General information about tourism in Singapore

Singapore, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, is one of the world's most important tourist centers. According to data from 2022, Singapore hosted over 18.5 million tourists, a significant increase compared to previous years. Tourism constitutes a significant part of Singapore's economy, contributing more than 4% to the country's total GDP. Its diverse culture, modern architectural landmarks, and excellent transportation connectivity make Singapore an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. The Singapore government continuously invests in tourist infrastructure, resulting in a steady increase in tourist numbers and revenue from tourism.

One of the most famous attractions in Singapore is Marina Bay Sands, an impressive complex that includes a luxury hotel, casino, shopping mall, and the well-known SkyPark with a rooftop pool. This architectural marvel has become a symbol of modern Singapore and frequently appears on postcards and tourist guides. In addition to Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay is another must-see destination. This futuristic park is famous for its Supertree Grove, a group of tall vertical gardens that offer incredible light shows at night. Within Gardens by the Bay, visitors can explore the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, the two largest greenhouses in the world that house diverse flora from different climate zones.

Singapore is also proud of its cleanliness and organization, making it a pleasant and safe place for tourists. The city is known for its strict laws and regulations that ensure a high standard of living and safety for all visitors. This reputation as a safe destination further attracts tourists, especially those traveling with families.

The diverse cultural offerings of Singapore are another reason why tourists love this city. Singapore's multicultural society is reflected through various festivals, culinary specialties, and cultural events held throughout the year. Chinatown, Little India, and the Arab quarter Kampong Glam provide insights into the city's rich cultural heritage, offering authentic experiences and gastronomic delights.

Singapore's transportation connectivity also plays a key role in attracting tourists. Changi Airport in Singapore is regularly ranked as one of the best airports in the world, providing excellent services and connections to numerous destinations worldwide. Efficient public transportation within the city, including the metro (MRT), buses, and taxis, allows tourists to easily explore all parts of Singapore.

Singapore is also known for its innovation in the tourism sector. The introduction of digital technologies, such as contactless payments and smart tourist applications, further enhances the visitor experience. Tourist guides and information centers are equipped with modern technologies that make it easier for tourists to plan and navigate the city.

Besides all the mentioned, Singapore stands out as a sustainable tourist destination. The city makes great efforts to preserve the environment and promote sustainable tourism. Environmentally conscious initiatives, such as green building and reducing carbon emissions, make Singapore a model of sustainable development in the region.

Singapore is home to many cultural landmarks that attract tourists from all over the world. One of the most famous attractions is Marina Bay Sands, a complex that includes a luxury hotel, casino, shops, and SkyPark with an incredible view of the city. Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer visitors the chance to enjoy the richness of tropical flora. The National Museum of Singapore, the oldest museum in the country, offers insights into Singapore's rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

Singapore is a true paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that reflects the multicultural nature of the country. Hawker centers, such as Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat, offer a variety of local specialties at affordable prices. Dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab are just some of the must-try culinary experiences. Singapore's gastronomy is also recognized globally, with several restaurants awarded Michelin stars.

Despite urbanization, Singapore offers many green oases and natural attractions. Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic park with impressive Supertree Grove and enclosed gardens Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, is one of the most visited parks. Sentosa Island, with its beaches, theme parks, and luxury resorts, provides the perfect place for relaxation and entertainment. The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari offer unique experiences of encountering wild animals in their natural habitats.

Singapore is known as a shopping paradise, with numerous shopping malls and luxury boutiques. Orchard Road, the main shopping street, is home to many international and local stores. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay offer a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Universal Studios Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, provides entertainment for the whole family with themed attractions and exciting rides.

Cultural landmarks of Singapore

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Singapore is home to many cultural landmarks that attract tourists from all over the world. One of the most famous attractions is Marina Bay Sands, a complex that includes a luxury hotel, casino, shops, and SkyPark with an incredible view of the city. This imposing complex with three towers connected by a large rooftop pool has become a symbol of modern Singapore and an essential stop for all visitors. SkyPark offers a spectacular view of the entire city, especially in the evening when the city lights up.

Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the richness of tropical flora. The gardens are known for their diverse plant species and carefully maintained landscapes. Within the Botanic Gardens is the National Orchid Garden, which contains over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids of orchids, making it the world's richest collection of orchids. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the gardens, learning about different plant species and their importance to the ecosystem.

The National Museum of Singapore, the oldest museum in the country, offers insights into Singapore's rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts. The museum prides itself on its collection that encompasses various aspects of Singapore's history, from early settlements to the modern era. Particularly interesting are the exhibitions dedicated to the period of British colonization, the Japanese occupation during World War II, and the post-colonial development of the city-state. Interactive displays and multimedia content make the museum visit an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Singapore is Chinatown, which offers an authentic experience of Chinese culture and tradition. Here visitors can explore colorful markets, traditional Chinese temples such as the Thian Hock Keng Temple, and enjoy various culinary specialties in numerous restaurants and food streets. Chinatown also hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the Chinese New Year celebration, which attracts many visitors.

Little India, located in the heart of Singapore, is another cultural oasis that provides insight into the rich Indian heritage and tradition. A walk through Little India leads visitors through vibrant streets filled with spice shops, traditional Indian clothing, and temples like the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. This neighborhood is known for its colorful festivals, including Deepavali, the festival of lights, which illuminates the entire area with thousands of lights and decorations.

Kampong Glam, a historic district known for its Arab heritage, offers yet another dimension of Singapore's cultural diversity. Sultan Mosque, with its distinctive golden dome, is a prominent landmark in this area. Visitors can explore Arab markets, carpet and spice shops, and enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine in numerous restaurants. Kampong Glam is also a popular spot for nightlife, with many modern bars and cafes that offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

As one of the most important cultural centers in Asia, Singapore continuously invests in preserving and promoting its cultural heritage. Art and cultural events such as the Singapore Arts Festival, Singapore Film Festival, and numerous concerts and theater performances contribute to the city's rich cultural scene. The National Gallery Singapore, housed in the historic buildings of the former Supreme Court and City Hall, is home to the largest collection of modern Singaporean and Southeast Asian art.

All these cultural landmarks make Singapore a unique and attractive destination for tourists who want to explore diverse heritage, enjoy a rich art scene, and participate in various cultural activities. These attractions not only provide insight into the history and tradition of Singapore but also allow visitors to experience the vibrant and dynamic culture of this city-state.

Gastronomy in Singapore

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Singapore is a true paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that reflects the multicultural nature of the country. Hawker centers, such as Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat, offer a variety of local specialties at affordable prices. Dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab are just some of the must-try culinary experiences. Singapore's gastronomy is also recognized globally, with several restaurants awarded Michelin stars.

Maxwell Food Centre, located in the heart of Chinatown, is one of the most popular places to taste authentic Singaporean food. This hawker center is home to numerous stalls offering a diverse range of dishes, from traditional to modern interpretations. The most famous dish here is Hainanese chicken rice, a simple yet delicious dish consisting of tender boiled chicken, aromatic rice cooked in chicken broth, and various sauces and spices. This dish is often considered Singapore's national dish and is a must-try for all visitors.

Lau Pa Sat, a historic hawker center located in the central business district, is known for its night market with satay. During the evening, the street in front of the center transforms into a satay market where visitors can enjoy different types of meat on skewers, served with traditional peanut sauce and rice. The atmosphere here is lively and often attracts both locals and tourists who want to taste authentic Singaporean delicacies.

Laksa is another favorite dish among tourists and locals. This spicy coconut and spice soup contains rice noodles, shrimp, chicken or fish balls, and is garnished with fresh herbs. There are different versions of laksa, the most famous being Katong laksa, named after the Katong district in Singapore, known for its rich and creamy soup.

Chili crab, one of Singapore's most famous dishes, is a must-try for all seafood lovers. This delicacy consists of fresh crab cooked in a rich, spicy tomato and chili sauce. Although the dish can be quite messy to eat, the taste and texture of the crab meat combined with the spicy sauce make it an unforgettable experience. Many restaurants, including the famous Jumbo Seafood and Long Beach Seafood, specialize in preparing this dish.

Singapore's gastronomic scene is also recognized on a global level, with numerous restaurants receiving Michelin stars. One of the most famous is Odette, located in the National Gallery Singapore, which offers contemporary French cuisine with Asian influences. Chef Julien Royer, known for his innovative approach to cooking, has created a menu that reflects the richness of local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Another restaurant that has won Michelin stars is Burnt Ends, known for its modern barbecue cuisine. Here visitors can enjoy various dishes prepared on an open flame, including steaks, seafood, and vegetables. Chef Dave Pynt uses contemporary cooking techniques to create unique flavors and textures that delight gourmets from around the world.

For those who prefer vegan and vegetarian cuisine, Singapore offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafes that cater to different dietary preferences. Real Food, located in several locations across the city, offers a variety of dishes prepared from fresh, organic ingredients. Their menu includes salads, smoothies, pasta, and Asian specialties, all without meat and processed ingredients.

All these culinary attractions make Singapore a true paradise for food lovers. The diverse range of dishes, from traditional to contemporary, reflects the richness and diversity of Singaporean culture. Visitors can explore different flavors and textures, enjoying unique gastronomic experiences that make Singapore a unique destination.

Natural attractions and parks

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Despite urbanization, Singapore offers many green oases and natural attractions. Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic park with impressive Supertree Grove and enclosed gardens Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, is one of the most visited parks. Sentosa Island, with its beaches, theme parks, and luxury resorts, provides the perfect place for relaxation and entertainment. The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari offer unique experiences of encountering wild animals in their natural habitats.

Gardens by the Bay, located along the Marina Bay waterfront, is a true example of the synergy between nature and technology. Supertree Grove, a group of tall vertical gardens, dominates this park and attracts thousands of visitors daily. These futuristic gardens reach up to 50 meters in height and are covered with diverse plants, flowers, and ferns, creating a unique ecosystem. Every evening, Supertree Grove lights up in a spectacular light show that leaves visitors breathless. Cloud Forest, one of the enclosed gardens, is home to the world's largest indoor waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation and exotic plants. Visitors can explore this garden via walkways that lead them through different levels, revealing the beauty of tropical flora.

Sentosa Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. With three kilometers of beautiful beaches, Sentosa is the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach offer diverse activities, from adrenaline sports to relaxation in luxury beach bars. Universal Studios Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, offers exciting rides and themed zones that attract families and adrenaline lovers. Additionally, Sentosa offers luxury resorts such as Capella Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, which provide top-notch comfort and relaxation.

The Singapore Zoo, located in the Mandai area, is known for its natural habitats that allow animals to move freely, simulating their natural conditions. This zoo is home to more than 2800 animals from 300 different species, including endangered species like white tigers and orangutans. The Night Safari, the world's first night zoo, offers a unique experience of observing nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy a tram ride through different habitat zones or walk trails that lead through dense forest.

MacRitchie Reservoir, the largest reservoir in Singapore, is a popular spot for nature lovers and adventurers. Here visitors can enjoy long walks or runs through lush forest trails, as well as rowing and kayaking on the reservoir's calm waters. TreeTop Walk, a 250-meter-long suspension bridge, offers a spectacular view of the treetops and wildlife inhabiting this area.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, located on the highest peak in Singapore, is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. This reserve covers 163 hectares and contains more than 500 species of animals and 840 species of plants. Hiking to the top of Bukit Timah, the highest hill in Singapore at 163 meters above sea level, provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy natural beauty and spectacular views of the city.

Istana Park, located in the city center, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. This park, located in front of the presidential palace Istana, is designed with attention to detail and contains numerous sculptures, fountains, and exotic plants. Here visitors can enjoy relaxation in beautifully landscaped gardens or participate in cultural events often held in the park.

Pulau Ubin, a small island located north of Singapore's main island, offers a unique insight into the rural way of life that was once common in Singapore. This island is popular among nature lovers and cyclists, with numerous trails leading through lush forests, mangroves, and traditional village settlements. Chek Jawa, a rich wetland area on Pulau Ubin, is home to a diverse ecosystem of marine and terrestrial life.

All these natural attractions and parks make Singapore a unique destination that offers a wealth of experiences for nature lovers and adventurers. The city offers a perfect balance between urban life and natural beauty, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and enjoy different aspects of this dynamic city-state.

Shopping and entertainment

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Singapore is known as a shopping paradise, with numerous shopping malls and luxury boutiques. Orchard Road, the main shopping street, is home to many international and local stores. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay offer a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Universal Studios Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, provides entertainment for the whole family with themed attractions and exciting rides.

Orchard Road, stretching over 2.2 kilometers, is the most famous shopping destination in Singapore. This street, filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants, and hotels, attracts visitors from all over the world. Shopping malls such as ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon offer a wide range of luxury brands and international designers. ION Orchard, with its modern architecture and impressive facade, offers an unforgettable shopping experience, while Ngee Ann City, also known as Takashimaya, provides visitors with the opportunity to explore Japanese brands and products. Paragon, with its elegant interior, is home to many luxury stores, including Gucci, Prada, and Miu Miu.

Clarke Quay, a historic harbor on the Singapore River, has been transformed into one of the most vibrant nightlife spots. Here you can find numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a diverse range of food and drinks. Clarke Quay is known for its lively atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy vibrant nightlife with live music and entertaining performances. Boat Quay, located near Clarke Quay, offers a similar experience with an emphasis on restaurants serving seafood and local specialties.

Universal Studios Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, is one of the most popular theme parks in the region. This park offers exciting rides and attractions inspired by popular movies and TV series. Themed zones such as Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, and Far Far Away provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The park also offers numerous live shows, parades, and interactive activities that further enrich the visit.

Singapore is also known for its night markets, where visitors can buy a variety of products, including clothing, electronics, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Bugis Street Market is one of the largest and most popular night markets in Singapore. Here visitors can find great deals and enjoy an authentic open-air shopping experience. Mustafa Centre, located in Little India, is a 24-hour shopping center that offers a wide range of products at affordable prices.

Sentosa Island offers more than just theme parks. Here you can find Sentosa Golf Club, one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the region, providing top conditions for golfers. Resort World Sentosa, a luxury resort that includes hotels, casinos, and the S.E.A. Aquarium, offers visitors various options for entertainment and relaxation. Sentosa also offers beautiful beaches where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports.

Singapore's cultural scene also offers numerous entertainment options. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, a cultural center located on the waterfront, offers a variety of artistic performances, including concerts, ballets, operas, and theater shows. This complex, also known as the Durian due to its unique architecture, attracts art lovers from all over the world. Singapore also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Singapore Arts Festival, Singapore Film Festival, and many other events celebrating art and culture.

For adrenaline lovers, Sentosa offers numerous activities such as Mega Adventure Park, where visitors can experience zipline, abseiling, and other adrenaline sports. Adventure Cove Waterpark, a water park with numerous slides and pools, is ideal for families and those seeking refreshment and fun. Skyline Luge Sentosa offers exciting rides down the hill with a beautiful view of Sentosa Island.

All these attractions make Singapore a unique destination for shopping and entertainment lovers. The city offers a variety of opportunities for shopping, nightlife, and family activities, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences that reflect the richness and diversity of Singaporean culture.

Business tourism

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Singapore is one of the world's leading centers for business tourism, thanks to its modern infrastructure and strategic location. Singapore Expo, one of the largest exhibition centers in Asia, hosts numerous international conferences and trade fairs. Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre provides top conditions for business events, including conferences, seminars, and exhibitions. Singapore is also known for its innovations and technologies, making it an attractive destination for business travelers.

Singapore Expo, located near Changi Airport, offers more than 100,000 square meters of exhibition space, including 10 pavilions and numerous multifunctional spaces. This modern center hosts many international events, including technology fairs, medical conferences, and business seminars. Singapore Expo offers top technical conditions, including high-speed internet, advanced audiovisual systems, and flexible rooms that can be adapted to different types of events. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of catering services and restaurants within the complex.

Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, located in the heart of the Marina Bay area, is one of the most prestigious convention centers in the world. This center offers more than 120,000 square meters of event space, including the largest hotel ballroom in Southeast Asia, which can accommodate up to 11,000 guests. The modern design and top-notch equipment make this center an ideal place for international congresses, corporate events, and luxury gala dinners. Marina Bay Sands also offers luxury accommodation, Michelin-starred restaurants, and various entertainment facilities, making it the perfect place for a combination of business and leisure.

Singapore is known for its technological innovation and advanced business solutions. The city hosts many technology congresses, including the famous FinTech Festival, which attracts experts from around the world. This festival, one of the largest in the world of financial technologies, offers opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and the presentation of the latest innovations in the financial sector. Additionally, Singapore offers numerous incubators and coworking spaces that support startups and innovative projects.

Raffles City Convention Centre, located near the famous Raffles Hotel, is another popular venue for business events. This center offers flexible conference rooms, modern equipment, and top-notch service. Raffles City is also home to many shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, providing visitors with everything they need in one place. Its central location allows easy access to all parts of the city, making it an ideal choice for international visitors.

Singapore prides itself on its top-quality accommodation that offers everything business travelers need. Luxury hotels such as Marina Bay Sands, Raffles Hotel, The Fullerton Hotel, and Shangri-La Hotel offer top-notch services, including business centers, conference rooms, and wellness facilities. These hotels often offer special packages for business travelers, including high-speed internet, transportation to convention centers, and other amenities.

Changi Airport, regularly ranked as one of the best airports in the world, plays a key role in Singapore's business tourism. This airport offers top-notch services, including high-speed internet, rest and work spaces, and numerous shops and restaurants. Changi is connected to more than 400 cities worldwide, making travel easy for business travelers. The airport also offers unique facilities like Changi Jewel, which includes gardens, waterfalls, and entertainment facilities.

Singapore is also known for its safety and efficiency, making it an ideal place for business events. The city offers a stable political environment, strict laws, and high safety standards, providing peace and security for business travelers. The Singapore government also supports business tourism through various initiatives and incentives that facilitate the organization of international events.

All these characteristics make Singapore one of the world's leading centers for business tourism. The city offers top conditions for organizing international conferences, trade fairs, and seminars, providing visitors with everything they need for successful business meetings. Singapore is the perfect combination of modern infrastructure, technological innovation, and top-notch service, making it an indispensable destination for business travelers from around the world.

Family tourism

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Singapore offers many attractions tailored to families with children. The Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, and River Safari provide educational and entertaining activities for all ages. S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, allows visitors to discover diverse marine life up close. KidZania, a theme park where children can experience different professions through play, offers a unique experience that encourages learning through fun. Sentosa Island also offers numerous family attractions, including beaches, water parks, and adrenaline rides.

The Singapore Zoo, located in the Mandai area, is known for its natural habitats that allow animals to move freely, simulating their natural conditions. The zoo is home to more than 2800 animals from 300 different species, including endangered species like white tigers and orangutans. Children can participate in interactive exhibits and animal feedings, allowing them to learn more about the animal world in a fun and educational way. The Night Safari, the world's first night zoo, offers a unique experience of observing nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy a tram ride through different habitat zones or walk trails that lead through dense forest.

Jurong Bird Park, the largest bird park in Asia, provides visitors with the opportunity to explore a diverse bird world. The park covers 20 hectares and is home to more than 5000 birds from 400 different species. Children can enjoy bird shows, feeding parrots, and exploring various bird habitats. The park also offers educational programs that help children learn more about bird conservation and their habitats.

River Safari, a theme park dedicated to the world's rivers, offers a unique experience of exploring river ecosystems. The park is home to more than 6000 animals, including rare species like the giant panda, manatee, and various fish species. Children can enjoy a boat ride through different zones of the park, observing animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers educational programs that help children learn more about the importance of conserving river ecosystems.

S.E.A. Aquarium, located on Sentosa Island, is one of the largest aquariums in the world and provides visitors with the opportunity to discover diverse marine life up close. The aquarium is home to more than 100,000 marine animals from 1000 different species, including sharks, rays, and various fish species. Children can enjoy interactive exhibits, observing animals in large aquarium tanks, and participating in educational programs that help understand marine ecosystems and the importance of their conservation.

KidZania, a theme park located on Sentosa Island, offers a unique experience where children can experience different professions through play. The park is designed as a small town with various establishments and businesses where children can participate in simulated work activities. Children can try different roles, such as doctors, firefighters, pilots, or chefs, through interactive activities that encourage learning and skill development. This unique attraction allows children to learn through play, developing important life skills and confidence.

Sentosa Island offers a wide range of family attractions that provide fun for all ages. Adventure Cove Waterpark offers various water attractions, including slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Children can enjoy swimming, diving, and other water activities in a safe and fun environment. The island also offers beautiful beaches where families can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach offer diverse activities, from sunbathing and swimming to various water sports.

Universal Studios Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, offers exciting rides and themed zones that attract families and adrenaline lovers. The park offers numerous live shows, parades, and interactive activities that further enrich the visit. Themed zones such as Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, and Far Far Away provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

All these family attractions make Singapore a unique destination that offers a wealth of experiences for the whole family. The city offers diverse opportunities for fun, learning, and relaxation, providing visitors with the chance to enjoy different aspects of this dynamic city-state.