48 Hours in Singapore: Ultimate Travel Guide

Singapore may look small, but this tiny island city-state is jam packed with myriad things to do, see, buy, and devour. The sleek and efficient public transport system makes navigating easy, allowing you more time to immerse yourself in this melting pot of cultures, religions, food, and architecture. With just 48 hours on your clock, here’s an itinerary to ensure you experience the best that the Lion City has to offer.

Day One

Morning

Kick off your Singapore adventure with an early morning trip to one of the city’s wet markets. At the Chinatown Wet Market, located in the basement of the Chinatown Complex, you’ll be greeted by the lively sounds of home cooks and restaurant chefs haggling for the freshest produce. Discover a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, and seafood, with unique offerings such as black chickens and bullfrogs. If you’d like to take a taste of Singapore home with you, visit Anthony the Spice Maker for his remarkable meat rendang blend.

Recover from the sensory overload with a traditional Singaporean breakfast at nearby Nanyang Old Coffee. The ‘breakfast set’ features runny eggs, kaya (coconut jam) toast, and a cup of rich kopi (coffee). Mix the eggs with a touch of soy sauce and white pepper, then use the toast to scoop up the creamy delight.

Finish off the morning by exploring the area’s vibrant history at the interactive Chinatown Heritage Centre, followed by temple hopping down South Bridge Road. Essential stops include the impressive Tang-styled Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, the vividly adorned Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple, and the mint green Jamae Mosque.

Afternoon

Should you feel hungry after an eventful morning, head to Maxwell Food Centre where you can indulge in delicious hawker cuisine. Check out famous stalls such as Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Rojak, Popiah & Cockle. A common practice is to reserve your seat by placing a packet of tissues on the table—you’ll find sharing common as locals mingle at these bustling hawker centers.

Recharged, spend the afternoon wandering through the scenic Colonial District, popping into some of Singapore’s finest museums, including the Asian Civilisations Museum, National Museum of Singapore, and the Peranakan Museum. Take a moment at the landing spot of Sir Stamford Raffles, founder of modern Singapore, soaking in the view of the Singapore River. Here, the towering skyscrapers stand in contrast to the charming riverside heritage shophouses, showcasing the Lion City’s transition from a fishing village to a global financial hub.

Evening

After freshening up from your day of exploration, pull up a seat at one of the city’s chic rooftop bars. For breathtaking views, visit the trendy CÉ LA VI atop the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, or the microbrewery Level33, known as the world’s highest craft brewery. For a more grounded perspective without sacrificing beauty, visit Lantern at the posh Fullerton Bay Hotel, or the sophisticated Smoke and Mirrors above the prestigious National Gallery of Singapore. Each venue presents spectacular views of the nightly Marina Bay Sands’ light and laser show, Spectra.

After enjoying cocktails, it’s time for a delicious dinner. No trip to Singapore is complete without savoring chili crab—head to Jumbo Seafood at Riverside Point for one of the best versions in the city. Don’t hesitate to don the complimentary bib and dig in with your fingers, making sure to order mantou (fried buns) to soak up the sauces.

If you still have energy, continue the night at the bustling mega-club Zouk. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the Quays of the river, perfect for digesting after a fulfilling day in Singapore.

Day Two

Morning

On your second day, escape the city hustle by visiting the stunning Unesco World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Here, you can easily spend hours exploring themed gardens, expansive lawns, and lush rainforests. After taking in the scenery, grab a coffee at the local favorite, Cluny Court, located right across from the Botanic Garden MRT station.

Take a short MRT ride to the vibrant Little India. With an empty stomach, enter the Tekka Centre to savor buttery roti prata (dough-flour pancake) and murtabak (savory stuffed pancake). Fully satisfied, head to the second level of the Tekka Centre for a magnificent view of rows of brightly colored saris on display. Venture into the surrounding streets to discover aromatic spice shops, colorful temples, and budding street art.

Afternoon

After your time in Little India, propel yourself into the future at the spectacular Gardens by the Bay. Explore the two cooled bio-dome conservatories that showcase tropical and dry environments while providing a much-needed break from the midday heat. Witness the towering high-tech Supertrees and the surrounding art-filled gardens, a testament to futuristic urban planning.

If you have extra time and energy, wander through the colorful laneways of Kampong Glam. Here, chic boutiques blend with traditional textile shops, accompanied by numerous live music venues and hidden cocktail bars.

Evening

If you wish to indulge, Singapore boasts numerous world-class fine dining restaurants. Renowned options include Waku Ghin, Odette, and Whitegrass. For those looking for less expensive options, trendy spots include Ding Dong, Neon Pigeon, Artichoke, and Cheek by Jowl. For budget-friendly bites, visit smoky Satay Street where the melt-in-your-mouth satay pairs perfectly with a cold jug of Tiger beer.

As the evening continues, cocktail enthusiasts can explore the hidden bars of Amoy Street or seek out the neon pink ‘Psychic’ sign that marks the entrance of Employees Only. Alternatively, enjoy bar hopping along the lively Club Street.

If nightlife is not your preference, consider getting up close with nocturnal animals at the Night Safari, located next to the esteemed Singapore Zoo. Experience an open-sided shuttle tram ride through a lush, animal-filled jungle while remaining safely distanced from the more dangerous creatures.

To cap off your day, if you still have room for one last meal, head to the late-night favorite Swee Choon, where delectable dim sum has been served for over 40 years.