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Exploring Singapore Chinatown: Top 5 Things To Do & See

Karen Warren — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:24:10 +0000

One of the best things to do in Singapore is to explore the Chinatown area.

Here you will find traditional shopping streets, restaurants, hawker centres, beautiful temples, and more.

It’s the perfect starting point on any Singapore itinerary or even if you have a quick layover due to the central location and easy access by the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train system.

If this is your first visit, then this guide provides an overview of the top attractions and what to do in Singapore Chinatown.

All you need to do is wear some comfortable walking shoes, wear a hat, and wander around to explore this historical area. You’ll love the area as much as I did!

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

About Singapore Chinatown

Singapore’s Chinatown dates back to 1819 when Sir Stamford Raffles established a British colony here.

He decided that separate areas should be set aside for each of the ethnic communities who moved onto the island.

In the early days, Chinatown was full of brothels and opium dens, and densely packed housing.

However, in recent years it has been renovated so that, although still teeming with life, it has a clean and freshly painted feel.

Visitors and locals wander the vibrant streets to buy household goods, souvenirs, or food, or simply to soak up the atmosphere.

1. Ask Questions at the Singapore Chinatown Visitor Centre

If you’re stumped on where to eat or have any questions about the area, stop by the Chinatown Visitor Centre.

Located across from the Buddha Relic Temple, it’s a convenient spot to stop by for a few minutes and ask for recommendations from the customer service team.

You can also purchase tickets to local attractions or do some souvenir shopping here.

Also, another reason to visit is to enjoy the air-conditioning. Singapore is humid and hot all day long, so finding a place to cool off is sought after.

Address: 2 Banda St, Singapore

Opening Hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm

2. Explore the Shopping Streets Of Chinatown

The area between Sago Street and Mosque Street is packed with shops and places to eat. The streets are hung overhead with trademark red lanterns.

Here you will find all manner of goods on sale from cheap clothes to food and incense.

Souvenir hunters can buy chopsticks, brightly colored fans, adorable luggage tags, good luck charms, and much more.

If you want Singapore-branded t-shirts, magnets, handbags, hats, and other souvenir items, then you’ll have many opportunities to find these items here.

Prices are listed on the items, so you don’t need to haggle. But you may need to use your bargaining skills if there aren’t any prices shown.

There are many bespoke tailoring shops and as you pass you are likely to be requested to buy a made-to-measure suit or silk gown.

Singapore’s Chinatown is festooned with lanterns that are lit up at night. Photo credit: WorldWideWriter

Walk along the narrow pavement behind the street stalls to find more conventional shops selling jewelry, electronic goods, or traditional Chinese medicines.

This area is still very much the home of the Chinese community in Singapore. You will see brass plates advertising the presence of lawyers and accountants in the upper apartments.

At the end of Sago Street, you will see the Chinatown Complex, a large concrete building housing a busy food market (also known as the hawker centre).

It’s a popular place to eat as there are hundreds of stalls selling a variety of foods. Whether you’re looking for foods such as laksa (coconut spicy noodle soup), biryani (mixed rice), or char kway teow (fried noodles), you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

One of the entrances to the Chinatown Complex has street art of Bruce Lee, a famous Hong Kong-American martial artist, holding nunchucks and a durian.

Here is street art of Bruce Lee at Chinatown Complex. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

Address: 335 Smith Street, Singapore 050335

Opening Hours: 6:00am to Midnight (Please contact individual stalls for specific opening times as they will vary)

The square outside is a meeting place where people talk, eat, or sit down for a leisurely game of checkers.

3. Wander Through The Temples Of Chinatown Singapore

Even in Chinatown Singapore’s multiculturalism is apparent in the number and variety of places of worship, encompassing Buddhism, Hindu, Islam, and Christianity.

Sri Mariamman Temple

As you walk towards the end of Pagoda Street, the ornate exterior of the Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple provides a striking contrast to the bustle of Chinatown and the highrise offices of modern Singapore in the distance.

This temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Mariammam, was built in 1843 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

Visitors can walk around the courtyard and admire the vividly painted friezes and statues, and the paintings of Hindu deities on the ceiling of the inner sanctum.

In the autumn, the dramatic Thimithi ceremony takes place, in which people demonstrate their faith by running barefoot across a patch of burning coals in the temple’s courtyard.

Even at other times, there is always something going on. At the time of my visit, the temple reverberated to the sound of horns and drums.

TIP: If you are entering the temple, you need to remove your shoes. It’s advisable to have thick socks with you as the floor can be very hot.

Ornate tower of the Sri Mariamman Temple in Singapore. Photo credit: WorldWideWriter

Address: 244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058793

Opening Hours: 6:00am to 12:00pm, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple stands opposite the Chinatown Complex. It’s free to visit.

Walk past the candles and statues in the entrance hall to enter the magnificent One Hundred Dragons Hall with its giant statue of Buddha and hundreds of miniature Buddhas lining the walls.

You may see monks performing their rituals in the central area.

Go upstairs for the Buddhist Cultural Museum and the teashop and for a view of the golden tooth relic.

TIP: Please cover your legs and shoulders before entering this temple. There are shawls available at the entrance.

Inside the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Photo credit: WorldWideWriter

Address: 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058840

Opening Hours: 7:00am to 5:00pm

More Information: Website

Thian Hock Keng Temple

As Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple is dedicated to Mazu, a sea goddess. Other deities worshipped here are Goddess of Mercy and Confucius.

Built in 1840, one of the unique aspects of the temple’s architecture is that the structure is made without using nails.

Unfortunately, this is one temple that I haven’t visited yet. Yet, the beautiful and intricate architecture and stone sculptures will be interesting to see.

Free admission.

Address: 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613

Opening Hours: 7:30am to 5:00pm

More Information: Website

4. Nonstop Eating And Drinking

There is a vast range of food available, from street stalls (hawker stalls), cafés, and restaurants.

Singapore food is a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines but you will also find Thai and Vietnamese restaurants in Chinatown.

Street Stalls

Offerings from the hawker street stalls are inexpensive and include traditional Chinese dim sum, satay sticks, and roasted chestnuts. You can also find cakes, fresh fruit, freshly squeezed juices, and herbal tea.

The cost of a meal with a drink is $5-$7 USD per person, so it’s very reasonable.

Look for young coconuts with their tops sliced off so that you can drink the cool coconut juice through a straw. Once you’ve finished drinking it, use your spoon to eat the young coconut meat.

The juice of a young coconut makes a surprisingly refreshing drink. Photo credit: WorldWideWriter

Or, if you are feeling adventurous, try a durian pancake, filled with the strong-smelling fruit with a surprisingly sweet flavor.

Cafes

The roadside cafés will sell you anything from a drink to a snack or a full meal.

There are some unusual specialties to look for such as crocodile meat or strange-sounding teas such as chrysanthemum wolfberry (also known as chrysanthemum goji berry). It was here that I finally got to taste durian!

Hawker Centres

Or, you can eat as the locals do in the food court (hawker centres) on the upper level of the Chinatown Complex.

Other nearby hawker centres include Maxwell Food, Amory Street, and Hong Lim Market.

Life Of Doing Note: We love eating at Maxwell Food Centre. We usually eat here at least once a day since there is a variety of food options.

Our go-to meals include eating chili crab at 鼎鼎紅麻辣香鍋 Dingdinghong Mala HotPot and also getting Hainan chicken rice at Ah Tai Hainan Chicken Rice or Tian Tian Hainan Chicken Rice.

Address: 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184

Sit Down Restaurants

Even the more formal restaurants are reasonably priced by Singapore standards and can provide a cool and pleasant place to escape for a while from the bustle of the streets outside.

Alternatively, wander down the nearby streets where nightfall sees tables and chairs dragged into the center of the road to create a vast outdoor eating complex.

5. See Street Art & Murals

When exploring the streets of Chinatown, you’ll see beautiful murals and street art depicting the past and present of Singapore.

Here are some fun murals that you’ll see when walking. You may see some new street art by local artists popping up on your next visit.

Letter Writer by Yip Yew Chong

Address: 336 Smith Street (on New Bridge Centre wall)

Street Art of Letter Writer by Yip Yew Chong. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

Puppet Mask & Puppet Seller by Yip Yew Chong

Address: 227 South Bridge Road (on Mohammad Ali Lane)

Mamak Store by Yip Yew Chong

Address: 227 South Bridge Road (on Mohammad Ali Lane and next to Puppet Mask & Puppet)

Community by Sam Lo

Address: 89 Neil Rd, #01-01, Singapore 088849 (on Shake Shack wall)

How To Get To Chinatown Singapore

There is an MRT station in Chinatown. The station name is Chinatown (牛车水, சைனாடவுன்) on the purple Northeast Line and blue Downtown Line.

To access the main tourist area leave the station by Exit A; this will take you to the middle of Pagoda Street.

There is also Maxwell MRT Station (麦士威, மெச்ஸ்வெல்) which is located next to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Maxwell Food Centre. It’s accessible on the brown Thomson-East Coast Line. It’s only a few minutes walk into the main Chinatown area.

Other options include walking to the area, taking the public city bus, using the Hop-On-Off-Bus, or ride-hailing cars (ie: Grab, a Singaporean-based app that is the same as Uber).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time is needed in Singapore Chinatown?

It will vary depending on personal interest.

You can take a minimum of 30 minutes to do a quick walk through the main shopping street.

Or, you can spend a few hours savoring the experience, view the temples, eat at a hawker stall, and go shopping.

When is the best time to visit Singapore Chinatown?

Early mornings and evenings will be quieter in the Chinatown area. Otherwise, it tends to be crowded all day long, especially around the food areas.

If you don’t like huge crowds, you may consider visiting other areas.

Do you need a tour of Chinatown?

No, it’s not required as everything is within walking distance.

But, you can sign up for tours to get further insight into the area’s history. Since Chinatown has many incredible food places, food tours are also popular. Here are some recommendations below:

Chinatown Walking Tour Options

Chinatown Heritage Walking Tour

Walking Tour with Lunch

Chinatown Food Tour Options

Chinatown Food & Walking Tour

Chinatown Hawker 8-Dish Food Tour

Final Thoughts

Singapore’s Chinatown is well worth the visit. It’s a memorable place to try incredible and delicious local food options, learn about history, go temple hopping, and wander through the streets to see street art.

If you’re looking for another fun place to visit after Chinatown, check out the Singapore Botanic Gardens. You’ll want to spend at least half a day or 6+ hours here.

Enjoy your time in Singapore. Please also follow my travels at WorldWideWriter.

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Featured & Pin Photo credit: Life Of Doing

The post Exploring Singapore Chinatown: Top 5 Things To Do & See appeared first on Life Of Doing.

Singapore Botanic Gardens Guide: Plan Your Visit & Insider Tips

Abigail Dalton — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 07:53:55 +0000

Are you heading over to Singapore anytime soon?

If you are, there is one attraction we enjoyed so much that we know it will make a great addition to your itinerary – the Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG) are sensational and a must-visit!

We visited the gardens when we made a quick 5-day stop in Singapore on our way to Thailand.

Having spent 6 months in Indonesia, we were coming from Bukit Lawang, a stunning place in the middle of the jungle, and so we had high expectations.

Singapore did not disappoint. It was an incredible experience and a place we hope to return to.

It’s very different from the rest of Southeast Asia and has a unique culture. There is a lot to do, and visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Garden comes at the top of the list, especially if you’re anything like us and always searching for green spaces and nature.

In this post, I’m sharing my Singapore Botanic Garden guide with you to highlight the star attractions and the ones we love the most.

I also hope this will provide you with some valuable insights, as we missed a fair bit since we didn’t plan it too well. I don’t want you guys missing out; planning is key to an enjoyable visit!

Click on the links below to jump to certain areas of this guide:

About Singapore Botanic Gardens

Location

Singapore Botanic Gardens Brief Overview

Best Attractions to Visit

Singapore Botanic Garden Zones

Guided Tours

What to Wear

Where to Eat Near Botanic Gardens

Places to Stay Near Botanic Gardens

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

About Singapore Botanic Gardens

I love Botanical Gardens and Singapore ranks high on my list of favorites (Italy’s Villa Taranto comes in as my all-time favorite).

However, Singapore’s Botanic Gardens are not just lovely and well worth a visit; they also hold a fascinating history.

As you walk around the park (I say park because the Singapore Botanic Gardens are more like a huge park rather than a garden) you’ll notice a lot of information regarding the history and founding.

Established in 1859, the most important thing you’ll learn is that the gardens are a tribute to the city’s commitment to greenery.

Singapore’s dedication to preserving nature has earned it recognition on a global scale, winning accolades like the “City in a Garden” for its outstanding green initiatives.

The Botanic Garden’s lush landscapes, which were once swamps, have witnessed the transformation of Singapore from a swampy colonial outpost to a flourishing modern metropolis. The transformation to a botanical marvel is truly remarkable and adds a lovely layer to the Gardens’ history.

They are a fantastic escape from the fast-paced inner city and, honestly, truly wonderful to explore.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Recognition

To make things even better, the Singapore Botanic Gardens achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 2015 due to their outstanding historical and cultural significance; they have since become a living heritage site.

UNESCO praised their role in plant research and conservation, including their pivotal role in the region’s rubber industry, making their historical impact epic.

While we were there, we learned that in the early 20th century, the gardens were a pioneering hub for rubber cultivation and research. Henry Ridley, the director at the time, successfully developed a technique for tapping latex without harming the trees, making rubber production more efficient.

So, when you stroll through this green haven, remember you’re in a place not just beautiful but officially recognized globally.

If you like to visit UNESCO sites, then the Botanic Garden is a must-visit. Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Where Is Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanical Gardens are centrally located in the heart of Singapore in the Tanglin district, just a bit west of the Orchard Road shopping district.

They are superbly accessible with multiple metro stations and gate entrances providing access.

Click here to see the location on Google Maps.

Quick Overview of Singapore Botanic Garden

Entry & Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00am to 12:00am

How Much Time to Spend Inside: 6 hours

Entrance Fee: Free to enter (exceptions apply i.e. Orchid Garden)

Accessibility: Accessible

When you begin planning your visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, there are a few things to consider.

The Gardens are vast, and you’ll want enough time to explore the various sections like the National Orchid Garden and Symphony Lake. We spent the whole day exploring; if you’re anything like us, you’ll need at least 6 hours, and it’s unlikely you’ll see it all – make sure you decide on how much time you want to spend there and which gardens you want to visit. Click here to download maps of the Botanic Gardens.

Consideration of what to wear and pack for your day out is also important. The gardens have lovely walking paths to discover, so you’ll need comfy shoes. The weather can be hot and humid, too, and you should consider packing snacks.

Consider the time of day for your visit. Early mornings can be particularly stunning as the air is fresh, or late afternoons when the sunlight bathes the gardens in a warm glow.

Check if any special events are happening during your visit. It could add a lovely touch to your experience. If you prefer a more structured exploration consider guided tours, as they can provide insightful information. (More information about the guided tours are below.)

You’ll love seeing the flowers and plants around the gardens! Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Top Attractions at Singapore Botanic Gardens

There are loads of attractions and activities here. I’m reviewing more of them in detail below, but I wanted to share our top 5 favorite sites with you first.

I would say these gardens are all “must-visits,” but those I mention further below are also spectacular; if you have time, visit them all.

National Orchid Garden – Recommended!

Firstly, let’s talk about the National Orchid Garden, an absolute must-visit…that we didn’t visit!

We were visiting Singapore on a budget and had seen the Cloud Dome at Gardens by the Bay the day before, so we decided to skip it since it’s full of orchids as well.

However, I think we made a mistake and should have visited; this garden boasts a stunning collection of orchids, including the delicate and rare Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore’s national flower.

Visiting National Orchid Garden is highly recommended! Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

1. Rainforest

For nature lovers, this part of the Garden is a slice of tropical rainforest. It’s a superb spot for a short hike, contrasting the more manicured sections.

2. Symphony Lake & Palm Valley

A beautiful spot to relax, you can enjoy open-air concerts here. The lily-filled lake and lush surroundings create a lovely atmosphere perfect for a picnic.

3. Ginger Garden

We enjoyed the vibrant and fragrant Ginger Garden. It’s where you’ll find an array of ginger species, heliconias, and other tropical plants. Did you know Turmeric and Cardamom are part of the ginger family?

There is also a beautiful waterfall feature here!

4. Eco Lake & Surroundings

At the Bukit Timah gate entrance, you’ll find lovely manicured gardens dotted around the Eco-Lake. There’s an eco-path circling them, which is perfect for a short visit – the Herbs and Spices Garden was interesting.

5. Healing Garden

This unique garden is designed to showcase plants with medicinal properties. It’s a fantastic place to explore the relationship between plants and human health; it was a favorite of ours.

How to Navigate Through Singapore Botanic Garden Zones

Recommended Entrances

The park is huge, and therefore, it has multiple entrances. Depending on where you’re going depends on which gate entrance you should head to.

The Bukit Timah and Tanglin Gate entrances are the most popular and the easiest to reach.

However, I think starting at Tanglin Gate is a better option, and working your way to finish at Bukit Timah Gate.

Suggested Itinerary

For the best experience, consider visiting the Singapore Botanic Gardens over 2 days.

You’ll have a much better experience and can divide your days into the south section (Tanglin, Tyserall, and Gallop zones) and the north section (Bukit Timah and Nassim zones).

Transportation Options

If you want a comfortable and quick journey, jumping into a taxi or Grab (Uber equivalent for Southeast Asia) is the easiest way. You can request a taxi to take you directly to the Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Otherwise, we used the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train. You have some options:

Botanic Gardens MRT Station (yellow line) or Downtown Line (blue) will drop you at the Bukit Timah Gate Entrance,

Or Napier MRT Station on the Thomson East Coast Line (brown) will drop you at the Tanglin Gate Entrance.

Brief Overview of the Zones

Tanglin Gate Entrance Zone

Main attractions and activities: Bandstand, Botany Centre, Plant House, Library of Botany & Horticulture, SBG Heritage Museum, Herbarium, Heritage Garden, and Swan Lake.

Tyersall Gate Entrance Zone

Main attractions and activities: National Orchid Garden, Ginger Garden, and the Learning Forest.

Gallop Gate Entrance Zone

Main attractions and activities: Botanical, Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge, OCBC Arboretum, Art Gallery, COMO Adventure Grove, and the Forest Discovery Centre.

Nassim Gate Entrance Zone

Main attractions and activities: National Parks Headquarters, Palm Valley, Healing Garden, Evolution Garden, Rain Forest, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, Symphony Lake, and Visitor Centre.

Bukit Timah Gate Entrance Zone

Main attractions and activities: Centre for Urban Greenery & Ecology, Eco-Lake and Eco-Garden, Ethnobotany Garden and Centre for Ethnobotany, Foliage Garden, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, and Seed Bank (1D)

Tanglin Zone

This is the oldest part of the gardens, which were established in 1859. I suggest following the Main Gate Road past Swan Lake into the Heritage Garden and Sun Garden.

Don’t forget to stop by the Bandstand to snap a photo! (Check out the featured photo at the top of this post to see what it looks like.)

The Swan Lake

Swan Lake is a picturesque oasis where you’ll hopefully find White Mute Swans gracefully gliding across the water.

It’s a great starting point for your day as it’s framed by lush greenery and is a fantastic spot to connect with nature.

Heritage Garden, Sun Garden & Vanda Miss Joaquim

Afterward, step into the Heritage Garden, paying homage to the rich plant heritage of the region and showcasing a diverse collection of plants.

Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Later, visit the Sun Garden, a desert landscape characterized by succulents and other plants from arid areas.

Be sure to stop by the vibrant colors of Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim.

These gardens offer a fantastic blend of nature and heritage, offering a unique glimpse into Singapore’s botanical legacy.

The Botany Centre

If you have time, right at the entrance is the Botany Centre. It’s a visitor’s information centre for research.

You’ll find facilities like the Singapore Herbarium, the Library of Botany & Horticulture, and the Orchid Breeding and Micropropagation Laboratory here.

Bandstand

Lastly, don’t forget to stop by the iconic Bandstand.

It’s a historic gem that witnessed hundreds of musical performances by military bands and events over the years.

It has lovely surroundings and is a fantastic spot to sit back, relax, and soak in the atmosphere, so of course we missed it!

Tyersall Zone

Next, you’ll want to head towards the Tyersall Zone.

If you continue from Vanda Miss Joaquim, you can either loop the Rainforest path or enter straight into the Ginger Garden – we enjoyed this garden a lot.

That will lead you into Orchid Plaza, where the entrance to the National Orchid Garden is found. When you’re done inside, head to the Learning Forest.

Ginger Garden

The Ginger Garden was a favorite of ours. It was really enjoyable to explore this garden, which features a captivating collection of ginger species.

It’s quite an aromatic experience since you can smell ginger plants strongly.

There is also a lovely waterfall feature here, where you can stand behind to grab a fantastic shot…that we missed, again.

National Orchid Garden

The stunning National Orchid Garden is one of Singapore’s treasures and not to be missed… so of course, we didn’t visit!

Unbelievable, I know, but that doesn’t mean you guys should miss out.

It’s home to a floral masterpiece boasting an incredible array of orchid species, or so we are told.

This garden is said to be a breathtaking showcase of orchid diversity, with over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids on display.

You’ll see this clock tower when visiting the Orchid exhibit. Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Price: Adults: $5 SGD / $3.70 USD (Local), $15 SGD / $11.15 USD (Standard), Free for children under 12. Tickets are also available for sale here.

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30am to 7:00pm

The Learning Forest

Designed to integrate the existing rainforest to form an enlarged forest habitat, which will educate and inspire you.

This biodiverse haven features elevated walkways and diverse plant species. Discover the intricacies of the ecosystem and enjoy a serene retreat in the heart of the Gardens.

Walk along the HPL Canopy Link into the Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge at the Gallop Extension.

A few highlights of this zone include the following:

SPH Walk of the Giant

The SPH Walk of the Giants is a majestic pathway around 26 meters (85 feet) long that will take you 8 meters (26 feet) into the towering canopy.

The boardwalk brings you up close to a mixture of plant species found in lowland rainforests.

It’s a superb experience, offering an impressive variety of forest ‘giants’, palms, epiphytes, and climbers.

Keppel Discovery Wetlands

The Keppel Discovery Wetlands is an incredible 1.8-hectare restoration project in the SBG. The project mimics the original forest wetland ecosystem that was historically found in the vicinity.

Its goal is to retain a harmonious blend of wetland ecosystems and sustainable design featuring a boardwalk and aquatic plants.

HPL Canopy Link

As I mentioned above, you can access the Gallop Zone via a Canopy Walkway.

It’s a 200-meter (656 feet) long barrier-free pedestrian bridge with access to a variety of species that are characteristic of lowland deciduous forests.

Gallop Zone

Also known as the Gallop Extension, it’s an 8-hectare addition to the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It brings the complete area of the Gardens to a fantastic 82 hectares.

Forest Discovery Centre

The Forest Discovery Centre is a hub of knowledge, showcasing the secrets of Singapore’s forest ecosystem.

Featuring informative exhibits and interactive displays, it’s an educational space that sheds light on conservation and the rich biodiversity of forests and their vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

The best parts of this centre include a photographic installation of forest trees, family-friendly displays, and videos featuring three distinctive forest habitats found in Singapore.

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00am to 6:00pm

Note: Closed every last Monday of the month

Botanical Art Gallery

The Botanical Art Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers, showcasing a collection of botanical illustrations.

The gallery celebrates the beauty and diversity of plant life through the lens of artistic expression, including more than 2,000 botanical paintings, as well as hundreds of sketches, line drawings, and photographs.

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00am to 6:00pm

Note: Closed every last Thursday of the month

Como Adventure Grove

Como Adventure Grove is a space designed for outdoor exploration and play for children with adaptive components that will help introduce children to nature.

Opening Hours: 7:00am to 7:00pm

Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge

Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge is a scenic trail that winds its way to the top of 350 meters (1,148 feet) providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00am to 7:00pm

Nassim Zone

Continuing with your visit, you’ll want to head back into the heart of the Singapore Botanic Garden and pick up a path toward the Nassim Zone.

Head towards Palm Valley and Symphony Lake before exploring the Healing Garden.

If you didn’t visit the rainforest path earlier, now is the perfect time. There is also a visitors centre here highlighting the best of Southeast Asian architecture.

Palm Valley and Symphony Lake

This is such a great valley and the perfect picnic spot.

The Palm Valley and Symphony Lake form a picturesque landscape within the Gardens, showcasing a stunning collection of palm trees.

Adjacent to it, Symphony Lake provides a serene atmosphere with its tranquil waters filled with giant lily pads, often hosting open-air concerts; this was another area we really enjoyed.

The views at Symphony Lake and Palm Valley are gorgeous! Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Rainforest

This rainforest is a lovely part of the SBG, highlighting the oldest remnants of Singapore’s primary rainforest. It’s made up of numerous herbs, ferns, climbers, shrubs, and trees and is lovely to walk around.

There is a loop, but you could easily walk half of it, which would pop you out right near the visitors centre and park headquarters.

You’ll see tropical plants, such as the banana blossom, during the Rainforest Walk. Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Healing Garden

The Healing Garden is a unique and therapeutic space featuring a curated collection of plants known for their medicinal properties.

We enjoy learning about the relationship between plants and well-being, so this was the perfect garden for us to explore. We spent a lot of time gaining insights into traditional healing practices!

Evolution Garden

Unfortunately, the Evolution Garden is another we missed, but for those of you interested in an educational journey through the evolution of plant life on Earth, make sure you visit.

This thoughtfully curated space showcases plant species representing different stages of evolution, providing a fascinating glimpse into the diversity and adaptation of plants over time.

The Fragrant Garden

We only got a little time to take in the Fragrant Garden, but I have read it’s a good spot to visit in the evening as many of the plants in this garden give off their scents during the night.

If you’re looking for the perfect date-night stroll, visit these gardens!

Bukit Timah Zone

You’ll find the Bukit Timah Zone at the north end of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It was one of our favorite parts with some lovely attractions.

It was the last zone we visited and a little rushed; I suggest breaking your visit into 2 days if you want to take it all in and fully appreciate the SBG.

Foliage Garden

You’ll likely pass into the Foliage Garden to get from the healing garden into the Bukit Timah Zone. It’s a green haven showcasing a diverse collection of foliage plants with various textures, shapes, and shades.

Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Eco-Lake & Garden

Nestled at the start of the Bukit Timah entrance, the Eco-Lake & Gardens is a serene place for bird-watching and the learning of economically important plants.

There are smaller gardens around the lake, such as bamboo, bougainvilleas, fruit trees, and herbs and spice gardens.

Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

We finished our visit with a stroll around the lake, trying to spot the resident Black Swans; I think it made a perfect spot to end the day.

Ethnobotany Garden

The Ethnobotany Garden is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between plants and people. The garden features over 300 plant species with cultural and traditional significance.

It provides insights into how different communities have used plants for various purposes.

Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden

Designed for young explorers aged 14 and below, the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is a magical realm where learning meets play.

Featuring interactive exhibits, water play areas, and themed gardens. It’s a delightful space for children to engage with nature in a fun and educational way, making it a fantastic family-friendly destination.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00am to 7:00 pm

Note: Closed on Mondays

Singapore Botanic Gardens Guided Tours

Did you know that Singapore Botanic Gardens conducts free guided tours?

They have volunteers who will take you around every Saturday to explore the very best of SBG.

Generally held in the mornings, these tours visit areas like the Healing Garden, Rainforest, Gallop Extension, Heritage Tour, and Learning Forest. It’s also possible to join a nature sketching workshop!

Check dates and times for free guided tours: Official Website

You’ll awe at the gorgeous flowers on your Botanic Gardens tour. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

If you can’t make a Saturday tour don’t worry. It’s also possible to join guided tours through other reputable companies throughout the week.

These are great if you want local insights from knowledgeable guides to lead you through the gardens.

What To Wear For Visiting Singapore Botanic Gardens

It’s important to pack right when visiting Singapore.

Considering the tropical climate, it can get hot and humid, so lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and sun protection are essential for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

You want to make sure you’re wearing light fabrics such as cotton or linen, which will keep you cool in the warm and humid weather.

We took both walking shoes and sandals, which were perfect for strolling around different sections of the Gardens. The terrain is generally easy to navigate, but uncomfortable footwear is going to ruin your day.

If you like hats, make sure you pack one, as they are great for shielding yourself from the sun.

Be sure to apply lots of sunscreen, too, and bring sunnies to protect your eyes from the sun.

Always carry a refillable water bottle with you!

Consider packing a light rain jacket or a small umbrella, especially if you’re visiting during the wet season.

While there is no strict dress code, wearing modest clothing is respectful since Singapore is a mix of cultures.

Where To Dine Near The Gardens

Botanico At The Garage

An all-time favorite, Botanical is a contemporary bistro with a seasonal, quality-driven menu. The cuisine is inspired by the season to produce fresh and robust flavors “straight from the heart”.

Details:

Location: 50 Cluny Park Road, Level 2, Cluny Park Gate (Singapore 257 488)
Nearest Car Park: Eco Garden (via Cluny Park Road)
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 6:00pm – 10.30pm / Friday 12:00pm – 3:00pm & 6:00pm -10.30pm / Saturday & Sunday 11:00am – 3:00pm & 6:00pm – 10:30pm. Closed Sunday.
Contact: (+65) 9831 1106
reservation@thegarage.sg
Website

Halia at Botanic Gardens

This is a fusion cuisine with European-Asian flavors. The Halia was established in 2001 and is named after ‘Halia’ – the Malay word for ginger.

The restaurant embodies “a restaurant in a garden and a garden in a restaurant” with specialties, including Halia’s Singapore Chilli Crab Spaghettini.

Details:

Location: Ginger Garden
Opening Hours: Daily from 12:00pm to 3:00pm & 6:00pm to 8:30pm
Nearest Entrance: Tyersall Gallop Entrance
Contact: (+65) 8444 1148
general.hsbg@thehalia.com
Website

Prive Botanic Gardens

This restaurant is hugely popular, featuring an all-day dining menu. It has indoor and alfresco options including offers such as the “Early Morning Rooster Specials” and the affordable “Weekday Delights.”

It’s also pet-friendly and kid-friendly with a kid’s play area and menu.

Prive Restaurant is a recommended place to eat in the Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: I’m Going On An Adventure

Details:

Location: Symphony Lake
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00am to 9:00pm (Last order 8:30 pm)
Nearest Entrance: Tanglin Gate
Contact: (+65) 6776 0777
info@prive.com.sg
Website

Where To Stay Near Singapore Botanical Gardens

Singapore is a dream for most, but to ensure you have the best experience, it is important to choose the right accommodation.

There are various options to suit most budgets, but remember that Singapore isn’t a budget-friendly destination like most of Southeast Asia.

That said, you can still find affordable stays from hostels to Airbnb. You’ll also find breathtaking luxury hotels, condos, and resorts.

Top-End Option: Marina Bay Sands – Check pricing and reserve on Booking.com | Book a room on Agoda

Mid-Range Option: Citadines Connect City Centre – Check pricing and reserve on Booking.com | Book a room on Agoda

Budget Option: Wink @Upper Cross Street Singapore – Check pricing and reserve on Booking.com | Book a room on Agoda

Final Thoughts

As always, I want to leave you with some final thoughts about Singapore Botanic Gardens and what we thought.

Overall, we enjoyed this botanical garden immensely. It ranks as one of the best in the world, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Walking through the various gardens, it’s evident how much time and care has been put into their creation; a visit is an absolute must!

As for our favorites, the Ginger Garden was amazing, alongside Palm Valley and the Eco-Lake.

In hindsight, I would have preferred splitting our visit over two days to ensure we visited all the attractions. However, we were short on time.

I would return to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, and it becomes a place I happily recommend to my readers. I hope you enjoy your visit too!

If you’re looking for other posts on Singapore, check out more below:

What to Do on a Singapore Layover

Like this post? Save it to your Singapore Travel Board on Pinterest:

Featured photo & pin #1 top photo credit: zambezi via Depositphotos.com

The post Singapore Botanic Gardens Guide: Plan Your Visit & Insider Tips appeared first on Life Of Doing.

4 Days in Singapore Itinerary – What to Do On Your First Visit

Jackie — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 07:04:39 +0000

Four days in Singapore is an ideal amount of time to spend in this country.

With the delicious Singaporean food, stunning nature reserves, historical sites, super clean roads, and glitz and glamor, you’ll want as much time as possible to explore the highlights.

Our first visit to Singapore for a short layover, and had the opportunity to revisit this country many times for a weekend trip from Vietnam.

With the help of our favorite travel bloggers, here is our recommended 4 days in Singapore itinerary.

This itinerary includes what to do in Singapore in four days including popular and offbeat places, admission costs, places to eat, and other helpful Singapore travel tips.

Each day is packed with attractions, yet you aren’t obligated to see everything. Depending on your travel style, feel free to focus on 1 to 3 sightseeing activities that you want to see.

In addition, Singapore can be done on a budget so we’ve provided many free attractions. We also have tour options available for a more in-depth exploration of these attractions.

Click on the links below to jump to a certain section of this Singapore 4 days itinerary:

Helpful Singapore Travel Tips
How to Get Around Singapore
Ways to Leave Changi Airport to City Center
Map
Day 1: Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands
Day 2: Little India, Kampong Glam, and Other Popular Areas
Day 3: Chinatown, Botanic Garden, Hiking, and More
Day 4: Free Day and Off-Beat Spots
Where to Stay in Singapore

*Disclaimer: We know that you’re eyeing Singapore sightseeing activities! We have affiliate links in this post. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us.

Helpful Singapore Travel Tips

Check if you need a Singapore visa.

Selected countries require a visa to enter Singapore. Click here to check if you need to apply for a visa in advance.

Visitors coming from the U.S., Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and some areas of Asia do not need a visa and can stay between 30-90 days.

Check the current Singapore travel vaccination requirements.

If you’re from an area with a high risk for yellow fever, then you’ll need to show proof of a yellow fever vaccination on arrival.

As with the COVID vaccination, it’s not a requirement to enter Singapore. Quarantining is not required anymore.

Note: You should have your COVID vaccine card on hand in case you go to other countries before or after Singapore and may require showing proof.

Complete the SG Arrival Card 3 days before arrival.

All travelers must complete an SG Arrival Card 3 days before arrival. Click here to complete the online form.

With the online form, you can complete it as an individual or a group. The person completing the form will need information such as passport and accommodation information.

The group submission is helpful if you have a large travel group. We used the group submission when we had Justin, my mother-in-law, and I traveled to Singapore.

The process is straightforward and will take a few minutes per person to complete.

If you forget to do this before your flight, that’s okay! Changi Airport has free wifi inside the terminal so you can complete the form online before going through Immigration.

Immigration is fast!

Singapore’s Immigration process is quick and efficient. There isn’t anyone stamping passports as everything is done through automated machines.

If you’re a foreign visitor who has completed the SG Arrival Card in advance, 6+ years of age, have a machine-readable biometric passport, and a passport holder of one of the following countries below, then you can use the “Automated Immigration Lanes.”

Southeast Asia (ASEAN) eligibility: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam

Other countries eligibility: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Netherlands, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Romania, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States

At the machine, scan your passport and your thumbprint to clear immigration. Afterward, you’re free to go and explore Singapore.

Singapore Currency

Singapore uses Singaporean dollars as its currency. It’s easy to find ATMs around Singapore to withdraw money. There are money exchangers in Chinatown.

You may have heard about Singapore and Brunei’s Currency Interchangeability Agreement.

In theory, you can use Singaporean dollars and Brunei dollars on a 1:1 exchange, so you can use Brunei dollars in Singapore and vice versa.

In reality, it’s not practiced widely and you’ll get your Brunei dollars rejected at many Singaporean stores and restaurants.

We had leftover Brunei dollars from our Brunei layover and couldn’t use it in Singapore. Even the bank wouldn’t exchange it as they said that it is an accepted currency.

Therefore, we don’t recommend that you bring Brunei dollars into the country.

Buy a SIM Card at the airport.

We recommend that you get a SIM card before you leave the airport. This is important to make calls, look up information on your phone, call ride-hailing cars, and more.

There is free wifi in the Gardens by the Bay area. Otherwise, many restaurants do not share their wifi password with guests.

Buy a 4G prepaid SIM Card here.

Or, buy a Singapore e-SIM plan here.

Consider Google Project Fi Plan (For U.S. Travelers)

If you’re from the U.S. and want an affordable international phone plan with free data and text messages, consider signing up for Google Project Fi.

The phone plan has coverage for 200+ international countries with data and text included. You don’t need to worry about incurring hundreds of dollars of international coverage. It’s the ideal phone plan for travelers.

We’ve used Project Fi since 2016 and highly recommend it. We don’t need to get an additional SIM card.

Sign up for Project Fi here and get a $20 credit.

Consider getting a Klook Pass Singapore or Go City Pass to visit multiple attractions.

Since we’re planning to visit many attractions on your Singapore 4 days itinerary, you may consider getting a special Klook Attraction Pass Singapore or Go City Pass.

Option 1: Klook Pass

For the Klook Pass, choose 2 to 10 attractions that you want to visit, such as Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios, Singapore Flyer, etc., and save money with this pass. You don’t need to worry about buying individual tickets.

Reviewers love how easy it is to redeem the vouchers and they say the pass is worth the price!

Buy the Klook Pass Singapore here.

Option 2: Go City Pass

For the Go City Pass, choose the number of days from 2 to 7 days and visit up to 35 attractions, tours, and museums on your pass. There isn’t a restriction on the number of places that you can visit per day, so visit as many places as possible!

Similarly to the Klook Pass, you can save money and not have to worry about purchasing individual tickets.

Buy the Go City Pass here.

How to Navigate through Singapore

We recommend that you use Google Maps as you travel around Singapore so you know which MRT and bus stop to go on/off from. The times listed on Google Maps are accurate.

How to Get Around Singapore

Since we’re sharing how to get to the various attractions, we thought it would be best to address how to travel around Singapore’s transportation options.

Walking

Singapore is one of the most walkable places that we’ve traveled to. It’s easy to walk over 10,000+ steps per day to visit many attractions, and this includes taking public transportation.

The sidewalks are clean, wide enough for large crowds, and in excellent condition.

As a heads up, pedestrians share the sidewalks with cyclists. Even though cyclists get their own lane, pedestrians may cross over between the pedestrian and bicycle lane so watch out for any cyclists.

MRT and Buses

Singapore’s public transportation system is easy to use and affordable.

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) will get you around the entire country in one hour or less. It’s a convenient and affordable way to travel around Singapore. For a copy of the Singapore MRT map, click here.

You can also take the buses around town which are reliable and fast. You’ll wait no more than 10 minutes at a bus stop.

Tip #1: Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass

With this Singapore 4 days itinerary, you may consider purchasing the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP).

The pass has a 1, 2, 3 days option where you can have unlimited bus and MRT rides each consecutive day.

No need to worry about buying single rides each time as you use your card to enter/leave the MRT or bus. It’s a huge time saver when you’re on the go.

In the end, you end up saving money if you use the MRT and buses many times per day with the STP.

At the end of your trip, return your STP within 5 days of the first issue date at any Transitlink Ticket office to get a refund for the rental fee on your card. If you keep the STP, the card will convert to a normal EZ-link card and you can add funds to it on a return trip.

We purchased the 3-day pass at the Changi International Airport’s TransLink Ticket Office where the MRT station is located (or you can visit MRT stations that sell STP).

You may be wondering what about the fourth day in Singapore? We paid for the MRT rides as the STP expired. When buying single rides, don’t forget to reuse your ticket. Every 3rd and 6th ride has a $.10 discount.

You won’t regret getting this card to help with your traveling.

Cost: 1 day (20 SGD / $14.55 USD), 2 days (26 SGD / $19 USD), 3 days (30 SGD / $21.80 USD) + 10 SGD ($7.30 USD) refundable rental deposit for the card

Tip #2: Use your credit card, debit card, or mobile phone for payment (NEW!)

Many train systems tend to use cash to purchase tickets or add funds to the transit card. Yet, there is a new system in place to ride Singaporean MRT and buses.

You can use your credit card, debit card, or mobile phone to tap the MRT fare gate or card reader when entering the MRT or bus, and tap the same card again when leaving. Your card will automatically get charged. It’s so easy! Read more here.

While you don’t get a receipt for your transaction, you can check your bank statements for the charges.

Grab Ride-Hailing Car

Based in Singapore, use Grab, the ride-hailing app to hire cars. Grab is the same concept as Uber where you select your pick-up and drop-off location.

It’s a cashless transaction as everything is done through the app. You can pay the driver in cash but it’s best to have exact change.

Download Grab Here: iOS / Android

Note: You will need to have a data plan to call the vehicle. Therefore, buy a SIM card before you leave the airport.

We used Grab a few times when a bus or MRT wasn’t available. For example, we took Grab to go to Changi airport early in the morning before the first MRT train started, or visited an area where the nearest MRT station was a few kilometers away.

Taxis

Taxis are available as another form of transportation around the island.

Hop-On-Off Bus

Singapore has an open-top double-decker bus that takes you around the top landmarks of Singapore, such as the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, Orchard Road, and more. There are two routes to take.

Plus, you can hear the pre-recorded commentary in 12 languages – Chinese, Children Channel (English), English, French, German, Italian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Earphones will be provided, or you can use your own.

You can purchase either a 1-day, 2-day, or night pass.

Buy the Hop-On-Off-Bus Ticket here.

Best Ways to Get from Changi Airport to Singapore Center

Take the MRT.

If you’ve packed light and want a cheap way to get to the city center, then take the MRT. The cost to get from the airport to Downtown is approximately 2.40 SGD ($1.80 USD) one-way.

To get to the Changi Airport MRT, you take the free airport transfer bus to Terminal 1.

If you want to head to the Downtown area, take one of these routes.

Take the train from Changi Airport Station (CG2) to Tanah Merah Station (EW4), then transfer to the East West Line towards Tuas Link Station (EW33).
Take the train from Changi Airport Station to Expo Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bukit Panjang Station (BP6/DT1).

Here is the train schedule.

Hire a private/shared car transfer.

If you have a large group and a lot of luggage, then hiring a private or shared driver with a transfer to your hotel will be a better option. The driver will meet you at your designated meeting spot.

Book one of these below:

Take the bus.

The bus is another cheaper transportation option. Yet, there will be many stops along the way, so the ride may take longer.

There are bus stops at Terminals 1, 2, and 3 in the basement bus area. Take bus #24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110, and 858 to your destination.

For Terminal 4, there is a bus stop next to Car Park 4B, and then take bus #24, 34, 36, and 110.

You’ll need to have exact change for the bus, use the Singapore Tourist Pass, or your contactless card payment (credit card or debit card) to pay for the fare.

Hire a taxi.

This is another option in case you didn’t book a private or shared transfer to your hotel. The cost will be on the higher side due to airport surcharges.

Head to the Arrivals of Terminals 1, 2, and 3 and call for a taxi there. The cost is from 20-40 SGD ($14.50-$29), plus an additional surcharge cost.

The surcharge is for leaving the airport and costs between 6-8 SGD ($3.60-$5.80), or 25-50% of the final metered.

Click here for surcharge information.

Map of Places to Visit in Singapore in Four Days

Click on the image above to see a larger map of the locations in this 4 days in Singapore itinerary.
Credit: Map data: Google

Singapore Itinerary Day 1: Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands

If you landed at Changi International Airport in the morning, hop on the MRT from Changi Airport Station (Green Line) and transfer to any of the other lines to your Singapore accommodations. Check in and drop off your luggage.

Afterward, we’re off to explore your first full day in Singapore. We’re spending the day at the Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands area.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be walking a lot between the two areas.

If you haven’t done so – consider buying the Klook Singapore Pass or Go City Pass and save money on multiple attractions!

1. Explore Gardens by the Bay.

Gardens by the Bay is one of our favorite spots to visit in Singapore. It’s a beautiful and inviting outdoor space with greenery.

From the jaw-dropping Supertree Grove to the immaculate gardens and art sculptures, you’re in for a treat to this natural wonderland.

Depending on your time, spend at least 2 hours to up to an entire day here. Check out the following places below.

Supertree Grove

The Supertree Grove, located in the Bay South Garden, is so unique. No wonder you see this splashed over social media. The tall trees stand 50 meters (164 feet) high with over 150,000 plants grown along the tree trunks. Plus, they help convert to solar energy to help light up the trees in the evenings.

You must see the famous light show in the evenings, Garden Rhapsody (more information below).

OCBC Skyway

For another view of the Supergrove Grees, check out an aerial view from the OCBC Skyway. It’s a 128 meters (419 feet) walkway that connects the trees. It’s also another spot to see the evening light show.

Flower Dome & Cloud Forest

Add a visit to the cooling conservatories – Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.

We loved visiting the Flower Dome to see various flowers from five continents and their seasonal floral decorations, such as Chinese New Year. Since we’re from California, it was amazing to see Californian orange trees on display.

Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome is a beautiful spot to see colorful Chinese New Year flower decorations.

The Cloud Forest is also a good place to visit to cool off from the outdoor humidity. As you walk into the forest, the cool mist provides the ambiance of walking through a rainforest in the early morning. The indoor waterfall at the entrance is also a highlight of the forest.

The waterfall at the entrance of the Cloud Forest is mesmerizing.

Floral Fantasy

Gardens by the Bay also has a new attraction called Floral Fantasy. While we haven’t been here, it has the theme park vibe with a 4D ride and floral displays.

Tip: Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy are cold! The temperature is from 23-25°C / 73-77°F, to keep the plants cool, so bring a light jacket.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bayfront Station (Blue or Orange Line) and follow the signs to Gardens by the Bay. It’ll be a 10-minute walk to Supertree Grove.

Admission Cost: Depending on what you want to visit, the attraction costs vary.

The outdoor area is free to view, including the outdoor gardens, children’s garden, heritage garden, and more.
Cooled Conservatories (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest) if visiting both of these: 32 SGD ($23.50 USD) for adults; 18 SGD ($13.25 USD) for children (3-12 years old).
OCBC Skyway: 14 SGD ($10.30 USD) for adults; 10 SGD for children ($7.35 USD) (3-12 years old).
Floral Fantasy: 20 SGD ($14.50 USD) for adults; 12 SGD ($8.70 USD) for children

Buy tickets ahead of time to visit these Gardens by the Bay attractions.

2. Visit the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands.

Contributed by Annie from Off Goes Annie

Marina Bay Sands Future World by TeamLabs at ArtScience Museum is an absolute must-do on any visit to Singapore.

From the genius minds of the Japanese artist/scientist collaborative, TeamLabs has achieved something truly revolutionary in digital art.

Future World is a fantastical place, where everything is visually stunning and surprisingly interactive. Immerse yourself in their world of light, marvel at the lifelike projections, and delight in your own playful creations.

While Future World is a fantastic exhibition in its own right, it’s also an Instagrammer’s paradise, providing incredible photo opportunities!

Starting with a digital waterfall, progressing to glow-in-the-dark Tetris, and culminating in a pixelated galaxy of crystal light – every detail has been attended to.

There is a section of the exhibition where you can draw your own addition to TeamLabs’ Future World, which then comes to life on the walls around you after being scanned in.

TIP: An important thing to note for female visitors is that many of the installations involve mirrored flooring – make sure you’re not wearing a skirt!

Allow around two hours to explore Future World, then if your Singapore itinerary allows, spend some time in one of the three other exhibitions at ArtScience.

You must visit the ArtScience Museum in Marina Bay Sands. The Future World exhibit by teamLab is a must-see during your Singapore 4 day itinerary. Photo credit: Off Goes Annie

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bayfront Station (Blue or Orange Line) and follow the signs to the Marina Bay Sands. Or, if you’re coming from Gardens by the Bay, cross the overpass which goes to the hotel.

Head to the outdoor Promenade area to the white flower-shaped building, which is the museum.

Admission Cost:

The cost will vary depending if you’re visiting the Future World or special exhibits. Check out the official site for the ticket cost.

Buy your tickets here and save money for the ArtScience Museum.

3. Relax at Marina Bay Sands’s Sands SkyPark.

Contributed by Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

On the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel is the iconic Sands SkyPark Observation Deck which promises panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline.

From that height, take a moment to find and appreciate Singapore’s famous landmarks like the capsules of the Singapore Flyer and the long line of orange-roofed shophouses that line the Singapore River.

Complement this visit by heading down to the Water Promenade to catch the free light and water show, Spectra, or sipping a delicious handcrafted cocktail from Avenue.

For a memorable break, you can also splurge on the Sandsational Escape which will include a night’s stay at the Marina Bay Sands and access to the infinity pool that lines the rooftop, along with other perks.

There are also packages and bundles that include buffet dinners or entry to other attractions on the website that may be worth checking.

Let’s relax on the rooftop of the Marina Bay Sands on your first day in Singapore. Photo credit: Lazy Travel Blog

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bayfront Station (Blue or Orange Line) and go to Marina Bay Sands’s Hotel Tower 3.

Although it’s usually open from 9:30am to 10pm on weekdays and until 11pm on weekends, it’s best to plan ahead and call +6566888826 as it’s sometimes hired for private events and may be unavailable.

It’s also best to check the weather as rainy days will mean that the deck will be closed for the safety of the guests.

Admission Cost:

Tickets to the top will vary depending on peak or non-peak times. Click here to check out the ticket cost.

Buy your tickets ahead of time and save money on the SkyPark Observation Deck.

Note: You’ll need to book a time slot in advance on the SkyPark website.

4. Head to the Gardens by the Bay’s Garden Rhapsody Light Show.

We’re going back to the Gardens by the Bay for the amazing evening light show, Garden Rhapsody. It’s one of the most remarkable evening activities to do in Singapore.

The colorful Supertree Grove ‘dance’ with classical and instrumental music from popular movies such as Back to the Future and Star Wars.

It’s such an awesome outdoor concert that you may want to watch it more than once!

Ok, we watched it two times during our trip on separate days and it was just as incredible to see the second time.

The free show occurs daily at Supertree Grove at 7:45pm and 8:45pm.

TIP: It’s recommended to visit the area 15 to 30 minutes before the start of the show if you want to find a spot to sit. Otherwise, you can stand anywhere and still enjoy the light show.

Don’t miss the Gardens by the Bay Garden Rhapsody evening light show. It’s such a dazzling show while you’re in Singapore.

How to Get There: From the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, cross the bridge and walk to the Supertree Grove area. Otherwise, take the MRT to Bayfront Station (Blue or Orange Line).

Admission Cost: Free

5. Awe at the Marina Bay Sands Spectra Light and Water Show.

After you view the Garden Rhapsody light show, let’s return to Marina Bay Sands for their own outdoor evening show called Spectra.

If you love colorful lasers, water, and music then this 15-minute show is perfect for you. One of the coolest things about this show is seeing images projected into the water.

The free show occurs from Sunday through Thursday at 8pm and 9pm, and Friday and Saturday at 8pm, 9pm, and 10pm.

The best views are from the center of the Event Plaza or outside of the Louis Vuitton shop.

Note: If you stand right in front of the water show on the lower level, you will get wet! It’s refreshing, but you will feel colder halfway through the show.

How to Get There: From Marina Sands Bay’s The Shoppes, head to the outdoor Promenade’s Event Plaza area.

Admission Cost: Free

6. Visit the Helix Bridge (Optional).

If you have extra energy, you can also cross the Helix Bridge.

The Helix Bridge is a 280 meters (920 feet) length walkway for pedestrians and cyclists to cross.

At night, the bridge lights up in green and red lights and the strands of light intertwine with each other like a DNA strand.

It’s a nice photo spot with the Marina Bay Sands in the background.

Take a stroll along the Helix Bridge at night

How to Get There: From Marina Sands Bay’s The Shoppes, pass the ArtScience Museum and continue straight until you see the connecting bridge.

Admission Cost: Free

7. Visit the Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel (Optional).

This may be a stretch to do on the evening of Day 1, so it can be pushed out to any of the other evenings on your trip.

Looking to see Singapore’s landscape at night? Visit Singapore Flyer. It’s 165 meters (541 feet) high Ferris Wheel with awesome views of Marina Bay Sands.

Your ticket also includes a visit through the “Time Capsule.” It’s the opportunity to learn about Singapore’s history, present day, and future plans.

A cool experience is the Singapore Flyer Sky Dining. You get to enjoy a 4-course dinner in a Ferris wheel capsule and see views of the city from above.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Promenade Station. Then go to Exit A, and walk 8 minutes to the Singapore Flyer. You can also take the bus.

Admission Cost:

Singapore Flyer & Time Capsule: 40 SGD ($29.70 USD) for adults; 25 SGD ($18.60 USD) for children (3 to 12 years)
Singapore Flyer Sky Dining: 520 SGD ($382 USD) per couple

Buy discounted tickets for the Singapore Flyer here.

Singapore Itinerary Day 2: Little India, Kampong Glam, and Other Popular Areas

It’s our second day in Singapore and we’re exploring various ethnic areas of Singapore and other popular attractions.

1. Say hello to the Merlion at Merlion Park.

Singapore’s famous statue is the merlion, a lion’s head with a fish body. There are several merlion statues located across the island.

The popular spot to view the merlion is at Merlion Park, next to the One Fullerton shopping and dining complex.

The merlion has water coming out of its mouth so you can get creative with posing with the merlion.

We recommend that you visit this place first thing in the morning before the crowds come or late in the evening.

The merlion has also made its way to international locations. If you visit Danang, Vietnam, you’ll see a replica of the merlion at the Sun World Danang Wonders theme park.

Getting a drink from the merlion at Merlion Park.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station (Red or Green Line) and head toward the Marina Bay to the Fullerton Hotel/One Fullerton area. You’ll see the merlion along the waterfront.

Admission Cost: Free

2. Explore Little India.

Little India is a booming area filled with bright, colorful buildings, good eats, and culture.

You can spend a few hours exploring the streets to find souvenirs, try some of the best Indian cuisines at local shops, and see what life is like in this area.

Former House of Tan Tenh Niah

One of the famous places to take photos is the Former House of Tan Teng Niah. This former Chinese villa was built in 1900 in the heart of Little India. During that time, Little India had many cattle and rattan businesses. Tam Teng Niah was a businessman who owned several factories making sweets.

You’ll recognize the restored building with its colorful walls and window panes. During our visit, we couldn’t go inside the building.

The Former House of Tan Teng Niah is so pretty! It’s a fabulous stop as you explore Singapore’s Little India. Photo credit: ronniechua via Depositphotos.com

Tekka Centre

If you’re looking for more variety of foods, stop by the Tekka Centre, which is a huge hawker area. It’s a bit overwhelming at how many food stalls there are. From Indian and Malaysian, to Chinese food, you can find something to suit your cravings at affordable prices.

We had fish dum biriyani at Yakader Muslim Food which had a mountain of rice with fish and a hard-boiled egg on a banana leaf for 5.60 SGD ($4 USD). Hooray for using a sustainable product. With its huge portion, it’s enough to feed two people

There are a lot of people eating here so you may need to find a seat in the outer perimeter of the dining area. Afterward, you can browse through the area to see the wet market or general shopping.

Mustafa Centre

Interested in visiting a 24-hour shopping center? Visit Mustafa Centre to get your shopping fix. You’ll find everything from household goods, electronics, groceries, and more.

If you have a backpack or large purse, drop off your bag at the front/Security area before going inside.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Little India Station (Blue or Purple Line).

Tour Options:

3. Stroll through Arab Street.

Contributed by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

Arab Street is a bit of a misnomer because it refers not just to a single street but to an entire neighborhood in Singapore.

It’s thought to be named after an Arab merchant, Syed Ali bin Mohamed Al Junied, who once owned much of the area.

This is Singapore’s main Muslim quarter and is now a popular shopping and dining spot.

The Chinese, Malay, and Indians are probably the first ethnicities that come to mind when you think about the population of Singapore, but this tiny island is much more diverse than that.

There is a significant Arab population, many of whom are descended from Yemeni merchants, as well as Muslims of Javanese, Bugis, and Boyanese descent.

And of course, many of the Malay and Indian Singaporeans are Muslim as well.

Shop for perfumes, carpets, fabrics, and more, admire the brightly painted buildings, and enjoy an authentic Middle Eastern meal at one of the local restaurants.

Stroll along Arab Street for shopping opportunities, good eats, and colorful houses. Photo credit: The Nomadic Vegan

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bugis Station (Green or Blue Line). Take exit B and turn right. Keep walking past the Raffles Hospital fountain and the Village Hotel Bugis. You’ll know you’ve reached Arab Street when you see the dome of the Sultan Mosque.

4. Let’s find street art in Kampong Glam.

Contributed by Sue from Travel for Life Now

Singapore is full of terrific street art. Surprised to hear that? There are many places in Singapore to see street art—Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, and Tiong Bahru, to name a few.

One of the best places to see street art is Kampong Glam and Haji Lane.

Historically, Kampong Glam has been the center of the Malay and Muslim communities in Singapore. It’s where the famous Sultan Mosque is located.

Today, the area has become hip with thriving art activities.

On Haji Lane, there are interesting boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Many places are covered in art.

A short walk from Haji Lane, you will find Aliwal Arts Center which also has a lot of art in the surrounding blocks. Wander the streets and enjoy shopping, eating, and street art.

Kampong Glam’s Haji Lane doesn’t disappoint with its creative street art. Photo credit: Travel for Life Now

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bugis Station (Green or Blue Line). The borders of the street art area are Ophir Road (South), Victoria Street (West), Beach Road (East), and Crawford Street (North).

Tour Option: Click here for details of a Kampong Glam history tour

5. Eat at Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle Shop.

In case you need an afternoon snack, try this popular one Michelin star noodle shop called Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle. This place earned its star in 2016.

Located in the bottom level of a residential complex off of Crawford Lane, many people line up to try the bak chor mee.

The springy noodles are topped with ground pork, meatballs, and a crispy piece of fried fish. The shop uses quality meat as the pieces are tender and full of flavor. You can have the noodles in soup or dry (no soup).

The regular-size bowl is 8 SGD ($5.80 USD) and is a decent size for the noodle to meat ratio. If you want a larger bowl, then you’ll have more meat in your bowl.

Every bowl is made to order so you’re guaranteed a hot bowl of noodles.

TIP: We recommend that you visit during non-peak hours (ex: 2pm) so the line won’t be as long. Otherwise, you may wait up to 1.5 hours in line.

A delicious and affordable bowl of bak chor mee at Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle Shop.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Lavender Station (Green Line) and walk about 10 minutes to the residential complex.

6. Head to Koon Seng Road and Eat at Old Airport Road Food Centre.

Contributed by Annie from Off Goes Annie

Koon Seng Road is Singapore’s ‘old town’ at its finest, creating a real juxtaposition with the city’s modern skyline.

Visit this beautiful street of Peranakan and ornate Chinese architecturally styled houses to feel like you’re stepping back to the 1920s and 1930s. These infamous shopfront residences have been featured in books, films, and magazines globally.

Seeing them is a definite bucket list checkpoint in any itinerary. Although a little further away from the main attractions of Singapore’s city center, the architecture on Koon Seng Road is unrivaled by anywhere else in the city.

Check out these beautiful houses along Koon Seng Road’s Perenakan street. Photo credit: Off Goes Annie

To make the slightly longer journey well worth it, one of Singapore’s best hawker centers can be found within walking distance of the beautiful Koon Seng Road.

Walking back into the city center down the disused runway-now-road of Old Airport Road will bring you to the Old Airport Road Food Centre.

This wonderful hawker center of an eclectic mix of traditional Singaporean food promises to suit any palette while providing a unique setting.

Meals here are perfectly affordable and make for a great stop-off point after visiting Koon Seng Road.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Eunos (Green Line) or Dakota (Orange Line).

Singapore Itinerary Day 3: Chinatown, Botanic Garden, Hiking, and More

For our third day in Singapore, we’re off to Chinatown, visiting the Botanic Garden, going on a short hike, and other adventures.

1. Walk through Singapore’s Chinatown.

Browsing through Chinatowns around the world is one of our favorite things to do.

Singapore’s Chinatown is more touristy compared to others that we’ve been to such as Incheon, South Korea, Sydney, and Perth, Australia.

Yet, it still has the charm of good eats, the iconic Chinatown entrance gate, and lots of shopping opportunities for souvenirs. Popular items for sale are adorable merlion stuffed animals, Disney, and Japanese anime luggage tags, and tote bags with Singapore splashed over them.

Don’t forget to use your hard bargaining skills if you shop in the outdoor market. You’ll also get the opportunity to see colorful houses and red lanterns hanging in the area.

This is one of our favorite spots in Singapore’s Chinatown with the colorful houses.

Chinatown Visitor Centre

To get an introduction to Chinatown, stop by the Chinatown Visitor Tourist Centre. Located across from the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, you can ask questions about Chinatown and/or what to do in Singapore. This place also has souvenirs.

You can also download a copy of a DIY walking tour of Chinatown here.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Afterward, head to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The lower level of the Buddhist temple is open to the public and is free to enter. You get the opportunity to see lots of Buddhas and Buddhist decor everywhere.

One of the interesting parts about the temple is that you can see your personal guardian deity based on what year you were born/zodiac sign. It’s like looking into your horoscope with the qualities of your deity.

TIP: Please wear clothing that provides shoulder and leg coverage. If you’re wearing tank tops and shorts, they will give you a sarong/scarf for coverage. Tours are also available to visit the other levels, yet you’ll need reservations in advance.

Visiting Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is free.

Additional Places of Interest

Other temples that you can check out include the Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple and Thian Hock Keng Chinese Hokkien Temple.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Chinatown Station (Blue or Purline Line).

Tour Options:

2. Eat Your Way Through Chinatown.

As you can tell, we love eating in Singapore! Chinatown doesn’t disappoint with the number of places to eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Here are some places that we recommend that you visit – both hawker stalls and restaurants.

Chinatown Complex

Chinatown Complex is one of the largest hawker centers in Singapore. You can’t miss the Bruce Lee street art at the entrance.

Located near the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, there are hundreds of stalls to choose from on the second level. You can try a little bit of everything depending on what you want to eat.

We loved trying the fish head soup at An Ji (Stall #02-194) with the creamy soup base and the large fish head.

Maxwell Food Centre

Maxwell Food Centre is one of the best hawker centers in Singapore.

With the proximity to Chinatown and the variety of food options, you can visit here multiple times during your 4 days in Singapore. If you fancy laksa, chili crab, BBQ pork and chicken, Indian food, or fresh sugarcane juice, there is a shop available.

If you love Hainan chicken and rice, you must try the Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice stall. It received a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for its delicious chicken and rice. You can choose between a small, medium, or large size plate.

The small chicken and rice is 5 SGD / $3.70 USD and is one of the moistest chicken that we’ve eaten. You can’t miss this spot as they have one of the longest lines. Once the chicken sells out, the shop closes for the day.

If you love Hainanese chicken and rice, you have to visit Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre. It’s a delicious and affordable meal in Singapore!

Another option is Ah Tai Hainan Chicken Rice. The former chef of Tian Tian opened his own chicken and rice shop and it’s just as good. Depending on your preference, this place has bone-in chicken and the meal comes with a side of soup.

If you like chili crab, consider visiting Dingdinghong Mala HotPot (鼎鼎紅麻辣香鍋) (Stall #41). They have 2 sizes – 800g or 1 kg, depending on how many people will eat the crab. We got an 800g chili crab for 48 SGD for 2 people to share, and it’s yummy. Add a side of rice and stir-fried vegetable for a complete meal. This place also sells other Chinese food.

Who wants to try chili crab?

Hawker Chan

This former small hawker stall in Chinatown has branched out to international locations. With its one Michelin star rating earned in 2016-2018, try one of the most delicious Hong Kong-style food at Hawker Chan.

We’ve only been to the location on Smith Street and it’s been consistent every time we’ve visited. The bbq pork with noodles and soy sauce chicken with rice are recommended. It’ll cost around 11 SGD ($8 USD) for these two items. Check out their website or Facebook for more information.

Try the delicious Hong Kong style foods at Hawker Chen.

Ocean Curry Fish Head

One of the things to try is fish head curry.

When we came across Ocean Curry Fish Head, we know we had to try it. The restaurant started in 1983 and has several shops in Singapore.

The huge claypot of bubbling fish head in the spicy Indian curry sauce with a side of rice was delicious.

We underestimated the size of the fish head and half of its body. It was more than enough to feed two people. Check out their Facebook for more information.

3. Stroll through Singapore Botanic Garden.

Singapore’s Botanic Garden is a must-see for nature lovers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, this 82 hectares (202 acres) is a relaxing getaway to see greenery and beautiful plants.

You’ll need a few hours if you want to walk through the entire garden as it’s huge! You can bring food and beverages to have a picnic in the garden.

If you have questions about the park, visit one of the five Visitor Centers at the main entrances of the park (Tanglin, Nassim, Tyersall, Bukit Timah, and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden).

There are many walking paths that you can explore such as the Fragrant garden, Healing garden, Bonsai garden, and more.

Stop by the Eco-Lake which is nearby the MRT station where you can see dozens of turtles sunbathing on the rocks.

More information about the gardens is here.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to the Botanic Garden Station (Blue or Orange Line).

4. Take a break at Adam Road Food Centre.

You may have developed some hunger after exploring the Botanic Garden. Head to the Adam Road Food Centre, which is a smaller hawker area (about 20 stalls).

We tried the nasi lemak for some Indonesian cuisine at Adam’s Nasi Lemak and the big shrimp noodle soup at Adam’s Road Noo Cheung Big Prawn Soup. You can also take a rest and have a drink here.

How to Get There: From the Botanic Garden MRT Station (Blue or Orange Line), walk over the overpass, turn left once you reached the end of the overpass and then you’ll see the food center on the right-hand side. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk.

5. Learn about Chinese mythology at Haw Par Villa.

Did you know that the creators of Tiger Balm, Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, opened Haw Par Villa, also called Tiger Balm Garden, in 1937?

This is one of the unique places to visit in Singapore as this theme park focuses on Chinese mythology and folklore.

While the theme park is a bit weathered and needs a much-needed paint job, it’s interesting to see the various statues and the depiction of the Chinese stories.

You’ll need to come up with your own version of the Chinese stories as many of the artworks do not have signage. Come prepared to look at some very odd statues.

The most striking attraction is the Hell Museum, showcasing the Ten Courts of Hell. It’s not a child-friendly attraction with dismembered body parts, decapitated heads, and blood.

You walk in a cave and see what happens to people who commit atrocities such as murder and thief. The more drastic the atrocities, the more suffering the person has in the afterlife.

It makes you think about what you’ve done in the past and how karma will catch up to you.

We’re not sure what is happening here but the mice and rabbits are vicious at Haw Par Villa, one of Singapore’s unique places to visit.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to the Haw Par Villa Station (Orange Line).

6. Hike up to Mount Faber Peak.

Need your daily dose of outdoor nature? Let’s hike up to Mount Faber Peak, formerly called Telok Blangah Hill. It’s the second-tallest hill in Singapore.

What is awesome about this place is that you get to have an aerial view of Sentosa Island and even take the cable car to go to the island where Universal Studios is located.

Note: You could visit Universal Studios on this day, but it may be too rushed. We’ve included this option for the fourth day. Another option would be to spend some time at Sentosa Island and see the local attractions. Read more about Sentosa Island here.

To reach the peak from the MRT, follow the signs to the park, and go along the Marang Trail. You’ll navigate through the peace and quietness of the forest.

TIP: Watch out for potential monkeys in the forest area.

While the hike isn’t technical, you’ll need to have a good pair of walking shoes to go up the steps. Visit this place either in the morning or the late afternoon to escape the crowds, humidity, and heat.

Isn’t hiking Mount Faber gorgeous?! This easy hike is a great addition to your 4 days in Singapore itinerary.

You’ve reached the peak when you see Faber Point, a building that has a cable car and a connecting restaurant and bar. On the other side, it’s a view of a residential area.

For another view of the city skyline, walk another five minutes past Faber Point to a viewpoint. You’ll also see a merlion statue at this peak. Head back in the same direction to return to the MRT station.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to HarbourFront Station (Orange and Purple Line). Follow the signs to Mount Faber.

7. Go shopping at Vivo City Mall.

Before you head back to the main downtown area, visit Vivo City Mall, the largest mall in Singapore. You can use the mall as a way to cool off in the air-conditioning, especially after the hike.

Luckily the mall connects with the HarbourFront MRT station.

The mall has your favorite brands from Aldo, H&M, Adidas, Nike, and more. Check out the Food Republic for a snack or meal.

How to Get There: The mall is connected to the HarbourFront MRT Station (Orange and Purple Line).

Singapore Itinerary Day 4: Free Day and Offbeat Spots

Your trip to Singapore is almost close to the end. The four days in Singapore have passed by quickly!

On this day, feel free to visit attractions that you may have missed before or head to the nearest shopping center (ie: Orchard Road) to buy last-minute gifts for friends and family members.

If your schedule allows for more sightseeing, check out one or two of these popular and less-visited places in Singapore before heading to the airport.

1. Enjoy the thrills at Universal Studios Singapore.

Contributed by Erin, Never Ending Voyage

The movie-themed Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island is a fun day out for theme park fans. The park features a variety of rides and shows.

Battlestar Galactica is not to be missed if you love roller coasters. This dueling coaster features a blue inverted coaster representing the Cylons and a seated red coaster representing the Humans. If you don’t like going upside down, stick with Humans as Cylons is intense.

The Revenge of the Mummy is a fast roller coaster in the dark with some fun surprises as you set off in your jeep through an ancient Egyptian tomb.

Transformers is a thrilling 3D experience where you zoom down city streets chased by giant fighting robots—you feel like you’re in a Transformers movie.

Other highlights are the Jurassic Park river rafting adventure (you will get wet!) and the impressive live stunt show Waterworld.

Universal Studios does get busy so it’s best to arrive before the park opening at 10am and avoid weekends.

Read this guide to the best Universal Studios Singapore rides for more details and tips on avoiding long queues.

Head to Universal Studios Singapore for some adrenaline and your dose of thrill rides. Photo credit: Never Ending Voyage

How to Get There: Take the MRT to HarbourFront Station (Orange and Purple Line) and connect to the Sentosa Express monorail to Waterfront station, which is a short walk from the park. The monorail is a little more expensive than standard MRT rides (5 SGD/$3.60 USD return), but you can use your MRT card to get straight on.

Admission Cost: Adult tickets are 82 SGD/$60.85 USD; children (ages 4-12) 61 SGD/$45.25 USD.

Save time and buy your Universal Studios tickets ahead of time here.

2. Explore Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Contributed by Sue from Travel for Life Now

There are many outdoor activities in Singapore from nature reserves and Gardens by the Bay to day trips to St. John’s and Kusu Islands.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a unique experience in Singapore. It’s one of the four nature reserves in the country. Bukit Timah, Labrador, and the Central Catchment and the other three.

Sungei Buloh is a wonderful place to see birds and animals in their natural environment. If you are lucky and patient, you will catch sight of mudskippers, monitor lizards, and the occasional crocodile.

From September to March, it’s the best place to see migratory birds (kingfisher, sun bird, heron, egret, sandpiper, and Himalayan swiftlet) and there are numerous bird blinds/hides that provide shelter from the sun.

The walking trail is easy and goes through the mudflats and mangroves. The Reserve was recently expanded to include a large area of tidal ponds in the Buloh Besar River.

It’s recommended to go early in the day when the animals are more likely to be active and before it gets too hot. Bring plenty of water and insect repellent. There are 2 visitor centers, but very limited access to food and water.

Let’s head to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve to find monitor lizards, birds, and more. Photo credit: Travel for Life Now

How to Get There: Sungei Buloh is off the beaten track and it takes some time to get there. Take the MRT to Kranji Station (Red Line) and then bus 925 to Kranji Reservoir Carpark B. The visitor center is a short walk from there.

3. Pay your respects at the Kranji War Cemetery.

Contributed by Marya from The Beau Traveler

You can rarely find Kranji War Cemetery in the list of must-visit places in Singapore. Even if you ask a local Singaporean, the possibility is high for them to never go there.

The cemetery is currently maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Once a burial ground for the former Woodlands Military Hospital on World War II during the Japanese occupation in Singapore, the Commonwealth government eventually transformed it into a military cemetery after the war.

Despite not being popular among the locals, the site is often visited by the family of the British military. Especially those who have got their relatives buried during the war.

It’s free entry but remember to stay mindful around the cemetery.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves history, it’s a great place to pay respect for the lives that have been taken because of the war. The cemetery is also the resting place of the second president of Singapore, Benjamin Henry Sheares.

Kranji War Cemetery is a must-visit during your 4 days in Singapore. Photo credit: The Beau Traveler

How to Get There: Located close to the Malaysian border in Woodlands, take the MRT to Kranji Station (Red Line). It’ll take around 45 minutes by MRT, so it’s quite a journey. From Kranji station, you can either order a Grab car or take a 20-25 minute walk to the cemetery.

Admission Cost: Free

4. Hike through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, MacRitchie Reservoir Park, & TreeTop Walk.

Contributed by Kenny from Knycx Journeying

One thing that impressed us the most about Singapore is that for a small island, it has no lack of greeneries and nature.

While the country is a safe haven that enjoys stable and relatively calm weather (except the notoriously afternoon downpour), you could always grab your bag and go out to a park or go for a hike.

The center of Singapore is a natural reserve, where the reservoir, tropical forest, and the Singapore Zoo resides.

Other than that, the Central Catchment Nature Reserve is located in the southern part of the natural reserve where visitors may find a couple of hiking trails that suit different ages and needs.

The MacRitchie Reservoir Park has 6 walking trails ranging from 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) to 11 kilometers (6.8 miles). It’s recommended to take route 6 to experience TreeTop Walk, a free-standing suspension bridge known for its scenic nature views.

As you make your way to the TreeTop Walk, take a deep breath of the fresh air, read the signs, and learn about some of the native creatures like a flying dragon and paradise tree snake.

If you are lucky, you may spot a Malayan Colugo, also known as the ‘flying lemur,’ which can camouflage itself in the shades of trees as you are walking through the bridge.

Check out the TreeTop Walk suspension bridge when you’re in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve/MacRitchie Reservoir. Photo credit: Knycx Journeying

How to Get There: Take bus 52, 74, 93, 157, 165, 852, or 855 to Lornie Road bus stop, and then a short walk to the entrance of MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

5. Adventure through Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

Contributed by Loredana from Destguides

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, with ‘Bukit Timah’ meaning ‘hill tin’ in the Malay language, is located in the center of Singapore, about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the central business district.

It’s on top of Singapore’s highest hill, Bukit Timah Hill. In October 2011, it was labeled as an ASEAN Heritage Park as it’s one of the largest areas of rainforest left in the country.

At the Reserve, you can walk, run or hike, and others even rock climb, or mountain bike. There is an actual designated trail for mountain biking within the park, which is known as the Bukit Timah Mountain Bike (MTB) Trail.

Here, you’ll also find several different kinds of plants and animals, such as monkeys (crab-eating!) and palm trees (fan).

Before you begin your adventures in the Reserve though, it might be useful for you to visit the Bukit Timah Hill Visitor Centre to learn more about the park’s biodiversity through its various displays and touchscreens on flora and fauna that can be found there.

How to Get There: You can take a bus, the Downtown MRT Line, or a taxi/car to the Reserve. If you’re taking the MRT, go to Beauty World Station (Blue Line) and take Exit A. If you’re taking a bus, then take it to Upper Bukit Timah Road and get off at the stop that is opposite to the Bukit Timah Shopping Centre.

6. Visit the Jewel at Changi Airport.

Before your departure flight to your next destination, we highly recommend that you visit the Jewel, next to Terminal 1 at Changi Airport. The Jewel is open to the public, so you do not need to check in your flight and cross Security to enter this place.

The Jewel has restaurants, shopping, and activities for children and adults to enjoy.

You’ll want to grab a meal here before going on your flight as there are better food options than inside the terminal. Try restaurants such as Din Tai Fung, Tsuta Japanese Soba, Jumbo Seafood, and more. Check out the offerings here.

What is awesome about this place is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall called the Rain Vortex. It’s quite a sight to see a waterfall in the middle of a building. Plus, the waterfall is surrounded by green plants and a forest area.

The Jewel has a gorgeous indoor waterfall to see

Canopy Park is another place to check out. There are mazes, bouncing nets, and lots of fun for younger guests. You can also walk and climb on a suspended giant net.

How to Get There: Once you enter Terminal 1, follow the signs to the Jewel. From the check-in area to the Jewel entrance, it’ll take 10 to 15 minutes of walking one-way.

Unfortunately, trolleys are not allowed inside the Jewel. You’ll need to leave them outside of the main entrance and bring your luggage with you inside.

Admission Cost: Free

Where to Stay in Singapore

There is no shortage of places to stay in Singapore. We noticed that Singapore accommodations are higher priced compared to other Southeast Asia countries, yet there are plenty of budget-friendly places to stay at. Remember to book in advance.

Click here to find accommodations in Singapore on Booking.com.

Find Singapore accommodations on Agoda here.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the Four Points by Sheraton, located in the Robertson Quay river area.

Since we’re Marriott Bonvoy members, we used hotel points to stay here. Regardless, we would pay for this hotel on a return trip.

Our room was a bit older looking, yet clean, and had a comfortable bed. Breakfast was not included in the room.

The hotel is conveniently located as there are bus stops outside the hotel. There is a bus that goes to the nearest MRT station, Clarke Quay (Purple Line).

Find availability and make a reservation for Four Points by Sheraton here on Booking.com.

Find pricing for Four Points on Agoda here.

If you need other choices, check out these recommendations based on reviews:

Budget Options

Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel – Singapore has lots of capsule hotels to target budget travelers. What is interesting about Cube Boutique is that there are capsules available for couple travelers so you can share a queen size bed. Private rooms are also available. This place is located in Chinatown so you can hop onto the Chinatown MRT Station (Blue or Purline Line).
- Read reviews and make a reservation for Cube Boutique on Booking.com.
- Find pricing for Cube Boutique on Agoda here.
Beary Best Hostel – Here is another affordable place to stay if you’re on a budget. There are mixed dorm rooms and private rooms available. The private rooms are smaller and have bunk beds but you do get privacy. Since this hostel is in Chinatown, you can go on the Chinatown MRT (Blue or Purline Line) to travel around.
- Read more about Beary Best Hostel on Booking.com.
- Check out pricing for Beary Best Hostel on Agoda.com.

Luxury Options

Conrad Centennial Singapore – Located in the Marina Bay area, this hotel is close to many of the Singapore attractions and restaurants. The nearest MRT is the Promenade Station (Orange and Blue Line) which is only a few minutes away by walking.
- Find availability and make a reservation at Conrad Centennial here on Booking.com.
- Read reviews about Conrad Centennial on Agoda here.
Pan Pacific Singapore – One of the hottest spots in Marina Square with stunning views of Marina Bay. The rooms have spectacular views and modern decor. Plus, this hotel is close to the MRT – Promenade (Orange and Blue Line), Esplanade (Orange Line), and City Hall Station (Red and Green Line). The Gardens by the Bay is less than 1 mile away from the hotel.
- Click to check availability and reserve a room at Pan Pacific on Booking.com.
- Read more about Pan Pacific Singapore on Agoda.

Final Thoughts

We love Singapore and would recommend it as a fantastic stop in Southeast Asia.

There are so many things to do in Singapore in four days and we barely scratched the surface. Even though we’ve been to Singapore a few times, we still haven’t seen everything yet.

We can’t wait to come back to eat more Singaporean food, explore more of the hawker food culture, and go on more hikes.

Huge thank you to our travel blogger friends who contributed to this post. Check out their current adventures and follow them on their social media channels for more inspiration.

What are you most excited to see in your upcoming Singapore trip? If you’ve been to Singapore before, let us know where we should visit next in the comment box below.

Like this post? Save it to your Asia Pinterest board.

Pin #1 photo credit: Ronniechua via Depositphotos

Pin #2 photo credit: Laura Plenzich via Scopio Photos

The post 4 Days in Singapore Itinerary – What to Do On Your First Visit appeared first on Life Of Doing.

Maximize Your Incredible Singapore Layover in 8 Hours & Things To Do

Jackie — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 08:47:50 +0000

Singapore has been on our travel list for years, and it’s the perfect spot for a layover. After seeing photos of the Gardens by the Bay and hearing about the delicious Singaporean cuisine, it was our turn to check out this amazing city for ourselves.

We were fortunate enough to have a quick Singapore stopover from 7:30am to 3pm with Singapore Airlines.

What is great about Singapore is that it’s an ideal city for a long layover with plenty of free things to do and see. It was plenty of time to get a glimpse of the area and leave the airport.

In this post, we’re sharing top things to do during your Singapore layover, especially if you have 8 hours or less to explore. Plus, we have helpful tips on logistics for leaving Changi Airport.

If you decide to not leave the airport, check out the new Jewel Changi Airport to experience a waterfall, canopy walk, and more exciting attractions!

For those with extra time to explore, consider visiting Singapore in the evening with this unique overnight layover. If you have more time, spend a full one day, 4 days, or even up to two weeks in Singapore. The opportunities are endless!

Check out our other layover posts: Beijing, China Layover, Sydney, Australia Layover, Narita, Japan Layover, and Brunei Layover.

*Disclaimer: Visiting Singapore during your layover? We have affiliate links in this post. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us.

Check Singapore Travel Requirements for Singapore Layover

Before traveling to Singapore, you’ll need to check the current travel requirements as they’ve changed.

If you know that you’ll pass through immigration and leave the airport, click here on what to do next.

Currently, there are no requirements for COVID vaccinations. COVID tests, quarantining, and proof of vaccinations are not required.

Note: If you plan to travel to other places, please follow the country’s travel requirements. Please make sure that your COVID vaccinations are up to date and get booster shots as needed.

*Important: You must complete the SG Arrival Card 3 days prior to arrival. Here is the link to complete the SG Arrival Card.

On the SG Arrival Card website, you can complete an individual or group submission. If you have a large group traveling to Singapore, then group submission will be a faster option.

What to Do When Land at Singapore Changi Airport

Once your flight has landed at Singapore’s Changi Airport, you’ll need to do the following to continue with your layover:

Step 1: Go Through the Immigration

If you’re a foreign visitor who has completed the SG Arrival Card in advance, over 6+ years of age, have a machine-readable biometric passport, and a passport holder of one of the following countries below, then you can use the “Automated Immigration Lanes.”

The countries eligible: Australia, Austria, Brunei, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Laos, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Malaysia, Netherlands, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Romania, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, and Vietnam.

With the Automated Immigration Lanes, you use your passport and biometric screening thumbprint to scan at the machine and complete the immigration process faster.

There isn’t an additional Customs area.

Step 2: Decide Where to Go Next

After Immigration, you can decide on where you want to go next.

Depending on which terminal you’ve landed at, you may need to take the airport bus to go to Terminal 1 to take the metro (MRT) transportation and visit to head to the main Singapore area (more details below).

Another option is to hang out at the Jewel next to Changi Airport’s Terminal 1.

Step 3: Buy SIM Card (Optional)

If you need a data plan during your short layover in Singapore, then you should get one at the airport before leaving. Singapore doesn’t have too many areas with free wifi.

Here are some options to consider with pick-up at the airport:

4G Prepaid SIM card
Singapore e-SIM Data

Google Project Fi (For U.S. Travelers)

Or, if you are from the U.S. and want an affordable international phone plan with free data, consider signing up for Google Project Fi.

It’s the phone plan with coverage to 200+ international coverage with data and text included.

We’ve used Project Fi since 2016 and love how easy it is to get data.

Sign up here and get a $20 credit.

Where to Store Luggage at Singapore Changi Airport

If you have carry-on luggage and don’t want to carry your luggage during the Singapore stopover, store it at the Changi Airport’s Baggage Storage.

It’s convenient and someone watches your luggage. Each terminal has its own storage area. Follow the signs when exiting the terminal for the storage area.

Cost varies depending on the item and is available for 24 hours (or more).

Loose Items (5 SGD / $3.60 USD)
Small Luggage below 10 kg (22 pounds) (10 SGD / $7.20)
Big Luggage above 10 kg (22 pounds) or Odd Size Items (15 SGD / $10.90)
Extra Large Items (18 SGD / $13.00)

We used the service in Terminal 2 and didn’t have any issues. After paying for our bags, a representative checked our bags for extra security and placed them in the back of the secured room.

Remember to have a copy of the receipt for pick-up.

Our dream of visiting Singapore became a reality!

How to Leave Singapore Changi Airport

It’s easy to leave Singapore Changi Airport and arrive in the main city for your Singapore long layover.

The main options are taking taxis, Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber), private cars, buses, or the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) trains.

The taxi and Grab will get to the main city the fastest in 30 minutes while the buses and MRT will take an hour.

Taxi

Head to the Arrivals of Terminals 1, 2, and 3 and call for a taxi there. The cost is from 20-40 SGD ($14.50-$29), plus an additional surcharge cost.

The surcharge is for leaving the airport and costs between 6-8 SGD ($3.60-$5.80), or 25-50% of the final metered.

You can find out the surcharge info here.

Grab Ride-Hailing Car

Taking a ride-hailing car is a good option to travel around Singapore.

At Changi Airport, private cars are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport curbside.

If you decide to use Grab (similar to Uber), the driver will need to tell you where to go for pick-up. Examples of pick-up spots are here.

You’ll need to download the Grab app ahead of time. Download Grab Here: iOS / Android

You’ll also need to have a data plan to call the Grab vehicle.

Private Car

If you want to have a private car, consider hiring one here. You can have a choice of a private or shared transfer to town. Choose from the options below:

Private transfer to/from Changi Airport
Private airport transfer
Shared airport transfer

Bus

There are bus stops at Terminals 1, 2, and 3 in the basement bus area. Take the bus numbers 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110, and 858 to your destination.

For Terminal 4, there is a bus stop next to Car Park 4B, and then take the bus numbers 24, 34, 36, and 110.

You’ll need to have exact change for the bus.

MRT (Recommended)

Taking Singapore’s MRT is very easy and is highly recommended as a more affordable and local way to travel.

It’s what we used for our Singapore layover, and we got off at Bayfront Station in the Downtown area.

There are two ways to get to Downtown Singapore from Changi Airport:

Take the train from Changi Airport Station (CG2) to Tanah Merah Station (EW4), then transfer to the East West Line towards Tuas Link Station (EW33).
Take the train from Changi Airport Station to Expo Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bukit Panjang Station (BP6/DT1).

Find more information about the train times here.

The cost of the one-way ride is 2.40 SGD ($1.80 USD).

Here are some helpful tips:

Pick up a free visitor’s map at one of the Customer Service desks and refer to a copy of the train lines. Or click here for a copy of the MRT lines.
To buy a paper ticket, ensure that you have cash (in denominations of 5 SGD/$3.60 or less) for the MRT ticket as credit cards aren’t accepted in the machine. The ticket machines don’t accept 10 SGD ($7.30) bills unless the ride is over 6 SGD ($4.40).
Reuse your paper ticket and add money as needed. Every 3rd and 6th ride has a $.10 discount.
NEW: If you want to use a credit card, debit card, or mobile device to buy an MRT fare, use one of them to tap at the MRT fare gates or card reader to get onto the MRT or buses. Use the same card to tap again when exiting and the fare will get charged. It’s convenient since you don’t need to worry about losing a paper ticket. Read more about this process here.

Things To Do for A Singapore Layover

Singapore has a lot to offer and it’s hard to choose what to do.

Since we had 8 hours for our layover, here are recommendations on things to do during your Singapore layover.

1. Take a free Singapore tour.

Singapore Changi Airport and Singapore Airlines provides complimentary city tours to all visitors during layovers.

Visitors must have at least 5.5 hours during the layover to participate in the tour. They have the option to choose a morning/afternoon Heritage Tour or an evening City Tour Tour. Each tour is 2.5 hours long and has free transportation included.

Registration can be done online or you can walk to the Free Singapore Tour booth in the Transit area to make a reservation.

Unfortunately, the timing of the tour didn’t work out with our schedule.

More information about the free tours is available here.

2. Awe at the plants at the Gardens by the Bay.

A trip to Singapore is incomplete without seeing the iconic Gardens by the Bay.

As one of the top things to try in Singapore, you can literally stay here for the entire day.

It’s a massive park that covers 101 hectares/250 acres of land and has thousands of plants throughout the park. The city focused a lot of time and energy to provide a green space for everyone to enjoy.

The most popular section of the garden is the Bay South Garden which has the Supertree Grove, OCBC Skyway, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy. With your limited time, choose 1 or 2 of the attractions to visit.

The Outside Gardens and Children’s Garden in Bay South is free admission, while OCBC Skyway, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Floral Fantasy have additional fees.

At the time of our visit, the Outside Gardens had various Lunar New Year flowers and lion sculptures.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore

Opening Times: 5am to 2am daily (Outdoor Gardens)

Closest MRT Station: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)

Supertree Grove

The Supertrees Grove was an amazing sight with “trees” up to 50 meters (164 feet) tall and plants grown along their sides. The Silver Garden, which is next to the Flower Dome, also contains Supertrees but on a smaller scale.

If you have extra time in your itinerary or your flight leaves in the middle of the night, you must return to the Supertree Grove area to see the free music and light show, Garden Rhapsody, at 7:45pm and 8:45pm daily.

It’s a beautiful show with the lights synchronizing with the music. There is a different music theme every few months. See the schedule here.

Here are the Supertrees where the evening light show occurs. You can see the yellow OCBC Skyway in the background.

Admission Cost: Free admission

OCBC Skyway

If you want to have a bird-eye view of the Gardens from the Supertree Grove, check out the 128-meter (420 feet) walkway at OCBC Skyway.

A unique opportunity is seeing the Garden Rhapsody show from here. It’s a different perspective of seeing the aerial views of the show. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the crowds.

Although our schedule didn’t allow for this activity, it looks fun to see Singapore and the area from above.

Admission Cost: 14 SGD ($10.30) for Adults/ 10 SGD ($7.35) for Children (3-12 years old)

Opening Times: 9am to 9pm daily; Last admission is 8:30pm

Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – Cooled Conservatories

Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are a must do in the area. The cooled conservatories are impressive with over 1 million plants in the garden.

Tip: If you’re sensitive to cold, you may want to bring a jacket as it is cold inside (23-25°C / 73-77°F).

Admission Cost: To see both Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, the cost is, 32 SGD ($23.50) for adults/18 SGD ($13.25) for children (3-12 years old).

Opening Times: 9am to 9pm daily; Last admission is 8:30pm

Save time & buy tickets ahead of time to visit these Gardens by the Bay attractions.
Option 1: Choose Your Package and Buy Gardens by the Bay Tickets here.
Option 2: Buy Gardens by the Bay e-tickets here.

Tip: In the past, we receive a 10% discount when showing a copy of the Singapore Airlines boarding pass. We’re not sure if this still applies or not but you can try!

Flower Dome

The Flower Dome is considered the world’s largest greenhouse according to the Guinness World of Records.

This place has a variety of plants from various areas from the Mediterranean to Australia. You’ll love the various succulents, baobab trees, and even the themed floral arrangements.

During our visit, we saw the “Dahlia Dreams” which had pretty dahlias and also integrated the Lunar New Year decorations. We even observed fruit trees and plants from our home state, California.

Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome is a beautiful spot to see colorful Chinese New Year flower decorations.

Cloud Forest

Cloud Forest is equally as impressive as the Flower Dome.

When you walk into the Cloud Forest, you’ll notice the huge mountain and 35-meters (115 feet) waterfall as the main centerpiece. Visitors travel through the 7 levels of the mountain to observe various plants.

The waterfall at the entrance of the Cloud Forest is mesmerizing.

Check out the “Lost World” level to see live Venus Flytraps, the carnivorous plant, and also in Lego format. The walking path for Cloud Forest is not a loop so the entrance and exits are different.

We enjoyed our hour spent in the forest.

You’ll see lots of unique plants and foliage when visiting Cloud Forest on your Singapore layover.

Floral Fantasy

Floral Fantasy is also another place to see creative bouquets and flower arrangements suspended from the ceiling. There are over 15,000 cut, dried, and preserved flowers from the ceiling arrangements.

We haven’t been here yet, but it looks beautiful!

Tip: Similarly to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, the temperature is from 23-25°C / 73-77°F, so it is chillier than outside. Bring a jacket if needed.

Admission Cost: 20 SGD ($14.50) for Adults, 12 SGD ($8.70) for Children (3-12 years old).

Opening Times: Monday-Friday 10am to 7pm (Last admission at 6:30pm)

Read about our other favorite garden: Garden of Morning Calm in Gapyeong, South Korea

3. Take Fun Photos with the Merlion Statue at Marina Bay’s Merlion Park.

Have you seen a merlion before? It’s Singapore’s national icon of a half lion, half fish creature.

The merlion statue is scattered through Singapore, yet the popular spot is Merlion Park in Marina Bay.

It is really crowded so you’ll need to be patient with taking fun and creative photo.

Note: If you’re visiting Danang, Vietnam, you can also see a mini version of the merlion statue at Sun World Danang Wonders theme park.

We walked to Marina Bay from the Gardens by the Bay. The walk took over 30 minutes for us, but you can easily take an MRT train.

We recommend walking around Marina Bay on your own since other sights such as the Helix Bridge are nearby.

Getting a drink from the merlion at Merlion Park.

Address: One Fullerton Road, Singapore

Opening Times: 24 hours

Closest MRT Station: Raffles Place (EW14/NS26)

4. Visit Chinatown for Shopping and Eating.

Due to Singapore’s high Chinese population, we had to see what Chinatown looked like.

The area is touristy with upgraded with renovated/newly painted structures next to Chinatown MRT station (DT19/NE4). It didn’t have the pushy crowds or grit that we’re used to like in San Francisco’s Chinatown.

Regardless, the area has plenty of shopping and good eats. You can spend a few hours here wandering the side streets or inside the market for souvenirs. Luggage tags with anime and Disney characters are popular items to purchase.

Click here to see our Singapore Chinatown guide.

This is one of our favorite spots in Singapore’s Chinatown with colorful houses.

Buddha Tooth Temple Relic & Museum

Consider taking the time to explore the Buddha Tooth Temple Relic and Museum and the offerings. It has free admission. You can walk inside and learn more about the Buddhist culture and see Buddha statues inside.

On Saturday, there is a free guided temple tour in Mandarin and English. For the tours in Mandarin, they occur from 10:30am to 12pm, while tours in English occur from 2:30pm to 3:30pm. Register for your spot here. (Currently, the tours are not running until further notice.)

Please remember to cover up your shoulders and legs before entering the building. You can borrow a sarong or shawl at the entrance area.

Visiting Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is free.

Address: 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore

Opening Times: 9am to 5pm (For Temple & Buddhist Culture Museum on Third Floor)

Closest MRT Station: Chinatown (DT19/NE4)

Chinatown Visitor Centre

Another fun spot to visit in Chinatown is the Visitor Centre. You can stop by to ask for information about what to do in the area or any questions that you have about Singapore.

We like seeing the various souvenirs available for sale here.

Address: 2 Banda St, Singapore (Right across from the Buddha Tooth Temple Relic)

Opening Times: 10am to 7pm

5. Try the Numerous Eateries at Hawker Stations.

The food is heavenly in Singapore. We couldn’t wait to try the various hawker stations for lunch! There are tons of hawker centers to eat a variety of food for cheap. We’re staying specifically around the Chinatown area since it’s a convenient area.

Hawker Chen Restaurant

Hawker Chan is a must-try famous Michelin star restaurant that serves Hong Kong-style food for cheap. It was formally at a hawker stall across the street at the Chinatown Complex until it became too popular after winning its Michelin star award in 2016-2018.

All of the dishes are highly recommended. You won’t go wrong with choosing any of the items. The bbq pork with noodles and the soy sauce chicken with rice are delicious and one of the best Hong Kong style foods we’ve eaten. The total came out to 11 SGD ($8 USD).

Try the delicious Hong Kong style foods at Hawker Chen.

Address: 78 Smith Street, Singapore

Opening Hours: 10:30am – 8pm

Chinatown Complex

Another opportunity for hawker stalls is the Chinatown Complex, right across from Hawker Chan. The second floor has all of the food. There are hundreds of stalls to choose from – dessert, drinks, noodle soup, and others. It can be overwhelming to pick a place.

Chinatown Complex is a good spot to try various hawker foods.

After a recommendation, we found An Ji (Stall #02-194) which is known for the fish head soup. The soup was delicious noodle soup with a creamy fish base and fish head. Great deal for 5 SGD ($3.70 USD). Cash only.

Address: 335 Smith Street, Singapore

Opening Times for Chinatown Complex: 12pm to 7pm (Individual stall openings varies)

Maxwell Hawker Centre

Only a few minutes walk from the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is the Maxwell Hawker Centre. It’s one of the best hawker stalls/food courts to try delicious street food for cheap.

You can order Hainan chicken rice, laksa, noodles, chili crab, and much more.

Here are some recommended places:

The Hainan chicken rice at Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (Stall 10 & 11) is really good! Once this place sells out of chicken for the day, the store closes up.

If you love Hainanese chicken and rice, you have to visit Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre. It’s a delicious and affordable meal in Singapore!

Another recommended place to eat chicken and rice is Ah Tai Hainan Chicken Rice (Stall #07). The former chef of Tian Tian Chicken Rice opened up his own shop.

It’s a personal preference but the chicken taste even better than at Tian Tian. The chicken comes with a bone, and there is a side of soup.

If you like chili crab, consider visiting Dingdinghong Mala HotPot (鼎鼎紅麻辣香鍋) (Stall #41). A 800g chili crab costs around 48 SGD, and it’s delicious! The crab is enough for 2 people. Add a side of rice and stir-fried vegetable for a complete meal.

Who wants to try chili crab?

Feel free to browse the various offerings and choose a few items to try. Another strategy is to find the longest lines and then wait in them.

Address: 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184

Opening Times: 8am to 8pm

6. Visit Jewel at Changi Airport

The Jewel, next to Changi Airport Terminal 1, is a must-visit on your layover. It’s the newest section of the airport with restaurants, an indoor waterfall, shopping, and fun activities for kids and families.

We suggest that you leave Singapore city center early and arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours early from your departure. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get to the Jewel from Terminal 1 main entrance.

If you’re hungry, there are plenty of food options at the Jewel. Whether you want dumplings from Din Tai Fung, sushi, Tsuta ramen, or fast food, then you’ll want to add extra time for a meal break here.

The main attraction is the indoor waterfall, Rain Vortex. It’s incredible to see cascades fall in the middle of the airport. You can walk up various floors and see different views of the vortex waterfall.

There are lots of indoor activities for children and families here. Visit a hedge maze, walking net, bouncing net, dinosaur section, and more.

The Jewel has a gorgeous indoor waterfall to see

Opening Times: 24 Hours but shops operate from 10am to 10pm

Final Thoughts

It’s time to head back to the airport! You can use the MRT train to return to Changi Airport or your choice of transportation.

Singapore captured our hearts and stomachs with a short layover and we look forward to another visit.

On a return trip, add a visit to Little India, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore wildlife reserves, have some fun at Sentosa amusement park area, and eat more delicious food.

Check out our Singapore 4 days itinerary as we returned for a second visit!

We hope you enjoyed your long stopover in Singapore!

Have you been to Singapore before? What are some places that you recommend that we see next time? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Maximize Your Incredible Singapore Layover in 8 Hours & Things To Do appeared first on Life Of Doing.