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Famous historical places in Singapore offer visitors meaningful insights into the nation’s development over the past two centuries. Located in Southeast Asia, Singapore has preserved its colonial past and cultural diversity across numerous well-maintained heritage sites. Each place represents significant historical moments, ranging from colonial governance to wartime experiences and religious traditions. The city’s heritage buildings and museums reveal the evolution of architecture, politics, trade, and everyday life. Visitors can explore British military structures, centuries-old temples, and detailed war memorials across the city.
Top 15 Historical Places In Singapore To Visit
Discover these famous historical places in Singapore, which showcase the city’s rich political, cultural, and wartime heritage spanning various centuries and communities.
1. The Civilian War Memorial
Photo: yeowatzup / Wikimedia Commons
The Civilian War Memorial commemorates the thousands of civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. It features four tall pillars symbolising Singapore’s major ethnic groups, signifying unity and shared suffering. Located at War Memorial Park, the structure stands as a reminder of Singapore’s darkest years. Beneath the memorial lie the remains of unidentified victims recovered from mass graves. Every February, a memorial service is held here on Total Defence Day to honor the war dead.
Major Attractions: Four memorial pillars, historical markers, and an underground burial chamber
Location: Beach Road, Singapore 189768
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2. Kranji War Memorial
Photo: Huaiwei / Wikimedia Commons
Kranji War Memorial honors over 24,000 Allied soldiers who died during World War II. This solemn site includes the names of those with no known grave etched into white gravestones. Managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it reflects Singapore’s strategic role during the war. Visitors can view the Singapore Memorial, State Cemetery, and War Graves. The site also commemorates prisoners of war from India, Australia, the UK, and other nations. As one of the historical places in Singapore, it provides a reflective experience for international visitors.
Major Attractions: Singapore Memorial, military graves, war monument
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: 9 Woodlands Road, Singapore 738656
3. The Battle Box
Photo: jokertrekker / Wikimedia Commons
The Battle Box is a former British underground command center used during the Malayan Campaign in 1942. Located beneath Fort Canning Hill, it’s where the British made the fateful decision to surrender to Japan. This historical site has been preserved with war maps, wax figures, and command-room reconstructions. It sheds light on military strategies, communication systems, and leadership under crisis. Audio tours and guided experiences allow visitors to understand critical wartime decisions. The attraction engages history buffs interested in military planning and colonial history.
Major Attractions: Command center tour, wartime decision room, military artifacts
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: S$20 / ₹1,240
Location: 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622
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4. Fort Siloso
Photo: Apetrov09703 / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Siloso, situated on Sentosa Island, served as a coastal defense fortress built by the British in the 1880s. It now operates as a military museum with preserved tunnels, barracks, and coastal guns. The Surrender Chambers present re-enactments of the British and Japanese surrenders. The Skywalk offers elevated views of the fort’s surroundings and historical signboards along the route. Visitors can walk through original ammunition bunkers and view 19th-century cannons and artillery. This heritage site offers insight into Singapore’s defense strategies before and during WWII.
Major Attractions: Surrender Chambers, Skywalk, preserved military exhibits
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: Siloso Road, Sentosa, Singapore
5. National Museum Of Singapore
Photo: ProjectManhattan / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest in the country, dating back to 1849. It documents Singapore’s evolution from a fishing village to an independent republic. Multimedia exhibits explore colonial governance, war periods, nation-building, and modern milestones. The building itself combines neoclassical Palladian architecture with contemporary extensions. Rotating exhibitions, artifact galleries, and audio guides support an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Cultural programs and temporary exhibitions further enhance the museum’s informative role.
Major Attractions: Singapore History Gallery, Changing Exhibitions, and Artifact Displays
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: S$15 / ₹930
Location: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
Suggested Read: National Museum Of Singapore
6. Mint Museum Of Toys
Photo: Magda Ehlers / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Mint Museum of Toys preserves a private collection of vintage toys from over 40 countries, dating from the mid-19th century. With over 50,000 items, it showcases global toy history across several levels in a modern display tower. Visitors can view antique robots, tin cars, character toys, and rare pre-war memorabilia. Each level is arranged by theme, offering insights into toy design, culture, and manufacturing. The museum promotes nostalgic learning for both adults and younger audiences. It stands out for its focus on cultural storytelling through childhood artifacts.
Major Attractions: Toy collections, thematic galleries, rooftop cafe
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: S$25 / ₹1,550
Location: 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382
7. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, built in 1881, is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore. It was constructed by early Tamil settlers and remains dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple’s ornate towers, shrines, and sculptures reflect traditional South Indian Dravidian architecture. Located in Little India, it continues to serve the local Hindu community with daily rituals and festivals. It was one of the few structures left untouched during the Japanese bombings in 1942. This temple serves as a religious and architectural highlight in Singapore’s multicultural fabric.
Major Attractions: Tower carvings, goddess Kali shrine, religious festivals
Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM & 4 PM – 9 PM
Location: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042
Suggested Read: Exploring Temples In Singapore
8. Victoria Theatre And Concert Hall
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1862, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall is a classical performance venue and heritage building in Singapore. The twin structures include a clock tower, columned façade, and grand performance spaces. It has hosted key political events, including the Japanese surrender ceremony in 1945. Today, the venue hosts orchestras, recitals, and stage plays in its refurbished spaces. The building underwent major restoration in 2014 while preserving its colonial-era structure. Its dual function as a performance venue and historical landmark draws both art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Major Attractions: Classical architecture, theater performances, clock tower
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
Location: 11 Empress Place, Singapore 179558
9. Sultan Mosque
Photo: Erwin Soo / Wikimedia Commons
The Sultan Mosque, or Masjid Sultan, has stood as a religious and cultural hub in Kampong Glam since its original construction in 1824. It was commissioned by Sultan Hussein Shah with British support. The mosque’s golden domes and massive prayer hall make it one of Singapore’s most photographed religious buildings. The black ring at the base of the dome is made of recycled glass bottles, donated by early Muslims. It plays an active role in community worship, festivals, and interfaith events today.
Major Attractions: Golden Dome, Central Prayer Hall, Guided Tours
Timings: 10 AM – 12 PM & 2 PM – 4 PM (closed on Fridays)
Location: 3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833
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10. Thian Hock Keng Temple
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Thian Hock Keng Temple, completed in 1842, is Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temple dedicated to Ma Zu, the sea goddess. Built without nails, the temple features traditional southern Chinese architecture with dragons, tiles, and wooden carvings. Early Chinese immigrants visited to give thanks after safe sea journeys. The temple served spiritual needs and functioned as a community and cultural center. It stands as a symbol of Chinese heritage and craftsmanship in the city. Visitors can view intricate roof decorations and internal courtyards.
Major Attractions: Chinese architectural details, Ma Zu shrine, calligraphy panels
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: 158 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068613
11. Old Parliament House
Photo: Balon Greyjoy / Wikimedia Commons
The Old Parliament House, completed in 1827, is one of the iconic monuments in Singapore and the city’s oldest surviving government structure. Originally built as a private mansion, it later became the Parliament House, where politicians made key choices that established contemporary Singapore. It has now been turned into The Arts House, a cultural facility that hosts exhibitions, film screenings, and performances. You get to explore the colonial architecture, walk through historical halls, and see the long run legacy.
Location: 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429, in the Civic District
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Major Attractions: Colonial architecture, Tuscan pilasters and dentil molding
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12. Peranakan Museum
Photo: Elisa.rolle / Wikimedia Commons
The Peranakan Museum offers a fascinating look into the lives, traditions, and customs of the Peranakan community. Located in a beautiful heritage building that was once part of the Tao Nan School, it is also counted among the notable historical sites Singapore has to offer. You get to explore the intricate beadwork, traditional garments, and household items that tell the story of this culture. Through its galleries, you can know about the Chinese, Malay, and European influences that shaped Peranakan heritage.
Location: 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Major Attractions: Peranakan heritage and refreshed permanent galleries
13. Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM)
Photo: Irwan Shah Bin Abdullah / Wikimedia Commons
The Asian Civilisations Museum is one of the top historical places in Singapore. Dedicated to showcasing the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Asia, the museum features collections from China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Islamic world. You get to explore the ancient artifacts, religious sculptures, ceramics, and maritime treasures. The museum itself is part of Singapore’s history, as the building dates back to the 19th century when it was used for government offices.
Location: 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555 (historic Empress Place Building by the
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Major Attractions: Pan-Asian cultures, Javanese gold jewelry and Buddhist artifacts
Suggested Read: Asian Civilisations Museum
14. Chijmes
Photo: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons
Once a Catholic convent and school in the mid-1800s, Chijmes is now a restored lifestyle and dining complex and one of the notable places to visit in Singapore. The neo-gothic chapel, with its tall stained-glass windows and tranquil courtyards, offers a glimpse into colonial Singapore’s past. Chijmes retains its old-world charm while being adapted for modern use. Today, it hosts restaurants, bars, weddings, and live events, making it a unique spot where history and contemporary culture come together.
Location: 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996, in Downtown Core (Central Area)
Timings: Varies
Major Attractions: Heritage architecture and contemporary function uses
15. Bukit Brown Cemetery
Photo: Jacklee. / Wikimedia Commons
Bukit Brown Cemetery is known for its rich cultural and historical importance. Built in the early 20th century, it served as the final resting place for many early Chinese pioneers. The cemetery is not only a place of remembrance but also a green sanctuary, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. For those exploring things to do in Singapore, it is a must for history enthusiasts since it offers elaborate tomb designs and inscriptions, giving a glimpse into Singapore’s past and heritage.
Location: Novena, Central Region, Singapore
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Major Attractions: Cultural inscriptions, tomb artistry and fengshui layout
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Historical places in Singapore offer insight into the city’s colonial legacy, wartime memories, and cultural evolution through well-preserved landmarks. These locations provide a direct connection to events and communities that have shaped the city’s development. Visitors can explore buildings, monuments, and quarters that reflect diverse influences and transitions over time. Plan your journey with TripXL to experience Singapore’s heritage, suited for all curious minds.
Cover Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
