48 Hours In Singapore
Singapore is one of the most amazing places in the world. We always recommend spending (at least) 2 days in Singapore after a trip anywhere in Southeast Asia.
First, it’s a city filled with details that make it very aesthetically pleasing. There are so many things the city does to "show itself off" and entertain its visitors (light shows, street art, buildings, to name a few).
Second, Singapore is SO clean and beautiful. You could quite literally lay down and/or eat off the ground.
Third, it's definitely a city/country you can see in a very short period of time. There is a lot to do, but Singapore is on the smaller side.
Here's how to spend the perfect 48 hours in Singapore.
48 Hours In Singapore
Where To Stay:
Marina Bay Sands Hotel
The Marina Bay Sands Hotel is probably one of the most photographed hotels in the world. It’s a ~15-minute drive from the airport, and walking distance to a lot of the things you’ll want to experience during your 48 hours in Singapore.
This hotel is famous for the amazing rooftop/infinity pool, which, let's be honest, was the main reason for picking this as a place to stay. You can only access this pool if you're a guest of the hotel. (Note: if you're a guest, make sure everyone in your party has a room key. Otherwise, they will not let you in the pool section.)
This hotel is more of a splurge option, but clients are always glad we convinced them to stay here.
Allure Travel Co. Tip: At Allure Travel Co., we have partnerships with thousands of hotels around the world, including the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
Booking a stay through us is a complimentary service—meaning no extra cost to you! Not only will you save valuable time, but you’ll also unlock exclusive perks (like hotel credits and complimentary room upgrades, if available) and experience VIP treatment throughout your stay.
Let us take care of the details so you can focus on making unforgettable memories!
Day 1
Maxwell Hawker Centre
You cannot spend 48 hours in Singapore without going to a Hawker Centre. Hawker Centers are essentially the equivalent of food courts - a big open-air space with multiple different food shops. They are a big part of Singapore's food culture. There are 100+ Hawker Centres in Singapore! Anthony Bourdain had raving reviews about a number of stands, specifically at the Maxwell Hawker Centre.
Be sure to visit Fuzhou Oyster Cake, home of the Fried Oyster Cake (and the only thing on the menu). Anthony Bourdain had a good point. If you've been in business for years, with only one thing on the menu…you must be doing it right. Also, be sure to visit Tian Tian Hainanese - famous for their Chicken Rice.
*Lau Pau Sat is another popular Hawker Centre, known for their satay stalls. At night, they block off the street too.
Marina Bay Sands Pool
If you’re staying at the Marina Bay Sands, experience the rooftop pool during the day. If you're looking to get pictures without a lot of people around, you'll have much better luck getting to the pool first thing in the morning.
Spectra Light & Water Show
Another thing that Singapore does to show off to its visitors: the Spectra Light & Water Show. The show is located right outside the Marina Bay Sands Mall area. The show is at 8p and 9p on Sunday-Thursday and 8p, 9p, and 10p on Fridays/Saturdays. The good seating for this show filled up fast, but you can always stand in the back. It's about 15 minutes of lights, lasers, water movement, + music.
Gardens By The Bay Rhapsody Light & Sound Show
After the Spectra show, head to the Gardens By The Bay show and be amazed at yet another light show. This also has multiple showings: 7:45p and 8:45p, and is 15 minutes.
After the show, walk along the elevated OCBC Skyway and see gorgeous views of the surrounding gardens and the city all lit up.
Spago
To end the evening, head to dinner at Spago, one of the rooftop restaurants at the Marina Bay Sands. The restaurant has sliding doors that open the inside to the outside, so the view of the city is amazing. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Day 2
Breakfast @ Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Trying Kaya Toast is a MUST. It's a popular breakfast dish in Singapore and is essentially buttered toast with Kaya (coconut/egg jam) on top with a side of soft-boiled eggs. Ya Kun Kaya Toast is a popular chain for Kaya Toast (hence the name).
Explore Sentosa Island
Take a taxi and head to Sentosa Island, the most southern part of continental Asia. The beach is tropical and the water is clear. You can spend all day lounging by the beach (weather permitting). However, if you're pressed for time during your 48 hours in Singapore, you can easily explore in an hour. It's only about a 40-minute round-trip drive from the city center.
Gardens By The Bay
Gardens by the Bay are 250 acres of living gardens, with a very futuristic and innovative feel. They really showcase Singapore's commitment to sustainability and greening. The Cloud Forest and Flower Dome exhibits are some of the most popular. Both conservatories display a diverse range of flora from around the world, including rare and exotic plants. Cloud Forest is a modern greenhouse complete with a massive waterfall. Be sure to experience this during your 48 hours in Singapore!
Dinner @ Dallas Restaurant & Bar
Head to the lively Boat Quay area for dinner. Dallas Restaurant & Bar is a casual waterfront restaurant with beautiful views of the river.
*This post is not affiliated with any of the mentioned establishments.
Thinking of booking a trip to Singapore?
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