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5 Days in Singapore: Itinerary with Top Things to Do

5 Days Singapore Itinerary with Top 30 Things to Do

Planning to visit Singapore, Southeast Asia? Looking for what to do in Singapore?

So, this is where it’s happening!

To help you organize your visits quickly and easily, I have prepared the complete city guide with the 30 things to do and see during your stay in Singapore.

You will find all the must-see places of interest to discover, with the added bonus of links to book your guided tours or your entry tickets for the most popular attractions.

I also give you my advice for visiting Singapore in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days and even a week, as well as my selection of the best accommodation.

So what to do and see in Singapore? 

Visit Singapore: the must-sees

1. Gardens by the Bay

This is Singapore’s must-see tourist site : Gardens by the bay.

If the name does not mean anything to you, there is no doubt that you have already seen the famous Supertrees that are there.

These giant metal trees over 20 meters high, covered with vegetation and LEDs, are the main attraction of the Gardens by the Bay. And we must admit that they are particularly impressive!

When they light up after dark, it’s one of Singapore’s best photo spots. In addition, every evening (at 7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.), there is a very nice free sound and light show .

It is also possible to climb the footbridge (OCBC Skyway) which connects the trees to each other, more than 22 meters high. You will be able to enjoy the view of Singapore , if the vertigo does not take over!

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Gardens by the bay, Singapore

In addition to the Supertrees, there are 2 other must-see places in Gardens by the bay:

  • The Flower Dome which reproduces the ecosystems of certain countries with in particular an Australian or Chinese garden. Admission is chargeable.
  • The Cloud Forest where there is a giant waterfall under a huge dome. Several footbridges perched a few meters high allow you to go around it and climb up to the Secret World (the secret world). You can also discover exhibitions, films and other gardens. There is also an entrance fee here.

Don’t hesitate to take a free walk in the Gardens by the Bay of Singapore to admire the spaces laid out with different plants. You can also enjoy the view of the famous Marina Bay Sands (see just after) and the Ferris wheel (details a little later).

At Garden by the bay, you will also find several bars, restaurants, playgrounds for children and toilets.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

To avoid queuing at the entrance to the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, I recommend that you buy your tickets in advance.

If you also want to ride the OCBC Skyway, you can buy your tickets on site for $8.

To reach the Gardens by the Bay, the easiest way is to take the metro to the Bayfront station.

Supertree, a must see in Singapore - Singapore itinerary
Supertree, a must see in Singapore!

2. Marina Bay Sands

The Marina Bay Sands is the other must-see place in Singapore.

It is nothing less than the most famous luxury hotel in town! Made up of 3 buildings of more than 50 floors, it has the particularity of housing the longest and highest infinity pool in the world at its summit!

Nicknamed the Infinity Pool, it is located 200 meters high and offers an unobstructed view of all of Singapore and the giant trees of the Gardens by the Bay. But to get there, only one way: book a night in the hotel. The use of the swimming pool is only reserved for customers.

If you want to spend a night in Singapore’s emblematic hotel , do not hesitate to consult the rates directly here: 5* Hotel Marina Bay Sands.

But rest assured, if you can’t afford a night at Marina Bay Sands during your trip to Singapore, you can still access the viewing platform next to the pool.

The Sands SkyPark will allow you to contemplate a splendid panorama of the bay. 

But as there are crowds, it is better to buy your tickets in advance to be able to go up to the observation platform.

In addition to the hotel complex, the Marina Bay Sands also houses a large shopping center with several luxury boutiques and a casino. And for the kitsch, you can even take a gondola ride in the canals that cross it.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

From Marina Bay Sands, take the elevator to Tower 3 level to reach Gardens by the Bay. The bridge that connects them offers a nice view of the hotel, the Ferris wheel and the Supertree Grove.

If you want to visit Marina Bay and the Gardens of the Bay in an original way while enjoying the viewpoints, I advise you to book this 3-hour segway tour with a guide.

Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands

3. The Merlion

As long as we are in the emblematic and popular places, I now suggest you discover the Merlion.

This statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish that spits water, is one of the major tourist attractions of Singapore and one of the symbols of the city. 

The fish serves as a reminder that Singapore was originally just a fishing village, and the lion refers to the very name of the city, “Singapura” which can be translated as “the city of the lion” in Malaysian .

Taking a selfie in front of the Singapore Merlion has now become a must-see for all tourists. You will find it in the business district at the level of the esplanade, and at the edge of the Singapore river.

From there, you will also have a nice view of the Marina Bay Sands and the ArtScience Museum building.

The Merlion, the symbol of Singapore, Singapore itinerary
The Merlion, the symbol of Singapore

4. Singapore Colonial District

Mandatory step during your tour in Singapore: the colonial district.

This is where the city of Singapore was founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819. The former fishing village quickly transformed into an important trading post for the British East India Company.

From this period, there are still some colonial buildings to admire.

During your walking tour in the colonial district of Singapore, I recommend that you do not miss:

  • The Victoria Theater and Concert Hall: Singapore’s first city hall
  • The City Hall  where the National Art Gallery of Singapore is located
  • The Padang, a large cricket ground, place of significant historical events in the history of the city. The Japanese used it to pile up prisoners during the Second World War before sending them to the camps.
  • The Saint-André cathedral, all white and in neo-Gothic style
  • The Old Parliament transformed into a House of Arts
  • Fort Canning located on the Forbidden Hill: so nicknamed by the first inhabitants of the island who considered it a sacred place. The Parc du Fort is the ideal place for a walk or a picnic.
  • Beaux-arts museum

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

To not miss any of the monuments of the colonial district and to benefit from detailed explanations, the best way is to opt for a guided tour. The guide is really interesting and you will know everything about the history of Singapore.

This guided tour of the Old Colonial District of Singapore can be booked directly here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Padang District, Singapore

5. Raffles Hotel

The Raffles Hotel is the legendary hotel to go to in Singapore. It is also located in the colonial district.

As much as the Marina Bay Sands is known for its modernity, the Raffles has a historical character. A true institution of the city, it is one of the most famous hotels in Singapore and is considered a very important part of the architectural and cultural heritage.

Opened in 1887, the colonial-style palace has hosted many personalities, politicians and writers.

Raffles’ bar, the Long Bar, is ranked among the best in the world for its signature cocktail, the “Singapore Sling”. A must try during your trip to Singapore!

To stay in one of the sumptuous suites at this iconic property, simply click on the following link: Raffles Hotel Singapore.

Singapore itinerary 2 days
Raffles Hotel, Singapore

6. Chinatown

Among the neighborhoods to visit in Singapore, I recommend that you take a trip to Chinatown.

Getting off at the “Chinatown” subway station, you will come directly to the main street with many shops and restaurants.

Not to be missed in Singapore’s Chinatown:

  • The Chinatown Visitor Centre: the information desk to get the neighborhood map
  • The Chinatown Heritage Center to learn all about the life of the first inhabitants of Chinatown, Chinese immigrants. The museum notably recreates the interior of a shophouse, these typical residences of Southeast Asia which served as shops on the ground floor and dwellings upstairs.
  • The Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore
  • The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a very pretty temple with typical Chinese architecture
  • The Ann Siang Hill Park, a covered green path leading to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, a Taoist temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea
  • The Masjid Jamae (or “Chulia”) mosque, one of the oldest in the city.

If you are peckish, you can also head to the Coconut Club to enjoy a Bib Gourmand Nasi Lemak, recommended by the Michelin Guide!

5 days in Singapore
Singapore’s Chinatown district

7. Little India

We continue this guide to Singapore with another district to discover: Little India.

The main places of interest to see in the Indian district of Singapore:

  • Tan Teng Niah House, a very colorful house built by a Chinese merchant and very popular as an Instagram spot!
  • Sri Veeramakaliamman, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, wife of Shiva
  • Little India Arcade: a building with souvenir shops and shops selling Indian fabrics, saris, clothes and sculptures
  • Tekka Centre: a large covered market selling fruits, vegetables, meats, fish and teeming with people. Very picturesque as a place!
  • Indian Heritage Centre, a brand new museum on the culture and history of the Indians of Singapore
  • Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple: dedicated to Vishnu, it features a 20m high gopuram (tower)
  • Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple,  also known as the Temple of 1000 Lights. There is a giant Buddha of 15 meters and 300 tons.

As for the colonial district or Chinatown, guided tours of Little India are also possible.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Little India, the Indian district of Singapore

8. Kampong Glam: The Malay Quarter

Kampong Glam is one of the oldest neighborhoods to see in Singapore. It was in 1822 that Sir Stamford Raffles allocated this area to the Arab and Malay community.

Today the district has remained quite authentic and picturesque with many traditional stalls and beautiful houses.

What to see in Singapore, in Kampong Glam:

  • Haji Lane: a street with colorful houses and lined with trendy bars and cafes with a lot of street art
  • Arab Street: a parallel street to Haji Lane with shops selling carpets, fabrics and traditional clothing
  • Bussorah Street: where there are pretty classy houses, Lebanese or Moroccan restaurants as well as souvenir shops
  • Malay Heritage Center on the history and culture of the Malays
  • The Masjid Sultan mosque and its imposing golden dome

For all the historical details, you can also choose a guided tour to walk the streets of the Malay Quarter.

Singapore itinerary 4 days
Kampong Glam, Singapour

9. Katong District

I end this tour of the essential districts of Singapore with Katong.

Located to the east of the city, the Katong district is one of the oldest and is home to beautiful houses with colorful facades and old shophouses. To admire them, walk down Koon Seng Road.

Most of these stores have belonged to Peranakans, Chinese immigrants who intermarried with locals and from this mixture a new culture was born.

Katong is also known to be home to lots of very nice little restaurants where you can taste local cuisine.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Koon Seng Road, Katong district

10. Singapore Botanic Garden

Where to go in Singapore to enjoy some greenery and have a nice walk?

At the Singapore Botanic Garden, which you can reach directly by metro. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the place is super pleasant and perfectly maintained and cared for.

It’s the most visited botanical garden in the world and it’s free (except the entrance to the national orchid garden at $5).

There are several thematic gardens to see, lakes, museums on the history of the garden or temporary exhibitions. You will also find several cafes and restaurants.

Allow 2 to 3 hours for the visit because it is really big. It is an ideal place to walk, very quiet and relaxing.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore Botanic Garden

11. Museums to Visit in Singapore

If you fancy doing some cultural sightseeing in Singapore, you will find plenty of museums to visit:

  • The Asian Civilizations Museum on Asian art and culture in general
  • The National Gallery Singapore on modern art
  • The National Museum of Singapore on the history of Singapore, from its inception to the present day
  • Indian Heritage Center dedicated to the history of Singapore’s Indian community
  • Malay Heritage Center to discover the Malay people
  • Chinatown Heritage Center recreating scenes from the daily life of the city’s first Chinese inhabitants
  • Peranakan Museum to better discover this very special community
  • Singapore City Gallery to learn about Singapore’s architecture and urban development over the years
  • ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands and its different sections on art, culture, science and technology.
Singapore top things to do
Artscience Museum Singapore

12. Go Shopping in Singapore

Going to Singapore and coming back without having done a bit of shopping? Unthinkable!

Direction Orchard Road for a little shopping session in one (or more) of the huge shopping centers that border it. H&M, Victoria’s Secret or luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Hermès…), the choice is vast.

Small precision, although you are in Asia, do not expect to find low prices like in Bangkok (in Thailand ) for example. Singapore remains one of the most expensive cities in Asia, even counting the tax refund.

If you haven’t found what you’re looking for in Orchard, don’t worry, you can always continue via VivoCity (HarbourFront metro station), one of the largest malls in Southeast Asia, or via the shopping center located at Marina Bay.

And for affordable accessories or souvenirs, I advise you to go to Bugis Street, an indoor market where you will find everything and anything in a happy bazaar!

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

For your purchases of photo or electronic equipment, avoid Sim Lim Square at all costs, scams guaranteed! I will not dwell on the subject but if you do a little research, you will quickly realize that it is to be avoided.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Shopping in Singapore

13. Singapore Flyer

A little idea of ​​a nice activity to do in Singapore to contemplate the city: a ride on a Ferris wheel. It is located not far from Marina Bay.

At 165 meters high, the Singapore Flyer has long been the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. During the tour, you can enjoy the view of the buildings, the bay and the Supertrees.

To book your ticket for the Singapore Flyer, nothing could be simpler, click here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore Flyer

14. The Southern Ridges

I continue my Singapore tourist guide by offering you a walk in the middle of nature.

The Southern Ridges is a 10 km long trail connecting several parks in Singapore, located south of the city. Arranged with footbridges passing between the trees and the canopy, the place allows you to discover the local fauna and flora.

You can notably go through Kent Ridge Park, HortPark, Telok Blangah Hill, Labrador Nature Reserve and Mount Faber Park. 

You don’t have to do the whole path because there are several places to join it. For example, I got off at the Telok Blangah metro station to reach the park of the same name and walk on the walkways up the hill.

From there, you won’t be far from the Henderson Waves Bridge and the cable car to Sentosa Island. I explain everything below.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
The Southern Ridges, Singapore

15. Henderson Waves Bridge

Taking the Southern Ridges Trail will take you over the Henderson Waves Bridge.

This futuristic-looking wooden bridge is Singapore’s tallest pedestrian bridge and a popular photo spot. It must be recognized that its shape, all in waves and curves is really original and also allows you to admire the view of the city, 36 meters high.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Henderson Waves Bridge

16. Sentosa

Sentosa is an island entirely dedicated to leisure, there are many tourist attractions in Singapore (click on the links in orange to book your tickets):

You can also indulge in a number of activities: segway, toboggan, bike, surftree climbing, skydive (indoor free fall) or even bungee jumping.

A word of advice: avoid the Butterfly Park Insect Kingdom which contains 3 poor butterflies and a few animals.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

To reach Sentosa Island, you can take the metro to Harbourfront station and then opt for a cable car ride.

The start is at Mount Faber, a little before the Henderson Waves Bridge and offers time to admire the view of the entire south of the city. It is possible to book your tickets for the Singapore cable car directly by clicking here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Take the cable car to Sentosa

17. Singapore Aquarium

As I told you, you can also visit the Singapore Aquarium during your day in Sentosa.

Jellyfish, colorful fish, rays, sharks, there really is a lot of underwater species to see! The aquarium is also well designed and maintained.

To avoid queuing at the entrance, I advise you to take your tickets in advance by clicking directly here.

It’s really a must if you’ve decided to go to Singapore with your family.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Visit the Singapore Aquarium

18. Singapore Zoo

To stay in animals and family outings, if you no longer know what to do in Singapore, you can visit the city zoo.

With its 28 hectares and more than 2,500 animals, the Singapore Zoo is one of the most famous in Asia. You can see tigers, lions, leopards, giraffes and more. Tickets on sale here.

Right next to the zoo (but at an additional cost to visit it) is the River Safari park, which is more dedicated to the different ecosystems of the aquatic world.

But strangely, it is in the River Safari, that you can admire the giant pandas. We quickly understand why they are not in the zoo strictly speaking: to “force” you to buy entrance tickets for the 2 parks.

So, if you want to see the pandas, you must also buy your pass for the River Safari. They are available here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
White Tiger, Singapore Zoo

19. Singapore River Cruise

During your holidays in Singapore, you can also treat yourself to a relaxing moment by taking a cruise on the Singapore River.

Departing from Clarke Quay, embark on a wooden boat to discover the skyscrapers of the financial district, the Merlion, the theater or even the monuments of the colonial district.

A pleasant outing of about 40 minutes to observe the city from another angle.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore Cruise

20. Singapore Rooftops

What could be better than a rooftop (rooftop terrace) in one of the tallest buildings in Singapore to contemplate the city at night and enjoy an excellent cocktail.

Here is my selection of the best rooftops in Singapore:

  • The Ce La Vi located at the top of the Marina Bay Sands
  • The 1-Altitude located on the 63rd floor, at 1 Raffles Place. One of the tallest bars in the world!
  • The LeVel 33 with a view of the Singapore Marina and which can boast of being the highest microbrewery in the world.
  • The Loof for a more relaxed atmosphere
  • The Kinki and its view of the business district
  • The Lantern in the Fullerton Bay Hotel
  • The SuperTree by Indochine located in one of the giant trees of Gardens By the Bay, one of the most spectacular rooftops in Singapore!
  • The New Asia Bar is located at the 71st stage of the Swissôtel hotel and hosts the most famous DJs in the world

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

Most of these rooftops are quite chic, so you will have to take your best outfit out of the suitcase for tonight!

Cocktail prices are quite high and usually start around $20.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Contemplate the city of Singapore from a rooftop

21. Night Safari

If you have decided to visit Singapore with your family, you will certainly have to forget the option of the rooftop for your evening. But don’t worry, I found you a more suitable activity: a night safari.

The Night Safari is one of the main tourist attractions in Singapore by night. You will be able to discover many animals such as lions or elephants.

The first part of the visit is done on foot and then you will get on the tram to visit and benefit from the audio commentaries.

Book your Singapore Night Safari tickets here.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

If you are planning to visit Singapore Zoo and do the Night Safari, I would advise you to opt for a combo ticket. This saves money.

The zoo + night safari entry ticket can be booked here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore Night Safari

22. Bird Park

To finish with animal-centered activities, in Singapore you can also visit the largest bird park in the world.

The Bird Park hosts no less than 5,000 birds of 400 different species. Like the zoo, the River Safari and the Night Safari, it is managed by the NGO Wildlife Reserves Singapore. Most of the birds are kept in large aviaries and the park is quite well designed.

To avoid queuing at the entrance, don’t hesitate to book your Singapore Bird Park tickets in advance.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore Bird Park

23. The Beaches of Singapore

And if you take advantage of your visit to Bangkok to go to the beach?

Well, I warn you, don’t expect the paradisiacal beaches and wild surroundings that can be found around Koh Lanta or Phuket, Thailand. Singapore’s beaches are less pretty but if you feel like cooling off, this will do.

The most accessible beaches in Singapore are on Sentosa Island:

  • Palawan beach: very crowded and surrounded by restaurants
  • Siloso beach where you can do several water activities
  • Tanjong beach, a little quieter during the day

In the South of Singapore, you can also reach the East Coast Park, the largest park in the city where there is a large sandy beach.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Siloso Beach, Singapore

24. Taste the Local Cuisine

During your trip to Singapore, you will obviously have the opportunity to taste the local cuisine.

Among the specialties to test, I recommend:

  • Dim Sum: delicious steamed bites filled with vegetables or meat
  • Laksa, a spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk and served with eggs and prawns
  • Nasi Lemak: rice with coconut cream accompanied by fish or chicken and a sauce made with chili, ginger and lemon (among others)
  • The Chilli Crab: crab served with a special bread (mantou) to dip in a delicious sauce
  • The fish head curry which, as its name suggests, is a fish head marinated in a curry
  • Hokkien Mee: 2 kinds of noodles cooked in a shrimp and squid broth
  • Durian: Singapore’s national fruit known for its horrible smell and banned on public transport and most hotels! Once past this inconvenience, it seems that it’s good!

To discover the typical dishes of Singapore, you can also choose a guided tour with tasting of several specialties such as Nasi Lemak and Dim Sum.

This food tour is very nice and includes about ten tastings in the Malay Village, Chinatown and Little India.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
The Durian, known for its foul smell!

25. MacRitchie Reservoir Park

Another nice park to take a walk in Singapore: the MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

Total change of scenery guaranteed in this park with its lush vegetation populated by many monkeys.

To walk it, you will have the choice between several marked trails (the longest is 11 km) but do not miss to pass by the Treetop Walk, a suspension bridge offering a pretty panoramic view of the whole park.

You will find signs of the possible routes at each entrance to the park. Remember to bring water, good sneakers and mosquito repellent!

Singapore itinerary 5 days
MacRitchie Reservoir Park

26. Ubin Island

To conclude this top things to do and see absolutely in Singapore, I recommend that you go to Pulau Ubin.

This island is located northeast of the city and easily accessible by boat (only 10 minutes for the crossing). The boat picks up at the Changi Point Ferry Terminal. No timetables, it leaves when full but it’s quick as it can only accommodate a dozen passengers.

Spending a day at Pulau Ubin during your stay in Singapore is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and a bit of a change from the skyscrapers.

You can go around the island on foot or by bike, to discover the traditional village, the old quarries, the jungle and the mangrove.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

I also advise you to climb to the Puaka Hill viewpoint, which offers a clear view of the surroundings!

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Ubin Island

What to do around Singapore?

After seeing all these places of interest in Singapore, it’s time to find out what you can do around.

And in reality, there is not much to do in the immediate vicinity of Singapore, but on the other hand you can reach other destinations very easily in just a few hours by flight or by boat.

27. The islands of Indonesia

Batam Island and its neighbor Bintan, are the closest islands to visit around Singapore. Located in Indonesia, they are only 1 hour by boat from the city.

In Batam, you can enjoy several beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Golf enthusiasts can also indulge their passion on one of the world-renowned golf courses.

Fairly touristy, the islands also offer duty-free shopping, luxury hotels and resorts, and water activities.

It is the ideal destination for a relaxing weekend around Singapore.

And if you want to push a little further Bali is only 2h30 flight away , so your trip to Singapore can be an opportunity to discover this magnificent island of Indonesia!

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Bali, Indonesia

28. Thailand

From Singapore, you can also easily fly to Thailand.

If you are looking for an island with sublime beaches, then choose PhuketKoh LantaKoh Yao Noi or Krabi.

If you’re not tired of the city, then head to Bangkok, the Thai capital.

To help you organize your trip to Thailand, do not hesitate to read my articles dedicated to the country: Destination Thailand.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Discover Thailand

29. The Vietnam

Another country to discover around Singapore: Vietnam.

In 2 hours of flight, you can reach Ho-Chi-Minh, formerly called Saigon.

Not to be missed in Ho Chi Minh:

  • The War Museum which traces all the horrors of the Vietnam War
  • Temples and pagodas
  • The Reunification Palace 
  • The Cu Chi tunnels where tens of thousands of people hid
  • The Notre-Dame cathedral
  • The central post office and its typical French architecture
  • Enjoying an iced coffee, a must!

And once in Vietnam, nothing prevents you from exploring the wonders of the country, such as the famous Halong Bay or the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Mu Cang Chai Rice Terraces, Vietnam

30. Cambodia

Cambodia is also one of the destinations near Singapore that is easily accessible by plane.

You can visit the capital Phnom Penh (the royal palace, the national museum) or of course go to Angkor Wat to discover the temples, the most touristic site in Cambodia.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Cambodia

Visiting Singapore with the family

Here is a summary list of the best things to do in Singapore with your children:

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore zoo pandas

How many days to visit Singapore?

Given the number of places to see in Singapore, I recommend that you stay there for at least 3 days. It’s a good time to discover many of the places of interest I’m talking about in this top.

I give you my examples of itineraries to visit Singapore in 1, 2, 3 days or more just below.

Tips for your Singapore itinerary:

If you intend to chain paid visits during your stay in Singapore, there is a city pass which allows you to save a lot of money.

It entitles free access to more than 35 tourist attractions and activities in Singapore which are all in my top. On the other hand, you will have to plan your visits in advance to group together those that are included and be sure to make it profitable.

Indeed, as it is valid for a period of 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days, this leaves little room for maneuver in the event of bad weather or unforeseen events: for example, you will have to count one day if you want to go to the zoo, the River Safari and the Night Safari and another day for Sentosa. This imposes a sustained visit rhythm.

If you plan to really visit the city thoroughly, you must book your unlimited attractions pass to visit Singapore by clicking here.

And if you want to be less rushed, it is better to book your skip-the-line tickets one by one for each attraction through the links I have given you throughout the article.

1 Day Singapore Itinerary

If you only have one day to visit Singapore, during a long layover for example, you can easily reach the district that interests you the most by metro and then explore it on foot.

Everything will depend on your interests, but the most spectacular place in the city remains the Gardens By the Bay and the surroundings of Marina Bay and the Merlion.

A good quick and inexpensive solution to get an overview of the city and its main districts is also to choose the Singapore hop- on hop-off bus tour .

Tickets can be booked directly here.

2 Days Singapore Itinerary

If you have 2 days in Singapore, I suggest the following program:

Day 1:

  • Discovery of Chinatown
  • Singapore City Gallery Museum Tour
  • Passage through the Marina Bay Sands
  • Gardens by the Bay Tour
  • SuperTree sound and light show

Day 2:

  • Visit to the districts of Little India and Kampong Glam
  • Pass by the Raffles Hotel to sip a Singapore Sling
  • Walk in the Colonial Quarter
  • Picture with the Merlion
  • Take a Ferris wheel ride and/or enjoy the panoramic view from one of Singapore’s rooftops
Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore’s Supertrees

3 Days Singapore Itinerary

In 3 days in Singapore, in addition to the program of the previous 2 days, I offer you:

  • A trip to the Southern Ridges and passage through the Henderson Waves
  • Take the cable car to Mount Faber
  • Spend the rest of the day in Sentosa: you can visit one or more attractions or go to the beach

You also have a second option for this 3rd day in Singapore:

  • Visit the Singapore Botanic Garden in the morning
  • Devote an afternoon to shopping on Orchard Road 

4 Days Singapore Itinerary

For a 4-day stay in Singapore, you can choose the option you did not choose on day 3.

5 Days Singapore Itinerary

If your trip to Singapore lasts 5 days, I advise you to choose between:

  • 1 day at MacRitchie Reservoir
  • 1 day to visit the Singapore Zoo and also do the Night Safari if you want
  • 1 day in Pulau Ubin

Visit Singapore in a week

In 7 days in Singapore, you won’t have to choose, resume the program until day 5.

On the sixth and seventh day, you can do the other 2 places. You will then have visited the majority of Singapore’s tourist sites!

Accommodation in Singapore

We’re not going to hide it, unlike other Asian cities, Singapore is not really the place to stay for cheap.

Accommodation prices are quite high and it is better to go as far in advance as possible to have fairly reasonable rates. The good news is that you will still have plenty of choice as there are hundreds of hotels in Singapore.

In terms of location, it does not matter as long as your hotel is not far from a metro station, since this will be the means of transport you will use to get around.

To help you choose, I have prepared my selection of the best hotels to sleep in Singapore, depending on your budget:

Capsule hotels (hostel style) – the cheapest accommodation in Singapore:

  • Spacepod@com: Located 100 meters from the metro and 3 km from the colonial district. Capsule bed (we speak of “pod”) from €40, breakfast included. The pluses: 2 steps from the metro, functional and comfortable capsule.
  • The Atlas Station: Capsule hotel located 2 km from the Singapore Art Museum and 3 km from the Singapore Flyer. Double space capsule from €50, breakfast included. The pluses: the air conditioning and a screen with Netflix in each pod, the friendliness of the staff.
  • Wink Capsule Hostel @ Chinatown: Located in Chinatown. Capsule bed from €60, breakfast included. Most: the location in Chinatown, the metro 2 min walk, cleanliness. This is our recommendation for a cheap stay in Singapore.

The best hotels for a budget between 100€ and 200€:

  • Hotel Boss: Located between Kampong Glam district and Little India district. Modern double room with a view of the city from €110, breakfast at €8. Most: the swimming pool, the good location, the view.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon: Located in Little India. Comfortable and well appointed double room from €150, breakfast €13. Most: soundproofing, comfortable bedding, swimming pool. An excellent choice where to stay in Singapore!
  • YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road: Located in the heart of the shopping district, at Orchard Street and 270 meters from the metro station. Very stylish and functional double room from €170, breakfast included. Most: the outdoor swimming pool, the comfort of the bed, the excellent breakfast. It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio in Singapore!
  • Swissotel Merchant Court Singapore: Located at Clarke Quay, right next to the Colonial District and not far from Chinatown. Cozy double room with a view of the river or the swimming pool from €200, breakfast at €28. Most: the excellent welcome, the rich and varied breakfast, the availability of a telephone, the geographical location. The best choice to sleep in a 5* hotel in Singapore for a “reasonable” price for the city.

Singapore luxury hotels:

  • Parkroyal on Pickering: Located in Chinatown. Design and warm double room from €250, breakfast at €25. Most: the swimming pool, the hanging gardens and the plant setting, the magnificent decoration, the excellent breakfast. An outstanding place to stay in Singapore!
  • Marina Bay Sands: This emblematic 5* hotel in Singapore is known for its famous swimming pool: the largest infinity pool in the world and which also offers a superb view of the Gardens By the Bay. Double room with contemporary decor and fitted with large bay windows to take advantage of the view, from €400. The pluses: the quality of service, access to the Infinity Pool, services. This is our recommendation for an upscale stay in Singapore!
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore: Luxury hotel located in Marina Bay. Very classy double room, with refined furniture, from €460, breakfast at €37. Most: the quality of the service, the comfort of the rooms, the delicious food.
  • Raffles Hotel Singapore: Another emblematic 5* establishment in Singapore. The Raffles Hotel offers very elegant rooms in the colonial style from 600€, breakfast at 47€. The pluses: the setting, the architecture, the atmosphere, the luxury and the refinement. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Singapore!
Singapore itinerary 5 days
Visit Singapore

Where to eat in Singapore

I don’t really have any specific recommendations for a particular restaurant to do in Singapore.

It will really depend on where you are staying and where you are at meal times. But everywhere you will find places to eat at any time of the day.

I recommend the food courts in shopping centers, or the hawker centers, open-air or semi-covered spaces (more typical, let’s say) that bring together all the cuisines of the world.

Choose what you want to eat from any of the stalls and you can sit at the tables in the center to enjoy it. Be careful, if you see a packet of tissues on the table or on the chair, it’s because it’s reserved!

A super practical option if there are several of you and everyone wants to eat a different dish.

Where to go out in Singapore at night

In addition to all the rooftops I told you about, if you want to party in Singapore or have a drink in a relaxed atmosphere, I recommend:

  • Haji Lane street for its many bars where DJs or live musicians perform
  • The Telok Ayer Street, also very lively in the evening
  • Le Zouk (Clarke Quay metro station), ranked in the top 10 of the best nightsclubs in the world

Pub crawls are also offered in Singapore. Ideal if you are visiting Singapore on your own but want to meet other travelers for an evening.

The tour includes free shots, discounts on other drinks and VIP club entry.

Book your pub crawl in Singapore by clicking here.

Singapore itinerary 5 days
Singapore by night

How to get around in Singapore?

To get around Singapore, the best way is undoubtedly the metro. The network is super developed and you will avoid all the inevitable traffic jams if you travel by bus or taxi.

When arriving at Singapore airport, I recommend that you take the Singapore Tourist Pass which gives unlimited access to public transport for 1, 2 or 3 days for $10 per day or $30 for 3 days.

The price includes the $10 deposit which will be returned to you when you bring back your transport cards. This is the best pass for using transport.

Singapore Tourist Map

To help you visualize the city a little better, I made you a tourist map of Singapore listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 30 things to do in Singapore and the surrounding area. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.

And you, what are you planning to visit during your trip to Singapore?

Camille L.

Passionate about foreign languages, cooking and writing. I wish to share with you the places, the meetings and the gastronomic discoveries which gave relief to my travels.

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