Singapore Itinerary: How to Explore Singapore in 5 Days

Are you visiting Singapore with family for 5 days and are looking for a perfect itinerary plan? Look no further! After two visits to the country, I have crafted this itinerary to explore the best of Singapore in 5 Days to save you time and hassle 🙂

Singapore holds a special place in our hearts as it was our first trip outside our home country, India.

Why did we choose Singapore as our first trip abroad? Because it’s one of the cleanest and safest countries in the world and has so much to see and do for families.

From stunning skyline, mind-blowing architecture, and delicious food to cultural extravaganza – this teeny-weeny island nation packs a punch. No matter how many times you visit, you never get bored.

An absolute melting pot of cultures, the island city-state of Singapore is unlike any other country in Southeast Asia.

The food in Singapore celebrates multi-ethnic cultural diversity at its best. We were startled at the street food culture and hawker centers that flawlessly serve the needs of diverse communities in Singapore.

Believe you me, this small country where contemporary mingles effortlessly with the history, culture, and traditions, is sure to sweep you off your feet. Been there, done that.

After two visits (the second one was brief yet memorable), I think I can help others plan a perfect trip, and thus, this article! I hope you’ll benefit from it.

Heads up: some links here are affiliate links. That means if you click and buy something, I may earn a teeny-weeny commission (think chai money, not a private jet) at no extra cost to you. It’s a small way to keep this blog running, the words flowing, and the pages free for you to enjoy. I only recommend things I truly love, use, or secretly wish I invented, because trust matters, and so do good recs. Thanks for supporting the little cozy corner of the internet I call my virtual home.

Visiting Singapore: Practical Details

Before you plan a trip, you must know the essentials to rock it. I’ve written a Singapore Travel Guide that gives you tons of crucial information about planning a trip to Singapore. You must imbibe the information at the early planning stages as it will largely influence how your Singapore travel itinerary comes together.

How Many Days Are Enough for Singapore?

3 days is a good time to explore the highlights of Singapore. If you love slow traveling and don’t want to rush, I’d recommend at least 5 days in Singapore.

Five days are enough for Singapore to explore the highlights including some offbeat attractions in and around the city-state. Plus, you get plenty of time to go shopping.

What is the Best Time to Visit Singapore?

Singapore is a perfect year-round destination because of its tropical weather (that also means hot and humid weather around the year).

Our first visit to Singapore was in February around Chinese New Year and we loved the experience. The country comes to life through the celebration of festivities.

Consider visiting during February, March, and April.

Avoid December, January, and June as these months receive the major rainfall.

If budget is a concern, then July, August, September, October, and November are ideal as they are the cheapest months to visit Singapore. It’s a slow season and sees fewer tourists. There are higher chances of getting good hotel and flight deals!

Do I Need a Visa for Singapore?

Most visitors to Singapore don’t need an entry visa. Indians need a visa for Singapore.

You can visit the official website of ICA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information on visa requirements.

What do I Need to Pack for Singapore?

If you are confused about what to pack for Singapore, I’ve crafted a packing guide for Singapore to help you. I’ll jot down a few important things:

• Sunscreen
• Sun Hat
• Sunglasses
• Umbrella
• Light & airy cotton or bamboo clothes
• Reusable water bottle

How Much Money Do You Need in Singapore?

Singapore is expensive. You are supposed to spend an average of $200 to $250 per person per day. As a family of 3, we spent around $3600 for 5 days.

There are ways to save money in Singapore. Choose to eat at a hawker center rather than a restaurant, stay in a budget hotel rather than a luxury hotel, and buy a Singapore Pass to save up to 57% on admission.

How to Get to Singapore

The award-winning Changi Airport in Singapore is one of the busiest and best connected in the world.

BTW: it’s also one of the best airports for layovers. There’s so much to see and do at the airport itself for families with kids. If you’ve more than 6 hours at the airport, you can sign up for one of the free tours like Jewel Tour, City Sights Tour, and Heritage Tour.

Singapore Airlines, the flag carrier airline of Singapore, and Scoot, a low-cost airline by Singapore Airlines fly to over 135 global destinations.

Both airlines offer direct flights to and from major cities such as New York City, New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangkok, London, Munich, Paris, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Zurich, Melbourne, Hong Kong, Hanoi, Tokyo, and many more worldwide.

We use and recommend Skyscanner to search, compare, and book cheap flights.

Please Note: You must submit the SG Arrival Card within three days before entering Singapore (transit passengers and residents are exempted) for faster immigration clearance upon arrival.

How to Get from the Airport to the City

You can make use of the clean and efficient public transportation system in Singapore.

To reach the city, start at Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) and travel to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4). From there, switch to the East-West Line aka Green Line headed to Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33). For Pasir Ris, switch to the East-West Line directed towards Pasir Ris MRT Station (EW1).

Or, you can go from Changi Airport MRT Station to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then change to the Downtown Line aka Blue Line to Bukit Panjang MRT Station (BP6/DT1).

Bus services are also widely available. You can catch a bus (24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110, and 858) from the basement bus terminals. You can check the bus routes here to have more clarity.

If public transport isn’t your thing, you can hire a taxi from a taxi stand (located at arrival areas of Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4). A ride to the city takes around 30 minutes. It can cost you SGD 20 to SGD 30 or more depending on your final destination and the time of the day. The total cost may increase due to additional charges such as the airport surcharge, midnight, and peak hours fees.

You can also use one of the ride-sharing apps like Grab, Gojek, Tada Mobility, or Ryde to book a ride. The pick-up is usually from the arrival pick-up points at all the terminals.

How to Get Around Singapore

With its well-connected, efficient, and safe public transport system including trains, MRT, and buses, getting around Singapore is super easy. The best part is that it’s kid-friendly.

We usually prefer private vehicles while we travel (which saves much time and hassle with kids), however, in Singapore, we whole-heartedly and extensively used public transport with our 6-year-old daughter and enjoyed the experience.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the best and fastest way to get around Singapore. The MRT has six lines: North-South Line (Red), East-West Line (Green), Nort-East Line (Purple), Circle Line (Yellow), Downtown Line (Blue), and Thomson-East Coast Line (Brown).

There are several public buses also available. SBS Transit, SMRT, Go-Ahead Singapore, and Tower Transit Singapore are major public bus operators in Singapore.

The buses and trains operate from 5:30 am to 12:30 am. SMRT also operates night lines (11:30 pm to 2 am) on Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays.

The price depends on the distance traveled, usually between SGD 1.50 and SGD 2.50 per journey.

You can easily pay for public transport using your Visa, Master Card, or mobile wallet. You have to tap in and out at the machine while boarding and deboarding the train or the bus. Be aware that extra fees might apply for using foreign bank cards so you must check with your bank beforehand.

If you also want to use the public transport system extensively, I suggest you buy a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) to save money and time. It’s a special EZ-Link card that gives you unlimited hassle-free travel for 1, 2, or 3 days. You can grab it from STP kiosks or the SimplyGo Ticket Office at selected MRT stations.

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or book a ride via a ride-hailing app if you’ve limited time. They also come in handy to visit the places not accessible by the bus or MRT. 

How to Stay Connected in Singapore

Singapore’s three major telecom providers are Singtel, StarHub, and M1. You can get a tourist SIM card at the airport, convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, and dedicated telecom shops. I generally prefer to buy it from the dedicated telecom shop in the city.

They offer a range of packages or plans to choose from. Remember, when buying a prepaid tourist SIM card, you must produce your passport for registration.

To save time and hassle, you can prebook your SIM card and pick it up upon arrival.

Prebook Singtel or Starhub or M1 SIM Card

Where to Stay in Singapore

Singapore has some of the best hotels in the world. It has no shortage of the best places to stay no matter your budget and travel style.

You can choose any area or neighborhood as Singapore is easy to navigate owing to its small size. Also, the public transport is A-class. We stayed at Ramada on Balestier Road. Overall, it was a nice stay.

Below are our recommendations:

Budget: The Seacare Hotel, Galaxy Pods Capsule Hotel Boat Quay, and Ibis Styles Singapore Albert

Mid-Range: Ramada by Wyndham Singapore at Zhongshan Park, Hotel Mi, and Hotel Traveltine

Luxury: Marina Bay Sands, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, and The Ritz-Carlton

Family-Friendly: Shangri-La, Four Seasons Hotel, and Village Hotel Sentosa

5-Day Singapore Itinerary: An Overview

Day	Highlights	Where to Eat
Day 1	• Gardens by the Bay • Artscience Museum • Helix Bridge • Singapore Flyer • Merlion Park • Marina Bay Sands • Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay Sands	• Breakfast @ Toast Box Marina Bay Sands • Lunch @ LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar • Dinner @ CÉ LA VI
Day 2	• Little India • Kampong Glam • Katong & Joo Chait • Chinatown • Singapore River Bumboat Cruise	• Breakfast @ Tekka Centre • Lunch @ Maxwell Hawker Centre • Coffee and Snacks @ L’Atelier Tiramisu • Dinner @ nomVnom
Day 3	• Mandai Wildlife Reserve (Bird Paradise, Singapore Zoo, River Wonder, & Night Safari)	• Breakfast @ Mandai Wildlife West • Lunch @ Crimson Restaurant • Coffee and Snacks • Dinner @ Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant
Day 4	• Sentosa Island	• Breakfast @ Krispy Kreme Sentosa • Lunch @ Royal Taj • Coffee and Snacks @ Baristart Coffee • Dinner @ Food Republic
Day 5	• Singapore Botanic Gardens • Orchard Road • National Museum of Singapore • Tiong Bahru	• Breakfast @ The Affogato Bar • Lunch @ Hua Ting Restaurant • Coffee and Snacks @ Tiong Bahru Bakery • Dinner @ BAKLAKI Greek Taverna

Essential Reading: 30+ Best Things to do in Singapore with Kids

A Detailed 5 Days in Singapore Itinerary

Day 1: Marina Bay & Surroundings

8 am | Traditional Breakfast at Toast Box Marina Bay Sands

A good breakfast guarantees a good start to the day. I feel so. One of the most popular breakfast places in Singapore, Toast Box is the perfect place to start your first day in Singapore.

Try traditional Kaya Toast with Kaya Jam aka Coconut Jam or Peanut Butter Thick Toast, Mee Siam, and Nanyang Coffee.

Getting There: Located about 900 meters from Toast Box, Gardens by the Bay is an easy 10 to 12-minute walk away.

9 am | Gardens by the Bay

Next to the Marina Reservoir, the Gardens of the Bay is a nature park encompassing three beautiful waterfront gardens: Bay South Gardens, Bay East Gardens, and Bay Central Garden.

The sight of soaring tree-like structures known as the Supertrees catches your attention as soon as you enter the Gardens By the Bay. Two larger structures connect to form an elevated walkway, OCBC Skyway.

You can climb the 50-meter tall observation deck, Supertree Observatory to drink in the views over Marina Bay.

Bay East Garden also offers an amazing view of the Singapore skyline.

Bay South Garden is the largest of all and has two cooled conservatories – the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest. In Singapore’s hot and humid weather, these temperature-controlled observatories are the life-savers.

The Flower Dome, the largest glass greenhouse in the world, showcases eight different gardens that feature exotic flowers and plants from five continents.

A beautiful waterfall known to be the largest indoor waterfall in the world welcomes you into the Cloud Forest.

The high point of the Cloud Forest is a mist-covered 35-meter tall Cloud Mountain that you can climb to discover tropical plant life.

Another conservatory, Floral Fantasy displays floral art at best. If you love creative floral displays, you’d also love to know about the Philadelphia Flower Show.

Other notable attractions in the Gardens By the Bay include a Floral Clock, Far East Organization Children’s Garden, Heritage Gardens, and Sun Pavilion.

Exploring the gardens can take at least 3 to 4 hours so make sure you reach on time to get the most out of your day.

You can use the shuttle or auto rider service to travel within the gardens. Click here to check the operational hours and admission ticket details.

Buy the Gardens by the Bay Ticket Online or Book a Guided Tour of Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay

Getting There: Located over 350 meters from Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum is just a 5-minute walk away.

12 pm: ArtScience Museum

ArtScience Museum is where art marries science to narrate magical stories. With 21 galleries spread over 3 floors, the museum houses permanent exhibitions – Future World & Mars: The Red Mirror and holds renowned international touring exhibitions from time to time.

It’s an immersive educational experience for kids of all ages. Mini-me was happy and busy the whole time. We spent close to an hour here, however, it’s worth more than that.

It’s open from 10 am to 7 pm daily. Click here to check the admission ticket details.

Buy your Entry Ticket to the ArtScience Museum

Getting There: Located 850 meters from the ArtScience Museum, LAVO is a beautiful 10-minute walk away.

2 pm: Lunch @ LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

Experience a wide selection of carefully crafted Italian-American dishes or a scrumptious 3-course set lunch menu while enjoying the view of Singapore’s gorgeous city skyline at LAVO.

Ah! And don’t forget to indulge in their signature dish, a 20-layer Chocolate Cake. The bar serves some of the best hand-crafted cocktails in Singapore. Make sure you make a reservation beforehand, especially during the peak season.

Getting There: From LAVO, backtrack to cross the picturesque Helix Bridge.

4 pm: Walk the Helix Bridge

Inspired by the geometric arrangement of a DNA strand, The Helix is a pedestrian bridge spanning the Singapore River from the CBD (Central Business District) and the bayfront area.

You can walk the 280-meter-long bridge to reach the Singapore Flyer. Take your time to admire the unique architecture.

4:30 pm: Singapore Flyer

The world’s second-tallest observation wheel and Asia’s largest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer is a must-visit attraction for the most stunning views over Singapore.

A 30-minute scenic journey lets you uniquely discover Singapore. You can add a visit to the Time Capsule that takes you through Singapore’s past, present, and future.

The Singapore Flyer and the Time Capsule are open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. You should buy a combi ticket (Singapore Flyer and Time Capsule) as it saves quite a money.

A combi ticket costs SGD 40 per adult (13+), SGD 25 per child aged 3 to 12, and SGD 25 per senior citizen.

If you’re ready to splurge, you can book one of the special in-flight packages where you can enjoy sky dining or sip on champagne or Singapore Sling as you take the city from 165 meters above. Click here to check the admission ticket details and different packages.

Note: Singapore Flyer will be temporarily closed for annual maintenance from Monday, 1 April 2024 to Sunday, Tuesday, 30 April 2024. Time Capsule and the Retail Terminal will remain open.

Getting There: It’s a bit of a walk (1.3 km or 0.8 miles) about 20 minutes along the waterfront promenade from Singapore Flyer to Merlion Park. If you or your kids feel tired, a quick cab ride (less than 5 minutes) is your best bet.

6 pm: Merlion Park

With stunning views of Marina Bay and the Singapore Skyline, Merlion Park is one of the most beautiful places to be in Singapore.

The highlight here is the Merlion Statue, the iconic symbol and the most recognizable landmark of Singapore. Half lion half fish body, the statue represents the city’s past as a fishing village and its nickname Lion City (Singapore originated from the Malay words Singa meaning lion and Pura meaning city).

Another notable landmark near the park is Raffles, one of Singapore’s historic hotels well-known for its cocktail, Singapore Sling. You can try it at Long Bar at Raffles, an expensive affair though.

Getting There: Now, you can either hail a cab or walk to the nearest bus station (03381 – The Sail) to the Merlion to catch a bus 97 to Marina Bay Sands.

7 pm: SkyPark Observation Deck @ Marina Bay Sands

Located on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands, the SkyPark Observation Deck boasts scenic views of the iconic skyline of Singapore (you can’t get enough of it).

It’s open from 11 am to 9 pm wherein 11 am to 4:30 pm are non-peak hours and 5 pm to 8:30 pm are peak hours. The ticket prices differ for the peak and non-peak hours. Check the official website for updated ticket prices.

Buy Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck Ticket

Alternative: Gardens by the Bay at Night (Supertrees Light Show)

If you don’t want to visit the Skypark Observation Deck, you have a choice to witness a kaleidoscopic extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay, Garden Rhapsody. Be ready to be dazzled by the wonderful sight of iconic Supertrees all lit up. The background music adds to the overall experience.

The show takes place every night at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm. It lasts for 15 minutes. Admission is absolutely free.

8:30 pm: Dinner @ CÉ LA VI

Located atop the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, CÉ LA VI is where you can have delicious food while enjoying the incredible views over Singapore.

You have already enjoyed the view of Singapore by day and now it’s your chance to relish the view of Singapore by night.

If you are not a guest at the hotel you’ll need to pay an entrance fee which is taken off your bill. The visitors get free access on Thursday nights.

9:30 pm: Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay Sands

What better way to end your first day in Singapore!!! A 15-minute Spectra – A Light & Water Show showcases the fountains dancing with the music.

You can witness the show from the Event Plaza (located on the first floor of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands), Merlion Park, and even from a river cruise depending upon the show timings you choose.

The show timings are 8 pm and 9 pm. Fridays and Saturdays have an additional show at 10 pm. Entry is free.

Day 2: Cultural Neighborhoods

8 am: Breakfast @ Tekka Centre

A landmark in Little India, Tekka Centre houses a wet market, a food center, and a shopping mall. From North Indian, South Indian, and Pakistani, to Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan – it’s here where you can gorge on delicious South Asian food.

Portions are good and prices are reasonable. While it’s chaotic and messy (it really is super busy), the food is AMAZING!

Order a cup of Nanyang kopi from Generation Coffee and a plate of Appam from Sri Aachi Aappakadai and you are in for a great breakfast.

9 am: Discover Little India

It’s time to explore Little India, one of the most vibrant districts in Singapore. With a strong local Indian (especially South Indian) community, the place feels quite unlike the rest of Singapore.

The best way to take in the vibe is by strolling streets lined with colorful shops, Hindu temples, Buddhist temples, mosques, and churches and listening to the sounds of Indian music, temple bells, and diverse accents.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple (the Temple of Thousand Lights), House of Tan Teng Niah (utterly Instagram-worthy), Indian Heritage Centre, Little India Arcade, Serangoon Road, and Mustafa Centre are some of the best places to visit in Little India.

I’d strongly recommend this tour for an all-inclusive experience.

Getting There: Take the Downtown Line from Little India MRT Station (NE7/DT12) or Farrer Park MRT Station (NE8) to Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14). Or you can board bus 57.

11 am: Explore Kampong Glam

You are now all set to discover Singapore’s Muslim Quarter. Sir Stamford Raffles assigned this area to the Malay, Arab, and Bugis communities.

Since then, it has come a long way. The trendy and contemporary lifestyle pops up while the traditions remain in place.

It has become a famous meeting place for hip travelers and cultural history buffs.

Sultan Mosque, Malay Heritage Centre, Gelam Gallery, Arab Street, Haji Lane, and Parkview Square are some of the best places to see in Kampong Glam. Haji Lane is sprinkled with cool boutiques, chic cafes, bars, restaurants, and beautiful street art. Check out this guide to Haji Lane.

Tip: Just 2 minute (160 meters) walk from Sultan Mosque is located in Bhai Sarbat which serves the best teh tarik (pulled tea) in Singapore.

Book a guided walking tour of Kampong Glam

Getting There: Take the Downtown Line from Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14) to Eunos MRT Station (EW7) or Paya Lebar MRT Station (EW8/CC9). Alternatively, you can take bus 16 or 48.

1 pm: Check Out Katong & Joo Chiat Road

Katong is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Singapore famous for its rich heritage & colorful Peranakan culture, and delicious local cuisine. Peranakan refers to Straits-born people of Chinese and Malay or Indonesian heritage.

Walk along Koon Seng Road to witness the well-preserved Peranakan shophouses. The row of two and three-storey pastel houses here is Instagram-worthy!

Straits Enclave and the Intan are the private museums in the area that beautifully preserve the Straits Chinese culture and heritage.

Rumah Bebe is a boutique, museum, and restaurant all rolled into one. It not only offers deeper insights into Peranakan traditions and crafts but also is a perfect spot to sample traditional Peranakan sweet delights like Kueh Pie Tee and Nonya Kueh.

Right next to it is Kim Choo Kueh Chang, a restaurant celebrated for its traditional rice dumplings known as Kim Choo Nyonya Dumplings.

Showcasing a collection of antiques and stories from the community’s past, Katong Antique House is another place to soak in the Peranakan heritage.

Enjoy a walk along East Coast Road and Joo Chiat Road, streets lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and bars. Your Instagram will love the row of white Peranakan shophouses along Lotus @ Joo Chiat.

While you stroll the neighborhood, keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant street art. I tell you, Katong is an Instagramra’s dream come true.

Getting There: Take the East-West Line from Eunos MRT Station (EW7) or Paya Lebar MRT Station (EW8/CC9) towards Tuas Link MRT Station (EW33) and get off at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (EW15). From there, Maxwell Food Centre is a short walk away.

3 pm: Lunch @ Maxwell Food Center

Hawker Centers sum up the local food scene in Singapore. Hawker culture in Singapore is an intrinsic part of the way of life for Singaporeans.

It beautifully encapsulates Singapore’s multicultural society. It’s now added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Culture Heritage of Humanity.

With stalls serving Chinese, Indian, Malay, and other diverse cuisines, there’s no better way to experience Singapore’s food culture and heritage than eating at a hawker center.

Maxwell Food Center is one of the best hawker centers in Singapore. Tian Tian Chicken Rice, Marina South Delicious Food, Jin Hua Sliced Fish Bee Hoon, Rojak, Popiah & Cockle, and Hum Jin Pang are some stalls to look for.

Getting There: A 5-minute walk (450 meters) from Maxwell will take you to Telok Ayer Street in Chinatown.

4:30 pm: Explore Chinatown

Once home to the Chinese immigrant population, Chinatown packs the culture and heritage of Singapore.

Telok Ayer Street and McCallum Street are beautiful streets hosting historic buildings like Thian Hock Keng Temple, Nagore Durgha Shrine, Chinese Methodist Church, and many more. You’ll also find many chic cafes and bars here.

One of Singapore’s oldest and most important Hokkien temples, Thian Hock Keng Temple is an architectural masterpiece. Interestingly, not even a single nail was used in the temple. Its rear wall is particularly captivating. It features a 44-meter mural by Yip Yew Chong narrating the story of Singapore’s first Chinese immigrants in a traditional reading direction (starts from the right) of Chinese literature.

If you have a thing for antiques like me, check out the Singapore Musical Box Museum, even if it’s just a quick visit, it’ll sweep you into a wave of nostalgia with its charming collection of musical boxes from the 1800s & 1900s.

Tip: Relish a cup of Teh C Special at Chong Wen Ge Cafè aka the Museum Cafe once you have explored Thian Hock Keng Temple.

As you move further, you’ll come across lush green open space – Ann Siang Hill Park! It feels like a moment of peace between the chaos of Chinatown. Another famous landmark nearby is Tong Heng, one of the oldest bakeries in Singapore. If you have time, try their signature delicacy – egg tart!

Intriguingly, historic temples coexist beautifully with the hip bars in Chinatown. It’s here where a Buddhist temple (Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum), a mosque (Masjid Jamae), and a Hindu temple (Sri Mariamman Temple) line the single street.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum is one of the must-see cultural sites in Singapore. Completed in 2007 in Tang-style architecture, the richly carved interiors amaze its visitors. The temple is open from 7 am to 5 pm while the museum and stupa chamber are open from 9 am to 5 pm daily. Admission is free. If you visit on Saturday, you can join a free guided tour.

A little walk away from Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is Keong Saik/Bukit Pasoh district known for its mix of the rich past and lively present. Keong Saik Road, once a red light area, is evolved to become a chic neighborhood with beautifully preserved shophouses metamorphosed into hip cafes, trendy boutiques, and some of the city’s most talked about restaurants. The street art along Keong Saik makes it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Quite opposite to Chinatown’s chaotic charm, Bukit Pasoh Road exudes a peaceful vibe. It’s known for its high-end Chinese clan associations and clubs known as the Straits Clan (Ee Hoe Hean Club is their most notable here) and the beautiful pastel-colored heritage shophouses. The area is featured in the Hollywood movie, Crazy Rich Asians.

The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, Sri Mariamman Temple has enchanting exteriors and inspiring interiors. The murals, sculptures, and shrines are sure to mesmerize you. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman known for her power to cure diseases.

PS: We also visited Chinatown Food Street (CFS), a famous hawker center in Singapore – a great way to understand the country’s multi-ethnic culinary traditions. However, it’s permanently closed as of the latest update.

While Katong-Joo Chiat is the best neighborhood to experience Peranakan culture first-hand, Peranakan Tiles Gallery near Sri Mariamman Temple is a great place to see the vibrant and intricately designed ceramic tiles that define Peranakan homes.

You can add a visit to the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn more about the neighborhood and its early inhabitants. It’s temporarily closed, so check their official website before you plan a visit.

One of the oldest mosques in Singapore, Masjid Jamae or Majid Chulia was built around 1827 for the Tamil Muslim population in Singapore. The iconic architectural style of the mosque makes it a must-see for travelers.

Note: You must dress appropriately while visiting religious places and cover your knees, shoulders, and head.

As you walk towards the South Bridge Road from Masjid Jamae, pause at Mohamed Ali Lane to witness the vibrant murals. You’ll find some amazing street art throughout Chinatown, as well as, across Singapore.

Book a Guided Walking Tour of Chinatown

Getting There: L’Atelier Tiramisu is a 10-minute walk (800 meters) via South Bridge Road & Carpenter Street.

7 pm: Coffee and Snacks @ L’Atelier Tiramisu

You must be tired by now. It’s time to treat your senses. As you walk further on the South Bridge Road towards Carpenter Street, you’ll reach L’Atelier Tiramisu.

They serve the best tiramisu in town. Order a classic Tiramisu along with a cup of coffee. You can try other flavors too. They have a good range of flavors (lychee, matcha, dark cherry, Brulee, pistachio, lavender earl grey) to choose from, each with its own character.

Getting There: You can walk to Clarke Quay Jetty Ticket Counter at River Valley Road (located right next to Slingshot Singapore, it’s about a 5-minute walk) to buy tickets for the bumboat cruise.

8 pm: Singapore River Bumboat Cruise

Bumboats are the historic wooden boats used to transport goods along the rivers of Rochor, Kallang, and Singapore during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Singapore River Bumboat Cruise is one of the most classic ways to experience Singapore. Spanning the iconic districts of Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Marina Bay, the 40-minute cruise lets you experience Singapore’s heritage and modernity at the same time.

From soaring skyscrapers of the Central Business District, Raffles, Fullerton, and Merlion Park, to Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum, and Esplanade: Theaters on the Bay – you’ll witness many of the city’s landmarks from the back of a bumboat.

The cruise is fondly known as ‘The Singapore River Experience—A Tale of Two Quays’.

You can buy tickets from one of the Singapore River Cruise’s jetties. We started at Clarke Quay Jetty, however, there are several jetties along the river namely Boat Quay Jetty, Read Bridge Jetty, Esplanade Jetty, Promenade Jetty, Bayfront South Jetty, Merlion Park Jetty, and Fullerton Jetty.

The ticket costs USD 28 per adult and USD 18 per child aged 3 to 12 years.

Getting There: A little walk (500 meters) from the jetty, across the river, is nomVnom.

9 pm: Dinner @ nomVnom

I loved nomVnom! If you are a vegan or vegetarian or looking for gluten-free options, you must dine at this family-friendly quick-service restaurant. From a bowl of laksa and a hearty burger to a range of pizzas and pasta – they have diverse local & international fast foods, all plant-based.

The casual and welcoming ambiance, it’s a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal with kids.

Day 3: Wildlife & Nature

Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Singapore isn’t your regular zoo. It’s a class apart and I feel that you must take your kids there.

The reserve has four huge parks: Bird Paradise, Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, and Night Safari. You can’t visit all the four in a day. So, choose the ones your kids want to visit.

We dedicated two days to the reserve and explored the Bird Paradise and Singapore Zoo on the first day and River Wonders and Night Safari on the second day.

As you only have one day to spare, you can try to squeeze in three parks if you manage your time properly. Some even manage to cover all four parks in a day, as the parks are located side by side keeping the commuting time to zero. Plus, you can avail the tram ride (included in your ticket) to save more time.

8 am: Quick Breakfast @ Mandai Wildlife WEST

If you plan to hit Bird Paradise early in the morning before the crowd sets in, you can get a quick bite at Starbucks as it opens as early as 8 am. It’s located in Mandai Wildlife WEST, a public area serving as a gateway to the Bird Paradise. Set in a scenic area, it has play zones and diverse dining options, open from 6 am to 9:30 pm.

COLLIN’S® is also a great option here if you start a bit late. It opens at 10 am on weekdays and 9 am on weekends.

Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique & Sandwich Bar serves a mind-boggling selection of sandwiches, shakes, sundaes & botanical gelato. It opens at 10:30 am on weekdays and 9 am on weekends.

9 am: Bird Paradise

A haven for bird lovers, the Bird Paradise (previously, Jurong Bird Park) is home to about 3,500 birds across 400 species including the endangered species.

It’s the largest bird park in Asia and unique in the way that birds are not kept in cages. It’s a delight for the kids to see the colorful birds flying freely around you.

With impressive exhibits like Wings of Asia, Lorry Loft, Amazonian Jewels, Australian Outback, Heart of Africa, Crimson Wetlands, Mysterious Papua, Penguin Cove, Winged Sanctuary, Songs of the Forest, and interactive shows like the Wings of the World and the Predators on Wings – it’s your chance to step into the world of the prettiest and rarest birds.

If your kids are interested, you can also join a guided tour such as the Bird Discovery Tour where a wildlife guide lets you make friends with the beautiful feathered residents of the Bird Paradise.

The park is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily. It costs SGD 48 per adult and SGD 33 per child aged 3 to 12 years to enter the park.

You are likely to spend a minimum of 2 to 3 hours exploring Bird Paradise.

1 pm: Lunch @ Crimson Restaurant

Having lunch at Crimson Restaurant is a unique experience. Located within Hong Leong Foundation Crimson Wetlands, a meal here comes with a dramatic view of Scarlet Macaws in flight. The food is decent and the portions are good.

2 pm: Singapore Zoo

Home to about 4,200 animals of 300 species, Singapore Zoo is one of the best rainforest zoos in the world. It has won several awards for its unique concept.

It’s not your regular zoo. When you think of a zoo, you imagine glum animals in cages. But here you’ll witness happy animals in open enclosures that resemble their natural habitats.

From Australasia where you can befriend kangaroos and wallabies to Fragile Forest where you can get up close to lemurs and sloths to Wild Africa where you can be amazed to see lions and zebras – there are a host of exhibits to keep the kids entertained.

Plus, there are many striking presentations like Splash Safari, Rainforest Fights Back, Dance Your Heart Out, and Animal Friends Presentation & Meet the Stars!

You can also take a Zoo Adventure Tour to get acquainted with the charming residents.

The park is open from 8:30 am to 6 pm daily. The entry ticket costs SGD 48 per adult and SGD 33 per child aged 3 to 12.

Exploring Singapore Zoo can take 3 to 4 hours or more depending on the chosen activities.

Note: If you want, you can modify today’s itinerary by starting your day at Singapore Zoo with an iconic dining experience – Breakfast in the Wild – a breakfast right in the middle of the rainforest zoo with animal ambassadors. It takes place between 9 am and 10:30 am on the terrace of Ah Meng Restaurant. And, then move on to the Bird Paradise.

Buy your ticket to Singapore Zoo

2 pm: River Wonders (Alternative of Singapore Zoo)

Alternatively, you can plan to visit River Wonders instead of Singapore Zoo. Or you can cover both!

River Wonders is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park. It houses over 11,000 animals across 260 species including 40 endangered species.

Visit the adorable pandas at Giant Panda Forest, meet pelicans, beavers, and capybaras at the Once Upon A River show, and get going for Amazon River Quest – a boat ride that lets you see the amazing wildlife of Amazon Forest, stop by at Squirrel Monkey Forest, and gawk at massive manatees at Amazon Flooded Forest.

The park is open from 10 am to 7 pm daily. The admission ticket costs SGD 42 per adult and SGD 30 per child aged 3 to 12.

Buy a River Safari ticket

6:00 pm: Coffee and Snacks

Kids must be feeling refreshed after all the fun they are having but you must be feeling tired.

Take your regular dose of tea, coffee, and snacks at one of the cafes at Singapore Zoo or River Wonders, wherever you end.

The dining outlets at River Wonders include Starbucks and Mama Panda Kitchen and those near to Singapore Zoo are KFC, Inuka Cafe, Chomel Bistro, Chawang Bistro, Ah Meng Bistro, and Kidzworld Café.

Kids will love animal-themed Baos at the Wild Mart located at the Singapore Zoo entrance.

7:30 pm: Night Safari

World’s first nocturnal wildlife park, Night Safari is a unique experience where you get to see the animals out in the open.

You can join a Safari Adventure Tour where a personal guide takes you through the wildlife park in a small buggy (accommodates about 7 people). It’s fun spotting wild animals from the comfort of a tramcar.

Once you’re done with the ride, it’s time to witness an amazing interactive animal show, the Creatures of the Night Show. The show takes place at 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:30 pm daily at Night Safari Amphitheater.

If time permits, you can take on one of the four walking trails (Fishing Cat Trail, Leopard Trail, Tasmanian Devil Trail, and East Lodge Trail) to spot the animals you couldn’t from the tram.

The park operates from 7:15 pm to 12 am daily. The admission costs SGD 55 per adult and SGD 38 per child aged 3 to 12.

Buy your Singapore Night Safari admission ticket with a tram ride

Tip: Buying a Mandai Multi Park Ticket or ParkHopper Plus that lets you experience all 4 wildlife parks (Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise, River Wonders, and Night Safari) saves money, time, and hassle. You have a time limit of 7 days to visit all the wildlife parks. The ticket costs SGD 118 per adult and SGD 90 per child aged 3 to 12. You also have the option to buy a 2-park Admission Ticket.

Dinner @ Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant

If you have had enough snacks while waiting for your Guided Night Safari Tram Ride (the queue is long!) then you can head back to your hotel.

If not, Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant is located inside the Night Safari Park and serves a great selection of food.

You can dine under burnished wooden beams and rustic rattan fans (feels like you are in a kampung) or dine al fresco in the company of animals. The restaurant is open from 6 pm till 11 pm.

Day 4: Sentosa Fun

Today we’ll explore Sentosa! Let’s see what’s up on your Sentosa itinerary.

8:45 am: Singapore Cable Car

Singapore Cable Car is the best way to reach Sentosa because it allows you to breathe in the panoramic views over Singapore and Sentosa.

You can board the gondola at Mount Faber or Harborfront for Sentosa.

The cable car operates from 8:40 am to 10 pm daily. A round-trip ticket costs SGD 28 per adult and SGD 20 per child aged 4 to 17.

Buy a Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass

Just So You Know: I feel the cable car is the unique way to get to Sentosa. However, you can also take a train to HarbourFront MRT Station (CC29 NE1) and from there, board Sentosa Express from VivoCity Lobby L, Level 3.

9:15 am: Breakfast @ Krispy Kreme Sentosa

Krispy Kreme Sentosa is located in Resorts World Sentosa. They have a huge variety of delicious doughnuts at reasonable prices.

Take a seat and gorge on your favorite flavors of doughnuts with a cup of coffee before you start your Sentosa expedition.

10:15 am: Universal Studios

With over 20 ultimate rides and attractions across six themed zones, Universal Studios Singapore promises an exciting and thrilling adventure for kids and kids-at-heart.

It’s probably one of the top things to do in Singapore with kids. From enjoying rides, street performances, parades, and live shows to meeting kids’ favorite characters – there’s so much to do and see that even a day is not enough to grasp everything.

Human vs. Cylon, Transformers, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Canopy Flyer, Puss In Boots Giant Journey, Lights, Camera, Action! and Revenge of the Mummy are some of the best rides at Universal Studios that you should not miss.

And if you are traveling with young kids, take them to Candylicious, the biggest candy store in Singapore. My little one didn’t want to leave the store. She filled her bag & heart with every color of candy she could find in the store 🙂

And before I forget, Universal Studios Store is the ultimate destination for everyone, no matter your age. I mean looking at those cute Universal Studios-themed souvenirs, I couldn’t contain my excitement, forget about mini-me 😉

The park is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, 6 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm depending on the season. You might want to check their official website for an up-to-date calendar of park opening hours and days.

A one-day ticket to Universal Studios Singapore costs SGD 83 per adult (ages 13 and above) and SGD 62 per child (ages 4 to 12).

Buy a One-Day Ticket to Universal Studios Singapore

PS: If you’ve time and energy, you can cover one of the other attractions in Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) like S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Dolphin Island.

2 pm: Lunch @ Royal Taj

Royal Taj offers a royal and authentic Indian dining experience. Indian delights are sure to delight you 🙂

Try a vegetarian platter as a starter and Dal Makhani, Paneer Aap Ki Pasand, Butter Chicken with Garlic Naan, Kashmiri Pulao as the main course, and Pistachio Gulab Jamun as a dessert.

Pani Poori Shots, Delhi Ka Chaat, and Cocktail Samosa are some of the best Indian street food at the Royal Taj.

Royal Taj is a fine blend of good food, a nice ambiance, impressive service, and welcoming staff.

Getting There: Take a Sentosa Line (Singapore Cable Car) from Sentosa Merlion to Siloso Point or board a Sentosa Express from RWS to Siloso Point and then take a tram to Siloso Beach.

3 pm: Siloso Beach

Singapore’s hippest beach, Siloso Beach is a place to be.

Simply bask in the sun, take a dip, make the sandcastles, or join one of the many water sports activities like kayaking, rollerblading, or surfing, or eat and drink your heart out at one of the amazing bistros and restaurants.

If you’re looking to switch up the scenery, consider making a trip to Palawan Beach. This alternative offers a more tranquil experience, complete with swaying palm trees and golden sands, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

6 pm: Coffee and Snacks @ Baristart Coffee

Baristart Coffee is one of the best cafes near Siloso Beach. Order a cream puff and a cup of coffee.

Getting There: Come back to Beach Station by tram and head to witness the award-winning spectacular light water show, Wings of Time.

7 pm: Wings of Time

You’d be wowed by the way the story of friendship and courage is narrated using laser, water, and fire effects coupled with a great soundtrack.

The show takes place at 7:40 pm and 8:40 pm daily and costs SGD 17.10 for a standard seat and SGD 21.60 for a premium seat. The duration of the show is 20 minutes.

Book your ticket to Wings of Time

8:30 pm: Sentosa Boardwalk

It’s time to head back to Singapore.

If you’ve opted for a Singapore Cable Car roundtrip, you can board the gondola. If you want to experience another beautiful way to travel between Sentosa and Singapore, head to Sentosa Boardwalk.

Sentosa Boardwalk connects Resorts World Sentosa and VivoCity Waterfront. You need to take a taxi or a bus from VivoCity to your hotel in Singapore.

Whether you choose to walk the sheltered travellators (perfect when it’s raining) or walk the open walkways overlooking the bay; any which way it’s an experience to remember.

It just costs SGD 1 for Sentosa Boardwalk.

9 pm: Dinner @ the Food Republic

Located on the third level of Vivocity, Food Republic is a food atrium that has over 30 stalls serving traditional Asian delights.

There are a lot of options for vegetarians as well as non-vegetarians. The ambiance gives a feel of Asia in the early 1900s.

We enjoyed the vegetarian Indian delicacies at Saravanaa Bhavan and gobbled yummy rojak at Auntie Jessie Rojak.

And, yes you can’t miss sampling kueh tutu at Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake.

Update: As per the latest update, Saravanaa Bhavan and Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake are permanently closed.

Day 5: The Heart of Singapore

9 am: Breakfast @ The Affogato Bar

A hop, skip, and jump from Botanic Gardens MRT, The Affogato Bar in Cluny Court is a cozy little cafe. We absolutely loved it there.

As its name says, it specializes in Affogato (a coffee-based dessert). There are about 5 varieties of affogatos available. We tried Death by Chocolate. It was blissful.

For breakfast, you can order bagel sandwiches and a cup of their signature coffee, Bittersweet Symphony. Tea fans can try Parakeet Bay.

Update: Unfortunately, the Affogato Bar at Cluny Court has been moved out. Da Paolo Gastronomia & Relish are other good options for breakfast in Cluny Court.

Getting There: Cross the road to enter via the Bukit Timah Gate into the Singapore Botanic Gardens.

10 am: Singapore Botanic Gardens

The oldest garden in Singapore (about 160 years old) and Singapore’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for outdoor and nature lovers.

SBG is located right in the heart of the city and features Swan Lake, the National Orchid Garden, the SBG Heritage Museum, the CDL Green Gallery, and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.

With over 60,000 plants & orchid plants, the National Orchid Garden swanks the largest orchid display in the world.

If you’re traveling with kids, you must visit Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. It is the largest children’s garden in the world.

Overall, SBG is a beautiful place to enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are also a few restaurants and cafes scattered throughout.

While the garden is open from 5 am to 12 am daily there are different timings for the attractions within it.

The National Orchid Garden is open from 8:30 am to 7 pm daily, SBG Heritage Museum is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily except the last Monday of the month and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is open from 8 am to 7 pm on Tuesday to Sunday. It’s open on public holidays so if Monday falls on the designated public holiday, the park will be closed the next day.

Getting There: You can walk through the gardens to the Tanglin Gate and then to Orchard Road. It’s a lovely 20 to 25-minute walk.

12 pm: Orchard Road

Minutes away from Singapore Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road is a famous and beloved shopping district in Singapore.

With a host of department stores, restaurants, and cafes, Orchard’s is a retail and dining hub.

We strolled the entire length of Orchard Road (2.5 km). It was tiring but rewarding.

You must stop by TANGS, Orchard Road’s first and of course oldest department store. If you love high-end brands, visit ION Orchard and bargain hunters should make their way to Far East Plaza.

2 pm: Lunch @ Hua Ting Restaurant

Hua Ting Restaurant in Orchard Hotel Singapore is a Cantonese fine dining restaurant. It comes highly recommended for its top food quality and impeccable service.

They serve the best dim sum in the town.

Make sure you wear smart casual. No Bermuda shorts, singlet, and open-toe shoes allowed.

Getting There: Take the MRT from Orchard MRT Station (NS22/TE14) or Somerset MRT Station (NS23) to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station (NS24/NE6/CC1) or Bras Basah MRT Station (CC2).

4 pm: National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is the best place to learn about the history and culture of Singapore. The museum itself is historic.

Dating back to 1849, it’s the oldest museum in Singapore. It’s also one of Singapore’s architectural icons. The museum, apart from the permanent exhibits, hosts numerous events and exhibitions.

It’s open from 10 am to 7 pm daily. The entrance ticket costs USD 15 per adult and USD 11 per student and senior citizen.

Getting There: Walk to the City Hall MRT Station (NS25/EW13) from the National Museum and take the train to Tiong Bahru MRT Station (EW17) on the East-West Line. Or walk to the
Bencoolen MRT Station (DT21) and board a train to Fort Canning MRT Station (DT20) on the Downtown Line.

6 pm: Coffee and Snacks @ Tiong Bahru Bakery

Head to Tiong Bahru Bakery, an iconic French bakery in Tiong Bahru. With its laid-back charm, this rustic bakery is celebrated for its delicious and quality baked treats like pastries, artisanal bread, croissants, and tarts.

When in Tiong Bahru, it’s kinda mandatory to visit this bakery. Indulge yourself in their signature delicacy, Kouign-Amann with a cup of coffee.

7 pm: Stroll Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Singapore. You’ll find an exciting mix of traditional and modern culture here.

While you stroll the neighborhood, you’ll be instantly drawn toward its unique pre-war Art Deco-style buildings juxtaposed with trendy cafes & bakeries, tiny boutiques, and vintage stores. Start at Tiong Bahru Market for a slice of local life. Its first floor hosts a wet market while the second floor houses a hawker center.

When we visited Singapore, BooksActually, an independent bookstore was one of the famous landmarks in the area, however, now it has moved online. You might still find their vending machines around the neighborhood filled with books!

Qi Tian Gong Temple aka Tiong Bahru Monkey God Temple is an interesting site to learn more about traditional Chinese spiritual practices and beliefs.

You can take some time to relax and unwind before you head for dinner at the beautiful urban park, Tiong Bahru Park.

9 pm: Dinner @ BAKALAKI Greek Taverna

A short 5 to 10-minute taxi ride will take you to BAKALAKI Greek Taverna!

Located in the heart of Tiong Bahru, it’s a perfect place to get the authentic taste of Greece in Singapore.

BAKALAKI is well-known for its great ambiance, world-class service, and A-class food. The prices are on a bit higher side but definitely worth it.

We ordered patates tiganites, tzatziki, feta saganaki, and pita bread. And topped off a delicious dinner with a dessert (baklava) and a cup of Greek Coffee.

If you are a wine or beer lover, you must know they have a unique selection of Greek wines and beers.

I sincerely hope this itinerary helps you spend an amazing five days in Singapore! Would you want to add something to this 5-day itinerary in Singapore? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Recommended Reading:

Singapore Visa for Indians
Singapore Travel Guide
Singapore Packing List
Best Places to Visit in Singapore with Kids

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