Welcome to Singapore! This vibrant city-state seamlessly blends modern architecture, diverse cultures, and lush green spaces. Our 2-day itinerary will help you experience the best of Singapore, from iconic landmarks to hidden local gems. Whether you’re on a quick stopover or a weekend getaway, this guide ensures you make the most of your 48 hours in Singapore.
Contents
Before You Go: Essential Travel Tips
Transportation:
- Purchase an EZ-Link card ($12 SGD including $7 stored value) for convenient public transit
- MRT (subway) and buses are efficient and cover most tourist spots
- Download the “SG Bus” app for real-time bus arrivals
- Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber) is readily available and affordable
Accommodation Tips:
- Book hotels in central areas like Marina Bay, Orchard Road, or Bugis
- Mid-range hotels average $150-250 SGD per night
- Budget hostels available from $25-40 SGD per night
- Recommended areas:
- Marina Bay – Luxury and convenience
- Bugis – Cultural experience and good value
- Chinatown – Historical charm and local food
Must-Pack Items:
- Light, breathable clothing (Singapore is hot and humid year-round)
- Portable fan or mini umbrella
- Universal power adapter
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light rain jacket
- Cash and credit cards
Day 1: Modern Singapore & Marina Bay
Morning: Start your day early at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore’s futuristic nature park.
- 8:00 AM: Arrive at Gardens by the Bay ($28 SGD for both conservatories)
- Must-see: Cloud Forest and Flower Dome
- Pro tip: Visit the Cloud Forest first to avoid crowds
- Don’t miss: Supertree Grove (free)
- Best photo spot: OCBC Skyway between the Supertrees
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at Satay by the Bay (Local food court, $8-15 SGD per meal)
- 2:00 PM: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck ($26 SGD)
- Panoramic city views
- Best time for photos: 4:00-5:00 PM
- 4:30 PM: Walk around Marina Bay
- Merlion Park
- Helix Bridge
- ArtScience Museum ($21 SGD)
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at Gluttons Bay ($15-25 SGD)
- Try local favorites: Chilli Crab, Satay, Carrot Cake
- 8:00 PM: Gardens by the Bay light show (Free)
- 9:30 PM: Singapore Flyer night view (Optional, $33 SGD)
Day 2: Cultural Heritage & Local Life
Morning: Start your day in vibrant Chinatown
- 8:30 AM: Traditional breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast ($5-8 SGD)
- Must try: Kaya toast set with soft-boiled eggs
- 9:30 AM: Chinatown Heritage Centre ($18 SGD)
- 11:00 AM: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Free)
- Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees
- Best time: Morning prayers
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Lunch in Little India
- Tekka Centre food court ($6-12 SGD)
- Try: Briyani, Prata, Teh Tarik
- 2:30 PM: Explore Haji Lane & Arab Street
- Instagram-worthy street art
- Unique boutiques
- Sultan Mosque
- 4:30 PM: Shopping on Orchard Road
- ION Orchard
- Takashimaya
- Don’t miss: Food halls in basement levels
Evening:
- 7:00 PM: Night Safari ($55 SGD)
- Book tickets online for discounts
- First tram departure at 7:15 PM
- Allow 3-4 hours for full experience
- Alternative: Clarke Quay for riverside dining and nightlife
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Accommodation:
- Mid-range hotel: $200 SGD/night
- Budget hostel: $35 SGD/night
Daily Expenses:
- Food: $30-50 SGD/day
- Transportation: $10-15 SGD/day
- Attractions: $80-120 SGD/day
- Shopping: Variable
Total Estimated Cost (2 Days):
- Budget: $300-400 SGD
- Mid-range: $600-800 SGD
- Luxury: $1000+
Money-Saving Tips:
- Visit free attractions: Gardens by the Bay outdoor areas, Merlion Park
- Eat at hawker centers instead of restaurants
- Use public transportation
- Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited transit
- Look for tourist packages combining multiple attractions
- Visit during weekdays for better hotel rates
Cultural Tips:
- No eating/drinking on public transport
- Queue for everything – it’s part of Singapore culture
- Smoking only in designated areas
- Remove shoes when entering temples
- Tipping not expected but appreciated
- Chewing gum is banned in Singapore
Local Food Must-Tries:
- Chicken Rice ($4-5 SGD)
- Laksa ($4-6 SGD)
- Chilli Crab (Market price)
- Kaya Toast ($2-4 SGD)
- Satay ($0.70-1 SGD per stick)
- Ice Kacang ($3-4 SGD)
Best Time to Visit:
- February to April: Less rainfall
- Avoid December-January: Monsoon season
- July-August: Great deals during Great Singapore Sale
- September: Formula 1 night race (higher hotel rates)
Getting Around:
- MRT operates 5:30 AM to midnight
- Tourist Day Pass: $10 SGD for unlimited rides
- Walking is convenient in downtown areas
- Download Grab app for late-night transport
This 2-day itinerary gives you a perfect blend of Singapore’s highlights while staying efficient with your time and budget. Remember to stay hydrated and start your days early to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds. Singapore is extremely safe and well-organized, making it perfect for solo travelers and families alike.
