Singapore, the little island hub of energy just off the coast of Malaysia, is a beautiful place to spend your time in with its perfect blend of futuristic designs and natural gardens and parks. Whether you have a short layover, on your way to another destination, or you are arriving determined to spend a vacation in this multicultural city, you are spoilt for choice on things to do.
So spoilt, in fact, that it can seem impossible to properly plan a trip – there are so many things you can see and do, it can be quite overwhelming! You might also be asking yourself “how many days should I spend in Singapore?”
That’s why we’ve put together this Singapore itinerary! It will ensure you make the most of your time – however long or short that may be – and that you get to experience the best of the city.
- A Little Bit About this 4-Day Singapore Itinerary
- Where To Stay In Singapore in 4 Days
- Day 1 Itinerary in Singapore
- Day 2 Itinerary in Singapore
- Day 3 Itinerary in Singapore
- Day 4 Itinerary in Singapore
- What to Do with More than 4 Days in Singapore
- Best Time To Visit Singapore
- How to Get Around Singapore
- Planning a Trip to Singapore – What to Pack and Prepare For
- FAQ on Singapore Itinerary
- Final Thoughts
- Buy Us a Coffee!
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Singapore is one of the most modern and culturally unique cities in the world. As a city-state, it is one of the smallest nations in the world, yet offers more than enough to fill out an itinerary.
Singapore is known for its melting pot of cultures, its towering skyscrapers, and its squeaky clean reputation. Backpackers visiting Singapore for the first time often do remark that it can be a little stifling, due to its extreme civil rules and sometimes sterile attractions e.g. theme parks.
But there is plenty to like about Singapore. Here, you’ll find some immensely unique sites and experiences, like the ethnic smorgasbords of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam or the futuristic super trees at the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is a city that looks to the future and strives to be different and, in a lot of ways, it succeeds.
4 days in Singapore will be plenty of time. One can see all of the city’s major attractions without being rushed. For those who want to see as much as possible with the time allotted could even fit in a bit more. We’ve made sure to provide a couple of extra suggestions at the end of our standard 4-day Singapore itinerary.
Traveling in Singapore is also made easy thanks to the MRT (or Mass Rapid Transit). It runs throughout the city and can connect you from one attraction to the next fast, efficiently, and without hassle. Most of the major attractions are a short walk from the MRT stations.
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4-Day Singapore Itinerary Overview
- Day 1 in Singapore: Arab Street, Little India, Tekka Centre, Singapore National Museum, River Cruise, Rooftop Cocktails
- Day 2 in Singapore: Esplanade Center, ArtScience Museum, Lunch, Gardens by the Bay, Biodomes, Supertree Grove Skywalk
- Day 3 on Singapore: Sentosa, Skyline Luge, Palawan, Chinatown
- Day 4 in Singapore: Treetop Walk, Adam Road Food Centre, Botanic Garden, Orchard Road
- More Places to See in Singapore: Night Safari, Universal Studios, Marine Life Park
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Singapore, although small, has many different areas for you to stay in. From bustling city centers to cultural hubs and even beach resorts, there’s a spot on this island for every kind of traveler!
Apart from Sentosa – a beach resort island just off the coast of Singapore – the districts are all quite close to each other. So wherever you stay, you won’t be far from the other great places on offer.
Places like Chinatown and Little India are fantastic neighborhoods in Singapore for experiencing the many cultures available in Singapore. While Orchard Road is a hub of activity during the day, it turns into shopping opportunities galore in the evening!
If you’re looking for the best place to experience Singapore’s nightlife, we suggest staying in Clarke Quay. It’s also the perfect place for travelers on a budget. Backpackers in Singapore can find great accommodation and there are happy hour specials on food and drinks throughout the day.
Alternatively, enjoy fine-dining at some of Singapore’s best restaurants in the Civic District. Immerse yourself into the culture as well by visiting the many art museums in the area, and relax in some of the large green spaces – great for picnics!
Best Hostel in Singapore – Fisher BnB
Fisher BnB can be found within convenient distance from everything important in Singapore. Visitors can even walk to places such as Little India and Chinatown!
Offering ladies only, mixed and family dorm types, you can comfortably sleep with whichever group fits you best. With your comfortable bed, you’ll also get free WiFi and a scrumptious breakfast included in the rates.
Backpacker tip: If you’re traveling Singapore on a budget, then check out our roundup of the cheapest and best hostels in Singapore!
Best Airbnb in Singapore – Attic Hideaway @ Heart of Town
Walking distance to Singapore’s hottest neighbourhoods and attractions, this clean and contemporary attic hideaway is the best Airbnb in Singapore. With modern amenities and a full kitchen, this one-bedroom condo comfortably sleeps up four people and is perfect for anyone looking for a place to stay in the heart of the city.
Best Luxury Hotel in Singapore – Marina Bay Sands
Situated in Marina Bay, this iconic hotel has become a Singaporean landmark. It has 20 dining options inside its walls, and its own private, world-class casino.
Enjoy luxury rooms, which all have floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you breathtaking views of Marina Bay and its surrounds. There is also an infinity rooftop pool and a spa inside the hotel.
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Today we visit a few of the most interesting neighborhoods in Singapore including the Arab Quarter (Kampong Glam) and Little India. We’ll top off the day with a river cruise and perhaps a rooftop cocktail.
Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.
9:00 AM – Arab Street and Kampong Glam
Exploring Arab Street and the surrounding neighborhood of Kampong Glam is a very unique cultural experience. This is the beating heart of Singapore’s Islamic community!
Start your first day early by taking the MRT and hopping off at Bugis station, making your way to Arab Street. While you’re at it, consider having breakfast when you arrive as well. Check out all Things Deliciousere, which is arguable serves the best in the area.
Once you’re ready, just start walking around. As you do, you will find a hub of Islamic culture. From fantastic cafes to quaint boutiques, you will find fabrics, souvenirs, spices, and more than a couple of hookah bars to chill at. Haji Street is one of the best places to become familiar with Kampong Glam.
There are many stores that offer products not found in your local supermarket. There is also the Trippies and Little Children’s Museum, which shows life as a young child in Singapore during the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Once you’ve tasted and shopped your way down the street, be sure to visit Sultan Mosque. It opens every Saturday to Thursday from 10 am to 12 pm (and again from 2 pm to 4 pm). Fridays are only open from 2:30 pm to 4 pm.
Remember when visiting the mosque, as with most temples in Singapore, be sure to show the appropriate respect and ensure that you are correctly clothed – otherwise, you will not be let in.
- Cost – Just the cost of food and souvenirs.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours.
- Getting there – Bugis Street is the nearest MRT stop.
11:30 AM – Little India
Next is Little India, a bright and colorful neighborhood full of Indian culture, from shopping and food to friendly faces! Here, you will find an array of Indian-inspired shops, restaurants, and places of interest. Wind your way down the busy, colorfully decorated streets and experience the sights, sounds and delicious smells along your way!
In addition to the many food options – the Tekka Centre, which we visit next, has the most culinary options – you’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities, such as Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping center.
Browse through the Little India Arcade and pick up Indian-inspired souvenirs to take home with you. Make a stop at the Jothi Store & Flower Shop, too, and you’ll find ethnic products spread over 5 floors.
Little India also has a collection of temples that you can visit. A definite not-to-be-missed is Sri Veeramakaliamman, the most beautiful temple in the area according to popular opinions. You can also visit the Indian Heritage Center, a four-story building blending Indian history and heritage with modern architecture – entrance costs $5.
- Cost – Again, free unless you give in to the shopping temptation.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours.
- Getting there – Ride two stops away from Bugis on the MRT to Little India or walk 30 minutes from Kampong Glam.
1:00 PM – Lunch in the Tekka Centre
The Tekka Centre is a cornerstone of the Indian community in Singapore and is probably the easiest place to find good Indian food in the city. There’s a pretty dizzying array of Indian food on offer here, from rich Southern fare to firey northern dishes and tandoori to roti to naan and every other type of Indian bread you can imagine. For lovers of curry and other Indian staples, it will be love at first sight.
One of the best cheap eats you can have in Singapore is biryani. It is a simple dish – essentially chicken, rice, and spices usually baked in a banana leaf – but packs a tasty punch.
If you’re not in the mood for Indian food, you can still find lots of other types of Asian cooking. Thai, Malay, Chinese, and, of course, Singaporean food are all on offer here.
- Cost – $5 per dish.
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours depending on your rush.
- Getting there – The Tekka Centre is on the edge of Little India, near the Little India MRT stop.
2:30 PM – National Museum of Singapore
It’s time to walk off all that food we had back at the Tekka Centre. The National Museum of Singapore is the perfect place to go to do just that.
The National Museum is the oldest museum in the city and features an impressive collection of art, crafts, and modern showcases. Its primary focus is the preservation and retelling of Singapore’s national history, for which it is not lacking for exhibitions, but there are also some pretty cool interactive exhibitions as well. The latter is usually temporary though so be sure to check on the official website for what’s currently going on at the museum.
If you need a bit more chill time before or after entering the museum, Fort Canning Park is right next to the museum as well. Feel free to find a nice spot of grass or a good tree to lean and just contemplate your navel. Photographers should also be on the lookout for the spiral staircase in the park; it’s one of the most Intragrammable spots in Singapore.
- Cost – $10 for adult entry.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours.
- Getting there – From the Tekka Centre, it’s a 15-minute walk down Selegie Road.
5:30 PM – River Cruise
Why not enjoy a leisurely cruise along Singapore’s waterfront? Departing from Clarke Quay, you can enjoy exploring the streets a bit while you wait for your boat. Once you’re aboard the boat, you will then travel down the river to view the other quays, the Boat Quay and Robertson Quay, as well as many other landmarks along the way!
All through your trip, the captain of your boat will educate you on the history of the places you are floating by. Your captain will also know the importance of stopping long enough for you to get those perfect holiday photos! You’ll want to have your travel camera ready for shooting because you’re sure to want to take some of the memories home with you. From the water, you’ll also get a clearer view of some of these amazing landmarks.
You’ll go past attractions such as the Merlion, the Esplanade, and the Marina Bay Sands Resort. Getting a good look at these places is sometimes much easier from the water, further away than if you were to explore them on foot – and no foot traffic to compete with!
While on the boat, be sure to look out for the bronze statues dotted along the waterfront. You’ll find statues of children playing, olden-day cart-and-horses and other historical moments. Each statue is there to tell a story of Singaporean life long ago. There are also statues of animals exclusive to Singapore, such as the Kucinta cats.
- Cost – $19 per adult.
- How long should I stay here? 45-60 minutes.
- Getting there – There are multiple launching points on the Quay.
6:30 PM – Rooftop Cocktails
Let me be frank: alcohol is usually prohibitively expensive in Singapore. Most travellers visiting Singapore on a budget will only be able to afford cheap beers in Chinatown and most will find that even these are not worth the price.
But sometimes, the juice can be worth the squeeze.
There are several rooftop bars in Singapore that offer both amazing vistas and pretty damn good drinks. The views are so good in fact that a couple could even rival many of the city’s dedicated viewing platforms and those aren’t cheap to get in either. So why not pay for a view and a drink? Most bars will let you loiter, take photos, and soak in as much as you want for the cost of one drink.
For great views of Marina Bay and some good drinks, Smoke & Mirrors is a no-fail. If you’re looking for a more laidback vibe with a less expansive view, LOOF is a local legend in the city. There are lots more where this came from though – check out any one of these awesome rooftop spots in Singapore.
After splurging on those cocktails, you may want to resort to some cheap eats. Head back to Kampong Glam and eat at the Golden Mile if you missed it before.
- Cost – $12-$20 per drink (yikes)
- How long should I stay here? As long as it takes to finish your drink and soak in the views.
- Getting there – Most of the best rooftop bars in Singapore are in the Central Area, which is right next to Clark Quay.
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On the second day of our Singapore itinerary, we’re mostly going to hang around the Marina Bay District. This is where many of the most iconic places in Singapore are found, including the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, ArtScience Museum, and Gardens by the Bay.
9:00 AM – Visit the Esplanade Center
The Esplanade center is a large and busy art center, offering guests nearly 3000 performances each year. It is a non-profit center, run by a dedicated team of art professionals who have kept the center going for the past 16 years!
If you’d like to view all that the center has to offer, and a bit behind the scenes, take a guided tour for just $15 per person! Or go up to the third floor and get lost in the vast shelves of music, art and theatre books in the center’s library.
You can watch a free performance every day on the waterfront, giving you a taste of the magic that happens inside. If you’d like to purchase tickets to performances in the concert hall or theatre, you can do so online or at the center’s ticket box.
There are a number of shops available in the center’s ‘mall’, where you are able to shop as your heart’s desire. Stop off at one of the many eateries for a bite to eat. From Asian cuisine to delectable ice creams and crafts beers, you can find it all inside!
- Cost – Free to enter + free performances! A guided tour is $15.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours depending on if you shop or eat.
- Getting there – The nearest MRT stop is City Hall.
11:00 AM – ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum is one of the most iconic points of interest in Singapore. The building’s distinct lotus design is unmistakable and it’s location at the base of the even more imposing Marina Bay Sands Hotel make it one of the places that you simply can’t miss.
The outside of the building is worth seeing on its own and most people settle for a couple of photos in front of it. Inside the ArtScience Museum is just as cool though! Exhibitions here are a lot more futuristic and, as the name implies, technologically driven. There is often an infinity room featured as well, which seems to be all the rage these days. If you’ve wanted to take a photo inside one of these kaleidoscopic spaces, this is a good opportunity.
- Cost – $10-$24 depending on how many exhibitions you want to see.
- How long should I stay here? 2 hours
- Getting there – The ArtScience Museum is just across the Bay from the Esplanade. It’s a 15-minute walk across the scenic Helix Bridge.
1:00 PM – Lunch
Lunch today is really up to you. There aren’t many hawker centres or cheap eats anywhere around Marina Bay unfortunately so your options might be limited. You can eat back at the Esplanade, inside the shops at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, or at a couple of restaurants inside the Bay Gardens. None of these will necessarily be cheap though.
If you want to save the most money on food during your second day in Singapore, pack a lunch or bring something to go.
- Cost – The offerings around Marina Bay will be more expensive
- How long should I stay here? As long as you need to.
- Getting there – Depends where and what you eat.
3:00 PM – Gardens by the Bay
The Gardens by the Bay is a large space in Marina Bay that has been designed as a natural oasis in the middle of the busy bay area. This futuristic botanical garden attracts many tourists and locals alike! It’s free to enter and explore most of the Gardens.
The Garden is a hub of ecological growth, and it is full of resources and educational information. Not only is it the perfect spot to go and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by nature, but it’s a great way to learn about plants, flowers, and wildlife from all over the world!
Inside the Gardens, you will find lush greenery and a variety of wildlife. Take a walk past Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lakes, taking in the beauty of nature around you! Spend some time in the Serene Garden, a Japanese-inspired zen garden. Enter the World of Plants and learn all about the many types of plants located in the Gardens.
Then, check out the Sun Pavilion, a desert-inspired space with over 1000 desert plants! Afterward, make your way to the Heritage Gardens and learn about the diverse history and culture of Singapore – told through plants, of course! You also don’t want to miss the Canyon, a large collection of sculptured rocks that lay across a 400-meter dragon’s tail.
Insider tip: The Gardens is also home to more than 40 unique art sculptures! Find them along your walk through the Gardens.
- Cost – Free.
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours.
- Getting there – The Gardens by the Bay is behind the Marina Sands Tower. You can either walk around the monolithic hotel or through the lobby.
5:00 PM – The Gardens’ Biodomes
Once you’re done checking out the main Gardens, make sure you stop off at the Biodomes! These consist of a Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Both of the greenhouses are made from a complex design of glass and a steel grid. They are the world’s largest columnless greenhouses!
The Cloud Forest dome houses a 35-meter tall mountain, which is covered in lush, tropical vegetation. It’s from the top of this mountain that you will be able to see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall!
The Flower Dome is the largest glass greenhouse in the world! This dome showcases flowers and plants that are found in the Mediterranean and semi-arid regions. Find African Baobab trees, desert succulents, an olive grove, and more.
- Cost – $21 per adult per dome.
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours.
- Getting there – The biodomes are a part of the Gardens by the Bay park and are located closer to the bay itself.
7:00 PM – Supertree Grove Skywalk & Garden Rhapsody Light and Music Show
Finally, visit the Supertree Grove, where the movie “Crazy Rich Asians” takes place. The man-made “supertrees” are solar-powered structures that act as vertical gardens – with tropical flowers, various ferns, and other plant life found growing along their steel frameworks. You can view 12 of the 18 supertrees found in the Gardens!
The supertrees also act as air venting ducts, rainwater collectors, and solar power generators! Aside from their useful functions, though, they are also a sight to behold and provide an amazing show of light and sounds through the Gardens each night.
Take a trip up the 16-story high supertrees and experience the exhilarating skywalk for just $6 per person. Then, settle into a comfy spot on the grass and wait for the 8 pm Lights and Music Show, which shows off the beauty of the Supertree Grove!
When you’ve gotten your fill of the gardens, start thinking about dinner. There are a couple of places in and around the gardens that you can eat at: there’s Pollen, a Mediterranean restaurant located inside the Flower Dome or Indochine, a restaurant inside the tallest supertree. These will be expensive and you will probably need to book a table ahead of time.
If you have the time and energy, head over to Chinatown for dinner. We were saving this neighborhood for day 3 of our Singapore itinerary but you could easily visit it twice. Between the Maxwell Centre, Chinatown Complex Market, and everything in-between, you will not be lacking for culinary options.
- Cost – $6 for the skywalk, the show is free.
- How long should I stay here? The show itself is short – stay as long as you like.
- Getting there – The trees are pretty unmissable. Look for them in the distance and start walking.
Planning on staying longer than a weekend holiday in Singapore? Time to take a vacation away from our vacation.
On the third day of our Singapore itinerary, we’re going to Sentosa Island and the beach! (Not a real beach per se as it’s man-made but, hey, a beach is a beach.) Afterward, we’re going to spend some time arguably the most delicious spot in Singapore: Chinatown.
10:00 AM – Sentosa Island
After spending your first day engaging in the cultural side of Singapore, take this second day to bring out your fun side – Sentosa Island being “The State of Fun”. Man-made beaches, water parks, roller coaster rides and so much more bring crowds of people to this man-made island!
Sentosa is full of fun and playful things to do. Whether you’re looking for a bustling day heaped with adventure or a more chilled day seeing the sights and lazing on the beach, you’ll find your perfect fit here! Once you have reached the island, there are a few stops you should definitely make, which we’ve mentioned below.
- Cost – $3 for Sentosa Express and entrance.
- How long should I stay here? 4-5 hours in total
- Getting there – Take the MRT to the Sentosa Station at VivoCity Level 3, Lobby L, and from there take the Sentosa Express.
11:00 AM – Skyline Luge
Said to be one of the activities you absolutely shouldn’t miss, the luge and Skyride is the best way to end your Sentosa visit! Take a seated Skyride up to the top of the luge track, where you can then zoom down the track in a luge.
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Singapore skyline as you slowly reach the luge track in your 4-seater Skyride seat. Once at the top, get into your luge and choose from their four tracks to go down.
The tracks are all around 1.6 miles long and all have tunnels, twists, and turns to make the ride down as exhilarating as possible! The greatest care has been put into making sure the luges are safe, and they are equipped with safety brakes and steering.
The company’s saying is ‘Once Is Never Enough’ and that seems true for the majority of their customers! Luckily, tickets are sold in pairs so you know you’ve got at least two rides to go.
After you’ve had your fill, grab some food. There are plenty of places to eat around Sentosa: Breadtalk has delicious and freshly-baked goods, Bikini Bar offers drinks on the beach and some bar snacks, FOC Sentosa is famous for its cocktails.
- Cost – $18 per person for two luges and Skyrides!
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours
- Getting there – There’s a shuttle stop right in front of the luge.
1:00 PM – Palawan Beach
This beach is essentially Sentosa’s family beach. Great to bring kids to as there are safe, family-friendly spots to chill and adventures to be had. But it’s not just for families with kids; couples and even solo travelers are bound to find something to do here!
Stop in at the Animal & Bird Encounters and get to meet and interact with the island’s inhabitants. From monkeys to reptiles and birds, there are daily shows that take place and you should be just in time for the Parrot Encounter show at 3 pm.
From Palawan Beach, take a short walk across the rope bridge to reach the very bottom tip of Asia – a small islet. Here you can climb one of the two view towers and stand on the decks to overlook the seemingly endless Singapore China Sea! Watch as the ships float by on the water and get a good view of the beach as well.
- Cost – Free.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours.
- Getting there – You can take the shuttle to Palawan or you can walk from the Luge – the two are very close to one another.
5:00 PM – Chinatown
Now that you’ve gotten your fill of Singapore’s more “Disney” side, it’s time to wash all of that kiche down with a stop in the eclectic Chinatown! Much as the name suggests, it’s a hub of Chinese culture mixed with Singaporean life. It’s a great place to find lots of shopping, with many temples and museums to explore!
There is, again, an abundance of things for you to do. There are many temples here, which you can visit during opening hours. The most noteworthy of the temples being the Buddha Relic Temple which displays Buddhism and religious relics.
The biggest attractions, though, are the many shopping malls. Shopping in Chinatown is an experience few would want to miss! Find everything from clothes to home decor, and gifts to take back home.
Start at the Chinatown Complex Market (home of Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle) and make your way through hawker stalls galore. You’ll be able to find many curious and gifts at different stalls. Then, navigate down the streets of Chinatown and explore the many boutique stores on offer as well. You really can shop ‘til you drop here!
For dinner, stop by the famous Maxwell Hawker Centre or return to the Complex Market. Both are among the best places to eat in Singapore.
- Cost – Free to explore.
- How long should I stay here? For the rest of the day if possible.
- Getting there – Take the Sentosa Express back to the mainland and then take the Northeast MRT line to the Chinatown stop.
Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Singapore:
Marina Bay
Perhaps best area to stay in Singapore for tourists. Located in the centre of the city, Marina Bay overlaps with the Central Business District, the Civic Quarter, and trendy Clarke Quay, so you’re never far from the action.
- Take in the stunning views from the Sands Skypark, a platform perched 55 stories above the ground.
- Marvel at the indigenous flora and the towering mechanical trees that make up Garden by the Bay. Visit at night for an awesome 15-minute light and water show.
- Walk the Marina Bay Art Trail exploring the area’s best sites while seeing art and sculptures by world-renowned artists.
We’re going to wrap up our 4-day Singapore itinerary with a series of parks and greenspaces, followed by a little shopping. We’re almost to the end so let’s get to it!
9:00 AM – Treetop Walk at the Central Catchment Nature Reserve
Visit the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and get to walk next to the high treetops. Right in the center of Singapore, the Nature Reserve spans over 2000 hectares of forest cover, with some of the world’s richest forests in terms of biodiversity!
It’s in this reserve that visitors are offered the opportunity to walk across a suspension bridge, nestled in the treetop canopies. This suspension bridge was built to help forest canopy researchers reach the canopies in order to study them.
The MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a popular starting point for those who are eager to do the Treetop Walk. The entrance to the bridge is at the ranger station, and the bridge only allows for one-way traffic. The bridge itself is only around 850 feet long, with the highest point being around 82 feet!
This walk is perfect for avid bird-watchers, or general nature lovers who wish to get a higher view of the park and hiking trails. The bridge is open from 9 am to 5 pm, but is closed on Mondays (unless it’s a public holiday).
- Cost – Free
- How long should I stay here? 3 – 5 hours depending on your walking pace.
- Getting there – You’ll need to use the bus to get here. The 166 and 167 both stop right outside the park.
1:00 PM – Lunch at the Adam Road Food Centre
After a long walk in the park, refuel yourself with some good ol’ hawker centre comfort food. The most convenient centre near Central Catchment is the Adam Road Road Food Centre. Like most hawker centres, Adam Road has a pretty diverse selection of food options. Good time to get some traditional nasi goreng or satay if you haven’t already tried some.
If you’d like some suggestions on where to eat in the Adam Road Food Centre, Miss Tam Chiak has written on a guide on the local food stalls.
- Cost – $5 per plate.
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours
- Getting there – The 165 goes directly from the park and stops in front of the Adam Centre.
3:00 PM – Singapore Botanic Garden
Following the underlying theme of this 4-day Singapore itinerary – that is, eat lots of delicious, unhealthy food at the hawker centres and then go for a walk – we next pay a visit to the lush Singapore Botanic Gardens, one of Singapore’s National Parks. These gardens are widely considered to be some of the most impressive in Asia and have even been declared a UNESCO heritage site. The Singapore Botanic Gardens are huge, well-kept, and are a testament to a city that strives to be one of the greenest in the world.
There are lots of places to visit in the Botanic Gardens, including several man-made lakes, greenhouses, and small natural exhibitions, like the orchid garden. Explore at a leisurely pace.
- Cost – $3.75 entry
- How long should I stay here? 1-2 hours
- Getting there – The Botanic Gardens are literally across the road from the Adam Food Centre.
5:00 PM – Orchard Road
The shopping in Singapore is considered some of the best in the world and Orchard Road is the epicenter of it all. Here you’ll find Singapore’s megamalls, its clearance warehouses, and its superstores. You can buy just about anything here from designer brand clothing to electronics to cheap souvenirs. Considering that our 4-day itinerary for Singapore is over soon, this is a good time to pick up any gifts or gadgets that you may have had your eyes on so far.
TANGS is the oldest department store in the area is considered iconic by many locals. In contrast, the ION is the new, ultra-contemporary store on the street and makes for some cool abstract photos.
If shopping is not your thing, then there are plenty of places to eat and drink around Orchard Road. Lots of these offer happy hour as well, which by now should be a welcome sight given how expensive Singapore may have been so far. Alley Bar is a good place to duck into for a quick gin and tonic. Lovers of suds will also be glad to hear that there is a craft beer bar nearby called Takumi.
If you’re out late, grab some dinner or small bites while you’re at it or seek budget refuge in one of the hawker centres back in Chinatown or Kampong Glam.
- Cost – Depends on how much you shop and eat.
- How long should I stay here? As long as you want.
- Getting there – It’s a 15-minute walk from the southern entrance of the Botanic Gardens to Orchard Road, via Tanglin Road.
If you’re lucky enough to be spending more than 4 days in Singapore, here are a few more ideas on how you can spend your time.
Night Safari
Meet creatures of the night as you navigate through the wild enclosure with only nocturnal animals around! The Night Safari departs from the Singapore Zoo, and there are sideshows you can attend before and after your guided tour. There is a fire dancing show, which takes place every day (except for Wednesdays) at 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm.
There’s also a Creatures of the Night show which you can watch, showing the many nocturnal creatures that inhabit the zoo, these shows can be seen every day provided the weather is good, at 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:30 pm, and 10:30 pm. The shows are included in your Safari ticket price.
The main event, however, is the guided tram ride, that will take you through all six geographical zones! The guide will provide live commentary as you go, giving you information on all the animals you see. You can, if you prefer, take a self-guided walking tour instead. This will take you along trails where you can see animals such as leopards, wallabies, tigers, and even hyenas!
Before you go, you can stop in at the gift shop and find many souvenirs to take home with you. Whether you want a plush version of your favorite night-dwelling animal or a simple keyring to carry around with you.
- Cost – $33 per adult for the Safari experience.
- How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours
- Getting there – Buses 138 and 927 stop in front of the park but be aware that buses in Singapore usually stop running around midnight.
Universal Studios
Situated on Sentosa Island, Singapore’s Universal Studios is a magical place to be. With 7 zones, all themed differently, you can enjoy a wide range of rides, sights, and attractions!
This theme park is a great hit for many visitors and it’s hardly one of Singapore’s hidden gems. Because of this, it gets quite busy and crowded, which means long queues and waiting times. This is why we suggest you plan this activity as the main part of your day.
If you have kids with you (or even if you don’t), you’ll love the meet and greet opportunities. Shake hands with the big names like the minions from Despicable Me, Sesame Street characters, Autobots, and even Jurassic Park dinos!
There are many shows available each day as well, such as the 4D Adventure with Shrek which is a hit with all Shrek lovers. As you walk through the park, you’ll come across many street shows as well. Look out for the Cruisers and the Madagascar Boogie!
If you need a slightly more adventurous experience, check out the bigger, faster, and slightly scarier rides. These include a 3D Transformers battle ride, the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, and the Battlestar Galactica!
One thing that no one visiting the park should miss, is the Lights, Camera, Action Show, directed by Steven Spielberg! The show is a magnificent display of special effects, shown to the audience inside a boathouse.
- Cost – $79 for adult.
- How long should I stay here? As long as you like.
- Getting there – Take the Sentosa Express from the mainland to reach the island.
Marine Life Park – S.E.A Aquarium and Adventure Cove Waterpark
Start your day with a visit to the aquarium. There are more than 100, 000 animals that call the aquarium home, made up of over 1000 different species! These are spread across 50 habitats which can be viewed and visited while you are there.
At the aquarium, you can take advantage of the special experiences, such as walking with marine animals and swimming with sharks! Or simply enjoy watching the many sharks, fish, and other marine life from the outside.
- Cost – Entrance to both attractions costs $56.
- How long should I stay here? As long as you like.
Getting there – Take the Sentosa Express from the mainland to reach the island.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!
Singapore sits only 1 degree north of the equator: it is characterised by a hot and humid climate. Rainfall is very common and usually refreshing and won’t dampen too many traveling plans. Singapore is well prepared for rainy days.
There aren’t really any distinct seasons in Singapore – temperature and rainfall is pretty consistent year round. This means that there really isn’t a bad or good time to visit Singapore. The dry season is technically from February-April but the difference in rainfall is marginal.
Rain usually comes in the form of afternoon bursts. If it starts to rain, you’ll want to duck undercover quick before it turns into a downpour. Wait 10-15 minutes and all should be well.
Mornings are the best time to be outdoors in Singapore. It’s cooler, calmer, and more often clear.
Being one of the cultural and financial capitals of the world, there are lots of Singapore festivals going on year-round. Consider planning your trip to Singapore around one of these events if you want to make it a little more special.
| Average Temperatures | Chance of Rain | Crowds | Overall Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30°C/86°F | High | Busy (New Years) | 🙁 |
| February | 31°C/87°F | Low | Busy (Peak Season) | 🙂 |
| March | 32°C/89°F | Average | High (Singapore International Film Festival) | 😐 |
| April | 32°C/89°F | Average | Medium | 🙂 |
| May | 32°C/89°F | Average | Medium | 🙂 |
| June | 32°C/89°F | Average | Medium | 🙂 |
| July | 31°C/87°F | Average | Calm | 😀 |
| August | 31°C/87°F | Average | Calm | 😀 |
| September | 31°C/87°F | Average | Busy (Singapore Grand Prix) | 🙂 |
| October | 32°C/89°F | Low | Calm | 😀 |
| November | 31°C/87°F | High | Calm | 🙁 |
| December | 31°C/87°F | High | Busy | 🙁 |
How to Get Around Singapore
Singapore benefits from a very effective and easy-to-use public transport system. Between the many bus and train options, you can get just about anywhere in Singapore.
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) are the two main forms of rail transport in Singapore and both interact flawlessly. Those backpacking in Singapore should definitely consider buying a commuter card (EZ-Link or Nets FlashPay) or a Tourist Pass, which acts as a temporary version of the former.
Note that fare is calculated based upon distance traveled and that these commuter cards are interchangeable e.g. you can use them on the MRT, LRT, and buses.
Buses are ubiquitous in Singapore and are conveniently available 24 hours/day on Friday and Saturdays. Should you be out late or burning the midnight oil, the bus will be your best option when it comes to public transport. Note that the night bus (officially called NightRider) does not yet accept tourist passes – you’ll have to use an EZ-Link card or change.
If you need to be more proactive about getting around Singapore, taxis are widely available. Taxi rates are affordable and drivers are usually very honest. Should you prefer ride-sharing, Grab is the most popular company in Singapore. Should you use Grab, you may even find yourself the passenger in “driverless car.”
Renting your own car in Singapore is not a good idea as self-driving driving is completely unnecessary. Hitchhiking is probably a fruitless effort as well because a) it’s very illegal and b) public transport is cheap enough.
Walking is, of course, a very reasonable means of getting around as Singapore is a very pedestrian-friendly city. Biking is also becoming quite popular though bikers may feel threatened often by harsh weather and lack of bike lanes.
Since Singapore is subject to a tropical climate, you’ll want to make sure that you have the right clothing. Try to bring loose-fitting clothing when packing for Singapore but also bear in mind that you may need to dress more conservatively when entering temples. Anything that you miss you can buy when you arrive.
Singapore has very strict laws and takes a zero-tolerance approach to those who disobey them. For the most part, there is no great risk for travelers to Singapore, and even solo travelers have found it a pleasant experience.
We’ve created a dedicated safety guide filled with travel tips for Singapore and some of the (crazy) things you need to look out for. Here are a few common things you need to guard yourself against.
- Pick-pocketing: It almost goes without saying that when walking in the streets you should keep your valuables close to you and out of reach of long fingers.
- Scams and fraud: from fake taxi cabs charging you more than their worth, to men posing as female prostitutes in order to obtain money and gifts from other men with the promise of sexual favors later on. Many of these scams are easy to avoid if you know what you are looking for.
- Breaking the law: certain offenses – such as possession of cannabis – can be punishable by the death penalty. As a foreigner, you want to make sure that you are accustomed to the stricter laws and ensure you obey them while you are visiting.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Singapore
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQ on Singapore Itinerary
Find out what people want to know when planning their Singapore itinerary.
Final Thoughts
There sure is a lot to do with 4 days in Singapore but you should be ready to tackle everything now that you’ve read this itinerary!
Be sure to take lots of photos, Singapore is a city filled with sights you won’t often see anywhere else in the world! Enjoy the many cultural experiences, from religious buildings to food and even crafts – take it all in and embrace the journey. And, of course, don’t be afraid to try new things while you’re there, it’s all part of the adventure!
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