Singapore in 48 hours
Singapore packs Chinese, Malay, Indian and colonial heritage into a small, green, spotless city. It is one of the world's great food cities, and its gardens and waterfront make it more than a stopover.
Best time to visit. February to April is slightly drier; the city is warm and humid all year, with short tropical storms.
Where to base yourself
- Civic District. Raffles, the National Gallery and colonial landmarks.
- Marina Bay. The waterfront, Gardens by the Bay and the skyline.
- Chinatown. Temples, shophouses and hawker food.
- Little India. Spice shops, temples and the Tekka Centre.
- Kampong Glam. The Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane's boutiques.
Two perfect days
Day one · Heritage
- Morning
- Breakfast at a kopitiam
- Afternoon
- National Gallery and the Asian Civilisations Museum
- Evening
- Hawker dinner in Chinatown
Day two · Green city
- Morning
- Botanic Gardens and the National Orchid Garden
- Afternoon
- Little India and Kampong Glam
- Evening
- Gardens by the Bay light show
Getting around
The MRT is fast and air-conditioned; pay by contactless card. Taxis and ride-hailing are inexpensive. Changi Airport is about 20 minutes from the centre.
Local tips
- Hawker centres are clean, cheap and excellent
- No eating or drinking on the MRT
- Carry a light layer for cold air conditioning
- Tipping isn't expected; service charges are often included