The Singapore you haven't seen!
Welcome to the beautiful non-mainstream side of Lion City! While we all know that Singapore is a pristine and an impeccable city in itself, there’s so much more to this thriving metropolis than its usual tourist spots. We suggest scheduling a special day or two on your trip to discover the charming and vibrant side of Singapore where architecture, culture and the arts come to life. These spots also make superior backdrops for IG-worthy photos!
Skip the lines and crowds and find yourself in the cornerstone of Singapore’s colorful history and locale in these 10 must-visit places.
1. Colorful Peranakan Shophouses in Joo Chiat
Source: Singapore Tourism Board
A visual treat for city explorers, the colorful Peranakan Shophouses along Koon Seng Road are historical gems from the 1920s. Peranakans are of Chinese and Malay descent and are known for their intricate and vibrant architectural motifs. Every shop in the row of houses is distinct and unique from one another.
2. Emerald Hill
Source: Hosanna Swee (Singapore Tourism Board)
A hidden gem in an urban jungle is found in Emerald Hill. In this quiet street, tourists and locals can enjoy an afternoon dining, shopping, and marveling at the nostalgic architecture of cozy shops and adorable terrace houses. This neighborhood takes inspiration from Chinese Baroque design and European influences—an atmospheric reminder of Singapore’s rich colonial history.
3. Former House of Tan Teng Niah
Source: Singapore Tourism Board
Preserved from the 1900s, the Colorful House of Tan Teng Niah is the only historical Chinese villa from the heyday of Little India. The overall façade is painted a rainbow wheel of colors using various medium from plaster, molding, panel, and so much more. This landmark is a beautiful outlier amidst Singapore’s towering skyscrapers.
Source: Singapore Tourism Board
4. Old Street Hill Police Station
Hailed as a national monument, the Old Hill Street Police Station is an impressive piece of colonial architecture. This six-storey building has a symmetrical design with its balconies, columns and masonry blocks, giving the structure a stocky facade. Softening the look of the building are colorful windowpanes that give so much character to the 88-year-old station. The Old Street Hill Police Station is sure to make a great postcard photo to grace your travel feed.
5. ION Sky
Source: Hosanna Swee (Singapore Tourism Board)
See the beauty of the city from new heights at ION Sky. 56 levels above ground, this rooftop observatory allows locals and tourists to try a new food & beverage experience while admiring a panoramic view of the Singapore skyline. ION Sky is also located just above the ION Orchard Shopping Mall—one of Singapore’s most dazzling shopping complexes. If you’re searching for a spot to perch up and grab the best view of the city, ION Sky is your best bet!
6. Duxton Hill
Source: SG HOTELS PTE. LTD. (Singapore Tourism Board)
A neighborhood found within Chinatown is Duxton Hill. Notoriously known back in the 19th and 20th centuries for their opium and gambling dens, Duxton Hill is now filled with boutique hotels, unique food finds, eclectic bars, and indie bookstores. This neighborhood is now a vibrant spot in the daytime and a thrilling party place at night!
7. Keong Saik
A food lover’s capital in Singapore is Keong Saik. It’s in this hip and young neighborhood in Chinatown where travelers can find a variety of dining options from gourmet food, international restaurants, to local cuisine. Newcomers can expect quality food creations and of course, gram-worthy interiors to capture the sophisticated and trendy side of Singapore. It's also a stone's throw away from Duxton Hill, perfect if you'd like to check out both areas on the same day!
8. Gelam Gallery
Source: ONE KAMPONG GELAM (Singapore Tourism Board)
Discover a magical alleyway of amazing artwork on street walls, drain covers, trash bins and more at Gelam Gallery. Showcasing Singapore’s talented muralists and artists, this first of its kind outdoor gallery has works of over 30 local and foreign artists. If there’s one place tourists need a photo at, it’s definitely this place!
9. Southern Ridges
Within the concrete skylines of Singapore is a breath of fresh air and nature in the Southern Ridges. Within this 10km property is Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. Here, travelers can enjoy taking a step back and admire a variety of flora and fauna, birdwatch, and marvel at the scenic and panoramic view of the city.
10. Henderson Waves
Source: Singapore Tourism Board
Twisting and turning like a true wave is the bridge façade of the Henderson Waves. At 36 metres above ground, the Henderson Waves bridge is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. Carve out time in your itinerary for a rejuvenating stroll through the Southern Ridges Walk to discover this unique bridge, especially during night time.
Reimagine your feed photos and jump at the opportunity to photograph breathtaking locations only found in Singapore.
For more information on Singapore Travel, make sure to click on Visit Singapore's website here!
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IMPORTANT NOTE: Be a responsible traveler! All information on this post are accurate from the time of writing. Rules, regulations and guidelines are updated frequently and may change without Klook’s prior notice. For your safety, check with the respective LGU’s and establishments directly before your travels.
