Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Marina Bay Magic

Morning:
Kick off your trip at Merlion Park, home to Singapore’s half-lion, half-fish national symbol. This park offers fantastic views of Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum, and the skyline beyond. After snapping a few Instagram-worthy photos with the Merlion, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade toward the Esplanade, a durian-shaped performing arts center.

Afternoon:
Next, head to Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic green oasis featuring iconic attractions. Entry to the outdoor Supertree Grove and the serene gardens is free. If you’re keen to explore more, purchase tickets to the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, where you’ll marvel at exotic plants and a stunning indoor waterfall. Don’t miss the new Floral Fantasy exhibit for whimsical floral displays.

Evening:
Wrap up your day at Marina Bay Sands. Watch the Spectra Light and Water Show, a free nightly performance combining music, water jets, and lasers. The best viewing spots are along the Marina Bay Promenade or by the Event Plaza. After the show, take a stroll along the Helix Bridge for more stunning nighttime views of the illuminated skyline.

Save Tip: Wander around the free areas of Gardens by the Bay and pack your own snacks to enjoy as you soak in the scenery.

Splurge Tip: End the evening in style with a meal at one of the Marina Bay Sands’ rooftop restaurants. Pair your fine dining experience with breathtaking views of the cityscape from the SkyPark.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Delights

Morning:
Dive into the vibrant streets of Little India, where culture, colors, and fragrances blend beautifully. Visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, and admire its intricate architecture. Wander through the lively streets to find bustling markets selling fragrant spices, beautiful textiles, and fresh flower garlands.

Afternoon:
Make your way to Chinatown, a hub of heritage and tradition. Start at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, an architectural masterpiece housing an alleged tooth of Buddha. Explore the surrounding streets filled with souvenir shops, boutique stores, and Chinese medicine halls. For lunch, head to a hawker center like Maxwell Food Centre and savor local dishes like chicken rice or char kway teow.

Evening:
As the sun sets, hop on a Singapore River Cruise. The bumboat ride takes you through Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, and Marina Bay, offering a unique view of the city’s iconic skyline and historic bridges. After the cruise, explore the lively nightlife at Clarke Quay, where you’ll find an array of riverside bars, clubs, and restaurants


Save Tip: Stick to hawker centers like Chinatown Complex for budget-friendly yet authentic meals. In fact, several have been awarded Bib Gourmand recognition in the Michelin Guide Singapore.

Splurge Tip: Book a guided food tour in Chinatown to discover the best hidden gems and learn about the history behind Singapore’s most famous dishes.

Day 3: Nature and Island Adventures

Morning:
Start your day at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven of tranquility. Stroll through the lush greenery, and don’t miss the National Orchid Garden, home to a dazzling collection of orchid species. Entry to the main gardens is free, and the orchid garden has a small fee that’s well worth it.

Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon on Sentosa Island, Singapore’s ultimate destination for leisure and fun. Relax on the sandy shores of Palawan Beach or Siloso Beach, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try activities like the Skyline Luge or ziplining. Families will love the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, with over 100,000 marine animals.

Evening:
Cap off your Singapore trip with the Wings of Time light and water show on Sentosa Beach. This mesmerizing outdoor performance combines water, fire, lasers, and music, leaving you with a lasting impression of this island paradise.

Save Tip: Stick to the free beaches on Sentosa for a day of relaxation and pack a picnic to enjoy by the sea. This is what most locals do.

Splurge Tip: Hang out at one of the cool beach clubs with refreshing cocktails in the shade and comfy chairs. It is a perfect place for chilling and people watching.

Singapore has many hawker centers that serve really good but inexpensive food, so I would save on dinner then head off to one of the amazing bars for some nice after dinner drinks.