Guide to Spending a Weekend in Singapore

Singapore is an island city-state in Southeast Asia and a vibrant blend of cultures, modernity, and natural beauty. Known for its futuristic skyline, rich heritage, and world-class attractions, Singapore offers a unique experience for travelers.

A weekend here is an excellent opportunity to dive into the city’s multifaceted charm, from its busy shopping districts to serene gardens and diverse culinary scene. Singapore ensures a weekend full of discovery and delight whether you’re wandering through ethnic neighborhoods, marveling at architectural wonders, or savoring the local delicacies. Without further ado, here’s our guide on how to spend a weekend in Singapore;

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Best Time to Visit Singapore

Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s warm and humid year-round, making it a destination you can visit anytime. However, the best time to visit is from February to April when the weather is slightly cooler and less humid, perfect for outdoor activities.

The Great Singapore Sale in June and July is ideal for shopping enthusiasts, while the Singapore Grand Prix in September offers a thrilling experience for motorsport fans.

Things to do in Singapore

Explore Gardens by the Bay

Start your weekend with a visit to the iconic Gardens by the Bay, one of Singapore’s most famous attractions. This sprawling garden spans over 101 hectares and is home to stunning outdoor gardens and including the impressive indoor conservatories like the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.

The Supertree Grove, with its towering vertical gardens, offers a breathtaking sight, especially during the evening light show. Spend your morning exploring the various themed gardens, taking in the diversity of plant life from around the world. Don’t miss the aerial walkway for panoramic views of the city.

Discover Cultural Riches in Chinatown

Head over to Chinatown for a deep dive into Singapore’s cultural heritage. This historic district is a melting pot of Chinese traditions, evident in its temples, markets, and cuisine. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a magnificent structure housing what is believed to be the Buddha’s tooth.

Stroll through the vibrant streets lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs to traditional Chinese medicine. For lunch, indulge in local delicacies at the Chinatown Complex Food Centre, where you can try dishes like Hainanese chicken rice or char kway teow. The area also offers insight into the fusion of old and new, with modern cafes and boutique shops nestled among historic buildings.

Indulge in Shopping and Entertainment on Orchard Road

No trip to Singapore is complete without experiencing Orchard Road, the city’s premier shopping belt. Spend your afternoon wandering through the vast array of shopping malls, ranging from luxury brands to high-street fashion and unique local boutiques.

If shopping isn’t your primary interest, the area is also home to several art galleries and the Istana. It is the official residence of the President of Singapore, which opens its doors to the public on select days. As evening approaches, consider catching a movie at one of the upscale cinemas or dining at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city.

Experience the Nightlife at Clarke Quay

As night falls, Clarke Quay comes alive as Singapore’s premier nightlife hub. This historic riverside quay, once an active center for trade, has been transformed into a vibrant district filled with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The colorful, restored warehouses now house some of the city’s most popular spots for an evening out.

For a laid-back start to your evening, head to one of the many riverside bars where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the views of the Singapore River. Brewerkz, a well-known microbrewery, offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. A pint here will cost you around SGD 15–18, making it a great place to start your night. If you prefer cocktails, try Café Iguana, where a margarita will set you back around SGD 20.

For something a bit different, head to Crazy Elephant, a live music bar known for its rock and blues performances. Drinks here are priced around SGD 15–20. Clarke Quay’s nightlife scene is diverse, offering something for everyone, whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy live music in a more intimate setting.

If you’re looking for a quieter end to your evening, consider taking a river cruise. The 40-minute ride offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, with iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion beautifully illuminated at night.

Enjoy a Day on Sentosa Island

On your second day, escape the urban hustle and head to Sentosa Island, Singapore’s ultimate resort getaway. Start your day at Universal Studios Singapore, where thrilling rides and entertainment await. Tickets are priced around SGD 81 for adults and SGD 61 for children, providing a full day of fun for the whole family.

If theme parks aren’t your thing, Sentosa offers a variety of beaches like Palawan and Siloso where you can relax or indulge in water sports. Entry to the beaches is free, but activities like kayaking or paddleboarding can range from SGD 15–30. For a more educational experience, visit the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world.  After exploring, grab lunch at one of the island’s beachfront restaurants.

Coastes, located on Siloso Beach, offers a relaxed dining experience with dishes like fish and chips. As the day winds down, don’t miss the Wings of Time show, a spectacular display of water, lights. Tickets are priced at SGD 18 for standard seating, and the show provides a mesmerizing end to your Sentosa adventure.

Explore Little India

Before you wrap up your weekend, take some time to explore Little India, one of Singapore’s most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods. Wander through the bustling streets filled with spice shops, sari stores, and traditional Indian eateries. Visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural atmosphere.

Entry to the temple is free, but donations are welcomed. Little India is also a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, from handcrafted jewelry to spices. For lunch, head to Komala Vilas, a well-loved vegetarian restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional Indian meal for around SGD 10–15. Don’t forget to try a refreshing masala chai, priced at about SGD 2, to complete your experience.

Conclusion

As your weekend in Singapore wraps up, the only logical conclusion is a trip back to Changi Airport—because if ever there was an airport designed to make you wish your flight was delayed, this is it. Take one last lap around the shops, grab some duty-free goodies, and revel in the quiet satisfaction that comes with having tackled the Lion City in just 48 hours. I can’t think of a better way of ending a trip than grabbing a few souvenirs.