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Singapore is a bustling city-state known for its rich culture, delicious food, and unique attractions. With just 36 hours to explore this vibrant city, you might be wondering where to start. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll share our recommendations for the top things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around to make the most of your short stay in Singapore.
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Where to Stay for 36 Hours In Singapore
To make the most of your time in Singapore, we recommend staying in a central location. One great option is the Marina Bay Sands, which boasts stunning views of the city skyline. You’ll be conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions. Alternatively, you can also consider the chic and trendy boutique hotels in the Kampong Glam and Joo Chiat neighborhoods for a more local experience.
Recommended Hotels In Singapore
There are many great hotels to choose from in Singapore, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Here are a few recommendations based on different budgets and preferences:
Marina Bay Sands
Price: £££ | Hotel rating: 9.1 | Stars: 5
This iconic hotel features a rooftop infinity pool, a casino, and stunning views of the city. It is located in the heart of the Marina Bay area, close to many of Singapore’s top attractions.
The Fullerton Hotel
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 8.8 | Stars: 5
This 5-star hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building, with spacious rooms and stunning views of the Singapore River. It features an outdoor infinity pool, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options.
PARKROYAL on Pickering
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 8.7 | Stars: 5
This eco-friendly hotel features a unique design that incorporates lush greenery and waterfalls throughout the building. It is located in the bustling Chinatown neighborhood, close to many restaurants and shops.
Hotel Boss
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 6.8 | Stars: 4
This budget-friendly hotel is located in the trendy Bugis area, with easy access to many of Singapore’s top attractions. It features modern rooms and a rooftop swimming pool with a great view of the city.
How to Get Around Singapore
Getting around Singapore is relatively easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. You can take the MRT subway or buses to get around, or try the iconic cable cars to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Alternatively, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab to navigate the city with ease.
Where to Eat In Singapore
Singapore is known for its incredible food scene, so be sure to indulge in some of the local delights. For breakfast, head to a hawker center and try the classic Singaporean breakfast of kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs. At lunch, head to a local restaurant and try the famous chili crab or Hainanese chicken rice. For dinner, head to a hawker center and try some of the delicious street food like laksa, rojak, or char kway teow.
How To Spend 36 Hours In Singapore
Day 1
Morning
Gardens by the Bay
Once you arrive in Singapore and settle into your hotel, it’s time to kickstart your 36-hour adventure. Begin your day by heading to Gardens by the Bay, a magnificent nature park that opens at 9 AM. This sprawling attraction offers a diverse range of experiences.
Start by exploring the Flower Dome, an amazing conservatory that showcases a range of plant species from around the world. Enjoy the vibrant colors and scents as you stroll through this horticultural paradise.
Next, make your way to the Cloud Forest, an indoor waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. Take a walk through the misty Cloud Walk and discover rare plant species, as well as educational exhibits on environmental sustainability.
Supertree Grove
After immersing yourself in the beauty of Gardens by the Bay, head over to the Supertree Grove. These towering structures, adorned with vertical gardens, are a true architectural marvel. For an incredible view of the gardens and the city skyline, venture onto the OCBC Skyway, a suspended walkway connecting the supertrees. Experience the breathtaking panoramic vista from above.
Satay by the Bay
As your morning adventure works up an appetite, take a short stroll to Satay by the Bay hawker center. This open-air food court offers a range of local dishes. Treat yourself to a traditional Singaporean breakfast of kaya toast, a delectable spread of coconut jam on crispy toast, accompanied by a cup of fragrant local coffee.
After fueling up, you’ll be ready to continue your exploration of Singapore’s vibrant attractions.
Afternoon
Marina Bay Sands
Head to Marina Bay Sands and make your way up to the Skypark Observation Deck. This iconic landmark offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Capture memorable photos of Singapore’s stunning skyline, including the famous Marina Bay Sands hotel itself.
ArtScience Museum
Located nearby is the ArtScience Museum, a fascinating institution that combines art, science, and technology. Explore the various interactive exhibitions and immerse yourself in their displays that showcase the intersection of creativity and innovation.
Helix Bridge
Continue your journey by taking a leisurely stroll along the Helix Bridge. This architectural masterpiece, resembling the structure of a DNA helix, offers mesmerizing views of Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, and the cityscape. Enjoy the surroundings as you cross this pedestrian bridge.
Chinatown
Next, head to Chinatown, a vibrant neighborhood steeped in history and culture. Indulge in a delightful lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can savor an array of mouthwatering dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Singapore’s famous street food such as satay skewers and chili crab, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
While in Chinatown, explore the lively streets lined with traditional shophouses and vibrant market stalls. Make a visit to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, a strikingly beautiful Buddhist temple adorned with intricate architectural details. Inside, you can discover artifacts and learn about Buddhist culture and history.
Chinatown is also an excellent place to pick up unique souvenirs or explore traditional Chinese medicine shops, tea houses, and quaint boutiques.
Evening
Marina Bay Sands
Make your way back to Marina Bay Sands in time for the stunning light and water show. Known as the “Spectra,” this captivating extravaganza combines light, water, and music to create a mesmerizing spectacle. Watch as the synchronized fountains dance and the illuminated jets create a symphony of colors. The show typically takes place in the evening, so be sure to check the schedule beforehand.
Clarke Quay
After the show, it’s time to head to Clarke Quay, a vibrant riverside district renowned for its bustling nightlife. Clarke Quay is packed with a wide array of bars, restaurants, and clubs, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s taste.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the many dining establishments along the waterfront. Whether you’re craving local Singaporean cuisine or international fare, Clarke Quay offers a diverse selection of dining options to satisfy your palate.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the quay, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The colorful shophouses and illuminated riverfront create a lively ambiance. You can choose to relax at a riverside bar, enjoy live music, or even hop on a river cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
If you’re in the mood for some dancing or late-night entertainment, Clarke Quay has a vibrant club scene. From energetic clubs playing the latest hits to venues featuring live bands, you’ll find a range of options to suit your preferences.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast at a hawker center
Start your morning by indulging in a delicious breakfast at one of Singapore’s famous hawker centers. Maxwell Food Centre, Tiong Bahru Market, and Lau Pa Sat are all excellent options. These vibrant food centers offer a wide variety of local dishes, from traditional staples like kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs to favorites like chicken rice and roti prata.
Merlion Park
After breakfast, make your way to the iconic Merlion Park, located near Marina Bay. This popular tourist spot is home to the iconic Merlion statue, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. Capture memorable photos with this symbol of Singapore and learn about its significance as a representation of the city’s history and maritime roots.
Civic District
From there, take a leisurely stroll around the Civic District, an area that showcases Singapore’s rich heritage and historic landmarks. Continue your walk to the National Gallery Singapore, housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, which now hosts an impressive collection of Southeast Asian art.
As you explore the Civic District, don’t miss the chance to admire the stunning architecture of the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall. This iconic venue has played a significant role in Singapore’s cultural scene since the 19th century.
Afternoon
Kampong Glam
For lunch, head to the vibrant Kampong Glam neighborhood, known for its rich Malay and Arab heritage. This bustling area is filled with colorful streets and trendy boutiques. Explore the narrow lanes and browse through the unique shops that sell everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to modern fashion and art.
While in Kampong Glam, be sure to visit the iconic Sultan Mosque. This stunning mosque with its golden domes and intricate architecture is a significant religious site for Singapore’s Muslim community. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the mosque and learn about its cultural and historical significance.
Little India
After immersing yourself in Kampong Glam, make your way to Little India, a lively neighborhood that offers a taste of Indian culture and cuisine. Take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets filled with vibrant shops, aromatic spice stores, and colorful textiles.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest and most ornate Hindu temples. Adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant colors, it is dedicated to the goddess Kali. Take in the temple’s architectural beauty and experience the rich traditions of Hinduism.
National Museum of Singapore
To further enrich your understanding of Singapore’s history and culture, visit the National Museum of Singapore. This prestigious institution showcases the country’s heritage through a range of exhibits and artifacts. Explore the galleries and learn about Singapore’s transformation from its early days to the modern metropolis it is today. Gain insights into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the nation.
Evening
Marina Bay Sands Casino
Head to Marina Bay Sands Casino for an evening of excitement. This world-class casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including table games, slot machines, and more. Test your luck and try your hand at the tables while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the casino.
Singapore River
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Singapore River, where you can admire the enchanting city lights reflecting on the water. The riverside promenade offers a serene ambiance and stunning views of Singapore’s skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion statue. It’s the perfect way to unwind and take in the beauty of the city at night.
To end your day on a high note, head to one of Singapore’s renowned rooftop bars. 1-Altitude, Ce La Vi, and Lantern are just a few examples of rooftop establishments that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or a glass of champagne as you revel in the mesmerizing cityscape spread out before you. These rooftop bars provide the perfect ambiance for a nightcap and a memorable conclusion to your Singapore adventure.
Please note that entry to the casino and rooftop bars may be subject to age restrictions and dress codes, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance.
How To Spend 36 Hours In Singapore Map
In just 36 hours, you can experience some of the best that Singapore has to offer. From its stunning gardens to its vibrant culture and mouthwatering food, Singapore is truly a city that has something for everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to plan your own adventure in this exciting city-state!
