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2-Day Itinerary Singapore: From Skyscrapers to Street Food in Just 2 Days

Oh my goodness, have you seen Singapore lately? Those glass-and-steel behemoths of Marina Bay Sands are practically winking at you while the lush green sanctuaries whisper, "come chill with us instead." This city is the ultimate insomniac—buzzing day and night with an energy that would make caffeine jealous. And the best part? You can bounce around with Singapore hop-on hop-off tours, and with the 2-day itinerary Singapore can hit both the Instagram-famous spots and those delicious little corners the guidebooks forgot to mention.

Travel logistics - the simplified way to travel

Let's be real—nobody wants to decode bus schedules or watch their vacation funds evaporate into taxi meters. Singapore hop-on hop-off tickets with unlimited stops, two routes someone else cleverly mapped out (thank goodness), and a price tag that won't make your wallet weep, this Singapore Big Bus tour is just what you need. 

Recommended tickets: 

  • Big Bus: 1 or 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Find the perfect itinerary for you

What to see in Singapore in 2 days? Whether you're hunting for kiddo-approved adventures that won't make you lose your mind, architectural marvels that'll transport you through time, or immersive cultural dives perfect for solo reflection, this 2-day Singapore itinerary has something for everyone. 

Singapore for families
Singapore for history buffs
Singapore for solo travelers

Spotless streets, child-friendly attractions, and food that pleases both picky eaters and adventurous parents, Singapore with family transforms logistics nightmares into memory-making magic without the usual parental exhaustion.

Day 1

French toasts with butter and caramel sauce for breakfast.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: The Coffee Academics serves more than just great coffee. Enjoy fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, and French toast, while kids will love their rich hot chocolate and berry-topped waffles. 

Attractions: Esplanade Theaters on the Bay

Shaped like a giant durian, catch live concerts, musicals, and kid-friendly performances at the Esplanade, with stunning waterfront views. The outdoor playground keeps the little ones entertained while you soak up the city’s creative energy.

Nearest stop:

  • Suntec City Tourist Hub (Yellow and Red Lines)

Highlights:

  • Watch concerts, musicals, and puppet shows with the kids.
  • Take in panoramic views of Marina Bay from the rooftop terrace.
  • Let the kids loose at the outdoor playground—fun guaranteed!

Pro tip: Book a backstage tour to see the inner workings of this architectural marvel.

Suggested time to spend: 1 hour

Time to next stop: A 15-minute walk to your lunch stop or a 5-minute bus ride to the next attraction. 

ArtScience Museum's Mirror Mirror exhibit with reflective installations in Singapore.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Din Tai Fung is known for its delicate xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and silky noodles. Indulge in spicy wontons and fried rice, and get an extra basket of dumplings. The kids will ask for more. 

Attraction: ArtScience Museum

This lotus-shaped icon blends art and science with mind-blowing exhibits. Future World’s light tunnels and digital rainforests will wow the kids while interactive installations keep little hands busy. 

Nearest stop:

  • Marina Bay Sands (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • Explore Future World’s light tunnel and crystal universe.
  • Discover Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches and ancient artifacts.
  • Join family-friendly workshops and art sessions on weekends.

Pro tip: Explore the Future World light tunnel twice, as it changes themes throughout the day.

Suggested time to spend:  2 hours

Time to next stop: Take a 10-minute walk to the next landmark.

Greenhouse Flower Dome in Singapore

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Flower Dome Conservatory 

Step into the world’s largest glass greenhouse, where exotic flowers bloom year-round. From African baobabs to Mediterranean olive trees, the Flower Dome brings the world’s flora to Singapore. 

Nearest stop:

  • Gardens by the Bay (Yellow Line) and MBS Convention Centre (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the towering Supertrees and their light show.
  • Explore the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens.

Pro tip: Check the “Plant of the Month” at the entrance, highlighting rare blooms and where to find them.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 3 minutes. Yes, that’s all it takes to reach your dinner place.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: For a memorable family dinner, Marguerite offers seasonal tasting menus inspired by nature. The restaurant also caters to younger guests with simpler but delicious options like fresh pasta and mini sliders. 

Day 2

South Indian breakfast Idli Dosa sambar and chutney served in banana leaf

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Start your day with a South Indian feast at Komala Vilas, a Little India institution since 1947. The crispy dosas and fluffy idlis are a hit, and kids will love the mini uthappams, but the rich masala chai steals the show. 

Attraction: Tekka Centre

Singapore with family is not complete without indulging in some shopping, and Tekka Centre is the place to be. This vibrant market is a cultural hotspot, packed with colorful silk saris, handwoven fabrics, and unique accessories. 

Nearest stop:

  • Little India Arcade (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Shop for silk saris and fabrics—a must for authentic souvenirs.
  • Watch garland makers create stunning floral arrangements.
  • Explore lively stalls bursting with color and local charm.

Pro tip: The second floor is less crowded and has hidden gems like jewelry, handbags, and traditional Indian footwear. Time for your best bargain game. 

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Hop back onto your bus for a 15-minute ride to your next stop.

Chinatown Heritage Centre singapore

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Maxwell Food Centre is a hawker legend, and for good reason. Grab a plate of Tian Tian’s famous chicken rice—it’s Michelin-starred for a reason—or try the oyster cake for a crispy, savory treat. 

Attraction: Chinatown Heritage Centre

A hidden gem that brings Singapore’s past to life. Housed in restored shophouses, it recreates the cramped living quarters of early Chinese immigrants. Explore spaces with vintage furniture and personal belongings. 

Nearest stop:

  • Chinatown (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Walk through shophouse homes recreated with original furnishings.
  • Discover how early settlers lived through photos and old letters.
  • Listen to audio stories that reveal the struggles of early immigrants. 

Pro tip: Try the Chinese name generator at the end of the exhibit and walk away with your own Chinese name. 

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: Take a 15-minute bus ride to your final destination of the day.

Visitors exploring the lush greenery of the Singapore Botanic Gardens on a sunny day, a popular day trip tour in Singapore

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Singapore Botanic Gardens 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Gardens is a green oasis with palm-lined paths, Swan Lake, and rare orchids. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a scenic picnic.

Nearest stop:

  • Botanic Gardens (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • Visit the National Orchid Garden to see over 1,000 orchid species.
  • Spot black swans gliding across the serene Swan Lake.
  • Catch live music at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Healing Garden, which isn’t always open, but when it is, it’s a vibe—plants that claim to fix everything from headaches to heartaches.

Suggested time to spend: 3 hours

Time to next stop: Walk for 2 minutes within the gardens and grab your dinner.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Nestled within the Botanic Gardens, The Halia serves up Asian-fusion flavors with a tropical twist. Try the signature Halia chili crab spaghettini or the slow-cooked lamb—rich, tender, and delicious. For kids, the truffle fries are a crowd-pleaser.

Where colonial buildings stand beside futuristic gardens. Wartime tunnels, ancient temples, and maritime relics tell stories of survival. Touch history in a city that compressed centuries of cultural fusion into one tiny island.

Day 1

Yellow yolk oozing out of the bread in Eggs Benedict

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Kickstart your day with eggs benedict or fluffy pancakes at Privé. The riverside view and chill vibes make it feel like a mini vacation. Their truffle fries are dangerously good—not exactly breakfast, but who’s judging?

Attraction: Asian Civilisations Museum

Dive into Singapore’s cultural melting pot at the Asian Civilisations Museum. History lovers can geek out over ancient relics from across Asia, from Chinese ceramics to Indian textiles. 

Nearest stop:

  • Fullerton Hotel (Yellow Line) and Boat Quay (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Admire the Tang Shipwreck, a collection of 9th-century treasures.
  • Discover ancient Buddhist art from across Southeast Asia.
  • Check out the hidden gallery on Chinese calligraphy—it's quieter and stunning.

Pro tip: Engage in hands-on activities like traditional craft-making or calligraphy.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: A 10 to 12-minute bus ride will take you to your lunch spot.

Visitors exploring the National Gallery of Singapore, showcasing a vast collection of modern art in a historic setting

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch:  Got extra time? Hop off at Zion Food Centre and enjoy a meal at Boon Tong Kee. Hainanese chicken rice is the star here—silky chicken, fragrant rice, and punchy chili sauce. The vibe is laid-back and no-frills, but the flavors? You simply can’t miss it. 

Attraction: National Gallery of Singapore

Art and history collide at the National Gallery, housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall. The building itself is a masterpiece, but the Southeast Asian art collection steals the show.

Nearest stop:

  • City Hall (Yellow and Red Lines)

Highlights:

  • Walk through the old Supreme Court holding cells—slightly spooky but fascinating.
  • Spot the hidden rooftop garden for epic skyline views.
  • Don’t miss the gallery’s rotating exhibitions, as they often feature rare historical pieces.

Pro tip: Participate in talks and discussions with artists and curators to deepen your understanding of Southeast Asian art.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 5-minute bus ride or a 10-minute walk—the choice is yours! 

Raffles hotel illuminated with yellow lights in Singapore at night

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Raffles Hotel

History lovers, this one’s for you. Opened in 1887, Raffles Hotel has hosted literary legends and royalty alike. The colonial charm is unbeatable, and sipping a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar feels like a rite of passage.

Nearest stop:

  • Raffles Hotel (Yellow Line) and Suntec City Tourist Hub (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Admire the architecture and teakwood furnishings that have stood the test of time.
  • Explore the Writers' Bar, where Hemingway and Kipling once drank.
  • Stop by the hotel’s museum, which has rare photos and letters from its famous guests.

Pro tip: Check the hotel's schedule for literary events, as Raffles has a long-standing association with famous writers who often host there.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Walk for 5 minutes, and you are already at your destination.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Fine dining in a heritage building? Yes, please. Flutes serves up modern European dishes like roasted lamb and truffle risotto in the historic Fire Station. Classy but not stuffy, and the wine list is top-tier.

Day 2

Hand pulling brioche bread bun with green pandan sangkhaya custard cream filling

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Start your day at Tiong Bahru Bakery with buttery croissants and kouign-amann (a caramelized, flaky pastry) that are pure perfection. Don’t miss the pandan brioche—a sweet, fragrant bread infused with Southeast Asian pandan leaves—it’s a Singaporean twist that’s a local favorite.

Attraction: Tiong Bahru Heritage Trail
Tiong Bahru is where Singapore’s past meets hipster cool. Once a 1930s housing estate, it’s now a blend of art deco charm and trendy vibes. The murals and historic shophouses make it feel like a walk through time—with better coffee.

Nearest stop:

  • Chinatown (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Spot the iconic spiral staircases—they’re a Tiong Bahru signature.
  • Hunt down the “Bird Singing Corner” where locals used to showcase their prized songbirds.
  • Swing by indie bookstores and vintage shops hidden in the side alleys.

Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the estate and admire the unique Streamline modern architectural style of the 1930s.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours 

Time to next stop: Walk along the market to grab your lunch, then hop onto the bus and reach your next stop in less than 10 minutes.

Peranakan artifacts display during Night at the Museum Guided Tour in Singapore.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Chow down on chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes) or crispy wonton noodles at Tiong Bahru Market’s hawker haven. The vibe is loud, lively, and authentically local, and the freshly squeezed sugarcane juice is life-changing on a hot day.

Attraction: Peranakan Museum

Step into the colorful world of the Peranakans, Singapore’s early Chinese settlers. From ornate jewels to wedding traditions, the building itself—a restored 1912 school—is steeped in history.

Nearest stop:

  • City Hall (Yellow and Red Lines)

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the Peranakan wedding gallery; the beaded shoes are next-level.
  • Check out the “Tok Panjang” dining table setup, which offers a glimpse into Peranakan feasts.
  • The jewelry room sparkles with gold and intricate designs, which are pure eye candy.

Pro tip: Attend a cooking demonstration that showcases traditional Peranakan cuisine, offering a taste of their rich culinary heritage.​

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Take a 5-minute bus ride or walk for 15 minutes to your next stop.

Fort Canning Park lush greenery and historical landmarks in Singapore.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Fort Canning Park

History is layered deep at Fort Canning Park! Once the seat of Malay royalty and a WWII command post, the sprawling greenery hides ancient artifacts, colonial remnants, and even a spice garden. 

Nearest stop:

  • Clarke Quay (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • Visit the chilling yet fascinating Battlebox, the underground bunker from WWII. 
  • Get a slice of Singapore’s royal past at the 14th-century Keramat Iskandar Shah tomb. 
  • Check out the spice garden, which is a fragrant nod to Singapore’s trade history.

Pro tip: Join a guided nature walk and discover the park's diverse flora and fauna.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 10-minute ride for dinner.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: How does dining in a converted chapel sound? The White Rabbit serves up European classics like wagyu steak and lobster bisque in a romantic, candlelit setting. Finish with the sticky date pudding; it’s heavenly, literally.

Perfect for independent explorers: exceptional safety, efficient transport, and a dining culture that welcomes singles. Make temporary friends or savor solitude—the city accommodates both with equal grace.

Day 1

Chicken ramen bowl with sliced green onions and soft-boiled egg in Tokyo, Japan.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Start your day at The Ramen House, a cozy and lively place with a steaming bowl of Tonkotsu ramen, rich and creamy with a deep umami punch. Add a soft-boiled egg and don’t skip the garlic oil—it takes the flavor up a notch.

Attraction: Singapore Flyer

Soar 165 meters above the city on one of the world’s tallest observation wheels. You will love the quiet, panoramic views and the chance to spot iconic landmarks from above. 

Nearest stop:

  • Singapore Flyer (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • Enjoy a quiet morning glide with fewer crowds and crisp city views.
  • The in-capsule touchscreen offers fun trivia about the skyline—great for learning.
  • Spot iconic landmarks like Gardens by the Bay, Esplanade, and the Merlion from a whole new angle.

Pro tip: Explore the lush garden at the Flyer's base, showcasing tropical plants and a koi pond.

Suggested time to spend: 1 hour

Time to next stop: Head to your next stop, which is just a 5-minute bus ride away.

Clarke Quay located at Singapore River Planning Area in singapore

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch:  Warm up with a hearty bowl of bak kut teh (peppery pork rib soup) and youtiao (fried dough sticks)—the perfect accompaniment at Song Fa Bak Kut Teh. The casual, bustling vibe makes it easy to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal.

Attraction: Clarke Quay

This riverside spot is buzzing with life day and night. The mix of history and modern energy makes it perfect for solo strolls along the colorful shophouses and vibrant bars.

Nearest stop:

  • Clarke Quay (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • Take a bumboat river cruise for a unique view of the colonial architecture and skyline.
  • Catch live music at one of the riverside bars, the vibe is laid-back and welcoming.
  • The rainbow-painted Alkaff Bridge is a great spot for a solo selfie.

Pro tip: For adrenaline seekers, try the G-Max Reverse Bungy for a thrilling view of the area.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Hop back for a 15-minute bus ride to Little India. 

Chinatown street with colorful shophouses, Little India temple, Kampong Gelam mosque in Singapore.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Little India

A sensory explosion of colors, scents, and sounds, Little India is perfect for solo wandering. From bustling spice shops to colorful temples, it’s a lively cultural pocket where you’ll feel energized even when alone.

Nearest stop:

  • Little India Arcade (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the city’s oldest Hindu temples.
  • Mustafa Centre is open 24/7 and has everything from electronics to snacks.
  • The vibrant murals and flower garlands on Serangoon Road make for amazing photo ops.

Pro tip: If you can, plan your visit during an Indian festival like Diwali to witness the area come alive with lights and celebrations.​

Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Time to next stop: A 10-minute leisurely stroll to get to make it to dinner.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: This late-night dim sum spot, Swee Choon Tim Sum, is a local favorite. Try some juicy and flavorful xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and the BBQ pork buns that are soft and sweet. Casual, bustling with communal tables is great for solo diners. 

Day 2

Chicken and waffles breakfast served on a white plate with syrup on the side.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Kickstart your day with Earlybird’s fried chicken and waffles. Crispy, savory, and sweet all at once! The café’s bright yellow decor and chill vibe make settling in with a coffee easy.

Attraction: Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple

This Buddhist temple is a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. The intricate carvings and golden Buddha statues create a serene atmosphere. Toss a fortune stick and see what destiny has planned for you—it’s part of the experience.

Nearest stop:

  •  Fu Lu Shou (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Fortune sticks are scarily accurate—read your fortune carefully. 
  • The golden Buddha statue and colorful lanterns make for stunning photos.
  • Local vendors outside sell lucky charms and incense for an authentic touch.

Pro tip: After your temple visit, stroll through Bugis Street for shopping and local snacks.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Head to your next destination in just 7 minutes. 

Kampong Glam Singapore street with colorful murals and traditional shophouses.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Spice up your afternoon with rich Indian flavors at Chilli & Pepper. Their creamy butter chicken, charred paneer tikka, and garlic naan are all the goodness you need. 

Attraction: Kampong Glam

The heart of Singapore’s Malay culture, Kampong Glam is a blend of tradition and modern cool. The Sultan Mosque’s golden dome towers over the neighborhood, while the back alleys are packed with street art, boutiques, and hipster cafés.

Nearest stop:

  • Kampong Glam (Red Line)

Highlights:

  • Visit Haji Lane for colorful murals, indie boutiques, and quirky cafes.
  • The Malay Heritage Centre gives insight into Singapore's rich Malay history.
  • Grab a Turkish ice cream—the vendors put on a fun performance while serving it.

Pro tip: Join a traditional Batik painting workshop and take home your masterpiece as a unique souvenir.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: For the next leg of your day, hop back on for a 10-minute bus ride to Marina Bay.

Tourists enjoying the panoramic view of Singapore cityscape from Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

Take in the city from 57 floors up at the SkyPark. The infinity pool is iconic, but the observation deck offers jaw-dropping views of the city and beyond.

Nearest stop:

  • Marina Bay Sands (Yellow Line)

Highlights:

  • The observation deck gives you uninterrupted views of the city skyline.
  • Try a cocktail at the rooftop bar while watching the sunset.
  • The Gardens by the Bay light show looks magical from above—don’t miss it.

Pro tip: Visit at sunset for golden hour views. The skyline looks breathtaking and is perfect for epic photos.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: 2-minute drive or 9-minute walk to Ce La Vi.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Wrap up your day with a rooftop dinner at Ce La Vi. The miso-glazed cod and wagyu sliders are top-notch, and the cocktail list is equally impressive. The upscale ambiance and the views are unbeatable.

Alternate stops to customize your trip

Singapore Zoo

Not your average zoo—this open-concept haven lets animals roam freely in lush habitats. Watch playful otters, have breakfast with orangutans, and hop on a river safari for close encounters with manatees and crocodiles.

  • Nearest stop: Wheelock Place (Yellow Line)

Madame Tussauds 

Rub shoulders with wax versions of Taylor Swift and Bruce Lee, then dive into the Marvel 4D Experience. Hop on the "Spirit of Singapore" boat ride through mini jungle scenes and snap a selfie with your favorite K-pop stars.

  • Nearest stop: Gardens by the Bay (Yellow Line)

Museum of Ice Cream 

It’s a pink paradise where you can dive into a sprinkled pool, try wacky flavors like durian and bubblegum, and snap colorful photos. Don’t miss the unicorn playground and the free-flowing ice cream tastings!

  • Nearest stop: Orchard Hotel (Yellow Line)

Gardens by the Bay

Step into a sci-fi dreamland with towering Supertrees and vibrant conservatories. Wander the Flower Dome's exotic blooms, cool off at the Cloud Forest’s waterfall, and catch the Supertree Grove’s light and sound show. It's like Avatar, but real!

  • Nearest stop: Gardens by the Bay (Yellow Line)

National Museum of Singapore

Dive into the city’s past and present through immersive exhibits and artifacts dating back to the 14th century. The glass rotunda’s digital light show is a stunner, and the vintage photos and Peranakan collections bring the past to life.

  • Nearest stop: Singapore Art Museum (Yellow Line)

Cavenagh Bridge

Walk across Singapore's oldest suspension bridge from 1869, once used for traders and is now lined with historic plaques. Spot the "no cattle" sign and soak in scenic views of the Singapore River—perfect for a sunset stroll.

  • Nearest stop: Fullerton Hotel (Yellow Line)

St. Andrew's Cathedral

Singapore’s largest cathedral is awe-inspiring, with its neo-Gothic architecture and towering spires. Step inside for breathtaking stained-glass windows and hushed tranquility. Don’t miss the underground chapel and the charming bell tower.

  • Nearest stop: City Hall (Yellow and Red Lines)

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Singapore's oldest Chinese temple, built without nails, dazzles with intricate carvings and colorful tiles. Light an incense stick for good luck and spot the sea goddess Ma Zu’s statue—a nod to the temple’s maritime roots.

  • Nearest stop: Hong Lim Park (Red Line)

Merlion Park

Meet Singapore's iconic half-lion, half-fish statue that "spits" water into Marina Bay. Snap a selfie with the skyline in the background and grab an ice cream sandwich from a nearby cart to cool down.

  • Nearest stop: Old Custom House (Red Line)

Orchard Road

Singapore’s shopping mecca is lined with designer stores, local boutiques, and massive malls. Treat yourself to bubble tea, browse quirky finds at Design Orchard, and catch the street’s festive lights if you're visiting in December.

  • Nearest stop: Four Seasons Hotel (Yellow Line)