Singapore is the smallest country in Southeast Asia, covering just 735.7 km² and home to around 5.9 million people. Yet within this compact island, there’s an incredible mix of modern architecture, cultural heritage, and green spaces that makes it stand out from anywhere else in the region. I’m glad my travels finally brought me to Singapore - it’s a fascinating place that really leaves an impression, and one I’d encourage anyone to experience for themselves.

Singapore may be the smallest country in Southeast Asia, but it offers a travel experience that feels far bigger than its size. While many neighbouring destinations have a more relaxed pace, Singapore is a place where modern skyscrapers, diverse cultures, and green spaces all meet in one dynamic city-state. Here are 5 reasons why Singapore deserves a place on your travel list:

1. Iconic Landmarks and Skyline
   From Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay to the Merlion and the Singapore Flyer, the city is filled with striking landmarks. Whether you’re walking along the waterfront at night or enjoying a view from above, the skyline is nothing short of spectacular.

2. Cultural Diversity and Heritage
   Singapore is a true melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan influences. Exploring Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Gelam gives travellers the chance to experience different cultures, traditions and cuisines all within easy reach.

3. A City in a Garden
   Despite being a busy metropolis, Singapore is often called a “city in a garden.” The Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), East Coast Park and the futuristic Supertree Grove show how seamlessly nature has been woven into urban life.

4. Safe, Clean and Efficient
   Singapore is one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world. Public transport is fast and reliable, and the city is famously well-organised - making it an easy and stress-free place for visitors to explore.

5. A Food Paradise
   Food is at the heart of life in Singapore. From Michelin-starred hawker stalls to buzzing food centres such as Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Centre, the choice is endless - with dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, satay and chilli crab all waiting to be tried.

When I visited, what struck me most was how international Singapore felt - you can find just about anything here, yet it still has its own unique identity. Walking through the city sometimes feels like stepping into the future, with its modern skyline and efficient way of life. It’s clean, well-organised, and far more diverse than I imagined. What surprised me most, though, was the food scene - it’s even better than I expected, and then there’s the bonus of beaches to unwind by the sea.

How many days in Singapore do you need?

For most travellers, 3 to 5 days in Singapore is the perfect amount of time. Even with just 3 days, you can see the city’s highlights and spend a day on Sentosa Island - which I highly recommend for any Singapore itinerary.

3 days travel itinerary in Singapore: Enough to see the highlights

• Marina Bay Sands & Merlion Park

• Gardens by the Bay (Supertree Grove & Cloud Forest)

• Chinatown or Little India for culture and food

• Evening hawker centre dining (Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell or Newton)

• 1 full day at Sentosa Island — beaches, S.E.A. Aquarium, cable car rides, and  Universal Studio
  
  

5 days travel itinerary in Singapore: A complete experience

• Everything in the 3-day itinerary

• Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Clarke Quay or the Singapore River in the evening

• More time for museums, galleries and shopping

• Extra food adventures, from hawker classics to Michelin-star restaurants

During my own trip, I spent 5 days in Singapore - and honestly, I felt I needed more. There’s so much to see, do and taste that even weeks here wouldn’t be enough if you wanted to enjoy the city slowly, especially the food scene.

Verdict: If you’re short on time, 3 days will let you see the highlights and enjoy Sentosa. But if you want to experience Singapore at a relaxed pace - from its cultural districts to its endless dining options - 5 days or more is highly recommended.

Top 10 things to do in Singapore

Although Singapore is a small city-state, it packs in a remarkable mix of modern attractions, cultural heritage, and green spaces. If you’re planning your first trip, here are the top things to do in Singapore that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Visit Marina Bay Sands & the Merlion
No visit is complete without seeing Singapore’s most famous landmarks. Marina Bay Sands offers incredible skyline views from its SkyPark, while the Merlion statue - half lion, half fish - is the city’s national icon and perfect for photos.

2. Explore Gardens by the Bay
Home to the futuristic Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome, this attraction is both modern and magical. Go during the day for the greenery, and return at night for the spectacular Garden Rhapsody light show.

3. Spend a Day on Sentosa Island
Sentosa is Singapore’s resort island and a must-visit. Whether you’re relaxing on the beaches, visiting Universal Studios Singapore, exploring S.E.A. Aquarium, or riding the Skyline Luge, there’s something for everyone.

4. Wander Through Chinatown, Little India & Kampong Gelam
These vibrant neighbourhoods are packed with colourful temples, traditional shops, and authentic food. It’s the best way to explore Singapore’s multicultural heritage.

5. Eat at a Hawker Centre
Singapore’s hawker culture is UNESCO-recognised, and it’s where you’ll find the best food at the best prices. Try Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, satay, and chilli crab at centres like Maxwell, Lau Pa Sat, or Newton.

6. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Botanic Gardens are a peaceful escape from the city. The highlight is the National Orchid Garden, with thousands of orchid species on display.

7. Take a Walk Along Orchard Road
Singapore’s premier shopping street is filled with malls, boutiques, and designer brands. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lively place to experience the city’s modern lifestyle.

8. Explore Clarke Quay & the Singapore River
By day, you can stroll along the historic riverfront; by night, Clarke Quay turns into a lively hub for dining, drinks, and nightlife.

9. Discover the Singapore Zoo or Night Safari
Renowned for their open-concept enclosures, the zoo and its Night Safari experience are among the best wildlife attractions in Asia.

10. Relax at East Coast Park
For something different, head to East Coast Park, where you can cycle, skate, or simply enjoy the beachside atmosphere with local seafood at the hawker stalls nearby.

In some ways, Singapore reminded me of Malaysia, but with less of an Islamic presence. Instead, the city’s cultural character shines through its Hindu temples, Chinese shrines, and heritage quarters. It felt more liberal and diverse in atmosphere, yet still carried a calm, almost sacred pace alongside the modern city buzz.

5 Days in Singapore Itinerary: How to Make the Most of Your Trip

Singapore may be small, but it’s packed with iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, world-class food, and even beaches. Based on my own trip, here’s a practical 5-day Singapore itinerary that balances famous sights with local experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions of Singapore

• Arrive at Changi Airport - don’t miss Jewel’s Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world.

• Check into your hotel and rest.

• Afternoon: Visit Marina Bay Sands, see the Merlion, and enjoy panoramic views from the SkyPark.

• Evening: Wander through Gardens by the Bay and watch the Supertree Grove light up at night.

First impression: Singapore feels ultra-modern yet surprisingly calm - clean, organised, and easy to explore.

Day 2: Iconic Landmarks & Chinatown

• Morning: Discover Chinatown - visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and try local food at Maxwell Food Centre.

• Afternoon: Explore the Civic District - National Gallery, St Andrew’s Cathedral, and the historic Raffles Hotel.

• Evening: Dine by the Singapore River and stroll around Clarke Quay for nightlife and city lights.

Tip: Attractions are close together, so you can cover a lot in a day without feeling rushed.

Day 3: Sentosa Island Adventure

• Spend the day at Sentosa Island, Singapore’s entertainment playground.

• Pick your favourites: Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Skyline Luge, or relax at Siloso Beach.

• Evening: Return to VivoCity Mall for shopping and dinner overlooking the harbour.
  Surprise highlight: I didn’t expect Singapore to have beaches and resort vibes - Sentosa adds a whole different side to the trip.

Day 4: Little India, Kampong Gelam & Orchard Road

• Morning: Explore Little India, including Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Tekka Market.

• Afternoon: Head to Kampong Gelam for Sultan Mosque, Haji Lane’s street art, and Middle Eastern food.

• Evening: Shop along Orchard Road or unwind at the Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO site).

Impression: The cultural mix here feels distinct - less hectic than Malaysia, more reflective, with space to enjoy each tradition in its own rhythm.

Day 5: Food & Farewell

• Morning: Wander around Tiong Bahru, a charming neighbourhood with indie cafes and local markets.

• Brunch at a hawker centre - Lau Pa Sat or Newton Food Centre are great choices.

• Last-minute shopping at Bugis Street Market or more time at Jewel Changi before your flight.
  
  

Verdict: Five days gave me a good taste of Singapore, but honestly, I could spend weeks here - especially just eating my way through the hawker centres.

Singaporean Cuisine

Singapore’s food is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan flavours. It’s diverse, aromatic, and full of character from hawker stalls to high-end dining.

Must-Try Dishes in Singapore:

• Hainanese Chicken Rice: Singapore’s national dish of tender chicken, fragrant rice and chilli sauce.

• Laksa: Spicy coconut noodle soup with prawns and fishcake.

• Chilli Crab: Sweet and spicy crab in a rich sauce, best enjoyed with mantou buns.

• Char Kway Teow: Smoky stir-fried flat noodles with prawns and egg.

• Satay: Skewered meats with peanut sauce, especially lively at Lau Pa Sat.

• Kaya Toast with Kopi: A simple but iconic breakfast pairing of coconut jam toast and local coffee.

Tip: The best way to experience it all is at hawker centres like Maxwell, Chinatown Complex or Lau Pa Sat.

Singaporean Culture

Singapore’s culture is a vibrant mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences, creating a city that feels diverse yet harmonious.

• Religion & Architecture: You’ll find temples, churches, and mosques side by side, reflecting the country’s multicultural roots.

• Language: English is widely spoken, making travel here super easy for most visitors.

• Lifestyle: The vibe is relaxed and open - sleeveless clothes or casual outfits don’t draw attention. Life feels fast-paced in business, but day-to-day culture is surprisingly chill.

• Festivals: Major celebrations include Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya, and Christmas, each bringing unique traditions and street decorations.

Travel Tip: Singapore can feel pricey, but you truly get what you pay for - whether it’s food, attractions, or comfort.

During my trip, I found Singaporeans polite and professional in their own way. From hawker stall staff to taxi drivers, they may not be outwardly smiley, but you can feel the pride they take in their work.

Singapore Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Trip

To make the most of your Singapore trip, here are practical tips every traveller should know:

1. Best Time to Visit Singapore
   Singapore has a tropical climate with warm, humid weather year-round.
   The drier months, from February to April, are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
   Rain showers can happen anytime, so always carry an umbrella or light raincoat.

2. Visa & Entry Requirements for Singapore
   Most nationalities, including the UK, EU, US, and ASEAN countries, can enter Singapore visa-free for short stays.
   Always check the latest entry requirements before travelling to avoid surprises.

3. Currency & Payments in Singapore
   The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).
   Credit cards and e-wallets are widely accepted, but keep some cash for hawker centres and small purchases.

4. Getting Around Singapore
   Singapore has a world-class public transport system with MRT trains and buses, making it easy and affordable to explore the city.
   Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are convenient, especially for late-night trips or attractions not near MRT stations.

5. Rules, Dress Code & Etiquette in Singapore
   Singapore is generally liberal with dress, but the city has strict laws to maintain cleanliness and public order.

• Drinking water or eating in certain public spaces, like malls or trains, is not allowed.

• Littering, jaywalking, and other minor infractions can result in fines.

• When visiting temples or other religious sites, dress respectfully with covered shoulders and knees.
  Politeness and punctuality are appreciated in public spaces and when interacting with staff.
  
  

6. Food & Dining in Singapore
   Singapore is famous for its hawker centres, where you can enjoy local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chilli crab, and satay at affordable prices.
   Plan meal times carefully - popular spots can get very busy during lunch and dinner hours.

7. Safety in Singapore
   Singapore consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Asia, with low crime rates.
   Locals are polite and professional, making solo travel smooth and stress-free.

Travel Tip: Schedule your hawker centre visits during peak hours and explore different neighbourhoods in between. Singapore is easy to navigate, but traffic and queues can slow you down.

Singapore is often one of the first places that come to mind when thinking of a Southeast Asia trip, and for good reason. Its ultra-modern skyline, efficient transport, diverse food scene, and clean, safe streets make it a standout destination.

Spending 5 days in Singapore gave me the chance to experience both iconic attractions and local culture. From visiting Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, exploring Little India and Chinatown, to sampling Hainanese chicken rice at Maxwell Food Centre and enjoying the nightlife at Clarke Quay, every day offered something new to discover.

What stood out most to me was the professionalism and pride of the people. From hawker stall staff to taxi drivers, they may not be outwardly warm, but you can sense the dedication and care they take in their work, making the city easy and smooth to explore.

One thing to be careful about is the drastic temperature difference between indoor air conditioning and the hot, humid outdoors. I ended up getting quite sick from it, so make sure to dress in layers and stay hydrated.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines safety, multicultural experiences, world-class attractions, and incredible food, Singapore is absolutely worth a visit.

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