36 Hours in Singapore: A Travel Guide

Singapore, Asia’s small but mighty city-state, offers a far different experience than the rest of Southeast Asia. With its overwhelming population of foreigners, ex-pats and millionaires, it is also a more expensive experience - but it doesn’t have to be

As the fourth richest country in the world - with the prices to prove it - travelers tend to skip Singapore in favor of its more budget-friendly neighbors, such as Thailand. But Singapore worked hard to become the highly developed nation that it is today and is worth a visit. Here you find ultra clean streets, traffic flowing flawlessly and salaries to fully support families and then some. You also find a rich blend of cultures, architectural feats, and a maze of underground markets.

Despite its small size and reputation for being an easily skipped destination, it offers a wonderful experience. While the words “budget-friendly” and “Singapore” aren’t often seen in the same sentence, there are a good chunk of free (or relatively cheap) activities, which I certainly took advantage of during my weekend stay. Scroll down to learn more about Singapore and start planning your trip!

where to stay

Little India

For cheap hostels, the small of incense and endless options for tikka masala, Little India is the place to be. In a place that can feel a little sterile, this area is filled with vibrant culture.

7 Wonders Hostel at Upper Dickson ($20 bed/night)
Citadines Rocher Hotel ($125 room/night)

Historic District

The biggest pros are its unbeatable central location and quaint atmosphere. The cons? ‘Tis not cheap. It is also a little quiet, which is great for those seeking a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city,

Iyf Funan Singapore ($25 bed/night)
Rendezvous Hotel Singapore ($140/night)

the Quays

If you are looking for nightlife and being in the middle of the action, the Quays are right up your alley. Its location and lower rates (relative, of course) also make it a great spot to stay.

BEAT Capsule Hostel ($60 bed/night)
M Social Hotel ($120 room/night)

orchard park

This is the most popular area to stay - and shop. Accommodations are pricier but the trade off is a bustling area filled to the brim with restaurants, bars and malls. Plus, it is well connected to the MRT making transportation a breeze.

JEN Singapore Orchardgateway ($130/night)
York Hotel ($150/night)

When to Visit

Being 6° from the equator, Singapore is a toasty place year-round. Average temperatures sit in the upper 80s F to low 90s F and the atmosphere gives visitors a nice humid hug.

Jan - Mar

Driest months, though not without rain. Expect crowds during Chinese New Year, which falls in late-Jan through February.

Apr - oct

The Great Singapore Sale happens each July so expect it to be very busy around that time. Crowds disperse in the fall with the onset of the Southeast Monsoon season.

Nov - Dec

The holiday season sees a push in tourism, though with the Northeast Monsoon it is the wettest time of the year.

WHAT TO SEE & Do (for free!)

01. MERLION PARK

“Merlion” is exactly what it sounds like: a mermaid lion, which is possibly the weirdest combination of things I can think of when it comes to creating a nationwide mascot but these odd creatures are the apple of Singapore’s eye.
There are seven merlion statues throughout the country, with the most famous at the aptly named Merlion Park.

02. BUDDAH’S TOOTH RELIC TEMPLE

Big place. Ooh, dragons.
Shiny objects everywhere.
Who named this temple?
*-Buddah’s Tooth,* a Haiku

03. THIAN HOCK KENG TEMPLE

I succumbed to temple fatigue on my last trip to Asia, so I was surprised to enjoy this small Buddhist temple, which is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea, as much as I did.
What made it standout is the information provided for different Buddhist beliefs and their deities. I usually only glide through temples and *ooh* and *ahh* at shiny things, so it was a nice to learn something new!

04. THE ESPLANADE

Home to a fabulous coconut stand selling coconut ice cream inside – wait for it – a coconut shell. It was a true delight.
That was really the main highlight and I have nothing further to add.

05. SRI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE

If you’ve never seen a Hindu temple, then this will be a great stop to add to your list. I
f, on the other hand, this is your 47th temple visit, perhaps consider skipping it as you’ve likely already encountered a more impressive one already. And if you’re Hindu, please don’t hate me for not better promoting your temple.

06. GARDENS BY THE BAY

What trip to Singapore is not completely without a stop to these world renowned gardens?
Equally as large as it is green, this park is a peaceful gem. While it is free to roam around, to access the flower domes, butterfly gardens or skywalks, you must pay a few dollars. Since I’ve seen butterflies and flowers before I decided to pass, though if I were to do it again, I would have splurged to see them.

07. STREET ART

Before being rudely interrupted by a torrential downpour, I spied a few murals while out and about. I even stumbled on a park of colorfully painted cows, which was a delightful find. After seeing that, I wasn’t even mad about the rain dampening my street art hunt.

08. ARCHITECTURE

Boats on top of towers, buildings in the shape of lotus flowers, fruit-shaped architecture… need I go on?

09. MARINA SANDS HOTEL

Speaking of that fancy architecture, it’s essential to see that boat-on-building business.
For a night out, I recommend going up to the rooftop bar drink. It costs $20 to get in (eye roll), but that can be put toward your bill. And no, that $20 won’t cover a drink, but it’ll be close.

10. SULTAN MOSQUE

Continuing on Singapore’s Tour de Religion, check out this beautiful mosque, which is a significant landmark for the Muslim community.

11. OBSERVATORY DECK

This hidden treasure is to be relished by all my fellow poor folk. Sitting inconspicuously inside ION Orchard Mall, you will find the free observatory deck.
To get there, head to the Art gallery on the 4th level and find the elevators that take you to the 55th floor. It’s only open from 3pm-6pm, with the last elevator at 5:30, so plan accordingly.

GETTING AROUND

The best way to explore the depths of Singapore is by walking, though crossing at large intersections can be tricky ‘round these parts. You’re supposed to use the underground tunnels but I used them once and vowed to never make such a terrible mistake again. I found myself in a secret underground matrix of shops, restaurants and people, which became impossible not to get lost within. After thirty minutes lost among stalls, I magically popped into a random hotel via a side door in their lobby (some six blocks from the road I initially crossed, I might add).

Their subway system, the MRT, is also simple to use and costs about $1-$3 a ride. This is a great option for jetting longer distances.

Taxis are available and Grab, a taxi app, is popular to use.