as the seat of Singapore’s Parliament until 1999, the building was renovated and reopened in 2004 as The Arts House. Today, it hosts many art exhibits and concerts.
The Istana
Website: https://www.istana.gov.sg/
Address: Orchard Road
Contact details: +65 8720 6021
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 6 PM
The Istana serves as the official residence and office of the president of Singapore.
Built in 1869 by the British, the Istana is an example of Neo-Palladian architecture. Its whitewashed facade, grand columns, and elegant arches showcase Singapore’s colonial past.
The Istana hosts official functions and welcomes visiting dignitaries, serving as a symbol of national unity and identity. Public open houses offer a rare glimpse into this prestigious space and allow Singaporeans to connect with their government.
Helix Bridge
– By singaporeworld
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
The Helix Bridge takes its name from its unique double-helix structure, inspired by the structure of DNA. This iconic design has become a symbol of Singapore’s innovation and modernity.
The bridge connects Marina Centre with Marina South, offering a scenic and pedestrian-friendly alternative to vehicular traffic. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy the views of the city skyline and the Marina Bay waterfront.
The LED lights integrated into its structure create a vibrant display of colors at night.
The Cenotaph
– By rowansco
Address: Esplanade Park
Operating hours: Open 24 hours daily
The Cenotaph stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Singaporeans during World War I and World War II. The empty stone sarcophagus symbolizes the fallen soldiers who rest in unknown graves.
Designed by Denis Santry and built in 1922, the Cenotaph features a neoclassical style with granite slabs, bronze lions, and inscriptions. The five steps leading up to the monument represent the five years of World War I.
Every year on November 11th, the Cenotaph becomes the focal point for Singapore’s national Remembrance Day ceremony. Dignitaries lay wreaths, the Last Post is played, and a minute of silence is observed to honor the fallen.
