Is it your first time in Singapore? You can expect a jolly time ahead, with the city-state welcoming you with all its multifaceted attractions. One of the biggest advantages of exploring Singapore is its compact size (helping you tick off more places on your itinerary) and, of course, its fascinating cultural diversity and innovative experiences.
At the same time, there’s ample convenience in terms of its infrastructure and connectivity too. So, on that note, here’s a 2-day Singapore itinerary that you’ll find useful.
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks + Cultural Exploration
What to do in Singapore in 48 hours? Let us look at a fabulous itinerary that starts with an action-packed first day!
Morning: Marina Bay & Merlion Park
Visiting the lovely stretch between Marina Bay and Merlion Park is one of the top things to do in Singapore. Check out the stunning Marina Bay Sands with its gorgeous views, dining, entertainment, and shopping choices, along with the lovely Gardens By the Bay, which offers the futuristic Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome.
You can then move on to the Merlion Park, capturing lifetime views of the Marina Bay and Singapore skyline, while taking photographs with the iconic Merlion statue in the backdrop.
Afternoon: Chinatown & Local Food
After the stunning vistas in the morning, it’s time to check out some Singapore tourist attractions and enjoy delicious local food along the way! Start your afternoon by feasting on the famous Hainanese chicken rice at Maxwell Food Centre, the iconic outlet in Chinatown. Move on to the historic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in the area and view the lovely architectural touches all around.
Round off your afternoon with a spot of souvenir shopping in the bustling and colourful Chinatown and surrounding zones, picking up traditional Chinese lanterns, calligraphy, tea, and a lot more.
Evening: Clarke Quay or River Cruise
Clarke Quay is a mandatory inclusion in any Singapore travel guide for sure! You can take a mesmerising river cruise, watching the fabulous city skyline light up and capturing photographs for a lifetime.
There are several combined tours where you can go on the Singapore River Cruise, followed by dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Clarke Quay. You can even go on a lovely Clarke Quay walk to work up your appetite before feasting on lip-smacking delicacies at restaurants like Hot Stones or Seafood Paradise, to name just a few.
Explore: 10 top family tourist places to visit this holiday
Day 2: Local Vibes + Neighbourhood Gems
If the first day was about storied sights and iconic landmarks, Day 2 can be all about enjoying the local vibes and checking out some hidden gems across famous neighbourhoods.
Morning: Little India & Kampong Glam
Little India and Kampong Glam are two must-visit Singapore tourist attractions in themselves, considering their rich cultural fervour and unique attractions. Spend your morning exploring the lovely street art dotting Haji Lane and shopping at the quirky yet fashionable boutiques here. You can move on to Kampong Glam with its majestic Sultan Mosque and restored traditional shophouses, which give you the feeling of having stepped into a whole different world altogether!
Once you’re done glimpsing Singapore’s traditional Malay culture, you can move to Little India with its buzzing markets and colourful streets, feasting on delicious Indian cuisine at the local eateries here. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Sri Mariamman Temple and other charming Hindu temples in Little India before heading back.
Afternoon: Orchard Road or Sentosa Island
In the afternoon, it’s a toss-up between two of the must-visit places to visit in Singapore in 2 days, namely Sentosa Island and Orchard Road.
Sentosa Island is a small trip away, offering bucket-loads of fun with its Palawan, Tanjong, and other gorgeous beaches, watersports activities, swimming, and a lot more. You can have a blast at Universal Studios and Adventure Cove or even marvel at the SEA Aquarium (the largest Oceanarium in the world) with its diverse collection of marine species. Other attractions here include the Wings of Time show and Resorts World Sentosa, which offers a variety of fun activities to indulge in!
Orchard Road is another option if you’re looking for some much-needed retail therapy! This is one stretch which is famous for its numerous boutiques, independent outlets, luxury brands, and mega shopping malls. Squeeze in a visit to the National Museum of Singapore and the Singapore Art Museum, and dine at the local cafes and restaurants dotting the area.
Evening: Night Safari or Spectra Light Show
The evening gives you two interesting possibilities, namely the Marina Bay Sands Light Show and the famed Singapore Night Safari.
If you choose the Night Safari, you can venture on a thrilling journey to view nocturnal animals, enjoy tram rides across the park, and even check out some thrilling walking trails. The Creatures of the Night show is another captivating experience you’re sure to enjoy!
Spectra – the Marina Bay Sands Light Show – is a breathtaking spectacle that combines water, music, and light with stunning projections and visual effects. Held nightly at the base of Marina Bay Sands, this free show is sure to leave you amazed from the very first moment.
Best Areas to Stay for Easy Access to Singapore’s Must-See Sights
Now that you’ve planned the perfect itinerary for your first visit to the city, it’s essential to choose the best serviced accommodation in Singapore located in well-connected, strategic areas. Some of the top areas offering easy access to Singapore’s must-visit attractions include:
- Marina Bay- Staying here means accessing the Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, Gardens By the Bay and other attractions easily
- Chinatown- It’s a budget-friendly zone and offers several temples, authentic street food outlets, and vibrant markets nearby.
- Orchard Road- This area also offers easy access to several tourist landmarks, while it is the main shopping area in Singapore, with all the malls, entertainment spots, and dining choices you want. It’s also excellently connected to all parts of the city.
- Bugis & Kampong Glam- You’ll find several contemporary and historical landmarks here, including a buzzing nightlife circuit, art galleries, museums, and a lot more.
- Little India- This zone is ideal for immersing yourself in fascinating Indian culture, with all the temples, dining choices, markets, and more.
- Quays- It is a strategically-located area that offers waterfront living along with fabulous views and connectivity to Fort Canning Park, Clarke Quay, and many other attractions
Local Travel Tips
Following a few handy travel tips will help make your first time in Singapore more memorable. They include:
- Get an EZ-Link or Singapore Tourist Pass for affordable public transportation
- Tap water is drinkable in Singapore, so fill up whenever you can!
- Singapore is very safe, but avoid littering, chewing gum, or spitting (which may incur heavy fines)
- Dress lightly, since Singapore has a tropical climate throughout the year
- Dine on local delicacies at hawker centres, which offer affordable options galore
- Rideshare services like Grab are available along with taxis, although they may be costlier than public transport
- Budget-friendly souvenir shopping is best done in Chinatown or Bugis
- Book tickets for the SEA Aquarium, Singapore Flyer, and other attractions in advance to avoid the queues at counters and potential increases in prices
- Look for free walking tours that give you a glimpse of Singapore’s multifaceted landmarks
You may also like to read,
