Garden City Greenery: 3 Days Itinerary of Flavor and Futurism in Singapore

Singapore is a city state defined by spectacular efficiency, vibrant multiculturalism, and stunning integration of nature into the urban landscape. For the slow traveler, the goal is to appreciate its unique fusion of old world flavor (Hawker centers) and cutting edge design (Gardens by the Bay), all while utilizing its excellent public transport system.

This 3 day itinerary is designed to move at a comfortable pace, focusing on gastronomy, architecture, and finding pockets of serene calm amidst the density.

Merlion - Singapore

Day 1: Heritage, Gastronomy, and the Night Lights

Today balances historical immersion in Chinatown with the futuristic spectacle of Singapore's iconic gardens after dark.

Morning: Hawker History in Chinatown

• 9:00 AM | Singapore National Gallery: Start by immersing yourself in Southeast Asian art housed within the beautifully restored City Hall and Supreme Court buildings. This offers a cool, cultural beginning to the day. (Address: 1 St Andrew's Rd, Singapore 178957)

• 11:00 AM | Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Visit this magnificent temple located in the heart of Chinatown. Note the colorful architecture and the peaceful rooftop garden. (Address: 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058840)

• 1:00 PM | Lunch at Maxwell Food Centre: Experience Singapore’s culinary soul at a famous Hawker center.

  • Tip: Try Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (Stall 01-10/11) for the legendary dish, or explore other famous stalls for laksa or char siew. (Address: 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184)

Afternoon: Colonial Calm and Cultural Crossroads

• 3:00 PM | Fort Canning Park: Escape the midday heat and crowds by relaxing in this historic park. Walk the spiral staircase and view the spice garden for a touch of colonial history. (Address: River Valley Rd, Singapore 179037)

• 5:00 PM | Little India Walk: Head to Little India to experience the vibrant colors, floral garlands, and temples. This is a great time to browse the shops as the light begins to soften. (Address: Serangoon Road Area)

  • Tip: Stop for an afternoon Masala Chai or a sweet Indian pastry at a shop along Serangoon Road.

Evening: Future Forest

• 7:30 PM | Gardens by the Bay (Supertree Grove): Arrive for dinner and the evening light show.

  • Tip: Have dinner at Satay by the Bay (18 Marina Gardens Dr, #01-19, Singapore 018953) for a diverse range of local grilled skewers and other Hawker delights before the show.

• 8:45 PM | Garden Rhapsody Light Show: Find a spot beneath the massive Supertrees to watch the spectacular light and music display. (Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953)

Day 2: Nature, Shopping, and Peranakan Past

Today focuses on Singapore's relationship with nature, from its famous zoo to its preserved historical districts.

Morning: Wildlife and Green Space

• 9:00 AM | Singapore Botanic Gardens: Visit Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. Focus on the National Orchid Garden (separate ticket required) for a quiet, stunning display of hybrid orchids. (Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569)

• 11:30 AM | Orchard Road: Take a stroll down Singapore's famous shopping street. Focus on the architecture and window shopping, rather than heavy buying.

• 1:00 PM | Lunch: Find a spot near Orchard Road.

  • Tip: Try the Food Republic at Wisma Atria (435 Orchard Road, #04-02/10, Singapore 238877) for a high quality, air conditioned food court experience with many local favorites.

Afternoon: East Coast Heritage

• 3:00 PM | Joo Chiat/Katong: Explore the preserved Peranakan shophouses in this eastern heritage district. The colorful facades and intricate details make for a beautiful slow walk.

• 4:30 PM | Katong Laksa: Indulge in the iconic dish of the area.

  • Tip: Try 328 Katong Laksa (51 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428770) for the famous signature coconut curry noodle dish.

• 6:00 PM | East Coast Park: If you have the energy, head to the nearby East Coast Park to walk along the seaside promenade, a favorite spot for locals to unwind.

Evening: Rooftop Drinks

• 8:00 PM | Dinner and Drinks: Return to the central area for a sophisticated dinner.

  • Tip: Enjoy dinner and panoramic views at a rooftop bar or restaurant near the Marina Bay area, such as CE LA VI (1 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands, Tower 3, 018971).

Day 3: Island Escape and Water Views

The final day offers an escape to an island sanctuary, followed by appreciating Singapore's skyline from the water.

Morning: Island Sanctuary

• 9:30 AM | Take a Ferry to Pulau Ubin: Escape the city entirely with a short ferry ride to this rustic island, which retains the charm of old Singapore (kampong life).

• 10:30 AM | Explore Pulau Ubin: Rent a bicycle and explore the easy, flat trails, or simply walk through the small village. Chek Jawa Wetlands is a quiet, ecological highlight. (Ferry from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, 51 Lor Bekukong, Singapore 499172)

• 1:00 PM | Lunch on Pulau Ubin: Grab a simple seafood lunch at one of the village stalls before returning to the mainland.

Afternoon: Quayside Cool Down

• 3:30 PM | Singapore River Cruise: Instead of walking in the heat, take a slow bumboat cruise along the Singapore River to appreciate the juxtaposed skyline of colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers. (Departures from Clarke Quay or Marina Bay)

• 5:00 PM | Merlion Park: Take the classic photo at the Merlion statue overlooking Marina Bay. (Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213)

Evening: Farewell Feast

• 7:30 PM | Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a final dinner near the river or in a heritage area.

  • Tip: Lau Pa Sat (18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582) is a beautiful Victorian market turned Hawker center. Find the famous Satay Street that opens outside the building in the evening for a fantastic farewell experience.

This itinerary emphasizes slowing down in a city known for its speed. Remember to stay hydrated, utilize the MRT (subway) for efficiency, and embrace the local Hawker culture for the best flavors.