The 8 Neighborhoods You Need to Explore in Singapore

Sentosa Island

If it’s fun, relaxation and entertainment you're looking for on a trip to Singapore, you’ll find it on Sentosa Island. The island is just 15 minutes away from the city centre via a short monorail ride from VivoCity or a scenic cable car ride from Harbourfront. Known as the “State of Fun,” Sentosa Island is home to three golden sand beaches, themed attractions like Mega Adventure Park (home to southeast Asia’s steepest zip line) and Adventure Cove Water Park, golf courses, spas, restaurants and walking trails. Needless to say, you won’t be bored on Sentosa Island.  

Dempsey Hill

Formerly a nutmeg plantation in the 1850s, and then repurposed as a military camp, Dempsey Hill is a lesser-known neighborhood when compared to other more popular areas like Chinatown or Marina Bay, but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. In fact, there’s enough to see, eat and do here that you could spend an entire weekend exploring. Dempsey Hill is located just minutes away from the shopping mecca of Orchard Road, but it offers a much lower-key experience, tucked away amidst relaxing greenery. Browse antique shops and small boutiques selling items you might not find elsewhere. Check out some of the walking trails to really get a feel for the area. Located just opposite of Dempsey Hill you’ll find Singapore Botanic Garden, a green oasis in the city and well worth allotting a couple of hours for. Admission to the Botanic Gardens is free for all garden areas except for the National Orchid Garden.