Singapore Travel Guide: How To Spend 2-5 Days Exploring Singapore
Are you going to Singapore and wondering what’s there, what to eat, where to go, what to do? Well
Many travellers heading to South East Asia from New Zealand & Australia have a flight that stops via Singapore. Wherever you are from, if you are thinking about spending a few days visiting the city, I HIGHLY recommend it.
First of all, Singapore is class. It’s one of the cleanest, and fanciest cities I have seen in the world.
Known primarily as one of the most important sea-ports in the world and a global financial hub, there is so much that Singapore travel offers visitors. From outdoor activities to fine dining, shopping and history; there is something to suit every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re in Singapore for business or pleasure, we’ve got ideas for you that’ll keep you busy and create memories that last forever.
As for a Singapore travel itinerary, here are highlights you will not want to miss!
A quick note before you go: If you have not seen the movie “Crazy Rich Asians” be sure to watch it… It will only improve your experience in Singapore even more. Trust me on this one.
Where to stay?
Singapore is not exactly cheap when it comes to travel in South East Asia. I would expect to pay prices you would find in the USA, Canada, or Australia. If you do your research, you can find good deals.
From cheapest to most expensive here are 4 recommendations when looking for accommodation.
#1. Hostelworld
The cheapest options you will find are on Hostelworld. We stayed at the Hipster Hostel for a few nights. It was very nice inside, though quite noisy as we slept near the window which sits over a “party” street. They did provide ear plugs and I feel you should always be prepared for noise when staying in a hostel.
Price: Approximately $15-30USD
#2. Booking.com
We stayed at Studio M hotel which was a lot more than a hotel room!
This was a very nice room and provided a great gym, pool, and restaurant. I would recommend this to anyone visiting Singapore.
Price: Approximately $130USD …View Here
#3. Airbnb
Airbnb is a great choice for accommodation if you are staying longer than one night in Singapore. You can pick from private rooms, studios, to 5 bedroom apartments! If you have not used Airbnb I highly recommend it.
CLICK HERE to get $50 off your first booking.
#4. Marina Bay Sands
If you want to feel like one of those “Crazy Rich Asians” from the movie, book a night (or 3 if you can swing it) in Marina Bay Sands. This looks like 3 high rise buildings with a ship on top. Yes, a ship. To swim in the pool (which is in the ship), you must be a guest at Marina Bay Sands.
Prices vary, we booked close to the time of travel and paid over $800nzd for one night …$$$
Best Daytime Activities:
#1. City Walk …. Following this map
Below I have added a map showing a great walk you can take along Marina Bay.
#2. Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay is a must-see for Singapore travel – an area that is the perfect mix of luxury and economy.
It’s is famous for the iconic Marina Bay Sands, a three-tower hotel topped by the Skypark (which looks like a boat) that offers panoramic views of the city-state. This is the building that is featured prominently in the Hollywood movie Crazy Rich Asians!
The Marina Bay Sands is a high-end address with a hotel, casino, restaurants owned by celebrity chefs, the Art Science Museum and an ice-skating rink.
The Mall here is home to brands like Armani, Fendi and Tiffany among other similar luxury brands.
Marina Bay also has plenty to do for those who are not looking to blow three month’s pay in one shop!
Side Note: The River taxis are a fun way to get around the bay. Take a tour in one and get off to explore any of the five stops – Esplanade, Clark Quay, Boat Quay, Clemenceau and Robertson Quay.
#3. Singapore Flyer
Ride the Singapore Flyer, the second largest observation wheel in the world. So it’s got killer views of Singapore! It’s a short walk from the Marina Bay, and offers 360-degree views of most of Singapore’s Central Business District, Singapore River, the Colonial District and ships out in the harbour.
#4. Merlion
Singapore’s Icon
#5. Silver Balls
Okay, this is another one, just for the GRAM … I know you like pictures!
There are a bunch of large silver balls located near the bay that
#6. Esplanade Theatres
If you like live performances, the Esplanade Theatres by the bay are unmissable. Showcasing local and international talent, there’s always something showing here! You can check out the schedule here.
#7. Wildlife Reserves Singapore
Whether you are there with kids or not, spare time for the Wildlife Reserves Singapore. Comprising the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Safari and Jurong Bird Park, they are great fun. You’ll see animals housed in their natural environment, walk with the elephants at night, have dinner in a teepee, watch live performances with animals, visit the Flooded Forest zone, see manatees “walk” and so much more. It’s an unforgettable experience!
Check out the schedules and ticket prices by clicking here.
#8. Sentosa Island
If you have an entire day free in Singapore, spend it at Sentosa Island! It’s a man-made island accessible by road and monorail. Relax on the beach, at the spa, or play a few holes of golf. Adrenaline junkies can head for the world’s tallest roller coaster, 3D thrill rides and fiery encounters with mummies at the Universal Studios theme park! The underwater S.E.A. Aquarium is also a terrific way to spend time while on the island.
Surf Tip: There’s a wave pool on Sentosa Island !
#9. Orchard Road (shopping)
For shoppers, Singapore has so much to offer! Just head to Orchard Road, where high street brands like Zara, H&M and Uniqlo are housed in malls that also have Prada, Hugo Boss, LV and Tiffany’s stores.
Orchard Road also has food for every palate and budget – think fast food chains at mall food courts and restaurants like Jamie’s Kitchen and Spago.
Best Nighttime Activities:
#1. Marina Bay Night Show
Singapore has one of SE Asia’s biggest light and water show, and it’s held in front of the Event Plaza at Marina Bay twice a night. It’s so great, the show is named Wonder Full. While some of Singapore’s attractions have economical entry tickets, Wonder Full is FREE!
In the evenings the steps fill up with hundreds of people coming to watch the show. Turn up 15 minutes early. You DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS …Find time’s HERE
#2. Gardens By The Bay, Night Walk
The gardens are great to explore at night. You should admire the baby sculpture and take a stroll through the biodomes that feature flora from different climate zones. The biodomes are connected by a 22m high walkway. Highly recommend sitting by one of the two lakes, or taking a break at one of the restaurants in the gardens. Also check out the food street hub at Satay by The Bay.
I personally recommend the SuperTree Grove in the gardens, they’ll remind you of Avatar! They’re amazing during the hour-long Garden Rhapsody light and sound show held every evening.
#3. Clarke Quay
When the day winds down, head to Clarke Quay along the Singapore River. Starting out as a commercial district, it is now home to a large number of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. This is the spot to sit back and crowd watch. Grab a drink, order a meal and maybe hit one of the many clubs in the area. Thankfully, the area has being outdoors in Singapore’s sultry weather figured out! The micro-climate in this area is cleverly managed with the help of shading and cooling systems.
Check out a comprehensive list of bars, pubs and clubs here.
#4. Have A Drink At Marina Bay Bar
Staying at Marina Bay Sands can be pricey. If you can’t swing the coin to stay in the hotel, you can go to the bar on the top floor of the hotel right next to the pool! I would definitely recommend having a sunset beer up here if you have a chance.
Fun Fact: Chewing gum is illegal in Singapore!
According to Singapore Statutes Online, the first-time penalty for the selling of gum can be as high as $100,000 or a prison sentence of up to two years. Penalties are subject to
rise with each conviction, but certain chewing gums that have medical benefits will be allowed.
Best Place To Eat:
Hawker Center(s)
Hawker centres are like outdoor food courts with all of the best street food you will find in Singapore. I much prefer this experience over going to a restaurant. During our last visit every night we visited a different hawker center. You can find the top 5 hawker centers here
So what are you waiting for!? Check your travel dates and plan to have the best time ever in Singapore whether you’re there for work or fun!
P.S. – If you really don’t have time for any of this, or maybe did it all and want more, spend some extra time at Changi Airport – it’s a world unto itself!
More Reading & Resources:
- 7 Best things to do in Singapore
- Additional travel guides, locations, tips and tricks
- How I Earn A Living While Traveling Full-Time
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