Easy-to-Follow 5 DAY ITINERARY to SINGAPORE WITH FAMILY

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Planning a trip to Lion City soon? Congratulations, you’ve come to the right place! I traveled to Singapore with family and I’ve got you covered! This blog post offers you a perfect 5-day itinerary that includes all the key locations of Singapore. There are also some hidden spots in this post if you want to try something different.

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Singapore is one of those cities that stays with me long after I bid my adieu. Apart from the obvious tourist attractions, I found out much more about Singapore through a local. It helped me to get a good perspective of the city and appreciate it in all its glory.

Singapore 5 day Itinerary for Family Summary

While Singapore is not blessed with natural landscapes, the advent of cutting-edge technologies has made it one of the top tourist destinations in the world. And Marina Bay Sands is one of the most photographed hotels in the world.

I found myself in Singapore on a family trip in 2015. It was our first trip abroad, so it will always remain special. We made extensive plans and almost every hour was accounted for. You can use this as a template for your future trip to Singapore. It covers all the main attractions – iconic buildings, parks, museums, thrill rides, nightlife, and more! We stayed close to Little India, a hotel that is now shut down, but I’ve some fabulous hotel recommendations for you at the end of the post.

Most of the below attractions are popular ones, and there would be huge waiting lines at the counter. Also, you get discounts when you book tickets online. So, I would suggest having confirmed tickets before visiting the below attractions at least for the popular ones. Don’t worry, I’ve included a link to book tickets as well.

Read: In case you’re also visiting another South-East Asian Capital City Jakarta.

Here’s a gist of the Singapore Itinerary for 5 days. As an Indian family of 4, we spent around Rs. SGD 835 (618 USD or Rs. 51,000 in current price) per person including the flight tickets. Detailed below.

Day 1:  Art Science Museum, National Museum, Night Safari at Singapore Zoo

Day 2: Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Botanical Garden, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

Day 3: Sentosa Island, Clark Quay

Day 4: Universal Studios, Merlion Park, Little India

Day 5: Shopping, Singapore City Tour, Chinatown

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Day 1: Art Science Museum, National Museum, Night Safari at Singapore Zoo

Best way to start exploring Singapore would be to get a perspective of the city and its origins. What better way to do it than to understand the history and culture of Singapore?

Take your time roaming the streets and align better with the city. We have a light itinerary for the first day, and intentionally so.

Art Science Museum

Visit this award-winning museum to explore the intersection of art, science, culture and technology. This museum has held large-scale exhibitions by some world-famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, among others.

This museum is clearly one of the most instagrammable locations in Singapore. And nothing short of a bucket list item!

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Also, check out the website for some cool events that might be happening when you are there (so that you can tweak your visit accordingly)

Timings: 10am – 7pm (Last entry at 6pm)

Duration: Min 2 hours

National Museum, Singapore

If you’d like to know more about the history of Singapore, pay a visit to the National Museum Singapore. It has some cool and contemporary art pieces too.

Duration: Min 2 hours

If you have time to spare, you can head to the Singapore zoo for a night safari or river safari, if you’d like.

Book your tickets for Night Safari here.

Day 2: Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Botanical Garden, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

On Day 2, let’s head to the bird park, followed by a visit to the world-renown Gardens by the Bay. And then cross the road and walk over to Marina Bay Sands for the brilliant views from the 57th floor. It’s quite a packed day today, so keep up!

Jurong Bird Park

For ardent bird lovers, Jurong Bird Park is a must-have in your Singapore Itinerary. It is one of the largest free-flying aviaries in the world. Inside the campus, at Pool’s Amphitheatre, based on weather conditions, the park hosts high flyers show every day at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This includes and not limited to parrots, hornbills, macaws, yellow-naped Amazon, and flamingos as stars. It’s a fun and interactive show. Make sure you catch it!

Duration: 2-4 hours

Book tickets for Jurong Bird Park here.

Singapore Botanical garden

Stop by at the massive and over 150-year-old garden. Apparently, Singapore Botanical Garden is the only tropical garden to be honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have time, you can visit the garden on Day 1 after a visit to the National Museum, or you can make time for it on Day 2.

Duration: Min 2 hours

Gardens by the bay

Visit Gardens by the bay a park spanning 101 hectares, is nothing short of fantastic. It is an integral part of a strategy by the Singapore government to transform Singapore from a Garden City to a City in a Garden. It transcends you to a different dimension with the Cloud forests and flower domes. These resplendent man-made trees offer a feast for the eyes. Additionally, the park has proven extremely popular among event planners. I happened to witness a very extravagant reception happening in one of the halls there.

Travel Tip – There are daily light and music Garden Rhapsody show at 7.45 PM and 8.45 PM daily at Supertree Grove or World of Plants. It’s a brilliant show designed by an award-winning Lighting Designer Adrian Tan. That promises to whisk you away to a mythical enchanted forest. And, best of all, it’s free! So, ideal to visit Gardens by Bay during dusk. If you are visiting Singapore in December, there’s an additional show at 9:35pm.

Also, there are some additional seasonal shows that you can be privy to.

Check out the official site for more details.

Duration: Minimum of 4 hours.

Book tickets for Gardens by the Bay – Flower Dome and Cloud Forest Now

Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

At night, visit the iconic Marina Bay Sands. The viewing deck is located on the 57th floor. Consequently, it offers a scintillating and mind-blowing view of the Singapore skyline. From, Singapore flyers or Gardens by the bay or Fullerton hotel, to whole the commercial district of Singapore, it shows the major skyline of Singapore. So, definitely include it in your Singapore Itinerary. And, ideally, visit during the night for the best views.

Did you know? The iconic structure of Marina Bay Sands was actually built on reclaimed land.

Duration: 2 hours

Book tickets to Marina Bay Sands Now.

Day 3: Sentosa Island, Clark Quay

Let’s spend Day 3 on Sentosa Island – Asia’s leading resort destination, and a premier resort island getaway. And, then let’s try a thrilling adventure! Quite a thrilling day. So buckle up!

A day at Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island has a casino with free entry for foreigners, while it costs S$100 for Singaporeans. If you aren’t planning to play, you can visit it if you’d like. Highlights at Sentosa Island include and not limited to Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon, Sentosa SEA Aquarium, Adventure Cove Water Park, and Wings of time. It will easily take up a day, even without Universal Studios which is part of Sentosa Island.

Duration: 6-8 hours

Book tickets to SEA Aquarium Now.

Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay (pronounced as Clark Qi) is famous for its nightlife. With splashy lights and Karaoke nights by the riverside with people gaily relishing themselves, it was easy to fathom why this is a favorite spot for tourists and natives alike.

Travel tip: If you’d like to party with a vibrant crowd, then visit Clarke Quay during the weekends!

Additionally, if you are up for a high adrenaline-pumping experience, check out Gmax extreme reverse bungee in Clark Quay.

Here are the prices:

GX-5 Extreme Swing:   $45 SGD/person

Timings: 4:30 PM – 11:30PM

Duration: 3 hours

Would you dare?

If you are an adventure junkie, you’ll enjoy reading through my Bungee jumping experience at Rishikesh, India.

Day 4: Universal Studios, Merlion Park, Little India

Let’s spend most of Day 4 at one of the most awaited activities in Singapore – Universal Studios. It can be followed by a visit to Merlion Park and then some late-night shopping if you wish!

A day at Universal Studios

Universal Studios is one of my favorite spots in Singapore. It’s located within Sentosa Island. Yet, reserve a day exclusively for Universal Studios in your Singapore Itinerary. Ranging from Transformer’s ride, Revenge of the Mummy, Dinosaur’s ride, and shows like Steven Spielberg movie production and Water world show, Universal Studios is so much fun for kids and adults alike.

Also, if you are looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure, don’t miss out on the Battlestar Galactica which is high on adrenaline.

Here’s a video of Battlestar Galactica, if you dare!

Duration: 8 hours

Book tickets Now to Universal Studios to avoid Long Queues.

Travel Tip: On weekends or holidays, opt for Express Pass for easy fast and unlimited access to Universal Studios. It can be bought as a supplement to the normal passes at the merchandise stores inside the park or at the booths just outside the entrance gates. Starting price of the Express pass is around S$50 as a supplement to a single day ticket or S$130 added to the seasonal ticket.

Merlion Park

Anyone who hasn’t been to Singapore would still identify the city with the Merlion statue. Merlion statue is a mythical creature with a head of a lion and the body of a fish, and the unofficial mascot of Singapore. After all, it’s seen everywhere from sports teams to tourism as a national icon.

Apart from being a popular spot among tourists, it also offers a photo opportunity to capture the majestic Marina Bay Sands. Best to visit during dusk. And moreover, it’s free!

Duration: 1 hour

Little India

Mustafa Center is a well-known shopping district located in Little India, offers everything under one roof – be it groceries, electronics, apparel, footwear, or jewelry. Most of all, it is popular for offering cheap electronic goods. Although, I didn’t find a major difference in the prices than back home. As Mustafa Center is a 24-hour shopping complex, it can be easily squeezed in during the night. You can accommodate it on any of the nights in the itinerary. Another indoor market in Little India Arcade for authentic Indian food, music, and fashion (or so they claim!).

Walking along this street, you realize that you are right back in India – with bustling streets, Bollywood music, and tons of Indian restaurants.

Here are a few key landmarks in Little India

Shopping: Mustafa Centre, Little India Arcade, Tekka Center

Religious sites: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Abdul Gafoor Mosque

Photography spot: Tan Teng Niah (unique and colorful Chinese villa)

Immersive Art Experiece: New World’s End

Duration: Min 3 hours

Day 5: Shopping, Singapore City Tour, Chinatown

Shopping in Singapore

Let’s dedicate a day in Singapore to roam around the city and do some retail therapy!

City tour around Singapore

Drive along Orchard street, Anson Road, Robinson Road, Raffles Place. Orchard street is a well-known shopping destination famous for luxury brands. Also, try out the ice cream sandwich at the top-rated Kind Kones inside Forum Shopping Mall in Orchard-street.

China town

If you are looking for budget-friendly souvenirs, look no further than Chinatown. This is a perfect shopping place for tourists. If you have time, sample authentic Chinese cuisine in the eateries in and around Chinatown. You can also pay a visit to the Buddha Tooth relic temple – a Buddhist temple and museum complex in China town.

Additionally, there are many other things to do in Singapore, if you have time to spare!

Accommodations in Singapore

Here are a few recommendations of stay by The Roving Heart

Budget Hotels

Atelier

This tastefully decorated hostel is located right in Chinatown. You can opt for either shared dormitory room or a private room that comes with a private bathroom. Ideal for solo travelers. Book your Stay in Atelier Here.

Ibis Budget Singapore Crystal

Great option for a budget hotel. Decent-sized and well-equipped rooms. Walking distance to many restaurants and bus stops – so overall a convenient stay. Book Your Stay at Ibis Budget Singapore Crystal Here.

Hotel Classic by Venue

One of the top rated budget stays in Singapore. Clean and neat rooms and friendly staff. It’s about 45 minutes from the city center. However, it’s close to Eunos and Paya Lebar MRT stations and 200m from the bus stop. So it’s well-connected even when you are staying away from the city center. Book your Stay at Hotel Classic by Venue Here.

Mid-Range Hotels

The Serangoon House

It’s located in the heart of Little India on Serangoon Road in the most vibrant ethnic district of Singapore. It’s a tribute portfolio hotel and gives you the illusion of staying in a museum. Book your stay at The Serangoon House Here.

Ascott Raffles Place

On the other hand, if you’d like to splurge, then make yourself at home at Ascott Raffles Place. It is one of the top-rated hotels in Singapore and is right at Orchard Street. It features colonial-style buildings and screams luxury! Book your stay at Ascott Raffles Place Now.

Luxury Hotels

Fullerton Bay hotel – If you’d like to have a view of Marina Bay Sands to wake up with, then it can’t get any better than Fullerton Bay Hotel. It’s right at Merlion Park, so you can spend a good time there, day or night! Book your stay at Fullerton Bay Hotel now.

Marina Bay Sands – Of course! How can I not mention Marina Bay Sands while listing out places to stay in Singapore? It’s an iconic building that represents Singapore internationally. The stay is quite pricey but it comes with a 57th-floor infinity pool that offers unparalleled views of the city skyline. Book your stay at Marina Bay Sands now.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Singapore

Is Singapore a Planned City?

It’s one of the most well-planned and well-organized cities in the world with an efficient government. By definition, it is THE ideal city. Also, everywhere you go, the road is lined up with trees on both sides – it’s easy to connect why Singapore is called the Garden City. All thanks to Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who mooted the development of the garden city. Additionally, a colossal S$10,000 is fined on anyone who accidentally or not, cuts down trees for personal or commercial purposes.

What’s the population of Singapore?

With just over 5.8 million population (2021) in around 720 square km area barely crowded roads surprised me. In comparison, the city I was coming from – Bangalore, had a similar area, but over twice the population.

Unlike a lot of highly populated cities, it was possible to enjoy driving within city limits. I soon found out why.

Is Singapore Expensive to Live?

“The lesser number of cars on road attributes to the fact that buying a car is considered a luxury“, my relative who lives in Singapore told me once. “A steep entitlement fee is paid to the government alone that costs as much as the car“, he added.

No wonder Singapore is one of the most expensive places to live in! On the other hand, they have a very efficient public transport system, be it Metro or buses which makes it convenient for the locals. Having a car in the city isn’t necessary for Singapore unlike most parts of the US.

But that doesn’t translate to being an expensive place to travel. Singapore is primarily a tourist-centered city. So, there are plenty of options for varying budget types to accommodate a wide variety of travelers.

What are the Official Languages in Singapore?

English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil are the official languages of Singapore – rightly emphasizing a blend of different cultures in Singapore.

Singapore relies heavily on overseas imports for everyday necessities – including diary since the land area is not adequate to practice agriculture.

Is Singapore Safe to Visit?

Due to its stringent laws and regulations, Singapore is one of those cities where you don’t have to worry about your safety. It’s constantly rated as one of the top safe cities around the world.

I also came across multiple stories where tourists left their luggage in the cabs, and the cab drivers diligently returned it to the rightful owners.

If you are traveling solo, with friends or family, be rest assured that Singapore is as safe as it comes. In fact, it’s one of the safest countries in the world.

As a female traveler, I can easily vouch that it felt super safe to be here.

I didn’t have the nagging feeling that I was being dwindled – which usually happens when I’m in a strange city, heck even in my home country.

How many days are required to visit Singapore?

Well, it depends on the purpose of your visit. If you are visiting for the first time and want to cover the tourist attractions, visit some lesser-known places, and have time for shopping, then 5-6 days at least would be great. On the other hand, if you want to just cover the main attractions, then 3-4 days should be sufficient.

How much money is enough for a Singapore trip?

Well, it depends on your budget and interests. Consider spending at least around USD 100 (Rs. 8200) – USD 150 (Rs. 12,000) which includes decent accommodations, internal transporation, food, and activities.

Singapore Changi Airport

So, why did I include a special mention to Changi Airport in the Singapore itinerary, you ask? Well, Changi Airport is no ordinary airport.

It is a microcosm of Singapore and is worthy of being a destination itself. It is rated as one of the World’s Best Airport many times, and for good reason. Apart from the usual dining and shopping experiences, Changi airport has an entertainment deck, cinemas, Singapore’s tallest slide, Sunflower, Orchid and Cactus Gardens, and so on. So, depending on your arrival or departure dates, make some time to spend at the airport as well!

Find more things to do at Changi Airport here

If you have a layover of over 5.5 hours in Singapore, you are eligible for a free Singapore tour as well. So, if you are passing by Singapore, and have enough time, then make sure to avail this cool perk! Also, transit passengers traveling with Singapore Airlines can request a free S$40 voucher at iShopChangi. This promotion has been running for years and it helps in buying, at the least souvenirs. Find more information about it here.

Avoid waiting in long lines and book tours right away!

Additionally, find out some more attractions for doing Singapore on a budget here.

Is there anything you’d like to add to this 5-day itinerary to Singapore? Let me know in the comments below.

Helpful Information about Singapore

Singapore Visa

Nationals of US, Australia, Europe countries don’t require a Visa to enter Singapore.

Check out the official website for the entry requirements.

Indian Passport holders require a visa to enter Singapore. Find full details of applying for Singapore visa as an Indian passport holder here.

Please note that all travelers need to submit a SG Arrival Card (SGAC) up to 3 days before arrival to Singapore. SGAC is a electronic version of the paper disembarkation/embarkation (DE) card that foreign citizens are required to submit for immigration clearance.

Internal Transportation

MRT (Mass Transit Railway)

Singapore boasts great public transportation. MRT connects to every part of the city and is the fastest and most budget friendly option to travel around Singapore. Trains operate from 5:30 am to midnight, with around 90 stations connecting the city centre and suburbs. Most of the popular attractions in Singapore and located close to the MRT stations, so it’s quite convenient as well.

Opt for the Singapore Tourist Pass which allows unlimited travel on 1, 2, or 3 days in Singapore. The pass can be bought at selected MRT stations listed here.

Public Bus

Public buses are also an option and is quite all public buses in Singapore are wheelchair accessible and open strollers are allowed.

Transport in Singapore ranges between taxis, metro, and buses. Taxis are easily available and the price is fixed. If you are a group of four or above, then it works out cheaper with a taxi. Else, stick to the metro. It is convenient and well connected as well. Additionally, there are hop-on-hop off buses for a day or two for tourists which covers a lot of places. If you are not sure of the itinerary, you can try it out!

Cabs

You can hail cabs by the roadside in most places around Singapore. Cabs are metered but there might also be a surcharge based on when and where you want to go. Alternatively, you can book a ride through apps like Grab, or Gojek.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Singapore is hot and humid mostly throughout the year. June to July is the most popular time to visit Singapore especially for shopping as this is the sales season. For a humid country like Singapore, December & January are the coolest months (24°C), so makes for a great time to visit. February to April is also a good time as the weather is pleasant at this year of the year and yet, not as expensive as the tourist months.