Perfect Singapore Itinerary for 5 Days 2025

For Indonesian travelers, arriving in Singapore feels like going abroad but still familiar. You’ll hear Bahasa, find tasty food at hawker centers, and see fellow Indonesians shopping in Orchard or walking around Marina Bay. But everything’s more organized. Clean streets, smooth transport, and efficient systems.

The weather? Just like Jakarta, hot and humid. So make sure to check the Singapore weather guide before your trip.

This itinerary is flexible. Each day is split into morning, afternoon, and evening, so you can mix and match based on your mood. Here’s how I’d explore Singapore one fun half-day at a time!

Day 1: Cultural Strolls & Street Finds

Morning: Kampong Glam

I started my morning by getting off at Bugis MRT and walked to Kampong Glam. The colorful buildings and the golden dome of Sultan Mosque caught my eye right away. It felt different from other parts of Singapore, more creative and full of culture. People were taking photos, having coffee, and exploring small shops. I strolled through Haji Lane, enjoyed the street art, It was hot, but the vibe was calm and easy to enjoy.

📍 Nearest metro station

Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14)

(Source: mynetbizz.com)

🗺️ Where to stop

Sultan Mosque: The golden dome is the icon of Kampong Glam. Don’t miss a photo from Bussorah Street with the mosque perfectly framed.
Malay Heritage Centre: Just behind the mosque, this museum shares stories of Singapore’s Malay community and royal past.
Haji Lane: A narrow, colorful street full of murals, indie boutiques, and trendy cafés. Perfect for a stroll and Instagram shots.
Arab Street: Known for its textiles, carpets, and Middle Eastern shops, great for browsing or shopping souvenirs.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: 🥐 Symmetry Café — A chill Aussie-style café with great coffee and brunch options.
Snack: 🌯 Street shawarma or Turkish ice cream — Grab something light from vendors along Bussorah or Arab Street.
Lunch: 🍛 Zam Zam Restaurant — Famous for murtabak (stuffed roti) and nasi biryani, right across from Sultan Mosque.

💡 Pro tips

✨ Come in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat—it gets hot fast.
✨ Dress modestly if you plan to enter Sultan Mosque.
✨ Weekdays are quieter, while weekends are more lively but crowded.

Afternoon: Little India

After exploring Kampong Glam, I headed to Little India. Eeverything felt more lively. Bright colors, the smell of spices, and music playing from nearby shops. It was busier than Kampong Glam, with people shopping, chatting, and enjoying street snacks. I walked along Serangoon Road, passing shops selling gold, sarees, and flower garlands. I stopped at Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple—the colorful statues and carvings were beautiful. Inside, people were praying quietly, while the street outside stayed busy.

📍 Nearest metro station

Little India MRT (NE7/DT12)

🗺️ Where to stop

Serangoon Road: The main street of Little India, packed with saree shops, gold stores, spice markets.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple: One of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, known for its colorful towers and intricate carvings.
Tekka Centre: A lively hawker and wet market with everything from Indian meals to fresh produce and clothes.

🍽️ Food nearby

Dinner: 🍛 Komala Vilas – A long-standing vegetarian Indian restaurant serving thali sets, dosai, and curries full of flavor.
Snack: 🥟 Old Chang Kee curry puff or grab a street-side samosa from Tekka Centre.
Dessert: 🍨 Kulfi or gulab jamun from one of the nearby Indian sweet shops.

💡 Pro tips

✨ Evenings are best, Little India really comes alive after sunset with lights, music, and open shops.
✨ Dress modestly if you plan to visit temples.
✨ Many shops prefer cash or have minimum card payments, so bring small notes just in case.

Evening: Bugis Street & Bugis Junction

I arrived at Bugis Street as the day started to cool down. The area was busy with people shopping, eating, and walking around. Unlike the modern malls nearby, Bugis Street felt more relaxed and local. The small lanes were filled with stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and snacks. I could hear pop music playing and smell all kinds of food like takoyaki, fried snacks, and sweet drinks. It was crowded but fun, and perfect for just walking around and exploring.

📍 Nearest metro station

Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14)

🗺️ Where to stop

Bugis Street Market: The main shopping area, packed with over 600 stalls selling fashion, souvenirs, and trendy accessories.
Bugis Junction: Just across the street, this modern mall offers air-conditioned comfort, branded stores, and easy access to the MRT.
Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple: A well-known Buddhist temple nearby, often visited for blessings and quiet reflection amid the urban buzz.

🍽️ Food nearby

Dinner: 🍛 Albert Centre Food Centre – Just a short walk away, serving tasty local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and nasi lemak.
Snack: 🍢 Street food inside Bugis Street Market – Try takoyaki, Thai milk tea, fried chicken, or sweet potato balls.
Dessert: 🍧 Dessert Story or Milksha – Cool down with Taiwanese-style desserts or bubble tea after shopping.

💡 Pro tips

✨ Evenings are best. Bugis Street is cooler and livelier as the lights come on.
✨ Most shops only accept cash, so bring small notes.
✨ Haggle gently. Some stalls allow light bargaining, especially for clothes and souvenirs.

Day 2: Nature, Shopping & Street Food Exploration

Morning: MacRitchie Reservoir

I arrived at MacRitchie Reservoir early in the morning, just as the day was starting. The air was cool and fresh, with a few people walking or jogging on the trail. Surrounded by trees and calm water, it felt quiet and peaceful, very different from the busy city. Birds were chirping, and the breeze made it even nicer. It was a simple and relaxing way to start the day.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Marymount MRT Station (CC16)

🗺️ Where to stop

Lush Boardwalk Trails: Walk along scenic wooden paths beside the water, shaded by trees and surrounded by nature.
TreeTop Walk: A little further in, this suspension bridge gives you stunning views of the forest canopy (best for those ready to hike!).
Paddle Lodge Area: Where you can rent kayaks or canoes for a relaxing paddle on the reservoir.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: 🍳 Spruce at MacRitchie – A cozy café near the entrance offering all-day breakfast, coffee, and hearty meals in a nature-filled setting.
Lunch: 🍜 Thomson Plaza Food Court – Just a short ride away, packed with local favourites like laksa, chicken rice, and ban mian.
Snack: 🍌 Bring your own! Fresh fruit, trail mix, or a sandwich is perfect after a long walk. There aren’t many stalls inside the park.

💡 Pro tips

✨ Come early (before 8 AM) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
✨ Wear proper shoes—the trails can be long and slightly hilly in some parts.
✨ Watch for monkeys—don’t feed them, and keep your snacks hidden!

Afternoon: Orchard Road

I arrived at Orchard Road just before lunch, and it was already busy with people. The street was full of big malls, brand stores, and places to eat. It felt modern, lively, and great for shopping.

I explored ION Orchard, which had both luxury and popular fashion brands. Then I headed to the food floor, with lots of choices from local dishes to international meals. After that, I walked over to Paragon and Ngee Ann City for more shopping. Everything was close and easy to reach, perfect for a full day out.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Orchard MRT Station (NS22/TE14)

🗺️ Where to stop

ION Orchard 🛍️ – One of the biggest malls on Orchard Road, packed with luxury brands, high-street fashion, and dining options across multiple floors.
Emerald Hill 🌿 – Just off Orchard Road, this quiet street is lined with colorful Peranakan shophouses—great for photos or a short break from the crowds.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: 🥐 Tiong Bahru Bakery @ TANGS – A popular spot for buttery croissants, coffee, and a light morning bite right by Orchard MRT.
Lunch: 🍜 Food Opera @ ION Orchard – A stylish food court with Singaporean hawker classics like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and satay.
Snack: 🍦 Matchaya or Milksha – Great spots for matcha soft serve or bubble tea while walking between shops.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Orchard MRT (NS22/TE14) gives direct access to several malls via underground walkways. Super convenient when it's hot or rainy.
✨ Start from ION and walk toward Somerset for a full stretch of shopping and food options.
✨ Orchard Road gets busy in the afternoon, come earlier if you prefer smaller crowds.

Evening: Lau Pa Sat

I got to Lau Pa Sat after sunset, and it was already crowded. Satay stalls were open, and the smell of grilled meat was everywhere. People were sitting, eating, and enjoying the evening.

I had some chicken satay and sugarcane juice, then looked around at the other food. There was chicken rice, laksa, roti prata, and more. It was busy and smoky, but a fun place for tasty Singapore food.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Telok Ayer MRT Station (DT18)

🗺️ Where to stop

Satay Street (Boon Tat Street) 🌇 – Right next to Lau Pa Sat, this area turns into an open-air satay zone in the evening with long tables and smoky grills.
Inside Lau Pa Sat Hall 🏛️ – A beautiful heritage building with high ceilings and rows of food stalls offering all kinds of local and Asian dishes.
Nearby Shophouses 🏬 – Just a short walk away, explore Telok Ayer Street for cool cafés, temples, and hidden bars if you want to continue your night.

🍽️ Food nearby

Dinner: 🍢 Satay Street – Try chicken, beef, or prawn satay with peanut sauce, served right at your table.
Snack: 🍜 Inside Lau Pa Sat – Grab some local faves like laksa, char kway teow, or dim sum.
Dessert: 🍨 Ice kacang or traditional sweets – Available inside the hawker hall; refreshing after a savory meal.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Best time to visit is after 7 PM when Satay Street opens and the vibe is lively.
✨ Come hungry. There are so many food choices in one spot.
✨ Most stalls accept card or e-payment, but it's good to have some cash just in case.

Day 3: Heritage Trails & Cultural Gems

Morning: Chinatown Heritage Trail

The Chinatown Heritage Trails felt calm and full of history, even though it was close to busy streets. I saw old temples, shophouses, and signs that shared stories about the area. Places like Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple showed Singapore’s mix of cultures. The signs were in English and Chinese, so it was easy to follow. It felt like walking through the past and learning about Singapore in a simple, fun way.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19)

🗺️ Where to stop

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple 🛕 – A beautiful red temple with a rooftop garden and a museum inside. It’s one of the main highlights of Chinatown.
Sri Mariamman Temple 🌺 – The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, known for its colorful carvings and vibrant entrance.
Pagoda Street 🛍️ – A lively street filled with souvenir shops, snack stalls, and heritage signs. Great for walking and shopping.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: ☕ Nanyang Old Coffee @ Pagoda Street – A cozy spot for kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and kopi, just like the locals enjoy.
Lunch: 🍜 Chinatown Complex Food Centre – A local favorite with affordable hawker food like chicken rice, char kway teow, and lor mee.
Snack: 🍡 Mei Heong Yuen Dessert – Try traditional Chinese desserts like almond paste, mango snow ice, or herbal jelly.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Morning visits are best, Cooler weather and fewer crowds.
✨ Look out for heritage trail signs. They give short, interesting stories about each spot.
✨ Want more? Combine your trip with a walk to Telok Ayer or the nearby Maxwell Food Centre.

Afternoon: Peranakan Museum

The Peranakan Museum was calm and quiet, a nice break from the busy streets.

Inside, I saw colorful clothes, dishes, and furniture that showed the Peranakan way of life. The museum was easy to walk through, with clear displays and signs that explained the culture. It wasn’t crowded, so I could take my time. A simple and relaxing visit, and a great way to learn more about Singapore’s history.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Bras Basah MRT Station (CC2)

🗺️ Where to stop

Armenian Street 🏘️ – Right outside the museum, this quiet street is great for a short walk and has colorful shophouses and murals.
National Museum of Singapore 🏛️ – Just a 5-minute walk away if you want to explore more about Singapore’s broader history.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: ☕ The Fabulous Baker Boy (near Fort Canning) – A cozy café with great coffee, toast, and cakes in a quiet green setting.
Lunch: 🍛 True Blue Cuisine – Located next to the museum, this restaurant serves authentic Peranakan dishes like ayam buah keluak and chap chye.
Snack: 🍧 Dessert stalls at nearby Funan Mall – Try local sweets like chendol, ice kacang, or pandan cakes.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ The museum is indoors and air-conditioned—great for a midday visit.
✨ Read the signs or use an audio guide to understand more about the displays.
✨ Pair your visit with a walk to nearby Fort Canning Park or the National Museum for a full cultural day.

Evening: Ann Siang Hill & Club Street

Just a short walk from Chinatown, Ann Siang Hill and Club Street felt calm and stylish compared to the busy roads nearby. The area had old shophouses, cool cafés, bars, and restaurants. It was relaxed but lively, with locals and tourists hanging out. The mix of old buildings and modern spots made it feel special. It was a nice place to slow down, enjoy the vibe, and see a different side of Singapore.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Telok Ayer MRT Station (DT18)

(Source: launches.sg)

🗺️ Where to stop

Ann Siang Hill Park 🌳 – A small, peaceful park at the top of the hill, great for a short walk or quiet break with a view of the shophouses below.
Club Street 🍷 – Lively in the evenings with bars, rooftop lounges, and restaurants. On weekends, the road is closed to cars, so people fill the street.
Ann Siang Road 🏘️ – Lined with boutique shops, stylish cafés, and heritage buildings—perfect for exploring during the day.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: ☕ Plain Vanilla Bakery – A cozy café nearby offering good coffee, pastries, and light bites to start your day.
Lunch: 🍝 Pasta Bar – A modern, compact eatery on Club Street serving fresh handmade pasta in a relaxed setting.
Snack: 🍦 Apiary – A short walk away, this dessert shop is popular for its homemade ice cream with local flavors.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Visit in the evening (especially Friday or Saturday) when Club Street is closed to cars.
✨ Some bars and restaurants get crowded. Arrive early if you want a seat outdoors.
✨ Perfect for couples or friends looking for a chill night out with food, drinks, and a bit of local charm.

Day 4: Nature, Culture & Skyline in One Stroll

Morning: Gardens By The Bay

I went to Gardens by the Bay in the morning, when it was quiet and not too crowded. It felt peaceful, with lots of trees, flowers, and fresh air. The breeze from the bay made it nice and cool.

I walked around the Supertree Grove and saw people jogging and taking photos. There were signs for the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Dragonfly Lake. It felt like a big garden mixed with cool, modern features. A great place to relax and enjoy nature in the city.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16)

🗺️ Where to stop

🌳 Supertree Grove – The most iconic spot in the gardens. Walk among giant tree structures and come back at night for the light and music show.
🌸 Flower Dome – A large, cool indoor garden with colorful flowers and plants from all over the world.
🌫️ Cloud Forest – Home to a tall indoor waterfall and misty walkways filled with rare plants and greenery.
🦋 Far East Organization Children’s Garden – A fun splash area and playground, perfect for kids to cool down and play.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: ☕ Café Aster – Located inside the gardens, great for coffee, pastries, and light breakfast sets.
Lunch: 🍛 Satay by the Bay – A casual outdoor food court with satay, laksa, chicken rice, and more local dishes under the trees.
Snack: 🍧 Conservatory kiosks – Grab ice cream, bubble tea, or cold drinks near the domes for a quick refresh.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Wear comfy shoes—there’s lots of walking, especially between domes and attractions.
✨ Buy bundle tickets online to save money if you plan to visit both the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.
✨ Stay until evening to catch the Garden Rhapsody light show at Supertree Grove—it's free and magical!

Afternoon: Marina Bay Walk

Just a short walk from central Singapore, Marina Bay Walk feels like a peaceful escape. The path runs along the water with great views of the skyline, the bay, and landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion. People come here to walk, jog, take photos, or enjoy the view especially at sunset. It’s calm, clean, and a nice break from the busy city around it.

📍 Nearest Metro Station:

Bayfront MRT (Downtown Line & Circle Line)

🗺️ Where to stop

Merlion Park: Start with the iconic Merlion statue for a classic photo with Marina Bay Sands in the background.
The Promontory: A chill spot with views of the skyline. Great for sunset. Often hosts events and pop-ups.
Helix Bridge: Snap futuristic photos as you cross this DNA-shaped bridge. At night, the lights make it even more magical.
Marina Bay Sands Boardwalk: Stroll along the waterfront with views of the ArtScience Museum and Louis Vuitton Island store.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: 🥐 Baker X – Hidden inside Orchard Central but worth the walk for specialty pastries and good coffee.
Lunch: 🍱 Rasapura Masters at MBS – A hawker-style food court inside The Shoppes, offering everything from chicken rice to laksa.
Snack: 🍦 Cold Stone Creamery or street snack stalls at the Esplanade – Grab an ice cream and enjoy it by the bay.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Go around 5–7 PM for cooler weather and golden hour views.
✨ Stay for Spectra, the free light & water show at MBS (8 PM & 9 PM daily).
✨ Bring a hat or umbrella if you're doing the full walk during the day—there’s minimal shade.

Evening: Spectra Light & Water Show

I watched the Spectra Light and Water Show at Marina Bay after dinner. It was really nice colorful lights, music, and water all moving together. Lots of people were sitting by the bay, taking photos and videos. The cool breeze and city view made it feel relaxing. It’s a fun and free thing to do at night in Singapore.

📍 Nearest Metro Station:

Bayfront MRT (Downtown Line & Circle Line)

(Source: preparetravelplans.com)

🗺️ Where to stop

Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza – The best spot to watch the show! It’s open-air with plenty of space to sit and enjoy the view of the bay and skyline.

🍽️ Food nearby

Dinner: 🍜 Rasapura Masters – A big food court inside The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, offering Singaporean hawker favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and satay.
Snack: 🍦 Cold Stone Creamery – Grab a scoop of ice cream before or after the show, located nearby inside the mall.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Arrive 15–30 minutes early to grab a good viewing spot near the water.
✨ Best photo spots are across the bay (Merlion Park or Esplanade) for skyline shots.
✨ The show lasts about 15 minutes and happens twice every night.

Day 5: Singapore Green, Historic & Traditional Gems

Morning: Singapore Botanic Gardens

I visited the Singapore Botanic Gardens in the late morning, and it felt calm and relaxing. The garden is big but easy to walk around, with lots of trees, flowers, and open space.

I walked by the lakes, saw swans and turtles, and sat on a bench to rest. The Orchid Garden was really pretty with lots of colorful flowers. Some parts were under maintenance, but most areas were open. It’s a nice place to enjoy nature and take a break from the city.

📍 Nearest Metro Station

Botanic Gardens MRT (Circle Line & Downtown Line) – Exit via Bukit Timah Gate.

🗺️ Where to stop

National Orchid Garden – Home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, this is the most famous part of the gardens.
Swan Lake – A peaceful spot with swans gliding across the water, great for photos and a quick rest.
Rainforest Trail – A short and shady jungle walk that feels like an escape from the city.

🍽️ Food nearby

Breakfast: 🥐 Bee’s Knees at The Garage – Casual cafe with pastries, eggs, and good coffee, inside the garden itself.
Lunch: 🍝 The Halia – Upscale dining with dishes like chili crab pasta and laksa-infused chicken, also within the gardens.
Snack: 🍦 Fusion Spoon – Family-friendly café near the Tanglin Gate with ice cream and quick bites.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Mornings and late afternoons are best—cooler weather and smaller crowds.
✨ Bring a water bottle and sunscreen—it’s tropical and you’ll be outside a lot.
✨ Free admission except for the National Orchid Garden (SGD 15 / Rp175.000 for adults).

Afternoon: Joo Chiat & Katong

Joo Chiat & Katong is a charming area with colorful old buildings and lots of local food. I walked around, took photos of the pretty shophouses, and tried kaya toast at a local café. It’s a quiet, relaxed place to enjoy some heritage and tasty snacks.

📍 Nearest MRT station

Dakota or Paya Lebar MRT (10–15 minutes’ walk)

(Source: thegranddunman.com.sg)

🗺️ Where to Stop

Colorful Peranakan Shophouses – Walk along Koon Seng Road to see and snap photos of the famous pastel heritage houses.
Cat Socrates – A quirky lifestyle store with cute gifts, books, and local designs.

🍽️ Food Nearby

Breakfast: ☕ Chin Mee Chin Confectionery – A classic spot for kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and kopi in a retro setting.
Lunch: 🍜 328 Katong Laksa – Famous for its rich laksa broth and short noodles you eat with just a spoon.
Snack: 🍰 Birds of Paradise Gelato – Try their botanical-inspired gelato in a thyme cone.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Best explored on foot—wear comfy shoes and take your time.
✨ Nearest MRT: Dakota or Paya Lebar (around 10–15 mins walk).
✨ Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light (and fewer crowds) for photos.

Evening: Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is a nice place by the river in the city. I went in the afternoon, and it wasn’t too crowded. The colorful buildings and boats looked great, and as the sun set, the lights made it even prettier. There are many places to eat and relax. It’s a good spot for a walk or dinner if you’re nearby.

📍 Nearest MRT Station

Clarke Quay MRT (NE5)

(Source: trackpacking.com)

🗺️ Where to stop

Clarke Quay Riverside Walk – Just steps from the Clarke Quay MRT Station, this colorful riverside area is filled with restored warehouses turned into bars, restaurants, and shops. Great for a scenic stroll and people-watching.
Read Bridge (Malacca Bridge) – A popular photo spot connecting both sides of Clarke Quay, especially lively at night with buskers and lights.

🍽️ Food nearby

Lunch: 🍜 Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (New Bridge Rd) – A legendary spot for peppery pork rib soup, just across the street.
Snack: 🍦 Roji Monster Ice Cream – Instagrammable Japanese-style soft serve near Clarke Quay Central.
Dinner: 🍽️ Jumbo Seafood @ Riverside Point – Perfect for chili crab lovers, with riverside dining and iconic Singaporean flavors.

💡 Pro Tips

✨ Best time to visit is after 6 PM when Clarke Quay lights up and the riverside breeze sets the mood.
✨ Use Clarke Quay MRT Station (NE5) – Exit C for direct access.
✨ Perfect spot for riverside selfies, chill dates, or scenic walks before bar hopping.

Why Singapore Is Truly Unforgettable?

What I liked most about Singapore is how everything feels so organized and easy to enjoy. One moment you’re exploring vibrant cultural spots like Chinatown or Little India, and the next you’re walking through futuristic areas like Marina Bay. It’s clean, safe, and super walkable—even with the tropical heat.

Singapore is easy to explore at your own pace. This flexible itinerary helps you pick what suits your style—whether it’s food, shopping, nature, or culture.

✈️ Flights and hotels are easy to book on Trip.com, with great deals that suit every budget. Plus, you can find discounted attraction tickets and eSIMs all in one place. It’s a great time to visit and experience what Singapore has to offer—let Trip.com make your travel planning smooth and simple.