Singapore has been named the world’s best cultural destination for 2026 in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. The Southeast Asian city-state surpassed Bali, which held the top position last year.
The rankings are based on the quality and quantity of reviews submitted by travellers from around the world on the Tripadvisor platform.
In the Best Cultural Destination category for 2026, Singapore secured first place, while Bali ranked tenth on the list. The change marks a shift from the previous year, when the Indonesian island topped the category.
London in the United Kingdom placed second in the ranking, followed by Kraków in Poland in third position.
Tripadvisor’s annual awards highlight destinations that receive consistently strong reviews from global travellers. According to the platform, only a small proportion of listed destinations receive the top recognition.
With more than eight million destinations listed on Tripadvisor worldwide, fewer than one per cent receive the Best of the Best award.
Singapore recognised for multicultural heritage
Although widely known for its modern skyline and urban development, Singapore has also been recognised for its cultural diversity. The country reflects a mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian traditions.
Tripadvisor noted that the city offers visitors opportunities to experience different cultural influences within a compact urban setting.
“Singapore’s cityscape looks like a page from a sci-fi comic book. If you’re looking for a truly Singaporean experience, try the many street foods or take a cultural cooking class,” Tripadvisor stated, as quoted by VN Express.
Travellers can explore several cultural districts across the city. Chinatown remains one of the most visited areas, known for traditional temples, markets and local cuisine.
Little India offers visitors a different atmosphere, with colourful streets, spice shops and restaurants serving South Asian dishes. Meanwhile, the Joo Chiat neighbourhood is recognised for its Peranakan heritage, which reflects the cultural history of communities formed through Chinese and Malay intermarriage.
Singapore is also associated with several major attractions that draw international visitors. These include Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands and the ArtScience Museum.
Many of the city’s tourist areas are located within relatively short distances, allowing visitors to move between destinations on foot or by public transport.
Bali previously held the top position
Bali held the top position in the cultural destination ranking in 2025, according to the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. The Indonesian island was recognised for its cultural traditions, temples and natural landscapes.
In that ranking, Bali surpassed several major global destinations, including London, Paris and New York.
The recognition placed Bali among the highest-rated travel destinations on the platform, based on reviews submitted by international visitors.
Tripadvisor’s awards reflect broader travel trends observed on the platform.
Data from the company indicates that travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer cultural experiences and local traditions.
Interest in cultural tourism has been reflected in destinations across different regions, including cities with historic architecture and locations known for spiritual heritage.
Destinations such as Marrakech and Kathmandu have also attracted travellers interested in cultural experiences, according to travel trend data referenced by the platform.
