Best of Singapore in 2 days - Family trip itinerary
Singapore was our gateway to Family Trip by some Asian countries, and we set aside two full days to get to know this city-state. The curiosity to know Singapore was big, because we were use to see the futuristic photographs of the city, and for much more. We were delighted to have added this destination to our trip. This city, famous for its economic development, quality of life, cleanliness and security...
The attractions of this city-state are manifold, ranging from culture, iconic buildings, museums, gastronomy, casinos, amusements for children, etc ... However, we only had two days and we had to plan and choose.
So, to organize our 2 days, we decided to dedicate the first to the modern part of the city, and the second to the most ethnic and historical part, also known to be inhabited by three populations with different origins and customs, namely Malay, Chinese and Indian.
Orchard Road
This is the main shopping street in the city and there are those who say that it is the best and most famous in all of Asia. The main reason we chose to start our day here is not because we are fanatics about shopping, it was because we preferred to end the day more by the sea, and so we start the program on this street.
Even if you are not a shopping fanatic and this is not your main destination, we must say that this is a street worthy of a visit. Its just over 2 km from glamorous and futuristic buildings, that sometimes intersect with more traditional streets, shops, restaurants, hotels. Full of movement, we recommend to visit even if only to see.
Merlion park
Then we went to the Merlion Park, which can be done by public transport or on foot, a walk of about 1.5 kms from the end of Orchard Street facing south.
Merlion Park is where Singapore's symbolic Lion, the Merlion, sits on the other side of the bay overlooking Marina Sands Bay. Merlion is the statue of a lion with fish body that pours water into the beautiful Marina Bay. It's a must-see when traveling to Singapore, a perfect place to take pictures and to continue your journey to the next destination. It has a wonderful esplanade and restaurants and cafes in the area.
This is also a good location to see the Spectra, a spectacular light show that takes place daily in the waters of Marina Bay, and is free. For more information about schedules, see here.
Singapore Flyer
This is one of the biggest giant wheels in the world and the view from its top is phenomenal. However, the prices charged are high (you can check here), so we just observed from outside.
Helix Bridge
This pedestrian bridge is right near the Singapore Flyer and, with free access, is something you can not miss on your visit. Inaugurated in 2010, it is a masterpiece of engineering, based on the DNA chain, which we loved to pass.
ArtScience Museum
Then we passed the ArtScience Museum. This museum, situated on Marina Bay is another of the architectural marvels one can find in Singapore. Designed to remember a lotus flower, it was inaugurated in 2011 and has since been one of the images of the city.
To know more about the entry prices, temporary exhibitions and schedules, check here.
Marina Bay Sands Hotel - Observation Deck
This dream hotel has the world's most well-known infinity pool, located throughout its three towers, whose photographs span the globe. Unfortunately access to the pool is only available to those staying at the hotel and for a large percentage of those visiting Singapore this is a cost that is very out of budget. However, it is possible to climb to the top of this building, to its Observation Deck, and enjoy the wonderful view. We recommend this visit near the end of the day, when the lights start to light up around the city and the scenery is stunning. However, remember that this observation post is on the opposite side of the pool, you will not be able to see it.
You can access more information about the visit, prices and schedules here.
Gardens by the Bay
Then we went to Gardens by the Bay, where are the futuristic trees that are also one of Singapore's brand images. This is an impossible spectacle to fail to anyone visiting Singapore. The walk through the garden is free but entrance to the pavilions is payable. You can access more information about prices and times here.
A must-see is the wonderful light show that takes place at 7.45 pm and repeats at 8.45 pm at Gardens by the Bay. This spectacle, which you can watch for free, turns the already fantastic trees into an explosion of colors, lights and music that will fascinate you. Unmissable. This was one of the reasons why we decided to end the day in this area of Singapore.
There may be slight changes in time, so please verify the exact time here.
SPECTRA - A light and whater show
Shortly afterwards, we recommend that you head for the Spectra, the water, lasers, fire and light show taking place at Marina Bay, just in front of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. It's also free but you should get there early to get a good spot.
You can access more information about the show here.
This is undoubtedly a great way to end the day.
Day 2
Our second day in Singapore was dedicated to the oldest and most historic part of the city. You can see the full map on google maps here.
Little India
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Our first stop was to visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, which is situated on the main avenue of Little India, the Serangoon Road. Its exterior is impressive and, for those who, like us, had never entered an Indu time, we were fascinated.
Then we walked the streets toward Bugis Street, our next destination, past the exterior of the Indian Heritage Center. You can see here the official website for more information.
Bugis Street
This is the best known marketplace in Singapore for the lowest prices where you can find the largest bargain deals. It's a good stroll, ideal for shopping for souvenirs from Singapore, eating, and be sure to go see the colorful spiral staircases behind the back street of Bugis Village (233 Victoria Street).
Then, we went to Arab Street.
Arab Street
This is a very well organized street, full of commerce, and is a good place to walk.
The first passage was by the Sultan Mosque (also known as Masjid Sultan, one of the most traditional mosques in Singapore. It is a beautiful place, whose entrance is free and should be done through the main door for tourists and you can not have access to everything. In the building, please do not forget that it is a place of worship and, with due respect, you will have to remove your shoes at the entrance and, if your clothing is not suitable, you can ask them to loan you clothes for the visit. in a friendly and cordial way.You can find out more about timetables here. 
It is possible to take a guided tour but, for this, you must make an appointment, which you can do here.
Malay Heritage Center
Then we passed the gardens of the Malay Heritage Center. Admission is payable, so we just strolled outside and the free visit to the gardens is worth it. You can check the official website to know more information about the price and times here.
Then we started our walk towards Chinatown but, with some stops along the way
Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
This Cathedral, dating from 1832, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in Singapore and comes to mind as Singapore is able to have such a vast cultural and religious complex in a small territory. The air conditioning is good and, despite being a busy church, it is a good stopping point and reflection.
Old Hill Street Police Station
We continue our way stopping by Old Hill Street Police Station. It used to be an old prison, the first one in Singapore. It now houses a number of public services, and its main attraction is the colorful, eye-catching windows before setting off for a relaxing stroll through Fort Canning Park.
Fort Canning Park
This is a park that, in the midst of the hustle and bustle, will know wonderfully well to be able to relax and to feel in the middle of the vegetation. Full of history, it's a great walk to relax before heading back out into the middle of the action.
After this relaxing visit, we drove to Chinatown. On the way we passed close to Clarke Quay but this was a visit we wanted to book more towards the end of the day.
Chinatown was our best experience and, in our opinion, the most interesting of Singapore's neighborhoods. Take South Bridge Road to Masjid Jamae (also known as Chulia). This is one of the oldest mosques in Singapore and a landmark in Chinatown.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Shortly thereafter, you will arrive at the Sri Mariamman Temple, a wonderful Hindu temple, and we advise you to try to be there at 6:00 p.m., as you can attend a very interesting free ceremony.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Then we went to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, a temple of 1821 which, although not very large, is very beautiful and certainly deserves a visit.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
After our visit, we continue our tour through Chinatown towards the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, where they say that a Buddha's tooth is stored.
Chinatown Complex Food Center
Finished this tour, we went to the Chinatown Complex Food Center looking for dinner and this is one of the best places in Singapore to eat. With a wide offer and very attractive prices, let yourself be amazed and, being in Singapore, we can not fail to recommend that you sample the Crab but be careful, it can be spicy.
It is in this hawker that has the possibility to go to the Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice Noodle, and eat a plate awarded with a Michelin Star. It is the star-award-winning restaurant serving the world's cheapest meal. The queue can be huge, so be prepared, but if you're not waiting in line, you have a vast and delicious offer all around you.
Clarke Quay
After dinner, and as the day was already huge, we strolled along Eu Tong Sen Street, still in Chinatown, to Clarke Quay.
This is one of the perfect areas to walk to at the end of the day, with a wide offer of restaurants (much more expensive than in Chinatown), bars and shops. At the end of the day, the lights fill the area with a special color, in an area already colored by the colors of the houses and bars along the Singapore River. A great sightseeing walking tour before heading to the hotel.
More ideas for a family trip in Singapore
Our family itinerary was made for our 2 day stay in Singapore but this is a destination for which you can easily allocate more days with a huge offer and can be a fantastic family trip as it has lots of attractions for children. We leave some ideas to complete your itinerary in case you can stay more days in Singapore:
- Singapore zoo
- Singapore Zoo + River Safari
- Sentosa Island (Skyline Luge, Wings of Time, Singapore cable car, MOSH)
- Singapore Night Safari
- Universal Studios
- Jurong Bird Park
- Sea Aquarium
