Singapore, the Lion City, beckons with its unique blend of cultures, tantalizing food, and dazzling attractions. But how do you make the most of your time in this urban wonderland? You’re in the right place! In this blog post, we’ll share our personal experiences, essential tips, and a detailed Singapore itinerary that’ll help you navigate this vibrant city with ease. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Content Teaser
Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our Singapore trips tour for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
March / September / November
Travel Mode
Journey / Layovers
Our Must-Sees
Gardens by the Bay, Spectra, Haji Lane, Orchard Road
Where to stay
Lloyd’s Inn & The Clan
Plant-Based Food
Mobility
Grab (like Uber)
Travel Budget
Minimum 350€ per day / 510 SGD
Exploring Singapore’s Best-Kept Secrets: Our Top Must-See Picks
Gardens by the Bay: Where Every Evening is a Celebration
As you step into Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, prepare to be enchanted by a world of natural beauty and architectural wonders. Let’s be honest; trying to explore this vast area in a single day is like trying to eat every flavor of ice cream in one sitting – it’s delightful, but overwhelming! That’s why we recommend making this a place you return to every evening.
What makes the evenings here so special? The answer lies in the Supertrees. These towering structures, resembling futuristic trees from another world, come alive at night with a mesmerizing light and sound show. The best part? It’s absolutely free! Imagine grabbing some takeout from the city, finding a cozy spot under these luminous giants, and simply basking in the evening’s magic.
But Gardens by the Bay offers more than just Supertree spectacles. While some attractions within the Gardens come with a price tag, a few are well worth it. The Supertree Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, while the Cloud Forest takes you on a journey through misty mountaintops and lush vegetation, complete with a stunning waterfall.
As you explore Gardens by the Bay, you’ll find that every corner hides a new wonder. This place truly captures the essence of Singapore – a harmonious blend of nature and innovation. So, make it a point to return here every evening; it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.
Spectra Light Show
While exploring Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Spectra Light Show, an enchanting spectacle that’s just a short walk away from the Supertrees. Located directly in front of the famous Marina Bay Hotel, this show is a must-see addition to your Singapore itinerary, and the best part? It’s absolutely free!
The Spectra Light Show takes place twice every evening, but here’s a tip: don’t arrive too late, as it tends to get crowded. However, the spacious setting ensures you won’t feel cramped as you join fellow spectators.
The atmosphere surrounding the Spectra Light Show is simply unique. The blend of vibrant colors, captivating music, and the mesmerizing dance of water and light creates an ambiance like no other. It’s a sensory journey that transports you to another world, right in the heart of Singapore.
Now, we’ve seen renowned light and water shows, including the one at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. However, there’s something about Spectra that sets it apart. It’s an experience that we’d choose time and time again. The picturesque backdrop of Marina Bay and the city’s skyline adds to the magic, making it a memory you won’t forget.
The Merlion: Where Views and Fun Collide
Visiting the Merlion isn’t just about capturing the stunning backdrop of Marina Bay; it’s also an opportunity for a bit of playful fun. While it may seem a tad goofy and cliché, consider joining the tradition of taking a quirky photo or video at the Merlion, pretending to sip the water spouting from its mouth.
Think of it as Singapore’s version of those classic photos in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where folks attempt to hold up the leaning tower. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s undeniably amusing to watch fellow visitors get creative with their snapshots.
So, strike a pose, have a laugh, and create a memorable Merlion moment—it’s all part of the fun when exploring Singapore’s iconic sights!
Restful Retreats: Where to Stay in Singapore
Choosing where to stay in Singapore is a delightful challenge because the options are as diverse as the city itself. From luxury resorts to boutique hotels and charming hostels, Singapore has it all. We could attempt to cover them all, but let’s be real—our experiences are what truly matter.
Our trusted homebase in Singapore has consistently been Lloyds Inn, a hidden gem tucked away near Orchard Road. With its cozy atmosphere and a limited number of rooms, it offers a quiet oasis in the heart of the bustling city. It’s the perfect blend of affordable luxury and relaxation in Singapore, and it never fails to meet our expectations.
However, on our last visit, we decided to venture into a higher price range and opted for The Clan. Let us tell you, every cent spent was absolutely worth it. The highlight? The rooftop Skyline Pool, a rarity in Singapore. It’s an oasis of tranquility where you can soak in the breathtaking views, especially during sunset.
So, whether you prefer the serene charm of Lloyds Inn or the elevated luxury of The Clan, Singapore’s accommodation options cater to all tastes and budgets. It’s your home away from home while exploring this vibrant city.
Eating Green in the Lion City: Vegan and Vegetarian Delights
Much like choosing accommodations in Singapore, attempting to cluster all the dining options would be a near-impossible feat. Singapore’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, offering an array of flavors from around the world. However, we’ve discovered some hidden gems that have become our personal highlights.
One such gem is “The Kind Bowl,” a quaint vegan eatery tucked away on Killiney Road, near Orchard Road. For us, it’s an absolute standout. The menu offers a delightful range of vegan dishes that are not only delectable but also wholesome. The flavors are a true celebration of plant-based cuisine.
Another spot we ventured into is “Genesis,” located close to the Singapore River in a shopping mall. While it was a pleasant dining experience, it didn’t quite reach the same level of distinction as The Kind Bowl. Sometimes, simplicity and authenticity can make all the difference.
For a memorable plant-based meal with a view, we also tried “NomVNom Bistro,” situated in another shopping mall right next to the Singapore River. The culinary offerings here are commendable, and it’s a great choice for those seeking vegan and vegetarian options in the city.
Singapore undoubtedly boasts an exceptional culinary scene, including high-class cuisine that tempts every palate. However, traveling with two little ones often led us to opt for the more casual and family-friendly establishments. It’s all about finding the balance between savoring local flavors and keeping everyone happy!
From A to B: Our Journey Through Singapore’s Diverse Mobility Options
Getting around Singapore has become an increasingly smooth experience for us with each visit, much like refining one’s skills over time. Our transportation choices have evolved, reflecting the changing needs and dynamics of our trips.
On our very first visit to the Lion City, we opted for the simplicity of a taxi from the airport to our hotel. The allure of convenience was hard to resist, especially after long flights with the kids and all that luggage. However, if we were traveling without children, Singapore’s public transportation system would have been a top consideration. It left us with the impression of being super reliable, affordable, and safe.
Fast forward to our most recent stay in Singapore, and our go-to option has become Grab, the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber. The concept is identical – link your credit card, select your pick-up point and desired destination, and enjoy a seamless ride. Plus, Grab offers a cost-effective advantage during off-peak hours, making it a budget-friendly choice. However, if you plan to head to Gardens by the Bay during peak times, be prepared for slightly higher fares.
Balancing the Budget: What We Spent in Singapore
Accomodation
190€/night (including breakfast) x 3 nights = 570€
Food & Dining
Dumpling Street Market Festival: 20€ per person = 80€
Lucky Ducks: Approximately 100€
Mobility
Rental car = 1.080€
Ferry = 300€
Petrol/Parking = 305€
Activities
Finders National Park = 25€
Total Spent
3.544€ / 5.856 AUD
Picture-Perfect Moments: Instagrammable Spots in Singapore
Singapore boasts a multitude of picturesque spots that are worth exploring, but there’s just too much beauty to cover in one section. For detailed information, including GPS coordinates and our top photo recommendations for Singapore, be sure to check out our dedicated blog post. In this section, we’ll touch on some of the highlights, such as Gardens by the Bay, the Merlion, and more.
Best Insta Spots
in Singapore
Your Singapore Adventure: Frequently Asked Questions
Singapore’s weather is generally warm and humid year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from February to April.
The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). You can conveniently exchange money at various locations throughout the city, including banks, exchange counters, and ATMs. It’s worth noting that credit cards are widely accepted in Singapore, especially in larger establishments and restaurants. However, in some smaller shops or local markets, cash might be the preferred payment method. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be prepared for both forms of payment to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience during your visit.
Lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and an umbrella are essentials. Singapore is generally hot and humid. It’s worth noting that even though it may often appear cloudy, it’s usually due to the humidity and not necessarily pollution. Therefore, don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong tropical sun.
Yes, tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. You can refill your water bottles at public water fountains.
You can take a taxi, use ride-sharing apps like Grab, or hop on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) train to reach the city center.
Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, Marina Bay Sands, Chinatown, and Little India are among the top attractions.
Yes, you can fly a drone in Singapore, but it’s essential to adhere to the regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and privacy of the public. Some key rules to keep in mind include:
- Registering your drone with CAAS if it weighs 250 grams or more.
- Flying your drone below 61 meters (200 feet) above ground level.
- Maintaining a safe distance from people, buildings, and vehicles.
- Avoiding flying in restricted areas, such as near airports and military installations.
- Respecting the privacy of individuals and refraining from recording or photographing them without their consent.
- Flying your drone during daylight hours and in good weather conditions.
- Keeping your drone in sight at all times.
Before flying your drone in Singapore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the complete set of regulations provided by CAAS. Failure to comply with these rules may result in fines or other penalties.