blog singapore trip

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Singapore » Itinerary

Check out our EPIC 4-Day Singapore Itinerary! (2024)

Singapore, the little island hub of energy just off the coast of Malaysia, is a beautiful place to spend your time in with its perfect blend of futuristic designs and natural gardens and parks. Whether you have a short layover, on your way to another destination, or you are arriving determined to spend a vacation in this multicultural city, you are spoilt for choice on things to do.

So spoilt, in fact, that it can seem impossible to properly plan a trip – there are so many things you can see and do, it can be quite overwhelming! You might also be asking yourself “how many days should I spend in Singapore?”

That’s why we’ve put together this Singapore itinerary! It will ensure you make the most of your time – however long or short that may be – and that you get to experience the best of the city.

A Little Bit About this 4-Day Singapore Itinerary

Where to stay in singapore in 4 days, day 1 itinerary in singapore, day 2 itinerary in singapore, day 3 itinerary in singapore, day 4 itinerary in singapore, what to do with more than 4 days in singapore, best time to visit singapore, how to get around singapore, planning a trip to singapore – what to pack and prepare for, faq on singapore itinerary, final thoughts.

Singapore is one of the most modern and culturally unique cities in the world. As a city-state, it is one of the smallest nations in the world, yet offers more than enough to fill out an itinerary.

Singapore is known for its melting pot of cultures, its towering skyscrapers, and its squeaky clean reputation. Backpackers visiting Singapore for the first time often do remark that it can be a little stifling, due to its extreme civil rules and sometimes sterile attractions e.g. theme parks.

But there is plenty to like about Singapore. Here, you’ll find some immensely unique sites and experiences, like the ethnic smorgasbords of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam or the futuristic super trees at the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is a city that looks to the future and strives to be different and, in a lot of ways, it succeeds.

4 days in Singapore will be plenty of time. One can see all of the city’s major attractions without being rushed. For those who want to see as much as possible with the time allotted could even fit in a bit more. We’ve made sure to provide a couple of extra suggestions at the end of our standard 4-day Singapore itinerary.

Traveling in Singapore is also made easy thanks to the MRT (or Mass Rapid Transit). It runs throughout the city and can connect you from one attraction to the next fast, efficiently, and without hassle. Most of the major attractions are a short walk from the MRT stations.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

4-Day Singapore Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in Singapore: Arab Street , Little India , Tekka Centre , Singapore National Museum , River Cruise , Rooftop Cocktails
• Day 2 in Singapore: Esplanade Center , ArtScience Museum , Lunch , Gardens by the Bay , Biodomes , Supertree Grove Skywalk
• Day 3 on Singapore: Sentosa , Skyline Luge , Palawan , Chinatown
• Day 4 in Singapore: Treetop Walk , Adam Road Food Centre , Botanic Garden , Orchard Road
• More Places to See in Singapore: Night Safari , Universal Studios , Marine Life Park

With a Singapore City Pass , you can experience the best of Singapore at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Singapore, although small, has many different areas for you to stay in. From bustling city centers to cultural hubs and even beach resorts, there’s a spot on this island for every kind of traveler!

Apart from Sentosa – a beach resort island just off the coast of Singapore – the districts are all quite close to each other. So wherever you stay, you won’t be far from the other great places on offer.

Places like Chinatown and Little India are fantastic neighborhoods in Singapore for experiencing the many cultures available in Singapore. While Orchard Road is a hub of activity during the day, it turns into shopping opportunities galore in the evening!

If you’re looking for the best place to experience Singapore’s nightlife, we suggest staying in Clarke Quay. It’s also the perfect place for travelers on a budget. Backpackers in Singapore can find great accommodation and there are happy hour specials on food and drinks throughout the day.

Alternatively, enjoy fine-dining at some of Singapore’s best restaurants in the Civic District. Immerse yourself into the culture as well by visiting the many art museums in the area, and relax in some of the large green spaces – great for picnics!

Best Hostel in Singapore – Fisher BnB

Fisher BnB can be found within convenient distance from everything important in Singapore. Visitors can even walk to places such as Little India and Chinatown!

Offering ladies only, mixed and family dorm types, you can comfortably sleep with whichever group fits you best. With your comfortable bed, you’ll also get free WiFi and a scrumptious breakfast included in the rates.

Backpacker tip:  If you’re traveling Singapore on a budget, then check out our roundup of the cheapest and best hostels in Singapore !

Best Airbnb in Singapore – Attic Hideaway @ Heart of Town

Walking distance to Singapore’s hottest neighbourhoods and attractions, this clean and contemporary attic hideaway is the best Airbnb in Singapore. With modern amenities and a full kitchen, this one-bedroom condo comfortably sleeps up four people and is perfect for anyone looking for a place to stay in the heart of the city.

Best Luxury Hotel in Singapore –  Marina Bay Sands

Situated in Marina Bay, this iconic hotel has become a Singaporean landmark. It has 20 dining options inside its walls, and its own private, world-class casino.

Enjoy luxury rooms, which all have floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you breathtaking views of Marina Bay and its surrounds. There is also an infinity rooftop pool and a spa inside the hotel.

• Best Airbnbs in Singapore
• Best VRBOs in Singapore
• Best Homestays in Singapore

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Today we visit a few of the most interesting neighborhoods in Singapore including the Arab Quarter (Kampong Glam) and Little India. We’ll top off the day with a river cruise and perhaps a rooftop cocktail.

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

9:00 AM – Arab Street and Kampong Glam

Exploring Arab Street and the surrounding neighborhood of Kampong Glam is a very unique cultural experience. This is the beating heart of Singapore’s Islamic community!

Start your first day early by taking the MRT and hopping off at Bugis station, making your way to Arab Street. While you’re at it, consider having breakfast when you arrive as well. Check out all Things Deliciousere, which is arguable serves the best in the area.

Once you’re ready, just start walking around. As you do, you will find a hub of Islamic culture. From fantastic cafes to quaint boutiques, you will find fabrics, souvenirs, spices, and more than a couple of hookah bars to chill at. Haji Street is one of the best places to become familiar with Kampong Glam.

There are many stores that offer products not found in your local supermarket. There is also the Trippies and Little Children’s Museum, which shows life as a young child in Singapore during the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Once you’ve tasted and shopped your way down the street, be sure to visit Sultan Mosque. It opens every Saturday to Thursday from 10 am to 12 pm (and again from 2 pm to 4 pm). Fridays are only open from 2:30 pm to 4 pm.

Remember when visiting the mosque, as with most temples in Singapore, be sure to show the appropriate respect and ensure that you are correctly clothed – otherwise, you will not be let in.

• Cost –  Just the cost of food and souvenirs.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there –  Bugis Street is the nearest MRT stop.

11:30 AM – Little India

Next is Little India, a bright and colorful neighborhood full of Indian culture, from shopping and food to friendly faces! Here, you will find an array of Indian-inspired shops, restaurants, and places of interest. Wind your way down the busy, colorfully decorated streets and experience the sights, sounds and delicious smells along your way!

In addition to the many food options – the Tekka Centre, which we visit next, has the most culinary options – you’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities, such as Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping center.

Browse through the Little India Arcade and pick up Indian-inspired souvenirs to take home with you. Make a stop at the Jothi Store & Flower Shop, too, and you’ll find ethnic products spread over 5 floors.

Little India also has a collection of temples that you can visit. A definite not-to-be-missed is Sri Veeramakaliamman, the most beautiful temple in the area according to popular opinions. You can also visit the Indian Heritage Center, a four-story building blending Indian history and heritage with modern architecture – entrance costs $5.

• Cost  – Again, free unless you give in to the shopping temptation.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there –  Ride two stops away from Bugis on the MRT to Little India or walk 30 minutes from Kampong Glam.

1:00 PM – Lunch in the Tekka Centre

The Tekka Centre is a cornerstone of the Indian community in Singapore and is probably the easiest place to find good Indian food in the city. There’s a pretty dizzying array of Indian food on offer here, from rich Southern fare to firey northern dishes and tandoori to roti to naan and every other type of Indian bread you can imagine. For lovers of curry and other Indian staples, it will be love at first sight.

One of the best cheap eats you can have in Singapore is biryani. It is a simple dish – essentially chicken, rice, and spices usually baked in a banana leaf – but packs a tasty punch.

If you’re not in the mood for Indian food, you can still find lots of other types of Asian cooking. Thai, Malay, Chinese, and, of course, Singaporean food are all on offer here.

• Cost  – $5 per dish.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours depending on your rush.
• Getting there –  The Tekka Centre is on the edge of Little India, near the Little India MRT stop.

2:30 PM – National Museum of Singapore

It’s time to walk off all that food we had back at the Tekka Centre. The National Museum of Singapore is the perfect place to go to do just that.

The National Museum is the oldest museum in the city and features an impressive collection of art, crafts, and modern showcases. Its primary focus is the preservation and retelling of Singapore’s national history, for which it is not lacking for exhibitions, but there are also some pretty cool interactive exhibitions as well. The latter is usually temporary though so be sure to check on the official website for what’s currently going on at the museum.

If you need a bit more chill time before or after entering the museum, Fort Canning Park is right next to the museum as well. Feel free to find a nice spot of grass or a good tree to lean and just contemplate your navel. Photographers should also be on the lookout for the spiral staircase in the park; it’s one of the most Intragrammable spots in Singapore.

• Cost  – $10 for adult entry.
• Getting there –  From the Tekka Centre, it’s a 15-minute walk down Selegie Road.

5:30 PM – River Cruise

Why not enjoy a leisurely cruise along Singapore’s waterfront? Departing from Clarke Quay, you can enjoy exploring the streets a bit while you wait for your boat. Once you’re aboard the boat, you will then travel down the river to view the other quays, the Boat Quay and Robertson Quay, as well as many other landmarks along the way!

All through your trip, the captain of your boat will educate you on the history of the places you are floating by. Your captain will also know the importance of stopping long enough for you to get those perfect holiday photos! You’ll want to have your  travel camera ready for shooting  because you’re sure to want to take some of the memories home with you. From the water, you’ll also get a clearer view of some of these amazing landmarks.

You’ll go past attractions such as the Merlion, the Esplanade, and the Marina Bay Sands Resort. Getting a good look at these places is sometimes much easier from the water, further away than if you were to explore them on foot – and no foot traffic to compete with!

While on the boat, be sure to look out for the bronze statues dotted along the waterfront. You’ll find statues of children playing, olden-day cart-and-horses and other historical moments. Each statue is there to tell a story of Singaporean life long ago. There are also statues of animals exclusive to Singapore, such as the  Kucinta cats.

• Cost  – $19 per adult.
• How long should I stay here?  45-60 minutes.
• Getting there –  There are multiple launching points on the Quay.

6:30 PM – Rooftop Cocktails

Let me be frank: alcohol is usually prohibitively expensive in Singapore. Most travellers visiting Singapore on a budget will only be able to afford cheap beers in Chinatown and most will find that even these are not worth the price.

But sometimes, the juice can be worth the squeeze.

There are several rooftop bars in Singapore that offer both amazing vistas and pretty damn good drinks. The views are so good in fact that a couple could even rival many of the city’s dedicated viewing platforms and those aren’t cheap to get in either. So why not pay for a view and a drink? Most bars will let you loiter, take photos, and soak in as much as you want for the cost of one drink.

For great views of Marina Bay and some good drinks, Smoke & Mirrors is a no-fail. If you’re looking for a more laidback vibe with a less expansive view, LOOF is a local legend in the city. There are lots more where this came from though – check out any one of these  awesome rooftop spots in Singapore .

After splurging on those cocktails, you may want to resort to some cheap eats. Head back to Kampong Glam and eat at the Golden Mile if you missed it before.

• Cost  – $12-$20 per drink (yikes)
• How long should I stay here?  As long as it takes to finish your drink and soak in the views.
• Getting there –  Most of the best rooftop bars in Singapore are in the Central Area, which is right next to Clark Quay.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

On the second day of our Singapore itinerary, we’re mostly going to hang around the Marina Bay District. This is where many of the most iconic places in Singapore are found, including the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, ArtScience Museum, and Gardens by the Bay.

9:00 AM – Visit the Esplanade Center

The Esplanade center is a large and busy art center, offering guests nearly 3000 performances each year. It is a non-profit center, run by a dedicated team of art professionals who have kept the center going for the past 16 years!

If you’d like to view all that the center has to offer, and a bit behind the scenes, take a guided tour for just $15 per person! Or go up to the third floor and get lost in the vast shelves of music, art and theatre books in the center’s library.

You can watch a free performance every day on the waterfront, giving you a taste of the magic that happens inside. If you’d like to purchase tickets to performances in the concert hall or theatre, you can do so online or at the center’s ticket box.

There are a number of shops available in the center’s ‘mall’, where you are able to shop as your heart’s desire. Stop off at one of the many eateries for a bite to eat. From Asian cuisine to delectable ice creams and crafts beers, you can find it all inside!

• Cost  – Free to enter + free performances! A guided tour is $15.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours depending on if you shop or eat.
• Getting there –  The nearest MRT stop is City Hall.

11:00 AM – ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum is one of the most iconic points of interest in Singapore . The building’s distinct lotus design is unmistakable and it’s location at the base of the even more imposing Marina Bay Sands Hotel make it one of the places that you simply can’t miss.

The outside of the building is worth seeing on its own and most people settle for a couple of photos in front of it. Inside the ArtScience Museum is just as cool though! Exhibitions here are a lot more futuristic and, as the name implies, technologically driven. There is often an infinity room featured as well, which seems to be all the rage these days. If you’ve wanted to take a photo inside one of these kaleidoscopic spaces, this is a good opportunity.

• Cost  – $10-$24 depending on how many exhibitions you want to see.
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours
• Getting there –  The ArtScience Museum is just across the Bay from the Esplanade. It’s a 15-minute walk across the scenic Helix Bridge.

1:00 PM – Lunch

Lunch today is really up to you. There aren’t many hawker centres or cheap eats anywhere around Marina Bay unfortunately so your options might be limited. You can eat back at the Esplanade, inside the shops at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, or at a couple of restaurants inside the Bay Gardens. None of these will necessarily be cheap though.

If you want to save the most money on food during your second day in Singapore, pack a lunch or bring something to go.

• Cost  – The offerings around Marina Bay will be more expensive
• How long should I stay here?  As long as you need to.
• Getting there –  Depends where and what you eat.

3:00 PM – Gardens by the Bay

The Gardens by the Bay is a large space in Marina Bay that has been designed as a natural oasis in the middle of the busy bay area. This futuristic botanical garden attracts many tourists and locals alike! It’s free to enter and explore most of the Gardens.

The Garden is a hub of ecological growth, and it is full of resources and educational information. Not only is it the perfect spot to go and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by nature, but it’s a great way to learn about plants, flowers, and wildlife from all over the world!

Inside the Gardens, you will find lush greenery and a variety of wildlife. Take a walk past Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lakes, taking in the beauty of nature around you! Spend some time in the Serene Garden, a Japanese-inspired zen garden. Enter the World of Plants and learn all about the many types of plants located in the Gardens.

Then, check out the Sun Pavilion, a desert-inspired space with over 1000 desert plants! Afterward, make your way to the Heritage Gardens and learn about the diverse history and culture of Singapore – told through plants, of course! You also don’t want to miss the Canyon, a large collection of sculptured rocks that lay across a 400-meter dragon’s tail.

Insider tip:  The Gardens is also home to more than 40 unique art sculptures! Find them along your walk through the Gardens.

• Cost –  Free.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there –  The Gardens by the Bay is behind the Marina Sands Tower. You can either walk around the monolithic hotel or through the lobby.

5:00 PM – The Gardens’ Biodomes

Once you’re done checking out the main Gardens, make sure you stop off at the Biodomes! These consist of a Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Both of the greenhouses are made from a complex design of glass and a steel grid. They are the world’s largest columnless greenhouses!

The Cloud Forest dome houses a 35-meter tall mountain, which is covered in lush, tropical vegetation. It’s from the top of this mountain that you will be able to see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall!

The Flower Dome is the largest glass greenhouse in the world! This dome showcases flowers and plants that are found in the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. Find African Baobab trees, desert succulents, an olive grove, and more.

• Cost –  $21 per adult per dome.
• Getting there –  The biodomes are a part of the Gardens by the Bay park and are located closer to the bay itself.

7:00 PM – Supertree Grove Skywalk & Garden Rhapsody Light and Music Show

Finally, visit the Supertree Grove, where the movie “Crazy Rich Asians” takes place . The man-made “supertrees” are solar-powered structures that act as vertical gardens – with tropical flowers, various ferns, and other plant life found growing along their steel frameworks. You can view 12 of the 18 supertrees found in the Gardens!

The supertrees also act as air venting ducts, rainwater collectors, and solar power generators! Aside from their useful functions, though, they are also a sight to behold and provide an amazing show of light and sounds through the Gardens each night.

Take a trip up the 16-story high supertrees and experience the exhilarating skywalk for just $6 per person. Then, settle into a comfy spot on the grass and wait for the 8 pm Lights and Music Show, which shows off the beauty of the Supertree Grove!

When you’ve gotten your fill of the gardens, start thinking about dinner. There are a couple of places in and around the gardens that you can eat at: there’s Pollen, a Mediterranean restaurant located inside the Flower Dome or Indochine, a restaurant inside the tallest supertree. These will be expensive and you will probably need to book a table ahead of time.

If you have the time and energy, head over to Chinatown for dinner. We were saving this neighborhood for day 3 of our Singapore itinerary but you could easily visit it twice. Between the Maxwell Centre, Chinatown Complex Market, and everything in-between,  you will not be lacking for culinary options.

• Cost –  $6 for the skywalk, the show is free.
• How long should I stay here?  The show itself is short – stay as long as you like.
• Getting there –  The trees are pretty unmissable. Look for them in the distance and start walking.

Planning on staying longer than a weekend holiday in Singapore ? Time to take a vacation away from our vacation.

On the third day of our Singapore itinerary, we’re going to Sentosa Island and the beach! (Not a real beach per se as it’s man-made but, hey, a beach is a beach.) Afterward, we’re going to spend some time arguably the most delicious spot in Singapore: Chinatown.

10:00 AM – Sentosa Island

After spending your first day engaging in the cultural side of Singapore, take this second day to bring out your fun side – Sentosa Island being “The State of Fun”. Man-made beaches, water parks, roller coaster rides and so much more bring crowds of people to this man-made island!

Sentosa is full of fun and playful things to do. Whether you’re looking for a bustling day heaped with adventure or a more chilled day seeing the sights and lazing on the beach, you’ll find your perfect fit here! Once you have reached the island, there are a few stops you should definitely make, which we’ve mentioned below.

Be on the lookout for the large Merlion statue as well. The “Merlion” is a mythical creature with the body of a fish and the head of a lion. Merlions are such a big part of Singapore culture that you can even find them on the currency! There are many Merlion statues around Singapore, but the largest and most interesting is the one on Sentosa Island. This specific one is 15 stories tall, and you can walk around inside the statue!

Inside, you’ll find interactive games, videos, and other informational activities that give you the history of the Merlion. Climb up to the mouth and get a birds-eye view of Sentosa.

Insider tip:  Wondering how they came up with the Merlion? Singapore was originally named Singapura, meaning “lion city” and it used to be mainly a port and fishing city. So they took their lion and added ‘mer’ – meaning sea.

• Cost –  $3 for Sentosa Express and entrance.
• How long should I stay here?  4-5 hours in total
• Getting there –  Take the MRT to the Sentosa Station at VivoCity Level 3, Lobby L, and from there take the Sentosa Express.

11:00 AM – Skyline Luge

Said to be one of the activities you absolutely shouldn’t miss, the luge and Skyride is the best way to end your Sentosa visit! Take a seated Skyride up to the top of the luge track, where you can then zoom down the track in a luge.

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Singapore skyline as you slowly reach the luge track in your 4-seater Skyride seat. Once at the top, get into your luge and choose from their four tracks to go down.

The tracks are all around 1.6 miles long and all have tunnels, twists, and turns to make the ride down as exhilarating as possible! The greatest care has been put into making sure the luges are safe, and they are equipped with safety brakes and steering.

The company’s saying is ‘Once Is Never Enough’ and that seems true for the majority of their customers! Luckily, tickets are sold in pairs so you know you’ve got at least two rides to go.

After you’ve had your fill, grab some food. There are plenty of places to eat around Sentosa: Breadtalk has delicious and freshly-baked goods, Bikini Bar offers drinks on the beach and some bar snacks, FOC Sentosa is famous for its cocktails.

• Cost –  $18 per person for two luges and Skyrides!
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there –  There’s a shuttle stop right in front of the luge.

1:00 PM – Palawan Beach

This beach is essentially Sentosa’s family beach. Great to bring kids to as there are safe, family-friendly spots to chill and adventures to be had. But it’s not just for families with kids; couples and even solo travelers are bound to find something to do here!

Stop in at the Animal & Bird Encounters and get to meet and interact with the island’s inhabitants. From monkeys to reptiles and birds, there are daily shows that take place and you should be just in time for the Parrot Encounter show at 3 pm.

From Palawan Beach, take a short walk across the rope bridge to reach the very bottom tip of Asia – a small islet. Here you can climb one of the two view towers and stand on the decks to overlook the seemingly endless Singapore China Sea! Watch as the ships float by on the water and get a good view of the beach as well.

• Getting there –  You can take the shuttle to Palawan or you can walk from the Luge – the two are very close to one another.

5:00 PM – Chinatown

Now that you’ve gotten your fill of Singapore’s more “Disney” side, it’s time to wash all of that kiche down with a stop in the eclectic Chinatown! Much as the name suggests, it’s a hub of Chinese culture mixed with Singaporean life. It’s a  great place to find lots of shopping, with many temples and museums to explore!

There is, again, an abundance of things for you to do. There are many temples here, which you can visit during opening hours. The most noteworthy of the temples being the Buddha Relic Temple which displays Buddhism and religious relics.

The biggest attractions, though, are the many shopping malls. Shopping in Chinatown is an experience few would want to miss! Find everything from clothes to home decor, and gifts to take back home.

Start at the Chinatown Complex Market (home of  Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle ) and make your way through hawker stalls galore. You’ll be able to find many curious and gifts at different stalls. Then, navigate down the streets of Chinatown and explore the many boutique stores on offer as well. You really can shop ‘til you drop here!

For dinner, stop by the famous Maxwell Hawker Centre or return to the Complex Market. Both are among the best places to eat in Singapore.

• Cost –  Free to explore.
• How long should I stay here?  For the rest of the day if possible.
• Getting there –  Take the Sentosa Express back to the mainland and then take the Northeast MRT line to the Chinatown stop.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Singapore:

Perhaps best area to stay in Singapore for tourists. Located in the centre of the city, Marina Bay overlaps with the Central Business District, the Civic Quarter, and trendy Clarke Quay, so you’re never far from the action.

• Take in the stunning views from the Sands Skypark, a platform perched 55 stories above the ground.
• Marvel at the indigenous flora and the towering mechanical trees that make up Garden by the Bay. Visit at night for an awesome 15-minute light and water show.
• Walk the Marina Bay Art Trail exploring the area’s best sites while seeing art and sculptures by world-renowned artists.

We’re going to wrap up our 4-day Singapore itinerary with a series of parks and greenspaces, followed by a little shopping. We’re almost to the end so let’s get to it!

9:00 AM – Treetop Walk at the Central Catchment Nature Reserve

Visit the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and get to walk next to the high treetops. Right in the center of Singapore, the Nature Reserve spans over 2000 hectares of forest cover, with some of the world’s richest forests in terms of biodiversity!

It’s in this reserve that visitors are offered the opportunity to walk across a suspension bridge, nestled in the treetop canopies. This suspension bridge was built to help forest canopy researchers reach the canopies in order to study them.

The MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a popular starting point for those who are eager to do the Treetop Walk. The entrance to the bridge is at the ranger station, and the bridge only allows for one-way traffic. The bridge itself is only around 850 feet long, with the highest point being around 82 feet!

This walk is perfect for avid bird-watchers, or general nature lovers who wish to get a higher view of the park and hiking trails. The bridge is open from 9 am to 5 pm, but is closed on Mondays (unless it’s a public holiday).

• Cost  – Free
• How long should I stay here?  3 – 5 hours depending on your walking pace.
• Getting there –  You’ll need to use the bus to get here. The 166 and 167 both stop right outside the park.

1:00 PM – Lunch at the Adam Road Food Centre

After a long walk in the park, refuel yourself with some good ol’ hawker centre comfort food. The most convenient centre near Central Catchment is the Adam Road Road Food Centre. Like most hawker centres, Adam Road has a pretty diverse selection of food options. Good time to get some traditional nasi goreng or satay if you haven’t already tried some.

If you’d like some suggestions on where to eat in the Adam Road Food Centre, Miss Tam Chiak has written on a guide on the local food stalls .

• Cost  – $5 per plate.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there –  The 165 goes directly from the park and stops in front of the Adam Centre.

3:00 PM – Singapore Botanic Garden

Following the underlying theme of this 4-day Singapore itinerary – that is, eat lots of delicious, unhealthy food at the hawker centres and then go for a walk – we next pay a visit to the lush Singapore Botanic Gardens, one of Singapore’s National Parks . These gardens are widely considered to be some of the most impressive in Asia and have even been declared a UNESCO heritage site. The Singapore Botanic Gardens are huge, well-kept, and are a testament to a city that strives to be one of the greenest in the world.

There are lots of places to visit in the Botanic Gardens, including several man-made lakes, greenhouses, and small natural exhibitions, like the orchid garden. Explore at a leisurely pace.

• Cost  – $3.75 entry
• Getting there –  The Botanic Gardens are literally across the road from the Adam Food Centre.

5:00 PM – Orchard Road

The shopping in Singapore is considered some of the best in the world and Orchard Road is the epicenter of it all. Here you’ll find Singapore’s megamalls, its clearance warehouses, and its superstores. You can buy just about anything here from designer brand clothing to electronics to cheap souvenirs. Considering that our 4-day itinerary for Singapore is over soon, this is a good time to pick up any gifts or gadgets that you may have had your eyes on so far.

TANGS is the oldest department store in the area is considered iconic by many locals. In contrast, the ION is the new, ultra-contemporary store on the street and makes for some cool abstract photos.

If shopping is not your thing, then there are plenty of places to eat and drink around Orchard Road. Lots of these offer happy hour as well, which by now should be a welcome sight given how expensive Singapore may have been so far. Alley Bar is a good place to duck into for a quick gin and tonic. Lovers of suds will also be glad to hear that there is a craft beer bar nearby called Takumi.

If you’re out late, grab some dinner or small bites while you’re at it or seek budget refuge in one of the hawker centres back in Chinatown or Kampong Glam.

• Cost  – Depends on how much you shop and eat.
• How long should I stay here?  As long as you want.
• Getting there –  It’s a 15-minute walk from the southern entrance of the Botanic Gardens to Orchard Road, via Tanglin Road.

If you’re lucky enough to be spending more than 4 days in Singapore, here are a few more ideas on how you can spend your time.

Night Safari

Meet creatures of the night as you navigate through the wild enclosure with only nocturnal animals around! The Night Safari departs from the Singapore Zoo, and there are sideshows you can attend before and after your guided tour. There is a fire dancing show, which takes place every day (except for Wednesdays) at 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm.

There’s also a Creatures of the Night show which you can watch, showing the many nocturnal creatures that inhabit the zoo, these shows can be seen every day provided the weather is good, at 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:30 pm, and 10:30 pm. The shows are included in your Safari ticket price.

The main event, however, is the guided tram ride, that will take you through all six geographical zones! The guide will provide live commentary as you go, giving you information on all the animals you see. You can, if you prefer, take a self-guided walking tour instead. This will take you along trails where you can see animals such as leopards, wallabies, tigers, and even hyenas!

Before you go, you can stop in at the gift shop and find many souvenirs to take home with you. Whether you want a plush version of your favorite night-dwelling animal or a simple keyring to carry around with you.

• Cost  – $33 per adult for the Safari experience.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours
• Getting there –  Buses 138 and 927 stop in front of the park but be aware that buses in Singapore usually stop running around midnight.

Universal Studios

Situated on Sentosa Island, Singapore’s Universal Studios is a magical place to be. With 7 zones, all themed differently, you can enjoy a wide range of rides, sights, and attractions!

This theme park is a great hit for many visitors and it’s hardly one of Singapore’s hidden gems . Because of this, it gets quite busy and crowded, which means long queues and waiting times. This is why we suggest you plan this activity as the main part of your day.

If you have kids with you (or even if you don’t), you’ll love the meet and greet opportunities. Shake hands with the big names like the minions from Despicable Me, Sesame Street characters, Autobots, and even Jurassic Park dinos!

There are many shows available each day as well, such as the 4D Adventure with Shrek which is a hit with all Shrek lovers. As you walk through the park, you’ll come across many street shows as well. Look out for the Cruisers and the Madagascar Boogie!

If you need a slightly more adventurous experience, check out the bigger, faster, and slightly scarier rides. These include a 3D Transformers battle ride, the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, and the Battlestar Galactica!

One thing that no one visiting the park should miss, is the Lights, Camera, Action Show, directed by Steven Spielberg! The show is a magnificent display of special effects, shown to the audience inside a boathouse.

• Cost  – $79 for adult.
• How long should I stay here?  As long as you like.

Getting there –  Take the Sentosa Express from the mainland to reach the island.

Marine Life Park – S.E.A Aquarium and Adventure Cove Waterpark

Start your day with a visit to the aquarium. There are more than 100, 000 animals that call the aquarium home, made up of over 1000 different species! These are spread across 50 habitats which can be viewed and visited while you are there.

At the aquarium, you can take advantage of the special experiences, such as walking with marine animals and swimming with sharks! Or simply enjoy watching the many sharks, fish, and other marine life from the outside.

• Cost  – Entrance to both attractions costs $56.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Singapore sits only 1 degree north of the equator: it is characterised by a hot and humid climate. Rainfall is very common and usually refreshing and won’t dampen too many traveling plans. Singapore is well prepared for rainy days.

There aren’t really any distinct seasons in Singapore – temperature and rainfall is pretty consistent year round. This means that there really isn’t a bad or good time to visit Singapore. The dry season is technically from February-April but the difference in rainfall is marginal.

Rain usually comes in the form of afternoon bursts. If it starts to rain, you’ll want to duck undercover quick before it turns into a downpour. Wait 10-15 minutes and all should be well.

Mornings are the best time to be outdoors in Singapore. It’s cooler, calmer, and more often clear.

Being one of the cultural and financial capitals of the world, there are lots of Singapore festivals going on year-round. Consider planning your trip to Singapore around one of these events if you want to make it a little more special.

Singapore benefits from a very effective and easy-to-use public transport system. Between the many bus and train options, you can get just about anywhere in Singapore.

The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) are the two main forms of rail transport in Singapore and both interact flawlessly. Those backpacking in Singapore should definitely consider buying a commuter card (EZ-Link or Nets FlashPay) or a Tourist Pass, which acts as a temporary version of the former.

Note that fare is calculated based upon distance traveled and that these commuter cards are interchangeable e.g. you can use them on the MRT, LRT, and buses.

Buses are ubiquitous in Singapore and are conveniently available 24 hours/day on Friday and Saturdays. Should you be out late or burning the midnight oil, the bus will be your best option when it comes to public transport. Note that the night bus (officially called NightRider) does not yet accept tourist passes – you’ll have to use an EZ-Link card or change.

If you need to be more proactive about getting around Singapore, taxis are widely available. Taxi rates are affordable and drivers are usually very honest. Should you prefer ride-sharing, Grab is the most popular company in Singapore. Should you use Grab, you may even find yourself the passenger in “ driverless car .”

Renting your own car in Singapore is not a good idea as self-driving driving is completely unnecessary. Hitchhiking is probably a fruitless effort as well because a) it’s very illegal and b) public transport is cheap enough.

Walking is, of course, a very reasonable means of getting around as Singapore is a very pedestrian-friendly city. Biking is also becoming quite popular though bikers may feel threatened often by harsh weather and lack of bike lanes.

Since Singapore is subject to a tropical climate, you’ll want to make sure that you have the right clothing. Try to bring loose-fitting clothing when packing for Singapore but also bear in mind that you may need to dress more conservatively when entering temples. Anything that you miss you can buy when you arrive.

Singapore has very strict laws and takes a zero-tolerance approach to those who disobey them. For the most part, there is no great risk for travelers to Singapore, and even solo travelers have found it a pleasant experience.

We’ve created a dedicated safety guide filled with travel tips for Singapore and some of the (crazy) things you need to look out for. Here are a few common things you need to guard yourself against.

• Pick-pocketing : It almost goes without saying that when walking in the streets you should keep your valuables close to you and out of reach of long fingers.
• Scams and fraud: from fake taxi cabs charging you more than their worth, to men posing as female prostitutes in order to obtain money and gifts from other men with the promise of sexual favors later on. Many of these scams are easy to avoid if you know what you are looking for.
• Breaking the law: certain offenses – such as possession of cannabis – can be punishable by the death penalty. As a foreigner, you want to make sure that you are accustomed to the stricter laws and ensure you obey them while you are visiting.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Singapore

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Singapore itinerary.

How many days are enough for Singapore?

With so much to discover, we recommend spending at least 3 full days in Singapore.

What should you include on a 4 day Singapore itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these top Singapore highlights: – ArtScience Museum – Supertree Grove Skywalk – Palawan Beach – Arab Street

Where should you stay if you have a full Singapore travel itinerary?

Marina Bay’s proximity to other areas makes it an ideal base for exploring Singapore.

What should you budget for a trip to Singapore?

Singapore is one of the more expensive destinations in Southeast Asia. Depending on where you stay and how many attractions you visit, you can spend anything from $50-$200 USD per day.

There sure is a lot to do with 4 days in Singapore but you should be ready to tackle everything now that you’ve read this itinerary!

Be sure to take lots of photos, Singapore is a city filled with sights you won’t often see anywhere else in the world! Enjoy the many cultural experiences, from religious buildings to food and even crafts – take it all in and embrace the journey. And, of course, don’t be afraid to try new things while you’re there, it’s all part of the adventure!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Monique MacPhail

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Singapore Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Singapore is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s a foodie’s dream, bursting with tasty hawker stalls, delicious Indian food, and fresh seafood. There are hiking trails where you can stretch your legs and beaches for chilling out and soaking up the sun.

Home to around 5.7 million people, Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that gained independence from the British in 1965. It is now one of the world’s leading economic centers in shipping and banking.

Because of its status as a global economic hub, Singapore is expensive by Southeast Asian standards, with everything costing almost double what it does elsewhere in the region. In fact, it consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world!

For this reason, visiting Singapore isn’t as popular with budget travelers compared to affordable destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, or elsewhere in Southeast Asia .

But while most people come here for a couple of days just to see the highlights, the city actually has a lot to offer and requires more time than you might think. Don’t rush your visit if you can afford it; Singapore can fill any schedule.

Use this Singapore travel guide to help plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this lively multicultural metropolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Singapore

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. Eat at the Boat Quay

Boat Quay is the place to go for dining and entertainment. The alfresco pubs and restaurants make Boat Quay ideal for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Try Wakanui for quality Japanese steak cooked over a white oak fire, or Kinara for reasonably priced North Indian cuisine.

2. See the supertrees at Gardens by the Bay

This urban landscaping project is a series of towering metal “supertrees.” There are roughly 200 species of orchids, ferns, and other tropical plants coating their structure. It’s free to walk through the outdoor gardens, but you have to pay 8 SGD for the canopy walk (which is worth doing!) as well as for the stunning Flower Dome and Cloud Forest biodomes .

3. Hang out (and party) on Sentosa

This little island is home to a nighttime light show on the beach and a host of bars, restaurants, and beaches to enjoy. Hang out at Bora Bora Beach Bar or splash out and try the cable car sky dining experience (it isn’t cheap). You can get to Sentosa via the Sentosa Express train (4 SGD). Entering on foot/bicycle is free.

4. Tour the Singapore Zoo

Spanning 70 acres, the Singapore Zoo is massive, boasting over 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are lions, tigers, sun bears, Komodo dragons, primates, and much more! The zoo offers a night safari featuring over 900 different nocturnal animals (41% are endangered). Admission is 44 SGD and the night safari is 48 SGD.

5. Hang with the Merlions

The Merlion is Singapore’s mascot and has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. The original statute (and most impressive Merlion) can be found in Merlion Park, but the 37-meter-tall (121-foot) replica on Sentosa is also pretty cool to see. There is no entrance fee for Merlion Park.

Other Things to See and Do in Singapore

1. admire thian hock keng temple.

Thian Hock Keng (Palace of Heavenly Happiness) is one of the most photogenic buildings in Singapore. The temple originated as a small building that served the local Chinese population. It was expanded in 1840 and made from the finest materials available at the time, paid for by years of donations from the local community. It’s the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea (Chinese immigrants came here to ask for safe passage before leaving to cross the South China Sea). The temple was designated as a national monument in 1973. Admission is free.

2. Explore Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah, located within Singapore’s only remaining stretch of rainforest, is the country’s premier eco-tourism attraction. On the hiking and biking trails, you’ll be able to get up close to the macaques, squirrels, flying lemurs, and various species of birds. The reserve covers over 400 acres and is 30 minutes from the city center. It’s open daily from 7am-7pm. The weekends get really busy, so come during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

3. Wander around Chinatown

Chinatown encompasses two square kilometers of traditional Chinese life, nestled beside the modern Central Business District. This remains the place to get a real sense of Chinese culture within Singapore. The streets are filled with temples, craft shops, stalls, and restaurants and are a great place to pick up a bargain. Head down Chinatown Food Street to find some char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or grilled meats. If you can, eat at Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (aka Hawker Chan), the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is another Michelin-starred hawker stall worth a visit. Like Hawker Chan’s, it’s located in the Maxwell Hawker Center.

4. Eat hawker food

Singapore’s hawker food scene is one of the best in the world. It has been recognized by Michelin in 2016 with the world’s first street food Michelin star and by UNESCO in 2020 with Cultural Heritage status. Whether you go to Newton Food Center (of Crazy Rich Asian fame), to the Old Airport Hawker (many locals’ favorite), or to one of the other 103 centers across the island, you won’t be disappointed and you can grab a cheap meal surrounded by locals. Don’t miss the chili crab, satay, dim sum (dumplings), or nasi lemak (fried chicken with coconut rice). If you’re not sure where to go or what to eat, take a guided food tour!

5. Take a trip to Pulau Ubin

This island lies off the northeastern coast. It’s incredibly different from the modern city; locals still use a diesel generator for electricity and fetch water from wells. Rent a bike and explore the sights, villages, and beaches of this island. To get there, hop on a bumboat from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which costs about 3 SGD and takes 10-15 minutes. There are no fixed departure times — just line up and wait. Very few tourists make it out this way; it’s one of the most off-the-beaten-path things you can do here.

6. Relax in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens lie close to the city and consist of 128 acres of gardens and forest. Founded in 1859, the main attraction is the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species of orchids. There is also a ginger garden, a rainforest, and various streams and waterfalls to explore. The Botanic Gardens are Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site (and the only tropical botanic garden on UNESCO’s World Heritage List). It’s open daily from 5am-12am, and admission is free to everything except the National Orchid Garden, which is 15 SGD.

7. Eat in Little India

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Little India, where you can get amazing, cheap, and delicious food, fresh vegetables, snacks, and souvenirs. Seek out local favorites like roti prata (pancakes) and teh tarik (“pulled” tea). Make sure you stop off at the Tekka Center, a hawker center with Indian clothing, groceries, and food. The food here is cheap and delicious and makes for an authentic Little India experience.

8. Learn about Singapore’s History

For a more cultural experience, visit the former British naval base of Fort Siloso located on Sentosa. It’s a decommissioned coastal artillery battery the only preserved fort on the coast of Singapore, providing a fantastic look into the city-state’s complicated history. You’ll get to see the coastal guns and the remains of tunnels under the fort. It’s a well-constructed, interactive attraction. Entrance is free.

9. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple

This extremely colorful, ornate temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, built in 1827 in Chinatown. It was constructed in what is known as the Dravidian style and is devoted to the goddess Mariamman, known for curing illnesses and diseases. During the post-war colonial period, it was a hub for community activities and was even the Registry of Marriages for Hindus. Admission is free.

10. Watch a free concert

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts various free concerts at different venues around the country. You might just be lucky enough to catch one of their shows — just check their website for details during your visit.

11. Visit the MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s oldest reservoir, dating back to 1868. Today, this beautiful and lush city park is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Walk the 8-kilometer (5-mile) treetop hike, with bridges suspended high above the forest floor, where you might see long-tailed macaque monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, owls, and even flying lemurs. In addition to the TreeTop Walk, there’s also a network of walking trails. Admission is free.

12. Visit the National Museum of Singapore

First opened in 1849, this is the oldest museum in Singapore . Learn about the country’s history, culture, and people through the various permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are gold ornaments, 18th-century drawings and artwork, the mace used by King George VI when he declared Singapore a city in 1951, and the Singapore Stone (an indecipherable stone with inscriptions from the 10th century). Admission is 15 SGD.

13. Admire the street art

Singapore has some really incredible street art to admire. While none of it is spontaneous (unauthorized graffiti is illegal), it can be found all over the island. Yip Yew Chong is probably the best-known artist as he has murals everywhere from Chinatown to the East Coast. His images depict scenes from days gone by and range from small pictures to entire walls. Kampong Glam, Chinatown, and Little India all have masses of art to look at, as does the east coast, but you can find it on random buildings in most areas. Take a walking tour if you want more detail, or Art Walk Singapore has three self-guided walks outlined on their website.

14. Marvel at the rain vortex in Jewel

Located adjacent to Changi International Airport, Jewel Mall is home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Cascading from the roof, the water falls seven stories (around 130 feet) to the basement through a huge tiered garden. At night it is lit up for a light and music show. There’s more to do at Jewel if you have time including two mazes, a canopy bridge, sky nets, slides, and a topiary walk. It’s free to see the rain vortex and prices range from 5-22 SGD each for the other activities. You can get bundles that work out cheaper.

15. Explore Kampong Glam

Also known by its most popular street, Haji Lane, and as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam is one of Singapore’s oldest neighborhoods. The shophouses here are now stores selling textiles, rugs, and Turkish homewares such as dishes and glass lamps. There are some great Arabic restaurants around here all under the shadow of the enormous golden-domed Sultan Mosque. There’s some street art around here and Haji Lane has some cool eclectic shops by day and a buzzing nightlife with outdoor live music by night. If you have time, check out the Malay Heritage Center (admission is 8 SGD).

16. Get spooked at Haw Par Villa

Hands down the quirkiest thing you can do or see in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is a huge outdoor art gallery. It was built in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw, a millionaire philanthropist one of the men behind Tiger Balm, for his younger brother. Once a theme park for locals, Haw Par Villa was also used as an observation point by the Japanese army during World War II. It’s filled with dioramas depicting Chinese mythology and has recently reopened after a 9-month refurbishment and renovation project. Entry to the grounds is free but the museum — called Hell’s Museum as it includes an exhibit depicting the 10 Courts of Hell — is 18 SGD.

Singapore Travel Costs

A budget hotel room with amenities like air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a TV starts around 65 SGD per night. Most larger chain hotels cost at least 80-110 SGD per night.

Airbnb is available in Singapore, with private rooms starting at 25 SGD per night (though they average closer to 60 SGD). Entire homes/apartments average 85 SGD per night.

Food – As a cosmopolitan hub, Singapore has food from all over the world, however, there is an abundance of Chinese and Indian food, which is usually around 8-9 SGD per meal. Rice or noodles are usually the backbone of most meals, and popular dishes include steamed chicken, chili crab, fishhead curry, satay, and nasi lemak (coconut rice cooked in a pandan leaf). The city’s hawker centers (large halls full of various food stalls) are one of the most popular and cheapest places to try Singapore’s vibrant cuisine.

As for Singaporean specialties, try the seafood, which costs around 20-35 SGD for a main dish. For drinks, beer is typically 8-10 SGD, a glass of wine is about 10-16 SGD, and a cappuccino is around 5 SGD.

There are also plenty of low-cost eateries around Singapore, with street stalls typically selling food for less than 6 SGD per meal. A fast-food burger is around 8-10 SGD while sandwiches at a café are around 11-14 SGD. There are many restaurants offering a set lunch menu for around 12-16 SGD, and a dish at dinner in most casual restaurants is around 20 SGD. After that, the sky is the limit.

If you want to cook your own meals, expect to pay 95 SGD per week for basic staples like rice, noodles, vegetables, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Singapore Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Singapore, expect to spend around 90 SDG per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating at the cheap hawker stalls and in Little India, cooking some meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying nature.

On a more mid-range budget of 175 SGD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheaper hawker stalls, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the zoo and the botanic gardens.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 SGD or more per day, you can eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, stay in a hotel, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SGD.

Singapore Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Singapore isn’t a super cheap destination so you’ll need to tread carefully if you want to avoid blowing your budget. Here are some ways you can save money during your visit:

• Take public transit – Singapore’s public transit system is fast and efficient, making it the best way to get around. Unlimited travel on public transport is 10 SGD per day with a Singapore Tourist Pass. If you’re staying a few days, the pass gets cheaper per day, as a two-day pass is 16 SGD and a three-day pass is 20 SGD.
• Eat on Smith Street – The stalls here offer food for less than 6 SGD and are a great place to sample local snacks.
• Eat cheap – Save money on food by eating in Little India, Chinatown, or the hawker stalls throughout the city. Meals in these places cost only a few dollars and are some of the tastiest around!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with a local for free. You’ll not only save money but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stick to happy hour – Alcohol is expensive in Singapore, so limit your drinking to save money. If you do plan on drinking, stick to the happy hours.
• Avoid bottled water – The tap water here is perfectly fine to drink, so avoid buying water and just refill your bottle. It will save you money and it’s better for the environment! LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Looking for budget-friendly accommodation? Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Singapore:

• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel

How to Get Around Singapore

Like the MRT, Singapore’s bus system is extensive and efficient. You can use your Singapore Tourist Pass on the buses as well. You can also pay with cash, but it has to be the exact change. A single trip costs between 1.40-2.50 SGD.

Trishaws – Trishaws (like rickshaws) are less popular these days in Singapore, and now they’re largely used for guided tours that cost around 40 SGD for a 30-minute run. Trishaw Uncle is the only licensed trishaw tour operator in the city, offering various guided tours by trishaw.

Taxi – Taxis are comfortable and convenient, but they’re not cheap! All cabs are metered, but there might be surcharges depending on the company and where you’re going. For example, if you’re hiring a taxi from midnight to 6am there is a 50% surcharge on the total metered cost, while rides in the mornings and evenings carry a 25% surcharge. Prices start at 3.20 SGD and then increase by 0.22 SGD every 400 meters. Skip them if you can!

When to Go to Singapore

It’s always a good time to visit Singapore! The island is warm year-round with a tropical climate that boasts daily temperatures in the high 20s°C (80s°F). December to June is the busiest time to visit, especially during the Chinese New Year. February-April is the driest period with the most sunshine and least amount of rain.

Monsoons occur between December-March, with December usually being the rainiest month. The weather is windy, cloudy, and humid.

Late summer and early fall (July to October) are also a good time to visit if you’re hoping to avoid all the tourist traffic. The weather is still pleasant, averaging around 30°C (87°F) each day, and accommodation might be a bit cheaper during this time as well.

How to Stay Safe in Singapore

Singapore is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. In fact, it’s one of the safest countries in the world (it’s currently the 11th safest country).

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t walk home alone at night, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.)

Be aware that penalties for breaking the law here are stiff. For example, you’ll be fined up to 1,000 SGD for things like littering, spitting, and smoking in public. Singapore is also notoriously strict on drugs. If you’re caught even with marijuana in your system you could do jail time. In short, say no to drugs here!

Scams are rare in Singapore, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it when you’re in Singapore. Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Singapore Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Singapore Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Singapore travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

18 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Singapore

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Ultimate 2 Days in Singapore Itinerary For First-Timers

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Since visiting Singapore for a second time recently, it’s up there as one of my favourite cities in Asia . I’m going to share my Singapore itinerary in the hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. I’d recommend spending 2 days in Singapore to see the essential sights on day 1 then get immersed in the quirky and cultural neighbourhoods during day 2. Oh, and because in 2 days you can eat double the amount of delicious meals you can in one!

SINGAPORE ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Food tours: A Chef’s Tour Airport transfers: Klook SIM card: eSim data plan Guidebook : Lonely Planet Singapore Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

How many days are enough for Singapore?

While you could easily spend longer, two days in Singapore is enough for a first visit. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Singapore in 2 days including must-visit attractions and colourful neighbourhoods.

Best season to visit Singapore

December to June is the perfect time to visit Singapore as it’s slightly cooler than the humid summer months. Due to the optimum weather, January and February are the most crowded months. If you can handle the rain and humidity, visit July-November for cheaper prices and fewer crowds.

How to get to Singapore

Most people arrive in Singapore by air. The main airport is Changi Airport. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. Use Klook to book your airport transfer. By bus: if you’re going to Malaysia before or after, consider arriving in Singapore by bus. It takes 4-5 hours to reach Kuala Lumpur and 3.5 hours to Melaka . Use 12go to book your bus .

How to get around Singapore

Subway: The MRT is efficient, clean and inexpensive. Tickets cost between S$0.90-$2 and can be bought at ticket machines in the station. Public bus: Singapore is well connected by bus. Simply use a contactless Visa or Mastercard to tap and pay. Taxi: Hail a metered taxi or call Grab using the app (similar to Uber). Bicycle: There are plenty of cycle paths and bike rentals in Singapore. Open-top bus: It may be the most touristic way to get around but it’s fun and scenic. Get your ticket . Cable car: Connecting Singapore with Sentosa, this cable car lets you soak up panoramic views as you travel. Get your ticket . The Duck Tour: Travel by land and water in the same vehicle thanks to the quirky duck tour of Singapore. See the sights while travelling in an old WWII vehicle. Get your ticket .

Is the Go City Explorer Pass worth it?

I didn’t purchase this pass myself since I’d seen many of the attractions on previous visits to Singapore. However, if you’re just here 2 days and want to pack in plenty of sights, consider the pass including 2-7 attractions or the full 35+ attraction pass . Transport options like the cable car, riverboat cruise and open-top bus are included from $50.

Staying connected

GetYourGuide offer a fantastic eSim data plan that lets you stay connected while exploring Singapore. You don’t need to collect it anywhere: they’ll email you a QR code which you can instantly activate and start roaming. Yay! Get yours here from $4 . You can also upgrade it to work in 10 other Asian countries including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam & China.

Where to stay in Singapore

Singapore isn’t a cheap city for accommodation but you have a few options. Here’s where to stay in Singapore …

• Hostel – Stay at Dream Lodge for spacious pod bunks with personal lockers and reading lights. The hostel is located centrally within a 1950s-period property. Check availability from US$61 .
• Budget hotel – Location-wise, you can’t do better than Hotel 1900 in Chinatown. Recently refurbished with modern facilities and spotless rooms, it’s an ideal base for exploring Singapore’s main attractions. Check availability from US$102 .
• Mid-range – With a rooftop pool, an in-house restaurant, and a fitness centre, 30 Bencoolen is a top-rated hotel in the heart of Singapore. Check availability from US$190 .
• Splash-out – If you want to stay in Singapore in style, then don’t miss Conrad Centennial Singapore , located within the iconic Marina Bay and walking distance from the city’s most famous sights. This six-star hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa, plus three exquisite dining options. Check availability from US$383 .

Browse all Singapore accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Singapore itinerary

So, how do you want to live? I loved eating $2 roti and paneer with my hands on the roadside while chatting with the Indian restaurant owners about their lives in Singapore. However, I love the modern and luxurious downtown core just as much. The futuristic Gardens by the Bay and the elegance of Marina Bay Sands temporarily convince me I’m a wealthy heiress, poised to tap my Amex for one more Singapore Sling. There are many different styles in which to explore Singapore but I hope this upcoming itinerary gives you a bit of both: street food, sky bars, culture, history and the must-see attractions for a first visit!

Singapore itinerary overview

• Day 1 – Gardens by the Bay, Cloud Forest, ArtScience Museum, the Merlion, Gluttons Bay Hawker Market, Marina Bay Spectra light show, skyline drinks
• Day 2 – China Town, Arab Quarter, Haji Lane, Little India.

Now for the details…

Day 1 – explore the core

Many of the glamorous sights of Singapore are positioned around the HarbourFront. Wander the area to discover the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, the Cloud Forest and numerous impressive shopping centres (get used to Venice replica boats cruising inside them!). Here’s what to do in 2 days in Singapore…

The Gardens by the Bay

The Gardens by the Bay look like something from Avatar or a film set in the year 3000 ( not much has changed but we live underwater! – my millennial UK readers will get the reference!). They’re different depending on whether you visit during the day or night. I did both which is the best way to experience them to the fullest.

Not only do they look impressive, but they’re also doing Singapore a service. They provide a habitat for animals, act as a water filtration system and use solar panels. The plants and flowers growing up them give off valuable nitrogen to the urban city centre. Their sustainable efforts make me love them even more – but I would regardless! One of my favourite experiences was lying underneath them at midnight watching their twinkling bulbs. In the daytime, you can spend an hour or two wandering around them.

Entrance fee: the trees are free to view from the ground or you can pay S$8 to take the 22-metre high OCBC Skyway walk. Buy a skip-the-line ticket in advance . Opening times: 9am-9pm daily. Opening hours: You can walk around the grove from 5am-2am while the ticketed skywalk is open from 9am-9pm (last ticket sale 8pm).

The Cloud Forest

This is a must when spending 2 days in Singapore. During my first visit, I missed the Cloud Forest due to the S$45 price tag which in retrospect was an error. The conservatory is enormous with several levels and bridges to wander while admiring the flora and fauna. Make sure you time your visit around a ‘misting’ (or kill some time waiting for one) when the dome fills with mist like a tropical rainforest. It’s so atmospheric!   Entrance price: S$45 for the Cloud Forest alone / S$54 including the Flower Dome. Opening times: 9am-9pm.

The ArtScience Museum

If you catch a skyline view of Singapore, you won’t miss the giant lotus-shaped building nestled on the waterfront. Inside is the ArtScience Museum . My motivation for visiting was the sparkly Digital Light Canvas (pictured above), though I don’t believe this is a permanent fixture. Everything was interactive including a light show using visual trickery to make you feel as if the walls and floors of the room were moving. Entrance price: S$14 including the exhibition. Buy a skip-the-line ticket in advance . Opening times: 7am-7pm daily.

The Merlion

It may seem strange that an animal only found in Africa has become a symbol for Singapore. How? Rumour has it that many years ago a tiger was spotted in Singapore (presumably having swum over from Indonesia) and mistaken for a lion. Somehow this resulted in respect for the animals, and this statue was subsequently built as a tourist attraction in the 1980s. Swing by to visit this emblem of Singapore and snap a few photos. It’s particularly atmospheric at night. To get there , cross the Esplanade Bridge. Alternatively, take a Singapore riverboat cruise past it.

Dinner at Makansutra Gluttons Bay 

Although there are countless hawker markets in Singapore, one of the best is Makansutra Gluttons Bay , conveniently located near Marina Square and the Esplanade. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor shared tables and browse the many food stands before settling on what you want.

Read next: the best Singapore dishes to try

From chilli crab to laksa, satay and Hokkien mee (noodles with prawn and egg), your only problem will be deciding what to order! If it’s too much, take a hawker market tour with a local guide and try a ton of dishes.

Gawp at Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is a famous hotel and resort with a distinctive boat-shaped roof with a pool on top (strictly for hotel guests only). If you haven’t got $400+ a night for a room, head up to the Sands Sky Park Observation Deck (between 9am-11pm) to admire spectacular views from the 57th floor. Tickets cost S$15 . This iconic part of Singapore is best visited in the early evening it’s beginning to get dark and the city lights are starting to switch on. At 8pm on weekdays (and 8pm and 9pm on weekends), the Spectra light show illuminates the area with dancing lights, music, sights and colours; a real Asia bucket list experience! No tickets are required; just show up at the Marina Bay Sands building and sit outdoors in the area known as Event Plaza. It’s free and lasts around 15 minutes.

Saturday night – grab a skyline drink

During your 2 da y Singapore itinerary, take a trip to CÉ LA VI , the bar at the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel where you’ll either purchase a drink at the bar or buy a S$ 20 token at the entrance (the system changes depending on how busy the evening is). Either way, cocktails are about S$20 so we opted for a Singapore Fling – a frozen version of the iconic Sling – and dragged out our time at the top. We got to see the city light show ( 8pm and 9pm each night) from above which was incredible.

More things to do in Singapore at night :

• Drink a Singapore Sling cocktail in their birthplace, Raffles Hotel
• Take a city lights dinner cruise finishing with fireworks
• Watch the Garden Rhapsody light show at 7.45pm and 8.45pm at the Gardens by the Bay
• Take a UNESCO hawker centres food tasting tour at 5pm
• Experience the nightlife at Clarke Quay : here you’ll find plenty of clubs and bars that stay open ’til late. If you want to drink somewhere cheaper and more laidback, head to Boat Quay instead.

Day 2 – get your culture fix

Once you’ve seen the glamorous, futuristic centre of Singapore, a day of culture is on the cards. The diversity of Singapore is another thing I love about the city: the Indian, Chinese and Malay groups make Singapore a melting pot of religious temples and delicious ethnic eats. For the ultimate Singapore itinerary for 2 days, here’s how I’d recommend spending the last day .. .

Singapore’s Chinatown is the perfect place to shop for your souvenirs and eat absolutely everything. Food Street is just one of the many places you can do this. Tuck into dim sum, chilli crab, satay and much more. Wander the lantern-lined streets even if you’re not hungry – it’s a lively part of Singapore.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

We paid a visit to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , an integral part of the community. Here you can give the world’s largest prayer wheel a spin or watch Buddhist monks chant during regular ceremonies. It’s thought that a tooth from the sacred Buddha himself is enshrined in the fourth floor’s relic room. It’s open from 7am-7pm daily. Entry is free . Don’t miss the chilled rooftop garden!

Haji Lane and the Arab Quarter

Jump into a brand new culture as you visit this friendly, vibrant area of town. This was one of my favourite areas during my recent 2 days in Singapore. Grab a cheap lunch at the market stands by the mosque, or alternatively, dine at one of the stunning mosaic cafes serving quality Middle Eastern food. There are plenty of cafes and juice bars on Haji Lane but be prepared to pay inflated prices in this popular part of town.

While Haji Lane is geared to tourists, walk just one minute into Kampong Glam, just off Arab Street, to visit the Masjid Sultan (mosque) for free. Lining the walkways to the spot of worship are various food stands selling everything from jalebi and other Indian sweets to fresh fruit and savoury snacks. Masjid Sultan opening times: Visit from 10am-12pm and 2-4pm from Sat-Thurs and from 2.30-4pm on Friday.

Another attraction in Kampong Glam is the Malay Heritage Centre , a great place to learn about local history.

Little India

Get ready to mix it up again as you say goodbye to the Arab Quarter and hello to the stunning Hindu temples of Little India. This neighbourhood is one of the most colourful in town and many tourists stop to pose on this famous corner.

Look out for all the Singapore street art in this part of town!

I feel I may have discovered my spirit home in this part of town, not least for the incredible street art and moreish food. I ate a very cheap and local murtabak (a fried roti stuffed with chicken and veg) on the street corner at Big Boss Bistro and a slightly more upmarket curry dinner at Banana Leaf Apollo . Both meals were fantastic (and about S$10 and S$25pp respectively including drinks). If you can time your arrival for early evening, it’s an atmospheric dinner spot for a Singapore two day itinerary.

Visit the Indian Heritage Centre on Campbell Street to learn about the community that call Little India home, and Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple to see a colourful and intricately detailed place of worship.

Budget for 2 days in Singapore

As I mentioned, there’s something for all budgets in Singapore. You can visit Singapore on a budget of $30 a day or splurge $300! Visiting the Cloud Forest (S$45 including the Flower Dome), the ArtScience Museum (S$14 for the exhibition) and a drink at Marina Bay Sands (S$20) likely be your most expensive day. However, during a day exploring Little India, the Arab Quarter and Chinatown you can get away with just buying food as all of the entrance costs are free.   Eat local food and you could spend less than S$30 during 2 days in Singapore but eat at the restaurants in Marina Bay Sands and you could spend hundreds. I noticed that alcohol in Singapore was relatively expensive compared to food: in hawker markets, you can pick up a main dish for S$4 but not a beer.  

Transport is very cheap in Singapore. Underground train journeys on the MRT tend to cost around 90 cents. You’ll want to get a cab to the airport as it’s a long journey on public transport – a metered taxi will cost around S$20 from Changi Airport or you can pre-book your airport pick-up .

Food experiences in Singapore

• 13-dish food tour with a born-and-bred local (A Chef’s Tour)
• Cooking class to make a 3-course Singaporean lunch
• Historical bike tour with traditional snacks
• Nightime hawker market tour with tastings

Got more than 2 days in Singapore?

If you have extra time, here are a few extra Singapore activities. If any of the below activities appeal to you more than the above, consider rejigging your Singapore itinerary to include them.

Koon Seng Road

Singapore’s most colourful street is Koon Seng, built by the Peranakan Chinese community. This vibrant part of town has a long history and also makes for a fantastic photo stop.

Read next: Koon Seng Road – a guide to Singapore’s most colourful street

Near Katong neighbourhood, Koon Seng is best accessed by bus or taxi .

Orchard Road 

If you love to shop, don’t miss Orchard Road . After starting life as a humble orchard, it’s now Singapore’s premier retail area known for its many shops and department stores. TANGs was the first in the area and remains one of the most popular, styled like a Chinese pagoda. When you’re all shopped out, there are art galleries, restaurants and bars. Nearby you’ll find Emerald Hill , a historical street featuring more Peranakan houses and a range of cool coffee shops.

Botanical Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens are a wonderful source of flora and fauna should you have time to visit them. Designated as the first UNESCO site in Singapore back in 2015, they’re a well-loved part of the city thanks to the National Orchid Garden and the Children’s Garden. Arrive into Botanic Gardens MRT Station, right beside the gardens. Entry is free . Opening times: 5am-midnight.

Sentosa Island

If you have a spare day or half-day, consider adding Sentosa to your Singapore travel itinerary. Singapore’s island resort is home to Universal Studio , S.E.A Aquarium , Madam Tussauds and countless other attractions. Since Sentosa translates as ‘peace and tranquillity’ in Malay, it’s only fitting that there are world-class spas and natural wonders including jungles and beaches. Finish your day by relaxing with a sunset beer on beautiful Palawan Beach. Sentosa is easy to reach from Singapore: take the road, cable car or monorail.

Thanks for reading my Singapore itinerary for 2 days

More Singapore blogs:

• Singapore street art guide
• What to eat in Singapore
• How to spend 3 months in Southeast Asia
• A complete bucket list for Southeast Asia
• 101 tips for backpacking in Asia

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked this 2 day Singapore itinerary? Pin this for later! 

Singapore useful links Flights – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just scan the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Singapore . For buses to Malaysia , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

12 thoughts on “ Ultimate 2 Days in Singapore Itinerary For First-Timers ”

I have to return to Singapore one day! When I was there I don’t think they had the Gardens by the Bay yet! I did visit Little India which I absolutely loved 🙂

I always thought Singapore was very expensive so it’s nice to know there are cheaper options! Thanks for the guide, Rose!

Hey Rose! Just finished reading this and I am in awe of the style of your writing! Keep it up Rose! Looking forward to roaming in the streets of Oxford with you as my perfect friendly guide. ❤️

Can’t wait to explore the city for myself next month! Thank you for the inspiration and tips. Your photos look beautiful!

Thank you for the awesome itinerary! My husband and I are here for 4 days so this is perfect 🙂 Very well written!

Great post ! I have 2 days to explore the city and you have helped me a lot! thanks for sharing and keep the great job 🙂

Hi Pam! Glad it’s helped and hope you enjoy Singapire!

Thank you Rose! We are a couple of 60+ roamers who love to get out and walk cities. Your 2 day Singapore itinerary was spot on and we followed it exactly. Had a brilliant time and all thanks to your ideas! Off home now though… boo!

Hi Shelia, really glad it’s helped, it’s such a fab city! Hope you had an amazing time and you’re planning the next trip 😉

Prices have increased massively! $45 for the Forest Cloud, and $54 for cloud + Dome.

Espectacular anyway x

Hi Ed, wow shocked to hear such a big increase! Thanks for letting me know, I have updated the post accordingly.

This was great. Lots of good info, laid out clearly with links and prices. Especially appreciated the sim cards tip and the link to the Asia Bucket List. Will be useful for my broader travel plans in Asia. Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Singapore Itinerary 4 Days: My Singapore Travel Blog

This is an easy to follow 4 day itinerary for Singapore, based on my own trip there. See the highlights of Singapore at a relaxed pace with this Singapore itinerary 4 days guide.

4 Days in Singapore

I visited Singapore in November as part of a planned 5 month trip around Asia with my girlfriend. Although I had visited Singapore briefly many years ago, everything was new to me on this trip.

With five months to play with, we had enough time to spend a little longer in Singapore than perhaps other people do. As such, we settled on 4 days in Singapore which we thought would give us enough time to see the places that interested us most.

Whilst many people seem to only stop by Singapore for a few days in between destinations, we were amazed at the amount of things to see and do there.

Even after four days sightseeing in Singapore, we hadn’t really completed our ‘wishlist’. In all honesty, our ‘wishlist’ would have barely scratched the surface in any case!

What to do in Singapore in 4 days

Still, there’s only so much you can do in limited time, and I think our 4 day Singapore itinerary was pretty good in the end. 

It took in the major attractions of Singapore such as the Gardens by the Bay, lesser visited places like the Red Dot museum, and even included an evening dinner with new Singapore friends!

Singapore Itinerary 4 Days

As such, I’ve shared our experience of 4 days in Singapore so that it might help you plan your own sightseeing itinerary. This is in no way meant to be a definitive guide. Consider it to be a realistic 4 day Singapore itinerary by real people!

This sample Singapore itinerary balances out our jetlag with enthusiasm, late starts with late nights, and includes a few interests that you may or may not share.

At the end, I’ve mentioned a few places we wish we would have seen, and some general travel tips to help your own experience of visiting Singapore go a little bit easier. Enjoy!

Singapore Itinerary Day 1

After arriving on our Scoot flight from Athens to Singapore  in the early hours of the morning, we had an hour or so to kill before the MRT (metro) opened. We used our time getting a coffee and buying a 3 day tourist card for the metro system.

When the metro system finally opened, we jumped on board and headed to our hotel.

Using the MRT in Singapore

The MRT system in Singapore is very easy to use. There are various ticket options available, and we decided to go for the 3 day tourist pass. This provided unlimited travel on the Singapore metro system for 3 days, on a card we could claim a deposit fee back on later.

As we were on a 4 day Singapore itinerary, we had to put some extra money on the card for the final day. We didn't use all this money, and so were pleasantly surprised when we not only got our card deposit back, but also our unused funds back.

In retrospect, it would have been a little cheaper to buy a 1 day tourist pass and top it up for our remaining days there, as a one-way ride rarely seems to cost over 1 dollar and we never used the metro over four times on the same day as we ended up walking a lot.

Where to stay in Singapore

The city can be quite an expensive one when it comes to accommodation. What cheaper accommodation there is, tends to be of lower quality or less desirable areas.

Whilst it would have been lovely to have stayed at the Marina Bay Sand s, this was way out of our budget. Instead, we found an affordable place in the Geylang district in Singapore.

The Geylang area is well known as being a red-light district, and though we saw brothels on the streets, the area was hardly a dangerous one. Let's just call it interesting!

Related: Singapore Captions for Instagram

Fragrance Hotel Crystal

Our room at the Fragrance Hotel Crystal was not available when we arrived at 7 am, which was hardly surprising! So, we left our luggage in their locker room, and caught the metro to a nearby mall to grab some breakfast.

When we eventually checked into our hotel, we found it to be acceptable. Not great, not bad, just ok. For its price, we think it offered pretty good value for money. If you're looking for a similar place to stay in Singapore, you can check it out here – Fragrance Hotel Crystal .

Bugis Junction Mall

It was still early when we left our luggage at the hotel, so we jumped back on the metro and headed to Bugis Junction Mall. This acted as an intersection for the MRT lines in Singapore, and we also decided to have some breakfast here.

This was our first introduction to shopping malls in Singapore. Although nowhere near as grand as some of the other malls that Singapore is famous for, it was interesting enough to wander around and then eat at the food court.

Somewhat revived, and with the time getting nearer to 9 in the morning, it was time to get on with the sightseeing itinerary in Singapore! First stop, would be the Haji Lane and Arab Street areas.

Haji Lane 

It was raining when we arrived at Haji Lane in Singapore. A bit of a shame, but not a lot that could be done! In addition, because it was still early, not many of the cafes, restaurants and shops in Haji Lane had opened yet.

We later stopped off for a juice at the place in the photo above, which was most welcome. That said, we were in danger of falling asleep because of the jetlag so we decided to move on as quick as we could.

Haji Lane looks like it would be a nice place to visit at night. We'll give it a go on our next 4 days in Singapore!

Bike Share Schemes in Singapore

Walking along Haji Lane, we also caught our first glimpse of a bike share scheme in Singapore. These are most often unlocked with an app. You can then ride the bike, and leave it where you like.

In some parts of the world, notably China , bike share schemes have suffered to either vandalism or an over-supply of bike. In Singapore, the bike share schemes seemed to work fine. I'm sure a local might tell me differently though!

Arab Street

You'll often hear of Arab Street in Singapore. This actually refers more to the neighbourhood of which Haji Lane is a part. Due to the weather, we probably didn't give this neighbourhood in Singapore the time it deserves, but we had a good walk around all the same. 

Masjid Sultan Mosque

This colourful mosque is arguably the centre of the Arab quarter in Singapore. If you would like to visit inside, you might need to check available times as they don't allow visitors at times of worship. Conservative dress and respect should be exercised when visiting the Masjid Sultan Mosque in Singapore.

Singapore Art Museum

With the weather showing no real signs of improving, we decided to choose an indoor activity as our next thing to do in Singapore. The Singapore Art Museum is a contemporary art museum, which always proves amusing!

Displaying rotating exhibitions, I'll be honest and say we visited more for my girlfriend's benefit than mine! Writing this article several weeks after visiting, I can't really remember what was on display here, and didn't take any photos. It did keep us dry for a while though!

Sri Krishnan Temple

The Sri Krishnan Temple is a Hindu temple located on Waterloo Street in Singapore. It is elaborately decorated, and has recently undergone a renovation. The Sri Krishnan Temple is Singapore's only South Indian temple dedicated to Sri Krishna and his consort Rukmini.

Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple

Located just a couple of buildings down from the Sri Krishnan Temple, is the  Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple . This is a traditional Chinese temple, first built in 1884. I found this temple a curious one to visit, with its Buddhist statues, and worshippers using the fortune telling sticks.

The Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple in Singapore doesn't take long to visit, but I'd recommend just staying there and watching to see what goes on. You might even end up with some fruit given out to you!

At this point we were starting to flag pretty badly. We'd been up well over 30 hours, with only some sporadic broken sleep on the flight over from Athens to Singapore. Perhaps lunch would help rescue us?

We were pretty unadventurous when we headed to a shopping mall to find something to eat. Later of course, we would realise that shopping malls are an important part of life in Singapore!

And then we crashed

Inevitably though, tiredness beat us in the end. Admitting defeat, we headed back to our hotel in Singapore just after 14.30,  where we really didn't move for the rest of the day.

Singapore Tour Itinerary Day 2

Jetlag. You can't really predict it. Both of us have flown hundreds of times, and this was probably the worst we suffered with it.

Of course, the fact we'd been up for 36 hours without sleep, crossed numerous time-zones, and walked over 12 kilometres in Singapore the day before may have had something to do with it!

As such, it was a late start after lunch. My advice here, is when you are planning your own sightseeing itinerary for Singapore, don't go crazy packing a lot of things in. You never know how energetic you are going to feel when there!

Bus 63 to Bugis Junction

Deciding to mix things up a little, we took a local bus up to Bugis Junction. Our three day visitors cards covered the MRT and buses, so it was just a matter of scanning them as we got on and off the bus.

The bus journey was a little quicker than the metro, possibly due to one turning up straight away. Getting off at Bugis Junction, we went for breakfast. This consisted of runny eggs, coffee and toast, and was also very cheap!

Swapping over to the Singapore Metro, we then headed out to the Bayfront area.

Bayfront Singapore

The redeveloped Bayfront area of Singapore has become the modern symbol of the city. We would visit here over the next few days, admiring it both during the day, and at night which is when it is perhaps at its most spectacular.

Unfortunately for us, it was an overcast and rainy day, so we first decided to visit the Red Dot Museum. Entry here was free for us, as we had bought a cheaper ticket for the Domes at the Gardens of the Bay, and the Walkway via the Klook app. More about that later!

Red Dot Museum Singapore

This museum is run by one of the largest design awards organisations in the world. Fun fact – I do some occasional work for one of their more exclusive rivals!

The Red Dot Museum in Singapore was interesting for me to walk around. Here, you could see winners in design categories such as concept and innovation. Some of the designs were quirky, and others I can't wait to see in the shops!

The Shoppes Mall at Marina Bay Sands

I'm not a shopping mall fan. I'm not a shopping fan full stop. But it's not often you visit a shopping mall with a canal complete with boats running through it.  

That, and it's big. I mean REALLY big!

We decided to pass through here, stop for lunch, and then continue on to the Gardens by the Bay. I wouldn't normally recommend a shopping mall as one of the things to do in a city, but you should really spend at least a little time at The Shoppes!

Gardens by the Bay

A short walk took us to the Gardens by the Bay. This was the top of my list of things to see in Singapore, and I'd been looking forward to it for a while.

We'd pre-booked some tickets on the Klook app that gave us admittance to the paid areas such as the Walkway and the Domes. It all worked out very well, and I'd recommend that visitors in Singapore also download the app just to check what deals are available.

What is the Gardens by the Bay?

The Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is a large, green area located near the Marina Bay Sands. Think of it as a futuristic version of an 18th century botanical garden!

Two sealed eco-domes house flowers and a rainforest, there are large green areas, and giant ‘supertrees'.

It's a fascinating place to visit, simply because ecological endeavours on this scale are so rare in the modern world. In fact any type of project on this scale is a rarity!

Flower Dome

There are two giant domes at the Gardens by the Bay, and the first we visited was the Flower Dome. If the photos so far have given you an idea of the scale of things in Singapore, you can take my word that the Flower Dome was no different!

Enclosing an area of 3 acres, and with a height of 38 metres, it is a giant, temperature controlled environment. Inside, flowers and trees from different parts of the world are displayed in segmented areas.

When we visited in November, the dome also had a Christmas feel. This gave it a weird, Disney vibe. Basically, it added to the surrealism of it all!

Cloud Forest Dome

Although smaller in total area covered than the Flower Dome, the Cloud Forest Dome is far taller. Inside, you can see a 42 metre high Cloud Mountain, a 35 metre high waterfall, and a walkway leading up, down, and in-between.

There's different areas inside the dome and the mountain itself. These include the Crystal Mountain, Lost World, and Secret Garden amongst others. This was by far my favourite dome of the two, and certainly worth the price of admission.

Things to do in Singapore at night

If you only have one night free in Singapore, I'd strongly suggest you spend it watching the Gardens of the Bay Light Show . It's pretty amazing!

We'd timed this well with leaving the domes, as we only had an hour to fill before sunset. After sunset, the lights come on the Supertrees, and the countdown to the sound and light show begins!

Supertree Grove at Gardens of the Bay

After picking up some bright green and very tasty Pandan cake outside the domes, we wandered over to the Supertree Grove. Our Klook tickets included the OCBC Walkway between the supertrees, and whilst we could have gone up straight away, we decided to wait until after the tree lights came on.

Good decision! Although there was a small queue to get up to the walkway, it really was spectacular up there. The Supertrees were illuminated, and there were incredible views out over the Singapore Bay area. People with fear of heights might not enjoy it up here! For the rest of us, Singapore at night really is amazing!

Gardens of the Bay Light Show

The Gardens by the Bay Light Show is really spectacular, and because of the time of year, we saw one with a Christmas theme. For a better feel for it, check out the video above and the Singapore blog post I've already mentioned.

After leaving the Gardens, we had dinner, and then headed back to the hotel. Day 2 in Singapore was over!

Singapore Walking Tour Itinerary Day 3 

I'm not going to lie and say we had completely recovered from jetlag on day 3 in Singapore, but we were getting there!

Up and out at a reasonable time, we headed to the Chinatown area in Singapore.

Chinatown in Singapore

I'm going to say that I wasn't blown away by Chinatown in Singapore. It's not that it didn't lack places of interest such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, but in a way as a neighbourhood, it just didn't stand out for me. Each to their own and all that though!

Here's a taste of some of the places we visited in Chinatown, Singapore.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This unique building stands in stark contrast to the modern metropolis being constructed around it. Inside, is a temple, and area which is said to house a relic of the Buddha.

Visiting the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was interesting for me because of the museum. It helped explain some of the history of not only the temple, but this version of Buddhism. Walking around probably took around an hour.

Maxwell Food Centre

When hunger kicks in, it's always good to head to where the locals eat. In Chinatown, it's the Maxwell Food Centre. Organised hawker stands specialise in different dishes guaranteed to satisfy the taste-buds. We loved the laksa at the Old Nyonya stall.

Singapore City Gallery

The Singapore City Gallery probably doesn't feature in many people's 4 day Singapore itinerary. It might not have featured on our Singapore sightseeing itinerary had we not been right next door to it during a very rainy spell!

It's an interesting place though, documenting the development of Singapore over the years. It also gives an indication of how Singapore might develop in the future. Definitely worth a half an hour of your time when in Chinatown.

Sri Mariamman Temple

Yes, I know it's called Chinatown, but there's also a rather impressive Hindu temple there. As there was some sort of ceremony when we entered, we didn't really stay long. Overall, it's an interesting place to admire, even if just from the outside.

Esplanade Art Centre 

As the daylight drew to a close, we headed to the Esplanade area by the bay. At the art centre, there are rotating exhibitions, displays and live shows. Some of these are free, and others have a fee.

Whilst we visited, there seemed to be some sort of Indian cultural exchange program, as there were a number of Indian acts on. If you are looking for free things to do in Singapore at night, it would certainly be worth checking out what's going on here during your own visit.

Marina Bay Area in Singapore At Night

And then it was time to head back to the hotel. The walk from the Esplanade, over the Helix Bridge and around the Marina Bay Sands area looks amazing. When we visited, we were even treated to a full moon! 

Singapore Itinerary Day 4 

And before we knew it, we were on to day 4 in Singapore, our last full day.

Before starting our trip, I had been concerned that there would not be enough to see in Singapore in 4 days. Now, I was aware that 4 days would not be long enough! I've included some of the places we'd still like to visit at the end of this Singapore blog post. For now though, let's look at day 4 in Singapore!

National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery Singapore was our ‘big' place to visit on this day. And yes, it was big! The gallery had a mix of permanent and rotating exhibitions, some of which involved an extra ticket.

When we visited the National Gallery Singapore, the temporary exhibition was a minimalism one which was good fun to see. There was also this art piece which I called the Vertigo piece!

Now, it must be said that the National Gallery is massive. There are seemingly endless rooms and galleries, and even after 3 or 4 hours we hadn't seen them all.

If art is your thing, you should check it out. Bring your own snacks and avoid the cafe though, as it's really expensive and not great quality.

Little India in Singapore

Little India is another neighbourhood you should see in Singapore. Located to the east of the Singapore river, it's just across from Chinatown.

As you might expect given the name, this area is heavily influenced by the Indian population here. Expect temples, foods, colour and noise!

We spent an hour or two in Little India, Singapore. After which we then took the metro to meet some new friends.

Sengkang dinner at friends' house

Back in Athens , Vanessa gives walking tours. Some of these are free, and others people pay for. This gives her the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, and a while back she met a couple from Singapore, Elena and Joanna.

As we were in town, they invited us over for dinner! It was much appreciated, as was the chance to learn a little about life in modern Singapore and see the inside of an actual apartment. They'd also travelled to some of the countries we planned to on this trip around South East Asia , so it was good to get some inside tips!

Once dinner was over, we had our first of what would be many Grab taxi experiences, and got back to the hotel. The next day, it would be time to fly out for 3 weeks in Thailand !

Singapore Travel Tips

Here are some travel tips that might make your life easier when spending time in Singapore. They'll either save you money, time or hassle. Sometimes, all three!

Klook 

This is a great travel app that offers discounted tours and services throughout Asia. We booked our tickets for the Gardens by the Bay domes and walkway through Klook, and it saved us quite a bit of money. A handy thing to have, as you can use it for suggestions about areas in Asia you are visiting.

Install Grab on your phone, and you'll have access to cheap taxi rides in Singapore. Again, Grab works through the rest of the South East Asia region as well. This is quite handy in terms of getting a set taxi price to avoid the haggling and overcharging that can happen otherwise.

Things we didn't have time to see but would like to in Singapore

As mentioned, we didn't get the chance to see everything in Singapore that we wanted to. As we'll probably fly back out of Singapore to Athens, we'll try to see the following places on our next visit.

• Arts and Science Museum
• Botanical Gardens
• National History Museum
• Asian Cultures Museum
• Peranakan houses
• East Coast Park

Planning to visit Singapore soon and have any questions? Leave a comment below, and we'll do our best to help you out!

Singapore itinerary FAQ

Readers planning a Singapore trip often ask questions similar to these:

Is 4 days enough for Singapore?

Singapore is a fantastic destination to visit, with attractions ranging from the awe inspiring Singapore skyline to the delicious food found in Hawker centres. When planning your first trip to Singapore, use my four days in Singapore itinerary as a guide!

How many days are required in Singapore?

It might be tempting to just give Singapore a couple of days before moving on, but a longer stay of 4 or 5 days will give you the chance to explore the Singapore botanical gardens, check out the Adam road food centre, enjoy the Marina Bay light show at night and much more.

What can you see in Singapore in 5 days?

Here's an idea of some of the attractions and places to visit if you're staying for 5 nights:  Art Science Museum, Singapore National Museum, Night Safari at Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands Sky Park, Sentosa Island, Singapore Clark Quay, and more!

What can you do in Singapore in 3 days?

If you only have 3 days in Singapore, consider including some of the following in your itinerary: Buddha Tooth Temple in Chinatown, Old Hill Street Police Station, Little India Arcade, Tan Teng Niah's House in Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck, Merlion Park.

More Blog posts from this trip

If you enjoyed this Singapore itinerary for 4 days, here are some of the blog posts from other countries we visited on this trip you might also like:

• Kapas Island in Malaysia
• Day Trip to Pulau Kapas Malaysia
• 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary
• Koh Lanta Travel Guide
• Where to stay in Koh Lanta
• Koh Jum Island in Thailand
• 3 day Chiang Mai sightseeing itinerary
• How many days in Chiang Mai is enough?
• Is Chiang Mai all that special?
• Best time to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Best things to do in Saigon, Vietnam
• What to do in 2 days in Hanoi
• Things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam
• What we really thought about Phu Quoc
• Con Dao Island in Vietnam
• How to get to Con Dao in Vietnam
• Things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
• Best things to do in Yangon, Myanmar
• What to do in Inle Lake, Myanmar
• Temples of Bagan travel guide

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Need a vacation but you’re too busy to travel?

Jaclynn Seah is The Occasional Traveller, a solo female traveller from Singapore who knows what it’s like to balance work and wanderlust. Short on time? Here are my tips and stories to help you plan your own quick getaways and be inspired to travel more.

Latest Posts

Personal stories and detailed travel guides for the solo indie traveller

Things I enjoy

Street art & murals.

I love hunting for street art in Singapore and on overseas trips – it helps me explore and find unexpected spots in new cities!. Check out my many guides on the best places to find street art around the world.

Offbeat spots in Singapore

Singapore has its well known tourist hotspots, but I enjoy exploring the lesser known bits of my home country. It may be a small country but there’s still lots to learn! See all my Singapore related posts.

Solo travel

I’m a big advocate for everyone trying solo travel at least once in their life! It may not be for everyone, but I love the freedom of doing my own thing and want to encourage everyone to give it a shot!

Travel tips for busy people

Everyone’s busy, but you shouldn’t be too busy to travel if that’s what you love! I share my thoughts on finding time to travel and tips to help busy folk plan for their own trips.

Want to work with me?

Singapore Travel Guide

Asia's smallest and most diverse country, where modern skyscrapers meet traditional temples and luscious rainforests.

Best time to visit Singapore

Travel insurance for singapore, best places to visit in singapore, 7 best things to do in singapore, map of singapore, weather in singapore.

Singapore has tropical rainforest weather for most of the year, bringing high humidity and temperatures. The monsoon season occurs from November to January, whereas June to August sees drier, hotter days.

How to Plan a Trip

How to travel safe.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Cheap Flights via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Singapore worth visiting?

A fantastic blend of cultures, languages, traditional buildings, and towering skyscrapers exist in harmony in cosmopolitan Singapore! The jaw-dropping skyline, home to innovative architecture, is peppered with traditional Buddhist and Hindu temples — set against a backdrop of luscious rainforests.

Is Singapore cheap to visit?

There’s no doubt that Singapore is one of the world’s most expensive cities to visit. Luxury is in the air, with upscale hotels costing around $200-400 a night and hostels upwards of $25. Although it might not be a backpacker’s dream, there’s still a way to visit Singapore on a budget; head for the hawker stalls in the markets or Little India, where you can find cheap local eats from $5.

Can I drink tap water in Singapore?

Singapore has some of the best hygiene standards in the world, with exceptional water quality treatment. This means you can drink from the tap worry-free! Pack your reusable water bottle in an effort to reduce plastic and fill up at hotels and restaurants throughout your trip. 

Do I need a visa for traveling in Singapore?

Great news! Most tourists can enjoy Singapore visa-free for between 30-90 days, depending on your nationality. However, checking your country’s entry requirements in advance is always recommended, as some places are subject to stricter visa rules. 

What language do they speak in Singapore?

Singapore is a melting pot of different nationalities, meaning you’ll hear several languages spoken on the streets. Although Malay is the national language used for road signs and important documents, the primary language spoken by most people is Mandarin (you’ll also hear Tamil). Moreover, due to its colonial British past, most of the population also widely uses English, so you’ll always be able to be understood on your trip.

Do I need travel insurance for Singapore?

Travel insurance is your safety net for your vacation in Singapore, protecting you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care. Go indoor surfing or bungee jumping, get a bird’s eye view from the Singapore Flyer, or zoom around on Sinapore’s thrilling Formula 1 Circuit.

Is Singapore safe?

Singapore has strict laws designed to keep locals and travelers safe. The crime rate is extremely low, and cleanliness is paramount. In fact, it’s illegal to chew gum in order to keep the streets as clean as possible. As with all destinations, keep an eye on your belongings in case of pickpockets, especially if you find yourself in busy places like the subway, festivals, or events. 

What power plug type does Singapore have?

Singapore uses type G (the same as in the UK), a three-rectangular-pronged electrical plug. However, type C (European) plugs are also used throughout the nation, meaning it’s a good idea to carry an adapter. Don’t worry if you forget; you can always buy one at the airport or stores in the city.

Why do people love Singapore?

Singapore has a unique atmosphere that is hard to beat, teeming with people from all over the world who have chosen to call this tiny country home. This cosmopolitan city offers luxury vacation experiences for travelers with endless 5-star hotels, infinity pools, spas, and rooftop cocktail bars across the skyline. However, it’s also popular for backpackers who want to dive into its buzzing markets, street food, botanical gardens, and fantastic free activities like the Sky Garden.

Traveling in Singapore

A vacation in Singapore is second to none; you get all the benefits of exploring an entire country but with the compact size of a city! The incredibly safe and vibrant metropolis offers everything a traveler could want: dine on cheap street food and peruse bustling markets, sip on zesty cocktails in luxury rooftop lounges, or head into the neighboring jungle for nature adventures.

How to Plan Your Trip to Singapore

Follow our Singapore travel guide to plan your ideal city trip, where you’ll find all our top tips for cultural and gastronomical highlights. Singapore is often a stop-off point for travelers heading to Australia or other destinations in Asia , and as such, it caters excellently to those looking to relax and refresh. Luxury is found on every street corner here, where you’ll find five-star hotels with rooftop pools, endless cocktail bars, high-end restaurants, and spas aplenty. There’s even a rooftop pool at Singapore Changi Airport for those who want a quick dip before or after their flight! Discover all the best places in Singapore by following our complete travel guide.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Looking for the best time to plan your Singapore holiday ? Find out about the climate in Singapore with this seasonal information.

Hot Season (June-August): Singapore is nearly always humid; however, June to August sees the lowest humidity and the hottest and driest months. During this time, temperatures soar to between 32-34 °C. Although this season is the warmest, it’s the most popular because of the lower humidity, attracting sightseers and those looking to escape the cooler temperatures in countries like Australia and New Zealand . This makes it the busiest season for tourism, with hotel prices rising and tours and accommodation getting booked quickly. 

Tip: Book a hotel with a rooftop pool to cool down after a morning of sightseeing.

Wet Season (November-Jan) : Singapores sees heavy rainfall during this time, but rest assured, it won’t last long! The wet season in Singapore sees short, heavy rains (generally accompanied by mesmerizing thunderstorms), so although you might have to shelter for a moment, you’ll be back out sightseeing in no time. This is also the best time for backpacking in Singapore as it’s the low season with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. 

Cool Season (December-February): Temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round in Singapore, but for the coolest temperatures, consider December to February the best time to visit Singapore. During this time, temperatures are milder (25 – 30 °C), making it an excellent time for exploring the city and making the most of outdoor activities in the city’s jungle fringes. Please note that Christmas makes December one of the most popular times to visit, and accommodation and tours can be more expensive, so book well in advance.

Coastlines and Beaches in Singapore 

Although Singapore is not known for its coastline, it is home to some beautiful urban beach spots. Sentosa Island, in particular, is deemed by locals as one of the best places to visit in Singapore , home to several lovely beaches like Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach. The island is mainly known for its water parks and beach clubs and is considered more of an entertainment destination rather than for beach relaxation.

East Coast Park is another popular spot, offering respite from the city and popular with families who flock to its shores for rollerblading, picnics, and BBQs. Although the waters aren’t the clearest, locals and tourists alike love the space for outdoor activities — it’s the perfect place to rent a bike and explore the unexpected natural surroundings of this sprawling urban jungle.

More natural experiences can be found in the jungle and nature reserves surrounding the city, which are just a bus ride away! Spend your vacation in Singapore spotting monkeys in the rainforest canopy in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Faber, or get your adrenaline pumping as you look for crocodiles and monitor lizards in the spectacular Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. 

Wherever you choose, the countless natural experiences in Singapore make it one of the most unique cities to visit in the world! There’s nowhere else where you can sip coffee under lofty skyscrapers in the morning and be immersed deep in a serene jungle landscape by afternoon. Zipline across Sentosa Island, gaze in wonder at the waterfalls of the cloud forest, and cross suspension bridges in the forest canopy at MacRitchie Reservoir —  Singapore is not to be missed!

Food, Culture, and Religion in Malaysia 

As a city-state with a long history of colonization and immigration, Singapore is one of the most incredible melting pots of different cultures and religions. Instead of these differences being divisive, the community is incredibly harmonious, with groups of people from all different backgrounds coming together to share and enjoy various traditions. This makes Singapore travel a truly fascinating experience. 

Religion: There is not one predominant faith in Singapore. Instead, the city sees the practice of Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, and the lesser-known Taoism (a philosophy indigenous to China). Because of the unique range of religions that co-exist here, travelers will find an incredible array of temples in the city, with some of the most famous being the beautiful red Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the pristine white cathedral of St Andrews, which stands out among the contemporary skyscrapers of Singapore’s central business district. 

Food: The food scene in Singapore is iconic and is one of the main things to enjoy about a holiday in Singapore ! The city’s multiculturalism has created a haven of flavors, from the spices of authentic Indian food to the cheap and fragrant hawker stalls in Chinatown. Chinese and Malaysian influences come together to produce Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Nasi Lemak. Alternatively, you can dine on the most delicious Roti and Biryani curry under the colorful facades of vibrant Little India. International dishes have also made their way to the city, with an upscale dining scene led by famous chefs from all over the world, each pushing new innovational recipes and gastronomical wonders. 

Experience a mix of everything; eat curry with your hands as you sit on stools on the street edge in Little India, sample a delicacy from each vendor in the busy hawker centers, or reserve a table at one of the Michelin Star restaurants, dining on regional delicacies while drinking in night time city views. There’s a dish and a restaurant for every traveler; enjoying the food is one of the best things to do in Singapore ! 

Tip: Make sure to try the Hawker favorite: Char Kway Teow, a delicious wok noodle dish from China (usually served on a banana leaf with a squeeze of lime!).

Culture: The culture in Singapore is vibrant, warm, and a testament to the harmony and cohesion of the community. With so many languages, faiths, and nationalities living together in the same area, the city offers a unique social landscape where blended families and friends come together to celebrate each other’s religious holidays, traditional plates, and dialects. In fact, the icon of Singapore represents precisely this: look out for the Merlion, a statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish that represents the humble beginnings of Singapore as a fishing village and a fusion of cultures. On your vacation in Singapore , celebrate world-famous religious festivals like Chinese New Year and Deepavali, and learn more about the arts, such as Malay dance, Chinese opera, or Indian songs. 

The intermingling of religion , culture , and delicious food makes traveling in Singapore a multicultural feast for the senses!

Why You Should Travel to Singapore

A city of endless possibilities; that’s why Singapore is so infectious! Exciting contrasts meet you at every corner, from the fusion of cultures and religions to the juxtaposition between tradition and modernity. In no city can you find such a landscape of extremes, where a monkey-inhabited rainforest grows between innovative architectural wonders. With so much to explore and the addictive personality of this magical city, there’s always more to see on another vacation in Singapore !

Visitors are mainly drawn to Singapore for the luxury restaurants, hotels, and fantastic shopping in one of the world’s cleanest and most beautiful cities. But Singapore isn’t just about glamor – there’s ancient history and tradition to be found, too, among the numerous temples, colonial buildings, and authentic streets of districts like Little India and Chinatown. It’s something special that in 24 hours, you can wander under traditional lanterns and temples, see monitor Lizards in the wild, and dine on the most luxurious food — all in one place!

For a bucket list activity on your Singapore holiday , head to the unforgettable Gardens by the Bay, where you can see one of the most spectacular free light shows, accompanied by music that echoes from avatar-like structures. Or for those who like their days accompanied by a little adrenaline, ride the rollercoasters at Universal Studios, go ziplining at Sentosa Island, or be blown away by the G-force of the cars at the Singapore Grand Prix! 

Safety and Travel Advice in Singapore

Singapore is one of the safest countries to travel to, with the government working hard to ensure the security of travelers and residents. However, like any destination, it’s always good to exercise precaution on your travels. Use the following information to help you get the most out of your journey. 

Natural Disasters: Singapore is unlikely to experience any natural disasters. However, thunderstorms are frequent during the wet season (November to January). Always keep an eye on the weather, and take shelter indoors during storms. Stay informed by registering with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip.

Crime and safety in Singapore: Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates globally! Nevertheless, exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night, sticking to well-lit spots with more people, and being extra vigilant in crowded places and when withdrawing cash at ATMs. 

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic in Singapore: The infrastructure in Singapore is fantastic, and strict traffic rules keep people safe. The government has enforced high costs to own and drive a car in Singapore (to keep congestion low), so it’s unlikely you’ll drive on your trip. Rest assured, though, the public transport system is fantastic and is the best way to get around on your vacation in Singapore .

Cultural Sensitivity: Singapore has an incredibly diverse range of faiths, and everyone lives harmoniously and respectfully. Adhere to their customs and traditions by covering up when visiting places of worship, removing shoes before entering temples and people’s homes, and asking permission to take photos of local people. Please note that public displays of affection are often frowned upon.

Drugs and Drinking: Singapore has very strict drug laws and high penalties for possession. Always consume alcohol responsibly, bearing in mind that drunken and disorderly behavior is sanctioned and can lead to fines or even arrest.

Note: Chewing gum is not sold in Singapore (its sale is completely banned!). You can be fined for chewing, so avoid bringing it into the country. This is part of the government’s efforts to keep the city clean. 

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things you must do before your Singapore holiday is purchase travel insurance. This gives you assurance for unexpected accidents – for example, an injury, canceled flight, or lost baggage. Please note that Singapore has high medical care costs, so ensure you have comprehensive insurance covering high medical expenses. Check out these best travel insurances .

Singapore Travel Guide 2023

Last Updated on June 1, 2023 by Tina

The very first time I visited Singapore was in 2011. I stayed there for 7 days. The first 4 days were with my friend Violet and the remaining 3 were spent with me exploring alone, although I stayed at my friend’s apartment. She had work though so she couldn’t accompany me with the sightseeing. It was my first out-of-the-country trip that was not work-related and I didn’t prepare anything for that trip. I didn’t read any Singapore travel guide. I only relied on Violet for where to go and what to do.

Back then when I visit a place I don’t check travel blogs. I rely on recommendations from locals (usually the receptionist at the hotel) on where to eat, places to visit, and how to get to those places.

After that trip, I went back to Singapore a few times, and last year, I accompanied my mom there. I don’t mind going back to Singapore again and again, especially if it’s free. 😀 I remember after that first trip to Singapore I wanted to live there. Unfortunately, my profession is not fit for Singapore.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. However, it contains affiliate links. If you book through the links, I may earn a commission. This commission comes at no extra cost to you. The small income I make here will help in maintaining this blog. Thanks for your support!

Singapore may be a small country, but it has so many things to offer. I used to have a  plan of doing all the heritage trails, walking trails, and trying out all the hawker centers in Singapore and writing about all of these in my blog and maybe even writing a guidebook.

In the meantime, here is a detailed Singapore travel guide to make planning your trip easier, maximize your time and save you money on your trip to the Lion City.

Singapore Travel Requirements

Singapore arrival card / sg arrival card.

The SG Arrival Card is the electronic version of the paper disembarkation/embarkation card that is filled out and submitted for immigration clearance upon arrival in Singapore. It must be submitted within 3 days before arriving in Singapore.

Never Miss An Update

Sign up today and be notified of new posts.

Email Address

Subscribe Now

Valid Passport and Visa (if required)

Your passport must be valid for at least six months. As for a visa, depending on your passport, you may need a visa to enter Singapore.  To check whether you need a visa, check the  Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) Website .

Filipinos are eligible for visa exemption in Singapore. They are allowed to stay in the country visa-free for 30 days.

Best Month to Visit Singapore

Singapore has a typically tropical climate, with abundant rainfall and hot and humid all year round. Its temperature and relative humidity do not show large month-to-month variation. The relative humidity is always above 80% while the temperature is between 24 to 32 degrees Celcius. Based on climate station records from 1992 to 2020, December is the wettest month in Singapore and May is the hottest. February is the best month to visit as it has the least rainfall and the temperature is relatively cooler compared to other months.

How to Get to Singapore

You can get to Singapore by air, land, or sea.

Singapore’s airport, Changi Airport is regularly voted the best airport in the world. It serves both domestic and international flights from different locations around the world. It connects Singapore to international destinations like Dubai, Delhi, Bangkok, Melbourne, London, and many more. Check below flight schedules to Singapore.

To get to downtown Singapore from the airport, you can either take a bus, MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), taxi, or a private transfer through Klook .

You can travel to Singapore from Malaysia by land through a public bus or by driving. I’ve experienced traveling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from Singapore in 2013 by an overnight train. But it wasn’t a direct train. I took a bus from Woodlands to JB Sentral and boarded the train to KL there. I have read that there is no direct train from Singapore to anywhere in Malaysia other than Johor Bahru.

Passenger ferries run from Indonesia and Malaysia to Singapore.

Currency and Where to Exchange Money

The Singapore dollar (SGD) is the official currency of Singapore. Notes come in denominations of S$2, S$5, S$10, S$50, S$100, S$1,000, and S$10,000. Coins come in 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents and S$1.

There are money changers at the airport as well as in downtown Singapore. You can find them in Orchard, Chinatown, Little India, and other areas. The exchange rate at the airport when we were there last year was US$ 100 = S$ 132.40. In a money changer in Chinatown, it was US$ 100 = S$ 135.

Almost everywhere in Singapore takes credit cards.

Internet Connection and Where to Buy Sim Card

Free WiFi service is available in the public and transit areas of Changi Airport, in hotels, some shopping malls, restaurants, and cafes in Singapore.

If you want to stay connected to the internet all the time, I recommend buying a local SIM card. They are very cheap and you can buy a SIM card at the airport or in the malls and in any 7-11 in downtown Singapore. You can also purchase online through Klook for S$10 and pick up the sim card at the airport or in outlets in other parts of Singapore.

When we were there, the only SIM card available at the airport is the one that costs S$32 and it is a tourist sim card. I decided to buy the prepaid SIM card in 7-11 because the tourist sim card expires in a few days or in a month (I think). Also, I bought it for S$15 only. It comes with 8GB of data, an extra 100GB, and S$15 value (I was able to use it to call the hotel). The sim is valid for 120 days and will remain active as long as you top up before it expires. Mine is still active.

Where to Stay in Singapore

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Singapore depending on your budget. However, compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, hotels in Singapore are more expensive. There are hostels too, but I haven’t experienced staying in one because I have friends there and I have never experienced traveling solo to Singapore. (I flew to Singapore alone in 2020, but it was to visit my then-boyfriend so I stayed at his place). I recommend that you stay in a hotel located near MRT Station. Below are some hotels recommended by other travel bloggers.

Marina Bay Sands

Raffles Hotel Singapore

Andaz singapore.

Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre

Yotel singapore orchard road.

Hipstercity Hostel

Hotel supreme.

During the trip with my mom, we stayed at Champion Hotel City . Although the room is quite small, the room’s layout was made in such a way that the space was maximized. It is very clean, reasonably priced, and a walking distance to Clarke Quay MRT Station.

Getting Around Singapore

Mass rapid transit (mrt).

Singapore’s MRT system is very efficient, one of the cheapest, and is the easiest way to get around the city-state. The trains are clean and comfortable. Most of the popular attractions are a short walk from an MRT station. Operation hours of the MRT are from 5:30 AM to around midnight daily.

To pay for your ride, use a stored value card such as EZ-Link or NETS Flashpay. You can purchase a card at all MRT stations. Fares are charged based on distance traveled.

Download the Singapore Train System map and get around the city with ease.

Another cheap way of getting around Singapore is by bus. The public bus system covers most places in Singapore. Just like the MRT, you can pay for your ride using a stored-value card.

A more comfortable but more expensive way of getting around Singapore is by taking a taxi. Taxis are especially handy for places that are not accessible by bus or MRT.

You can hail a traditional taxi by the roadside at most places, or you can queue for one at a taxi stand. For ride-sharing companies such as Grab and Go-Jek, simply download their app and order a taxi through your smartphone.

Singapore has a well-connected network of cycling paths, and there are licensed operators where you can rent shared bicycles. Exploring Singapore on a bike is faster than walking, cheaper and greener than ride-sharing, and lets you enjoy the green spaces of the city-state.

How Many Days in Singapore

Singapore is not that big but there are a lot of interesting sights to see and things to do. If you have a limited time, four full days are enough to visit the major sights, but your days will be packed. But if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace, I’d say 5 days to a week.

Places to Visit in Singapore

Gardens by the bay.

One of the most visited spots in Singapore, Gardens by the Bay is a nature park located in the heart of Singapore’s downtown. Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, Floral Fantasy, and Supertree Grove are the must-visit attractions here.

Cloud Forest

The Cloud Forest is a cooled conservatory that is home to one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls.

Flower Dome

The Flower Dome holds the Guinness World Record for the largest glass greenhouse. It has nine themed gardens- the Baobabs, Succulent Garden, Australian Garden, South African Garden, South American Garden, Californian Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Olive Grove, and Flower Field.

PURCHASE GARDENS BY THE BAY FLOWER DOME AND CLOUD FOREST TICKET HERE

Floral Fantasy

The Floral Fantasy is an indoor garden with a mix of over 15,000 fresh-cut, dried, and preserved blooms overhanging from the ceiling.

PURCHASE FLORAL FANTASY TICKET HERE

Supertree Grove

The Supertrees are sustainable vertical gardens. They house plants of over 200 species and 7 of the Supertrees are designed to harvest solar energy. Twice nightly at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM, there is a light and sound show. You can watch the show for free.

A good place to watch the light and sound show is from the OCBC Skyway . It is a 128-meter-long aerial walkway 22 meters off the ground that connects some Supertrees. At the Skyway you are closer to the dancing lights, and you also get to enjoy a stunning view of the Singapore skyline and the futuristic forest of Gardens by the Bay. This attraction is not free though. You need to purchase a ticket for the OCBC Skyway. Each visitor is given 15 minutes at the Skyway.

PURCHASE OCBC SKYWAY TICKET HERE

Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is Singapore’s foremost leisure island with fun-filled attractions, resorts, and facilities for all ages. This is where you’ll find Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore, and the white sandy beaches of Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach. Just around the corner, you’ll find VivoCity, Singapore’s biggest mall.

Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore is a theme park packed with attractions that are specially designed for Singapore. It has loads of rides and activities that bring the joys of the silver screen to life.

PURCHASE YOUR UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TICKET HERE

Trick Eye Museum

The Trick Eye Museum is a 3D art museum with a huge array of hand-painted art exhibits that use a special art technique, making 2D art-pop into 3D. There are no signs such as ‘Don’t Touch’ or ‘No Flash’ in this museum. Visitors are encouraged to touch and take photos of all displayed works.

Related Post: 7 Things To Do In Singapore With Kids (And Kids At Heart)

Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam started out as a village occupied by the Malay upper class. It was assigned to the Malay and Arab communities in 1822 and remains a central place for Singapore’s Malay and Muslim communities. You will find here the Sultan Mosque, one of Singapore’s oldest and most important mosques. Haji Lane can also be found in this area. It is lined with colorful boutiques, cafes, and chill-out spots and is famous among Instagram influencers.

Little India

Little India is home to Singapore’s Indian community. It offers snapshots of life as it is on the streets of New Delhi and Mumbai. Located in Little India is the former house of Tan Teng Niah. It is a colorful house that is the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India. You will also find in this area the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Singapore’s first temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. Mustafa Centre, a department store selling everything from groceries to electronics, clothes, gold jewelry, and home appliances and is open 24 hours a day is located here.

Discover Chinese heritage in Chinatown. Centuries-old practices and traditions still thrive here. With plenty of food options, rich heritage, and interesting sights, it is one of the most visited places in Singapore. You will find in this area Sri Mariamman Temple, the most revered Hindu temple in Singapore. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, a Buddhist temple that houses a relic said to be a tooth from Buddha is also located here.

Marina Bay was once a basin where the Singapore River spilled into the Singapore Strait and is now home to Marina Bay Sands, one of the world’s most iconic buildings. The Esplanade, Merlion Park, and Singapore Flyer can be found in this area.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Home to thousands of tropical plants and a large collection of orchids, the Singapore Botanical Gardens is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore.

Instagrammable Spots in Singapore

Singapore was named the most Instagrammable place in the world in 2022 by the travel publication Big 7 Travel. The city-state is full of photo opportunities from green spaces, interesting architecture, colorful houses, temples, beautiful street art, and even cafes and restaurants. I have a post on the 14 Instagrammable Places in Singapore , and here are some spots from that list.

Old Hill Street Police Station

Located in Central Area, it was constructed in the 1930s and served as a police station until 1981. It now houses the Ministry of Communications and Information as well as the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth. The building’s brightly-colored rainbow windows and walls make it the perfect backdrop for photos.

The Jewel at Changi Airport is a nature-themed shopping mall linked to three of the passenger terminals of the airport. Its centerpiece is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Light shows take place daily every hour from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM and at 11:30 PM.

The Future World Exhibition in ArtScience Museum

The Future World exhibition in ArtScience Museum features different installations that combine arts and technology. The exhibits are interactive and feature state-of-the-art technology, and look great on your Instagram feed.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina dP @ I Went Anyways (@tnadeperalta)

Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel

Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel is an underground crossing with a spiral staircase on the edge of Fort Canning Park. When you look up from the bottom of the staircase, you see a tree. It is a very popular photo spot in Singapore.

Joo Chiat Peranakan Houses

Another popular spot for photos is Joo Chiat. It is a small neighborhood in Singapore with colorful Peranakan houses.

Where to Eat in Singapore

Cafe monochrome.

Cafe Monochrome is Singapore’s 2D-themed cafe located in Kampong Glam. It serves Asian-Western fusion mains.

Lau Pa Sat is a popular hawker center located in the central business district of Singapore. The Hokkien mee at the center of Lau Pa Sat is recommended by a friend (something to try when I go back to Sg).

Muthu’s Curry in Little India

Another recommendation from a friend, Muthu’s curry serves traditional dishes from both the Northern and Southern regions of India.

Balestier Bak Kut Teh

Bak kut teh is a pork rib dish cooked in broth that is popularly served in Malaysia and Singapore. Balestier Bak Kut Teh uses sugarcane to prepare their soup.

Boon Tong Kee

With 8 outlets in Singapore, Boon Tong Kee is the home of the famous chicken rice.

Ya Kun Kaya Toast

Ya Kun Kaya Toast is a chain of mass-market cafes serving kaya toast , a traditional Singaporean breakfast made of lightly toasted bread slices, slathered with a nice layer of kaya jam (pandan flavored coconut egg jam), and with a thin slice of cold butter. It is served with half-boiled egg and coffee or tea.

Related Post: How to Make Kaya Spread and Kaya Toast at Home

Tiong Bahru Bakery

Tiong Bahru Bakery is an artisan bakery that serves freshly baked pastries and bread. It is famous for its croissants.

Other Useful Information When Visiting Singapore

Where to take a pre-departure test for your next destination.

For your next destination, you may be required to submit a negative RT-PCR or ART result. You can do it in most clinics and hospitals in Singapore. We had our test at The Testing Pro in Clarke Quay Central. It is near Love Locks Singapore. The ART costs S$ 25 and the result was sent to our email after an hour.

You can also have the test with Doctor Anywhere or Hidoc .

Attending Catholic Mass in Singapore

For Catholics who are planning to attend a mass while in Singapore, you need to register at https://mycatholic.sg/ and make a booking prior to the service.

Most Singaporeans are fluent in English. They also speak an additional language, usually Mandarin Chinese, Malay, or Tamil.

The standard voltage used in Singapore is 220-240 volts AC, 50 hertz. The power plug used is the three-pronged pin. Adapters are easy to buy and cost around SGD 1.5.

Smoking is not allowed in all air-conditioned areas such as restaurants and malls. It is also an offense to smoke in public buses, MRT trains, taxis, and elevators.

Postal Services

If you need to mail anything while in Singapore, you can do it via SingPost .

Hope this guide was able to provide you with all the information you need about traveling to Singapore. If you have other questions about travel to Singapore, or if there is information that you would like to correct or add,  feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email or DM me on my social media accounts.

Subscribe to my blog to get notifications of my new posts. And please follow my Facebook page @iwentanyways  and like my Instagram accounts  @iwentanyways  and  @tnadeperalta for updates.

5 thoughts on “Singapore Travel Guide 2023”

You have covered most of the useful things every traveler, whether a first-timer or a frequent visitor, wants to know about Singapore. This travel guide is very useful for all of them.

Having a vacation in Singapore is pretty expensive but it’s totally worth it. Thanks for your guide. I will surely use these tips when visiting Singapore again.

Thank you for sharing your blog! Very informative.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Singapore Travel Blogs

These are all of my singapore travel blogs.

From exploring Little India and Chinatown, to sampling exploring the architecture and culture, find out the best places to travel to in Singapore here, in my Singapore travel blogs.

Happy exploring!

Singapore Itinerary – 2 Days In Singapore

Whether you fancy exploring the city’s lush gardens, feasting in the hawker centres or enjoying the diverse and vibrant neighbourhoods, this Singapore itinerary will help you plan an amazing trip.

Top things to do in singapore: best places to visit, activities, restaurants and more.

From lush gardens, hawker centres and Little India, to futuristic cityscapes, Michelin starred restaurants and Chinatown, it’s time to find out the best things to do in Singapore.

SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE 2019 (Budget + Itinerary)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Mar 2, 2019 | Featured , Itinerary , Singapore , Travel Guide | 73 comments

If I could only choose 4 words to describe Singapore, they would be : spotless, sophisticated, efficient but expensive. It’s hard to tell now that this tiny, booming country that is speckled with sky-high buildings and posh shopping malls, was once a colonial backwater.   The lack of natural resources here is compensated by a wealth of jaw-dropping man-made attractions best seen at night, reason why countless foreign tourists including many Filipinos, travel to Singapore. But beyond its gleaming and vibrant night scene, I guess the most interesting part of Singapore is its multicultural residents, pretty much like Malaysia . A leisurely stroll in the city is like being transported from one country to another.  Here is my Singapore Travel Guide blog to help you prepare with your trip here soon.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG

Better to visit Singapore prepared.  Print your itinerary or save it on your mobile.  Book hotels in advance. Carry credit cards and enough cash for your trip, I think about USD 100  (PHP 5,000 /SGD 138 / MYR 430 ) per day will be safe.  Bank balance certificate will also help if you don’t have credit cards. Bring your employee ID or business permit.  Answer the Immigration Officials politely and confidently, you need to prove to them that you are entering Singapore to tour and not to find a job illegally.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SINGAPORE

Singapore is a year-round destination, you’ll never run out of things to do here. But best to book your hotel in Singapore in advance during peak seasons – January to February, June to July and September to October.

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN SINGAPORE?

Around 3 to 4 days in Singapore should be enough to see the city’s top attractions. See the Singapore Itinerary below this blog.

WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

While I’ve been to Singapore a few times, most of my trips there are layovers. The last time I spent a few nights in Singapore, I stayed at Hard Rock Hotel in Sentosa.  Quite expensive, but worth it.  But if I get to visit Singapore again, I would gladly stay at hostels near MRT Stations as they are quite convenient for exploring and eating at hawker stalls.

Though Singapore is notoriously expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries, it is possible to stay on a budget here.How do you stay on a budget in Singapore? Stay in Singapore hostels/guesthouses and book accommodations in advance online to get discounts. The most popular places to stay for travelers on a budget in Singapore are Bugis, Chinatown,  Little India, Lavender Street and Clark Quay (Riverside).

Many Mid-range accommodations are concentrated around the north bank of Singapore River, Bras Basah Road (including the area around Fort Canning Park) and Rochor Road. Marina Bay, Promenade Orchard Road, and Sentosa Island are sprinkled with high-end hotels.

BUDGET HOSTELS IN SINGAPORE

Quarters Hostel

12 Circular Road, Clarke Quay, Singapore

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Blissful Loft

33B Hong Kong Street, Clarke Quay, Singapore

MID-RANGE HOTEL

Hotel G Singapore

200 Middle Road, Bugis, Singapore

Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen Hotel

170 Bencoolen Street, Bugis, Singapore

Champion Hotel

60 Joo Chiat Road, East Coast, Singapore

  SINGAPORE MONEY EXCHANGE

Exchange rates at the airport are low, so best to exchange your money at money changers in Singapore city.  Both Philippine peso and US dollars are accepted, you won’t really have a hard time as they accept almost all currencies.  ATMs are widely available if you prefer to withdraw cash from your card since bank exchange rates are often way better.

  SINGAPORE WI-FI

Stay connected in Singapore by renting a pocket Wi-Fi.  Wi-Fi routers are available for rent online and you can just pick it up at the airport.  RENT A POCKET WIFI HERE.

Alternatively, you can o PURCHASE A SINGAPORE SIMCARD HERE . Just claim it upon arrival at Changi Airport.

SINGAPORE VISA AND ARRIVAL

Philippine Passport Holders are entitled to visa-free entry to Singapore up to 30 days . Best to book your hotel in advance (BOOK SINGAPORE HOTEL HERE) as well as entrance tickets to some Singapore top attractions (PURCHASE DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE). You will save a lot if you book your tickets online or if you book accommodations ahead of time.  You will also avoid long lines and  you can show the booked hotels and tickets to the Immigration Officials (in case they ask for it or doubt your reason for travel) as proof that you are traveling to Singapore as a tourist.

IMPORTANT: See Singapore Travel Tips below this blog post for prohibited items in Singapore.

ADVISORY TO MARRIED FILIPINAS ENTERING SINGAPORE

IMPORTANT: To avoid being questioned, fined and jailed for misdeclaration in the embarkation/disembarkation card of Singapore, IF YOU HAVE ENTERED SINGAPORE BEFORE USING YOUR MAIDEN NAME , click YES  opposite the question “Have you ever used a passport under a different name to enter Singapore?”   Then, write your complete maiden name below the selection.

If you are entering Singapore and you are married and using your husband’s last name, always bring a copy of your marriage contract and previous passport. ‘

Take note that false declaration in the embarkation/disembarkation card is a violation of Singapore’s Immigration Act that is punishable by a fine or imprisonment.

HOW TO GET TO SINGAPORE FROM MANILA

There are several direct flights daily from Manila, Philippines to Singapore like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. But the cheapest regular fares are via Tigerair and Singapore, you can get seats for as low as PHP 2,000 (USD 40 / SGD 55 / MYR 170) one way if you book at least 1 month in advance.  Best to book in advance or watch out for seat sales and travel marts to get the best deals.

RESERVE FLIGHT HERE

HOW TO GET TO SINGAPORE FROM MALAYSIA

Tourists traveling to Malaysia typically include Singapore on their itinerary. Several airlines fly between Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Georgetown, Terengganu) and Singapore.  But Airasia offers the cheapest seats.  If you book about a month ahead, you can even book a one way ticket for PHP 947 (SGD 26/ USD 17/ MYR 80).  Search for flight below.

A popular way to cross to Singapore from Malaysia is by land travel via bus.  Several companies offer bus service between the 2 countries.  Buses from Kuala Lumpur leave from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, commonly known as TBS and Berjaya Times Square.

Bus fare from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore starts at PHP 735 (SGD 20 / USD 15 / MYR 62), one way. Travel time is about 4 hours, 50 minutes. Bus fare from Melaka to Singapore is around PHP 477 (SGD 13/ USD 10/ MYR 40). Travel time is about 4 hours, 20 minutes. You can search and book bus seats below.

CHECK BUS SCHEDULES & BOOK BUS TICKETS HERE

  how to get to singapore city from singapore airport.

Most travelers arrive in Singapore Changi International Airport. There are 3 main terminals at Changi International Airport, connected by free sky trains and shuttle buses.

BY AIRPORT TRANSFER

For hassle-free transfer from Singapore airport, you can book airport transfer to your hotel via private car,good for 3-9 passengers.   BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE.

Taxis are available at Changi Airport, they run on meter so no need to haggle.

Prepare to spend around SGD 28 (PHP 1,013/ USD 20/ MYR 86) – SGD 48 (PHP 1,772 /USD 35 / MYR 150) from Changi Airport to Singapore city center.

CHEAPEST WAY FROM SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT TO SINGAPORE CITY 

By airport shuttle/ van.

To ride the Airport Shuttle at Changi Airport, rush to the Ground Transport desk at the airport arrival hall. It is available 24 hours a day and travel time to the city is about 25 minutes, depending on traffic condition. Shuttle fare is SGD 9 (PHP 330/ USD7 / MYR 39)

MRT FROM SINGAPORE CITY TO CHANGI AIRPORT

(Map from Singapore Land Transportation)

At Changi Airport, head to the basement at Terminal 2 for the MRT.  Just follow the sign from the Arrival Hall (whether you are at Terminal 1, 2 or 3) that says “Train to City”.

Ride the eastbound train to Tanah Merah Station.  From Tanah Merah Station, you need to change to Green Line if you wish to go to Chinatown, Geylang, Raffles, Bugis and City Hall. MRT Fare is SGD 1.74 (PHP 64 / USD 1.26 / MYR 5.41).  Travel time is about 30 minutes. Avoid the train during peak hours as it can be crowded and you may end up standing for the duration of your trip.

MRT Open Hours is 05:31 AM – 11:18 PM on Mondays to Saturdays and 05:59 AM – 12:06 AM during Sundays & Public Holidays.

Another cheap way to get to Singapore City is by bus, but this can be time consuming. Travel time is about 1.5 hours. At the basement of Changi Airport Terminal 1, 2 and 3, ride Bus 36/ 36 A to Singapore City.   Bus fare is about SGD 2.59 (PHP 92 / USD 2/ MYR 8).  Exact change is required, no change will be given. So prepare small bills.

Bus is available daily; during weekdays from 6:08 AM to 10:52 PM and 06:07 AM to 10:52 PM on Sundays and public holidays.

The bus heads to Orchard Road via Suntec City, the Capitol Building (for Beach Road and North Bridge Road) and the YMCA on Stamford Road (for the Bras Basah Road/Bencoolen Street area).

  HOW TO GET AROUND SINGAPORE

By hop on/hop off bus.

A hassle-free way to tour Singapore is by Singapore Sight Seeing Bus (Hop on/Hop off bus).  You can see the top attractions in Singapore like Marina Bay Sands, Chinatown, Collyer Quay, Botanic Gardens, Buddha Relic Temple, etc.  Entrance Fees not included.

GET THE SINGAPORE SIGHTSEEING BUS TICKET HERE (1 Day Pass

GET THE SINGAPORE NIGHT TOUR SIGHTSEEING BUS TICKET HERE

BUY THE SINGAPORE SIGHTSEEING BUS HERE (2 Day Pass)

TIP: If you PURCHASE THE SINGAPORE MARINA BAY SAND SKYPARK SIGHT SEEING TICKET HERE , the ticket includes 1 Day FunVee Hopper Pass, where you can enjoy unlimited hop on hop off sightseeing across 3 bus routes in the city and Sentosa!

SINGAPORE CITY PASS

Alternatively, you can buy the SINGAPORE CITY PASS (2 or 3 days pass) that includes 2 ticket attractions plus hop on and hop off bus. So you can pick 2 admission tickets to any of the following attractions: Gardens by the Bay, Trick Eye Museum, River Safari, 2-Way Cable Car, Jurong Bird Park, Tiger Sky Tower, MINT Museum of Toys, Captain Explorer DUKw Tour (reservation required), 1-Altitude Viewing Gallery, Mdm Tussads, Segway Fun Ride (3 rounds), Luge & Skyride, Megajump, Sentosa Bike Rental (2 hours).

PURCHASE THE SINGAPORE CITY PASS HERE

A popular mode of transportation in Singapore is the efficient MRT/LRT system.  If you plan to use the MRT/LRT for the duration of your trip in Singapore, best to purchase a stored value or he Singapore Tourist Pass.

STORE VALUE CARD FOR MRT/LRT

The most common store value card for MRT/LRT rides in Singapore is EZ-Link and Nets Flashpay .  You can buy this from any ticket office at train stations or any Changi Recommends Store.  You can top up/load the card at 7Eleven Stores, Sing Post outlets, General Ticketing Machines, AXS Stations, Add Value Machine Plus and at DBS/POSB/OCBC Automatic Teller Machines.

SINGAPORE TOURIST PASS

You can also purchase a special type of EZ link card for tourists visiting Singapore for unlimited rides on buses, MRT and LRT in Singapore.  You can purchase this at Transit Link Ticket offices around Singapore.

  To calculate your MRT and bus fares. CLICK HERE.

TRAVEL TIP:  Take out your travel card to tap when commuting to ensure quicker entry/exit at MRT station and on board buses as well as prevent card clash— multiple cards detected at MRT fare gates and card readers on buses. As a result, the fare gates and card readers cannot distinguish which card you would like to use.

BY CABLE CAR

I’ve tried riding the cable car in Sentosa during my trip to Singapore, the 360 degree view below of Resorts World Sentosa, Mt. Faber and Universal Studios Singapore was pretty amazing.

BUY DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

SINGAPORE TOP ATTRACTIONS

Most of the historic attractions in Singapore are concentrated near the river, and the best place to start your tour is by the mouth of the Singapore River.  Here’s a list of Singapore top attractions for first-timers in Singapore.

SINGAPORE RIVER AND THE COLONIAL DISTRICT

Places to See: Cavenagh Bridge, Raffles Statue, Asian Civilizations Museum, Mint Museum of Toys, Peranakan Museum, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay.

How to get to Singapore Riverside: Take MRT and alight at MRT Raffles Place Station (North-South/East-West Line) or Clarke Quay Station (North-East Line).

CAVENAGH BRIDGE and Bronze Statues of Children Playing

Cavenagh Bridge is Singapore’s oldest and only suspension bridge named after the last governor of the Straits Settlements.   It was built sometime in 1869 and is now a popular walkway across the mouth of Singapore River.  Don’t miss the bronze statues of kids playing and jumping by the river here.

Places to See:   Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands Skypark, Art Science Museum, Merlion, Singapore Flyer, Singapore F1 Grand Prix and Esplanade – Theaters on the Bay.

MERLION PARK

The poster boy of Singapore, was designed by the Singapore Promotion Board sometime in 1964.  You can see the most popular attractions in Singapore here such as The Esplanade, Marina Sands Bay, Theaters by the Bay, Singapore Flyer and Singapore Skyline.

How to get to Merlion Park:   Take MRT and alight at Raffles Place Station.  Take exit H and walk towards Fullerton Road.

GARDENS BY THE BAY

At first glance, it may seem like the towering Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay are simply created to attract tourists. But this place is actually a national garden and premier horticultural attraction that displays the plant kingdom in a whole new way, entertaining while educating visitors.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore

Open Hours: 5:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Entrance Fee: SGD 28 (PHP 1,035 /USD 21/MYR 88)

Discounted Ticket: SGD 23 (PHP 850 / USD 17/ MYR 72)

GET GARDENS BY THE BAY DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

MARINA BAY SANDS SKYPARK SIGHTSEEING

Enjoy unobstructed view of Singapore skyline.

TIP: If you BOOK DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE ,  the package include 1 Day Fun Vee Hopper Pass, where you can enjoy unlimited hop on hop off sightseeing across 3 bus routes in the city and Sentosa.

SENTOSA ATTRACTIONS

SENTOSA FUN PASS

To fully enjoy Sentosa, get the Sentosa Fun Pass that entitles you to visit 19 attractions inside Sentosa and enjoy different rides. Sentosa Fun Pass attractions include passes to:  Trick Eye Museum, 4D Adventureland, Sentosa Merlion, S.E.A Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Singapore (wax museum).

How to Get To Sentosa:

By Sentosa Express: Ride the MRT and get off at Harbour Front Station (North-East Line or Circle Line) . From there, you can ride the Sentosa Express located at the 3rd level of Vivo City shopping mall (Lobby L). Alternatively, you may walk along the Sentosa Boardwalk to Sentosa.

By Cable Car: Get off at Harbourfront MRT and take Exit B (Harbourfront Centre). Follow the signs leading to Singapore Cable Car station at Harbourfront Tower II.

  UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE (SENTOSA)

Unleash your inner child when you visit Universal Studios Singapore. One of my favorite experiences in Singapore is a visit to Universal Studios Singapore.  I was invited by Resort World Sentosa for their Grand Opening and got the chance to spend a day inside the theme park trying their rides.  This place is not only for kids but for families and group of friends too!

PURCHASE DISCOUNTED UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TICKET HERE

Open Hours:

Monday – Friday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE REGULAR TICKET PRICE:

MADAM TUSSAUDS SINGAPORE WAX MUSEUM (SENTOSA)

Address: 40 Imbiah Rd, Singapore

Open Hours:  Weekdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Weekends 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM

GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

TRICK EYE MUSEUM (SENTOSA)

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily

PURCHASE TRICK EYE MUSEUM DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

  SINGAPORE ADVENTURE COVE WATERPARK (SENTOSA)

Get a discounted price to Singapore Adventure Waterpark for SGD 34 (PHP 1,257/USD 25 / MYR 107).

WINGS OF TIME (SENTOSA)

Address: Wings of Time Theatre, Siloso Beach, Sentosa

SHOW TIME: 7:40 PM or 8:40 PM

BOOK DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

SENTOSA MERLION (SENTOSA)

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

BOOK DISCOUNTED SENTOSA MERLION TICKET HERE

SKYLINE LUGE (SENTOSA)

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE BOTANICAL GARDEN

The Singapore Botanical Garden is a rare site amidst the cosmopolitan Singapore, this 158 year old garden near Orchard Road was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to get to Singapore Botanical Garden : Take MRT and alight at MRT Botanic Garden Station (Circle Line and Downtown Line).  Head towards Bukit Timah Gate.

If you booked the hop on, hop off /sightseeing bus, this is part of the stop.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE  

SINGAPORE KIDZANIA

BOOK DISCOUNTED KIDZANIA TICKET HERE

IFLY SINGAPORE

You can learn how to skydive at Singapore’s premier indoor skydiving center, iFly.

BOOK SINGAPORE SKYDIVE HERE

  SINGAPORE SIDE TRIPS

Since Malaysia is just 4 hours away by land, why not visit the following attractions too!

LEGOLAND MALAYSIA

Address: 7, Jalan Legoland, Medini, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee: SGD 40 (PHP 1,486 / USD 29 / MYR 125)

Discounted Ticket: SGD 32 (PHP 1,188/ USD 24 / MYR 100)

GET DISCOUNTED LEGOLAND TICKET HERE

HELLO KITTY TOWN

GET DISCOUNTED HELLO KITY TOWN TICKET HERE

SINGAPORE TO INDONESIA

Did you know that from Singapore you can cross to Indonesia (Bintan) by ferry? Get a roundtrip ticket for ferry between Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (Singapore) and Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal (Bintan Island Indonesia). BOOK A FERRY TICKET TO BINTAN HERE

Get a roundtrip ferry ticket between Singapore and Lagoi Ferry (Bintan Resorts).  BOOK A FERRY TICKET TO BINTAN RESORTS HERE

CHEAP SINGAPORE TOURS 2018

Here’s a list of cheap Singapore tours that you can try on your next trip to Singapore.

SINGAPORE RIVER WALK

Singapore River Walk is one of the most popular DIY tours in Singapore and it’s easy to understand why.  The walking tour traces the progress of Singapore River and its surrounding that served as artery of international trade back in the days, attracting diverse people to migrate and work here.

Attractions: Marina Bay, Esplanade, Helix Bridge, Gardens by the Bay, Fullerton Hotel, One Fullerton Hotel, Raffles Place, Merlion Park, Art Science Museum, Asian Civilizations Museum and Makansutra Gluttons Bay.

SINGAPORE SENTOSA TOUR

You’ll never run out if things to do in Sentosa, this place is packed with attractions, beach, theme parks, galleries, cable car and resorts.  This is a great place for kids and families traveling in Singapore. You can save a few bucks if you book the Sentosa Tour below, gives you access to 3 attractions in one tour package.

BOOK THE SENTOSA TOUR HERE

COST: PHP 1,331 (SGD 36/ USD 26 / MYR 113)

SINGAPORE RIVER CRUISE

Singapore can be explored by river cruise. See Singapore top attractions on a 40 minute boat ride. You can disembark at the following ports: Clarke Quay, Read Bridge, Boat Quay, Fullerton, Merlion Park, Bayfront South and Esplanade.  

BOOK THE SINGAPORE RIVER CRUISE HERE

CHINATOWN TOUR

One of the few remaining old districts of Singapore is Chinatown, the first Chinese Settlement in Singapore. Don’t miss the Chinatown Heritage Center housed in 3 restored shophouses that showcases the history and culture of the first Chinese settlers in Singapore.  The Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore whereas the opulent Buddha Tooth Relic Temple houses what is believed to be the tooth of Buddha found inside a collapsed stupa at a Buddhist Monastery.  The tooth relic can be viewed by the public on the 4 th floor.

Attractions: Sri Mariamman Temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum,  Chinatown Heritage Centre and Hawker Food Center.

BOOK CHINATOWN TOUR HERE

LITTLE INDIA TOUR

Take a stroll around the colorful district of Little India and you’ll be welcomed by blaring Indian music, jasmine garland and the smell of incense. Head to Serangoon Road, one of the oldest streets in the country clad with shops selling everything Indian. Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Tekka Centre and be amazed by the interesting lifestyle and fresh produce sold here.

Attractions: Little India Arcade, Campbell Lane, Tekka Centre, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

BOOK THE LITTLE INDIA TOUR HERE

ARAB STREET TOUR

The palm-fringed Arab Street is crowned by the golden Sultan Mosque, the beating heart of the Muslim faith in Singapore.  Here, you’ll find a wealth of stylish boutiques and restored shophouses selling textiles, carpets, gold, basket ware and leather, among others.   Go on a food trip in Arab Street, check out the curry houses and Arabic Restaurants sprinkled in the area.

Attractions: Sultan Mosque and Istana Kamong Glam (home of the Sultan of Singapore).

BOOK THE KAMPONG GLAM TOUR HERE

How to get to Arab Street:   Ride the MRT Green Line and alight at Bugis Junction. Walk towards Raffles Hospital and take Exit B. From here, you’ll see the Sultan Mosque and Raffles Hospital. Walk towards the hospital until you reach Golden Landmark Hotel which is next to Arab Street.  If you want to visit Kampong Glam, it can be reached within 5-10 min walk from the Golden Mile Complex.

WHERE TO EAT IN SINGAPORE

Makansutra Gluttons Bay

This place peppered with hawker stalls was founded by a photojournalist.  If you want to try different Singaporean street food, this is the place to be.

Travel Tip: Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle and Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle were the first street vendors to be recognized by Michelin Guide. Haven’t tried eating here yet, but you may want to pay them a visit when you are in Singapore.

WHERE TO SHOP IN SINGAPORE

BUGIS STREET

Before it became a shopping hub, Bugist Street was once known for its nightlife where transvestites gather to entertain military men. Sometime in 1980, this place underwent a major facelift, transforming the area into one of the hottest and cheapest shopping mecca in Singapore.

How to get to Bugist Street: Take the Eastwest Line of MRT and alight at Bugis Junction.

ORCHARD ROAD

Orchard Road is a popular shopping haven in Singapore, fringed with shopping malls selling almost everything you can think of.

How to get to Orchard Road: Take MRT and alight at Orchard MRT Station or Somerset Station.

SINGAPORE ITINERARY 

Here’s my sample Singapore itinerary for a 3 days 2 nights stay. If you wish to include Legoland + Hello Kitty in your itinerary. Add 1 more day. Feel free to modify this depending on your travel schedule and budget.

If you are not interested in Universal Studios, subtract SGD 68 (PHP 2,514 / USD / 50 / MYR 214) from the budget above.  Or if you want to skip the Wax Museum, subtract SGD 21 (PHP 776/ USD 15/ MYR 66)

SINGAPORE BUDGET

Here’s a list of possible expenses in Singapore for a 3 day 2 night stay.

SINGAPORE TRAVEL TIPS + REMINDERS

Eating and drinking inside public transportation is prohibited and carries a heavy fine.

Prescription medicines may also raise a flag, make sure you carry prescriptions with them. Any medication that contains strong narcotics, like diazepam/valium or strong pain killers like codeine, need prior approval from the Health Sciences Authority.

You  can get a tax refund in Singapore if you make a purchase for more than SGD 100 (including GST) at participating shops . Look for “Tax Free” free shopping logo or sign displayed. Or inquire at the shop if purchase if eligible for the GST Refund.  You will be provided a slip. Make sure you have the receipt too. Then apply for the GST refund using the Electronic Tourist Refund self-help kiosks (eTRS kiosks) at Changi Airport Departure Check-in Hall (before departure immigration) and Departure Transit Lounge (after departure immigration); and at Selatar Airport Immigration and Checkpi]oints Authority (ICA) duty office.

Duty free allowances for alcohol are 1L each of wine, beer and spirits, and the 1L of spirits may be substituted with 1L of wine or beer. Travelers entering from Malaysia are not entitled to any duty free allowance. Alcohol may not be brought in by persons under the age of 18.

No duty free allowance for cigarettes. All cigarettes legally sold in the country must be stamped “SDPC”. Although one open pack will likely be tolerated, you could be fined SGD 500 (PHP 18,300/ USD 362 / MYR 1,555) per sealed pack.

Pirated goods and publications by the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Unification Church may not be imported to Singapore.

Pirated CDs, disc, software, etc. have a penalty of USD 1,000 (PHP 50,648 / SGD 1,383 /MYR 4,300) per disc, so make sure you don’t have one in your bag.

Avoid bringing objects that resemble weapons , like novelty cigarette lighters and toy guns.

Death penalty for drug trafficking, or for carrying explosives and firearms without a license.

Chewing gum is not allowed in Singapore (?) . As per comment of Dex, a Singaporean reader, bringing chewing gum is allowed in Singapore, however, sales of chewing gum in Sinagpore itself is prohibited.

KUALA LUMPUR TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)

Melaka travel guide (budget + itinerary), cameron highlands travel guide (budget + itinerary), like my page on facebook for travel guide updates.

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM

Thepinaysolobackpacker.

Watch my latest [wp-svg-icons icon=”youtube” wrap=”i”] Youtube video.

Don’t forget to click [wp-svg-icons icon=”point-right” wrap=”i”] subscribe here.

Related Posts

ORIENTAL MINDORO: Things to Do in Puerto Galera + Itinerary 2024

BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET) BLOG 2024

2024 LILIW TOURIST SPOTS + ITINERARY

SAN JUAN BATANGAS TOURIST SPOTS + THINGS TO DO (2024)

73 comments.

I appreciate the thorough presentation here. I do agree that 4 days is more than enough time to see what needs to be seen and more.

A long time ago when I went there we stayed in the red light district just to avail of cheap hotels; but I found out it was safe wherever you stay there.

Yay! Nice to see your comment again here! take care always! 🙂

It is a comprehensive explanation about the tour and it is very helpful for a person to get a good understanding of the country and get rid of unnecessary hasseles.

Hi Lasantha, thank you for dropping by. Really appreciate it. Safe travels! 🙂

I love your blog! Very helpful! I will be traveling to Singapore next week and I’m alone. Reading your blog makes me so excited!

Hi Janellea, glad it helps. Enjoy SG! 🙂

Hi, I really appreciate your blog. It’s very informative. My husband and I will visit Singapore soon for a day trip. Would you recommend an inexpensive and quick itinerary for us please? Is it possible for us to see the Merlion and the Gardens? We love walking and “free entrance” would be a delight . We’ll be there on March 20th, 9:15am arrival and depart on the same day at 10:50pm. Appreciate it a lot. God bless.

Cool! Have fun in Singapore! 🙂

I would like to ask po ms. what did you fill out to pass the border from Singapore to Malaysia

There’s a form sa immigration po

There is a nice information threw out the blog and I am happy to read this kind of good blog.

Planning to go solo backpacking to Singapore this June. Thanks for this detailed Itinerary, saw a place to rest for almost 2500 Php, for 5 days staying there. Is there any thing you can add or recommend for a budgeted traveler?

This is so complete! I disregard my friend’s itinerary suggestions because you got all what I need and answered everything HA HA HA! Very helpful for a first-time traveller to Singapore!

Aww. Thank you! Enjoy your Singapore trip!

Hi, im a singaporean and somehow stumble upon this article. I would like to mention that chewing gum is in fact allow in Singapore. You are allowed to buy from overseas and bring to the country, however Singapore does not permit the sales of chewing gum thats all. Also there are a few Island hoping tours around Singapore such as sister island etc, its pretty interesting too if you are bored of the city look 🙂

Alright. Understood. Thanks for the helpful info. Will update.

Wow! Really nice! Very much appreciated your effort to share these with us. Thank you! 🙂

welcome. enjoy! 🙂

Hi! I just want to ask if possible I will be arrving thru Singapore from Manila and I will go to Malaysia and fly there going back to Manila?

Yes. That’s fine. Just make sure you print your flight details and hotel bookings.

Whenever I have travels international or domestic, I automatically check your itinerary to look for suggestions and ideas! Thank you for making my trips hassle-free! 🙂

Happy to hear that. Thanks for dropping by. I really appreciate it. Safe travels! 🙂

Wonderful! This is just what I needed for our SG-legoland trip this July!

I appreciate for your blog post, Thanks for sharing. When i travels international or domestic, i check the Itinerary on travel rout planner

VERY HELPFUL!!! THANK YOU

welcome. have fun! 🙂

I am planning a Singapore trip with my family this September. your page is very helpful. thank you!

Great post. Your post is very helpful for tourist. Keep it up.

Great blog! This blog nicely explained about the Singapore. Thanks for sharing the valuable information it will very helpful to explore Singapore.

This is such a great guide! I find it really useful to plan a 3d2n itinerary for my friends who are visiting Singapore.

Great work here!

read your blog and collected a lot of information about Singapore, just make my mind to travel in November .

Thanks. Have fun!

What an amazing and a fascinating place to visit. I really didn’t know much about this but after reading this post I will surely visit one day. Thanks for sharing such an amazing post.

Hi Ms. Gael, Facebook follower here. Just wanna ask if you know kung nagrerequire na nga ba si Singapore ng Yellow Fever Certificate sa mga tourist ? Nakita kase namin yung article below ni Asia One last month na Singapore might require Yellow Fever Certificate kahit na hindi galing sa mga countries with risk of Yellow fever.

We’re planning to visit Singapore next month and we’d really appreciate your help.

Thanks a lot in advance 🙂

Hi Raquel, I just noticed this, sorry. As far as I know that’s only applicable if you have visited a country at risk of yellow fever in the last 6 days. I just visited Singapore last month, we came from Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Philippines, they didn’t ask for yellow fever certificate.

Hi. I’ll be traveling to Singapore next together with my friends. Reading this thoroughly explained vlog makes us really excited. Thank you for this.

Glad was able to help. Have fun in Singapore!

I’ve been exploring for a little for any high quality articles or blog posts in this sort of area . Exploring in Yahoo I finally stumbled upon this site.

Reading this info So i’m satisfied to express that I have a very good uncanny feeling I came upon exactly what I needed. I such a lot for sure will make certain to do not fail to remember this website and give it a look regularly.

me and my friend just visited Singapore last month and we spent 4 days and 3 nights there. we were able to maximize our time there. the best part was when we were at the top of marina bay very memorable.. will visit singa again soon.

and hey! dont forget the orchid garden.. biggest orchid garden i visited so far.

I think there’s some typo errors in the (detailed) itinerary? I believe you meant 10AM on the Universal Studios time.

Nonetheless, this is really helpful!! Thank you so muchhh

Thanks for the heads up. Enjoy SG! 🙂

Thanks! Enjoy SG!

Hello Gail , I loved your intrinsic sense of writting in the above article , your dedication and precision towards inclusion of every minute detail regarding the travel experince is really mind boggling .

Well Done. Thank you for such a comprehensive review.

This post was really informative and useful. Thank you for sharing this post.

after reading your blogpost i feel like i desprerately need to go to Singapore.

Important piece of information for travelers – Travelers can get GST (tax) exemption for all purchases. For which you need to ask in the counter for passport tagging for GST exemption. They would give you a new slip. At the airport, you will have GST refund kiosks and counters where you need to scan the GST exemption slip (given from the shop) and passport, post which you can opt for taking cash refund from counter or card refund.

Cool! thank you! Forgot about that. Will surely add on the travel tips! 🙂

What an amazing place to visit. Thanks for the information and I am gonna make my plan soon.

Hi, I’m about to travel SG next year. Solo traveler and it’s my first time to travel outside the country. It will not be difficult to pass the Immigration Officials?

Read my tips above.

Hi There, I see your blog. this is really good.

That’s a great blog about Changi Airport and this makes us happy knowing that we’ve made travellers like yourself entertained every time you pass through. We like this blog so much we’re going to share it on our social media channels too. Lots of love,

The best place to go! I have been here 3 times

indeed I really like the photos and writings here let’s also play to my place here

Actually Singapore is a very budget friendly destination. I spent 2 weeks in Singapore and spent about 50 euros (60 USD) on average per day (accommodation included). Of course if you stay in a nice hotel and eat at restaurants every night (which you shouldn’t, because hawker centers offer hands down the best food in Singapore) you can easily spend a lot of money in Singapore. Or anywhere else for that matter. For people who do some research up front and don’t mind staying in a hostel (there are some very nice, inexpensive dorms in Singapore, warmly recommend capsule hostels for those who like their own privacy), Singapore is a fantastic place to visit even on a budget!

i really idolized you for giving complete travel informations and i would like to thank you cause i was and will able to use in on my back packing trip with my partner. keep it up

Thanks Gem, appreciate you dropping by. Enjpoy your backpacking trip! 🙂

Thanks for sharing an informative blog with us.

hi buddy nice detailed illustration help anyone to prepare themselves without any agency. BTW i heard about haze during september can you explain about it from your experience or any of your friends. I am planning to travel with my 2 year old baby in september 2019 for a week singapore and malaysia combo. How about renting a car to explore city and othe rplaces in singapore? Is it a good idea since i am having a toddler with me.

Hi Jay, haven’t experienced haze in Singapore or Malaysia, I think the haze back in 2015 was because of the forest fire in Kilamantan and Sumatra Indonesia. So far haven’t heard of any haze in Sinagapore. I also read a recent news that the Indonesian Minister said they won’t see a repeat of the haze in 2015 this year or so. Anyway, regarding the car rental, that would be a great idea since you have a baby. Enjoy your trip!

Amazing Article really happy to say it was an interesting post. Thanks For Sharing.

Great blog! Thank you! 🙂

welcome. enjoy SG!

Thanks for the guide. I’m actually planning to visit Singapore for my year-end holidays and now with the help of this amazing guide, I can plan it with more ease.

Hi, Nice blog! We are planning for a trip to Singapore. Reading your blog help us to plan accordingly.

Amazing Guide!Really like all the photos and very informative content.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• BEACH RESORTS
• BORDER CROSSING BY BUS
• Cruise Guide
• FERRY SCHEDULE AND RATES
• General Santos
• Historical Sites
• Hotels and Resorts
• Shiragawago
• SHIRAKAWA-GO
• Cameron Highlands
• Kota Kinabalu
• Kuala Lumpur
• New Zealand
• Cagayan North
• Camarines Norte
• Caramoan Island
• Catanduanes
• Davao del Sur
• Ilocos Norte
• Lanao del Norte
• Kalanggaman
• Mindoro Occidental
• Puerto Galera
• Negros Oriental
• Nueva Ecija
• SAN TEODORO
• Puerto Princesa
• San Vicente
• Quezon Province
• Northern Samar
• Surigao del Norte
• Surigao del Sur
• Capones island
• Zamboanga City
• Zamboanga del Norte
• Solo Female Travel 101
• South Cotabato
• Star Cruises
• Kanchanaburi
• Tourist Spots
• Travel Apps
• Travel Gadget
• TRAVEL GADGETS
• Travel Guide
• TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
• Uncategorized
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• HO CHI MINH CITY

COPYRIGHT NOTICE:

Terms of use:.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Nomadic Notes

Travel blog and weekly travel newsletter

Singapore Travel Guide

September 19, 2023 By James Clark 3 Comments

Travel Notes > Singapore Travel Guide

Nomadic Notes Blog Posts

Jewel Changi Airport review – An architectural marvel at the world’s best airport

The Green Corridor – Singapore’s former railway line that’s now a walking path

Singapore Airlines flight review: Sydney to Saigon with a free stopover in Singapore – Some airlines offer a free stopover at their main hub, which is a great way to see a new city (or revisit an old favourite). If you are flying through Singapore check out any deals with Singapore Airlines.

My best ever airport immigration experience – I always enjoy transiting or stopping over via Changi Airport in Singapore, and this experience confirmed why.

Gardens by the Bay: A wonderful urban park in Singapore – My visit to this modern park in Singapore.

Telok Ayer Market – The historic hawker centre in downtown Singapore – One of the few remaining heritage buildings in an area dominated by modern office towers.

Sleeping in Airports: Staying overnight at Singapore Changi Airport

Travel Guides

Your Singapore – Singapore Tourism Board.

Coconuts Singapore – From the Coconuts group of city guides, covering local news and events.

Singapore Guide – Travelfish index page for Singapore.

Singapore Travel – Destination Guide.

Focus Singapore – Travel and tourism links as well as information for living in Singapore.

Metropolasia – Singapore Travel Guide – Travel information on Singapore, including recommended hotels, self-guided tours, restaurant and food guide, and shopping tips.

OverseasAttractions.com – Lists the most popular attractions, activities, and tours.

Singapore for kids

10 must things to do in Singapore with kids

Travel Passes

The Singapore Tourist Pass is a 1, 2 or 3-day pass that offers unlimited rides on public bus, MRT and LRT trains in Singapore. If you pick up a pass at the airport you can use it straight away on the metro. Ideal for those who plan to see as much as possible in a three day period via public transport. [Disclosure: I was sent a pass to test in Singapore.]

Articles About Singapore

Singapore win! Asia’s official capital of cool “People have been anticipating the cultural renaissance of this snoozy island nation for nearly 15 years. Is it finally here?”

A guide to getting lost in Singapore’s trippiest building “Abandoned pools, Thai discos, and occult stores are just some of the things you’ll find within the Golden Mile Complex.”

A history of Singapore in 10 dishes – “The history of a food-obsessed city-state through its multifaceted cuisine.”

Top 22 things to do in Singapore – This guide by Soraya from helloraya.com has a good cross section of things to do.

Singapore Shorts – A collection of Singapore blog posts from Singaporean travel blogger Jaclynn Seah at theoccasionaltraveller.com.

20 things to know before visiting Singapore – Singapore-based bloggers shinyvisa.com introduce their home city.

48 hours in Singapore – By contentedtraveller.com.

Traveler Folio – Archive of Singapore posts from travel blogger Eunice Khong.

5 quirky and free things to do in Singapore – By Justine at travel-lush.com.

Pulau Ubin and the ghosts of Old Singapore – Pulau Ubin is a short ferry ride from Changi Village and another world away from modern Singapore. Story by Betsy Wuebker at passingthru.com.

Singapore 4 day itinerary – Top highlights with a map, average daily budget, and where to stay by phenomenalglobe.com.

Lee Kuan Yew’s Singapore – An astonishing record

Telok Ayer Market – The historic hawker centre in downtown Singapore – A good place to eat in Singapore, especially to admire the building.

ieatishootipost – Singapore food blog.

SG Food on Foot – Places to eat near MRT stations.

Guide Books

Lonely Planet Singapore (Travel Guide)

Accommodation

Singapore Hotels – Search for the best hotel rates with Agoda.

Where to stay in Singapore – If you haven’t been to Singapore check my guide for which area to stay.

Accommodation Reviews

Hotel Review: Oxley Hotel Hotel Review: Hotel NuVe Urbane 5footway.inn Project Chinatown 1 Hostel Review: Bunc Hostel Hotel NuVe Heritage Hotel NuVe Hostel Review: 5footway.inn Project Boat Quay Hostel Review: 5footway.inn Project Ann Siang Hostel Review: 5footway.inn Project Chinatown 1 Hotel Review: Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Hotel Review: Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore Hostel Review: Plush Pods Hostel Hotel Review: Bay Hotel Singapore Hotel Review: Shangri-La Hotel Hotel Review: Mandarin Orchard Singapore Hotel Review: Orchard Parade Hotel Guesthouse Review: Ali’s Nest Hotel Review: Marina Bay Sands

Singapore Photo Gallery – Photo gallery of my visits to Singapore.

Pictures of Singapore from the same spots, 30 years apart – An American living in Singapore compares locations with photos from his father from 1991.

About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

January 4, 2017 at 11:42 am

I always dream that someday I went to Singapore because of the beautiful view and such a cool place.

January 6, 2017 at 9:34 am

Thanks for your article, it is very helpful 🙂 I have also been in Singapore and it was just… Amazing !

February 27, 2018 at 10:29 am

Thank you so much for sharing this post!

It’s useful Guide, Singapore as such a perfect destination to travel, Singapore is a dream place.Singapore is my travel list. In my life at least once the time I will go there.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

About Nomadic Notes

Search nomadic notes, travel notes, travel resources, where to stay in…, travel newsletter.

Singapore Itinerary + Budget Travel Guide for first-timers

Singapore is South East Asia’s most prosperous city and smallest nation by land area. In recent years, newly developed mega-attractions and casino driven integrated resorts had transformed this “all work” economic powerhouse into one of the region’s most popular destinations for leisure travel.

Because of its compact size, Singapore is very easy to travel and generally safe. It is a top choice for first-time international travel, family trips, and those seeking to indulge in metropolitan luxuries. While costs are significantly higher than the rest of Southeast Asia, a lot of people continue to visit Singapore because of its unique and top-notch attractions that cater to almost every type of traveler.

I honestly didn’t expect to travel to Singapore as often as I have, considering the high number of seemingly more “exotic” and adventurous destinations elsewhere in the region. Singapore was just too irresistibly accessible with so many direct flights to other cities all over the region as well as convenient border crossings to Malaysia & Indonesia.

Singapore continues to be a worthwhile jump-off point to Southeast Asia and a fitting “last stop” for indulging in urban comforts before the journey home.

Traveling to Singapore for the first time?  This detailed travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money, and maximize your time.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown , recommended hotels/places to stay , things to do/places to visit and lots of extra travel tips.

Follow me on Instagram

Get Started

Singapore travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Singapore Hotels Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

See also: Singapore Itinerary , 33 Things to do in Singapore + Tourist Spots .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

SG Tourist Pass – Unlimited MRT/LRT Rides in Singapore

Klook Pass Singapore

Singapore Gardens by the Bay Admission Ticket

View all travel tips on: Singapore .

How to get to Singapore — Touchdown at Singapore-Changi International Airport, the gateway to Singapore and one of Asia’s largest transport hubs. From the Philippines, you can fly directly from Manila. Flights are operated by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines & Scoot. Direct flights from Cebu & Davao are also operated by Cebu Pacific.

Search cheap flights

Book your hotel early  — Grab rock-bottom rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon as you know you’re going. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Cheapest rates Best hotel reviews

Check prices online and pre-book discounts  — Save money by checking discounts on tours, airport/city transfers & sim card/WiFi hotspots. Booking before you leave also saves you time by avoiding the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash & exchanging currency/money during your actual trip.

See top discounts

Singapore Cable Car Skypass

Visa-free travel for Philippine citizens  — 80% of all nationalities, including Filipino tourists, do not need to apply for a visa before arriving in Singapore for short visits. Scroll down to the extra tips for the list of things you might need to prepare.

Traveling on a tight budget is possible  — I’ve included a lot of money saving tips on this guide in case you are traveling on a limited budget. Spending less does not mean that you have to miss out on awesome travel experiences in Singapore. You can achieve cheaper expenses by knowing where to find and book the best travel deals.

Getting around Singapore  — Getting between different areas of the city is very convenient. Singapore has a small land area and the infrastructure is highly developed. It’s easy to go on a do-it-yourself (DIY) trip, even on your own. Plus all signs are in English and most Singaporeans can speak/understand English. Public transport is very efficient. It’s the best way to get around if you want to travel cheaply.

Singapore 3G/4G internet data sim card & pocket WiFi rental

Best time to visit Singapore  — Singapore gets little weather variations the whole year round. Any month is generally good to schedule your visit. If you just want to go sightseeing, however, you need to be aware of popular holidays and events, which usually happens from January-February, June-July, September-October. It’s super peak season for hotels. Book your accommodations well in advance.

Spend two days or more  — With a 2-day trip in Singapore, you can already see most of the major travel highlights. Though, I recommend spending three days or more, especially if you want to enjoy multiple theme parks/attractions and explore the different cultural districts. If you are spending a long layover at Changi Airport, don’t miss the free city tours for transit passengers.

See more blogs & travel guides

Singapore Travel Guide Blog

Singapore itinerary, singapore budget, where to stay in singapore.

Travel Tips Before You Go

Places to Visit in Singapore + Things To Do

More Travel Guides & Blogs

What to do in Singapore in 3 days?  Here’s a 3 days & 2 nights (3D2N) itinerary for your do-it-yourself (DIY) trip.

Day 1: Old & New Singapore

Day 2: universal studios singapore + sentosa, day 3: heritage & shopping.

If you only have 3 days to spend in Singapore, you can skip “Day 3” of the itinerary posted above

Go to the 4 days  Singapore itinerary  guide for the budget estimates, expenses breakdown, and step-by-step do-it-yourself (DIY) tips for the itinerary above. Scroll down for more budget & money saving tips.

Your travel expenses will largely depend on your traveling style and how much you plan to spend on activities, accommodations & food. To help you set your own budget, here are budget estimates if you follow the 3 days and 2 nights (3D2N) itinerary posted above. Make sure to review all discounts & online booking prices.

I’ve included backpacker budget estimates for food & accommodations to give you an idea of how cheaply you can do the trip. If you have money to splurge on hotels, food, and luxuries, simply use the expenses posted to calculate your own budget.

Book your stay near MRT train stations if you plan on getting around conveniently by public transport.

Clark Quay (Riverside), Chinatown, Little India & Bugis are the most popular places to stay for backpackers and budget travelers.

You can find most of the mid-range and luxury hotels in Orchard Road, Marina Bay, Promenade/City Hall area & Sentosa Island.

Check discounts See more

Click below to compare rates and Singapore hotel reviews within your budget.

Top-rated places to stay in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Upscale / Marina Bay

JEN Orchardgateway by Shangri-La ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Upscale / Orchard Rd

V Hotel Bencoolen ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Mid-range / Bencoolen

Hotel 81 Bugis ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget / Bugis

Butternut Tree Hotel ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget / Chinatown

Galaxy Pods Chinatown ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget Backpacker / Chinatown

7 Wonders Hostel Upper Dickson ( Book here / Compare Rates ) Budget Backpacker / Little India

Where to book

Book your room through these trusted booking sites. I use them frequently to grab rock-bottom prices & enjoy convenient bookings. Click below to confirm the lowest prices:

Booking.com Airbnb Agoda

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Singapore Travel Tips Before You Go

How to get to singapore, how to find cheap flights to singapore, what to prepare for a trip to singapore, how many days is enough, how to get singapore dollars (sgd), when is the best time to visit, how to get around singapore, useful travel apps, get rent a pocket wifi or buy a mobile data sim card., where to book tours & attraction tickets, typical travel costs in singapore, money-saving tips.

Unless you’re traveling by land from Malaysia, flying to Singapore is the best way to get to Singapore. Many budget airlines, including AirAsia, Tiger Air, Jetstar, Cebu Pacific, fly to Singapore from all major destinations in Southeast Asia.

If you’re coming from the Philippines ,  Philippine Airlines ,  Cebu Pacific , and  AirAsia offers direct flights to/from Manila, Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, Kalibo & Davao.

The easy way is to search on airfare comparison sites that can show you the lowest fares on many airlines in one go.

Start your search on Wego , Momondo , and Skyscanner .

Check  Singapore promo  alerts several weeks or months ahead of your trip if you are planning your trip early. The cheapest promos are sold up to a year in advance of the travel/flight departure date & are often only available if you book directly with the airline.

To learn more, visit the guide on  how to book cheap flights .

Singapore Tourist Visa  — Tourists from around 80% of all nationalities do not need to apply for a visa or entry permit to travel in Singapore. If you are a citizen of one of these nations, you may be able to visit Singapore visa-free for a maximum stay of 30 days, to up to 90 days depending on the passport provided.

Go to the  Singapore Immigration website  to check if you need to apply for a visa before going on your trip. Foreign visitors from countries not listed in the “Assesment Level Countries” can visit Singapore visa-free.

If you are from a country that is not listed under the visa exception scheme, see if you are eligible to apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA).

Travelers can enter Singapore through immigration checkpoints found in various international airports, seaports, and land border crossings. Including the Singapore-Changi International Airport, Singapore-Malaysia land border, and international ferry terminals.

Always remember that all countries have the right to refuse entry to any person. Even if you are eligible for the free tourist visa or already have one in hand at the border.

Make sure that you are able to provide the following:

Passport not expiring within 6 months.

Evidence that you are visiting for travel or holiday purposes only.

Evidence that you are able to fund your stay for the entire duration of your visit.

Have confirmed flight tickets back to your home country or an onward destination that you are allowed to enter.

Visa for Filipino citizens  — Philippines nationals can enjoy visa-free travel in Singapore, for up to 30 days.

Filipino citizens (Philippine passport holders) do not need to apply for a visa before arriving in Singapore granted that the purpose of the visit is for tourism or transit only. Simply show up at the immigration checkpoint and get your passport stamped. Filipinos usually get a maximum stay of 30 days in Singapore.

Singapore may be a small country but there’s a ton of interesting things to do that could keep most travelers busy for weeks on end. A shorter visit of three to four days is the tourist norm and is enough to get a feel of Singapore and skim through the main highlights.

For a weekend trip, squeezing most of the highlights in two full days is doable but depending on how many stops you make and how you choose to get around, there might not be a lot of time to explore each stop extensively or at a relaxed pace. Regardless, you can see a lot of the city in two days or even less. Though, taking three or more days is recommended to allow for time to explore Singapore at a more relaxed pace. Take an early morning flight to Singapore and a late evening flight on your return to maximize your stay in Singapore.

For travelers on connecting flights through the Singapore Airport, a long layover can provide a decent visit to one or two sites. The downtown area is just a 30-minute taxi ride away from the airport. There are many short tours that can be booked at Singapore-Changi International Airport.

To be safe, bring US Dollar bills if you already have them in hand. Money exchange stalls in Singapore, including those at the airport, accept a wide range of currencies and it’s not a problem if you bring other major currencies. Popular foreign currencies include USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, THB, MYR, TWD, PHP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, CNY, and HKD.

For convenience, carry enough cash to last the first night or two and then withdraw cash in SGD using your ATM card (bring a backup just in case). ATMs that allow international withdrawal are found all over Singapore. They accept ATM cards with a logo from major interbank networks (American Express, Discover, Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, and the like). Don’t forget to activate your card for international withdrawal before leaving your home country.

Philippine Peso  — Bringing Philippine Peso for your trip is possible since most currency exchange stalls in Singapore accept them. Exchange a small amount at the airport and then the rest at the city center for better rates. When exchanging large amounts or if you happen to be in the area, the stalls at Lucky Mall along Orchard Road are your best bet for favorable exchange rates.

Singapore gets little weather variations the whole year round. Any date is generally good to schedule your visit. However, if you are traveling from the second half of September to the first week of October, be mindful of Singapore Grand Prix (F1 Race) schedule. It’s a super peak season for hotels. Book your accommodations well in advance.

Singapore has a convenient, extensive, and affordable Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and bus network. From the airport, the MRT is the cheapest way to get to the city center. Train fares starts from SGD 0.95.

Buy an EZ-Link Card sold at Changi Airport station & many ticket offices around Singapore. This prepaid card can be used to pay for train and bus rides. Enjoy discount fares if you use this card. The cost is SGD 12 per card. Includes SGD 7 stored value and SGD 5 non-refundable card cost. You can top-up at any 7-Eleven store. Only 1 person is allowed per card.

You can also buy the Singapore Tourist Pass, which offers unlimited rides on non-premium trains and buses. The price is SGD10 for the 1-day pass, SGD16 for the 2-day pass & SGD20 for the 3-day pass.

Private airport transfers

Book airport transfers online for stress-free private transfers between Singapore airport and your city hotel. Cars can seat up to 3, 5 and 9 people.

See discounts

Taxi stands can be found at the Arrival levels of each Terminal. A ride to the city takes around 30 minutes and costs between $20 and $40. Better yet, avoid the taxi queue with the Grab app. You can book Grab vouchers online & enjoy additional discounts on your rides.

Google Maps — This travel app will make it a lot easier to navigate around Singapore on your own. The directions feature only works online. Available on iOS and Android.

MyTransport.SG — Useful information on MRT, LRT & bus services in Singapore. Available on iOS and Android.

XE Currency — Free & easy currency converter. Available on iOS and Android.

Stay connected online during your whole trip. Not only does it make it possible to share your travel moments instantly, you can also travel better by having access to all your favorite travel apps anytime.

Singapore Pocket WiFi Hotspot with 4G Unli Internet

As mentioned, booking online can save you money, time and let you enjoy cashless convenience. In case you want to see more discounts and options, here’s a list of sites that you can check.

Klook Kkday Expedia

Here’s a list of typical costs when traveling in Singapore. This country is one of the most expensive travel destinations this side of Asia. It is generally twice as expensive as Malaysia or at least three times more than traveling around other countries in Southeast Asia including Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Transport — One train or bus ride within the city typically costs between SGD 0.95 to 2. For a whole day of sightseeing, you may likely spend between SGD 5 to 15. The Singapore Tourist Pass, which offers unlimited MRT & bus rides, costs SGD 10 for a 1-day pass and SGD 20 for a three day pass.

Accommodations — Booking a room or bed in Singapore is noticeably more expensive than neighboring countries. A dorm bed in a backpacker hostel or guesthouse starts from SGD 20 per night and averages from SGD 30 to 40 per night. A room for two in a budget hotel would set you back SGD 50 to 90 per night. Most mid-range hotels offer rooms for around SGD 100 to 200 per night. If you are staying in a luxury hotel or resort, room prices usually start at SGD 300 to 500 per night.

Food — A meal at hawker centers costs around SGD 3 to 15. Hawker stalls are Singapore’s version of side street stalls and low-cost eateries. Mains at casual restaurants start at SGD 15 to 20.

Activities  — Admission fees may take up a huge chunk of your expenses if you plan on visiting many themed attractions, rides, and museums. Many museums offer free admission, while most usually cost SGD 10 or less. Entry to theme parks & attractions are priced between SGD 20 to SGD 70.

Eat at hawker centers & taste Singapore’s multi-cultural food  — Meals are cheap and the food is prepared in relatively high quality and sanitation. A long line of people queueing at a stall is usually a sign that it serves good food that is safe to eat.

Ride MRTs and buses  — This is the cheapest way to get around. Public transport in Singapore is quite efficient and safe. However, when traveling in a group, particularly in a group of 3 or 4, consider taking the taxi for short rides around the city center. The price difference (calculated per person) is not a big wallet buster. Your feet will thank you from the tiring walk to/from train stations, especially if you’re planning to spend the whole day sightseeing

Stay at hostels  — There are a lot of reliable hostels in Singapore that cater to budget-conscious travelers. They are not only cheap, but a good way to socialize with other travelers.  Boutique hostels in Singapore are particularly good. If you are traveling in a group of 3 to 6 people, consider getting a family room in hostels or guesthouses to save money on your stay.

Get a good map and explore the city on your own tour  — Go on a do-it-yourself (DIY) around Singapore’s different cultural districts if you want to save yourself from expensive admission fees at themed attractions. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Singapore that doesn’t cost a dime.

Check out these top tourist spots, best places to visit & things to do in Singapore.

1. Merlion Park

2. singapore riverside and civic district, 3. chinatown, 4. marina bay, 5. gardens by the bay, 6. singapore zoo, 7. sentosa island.

Pretty hard to miss anyway because of its prominent location at the mouth of the Singapore River. Not only could you get a good photo with the Merlion statue, Singapore’s most iconic monument, but there are amazing views to be seen of the Singapore Skyline, Marina Bay Sands, The Esplanade: Theatres by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer.

This relaxing promenaded riverside area is a short walk away from the Merlion Park. Take a stroll down memory lane and get acquainted with the city’s early development and colonial history. A happening nightlife scene can be experienced at Clark and Boat Quay.

Experience Singapore’s multi-cultural diversity by taking a walking and food tour of Chinatown. Visit a church, a mosque, Indian and Chinese temples all in one walk. Go on a food adventure and try dishes from Singapore’s different cultural influences at affordable hawker centers of Chinatown.

Marvel at Singapore’s new urbanscape by taking a walk around Marina Bay. Visit Marina Bay Sands, the Helix Bridge, Singapore Flyer, and Esplanade: Theatres on the bay. Amazing overlooking views can be seen from the Skypark of Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.

Top discounts

48% OFF Marina Bay Sands Skypark + FunVee Hopper Pass

An ambitious project set to transform Singapore from a “Garden City” to a “City in a Garden.” The main attractions here are the 25 towering man-made Supertrees and two equally extraordinary biodomes.

18% OFF Singapore Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome + Cloud Forest Admission Ticket

An impressively maintained zoo where you can find a wide array of animals from around the world. The River Safari is also worth checking out.

16% OFF Singapore Zoo

31% OFF Singapore Night Safari

Spend a fun day on rides and themed attractions or relax at the beaches of Sentosa. The island is home to Universal Studios Singapore, the first theme park of its kind to open in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia after Universal Studios Japan.

11% OFF Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

4% OFF Singapore Sentosa FUN Pass

42% OFF Singapore Cable Car Skypass

50% OFF Sentosa Wings of Time

Don’t Stop Here

Did you find this travel guide helpful? Share your Singapore experience & tag #detourista. Follow trip updates on: Instagram , Facebook & Pinterest .

See more Singapore blog tips & travel guides:

Check out these pages for more travel inspiration beyond Singapore:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Southeast Asia

Find more posts about:

• Travel Essentials

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

August 22, 2015 at 3:25 pm

Hi there.. I will be traveling in Singapore this December 30-January 3 this year, I wonder is there a new year’s event in SG that we can attend. And where is the best place to welcome the new year and party? thanks….

September 18, 2015 at 3:24 am

hi, can you recommend a budget place accommodation for a family of 5?

December 17, 2015 at 10:47 pm

what is Free Tourist Visa Upon Arrival?

December 17, 2015 at 10:58 pm

Free tourist visa on arrival means: (1) You do not have to apply for a tourist visa before arriving in Singapore. Once you’re at the airport, the Singapore immigration officer will just “stamp” your passport, which allows you to visit Singapore for a set number of days. (2) A tourist visa is granted for free, without a fee.

January 22, 2016 at 4:17 pm

Hi Marcos! Great write-up.

A question though, what legal documents do I have to prepare as a tourist (aside from my Philippine passport)? My friends and I are planning a trip later this year. All of them have govt jobs however I am working online. I hope Hindi ako magka problema. Thanks for the help and happy 2016!

January 22, 2016 at 4:57 pm

All that’s required is a valid passport that is not going to expire within 6 months, and a return ticket to the Philippines. You should, however, be prepared to show the immigration officers proof that you have the capacity to travel to your destination and that you’re not going there for work. It would help a lot if you bring a copy of your bank statement and reservation on your accommodation, tours, etc… Like you, my work is also primarily based online, but it’s not such a big issue as long as you can satisfy the immigration officer’s questions.

March 9, 2016 at 12:16 am

hi sir! what hostel can you recommend??

March 11, 2016 at 3:38 pm

This posts was really helpful for first timers in Singapore. More so, being a tight-budgeted tourist makes the trip to be very challenging in making it still a memorable one. I agree that there’s nothing more fitting that to have a thorough research before making it to Singapore for a truly fantastic experience and stay that is within the budget.

March 19, 2016 at 2:46 pm

This is really a big help since me and my family will be travelling to Singapore 3rd week of October to celebrate our daughter’s 10th birthday. Hope that you can still give me more info on how to save money during our trip.

Thanks a lot

March 27, 2016 at 9:37 am

hi po.. I would like to ask pano kung ung purpose ko to travel as SG is about my internship.. is it considered as a job? hndi ba ko mahaharang ng IO? your reply is highly appreciated! happy Easter :)

March 27, 2016 at 11:19 pm

If the purpose of your visit is not for a holiday or a social visit to friends/family, then the visitor visa may not be applicable to you. The PH immigration officer will use his/her discretion to decide whether you will be allowed to board your flight. Likewise, the SG immigration officer may deny you entry to the country. I suggest that you obtain the appropriate visa for your stay in Singapore. You should check the SG immigration website ( http://www.ica.gov.sg/index.aspx ) and contact them for advice.

March 30, 2016 at 2:48 pm

Thank you for the above info so helpful. I am scheduled to visit Singapore by end of August and its my first time ( cross finger,,..so scared haha ) . I’ like to ask for that Free Tourist Visa on Arrival (VOA) . Do I have to secure one?or is it ok if there’s no or I don’t have VOI? Who to approach?

Regarding ATM, thanks if they will dispense SG bills even using my Philippine ATM(peso).

Thank you for your quick response.

Regards, Jackie

March 31, 2016 at 3:17 am

cool Jackelyn! As written in the guide, Philippine passport holders do not need to apply for a visa before entering Singapore. When you arrive at Singapore Airport, the SG immigration officer will simply “stamp” your passport, which allows you to travel for, usually, 30 days.

First, make sure your ATM card has a Mastercard, Visa, or Cirrus logo. Then, and this is important, go to your bank and make sure that they activate your card for international withdrawal. I use a BPI Savings ATM card (only has the Cirrus logo) when I travel and I’ve used it in SG and other countries with little problems. I do not rely solely on my ATM card though. Make sure you have backup cash and other cards you can use in case you cannot withdraw using your main card.

April 19, 2016 at 7:50 pm

Hi! My friend and I will travel this coming august to Malaysia then we decided to have a quick trip to singapore via Air. Is there any terminal fee and travel tax we need to pay at the Malaysian airport or Singapore airport?

April 20, 2016 at 3:46 pm

There are no departure (terminal) fees charged at both airports.

April 25, 2016 at 2:51 pm

Ive been to Malaysia, HK, Macau and Singapore within 2 years. Me and my wife loves to travel. Best visited country is the Singapore and we both love the country. Best part was the top of Marina Bay Sands. We really love the view and the people there. I lost my lens cap there :( Sad.

And now we are both thinking which is the next, vietnam, thailand or japan? :) we are from PH by the way.

May 5, 2016 at 10:25 am

Hi. We have a trip diz june wth my friends in singapore. But i dont have a job now. Posibly poh ba mahold ako?

May 5, 2016 at 4:22 pm

There are no laws/rules that prevent you to travel abroad if you are unemployed. You just have to tell the immigration officer that you have enough money to fund your travel and you are going to Singapore for a holiday, and not to look for work.

May 18, 2016 at 2:46 pm

Hi.. im tess from PH.. i have something to ask to clear things.. i have plan to travel to australia his coming july me and my bf meet up to singapore airport and to explore some place in SG. Then travel together to australia as i have AU visa. What documents i bring nor gather for immigration counter check in SG before stamp my passport. I need to know what docu i bring to enter SG.. looking forward so bad your reply soon..thanks alot

May 23, 2016 at 8:54 pm

Hello Tess, if you’re a PH passport holder, you may need the same requirements posted on the article. If you are returning to the Philippines from Australia, you may have to present your return ticket back to the PH and AU travel visa.

June 12, 2016 at 4:19 pm

20,000 philippine peso, is it enough to stay in Singapore for 3 days?

June 17, 2016 at 11:28 am

Yes, it should be :)

August 16, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Hi Marcus, thank you for the travel guide you wrote. Me and my wife are planning to go to SG by the end of the month. I want to ask regarding booking of hotel, do I need to book it online, ahead of time? or we can just go walk in to the hotel?

and also my wife has a PH passport, and I have a USA passport, will I need a different document requirement?

Thank you and I appreciate your response.

August 16, 2016 at 4:09 pm

It is better to book your hotel online to make sure that you have a room available during your trip, and save yourself the hassle of looking for another hotel in case the place you want to stay in is fully booked.

As far as I know, USA & PH passport holders have ‘Free Visa on Arrival’ in Singapore. PH passport holders usually get 30 days stay, while USA passport holders may get up to 90 days. Best to check the Singapore Immigration website to confirm in case there are changes in SG’s visa policy. https://www.ica.gov.sg/page.aspx?pageid=96&secid=94

Enjoy your trip!

August 16, 2016 at 4:24 pm

thank you for quick response Marcos! any suggestion for website where I can book a hotel in SG? and also is there a bunch of free wifi around the country?

August 16, 2016 at 5:25 pm

August 17, 2016 at 9:50 pm

Hi Marcos!! thank you for your DIY-backpackers guide in HK-Macau tour it was a big help, nasulit namin ang oras!! :) Help naman ulit,I am looking for your travel guide to SG na kagaya sa HK, un naka-indicate na kung anung uunahin naming puntahan, kung saan sasakay and approx. amount ng fare&tourist attraction. We’re heading to SG end of Aug, staying for 3days, sa Selegie,SG ang hotel namin. Pa-send naman ako ng link ng itinerary mo ng SG tour please. TIA!!

August 17, 2016 at 9:56 pm

Pwede mo magamit yung “Search” dito sa site para mag hanap ng mga travel tips. https://www.detourista.com/x/search/network/?q=singapore+itinerary .

August 17, 2016 at 9:57 pm

hi marcos, im looking for your SG itinerary blog just like the one you did in your HK-Macau tour, yung naka-indicate na kung saan ako magsisimula ng tour,tapos kung pano pumunta sa susunod na tourist attraction pati kung magkano ang fare, pa-share naman please.

November 1, 2016 at 10:52 pm

I recently returned from a 5 day trip to Singapore. We did a lot a research before arriving (unfortunately I did not find this blog until after our return) and covered about everything you mentioned. We found the hawker centers to be the best places to eat for the most value. We stayed on Orchard Road, which was nice, but a little busier than we would have liked. However, if you are looking to spend time shopping for luxury goods, that’s definitely the place to stay. We payed for a couple tourist activities, but mainly just set out and explanatory the city ourselves. The MRT was very efficient; we bought a 3 day pass for SGD 28. If you return the pass within a week after it expires, you receive a SGD 10 credit. A majority of activities we did were free (i.e. Botanic Gardens, Chinese and Japanese garden, China Town, Haji and Arab streets, etc.). Our trip centered around food so much of our exploring was about finding a great place to eat!

November 3, 2016 at 7:17 pm

Hi.. Im planning to travel to singapore next year maybe april 10 to may 4 .. is it okey ? or do i need a visa.. my boyfriend is working there so i plan to visit him next year..

thanks…

November 3, 2016 at 10:48 pm

Hi Maine, the answer is already posted on the article.

January 4, 2017 at 4:26 pm

Hi, I will travel this coming April to India then we are decide to have a trip to Singapore via Air. Is there any terminal fee and travel tax we need to pay at the Indian airport or Singapore airport? And also tell me which currency should carry with during in this trip and which is the best currency exchange company in India.

January 4, 2017 at 9:13 pm

You don’t have to pay airport terminal fees at Singapore Airport. It is usually already included when you bought the ticket. Same is true with airports in India as I haven’t experienced getting charged terminal fees upon check-in at major international airports there.

I bring USD cash when I travel but only as a backup since I use ATM & Credit Cards most of the time. So, I’m not sure what currency exchange company is the best.

January 25, 2017 at 4:41 pm

Hi Marcos! Thank you for sharing this kind of blog. Siguro ito na rin ang gagamitin naming itinerary namin ng mother ko papuntang SG this coming July. Ask ko lang kung meron kayang tulad ng MRT naten dito na mag loload ka ng 100php then pwede mo ng gamitin in every station? Tipong parang Stored Value na card? Para kung sakaling mag MRT nalang kami to go sa mga different places, hindi na magiging hassle.

January 25, 2017 at 4:46 pm

Yes, meron sila & I highly recommend you get one. It’s called an EZ-link card. You can buy one at the Airport LRT station. Just ask the ticket booth for assistance.

You can save a lot of time if you use the card rather than buying at the vending machine, each time you go on the train. PLUS, you get discount fares if you use the card :D You can also use the card on all public buses.

February 18, 2017 at 1:49 am

Thanks for giving the information.This year i am planing to go Singapore with my friends.But i know that Singapore is costly country but you made easy to everyone to travel on an an affordable budget..I will sure follow this and i think this will be our memorable trip

February 24, 2017 at 10:52 am

Hi,Marcos! Thank you for sharing this. I find it really useful in planning our trip to SG. Question: Is booking accommodation really necessary? Our plan is to stay at my husband’s cousin. Will it be a problem if we do not book any? We want to stay 3 days in SG and 3 days in Malaysia(where we will book a hotel). Thank you so much in advance!

March 9, 2017 at 5:05 am

You do not have to book a hotel room if you are staying with family/friends. The immigration officer might ask you to show a written/printed invitation. Better have it prepared. I would also bring a copy of your cousin-in-law’s work permit & employee card.

March 17, 2017 at 3:44 pm

Hi. I’m always reading pinoy blogs. This coming October I think we want to go Singapore (first time) .My son is 11y/old .What can you advice to me. Thanks.

March 17, 2017 at 10:08 pm

Singapore is a great place to go when traveling with kids. Sentosa Island has a lot of fun attractions you might want to check out. Also, consider a trip to Singapore Zoo in addition to must-visit spots in Singapore.

https://www.detourista.com/guide/singapore-best-places/

March 27, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi Marcos, i will bring my niece on my 5 days SG tour, does she still need affidavit of support from me? she’s still a student though not minor anymore.

March 28, 2017 at 12:29 am

Maybe not, if you are funding the trip yourself, and you are on the same flight with your niece (e.g. you will be present at the same time when clearing the immigration checkpoint).

April 23, 2017 at 8:25 pm

Thank you so much for the info. My family are planning to have a tour in singapore this may. We already booked a hostel and plane tickets, how can we get an online booking for universal studio is it more cheap than getting the tickets in the hostel thanks! God Bless Sir!

April 23, 2017 at 8:59 pm

You can book cheaper Universal Studios Singapore admission tickets on Klook .

Just go to this page for more info: http://affiliate.klook.com/jump/activity/117-universal-studios-singapore/?adid=1242&af_wid=356

May 24, 2017 at 2:01 am

Wow thats a lot of great info. Thanks for the post

June 12, 2017 at 10:59 pm

For the singapore immigration checkpoint, is it ok if i don’t have hotel reservation? Coz i am planning to stay on my friend’s place (she’s working in sg). Besides am gonna visit sg for 4days only. Thanks! ☺

June 13, 2017 at 3:05 am

Yes, it’s fine. Be sure to prepare a letter of invitation from your friend. Even just an informal email-type correspondence. Plus, a copy of her work permit/employee ID in case they look for it. Though, I’ve only been asked to show it once, on my first trips.

August 3, 2017 at 2:19 pm

I agree with Marcos. Also indicate in your friend’s invitation letter the address where will you be staying, the dates, and also an affirmation that your friend will be responsible for you during your stay in the country.

July 12, 2017 at 4:19 pm

We’re a family of 3 and scheduled for a trip this sept. The thing is, we are coming from KL. May i just ask if there are trains from KL to Sg? Also, is it possible for is to go and visit changi airport even if we’re not flying? i mean, just to see what’s with changi being the top listed airport. Im hoping for your kindest reply. Thank you so much.

August 19, 2017 at 10:36 pm

1. I haven’t taken the direct train yet. Most travelers usually drop off at Johor Bahru and cross to SG by bus. At SG side, you can ride a train to the city center.

2. Yes, it’s OK to visit Changi but you can only roam until the check-in counters.

July 14, 2017 at 3:21 pm

Hi…im planning to go travel for 3 days at SG how much is specific the Hotel rate per day in Peso rate if i book on line.. thanks

July 31, 2017 at 1:03 pm

OMG!!! Thank you so much for the guide. I’ve learned so many tips I can apply for my trip in SG this coming Sept. 2017.

August 19, 2017 at 10:24 pm

Enjoy your trip to Singapore!

August 6, 2017 at 8:10 pm

Hi Marcos, this will come in a handy, thank you! Just a few question, what are the chances that my flight will be cancel if I tell the officer that I’m actually going for a job hunting at SG during my 5 days stay. Also, is it okay if I don’t provide a return ticket as my stay might get extended?

August 19, 2017 at 10:19 pm

You will almost certainly get denied entry/boarding if you tell them that and/or if you don’t provide a return ticket.

August 21, 2017 at 10:00 pm

Touring Singapore is really safe and easy even for first-time visitors. Many people think that vacationing in Singapore is expensive but you really don’t have to spend a lot as long as you budget your money wisely. I only spent 200 USD in my Singapore trip (including plane tickets and accommodation) :)

September 26, 2017 at 12:33 pm

Great article about Singapore. One big difference I noticed i this article when comparing to other article about Singapore travel is your guide to travel the city in tight budget. really appreciated the effort. Lot of backpackers will find this article really helpful. Keep writing these. Cheers.

September 26, 2017 at 10:58 pm

Hello. Me and my friends were planning to go to sg next month for vacation. Tanong ko lang po sana kung paano if I dont own an atm or credit card or something from a bank? But I have a job as an blogger. Magkakaproblema po kaya ako? Kasama ko po ang friend ko which is also my boss and sasagutin din niya ang ticket ko. Ano po kaya ang magandang advice niyo for me para di mahold ng IO? May tatak na din po passport ko from Japan. Is it a plus? Thankyou in advance.

September 27, 2017 at 5:59 am

Yung ATM or bank statement, it’s only to show that you have the finances to fund the trip. You can show them that you have enough cash to spend for your trip. So, you don’t need the ATM or credit card.

December 3, 2017 at 6:32 pm

It’s a very good article and helpful. Me and my friend from USA(visited me few times in Phil’s), are planning to go for a 4day cruise that starts from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and end to Singapore again. I am a permanent government employee but I don’t have credit card and no big money in my bank. All my travel expenses will be shoulder by my friend, do I have a problem in immigration even if I show my travel itinerary and back and fort plane ticket and hotel accommodation paid by my friend? Thank you. Hoping Areana

May 29, 2018 at 2:50 am

Hello there! JP here from PH, nice travel blog site you have here :) Is it more cheaper via DIY or go with those tour packages offered by Travel agencies ranging from 12k to 14k (3 days)? If I am to try the DIY, approximately how much will cost for 2 to 3 pax in we will visit major tourist spots, 3 to 4 days? Thanks in advanced! :)

June 4, 2018 at 10:10 pm

Hi JP. It really depends on what activities you plan to include (and what’s included in the tour package offered by travel agencies). You can check budget estimate above as a guide.

June 14, 2018 at 4:40 am

HI! THANK YOU FOR THESE TIPS REALLY HELPFUL :). ME AND MY BOYFRIEND ARE PLANNING TO GO TO SG NEXT YEAR KAYA LANG NATATAKOT AKO MAG DIY PARANG MAS PREFER KO UN TOUR PACKAGE SA MGA TRAVEL AGENCIES LESS HASSLE. MAS COSTLY BA KAPAG NAKAPACKAGE KESA MAGDIY? AND KASYA NA KAYA ANG 25K PARA SA BUDGET 3DAYS PARA SAMENG DALAWA? THANK YOU SA PAG RESPONSE! GODBLESS!

June 18, 2018 at 5:23 am

Hi Jane, depends on what’s included in the tour package offered by travel agencies. Yes, pwedeng mag kasya ang P25K, but again it depends on activities/type of accommodations that you want to enjoy. Singapore is really easy to travel. Going DIY is easy and you can save a lot of money booking activities online. If you don’t want to bother with planning, then going with a travel agency might be a better fit for you.

June 14, 2018 at 5:45 am

Awesome!!! Great and detailed. helps a lot!

August 13, 2018 at 5:38 am

how much all your expenses in singapore total price and food?

August 14, 2018 at 7:45 am

Hi fatima. The breakdown of expenses is already included in the guide above.

October 29, 2018 at 1:58 pm

I have lived here. I think you pay $ 10-15 for each meal.

November 13, 2018 at 6:12 pm

I am very interested with your blog and I am so excited to travel. Actually we are planning to go to SG by next year, kaya I made some ressaech to know more about what will be or how much will it cost? Since we are 5. My husband and I, and our 3 kids (9 yrs. Old, 2 yrs. Old and 6 months baby boy). Tama po ba yung decision ko na wag na sa travel agencies kami makipagcoordinate? Feeling ko kasi mas mapapamahal kami.. This will be our 1st trip with my kids. Sana mahelp mo ako.

Your response is highly appreciated.

November 14, 2018 at 12:22 pm

I suggest na mag decide kayo based more on whether mas gusto mo: (1) Mag customize ng itinerary & organize yourself (2) Let the travel agency arrange everything for you

Madali lang naman getting around Singapore at mag book ng hotel/activities kahit kayo na lang. Mas maka less ka talaga kung mag book kayo ng mga discount prices (make sure to check yung mga na post ko sa guide).

Since you’re traveling with kids, pwede na sundin niyo na lang yung route/itinerary ng mga hop-on hop-off bus. Eto yung info/prices nila:

1. Singapore Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour (Open-Top) 2. Singapore City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Convenient din mag Grab sa Singapore. Pwede niyo ma check yung fares sa app kung gusto niyo ma estimate yung budget niyo.

Ok naman din yung public transport sa Singapore. Kaso if you’re traveling with kids, baka too much walking to/from the stations.

December 7, 2018 at 7:44 pm

Very helpful guide and tip esp for a solo traveler just like me. I will take note all of this in my trip. Thanks

January 5, 2019 at 9:58 pm

Hi. Im travelling alone on February 2019. Can you give me some tips upon arrivibg in Singapore? Do I need to show money to the immigration. And how much? Im staying there for 4days only. Thank you for answering

January 10, 2019 at 4:29 am

Hi Ems, SG immigration does not require show money… but you have to show them your ability to fund your trip. How much money will depend on your itinerary (i.e. attractions you plan to visit and hotel/s where you’ll be staying). You can simply show them hotel reservations and attraction tickets/tour that you’ve pre-booked online. PLUS pocket money. I think SGD100-200 (equivalent or more) should be enough.

January 7, 2019 at 5:57 pm

Very nice and informative article, thanks to sharing it!

January 17, 2019 at 9:32 pm

You wrote very well about Singapore Travel guide. I have found detail info here. Thanks very informative!

February 10, 2019 at 7:22 pm

What if I have a place to stay in SG? What should I need to provide at the Immigration?

February 12, 2019 at 12:08 pm

Hi Anizah! If you have a host in Singapore (not booking a hotel). The first thing you need to provide is an address.

In case they ask about the details, you should be able to provide details about your host & staying arrangement. I suggest that you bring some sort of ID from your host… could be a SG Gov’t ID, work ID, work permit etc. AND, proof that you’ve been invited… maybe a written letter, printed copy of your invite conversation, or something like that.

February 18, 2019 at 9:22 am

Hi. I’m about to visit SG this coming March. First time traveler and solo. I already had two way ticket, hotel reservation, pre-booked ticket in some attractions. I have credit card also. Do you think there’s still a chance for me to be an off load passenger/to be denied entering in SG?

February 18, 2019 at 10:31 pm

Hi Loi. I think you’re good to go! Make sure also your passport is not expiring within the next 6 months (on arrival in SG). Enjoy your trip!

July 8, 2019 at 1:19 pm

Hi friend, i am planning to visit Singapore for 5 days. Can i use singapore tourist pass for more than 3 days as it only provide unlimited rides for 3 days. Also provide me an itinerary for 5 days. Thanks in advance.

October 18, 2019 at 2:20 pm

Wow excellent blog article, very helpful for us to take a 3 day vacation trip in Singapore. A beautiful place to visit as you post ..

May 14, 2020 at 7:48 pm

Singapore will always be one of my favorite countries i have set foot in. And Marina Bay Sands Casino were one of my unforgettable casino visits. Well, aside from the ambience, i had my biggest won in my entire casino winning.

June 18, 2020 at 2:52 pm

I was totally amazed when I read the post. It was interesting and absorbing. I have read a similar piece of content before. When comparing both, I realized this one was surely on the top.

February 4, 2021 at 7:48 pm

Thanks to the author for sharing such a great post. The article was very well written and providing detourista. It can be really great for people like me who are looking for grabbing more knowledge about it. I never thought will get to visit this Amoremotorlodge.co.nz oh, has some nice content for everyone

September 9, 2021 at 3:37 pm

One month vacation

October 30, 2022 at 2:27 am

very good blog for travel and enjoy holidays

we recommend morocco trips to explore africa

February 9, 2023 at 4:17 pm

hi ask ko lng po, can we stay in malaysia and booked a hotel for 4nights even if our flight route is Manila-Singapore-Manila? Per checking hotels in Singapore is super exoensive than in Malaysia .is this possible?

February 14, 2023 at 1:02 pm

I don’t recommend po. Crossing the Johor-Singapore border & traveling between the border & Singapore City Center is time-consuming. Sayang lang sa oras.

September 21, 2023 at 9:03 pm

Your passion for exploring beautiful places is inspiring. The way you have provided detail information about traveling to Singapore is a great advantage for Filipino citizens wanting to visit Singapore.

• TRAVEL GUIDES
• DESTINATIONS
• ADVENTURE TRIPS
• HOTELS & RESORTS
• FIND HOTELS WITH DISCOUNTED RATES!

ads_banners

2024 singapore travel guide blog with a ₱10,000 diy itinerary, things to do, budget & expenses, travel tips and more.

Traveling to Singapore this 2024? Let this comprehensive Singapore Travel Guide Blog with sample DIY itinerary, budget and expenses, things to do in Singapore, best tourist spots, where to stay, travel tips, and more help you in planning an amazing Singapore adventure!

Are you ready to explore singapore let's get started, 2024 first-timer's travel guide to singapore with legoland malaysia day trip, now, let's get started..., quick facts about singapore.

• Official Name: Republic of Singapore
• Capital: Singapore City
• Languages: English, Chinese, Malay, Tamil
• Currency: Singapore Dollars (SGD / S$)
• Weather: Tropical
• Electricity: 220-240 V
• Time zone: UTC+8 (Singapore Standard Time)

Visa Requirements for Filipinos to Enter Singapore

Important notice for married filipinas entering singapore, electronic arrival card, how it works.

• Before they arrive, foreign travellers to Singapore can fill up their personal particulars and pertinent trip information such as their flight and accommodation details via the ICA website or a mobile app.
• When they arrive in Singapore, they need to present only their passport for immigration clearance.
• The electronic arrival card that they filled up in advance will then be called up by ICA's immigration system.

How to get to Singapore?

From the philippines, alternatively.....

How to Get to Singapore City Center from Changi Airport?

Changi airport to city by private car transfer, changi airport to city by train, changi airport to city by bus, when is the best time to visit singapore, how many days to stay in singapore.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotels in Singapore

Hotel Re! @ Pearl's Hill

Top-rated hotels in singapore, hostels in singapore, cube boutique capsule hotel, footprints hostel, coller boutique hostel, meadows hostel, urban hostel.

Budget Hotels in Singapore

Hotel 81 (premier) hollywood, chang ziang hotel, fragrance hotel - balestier, aliwal park hotel, oxford hotel, hotel snow lavender, ibis budget singapore ametrine, value hotel balestier, arianna hotel, can't find the hotel that suits your budget and needs.

How to get around the city?

• Singapore City Sightseeing - [ See Details Here ]
• FunVee WOW Night Tour - [ See Details Here ]
• FunVee Open Top Bus 1 Day Hopper Pass - [ See Details Here ]

How to stay connected in Singapore?

√ if the above option is not available, you may also rent a 4g lte wifi from manila that you could use in singapore. pick-up and return location is at ninoy aquino international airport (naia) terminal 3., where to exchange currency in singapore.

Things to Do in Singapore + Tourist Spots and Attractions

Here are the top best tourist spots and attractions you should not miss when visiting singapore. i will also share to you our diy itinerary after..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) ???? (@pinoyadventurista) on Sep 8, 2018 at 5:34am PDT

Singapore Botanic Garden

• Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
• Opening Hours: 5:00 am – 12 mn, daily
• Entrance Fee: Admission to the complex is FREE, but some of the gardens and attractions requires an entrance fee.
• How to get there: Take the MRT to Botanic Gardens Station

Gardens by the Bay Singapore

• Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
• Opening Hours:
• Cooled Observatories - 09:00 am - 9:00 pm daily
• Outdoor Gardens - 05:00 am - 02:00 am daily
• OCBC Skyway - 9:00 am - 9:00 pm daily

How to get to Gardens by the Bay?

• From Bayfront MRT (CE1/DT16), take Exit B and follow the underground linkway, exit and cross the Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge into Gardens by the Bay
• From Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW15), take Exit C and head to International Plaza, Anson Road to bus stop 03223, take bus 400 and alight at bus stop 03371 along Marina Gardens Drive
• From Marina Bay Sands Hotel, cross the overhead bridge (Lions Bridge), open daily from 8:00am-11:00pm or walk through underground linkway via Bayfront MRT

Singapore Flyer

• Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039803
• Opening Hours: 08:30 am – 10:30 pm, daily
• How to get there: Ride the MRT to The Promenade Station (Downtown Line DT15 / Circle Line, CC4). Take Exit A and look out for blue pedestrian signs to Singapore Flyer.

Universal Studios Singapore

Universal studios singapore (uss).

• Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
• Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm, daily or until 10:00 pm if there are scheduled events
• How to get there: From the city, take the train to Harbourfront Station. Enter Vivo City Mall, go to the 4th floor, buy a Sentosa Fun ticket for $4 SGD and take the Sentosa Monorail. Alight at the first stop which is the Waterfront Station. From here, you just need to walk for about 150 meters (2 mins) to Universal Studios Singapore.

Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck

• Soak in the panoramic views of Singapore's iconic skyline at Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck
• Marvel at the city's most popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay, all while 200 meters above the ground
• Capture beautiful photos on one of the largest observation decks in the world, perched above three towers
• Catch the Spectra Light and Water Show once you get down at 8:00pm and 9:30pm or watch it from the Skypark!

Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

• Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826
• Operating Hours:
• Singapore Zoo - 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Night Safari - 7:15 PM - 12:00 MN
• Singapore Zoo (Php 1,305.00) - Book this activity via Klook!
• Night Safari (Php 1,184.00) - Book this activity via Klook!
• Point to Point Transfers (Php 2,049.00 per vehicle) - Book this via Klook!
• Bus Transfers (Php 231.00) - Book this via Klook!

Arab Street or Kampong Glam

How to Get to Arab Street Singapore?

Little India Singapore

How to Get to Little India Singapore?

Chinatown Singapore

How to Get to Chinatown Singapore?

• Bus stop at South Bridge Road: C2, 166, 197, NR5
• Bus stop at Maxwell Road: 80, 145
• Bus stop at Eu Tong Sen Street (People's Park Centre): 2, 12, 33, 54, 143, 147, 190, 520
• Bus stop at New Bridge Road (Chinatown Complex): 2, 12, 33, 54, 63, 124, 143, 147, 190, 520, 851, 961, 961C
• Bus stop at Eu Tong Sen Street (People's Park Complex): 2, 12, 33, 61, 63, 80, 143, 197, 961, 970, CT8, CT18, CT28

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Skyline Luge in Sentosa

Singapore Cable Car

• 08:45 am - 10:00 pm, daily
• Last ride: 09:30 pm
• A one way trip takes approximately 15 minutes

Madame Tussauds Singapore

Other must-see attractions in singapore.

Merlion Park

Singapore River and Colonial District

Singapore River Cruise

Sentosa Island

• Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett - Skybridge + Mocktail
• Luge & Skyride 2 rides combo
• Madame Tussauds Singapore 4-in-1 Ultimate Film Stars Combo (Does not include Marvel 4D Exhibition)
• GoGreen Segway Funride 800m
• Sentosa 4D Adventureland Choose 2 Ride
• Trick Eye Museum Admission

Adventure Cove Waterpark

Singapore Trick Eye Museum

Recommended day tours from singapore:.

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) ???? (@pinoyadventurista) on Sep 27, 2017 at 10:09pm PDT

LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort

Book your legoland malaysia tickets via klook.com you can choose from the following packages.

• Day Theme Park - PHP 1,822
• 1 Day Water Park - PHP 1,214
• 1 Day Combo (Theme Park + Water Park) - PHP 2,380
• 2 Day Combo (Theme Park + Water Park) - PHP 3,522

How to get to Legoland Malaysia from Singapore? For ultimate ease and comfort, you can to Legoland Malaysia either by shared bus or by private car transfer .

Singapore to Johor Bahru - DIY Itinerary + Private Driver

• Enjoy a fun-filled day just across the causeway in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
• Sit in comfort in your vehicle while passing through the immigration
• Go shopping, get a massage, cafe hop or eat your way through the city
• Have your local professional Malaysian driver bring you where you want to go
• With your own vehicle and driver, you are free to plan how you want your day to go

Sanrio Hello Kitty Town & Thomas Town in Johor Bahru

• Create and bring home your own Hello Kitty themed souvenir at Wishful Studio!
• For a fairytale adventure, explore Hello Kitty in Oz and experience a story of bravery and friendship
• Hop aboard Bertie the Bus, Harold’s Helitours, and even Colin Crane Drop at Thomas Town
• Be a part of Bob’s Can-Do-Crew or even learn a few ballet moves at Angelina Ballerina’s Dance Studio
• Chill out with Pingu and Barney at the fun play areas

WHERE TO EAT IN SINGAPORE: Best Food and Must-Eats

Best Satay 7&8 in Lau Pa Sat

Chunky lobsters in singapore, founder bak kut teh in bugis, satay by the bay at gardens by the bay, the original katong laksa since 1950s (janggut laksa) in upper paya lebar.

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) ???? (@pinoyadventurista) on Sep 30, 2017 at 12:44am PDT

5D4N: Sample DIY Singapore Itinerary (5 Days and 4 Nights)

Singapore budget trip and expenses: list of travel expenses in singapore.

• Round trip Airport Transfers for 2 pax - 3,040.00
• 5 Days Pocket WiFi Rental for 2 pax - 1,710.00
• Food Expenses for 5 days per person - 3,000.00
• 4 Nights Hotel Accommodation per person - 9,000.00
• 4-days Singapore Tourist Pass per person - 1,520.00
• Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay Tickets per person - 1,976.00
• Universal Studios Singapore Ticket per person - 2,520.00
• Halloween Horror Nights per person - 2,318.00
• Round trip City Transfers to Wildlife Reserves Singapore per person - 532.00
• Singapore Zoo Ticket per person - 1,276.00
• Singapore Night Safari Ticket per person - 1,163.00
• Legoland Malaysia roundtrip transfers per person - 976.00
• Legoland Malaysia (1 day theme park) per person - 1,840.00

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) ???? (@pinoyadventurista) on Oct 4, 2017 at 12:36am PDT

Sample DIY Singapore Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

• 08:00 AM - ETA in Singapore
• 09:00 AM - Travel from Changi Airport to the City ( Book Airport Transfer Here or you could take the train to save on travel expenses)
• 10:00 AM - Arrival at the Hotel; Check-in (Some hotels allow early check-in for free. In case you're not allowed to check-in early, you may just leave your bags and start exploring)
• 10:30 AM - Go to Marina Bay, Helix Bridge, Merlion Park
• 12:00 NN - Lunch
• 02:00 PM - Singapore Flyer ( Buy Discounted Tickets Here )
• 04:00 PM - Gardens by the Bay, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome ( Buy Discounted Tickets Here )
• 08:00 PM - Dinner
• 09:00 PM - Go back to the hotel
• 10:00 AM - Depart for Universal Studios Singapore ( Buy Discounted USS Tickets Here )
• 11:30 AM - Arrival at Universal Studios Singapore, Lunch
• 12:30 PM - Enjoy Universal Studios Singapore
• 09:00 PM - Depart for Singapore City Center
• 10:30 PM - Arrival at the hotel
• 07:00 AM - Check-ou of the hotel, leave bags at the reception
• 08:00 AM - Go to Singapore Botanic Gardens
• 11:00 AM - Go to Singapore River and Colonial District
• 01:00 PM - Back at the hotel and pick-up bags
• 02:00 PM - Depart for the airport ( Book Airport Transfer Here or you could take the train to save on travel expenses)
• 03:00 PM - Arrival at the aiport, check-in, late lunch
• 04:00 PM - Explore the airport, shopping
• 07:00 PM - Depart for Manila

Singapore Budget Trip and Expenses: Sample Expenses for 10,000 Pesos Budget

• You will be staying in a budget hotel worth 3,000 pesos per night and sharing the room with one companion.
• You will be using a 3-day Singapore Tourist Pass worth 20 SGD or 774 PHP

3 Days 2 Nights Breakdown of Expenses

• Hotel (2 nights) - PHP 3,000.00 per person
• Food Expenses for 3 days - PHP 2,000.00 per person
• 3-days Singapore Tourist Pass - PHP 774.00 per person
• Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay Tickets - PHP 1,976.00 per person
• Universal Studios Singapore Ticket - PHP 2,520.00 per person

TOTAL - PHP 10,270.000 per person

• Round trip airfare Manila-Singapore-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Budget for pasalubong and tips
• Food expense for snacks

Singapore Travel Tips and Reminders

• Travel time from Changi Airport to Singapore City Center by private car is around 30 minutes and around 45 minutes by train. Plan your trip accordingly.
• You can exchange your Philippine Peso or US Dollars in the money changers at the airport or at the city center. Exchange rate at the airport is low, it's better to change your money at the city center. Alternatively, you can also withdarw money from the ATMs.
• For electricity, most establishments and hotels use 3-pin square plugs and sockets at 220–240 V. Don't forget to bring a universal adapter.
• If you're on a budget, avoid eating in restaurants. It's best to look for hawker stalls (like a food court) where you could eat a decent meal for around $3-5 SGD. The best hawkers that I could suggest are the ones around Chinatown area for its wide selection of tasty and affordable meals.
• Weather in Singapore is most of the time hot and humid. It is suggested that you wear light and breathable clothes. Also, don't forget to bring an umbrella or raincoat for occasional rains and thunderstorms.
• Singapore is a very walk-able city. When exploring the city, you will certainly walk a lot. It is best to wear comfortable footwear.
• Taxis / Grab car/taxi are expensive. Choose a hotel that is near an MRT Station, so it will be easier for you to move around. With an MRT station near your hotel, it's cheaper to get to one destination to another, not to mention it's also faster.
• Eating and drinking inside the bus and MRT is prohibited.
• Chewing gum is not allowed in Singapore. Make sure you're not bringing-in any chewing gum when entering Singapore.
• Cigarettes are too expensive in Singapore (around 400 pesos). You can bring cigarettes from the Philippines to Singapore, but don't bring too much. One opened pack and one sealed pack "may be" allowed.
• GST refund can be availed by tourists on goods and services purchased in Singapore. Keep your receipts and refund it at the airport before your flight. This will save you more on travel expenses.
• To save on travel expenses, book discounted tickets at Klook, join group tours, take the bus or the MRT, walk if you can, stay in hostels or budget hotels in Singapore , and take advantage of flight seat sales and promos .

Singapore Travel Blogs

• Universal Studios Singapore Guide + Travel Tips - this travel blog focuses on Universal Studios Singapore. It provides important information on ticket prices, the park's opening hours, ride you should exprience and tips how to enjoy Universal Stuios Singapore.
• LEGOLAND Malaysia Experience + Travel from Singapore - if you plan to visit Legoland Malaysia coming from Singapore, you must read this article. It contains all the information you need for a memorable and exciting Legoland Malaysia Day Tour from Singapore.
• Gardens by the Bay Experience + Travel Tips - one of the iconic attractions in Singapore, a visit to the Gardens by the Bay is a must for every first time travelers to Singapore.
• Singapore Zoo and Night Safari - one of the best zoos I've been to. This is an ideal activity for families, especially for the education of the kids about animals.
• Breathtaking 360 Degrees View of Singapore from the Singapore Flyer - if you want to experience and see Singapore from above, a ride at the Singapore Flyer is a must-do activity.

I hope this Singapore Travel Guide Blog 2024 for first-timers helped you in planning a memorable and budget-friendly Singapore adventure. Please don't forget to leave a comment if you have any questions and SHARE this to your friends. Enjoy your trip and have fun in Singapore!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 14 comments :.

Mervs nabasa ko yung SG post mo. Ano mas maganda Legoland o Universal Studios?

@KIKAYSIKAT TV - mas na enjoy ko ang Universal Studios. Pero for kids, okay din ang Legoland. Mas maraming attractions for kids and Legoland, plus yung resort nila.

Nice article :)

In case you want to travel to Singapore, continue reading in order to find. Singapore travel guide blog with budget, itinerary, top attractions and budget hostel and hotels, cheap Singapore tour packages. SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with sample ITINERARY, trip budget, tourist spots, recommended hotels, 3 days tour & more. Singapore boasts a blend of Malaysian, Indian, Chinese, Arab and English cultures. Here's my ultimate Singapore travel guide!

Pinoy Adventurista, may asthma ako at may dalang diskus (asthma inhaler) wherever i go. kailangan ko po bang ideclare yun sa sinasabing electronic arrival card? thanks

Hi Sir, Did the Philippine Immigration ask for financial capacity to travel for the first timer?

hi, planning DIY tri city this june 2019... do have same itinerary on tri city ( Singapore-malaysia-indonesia)

Hi po? I am booked to singapore this November 2019. Is there a 4D and 3 nights po iterinary?

Hi. Where can you advise us to stay? Burgis, little india or china town in order to be in the middle of everything on your 5D4N itenirary sample?

I have already set to go to Singapore and will be having a budget of 300 sgd pocket money. I have completed purchasing all my tickets to visit in Sentosa Island and Universal Studios, also I bought online ticket for Gardens by the Bay. I bought Tourist Pass and Sim Card also via Klook. Is 300SGD enough for 4 days and 3 night?

4 days and 3 night itinerary pls, couole kami 1 st time din lalabas.

From singapore, pwede ka na ba mag visit agad sa legoland for 2 days then balik nalang after para sa singapore experience. sa laki kasi ng legoland 1 days is not enough.

Ask ko din if kaylangan talaga na 6 months before expiry ang passport. mejo kalito ung part na yun or at least 6 mos. meaning pag bago passport bawal na mag enter?

Hi po I’m planning to go with my mom by Summer to Singapore, first time traveling outside curious lang po for 2 adults let’s say 6 days and 5 nights ilang budget kailangan mo including plane ticket, accommodation, food and commuting and entrances sa tourist spots?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Crazy Singapore 3 Days Itinerary for Family

Singapore 3 days itinerary for the family – Singapore is Southeast Asia’s richest country and no doubt a very beautiful place. To most visitors from Asia, every part of Singapore can be wonderful to see. Be it the bus stations, car lanes, MRT, and majestic skyscrapers. However, Singapore’s not all about its views.

With spots like the Singapore Zoo, Universal Studios , and Marina Bay Sands , it’s a must-visit place in Southeast Asia for families. Thus, here goes Singapore’s 3-day itinerary for family .

While you can visit many places in 3 days, it’s harmless to say 3 days isn’t enough to visit Singapore. Places like Universal Studios and Jurong Bird Park are all whole-day trips. For a 3-day tour, you’re bound to miss out on a lot. I made a 5-days solo trip to Singapore and still missed out on places. All you can do is choose what to miss out on.

Traveling from one attraction to another shouldn’t cause any delay, whether you’re commuting by MRT, bus, or cab. But on a peak season, the waiting lines for shows and rides can get really long – sometimes even hours.

Plan out your destinations well with this family itinerary along with timings for 3 days in Singapore.

Table of Contents

Travel Guidelines for Singapore: COVID-19

It’s tough to talk about the guidelines when visiting Singapore as they constantly change . But the latest update is that traveling is open now. However, only a selected few countries can visit Singapore. As per the latest regulations, quarantine isn’t mandatory now but travelers will have to carry insurance that can cover up to $30,000 SGD.

Regarding the places you’ll visit, it’s best to avoid traveling in large groups. Some attractions and restaurants are strict about the number of people that can sit together. Universal Studios only allow groups of up to 5 members. Also, keep the timings in mind when visiting.

While most attractions are open, they’re public for only specific days of the week with more constrained timings. Make sure to book your visit prior as some don’t admit tourists over their capacity limit.

Singapore 3 Days Itinerary for Family

A teenager or a shopaholic, a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast – literally any person can go crazy with the attractions in Singapore . But by giving families with kids priority first, here’s how you can begin the day.

Day 1: Singapore Zoo and Gardens by the Bay

First stop, Singapore Zoo – one of the best zoos in the world! With the zoo at the north end of Singapore away from most other attractions, make sure to visit this first and then cover the rest.

The zoo opens at 8:30 am. It’s best to visit early to avoid long waiting queues. However, if you’re landing in Singapore the very same morning, I recommend taking some rest first as there’ll be a lot of walking to do here.

While there’s the tram option which takes a tour around the zoo within 20 minutes, it’s better to walk here. Unlike most zoos out there, the Singapore zoo is known for its open concept where animals are free to roam in their large landscaped environments. So don’t miss walking around and interacting with the animals!

Speaking of interacting, have breakfast with the Orangutans between 9:30 – 10 am. While the buffet’s expensive, it’s a one-time feast with orangutans.

Before leaving the water park is another cool spot for the kiddies. Jump into the puddle here in the afternoon before you head for lunch.

Head to Gardens by the Bay

Some restaurants for lunch at the zoo are KFC and Inuka Cafe. If you’re looking to try something local, go for Chomel Bistro here. If your stomachs aren’t up for food yet, then head to your next stop Gardens by the Bay.

The Gardens by the Bay , a paradise for nature lovers, is exactly what its name says. It’s a large indoor (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest) and outdoor gardens (Supertrees, Floral Fantasy, and Serene Garden) close to the southern shores of Singapore. Since it’s open till 2 am, there shouldn’t be any time to hustle touring the spot. And yes, the place shimmers magically at night!

While it’s free to visit the shows and the gardens by the bay, the Flower Dome, Skywalk, and Cloud Forest cost $28 SGD for adults and $15 SGD for children. The skywalk (OCBC Skyway) costs an additional $8 SGD.

While here, you can also take a glance at one of Asia’s most recognizable structures, the Marina Bay Sands . A structure where you go – damn boy! While it looks majestic in pictures when the 3 buildings loom right before you is another experience.

If you have more time on your hands when visiting Gardens by the bay, some other places to see here with the kiddos are:

• Singapore Flyer
• Esplanade (Durian Building)
• Clarke Quay and Singapore River Cruise

Day 2: Sentosa Island

Singapore 3 Days itinerary for Family: The Sentosa Resorts is an island very close to the city. Not just for families, Sentosa is a must-visit for everyone visiting Singapore.

I visited Sentosa when I was young and then visited Universal Studios here years later. And so much keeps changing! In fact, it’s difficult to see all the attractions here in one day. You’ll need two days – especially when with kids. But if I had to pick some shows for myself, here are some all-time favorite Sentosa attractions of mine:

• SEA Aquarium
• Skyline Luge
• Adventure Cove Waterpark
• Wings of Time (The previous show similar to this was Songs of the Sea)
• 4D AdventureLand
• Palawan Beach
• Siloso Beach

For the beaches, there are many more to pick from. For your day 2 of Singapore 3 days itinerary for family, here’s how to go:

Get to Sentosa in the morning . Most shows and rides open at 10-11 am, but Sentosa itself is a beautiful place to cycle, skate, or even simply walk. You can have breakfast here as well, there are tons of places to eat. Get to Sentosa by the monorail (Sentosa Express), cable car, or bus, or you can even walk there via Sentosa Boardwalk.

The monorail is the most convenient way to get there. From the MRT station at HarborFront, get to the 3rd floor of the Vivocity Mall and take the Sentosa to express straight to the island, and get straight to your desired stop. Pick a map of Sentosa Island so that you don’t get lost!

Make sure to visit the SEA Aquarium . Wander through the large glass tunnels viewing over 1000 species of aquatic creatures swimming around you. I’ve visited 4D shows and water theme parks in many places else, but this attraction is one in a million. Don’t miss it!

Beaches and Wings of Time

Singapore 3 Days itinerary for Family : After your rides and day shows by noon, have lunch and head to the beaches. Siloso Beach and Palawan Beach are the two large well-known beaches facing the tail side of Sentosa. Spend a good few hours here after your tour around the island before heading to the Wings of Time show.

The Wings of Time water show is held twice in the evenings – at 7:40 and 8:40 pm by the shores and as Sentosa says, it’s the perfect way to end your day!

Staying at Sentosa

In order to visit Universal Studio separately, it’s best to stay in or close to Sentosa.

Universal Studios Singapore (USS) is a part of Sentosa. But don’t enter it unless you’re spending a whole day here. In fact, your day 3 of the Singapore 3 days itinerary for family is reserved just for Universal Studios.

Sentosa holds many resorts Resorts World Sentosa and Shangri La Hotel are some of the most popular ones. However, with tourists flocking in all over the world, the prices aren’t budget-friendly. They can cost anywhere between $600-$900 SGD. For budget travelers, it’s better to find stays near the island.

A super budget traveler myself, my favorite was staying at Spacepod at Lavender .

There are many accommodations available in the nearby blocks of HarborFront, Bukit Merah that offer accommodation ranging between $100-$300 SGD.

Day 3: Universal Studios Singapore

The USS is a recent addition compared to the rest of Sentosa. It’s one of the 4 Universal Studios across the world. It’s probably the best day for your kids. Whether the littlies recognize their favorite characters or not, they’ll enjoy either way!

The theme park is open from 12 pm to 7 pm. With so many rides and shows, it’s best to arrive early. The wait line takes hours if you’re late! Keep umbrellas handy with you as it’s either sunny or raining while you wait in the queue. In fact, it rained while we waited in the long queue! Read about my visit to the USS .

The rides don’t take time, but the waiting queues for the rides do. Some eye-turning rides like the Battlestar Galactica even go up 1.5 hours of waiting time.

Also, don’t miss out on the shows/meet and greet – here are some of the best ones to look out for:

• Donkey Live
• Madagascar Boogie

All the meet and greets and shows have specific timings and spots. If your little one’s crazy about a character, it’s time to note down the time for their show!

Another post for you to read: River Wonders Singapore Review: 5 Rare Creatures to Spot!

More Amazing Places to Visit in Singapore

This concludes the Singapore 3 Days itinerary for family . In the end, it comes down to having a good time with your loved ones. These amazing places are perfect for most family tourists visiting Singapore for 3 days. However, there’s no such compulsion.

Singapore has plenty of other places to visit. Say you as a family finds science fascinating, then you should visit Science Centre Singapore. I’ve been here half a dozen times and I never get bored. Oh, how about birds? Did you know the Jurong Bird Park in Singapore is the world’s biggest bird park in terms of the number of birds?

Singapore 3 Days itinerary for family: Here are many more places to visit in Singapore. In case you’re really interested in any place, modify your itinerary accordingly:

• Botanical Garden
• Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo
• Jurong Bird Park
• Science Centre Singapore
• National Gallery of Singapore
• Trick Eye Museum
• Wild Wild Wet
• Clarke Quay
• China Town (for shopping)
• Mustafa Centre, Little India (for shopping)

Changi Airport, being the World’s best airport with 4 massive terminals, is a beautiful attraction to take a stroll into :)

Here’s another article on an offbeat place 20 km from Singapore and great for snorkeling and beach activities: Batam Travel Guide, Indonesia

Singapore 3 Days Itinerary for Family: More Travel Tips

Here are all the things to keep when traveling with a family:

Things to Pack

• Bring along a stroller for kids : Be it in Sentosa, Singapore Zoo, or USS – they all have facilities for strollers, but they charge extra. Moreover, with a lot of walking to do and the long waiting queues, it’s best to bring a stroller along to avoid some hustle.
• Portable stools for the elderly : I haven’t seen this anywhere else, but people do bring along foldable stools everywhere they go. With the hours of waiting in lines all around, it’s essential to bring along.
• Umbrella, warm clothes, and sunscreen : Singapore lies on the equator line and the heat gets unbearable. It can rain at any time unexpectedly as well. But the humidity remains no matter what. So it’s fine to only pack warm clothes here, but consider bringing an umbrella – or get one!

Travel Resources to get around Singapore

Singapore 3 Days itinerary for Family: Here are some of the best resources for traveling in Singapore:

• Booking.com – This is one of the most convenient sites to make use of for booking your accommodation with varieties. You can even use their map to choose your stay which pinpoints the accommodation location along with its prices.
• Klook – Klook is one of the best tour activity planning sites out there with world-class customer service. They operate best in SouthEast Asia. You can use it to either book tickets to individual attractions or for a complete tour package of Singapore.
• HostelWorld – For budget travelers, this is the best site to check out cheap stays.
• Grab / GrabFood – the Grab app is the Uber of Southeast Asia. Download it to book your cab rides. Uber is also available, but the prices tend to be more expensive.
• EZ-link smart card – the last but the most important to those using public transit to get around here, is to get the EZ-link card. Be it the MRT, LRT, SMRT, and SBS buses. It can also be used to pay in cafes, restaurants – even KFC!

Manas Patil

Hi there! I'm a 22-year-old dude all the way from India, I love traveling and building itineraries! Sign up and get your FREE COPY of my travel checklist to get the best of your next vacation!

Yayy! You've successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Check your inbox to get started ;)

Get my FREE Travel Checklist Here!

I believe checklists help get the best out of any itinerary.

Sign up and get my FREE TRAVEL CHECKLIST straight to your inbox!

It's worth it, I promise :)

Great! Please confirm your subscription in your inbox to get your checklist.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 Yes, add me to your mailing list

Start typing and press enter to search

A complete guide to visiting Singapore city!

Things to do in Singapore Singapore Travel Guide

A melting pot of global culture, hanging out on an island off the southern coast of Malaysia is the city-state of Singapore, or the Lion City - epitomised in the spirit of the land and immortalised in its name.

The island nation is known to be one of the safest and cleanest places to visit in the world, thus finding itself ranking quite high on the list of most popular travel destinations in the world. And once you’re here, let not the abundance of experiences overwhelm you.

With tons of attractions that cater to a universal crowd of all ages, Singapore has something for everyone. Colorful neighborhoods, delicious fusion food, historic temples, exciting wildlife reserves, luxurious shopping malls - it’s no wonder millions of people are flocking to this island nation each year.

4 reasons you should visit Singapore

How to prepare for your trip to Singapore?

Visa requirements.

Citizens of most countries can get a 90-day visa on arrival, so long as your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter. Citizens of India, Myanmar, Armenia, Russia and several other countries will need to obtain a visa prior to arrival. For more information on customs regulations, you can refer to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Travel Tips

Singapore has a reputation for being an expensive city for tourists, however, it isn’t impossible to experience it on a modest budget. From finding the perfect place to stay to finding the top things to do in the city; our Singapore travel tips guide has you covered. If you're visiting Singapore for the first time,our list of 15 travel tips and hacks will come handy.

Best time to visit

You can expect the weather to be warm and humid climate throughout the year. Feb to Apr are the best months for sightseeing as they attract minimal rainfall and the weather is generally dry. Any month is a great time to visit Singapore for backpackers. Dec to early Feb is festival and celebration time. Read our detailed blog on the Best time to visit Singapore.

Language English,Malay,& Tamil

Time zone GMT +8

Country Code +65

Socket Type G, 230V/50hz

Currency Singapore Dollars (SGD)

Top things to do in Singapore

When we say there's something new that crops up in the city every week or so, we are not exaggerating! Singapore never ceases to surprise and has something to keep everyone of all ages occupied. While there are over 500+ things to do in Singapore, here are the top 10 attractions you cannot miss out on!

Unmissable landmarks in Singapore

Sentosa Island in Singapore

The island of thrill, luxury, and all things nice – Sentosa is a recreational getaway situated off Singapore’s southern coast. A favorite amongst Singapore tourists, Sentosa Island offers a stunning panoramic view of the city with a slew of fun activities. Whether you spend an evening loitering by the beach or spend a day out on an exciting sightseeing excursion, you'll leave the island with incredible memories. There's something for everyone in Sentosa, whether you're an animal lover, an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or a beach bum! Things to do in Sentosa is a never-ending list because new attractions pop up every now and then. Here is your Guide To The 18 Best Things To Do in Sentosa Island Singapore.

Nature and Wildlife Activities

From wildlife reserves and nighttime safaris to alien-like gardens and thrilling shark-dives, check out our roundup of Singapore nature and wildlife.

Here are your top 15 Nature & Wildlife activities

Theme parks in Singapore

Here’s our take on the best theme parks in Singapore — the ones you simply must not miss out on.

Getting around in Singapore

Singapore is a city-state adorned with modern skyscrapers, lush green parks, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant mix of cultures. To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Singapore, walking is often the best way to explore. However, Singapore offers transportation options -

• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): The MRT system is the backbone of Singapore's public transportation network. It crisscrosses the entire island, offering efficient and convenient access to various parts of the city. With multiple lines spanning approximately 200 kilometers, the MRT is a reliable choice for getting around Singapore.
• Bus: Singapore's extensive bus network complements the MRT system, providing comprehensive coverage across the city. Buses are equipped with air conditioning, making them a comfortable mode of transportation. They are especially useful for reaching destinations not directly accessible by MRT.
• Public Bicycles: Singapore promotes eco-friendly transportation with its public bicycle-sharing programs, such as "oBike" and "SG Bike." You can rent bicycles from various stations and explore the city's parks and scenic routes along the waterfront.
• Taxis: Taxis in Singapore are readily available and provide a convenient way to travel, especially if you prefer a door-to-door service. While taxis are more expensive compared to public transport, they are still a viable option for getting around, especially during late hours.
• Trishaws: For a unique and nostalgic experience, consider taking a ride in a traditional trishaw, often found in heritage districts like Chinatown and Little India. Trishaw riders provide guided tours while pedaling you through the colorful streets.
• River Taxis and Ferries: Singapore is known for its stunning waterfront areas, and you can explore them by taking river taxis and ferries. These water-based transportation options offer picturesque views of the city skyline and allow you to access islands like Sentosa.
• Tourist Sightseeing Buses: Singapore offers hop-on-hop-off tourist buses that cover major attractions and landmarks. These buses provide informative commentary and flexibility, allowing you to explore Singapore's top spots at your own pace.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Singapore

For sightseeing, your first time, on a budget, for nightlife, for shopping, with family, where to stay in singapore for sightseeing - marina bay and orchard road.

Marina Bay: Staying in the Marina Bay area puts you in the heart of Singapore's iconic sights. You'll have easy access to Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Merlion Park. Luxurious hotels with stunning views of the city are available for those looking for a memorable stay.

Orchard Road: This central location is perfect for sightseeing. It's known for its upscale hotels and proximity to shopping malls like ION Orchard and Ngee Ann City. From here, you can explore popular attractions and dine at various restaurants.

Where to stay in Singapore for first-time visitors - Clarke Quay and Sentosa Island

Clarke Quay: If it's your first visit, consider staying in Clarke Quay. It offers a blend of nightlife, dining, and shopping experiences. You'll be close to the Singapore River, Boat Quay, and the lively Clarke Quay area.

Sentosa Island: For a unique experience, stay on Sentosa Island, where you can enjoy resort-style accommodations and easy access to attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark.

Where to stay in Singapore on a budget - Geylang and Little India

Geylang: Geylang is known for its affordable lodging options, including budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. It's a great choice for those looking to save money on accommodations and explore local eateries.

Little India: This vibrant neighborhood offers budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. It's an excellent choice for travelers on a tight budget who want to experience Singapore's diverse culture and cuisine.

Where to stay in Singapore for the nightlife - Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Marina Bay

Clarke Quay and Boat Quay: These areas along the Singapore River are famous for their nightlife. You'll find a plethora of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, making it an ideal choice for night owls.

Marina Bay: While it's known for its stunning skyline views, Marina Bay also has upscale bars and lounges where you can enjoy cocktails with a view. Staying here offers a mix of sophistication and nightlife.

Where to stay in Singapore if you love shopping - Orchard Road and Bugis

Orchard Road: This shopping paradise is lined with malls and boutiques, making it the ultimate destination for shopaholics. Choose from a range of hotels, including some attached to the malls, for a convenient shopping experience.

Bugis: Bugis is known for its street markets, shopping streets, and affordable fashion. You'll find budget-friendly accommodations and have easy access to Bugis Junction and Bugis Street Market.

Where to stay in Singapore for a family friendly environment - Sentosa Island, East Coast and Marina Bay

Sentosa Island: Sentosa offers family-friendly resorts and attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark. It's an excellent choice for a fun-filled family vacation.

East Coast: The East Coast area is known for its relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly parks and beaches. You can find accommodations with easy access to outdoor activities and seaside relaxation.

Marina Bay: While it's often seen as a business district, Marina Bay also offers family-friendly attractions like Gardens by the Bay and the ArtScience Museum. Many hotels in this area cater to families and provide a comfortable stay.

Hotels in Singapore

• The Hive Singapore Hostel
• ZEN Hostel Clark Quay
• Beary Best! By a Beary Good Hostel
• The Pod @Beach Road Boutique

Mid-range Hotels

• Studio M Hotel, A Millennium Hotel
• Concorde Hotel Singapore
• Citadines Rochor Singapore
• Resorts World Sentosa - Genting Hotel Jurong
• Furama RiverFront Hotel

Budget Hotels

• Ibis Styles Singapore Macpherson
• Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore
• Lyf Farrer Park
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Singapore Novena
• Holiday Inn Express Singapore Orchad Road

Luxury Hotels

• Marina Bay Sands
• Mandarin Oriental Singapore
• Shangri-La Singapore
• Andaz Singapore, a concept by Hyatt
• JW Marriot Hotel Singapore South Beach

What to eat in Singapore

1. Hainanese Chicken Rice A beloved Singaporean dish, Hainanese chicken rice consists of tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice and a trio of dipping sauces, including ginger paste, chili sauce, and dark soy sauce. Visit Chinatown or Maxwell Food Centre for authentic renditions.

2. Chilli crab A spicy and savory delight, chili crab features succulent crab cooked in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce with chili and egg. Jumbo Seafood and Long Beach Seafood are renowned spots for this dish.

3. Char Kway Teow This stir-fried flat rice noodle dish is a local favorite. It's typically cooked with prawns, Chinese sausage, eggs, and bean sprouts, all infused with a smoky wok hei (charred aroma). You can find excellent versions at hawker centers like Old Airport Road Food Centre.

4. Laksa Laksa is a flavorful noodle soup that comes in two main variations: curry laksa and assam laksa. The former is creamy and coconut-based, while the latter is tangy and fish-based. Try 328 Katong Laksa or Sungei Road Laksa for a taste of these comforting soups.

5. Hokkien Mee A delicious stir-fried noodle dish featuring prawns, squid, and a savory seafood broth, Hokkien Mee is a must-try. Visit stalls like Tian Tian Lai Hokkien Mee at Kovan Market & Food Centre.

6. Satay These skewered and grilled meats, often served with a side of peanut sauce and rice cakes, make for a popular street food snack. Satay stalls at Lau Pa Sat and Newton Food Centre offer a delightful satay experience.

7. Kaya Toast For breakfast or a sweet snack, indulge in kaya toast. It consists of toasted bread slathered with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) and butter, often accompanied by soft-boiled eggs and coffee or tea. Popular chains like Ya Kun Kaya Toast and Toast Box serve this classic dish.

8. Roti Prata This South Indian-inspired flatbread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy it with a variety of dips, including curry, sugar, or condensed milk, at places like Mr. and Mrs. Mohgan's Super Crispy Roti Prata.

9. Bak Kut Teh A hearty pork rib soup flavored with a blend of herbs and spices, Bak Kut Teh is a comforting dish. Savor it with steamed rice and side dishes like dough fritters. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh is a renowned restaurant for this dish.

10. Ice Kacang Beat the Singaporean heat with a refreshing bowl of Ice Kacang, a colorful dessert featuring shaved ice, sweet syrup, red beans, jelly, and other toppings. Try it at dessert stalls across the island.

Singapore itineraries for every type of traveller

In this guide, we have created 3 itineraries that will help you plan your trip to Singapore. Depending on your duration, whether it's just a day or 5 days, you can go through our guide and plan your stay accordingly. To navigate to each list, click on the markers above and it will take you to its respective page where you can take an in-depth look into the curated itineraries. And find a readymade Singapore itinerary, tailored to suit all age groups!

Top 10 Instagrammable Places in Singapore

Bonus: how to save money in singapore.

In comparison to its neighboring countries, prices in Singapore are more on par with European and North American standards. With that being said, there are a ton of ways to save money while traveling through the city-state.

Try these tips and hacks to cut costs, while still enjoying the best of Singapore.

1. Use the MRT Singapore’s MRT (subway) is the most efficient and cheapest way to get around the island. It’s also very punctual and exceptionally clean. Base fares start at S$1 (about $0.74). Maps showing the surrounding area are printed on the walls in MRT stations, making it extremely easy to use unlike other subway systems.

2. Avoid traveling during National Holidays Especially during Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb), prices for hotels, transport and other visitor-related activities skyrocket. It’s definitely a great opportunity to take in the nation’s culture, but if you’re on a budget, you might want to consider planning around these dates.

3. Take advantage of Happy Hour There a ton of great places to grab a drink in Singapore; but the city’s nightlife hotspots can come at a cost. If you’re on a budget, timing your cocktail time for Happy Hour will help minimize the damage on your wallet. Be sure to try the famed Singapore Sling - the island’s beloved gin cocktail.

Explore Singapore on a budget

Singapore is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of experiences, and you don't need to break the bank to enjoy them. With careful planning and smart choices, you can make the most of your visit to this vibrant city without overspending. Here's a guide to exploring Singapore on a budget.

What are somethings to do in Singapore?

There are many things to do in Singapore. You can visit the world-famous Zoo, take a ride on the Singapore Flyer, go shopping at Orchard Road, or take a walk through Chinatown.

What is the food like in Singapore?

The food in Singapore is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. There is something for everyone to enjoy!

What is the nightlife like in Singapore?

The nightlife in Singapore is vibrant and exciting. There are many bars and nightclubs to enjoy, as well as live music and other entertainment options.

What are some of the important rules to follow in Singapore?

Be sure to not litter. Do not chew gum. Vandalism is a serious offense and can result in a jail sentence. And, it is considered disrespectful to walk around barefoot or shirtless in public.

All Singapore Guides

Shaili Contractor

With a passport full of tales from around 30 countries, I love exploring each new culture I come across. A seasoned writer and editor with a deep love for travel, I can't resist the allure of Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Indonesia - my favorites so far! I still have to take that trip to Japan, as I'm a HUGE Studio Ghibli fan, and love all sorts of pop culture! I also love history and am obsessed with anything that's connected to WW II. I want to visit Poland soon, just for this reason. Traveling has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Bahrain during the Gulf War, and since then, I've moved to several different countries, exploring them as I go. I love airplane food, I enjoy airports more than one should and I love the journey as much as the destination. I write about history and culture, shopping, handy tips, city guides, my own travel experiences and so much more about places visited and less visited in the world. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, I'm here to help you plan your next adventure and make the most of your travels.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

What to do in Alishan? — 5 top attractions & best…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Hong Kong food culture — Hong Kong cuisine tells the historical…

Melaka food blog — Experience Melaka delicacies, arrived at by Trishaw

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

When is the best time to visit Malaysia? — The best,…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

• Trip Inspiration

Singapore itinerary 5 days — How to spend 5 days in Singapore budget for the first-timers?

Singapore is a country with “the smallest size in Southeast Asia”, not to be blessed by beautiful natural landmarks and erotic nature, the costs of living are expensive … However, this beautiful island nation always makes visitors surprised with the spectacular architectures, the leading entertainment areas in Asia. This is also a shopping paradise with crowded commercial centers. Rarely anywhere in the world has a unique cultural life like in Singapore. It is the meeting place of the great cultures of China, India and Malaysia. This inevitably creates a very characteristic look for the island nation of lions. But, just follow our Singapore itinerary 5 days blog (Singapore itinerary blog) on how to spend 5 days in Singapore budget (Singapore itinerary 5 days 4 nights self-sufficient trip, Singapore budget trip itinerary) below you will see this time period is too great!

• 5 days in Singapore itinerary — What to do in Singapore for 5 days on a budget?
• Singapore travel blog — The fullest Singapore travel guide first-timers
• Singapore travel itinerary 4 days — What to do in Singapore in 4 days perfectly?
• Where to shop in Orchard Road? — 10 best shopping malls in Orchard Road
• Singapore one day itinerary — How to spend 24 hours in Singapore perfectly?

Singapore itinerary 5 days — Day 1: Visiting the famous destinations of Singapore

Morning: strolling at marina park – merlion statue and enjoy panoramic view of singapore from marina bay sands skypark..

The most impressive point of this park is the Merlion Sea Lion statue – a symbol of Singapore’s glamor and modern. The structure of 8.6 m high and 70 tons of weight is the subtle creativity of the locals with the strong and majestic of lion head, combined with a soft, flexible of fish body. All of them create a unified harmony to the incredible, symbolizes the unified power, the beginning of luck and the longevity of the island nation.

Merlion Park Address: 1 Fullerton Road One Fullerton | Merlion Park, Singapore 049213, Singapore Admission: Free Hours: 24 hours

After checked-in at the Merlion statue and enjoying the modern beauty of Marina Bay, take a trip to Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck to experience the feel of pass over the clouds and panoramic view of crowded, bustling, modern of Singapore that stretching like a great panorama photo from 57 floors altitude (more than 200 meters from the ground).

In addition, this is also a great point for “avoid getting sunburn” when the whole system of malls in the building is cool air conditioning. And to save money for your singapore itinerary 5 days 4 nights trip, you can try to eat at the foodcourt area to recharge your energy for the next trip.

Tips: Next to the food court in Marina Bay Sands, the food court of Makansutra Gluttons Bay is one of the “friendly” options for your purse. Here are centralized a number of food stalls and carts that serve traditional Singaporean specialties at an affordable price.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself into the nature at Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the bay brings the strange and weird beauty that make you full of surprising and amazing with the 16-storey artificial trees with the greenhouses filled with overwhelmed of “wonders wild flowers and plants” gathering from around the world, some extremely rare and named in the red book.

Another place you should visit here is the Hill Street cafe in Supertree food court, where you can try the “afternoon cafe” with truly delicious Singaporean kaya toast. Or if you do not have time to recharge your energy at Marina Bay, you can visit other restaurants such as Texas Chicken, Oriental Western and Bistro, Peach Garden Noodle House, to fill your stomach with delicious meals.

Hill Street Coffee Shop Address: 24A Senoko South Road Singapore 758099 Phone: +65 6636 3323 Hours: Weekdays: 8.30am – 10.00pm: Weekends & Public Holidays: 8.30am – 10.00pm Url: http://www.hillstreetcoffeeshop.com.sg/

Evening: Enjoy the splendor of Singapore on the Singapore Cruise

Singapore Cruise is one of the tour of Singapore on the poetic river by Bumboat ancient boat. This 40-minute journey will take you to the cultural and historical experiences through the fascinating stories and admires a very different side of the famous attractions such as the Museum of Asian Ethnicity, the Merlion statue, Esplanade Theater, Marina Bay Sands …

Not only that, sitting on the boat you can see the brilliant lights from the buildings skyscrapers. You can even enjoy the fun atmosphere from the bars, restaurants at Boat Quay, Robertson Quay and Clarke Quay around the pier.

After finish 40 minutes immersed in the breath of life of the Lion Island Nation on Singapore cruise, let’s moving to Clarke Quay – where the most Singapore’s bustling nightlife to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the bar or relax, sipping coffee on the river bank.

5 days in singapore budget — Day 2: Have fun at Universal Studios Singapore and is overwhelmed by the Wings of Time show

With 24 major scenes arranged and designed in seven world-renowned movie themes, Universal Studios Singapore is a miniature Hollywood – the next destination in Singapore itinerary 5 days 4 nights self sufficient trip. As soon as you step through the entrance gate, you will immediately get lost in the fairytale world, fiction, wild … and meet the characters that you think they only exist in films. Especially, every major scene has its own souvenir shops, you can visit to buy them as souvenirs or as gifts.

In which, the games you must try are:

Transformers The Ride 3D Jurassic Park Rapid Adventure Revenge of the Mummy Battlestar Galactica Human & Cyclone

After a day of strolling and have fun, exciting at Universal Studios Singapore, let’s visit the Siloso beach to enjoy the spectacular and unique Wings of time water music show. If you have come to Singapore and set foot on Sentosa Island, do not miss the unique show, will regret it.

Other options

If you are not a fan of the Hollywood, then you can refer to some of the other unique destinations and outdoor activities on Sentosa Island on Singapore itinerary 5 days 4 nights with Living Nomads.

Adventure Cove and Wings of Time: Adventure Cove Water park is considered to be the most beautiful water park in Asia with so many extremely cool games. In addition to Wings of time, you might consider another unique show, Crane Dance.

SEA Aquarium – The largest aquarium in Southeast Asia with a large collection of marine species.

Read more:  Explore S.E.A. Aquarium Singapore — One of the best places you must visit in Singapore.

MegaZip Adventure Park: A place for you to challenge yourself with the MegaZip Racetrack 75m high above the ground.

Madame Tussauds Singapore: Visit the wax museum of the world famous characters and sail the “The Spirit of Singapore” (only in the system) to “swim away” in a mysterious and strange tropical jungle.

Getting to Sentosa

Take the MRT purple line or the orange line (Circle Line) to the Habour Front Station (NE1 or CC29) then down. Walk to Vivo City, go to the 3rd floor to Sentosa Station and take the train to the island.

Read more:  Top 12 best places to visit in Sentosa Island, Singapore.

Singapore itinerary 5 days — Day 3: Get lost in the animal kingdom of Singapore Zoo and adventure in the night zoo – Night Safari

Morning and afternoon: exploring animal kingdom – singapore zoo and the singapore river safari.

The Singapore Zoo is home to more than 2,800 animals from all over the planet, some extremely rare and named in the Red Book, some of them extinct in the wild. In addition to areas such as Wild Africa, Primate Kingdom, Botanic Gardens, … do not forget to visit the Kidzworld rainforest to experience horseback riding, underwater fun and watching the Animal Friends special show.

Read more:  Singapore Zoo tips & guide — Some experiences and useful tips for visiting Singapore Zoo .

Singapore Zoo Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826 Hours: 8.30am – 6.00pm (Last entry at 5.30pm) Url: https://www.wrs.com.sg/en/singapore-zoo.html

After visited Singapore Zoo, let’s travel to the Singapore River Safari – the first and only water park in the world to admire 6000 individuals of 40 species from the 8 major rivers in the world. Let’s take a chance to join the mysterious Amazon discovery journey, hidden perilous of the Amazon River Boat Boat Ride and exploring the natural wilderness of the River Safari Cruise Boat Ride.

River Safari 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826 Hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm

Evening: Adventure at Night Safari

As night falls, you can enjoy the nightlife of the animals at the Night Safari. With only 40 minutes, you and your family will get a special electric vehicle taken to seven geographic areas of the reserve, each with a different theme, such as the Himalayan Foothills, the Indian Subcontinent, the area of Asian elephant or endangered distinct Malayan tiger …

Read more:  Singapore night safari tips — How to have a wonderful trip in Singapore Night Safari .

Continued reading…

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Must eat in melaka — 10+ famous malacca street food & must try food in melaka, what to do in alishan — 5 top attractions & best things to do in alishan, taiwan, hong kong soya sauce chicken rice and noodles — the first singapore street food vendor ever awarded a honorable michelin star, hong kong food culture — hong kong cuisine tells the historical story of the whole land.

Alishan travel blog — The fullest Alishan travel guide for first-timers

Gingtiangang Grassland Yangmingshan — The ultimate guide on how to go & top things to do

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo

Yamanashi blog — The Yamanashi travel guide & top things to do in Yamanashi

Editor picks.

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street...

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &...

What to do in Alishan? — 5 top attractions & best...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1452
• Trip Inspiration 469
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 207
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• Sustainability
• Latest News
• News Reports
• Documentaries & Shows
• TV Schedule
• CNA938 Live
• Radio Schedule
• Singapore Parliament
• Mental Health
• Interactives
• Entertainment
• Style & Beauty
• Experiences
• Remarkable Living
• Send us a news tip
• Events & Partnerships
• Business Blueprint
• Health Matters
• The Asian Traveller

Trending Topics

Follow our news, recent searches, pope francis expected to visit singapore in september; mfa says discussions underway about proposed visit, advertisement.

Pope Francis waves from St Peter's basilica during an Easter message as part of the Holy Week celebrations, in the Vatican on Mar 31, 2024. (Photo: AFP/Tiziana FABI)

This audio is AI-generated.

SINGAPORE:  Pope Francis is expected to visit Singapore as part of a trip to Asia later this year, with officials from Singapore and the Holy See in discussions on the proposed visit. 

According to Archbishop Paul R Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, the Pope's trip to Singapore, Indonesia , Timor Leste and Papua New Guinea would take place in September. 

Vietnam could be added to the list, he said in a Mar 26 article by America magazine, which is published by the Jesuits in the United States. 

In January, two other Catholic publications - EWTN Vatican and Radio Veritas Asia - reported that the Pope is likely to visit Singapore in August. 

"Singapore welcomes a visit by Pope Francis," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on Tuesday evening (Apr 2) in response to CNA's query.

"Officials from Singapore and the Holy See are in discussion on the proposed visit."

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore told CNA earlier on Tuesday that while it is aware of the "unconfirmed reports" by the various Catholic publications, it had no confirmation at the time that the Pope is coming to Singapore. 

The last time a pope visited Singapore was in 1986 when John Paul II made a five-hour stop as part of his Asia-Pacific tour that included Bangladesh, New Zealand and Australia. 

Thousands attended a papal mass at the National Stadium on Nov 20, 1986.

Pope Francis, 87, has made more than 40 trips abroad since his election by cardinals in 2013.

His first official visit to Asia was in 2014 when he went to South Korea.

The Vatican has said he will visit Belgium later this year and the Pope has mentioned a possible visit to his native Argentina.

Related Topics

Also worth reading, this browser is no longer supported.

We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be.

To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app.

Upgraded but still having issues? Contact us

• Travel Insurance

The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Singapore: The Complete Guide

Updated: Apr 4, 2024, 12:29pm

Table of Contents

Featured Partners

Singapore Travel Insurance

What does travel insurance for singapore cover, can i tailor my travel insurance for singapore, what does travel insurance for singapore exclude, how much does travel insurance for singapore cost, how can i compare travel insurance for singapore, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Singapore has long been a holiday favourite for Australians, either as a stop-over city on the way to Europe or the Middle East or as base for exploring Asia. According to the latest figures from data portal, Statista, 566,000 Australians visited the country in 2022.

If you’re also planning to visit, travel insurance for Singapore can safeguard your trip against a number of potential mishaps, such as falling ill while away, losing your luggage and belongings or even needing to cancel the trip before it’s even begun. Singapore is a safe country, but the cost of medical care is high.  Find out more about how travel insurance for Singapore works below.

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Rental Vehicle Excess

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Medical cover

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (Comprehensive)

Option of Cruise Cover

Unlimited medical

Yes (some sub limits apply)

There are three main types of travel insurance policy for Singapore. These are:

• Single trip: for a one-off trip in the space of 12 months to Singapore
• Annual multi-trip : for more than one trip in the space of 12 months to Singapore or various destinations. This type of cover can work out more cost-effective than buying multiple single trip policies but not always so it’s best to compare both types of cover.
• Long-stay/backpacker : for an extended stay in Singapore, of typically 60 or 90 days, or 12 or 18 months. Cover for 24 months may be available, from certain providers.

When applying for travel insurance online, you’ll first be asked to enter your holiday destination. Depending on the insurer, you’ll need to click on Singapore, Asia or Worldwide travel excluding the US and nearby destinations such as Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada and Greenland. The latter option excludes a part of the world where medical costs are the highest, which in turn, bumps up the cost of cover. If you’re also planning to travel to the US, for example, there are separate worldwide policies that include it as a destination.

Insurers usually offer at least two or more types of travel insurance policy from basic or comprehensive cover and anything in between. Comprehensive policies offer the highest cover levels and widest range of benefits.

A key component of all travel insurance policies is emergency medical cover. You’ll find a comprehensive policy for Singapore will often offer an unlimited amount.

The standard of medical facilities and care in Singapore is similar to, or higher than in Australia, and the cost often much higher, so medical cover can prove a vital resource should you fall ill, or get injured, while away.

Note that in the case of an emergency, you’ll likely need to pay up-front first, and then reclaim the costs from your insurer, or confirm payment from your insurer with a hospital before it will provide treatment.

As standard, travel insurance for Singapore can also cover repatriation and emergency rescue, in severe medical cases, the loss or theft of your baggage and belongings and trip cancellation if you can no longer travel for reasons such as falling ill, suffering a bereavement or losing your job.

They will also likely include an array of other forms of protection, providing the most at comprehensive level. This includes cover for lost or stolen money, passports and documentation, missed departures, online fraud, and travel delay. The types of cover on offer, and cover limits, will vary between providers. You can find exactly what a policy includes in its product disclosure statement (PDS), which is usually found on an insurer’s website.

There are a number of ways you can ensure your policy fits your needs. Many insurers offer optional add-ons that you can purchase if you need specialised cover. These include insurance for gadgets (such as a smartphone or laptop), a cruise and playing golf.

If you’re thinking of participating in more high-octane activities, check your policy’s PDS. Many cover around 100 or so sports automatically. Cover for what an insurer classes as high-risk activities, such as skydiving, bungee jumping, outdoor rock climbing, and activities requiring a set of wheels, such as quad biking, may require purchasing an additional ‘sports pack’ for your policy.

While reading through a policy’s PDS, it’s crucial to also take note of any limitations of cover. These can differ between policies, but generally you can expect most insures to refuse claims relating to a pre-existing condition. This is a medical condition you had before taking out the policy. The insurer may not cover such conditions, or may refuse your claim if you did not declare your condition on applying for the policy.

An insurer is also unlikely to accept claims for an injury caused by taking part in a sport or activity where you did not wear the appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, knee pads or a harness. Claims resulting from disorderly behaviour or being under the influence of drink or drugs will also likely be rejected.

It’s best to regularly check government advice for your destination, which it publishes on its Smartraveller website. This includes warnings about natural disasters, terrorism threats and pandemics. Visiting Singapore, or a part of the country, if the government puts it on its “do not travel” list, could invalidate your policy.

The amount you’ll need to pay for your travel insurance policy will depend on a range of factors. An insurer will consider your holiday destination, associated costs when travelling there and the length of time you’ll be travelling.

The price of a policy can rise for mature travellers and those with pre-existing conditions, as insurers view these travellers as more likely to claim on their policy.

To provide an idea of how much travel insurance for Singapore can cost, we ran quotes on the sites of the insurers we’ve rated the top five for travel insurance.

We used the profile of a family of four, aged 42, 40, 14 and 12, spending 13 to 26 May in the country, and assumed they have no pre-existing conditions, (although these providers do offer cover for pre-existing conditions should you need it).

We found basic cover ranged from around $106 to $202, while comprehensive cover started at around $241, with the most expensive policy costing just under $304.

Before choosing a policy, it’s important to shop around. An easy way to do this is to run quotes on the websites of various insurers and compare factors such as the type of cover a policy includes and cover levels against price.

To help you with your search, we’ve conducted some research and found our pick of the best comprehensive travel insurance policies .

Is travel insurance for Singapore worth it?

While travel insurance for Singapore isn’t mandatory, it can be considered a travel essential if you have no other means of covering emergency costs while away.

Emergency medical fees can easily stack up to thousands of dollars alone, and without travel insurance in place, you would have to cover them out of pocket. Travel insurance also can cover a number of eventualities that we often fail to consider, such as an airline, transport company, or accommodation provider going bust.

What is ‘excess’ in insurance?

An excess is a set amount you’ll be expected to pay on each approved claim. It’s usually levied per person on the policy, per event, per claim, but you can check the PDS for the specifics concerning your insurer. You usually can pick from a range of excess amounts, from $50 to $250 on average, when taking out a policy.

The more you choose to pay in excess, the lower your policy premium—the cost of your policy—typically will be, while paying less in excess will raise the cost. An excess is usually deducted from a claim amount, so you won’t need to pay for it out of pocket. However, it’s still crucial that you make sure it’s affordable.

Can I buy a policy while I’m in Singapore?

Some providers won’t cover a holiday if it’s already started. Others may cover you, but apply a waiting period of around 72 hours before you can claim.

The best time to take out travel insurance is as soon as you’ve booked your holiday, as you’ll be immediately covered for trip cancellation. Insurers are highly unlikely to consider claims resulting from something that happened before you took out the policy.

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Best Seniors Travel Insurance
• Best Domestic Travel Insurance
• Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• Best Family Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance Cost
• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
• Travel Insurance Cancellation Cover
• Travel Insurance For Bali
• Travel Insurance For Fiji
• Travel Insurance For The USA
• Travel Insurance For Thailand
• Travel Insurance For New Zealand
• Travel Insurance For Japan
• Travel Insurance For Europe
• Travel Insurance For Indonesia
• Cover-More Travel Insurance Review
• Fast Cover Travel Insurance Review
• Travel Insurance Saver Review
• Allianz Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review
• 1Cover Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review
• Australia Post Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review

More from  

Fast cover comprehensive travel insurance review: pros and cons, our pick of the best domestic travel insurance for australians, travel insurance for indonesia: everything you need to know, the new travel document aussies will need to visit europe, our pick of the best comprehensive travel insurance providers in australia, our pick of the best cruise travel insurance.

I have been writing for newspapers, magazines and online publications for over 10 years. My passion is providing, in a way that is easily accessible and digestible to all, the knowledge needed for readers to not only manage their finances, but financially flourish.

Entertainment

Itzy concert in Singapore: The K-pop idols prove they’re born to be superstars

Advertisement.

Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna returned to Singapore for their second full-length concert and showed fans how much they’ve grown in just a year.

(From left) Chaeryeong, Yeji, Yuna and Ryujin electrified the stage at their second Singapore concert. (Photo: Instagram/itzy.all.in.us)

This audio is AI-generated.

Hazeeq Sukri

Girl group Itzy drove fans loco on Saturday night (Apr 6), demonstrating why they’re still one of the best acts amongst the fourth generation of K-pop. The quartet was in town for their second full-length concert Born To Be – roughly a year after their first concert which was held at The Star Theatre. 

This time, the idols commanded the Singapore Indoor Stadium and utilised every inch of the huge space – employing gorgeous set pieces (from full-length mirrors to Barbie-esque carriages) and loads of confetti cannons.

The result: An exhilarating night for fans (known as Midzys) which simultaneously served as a showcase of Itzy’s improved showmanship.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ITZY (@itzy.all.in.us)

Itzy started their show on a high with an energetic performance of their latest title track Born To Be, followed by the songs Racer and Kidding Me. Clad in striking black outifts with red boots, Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna were in perfect synchronisation as they executed multiple series of fast-paced dance moves. This fluid-like synchronisation did not falter once during Itzy’s two-and-a-half-hour setlist.

Just like labelmates Twice with their recently-concluded Ready To Be world tour , Itzy added a live band for this new concert – amplifying the listening experience for fans. The best example of this was during the group’s performance of Wannabe, where the inclusion of live drums and bass breathed new life into the cult classic, giving it an added intensity.

Also deserving of praise were the solo stages. Each Itzy member deftly showed off her individual charm and strengths with her own original track: Yeji with the empowerment anthem Crown On My Head, Ryujin with the emo rock tune Run Away, Chaeryeong with sultry Mine, and Yuna with the preppy and fun Yet, But.

The full setlist of Itzy’s Born To Be concert is as follows:

1. Born To Be 2. Racer 3. Kidding Me 4. Mr Vampire 5. Swipe 6. Wannabe 7. Mine 8. Run Away 9. Yet, But 10. Crown On My Head 11. Untouchable 12. Gas Me Up 13. Dynamite 14. Psychic Lover 15. Don’t Give A What 16. Loco 17. Not Shy 18. Cake 19. Sneakers 20. Kill Shot 21. Escalator 22. Love Is 23. Be In Love 24. Chillin’ Chillin' 25. Dalla Dalla

Despite slaying the strenuous choreography and singing, it was Itzy’s actions during the non-performance parts of the concert that proved that the four women were bonafide idols.

For instance, even though none of them were native English speakers, Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna spoke in English for most of the concert – showing just how much effort they put into learning another language to interact with Midzys. One of the few times they had to rely on their interpreter was after they viewed a video made by fans, which left them touched and overwhelmed.

Furthermore, the members of Itzy were all smiles when it came to engaging with Midzys. They gave a slew of flying kisses and finger hearts to fans in the standing pens and took the time to read out posters; Chaeryeong even showed off her abs to a fan who requested to see them.

Perhaps it was this dedicated work ethic that led to Yuna admitting towards the end that she was “not satisfied” by her performance as she made several small mistakes during the concert. Nonetheless, her worries were assuaged by Midzys chanting Gwenchana (Korean for “It’s okay”) as well as Yeji (who is Itzy’s leader) consoling her.

As someone who has now watched both of Itzy’s Singapore concerts, I can safely say that Itzy has grown tremendously as a group. The Born To Be show highlighted their strength in performance as well as the members’ unique personalities. 

And I’m not alone on this.

Speaking to CNA Lifestyle, local content creator Leah Shannon Neubronner sang praises for the concert.

“I thought the concert was really good. They had a live band, so the whole performance was even more enhanced as they’re not just playing a back track…The girls (of Itzy) gave lots of fanservice (to Midzys) which I thought was very genuine of them. And now, I’m a bigger fan of them!”

It’s clear that Itzy’s story is far from over and I, for one, look forward to seeing what they’ll accomplish in the near future.

Related Topics

Recommended, recent searches, trending topics, this browser is no longer supported.

We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be.

To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app.

Upgraded but still having issues? Contact us

• Side Hustles
• Power Players
• Young Success
• Save and Invest
• Become Debt-Free
• Land the Job
• Closing the Gap
• Science of Success
• Pop Culture and Media
• Psychology and Relationships
• Health and Wellness
• Real Estate
• Most Popular

Related Stories

• Life The 10 best places in the U.S. to raise a   family—California didn't make the list
• Life This northeastern state is the best place   to raise a family, new report says
• Health and Wellness The No. 1 thing that leads to happiness   can also help your business excel
• Health and Wellness I've spent 20 years studying longevity:   My daily habits for a long life
• Life New report: The 10 richest   retirement towns in the U.S.

This small Southeast Asian country has 'engineered' a society that lives to 100 – here's how

Singapore is the world's latest "blue zone" — defined as a place where people live longer and healthier lives.

"Singapore has ... the highest health-adjusted life expectancy in the world. So whatever Singapore did, it worked at producing the longest, healthiest life on the planet," Dan Buettner , who coined the term "blue zones" told CNBC Make It .

Blue zones are places that have 10 times more centenarians compared to the U.S. on a per capita basis.

The five original blue zones are: Ikaria (Greece), Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Sardinia (Italy) and Loma Linda (United States) — but Singapore is on Buettner's new list, dubbed "blue zone 2.0."

While the original blue zones came about by natural circumstances, blue zones 2.0 are man-made.

"The old blue zones are disappearing because they're becoming Americanized," Buettner said. "Mechanization is replacing physical activity and technology is disconnecting people from face-to-face interactions."

In 2004, Buettner joined forces with National Geographic and the National Institute of Aging to try to "reverse engineer" longevity. The team identified parts of the world where people were living measurably longer lives, then worked to find out why people in such communities lived longer.

'Power 9'

Buettner and his team identified the " Power 9 " — core factors that represent the habits of the world's healthiest and longest-living people.

These nine principles are: moving naturally in everyday life; having purpose; keeping routines to de-stress; stop eating when 80% full; eating more plant-based; consuming alcohol moderately and regularly; being part of a community; keeping loved ones close; and being surrounded by people with healthy habits.

Singapore is an "engineered longevity hotspot," Buettner previously said . 

Here are some drivers of wellness built into the fabric of Singapore's policy.

Walk, don't ride

While people in many parts of the world drive from place to place, most Singaporeans walk — but this is usually out of necessity, rather than for the purpose of exercising.

"Singapore, I think is brilliantly taxing automobiles, taxing gasoline, taxing through the use of roads ... and then invested hugely in walkability and bikeability and public transportation," Buettner told CNBC.

"That's not just a coincidence, that is very good planning ... as a result, you drive people out from behind the steering wheel, onto their feet," he added.

It begins with the realization that their people are their most valuable resource... It doesn't happen overnight. It's an ethos which creates a lens through which they look at policy. Dan Buettner Author, The Complete Blue Zones: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth

In order to buy a car in Singapore, you must first get a license to own a car, the COE or certificate of entitlement , which can cost more than the car itself.

For comparison, as of March, the listed price for a Toyota Camry Hybrid in Singapore is 209,888 Singapore dollars (approx. $155,800). In the U.S., it is listed for a fraction of the price at $28,855.

Keep loved ones close

Research shows that people in blue zones tend to prioritize their loved ones and keep them nearby.

This is seen in Singapore's policy known as the Proximity Housing Grant that financially incentivizes people to live with, or near their parents and children.

"Instead of warehousing old people in a retirement home, as we do in the United States, the older people there — they stay engaged with the family. More often, they get better care from the family, so this is all favoring the life expectancy of older people," Buettner said.

Sense of belonging

Belonging to a faith-based community can correlate with longer life-expectancy, the research found.

"All but five of the 263 centenarians we interviewed belonged to some faith-based community," according to Buettner. "Research shows that attending faith-based services four times per month will add 4-14 years of life expectancy."

Almost 80% of adult Singaporeans are religiously affiliated, according to the Pew Research Center . Also, a 2014 Pew Research study ranked the city-state as the most religiously diverse country in the world.

Opt for healthy habits

Singapore has done well in making "healthy food cheaper and more accessible than junk food," said Buettner. The country has created incentives for food establishments to provide healthier options.

Healthier options such as brown rice and wholegrains are being promoted by the Health Promotion Board. The health ministry has also created a labeling system that shows residents which food stalls have healthier options.

Smoking has been made "difficult, unattractive and expensive," Buettner said. "Singapore has done a good job with the look of cigarette packs, with those pictures of mouth cancer ... they were one of the first countries to tax cigarettes."

Accessible health care

Singaporeans enjoy universal health care which means residents have access to quality medical care, including health services such as prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care. The government has worked to create policies that subsidize health-care costs .

"In America here, health care is enormously expensive and inefficient at producing health because the priorities that govern policy are economic," Buettner said

"The agenda of Lee Kuan Yew and his colleagues was different. They were trying to actually make sure people stayed healthy, rather than make money off of people," he added, referring to Singapore's founding father who was the country's first prime minister.

Strict laws

Singapore is known for its strict laws. The ban on chewing gum or the hefty fines for eating on public transportation are popular examples.

However, the country is also known to be very strict on guns and drugs. An offense of either could lead to jail time, judicial caning, or the death penalty.

"The fact that guns are illegal in Singapore ... when it comes to life expectancy — it's a very smart policy. In the United States, we lose about 55,000 people to gun deaths every year, Singapore loses about three," Buettner said.

"The draconian laws on drugs — we ought to be paying attention to that. The United States lost over 100,000 people in drug deaths last year and Singapore lost about 20," he added.

Want to make extra money outside of your day job?  Sign up for  CNBC's new online course How to Earn Passive Income Online  to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories. Register today and save 50% with discount code EARLYBIRD.

Plus,  sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter  to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

Passport-free travel in Singapore is here — but only for certain travelers

• From Tuesday, people traveling via car between Singapore and Malaysia can show self-generated QR codes rather than handing over their passports at two checkpoints.
• Authorities estimate the new procedure will reduce immigration processing time by more than 30%.

Singapore made global headlines last year when the government announced that biometric processing will replace travel document verifications at Changi Airport in the first half of 2024.

But the city-state is going "passport-free" in another area: its land border with Malaysia.

From Tuesday, people traveling by car between Singapore and Malaysia can show self-generated QR codes rather than handing over their passports at two checkpoints.

The new rule , which applies to those traveling via the country's Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, will expedite immigration clearance "without compromising on security," according to Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.

Who is eligible

Singapore residents and foreign travelers can generate QR codes via the government's MyICA mobile app. Group codes for up to 10 people can be generated for passengers traveling in the same car too.

Like before, travelers are then subject to a face-to-face check by immigration officers.

However, the QR-code clearance is not available to two groups of travelers: those entering Singapore for the first time and those using a different passport from previous visits.

The new procedure is expected to reduce immigration processing time by more than 30% — saving around 20 seconds for cars traveling with four passengers and up to one minute for cars with 10 people, according to authorities.

One of world's busiest border crossings

The checkpoint linking the Malaysian city of Johor Bahru to Woodlands in Singapore is one of the busiest international border crossings in the world.

From March 7 to 10, more than 1.8 million travelers crossed Singapore's two checkpoints that link the island with Malaysia, according to its Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.

On March 8 — the Friday preceding a week-long break for Singapore public schools — a record-breaking 495,000 people crossed the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, exceeding the 485,000 travelers recorded on August 2019, it said.

Singapore plans to roll out the QR code clearance to more travelers crossing checkpoints via other modes of transport at a later date.   

Part of a larger push

The QR clearance program is part of a larger push to modernize border control and security procedures in the city-state to manage higher traveler volume amid the crunch of its aging workforce.

Changi Airport's "passport-free" immigration clearance, which is based on biometric verification, is undergoing trials, a representative of Changi Airport Group told CNBC Travel.

A launch date for this program has not been released.