Things to Do in Singapore: 5-Day Itinerary

Singapore is often described as a city where tradition meets innovation, but more than that, it is a city where worlds meet. Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, and Filipino communities have shaped its character for centuries, leaving their mark on food, architecture, festivals, and daily rituals. This rich cultural blend is what makes Singapore truly distinctive.

In this five-day journey, we’ll take you beyond the postcard icons to reveal the layers of a city-state that thrives on its diversity. From temples and markets to glass-domed gardens and sky-high cocktails, you’ll see how Singapore balances tradition with innovation in ways that few places can.

This is Singapore.

Day 1

Morning: Merlion

Start your journey at the Merlion, Singapore’s half-lion, half-fish, an iconic symbol that has watched over Marina Bay since the 1970s. Come early, ideally before 9 a.m., when the air is still cool and the crowds are thin. From this vantage point, you’ll catch the morning sun glinting off Marina Bay Sands.

National Gallery Singapore

From here, take a 9-minute riverside stroll to the National Gallery Singapore, housed in the beautifully restored City Hall and Supreme Court buildings. Inside, you’ll find Southeast Asia’s most important artworks, from traditional batik to contemporary installations. Allocate at least two hours and be sure to marvel at the gallery’s architecture, its marble staircases, vaulted ceilings, rooftop views. Photography is permitted in most spaces of the gallery, though flash is not.

Day 1, Morning - Singapore Tour Map

Afternoon: ArtScience Museum

Begin your afternoon at the ArtScience Museum, shaped like a lotus flower unfurling on the bay. The museum features rotating exhibits, often blending digital art with science, creating immersive environments perfect for curious travellers.

Gardens by the Bay

Next, head to Gardens by the Bay, best experienced in the late afternoon when the sun softens and the Supertrees begin to glow. It’s also ideal to visit in the evening to catch the much-anticipated light show. Arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled start to secure a good spot and watch as the Supertrees dance with dazzling lights.

Cloud Forest

Wander through the Cloud Forest, where a 35-metre indoor waterfall cascades through a misty mountain of tropical greenery. The temperature inside is kept cool, so pack a light scarf or cardigan if you chill easily.

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

As evening approaches, ascend to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck and watch as the city transforms into a sea of twinkling lights beneath you. From up here, you’ll see the Port of Singapore stretching to the horizon, shophouse quarters nestled against glass towers, and the river carving its way through it all. Arrive before sunset to catch the skyline in its golden hour glow.

Day 1, Aternoon - Singapore Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Fort Canning Park

Begin the day with a nice stroll through Fort Canning Park, once the seat of Malay royalty and later a British stronghold. The park is shaded by rain trees and frangipanis, and feels like a green lung in the city. Be sure to check out the iconic Spiral Staircase, a hidden photo spot often missed by casual visitors (unless you’re a frequent Instagram user).

Sultan Mosque

From here, take a 10-minute drive to Sultan Mosque, the heart of Singapore’s Muslim community. Its golden dome and intricate arabesque motifs are striking against the blue sky. Do dress modestly, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered (shawls are usually provided if needed) and remove your shoes upon entering.

Kampong Glam

Just a 4-minute walk from the Sultan Mosque is Kampong Glam, an artsy neighbourhood where you can explore Haji Lane, a street lined with colourful murals, indie boutiques, and quirky cafés. Just beyond, you’ll catch the scent of Middle Eastern spices from family-run eateries.

Little India

Wrap up the morning in Little India with a visit to the Tekka Centre, buzzing with sari vendors and spice stalls, while the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, with its vibrant façade of deities, offers a glimpse into Tamil Hindu traditions. Be sure to carry water during your strolls, as the tropical sun can be unforgiving by late morning.

Day 2, Morning - Singapore Tour Map

Afternoon: Chinatown

Continue your stroll to Chinatown, where narrow streets are lined with red lanterns, herbal medicine shops, and traditional tea houses.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

At the centre is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, an elaborate Tang-style structure said to house a sacred relic. Inside, the fourth floor’s stupa chamber is a quiet space for reflection. Always remember to remove your shoes before entering sacred halls.

Lau Pa Sat

Wrap up your day at Lau Pa Sat, Singapore’s iconic hawker centre housed in a historic cast-iron building. While not a fine-dining venue, it offers a different kind of luxury, the taste of authentic street flavours in a heritage setting.

Day 2, Afternoon - Singapore Tour Map

Day 3

Morning: Singapore Cable Car

Start the day aboard the Singapore Cable Car, gliding from Mount Faber over the harbour to Sentosa Island. Sit on the bay-facing side for the best views of the South China Sea on one side. Gliding through Singapore’s skyline is a scenic way to arrive at what locals call the “State of Fun” aka Sentosa.

Singapore Oceanarium

Your first stop is the Singapore Oceanarium (S.E.A. Aquarium). One of the largest aquariums in the world and home to more than 100,000 marine animals.

Singapore Sensoryscape

Continue with a stroll through Sentosa Sensoryscape, a landscaped walkway designed to engage sight, sound, and scent. Download the app for a more immersive digital experience of the area. And pause by the water features and sculptural gardens to discover striking photo angles.

Day 3, Morning - Singapore Tour Map

Afternoon: Mega Adventure Singapore

After lunch, dial up the adrenaline at Mega Adventure Singapore, where you can zipline over treetops and beach. The MegaZip is a visitor favourite, soaring 75 metres high at speeds of up to 60 km/h. Be sure to wear comfortable activewear like sandals with straps, it’s better (and safe) than loose footwear.

Fort Siloso

Balance the thrill with a visit to Fort Siloso, Singapore’s only preserved coastal fort. Here, you’ll find open-air bunkers, tunnels, and artillery guns, it offers a glimpse into Singapore’s WWII history. The Skywalk leading up to the fort provides panoramic views of the island and beyond.

Wings of Time Fireworks Symphony

Cap off the day with a multi-sensory night show staged against the open sea. The show features water jets, pyrotechnics, and music. It’s best enjoyed from premium seating for unobstructed views. Arrive 15 minutes early to secure the best seating spot, as the show is popular with both locals and visitors.

Day 3, Afternoon - Singapore Tour Map

Day 4

Morning: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

For Day 4, leave the buzzing city behind and explore the lush forests of Singapore, beginning at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park). This spot is a favourite among birdwatchers, especially during the migratory season (September to March) when flocks of egrets and sandpipers arrive. Stroll the coastal trails early in the morning, when it’s quietest, and don’t forget to bring binoculars for the best views.

Rainforest Wild Asia

Next, take a 17-minute drive to Rainforest Wild ASIA at Mandai, a living rainforest experience designed as an immersive walk-through. The attraction recreates Southeast Asia’s tropical habitats, with free-roaming animals, cascading waterfalls, and elevated trails through dense canopy. It feels far away from the city, though you’re only a short drive from Orchard Road’s boutiques from here.

Day 4, Morning - Singapore Tour Map

Afternoon: Bird Paradise

After lunch, continue your wildlife immersion at Bird Paradise, Singapore’s latest aviary at Mandai. Unlike conventional enclosures, it’s designed as expansive “aviaries within biomes,” where birds fly overhead as you explore themed zones.

Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

Next, return to the city for a different perspective on nature at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum. Known for its three towering diplodocid dinosaur skeletons, the museum also houses over a million specimens from across Southeast Asia. It’s less visited than other attractions, making it a hidden gem for travellers interested in natural heritage.

Day 4, Afternoon - Singapore Tour Map

Day 5

Morning: Singapore Botanic Gardens

Begin your final day at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore. It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Arrive early, just after opening, for a less crowded experience.

National Orchid Garden

Inside Singapore Botanic Gardens, you’ll find the National Orchid Garden, home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, many of which are named after dignitaries and celebrities who’ve visited Singapore. The most famous one is Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore’s national flower and the star attraction at the garden. Take time to wander beyond the orchids: the Symphony Lake, Swan Lake, and the Rainforest trail.

Day 5, Morning - Singapore Tour Map

Afternoon: Jewel Changi Airport

As your journey winds down, head to Jewel Changi Airport. You can do this before catching your flight. Inside, you’ll find the Rain Vortex (the world’s tallest indoor waterfall) cascading through a glass-domed forest. The effect is mesmerising to watch, especially as sunlight filters through the canopy.

Beyond the Rain Vortex, Jewel is a showcase of luxury retail, dining, and artful design. Browse international boutiques, enjoy a pre-flight tasting menu at a celebrity-chef restaurant, or simply linger in Canopy Park with its sculptural bridges and floral displays. If your flight departs in the evening, stay for the Rain Vortex light show for a theatrical farewell to Singapore.

Day 5, Afternoon - Singapore Tour Map

Day Trips from Singapore

• Pulau Ubin: Just a short bumboat ride from Changi, this island preserves the kampong (village) way of life. Wooden houses, coconut groves, and gravel paths make it a living postcard of 1960s Singapore. For a more immersive experience, we can book you a private guide to cycle through mangroves and wetlands, or book a kayaking tour that winds through the island’s tidal rivers.

• Bintan Island, Indonesia: Less than an hour by ferry, Bintan is known for its luxury beach resorts and championship golf courses. If you’re looking for a quick reset with a relaxing spa and seaside dining, this is the place to be.

• Batam Island, Indonesia: A busier counterpart to Bintan, Batam offers sumptuous seafood feasts, water sports, and affordable shopping.

• Johor Bahru, Malaysia: Cross the Causeway to explore a buzzing city known for its street food and cultural enclaves. Convenient bus routes run between Singapore and Johor Bahru, but to minimise time at the border, we can arrange a chauffeured car for you.

• Desaru Coast, Malaysia: About two hours away, Desaru features wide beaches,  understated luxury resorts. Golf, coastal walks, and dining experiences that make it an increasingly popular weekend retreat.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Singapore

• Singapore Botanic Gardens: Established in 1859, this is the country’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread across 82 hectares featuring tropical flora, Swan Lake, Ginger Garden, and various other themed gardens like the Evolution Garden and Ethnobotany Garden. The main highlight is the National Orchid Garden, showcasing over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, many named after visiting dignitaries.

Golf and Polo Clubs in Singapore

• Sentosa Golf Club: Regularly ranked among the world’s top courses. Established in 1974, Sentosa features two award-winning 18-hole, par-72 championship courses, and is known for its stunning views of the Singapore cityscape, challenging play, and strong commitment to sustainability.

• Laguna National Golf Resort Club: A premier golf and country club in Singapore, renowned for its two 18-hole championship courses: the Masters Course and the Classic Course. The club has a long history of hosting international championships and receiving numerous accolades.

• Singapore Island Country Club: One of Singapore's most prestigious and historic private members' clubs. The club was formed in 1963 through a merger of the Royal Singapore Golf Club and the Island Club, it is known for its golf courses and extensive country club facilities.

• Singapore Polo Club: One of the oldest sporting and social clubs in Singapore, founded in 1886. Located at 80 Mount Pleasant Road, it is a premier equestrian and social destination just minutes away from the city's heart. The club hosts the Atoms Polo Academy, which offers polo training for all ages. If you are a non-members can still enjoy the club's restaurants and watch polo matches during specific hours.

Brewery Tours in Singapore

• Lion Brewery Co: A craft beer company with British heritage, re-established in 2018 in Singapore. The brand's origin dates back to 1836 when the original brewery was founded in London. Today, it operates a taproom in Singapore and brews small-batch beer for markets in Asia and the UK. They offer brewery tours where you'll get to see the brewery process firsthand and learn how the company's craft beers are made. Tours typically include a tasting flight, allowing you to sample several of their freshest brews on tap.

• The 1925 Brewing Co.: A Singaporean craft microbrewery and restaurant founded in 2013 by three members of the Yeo family. It is known for its Asian-inspired craft beers and draws inspiration from its Teochew heritage. Get an inside look at the brewing process and the company's story. Learn about the basics of beer brewing and see the equipment up close. After the tour, you may sample a flight of their beers, which may include special or unreleased varieties.

Luxury Retail Stores in Singapore

• Paragon: Located in the heart of Orchard Road (Singapore's premier shopping district), the shopping mall is a destination for luxury and designer goods and known for its elegant atmosphere, wide range of luxury international brands, high-street fashion, and diverse dining options.

• The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands: A premier luxury shopping mall known for its high-end retail, celebrity-chef restaurants, and unique attractions. It is situated on the waterfront within the iconic Marina Bay Sands complex and features impressive architecture. With over 800,000 square feet area, The Shoppes is a destination for luxury brands, home to prestigious fashion houses and high-end boutiques.

• ION Orchard: Known for its museum-like architecture and prime location at the end of Orchard Road. ION Orchard is a retail and residential complex featuring a diverse mix of high-end international and local brands, as well as an extensive food hall and a rooftop observation deck.

• Ngee Ann City: A prominent shopping and office complex located on Orchard Road, it is one of Singapore's most well-known retail destinations, particularly for housing the Japanese department store Takashimaya, which spans from Basement 2 to Level 4. Inside, you’ll find a mix of designer brands, cosmetics, and Japanese groceries.

• Mandarin Gallery: Another upscale shopping mall located on Orchard Road. It is connected to the Hilton Singapore Orchard hotel, and its elegant shops and restaurants are a destination for shoppers and food enthusiasts.

• Jewel: Located at Singapore's Changi Airport. Jewel is known for its stunning architecture and world-class facilities, most notably world's tallest indoor waterfall and lush gardens, making it not only a retail destination but also a tourist attraction.

Observatories in Singapore

• Singapore Flyer: A 165-meter-tall observation wheel located in the Downtown Core district of Singapore, it offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city's skyline. The ride lasts about 30 minutes in one of its 28 air-conditioned capsules, and on a clear day, you can see as far as Malaysia and Indonesia.

• SkyPark Observation Deck: Located on the 56th floor of the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, it offers a stunning panoramic 360-degree view of the city's skyline. From here, you can spot iconic landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Strait. Non-peak operating hours are from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Exclusive Workshops & Immersive Experiences in Singapore

• Singapore River Cruise: Operated by traditional "bumboats," the cruise offers a scenic 40-minute tour of Singapore's historic and modern waterfront landmarks. The best time to take the cruise is around sunset or in the evening to see the city skyline and landmarks illuminated. The duration of the trip is approximately 40 minutes.

• Explore Haji Lane: A vibrant, narrow street in the Kampong Glam neighborhood, it is known for its mix of indie fashion boutiques, cafes, and colorful street art. It has been a must-visit spot for both tourists and locals.

• Market to Table Culinary Experience: A number of cooking schools and restaurants in Singapore offer "market to table" culinary experiences. In this workshop, you'll enjoy a hands-on cooking class where you’ll shop at a bustling wet market, learn authentic techniques from expert chefs, cook alongside family or friends, and take home full recipes to recreate the dishes.

• Ubin Bisect Kayaking: A challenging and unique kayaking adventure in Pulau Ubin, this expedition takes you from the island’s north to its south, paddling through mangroves and open water. Along the way, you may spot wildlife such as sea eagles, kingfishers, otters, and monitor lizards.

• Forest Bathing: Known in Japan as shinrin-yoku, it’s a practice of immersing yourself in the natural world that helps improve physical and mental well-being, think of it as reconnecting with, or becoming one with, nature. It’s a meditative experience with proven benefits such as boosting the immune system, lowering stress and anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing focus and creativity.

• iFly: If skydiving is on your bucket list but you’re not quite ready to take the leap yet, try iFly in Singapore. It’s the world’s largest themed indoor skydiving facility, located on Sentosa Island that offers a safe and realistic simulation of free fall. You may also do this in tandem for a more fun experience.

• Naturalist Night Adventure: A guided nature walk experience that lets you explore local parks and rainforests after dark. Led by experienced naturalists, the adventure is designed to teach participants about Singapore's native ecology and how to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Other Things to Do in Singapore

• Clarke Quay: Also known as CQ, Clarke Quay is a vibrant riverside destination in Singapore, known for its historical architecture, shopping, entertainment, and dining scene. Once a major trading hub in the 19th century, it has since been revitalised into a modern “day-to-night” lifestyle destination.

• Southern Ridges: A 10-kilometer network of parks and trails, connecting Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. It is known for its scenic views, forested areas, and unique architectural bridges. A great spot for nature lovers and urban explorers.

• Haw Par Villa: Established in 1937 by the Tiger Balm founders, brothers Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, it’s a unique theme park featuring over 1,000 statues and 150 giant dioramas that illustrate stories from Chinese folklore, legends, and history. Entry to the main park is free.

• Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett: A high-octane adventure park located on Siloso Beach, it offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities such as Bungy Jumping, Giant Swing, Skybridge, and Beach Club. The park is operated by AJ Hackett, a global leader in adventure tourism with a strong safety record.

• SkyHelix Sentosa: An open-air panoramic gondola ride located on Sentosa Island. It is Singapore's highest open-air ride, ascending a helix-like structure to a height of 79 meters above sea level. The entire experience takes about 12 minutes, with about 10 minutes at the apex to take in the breathtaking views.

• Katong & Joo Chiat (Peranakan Heritage): If you want to taste Singapore’s cultural soul beyond the glitz of Marina Bay, head east to Katong and Joo Chiat. This district is a living postcard of the Peranakan community, whose blended Chinese and Malay traditions shaped much of Singapore’s identity. Stroll down streets lined with pastel shophouses decorated in ornate tiles, each façade a mini art piece. Duck into the Peranakan Museum or boutique galleries, then reward yourself with Nonya laksa — a spicy coconut noodle soup that might just be Singapore’s most comforting dish. For an elevated touch, book a heritage walk with a local historian who can unravel the stories behind every motif and recipe.

• Southern Islands (St. John’s, Lazarus, Kusu): Yes, Singapore is a global metropolis, but just 30 minutes by ferry you’ll find yourself on Lazarus Island, where turquoise waters lap at white-sand beaches that feel more Maldives than megacity. Combine it with a stop at St. John’s Island for lush greenery and colonial-era relics, or visit Kusu Island, where a Chinese temple and Malay shrines draw pilgrims during festival season. We can arrange a private yacht charter for the day — think champagne on deck, snorkeling stops, and a chef-prepared seafood feast on the beach. It’s Singapore’s hidden side, and it feels like you’ve left the city entirely.

Things to Do with Kids in Singapore

• Universal Studios Singapore: A premier theme park in Southeast Asia and one of five Universal Studios parks worldwide, located within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island. Explore 24 rides, shows, and attractions across seven themed zones, inspired by popular blockbuster films and television shows. The best times to visit are during weekdays and non-peak seasons for smaller crowds and shorter wait times.

• Singapore Zoo: Located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, it is home to over 4,200 animals across more than 300 species. And known for its "open concept" design, which features naturalistic, immersive habitats with hidden barriers. The zoo offers scheduled shows and feeding sessions where you can learn more about the animals from their keepers.

• Night Safari: The world's first nocturnal zoo, where you get a chance to see over 900 animals in a naturalistic rainforest environment. The park's main attractions include a 30 - 40 minute guided tram ride, four walking trails, and a live animal show.

• River Wonders: Asia's first and only river-themed wildlife park, featuring over 11,000 animals, with zones that recreate the ecosystems of iconic rivers such as the Amazon, Yangtze, and Nile. It’s a popular family-friendly destination, perfect for the little ones.

• Skyline Luge: A gravity-fuelled, three-wheeled cart ride perfect for older kids, it combines the luge and Skyride experience. First, ride a four-seater chairlift that carries you and your luge cart from the bottom of the tracks back to the starting point. Once at the top, hop on your cart and glide down the track, powered only by gravity.

• Adventure Cove Waterpark: A marine-themed waterpark located on Sentosa Island. It is home to Southeast Asia's first hydro-magnetic coaster, the Riptide Rocket. It also features high-speed water slides, interactive animal encounters, and relaxing attractions.

• Wild Wild Wet: One of Singapore's largest and most popular water theme parks, located in Downtown East, Pasir Ris. It offers 16 different water rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Best to visit during off-peak days: Monday, Wednesday–Friday.

• Science Centre Singapore: Established in 1977, the institution is dedicated to promote science and technology through interactive and educational experiences. It features over 850 exhibits across various galleries. The Science Centre Singapore is scheduled to relocate to a new facility in the Jurong Lake District in 2027, its 50th anniversary year.

• Adventure HQ: A multi-installation indoor adventure playground perfect for older kids, located at HomeTeamNS Khatib. It is known for its high-energy activities and extreme obstacles, making it the country's largest of its kind.

• Museum of Ice Cream Singapore: Lover of ice cream? Head to the Museum of Ice Cream for an immersive art installation of all things ice cream. It is best known for its Instagram-worthy installations and unlimited ice cream samples.

Where to Eat in Singapore

• NOX – Dine in the Dark: A unique, multi-sensory dining experience where you’ll enjoy 12 mystery dishes in complete darkness. The evening begins in a lit lounge with pre-dinner cocktails, followed by dining in the dark, where a trained visually impaired or blind host escorts you upstairs to the pitch-black dining room. The dinner consists of a three-course mystery menu, with four appetizers, four mains and four desserts, for a total of 12 unique dishes.

• Odette: A three-Michelin-starred modern French restaurant, headed by Chef Julien Royer. It is consistently ranked as one of the best dining spots in Singapore. Located within the National Gallery Singapore, the restaurant features modern French food with subtle Asian influences, delivered through creative combinations and exquisite plating.

• Hill Street Tai Wah Pork Noodles: This iconic hawker stall, known for its long queues and Michelin recognition as one of the first two street food stalls in the world to be awarded a Michelin star in 2016, is famed for its signature dish: bak chor mee (minced pork noodles) with a vinegar-based sauce.

• Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (New Bridge Road): Known for its Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Teochew-style bak kut teh. The eatery is famous for its peppery, flavorful pork rib soup with tender meat, complete with a 1960s-inspired dining ambiance. Another must-try side dish is the Dough Fritters (or Youtiao), perfect for dipping into the bak kut teh broth.

• Willow: A Michelin-starred contemporary Asian restaurant, known for its creative and refined tasting menus. Led by Chef Nicolas Tam, the restaurant combines modern fine-dining techniques, particularly French, with a focus on high-quality seasonal ingredients from Japan. The menu changes regularly to feature the best produce of the season.

• Un-Yang-Kor-Dai: A highly rated Thai and Isaan restaurant, known for its authentic cuisine from northeastern Thailand, it was once a recipient of the MICHELIN Guide's Bib Gourmand award. Must-try dishes include the Signature Grilled Chicken, marinated for three days with white peppercorns and coriander for tender, juicy, and flavourful meat. And Leng Zaab, a spicy and sour pork rib broth that’s addictive and served in a massive, flaming portion.

• Thevar: A two-Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its innovative, modern Indian cuisine. Led by Malaysian Tamil chef Mano Thevar, the menu features modern interpretations of classic Indian dishes, with available vegetarian options upon pre-order.

Where to Stay in Singapore

• Raffles Hotel Singapore (5 star): Few addresses in the world carry as much legend as the Raffles Hotel. Since 1887, it has welcomed royalty, writers, and adventurers, and today it remains a temple of colonial grandeur. The hotel’s white arcades, palm-filled courtyards, and marble halls transport you to a different era. A stay here is a luxury in itself, but even if you don’t check in, an afternoon tea in the Grand Lobby or a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar is non-negotiable. This is heritage with a silver spoon — the kind of experience that completes a luxury Singapore itinerary.

• Marina Bay Sands Singapore (5 star): A major destination for luxury lodging, dining, shopping, and entertainment, attracting visitors from around the world for its unique structure featuring three hotel towers topped by the Sands SkyPark, a magnificent boat-like structure with an infinity pool. The rooms are divided into two distinct tiers: the Sands Collection and the elite Paiza Collection, with views that overlook the cityscape, Gardens by the Bay, or the sea.

• Mandarin Oriental (5 star): A five-star luxury hotel in the heart of Marina Bay, known for its striking fan-shaped design and sweeping city and harbour views. Accommodations range from elegant rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows to spacious suites, including the opulent Oriental Suite with a private balcony. Guests enjoy award-winning dining, a renowned spa, an outdoor pool with panoramic views, and exclusive club lounge access.

• Oasia Hotel Downtown (4 star): A striking urban retreat in Singapore’s Central Business District, Oasia Hotel Downtown is known for its red façade wrapped in vertical gardens. Designed as a sanctuary in the city, it offers minimalist rooms with calming interiors, while Club Rooms include access to a private lounge and infinity pool. Sky gardens and open-air terraces throughout the tower create tranquil green spaces high above the bustle.

• JEN Singapore Orchardgateway by Shangri-La (4 star): A stylish urban retreat in the heart of Orchard Road, this four-star hotel blends convenience with contemporary design. Rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic city views, while highlights include a rooftop infinity pool and bar overlooking the skyline. With direct MRT access through Orchardgateway Mall and a 24-hour fitness centre, it’s an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers.

• Heritage Collection on Boat Quay (Boutique Aparthotel): A boutique riverside property located along the historic Singapore River, it blends heritage charm with modern comfort. The aparthotel offers fully furnished studio apartments and lofts designed for extended stays, each featuring well-equipped kitchenettes, smart TVs, and in-room laundry facilities. Guests enjoy the convenience of self check-in, daily housekeeping, and easy access to the vibrant Boat Quay dining and nightlife scene.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

Singapore is a year-round destination, but summer (June–August) is the liveliest. It’s when the Great Singapore Sale takes over luxury boutiques and designer houses, and festivals like the Hungry Ghost Festival and National Day light up the city. Afternoon showers are common any time of year, so be sure to carry a small umbrella, but with sheltered walkways at most attractions, rain isn’t much of a nuisance.

Festivals in Singapore

• Pongal: Celebrated annually with vibrant festivities, especially in the Little India district. The four-day festival, whose name means "to boil over" in Tamil, typically takes place in mid-January and honors the Sun God and nature's bounty. Although Singapore is a modern, urban city, the Tamil community continues to honor the festival's traditional agricultural roots.

• Chinese New Year: One of Singapore’s most significant annual celebrations. The festivities are rich in culture and tradition, featuring long-standing highlights such as the Chinatown Street Light-Up, River Hongbao, and the Chingay Parade. Spanning 15 days from the first day of the lunar calendar, the first two are official public holidays. Dates vary each year, but the atmosphere is always one of colour, joy, and renewal.

• Thaipusam: An annual Hindu festival celebrated in Singapore, particularly by the Tamil community, in honor of Lord Murugan. The vibrant and intensive celebration includes a large procession and acts of devotion and penance.

• Hungry Ghost Festival: Takes place during the seventh lunar month (August 23–September 21). During this period, Taoist and Buddhist communities believe the gates of hell open, allowing spirits to roam the living world in search of food, entertainment, and visits with loved ones. In Singapore, many people avoid certain actions to prevent bad luck or offending spirits, while temples hold ceremonies and prayers to honour the deceased. It’s considered an inauspicious time, marked by both reverence and caution.

• The Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS): An annual 10-day festival of events and activities that takes place alongside the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix (F1). It’s not just a Formula 1 race, it's a vibrant, city-wide festival that transforms Singapore into a hub of excitement, captivating both motorsport enthusiasts and general revelers. What makes GPSS so anticipated is its thrilling night race and a diverse array of off-track entertainment.

• Mid Autumn Festival: A major cultural celebration marked by colourful lantern displays, mooncake stalls, and lively performances across the city. The festival is not a public holiday, however, it is widely observed by Singapore’s Chinese community. During the festival major public areas are illuminated with colorful lantern displays, often featuring mythical creatures and scenes from Chinese folklore, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

• Deepavali Festival: Known as the Festival of Lights. Celebrations centre on Little India, where streets come alive with dazzling lights and decorations, prepared weeks in advance. Deepavali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a significant cultural event for Singapore's Hindu, Sikh, and other communities, but its joy is shared across the country's multicultural society.

• Christmas: Christmas in Singapore is a city-wide tropical celebration featuring light displays, festive markets, and holiday-themed attractions across the city. The festive season typically runs from mid-November through early January, with events taking place in iconic locations like Orchard Road and Gardens by the Bay.

A Journey Through Singapore

Five days in Singapore reveal more than just its thriving city-state, it is a city where cultures converge and coexist. Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, and Filipino influences are woven into daily life, from the spices in a hawker’s broth to the domes of mosques and the colours of Little India. This multicultural city is what makes Singapore unlike anywhere else: a destination where heritage is celebrated, innovation is embraced, and the two are never in conflict. Singapore invites you not only to see, but to take part, to taste, walk, and experience the island’s many layers.

For more inspiration on journeys that celebrate culture and craftsmanship, explore our Japan travel guides, from Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to Hokkaido and Fukuoka. And if it’s Japan’s most exclusive sleeper trains you’re after, like Train Suite Shiki-shima or Seven Stars in Kyushu, we’ve got it for you.

Explore Singapore with Revigorate today. Contact us or give us a call at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647) and let’s start planning your journey.