Don’t be fooled by Singapore’s small size. Too often dismissed as a layover destination, Singapore has everything from world-class hotels, theme parks, gardens, museums and shopping to keep you entertained for weeks. As one of the safest countries in the world, you can truly relax and enjoy yourself here. I encourage you to extend that layover and give Singapore at least 5 days to show you what it has to offer. Here’s my 5-day itinerary for a great first visit.
Day 1
If you’re travelling from Europe or the Americas, you’re likely dealing with some significant jet lag, so take some time on your first day to decompress, adjust to the tropical humidity and familiarise yourself with the local neighbourhood.
If you’re travelling on a budget, and especially if you’re solo, consider staying in the Kampong Glam neighbourhood. You’ll have a choice of hostels here and will be close to popular sights like Haji Lane and Sultan Mosque.
Day 2
AM – National Museum of Singapore
Introducing you to Singapore’s long and diverse history, the National Museum of Singapore takes you from Singapore’s early days as the settlement of Temasek, through European colonisation, to the modern day Lion City.
This knowledge will prove useful in understanding the multicultural society that you’ll experience in Singapore this week.
PM – Fort Canning Park
Sitting behind the museum, Fort Canning Park sits atop a hill overlooking the historical Civic District. As well as remnants of the namesake fort, the park is also home to a Sculpture Garden, Spice Garden and underground former military complex. In the summer months, you can catch a Shakespeare In The Park or Ballet Under The Stars on the lawns.
PM – Raffles Hotel
Once the sun goes down, head to the famed Raffles Hotel for an early evening tipple – the Singapore Sling. Created at the hotel’s own Long Bar, this fruity cocktail draws visitors in their droves so be prepared to queue.
Day 3
AM – Gardens By The Bay
One of Singapore’s main tourist attractions, Gardens By The Bay covers 250 acres along the waterfront. Home to the popular Cloud Forest and Supertrees, you could spend an entire day here if you have the time. Also don’t miss some of the lesser known highlights of the Gardens, such as Kingfisher Wetlands and the 200+ sculptures around the park, including my personal favourite – ‘Planet’.
PM – Lau Pa Sat and Satay Street
Having spent the day walking the Gardens, it’s time to sample Singapore’s hawker centre culture. Lau Pa Sat attracts the crowds, so remember to ‘chope’ a seat with a pack of tissues or an umbrella before ordering. If you’re here after 7pm, you could also visit Lau Pa Sat’s hugely popular Satay Street. Whilst the satay here is admittedly pretty average, the atmosphere is 10/10.
PM – Marina Bay
Now you’ve refuelled, it’s time to hit the pavement again for an evening stroll around the world famous Marina Bay. Home to the unique Marina Bay Sands hotel, you can walk the entire marina loop in around 1 – 1.5 hours. The route takes in many of Singapore’s most photographed sights. Plus you’ll have the opportunity to catch the nightly Spectra Light & Water Show.
If you still have the energy, head back to Gardens By The Bay for the Garden Rhapsody, each day at 7:45pm and 8:45pm.
Day 4
AM – Singapore Botanic Gardens
Open everyday, this 165-year old tropical garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fantastic free day out. The sprawling grounds encompass it all – lakes, gardens, museums and restaurants. The Evolution Garden is a highlight – a journey through time featuring landscapes representing the beginnings of life on Earth to the present day.
PM – Night Safari
Time to head out from the city core of Singapore to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The Night Safari opens at 7:15pm and the evening atmosphere brings a whole new energy to the safari experience. As well as taking the tram tour, take a stroll around the park to see the the other animals. The theatre show is definitely not to be missed either!
Day 5
AM – Sentosa
If you have enough time before your flight, head down to Singapore’s main resort, Sentosa Island. Home to Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A Aquarium, Adventure Cove waterpark and iFly Singapore, there are tons of family-friendly attractions to be enjoyed here. There are also plenty of free attractions to be found too, including peaceful Fort Siloso, Palawan Beach and the musical fountain.
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