A Week in Singapore: City Experiences on a Low Budget
Friday September 1: Exploring the Cultural District
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Singapore's Cultural District. In the morning, visit the iconic Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, and marvel at its intricate architecture. In the afternoon, explore the colorful streets of Chinatown, where you can find delicious street food and unique souvenirs. As the evening sets in, head to Clarke Quay, a riverside quay buzzing with nightlife and restaurants.
Sri Mariamman Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Chinatown: Free, 2-3 hours
Clarke Quay: Free (excluding dining), 2-3 hours
Saturday September 2: Gardens by the Bay
Start your day with a visit to Gardens by the Bay, a magnificent nature park. In the morning, explore the various themed gardens and be amazed by the Supertree Grove. In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories. In the evening, catch the mesmerizing Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at the Supertree Grove.
Gardens by the Bay: Free (conservatories have entrance fee), 4-6 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Artichoke Cafe. This cozy eatery offers a range of breakfast options such as avocado toast, scrambled eggs, and hearty breakfast bowls. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Lau Pa Sat. This bustling hawker center offers a wide variety of local and international cuisine at affordable prices. Try the famous satay or indulge in some freshly made noodles. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Labyrinth. This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases innovative Singaporean cuisine with a twist. Indulge in dishes like chili crab ice cream and laksa-inspired pasta. Average cost for a meal is about $80 per person.
Sunday September 3: Sentosa Island
Escape to the island paradise of Sentosa. In the morning, relax on the beautiful beaches or visit the free attractions like Sentosa Merlion and Fort Siloso Skywalk. In the afternoon, explore the S.E.A. Aquarium, home to over 100,000 marine animals. In the evening, enjoy the Wings of Time show, a spectacular multimedia show with water, laser, and fire effects.
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Tanjong Beach Club, where you can enjoy a scenic beachside setting and indulge in a variety of brunch options. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For lunch, head to Trapizza, a casual Italian eatery located by the beach. Treat yourself to their wood-fired pizzas and refreshing cocktails while enjoying the sea view. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
In the evening, dine at Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora, located within the S.E.A. Aquarium. Experience a unique underwater dining experience surrounded by mesmerizing marine life. Average cost for a meal is about $80 per person.
Monday September 4: Kampong Glam and Little India
Experience the cultural diversity of Singapore. In the morning, visit Kampong Glam, a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful shophouses and the majestic Sultan Mosque. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of Little India, where you can find aromatic spices, traditional textiles, and delicious Indian cuisine. In the evening, take a stroll along Arab Street and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Kampong Glam: Free, 2-3 hours
Little India: Free, 2-3 hours
Arab Street: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday September 5: Marina Bay Sands and Merlion Park
Discover the iconic landmarks of Marina Bay. In the morning, visit Marina Bay Sands, an architectural marvel with stunning views from its SkyPark. In the afternoon, explore Merlion Park and take a photo with the iconic half-lion, half-fish statue. In the evening, enjoy a light show at the Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza.
Marina Bay Sands: Free (access to SkyPark has entrance fee), 2-3 hours
Merlion Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Marina Bay Sands Light Show: Free, 30 minutes
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Toast Box at Marina Bay Sands, where you can enjoy traditional Singaporean kaya toast and a cup of kopi. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try Satay by the Bay, a casual open-air waterfront food court near Marina Bay Sands. Indulge in flavorful Singaporean satay skewers and other local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, dine at Makansutra Gluttons Bay, a bustling hawker center located near the Esplanade. Feast on a variety of Singaporean street food classics like Hainanese chicken rice and char kway teow. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Wednesday September 6: Singapore River Cruise and Bugis Street
Experience the charm of the Singapore River. In the morning, take a relaxing river cruise and admire the city's skyline. In the afternoon, visit Bugis Street, a bustling shopping street with affordable fashion, accessories, and street food. In the evening, explore Haji Lane, a quirky street lined with colorful murals, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Singapore River Cruise: SGD 25, 1-2 hours
Bugis Street: Free, 2-3 hours
Haji Lane: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a traditional Singaporean breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Enjoy a plate of kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and a cup of local kopi (coffee). Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Albert Centre Market & Food Centre where you can find a wide variety of affordable local delights such as Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Average cost for a meal is about $6 per person.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at Lau Pa Sat, a historic hawker center in the heart of Singapore's central business district. Try the satay, grilled seafood, or local delicacies like chicken rice and chili crab. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Thursday September 7: Haw Par Villa and Food Adventure
Discover the offbeat attraction of Haw Par Villa. In the morning, explore this unique theme park filled with Chinese mythology statues and exhibits. In the afternoon, embark on a food adventure and try local delights at hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre or Chinatown Complex Food Centre. In the evening, relax at the picturesque Marina Barrage, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
Haw Par Villa: Free, 2-3 hours
Hawker Center Food: SGD 5-10 per dish, 2-3 hours
Marina Barrage: Free, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit Kampong Lorong Buangkok, the last surviving village on mainland Singapore, where you can experience a traditional kampung (village) atmosphere amidst the urban cityscape. Locals also love exploring Tiong Bahru, a charming neighborhood known for its hip cafes, independent bookstores, and unique architecture.