The Republic of Singapore is a sovereign island city/state, located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula (Southeast Asia). With 5.7 million people living here, this is one of the world’s most densely populated countries.
Singapore is a cosmopolitan city known for its towering skyscrapers, clockwork public transportation system, and its multicultural society. It is also a global financial center and home to many multinational corporations, which bring along many expats. Its vibrant food scene is very well known worldwide, with a fusion of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. In addition, the country boasts many cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries and festivals that showcase its diverse heritage.
The number of attractions and things to do is highly disproportional to the size of the country. We spent here three days, which we consider enough to see the main highlights of the city. The efficient transportation system makes it very easy to get around and quickly get from one highlight to another.
We stayed in a centrally located, budget hotel (Ibis Budget Singapore Clarke Quay). It’s a medium quality hotel with breakfast included which we can recommend if you’re looking for a convenient and cheap place.
Day 1:
1.1. Chinatown
As the hotel was located near Chinatown, we began exploring the area as early as we could. This is a bustling neighbourhood in Singapore that hosts some of the best temples in town.
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a stunning shrine that’s a must-visit. The temple was completed in 2007 and is home to a sacred relic said to be a tooth of the Buddha himself. Despite its modern construction, it follows a traditional architectural style with intricate carvings and ornate details.
We also visited the Thian Hock Keng temple. It was built in 1842 and it’s dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea. The temple’s carvings, colourful tiles, and ornate rooflines speak for the skill of the craftsmen who built it.
The third place of worship worth visiting here is the Sri Mariamman hindu temple, dedicated to the goddess of disease and healing, Mariamman. It was erected in 1827 by Indian immigrants who settled in Singapore and has since become a hub for religious activity. The entrance tower (gopuram) is heavily adorned with sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and is one of the most striking features of the temple.
- Expected duration of visit: 2h
- Free entrance in all temples
1.2. Botanical Garden
Fast forward to one of the most complete and beautiful botanical gardens in the world. This 160-year-old park is impossible to be seen in just one day, so we had to be selective.
The best and most famous part of it is undoubtedly the National Orchid Garden. It is home to over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids of orchids, making it one of the largest collections in the world. It features several sections, each with its own unique displays and themes. There’s also a special sector featuring orchids named after famous people, such as Princess Diana or Nelson Mandela.
Another must-see section of the Orchid Garden is the Tan Hoon Siang Mist House, a greenhouse that recreates the cool and misty environment of high-altitude orchids. Visitors can observe a variety of rare orchids, many of which are difficult to grow outside their natural habitats.
The park also has other sectors destined to different flowers from different parts of the world. We visited a few of these sectors as well, but obviously not all of them.
- Expected duration of visit: 2-3h
- Botanical Garden: free entrance
- National Orchid Garden: Adults 15 SGD / Students and seniors 3 SGD
1.3. Mount Faber
South from the Botanical Garden we’ll find Mount Faber, a hill that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. At a height of just 105 meters, it is one of the highest (natural) points in Singapore. We got off the subway at Harbourfront station and hiked up to the top using the Marang trail.
- Marang Trail: 750m; 14min
There’s a cable car station that connects Mount Faber to Sentosa Island, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, resorts and thematic parks. We’ll leave it for the last day.
Several walking trails can be explored to take in the natural beauty of the area. On the summit, near the cable car station, we can spot the mythical figure that’s the symbol of Singapore. That’s it!, a Merlion statue lies here. It is not the famous one but a smaller replica. Still cool, though!
- Expected duration of visit: 1h
1.4. Southern Ridges
The Southern Ridges trail starts in Mt. Faber and extends to the west, rolling down the hill. It comprises 10km and connects Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve.
The trail includes Henderson Waves, a bridge that brings together Mt. Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park. It is frequently visited due to its unusual wavy-like structure. Other highlights of the track are the Forest Walk and Canopy Walk, two sets of bridges cutting through the forest.
- Expected duration of visit: 2h
Day 2:
2.1. Peranakan Houses
Our day started by visiting the quaint Peranakan houses. Located in Koon Seng Road, these buildings represent a type of traditional architecture found in Singapore, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Apparently, in Malacca, the Dutch colonial administrators calculated housing taxes based on the building’s width. This resulted in long, narrow houses which also typically feature ornate facades, ceramic tiles, and louvered windows. They often have a central courtyard or garden, and are designed to be well-ventilated to cope with the tropical climate.
- Expected duration of visit: 30min
2.2. Indian Quarter
Little India is a vibrant district in the heart of Singapore and a melting pot of Indian culture and heritage, with bustling streets lined with shops, restaurants, and temples.
One of the most iconic landmarks here is the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. Visitors can explore the temple’s architecture and decorations while witnessing the daily rituals and offerings made by devotees.
Another distinctive building is the House of Tan Teng Niah, built in the 1900s by a Chinese businessman. The building reflects the multicultural heritage of Singapore, with its distinctive architecture reflecting Chinese influences right in the middle of the Indian Quarter. The building was originally used as a residence for Tan Teng Niah and his family, but it was later converted into a commercial space for tenants.
Foodies will also enjoy the neighbourhood, which presents a wide array of restaurants and street food vendors serving up curries, biryanis, and other traditional dishes. During festivals such as Diwali, the neighbourhood comes alive with colourful decorations and celebrations. Visitors can witness parades, performances, and firework displays that reveal the heritage of the Indian community.
- Expected duration of visit: 1h30
2.3. Arab Quarter
Just a couple blocks away from Little India we stumble upon the Arab Quarter, which is another culturally rich district. It hosts the Sultan Mosque, the largest one in Singapore, with its distinct golden dome and detailed Islamic design.
One of the main attractions in the Arab Quarter is Haji Lane, a narrow alley with street art and trendy cafes. Visitors can explore the area and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this hip neighbourhood.
The Arab Street, a bustling walkway known for its tapestry stores and traditional Arabic restaurants, also lures many locals and tourists alike. Visitors can browse through the fabrics and sample the always delicious Middle Eastern and Malay cuisine.
- Expected duration of visit: 1h30
2.4. Gardens by the Bay
As the afternoon inevitably advances, the perfect time to visit the current major highlight of Singapore approaches. Gardens by the Bay is a nature park adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. It stretches on an area of 101 hectares and features a variety of impressive garden landscapes.
We visited several areas of the complex, including the Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skyway and the two covered conservatories (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest). The conservatories were visited during the day, the Supertree Observatory by sunset and the OCBC Skyway shortly after, for the music and light show.
2.4.1. Supertree Grove
The park is mainly known for its iconic Supertree Grove, which consists of 18 metallic supertrees that stand between 25-50 meters tall. Some of them are interconnected by a spectacular suspended walkway (OCBC Skyway) and at night, they come to life with a spectacular light and sound show.
But they also play an important ecological role in the park, in addition to their aesthetic appeal. These supertrees are vertical gardens covered by plants, providing a home for several birds and insects. They are also equipped with photovoltaic cells that generate solar power, which lights up the trees, and collect rainwater as well, which is used to irrigate the park.
- Supertree Observatory
- Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
- Entrance fee: adults: 14 SGD / 3-12y: 10 SGD
- OCBC Skyway
- Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
- Entrance fee: adults: 12 SGD / 3-12y: 8 SGD
2.4.2. Flower Dome
The Flower Dome is the world’s largest glass greenhouse. It mimics a cool-dry climate, featuring plants and flowers from places such as Australia, South America, South Africa, and the Mediterranean. The Flower Field, the centrepiece of the conservatory, features a changing display of seasonal flowers.
- Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
- Entrance fee (Flower Dome + Cloud Forest): adult: 53 SGD / 3-12y: 40 SGD
2.4.3. Cloud Forest
This other conservatory is designed to replicate the moist climate of a tropical mountain region. The enclosure spans itself around a 35-meter-tall mountain covered in lush vegetation.
As we enter, we are greeted by a spectacular 30-meter-tall indoor waterfall. The mist that it creates helps to establish the humid environment needed for the plants to survive and thrive.
An elevator takes us to the top of the Could Walk, a suspended walkway where tourists may roam around the treetops. It provides a unique perspective of this atypical greenhouse, creating a thrilling experience for us.
- Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
- Entrance fee (Flower Dome + Cloud Forest): adult: 53 SGD / 3-12y: 40 SGD
Day 3:
3.1. Merlion Park
A super hyped waterfront park located in the heart of Singapore’s business district, near Marina Bay. This area is named after the iconic Merlion statue (the “real” one) that stands at the park’s entrance, which is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Singapore.
The park consists of a large open space and a walking promenade where we can see joggers, walkers, and families enjoying the outdoors. It is also a great spot to admire the city’s skyline as well as the distinctive Marina Bay Sands hotel and ArtScience Museum (which we did not visit).
- Expected duration of visit: 1h
3.2. National Museum
The oldest and largest museum in Singapore, and probably the best choice if you have to choose one to visit here. It offers a range of exhibits that provide insight into Singapore’s heritage and identity. Visitors can explore the history of the city-state from pre-colonial times to this day, and learn about the country’s cultural traditions and latest innovations.
The Singapore History Gallery is a must-see and features several artefacts and multimedia displays that showcase the small nation’s past. Moreover, the museum may be hosting temporary exhibitions of Singapore’s contemporary arts and culture, as well as events for visitors of all ages.
- Expected duration of visit: 2h
- Entrance fee (permanent exhibition): adults 15 SGD / students and seniors 10 SGD
- Opening hours: 10:00-19:00
3.3. S.E.A. Aquarium
Sentosa Island hosts one of the largest aquariums in the world. The S.E.A. is home to more than 100000 marine animals representing over 1,000 species, from the most common to the most exotic ones.
The aquarium is segmented into several zones, each featuring a distinct marine habitat and species. A total of 45 (!) habitats is displayed in here. One of the highlights is the Open Ocean habitat, with a giant glass panel that allows visitors to see large marine animals swimming in the open ocean environment.
Other programs include the Shark Encounter, where guests can get up close with this kind of fish, and the Ocean Dreams sleepover, where one can spend the night and learn about marine conservation.
- Expected duration of visit: 2h30
- Entrance fee: adult: 41 SGD / 4-12y: 30 SGD
3.4. Cablecar Circuit
The cable car is a popular attraction that offers a bird’s eye view of the city skyline and the surrounding islands. It operates in two lines that connect in the Imbiah Lookout station: the Mount Faber line and Sentosa Island line. After visiting the S.E.A. Aquarium, we promptly walked to the nearest cable car station to travel the whole circuit.
The ride yields great views of the city’s skyline, the harbour, and the lush vegetation of Mount Faber and Sentosa Island. The Mount Faber station offers a range of dining and entertainment options, as well as access to hiking trails and walks, as previously mentioned.
- Expected duration (complete circuit): 1h
- Tickets: adults 35 SGD / child 25 SGD (20% off if booked online here)
- Opening hours: 8:45-22:00
And that closes our itinerary of 3 days in this small, yet beautiful country! Hopefully it will help you sort out your time here, because this small city-state is completely packed with things to do and see. We’re aware that maybe a fourth day could be useful but we feel that the most important sites were well covered. We also expect to come again in some years’ time, as the city’s airport is probably the most busy hub in Southeast Asia.