See the Best of Singapore in 4 Days: A Curated Itinerary
Planning a trip to Singapore can feel a little overwhelming. how do you fit everything into just a few days? We've done the hard work for you, crafting the perfect 4-day itinerary that balances iconic sights with local secrets.
HOW MANY DAYS | 3 to 6
BEST TIME TO VISIT | February - April
WHERE TO STAY | ST Signature Jalan Besar
TOP THINGS TO SEE | Gardens by the Bay, Night Safari, Chinatown, Pulau Ubin
HOW TO GET AROUND | MRT or take a Grab
Singapore amazed us from the moment we arrived. It’s a city where modern skyscrapers meet colorful heritage neighborhoods, and where you can experience culture, nature, and incredible food all in one trip. If you know us by now, you’ll know we’re always searching for authentic and unique experiences, and Singapore definitely delivered.
This 4-day Singapore itinerary helps you see the best of the city without feeling rushed. Explore vibrant streets in Chinatown and discover lush greenery on Pulau Ubin and at the Wildlife Reserves. And of course, snap photos of iconic landmarks like Marina Bay and the Merlion. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, we’ve planned each day to balance sightseeing, local culture, and moments to just soak in the city’s unique energy.
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FIND HOTELS | Agoda.com
FIND A RENTAL CAR | Booking.com
FIND FLIGHTS | Kiwi.com
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | HeyMondo (get 5% off)
BOOK TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | Klook
BOOK A BUS / TRAIN / TRANSFER | 12Go
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Day 1: Bay Day
Gardens by the Bay
ArtScience Museum
Shoppes Mall
SkyPark Observation Deck
Spectra Light Show
Helix Bridge
MORNING
Gardens by the Bay
To make the most of the Gardens by the Bay, our number one tip is to get there right when it opens. This is the perfect time to experience everything while it's still cool and relatively quiet.
Head straight to the Supertree Grove first thing. Seeing these futuristic giants in the soft morning light, without the big crowds, is pretty magical. For an even better look, there are two paid experiences: The OCBC Skyway is a suspended walkway that lets you stroll right between the Supertrees. This was our personal favorite—being up high with the trees all around you is an incredible feeling and makes for the best photos. The Supertree Observatory is the highest viewpoint, offering a panoramic look over the entire area from the top of the tallest tree.
After the grove, make your way to the cooled conservatories. We suggest you be a little strategic here:
At the Flower Dome, you can move through it at a quicker pace. To be totally honest, we weren't blown away by the floral displays during our visit, but they change regularly, so you might have better luck!
Right next door is the Cloud Forest, and trust us, this is the real star of the show. The moment you step inside, you'll feel the cool mist from the world's tallest indoor waterfall. The whole place is a breathtaking, jungle-covered mountain you can walk up—we absolutely loved it.
Food | If you're looking for a budget-friendly hawker centre option right next to the gardens, "Satay by the Bay" is perfectly located. However, it's worth noting that there are other excellent hawker centres in Singapore with more variety, so don't feel this is your only choice for a local food experience!
TIP | Bring a light sweater for the Cloud Forest if you get cold easily.
OPEN | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$46 | €30 | US$36
TICKETS | Gardens by the Bay: Cloud Forest & more options
AFTERNOON
Shoppes Mall & Skypark Observation Deck
Bef, you can visit The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. It's a large, high-end mall with many luxury stores. It is the perfect spot for lunch as there are many dining options for all budgets.
What makes it interesting is the canal that runs through the center. You can even take a short boat ride on it. The mall has a wide range of restaurants and cafes when you need a break or a meal.
At the far end of the mall, you'll find a great viewpoint. It looks out towards the hotel's famous towers and the SkyPark above. It's a good spot to see the scale of the buildings without going up.
Visiting the SkyPark Observation Deck gives you the best 360-degree view of Singapore. You can see the entire Marina Bay area, the Gardens by the Bay, and the city skyline. It's especially popular at sunset when the city starts to light up. While it can be crowded, the view is truly spectacular and worth it for the photo opportunity alone.
ArtScience Museum
After lunch head to the ArtScience Museum. From the outside, the building looks like a giant, elegant lotus flower. This museum is interactive and you can play with light, wander through digital rainbows, and become part of the art itself. We had so much fun creating our own digital creatures and watching them swim across a virtual wall. It’s a truly immersive and imaginative experience that made us feel like kids again. It’s easily one of the most unique and fun museums we’ve ever visited.
TIP | It’s cheaper to buy the Museum Pass Singapore on Klook
OPEN | 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$39 | €26 | US$30 foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | ArtScience Museum Single Ticket
EVENING
Spectra Light & Water Show
After the sun sets over Marina Bay, find a spot for the Spectra Light & Water Show. This free, 15-minute spectacle of synchronized fountains, colorful lasers, and soaring music is a real highlight.
We watched it from the promenade next to the museum, but you can also catch it from a boat for a unique perspective. To get a good spot, arrive 15–20 minutes early as the crowds build quickly. A fun tip we discovered: we stayed after the first for the second show and were surprised to find they were different!
LIGHT SHOW | Daily at 8:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.
BOOK | Singapore River Cruise
Helix Bridge & Rasapura Masters Food Court
Wrap up your day with a stroll across the Helix Bridge, one of Singapore’s iconic landmarks. The futuristic architecture and views of the Marina Bay skyline make it a perfect spot for evening photos. Once you’ve soaked in the scenery, head to Rasapura Masters Food Court at Marina Bay Sands to grab dinner. With a huge variety of local and international dishes under one roof, it’s a great place to sample flavors from across Singapore.
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The Real Traveler’s Tip: Buy Tickets Online with Klook!
For attractions that require tickets in Singapore, Klook is the leading travel and experiences booking website in Asia.
We use it all the time while traveling and highly recommend it!
We get cheaper tickets online, earn credits for future bookings, and enjoy a smooth, tried-and-tested experience, especially in Singapore where Klook is widely used.
BOOK | Singapore Pass | Mandai Pass | Singapore Museum Pass
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Day 2: Heritage & River Views
Chinatown
Maxwell Food Court / Amoy Street Food Centre
National Museum
Bayfront
Clark Quay / Robertson Quay
MORNING
China Town
We loved spending the morning wandering through Chinatown, spotting vibrant street art by local artists like Yip Yew Chong along the way. Start your visit at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Even though it was completed in 2007, the interior is truly impressive. Make your way to the third floor to see a serene collection of ancient Buddha statues, then up to the fourth floor, where the revered relic rests on a stunning golden pedestal. For a peaceful finish, head to the rooftop garden and check out the beautiful pavilion with its giant rotating prayer wheel.
Just a short walk away is the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, full of color and energy. Nearby, the Thian Hock Keng Temple offers a quieter, historic charm as one of the city’s most important Chinese temples. For those curious about the community’s history, the China Heritage Centre provides fascinating insights.
After all that exploring, it’s time for a legendary meal. Make your way to Maxwell Food Centre and join the queue for Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, a true Singaporean classic you won’t want to miss.
AFTERNOON
National Museum
After a morning exploring the streets of Chinatown, the National Museum of Singapore provides a nice, air-conditioned change of scene. It's more contemporary inside than you might expect, with some thoughtful interactive displays that make the history engaging rather than dry. It's a good spot to gain a deeper understanding of Singapore, and we found it was a worthwhile stop to break up the day.
OPEN | 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$24 | €16 | US$19 foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | National Museum Single Ticket or Museum Pass Singapore
EVENING
Bayfront
Next on the itinerary is the Bayfront, home to Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue. We loved strolling along the waterfront, snapping photos with the famous lion, and taking in the stunning views of the skyline. The area is perfect for a walk, have some snacks, and catching the reflections on the water as the city lights start to glow. It’s also a great spot to pause and enjoy the vibe of Singapore’s modern heart before heading to the quays.
Clarke Quay or Boat Quay
End your day with a relaxing evening at Clarke Quay or Boat Quay. We loved the lively atmosphere at Clarke Quay, with its colorful riverside buildings, beautiful restaurants, and bars. Boat Quay offers dinner by the river and slightly better prices than the Clarke Quay. Either way, it’s a great spot to unwind, grab dinner or drinks, and watch the river lights reflect on the water after a full day of exploring Singapore.
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Day 3: Nature Day Trip
Mandai Wildlife Reserve or
Pulau Ubin
Option 1: Singapore Zoo at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Mandai Wildlife Reserve is home to four distinct wildlife parks: the Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, and the Night Safari. With an early start, it's possible to experience three of these in one action-packed day. However, attempting all four would likely feel too rushed to be enjoyable. On our recent visit, we explored just the Zoo and the Night Safari from noon until night and found it to be a great experience.
If you love aquatic animals, River Wonders is a must. You can see manatees, giant pandas, and river creatures from all around the world. Bird Paradise is another gem, with colorful birds flying freely in huge, green aviaries. And the upcoming Rainforest Park promises even more immersive nature trails.
If you plan to visit more than one park, get the Mandai Pass to save money. Each attraction is designed with care for the animals and the environment, so even if you’re not usually a zoo person, this experience might be for you.
The fastest and cheapest way (S$18 round-trip) to get to the parks is booking though the BIGBUS. You can also reach it with the public transport, which depending where you are staying it can take 1.5 hours or take a Grab.
TIP | Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds
Singapore Zoo
If you know us by now, you already know we’re all about experiences that connect you with nature and feel authentic. The Singapore Zoo absolutely blew us away. It’s honestly one of the best we’ve visited anywhere in the world. We usually avoid zoos for ethical reasons, but this one is truly special. The animals live in open, natural spaces surrounded by moats instead of cages, and the whole park focuses on conservation and education.
The best way to explore the park is to follow the keeper talks, as that’s when the animals are being fed and are most active. It’s the perfect time to see them moving around and interacting. You can check the feeding schedules on the Mandai app to plan your route. Keep in mind that feedings are canceled during rainy weather, so it’s good to stay flexible with your timing.
Night Safari
We kicked off our adventure at the Zoo, followed by a delicious dinner at Roberta's before heading to the unforgettable Night Safari. It was easily one of our best days in Singapore. If you're looking for a truly unique nighttime activity, the Night Safari is an absolute must-do.
It is the only night zoo in the world and it offers a rare chance to see nocturnal animals like leopards and flying squirrels when they’re most active. Since it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, make sure to book your slot online a few days in advance. We recommend booking the earliest time slot through Klook so you can catch the animals while there’s still a bit of light.
We recommend starting your visit by exploring the walking trails first, then joining the animal feedings and shows before ending your day with a relaxing tram ride. The best order to visit without backtracking is: Fishing Cat Trail → Leopard Trail → East Lodge Trail → Tasmanian Devil Trail
The rhino feeding is a paid experience (S$12) and needs to be booked a few days or even a week in advance, as spots fill up quickly. The Thumbuakar Fire Performance and Creatures of the Night Show are free, but you’ll need to reserve your seats at least two hours in advance through the Mandai app since spaces are limited.
IMPORTANT | There are no ticket counters at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve on-site.
OPEN | 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
ENTRANCE FEE | S$49 | €32 | US$32 single foreigner adult ticket
BOOK | Singapore Zoo Single Ticket or Mandai Pass
Option 2: Take it Slow at Pulau Ubin
For a taste of Singapore's rustic, old-world charm, swap the curated wildlife parks for the untamed beauty of Pulau Ubin. We took a day trip to this tranquil island for a break from the city, and it became an unforgettable highlight. Just a ten-minute bumboat ride from Changi, you'll feel worlds away from the skyscrapers, transported to a landscape of quiet villages, lush jungles, and winding dirt trails. We spent our day cycling freely, discovering hidden spots and local life at our own pace. To plan your own adventure, our full Pulau Ubin guide has all the details for the perfect escape.
Day 4: Culture & Art
Little India
Kampung Glam
Garden Rhapsody
MORNING
Little India
Begin your day in Little India at the Tekka Hawker Centre with a hearty Indian breakfast like paratha at JOM MAKAN or a dosa. Having been to India, nothing makes us happier, and it's the most authentic way to start your morning. You can also find Chinese and Malay options if you prefer. Once fueled, visit the vibrant Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple to admire its intricate carvings and statues. It’s free to enter, remember to cover your elbows, knees and shoulders and prepare to take off your shoes.
Next, head to Tan Teng Niah for the iconic colorful house and wander through the Serangoon Road. The streets are so lively, and it's fun to peek into the shops selling spices, saris, and flower garlands. After that, make your way to Mustafa Centre. This is not a typical shopping centre. It’s a huge, bustling department store that’s open 24 hours, and you can find almost anything there, from electronics and cosmetics to groceries and souvenirs.
To truly appreciate the depth of history and culture in this vibrant neighborhood, join this guided tour for local insights and stories you'd likely miss on your own.
After all that wandering, you'll have earned a great meal. Our top pick? A South Indian vegetarian feast at Komala Vilas. If that's not your craving, skip ahead to our next stop for excellent Arabic food instead.
AFTERNOON
Kampong Glam
Experience the vibrant energy of Kampong Gelam, Singapore's historic Malay-Arab quarter. At its heart is the stunning Sultan Mosque—a working mosque where you can enter respectfully and learn about Islam.
For a different vibe, dive into Haji Lane, a narrow alley pulsing with life. It's packed with independent boutiques, vibrant street art, and lively bars, making it perfect for a unique evening out.
For authentic souvenirs and beautiful textiles, head to Arab Street. And for a relaxed lunch with a perfect view of the mosque, the pedestrian-only Bussorah Street, lined with heritage shophouses, is the ideal spot.
EVENING
Garden Rhapsody
There's no better way to end your day than with the Garden Rhapsody at the Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay.
It’s a truly magical experience. As the sun sets, find a spot on the benches underneath those massive, futuristic Supertrees. For 15 magical minutes each night, these futuristic giants dazzle with a synchronized show of lights and music of movie songs, pop songs, or classical music.
The Supertree Grove is very popular, so it can get crowded quickly. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to get a good spot. If you prefer a quieter experience, the second show of the evening is usually less busy. The best way to enjoy it is to lie back on the benches and look up as the Supertrees light up and move to the music.
From our visit, we also suggest bringing a beach towel or mat, it had rained earlier that day, and it would have made lying down a better experience.
LIGHT SHOW | daily at 7:45 p.m. & 8:45 p.m.
OPEN | 24 hours
COSTS | Free
Day 5: Jewel Changi Airport
A FEW HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE
Singapore's Changi Airport is a destination in itself—so much so that travelers often wish for a longer layover. The crown jewel is, quite literally, the "Jewel," a breathtaking complex anchored by the world's tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, which cascates down seven stories through a terraced forest of lush greenery. This marvel deserves more than a rushed visit.
To make the most of it, check your airline's website for early check-in eligibility; most allow you to drop your luggage up to 12 hours before your flight. Once you're baggage-free, you can fully immerse yourself in the Jewel. Explore its attractions, enjoy a meal, or shop at your leisure before heading through security.
Even inside the secure departure terminals, the adventure continues with unique attractions like a serene Butterfly Garden and a free cinema. For a truly stress-free and enriching experience, we recommend arriving at the airport 3 to 5 hours before your flight to enjoy this magnificent place without rush.
Ready to build your perfect Singapore itinerary? Discover a wider range of iconic sights and hidden gems with our list of the 22 best things to do in Singapore.
WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE?
When choosing where to stay in Singapore prioritize good connections to the public transport as makes it easy to explore the whole city. If you want to be right in the heart of the action, stay near Marina Bay or the Civic District, where you’ll be close to the skyline views, museums, and iconic attractions. For a more cultural vibe, Chinatown and Little India offer boutique hotels and hostels surrounded by temples, markets, and incredible food.
BUDGET | We loved our stay at ST Signature Jalan Besar where we booked a private room with bathroom. The place felt modern and spotless, right in the middle of vibrant Little India. Having the MRT just in front and plenty of affordable eateries around made it super convenient.
COMFORT | Stay at the Claude Hotel in stylish and beautiful modern rooms in a prime location at China Town. The hotel has an outdoor pool and common areas.
ESCAPE | For an unforgettable luxury experience, Marina Bay Sands is the ultimate choice. You'll find stunning city views from the iconic infinity pool, a world-class casino, and an array of fine dining options. It’s more than a hotel, it’s a destination in itself.
HOW TO GET TO SINGAPORE?
The main way to reach Singapore is by flying into its world-class Changi Airport (SIN), a major hub with great global connections. You'll find direct flights from all over Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Americas.
We're putting together a full guide to the airport, but the highlight is definitely the Jewel complex with its incredible indoor waterfall. It's so impressive that we recommend planning at least two extra hours to see it. Getting downtown from the airport is a breeze, the MRT (metro) gets you there in about 30 minutes, or you can grab a taxi or use the Grab app for a direct ride.
If you're traveling overland, comfortable buses run directly from both Kuala Lumpur and Melaka. We took the bus from Melaka ourselves, and the 3.5-4 hour trip was smooth and easy. They arrive at a central bus terminal where you can quickly connect to the MRT or find a taxi to your hotel.
BUS | Reserve your seat through 12Go.asia here!
HOW TO GET AROUND SINGAPORE?
We used and fully recommend the MRT for most of your sightseeing as it’s quick and cheap. Buses are also reliable and a good way to see more of the neighborhoods along the way. Save Grab (e-hailing app) or taxis for late nights, when you’re carrying luggage, or when traveling to areas not well connected by MRT. You can use the public transport by tapping with your credit card or e-wallet. We used our WISE card for all the transactions in Singapore, as it makes it very easy to travel.
READ | Save on ATM Fees and Exchange Rates: Credit Card for Travelers
Ever found yourself lost without a map or struggling to translate a menu in a foreign country? We’ve been there too! Nothing kills travel vibes faster than losing connectivity when you need it most. Avoid those moments with an eSIM. We’ve had the best experience with Saily, which offers great value and a reliable connection.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
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In 3 days you can prioritize to that what interests you. But up 7 days are ideal to cover all the highlights with a full schedule.
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Plan your visit during the dry season (December to February) to enjoy street art and outdoor markets comfortably. Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for less crowded streets.
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Singapore is almost completely cashless, so you’ll be paying for nearly everything with your card. We recommend keeping a little cash on hand for hawker centers. If you’re traveling, a Wise card is a great option. You can pay like a local, avoid high fees, and still have the flexibility of withdrawing some cash when you need it.
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Yes, Singapore is very safe! We felt completely comfortable walking around both day and night, even in the busy tourist areas and along the river. As with any city, it’s always smart to keep an eye on your belongings in crowds, but overall, we found it welcoming, relaxed, and easy to explore without any worries.
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The most widely spoken language in Singapore is Malay, English, Tamil, and Mandarin are commonly used.
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