It’s one of the most distinctive buildings on the Singapore skyline but Marina Bay Sands hotel is much more than its dramatic design. With one of the world’s largest infinity pools perched on the 57th floor, a wide range of shops and restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, as well as the on-site ArtScience Museum, you’ll never want to leave. Retreat to Banyan Tree Spa on the 55th storey for the day. Enjoy everything from a body scrub, steam bath or even a massage by two therapists. 

It may be a small country but Singapore has more than 300 parks and four nature reserves for its mostly city-dwelling citizens to bask in. The expansive Botanic Gardens, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015, includes the National Orchid Garden – home to 1000 species of orchids and 2000 hybrid varieties – and the Fragrant Garden, which highlights the sweet-scented Tembusu tree flower.

It’s rare for an airport to be a highlight of any destination but Changi Airport isn’t your run-of-the-mill transit hub. From the minute you step off the plane, you’re transported to a surreal space where natural wonders and luxury amenities sit side by side. The impressive Rain Vortex – the world’s tallest indoor waterfall – steals the show but don’t miss crossing the glass-bottomed Canopy Bridge or wandering through the hedge maze.

First built as a fish market in 1824 and nestled in the heart of the financial district, Lau Pa Sat is now one of Singapore’s many hawker centres. Admire the striking cast-iron design of the building while dining out on the best local dishes, from Hainanese chicken rice to laksa and more.

It takes less than 30 minutes to reach Sentosa island from the Singapore CBD and it’s certainly worth the trip. With luxurious resorts, tranquil beaches and the Universal Studios theme park, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Traverse the island via its cable car network to take in the incredible views from above.

Located within the sprawling Marina Bay Sands resort, the ArtScience Museum is a must visit for families (and anyone who wants to escape the humidity). The museum spans 5000 square metres and 21 gallery spaces, showcasing exhibitions that blend art and science with culture and technology. 

Built in the early 1920s, the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery on Bright Hill is the largest Buddhist temple in Singapore. Wander between prayer halls, bell and drum towers, as well as the crematorium and columbarium, and discover the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas. Don’t forget to pay your respects to the 13.8-metre-high bronze Buddha statue in the Hall of No Form.

This island to the north-east of the mainland transports you to Singapore’s past. As the home of the country’s last remaining traditional kampong or village, Pulau Ubin features wooden houses and jetties that sit alongside coconut rubber plantations and fish farms. Chek Jawa Wetlands is home to an abundance of wildlife to see during your visit.

Spanning more than 100 hectares at Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit when in Singapore. Home to the famous 50-metre-tall Supertrees – sustainable vertical gardens featuring more than 162,900 plants of 200 species – there are 18 across the three green spaces that make up the Gardens by the Bay. Ascend the other-worldly Supertrees to see the surrounding gardens from up high.

East meets West at contemporary fine-diner Restaurant Euphoria, where the food is inspired by a “Gastro-Botanica” concept that highlights vegetables, legumes, herbs, spices and fruits. Sit down for the Journey of Euphoria degustation and allow chef Jason Tan to take you on an eight-course adventure.

Sitting next to Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park and home to more than 900 different species of animals across 35 hectares of rainforest. Illuminated by special lights that imitate the moon, the Night Safari allows visitors to observe animals without disturbing them or their natural sleep cycles. Highlights include the Fishing Cat and Leopard trails, where you’ll see creatures native to South-East Asia.

The National Gallery of Singapore showcases the world’s largest collection – more than 9000 pieces – of Singaporean and South-East Asian art. Within the original Old Supreme Court Building and City Hall, the gallery marries the two historical structures with modern architecture.

Nature-lovers and keen walkers take note: the MacRitchie Nature Trail & Reservoir Park has you covered. Along the 11-kilometre route, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, such as flying lemurs and long-tailed macaque monkeys. While you’re there, be sure to brave the TreeTop walk, a 250-metre suspended bridge that takes you up into the rainforest canopy.

Sustainability and statement architecture come together at the luxury Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay hotel in the heart of the CBD. Chill out in the outdoor mineral pool before winding down at the end of a busy day in your ultra-modern suite.

Founded in 1827 and located in the downtown Chinatown district, the Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. Built in the Dravidian architectural style, Sri Mariamman is listed as a national monument due to its historical significance and distinctive design. The entrance tower or gopuram features six tiers of colourful sculptures depicting Hindu deities and other figures – see it in person to appreciate the scale.

Named one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, the playful No Sleep Club can be found behind a black awning emblazoned with two emojis on Singapore’s hip Keong Saik Road. Sip a wasabi-distillate Bloody Mary and a Kombu-steeped cognac Reverse Harvard.

On tropical Sentosa island, the Village Hotel Sentosa is sure to delight kids of all ages. The expansive pool deck is fringed with lush foliage and features four themed spaces, including a dedicated children’s play pool and the terraced Pamukkale pool – the ideal spot for watching the Singapore sunset.