12 Days Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Singapore

  • Day 1: Marina Bay Sands
    20 minutes (10 km) from Changi Airport

    Start your Singaporean adventure by admiring the iconic Marina Bay Sands, a luxurious resort and casino that dominates Singapore's skyline. Take a stroll around the stunning Gardens by the Bay and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the Marina Bay Sands Skypark.

  • Day 2: Chinatown
    10 minutes (5 km) from Marina Bay Sands

    Explore the colorful and vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, where you can find a mix of ancient temples, street vendors, and traditional shophouses. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, the Sri Mariamman Temple, and the Chinatown Heritage Centre to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

  • Day 3: Sentosa Island
    30 minutes (15 km) from Chinatown

    Escape from the bustling city and spend a day relaxing on Sentosa Island. Take a dip in the turquoise waters of Palawan Beach, indulge in some thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore, and don't miss the magical light and water show, Wings of Time, at Siloso Beach.

  • Day 4: Gardens By the Bay
    5 minutes (2 km) from Chinatown

    Try to see the Gardens By the Bay in the morning when the sun isn't too hot. Marvel at the Supertree Grove and OCBC Skyway, and walk through the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, two giant domed conservatories with an impressive collection of flora and fauna.

  • Day 5: Clarke Quay
    10 minutes (5 km) from Gardens By the Bay

    Head to Clarke Quay, a picturesque riverside area packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs. Take a river cruise to see the city from a different angle, dine at one of the waterside restaurants, and then relax with a cold drink and soak up the vibrant nightlife.

  • Day 6: Singapore Zoo
    30 minutes (18 km) from Clarke Quay

    Visit Singapore Zoo to see over 2,800 animals from more than 300 species. Don't miss the chance to see the orangutans swing through the trees and catch the shows like the Elephants at Work And Play and Rainforest Fights Back. The Night Safari is also a must-visit attraction of Singapore Zoo.

  • Day 7: National Museum of Singapore
    20 minutes (13 km) from Singapore Zoo

    Learn about Singapore's rich history and cultural development at the National Museum of Singapore. You'll find exhibits that range from the city's early days to modern times. Don't forget to check out the stunning architecture of the building.

  • Day 8: Merlion Park
    20 minutes (12 km) from National Museum of Singapore

    Strike your best pose at Merlion Park, a popular landmark that features the iconic mythical creature - the half-fish, half-lion mascot of Singapore. Take a stroll and enjoy a breathtaking view of both Marina Bay and Singapore River.

  • Day 9: Kampong Glam
    15 minutes (7 km) from Merlion Park

    Take a journey to the Malay culture by visiting Kampong Glam, where you can explore the colorful streets, browse the shops for trinkets, or enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish coffee. Make sure you snap some pictures with the colorful street art.

  • Day 10: Haw Par Villa
    20 minutes (12 km) from Kampong Glam

    Get creeped out by the nightmarish statues at the Haw Par Villa, an exceptionally strange amusement park that was built in 1937. The park has over 1,000 realistic sculptures and dioramas that depict Chinese mythology and legends.

  • Day 11: Marina Bay Financial Centre Park
    10 minutes (5 km) from Haw Par Villa

    Enjoy the beautiful view of Marina Bay and take a relaxing stroll through the Marina Bay Financial Centre Park. The park has plenty of green grass, fountains, and seating areas. When the sun sets, enjoy the stunning view of the city lights.

  • Day 12: Changi Beach Park
    20 minutes (8 km) from Marina Bay Financial Centre Park

    End your Singaporean trip by chilling at Changi Beach Park, a popular spot among locals for its tranquility and relaxation. Picnic on the beach, rent a bike, or simply take a walk on the boardwalk and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Singapore Strait.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Marina Bay Sands (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Chinatown (3-4 hours, Free)
  • Sentosa Island (6-7 hours, Free - $30)
  • Gardens By the Bay (3-4 hours, $12-16)
  • Clarke Quay (2-3 hours, Free - $50)
  • Singapore Zoo (4-5 hours, $33-42)
  • National Museum of Singapore (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Merlion Park (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Kampong Glam (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Haw Par Villa (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Marina Bay Financial Centre Park (1 hour, Free)
  • Changi Beach Park (3-4 hours, Free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $45 - $90

Transportation

Public transportation in Singapore is affordable and efficient. The MRT or Mass Rapid Transit Subway System is a great way to get around the city. A single ride is $1 to $2.50 depending on the distance you're traveling. Taxis are also metered and very affordable. Fares start at $3.25.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands, the Trick Eye Museum in Sentosa, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens. If you are staying longer, you can also explore nearby countries like Malaysia and Indonesia. If you have less time, consider skipping out on Haw Par Villa, Marina Bay Financial Centre Park, or Changi Beach Park.

Airports

Singapore has one major airport - Changi Airport (SIN). It is one of the busiest airports in the world, located about 20 km northeast of the city center. You can get to the city via taxi, train, bus, or shuttle service. Singapore offers a free 2-hour city tour for passengers transiting through Changi Airport.

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