In this second part, we explain how to visit each of Singapore’s fifteen iconic buildings, with practical tips: how to get there, when to visit, what you can see inside, and even which souvenirs to bring home.

Singapore: How to Visit Spectacular Buildings

Singapore is not just a futuristic urban panorama: its iconic landmarks tell the story, culture, and innovation of this unique city-state. After discovering in the first part the fifteen most spectacular buildings in Singapore and their symbolism, it’s time to get practical: how to get there, when to visit, what you can see inside, and which souvenirs to bring home to keep memorable memories of each site.

Whether you are passionate about architecture, curious about history, or simply seeking unique experiences, this second part will guide you step by step to fully enjoy these wonders, combining comfort, accessibility, and cultural immersion. From the vertiginous luxury of Marina Bay Sands to the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, and including historic temples and iconic museums, each building offers a unique and memorable experience.

With our practical tips, you’ll know exactly how to get there, the best times to visit, what you can see or do inside, and even which souvenirs to take to prolong your Singapore experience long after your visit. Get ready to explore Singapore like a true savvy traveler, discovering the stories, secrets, and treasures these buildings have to offer.

1. Marina Bay Sands

How to Get There?

MRT: Bayfront Station (CE1 / DT16) on the Circle Line or Downtown Line. From the station, follow signs to the Bayfront exit, then cross the Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge to reach the complex.

By taxi: Depending on your starting point, the price varies with traffic. Taxi fares in Singapore start around SGD 4.40 for pickup + SGD 0.26 every ~400m.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Singapore is a tropical city, so there’s no real “dry season” like in Europe, but morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the intense heat.

To enjoy the SkyPark view (rooftop), sunsets are particularly magical, so visiting around 5–6 pm can be ideal.

What Can You See Inside?

• Luxury hotel with spectacular rooms.

• Casino.

• High-end shopping mall.

• Fine dining restaurants.

• Rooftop: SkyPark with infinity pool (hotel guests only), plus observation points for visitors.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

• A postcard with the iconic silhouette of the three towers + SkyPark.

• An item from the Marina Bay Sands shop (e.g., a magnet inspired by the pool or panoramic views).

• A photo from the observation deck: an unforgettable “visual” souvenir.

Link: Marina Bay Sands – Official Site

2. Merlion Park

How to Get There?

MRT: The nearest station is Raffles Place (EW / NS), then a ~5–10 minute walk via Fullerton Road to Merlion Park.

Bus: Several lines serve the Fullerton Square stop (e.g., 10, 57, 100, 107, 131, 167, etc.).

Taxi / Grab: Depends on your location; from the city center, it may cost around SGD 8–15.

Boat: A very pleasant way to see the Merlion is the Singapore River Cruise, which drops you near the monument.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Merlion Park is open 24/7, so you can visit at sunrise for magical light or in the evening to admire the bay lights.

Avoid afternoon hours (2–5 pm) if you want to avoid the heat, according to traveler tips.

What Can You See Inside?

It is mainly a park/walkway: there’s not really an interior to visit, but there are great viewpoints for photos.

You can explore the underpass beneath the Fullerton building, which houses a small philatelic shop.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

• A mini Merlion figurine, very classic.

• A panoramic photo from the promenade, with Marina Bay in the background.

• A postcard or magnet full of symbolism, available in shops around the Fullerton.

Link: Merlion Park – Visitor Guide

3. Gardens by the Bay

How to Get There?

MRT: Take the Circle Line or Downtown Line to Bayfront Station (CE1 / DT16), Exit B, then cross the walkways (Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge) to enter the gardens.

Bus: Lines like 400 stop near Marina Gardens Drive.

Taxi / Car: Follow Marina Boulevard / Marina Gardens Drive. Parking is available (Bayfront Plaza, Meadow, Satay by the Bay).

Internal Shuttle (within the gardens): A Gardens shuttle connects Bayfront Plaza to the domes. Cost: SGD 3 for unlimited trips during the day.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Outdoor gardens are open from 5 am to 2 am according to the garden map.

The domes (Flower Dome, Cloud Forest) open from 9 am to 9 pm (last admission around 8:30 pm).

For the best view and light, visit the Cloud Forest / Flower Dome in the late afternoon, then stay for the Supertree light show.

What Can You See Inside?

• Two large air-conditioned domes: Flower Dome (Mediterranean/arid plants) and Cloud Forest (indoor waterfall, tropical vegetation).

• OCBC Skyway: a walkway between the Supertrees for panoramic views.

• Floral Fantasy: an immersive space (seasonal / ticketed).

• Free outdoor gardens, bridges, walking areas, and food corners like Satay by the Bay.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

• A souvenir plant or seed (if allowed in the garden shop).

• A Supertree ball/figurine.

• A book or magazine on the gardens, their eco-friendly design, or dome architecture.

Link: Gardens by the Bay – Official Site

4. Sultan Mosque (Masjid Sultan)

How to Get There?

MRT: Take the Circle Line to Bugis Station (EW12 / DT14), Exit A, then walk about 5 minutes.

Bus: Lines 7, 32, 133, and 195 pass nearby.

Taxi / Car: Follow North Bridge Road. Parking is limited in the area; allow extra time to find a spot.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

The mosque is open daily, but non-Muslim visitors must respect visiting hours: typically 10 am–12 pm and 2–4 pm. Modest clothing is recommended.

What Can You See Inside?

• Large prayer hall with golden domes.

• Traditional Islamic architecture, calligraphy, and geometric motifs.

• Small library and cultural space to learn about Singapore’s Muslim history.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

• Prayer rug or rosary (available in the shop).

• Postcards or books on the mosque’s history and architecture.

Link: Masjid Sultan – Official Site

5. National Gallery Singapore

How to Get There?

MRT: City Hall MRT (EW13 / NS25), Exit B, 5 min walk.

Bus: Lines 133, 143, 162.

Taxi / Car: Empress Place. Paid parking available.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

10 am–7 pm daily, last ticket at 6:30 pm.

What Can You See Inside?

Modern and contemporary art collections from Singapore and Southeast Asia, temporary exhibitions, restaurant and café.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Art books, postcards of artworks, design items from the gift shop.

Link: National Gallery Singapore – Official Site

6. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

How to Get There?

MRT: Esplanade MRT (CC3), Exit A.

Bus: Lines 63, 75, 106.

Taxi / Car: Esplanade Drive, on-site parking available.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

10 am–10 pm, depending on show schedules.

What Can You See Inside?

Performance halls, concerts, exhibitions, and promenades along the bay.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Show programs, CDs of local artists, Esplanade merchandise.

Link: Esplanade – Official Site

7. Singapore Art Museum

How to Get There?

MRT: Bras Basah MRT (CC2), Exit B.

Bus: Lines 7, 133.

Taxi / Car: Bras Basah Road, limited parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

10 am–7 pm, closed on Mondays.

What Can You See Inside?

Exhibitions of Singaporean and Asian contemporary art, educational programs, artistic events.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Art books, exhibition catalogues, locally designed items.

Link: Singapore Art Museum – Official Site

8. Fort Canning Park

How to Get There?

MRT: Dhoby Ghaut MRT (NS24 / NE6 / CC1), Exit B, 5–10 min walk.

Bus: Lines 7, 131, 162.

Taxi / Car: Hill Street, limited parking nearby.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Open 24 hours, ideal early morning or late afternoon for walks and photos.

What Can You See Inside?

Walking trails, centuries-old trees, historical ruins, historic hill, amphitheatre.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Souvenir photos, local history books.

Link: Fort Canning Park – Official Site

9. Clarke Quay

How to Get There?

MRT: Clarke Quay MRT (NE5), Exit A.

Bus: Lines 61, 63, 80.

Taxi / Car: Clarke Quay Central, paid parking available.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Nightlife activity: 5 pm–midnight.

What Can You See Inside?

Bars, restaurants, nightlife, riverside promenade, Singapore River cruises.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Local crafts, bar/restaurant merchandise.

Link: Clarke Quay – Official Site

10. Chinatown

How to Get There?

MRT: Chinatown MRT (NE4 / DT19), Exits A and B.

Bus: Lines 33, 63, 131.

Taxi / Car: Pagoda Street, limited parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Daily, markets open 10 am–10 pm.

What Can You See Inside?

Temples (Buddha Tooth Relic, Sri Mariamman), souvenir markets, traditional Chinese restaurants.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Lanterns, local spices, tea, handicrafts.

Link: Chinatown Singapore – Official Site

11. Little India

How to Get There?

MRT: Little India MRT (NE7 / DT12), Exit A or B.

Bus: Lines 23, 48, 66.

Taxi / Car: Serangoon Road, limited parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Markets and shops open 9 am–9 pm.

What Can You See Inside?

Hindu temples, spice and textile markets, traditional Indian restaurants.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Incense, saris, traditional jewelry, Indian sweets.

Link: Little India Singapore – Official Site

12. Haji Lane & Kampong Glam

How to Get There?

MRT: Bugis MRT (EW12 / DT14), Exit A.

Bus: Lines 75, 195.

Taxi / Car: Beach Road, limited parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Shops open 10 am–9 pm.

What Can You See Inside?

Local designer boutiques, trendy cafés, street art, Sultan Mosque.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Local fashion, accessories, handmade souvenirs, decorative items.

Link: Kampong Glam – Official Site

13. Sentosa Island

How to Get There?

MRT / Monorail: HarbourFront MRT (NE1 / CC29), then Sentosa Express from VivoCity.

Taxi / Car: HarbourFront Drive, parking available.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

Open 24 hours; attractions open 10 am–7/8 pm depending on location.

What Can You See Inside?

Beaches, Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, SEA Aquarium, shows and restaurants.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Theme park merchandise, swimsuits, Sentosa souvenirs.

Link: Sentosa – Official Site

14. Universal Studios Singapore

How to Get There?

MRT / Monorail: Sentosa Express from HarbourFront MRT, Waterfront Station stop.

Bus: Lines 123, 188.

Taxi / Car: Sentosa Gateway, paid parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

10 am–7 pm, ideally early morning to avoid crowds.

What Can You See Inside?

Themed rides and attractions, shows, movie-inspired zones, restaurants, and shops.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Plush toys, t-shirts, movie and attraction-themed accessories.

Link: Universal Studios Singapore – Official Site

15. SEA Aquarium Singapore

How to Get There?

MRT / Monorail: Sentosa Express from HarbourFront MRT, Waterfront Station stop.

Bus: Lines 123, 188.

Taxi / Car: Sentosa Gateway, paid parking.

Best Season / Opening Hours:

10 am–7 pm, perfect for families and marine life enthusiasts.

What Can You See Inside?

Over 100,000 marine animals, underwater tunnel, educational exhibitions, interactive activities.

Souvenirs to Take Home:

Marine animal plush toys, educational books, aquarium souvenirs.

Link: SEA Aquarium – Official Site

Discover Singapore Between Architecture and Nature

Visit Singapore’s basilicas and cathedrals and be amazed by breathtaking architecture. The historic center and old town are full of alleys and unusual places to explore on guided tours or small train excursions, with easy access for visitors with reduced mobility thanks to elevators. Sundays and public holidays are ideal for enjoying the city stress-free, especially with skip-the-line tickets.

Nature lovers can stroll through marshes, nature reserves, and polders, offering stunning views and a sense of freedom. Don’t miss the must-visit shopping districts, and plan visits from Monday to Saturday to avoid crowds. Tourist offices provide all necessary information for guided itineraries suitable for families or even camper vans. From unique excursions to the historic center and breathtaking panoramas, Singapore is a must-see for anyone wanting to explore the city from every angle.

Singapore Between History and Architecture

To discover Singapore’s treasures, opt for a guided or walking tour of the historic center, where architectural buildings, churches, and unusual neighborhoods mix. Art and history enthusiasts can explore mansions, Gothic or medieval-style sites, accompanied by a guide or audio guide for a complete experience. The tourist office offers guided tours, on-site visits, or self-guided tours, suitable for everyone—even those who prefer to visit at their own pace. Walking through traditional neighborhoods, along quays, and canals offers insight into local heritage and life. During school holidays or public breaks, some activities are available by reservation to fully enjoy the city.

Even if some words evoke other destinations like Amsterdam or references like Noirmoutier or Sarlat, the concepts adapt to Singapore: a mix of history, culture, and urban walks to experience firsthand.

Conclusion

Singapore proves to be both a tourist and offbeat destination, where every city visit offers a mix of architectural sites, historic neighborhoods, and hidden gems. Between guided city tours, commentary, and discovery tours, you can explore the historic center, admire remnants of the past, remarkable Baroque buildings, and follow itineraries to not miss a thing. Tourist trains make it easy to explore the city, while lesser-known paths take you off the beaten track.

Even though Singapore doesn’t have salt marshes or polders like Noirmoutier Island, the city has its own exceptional heritage and breathtaking experiences, including tastings, City Hall visits, and architectural excursions reminiscent of medieval towns or the Louvre. Each tour, guided city visit, or tourist train offers a unique perspective on this modern and historic city, where world heritage meets unforgettable contemporary experiences.

📍 ASIA ON THE WAY – Practical Travel Guide for Asia
🌐 Website: https://asiaontheway.com
📧 Email: contact@asiaontheway.com
💬 Personalized advice, tailor-made itineraries, and local tips for traveling differently across Asia, all year round—even in the off-season.

FAQ: Everything About Your Singapore Visit

Why take a guided city tour instead of exploring independently?

A guided tour with a professional guide allows you to fully appreciate façades, castles, architectural buildings, and the historic center. For in-depth experiences and local anecdotes, a commentary tour is ideal.

What options are there for unusual or cultural visits?

Singapore offers cultural tours and city discoveries, including temporary exhibitions, abbeys, and historic sites. You can enjoy small-group tours or tourist trains for a unique experience.

Are departures and rates suitable for school groups and families?

Yes, some tours offer reduced rates for school groups and families. Deals often include combined tickets and organized visits for all ages.

Can I explore the city independently while discovering its medieval and architectural heritage?

Yes, self-guided visits are possible, but to fully appreciate façades, bell towers, castles, and medieval city features, a guided tour or professional guide is recommended.

How to enjoy a complete and unusual experience?

For a full experience, follow a guide, combine tastings, historic center tours, and commentary visits. You’ll discover hidden spots, stories about tides, and architectural treasures not to be missed.

Why take a guided tour rather than exploring on your own?

A guided tour with a tour guide or local expert helps tourists discover the city’s key sights, including iconic monuments, statues, and the Singapore Flyer. You’ll gain insider knowledge, local anecdotes, and tips on what to see that you might miss on a leisurely self-guided visit. Guided walking tours, bus tours, or hop-on hop-off buses are ideal for a complete itinerary.

What are the best options for sightseeing and day tours?

Singapore offers a range of experiences, from half-day city tours to full day tours or even day trips outside the city. Highlights include Orchard Road for shopping, Marina Barrage for views and recreation, Botanic Gardens, Suntec City, and neighborhoods like Geylang or the Peninsula area. Food tours and culinary experiences are perfect for foodie tourists wanting to taste local flavors.

Are tours suitable for all types of visitors, including families and locals?

Yes! Many tours cater to locals and international visitors alike. Families and school groups can enjoy half-day or full-day safari experiences, visits to iconic monuments, and guided cultural or culinary tours. Hotels like Swissotel often provide easy access to pick-up points for bus tours and hop-on hop-off buses.

Can I explore Singapore independently while still seeing major sights?

Absolutely. Singapore is very visitor-friendly. You can explore Changi Airport, the Singapore Flyer, Raffles Place, and Botanic Gardens at your own pace. Self-guided walking tours or using hop-on hop-off buses allows flexibility. However, for in-depth history, architectural insights, or insider tips, a tour guide is recommended.

How can I make the most of my Singapore visit?

To maximize your experience, combine guided walking tours, culinary tours, and day tours. Include must-see attractions like Marina Barrage, Singapore Flyer, Orchard Road, and local neighborhoods like Geylang. Check out Swissotel or other accommodations for itinerary advice, and don’t miss seasonal events or hidden gems recommended by tour guides. This way, you’ll cover things to see, what to see, and enjoy both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences