3-Day Tranquil Family Adventure: Singapore's Hidden Gems
Singapore
3 days
About Singapore
Experience the vibrant fusion of tradition and modernity in Singapore, a dynamic city-state at the heart of Southeast Asia. Marvel at the iconic skyline dominated by futuristic architecture, explore the lush Gardens by the Bay, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at the famed hawker centers, offering a diverse array of local and international cuisines. Visit Sentosa Island for thrilling attractions and sandy beaches, or take a leisurely stroll along the Marina Bay Sands promenade. With its efficient public transportation, safe streets, and English-speaking locals, Singapore offers a seamless and enriching travel experience. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure-seeker, Singapore has something for everyone.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Nature Walk and Riverside Experience
Morning
Visit the Southern Ridges, a 10km trail connecting parks with stunning views. Walk the Henderson Waves, a structure resembling a wave.
Lunch
Enjoy a meal at a local café in the quaint neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru.
Afternoon
Explore the streets of Tiong Bahru, known for its art deco style pre-war houses. Visit the Tiong Bahru Market for local goods.
Dinner
Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Singapore River. Enjoy the beautiful cityscape while savouring your meal.
Evening
Take a river cruise along the Singapore River. See iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Merlion Park.
Day 3
Island Adventure and Cultural Immersion
Morning
Visit Pulau Ubin, a small island off the northeast coast of Singapore. Experience the simple village life and enjoy nature.
Lunch
Have a seafood lunch at a local eatery on Pulau Ubin. Try dishes like chilli crab and black pepper crab.
Afternoon
Explore the Chek Jawa Wetlands on Pulau Ubin. Discover its rich biodiversity on a guided tour.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant in the vibrant neighbourhood of Little India. Try Indian dishes like biryani and butter chicken.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the colourful and lively streets of Little India. Shop for souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Botanic Gardens
A 158-year-old tropical garden located at the fringe of Singapore's Orchard Road shopping district. It is one of three gardens, and the only tropical garden, to be honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2National Museum of Singapore
The oldest museum in Singapore. Its history dates back to 1849 when it was started as a section of a library at Singapore Institution.
3Night Safari
The world's first nocturnal zoo and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore.
4Southern Ridges
A 10-kilometre trail that connects parks along the southern ridge of Singapore.
5Tiong Bahru
One of the oldest housing estates in Singapore, it was built in the 1930s. Tiong Bahru has since been rejuvenated into a hipster neighbourhood.
6Tiong Bahru Market
A popular food centre and market in Singapore, known for its local hawker fare.
7Singapore River
A river that runs parallel to Alexandra Road and feeds into the Marina Reservoir. The river is also a popular spot for river cruises.
8Pulau Ubin
An island northeast of mainland Singapore, known for its rustic charm and nature trails.
9Chek Jawa Wetlands
A unique natural area where six major ecosystems meet and mix. It is located on Pulau Ubin.
10Little India
A vibrant district that shows off the best of Singapore’s Indian community from vibrant culture to incredible shopping.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Hainanese Chicken Rice
A dish adapted from early Chinese immigrants from Hainan province in southern China, Hainanese Chicken Rice is considered Singapore's national dish. It consists of succulent steamed white chicken cut into bite-size pieces and served on fragrant rice with some light soy sauce.
Chilli Crab
One of Singapore's greatest culinary inventions, Chilli Crab is a must-try for seafood lovers. It's a dish where mud crabs are stir-fried in a semi-thick, sweet and savoury tomato and chilli based sauce.
Laksa
A Peranakan dish that's a blend of Chinese and Malay cuisine, Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that's a staple in Singapore. It's made with rice noodles, coconut milk, and a variety of seafood.
Char Kway Teow
A popular noodle dish in Singapore, Char Kway Teow is stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, bloody cockles, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), eggs, bean sprouts, and chives in a mix of soy sauce.
Roti Prata
A South-Indian flat bread made by frying stretched dough flavored with ghee (Indian clarified butter), it is usually served with a side of fish or chicken curry.
Satay
A dish of seasoned, skewered and grilled meat, served with a sauce. Satay is a popular street food in Singapore, with influences from Indonesian cuisine.
Hokkien Prawn Mee
A stir-fried noodle dish that's a favorite in Singapore, Hokkien Prawn Mee is made with a mix of yellow noodles and rice noodles stir-fried with egg, slices of pork, prawns and squid, and served and garnished with vegetables, small pieces of lard, sambal sauce and lime.
Bak Kut Teh
A pork rib dish cooked in broth popularly served in Malaysia and Singapore, Bak Kut Teh is a hearty and flavorful dish made from meaty pork ribs simmered in a complex broth of herbs and spices.
Fish Head Curry
A dish where the head of a red snapper is semi-stewed in a Kerala-style curry with assorted vegetables such as okra and eggplants. It is usually served with either rice or bread.
Ice Kacang
A popular dessert in Singapore, Ice Kacang is a mountain of shaved ice topped with sweetened syrups of various colors and flavors, condensed and evaporated milk, and small toppings such as red beans, sweet corn, and attap chee (palm seed).
Teh Tarik
A hot milk tea beverage which can be commonly found in restaurants, outdoor stalls and kopi tiams within the Southeast Asian countries of Malaysia and Singapore. Its name is derived from the pouring process of 'pulling' the drink during preparation.
Tiger Beer
Singapore's first locally brewed beer, Tiger Beer is a 5% abv bottled pale lager. It's a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Singapore is between February and April. These months fall within the region's dry season and experience less rainfall than other times of the year. Additionally, this period is considered the most enjoyable time to explore the city's outdoor activities. However, it's worth noting that Singapore has a fairly consistent tropical climate year-round, so any time can be a good time to visit depending on your preferences.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 10 | Sat | Lunar New Year's Day |
February 11 | Sun | Second Day of Lunar New Year |
February 12 | Mon | Day off for Lunar New Year's Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 10 | Wed | Hari Raya Puasa |
May 1 | Wed | Labour Day |
May 22 | Wed | Vesak Day |
June 17 | Mon | Hari Raya Haji |
August 9 | Fri | National Day |
October 31 | Thu | Diwali/Deepavali |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
Singapore's MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is probably the fastest way to zip around the city. The extensive rail network means that most of Singapore's key attractions are within walking distance from an MRT station.
Buses
Singapore's bus system has an extensive network of routes covering most places in Singapore and is the most economical way to get around, as well as being a scenic route for sightseeing.
Taxis
Taxis are comfortable and especially handy if you want to go to places not accessible by the bus or MRT. Cabs here are metered, but there may be surcharges depending on when, where and which company’s taxi you board.
Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services such as Grab are widely available in Singapore. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using their smartphone apps.
Bicycle Sharing
Bicycle sharing services like SG Bike and Anywheel are available for short trips around the city. You can rent a bike using their respective smartphone apps.
Trishaws
Trishaws, a type of rickshaw, offer a unique and traditional means of transportation in Singapore. They are mainly used for short trips around the central tourist areas.
River Taxis
River taxis, also known as bumboats, offer a scenic way to explore Singapore's iconic Marina Bay, Clarke Quay, and Boat Quay.
Car Rental
Renting a car in Singapore is a good option if you plan to drive around the city. However, it's worth noting that Singapore has an excellent public transportation system and heavy traffic can make driving a challenge.
Foot
Singapore is a compact city and it's possible to walk to many of the main attractions. The city is pedestrian-friendly with plenty of walkways and pedestrian crossings.
Important information
Currency SGD
Time zoneUTC+8
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 995; Fire: 995; Police: 999
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Singapore as a first time visitor
1
Singapore is a city-state located in Southeast Asia, known for its multicultural population and high standard of living.
2
The official languages are English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken and understood.
3
The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or hawker centers.
4
Singapore is known for its strict laws and regulations. For example, littering, jaywalking, and chewing gum are all punishable offenses.
5
The country has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons. The temperature usually ranges from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C).
6
Singapore is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8). It does not observe daylight saving time.
7
Tipping is not customary in Singapore. It is often included in the bill as a service charge.
8
Singapore's public transportation system is highly efficient and includes the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), buses, and taxis.
9
The country is known for its cleanliness. Public toilets are generally well-maintained and clean.
10
Singapore's tap water is safe to drink. Bottled water is also readily available.
11
The country has a high cost of living compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Plan your budget accordingly.
12
Singapore is a food paradise. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and laksa.
13
Singapore is a shopping haven, from luxury brands to local markets like Bugis Street Market.
14
The country has strict drug laws. Possession, consumption, or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties, including death.
15
Singapore uses the Type G plug. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
16
The country has an excellent healthcare system, but it can be expensive for tourists. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health.
17
Singapore is generally safe, but it's always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
18
The country is very pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.
19
Singapore has a high humidity level year-round, so lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended.
20
The country has a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Bribery and other forms of corruption are severely punished.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Sunglasses
Hat
Light rain jacket
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo
Travel-size conditioner
Travel-size body wash
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal power adapter
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide for Singapore
Umbrella
Reusable shopping bag
Weather Conditions
Singapore, located near the equator, experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and abundant rainfall. The temperature usually ranges from 77°F to 89°F (25°C to 32°C) throughout the year. When planning your trip, it's important to note that Singapore doesn't have distinct seasons like summer, winter, spring, and autumn. Instead, it has two main monsoon seasons. The Northeast Monsoon occurs from December to early March and the Southwest Monsoon from June to September. During these periods, expect heavy and frequent rainfall. Despite the rain, there's plenty of sunshine in Singapore. The city-state receives an average of 5.5 hours of sunlight daily, so don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the strong UV rays. The high humidity, which can reach up to 80%, can make the heat feel more intense. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Also, stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned places whenever possible. Even though it's warm throughout the year, it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater. Many indoor areas, like shopping malls and restaurants, are heavily air-conditioned and can feel quite chilly. Lastly, always carry an umbrella or a raincoat, as rain showers can be unpredictable and sudden. Despite the rain, Singapore's weather is generally warm, so don't let it dampen your spirits or your plans. There's always something to do, rain or shine!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 31° / 23° | January is the wettest month in Singapore with heavy rainfall. Despite the rain, temperatures remain high, so pack light clothing and an umbrella. |
February | 31° / 23° | February sees slightly less rainfall than January. It's still warm, so light clothing is recommended, but don't forget your umbrella. |
March | 32° / 24° | March is the start of the hot season in Singapore. Expect high humidity and occasional thunderstorms. |
April | 33° / 24° | April is one of the hottest months in Singapore. It's also the start of the Southwest Monsoon season, so be prepared for sudden showers. |
May | 33° / 25° | May continues to be hot and humid in Singapore. Rainfall is less frequent but when it does rain, it can be heavy. |
June | 33° / 24° | June is a hot month with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions or enjoy the city's nightlife. |
July | 32° / 24° | July is slightly cooler but still hot. Rainfall is less frequent, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
August | 32° / 24° | August is similar to July with less rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city and its many attractions. |
September | 32° / 24° | September marks the end of the hot season. It's still warm, but there's less rainfall compared to the earlier months. |
October | 32° / 24° | October is the start of the Northeast Monsoon season. Expect more rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. |
November | 31° / 23° | November is one of the wettest months in Singapore. Pack an umbrella and plan for indoor activities. |
December | 31° / 23° | December continues to be wet with high humidity. Despite the rain, it's a festive time to visit with Christmas and New Year celebrations. |
Did you know?
Places near by Singapore
Legoland Malaysia
A theme park and resort that offers more than 70 interactive rides, shows and attractions.
Johor Bahru
A bustling city with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Batam
A small island known for its beaches, nightlife, and duty-free shopping.
Bintan Island
A tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts.
Malacca
A historical city with a rich cultural heritage and colonial buildings.
Kuala Lumpur
The capital city of Malaysia, known for its skyscrapers, shopping, and street food.
Penang
A vibrant city known for its colonial architecture and street food.
Bali
A popular tourist destination known for its beaches, temples, and nightlife.
Bangkok
The capital city of Thailand, known for its bustling street life and cultural landmarks.
Phuket
A popular beach destination with a vibrant nightlife and water sports.
