Executive Summary
Welcome to Homejourney’s definitive guide to must-visit Singapore landmarks by location. Whether you’re a property buyer, investor, or new resident, this comprehensive resource goes beyond tourism, weaving together attractions, property market insights, and practical advice for confident, safe decision-making. With verified data, actionable tips, and Homejourney’s commitment to user safety and trust, this guide positions you to explore Singapore’s iconic districts—and make your next property move with total confidence.
Table of Contents
- Central Singapore: Civic District, Marina Bay & Orchard
- Chinatown & Outram: Heritage, Food & Creative Hubs
- Eastern Singapore: Katong, Joo Chiat & East Coast
- Northern Singapore: Nature, Heritage & Family Fun
- Western Singapore: Science, Industry & Urban Green
- Sentosa & Southern Waterfront: Luxury, Leisure & Resorts
- Singapore Property Market Insights by Location
- Practical Advice: Viewing, Financing & Moving
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Next Steps: How Homejourney Supports Your Move
Central Singapore: Civic District, Marina Bay & Orchard
Overview:
The heart of Singapore is a showcase of modernity, heritage, and luxury—home to world-famous sights, top-tier shopping, and many prime property investments. Central Singapore’s blend of culture and commerce makes it a perennial favourite for both homeownership and high-yield investment.
Civic District Landmarks
- National Gallery Singapore: Southeast Asia’s largest visual arts institution, housed in two grand national monuments.
- Asian Civilisations Museum: Explore Singapore’s multicultural roots and artefacts from across the continent.
- Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall: A neoclassical icon for the performing arts.
Marina Bay Icons
- Marina Bay Sands: The city’s most recognisable skyline, featuring a rooftop infinity pool, luxury mall, and integrated resort.
- Gardens by the Bay: Supertree Grove and climate-controlled domes draw millions annually—an urban oasis for residents and visitors.
- ArtScience Museum: Cutting-edge exhibitions at the intersection of art and technology.
- Helix Bridge & Merlion Park: Architectural marvels symbolising Singapore’s innovation and national spirit.
Orchard Road & Surrounds
- Orchard Road: Asia’s premier shopping and lifestyle boulevard, lined with luxury residences and flagship malls.
- Istana: Presidential residence set in lush parkland, occasionally open to the public.
- Emerald Hill: Conservation shophouse enclave blending Peranakan history with upmarket living.
Property Market Spotlight:
Prime Districts 9, 10, and 11 (including Orchard, Newton, and Tanglin) remain the most sought-after for luxury condominiums and landed properties. In Q1 2025, non-landed property prices in the Core Central Region (CCR) rose by 0.5%, supported by resilient demand and limited new supply[1][4]. The region’s enduring appeal is driven by proximity to landmarks, top schools, and unrivalled amenities. For the latest project launches and historical trends, visit the Projects Directory .
Chinatown & Outram: Heritage, Food & Creative Hubs
Overview:
Chinatown is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and modernity, renowned for its temples, street markets, and culinary hotspots. Outram, with its sleek medical and creative clusters, complements Chinatown’s historic charm with contemporary energy.
Essential Landmarks
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: A Tang-style masterpiece and spiritual anchor for the local community.
- Sri Mariamman Temple: Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, known for its intricate gopuram.
- Chinatown Heritage Centre: Immersive museum bringing early migrant stories to life.
- Pagoda Street & Smith Street: Bustling lanes filled with souvenir shops, night markets, and heritage shophouses.
Food & Lifestyle Experiences:
Chinatown is synonymous with hawker culture. Don’t miss Maxwell Food Centre and Chinatown Complex for legendary local eats. For in-depth guides, explore:
- 吃遍牛车水：Homejourney权威盘点麦士威熟食中心必尝美味
- Chinatown Street Market Experience: Souvenirs, Shophouses & Nightlife | Homejour...
- 新加坡牛车水美食、文化与隐藏宝藏权威全攻略 | Homejourney权威指南
- 新加坡历史寺庙与地标深度解析：佛牙寺、马里安曼庙与牛车水原貌馆 | Homejourney权威解读
Property Market Spotlight:
Chinatown and Outram (Districts 1 & 2) offer a unique blend of conservation shophouses, high-rise condos, and medical suites. Proximity to the CBD and medical hub (SGH Campus) sustains strong rental demand and capital appreciation, especially for heritage shophouse properties—an increasingly rare asset class. For market trends and available units, see Projects Directory .
Eastern Singapore: Katong, Joo Chiat & East Coast
Overview:
The east is famous for its Peranakan heritage, seaside lifestyle, and a thriving café scene. Katong and Joo Chiat’s colourful shophouses and vibrant food culture attract both families and young professionals. East Coast Park remains Singapore’s most beloved recreational haven.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Joo Chiat & Katong Shophouses: Instagrammable rows of pastel Peranakan facades, home to bakeries, design studios, and heritage tours.
- East Coast Park: 15km of beaches, cycling trails, and family activities.
- Changi Village & Boardwalk: A tranquil enclave for sunset strolls and famed hawker fare.
- Peranakan Museum (reopening 2025): A deep dive into Straits Chinese culture, just minutes from the heart of Katong.
Property Market Spotlight:
The East Coast (Districts 15 & 16) is a perennial favourite for families seeking spacious homes near top schools and the beach. Recent years have seen robust resale activity and new launches, with non-landed home prices in the Outside Central Region (OCR) rising by 0.6% in Q1 2025, driven by strong demand for lifestyle-centric living[2]. The region’s connectivity is set to improve further with the Thomson-East Coast MRT Line.
Northern Singapore: Nature, Heritage & Family Fun
Overview:
The north offers a tranquil alternative to city living, featuring lush greenery, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a region growing in popularity as buyers seek value and connectivity beyond the downtown core.
Top Attractions
- Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: Singapore’s premier mangrove ecosystem and bird sanctuary.
- Mandai Wildlife Reserve: Home to the iconic Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise.
- Kranji Countryside: Farms, fresh produce markets, and rustic weekend getaways.
- Sembawang Hot Spring Park: The only natural hot spring on the island.
Property Market Spotlight:
Northern estates (Districts 25-28) are among Singapore’s most affordable, with recent infrastructure upgrades and new launches attracting first-time buyers and upgraders. OCR projects in the north saw strong sales in Q1 2025, making up over 66% of all new home transactions[2]. For the latest listings and insights, visit Projects .
Western Singapore: Science, Industry & Urban Green
Overview:
Singapore’s west is an engine of innovation and education, anchored by major universities, business parks, and lush green spaces. Jurong Lake District is transforming into the island’s second CBD, bringing new vibrancy to the region.
Key Landmarks
- Jurong Lake Gardens: Singapore’s newest national gardens, offering scenic trails and waterfront activities.
- Science Centre Singapore: Leading destination for STEM discovery and family fun.
- IMM & JEM Malls: Retail and dining hubs for the west.
- Chinese and Japanese Gardens (reopening 2025): Heritage landscapes with tranquil pavilions and pagodas.
Property Market Spotlight:
The Jurong region (Districts 22-24) is experiencing rapid development, with the Jurong Lake District Master Plan catalysing new residential, commercial, and recreational projects. Prices remain competitive compared to the central region, offering long-term upside potential. For master plan updates and project launches, see Projects Directory .
Sentosa & Southern Waterfront: Luxury, Leisure & Resorts
Overview:
Sentosa is Singapore’s playground of luxury living, world-class resorts, and waterfront attractions. The upcoming Greater Southern Waterfront project will further transform the area into a dynamic lifestyle and investment hotspot.
Signature Attractions
- Sentosa Island: Beaches, Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and exclusive residential enclaves.
- Mount Faber & Cable Car: Panoramic city views and access to Harbourfront’s retail and dining.
- Greater Southern Waterfront (in progress): A 30km coastal transformation, unlocking new homes, parks, and business spaces.
Property Market Spotlight:
Sentosa Cove remains the only precinct with landed homes available to foreigners, making it a unique proposition for global investors. Southern waterfront districts are set for significant capital appreciation as redevelopment plans progress. For premium listings and market analysis, visit Projects Directory .
Singapore Property Market Insights by Location
Verified Market Data (2025):
| Region | 2025 Price Growth (Q1-Q3) | Key Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Core Central Region (CCR) | +0.5% to +0.9% | Luxury launches, limited supply, foreign demand |
| Rest of Central Region (RCR) | +0.5% | City-fringe value, new integrated projects |
| Outside Central Region (OCR) | +0.6% | Mass-market affordability, upgraders, new MRT lines |
According to the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the Singapore Residential Property Price Index reached an all-time high of 215.10 points in Q3 2025, reflecting a sustained upward trend despite global uncertainties[1][3]. Experts forecast a 3-4% annual price increase for 2025, with primary sales led by competitively priced new launches and resilient demand in suburban areas[1][2].
Key Regulatory Highlights:
- Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD): Foreign buyers face a 60% ABSD on property purchases in prime districts, impacting luxury segments[7].
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Limits: Strict LTV ratios and Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) rules ensure prudent borrowing. For current mortgage rates, visit Bank Rates .
- HDB vs. Private: HDB resale prices rose 1.5% in Q1 2025, while private landed and non-landed homes saw moderate growth, supporting upgrading demand[1][2].
Practical Advice: Viewing, Financing & Moving
With Singapore’s diverse attractions and neighbourhoods, choosing the right location is as much about lifestyle as it is about investment potential. Homejourney’s verified listings, transparent processes, and customer-centric approach ensure a safe, trusted experience for every buyer.
Viewing Properties Near Landmarks: Tips
- Check for upcoming infrastructure or master plan enhancements—these often drive future value.
- Consider proximity to MRT lines, schools, and daily amenities for long-term liveability.
- Research conservation regulations in heritage districts (e.g., Chinatown, Joo Chiat) that may affect renovations or usage.
- Verify all listings and agent credentials on Homejourney for peace of mind.
Financing & Regulatory Considerations
- Use Homejourney’s Bank Rates tool to compare the latest mortgage rates and eligibility.
- Understand ABSD, LTV, and TDSR rules before committing—these can significantly impact your budget.
- Consult Homejourney for verified financing partners and up-to-date regulatory guidance.
Moving & Maintenance
- For smooth move-in, schedule early aircon servicing and essential maintenance with Homejourney’s trusted partners: Aircon Services .
- Plan for peak moving periods—avoid school holidays and major public events near key landmarks.
References
Explore Topics in this Guide
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general reference only. For accurate and official information, please visit HDB's official website or consult professional advice from lawyers, real estate agents, bankers, and other relevant professional consultants.
Homejourney is not liable for any damages, losses, or consequences that may result from the use of this information. We are simply sharing information to the best of our knowledge, but we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability of the information contained herein.