A lively mix of cultures, cuisine, tradition, and modernity

Thanks to its iconic, gleaming skyscrapers, chic shopping strips, and celebrity chef-helmed restaurants, this city-state makes a glamorous first impression. The story of Singapore, where Michelin-starred food stalls and modern architecture sit next to colorful historic shophouses, is a captivating mix of different traditions and neighborhoods that reflect a lively mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures. The vibrant dining scene guarantees a culinary delight for every taste and budget, and the local street food hawkers that offer a delicious tour of Singapore’s diverse cultures should not be missed.

Take a moment to get inspired with the best things to eat, see, and do in Singapore, along with a few hints for making your visit as smooth as possible.

With more dishes than you can eat in a lifetime—say yes to every bite you’re offered. Savor every Michelin-starred plate, dig into every international favorite and innovative creation from local chefs, visit an array of street vendors, and taste the passion that goes into crafting every dish. Versions of a traditional chicken rice dish can be found everywhere from humble street vendors to fine dining restaurants. Try stir-fried noodles, sweet and savory rojak, spicy laksa broth, succulent chili crab, and curry cooked with vegetables and a whole fish head.

Marina Bay, the epicenter of all things modern and stylish will bombard your senses. Marvel at the impressive architecture and lush Gardens by the Bay, and enjoy skyline views at the world’s highest microbrewery, LeVel 33. Shop ‘til you drop on Orchard Road. Visit the iconic half-lion half-fish Merlion statue in the Central Business District. Kampong Gelam, Singapore’s oldest urban quarter, and artsy Tiong Bahru, home to hip cafes, indie boutiques, street art, and other walkable neighborhoods immerse you in a vibrant mix of cultures.

Family-friendly activities from theme parks to the ArtScience Museum promise something for everyone and the tropical climate means endless sun, fun, and water sports including windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing. The nightlife here is a dizzying whirl of entertainment for party animals who want to dance until dawn and those who enjoy a quieter, more intimate evening out. Move to the beats of world-class DJs at a nightclub, enjoy a custom-created cocktail at a discreet lounge, or check out a live band before having a big laugh at a comedy club.

With Singapore’s fast and efficient public transportation, you can zip to and from every neighborhood and attraction effortlessly. Bus routes offer slower, more scenic options. Your Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) allows unlimited travel on buses and trains for one, two, or three days. Singapore is hot and humid year-round but be prepared for rain any time. These showers can be torrential but are usually brief. Most Singaporeans are fluent in English as well as an additional language such as Malay or Mandarin Chinese.