My Ultimate 2 Days in Singapore Itinerary – What I Loved & What I’d Do Next Time (2025)

Last Updated on March 17, 2025 by Oliver

I’ve been to Singapore more times than I can count at this point. After living in Australia for three years and traveling all over Southeast Asia, Singapore has basically become my default stopover whenever I fly back to Europe (where I’m from). And every time I book a flight with a layover here, I think, might as well stay for two days—which has happened a lot.

But now, after so many visits (and way too many people asking me what to do with 2 days in Singapore), I figured it’s finally time to put everything down in one place.

This itinerary is packed—no built-in downtime, no lazy afternoons—just everything I’d recommend seeing and doing in two days. Think of it as a choose your own adventure situation: I’ll give you all the options, and you can decide what to skip based on your energy levels and interests.

💡You should also check out my guide on the best areas and hotels to stay in Singapore.

2 Days in Singapore: Day 1

Marina Bay Sands

Where you start your two days in Singapore depends on where you’re staying (we’ll get into that later), but I always start things off at the Marina Bay Sands Building. It’s an iconic spot, and there’s so much to do around it. Inside, you’ve got a massive shopping mall with little canals at the bottom—so it’s a fun place to wander around, maybe grab a coffee, and just do some shopping.

While you’re here, you should totally head up to the observation deck for some of the best views over Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore skyline. Tickets cost around $35, but I think it’s worth it.

I know people are always trying to find a way to sneak into the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool, but that’s not a thing anymore. If you want to get up there, your options are:
✔️ Buy a ticket to the observation deck
✔️ Book a table at one of the rooftop bars or restaurants (you can just grab a drink, which might be cheaper than the deck ticket)
✔️ Or go all out and stay at Marina Bay Sands Hotel to get full rooftop and pool access

Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest)

From Marina Bay Sands, it’s a short walk to Gardens by the Bay. There’s a highway between the two, but just follow the signs in the lobby, and you’ll find a bridge that connects them.

I recommend visiting the gardens twice: once in the morning to explore and then again in the evening for the light show. But for now, let’s focus on the daytime.

The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are the main attractions here, and tickets are about $32 for both. I’d say the Cloud Forest is definitely more exciting—it’s home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. The Flower Dome can be hit or miss depending on what exhibits are on (like Disney or Christmas themes). But it’s worth checking out if it interests you.

💡Click here to Buy Tickets for the Could Forest and Flower Dome

Visit Singapore Flyer

This one is definitely optional, but if you’re traveling with kids or family, it’s a fun activity. It’s also a great alternative if you didn’t get the chance to go up to the top of Marina Bay Sands.

The Singapore Flyer is Singapore’s version of the London Eye—a giant Ferris wheel with amazing views over the city skyline. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Gardens by the Bay, so it’s easy to get to.

Personally, I think it’s a cool experience, but if you’re short on time, you might want to skip this and head straight to Merlion Park instead.

💡Get Your Tickets Here for the Singapore Flyer

Merlion Park & Lunch Options

From either Gardens by the Bay or the Singapore Flyer, you can easily walk over to Merlion Park. If you’re coming from the Singapore Flyer, you’ll cross the Jubilee Bridge, which has some amazing views of the skyline and Marina Bay Sands.

Merlion Park is home to Singapore’s famous Merlion statue—a half-lion, half-fish creature spitting water into the bay. It’s a great spot to take a break and snap some photos before continuing your day.

By now, you’re probably ready for lunch! You’ve got two great options:

• Budget-friendly option: Head to one of Singapore’s best hawker centers (coming up next on this list) for incredible, affordable street food.
• Restaurant option: If you’re up for a sit-down meal with a view, PS.Cafe One Fullerton is one of my favorites. Their grilled octopus, parmesan truffle fries, burgers, and cocktails are all fantastic, plus the view over Marina Bay is unbeatable. It’s a little pricier, but worth it if you’re in the mood for a treat.

Lunch at Lau Pa Sat

With so many hawker stalls, food halls, and street food markets in Singapore, skipping street food would honestly feel like a crime. I know there are plenty of amazing fancy restaurants here, and trust me, I love a good meal with a view—but at least once on your trip, you have to eat at a hawker center. And for me, Lau Pa Sat is always the one I come back to.

I love this place, not just for the food but because of the building itself—it’s an old Victorian pavilion that used to be a fish market back in colonial Singapore. Now, it’s packed with office workers on lunch break and tourists trying to figure out what to order. It’s busy, loud, a little chaotic, but that’s what makes it fun.

Here’s how I usually do it:
➤ I walk around first to check out the stalls (even though I already know what I’m getting).
➤ I always grab satay from outside—you’ll see them grilling the skewers over open flames. They serve it with a peanut sauce that’s unreal.
➤ Inside, I go for Char Kway Teow (smoky stir-fried noodles) or fishball noodles—both are solid choices.
➤ If I’m with friends, we order a bit of everything and just share, which is the best way to try as much as possible. But when I’m solo travelling Singapore I always get the Satay!

It’s always so tempting to over-order, but I never regret it. If you’re here in the evening, the outdoor area turns into Satay Street, where the whole road is lined with satay vendors. That’s a fun experience too!

That’s Lau Pa Sat hawker market set inside a stunning Victorian-era building. And on the right, you’ve got some pork dumplings and a bowl of laksa—both absolute must-tries!

Chinatown & Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

From Lau Pa Sat, it’s super easy to get to Chinatown—you can either walk (which I usually do because I like walking around the city) or hop on the MRT (more on that below).

I think Chinatown is always fun to explore. It’s packed with cheap and tasty food, little market stalls selling souvenirs, and even some Michelin-recognized spots. There’s a famous hawker stall called Hawker Chan, known for its chicken rice. They have six locations now, but the original one is tucked away on the second floor of the Chinatown Complex Food Centre. I actually went to one of their other locations instead, and honestly, it was delicious!

The market stalls lining the streets are basically open year-round, selling everything from durian (the infamous stinky fruit) to quirky gifts. I remember stumbling into a shop filled with noodle soup bowls and matching chopsticks—I wanted to buy a set so badly, but of course, backpack space was limited.

The biggest attraction in Chinatown (besides just wandering around) is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. It’s a massive, beautiful red-and-gold temple, and if you’re already in Chinatown, it’s 100% worth checking out. Entrance is free, and they even offer guided tours where you can learn about the temple’s history and culture.

Arab Street & Haji Lane ( Kampong Glam )

The Arab Quarter is one of my favorite areas to check out in Singapore, especially in the late afternoon when the vibe picks up. You can get here by MRT or just grab an Uber—super easy either way.

This whole area has a mix of old colonial buildings, colorful murals, and the stunning Sultan Mosque right in the middle. There are tons of boutique shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a great spot to just wander around.

The main highlight for most people (including me) is Haji Lane, which is packed with quirky boutiques, trendy coffee shops, and cool murals. If you’re into street photography, this place is great to take a few photos—so definitely have your camera ready.

I didn’t personally stop for drinks here since it gets super busy (and yes, a bit touristy), but it’s still a fun place to explore.

Clarke Quay & Boat Quay

If you’re looking for a chill spot to end the day, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are great options. Clarke Quay is technically a shopping mall, but what makes it special is the riverside setting with plenty of restaurants and bars lining the water.

If you’re planning to have dinner here, just know that this area is pretty Westernized—think Mexican food, hot pot, and even a Hooters. It’s a good option if you want something familiar and laid-back, but if you’re after a more authentic Singaporean experience, you’re probably better off heading to Lau Pa Sat or another hawker market instead.

If you’re up for drinks with a view, rooftop bars are a great alternative. One of my favorites is Smoke & Mirrors, which has incredible cocktails and a stunning view over the city.

💡 On your way to Australia with a stopover in Singapore? Make the most of your time here, then check out our Australia articles to get prepped for your Aussie adventure!

2 Days in Singapore: Day 2

Sentosa Island (Beaches or Universal Studios)

No matter what your plans are, you’ve gotta spend at least one day on Sentosa Island. It’s completely man-made, and honestly, it’s kind of wild how much they’ve packed onto this one little island—beach clubs, theme parks, golf courses, water parks, resorts, shopping malls, you name it. There’s way too much to do in a single visit, so it really depends on what you’re into.

Since I love theme parks, I went straight to Universal Studios Singapore. It’s way smaller than the Florida ones, but if you go early on a weekday (and you’re not with kids), you can ride everything and be done by early afternoon. If you’re there on a weekend or with little ones, though, expect to be here all day. Still totally worth it!

If theme parks aren’t your thing, Sentosa’s beaches are a great alternative. I loved Tanjong Beach Club—super laid-back with bean bags, cocktails, and music playing in the background. You can also do paddleboarding or jet skiing if you want something more active.

One thing I didn’t get to check out (but really wish I had) is the Harry Potter: Visions of Magic attraction. It’s a brand-new 4D immersive experience, and from what I’ve seen, it looks awesome. Definitely adding it to the list for next time!

Visit Singapore Botanical Gardens & National Orchid Garden

If the weather’s nice, the Singapore botanic gardens are a great spot for a nature break—but just a heads-up, it’s a bit of a trek from the city center. If you’re already planning on Universal Studios, it might be too much for one day.

That said, it’s one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever been to. There are waterfalls, lakes, and even playgrounds for kids, so it’s a great family-friendly stop. The National Orchid Garden, inside the park, has some stunning exotic orchids displayed in themed sections.

FYI: Skipping this will make the day more relaxed, especially since you’ll be heading back toward Marina Bay Sands, which is closer to Sentosa.

ArtScience Museum & Marina Bay Area

One of the coolest museums in Singapore, hands down. You’ve probably seen pictures of it—the building itself looks like a giant lotus flower. Inside, it has some of the best immersive exhibitions I’ve ever seen, with rooms full of glowing balloons and light strings hanging from the ceiling that you can wander through.

Tickets cost around $20, and it’s usually open until 7 PM (or 9 PM on weekends). It’s a great evening activity too—go later, then grab dinner or a drink nearby!

Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Gardens by the Bay

I think this show is one of the best free things to do in Singapore! It’s held at the Supertree Grove (those massive metal trees you can spot from anywhere) every night at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM. The lights sync up with music, and the soundtrack changes depending on the season, so it’s always a little different. Yes, it is a tourist attraction, but I loved sitting outdoors, enjoying the unique atmosphere, and watching the famous sights on a Saturday night.

You can also check out the OCBC Skyway, which gives you a higher view of the trees, but it has an entrance fee—I’ve skipped it since it didn’t seem worth it to me.

Nightcap & Final Views of Singapore

End your trip with a rooftop drink and one last breathtaking look at this amazing city. If you didn’t make it to a rooftop bar earlier, now’s your chance. There are tons of options, but here are my favorites:

• Ce La Vi (Marina Bay Sands) – Probably the easiest to get to after the Gardens by the Bay light show. It’s got panoramic views, decent cocktails (though the Singapore Sling here isn’t the best), and a smart-casual dress code after 6:30 PM (closed shoes are a must). You don’t necessarily need a reservation, but it helps.
• Lantern (Fullerton Bay Hotel) – A great option near PS. Cafe One Fullerton (one of my favorite lunch spots). It feels a bit more laid-back compared to Marina Bay Sands. The cocktails are solid, but I wouldn’t recommend the food—it’s overpriced and average at best. Like most rooftop bars, there’s a dress code (no singlets or flip-flops).
• Smoke & Mirrors (National Gallery Singapore) – My personal favorite. The whole place feels like something straight out of a James Bond movie, with sleek décor, a more intimate atmosphere, and an incredible cocktail menu. The drinks here are creative, the staff is fantastic, and the view is unbeatable. It’s definitely on the expensive side, but if you want to end your trip on a high note, this is the spot to splurge.

Other Cool Things to Do in Singapore

If you’ve got extra time or just want more ideas, here are a few more cool things to add to your Singapore Itinerary:

• Changi Airport – Sounds weird, I know, but Singapore’s airport is basically a destination on its own. There’s a massive indoor waterfall (Jewel Changi), butterfly gardens, free movie theaters, and even a rooftop swimming pool.
• Little India & Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple – Little India is loud, colorful, and packed with amazing food. Walk around, grab a murtabak or dosa, and check out Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the most stunning Hindu temples in Singapore.
• Orchard Road Shopping – Whether you’re looking for luxury brands or cheap souvenirs, Orchard Road is Singapore’s shopping paradise. Even if you’re not buying anything, the huge malls, department stores and window displays are fun to walk through.
• Singapore Zoo, River Wonders (River Safari) & Night Safari –If you’re traveling with kids, these three spots are a must! The Singapore Zoo is one of the most impressive I’ve ever been to, with animals roaming freely in lush surroundings. The River Safari is a great way to explore wildlife from all over the world, especially for little ones who love a boat ride. And if you’re up for something unique, the Night Safari is the coolest nighttime adventure. It’s super fun for kids and totally different from anything you’ll find elsewhere!

Travel Tips for Your Weekend in Singapore

If you only have one day in Singapore, you’ll need to plan wisely. Here’s my 1-day Singapore itinerary with different options to make the most of it.

What to Pack for a Two Day Singapore Itinerary

Singapore is hot and humid basically all year round, so packing the right clothes will make a huge difference. Stick to light, breathable outfits, and definitely bring comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be on your feet a lot.

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a small umbrella or rain jacket are must-haves since tropical rain showers can come out of nowhere. If you’re planning to visit a rooftop bar or a fancier restaurant, bring at least one smart-casual outfit. Some places have dress codes, especially in the evenings, so flip-flops and tank tops won’t always cut it. And if you want to take a dip in a hotel pool, don’t forget a swimsuit!

Where to Stay in Singapore

The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore // Best Luxury Hotel in Singapore

If you’re looking for a luxury experience, The Fullerton Bay Hotel is the place to be. The views from this waterfront beauty are unreal, and the service here really takes it to the next level. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but if you’re in the mood to splurge, this hotel will make you feel like royalty.

Marina Bay Sands Hotel // Most Iconic Hotel in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands is the place in Singapore—everyone knows it. The iconic infinity pool is a must, but the hotel itself has so much more to offer. From the views to the restaurants and shopping, it’s the perfect mix of luxury and convenience, with a whole lot of cool factor.

Paradox Singapore // Best Mid-Range Hotel in Singapore

Paradox strikes the perfect balance between style and affordability. It’s centrally located near Orchard Road, so you’re close to the action without breaking the bank. The rooms are sleek, and the whole vibe is modern and comfortable—ideal if you’re looking for a solid, mid-range option.

Wink at McCallum Street // Best Budget Pod Hotel in Singapore

Wink at McCallum Street is a solid pick if you’re after an affordable, no-frills option. It’s a pod hotel, so the rooms are compact but well-designed. Perfect for Solo travelers who just need a clean, comfortable spot to crash after a day of exploring. It’s simple but does the job, and the location makes it easy to get around Singapore without breaking the bank.

Where to Eat in Singapore

When it comes to eating in Singapore, you’ve got so many great options! First, don’t miss the hawker centers—Lau Pa Sat is a personal favorite. It’s where you can get all the local flavors, and the satay there is unbeatable. For something a bit fancier, check out the rooftop bars at Marina Bay Sands—Ce La Vi is a must for stunning views. I also love Lantern at the Fullerton Bay Hotel, and Smoke & Mirrors at the National Gallery—both offer amazing drinks with a side of gorgeous cityscapes.

For lunch, PS. Café at One Fullerton is always a treat—it’s got great vibes and even better food. And if you’re in Chinatown, you’ve got to try the Michelin-starred Hawker Chan for the famous chicken rice—simple, but absolutely delicious.

One big highlight I never got around to but have heard people rave about is grabbing a classic Singapore Sling at the famous Raffles Hotel. Apparently, they make the best one, and it’s one of those iconic Singapore experiences. Definitely adding it to my bucket list for the next visit!

The great thing about Singapore is the variety—you can enjoy everything from cheap street food to luxurious fine dining experiences and everything in between. It’s so much fun exploring and trying all the different options!

How to Get Around in Singapore

Singapore is one of the easiest cities to get around thanks to its efficient public transport system. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit which is their subway) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel, with stations close to almost every major attraction. You can get a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides, use an EZ-Link card, or just tap your contactless credit card at the turnstiles.

Buses are another good option, though they take a bit longer than the MRT. If you’re planning to take the bus, Google Maps is your best friend for figuring out the routes.

Taxis in Singapore are reliable and safe, but they can be pricey. A better option is Grab, which works just like Uber and is usually cheaper.

Singapore is also super walkable, and a lot of the main sights are within reasonable walking distance from each other. Just keep in mind that the heat and humidity can make long walks feel way more exhausting than expected. Always carry a bottle of water and take breaks when needed.

FAQs About my 2 Days Trip in Singapore

Is 2 Days in Singapore enough?

Two days is enough to explore Singapore’s key attractions, though it will be a bit of a whirlwind! You can visit iconic spots like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, and Chinatown, but be prepared for a fast-paced itinerary.

2 Days in Singapore where to stay?

If you’re only in Singapore for 2 days, I’d suggest staying in Downtown, Chinatown, or around Marina Bay Sands. These spots are super central, making it easy to get around. You could splurge on the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel, but if you’re looking to save a bit, The Clan Hotel or Paradox Singapore are solid, budget-friendly options, and you’ll still be right in the heart of it all.

What are the 2 Days in Singapore cost?

The cost of a 2-day trip to Singapore really depends on your choices. Whether you’re staying in budget pod hotels or splurging on luxury accommodations, and whether you’re eating at hawker centers or rooftop bars, these decisions will make a big difference. Budget accommodations can be found for around $50-100 per night, while mid-range stays may cost $150-250, and luxury hotels start at $300+. You can save on food by sticking to hawker centers (around $3-5 per meal), while dining at restaurants can cost $20 or more. Public transport is easy and affordable, with passes around $10 per day.

What to do in 2 Days in Singapore with kids?

If you’re visiting Singapore with kids, you’ll definitely want to check out Universal Studios for a day of fun rides and attractions. The Singapore Zoo and River Safari are amazing—kids will love seeing all the animals, and it’s a great way to spend the day outdoors. Gardens by the Bay is also a must, especially the Cloud Forest—it’s like stepping into a rainforest.

Final Thoughts on my 2 Days in Singapore Itinerary

I personally love Singapore, and I don’t just say that because of Crazy Rich Asians (though, watching it on the plane is a fun way to get even more excited!). The city is full of energy with so much to do, incredible food, and cool spots like Universal Studios and Gardens by the Bay. I will say, though, Singapore is expensive. While you can keep it budget-friendly, it still adds up compared to other Southeast Asian countries. If you have the means, I recommend splurging a bit—it’s worth it for the experience.

And hey, if my 2 days in Singapore itinerary feels too packed, don’t worry! Feel free to mix and match what works for you and make the trip your own.

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