A Weekend Guide To Singapore: Things To Do, Where To Stay, What To Eat And More

Singapore, known as the Lion City, boasts a futuristic skyline, a rich culinary heritage, and incredible cultural diversity. It is home to the first safari park, the largest infinity pool, and stunning gardens. Singapore is a must-visit destination with its perfect blend of history and modernity. While many consider it a layover stop, there is much more to discover. Whether you’re here to explore the city before heading to another country or planning a trip specifically to visit Singapore, here’s a weekend guide to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

DAY 1

Morning

Start your morning by having breakfast at your hotel if it is included with your stay. If not, you can grab breakfast from a nearby café or head to Tiong Bahru Bakery for some freshly brewed coffee, baked croissants, and pastries. After breakfast, head to Universal Studios because that's an adventurous day ahead. Universal Studios is a theme park full of thrilling activities, theme parks and unforgettable fun for people of all ages.

Afternoon

The entire afternoon will be filled with thrilling rides at Universal Studios. Make sure to experience attractions like Battlestar Galactica, Transformers: The Ride, and Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure. The park features many adventures and fun activities, as it is divided into seven themed zones, including The Lost World, Sci-Fi City, and Hollywood, among others. In addition to the rides, you'll have the opportunity to meet your favourite characters, from Disney to the Minions, enjoy vibrant street performances, and dine at your favourite themed restaurants.

Evening

After a long day of adventure and fun at Universal Studios, relaxing on the beach while enjoying the sunset and sipping your favourite drink is time. On Sentosa Island, you can visit Tanjong Beach, Palawan Beach, and Siloso Beach. Additionally, you can play golf at the Sentosa Golf Club or shop at the luxury fashion galleria, which features leading brands. Beyond Universal Studios, Sentosa also offers the Adventure Cove Waterpark and the S.E.A. Aquarium if you want to explore more attractions. With a wide range of activities available, Sentosa is perfect for a full-packed day of enjoyment.

Night

To cap off an exciting day, visit Clarke Quay to experience Singapore's vibrant nightlife. This lively area has various restaurants, clubs, and bars, making it the ultimate entertainment hub. It's ideal for pub-hopping, with options available for all budgets. Whether you want to check out the famous club Zouk or indulge in a delicious hot pot at Hai Di Lao, Clarke Quay has something for everyone. Located by the river, you can also book a river cruise to enjoy the stunning views of Singapore's waters.

DAY 2

Morning

For breakfast, you can indulge in an authentic Singaporean meal at either Toast Box or Ya Kun Kaya Toast, which offers kaya toast, kopi (coffee), and soft-boiled eggs. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, make your way to Gardens by the Bay, where the Cloud Forest features an impressive indoor waterfall, and the Flower Dome showcases a vibrant array of flora – both are must-see attractions. Just a short distance away is the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, where you can take in the stunning skyline of the city, the beautiful view of Marina Bay, and the lush greenery of the Gardens by the Bay.

Afternoon

After spending time at Marina Bay, head to Haji Lane, where you'll be captivated by the quirky street art, as well as the bars, cafes, and restaurants. This area also features boutique shops and unique stores, perfect for some retail therapy. We’ll spend the entire afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Haji Lane.

Evening

Spend the evening at one of the most popular tourist spots, the iconic Merlion Park, which overlooks Marina Bay. Here, you can marvel at the 28-foot-long statue of the Merlion, a mythical creature that is half fish and half lion and spouts water into the bay. The lion represents Singapore's nickname, the "Lion City," while the fish symbolises the city's origins as a fishing village. You can also enjoy small bites from nearby cafes or food stalls, where you can even find ice creams shaped like the Merlion.

Night

Enjoy an early dinner before heading to Singapore's famous Night Safari to conclude your trip on a high note. This unique safari park is home to over 2,500 animals from 130 species. You can take guided tram tours, participate in activities such as feeding rhinoceroses, and watch the captivating Creatures of the Night show. Don't forget to browse the souvenir shop for mementoes to take home.

Where To Stay

When looking for accommodation in Singapore, most hotels fall into the mid-range or luxury categories. However, The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel is a budget-friendly option, particularly suited for solo travellers.

Consider booking a room at the Holiday Inn in Little India for a mid-range stay. This hotel offers cosy accommodations, excellent service, and a pool for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Marina Bay Sands is an iconic destination if you're in the mood to splurge. Known for its luxurious rooms and outstanding hospitality, this hotel features an infinity pool, a shopping mall, world-class dining, stunning skyline views, and a variety of entertainment options.

For an indulgent experience, treat yourself to a stay at Raffles Hotel. This establishment combines historic charm with top-notch luxury. Guests can enjoy spacious suites with butler service, an impressive spa, a rooftop pool, and outstanding hospitality.

Where To Eat

Whether you're craving street food, Michelin-star dining, or international delicacies, Singapore's culinary scene offers an unforgettable experience. The city boasts over 45 Michelin-star restaurants, including Les Amis, a renowned French restaurant, and Odette, a prestigious three-star Michelin establishment that serves French cuisine with an Asian twist. Another standout is Zén, which offers a unique culinary experience featuring Japanese cuisine across three levels of a charming shophouse.

In addition to the renowned Michelin dining experience in Singapore, the city is also known for its vibrant hawker food scene. You can find everything from luxurious meals at Michelin-starred restaurants to delicious chicken rice at Hawker Chan for less than $3. For a beachside hawker experience, visit East Coast Lagoon Food Village or head to Chinatown for authentic Singapore-style Chinese cuisine. Be sure to try the chicken rice, curry puffs, and Haron Satay—juicy skewers served with peanut chilli sauce. These dishes pair wonderfully with soju, beer, or a fresh coconut.

Make sure to start your day with an authentic Singaporean breakfast at either Toast Box or Ya Kun Kaya Toast, where you can enjoy kaya toast, kopi (coffee), and soft-boiled eggs. If you're in the mood for French cuisine, consider making a reservation at Saveur. For delicious Japanese dishes, visit Nanbantei Japanese Restaurant, which offers great food in a retro atmosphere. If you're craving Indian food, Samy’s Curry is a fantastic option. Lastly, don't miss out on a fulfilling hot pot experience at Haidilao Marina Square or Din Tai Fung.