Bordering the Singapore River and Central Business District, the Singapore Civic District is a cultural, lifestyle and arts precinct located in the heart of the city. Get a glimpse of the city’s past and the birthplace of modern Singapore as you weave through some of the nation’s most prominent heritage landmarks. From dining at MICHELIN-Starred top restaurants to learning about Peranakan culture at a Peranakan museum, here are the top best things to see, eat and do at the Civic District Singapore.
see
Sir Stamford Raffles Statue
With his arms folded and deep-set eyes gazing out into the sea, the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles can hardly be missed. As one of the most prominent statues in the Civic District, the polymarble statue is located at the historic Raffles Landing Site, where the British colonial official was believed to have first set foot on our island in 1819. After the first statue was located outside Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, this is the first replica of the bronze statue by the sculptor Thomas Woolner, and it remains today as an iconic symbol of Singapore’s colonial history.
Address: North Bank, Singapore 179555
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Fort Canning Park
Nestled behind the heritage-rich Civic District is Fort Canning Park, an 18-hectare park secluded from the bustling city center and lined with a deep history. Originally named the “Forbidden hill”, Fort Canning Park was where the ancient Malay Kingdom once ruled. Later, the British colonization saw it become the residence of Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822, where he initiated the first botanic gardens in Singapore.
During World War 2, Fort Canning also served a significant role for the British, where it was an artillery fort, barracks, officers’ quarters and underground bunker. Take a stroll around this historical park and make sure to catch a whiff of familiar spices at the Spice Garden, take a photo at the iconic Spiral Staircase, and end your walk at the popular Tiong Bahru Bakery Foothills for some delicious bread and pastries.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Address: River Valley Rd, Singapore 179038 Singapore
Link: https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/fort-canning-park
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
The padang
Fronting the Former Supreme Court and City Hall building, the wide, green lawn in the Civic District stands as the oldest open space in Singapore for public recreation. Gazetted as the 75th national monument in 2022, it has witnessed multiple pivotal moments in Singapore’s history, ranging from the victory parade marking the end of the Japanese Occupation in 1945 to the first National Day Parade in Singapore in 1966.
Since then, the iconic venue has hosted many other significant events including military parades, jubilees, and more recently, major sporting events like the Singapore Cricket Club International Rugby Sevens and the Singapore Marathon.
Address: The Padang, Singapore 179861
Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore
CHIJMES
Amidst a landscape of high-rise office buildings, this pristine white, neoclassical-style building is sure to catch your eye. CHIJMES, short for Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Middle Education School, has stood the test of time as a former girls’ school, chapel, orphanage, and nun’s apartments. Now a charming lifestyle complex, the property boasts beautiful green lawns, marble waterfalls and courtyards that make the perfect background for a photoshoot.
Once night falls, the enclave of restaurants and bars come alive with live bands playing tunes from English classics to synth-pop. Be sure to hang around to catch the vibrant dining and nightlife here at CHIJMES.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Address: 30 Victoria St, Singapore 187996
Link: http://www.chijmes.com.sg/
Directions: 5 min walk from Naumi Singapore
St Andrew’s Cathedral
Dominating the skyline with its impressive tower and spire, St. Andrew’s Cathedral stands as the largest cathedral and the oldest Anglican house of worship in Singapore. Since the original chapel was destroyed by two lightning strikes in 1852, the current structure has since taken its place from 1856.
Steeped in history, the cathedral served as an emergency hospital during frequent air raids in 1942 just before the second World War. Today, the magnificent structure continues to be a significant place of worship for the Anglican community and is one of the top attractions in the Civic District that you should not miss.
Opening hours:
Tue – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm
Sat, 9 am – 6:30 pm
Sun, 7 am – 5:30 pm
Closed on Mondays
Address: 11 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore 178959
Link: http://cathedral.org.sg/
Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore
eat
Lau Pa Sat
One of the best local foods in the Civic District is at Lau Pa Sat. Lau Pa Sat, meaning “old market” in English, is a culinary gem that has stood the test of time, weaving its way through Singapore’s rich heritage for over 150 years. Designated as a national monument in 1973, this historic market sets itself apart from other hawker centres with its distinctive octagonal shape designed by George Coleman.
Beyond its architectural splendor, Lau Pa Sat is a culinary haven offering a diverse array of delectable local and international cuisines. From the tantalizing Thunder Tea Rice and flavorful Lixin Teochew Fishball Noodles to the irresistible Munchi pancakes and grilled skewers at Boon Tat Street, be prepared to indulge in the best local delicacies here.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582
Link: https://laupasat.sg/
Directions: 5 min drive from Naumi Singapore
Odette
Odette is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Singapore and Asia. Located in the National Gallery of Singapore, Odette has been awarded many world-renowned accolades including: 3 MICHELIN Stars, Best Restaurant in Asia in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list and Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award in 2022.
The allure in this esteemed establishment lies in its timeless French fine dining, expertly curated with the infusion of the highest quality ingredients sourced from specialist artisans worldwide. Be sure to give some of their signature dishes a try, including the Normandy Brown Crab, Kampot Pepper-Crusted Pigeon and Rosemary Smoked Organic Egg.
*Please check the website for their latest menu as their menu changes seasonally. Bookings are essential!
Opening hours:
Mon, 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Tue – Sat, 12 pm – 1:15 pm | 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Closed on Sundays
Address: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, #01-04 National Gallery, Singapore 178957
Link: http://odetterestaurant.com/
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
National Kitchen by Violet Oon
Lovers of Peranakan and local cuisine will be excited to hear about this stylish peranakan restaurant in the heart of the Civic District. With its 1920s-inpired wood-paneled grand hall, mirrored ceilings and leather banquette seats, National Kitchen easily stands out with its unique interior.
Helmed by the internationally renowned culinary celebrity, Chef Violet Oon, the restaurant is a testament to her love and passion for Singaporean flavors. Be sure to try some of their iconic dishes like Beef Rendang, Ngoh Hiang and Dry Laksa, or their Singapore High Tea Set for a refreshing local twist.
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu, 12 pm – 3 pm | 6 pm – 10:30 pm
Fri – Sun, 12 pm – 5 pm | 6 pm – 10:30 pm
Address: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, #02–01 National Gallery, Singapore 178957
Link: http://www.violetoon.com/
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Restaurant labyrinth
Rising up 29 spots in just one year from No. 40 to No. 11 in the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list 2023, this 1 MICHELIN Star restaurant presents a “New Singaporean” dining experience that transforms your everyday local food into mouthwatering delights.
Led and inspired by Chef LG Han’s childhood memories of his favourite local hawker food, he brings familiar flavours to the table using superlative ingredients sourced from the region. Must-try dishes at Labyrinth include the Chilli Crab Ice Cream, Hainanese Satay, Orh Luak (Oyster omelette) and Kaya Teh Tarik & Eggs Caviar.
*Please check the website for their latest menu as their menu changes seasonally
Opening hours:
Wed – Thu, 6:30 pm – 11 pm
Fri – Sun, 12 pm – 2:30 pm | 6:30 pm – 11 pm
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Address: Raffles Ave., #02 – 23, Singapore 039802
Link: https://www.restaurantlabyrinth.com/
Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Singapore Cricket Club
Founded in 1852, the Singapore Cricket Club stands as a testament to the city’s rich sporting heritage. Nestled right beside the iconic Padang field, this esteemed club has long been a hub for Singapore’s sports enthusiasts. From cricket to soccer, hockey, rugby, tennis and netball, a myriad of field games were once played on these grounds.
Beyond being known as a sports hub, the Singapore Cricket Club is renowned for its exquisite dining experiences, offering a blend of fine cuisine and local favourites. Indulge in afternoon teas and post-work drinks at the elegant Main Lounge, savor haute cuisine at the Padang Restaurant, or delight in a pizza or two at the Oval & Verandah.
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu, 8 am – 12 am
Fri – Sat, 8 am – 2 am
Sun, 8 am – 10 pm
Address: A Connaught Dr, Singapore 179681
Link: https://scc.org.sg/
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
do
Asian Civilisations Museum
One of the top cultural gems in the Civic District is the Asian Civilisations Museum, the sole institution in the region dedicated to unraveling the history of pan-Asian cultures and civilisations. Nestled within the old Empress Place Building, the museum was gazetted as a national monument in 1992, and currently houses 11 meticulously curated galleries housing over 2,000 artefacts from China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and West Asia.
Wander through the different levels to unveil different segments of its history, including regional trade, faith and belief and ancient Chinese ceramics from the Han to the Qing dynasty.
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu, Sat – Sun, 10 am – 7 pm
Fri, 10 am – 9 pm
Ticket Cost: $20 – $25 (For tourists and foreign residents)
Address: 1 Empress Pl, Singapore 179555
Link: https://www.nhb.gov.sg/acm/
Directions: 5 min drive from Naumi Singapore
Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall
As Singapore’s oldest performing arts venue, the Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall is one of the city’s favourite locations for theatre and concert shows. With its towering and magnificent structure, this architectural gem boasts a Palladian neoclassical style, crowned by an iconic 54-metre-high clock tower that has become an iconic symbol in the city.
Over the years, the theatre has seen several transformations, from being a town hall originally to a makeshift hospital in the Second World War. Today, the hall is home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, and continues to be one of the esteemed performing arts destinations in the city.
Address: 11 Empress Pl, #01-02, Singapore 179558
Ticket Cost: Varies. Please check their website for the ticket price.
Link: https://artshouselimited.sg/vtvch
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Peranakan Museum
Housing what is reputed to be the finest collection of Peranakan artefacts in the world, the Peranakan Museum is a cultural gem in the heart of the Civic District. Meaning “locally born” in Malay, this ethnic group is a unique blend of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian heritage from the descent of Chinese immigrants to Southeast Asia in the early 17th century.
From intricately designed jewelry and exquisite furniture to rich textiles spread across ten permanent galleries, the Peranakan Museum is one of the best places to learn about this distinctive Southeast Asian culture in Singapore. Be sure to grab a ticket and step into the captivating narratives of their history, heritage and how this unique culture has evolved over time.
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu & Sat – Sun, 10 am – 7 pm
Fri, 10 am – 9 pm
Ticket Cost: $8 – $12 (For tourists and foreign residents)
Address: 39 Armenian St, Singapore 179941
Link: http://www.peranakanmuseum.org.sg/
Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore
National Gallery Singapore
Uncover the best of modern art at the National Gallery, the largest in the region for Southeast Asian modern artwork. Taking up a vast 64,000 meters within two iconic historic buildings—the former Supreme Court and City Hall— the National Gallery is easily one of the region’s largest museums. Within its walls, the institute showcases over 8,000 pieces from Singapore’s National Collection, a comprehensive display of modern art spanning the 19th century to the present day.
Dive into the works of esteemed local artists like Georgette Chen and Liu Kang, alongside masterpieces from Southeast Asian and global talents such as Raden Saleh, Yayoi Kusama, and Mark Rothko. Unwind at the rooftop bar Smoke & Mirrors, indulge in Cantonese cuisine at the renowned restaurant Yan or try your luck for a table at the 3 MICHELIN Starred restaurant Odette for a perfect end to your tour around the Civic District.
Opening hours:
10 am – 7 pm daily
Ticket Cost: $15 – $30 (For tourists and foreign residents)
Address: 1 St Andrew’s Road #01–01 Singapore 178957
Link: https://www.nationalgallery.sg/
Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Esplanade—Theatres on the Bay
If you’ve been to the Singapore River, you might have noticed a building at the waterfront that closely resembles a familiar, spiky fruit. Better known as the “durian” by the locals, The Esplanade stands proudly as Singapore’s premier arts center and is a cultural haven for music, dance, and theatre enthusiasts. The venue features a 1,600-seat Concert Hall and a 2,000-seat theatre, and has played host to internationally acclaimed productions such as the iconic musical, Les Misérables.
With a year-round calendar brimming with international music acts, festivals and exhibitions, you can look forward to catching an awe-inspiring production while you’re here. Don’t forget to dine at one of the dining options at the nearby Esplanade Mall, and take a relaxing stroll by the waterfront with the iconic Marina Bay skyline.
Opening hours:
10 am – 7 pm daily
Ticket Cost: $15 – $30 (For tourists and foreign residents)
Address: 1 Esplanade Drive Singapore 038981
Link: https://www.esplanade.com
Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore
Love our Civic District Singapore Guide? Check out other things to do in Singapore with our local travel guides:
- Top Things to Do at Kampong Glam, Haji Lane and Arab Street
- Ultimate Singapore 3 Day Itinerary for First Time Visitors
- 5 Best Malls for Luxury & Designer Shopping in Singapore
For other travel inspiration in Singapore, check out our local Singapore Magazine:
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