Singapore Weekend Getaway: Complete 2-Day Itinerary with Verified Tickets, Prices & Opening Hours
A Singapore weekend getaway is perfectly achievable in just 48 hours, packing iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and world-class attractions into a compact itinerary. This 2 days Singapore guide provides verified ticket prices, exact opening hours, and insider tips to help you maximize your quick visit while staying safe and informed—exactly how Homejourney approaches every recommendation.
Singapore's efficient MRT system, walkable districts, and concentrated attractions make it ideal for a short trip. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore new areas, this detailed breakdown covers what to see, how much to budget, and the best times to visit each location.
Day 1: Marina Bay Icons & Cultural Districts
Morning (9AM–1PM): Merlion Park & Gardens by the Bay
Merlion Park is Singapore's most iconic symbol and your essential first stop.[1] Located at 1 Empress Avenue, the park is accessible via MRT to Raffles Place (Exit B), a 5-minute walk. Best of all, entry is completely free, and the park is open 24/7, making it flexible for your schedule.[1] Arrive early (9AM) to avoid crowds and capture clear photos with Marina Bay Sands as your backdrop.
From Merlion, walk 15 minutes across the Double Helix Bridge to Gardens by the Bay, one of Singapore's most visited attractions. This UNESCO-recognized garden features two main paid attractions: the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.
Gardens by the Bay Details:[1][2]
- Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive
- Opening Hours: 9AM–9PM daily
- Ticket Prices (Adult): S$32 for both Cloud Forest & Flower Dome (combined ticket); S$28 individual domes
- Child (3-12 years): S$21 combined; S$17 individual
- Senior (65+): S$16 combined; S$12 individual
- Money-Saving Tip: Book online via the official Gardens by the Bay website to skip queues and sometimes receive small discounts
Spend 2–3 hours exploring the Cloud Forest, featuring the world's tallest indoor waterfall (50 meters), and the Flower Dome, which rotates themed exhibits. Insider tip: Visit Cloud Forest first for cooler temperatures, especially during Singapore's warm afternoons (28–32°C).[1]
Afternoon (1PM–4PM): Singapore Flyer & Lunch
From Gardens by the Bay, it's a 10-minute walk to the Singapore Flyer, the world's tallest observation wheel at 165 meters. This is a must-do for panoramic 360-degree views of the city and surrounding islands.
Singapore Flyer Details:[1]
- Address: 30 Raffles Avenue
- Opening Hours: 8:30AM–10PM daily (extended hours during peak seasons)
- Ticket Prices (Adult): S$40 standard admission; S$50 express pass (skip-the-line)
- Child (3-12 years): S$26
- Senior (65+): S$28
- Duration: 30-minute rotation
- Pro Tip: Book online in advance to avoid queues, especially on weekends
For lunch, visit Satay by the Bay, a hawker-style food court near Gardens by the Bay. Expect to pay S$10–15 per dish for authentic local favorites like satay skewers, Hainanese chicken rice, and laksa. This is an excellent introduction to Singapore's famous food culture without leaving the Marina Bay area.
Evening (4PM–10PM): Chinatown & Clarke Quay
Take the MRT to Chinatown (NE4 line, Exit A) to explore Singapore's oldest cultural district. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a must-see, featuring ornate interiors and spiritual significance.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple Details:
- Address: 550 South Bridge Road
- Opening Hours: 7AM–5PM daily
- Admission: Free entry
- Note: Respectful dress required (covered shoulders and knees)
Wander through Chinatown's colorful shophouses on Pagoda Street, browse souvenirs, and sample dim sum at local restaurants (S$5–10 per plate). The Chinatown Heritage Centre offers deeper cultural insights into early Chinese migration to Singapore, though it requires a separate ticket (S$15 adult).
Conclude Day 1 at Clarke Quay, Singapore's vibrant riverside dining and entertainment district. Take a taxi or Uber (approximately S$5) from Chinatown. Clarke Quay features alfresco restaurants, live music venues, and bars with views of the illuminated skyline. Consider a Singapore River Cruise (S$20–30 per person, 40 minutes) to see Marina Bay and Boat Quay from the water—a magical evening experience.
Day 2: Nature, Shopping & Night Lights
Morning (9AM–12PM): Singapore Botanic Gardens & Orchard Road
Start Day 2 at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a serene escape from the city's hustle. This is one of Singapore's most underrated attractions, perfect for a peaceful morning walk.
Singapore Botanic Gardens Details:[1]
- Address: 1 Cluny Road
- Opening Hours: 5AM–midnight daily
- Admission: Free entry to main gardens
- National Orchid Garden (within gardens): S$14 adult; S$7 child; S$10 senior
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (before 10AM) to avoid crowds and heat
Explore scenic walking paths, tranquil lakes, and the stunning National Orchid Garden, which features thousands of orchid species in themed displays. Plan 1.5–2 hours here.
After the gardens, head to Orchard Road, Singapore's premier shopping district. Take the MRT to Orchard Station (NS22). This 2.2-kilometer stretch features luxury malls like ION Orchard, Paragon, and Takashimaya. Budget 1.5–2 hours for shopping. Insider tip: Cosmetics and fashion items are often cheaper than airport duty-free prices.
Afternoon (12PM–4PM): Little India & Kampong Glam
Take the MRT to Little India (NE7/NE8 line, Exit A) to experience Singapore's vibrant Indian cultural enclave. Colorful temples, spice shops, and traditional clothing stores line the streets. Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple (free entry, open 6AM–12PM and 4PM–9PM) to admire its intricate architecture.
Walk 15 minutes to Kampong Glam, the heart of Singapore's Malay-Muslim community. This neighborhood features the golden-domed Sultan Mosque, street art, trendy cafes, and boutiques. Expect to pay S$8–12 for hummus wraps and Middle Eastern fare at local eateries. The colorful streets provide excellent photo opportunities.
Evening (7PM–10PM): Gardens by the Bay Light Show & Dinner
Return to Gardens by the Bay for the spectacular free Supertree Grove Light Show, a must-see evening experience.
Supertree Grove Light Show Details:[2]
- Timing: 7:45PM and 8:45PM daily (15-minute duration)
- Cost: Completely free
- What to Expect: Synchronized light and music display on 18 giant artificial trees (25–50 meters tall)
- Pro Tip: Arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot
Before the light show, enjoy dinner at Lau Pa Sat, a historic hawker centre in a stunning Victorian-era building. Located at 18 Raffles Quay, this is the perfect place to experience authentic Singapore street food.
Lau Pa Sat Details:
- Opening Hours: 10:30AM–10PM daily
- Admission: Free (pay for food only)
- Must-Try Dishes: Satay (S$10–15), Hainanese chicken rice (S$4–6), laksa (S$5–7), char kway teow (S$4–6)
- Budget: S$15–25 per person for a full meal
For a final evening treat, visit CapitaSpring's Sky Garden, a modern vertical forest with panoramic city views. Entry is free, but advance booking is required via their official website. The spiraling pathways surrounded by lush greenery offer a unique way to end your 2-day adventure.
Complete Budget Breakdown for Your 2-Day Itinerary
Planning your budget helps ensure a stress-free trip. Here's a realistic breakdown for one adult:
- Attractions: S$32 (Gardens by the Bay) + S$40 (Singapore Flyer) + S$14 (Orchid Garden) = S$86
- Food & Dining: S$50–80 (mix of hawker food and restaurants)
- Transport (MRT EZ-Link Card): S$12 card + S$15–20 rides = S$27–32
- Optional Activities: Singapore River Cruise (S$20–30), Chinatown Heritage Centre (S$15)
- Total (Essentials Only): S$163–198
- Total (With Extras): S$213–273
Money-Saving Tips:
- Many attractions are completely free: Merlion Park, Supertree Light Show, Botanic Gardens, temples, and neighborhood walks
- Purchase a Go City Pass (S$80+/day) if visiting multiple paid attractions
- Use the Klook app for 10–20% discounts on tickets
- Hawker food is significantly cheaper than restaurants (S$4–8 vs S$20+)
- Book attractions online to avoid premium counter fees
Practical Tips for Your Singapore Weekend Getaway
Weather & What to Pack
Singapore is tropical year-round, with temperatures between 28–32°C and high humidity. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light rain jacket (afternoon showers are common). Sunscreen and a hat are essential for daytime sightseeing. Most attractions have air-conditioning, so a light cardigan is useful for temperature changes.
Getting Around Safely
Singapore's MRT system is one of Asia's safest and most efficient. Purchase an EZ-Link card (S$12, reusable) at any MRT station for seamless travel. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Grab, Uber) are reliable and affordable. Walking is safe in all recommended areas, especially during daytime. Homejourney prioritizes your safety by recommending well-established, tourist-friendly neighborhoods with excellent public services.
Best Times to Visit
Visit attractions early morning (before 10AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Avoid visiting during Chinese New Year (late January/February) and Deepavali (October/November) if you prefer smaller crowds, though these festivals offer unique cultural experiences. The light shows at Gardens by the Bay are best viewed after dark (7:45PM onwards).
Accessibility & Family-Friendly Features
All MRT stations have elevators and accessible facilities. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, and major malls are wheelchair-friendly. Nursing rooms and family restrooms are available at major attractions. The itinerary is suitable for families with children, though younger kids may find full days tiring—consider splitting activities or extending to 3 days if traveling with small children.
