Things to do in the Lion City

Singapore packs a lot into its modest 719.1 square kilometres, and its compact form means you can get a lot done in just a few days.

Must See Sights

For a quick and easy tour of the main sights, check out the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. Double-decker open top buses glide around the city passing areas such as the Padang cricket ground, stately City Hall, ornate temples dotted around Chinatown, and the buzzling bazaars of Little India.

Get a taste of the city state's storied past with a visit to the glamourous Raffles Hotel. Sip a Singapore Sling or Planter's Punch in the Long Bar and soak up the past.

Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island has long been the destination of choice for those in search of healthy, outdoor family fun. Frolic on Siloso Beach, have a game of volleyball, or enjoy water sports such as kayaking. More intrepid souls will be tempted by the Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports at Wave House. Children will love Underwater World which offers swimming with friendly dolphins. It's also home to the city state's famous Merlion statue - ride to the top of it on an escalator, or walk, for sweeping views of the area.

Gardens by the Bay

Situated next to the Marina Reservoir on the waterfront, this botanical wonderland comprises of two garden areas home to a stunning range of flora, lakes and supertrees. It also features a children's garden with toddler play zones and water play attractions. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic. Just sit on the lawns of Bay East Garden shaded by tropical palms and enjoy stunning views of the urban skyline. Gardens by the Bay is also home to a wide range of dining outlets ranging from modest cafes to swanky restaurants. It also hosts regular concerts, workshops, movie screenings and other events.

Nightlife

Singaporeans put as much time into unwinding after work, as they do work itself. Join them at Clark, Boat and Robertson Quays along the banks of the river where the action goes on until 3:00 a.m. and beyond. Other haunts of the committed clubber include: the superclub Zouk, St James Power Station on the waterfront, and the night clubs at Sentosa. To start your evening, head to one of the city's top hotels featuring a quality happy hour with a sunset view. For a bird's-eye view of the city, head to 1-Altitude, a bar on the 63rd floor in the financial district. For a less boisterous nighttime outing, try the Night Sightseeing Tour which includes a trip to Bugis Street with its enticing market, Gardens by the Bay, and finally, to the Singapore Flyer for a meal.

For the Shopaholics

As one of Asian's most renowned shopping destinations, Singapore has it all. Rub elbows with high society in mega shopping centres packed with designer goods and then head out to explore jumbled back street shops filled with rare items. Marvel at strange medicines in the apothecaries of Chinatown and gaze at the heaps of multicolored textiles in Little India.