After years of longing to visit Singapore, we finally made our dream a reality. Singapore, with its perfect blend of modern city life, mouth-watering cuisine, and diverse culture, has always been at the top of our travel list. Our initial plans to visit in March 2020 were thwarted by the pandemic, but we were thrilled to finally embark on our journey in 2024. Here’s a detailed account of our unforgettable four days in this beautiful city.
Day 1: Culinary Delights and Stunning Gardens
Our adventure began with a delicious lunch at Lau Pa Sat, one of Singapore’s most famous hawker centers. We tried the iconic Hainanese chicken rice, a dish we can’t recommend enough. The tender chicken paired with fragrant rice was a delight, and we washed it down with some refreshing sugar cane juice. A tip: ask for less ice to avoid diluting the flavour, even if it costs an extra dollar.
In the evening, we visited the magnificent Gardens by the Bay. The scenic views during our stroll on the OCBC Skywalk Bridge were breathtaking. We explored various vantage points to admire the Supertrees and the Marina Bay Sands, but our favourite spots were the serene lily pond and the open pathway near the Indian garden.
One of the highlights of our visit to Gardens by the Bay was the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show. This mesmerizing show is a must-do, and the best part is that it’s free! The show starts at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM daily. We highly recommend arriving a bit early to secure a nice spot for viewing. Watching the Supertrees come alive with lights synchronised to music was a magical experience. We ended our day with mouth-watering burgers and fries at Shake Shack.
Day 2: Shopping and Scenic Spots
Our second day was dedicated to some retail therapy at IMM Outlet Mall, a paradise for brand lovers with stores like Coach, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade. After shopping, we had lunch at a Thai restaurant within the mall, which unfortunately did not live up to our expectations.
In the early evening, we hunted for the perfect photo opportunity at the Old Hill Street Police Station, known for its vibrant colours and popularity on Instagram. Next, we headed to Clarke Quay, enjoyed a few drinks, and ended the day with Indian food at the Boat Quay. The open-air restaurant offered amazing views, but the food was a bit disappointing—too oily and undercooked.
You can also take a relaxing river cruise along the Singapore River, where you can admire the city skyline and iconic landmarks like the Merlion. After the cruise, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the riverside restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
Day 3: Picture-Perfect Spots and Tantalizing Tastes
Day three was all about capturing the perfect photos. We started at the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel, moved on to the colorful Selegie Arts Centre, and then to Arab Street. For lunch, we indulged in a delightful Turkish meal at Aya Sofya, savouring chicken sheesh kebab, freshly baked pita with hummus, and ending with baklava and Turkish coffee.
The evening was spent exploring the vibrant Chinatown. We started with some souvenir shopping, where we found unique trinkets and gifts for friends and family. We then went looking for some delicious Hong Kong-style egg tarts from a local bakery we’d heard so much about, however they turned out to be disappointing. The tart had too much biscuit and tasted too eggy, lacking the custardy flavour that the egg tarts in Hong Kong are famous for.
Later in the evening, as we strolled, we watched the local seniors dancing off their blues… a heartwarming moment that offered a glimpse into the community spirit. We also took time to admire the intricate murals that tell the stories of Singapore’s rich heritage. Our visit to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple was a serene and enlightening experience, with its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. We ended our Chinatown exploration with a delicious local meal at the Maxwell Food Centre, where we enjoyed a variety of dishes that highlighted Singapore’s culinary diversity.
Day 4: Iconic Sights and Culinary Delights
Our final day began with a visit to Merlion Park, one of Singapore’s most iconic and popular tourist spots. The park was buzzing with activity, filled with tourists trying to capture the perfect shot with the legendary Merlion statue. This half-lion, half-fish creature symbolises Singapore’s origins as a fishing village and its transformation into a bustling metropolis. The Merlion’s majestic spray of water against the backdrop of the Marina Bay Sands made for a picture-perfect moment.
After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere at Merlion Park, we spent the afternoon exploring Marina Bay Sands. This architectural marvel is not just a hotel but a world unto itself. We wandered through its luxurious shopping mall, admired the stunning views from the SkyPark, and even managed to catch a glimpse of the infinity pool – a sight that left us awestruck.
In the evening, we returned to Gardens by the Bay to explore the Cloud Forest. This unique conservatory replicates the cool, moist conditions found in tropical mountain regions. The highlight was the Cloud Mountain, a 35-meter tall structure covered in lush vegetation and featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. The misty atmosphere and the verdant surroundings made us feel like we were in a different world.
We wrapped up our Singapore adventure with a visit to the famous Satay Street. As the sun set, the street came alive with the sizzle and aroma of satay grilling on open flames. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike indulging in this quintessential Singaporean experience. We savored skewers of perfectly grilled chicken, beef, and lamb, accompanied by a rich, spicy peanut sauce. The convivial atmosphere, the delicious food, and the vibrant setting made this the perfect end to our trip.
Navigating Singapore: A Breeze
Singapore is an incredibly easy city to navigate. The MRT system is efficient and can get you almost anywhere in the city. If you’re staying in a central location like we were, many attractions are within walking distance. We stayed at Citadines Raffles Place Singapore, a fantastic hotel that made our stay even more enjoyable. The hotel’s prime location allowed us to walk to many attractions, and it provided stunning views and top-notch amenities.
For places a bit farther out, we made full use of Grab Taxi, a ride-sharing service similar to Uber. The prices were reasonable, the cabs were always clean, and the drivers were polite and helpful. It was a convenient option, especially after a long day of exploring.
We also used the 2-in-1 Hi! Tourist SIM card, which not only provided us with data and calling services but also functioned as an EZ-Link card for MRT travels. This made commuting incredibly smooth and hassle-free.
Our four days in Singapore were filled with incredible sights, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. This city truly offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and cultural richness. For more detailed insights and tips from our trip, head over to our blog. Trust us, Singapore is a destination you don’t want to miss!
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