If you are planning a trip to the sunny tropical island of Southeast Asia; Singapore, you are probably wondering what to do and what to know. Even if all you have is 2 days in Singapore, the country holds a wide array of delightful activities you would not want to miss out on.
Here, you will find a list of all the best things to do in Singapore, as well as all the important information for you to be able to plan a personalized 2 day Singapore itinerary. If you have more than two days, no worries! There are plenty of options and suggestions in this guide so that you can organize your days in a way that completely suits your needs and wants. You will also find some very helpful tips.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to plan the perfect costume-made 2 days Singapore itinerary!
2 Days in Singapore: What to Know Before Your Visit
Singapore is the melting pot of Asia, with many diverse cultures existing side by side. It is one of the destinations where you can experience different facets of Asian culture without traveling the entire continent.
Its year-round tropical climate also makes it one of the most favorable holiday locations. For those who have never been to the Little Red Dot (or even if you have), make your next travel experience unforgettable and hassle-free by reading the following guide on how to spend 2 days in Singapore.
Is Singapore Expensive?
Even if you only spend 2 days in Singapore, it is a destination that can get expensive fast! Accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife (especially alcohol) can be quite costly. When planning your Singapore itinerary, be sure to book everything well in advance, this way you ensure getting the best possible deals.
Below, are other tips on how to cut costs:
Food: When it comes to food, you can opt to go to local markets, Warungs, or eat street food (hawker stall meals), here, food will definitely be cheaper and still delicious. Also, if your accommodation has a kitchen, you can opt to buy food at small grocery stores. Fresh food and local goods are affordable.
Transportation: Surprisingly, transportation in Singapore is pretty affordable. Not only public transport, but even the most expensive option, taxis, are quite affordable compared to many other big metropolitan cities. More on this below.
Season & deals: If you want to get the best deals, and also avoid the crowds, visiting during low season is your best bet. July to September is the slowest period for tourism, making it the cheapest time to visit Singapore. Be sure to keep an eye for flight and hotel deals during this season.
Getting Around Singapore
The best ways of getting around Singapore include:
Subway
MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the easiest way of getting around Singapore, especially if you are on a budget. Their subway system is very efficient, clean, and affordable. Prices rage between S$0.90-$2.
Public Bus
This is another great option for getting around Singapore. It is also easy and affordable. You can pay in cash, but be sure to bring the exact amount, as no change is given. There even is late-night bus services!
Taxis
There are designated areas for taxis to stop. All taxis in Singapore are metered, and the best way to pay is in cash.
Grab
If you need to get somewhere quickly, Grab is the best option. You can pay it through the app, which makes it more convenient. And, it also offers better rates than traditional taxis. Note that there is no Uber in Southeast Asia, but Grab works basically the same way.
When to Visit Singapore
Singapore is a destination you can visit year-round. You can expect hot and humid weather every month of the year. However, when deciding when to visit Singapore, you might want to consider; the cheapest months to visit, the least crowded months, the best weather, and how to avoid the rainy season.
January to June – You can expect the best weather. Less humid and hot than the summer months.
January and February—These are the busiest months due to the good weather and some festivities like the Chinese Lunar New Year.
July to November—Low season. You can expect to find the best prices. However, you will have to handle the rain and humidity. Best time to avoid the crowds!
February to April—Is considered the dry season. You can expect little rain, less humidity and plenty of sunshine.
When to visit Singapore depends on what you prefer. However, anytime is a good time!
Where to Stay During Your 2 Days in Singapore
Although Singapore is relatively easy to explore, I would recommend staying near the city center. This way you can make the most out of your 2 days in Singapore. Best places to stay:
Marina Bay
Arguably the best area to stay in. Also, the most expensive. You will find (almost) all the luxury hotels here. And, you will get to wake up to the beautiful, iconic Singaporean skyline. It is the perfect location to get to the most popular tourist attractions effortlessly. And, it is also just a short walk away from Clarke Quay.
Clarke Quay
You can find the best of Singaporean nightlife here. The price is still on the high side because of the proximity to Marina Bay. However, you will find some dining budget options. You are also walking distance from all the main attractions.
Orchard Road
Located in the central area of Singapore, and just a few minutes away by car or subway to the main tourist attractions. Orchard Road is the shopping district. Here you will find 2.5 KM of shops, restaurants and cafés as well as the ION Orchard Mall. If you are thinking of indulging in some shopping, be sure to include this in your Singapore itinerary.
Chinatown
Only 1.5 km from the heart of Singapore. With easy access to the Chinatown station and Outram Park station. You can rely on the MRT to get to the most popular attractions quickly. This is where to stay in Singapore if you are on a budget, want to soak up on the culture, and if you are a foodie at heart. Expect it to be very busy!
Little India
This area is not located in the city center. However, if you place yourself near the Farrer Park MRT Station, you can get fairly quick to any main tourist attraction. Here you will find a bustling community showcasing the Indian culture. Some of the best affordable accommodations, and cute boutique hotels can be found here. The best way to describe this area is: vibrant and colorful!
If you are unsure of where to stay in Singapore, decide once you know what you want to see and do. Keep reading to learn all the best things to do in Singapore, and then make a smart decision based on your top picks and budget.
What and Where to Eat in Singapore
Singaporean food is a big part of their culture and identity. Their cuisine includes Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, and even Western influence. Their food is basically divided into; seafood, meat, rice, snacks, and dessert. And, you can expect spicy and flavor-packed food.
Immersing in their culinary world is definitely one of the best things to do in Singapore, below you can find my top choices.
Must Try Dishes & Restaurants
Chili Crab
Singaporeans are well known for their seafood, especially the Chili Crab. A dish that involves crabs being stir-fried with a sweet savory sauce.
Where:
JUMBO Seafood is the perfect place to try an award-winning Chili Crab. They have been around since 1987, so believe me when I say they know what they are doing! They now have multiple locations (even at the airport) so find the one nearest to you, and don’t miss out the opportunity to try this delicious dish.
Singapore’s hawker centers
Singapore’s hawker centers are basically large food courts that serve all sorts of food, from full meals, to snacks and desserts. They best define Singapore’s multicultural heritage. So, a Singapore itinerary is not complete without a hawker centre!
Where:
There are over 110 hawker centers across Singapore. The largest being located in China Town, with over 700 stalls.
Hawker Chan has several locations in Singapore, including China Town. It received the titles of The World First Hawker Michelin-starred Meal and The Cheapest Michelin-starred Meal In The Word (costing only about S$5). Now, they have locations around the world.
Fine Dinning
Singapore offers a great variety of fine dining options. It is probably one of the best cities in the world to indulge in high-end cuisine. If you feel like splurging, below are some restaurants that will make every penny worth spending.
Where:
Odette: Where fine dinning meats design. This restaurant is simply beautiful. Located in the prestigious National Gallery Singapore. With three Michelin stars, their French cuisine provides dishes that are equally tasty and good-looking.
Ushidoki: This Japanese Michelin Star Restaurant offers a new spin on kaiseki meals, providing premium beef.
Braci: 1 Michelin Star Italian Fine Dining. Located in the heart of Boat Quay overlooking the Singapore River.
Other Important Facts About Singapore
Cleanness
For the most part, Singapore is really clean. The punishment or fines for littering can be quite steep, so be respectful and put the garbage where it belongs!
Language
Singapore caters to many cultures and different languages. However, with English you will be able to get by without any issues.
Currency
They use the Singapore Dollar, which is about $0.75 USD.
Cards and Cash
You can pay with cards almost everywhere. However, I do recommend bringing some cash, as some small establishments will not accept cards. Generally, only Singapore Dollars are accepted, so make sure to exchange money ahead of time, especially if you only have 2 days in Singapore.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not really expected in Singapore. Most establishments usually add a 10% service charge and 7% tax.
Water
You don’t have to worry about drinking water because tap water in Singapore is safe to drink.
2 Days in Singapore Packing List
As mentioned earlier, Singapore is always hot and humid. So, the most important packing tip is to bring comfortable, light clothing, things like cotton shirts, summer dresses, skirts, and shorts. As well as comfortable shoes! There will be a lot of walking involved. I would also suggest bringing an evening dress and a pair of formal shoes. In case you decide to go for a fancy dinner or night out.
Other packing suggestions include:
Plan the Perfect 2-Day Singapore Itinerary: Best Things to See and Do
When it comes to what to see and do, we all have different preferences. So, instead of setting a very specific Singapore itinerary for you (that might not be perfectly aligned with your interests), I decided to list all the best things to do in Singapore. This way, based on your preferences, and having all the necessary information, you can plan the perfect custom-made 2 days Singapore itinerary! And, if you are planning to stay longer than 2 days in Singapore, there are enough options for you to choose from and plan your entire vacation.
Changi Airport
Yes, exploring the airport is on the list of the best things to do in Singapore!
If you arrive at the Changi Airport, you will want to explore it as it is considered one of the best airports in the world. Serving over 100 airlines and connecting hundreds of cities around the world. But that is not all, Changi Airport offers several amazing attractions, like the world’s largest indoor waterfall (HSBC Rain Vortex), a butterfly garden, an IMAX theater, an outstanding variety of restaurants. Without mentioning, it has a massive mall!
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is at the top of the list because it is one of the most popular things to do in Singapore. This 250-acre nature park is home to four themed gardens:
Flower Dome: The largest glass greenhouse and conservatory in the world, which has hundreds of exotic plant species.
The Floral Fantasy: Inspired by fairy tales and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Here you will see floral art and cavernous spaces.
Cloud Forest: A mist-filled conservatory with rare vegetation and the Cloud Mountain, a 35-meter structure covered in extravagant flora.
Supertree Groove: You have probably seen these surreal structures before, as they are pretty popular on social media. They are covered in vertical gardens and connected by the OCBC Skyway. There are 18 Supertrees in total.
Important things to know before visiting Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay light show: Every day at 7:45pm and 8:45pm there is a free light and music show that takes place at the Supertree Grove. An event that you should not miss.
Entrance fee: The outdoor gardens are free to visit. However, there is an admission fee to enter the Flower Dome, the Cloud Forest, and the OCBC Skyway at the Supertree Grove. The entrance fee for both of the conservatories is $28 for adults, and $15 for children. Tickets to the OCBC Skyway are $8 for adults, and $5 for children.
How much time do you need to visit the Gardens: Between 2 and 4 hours.
Opening times: The outdoor gardens are open daily from 5am to 2am. And the conservatories from 9 am to 9 pm.
Closest MRT station: Bayfront MRT.
Night Stroll Along Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade
If you love walking like I do, and believe it is one of the best ways to soak up on the soul of a city, then this activity must be included in your Singapore itinerary.
It is a 3.5-kilometer along the bay walk that will take you around 30 to 40 minutes to complete. You will enjoy the futuristic skyscrapers featuring the Helix Bridge, the Esplanade-Theaters on the Bay and the ArtScience Museum.
It is best done at night as there is a free light and water show called Spectre at Marina Bay. The show encompasses fountain jets, visual projections and laser and mist effects. Happening every night at 8:30 pm and 9 pm, lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes. It takes place on the waterfront at the Event Plaza.
The Famous Marina Bay Sands
The iconic Marina Bay Sands offers a world-class hotel and dining experience.
You have probably seen the photos taken from the Marina Bay Sands hotel. Famous for its rooftop infinity pool located on the 57th floor that offers breathtaking views of the city in every direction you look.
The striking structures also contribute to the beautiful Singaporean skyline, especially at night when it’s lit up.
It is important to note that if you want to swim in their rooftop pool, you need to be a guest. Although you do have the option of accessing their observation deck and various restaurants and bars.
Marina Bay Sands offers visitors with world-class dining options like LAVO Italian restaurant and rooftop bar, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, just to mention a few. You can also find a variety of top-notch boutiques, musical acts, and a casino.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
This 160-year-old tropical garden features spectacular tropical flora. It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The main attraction is the National Orchid Garden which showcases over 60,000 plants and orchids. It also has other attractions like the Burkill Hall, the Orchidarium, the VIP Orchid Garden, the Lady Yuen-Peng McNeice Bromeliad House and so on.
Location: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Opening Hours: 5 am to 12 midnight daily
Admission: Free
How much time do you need to visit: 1 to 2 hours.
Chinatown
Almost three-quarters of Singaporean citizens are Chinese, and nowhere is their rich culture more evident than in Chinatown. Here, you can also see the influence of Buddhist, and Hindu cultures. So, if you want to soak up the culture, see some beautiful Buddhist temples, enjoy cheap good local food, and shop for souvenirs, then head straight to Chinatown.
Sites to check out in Chinatown:
NUS Baba house: A three-story museum showcasing a large collection of Peranakan artifacts (a unique mix of Malay and Chinese culture).
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Place of worship with comprehensive exhibits on Buddhist art and history.
Sri Mariamman Temple: The oldest Hindu temple in all of Singapore.
Visiting Chinatown is an afternoon activity, and how long you spend here is completely up to you. However, it will probably take a few hours. So, plan accordingly as this is definitely one of the top things to do in Singapore.
Little India
Another historical corner of Singapore that offers colorful, cultural richness is Little India. The highlights of this district are the beautiful, historic temples, including the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, and the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple.
There are also a few hawker markets boasting everything from art pieces to clothes and delicious food.
Sites to check out in Little India
House of Tan Teng Niah: It houses several commercial offices, however, it really stands out with its bright rainbow hues. It is a truly beautiful building.
Mustafa Centre: Shopping mall.
Tekka Centre: Home to a big hawker center.
To explore this area, you will need a minimum of 2–3 hours.
Universal Studios
Universal Studios Singapore has been deemed to be one of the best theme parks in Southeast Asia. Located within the Resort World Sentosa on Sentosa Island and is packed full of exciting activities. It features 28 incredible rides and shows. Rides like Transformers: The Ride 3D, Battlestar Galactica, Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase, Madagascar: A Chase Adventure and many others.
The tickets can be bought online or at the theme park, and they come at a variety of prices. If you wonder what to do in Singapore with children, this is a great option. Although, do have in mind that this is activity will likely take a full day, so consider this carefully if you only have 2 days in Singapore.
Kampong Glam
To the east of Little India you will find Kampong Glam, Singapores Muslim Quarter. Its major landmarks include the Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Center. You can enjoy their cute boutiques and antique shops, Middle Eastern restaurants, street art, and trendy cafés and bistros.
It is not necessary to spend much time here. However, it is a great place to stop over after exploring Little India and have a coffee or do some shopping.
Dine at the Historic Telok Ayer Market
Last in the list is this historic market also known as Lau Pa Sat, a foodies paradise. It hosts various restaurants that serve delicious Singaporean cuisine. Located in the Central Area of Singapore, specifically within the Downtown Core. It is also one of the oldest markets, with a prominent Victorian-style structure that still stands to this day.
Last thoughts…
I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your perfect Singapore itinerary, and you are no longer wondering what to do in Singapore in 2 days, or whatever number of days you plan to stay. Select your favorite activities from all the options mentioned above and create the perfect custom-made itinerary for yourself.
Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy every step of the journey!
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