Chinatown

Construction of the Chinese district of Singapore started in 1828 and started out rougher, more cramped and crowded than it is today. Most of it has been renovated, but the narrow streets and shops remain, as do several large markets. Drop into the Peoples Park Complex shopping centre and Chinatown Complex market where the experience receives added dimensions.

• Web:

  www.chinatown.sg

• Address:

  South Bridge Road, Singapore

• More info:

  South Street, South Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street and Sago Street

• Subway:

  Chinatown (can also be reached from Outram station)

Clarke Quay

This riverside quay was once the entrepôt centre of the Singapore harbour. Now a bustling nightlife area, the run-down warehouses - "go downs" - have been turned into nightclubs, restaurants and flea markets. Though fully renovated, historical buildings have been preserved, letting it retain its special character.

• Web:

  www.capitaland.com/sg/malls/clarkequay/en

• E-mail:

  ask-us@capitalandmallasia.com

• Address:

  3 River Valley Road, Singapore

• Phone:

  +65 6337 3292

• More info:

  Upstream from Boat Quay

Esplanade

At the mouth of the Singapore River lies the Esplanade, a performance art centre featuring a concert hall, a theatre hall, recital and rehearsal studios, as well as outdoor performance spaces. Casually referred to as "the Durian" because of its resemblance of the famous tropical fruit, the architecturally stunning building boasts some of the world’s best acoustics. Even with no one on stage, this is a great spot for lunch or afternoon tea at the neighbouring Esplanade Mall.

• Web:

  www.esplanade.com

• E-mail:

  corporate@esplanade.com

• Address:

  1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore

• Phone:

  +65 6828 8377

• Subway:

  City Hall

First Generation - Bronze Bathers

The series of bronze sculptures spread across Singapore represent the lives of local people before Singapore became the modern metropolis it is today. One instalment of this series are the Bronze Bathers, located at Boat Quay.

• Address:

  Boat Quay, Singapore

• More info:

  Near Fullerton Hotel

Fort Canning Park

This park, in the middle of the colonial city centre, is a great spot for anyone who wants to learn more about Singapore’s military history. Raffle’s last home during his time in the city is also here. An exciting tour of the subterranean command headquarters used by the British during the Second World War is a must when visiting the park.

• Web:

  www.nparks.gov.sg

• E-mail:

  nparks_public_affairs@nparks.gov.sg

• Address:

  51 Canning Rise, Singapore

• Phone:

  +65 6471 7361

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay are among the world's most spectacular urban developments. The Gardens' inauguration in 2012 marked a decisive step towards refashioning Singapore from "Garden City" to "City in a Garden" — it's easy to see why while wandering its 100+ hectares. The Gardens’ Supertree Grove consists of 18 tree-like structures, some reaching up to 50m in height. What’s hard to wrap one’s mind around is how closely these “trees” mimic their natural counterparts: overgrown with exotic plants and flowers, they mimic photosynthesis via a complex system of environmental technologies, and collect rainwater that later goes towards irrigation and fountain displays. There is a spectacular Skyway stretching between 2 of the tallest trees, which features a light and sound display at night. Another two unmissable attractions at the Gardens are the two conservatories: the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.

• Web:

  www.gardensbythebay.com.sg

• Address:

  18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–9pm