Is 7 days too long in Singapore? Absolutely not! Singapore may have once been a layover to your final destination but it has no longer been the case in recent years. Singapore has changed so much over the years with new leisure developments and world-class attractions added to its tiny landscape that this tiny red dot has now earned a reputation of being a popular travel destination in its own right. The fact that it drew 13.6 million international visitors in 2023 alone is testament to what Singapore has to offer to holiday-makers.
In fact, there are so many highlights and attractions in Singapore that I had to make a grueling choice to shortlist and craft the ultimate travel guide in 7 days. While I simply can’t put everything down in this travel guide, I have indicated at the end of this list the other attractions worth visiting so you can switch around or visit these sights if you plan to stay for longer than 1 week.
Being a traveler myself, I understand the pains of having to do tons of research to make the most of my holiday destination right down to the nitty gritty details of planning how to catch the train or bus to get from location to location, how much time to spend at each attraction, where to eat and where to stay. So this is perhaps the most detailed itinerary you’ll find with directions, time duration, recommended local food options.
If you’re planning your trip to Singapore and wondering how to make the most of your stay in this vibrant city, the perfect itinerary has been crafted for you. From historic landmarks to culinary delights, iconic attractions to scenic nature walks. Singapore offers a kaleidoscope of experiences waiting to be explored. So, follow this itinerary, and get ready to uncover the treasures of the Lion City.
Before you take off on this adventure, here are a few pointers:
- Have Google Maps handy on your smartphone so you can easily follow my travel itinerary
- Comfortable shoes are a must for all the walking you’ll be doing!
- Pack a foldable umbrella just in case it starts to rain (or use it on a hot day to shield yourself from the sun, either way you’ll thank me)
- Bring along 1 or 2 bottles of water and remember to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Here’s a quick glimpse of the 7-Day itinerary in Singapore
Day 1: Esplanade, Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By the Bay
Day 2: Little India, Bugis Street, Kampong Glam, Katong and Joo Chiat, East Coast Beach
Day 3: Fort Canning Park, Old Hill Street Station, Funan DigitaLife Mall, Peranakan Museum, National Museum, Chijmes, Raffles Hotel, Purvis Street, Liang Seah Street
Day 4: Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road, Lau Pat Sat, Night show at Marina Bay Sands
Day 5: Redhill MRT Station, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Reflections at Bukit Chandu Museum, Tiong Bahru Neighbourhood, Chinatown, River Cruise, Clarke Quay
Day 6: Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise, Night Safari
Day 7: Mount Faber, Sentosa
DAY 1: Discover Singapore’s Iconic Landmarks
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Esplanade
Hop on the circle (yellow) line and alight at Esplanade MRT Exit E.
Take a leisurely stroll through War Memorial Park and Esplanade Park to learn about the city-state’s storied past.
At the end of Esplanade Park, take the underpass to cross over to the Esplanade in which locals have famously coined it the “Durian” due to its resemblance to the spiky tropical fruit.
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Merlion Park
Cross the picturesque Jubilee Bridge for stunning views of Marina Bay and make your way to Singapore’s most iconic symbol – the Merlion. Snap some photos of the iconic Fullerton Hotel in the backdrop which was formerly a General Post Office. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront towards Clifford Pier and keep going until you reach Marina Bay Sands.
10:00 AM – 11:15 PM: Art Science Museum at Marina Bay Sands
Take photos of Apple’s first iconic instagrammable floating store and the elegant sleek lines of Louis Vuitton glassy store located along the waters of Marina Bay. Then, head over to Art Science Museum for its immersive exhibitions where art, science, and technology converge.
11:30 PM – 12:30 PM: Lunch at Marina Bay Sands
There are about 60 restaurants to choose from and one of the more popular dining option is Din Tai Fung where serve up mouth-watering Xiao Long Bao dumplings that leave you wanting for more. Or if you want to sample a variety of local food at more budget-friendly prices, then head over to Rasapura Masters which is a food court located at Basement 2 of Marina Bay Shoppes.
12:30 PM – 2:30PM: Marina Bay Shoppes
Indulge in some retail therapy. Don’t forget to check out the sampan ride along the canal which runs through the mall.
2:30 PM – 3:00PM: SkyPark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands
Head to Hotel Tower 3 driveway and ride the elevator to the SkyPark Observation Deck on the 56th floor to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline. From the Hotel, cross the connecting overhead Lions Bridge to Gardens By the Bay.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Flower Dome and Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay
Walk through the breathtaking display of vertical gardens at Supertree Grove and make your way to Flower Dome. I would recommend visiting the Flower Dome first which showcases an array of flowers and plants from around the world, followed by the enchanting Cloud Forest.
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: OCBC Skyway at Gardens by the Bay
As evening sets, you might want to seize the chance to walk along the OCBC Skyway for breathtaking views of the Supertrees and Marina Bay skyline. As there’s usually a queue at the ticket counter during this peak hour, it’s better to buy it online first.
7:00PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner at Satay By the Bay
Feast at Satay By the Bay. There are a number of food stalls here serving up good local fare. Be sure to leave promptly at 8:30 PM and make your way to Supertree Grove.
8:45 PM: Garden Rhapsody
Make your way to the Supertree Grove for the enchanting Garden Rhapsody light and sound show.
DAY 2: A Melting Pot of Cultures and Flavours
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast @ Tekka Market
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Tekka Market. Take either the Downtown (Blue) or Northeast (Purple) line and disembark at Little India MRT. From there, head to Tekka Market via Exit C.
Indulge in the flavours of traditional Indian cuisine with options like ‘roti prata’ (served with egg and fish curry) or the delectable ‘Masala Dosai’ dish. Don’t forget to accompany your meal with a refreshing ‘teh tarik’, a traditional pulled tea. If you prefer it less sweet, be sure to request it as they often use generous amounts of sweetened condensed milk.
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Walking trail in Little India
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a refreshing walking tour to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Little India. I’ve curated a list of essential destinations for you to explore along this route, ensuring you experience the essence of this colourful neighbourhood.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Exploring Bugis Street
Next, hop on the train at Rochor MRT station and travel one stop along the Downtown (Blue) line to Bugis MRT. Upon arrival, take Exit C to continue your journey.
This is Singapore’s largest street market lined with narrow lanes of stalls, where you’ll find everything from fashionable clothing to affordable souvenirs and delicious street food. You will likely a good bargain or two at the shops and sometimes get a discount if you ask nicely.
12:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Lunch and Exploration of Kampong Glam’s Rich Heritage
Take a 10-min walk over to Haji Lane. On the way you’ll pass by Parkview Square, an office building with interesting architecture and fengshui. Feel free to step into the courtyard to snap pictures of the interesting scupltures and motifs motifs adorning the ceiling of the building lobby.
As you arrive at Kampong Glam, immerse yourself in the diverse culinary delights and rich cultural heritage of Kampong Glam during this time slot. Whether you crave Muslim, Indian, or Chinese cuisine, this area offers an abundance of dining options. Check out my top recommendations and follow a curated walking trail to uncover the hidden gems of Kampong Glam.
3:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Katong-Joo Chiat Heritage Walk
Use my Katong Joo Chiat walking trail here to immerse yourself in a vibrant blend of Peranakan heritage, colourful architecture, and culinary delights. Explore the quaint streets lined with traditional shophouses adorned with intricate motifs, and discover hidden gems such as local eateries serving authentic Peranakan cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to witness the rich cultural tapestry of this charming neighbourhood, where every corner reveals a unique story of Singapore’s past.
As you come to the end of the Katong Joo Chiat Heritage trail, the most convenient way to get to the next destination would be by car. Download Grab or Gojek app to hire GrabCar/taxi ride there.
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Chilli Crab @ East Coast Beach
No visit to Singapore is complete without indulging in this iconic local dish. You’ll find a row of seafood restaurants at East Coast Beach. Jumbo Seafood and Long Beach are the more popular restaurants, I’ve tried both and they are both equally good. Apart from the must-try chilli crab, I recommend trying the black pepper crab too. Personally, I enjoy the black pepper crab more. It’s peppery and more savoury. And then take a chill walk along the beach before heading back to your abode for the night.
DAY 3: A Day of Culture, History, and Exploration in Singapore
9:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Fort Canning Park
Get onto the Downtown (blue) line and alight at Fort Canning MRT Station and take Exit B. Step back in time with a stroll through the scenic park and learn about Singapore’s rich history and heritage here.
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM: Old Hill Street Police Station
Built in 1934, it was later gazetted to be national monument and it is now known for its striking rainbow-colored cantilevered windows. Unfortunately, you can’t enter the premises but you can take some Instagram-worthy photos from across the road.
10:30 AM – 1:15 PM: Funan DigitaLife Mall for Shopping & Lunch
Indulge in some retail therapy and tech exploration at Funan IT Mall, where you’ll find a plethora of gadgets, electronics, and lifestyle stores. Afterward, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the mall’s many dining options. Take an 8-minute walk here from Funan Mall.
1:30 PM – 3:15 PM: Peranakan Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Singapore’s Peranakan community at this museum. Explore exhibits showcasing Peranakan artifacts, tradition and history. Take a 5-minute walk over to The National Museum.
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM: National Museum
Continue your cultural journey at the National Museum of Singapore and delve into the island’s past through captivating exhibitions and interactive displays. Stroll over to Chijmes which takes about 8 minutes.
5:45 PM – 6:00 PM: Chijmes
Experience the charm of Chijmes, which was once a Convent school for girls until 1983. It was later beautifully restored and now houses trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Take a moment to admire the stunning architecture and serene courtyards. The chapel was served as one of the filming locations for the movie, Crazy Rich Asians. Then head over to Raffles Hotel which is just 4 minutes by foot.
6:15 PM – 6:45 PM: Raffles Hotel
No visit to Singapore is complete without a glimpse of the iconic Raffles Hotel. Snap some photos of its colonial-era facade and lush gardens before heading for dinner.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner @ Purvis Street and Local Dessert @ Liang Seah Street
Purvis Street’s many eateries, offers a variety of local and international cuisines. You may want to try out Chin Chin Eating House which is widely known for their Hainanese chicken rice and they also have many other Chinese local stir fry dishes.
Then stroll over to Liang Seah Street for some popular local desserts. Check out Ah Chew Desserts, my personal favourites are The Durian Sago and The Mango Pomelo Sago.
DAY 4: Explore the Best of Singapore in the Heart of the City
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Adam Road Food Centre
Get onto the Downtown (Blue) or Circle (yellow) line and alight at Botanic Gardens MRT station (Exit A Circle line / Exit B Downtown line). Here, you’ll find the famed Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak at #01-02 (closed on Fridays). Indulge in their famous Nasi Lemak – fragrant coconut rice paired with crispy anchovies and a spicy sambal.
Fun fact: Even the Sultan of Brunei and Indonesian President Joko Widodo have savoured this dish!
09:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Singapore Botanic Gardens
After breakfast, take the overhead pedestrian bridge which brings you to the front gate of Botanic Gardens.
Established in 1859, the Singapore Botanic Gardens holds the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Discover the lush greenery at the Botanic Gardens, featuring enchanting pathways and charming trellises. Enjoy tranquility by the Eco-lake, ideal for leisurely strolls or serene picnics, while Jacobs Ballas offers endless fun for kids with playgrounds and open spaces. Explore the gardens’ diverse attractions, including the Fragrant Garden’s aromatic blooms, the Evolution Garden’s journey through plant evolution, and the National Orchid Garden’s vibrant display of Singapore’s national flower.
The main sights and attractions in Botanic Gardens have been organised according to this trail, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. While entrance to the Botanic Gardens is free, please note that admission fees apply to the National Orchid Garden. You can book your tickets in advance here.
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch at Orchard Road
Now it’s time to refuel. Head over to Orchard Road via the Thomson East Coast (brown) Line at Napier MRT Station and ride 2 stops to Orchard MRT Station.
Here are a few food courts where you can have a taste of local hawker fare in airconditioned comfort: Food Opera (Ion Orchard, Basement 4), TANGS Market (Tangs Plaza, Basement), Food Republic (Wisma Atria, Level 4), Takashimaya Food Village (Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya Basement 2). If you are a fan of our local chicken rice, then head to this popular stall which is across the road from Ion. Lucky Chicken Rice (Lucky Plaza, #02-110)
2:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Retail Therapy on Orchard Road
Indulge in retail therapy along Orchard Road, famed as a shopping destination for avid shoppers. Beyond shopping, explore the serene library@orchard, the charming Peranakan shophouses on Emerald Hill, and the historic Cuppage Terrace. Don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the Istana’s rich history and capture memorable moments at Istana Gallery Heritage. Get the full Orchard Road guide here.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner at Satay Street, Lau Pa Sat
Then hop onto the North-Sout (red) Line at Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, ride 4 stops to Raffles Place MRT and take Exit I.
Head over to Lau Pa Sat for an authentic hawker experience and where the adjacent road is closed off for satay vendors to set up stalls. The skewered meats with peanut sauce is a local culinary delectable delight you cant miss.
9:00 PM – 9:15 PM: Lights, Camera, Marina Bay Sands!
Take a 17-minute walk over to Marina Bay Sands. Wrap up your day with a dazzling light show at Marina Bay Sands and after the show, walk over to the Helix Bridge, resembling a DNA structure where you can enjoy the view of Singapore against the stunning backdrop of the Marina Bay at night.
DAY 5: Exploring Telok Blangah Hill to Tiong Bahru Neighbourhood to Clarke Quay
7:45 AM – 8:00 AM: Redhill MRT Station
Begin your Singapore adventure by arriving at Redhill MRT Station which is well-known in the instagram space for being coloured in pink. Take a few selfies before heading for breakfast.
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM: Breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Make your way to Artra Condominium located at 12 Alexandra View, #01-08 for a good local breakfast. Fuel up with a traditional Singaporean breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. This popular eatery serves up mouthwatering kaya (coconut spread) toast paired with soft-boiled eggs and fragrant coffee. A local delight not to be missed!
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Telok Blangah Hill Park
Then head back to the Bus stop 10209 in front of Redhill MRT Station and board bus 145, ride for 7 stops at alight at Bef Telok Blangah Hts bus stop 14059. Climb the long flight of stairs up to Henderson Waves.
Start your trail walk from Henderson Waves, along the way explore the Therapeutic Garden and enjoy the beauty of SembCorp Forest of Giant and the historic charm of Alkaff Mansion. Continue your journey through Telok Blangah Hill Park, Southern Ridges, Forest Walk, Alexandra Arch, Hort Park, Canopy Walk. The entire walk from Henderson Waves until the Museum would take roughly an hour.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: ‘Reflections at Bukit Chandu’ War Museum
Immerse yourself in Singapore’s wartime history with a visit to this Museum. Through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays, learn about the Battle of Pasir Panjang and the courage and sacrifice of all those who defended Singapore during World War II. Book your tickets in advance before heading here.
11:40 AM – 1:00 PM: Lunch @ Tiong Bahru Market
How to get to Tiong Bahru Market: Follow the road down Pepys Road until you reach Bus Stop 15199, Opp Currency House. Board bus no 175, ride 13 stops until you arrive at Blk 55, Tiong Bahru Road Bus stop no 06051.
Indulge in some food heritage here, this food centre has been around for decades and went through several makeovers. While there are many good local fare here, the steamed rice cakes served with stir fried preserved salted vegetables from Jian Bo Shui Kueh #02-05 is my all-time favourite. It’s been around since 1956. You just got to try it.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Explore Tiong Bahru Neighbourhood
Then spend the afternoon exploring this old public housing estate. The very first block of flats were built in 1936 and holds alot of historic and architectural significance. Wander through its streets to take look at these pre-war flats, bearing witness to the passage of time. I have put together a walking trail that covers a few buildings of interest.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Chinatown
Directions to Chinatown: Walk 7 mins to Havelock MRT Station Thomson-East Coast (brown) line, ride 2 stops to Maxwell MRT Station and take Exit 1.
Venture into Chinatown to learn more about its history and heritage. Follow this Chinatown trail to explore the vibrant shophouses, ornate temples, and bustling markets and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Chinatown Street Market.
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: River Cruise Singapore
Getting to River Cruise Jetty: Hop on to the Northeast (purple) line at Chinatown MRT Station ride 1 stop to Clarke Quay MRT station and take Exit G and walk 4 mins to Singapore River Cruise.
Embark on a scenic river cruise along the Singapore River as dusk falls. Marvel at the old and new of both colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers along the river front.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Clarke Quay
Conclude your day with a delectable dinner at Clarke Quay, a vibrant riverside precinct renowned for its dining and entertainment options. Thereafter, enjoy a leisurely waterfront stroll and enjoy the lively atmosphere or unwind with a drink at a lively bar.
And if you are game for it, try out the G-Max Reverse Bungy, Slingshot (3E River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, Block E). Have a wild ride!
DAY 6: Experience Wildlife in Singapore
If you are planning to go to Singapore Zoo by public transport then hop on to the North-South (red) line and alight at Khatib MRT Station Exit A and board the Mandai Shuttle Service at the Pick Up Point. Bus Fare: $2 per person (children under 7 years of age ride free) and first bus pick-up starts at 8:30am for every 10 – 15 mins interval. The bus ride is about 20mins long.
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Singapore Zoo
Singapore Zoo sprawls across 26 hectares, offering visitors an unforgettable learning adventure. Known for its lifelike natural exhibits and enclosures, this award-winning zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages from around the world. With over 4,200 animals from 300 species, including 34 percent facing threats, there’s plenty to see and learn about. One of its star attractions is the incredible free-ranging orangutan exhibit, showcasing the zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation in a truly unique way. It’s no wonder that it attracts 1.9 million visitors annually!
Do take note that as all ticket sales have gone online, they no longer have a physical ticket booth at the entrance gate like they used to, so do remember to buy your tickets in advance. Tickets include tram rides, check it out here.
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Birds of Paradise OR River Wonders
Bird Paradise is no ordinary bird park. It spans an impressive 17 hectares, offering sanctuary to an astounding 3,500 birds representing 400 diverse species in which nearly quarter of these species are threatened. There are eight massive aviaries, each meticulously designed to transport you to a different corner of the globe. From the lush rainforests of Africa to the rugged eucalypt landscapes of Australia, every one offers a different experience. And the Ocean Network Express Penguin Cove is a must-see!
Between Bird Paradise and River Wonders, I’d highly recommend prioritizing Bird Paradise. While River Wonders is undeniably impressive, I feel like the SEA Aquarium offers a somewhat similar experience. And if you are planning to spend a day at Sentosa Island, consider visting the SEA Aquarium.
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Dinner
Unfortunately, when it comes to dinner, the options at this hour are a bit limited within the parks. Most eateries close their doors early around 5:30 PM except for Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant at Night Safari comes which is halad and comes with vegetarian options.
But if you’re craving a bit more variety, head over to Mandai Wildlife West which is just a minute’s walk from Birds Paradise.
7:15 PM – 10:00 PM: Singapore Night Safari
Night Safari is the very first nocturnal wildlife park in the world which has an array of over 900 animals, representing nearly 100 different species with a large number being threatened. This place offers visitors a one-of-a-kind peek into the secret lives of animals after the sun goes down. From prowling predators to elusive nocturnal hunters, witness the wonders of the animal kingdom come to life in their natural habitats. You can explore Night Safari on foot via four walking trails, or hop aboard the open-air tram for a guided tour in the dark.
Do take note that for Night Safari, guests must select a time slot for a better experience. Seat bookings for the Creatures of the Night presentation must be made 2 hours before each presentation.
DAY 7: Experience Sentosa
Ride the Circle (yellow) line or North-East (purple) line and alight at Harbourfront and take Exit A.
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Seah Im Food Centre
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Seah Im Food Centre, a bustling hawker center known for its local fare. Here, one can also choose to have a typical breakfast of kaya toast with 2 boiled eggs.
09:00 AM – 09:30 AM: Mount Faber
The best way to get to Sentosa Island is undoubtedly via a cable car. Take a scenic cable car ride from atop Mount Faber. To access the cable car station, take the Marang Trail, located at the far end of the car park next to Seah Im Food Centre. The trail itself offers a scenic 15-minute walk to the Singapore Cable Car station, with opportunities to explore some of Mount Faber’s highlights along the way.
Given the time constraint and the considerable duration each option would take, I’ve included both options here: either spend the entire day at Sentosa Island itself or if you are an avid lover of theme parks, then head to Universal Studios.
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM: How to spend the day on Sentosa Island
Experience an unforgettable day on Sentosa Island, Singapore’s premier leisure destination. From thrilling adventures to tranquil landscapes, sandy beaches to historical sites, there’s something for everyone. You’ll be spoiled for choice on how to spend your day.
OR
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Universal Studios Singapore
With 24 rides and attractions spread throughout the park’s six themed zones, this park has plenty of fun and excitement to offer. Arrive early ahead of opening and have your tickets ready if you want to get a headstart at the park to beat the crowd. The strategy that always works for me at any theme park is to go for the most popular rides first to avoid long wait times later on and then move on to the less popular ones, this allows me to cover more rides for the day. Check out the guide on Universal Studios here.
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Dinner
There are many dinner options available on Sentosa Island or at Resorts World Sentosa.
But if are you are planning to do some shopping at VivoCity mall, you can head over here for dinner too. For a memorable dining experience, ride the cable car back to Mount Faber and dine at the acclaimed ‘Arbora Hilltop Garden & Bistro’ restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic nighttime views of the Lion City. To avoid disappointment, reserve a table here.
