Lorraine Jose
Planning your Singapore trip can seem overwhelming. However, with this comprehensive travel guide, you'll be able to easily create an itinerary that fits your budget and includes all the must-see attractions and activities in Singapore.
In this post, you can find recommendations on where to stay, things to do, available activities you can participate in, tips, sample itineraries, and breakdowns of expenses. I hope you find this information useful for your next trip to Singapore.
What should you know about Singapore?
- Singapore uses G-type plugs and sockets. We needed to hire an adapter at the hotel for us to be able to use the outlets.
- Hiring private cars or taxis can be very expensive. Singapore's tourist areas are accessible via MRT and bus.
- Singapore is voted the cleanest and greenest city in the world. Know that they have laws against chewing gum, littering, graffiti, jaywalking, spitting, and even expelling "mucus from the nose" in any street or any public place. These are all strictly prohibited in Singapore and punishable by law.
When is the best time to visit Singapore?
Singapore's weather is usually reliable, so tourists can go there to sightsee at any time of year. The months of December through June are ideal for a trip to Singapore due to its dry season.
But if you don't want to deal with crowds and want to take advantage of cheaper prices, the best time to go to Singapore is from July to November.
Arrival at Changi Airport
Changi Airport is centrally located in Singapore, making it an easy airport to get around. It can be reached via public transportation and is only a short taxi ride away from several of Singapore's major attractions.
What do you need to do when you arrive at Changi Airport?
1 Get a SIM card or rent a 4G WiFi to stay connected while in Singapore. You can purchase or rent it once you arrive at the airport, or you can book it in advance so you can just pick it up at the airport.
2 You must have an EZ Link Card if you prefer to use the MRT. You can purchase EZ Link Cards at the airport. Note that using the MRT or a bus is the most convenient method to get to your hotel. Compared to taxis or private cars, it is less expensive. Check out Singapore's MRT AND LRT MAP HERE.
3 You can book a private car or shared transfer in advance to pick you up if you don't want to use the MRT.
Where to stay in Singapore
When deciding where to stay in Singapore, it's important to consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, attractions, and budget. Some popular areas for tourists include Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Clarke Quay, and Sentosa Island.
Where to stay in Singapore for the first time
The ideal destination for tourists, especially first-timers, is within or near Marina Bay. By booking a hotel in this area, you'll be close to three of Singapore's most well-known sights: the Merlion Statue, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay. Additionally, there are many nearby attractions and activities, such as the Art Science Museum, Marina Bay Sands Sky Park Observation Deck, Spectra Light & Water Show, Singapore River Cruise, and many more!
Where to stay if you're with your family
The best place for families to stay in Singapore is on Sentosa Island. The Universal Studios theme park, Resorts World, Sentosa Nature Discovery, and the S.E.A. Aquarium are just a few of the family-friendly attractions and events available.
Where to stay for nightlife
For those seeking nightlife, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, which are part of the Singapore River, are popular areas with plenty of bars and clubs. Clarke Quay is home to over 60 bars, restaurants, and entertainment establishments. Many hotels in these areas, such as the Swissotel Merchant Court, offer convenient access to the nightlife scene.
Where to stay for shopping and food trips
If you're looking for a hotel that's close to shopping areas, you might want to consider staying on Orchard Road, in Bugis, or in Kampong Glam. These three places are known for their shopping centers, dining, and entertainment districts.
Bugis offers a more affordable neighborhood and is less commercialized than Orchard Road. Orchard Road can be more expensive.
Where to stay in Singapore on a Budget
Geylang is a great place for travelers on a budget because it has cheap places to stay. However, keep in mind that Geylang is also known for its red-light district, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
Another option is in Little India, which offers plenty of affordable hostels and guesthouses to choose from. Plus, you'll be able to experience the vibrant culture and delicious food of this colorful neighborhood.
Last but not least is Chinatown, which also has cheap places to stay and easy access to public transportation. You can also enjoy the area's lively street markets, food stands, and cultural sites.
Where to stay for a stopover or layover
Changi Airport has a wide range of places for travelers to stay the night, from high-end hotels to more affordable options. There are also many things to do and places to eat at the airport to keep people busy while they are waiting.
Things to do in Singapore
1. Explore Singapore River
Singapore is a country that is rich in culture and history. A great way to experience the beauty of this country is to take a tour of the Singapore River. The Singapore River offers an exciting journey through the city’s vibrant riverside.
- Raffles Place
- Merlion Park - most crowded area
- Esplanade Bridge
- Makansutra Gluttons Bay
- The Float Grandstand
- Helix Bridge
- Marina Bay Sands
- Art Science Museum - Experience the Future World, Sneakertopia, and the ArtScience Museum Guided Tour. This is one opportunity to learn about Singapore's culture, art, history, technology, and space.
You can also participate in the Singapore River Cruise, a 40-minute boat cruise that passes by some of Singapore's popular riverside highlights.
This is also an educational experience to learn the history of the famous landmarks such as Raffles Landing Site, the Merlion, the Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands, and many more.
- Go to your nearest MRT station and drop off at Raffles Place Station (Green or Red Line).
- You can also try Singapore's Hop On Hop Off Bus. The tour (yellow route) includes a stop at Marina Bay Sands, Merlion, and Fullerton, which are part of the Singapore River Tour. Note that this bus is not available on Wednesdays.
Get a peek at the Singapore River at night and watch the Spectra Fountain Show, which is a combination of laser lights and fountain jets that synchronize with a vibrant soundtrack in front of the Marina Bay Sands.
- Sunday – Thursday: 8PM and 9PM
- Friday and Saturday: 8PM, 9PM, 10PM
- Free Admission
To get the most out of the spectacle, it is recommended to watch it from the Merlion Park. Every show lasts for fifteen minutes. Check out updated SHOWTIMES AND SPECIAL EVENTS HERE.
2. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay's three main attractions are as follows:
- The famous Supertree Groves (free admission)
- Flower Dome: the largest glass greenhouse in the world
- Cloud Forest: where the world's tallest indoor waterfall is located
- The Gardens by the Bay MRT station (TE22) was opened in November 2022. Hop on your nearest MRT and drop off at Gardens by the Bay MRT station (brown line).
- Alternatively, if you're in Marina Bay Sands, cross the Lions Bridge or walk through the underground linkway from Bayfront Station. Both are just behind Marina Bay Sands. There are signs indicating directions going to the Gardens by the Bay. Just follow the signs, and you won't be lost.
- Super Groove Trees
- Cloud Forest featuring Avatar: The Experience (extended till 30 June 2023!)
- Flower Dome
- Floral Fantasy
- Supertree Observatory
Tickets provide re-entry stamps in the event that you need to leave the domes.
Don't miss the mesmerizing and magical Garden Rhapsody Light and Sound Show at the Supergrove Trees.
The show will be crowded, so make sure to arrive early at the Supertree Groves to find a good spot to watch the show. Check out the most recent GARDEN BY THE BAY EVENTS HERE.
- Every night: 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM
- Free Admission
3. Sentosa Island and Universal Studios
There are a lot of cool sights to see and activities to try on Sentosa Island. The Sentosa Bus service travels around the island as well as the Sentosa Express monorail service, so each of the featured attractions can be reached without any difficulty.
- Go to your nearest MRT station and drop off at Harbourfront Station.
- Locate VivoCity Mall and proceed to Level 3 of the mall.
- Proceed to Lobby L and fall in line to purchase an admission ticket and to redeem any ticket you purchase online. Sentosa Island admission costs S$4. Do not lose your ticket. (UPDATE: Extension of the Island Admission Waiver until March 31, 2023. (MORE DETAILS HERE)
- Board the Sentosa Express Monorail train and off you go.
Alternatively, you can book or hire private or shared transfers to Universal Studios or Sentosa Island if you don't want to take the MRT.
The Sentosa Express Monorail makes the following stops:
- Sentosa Station (VivoCity Shopping Mall)
- Waterfront Station (Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore)
- Imbiah Station (for Skyline Luge, Adventureland, MegaZip, and Madame Tussauds)
- Beach Station (Wings of Time)
There are other ways to get around Sentosa Island, such as using the Sentosa Bus, Cable Car, cycling, walking, and the Beach Shuttle. I will create a comprehensive guide later on.
- Board the Sentosa Express Monorail train and drop off at the Waterfront Station. There are directions pointing to Universal Studios. Just follow the directions, and you won't be lost.
- Monday to Friday: 10AM – 8PM.
- Saturday: 10AM – 6PM
- Sunday: 10AM – 8PM.
Check out their OFFICIAL WEBSITE for official updates on opening hours and special events!
- Adult ticket: Age 13-59: S$82
- Child ticket: Age 4-12: S$61
Great view at night, and your best bet is to make a reservation for the kart ride that includes all three loops.
Enjoy 3D projection mapping, cutting-edge lasers, dazzling pyrotechnics, fountains and water jets, and a music production that will captivate you—all in one fantastic fusion!
I recommend that you buy tickets to the show at 8:40 PM so that you won't have to rush.
After the show, hop on the Sentosa Express Monorail. The establishment closes its doors for good at 10:00 p.m.
4. Singapore Night Safari
The Singapore Night Safari is the very first night zoo in the world. It offers a nighttime experience that is unparalleled anywhere else in the city. The 35-hectare park is home to more than 1,000 animals representing 120 different species, all of which spend the night in their respective naturalistic habitats.
- 7:15 PM, 8:15 PM, 9:15 PM, and 10:15 PM daily
- Take the MRT and change to the Red line. Alight at the Khatib Station.
- Locate Exit A and wait for the Mandai Khatib Shuttle that goes straight to the Night Safari
- Alternatively, you can book private or shared transfer to drop you directly at Night Safari
5. Singapore Botanic Gardens
Visit these tranquil gardens to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of Singapore's crowded streets. The Singapore Botanic Gardens are the only tropical park in the world to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These gardens have been in existence for the past 160 years. Check out the FULL GARDEN MAP HERE.
- 5 AM to 12 midnight daily
- Free admission except to the National Orchid Garden (Adult: S$5, Student: S$1)
- Take the MRT and change to the Yellow or Blue line. Alight at the Botanic Garden Station. The station is located at the northwest corner of the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
- You can also try Singapore's Hop On Hop Off Bus. The tour (yellow route) includes a stop at Botanic Gardens. Note that this bus is not available on Wednesdays.
6. Chinese and Japanese Gardens
The Chinese and Japanese Gardens are both located in Jurong East, Singapore. Professor Yuen-chen Yu, an architect from Taiwan, was responsible for the design, and construction of the Chinese Garden and was completed in 1975. The most distinguishing trait is the way in which architectural elements are incorporated into their surrounding natural setting.
- Take the MRT and change to the Green Line. Alight at the Chinese Garden Station.
- 5:30 AM to 11 PM daily
- Free Adminssion
7. Orchard Road
Orchard Road is the premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district in the entire country. In addition to being a destination that tourists absolutely cannot miss, it is also frequented on a regular basis by members of the community.
- Take the MRT and change to the Red line. Alight at the Orchard Station.
- The Hop On Hop Off Bus (yellow route) includes a stop at Orchard Road. Note that this bus is not available on Wednesdays.
8. Chinatown
Chinatown is an ethnic area with a historically concentrated Chinese population and distinctively Chinese cultural aspects.
- Take the MRT and change to either the blue or purple line. Alight at the Chinatown Station.
- Alternatively, take a public bus going to Chinatown.
- The Hop On Hop Off Bus (red route) includes a stop at Chinatown. Note that this bus is not available on Wednesdays.
- Chinatown Heritage Centre
- Sri Mariamman Temple
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
- Chinatown Visitor Center
- Chinatown Food Street
- Thian Hock Keng Temple
9. Little India
Little India has grown into a district with a lively culture, traditional businesses, art, and temples that are hundreds of years old.
- Take the MRT and change to the Purple Line. Alight at the Little India Station.
- Alternatively, take a public bus going to Little India.
- The Hop On Hop Off Bus (red route) includes a stop at Little India. Note that this bus is not available on Wednesdays.
- Tekka Centre
- Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
- Little India Arcade
- Indian Heritage Centre
10. Kampong Glam and Bugis
Kampong Glam is referred to as Singapore's Muslim Quarter and is centered on bustling Arab Street.
The Malay Heritage Centre, which has displays about local history, and the Sultan Mosque, which has a golden dome, are both important landmarks in this area.
Haji Lane is lined with trendy cafes, clothing boutiques, and street art.
- Take the MRT and change to Green or Blue line. Alight at the Bugis MRT Station.
- Bugis Street Market
- Bugis+ (10 storey mall)
- Bugis Junction
- Haji Lane
- Sultan Mosque
- Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple
- Hajjah Fatimah Mosque
- Malay Heritage Centre
- Arab Street
Visit Legoland, Malaysia from Singapore
Why don't you take a trip to Legoland which is only about an hour or two outside of Singapore?
Legoland Malaysia is a theme park with over 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and interactive experiences based on the popular toy brand. It also features a water park and a hotel for visitors who want to stay overnight.
Legoland Malaysia features the following:
- Legoland Park is a theme park with over 70 rides, attractions, and shows inspired by the Lego toy bricks. The park is divided into several themed areas, including Lego City, Land of Adventure, Imagination, and Miniland.
- Legoland Water Park is perfect for families who want to enjoy thrilling water activities and consists of over 20 slides, rides, and water games.
- Sea Life Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore marine life and learn about ocean conservation. It also offers aquarium zones with more than 25 display tanks in 11 habitat zones, featuring 13,000 sea creatures from 120 species.
How To Go To Legoland Malaysia From Singapore
I created a separate guide on how to get to Legoland, Malaysia from Singapore. Check the button link below:
Sample Itinerary with Budget
Here's a sample itinerary with a budget. You can change it accordingly. You can skip or add things to do or places to see. Note that the budget does not include airfare, accommodation, food, souvenirs, or shopping expenses.
I hope you found this article informative and engaging. Please feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below.
It would also be helpful if you shared this link so that other people could read it. This would help me write a more detailed itinerary to help you plan your next trip. I appreciate you reading.
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