Escape to Sentosa or the Botanic Gardens

When you want a break from the city, two green escapes deliver. Sentosa is the resort island just offshore, home to beaches, Universal Studios, and one of the world's largest aquariums, a mix of free beaches and bigger-ticket paid attractions. For something gentler and free, the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens offer a beautiful day among tropical plants, with a free volunteer-led walking tour at weekends. Together they show Singapore's greener side. We'll help you decide which suits your day and which Sentosa attractions are worth the splurge.