Discover the magic of Singapore in just 3 days with less than S$370!
This budget-friendly itinerary lets you explore iconic sights, vibrant markets, and cultural gems without breaking the bank.
From the stunning Gardens by the Bay to lively Clarke Quay, learn how each day unfolds excitement and unique experiences that promise to make your visit unforgettable.
Keep reading to see how! 😊
3 Days in Singapore Itinerary: Budget Breakdown and Map
If you follow my suggested itinerary in here, your travel expenses for a 3-day trip to Singapore will be about S$ 363.04, not including flight costs.
Note that single trip tickets are no longer available at MRT stations. Instead, you’ll need an MRT card, called a SimplyGo EZ-Link Card, to use the train.
This card costs S$ 10—S$ 5 for the card and another S$ 5 as a starting balance for trips.
You can purchase an MRT card at any MRT station.
Day 1: HSBC Rain Vortex, Bugis, Merlion Statue and Orchard
11:00 AM: HSBC Rain Vortex
Commence your day 1 itinerary with a trip to the stunning HSBC Rain Vortex. Since this is located at Jewel Changi Airport, it’s the best place to kick off your Singapore escapade.
This towering indoor waterfall is a world-class attraction that stands 40 meters tall.
Surrounding this architectural marvel is a visual spectacle of lush landscapes. Take a snap of the cascading waters or simply bask in its mesmerizing allure.
Next, Proceed to Check-in at Your Hotel:
After enjoying the HSBC Rain Vortex, you can head to your hotel either by taking the MRT from Changi MRT Station or by booking a private airport car transfer here for a hassle-free journey.
12:00 PM: Check in Hotel
Below are my top hotel recommendations in Singapore. Options No. 3, No. 5, and No. 6 are great for those seeking more affordable accommodations:
- YOTEL Singapore Orchard (Agoda | Booking.com): This hotel is near Orchard MRT Station and surrounded by many eateries, thanks to the numerous shopping malls in the area.
- Holiday Inn Express Singapore Orchard Road (Agoda | Booking.com): Located opposite Orchard Street, this hotel is perfect for shopaholics and is conveniently close to Orchard and Somerset MRT Stations.
- ibis budget Singapore Clarke Quay (Agoda | Booking.com): If you’re on a budget, this hotel is ideal as it’s near Clarke Quay MRT Station and surrounded by many restaurants.
- Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay (Agoda | Booking.com): Another excellent option for those looking for comfortable accommodations.
- V Hotel Bencoolen (Agoda | Booking.com): Situated right beside Exit A of Bencoolen MRT Station, it’s also very close to Bugis, where you’ll find Bugis Street Market, a Albert Centre Hawker Center, and shopping malls.
- Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen Hotel (Agoda | Booking.com): Just a short walk from Albert Centre Hawker Center and near both Bugis Street Market and Bugis Junction Shopping Mall. It’s also easily accessible from Bencoolen MRT Station.
1:00 PM: Josh’s Grill – Bugis Junction (Lunch)
Nestled right in the heart of Bugis Junction, this is highly recommended for your first day.
Take a seat at Josh’s Grill and refuel for the next adventure. They have grilled chicken chops with special options like tomahawk and porterhouse steaks.
Savor these hearty meals for your lunch or try their fish & chips. If you want something not heavy, they also have spaghetti.
The classic dishes and inviting atmosphere make this popular eatery a nice choice for lunch.
2:00 PM: Bugis Street Market
Get started with the afternoon escape at Bugis Street Market. This bustling section contains a variety of local stores, offering various items.
Roam around the vibrant shops with trendy clothing, bags, accessories, and souvenirs.
Apart from the assortment of displays, the bargain prices make Bugis Street Market very popular. Put your haggling skills into action and save money when shopping.
There are also plenty of food stalls to energize you all throughout.
Check out different traditional snacks and refreshments, like the ice kacang. Savor the sweetness of this icy dessert before you continue with your shopping spree.
Read Also: 10 Best Things to Do in Bugis Singapore
3:30 PM: Haji Lane
Embark further on your after journey through the narrow yet vivid alley of Haji Lane.
This is a hipster paradise with all sorts of fashion items and quirky crafts. Drop by one indie boutique to another and take pictures of the multi-hued facade.
The chromatic street art and murals are perfect for your photo backdrops.
While roaming around the animated street, check out some trendy cafes. Eccentric and lively bars are dotted along the pathway to keep you entertained.
Enjoy a cup of coffee or savor a cocktail for two.
4:30 PM: Sultan Mosque and Bussorah Street
After the whimsical pursuit, it’s time for some cultural exploration. The stunning Sultan Mosque is a prominent landmark of the Islamic heritage.
Glory in the majestic golden dome that glitters along Muscat Street. Just beside the spectacular mosque is another remarkable attraction.
Walk around the culturally rich Bussorah Street filled with traditional shops.
Most of these stalls put on display special Malay clothing and unique craft items. Delve into the Malay-Muslim community by trying some local street food options.
5:30 PM: Merlion Statue
Take a mandatory pose with the famous Merlion Statue. Seeing this prominent landmark has always been one of the best activities during your first visit.
It’s easy to identify this structure because of its stunning features — a lion head on a fish body. This mythical symbol stands tall along Marina Bay.
Find a spot near the statue and capture the nearby waterfront for a beautiful picture. The surrounding skyline makes the piece even more majestic.
6:30 PM: Lau Pa Sat (Dinner)
There’s nothing better than dining at Lau Pa Sat after your photo sessions with the Merlion. Enter this Victorian structure and be amazed at its myriads of food choices.
The famous food court delivers a variety of local and international dishes to satisfy your hunger. After sunset, the nearby street becomes another food spot called Satay Street.
Try some satay and enjoy these skewered meats as you explore other sections.
Look around the different local favorites, from Hainanese chicken rice to laksa. Truly, this place is more than just a food spot. It’s a cultural experience not to miss out.
7:30 PM: Orchard Road
Cap off your day at Orchard Road and revel in its sophisticated ambiance. This premier shopping destination welcomes you to a breathtaking variety of malls and boutiques.
Venture into a memorable shopping experience as you navigate around various international brands. As a shopping haven, the place offers more than just fashion stores and lifestyle stalls.
It’s brimming with art galleries and cinemas to make the atmosphere even more festive. At night, the street illuminates into a breathtaking canvas of towering buildings and posh facades.
Day 2: Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and Singapore Flyer
10:00 AM: Gardens by the Bay
a. Cloud Forest
Get started with your second day pursuit at the picturesque Cloud Forest. Nestled within Gardens by the Bay, the expansive greenhouse is the home to thousands of plant species.
Upon entering the conservatory, you’ll come across a huge vertical garden with vivid flora. Wallow in the breathtaking plant life of different colors and shapes.
As you traverse along the pathway, ready yourself for the towering waterfall at 35-meter tall. Feel the breeze that envelops the place and capture lovely plants and flowers surrounding the area.
b. Jurassic Nest FoodHall (Lunch)
For a combination of culinary delights and architectural charms, head to Jurassic Nest FoodHall. This captivating food hall welcomes visitors with various food stalls.
If you’re craving some chicken and rice, there’s Hawker Chan. For ramen lovers, head to Tsuta for a delectable bowl of your favorite noodles.
There are also flavorful Indian dishes from Bismillah Biryani. And when it comes to Indonesian cuisine, you won’t be disappointed with Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang.
Most of the meals range between S$ 8 and S$ 12. Jurassic Nest Cafe is another option for those who prefer sandwiches, salads, and pasta.
c. Flower Dome
Get back to your scenic quest and embark on a floral escapade to Flower Dome. This vast glass conservatory features a diverse display of beautiful flowers and exotic plants.
Journey through the massive greenhouses with various themed gardens. Each continent delivers special floral landscapes that are perfect for photo opportunities.
Delve into this botanical sanctuary that highlights nature and artistry. The ethereal ambiance showcases a sensory experience like no other.
d. Supertree Grove
Wander amidst the lofty vertical gardens of Gardens by the Bay. The Supertree Grove is a collection of towering structures where diverse ecosystems thrive.
Each Supertree beautifully integrates nature into modern artistry for an enchanting glow. If you want to see more of its allure, take a trip to the OCBC Skyway.
This aerial walkway offers a surreal experience for an added fee. As the sun casts a golden hue, the Supertrees light up for a dazzling light show.
e. Floral Fantasy
Wrap up your Gardens by the Bay excursion at Floral Fantasy. This is a coveted destination, especially for those certified floral lovers.
Step inside this floral wonderland and voyage through vast and beautiful arrangements.
Each garden provides a unique sensory encounter to keep you fascinated.
Go on a rainforest walk or explore a cavernous section filled with hanging flowers. Some floral displays dance with the musical rhythm, adding to its mesmerizing beauty.
Tip: Purchase your Gardens by the Bay tickets online here to bypass the lengthy lines. With a QR code on your phone, you’ll gain quick entry.
5:00 PM: The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
By 5 PM, head to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands for some shopping explorations.
This upscale mall offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication and entertainment. Discover a myriad of high-end brands and international retail stores.
The Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining spots are also ready to delight your palate. For added entertainment, you can go to the luxury casino connected to it.
Read Also: 15 Best Things to Do in Marina Bay Sands You Can’t Miss
7:00 PM: Rasapura Masters (Dinner)
Indulge in a culinary retreat at Rasapura Masters. Located within The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, this food court offers more affordable dining options. Look into a wide selection of Asian dishes and Western cuisines.
Some must-try dinner choices are grilled meat and chicken chops. Enjoy a refreshment for a more satisfying treat. More than the variety and quality of food, many love the lively atmosphere of the place.
8:00 PM: Spectra Light Show
Bask in the mesmerizing symphony of light and sound through the Marina Bay Sands. This immersive show weaves together artistry and technology into one captivating show.
Watch how the synchronized water and lights move in accordance with the beat.
The dazzling Singapore skyline and scenic waterfront come alive with every movement. Make sure not to miss this beautiful spectacle of visual and auditory spectacles.
8:15 PM: Helix Bridge
Right after the captivating show, stroll along the curved pathway of Helix Bridge. At night, the intricate steel mesh forms into a radiant sculpture with a DNA outline.
This modern architecture spans across Marina Bay, creating a pedestrian bridge. Walk under the bridge’s canopy and see the peeking Singapore skyline.
8:30 PM: Singapore Flyer
Wind up your productive day with a relaxing retreat to Singapore Flyer. This popular observation wheel is renowned for its towering height, making it one of the largest in the world.
Conquer the 165-meter structure and see an awe-inspiring view of the cityscape. From your comfortable capsule, see the mesmerizing city lights and majestic skyscrapers.
So, if you want an aerial quest after a long day, this is the place to be.
Tip: Secure your Singapore Flyer tickets online to avoid long queues at the ticket booth. Simply present the QR code on your phone for fast access.
Day 3: Little India, Chinatown, and Clarke Quay
10:00 AM: House of Tan Teng Niah
Now, for the last day of your Singapore escapade, awaken your senses with a trip to the House of Tan Teng Niah.
Take beautiful snaps of the patchwork of colors that adorn the well-preserved colonial piece.
Beyond the site’s vibrant facade, it also holds a rich history. It’s one of the remaining Chinese villas within the Indian enclave of Singapore.
Immerse yourself in the multicultural atmosphere as you walk around the local shops.
10:30 AM: Traditional Trades of Little India Mural
Continue with the heritage discovery and see the Traditional Trades of Little India Mural. The vivid artwork is a crowd favorite in terms of photo opportunities.
More than its eye-catching design, the piece captures the trades of earlier communities.
Take a closer look at the painting and see how locals sold snacks, made garlands, and traded goods back in the old days.
10:45 AM: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
For the next cultural destination, spend time at Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. This historic Hindu temple adorned with intricate and colorful sculptures reflects centuries-old craftsmanship.
Discover the religious symbolism of the temple as you step inside the complex.
You can even attend the daily prayer ceremony and pay homage to their rituals. Discover stories and traditions while marveling at the stunning interiors and carvings.
12:00 PM: Chinatown Street Market
Witness another round of cultural exploration at Chinatown Street Market. Enjoy a multifaceted journey through the vibrant street markets and festive celebrations.
The dynamic market is a favorite among tourists who are looking for affordable souvenirs. Shop for Chinese handicrafts like hand-painted fans and special tea sets.
There are also inexpensive keychains, clothing, and various accessories on display. Of course, the street food here is an attraction itself.
Read Also: Only 11 Best Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore
1:15 PM: Mural on Mohamed Ali Lane
Before taking your lunch, squeeze this tourist spot into your itinerary. The Mural on Mohamed Ali Lane is another historic mural that highlights the past.
Capture the narrative of the artwork through its bright colors and intricate designs.
The beautiful mural showcases fragments of the country’s earlier trades. Look closely at the splashy hues and nostalgic outlines that bring into life the way of living in the past.
1:30 PM: Maxwell Food Centre (Lunch)
Treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal from one of the best hawker sections in the country. Maxwell Food Centre is a crowd favorite because of its authentic Singaporean dishes.
Embark on a gastronomic escapade with the diverse Singapore flavors from different stalls. Don’t miss some local specialties, from Hainanese chicken rice to Char Kway Teow.
2:30 PM: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
After your lunch, go on a historical immersion and visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. This prominent temple stunningly sits in the dynamic Chinatown.
Enter the temple house to take a peek at the renowned tooth relic. The shrine’s sophisticated architecture invites tourists to capture its intricate carvings.
Marvel at the special adornments and gold inlays that make up the stunning temple.
4:00 PM: Thian Hock Keng Temple
Complete your cultural journey with a peaceful retreat to Thian Hock Keng Temple. This old Chinese temple was a focal point among early Chinese immigrants.
Centuries later, the temple continues to draw flocks of people into its complex. See its exceptional craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism that thrive within the sacred walls.
During your visit, take a moment to contemplate in the serene halls. Experience the spiritual ambiance with the ornate altars and traditional practices.
5:30 PM: Old Hill Street Police Station
Before the sun descends to the horizon, make your way to the Old Hill Street Police Station.
This long-running building offers an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your photos. Strike a pose in front of the vibrant facade packed with multi-hued window shutters.
Apart from its architectural grandeur, the landmark has a striking past.
It once served as a police station during the old days. Now, it’s a cultural and creative hub that appeals to photographers and cultural enthusiasts.
6:00 PM: Boat Quay (Dinner)
What’s better than having a scenic dining experience on your last day in Singapore? Proceed to Boat Quay for a relaxing dinner with your family or friends.
I highly recommend eating at Pasta Fresca Da Salvatore for some authentic Italian dishes. Order one of their pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients.
While savoring your food, see the lovely Singapore River nearby. For sure, you’ll have a delightful dinner that’s one for the books.
7:30 PM: Clarke Quay Riverside
Make the most out of the gorgeous water views and head to Clarke Quay Riverside.
This is a sparkling riverside with a line-up of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Relish fine dining or savor some cocktails.
Beyond the modern vibrancy, the area flourishes with its heritage charm. Admire the colonial architecture that perfectly blends with the heritage charisma.
Read Also: Top 10 Things to Do in Clarke Quay
8:00 PM: Singapore River Cruise
Now, for the last day of your trip, take a cruise ride along the scenic Singapore River. This offers a tranquil and unique experience of seeing the cityscape from a different vantage.
Catch a glimpse of the modern structures and traditional sites while enjoying the breeze. The Singapore River Cruise is surely the perfect way to conclude your Singapore adventure.
Location to Ride the Boat:
Clarke Quay Jetty
Singapore 3-Day Itinerary Map
To get a sense of the top attractions to explore in Singapore during your 3-day visit, please refer to the custom map I’ve provided above.
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Photo Credit:
Photos by PIXTA