Best Singapore travel itinerary for tourists

Apologies for the gaps in posts - things have been hectic over the last month, and with the introduction of our Chinese language posts, I simply haven’t had the time to post new content. However, we are now back!

A few of my friends have been visiting Singapore and have asked me to create an itinerary for them. Many ask whether there are things to do in Singapore. The answer is yes and no. Singapore is a small but mighty city-state that offers a world of experiences within its compact borders. Despite its size, this dynamic metropolis is packed with iconic landmarks, cultural enclaves, stunning gardens, delectable cuisine, and much more. Overall, I recommend 3 days as the optimal amount of time to spend in Singapore. Anything more and you’ll be struggling to find things to do. Here’s the itinerary below. Note - we’ll save a more in-depth restaurant / bars guide for another time.

Day 1:

Morning

• Breakfast at Ya Kun: Start your Singapore adventure with a hearty breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast, a local favorite known for its traditional Singaporean breakfast. Indulge in crispy toast slathered with kaya (coconut jam) and paired with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of aromatic kopi (local coffee). Ya Kun’s are everywhere so it’s not hard to find. Alternatively, visiting Toast Box is ok too.
• Chinatown: After breakfast, make your way to Chinatown, a vibrant district teeming with colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant streets, visit the historic Sri Mariamman Temple, and savor delicious local street food at the Chinatown Food Street.

Afternoon

• Tiong Bahru: Afterward, make your way to Tiong Bahru, a hip neighborhood known for its trendy cafes and charming heritage buildings. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the local eateries, and explore the neighborhood’s unique boutiques and art galleries. Alternatively, check out the large Tiong Bahru Hawker center market for a local lunch, including Char Kway Teow, Chicken rice and Bak Chor Mee
• Artscience museum: Head to the ArtScience Museum, located within the iconic Marina Bay Sands complex. Explore the museum’s interactive exhibits that blend art, science, and technology, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Evening

• Gardens by the Bay / MBS: As the sun sets, head to Marina Bay Sands (MBS) to witness the spectacular light and sound show at the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and the dazzling light show that illuminates the night sky. At night, head to Gardens by the Bay, a stunning nature park that boasts iconic Supertrees and beautiful flower domes. Explore the various themed gardens and check out the free Garden Rhapsody performance.
• Dinner recommendations - Makansutra Gluttons Bay, Lau Pa Sat hawker center, Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, Extra Virgin Pizza. Plenty to eat around that area

Day 2:

Morning / Afternoon

• Sentosa: Head to Sentosa Island, a popular resort island with a myriad of attractions. Spend the afternoon enjoying the sandy beaches, visiting Universal Studios Singapore for thrilling rides and entertainment, or exploring the S.E.A. Aquarium for an underwater adventure. On the way out of Sentosa, check out Vivo City. Plenty to shop at that mall

Evening

• Clarke Quay: Take the MRT from Harborfront (Vivo City) to Clarke Quay. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many riverside restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. My recommendation is the Song Fa Ba Ku Teh there, a restaurant renowned for its flavorful pork rib soup. If you’re a party person, plenty of clubs / bars here, including the infamous Zouk

Day 3:

Morning:

• Little India: Start your day with a visit to Little India, a vibrant cultural enclave filled with colorful shops, aromatic spice stalls, and traditional Indian eateries. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and savor authentic Indian cuisine for breakfast. MTR is a great restaurant here

Afternoon

• Orchard: Explore Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping belt. Stroll along this bustling street lined with luxurious malls, fashion boutiques, and international brands. Shop to your heart’s content or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Dempsey: If shopping is not your thing, head to Dempsey Hill, Dempsey Hill offers a unique blend of history, dining, and shopping experiences. Explore the charming colonial-era buildings, indulge in a diverse range of cuisines at the various restaurants (Jumbo, Red Sparrow, Burnt Ends), and browse through the boutique shops and galleries for a delightful day out. FWIW, there’s a Dover Street Market there too

Evening

• Night Safari: Spend the evening at the Singapore Zoo, a world-class wildlife park known for its immersive and naturalistic enclosures. Discover a wide variety of animals and enjoy entertaining animal shows. Experience the unique Night Safari, where you can observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitats

Some other experience to consider

• East coast Park: Explore the scenic East Coast Park and enjoy activities like cycling, rollerblading, or simply relaxing on the beach.
• Joo Chiat: Immerse yourself in the colorful heritage of Joo Chiat, known for its Peranakan architecture, vibrant murals, and delicious local food.
• Jewel Airport: Visit Jewel Changi Airport, an architectural marvel that offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the stunning indoor waterfall, Canopy Park, and the Sky Nets.
• MacRitchie Reservoir: Embark on a nature adventure at MacRitchie Reservoir, where you can hike along the treetop walk, explore the nature trails, and spot wildlife such as monkeys and birds.
• Sungei Buloh: Discover the beauty of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, a nature reserve teeming with diverse flora and fauna, including migratory birds, reptiles, and mudskippers. This is one of my personal favourites
• Fort Canning Park: Step back in time at Fort Canning Park, a historic landmark with lush greenery, ancient artifacts, and historical significance. Explore the park’s archaeological dig site, visit the Battle Box museum, and enjoy scenic views of the city.

With this carefully curated three-day itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Singapore’s iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Lion City.

Recommended hotels to stay in

Singapore offers a wide range of hotel options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxurious 5-star hotels that exude opulence and offer world-class amenities to trendy boutique hotels with unique designs and personalized service, there is something for every traveler. Additionally, budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels and budget hotels provide affordable options without compromising on comfort. Whether you seek a lavish retreat, a charming boutique experience, or a wallet-friendly stay, Singapore has an extensive selection of hotels to cater to diverse needs and enhance your overall travel experience. My personal recs -

5 stars

Luxury

• Marina Bay Sands
• The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
• The Fullerton Bay Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
• Raffles Hotel Singapore

Business-y

• JW Marriott
• Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore

Getaway

• W Hotel Sentosa (if Sentosa isn’t too far for you)
• Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa

4 stars

• Hotel Jen Tanglin / Orchard
• Studio M
• Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium

Things to look out for

• Strict Laws: Singapore is known for its strict laws, so it’s important to be mindful of local regulations. Avoid littering, spitting, or engaging in any form of vandalism. Also, remember that chewing gum is not allowed in public.
• Respect for Customs and Culture: Singapore is a multicultural country with diverse customs and traditions. Show respect for local customs, traditions, and religions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local practices and sensitivities.
• Efficient Public Transportation: Singapore has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains. Familiarize yourself with the various modes of transportation and their respective routes. Be sure to tap your transport card (EZ-Link or Singapore Tourist Pass) when boarding buses and trains.
• Cleanliness and Hygiene: Singapore prides itself on cleanliness, and littering is heavily frowned upon. Dispose of trash in designated bins, and keep public spaces clean. Be mindful of personal hygiene, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Follow health and safety guidelines, such as wearing masks in public and maintaining social distancing.
• Tipping Culture: Tipping is not a common practice in Singapore, as a service charge is usually included in bills at hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

And here it is! I hope you like my Singapore 3-day itinerary and can put it to good use. Let me know if there are other recommendations that you think should be on this list! Comment in your thoughts. Subscribe now to see more content like this.