Welcome to this 5 day Singapore itinerary, where we’ll pack your trip with all the must-see sights and experiences.
Singapore might be small, but there are so many things to do!
From gardens and cultural districts to world-class attractions, this itinerary will keep you busy from morning to night.
It’s a full schedule, so be prepared, but if you’re up for the adventure, you can cover a lot in Singapore in five days.
Throughout this trip, you’ll explore the city’s highlights—think Merlion Park, Sentosa Island, and the famous Singapore Zoo—while also experiencing the local food scene and soaking in the vibrant energy of the neighbourhoods.
You can admire the skyline on a bumboat ride, sip a Singapore Sling at Raffles or relax in the Botanic Gardens, and you’ll get a real feel for what makes Singapore special.
Of course, even after all this, there’s still more to discover. Singapore is always evolving, and there’s plenty left for a future visit.
But for now, let’s dive into five days of non-stop exploring in the Lion City!
Don’t have five days in Singapore? Check out these itineraries for just one day in Singapore and three days in Singapore instead.
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The Full Itinerary for 5 Days in Singapore
I’ve tried to cover a little bit of everything in this itinerary, with themed days that cover an area of the city.
Feel free to change the order of the days around, they do not build on themselves and all stand alone. You will notice day 2 is best suited to a Thursday or Friday.
There are hundreds of other attractions and activities that can be substituted in and out – do that if something here does not appeal to you.
Most of all, use this to build your own amazing itinerary that suits your time in Singapore.
Day 1: Marina Bay Wonders
Today you will be exploring the area around Marina Bay, with some of the most popular attractions, including the iconic Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, and a stunning evening light show by the bay.
Morning:
- Merlion Park – Start your day with photos of Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather. (Nearest MRT: Raffles Place)
- Take a leisurely walk across the Jubilee Bridge to the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Marvel at the durian-shaped architecture and soak in the artsy atmosphere.
- If you’re up for it, take a ride on the Singapore Flyer for sweeping views of the city. The Flyer offers a unique perspective, different from the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark.
- Cross the futuristic Helix Bridge for some fantastic photo opportunities and breathtaking views of Marina Bay.
- Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of Gardens by the Bay. Visit either the Flower Dome or Cloud Forest, or if you prefer, take a stroll along the Supertree Grove Skywalk for an overhead view.
You can also just find a peaceful spot and relax. I once spent a couple of very jet-lagged hours laying here enjoying the view.
Lunch:
- Refuel at Satay by the Bay, where you can enjoy satay and other local hawker centre favourites.
Alternatively, head to Marina Bay Sands and explore the food court on the lower level for a variety of affordable, tasty options.
Afternoon:
- Wander through The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Even if luxury shopping isn’t on your list, it’s perfect for some air-conditioned respite.
Watch the gondolas on the indoor canal or admire the Rain Oculus (especially during an afternoon downpour). Don’t miss the floating Apple and Louis Vuitton stores on the water. - Head outside to visit the ArtScience Museum, where you can enjoy the interactive exhibits. You have plenty of time since it stays open until 7 pm, so no need to rush!
Dinner:
- For dinner, explore more of the dining options at Marina Bay Sands. You could even book a table at LAVO on the 57th floor, combining your meal with spectacular views of the skyline.
Evening:
- Don’t miss the Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay, a dazzling display of lights, lasers, and water effects. You could also catch the Garden Rhapsody Light Show over at Gardens by the Bay.
- End your evening by heading up to the SkyPark Observation Deck or relax at a rooftop bar to soak in the panoramic night views of the city.
Day 2: Exploring Singapore’s Ethnic Neighbourhoods
Immerse yourself in Singapore’s diverse cultural neighbourhoods—Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam—before enjoying a food tour in Joo Chiat.
I recommend arranging your days so this falls on a Thursday or Friday to enjoy the evening food tours.
Morning:
- Start your day with a traditional kaya toast breakfast at Tong Ah Eating House (Nearest MRT: Chinatown or Maxwell MRT), a local favourite in Chinatown.
If you prefer, you can instead try it at one of the chain stores, like Ya Kun Kaya Toast which can be found all over. - After breakfast, explore Chinatown, starting with the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Stroll through the vibrant streets filled with traditional shophouses, markets, and cultural sites. Look out for the distinctive street art.
Lunch:
- Enjoy lunch at Maxwell Food Centre (Nearest MRT: Maxwell MRT), where you can try the famous Tian Tian chicken rice or other delicious hawker dishes.
Afternoon:
- Head to Little India (Nearest MRT: Little India MRT), where the streets are alive with colour, fragrant spices, and bustling markets.
- Visit the stunning Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, then continue to explore the surrounding shops and streets.
- Next, head over to Kampong Glam (Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT). Start at the impressive Sultan Mosque and take a walk down Haji Lane, known for its quirky shops, street art, and trendy cafes.
Dinner:
- Travel to Joo Chiat (Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar MRT), where you’ll begin a culinary adventure through one of Singapore’s most iconic food districts.
Evening:
- End your day with the Joo Chiat/Katong Food Walk by Betel Box Tours, sampling local favourites and Peranakan delights. I did this tour on my first visit to Singapore and it was a highlight that I still talk about years later. Only available on Thursday night.
If you are in the area on a Friday night, Betel Box Tours offers a similar tour in the neighbouring Geylang called Sins & Salvation, where you learn about the “taboos, laws and red-light activities” while tasting local dishes.
Day 3: Sentosa Island Adventure with Two Options
Spend a day at Sentosa Island, with options for Universal Studios or relaxing beach time, ending with a cable car ride and the Wings of Time show.
Option 1: Universal Studios Singapore (Full Day)
Morning to Evening:
- Spend the entire day at Universal Studios Singapore (Nearest MRT: HarbourFront MRT), enjoying its thrilling rides, immersive zones, and entertaining shows. Don’t miss the Battlestar Galactica roller coaster, the Transformers 3D ride, and the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure.
- Refuel with snacks or meals at themed spots like Mel’s Drive-In for classic American diner food or StarBot Café for a quick bite.
Option 2: Explore Sentosa & Relaxation
Morning:
- Start your day at the S.E.A. Aquarium (Nearest MRT: HarbourFront MRT), one of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing over 100,000 marine creatures.
- If time allows, visit Madame Tussauds or the Trick Eye Museum for some lighthearted fun and unique photo opportunities.
Lunch:
- Have lunch at Malaysian Food Street, for authentic local dishes, or cool down with a refreshing coconut ice cream at Co+Nut+ink.
Afternoon:
- Spend a relaxing afternoon at Siloso Beach—sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Alternatively, grab a spot at Coastes Beach Bar & Restaurant for a beachside snack and drink – we enjoyed cooling down here after our beach walk.
- Make sure to visit the southernmost point of continental Southeast Asia!
- For a thrill, try iFly Singapore for indoor skydiving or enjoy the Luge & Skyride for a fun-filled ride down the slopes and a scenic return.
Dinner:
- Before heading off the island, have dinner at Good Old Days Food Court, where you can choose from a variety of local dishes. Or, for something more refined, dine at a restaurant in Resorts World Sentosa.
Evening:
- Take the cable car to Mount Faber Peak for sunset views over Singapore’s skyline and lush greenery.
- After enjoying the sunset, return to Sentosa for the Wings of Time show at 8:40 pm, a captivating performance of lights, water, and fire effects set against the backdrop of the sea.
Day 4: A Full Day at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Spend a full day at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, starting with breakfast with the orangutans at Singapore Zoo and ending with the Night Safari.
Morning:
- Start your day with an unforgettable experience—Breakfast in the Wild at Singapore Zoo (Nearest MRT: Khatib MRT, then take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle). Enjoy a delicious buffet while watching the zoo’s orangutans swing from the treetops. This unique encounter allows you to get up close to these magnificent primates while learning about conservation efforts.
- After breakfast, spend the morning exploring the Singapore Zoo, renowned for its open-concept enclosures. Don’t miss the Fragile Forest, where you’ll walk through a biodome filled with free-roaming animals, or the Elephants of Asia exhibit.
Lunch:
- Grab lunch at the Ah Meng Restaurant, a zoo favourite offering both local and international dishes, or explore other casual dining options within the zoo.
Afternoon:
- If you’re up for more animal encounters, you can choose to explore either River Wonders or the newly opened Bird Paradise:
- River Wonders: Take a boat ride through the park to discover creatures of the world’s major rivers, including the giant pandas and the iconic Amazon River Quest.
- Bird Paradise: Wander through this avian haven, where you’ll see thousands of birds from all over the world in lush, naturalistic habitats. Highlights include the Lory Loft and the Penguin Cove.
- If you’re feeling a bit tired after the zoo, you can opt to relax in the shaded areas or grab a refreshing drink at one of the park’s cafes.
Dinner:
- Have dinner within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve at one of the eateries, like the Mandai Food Village, which offers a variety of local dishes and snacks.
Evening:
- End your day with the Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo, where you can experience animals in their natural, nighttime habitats. The Tram Ride is a must, offering a guided tour through the park’s six geographical zones. You can also enjoy walking trails that bring you closer to the animals. The safari opens in the evening, and there are live cultural performances, such as the Thumbuakar Fire Show, to entertain you while you wait.
Tip: if you are visiting more than one of the parks, a Mandai Wildlife Reserve combo ticket is likely to be the best value for money. You can also find more combo offers through the individual links above.
Day 5: Culture, Nature, and Final Farewells
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Haw Par Villa, a peaceful stroll through the Botanic Gardens, and a lively evening at Clarke Quay or shopping on Orchard Road.
Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to the unique Haw Par Villa (Nearest MRT: Haw Par Villa MRT), where you can explore the colourful depictions of Chinese mythology and folklore. Don’t miss the fascinating and slightly eerie Hell’s Museum for different views of the afterlife.
Lunch:
- Grab a quick meal at nearby local eateries or head to the Singapore Botanic Gardens for a light snack before your stroll.
Afternoon:
- Wander through the peaceful Singapore Botanic Gardens (Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens MRT), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the various gardens, including the stunning National Orchid Garden.
- Visit the historic Raffles Hotel (Nearest MRT: City Hall MRT) and treat yourself to the iconic Singapore Sling at the Long Bar, where the drink was first created. Enjoy the elegance of this legendary hotel and its colonial charm.
Dinner:
- Head to Clarke Quay (Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay MRT) for a riverside dinner. Choose from a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, perfect for your final meal in Singapore while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Evening:
- After dinner, take a scenic bumboat ride along the Singapore River to see the city skyline beautifully lit up at night. The ride offers fantastic views of Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, and the surrounding skyline. It’s a relaxing and magical way to experience the city’s evening lights.
Option 1:
- Stay at Clarke Quay to enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with its bustling bars, live music, and a lively atmosphere. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the river to admire the evening lights and soak in the energy of this vibrant area.
Option 2:
- Alternatively, head to Orchard Road (Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT) for some last-minute shopping. Browse the malls for fashion, electronics, or souvenirs to bring home as a memento of your trip.
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Tips for Enjoying this Itinerary
- Start early: Singapore can get hot and busy, so starting your day early will help you beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather, especially for outdoor attractions like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, and the Zoo.
- Use public transport: The MRT is fast, efficient, and will take you close to most major attractions. Be sure to get an EZ-Link card or use contactless payments for easy travel around the city.
- Stay hydrated: Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s important to carry water with you, especially when exploring outdoor areas like Sentosa Island and the Botanic Gardens.
- Plan for downtime: This is a busy itinerary, so allow yourself some downtime to relax, whether it’s by sitting at a café or taking a break at one of the beautiful parks.
- Book tickets in advance: For popular attractions like Universal Studios, the Night Safari, and Gardens by the Bay, booking tickets ahead of time can save you both time and hassle. Use Klook to pay in your home currency and save on conversion fees.
- Dress comfortably: With a lot of walking and outdoor exploration, lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must for getting around the city comfortably.
- Mix up food choices: Take advantage of Singapore’s amazing food scene by trying a variety of local hawker fare as well as sit-down restaurant options—this way, you’ll experience both the local and upscale dining experiences.
- Prepare for rain: Singapore has tropical showers, often in the afternoon, so pack an umbrella or raincoat. Many attractions, like the museums and malls, are perfect for dodging a sudden downpour.
For more tips, check out my full list of Singapore travel advice!
TRAVEL PLANNING ESSENTIALS
Find flights – I always use Skyscanner as my starting point when searching for flights. One search will give many options including airlines I may not have thought of. This means I can find the best possible flights to suit my needs
Book accommodation – my go to is always Booking.com for the best places to stay. It’s not just hotels anymore, but hostels, apartments, B&Bs and more. I love that the bookings are usually cancellable, and that I can book now and pay later.
Hire a rental car – RentalCars.com is my go to here. It allows me to do just one search and it finds cars from many of the different supplies, so no checking multiple websites to compare.
Get travel insurance – you would have heard by now that saying “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel”. If we’ve learnt anything from the last couple of years it should be how essential travel insurance is. I use CoverMore for my insurance.
Pick up an eSIM – I tried an eSIM on my last trip and it was fantastic. I set it up before I went so it was ready as soon as I landed, and I still had access to my home number for emergencies. Get your own eSIM at Airalo.
Book activities, tours & attractions – I use a few different websites for this. Viator and Get Your Guide tend to be the first places I look. In Asia, Klook often has more options, and in Australia it’s Experience Oz.
Manage your money – the best way to manage your different currencies is with an account from Wise. You can hold money in many different currencies, and use them with the ATM card or from your phone.
