The fast pace and incessant movement are intrinsic characteristics of this modern city. People and cars are in permanent circulation in the midst of skyscrapers that seek to reach the sky.

But Singapore is much more than skyscrapers and shopping malls. In this destination, you will find an amalgamation of cultures and influences that pass through China, India and Malaysia.

The city center itself is located by the river. The north bank is dominated by the colonial quarter and government buildings, and the more recent urban area on the south bank is dominated by skyscrapers – this is where the headquarters of large banks, companies and financial institutions are located.

1. Orchard Road

Orchard Road is the best known shopping street in Singapore and Asia. Extending over 2.2 km, Orchard Road is lined with shopping centers that replicate the big brands. It is also on this street that the official residence of the President of Singapore, known as Istana, is located. Orchard Road’s Christmas lighting is another attraction, transforming the shopping street into a place straight out of a fairy tale.

2. Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is a complex of three towers overlooking the entire bay of Singapore. Completed in 2010, the work had a total cost of 5.5 billion dollars. The complex includes a luxury hotel , with the famous infinity pool at the top, several restaurants and shops, a convention center, a museum and other entertainment venues, such as a synthetic ice skating rink.

3. Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer is not just any Ferris wheel, but an observation wheel that provides a unique experience 165 meters above the ground (the equivalent of 42 floors). On clear days, you can see parts of Malaysia and Indonesia. The ticket costs the equivalent of around 20 euros, and can be purchased online or on site.

4. Botanical Gardens

Located in the heart of Singapore, the Singapore Botanical Gardens are worth a visit not only to escape the concrete jungle but also for their historical as well as botanical interest. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, they have preserved, since their creation in 1859, the heritage of the tropical garden from the British colonial era. Entry to most gardens is free; the exception is the incredible orchid garden, with one of the largest collections of these plants in the world.

5. Jardins da Baía (Gardens by the Bay)

The Gardens by the Bay (not to be confused with the Botanical Gardens) are a set of three interconnected gardens, which are part of the Singapore government’s strategy to transform the country into a “garden city”. Bay Central Garden has a waterfront promenade, which connects to the other two gardens – Bay East and Bay South. One of the most impressive attractions is the Supertree Grove, a set of futuristic tree-shaped structures that shade by day and light up at night.

6. Chinatown

Visiting Singapore’s Chinatown is not much different from visiting China itself. Like any Chinese city, the neighborhood is full of shops and restaurants where you can taste authentic Chinese food. To learn more about Singapore’s Chinese community that founded the country, visit the Chinatown Heritage Center on Pagoda Street. Also be sure to visit the temples located in Chinatown, such as the oldest Hindu temple Sri Mariamman, and the Buddha Tooth Relic.

7. Little India and Arab Street

Little India is one of the best examples of a more than 200-year-old traditional neighborhood coexisting in a forward-looking city. Today, Little India is a colorful space, a place for celebrating Hindu festivities, with its epicenter at the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. It is also the ideal place to try the different specialties of Indian cuisine: vegetarian dishes from the south of India, and tandoori from the north of the country.

In the Arab Quarter, you will find the Sultan’s Mosque, dating back to 1825. Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall but can admire the magnificent golden domes from the outside.

8. Sentosa Island

With theme parks like Mega Adventure Park and Adventure Cove Water Park, Sentosa is a kids’ paradise. The island is located just 15 minutes from the center of Singapore. To get there, use the monorail from the VivoCity shopping centre, or the cable car from the Harbourfront. Sentosa also has three white sand beaches, restaurants, and hiking trails.

9. Colonial Quarter

The Colonial Quarter, or Civic District, is an area north of the river, known for being the birthplace of modern Singapore, and for being here that a number of important attractions are located. At the historic Raffles Hotel, dating back to 1887, be sure to try the famous Singapore Sling cocktail. In this neighborhood, visit the National Museum of Singapore , the Museum of Asian Civilizations , and the Singapore Museum of Art .

10. Zoo

The Singapore zoo is different from other zoos: here, there are no bars or cages, and the animals live in spaces that simulate their natural habitats. The separation between animals and visitors is mostly ensured by moats.

Observing the community of orangutans is one of the most impressive experiences. Equally interesting are the zebras, meerkats, white tigers, kangaroos, among many other animals. Those for whom a simple visit is not enough have experiences such as the Night Safari, the River Safari and the Jurong Bird Park.