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Many of us know Singapore for its futuristic skyscrapers, lush garden displays, and mouthwatering culinary scene. The country receives many tourists from around the globe who come to experience the bustling scenes here. Many people only visit the overly touristy places in the country, but you shouldn’t stick to these spots only. The secret spots in Singapore are something you must not miss if you plan to visit the country soon.
There is no denying that whenever you visit a destination, you cannot miss out on its iconic landmarks, especially if you are there for the first time. However, you should be aware that Singapore has numerous hidden gems worth visiting. You just have to be prepared to venture off the beaten path while in the country to discover its best-kept secrets. Are you wondering if it’s safe to go off the beaten path in Singapore? If so, you must know that it is among the safest places to live in the world. So, stop worrying about your safety and get ready for some adventures while you are in Singapore.
Lesser-Known Treasures of Singapore
Johor Strait Lighthouse
If you are a fan of scenic sea views and cool breezes, you will not want to miss out on this hidden gem. Johor Strait Lighthouse is located at the tip of the Raffles Marina’s breakwater, overlooking the stunning Tuas Second Link bridge. The light from this 12-metre tall lighthouse helps the yachts to navigate their way in and out of the marina. You will enjoy the amazing views and serene environment here.
This is the perfect place to escape the chaotic city and the large crowds of tourists. The modern architecture and maritime history here will keep you engaged and make your time worthwhile. Also, stay for the sunset, which might be one of the most breathtaking ones that you have ever seen.
Katong Village
Singapore has many charming neighbourhoods that take you on a journey to experience the country’s culture and history. Katong Village is a former fishing village and a residential area. Are you a history buff? Get ready to explore the vibrant Peranakan history of this incredible village. As this village features various buildings and shops from the 1970s, it is a great place to experience a slower-paced life in the region.
This slow-paced village is a true delight to visit. You can try delicious food here and head over to the heritage centre to learn more about its rich history and culture. Visit the Eurasian Heritage Centre for an immersive experience. Additionally, if you are an art lover, be sure not to miss the Kim Choo Gallery.
Sengkang Riverside Park’s Floating Wetlands
No one could guess that there could be floating wetlands in a park tucked in a residential district. It is a hidden gem that you won’t want to miss if you enjoy exploring diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural sites. This secret network of floating wetlands in the serene Sengkang Riverside Park is a sight to behold and a treat for nature lovers.
The views of biodiversity and the glorious lotus ponds that you get here are unmatched. And let’s not forget about the exceptional opportunities for boardwalks and cycling amidst refreshing nature that will help you unwind and have a peaceful time. To top it all off, this incredible location is a heaven for birdwatchers. Get ready to witness some beautiful bird species and keep your camera ready for some stunning shots.
East Coast Park
Another hidden gem in the country, perfect for a serene escape in nature and indulging in various activities, is the East Coast Park. This park is a paradise for outdoorsy people. Imagine cycling through beautiful landscapes, indulging in beach volleyball, and experiencing thrilling water sports. You will also get a chance to see stunning coastal scenery while you stroll around the park or go on cycling tours.
Evenings at the East Coast Park are unmatched. There’s always something exciting happening here. The delicious live barbeques and music performances, to markets selling mouthwatering Singaporean hawker food, you get it all here. This park is never too crowded. You can take your time seeing everything in the park if you like to be in the quiet without worrying about the tourist crowds.
Yunnan Garden
Get ready to be stunned by beautiful traditional Chinese gardens and a breathtaking waterfall. In this park, you will have the opportunity to gain insight into spectacular Chinese architecture, literature, and culture. The lush and landscaped Chinese gardens here will not only refresh your mind but will also leave you in awe of their natural beauty.
While you are in the park, make sure not to miss out on the 5.6-metre-tall waterfall that attracts many tourists. You can stroll around the waterfall to see it closely. But you want to get panoramic views of this stunning waterfall. In that case, you should head over to the elevated viewing platform from where you can witness this mesmerising water body surrounded by lush green gardens. It is truly a sight to behold. Another fascinating thing about this park is its educational trails. These trails are themed, such as culinary trail, herbal trail, art trail, and architecture trail.
Changi Village
This laid-back seaside village is another incredible destination if you are looking forward to uncovering off-the-beaten-path sites in Singapore. This village is all about a calm, slow-paced life. You will not find any touristy attractions or tourist traps here. Life here is simple and peaceful. While you are here, you can spend time relaxing on the beach or interacting with the locals.
No doubt, the locals here are very welcoming and will make you feel at home. Also, savour the delicious local cuisine while you are here. You can also take a boat ride to the nearby nature reserve, Pulau Ubin. There are regular ferry rides to this nature reserve.
The Marsiling WWII Bunkers
For curious individuals who never miss the chance to explore mysterious and fascinating spots, you will surely enjoy this one. In the depths of the forest of Marsiling, you will find remnants of WWII bunkers and tunnels. While you visit these, you will feel as though you are not only exploring a historical site but also a forgotten world, as these military structures are now abandoned and in disrepair.
Not many people visit this spot, and it is not well-maintained, which makes it all the more mysterious. Therefore, be cautious when exploring this site. Also, don’t forget to carry a flashlight with you. It is undoubtedly a treat for the curious minds and adventurers.
Holland Village
Known as the place where the east meets the west, Holland Village is a delight to visit. It is a charming neighbourhood located in the central region of Singapore. The Dutch community of the country built this neighbourhood in the 1900s. This is the place where the British army lived during their time in Singapore. You can still see the European features in the architecture here, which is undoubtedly an awe-inspiring sight.
The village is now more popular among younger Singaporeans due to its street-side cafes, vibrant creative energy, and European-style restaurants. It is the local hub of musicians, artists, and many other creatives. New entrepreneurs also love this neighbourhood. So, if these are the type of experiences that you are looking for, add Holland Village to your itinerary.
Ann Siang Hill
Another popular spot among the younger local crowds is Ann Siang Hill. This hill is located in the Chinatown district of the country. The charming hill is renowned for its trendy bars and quirky cafes, which attract a younger crowd. If you are a fan of the electric nightlife scene, this is your place to be during your Singapore holidays.
You will fall in love with the vibrant vibes of this place. While you are here, treat yourself to delicious food and drinks. Be sure not to miss the organic cocktail bar, where drinks are crafted with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. There are many hidden attractions within this place.
Newton Food Centre
One thing that Singapore is widely known for is its hawker food. It is not only a dream for foodies, but also for budget travellers. While you’re in the country, be sure not to miss the Newton Food Centre. While here, try out delicious Singaporean cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant local lifestyle.
Unlike other hidden gems in the country, this is relatively popular among tourists. Anyone familiar with the food scene in Singapore prefers visiting this market. So, if you want to avoid the crowds, try to avoid the peak crowd times. Here you can not only treat yourself to affordable local food but also savour some high-end items at the luxurious restaurants.
Final Words
Singapore is an exciting destination offering a diverse range of experiences. It has long been a popular Asian destination, attracting countless travellers. Many tourists visit the country’s iconic tourist attractions, but this doesn’t mean that its secret spots should be neglected. We have mentioned some incredible secret spots in Singapore that you can explore during your holidays. Don’t forget to write your experience at Travel Backpack and inspire other travellers to explore these hidden gems of Singapore.
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.