One of Asia’s leading modern cities, Singapore’s splendour lies in its multicultural outlook and striking, cutting-edge landscape. The island state, which is renowned for being impeccably managed, offers visitors a wide range of experiences that showcase the country’s history, natural beauty, and postmodern architectural sensibilities. The city also offers exciting entertainment-packed outings that impress the young and the old. Five days in Singapore can result in a trip of a lifetime and we have just the itinerary to ensure it happens. Read on to find out how you can spend the best five days in Singapore!
5 days in Singapore - An overview
Singapore in 5 days - Detailed itinerary
Ease into your picturesque holiday in Singapore
Singapore Botanic Gardens
National Museum of Singapore
Singapore Flyer
Established over 165 years ago, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens is an astonishing green oasis in a hyper-modern city. Stroll through this beautifully tended-to green expanse and you’ll come across spaces dedicated to orchids of all colours and sizes, a tiny rainforest, wandering streams, and sculptures made from green foliage. Spend a day lazing about on the sprawling landscapes or simply take a stroll out with your family – several in-house cafes and activities can easily occupy at least half your day, so plan accordingly.
- There are numerous walking trails throughout the garden, so you can easily spend a few hours here exploring.
- Be sure to check out the Orchid Garden, which is home to over 60 species of Orchids. Keep in mind that the National Orchid Garden itself takes about 2 hours to see.
- The Botanic Garden is also a great place to take photos, so make sure to bring your camera.
- Entry to the Singapore Botanic Gardens is free, but do keep in mind that entry to the National Orchid Garden requires a paid ticket.
Note: Entry to the Singapore Botanic Gardens is free, but do keep in mind that entry to the National Orchid Garden requires a paid ticket.
Restaurant recommendations
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a popular picnic spot, so you can either prepare a scrumptious spread for yourself, or enjoy a meal at one of the many spots at the UNESCO heritage site before heading to the next spot!
Dating back to the 19th century, Singapore’s National Museum houses over 1,700 artefacts and traces the nation’s history – from its first settlements to its current status as an economic powerhouse. The museum effectively leverages technology and combines it with carefully sourced historical objects to create engaging displays that capture and highlight the country’s fascinating journey.
Restaurant recommendations near National Museum of Singapore
Finally, end your first day with a ride on the Singapore Flyer. At a staggering height of 165m, the Flyer is one of the world’s largest observatory wheels - think of it as the London Eye of Asia. It's even been deemed as one of the biggest tourist attractions on the continent. The breathtaking view aboard the Flyer promises an expansive view of the skyline, along with a brief glimpse of Malaysia and Indonesia from the top. Sip on champagne as you enjoy the panoramic views of Singapore aboard the Flyer and see the city in a whole new light.
- Arrive early or purchase a Fast Pass to avoid long lines.
- Check the weather forecast in advance and dress comfortably.
- Make sure to take advantage of the photo opportunities both inside and outside of the capsule and have your camera ready to capture the views as you ascend and descend.
- Singapore can be quite warm, so be sure to stay hydrated during your visit.
- On a clear day, you may be able to see as far away as Malaysia and Indonesia from the top of the Flyer.
- Sit in the middle of the capsule if you are prone to motion sickness.
Recommended restaurants near Singapore Flyer
Walk on Singapore’s wild side
River Wonders
Singapore Zoo
Night Safari
Part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve that also houses the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, River Wonders spotlights the creatures that inhabit the world’s best-known rivers. A large freshwater aquarium – representing the Amazon Flooded Forest – has manatees, piranhas and giant river otters navigating blue waters. From the Congo River, there is a riot of colourful fish while toothy gharials from India’s Ganges move stealthily. Fanged Tigerfish and whiskered giraffe catfish from the Nile make an appearance as do lengthy Lungfish from Australia’s Mary River. There are also land animals at River Wonders with the most popular display being the Giant Pandas from China.
Restaurant recommendations near River Wonders
Designed like an open rainforest, the Singapore Zoo is deemed one of the world’s best zoos. Occupying 69 acres, the Zoo has over 15,000 animals from all corners of the globe. These include African lions, Asian elephants, cheetahs, Komodo dragons, white rhinoceros, macaws, zebras, and the largest captive orangutan population. The Zoo also offers various interactions like keeper talks, presentations, and the opportunity to feed elephants, giraffes, tortoises, and rhinos.
- The zoo is huge! Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and plan to spend at least half a day there.
- The zoo is divided into different sections, each with its own theme. Be sure to check the map so you don't miss anything.
- The animals are free to roam in most of the zoo, so you might find yourself coming face-to-face with some of them. Don't worry, they're all harmless!
- The zoo has a lot of interactive exhibits, so you can get up close and personal with some of the animals. Just be sure to follow the rules.
Restaurant recommendations near River Wonders
Singapore Zoo has a host of eating-out options from cafes to full-blown restaurants. You can find the whole list of options here.
Singapore's Night Safari allows you to explore the animal kingdom under the light of the stars! Walking through the nocturnal park, you’ll encounter wildlife that rules the night on each continent. The park offers several trails and you’ll spot clouded leopards, wallabies, pangolins, spotted and striped hyenas, Malayan flying foxes, Armadillos, night monkeys and Aardvarks.
- The best time to visit Night Safari is during the cooler months, from November to January. This is when the animals are most active and you'll be able to see them at their best.
- If you don't fancy walking, hop aboard the Safari Tram for a guided tour of the park.
- Night Safari is open from 7:15pm to midnight, and the last admission is at 11:00pm. The park gets very busy during peak hours (between 9:00pm and 10:30pm), so it's best to arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.
- Wearing insect repellent is advised during the night safari.
- Most food outlets at the Mandai Reserve, which is home to the Night Safari and the Singapore Zoo, close by 6pm. We recommend you eat at home or eat at the Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant, on the premises. They serve a host of cuisines from around the globe and close at 11pm.
HOT TIP: Check out this combo for wildlife in Singapore to make your day smoother - Night Safari + River Wonders
Explore the best of Sentosa Island
Singapore Cable Car
Universal Studios Singapore
Spend your third day on the beloved Sentosa Island. Known for its breathtaking views between Faber Peak and Sentosa Island, Singapore's cable car is the first and only cableway that links mainland Singapore to the island of Sentosa. Enjoy 360-degree views of forests, skyscrapers, and sandy beaches as the car ferries you almost 5 kilometres on a 30-minute ride. The cable car has two lines: Mount Faber Line and Sentosa Line. The Mount Faber Line runs between Mainland Singapore and Sentosa Island, while the Sentosa Line runs only within Sentosa Island. With a round-trip pass, you can complete the entire trip, irrespective of which station you start at. Cross a skyscraper and float across the harbour on your way to Mount Faber. As you approach this famous hill station, enjoy stunning photo ops as you pass by the lush greenery. On the Sentosa Line, fly over the jungle, sand, and sea; plus, catch views of the city's main attractions.
- You can pick an all-glass cable car to add a little excitement to your journey.
- Tickets are cheaper in the evening. If you wish to time your ride for the sunset, plan your trip for after 7pm.
The cable car cabins can get stuffy on sunny days. While there are fans inside the car, ensure you leave the windows slightly open for extra ventilation.
For a blockbuster holiday in Singapore, spend a day at Universal Studios. The highlight of Sentosa Island, this sprawling theme park consists of six themed zones packed with roller coaster rides, live shows, water-themed attractions, merchandise shops, and food outlets. Many of the attractions recreate the magic of some of the biggest films of the past few decades, including The Mummy, Jurassic Park, and Shrek.
- When you enter Universal Studios, get your hands on the Studio’s map and card that lists the timings of the various shows. These will come in handy when you are making your way through the vast Studio!
- Schedule your day around the shows you wish to watch and arrive about 15 minutes early to get the best seats.
- Don’t forget to join the studio tour at the end of the day to complete your Universal Studios experience.
Local travel tip
The first thing you should do is take the USS map and card with various entertainment timings with you.
Mesmerising and captivating, the Wings of Time is Singapore’s award-winning outdoor night show. A multi-sensory extravaganza, the show combines water displays, laser projections, and fire effects - all in one captivating presentation. Experience the magic of 3D projection mapping and spectacular pyrotechnics with a wonderful musical production playing in the background. Created by a critically acclaimed team of local and international entertainment experts and set against a signature backdrop and a larger-than-life water screen, the show tells a contemporary tale of courage, mystery and magic. Sit back and get lost in this magical world as you journey across the fabric of time.
- Arrive 15-25 minutes early to snag a good spot for the show.
A day trip from Singapore
Pulau Ubin
Batam
A stark contrast to mainland Singapore’s ultra-modern cityscape, the island of Pulau Ubin is a green haven dotted by mangroves and filled with abundant bird life. You can spend a few hours here, visiting traditional villages and taking in the lush scenery.
Get a taste of neighbouring Indonesia with a quick dash to the island of Batam. Surrounded by turquoise and deep blue waters, Batam offers visitors the chance to soak up the sun, ski across the waters, and spend a tranquil moment at a monastery.
- The best time to visit Batam is between April and October when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as the sun can be quite intense.
- There are a number of ATM machines located around the island, but it is always best to bring cash as some places only accept Indonesian Rupiah.
- When travelling by boat, be sure to check in with the Harbour Master’s office first.
- Batam is a Muslim majority island, so be sure to dress modestly when out in public.
- There are many delicious Indonesian dishes to try on the island, so be sure to sample as many as you can!
Roam the iconic Marina Bay Singapore
ArtScience Museum
Gardens by the Bay
Marina Bay Sands Skypark
Housed in a lotus-shaped building, Singapore’s ArtScience Museum showcases art alongside innovation and technology. Spread across an impressive 6000 square metres that are divided into 21 gallery spaces, the Museum plays host to sought-after travelling exhibitions that draw in families as well as crowds of curious adults. Past exhibitions have included showcases on Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Genghis Khan and, even, Harry Potter. What we love most about the museum is that its exhibitions go beyond the traditional museum display format and combine giant screens, virtual reality, large-than-life digital installations, and more to offer an immersive and thrilling experience.
Local travel tip
The exhibits at the ArtScience Museum are super popular, so visit early and preferably on weekdays to avoid the crowd!
A stellar showcase of Singapore’s commitment to integrating nature into its modern, skyscraper-dotted cityscape, Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit. Part of downtown Singapore’s Marina Bay area, the Gardens are recognised by their tall metal Supertrees that are entwined with greenery, the landscaped gardens, the many waterfronts and the glass-domed conservatories.
End your memorable trip to Singapore by soaking in its grandiosity from the Marina Bay Sands Skypark. A much-visited observation deck that sits atop the glitzy Marina Bay Sands building, the SkyPark offers you the chance to observe the busy cityscape – replete with curated gardens, modern buildings, and bustling streets – surrounded by waters. You can even enhance your experience with a dip in the infinity pool, sipping champagne while marvelling at a brilliant sunset, or getting your groove on at silent disco parties.
Local travel tip
End your trip with a tour of the nightlife scene in Clarke Quay. This riverside district is filled with bars, clubs and restaurants, and is at a walkable distance from the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark.
Other Singapore itinerary options?
Don't have 5 whole days in Singapore? That's alright, we've got other options for you. Check out our other itineraries for further inspiration:
Where to stay in Singapore?
If you are looking for a luxurious hotel, Orchard Road is the place to stay. This area is home to many high-end hotels, as well as shopping and dining options. For a more budget-friendly option, Chinatown offers a wide variety of guesthouses and hostels. This area is also great for exploring Singapore’s Chinese heritage.
Little India is another popular option for accommodations. This area is known for its vibrant and colorful culture. You can find many great places to eat, as well as shops selling traditional Indian goods.
No matter what your budget or preferences are, you can find a great place to stay in Singapore. There are accommodations available to suit any traveler!
Recommendations:
1. Around Marina Sand Bays:
- Pan Pacific Singapore (5-star)
- Marina Bay Sands Singapore (5-star)
- Hotel Mi (4-star)
- JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach (5-star)
- Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon (4-star)
- Park View Hotel (3-star)
- River City Inn (2-star)
- Jayleen Clarke Quay Hotel (3-star)
- NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento (5-star)
- Park Regis Singapore (4-star)
- Wink Capsule Hostel (2-star)
- Bliss Hotel Singapore (3-star)
- Furama RiverFront (4-star)
More tips & hacks for making the best of 5 Days in Singapore
- Take a ride on the Singapore Flyer, the city's giant ferris wheel. The views from the top are incredible, and it's a great way to orient yourself to the layout of the city.
- Definitely spend an afternoon at Sentosa Island, home to beaches, theme parks and other attractions.
- Sample the local cuisine. Singapore is known for its food, so be sure to try dishes like chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice and satay.
- Take a walk or ride the train through Little India. This vibrant neighborhood is a great place to shop for Indian spices and textiles.
- Be sure to purchase a good map of the city so that you can get around easily.
- Ensure pack light since the weather is quite hot and humid.
- Have plenty of Singapore dollars on hand since most places only accept this currency.
FAQs
The top things to do in Singapore would be to visit Sentosa Island, go on a tour of the Singapore Zoo, spend a fun day at Universal Studios Singapore, and take a cable car ride to Mount Faber.
Some of the best places to eat in Singapore would be at Hawker Centers, Chinatown, and Little India .
Orchard Road would be one of the best places to go shopping in Singapore. There are also several malls located around Singapore such as VivoCity, Marina Bay Sands, and ION Orchard.
Some of the best things to do at night in Singapore would be to go on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo, visit Marina Bay Sands for the light show and laser show, or go on a river cruise.
Some of the best places to stay in Singapore would be at a hotel near Orchard Road, Marina Bay, or Sentosa Island.
