5 Days Singapore Itinerary: ALL Highlights for First-Time Visitors

The island country and city-state of Singapore is seriously one of the coolest places I've ever been to in Southeast Asia. It's so much more than just a stopover when you fly from or to Australia!

I highly recommend you try and spend more than just a few hours at Changi Airport to truly experience this city's awesomeness. With so many things to do, you can easily spend five to seven days exploring this incredible city.

I actually studied and lived for 6 months in Singapore and I absolutely loved it, this city has a very special place in my heart. I came to Singapore without ever having been to Asia and it was truly nothing I expected, but so so much more!

And I've been back many times after that – to sightsee, show around hubby and to housesit.

Singapore is like nothing else you've seen in Southeast Asia. It's so unique and different, almost like being in Sydney, New York, or London. This place is unbelievably modern, clean, and has a Western vibe that sets it apart from Bangkok or Hanoi.

I can't wait to share the perfect itinerary with you so you can make the most of your time in this amazing Asian city.

Your ultimate 5 days Singapore itinerary

With so much incredible stuff to do in Singapore, I've put together an itinerary that has a theme for each day. This way, you can explore Singapore without rushing around all over the place every day.

Itinerary overview

On your first day, you'll get to explore the city and visit famous landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the Singapore Flyer, the Merlion, the National Museum and the Gardens by the Bay.

The second day is all about immersing yourself in Singapore's rich culture. You'll find amazing Chinatown, Little India, and Little Arab, where you can try the most delicious foods from noodle soup to falafel and curry.

Now, the third day is all about the famous Sentosa Island. Here, you can have the best time at Universal Studios Singapore theme park, visit the SEA Aquarium, and even relax on the stunning beaches.

Day four is dedicated to Singapore's wildlife. Well, maybe “wildlife” isn't the right word, but the Singapore Zoo is one of the best in the world with incredible experiences. From a thrilling night safari to a relaxing river cruise, it's the ultimate immersive experience.

Last but not least, the final day is all about shopping and leisure in Singapore. Trust me, it's fantastic for that! With so many shopping malls and dining options, you can spend the whole day strolling around, escaping Singapore's tropical heat or rain.

Day 1: Explore the highlights of the city

On your first day, get ready to explore the city and all its famous landmarks. I personally like staying around Chinatown for an immersive experience, which is also the perfect spot for foodies like myself.

Or if you prefer a more central hotel, stay around Orchard Street or Marina Bay.

Before you start the day, let's check out one of the best breakfast places in town. The Populus near Chinatown is a fantastic spot for mouth-watering pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, and of course, their awesome coffee. Their scrambled eggs on a croissant are absolutely to die for!

Once you're fueled up for the day, head straight to Marina Bay Sands Hotel. This iconic hotel is an absolute must-visit when you're in Singapore. The bottom of the hotel is home to a shopping mall, and at the top, you'll find the famous infinity pool (only for hotel guests!), the SkyPark Observation Deck, and a bar, restaurant and nightclub.

I've got a full guide on how to get up to Marina Bay Sands, even if you're not staying there. Of course, if you're a guest, you'll have full access to the pool and restaurant, which is just epic!

After taking in the stunning views from the SkyPark Observation Deck of the Marina Bay Sands, let's head over to Gardens by the Bay. This man-made park is a must-visit for its impressive Supertrees, lush greenery, and beautiful floral displays.

The Gardens by the Bay are my absolute favorite spot to visit here in Singapore because there is so much to explore. The gardens, including the Supertree Grove, are free to explore and super fun to walk around.

And every night at 7 pm, they have a light show that is well worth checking out. However, the Gardens by the Bay also include two conservatories, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, which require tickets but are definitely worth it.

The Cloud Forest is a misty oasis with a man-made mountain and waterfall, while the Flower Dome offers a collection of stunning flowers from all over the world.

There are many green spaces within the Gardens by the Bay, perfect for a picnic, or even some acro yoga as I did with my friend – and look at that skyline in the back!

If there's still time, I recommend a visit to the Art Science Museum located at Marina Bay Sands. This unique future-world-looking museum features interactive exhibitions and showcases art, science, design, and technology in a visually stunning way. It's the perfect way to wrap up your day exploring the amazing city-state of Singapore.

Another fantastic option, slightly further inland from the Marina Bay Area, is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. These incredible gardens have been around since 1822 and even earned the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Personally, I couldn't make it there myself, but I've heard nothing but amazing things about it! It's more of a hidden gem than a mainstream tourist attraction.

To finish the day, stop in at Raffles Hotel, known for its colonial architecture. Find your way to the hotel's Long Bar and order one of the legendary Singapore Sling, which is also the national cocktail that has been served here since 1915.

Day 2: Chinatown, Little Arab and Little India

Start your second day by checking out Singapore's famous Chinatown. You'll find a brimming area filled with restaurants, shops, bars, markets, and hawker centers. Chinatown is the perfect place for two things: eating and buying souvenirs.

The markets and shops here have everything you could want, from personalized chopsticks to Chinese art. And when hunger strikes, Chinatown is also home to some of the best hawker centers in Singapore.

The Maxwell Food Center is popular for lunch, closing around 2 or 3 pm. But if you're looking for a street food spot where you can eat until late at night, the Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center is the best and also my favorite. It's located on the outskirts of Chinatown, in the middle of the CBD/Downtown, surrounded by high-rise apartment buildings and banks.

The building itself is beautiful, and the atmosphere is just great. Yes, it might be a tourist spot, but the food here is absolutely on point. You can pay by card at all the places, and it's also one of the cheapest hawker centers I found. You can still get a full meal for around U$ 5, which is a great deal for Singapore.

Chinatown is not just about food though! It's also home to stunning temples and heritage sites such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Chinatown Heritage Centre.

In the afternoon, let's head over to Haji Lane in Kampong Glam. This colorful street is filled with unique boutiques, cafes, and street art that will make for some fantastic Instagram-worthy photos. It's also known as Little Arab, and it's got a fantastic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops.

It's somewhat of the hipster district of Singapore, where the cool kids hang out. You'll have loads of different food options, but as the name suggests, you'll find some amazing Middle Eastern food here.

Afterward, let's make our way to Little India, a lively and colorful neighborhood that is home to many Indian shops, temples, and restaurants. Here, you can try out some of the most delicious foods, from noodle soup to curry dishes.

And don't forget to treat yourself to the famous Indian sweets for dessert. While you're there, make sure to visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest temples in Singapore.

Day 3: Visit Sentosa Island and theme parks

On your third day, it's time to head over to Sentosa Island, Singapore's very own island resort. Personally, I absolutely love Sentosa Island.

It's perfect for the whole family, especially when you have kids. But it's also great if you travel as a couple and want to channel your inner child!

Now let me introduce you to my big highlight here: the Universal Studios Theme Park. If you've been to Florida before, then you know why I'm so excited about this. Here, you'll get your dose of adrenaline and have a blast riding some amazing roller coasters, watching popular shows, and trying delicious theme park food.

The park is themed and features Jurassic Park, Transformers, and Shrek. I'm such a lover of these types of activities, but even if you're not a big fan of theme parks, Sentosa Island has loads of other things to offer as well.

The SEA Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and trust me, it's definitely worth a visit. You can see all kinds of marine life here, including sharks, manta rays, and many other colorful fish species.

And if you're looking to cool off from the heat, head over to Adventure Cove Waterpark for some thrilling water slides and lazy river rides.

But hey, if you're just in the mood to relax and enjoy a day at the beach, Sentosa has several beautiful white-sand beaches. You can rent a beach chair, grab a refreshing drink, and soak up some sun while enjoying the stunning views of Singapore's skyline.

All in all, Sentosa Island was designed as a vacation spot for Singaporeans, so you'll find plenty of amazing resorts, beaches, and malls here. It's the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and shopping in the busy city center.

Day 4: Discover the wildlife

Day number four is all about the incredible wildlife in Singapore. You absolutely have to check out the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and the River Wonders – they're some of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore and worth a visit!

Start your day at Singapore Zoo, where you'll be amazed by over 2,800 animals from more than 300 species, all living in naturalistic habitats. The zoo is known for its open concept and innovative approach to animal care. You could spend an entire day here too.

But if you're up for it, hop on River Wonders and get ready to explore different river habitats and wildlife from around the world. Get up close with giant pandas, manatees, and even piranhas!

If you're a bird lover, then you'll definitely want to check out Bird Paradise. It's home to over 5,000 birds from 400 different species, including some pretty rare ones like the blue macaw and the black palm cockatoo.

And to wrap up your day, don't forget to visit the Night Safari, the world's first nocturnal zoo. Take a tram ride and witness the most active night creatures like tigers, leopards, and lions. It's a truly unique experience that you won't find anywhere else.

Day 5: Shopping and leisure time

The last day in Singapore is all about what this amazing city is well known for – shopping! Singapore boasts some of the most famous and luxurious shopping districts in the world.

To kick off your day, head over to Orchard Road, which is often referred to as the shopping paradise of Singapore. You'll be spoilt for choice with a wide range of high-end designer stores, boutique shops, and malls that offer everything from luxury brands to streetwear.

Even if shopping isn't your cup of tea, you can still soak in the beauty of the tree-lined street while enjoying a cup of coffee or a scrumptious brunch at one of the charming cafes.

By the way, my personal favorite spot here is PS.Cafe – they serve amazing brunch and lunch dishes, and their variety of coffees is simply delightful. Don't miss their blueberry pancakes – they're absolutely amazing!

Now, let's move on to Bugis Street, known for its affordable fashion finds and vibrant street markets. It's quite the opposite of Orchard Road, but equally captivating. Here, you'll find a treasure trove of affordable fashion, souvenirs, homeware, fresh produce, and even street food. It's the perfect place for some souvenir shopping and exploring.

If you're looking for a great spot to hang out in the late afternoon or at night, Clarke Quay is where it's at! Along the Singapore River, you'll discover a variety of restaurants and bars.

The best part? Many of these places offer happy hour deals, making it the perfect destination for a delicious dinner and some fancy cocktails or beers. Cheers to that!

Last but not least, let's not forget about that one landmark in Singapore we haven't discussed yet – Changi Airport. It's certainly not your ordinary airport! It's known for being one of the most beautiful and efficient airports in the world.

And what Changi Airport is even more famous for is the incredible Jewel and its world's tallest indoor waterfall. Inside, you can explore an enchanting indoor rainforest, catch a movie at the cinema, or indulge in some luxury shopping at the boutiques.

Just make sure to arrive at the airport early to give yourself time to fully enjoy everything before hopping on your flight. Oh, and some airlines even offer an early check-in option, so you can drop off your luggage and roam around the airport hassle-free.

Singapore Pre-Travel Facts

📍 Travel requirements for Singapore

Before you plan your trip to Singapore, it's good to know the travel requirements. The great thing is, that you generally don't need a visa if you're staying for less than 30 days and have a passport valid for at least six months from your entry date.

Just a heads up, there are a few things that are a no-go in Singapore, like drugs and weapons, of course. But even chewing gum is prohibited! Yep, you read that right! But hey, maybe that's one reason why the city is so clean and shiny.

❓Language in Singapore

While English is the most commonly spoken language in Singapore, there are four official languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. This multicultural city-state has a diverse population with many different cultural influences. However, everyone I have encountered has been incredibly friendly and helpful, and usually speaks English, so there's no need to worry about any language barriers.

💸 Costs in Singapore

Singapore, especially when compared to its surrounding countries, can be a bit on the pricey side. You can expect to pay around US$20-$30 per person for a meal at a restaurant, and closer to US$5-$15 for street food or hawker center meals. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, with an average cost of US$100-$300 per night. Activities, such as entry to theme parks and attractions, can also be quite expensive.

But hey, don't let that discourage you from visiting Singapore! With a little research and planning ahead, you can still find some budget-friendly options. And trust me, the amazing experiences and sights in Singapore make it worth every penny.

⭐ Currency in Singapore

The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Most places accept credit and debit cards, which is super convenient. However, it's always good to have some cash on hand for hawker centers, small shops, and local markets. You'll find ATMs all over the city, as well as currency exchange facilities at the airport, shopping centers, and hotels. But honestly, I barely needed cash because even most hawker centers accept credit cards too! I use a Wise card for all my travels as it holds international currencies and offers competitive and transparent currency conversion rates.

🚗 Transportation in Singapore

Getting around Singapore is a breeze thanks to its efficient and modern public transportation system. You can choose between the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), buses, or taxis to get from one place to another. The MRT is the most affordable option, with fares ranging from US$1-$3 per trip. You can also opt for a tourist pass, which provides unlimited rides on public transportation for a designated period. Taxis are more expensive but offer the convenience of door-to-door service. Pro tip: make sure to use Grab or Gojek for even cheaper taxi fares.

⭐ Safety and etiquette in Singapore

Singapore is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to practice common sense and be aware of your surroundings. I have not once felt uncomfortable while living in Singapore, even at night.

In terms of etiquette, Singaporeans take punctuality very seriously and expect others to do the same. It's also essential to respect local customs and traditions while exploring the city. For example, it's considered rude to point with your finger, and showing affection in public is generally frowned upon. Also, make sure to avoid any behavior that may be deemed offensive or disrespectful towards religion or culture.

❓When to visit Singapore

Singapore has a tropical climate, so get ready for hot and humid weather all year round, along with frequent rain showers. The best time to visit is between February and April when you can enjoy warm, sunny days without the intense humidity of the rest of the year. Keep in mind that Singapore usually has many rainy days, with an average of 167 per year. But don't worry! The city is well-prepared with plenty of indoor activities for you to enjoy. Just don't forget to always have an umbrella with you, just in case!

💸 Tax refund scheme in Singapore

As a tourist in Singapore, you can claim a refund on the 8% Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on purchases above US$100 at participating retailers. Just make sure to keep your receipts and present them along with your passport at the airport before departure. Especially for all the shopaholics out there, this can be a great way to save some money on your purchases.

5 days Singapore itinerary – Final words

Singapore, the lion city, is such an incredible country, and I highly recommend treating yourself to 5 days in this beautiful city-state. Whether you're a foodie, culture enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or shopaholic, Singapore has something for everyone! It may be a bit on the pricey side, but trust me, you get what you pay for.

The city is absolutely immaculate, and clean, and the locals are super friendly. And even if you're on a budget, no worries! There are plenty of amazing options that won't break the bank.

I hope this 5-day itinerary for Singapore has given you some inspiration and ideas for your next Singapore trip. Remember to plan ahead, do your research, and most importantly, have an open mind and immerse yourself in all that Singapore has to offer.