Bali itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Bali Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Indonesia | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Here’s the ultimate Bali itinerary for how to spend 7 days in this island paradise. We’ll share our tips and advice on what to do and see, where to stay, transportation, and more in this Bali travel guide blog.

Island of the Gods, Bali is a dream destination that everyone looks to escape to. This island paradise is incredibly beautiful and it is what you might be picturing when you think of paradise. It boasted gorgeous natural scenery, rice paddies, stunning beaches, beautiful temples, as well as cultural landmarks. The people are friendly, and the food is delicious and inexpensive.

There is so much to do in Bali for your perfect gateway. Travelers from around the world flock to this gorgeous island for a short or long holiday getaway. Planning how to experience the best of Bali to get the most out of your trip can be challenging on your own. But rest assured.

In this Bali travel guide blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know, including how to plan the Bali itinerary, the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay, and what to do in Bali. We will take you through Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud to see the very best of the island for one week!

Bali Travel Guide: Pre-Trip Essential

Bali is sprawling, with places to visit and attractions spread out across the island. You’re going to spend a lot of time moving around the island, so we advise planning your Bali itinerary before your visit.

Where to go in Bali: Generally, Bali can be navigated by 6 different regions, which are South, Central, North, West, East, and Southeastern Islands. Most travelers will be focusing on the South, and visiting the Seminyak, Uluwatu, Canggu, Denpasar, Jimbaran, Legian, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Seminyak, and Tanah Lot. From there, take some time to visit the Central (Ubud), and Southeastern Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Nusa Ceningan).

We’ll be covering more on South (Seminyak, Uluwatu) and Central Bali (Ubud) as well as Nusa Penida in this Bali itinerary. Let’s start find out the best places to travel in my Bali travel blogs here!

Get connected: Having a local SIM card for data connection is always important! make sure you are connected throughout the trip so you can easily look at maps and research on the go. It is advice to reserve your local card as it will cost you more when buying it in Bali.

Getting Around in Bali

There are many different options for getting around Bali. But renting a scooter and hiring a professional driver are the two main options for getting around in Bali.

If you plan to rent a scooter and motorbike in Bali, you will need to plan in advance as it is the law to drive a motorized vehicle with a license. You’ll need to get an international driver’s license (IDP) and also bring your regular license to rent a scooter in Bali. Renting motorbikes in Bali is quite affordable and it only costs you Rp 60,000 – 70,000 / day, and fuel is about Rp 30,000 for a full tank. However, note that traffic in Bali is heavy, chaotic, and unpredictable. Plus the road conditions can be bad, unmarked, with large potholes or loose rocks. This is not advisable to learn and drive in Bali.

For a more relaxing experience, we recommended hiring a professional driver to take you sightseeing and traveling for longer journeys between destinations. The professionals know the place well to bring you to the attractions securely. Depending on the travel distance, hiring a private driver for a day will cost around 400,000 IDR. Also, we recommend starting your Bali itinerary as early as possible.

Get a Professional Bali Private Car Charter

If you only getting around town areas, such as Kuta town, it is a good idea to use the local ride-hailing (Grab and Gojek) for direct journeys and to and from the airport. Alternatively, Blue Bird Taxi is also commonly used when getting around in town.

How Many Days for Bali itinerary

We wish to stay in Bali forever. There are simply so many things to do and see in Bali that any less time would feel rushed.

But if time is limited, 7 days in Bali is the least amount of time you’d want to properly experience the best places to visit in Bali.  Whether you want to explore stunning temples, and waterfalls, experience local markets, and picture-perfect rice fields, or relax in sandy white beaches, 7 days in Bali will give you ample time to explore the island.

Where To Stay

The other major part of planning your Bali itinerary is deciding on where to stay in Bali. Staying in the right place can absolutely make your trip more comfortable and save the traveling time to get you to the destination’s attractions. Bali caters to backpackers and luxury travelers alike, along with everyone in between, this means there’s a place which will suit anyone.

For first-timers, the best places to stay in Bali are Seminyak, Ubud, and Canggu. Here is some recommedation for the best places to stay in Bali.

  • Seminyak – Stay in W Bali Seminyak means five-star everything, without a hint of pretension. It is the best option if you want a relaxing resort-type vacation in Bali. Everything about this place is so luxurious and it’s arguably one of the best Bali hotels.
  • Jimbaran – AYANA Resort Bali is the best option in case you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious stay in Bali. It is the best place for those looking for privacy and to splurge for a honeymoon or special occasion.
  • Ubud – Bisma Eight is one of the popular picks when choosing where to stay in Bali in the Ubud area. The hotel houses thirty-eight spacious suites that highlight the vibrant, lush greenery of their immediate surroundings.
  • CanggunAnnupuri Villas Bali is a 3-star resort villa and extremely value for money. Your stay featured with pleasant swimming pool in a peaceful area with lots of green and a river view from the garden. The room is super clean and comfortable.

For more accommodation option: Where To Stay in Bali: Best Areas and Hotels Pick.

Bali Travel Guide Tips: Depending on personal preference, you can also choose to stay in more than one place. Just like us, we choose to stay in Ubud for the first 3 days and then move to Seminyak for the remaining days. This will ease the traveling time when visiting the central and south regions of Bali.

7 Days Bali Itinerary

This Bali travel itinerary begins in the central region with Bali and slowly works its way south to southern regions such as Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Nusa Penida. We didn’t plan places to visit and only focus on major attractions in each place. Our advice, plan your Bali itinerary around the places you want to visit and give yourself plenty of time to soak in the magic of each destination. This is the best one-week Bali itinerary If you have 7 full days to tour the island.

Here is the what to do in 7 Days Bali itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrived in Bali Denpasar. Transfer to Ubud.
  • Day 2: Ubud
  • Day 3: Ubud
  • Day 4: Seminyak
  • Day 5: Day trip to Southeastern Islands (Nusa Penida)
  • Day 6: Uluwatu
  • Day 7: Tanah Lot, Jimbaran
  • Goodbye, Bali!

Bali Travel Guide Tips: You may choose any destination in Bali and make your own Bali itinerary. But please keep in mind that distances in Bali are huge and you will surely spend most of your time driving between sightseeings. Consider hire a professional private car charter when visiting the Bali.

Day 1: Arrive in Bali. Transfer to Ubud

Arrive in Bali and transfer to the center of the island, Ubud. Depending on traffic and the time of day, the drive is about one and a half hours from the airport. Please allocate some time for the transfer. We recommend booking the private transfer from airport to Ubud. This means that as soon as you arrive in Bali, a driver will pick you up and take you to Ubud.

Reserve the Bali Airport Transport from Klook

Bali Travel Tips: Take note that e-hailing (Grab, Gojek) is not allowed for taking passengers from the airport as airports are completely off-limits to these apps.

Bebek Tepi Sawah
Enjoy Bebek Bengil with view at Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant

For the first day of Bali itinerary, we didn’t plan too much of activities and only spend time wandering around the city center. In the evening, find a restaurant in the city center and enjoy Indonesian local dishes.

What to eat: Bebek Bengil or also called Bebek Goreng is a local favorite that everyone has to try! The duck has been steamed in Indonesian spices before getting deep fried for that crispy finish. We went to Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant and it was amazing! The Bebek Goreng here is indeed very authentic. You will sit on the floor with a low table while overlooking a rice field.

Day 2 and Day 3: Ubud

Bali itinerary - Ubud

For day 2 and day 3 of the Bali itinerary, you’ll begin by exploring the Ubud. It is the spiritual, cultural, and artistic heart of the island. This area of Bali is full of attractions, traditional art, dance, and crafts. No Bali itinerary is complete without a visit to Ubud!

There are a few places to visit in Ubud and the outskirt area. If is still good to visit the city center on foot, rent a scooter, or take a grab. But when visiting the Ubud outskirt, we recommended hiring a professional driver or taking a day tour.

READ MOREThings To Do in Ubud itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Ubud City Center

Bali itinerary - Visit Ubud

What to do in Bali – Ubud City Center:

Spend some time visit to the Ubud Palace and Pura Taman Saraswati. Both places are situated nearby and best to coupled the city together. You’ll fall in love to the gorgeous temples which features a beautiful lotus pond and water garden, which surround the outer area of the temple. These two sites are a paradise for art lovers and photographers. Plan to spend 20-30 minutes at each.

Kajeng Rice Field Walk
Kajeng Rice Field Walk

Experiencing the Ubud countryside vibe on your Bali trip. Campuhan Ridge Walk is a lovely way to enjoy some of the gorgeous local scenery. The trail offers stunning views of the lush greenery, rice paddies, and valleys that surround the area.

Kajeng Rice Field is one of the best thing to do in Ubud. The scenic walk is about 4 kilometers walk through the rice fields for a little glimpse into Bali’s countryside. Started from Kajeng road, and you will walk through Kajeng Village to the stunning Ubud rice fields, and end off at the Museum of the Arts in the center of Ubud.

Bali itinerary - Balinese long-tailed monkey at Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Balinese long-tailed monkey at Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary is an ancient sanctuary for hundreds of Balinese long-tailed monkeys in a stunning natural forest. You can enjoy the surroundings while walking in the forest and have fun with the monkeys. The entrance fee for Ubud Monkey Forest is 80,000 IDR per adult and 60,000 IDR per child.

End your day by strolling at the Ubud Traditional Art Market to experience the local cultural vibe. It is the best place where you to find beautiful some beautiful handmade crafts such as silk scarves, lightweight shirts, statues, kites, woven bags, baskets, and many others.

What to eat in Bali - Naughty Nuri
Naughty Nuri Bali

What to eat: Naughty Nuri is not a secret or hidden place, everyone knows their pork ribs and how delicious they are. Definitely get the pork ribs to try on!

Ubud Outskirt

Bali Travel Guide Blog - Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Tegalalang Rice Terrace

What to do in Bali – Ubud Outskirt Area:

A Bali vacation would not be complete without a visit to Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Simply spend some time wandering through scenic rice paddies and picturesque ravines of the foothills. The best place to escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Tirta Empul Temple is a Hindu Balinese water temple and is considered one of the holiest temples in Bali. You will be seeing locals bathing with holy water and locals believed the water source is able to purify the body and soul of people who bathe there. We recommend visiting this temple together with the Tegallalang Rice Terrace as it takes about 15 mins further north from the rice terrace.

Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall

For more time, visiting the Tegenungan Waterfall is easily one of the top must-see attractions in Bali. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in all of Bali, and definitely worth the short detour. It’s a short hike with 100 steps to the waterfall, but entirely worth it. Tegenungan Waterfall is about half an hour out from Ubud. The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR.

Lastly, end your day at the next destination, Seminyak and check-in to the bangalow Villa.

Day 4: Seminyak

Beach in Bali

For the next couple of days, we will spend some time at the beach. There are a few places where you can consider to base yourself such as Nusa Dua, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggun. We ended at the Seminyak for the last couple of days in this Bali itinerary. The area is more developed and touristy resort towns on the island. There also has the most concentration of foreigner-friendly restaurants, cafes, beach clubs, and an active nightlife.

Spend your days in the Seminyak Beach, The beach is a popular stretch of lovely golden sand that tends to feel less crowded than other top beaches in the area. It’s a great place to go swimming, and there are some excellent spots for surfing as well.

If you like to party, then you’re in good hands in Seminyak. Check out the Potato Head Beach Club to get a feel for what a world-class beach club is in Bali. Upbeat music pumps, while an international crowd dances, drinks, and mingles. For party lovers, this is one place you won’t want to miss to experience the nightlife in Bali!

You can also venture into town again for the Seminyak Night Market at night. The popular night market has lively energy, and the vendors and locals have a reputation for being very friendly. Many street stalls are delicious hot meals and Balinese treats. Among the most popular offerings are fish, barbecued prawns, and all sorts of satay meats. All the food is budget-friendly!

Day 5: Day Trip to Nusa Penida

Bali itinerary - Day Trip to Nusa Penida
Day Trip to Nusa Penida

There’s no better way to plan your Bali itinerary than a trip down to the Southeastern Island – Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Nusa Ceningan. These islands are relatively undeveloped island southeast of mainland Bali. There is no beach club, trendy cafe, and restaurant on the island. However, it has some of the best sights in Bali. Take a day trip of surfing, snorkeling, and enjoy the quietest beaches in Bali. If time is allowed, we recommended staying at least one night to enjoy the island.

Read more: Trip to Nusa Penida Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Highly recommended visit the Nusa Penida – one of the most popular day trips in Bali. Boats depart from Sanur Beach and it’s possible to go independently or with a tour. We choose to go on the tour as this offshore island is hard to explore on your own due to the winding unpaved roads. Highlights not to be missed in Nusa Penida including Kelingking Beach, Peguyangan Waterfall, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong.

Recommended Tour: Nusa Penida Day Tour with Optional Snorkelling from Bali

Day 6: Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot

Located in the southwest of Bali, Tanah Lot is a must-see on anyone’s Bali itinerary. This temple boasted some of the most unique vistas. The island temple itself is a gorgeous site to behold, as well as the distinct styling of the statues and gateways that dot the surrounding area. All carrying that certain Balinese charm that is impossible to see anywhere else. The scenery was stunning!

Bali Travel Guide - Tanah Lot

Depending on the tide you may be able to walk closer to the temple during low tide. Balinese would crossover to pray during low tide. Foreigners are allowed to go onto the island but won’t be able to go to the temple. The best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple is during sunrise or sunset.

To visit this world-famous Tanah Lot Temple, it took about an hour from Seminyak. The entry fee for Tanah Lot Temple is a bit higher than most other temples in Bali, at 60,000 IDR for adults and 30,000 IDR for children. Whilst it was incredibly busy with lots of tour buses, this picturesque temple is definitely worth a visit when in Bali!

Day 7: Uluwatu

Bali itinerary - Uluwatu
Cliff view at Uluwatu

Next, it’s time to head to Uluwatu. Located at the southernmost tip of the island, Uluwatu is about 40 minutes drive from Seminyak. Uluwatu is known for having a laid-back atmosphere as well as some of the prettiest beaches, bluest waters, and most dramatic cliffs.

Check out the Uluwatu Temple, one of the important attractions in the area. This gorgeous temple is renowned for its clifftop location and is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the Supreme God of Indonesian Hinduism. The view is amazing. Be aware of some of the temple’s resident monkeys, there will snatch visitors’ belongings. Watch your thing and remove any jewelry.

The admission fee to Uluwatu Temple is 30,000 IDR per adult and 15,000 IDR per child.

Kecek Fire Dance
Kecek Fire Dance

We recommend heading over close to sunset for the best views. Plus, the popular Kecak Fire Dance is performed in the amphitheater daily. You can catch the iconic Kecak Dance performance after the visit.

Bali Travel Guide Tips: Book the Kecak Fire Dance Ticket from Klook. For hassle-free, it is best to reserve the trip with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel included.

Jimbaran

For a romantic gateway, consider to indulge in a seafood spread by the beach at Jimbaran Bay after the Kecek Performance. Enjoy the beach and delicious barbecue seafood, this is the perfect way to spend your last night in Bali.

More Bali Travel Guide Tips

Be respectful of local cultures and go and enjoy this beautiful temple. you are not restricted from visiting the temples and the locals are very welcoming. Please note about the clothes you wear. There are dress codes to enter the area of ​​a Balinese Hindu temple. So you have to wear a sarong and a scarf tied to your waist.

Bali is a safe place, but please be alert. Be careful of your belongings as Jambret aka “bag snatcher” is seen in certain areas. My phone almost gets snatched while navigating on the scooter and stopping at the traffic light. So, please be alert.

Also, there is always risk associated with riding a scooter in Bali – it’s a consequence you have to be aware of! Try to avoid long journey scooter driving in Bali and hire a professional driver if you are not confident in your driving skill.

Try to go to the attraction early to avoid the crowds and the beat heat.

Tipping is not mandatory and we normally do not give tips at restaurants or cafes. But if you giving a good service to massages or villa caretakers, it is good to give tips for their best service.

Overall: A Visit To Bali

All in all, we hope you enjoy our Bali travel guide blog. Bali is touristy. Nevertheless, Bali is fantastic! Bali blows us away with its impressive landscape and nature. We enjoyed its lush green, rice fields, and volcanic, beaches. Bali is the most unique and must-go once in a lifetime!

There are still more places in Bali awaiting to explore. This Bali itinerary will give you an idea of how to plan your trip to this wonderful island. That’s it. Hope you enjoy our Perfect Bali Itinerary!

Traveling to Bali and looking for more inspiration? Here is our Bali travel blog to share with everyone.

Singapore itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Singapore Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Singapore | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

To help you plan your Singapore itinerary, we’ve put together some top tips and a handy guide to the best things to do in this Singapore travel guide blog.

Singapore is an ultramodern country that is full of fascinating and energetic. The nation was once a small fishing village, but it paved its way to being one of the most prosperous nations in the world. This island country is populated with an impressive skyline, high-end shops, and bustling activities day and night.

However, at the same time, Singapore retains much of its ethnic and cultural diversity. The city is also accentuated by beautiful gardens and boasts over 50 major parks and 4 nature reserves. The modernity, greenery, and cultural preservation are what make Singapore so fascinating.

There are so many interesting things to do and see to keep you busy. Travelers fall in love with this perfect combination of a bustling city and a tropical island.

Planning on a Singapore itinerary for the first time? In this Singapore travel guide blog, we will share with you all the best places and attractions to visit in the city. This is an easy-to-follow Singapore itinerary to help you plan your trip. Keep reading and learn everything you need to know before traveling to Singapore.

Singapore Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Your Trip

Singapore Travel Guide

When visiting Singapore, you might have many questions about Singaporean culture, how to get around, where to go, and what to see. After several incredible trips to this amazing Singapore, it’s time to share all of my Singapore travel guide with tips to you.

Here is a quick and easy travel guide when visiting Singapore:

What is the best time to visit Singapore?

Singapore is a great year-round destination and you can comfortably arrange for your holiday at any time of the year. The weather is hot and humid the whole year. But November to February is a monsoon season with lots of rainfall.

Can I travel to Singapore alone?

Singapore is a great city and you will have no problem traveling alone to one of the safest cities in the world.

How many days for Singapore?

3 days is a good amount of time to get a taste of the island’s culture, natural beauty, and recreational activities. If time is permitted, we recommended 5 days in Singapore to experience everything at a more relaxed pace.

What to do in Singapore for one day?

If you only have one day in Singapore, then we recommend choosing your favorite activities from the this Singapore itinerary that are centralized in one area. We suggest visiting the Marina Bay area as this is the most exciting place to visit and lots to see in a short time.

From Changi Airport To Singapore City Center

Traveling To Singapore

Most of the visitors to Singapore will be arriving by plane at Changi Airport. There are several ways to get to downtown Singapore from Changi.

SMRT: The SMRT is the fastest and cheapest way to get to downtown Singapore from the airport. The fare depends on where you are getting off and generally is around SGD 2.70. If you have purchased an EZ-Pass before arriving you can use that for the fare.

Public Bus: Another inexpensive option and it takes about an hour from the airport to the downtown area. The fare is depending on the destination and it starts fare from SGD 2.50.

Airport Shuttle: The 24-hour shuttle buses will take you to the hotel directly. Refer to the list if your hotel is one of their serviced hotels. The bus fare is around SGD 9 for adults and SGD 6 for kids (under 12). You can follow book tickets on Klook.

Taxi: A convenient way to get from the airport to the downtown city. It’ll cost you between SGD 20-40 directly to the destination. Bigger groups can consider taking the Maxi Cabs which can accommodate up to 7 people for a flat fee of SGD 60.

Private Transfer: The most convenient way to get to and from the airport but also the most expensive. You can book your private transfer through Klook in advance.

Getting Around in Singapore

Getting Around in Singapore - MRT System

For exploring the city, there are a few good ways to get around Singapore.

The city is boasted great public transportation links and taking public transport in Singapore is so convenient. Singapore’s MRT system is very efficient and it can take you to most of the attractions in the city. We used public transport to go pretty much everywhere.

Once we are in the area, most of the attractions can be easily reached on foot. But if you are lazy, you can always hop into a taxi or use Grab.

If you plan on using public transportation often, then there are a few transport cards you can get to make it cheaper and more convenient.

Singapore Transport Card / Pass:

  • Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) – a special card that will allow you unlimited access to the MRT and public system for one day (S$10), two days (S$16), or three days (S$20).
  • EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card may be better options if you don’t need unlimited daily rides. Each ride will come out cheaper than single journey fares and it will save you the hassle of having to buy tickets before each ride.

Singapore Travel Guide Tips: There is also the popular Singapore Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. A great way to see many famous landmarks around the capital at ease.

Where To Stay

Singapore isn’t that big but it is such an incredibly varied island city. Broadly speaking, your choice of places to stay here are Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, Sentosa, and Riverside (Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay).

If you are the budget type, you can choose to stay in Bugis, Chinatowns, and Little India. Those locations offer accommodations at lower prices yet are accessible by public transport. While hostels and budget guesthouses are also mostly scattered in these areas for budget travelers.

Here is our popular pick for choosing your best stay when visiting Singapore:

  • Most popular – The iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel is one of the most popular accommodation options. This marvelous hotel is towering over the bay and offers the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, 20 dining options, and casino.
  • While PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay is another example of fine Singaporean hospitality. The fabulous hotel features elegant rooms with dramatic views of the Singapore skyline, a range of dining options, and a mineral water pool.
  • Mid-Budget – We recommended the ibis budget Singapore Bugis, a cozy hotel that offers affordable and modern accommodation. The location is good it is very close to Bugis junction and lots of restaurants.
  • Budget hostelPOD Boutique Capsule Hostel is a chic hostel that offers capsule bedding for guests. Guests can choose to stay the private rooms or dormitory rooms.

For more Singapore accommodation, read on: Where To Stay in Singapore: Best Places and Hotels.

How Many Days for Singapore itinerary

A trip to Singapore can be as short as a few days or as long as a couple of weeks, depending on your itinerary and what you plan to do. However, a good starting point for a first-time visitor is to plan for at least three to five days.

Singapore isn’t that big but the island city is packed with fun and interesting things to do. We recommended 5 days for Singapore itinerary to get a taste of the island’s culture, natural beauty, and recreational activities. If you’re in a rush and only have 3 days in Singapore, then you can probably focus on the major sights. But if you want to have a more relaxed visit, then visit Singapore for at least 5 days at a comfortable and relaxing pace.

Next, follow my 5-day Singapore itinerary if you are visiting the city for the first time.

Singapore Itinerary: What To Do in Singapore

Planning on Singapore itinerary

Here is the Singapore itinerary with the best things to do in Singapore for 5 days. There are so many exciting things to try out in the city and the activities cater to all types of travelers including family travelers. What are you going to choose? Here’s a 5-day Singapore itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Singapore Itinerary: What To Do in Singapore

  • Day 1: Marina Bay Area. Places to visit: Merlion Park, Helix Bridge, Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, Sands Skypark Observation Deck.
  • Day 2: Sentosa Island
  • Day 3: Universal Studios Singapore
  • Day 4: Wildlife Park (Singapore Zoo, River Wonder, Night Safari)
  • Day 5: Cultural Tour to Little India, Arab Street, Haji Lands, and Chinatown. Visit Botanic Gardens and shop at Orchard Road.
  • Good bye Singapore. Don’t forget to take a look on The Jewel at Changi Airport before flying back!

Singapore Travel Guide Tips: If you don’t find the time to arrange your own travel plans you choose for an organized tour where you will be in the capable hands of an experienced guide.

Choose from: Singapore Half-Day City Tour – Garden By The Bay Area

Day 1: Marina Bay Area

What To Do in Singapore - Marina Bay Area

The popular Marina Bay Area is the best place to start the Singapore itinerary!

Known by the iconic Marina Bay Hotel and its proudly standing Merlion, Marina Bay Area is the hub of the city. The area is beautifully located on the water and has an upscale area of skyscrapers, posh hotels, and luxury malls. It is popular for travelers day and night!

Plan your Singapore itinerary to visit the Gardens by the Bay, Skydeck, Art Science Museum, and the area. You can also spend your time strolling along the waterfront, admiring the Merlion statue and stunning architecture, doing river cruising, shopping, or wandering around. You will find many food outlets, coffee shops, and restaurants along the way.

A good place to unwind and admire the city view of Singapore.

The Merlion

Singapore itinerary - Merlion Park

Located at the mouth of the Singapore River, Merlon Park is a popular tourist destination in Singapore. It features Singapore’s most iconic Merlon statue, a mythical creature that is a half-body with a lion while the half-body is of a fish.

The Merlion statue stands proud and it represents Singapore’s origin as a fishing village, and its original name (lion city). It is the unofficial mascot of Singapore. When people think of the Merlion, then they think of Singapore.

Visitors can take photos of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. If you take a river cruise you will also get a different perspective for pictures. Spend 30 minutes or spend an hour or more in the area. The park is easily accessible via public transportation and is open 24 hours a day.

Merlion Singapore
Opening Hours: Always open!
Nearest MRT: Raffles MRT
Estimated Time Needed: About 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Singapore Travel Guide Tips: Nearby there are a few other attractions you could hop on this Singapore Half-Day City Tour when visiting the area.

Helix Bridge

Helix Bridge

Walk from Merlion and continue to Helix Bridge.

The Helix Bridge is a fascinating curve bridge that spans across Marina Bay that connects Marina Bay (or more precisely, Marina South) and Marina Centre. This pedestrian bridge features a helix-like structure that is both stunning and functional. It has won many design awards and is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals.

It was a lovely walk and crossing the bridge offered panoramic views of the city and its many landmarks. In the evenings, the bridge is lit to show off its unique shape. We were impressed by its beauty and unique design.

A great place to take a leisurely stroll or simply stop and admire the impressive design. Highly recommend it!

Garden By The Bay

Singapore Travel Guide - Gardens By The bay

A must-visit on your Singapore itinerary are the Gardens by the Bay. It is the most popular attraction in Singapore and it isn’t hard to understand why. This place is mind-blowing and there are many sights to see and exhibitions to explore. If you have time for just one attraction in Singapore, then this should be it!

Get the Gardens Bay the Bay Ticket from Klook

Gardens by the Bay has a diverse range of botanical gardens, and giant indoor waterfalls, and is home to the iconic Supertrees. You can easily spend at least half a day exploring the area. At night, don’t miss the spectacular light and music show where the Supertrees light and change colors to the beat of the music. The ambiance is truly amazing!

Flower Dome

The entrance to the gardens is free and required admission fees to the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skywalk, and Floral Fantasy. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance door but you can get discount E-tickets if you purchase them in advance through Klook. It is hassle-free to redeem and can skip the queueing time.

Find out more in Gardens by the Bay Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog to must-see attractions at Gardens by the Bay. Don’t forget to book the admission tickets from Klook here to skip the long lines.

Gardens by the Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore
Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 to next day of 2:00
Admission Fee: Depending on the attractions (Get the Gardens Bay the Bay Ticket from Klook)
Estimated Time Needed: At least 4 hours.
Official Website: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/

ArtScience Museum

Singapore itinerary - Art Science Museum

For family travelers with younger teenagers, consider visiting the ArtScience Museum. The museum is situated right in the Marina Bay area, so you can easily tie in on your Singapore itinerary when visiting the area.

The ArtScience Museum itself is impressive architecturally, with a lotus-shaped building. Its even very own lotus garden located at the foot of the Museum. Inside, there is a museum and three different exhibitions offer the guest to experience the combining of modern art and science. These include various interactive installations as well as fun artworks. The place is great for kids, and you can walk through the famous sparkling lights feature and exhibitions.

Get Singapore ArtScience Museum Ticket here

Note that it is a hefty price to get in. But fortunately, you can get some discounted tickets by buying online from Klook. Check here for more detail.

ArtScience Museum
Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 until 19:00
Estimated Time Needed: About 1-2 hours.

Sands Skypark Observation Deck

Skypark Observation Deck

Another must-do thing to do in Marina Bay Area is to the Skypark observation deck which offers unparalleled views of the Singapore skyline.

The Marina Bay Sands is the most iconic hotel in Singapore. Many people came to the Sands Skypark Observation Deck on the 57th level to get some of the most stunning views of Singapore. It gives a 360-degree view of the adjacent bay, the city landscape, and the skyline of Singapore city.

View on Sands Skypark Observation Deck

However, outsiders can access only a part of the ocean surfboard-shaped deck. The incredible infinity pool, unfortunately, it’s only open to guests of the hotel.

There is limited capacity and the slot is pre-booked each day. So we would advise you to book up in advance to avoid disappointment. You can buy tickets at the gate but you may get a discount if you purchase them in advance through Klook.

SkyPark Observation Deck
Address: 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 until 21:00
Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 hrs
Admission: SGD 25 (adults), SGD 19 (kids)

Day 2: Sentosa Island

Cable Car To Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is a small island in Singapore with beaches, hiking trails, golf courses, and resort hotels. This island is home to some of the world’s most prestigious resorts, action-packed theme parks, fast food and fine dining restaurants, and the best beaches in Singapore.

Sentosa Beach

Popular places to visit on Sentosa Island including Universal Studios, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, S.E.A. Aquarium, Fort Siloso, Siloso beach, and many more.

Check out my travel blog on Sentosa Island for more travel information: Sentosa Island Itinerary

A visit to Sentosa presents endless options for attractions, food, and fun. It is the best destination for locals and travelers for exciting activities and scenic beaches. You can spend your whole holiday in Sentosa Island or just visit for 1 to 2 days. The Universal Studios will easily take up an entire day so you may want to reserve another day to explore the rest of the island.

Day 3: Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore

Ready for some theme park action? Located on Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore is one of Singapore’s most visited attractions and exciting theme parks to experience in the city. It is a once-in-a-lifetime trip to visit. So, make sure to add this to your Singapore itinerary.

Fun rides at Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore offers exhilarating rides like Jurassic Park, Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy, and many live shows/performances. There are many rides and activities where you can have fun.

Get Universal Studios Singapore Ticket from Klook

 We highly recommend spending a full day exploring your inner child at this incredible adventure park. Truly a magical fun day!

Singapore Travel Guide - Universal Studios

A 1-day pass to Universal Studios Singapore typically costs SGD 70 for adults and SGD 58 for kids. You can buy tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook online to beat the queues. You can sometimes get a discount if you purchase advanced tickets through Klook.

Universal Studios Singapore
Estimated Time Needed: At least one and a half days
Universal Studios Admission: SGD 77 (adults), SGD 58 (kids)

Day 4: Wildlife Park

Singapore is full of modern architecture and skyscrapers, but you can find nature within the city just minutes away. There are many lovely garden scenes and adorable animals that you can include in your Singapore itinerary.

On your day 4 of the Singapore itinerary, you will spend your day exploring the Singapore Zoo, River Wonder, or Night Safari. Combo ticket available, so choose your best option and interest.

Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo

If you are visiting Singapore with kids, we highly recommend including Singapore Zoo on your itinerary.

Formerly known as the Singapore Zoological Gardens or Mandai Zoo, Singapore Zoo is rated as one of the best zoos in the world. It has a large variety of animals, from Orang-utans to Otters, and the exhibits mostly feel natural and spacious for the animals. Everything is well maintained and well kept.

Get Singapore Zoo Ticket from Klook

What To do in Singapore - Visit Singapore Zoo

You can also include your visit to other parks, which is River Safari and Night Safari, or Jurong Bird Park. Each park required an entrance ticket. You can buy entrance tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook.

Singapore Zoo
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:300 until 18:00
Estimated Time Needed: Half to full day
Admission: Yes (Combo ticket available, check for Combo ticket from Klook for more detail)

Day 5: Cultural Tour and Shopping

Lastly, start off the last day of the Singapore itinerary with a shopping and cultural tour in the downtown area. It’s suggested that you start off at Little India, Bugis, Arab Street, Kampong Glam, and Chinatown, all within the span of half an hour. All these are a perfect treat for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Lastly, visit the Botanic Gardens and end your day with a little shopping therapy on Orchard Road.

Singapore Travel Guide Tips: To fully understand the history of Singapore, you can try this Singapore walking tour itinerary with Viator Tours. You can also hop on a city sightseeing bus and you’ll be treated to colorful neighborhoods.

Little India

Little India is a bustling, colorful business community to explore. It is a unique cultural spot where you can spend some time visiting the Tan Teng Niah and the Traditional Trades of Little India. If you are interested, you can also visit the Veeramakaliamman Temple and Abdul Gaffoor Mosque.

Bugis

Singapore Travel Guide Blog - Bugis

Bugis is a popular area to explore and discover. Your visit should be included with the trendy Kampong Glam neighborhood, Arab Street, and adjacent Haji Lane. The area is full of trendy boutique fashion, clever craft places, souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and colourful painted buildings.

Easily accessible by MRT with Bugis station nearby. Come visit and wander around in the morning or afternoon and have some drink and food at night. Well worth a trip.

Singapore itinerary - Arab Street

Haji Lane is the most happening street in Singapore. It is a colorful alley stretching for about two blocks in the trendy Kampong Glam neighborhood. There are brightly painted murals on the buildings, wonderful displays, artsy and unique cafes, and small shops. Many colorful backdrops are worthy of a photo.

Arab StreetNext on your list should be Arab Street, where you’ll be surrounded by more colorful shops focused on fabrics and floor coverings.

Singapore itinerary - Sultan Mosque

Sultan Mosque – If you have time, you can also walk not far around the corner to the very famous mosque, Masjid Sultan. The Sultan Mosque is well-known for its stunning structural design. You will be amazed by looking at the towering spires and golden domes.

Chinatown

Singapore itinerary - Chinatown

No Singapore itinerary would be complete without a visit to Chinatown.

Singapore’s Chinatown is once a place for Chinese immigrants, and it has now been transformed into a bustling neighborhood full of great shops. Food, antique shophouses, souvenir shops, monuments, and Buddhist temples all resemble china around. You will also find food houses serving traditional cuisines. Be sure to try out the food along these streets and the hawker centers.

The highlight is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple which is probably one of the most beautiful temples in Singapore. It is a large museum complex and a four-story-high Buddhist Temple. An amazing structure!

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Nestled near Orchard Road Shopping District, Singapore Botanic Garden is a 158-year-old tropical garden with diverse flora and fauna throughout the gardens. It is also Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is a stunning outdoor park with tons of beautiful plants, trees, flowers, birds, and a lot of nature. It houses an over more than one-hundred-year-old tropical rainforest, and is simply breathtaking. You can easily spend at least half a day here.

Entrance to the gardens is free but you’ll need to pay SGD 15 fee to enter the National Orchid Garden. It’s a must-visit on your Singapore itinerary so don’t miss it. Well worth a visit.

Botanic Gardens, Singapore
Estimated Time Needed: 2 to 3 hours
Admission: FREE

Orchard Road

Singapore itinerary - Orchard Road

Lastly, end your day by shopping on Orchard Road. This famous lively Orchard Road is one of Singapore’s top-visited spots by both locals and tourists. Many shopping malls line both sides of this glitzy road for several blocks. It houses some of the world’s most famous brands, luxury items, designer shops, and distinctive stores. Shop till you drop!

Money Saving Tips: Visiting Singapore on a Budget

Visit Singapore on a Budget

Singapore is considered one of the most expensive city to travel in Asia. But traveling in Singapore on a budget is still achievable. The first thing to understand is how to explore Singapore by spending less yet enjoying the most. Singapore has a great selection of places and attractions with entry fees that you can visit.

Traveler can plan their Singapore itinerary trip based on their interest. For example, natural lovers, you can spend the whole day visiting the Gardens by the Bay, Botanical Gardens, and parks, or just doing nothing by enjoying a nice cup of Hainanese coffee at a classic cafe. It is also best to pre-book the entrance ticket online with some additional discount.

Below are some of the popular attractions in Singapore:

Singapore is well-connected with an efficient public transportation system. You can walk around the city to see all the attractions by public transport. You can also best use the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP), EZ-Link, or NETS FlashPay Card when visiting the city.

Overall: A Visit To Singapore

Visit Singapore

All in all, we hope this Singapore travel guide blog helps you plan the Singapore itinerary and you enjoy your visit to the city. We have been to Singapore multiple times over the last couple of years and always had a great time in this wonderful island city. By no means that we are experts on Singapore, but we do hope our tips will help you plan your Singapore itinerary.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your trip to Singapore!

Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!

Sentosa Island Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Sentosa Island Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Singapore | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

This Sentosa island itinerary shows you why this charming island resort deserves more than just a day trip from Singapore!

Sentosa Island is a popular holiday destination in Singapore. This beautiful island is home to beautiful sandy beaches, exciting events, theme parks, lush rainforests, adventure activities, and more. There are numerous things to do on Sentosa Island to keep you busy. It has everything you could be looking for! Visitors easily spend a whole day or a few days when exploring the island.

The best part? Sentosa Island is well-conned to the city by road, cable car, monorail, and a pedestrian boardwalk. So it’s easy to add it to your Singapore itinerary. It is also possible to visit Sentosa island by day trip from Singapore. But no matter how long you decide to spend on Sentosa, it promises to be an experience you’ll never forget.

In this Sentosa travel guide blog, we’ve listed some of the best things to do on the island to help you plan your Sentosa island itinerary. 

How To Get To Sentosa

Cable Car To Sentosa Island

There are multiple ways to get to Sentosa Island from Singapore. The island is connected to mainland Singapore by road, monorail, cable car, and pedestrian bridge.

How To Get To Sentosa Island from Singapore:

  • Vehicles: The quickest way to get there is via taxi or rideshare app Grab. This is noted the vehicles are charged a fee to enter Sentosa unless visiting a resort, theme park, or attraction.
  • MRT: The most popular way is taking the MRT to the HarbourFront Station, and then transferring to Sentosa Express monorail through VivoCity Mall.
  • Cable Car: The most exciting way to reach Sentosa island using cable car. It provides a great view of the island along the journey. The cable car departs from Faber Peak, with a stop at Harbourfront Tower II on the way to the island. You can also take the MRT to Harbourfront, then use the cable car station in Harbourfront Tower II. Get the Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass here.
How To Get To Sentosa Island from Singapore

Once you arrived in Sentosa, traveling within the island is also simple. Plus, transport on Sentosa Island is free. You can get around around the island with a free shuttle service.

Sentosa Island Travel Tips: When you leave Sentosa, the Sentosa Express is free! Just hop on the monorail from any station (Resorts World, Imbiah, or Beach Station) on Sentosa Island and ride the monorail back to VivoCity for free.

Where To Stay in Sentosa Island

Where To Stay in Sentosa Island

One of the highlights of visiting Sentosa Island is to experience a world-class hotel. The island lives up to its reputation with resort-style hotels. So it is best to plan on a staycation or short trip to Sentosa Island for a relaxing gateway. Plus, staying on Sentosa Island is also more convenient so that you can access attractions when wandering around.

Here are a few recommendations on where to stay in Sentosa Island:

  • Luxury: W Singapore – Sentosa Cove is an excellent resort-style hotel in a less crowded part of Sentosa. The property is elegant and beautiful. Rooms feature either partial or full views of the pool or ocean, with select rooms offering a balcony.
  • High-RangeVillage Hotel Sentosa is a fantastic family-friendly option, this hotel delivers a unique offering on the island with brand-new amenities and activities. The rooms are comfy and super clean.

More accommodation options: Where To Stay in Singapore: Best Places and Hotels

Things To Do in Sentosa Island Itinerary

Our Sentosa Island itinerary is mainly for sightseeing and relaxing. So we didn’t plan many activities during our trip. But to make your sightseeing Sentosa itinerary more efficient, you should try working your way in a north-to-south or south-to-north direction to save on traveling time.

Things To do in Sentosa Island itinerary:

  • Exploring the beaches (Siloso Beach, Palawa Beach, Tanjong Beach)
  • Try the Fun-filled Adventure Activities (We recommend Skyline Luge)
  • Visit S.E.A. Aquarium
  • Universal Studios Singapore
  • Fort Siloso

This Sentosa Island travel blog is only a guide and feel free to deviate from the itinerary planning.

Exploring the Beaches

Sentosa Beach

Sentosa Island has three beautiful beaches along its southern shoreline on Sentosa Island. All the beaches are spotlessly clean and great for sunbathing, relaxing, and swimming. It is best to come early or late evening as the weather is so hot in Singapore.

Palawan Beach Rope bridge

Beaches in Sentosa Island:

  • Siloso Beach (west side): One of the best beaches with great views on Sentosa island. It tends to be busier with plenty of beach sports activities.
  • Palawan Beach (middle) is more popular with families with young children. The beach is beautiful and scenic. You can walk across the rope bridge to reach the southernmost point of Asia.
  • Tanjong Beach (east side) is more remote with a romantic, quieter vibe.

We strolled around Palawan beach when getting around Sentosa island. The beach is easily one of the most beautiful places on the island. The beach is well-kept and clean, perfect for a stroll even at night. We dipped our feet in the water, and enjoy the view.

Beach Walk Map

Getting to Sentosa’s beach is easy. Firstly, take the Sentosa Express to Beach Station, then take the Sentosa Beach shuttle to any one of these. Besides, it is also possible to walk between all three of them.

Try the Fun-filled Adventure Activity

Sentosa Island itinerary - Skyline Luge
Sentosa Island itinerary – Skyline Luge

Sentosa is a fun-filling destination with a wide variety of attractions. There are also a few adventures for you to try on when visiting the island, such as iFLY Singapore, Skyline Luge, Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure, and Skypark Sentosa by AJ Hackett. You can pick and choose which activities you want to do on your Sentosa Island itinerary.

We suggest that you try at least one!

Chair lift for Skyline Luge

Among them, we highly recommended the Skyline Luge. It is one of the best adventures that is perfect for all ages of riders, family, and friends. A must-do for Sentosa Island itinerary.

Get the Package Deal for Skyline Luge from Klook

What To Do in Sentosa Island - Skyline Luge

The Skyline Luge offers a fun ride down a safe, moderate-speed track that snakes down toward the beaches. The course is split into four tracks, each offering a different level of speed and excitement. A unique kind of thrill!

S.E.A. Aquarium

Sentosa Island itinerary - SEA Aquarium

Officially the world’s largest aquarium, S.E.A. Aquarium features unique marine habitats, and thousands of marine life and underwater animals. This is also the best chance to meet some sharks, dolphins, jellyfish, and colorful fishes, up-close! One of the best activities for the Sentosa Island itinerary.

What To Do in Sentosa - Visit SEA Aquarium

The aquarium is divided into 10 different zones, letting you observe marine animals from a variety of areas of the world’s oceans. Highlights of the S.E.A. Aquarium include the gigantic Open Ocean habitat, which offers an amazing view of marine life in a completely open habitat. It is a thrill to take a stroll through it and Shark Sea Habitat flying above your head.

Get Discounted Aquarium tickets online from Klook

Plus, each section with well-display information is very informative. All this makes the entire experience not just visually pleasing but educational as well.

Trip to SEA Aquarium

A visit to S.E.A Aquarium is a wonderful Waterworld experience for both adults and children alike. Please allocate about 2 to 3 hours for the visit. Definitely worth a visit.

Sentosa Island travel Guide Tips: It is great to know that an S.E.A Aquarium ticket is cheaper if bought in advance online, rather than through the ticketing machines outside. Purchase it earlier from Klook to get the discounted rate!

Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore

Open since 2010, Universal Studios Singapore (USS) is a modern theme park that must-visit on your Sentosa Island itinerary. It is an awesome experience for all ages!

Sentosa Island Travel Guide - Visit Universal Studios Singapore

The theme park features many fun rides and shows inspired by blockbuster movies and tv series. Don’t miss exhilarating rides like Jurassic Park, Battlestar Galactica, Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy, and many more.

Get Universal Studios Singapore Ticket from Klook

There is also a great selection of live and 3D shows such as Shrek 4-D, Puss in Boots, and Sesame Street. We also loved the live shows and performances.

Fun rides at Universal Studios Singapore

A trip to USS is a great way to spend the day on Sentosa Island to experience all the fun rides and performances. It will keep you entertained for an entire day!

Rides Universal Studios Singapore

A 1-day pass to Universal Studios Singapore typically costs SGD 70 for adults and SGD 58 for kids. You can buy tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook online to beat the queues. You can sometimes get a discount if you purchase advanced tickets through Klook.

Also, be prepared to spend your time on the line for those rides. If you want a fast lane, you should try their VIP or Express ticket. This gives you access to each of the rides once via the Express Pass queue so that you won’t spend most of the time on the line.

Fort Siloso

Fort Siloso

Located at the edge of Sentosa Island, Fort Siloso is a restored gun battery that was designed to serve as part of the defense from an invasion by sea. The guns were turned inland as part of the defense against the Japanese position.

Sentosa Island Travel Guide - Fort Siloso

Today, Fort Siloso turn into an interesting military museum with exhibits and historical information from WWII. It is well preserved with interpretative displays. There are gun placements, bunkers, and numerous chambers detailing aspects of Singapore during the war. Take your time and learn about the WWII history of Singapore.

Fort Siloso is entrance free and visitors are welcome to wander around the fort. Worth a visit on your Sentosa itinerary.

Getting there: Fort Siloso could be reach from Siloso Beach on foot.

Overall: A Visit To Sentosa

All in all, we hope that this Sentosa itinerary will help you plan an amazing trip to this beautiful island in Singapore. The island is not just the beach but also a great destination for anyone who has a bit more time and needs a break from all the cultural attractions in Singapore. It is one of the top places to visit in Singapore and highly recommended. A fun-filled trip especially for family travelers with kids.

Thanks for reading my Sentosa Island itinerary post. Enjoy your trip to Sentosa!

Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!

Garden By Bay itinerary Travel Guide Blog

Gardens by the Bay Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Singapore | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Gardens by the Bay, then this Gardens by the Bay travel guide blog will tell you all you need to know to plan your trip with suggested places to include on your itinerary.

Located in the heart of the city, Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s famous landmarks and well-known attractions. It is a sanctuary for nature lovers, as well as a feat of engineering. A visit to Singapore is incomplete without visiting this city’s most iconic attraction.

Gardens by the Bay has a diverse range of botanical gardens, giant indoor waterfalls, and different wildlife. There are many sights to see and exhibitions to explore. To fully appreciate this amazing place, it’s recommended to plan your Gardens by the Bay itinerary to explore the area. We’ve compiled lots of advice and information in this guide to the Garden by the Bay.

This detailed Gardens by the Bay Travel blog will share some of the useful travel information and tips, with a suggested itinerary so you can make the most of your time at the Gardens by the Bay.

Gardens by the Bay Travel Guide

Gardens by the Bay Travel Guide

Opened in 2012, Gardens by the Bay is located on reclaimed land behind Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The nature park spans 101 hectares in the Central Region of Singapore. It is also part of the city’s plans to transform itself from a Garden City to a City in a Garden.

Garden by the Bay consists of three waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. Most visitors will stay in Bay South Garden and this area is also where the Supertrees, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest located.

Gardens by the Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore
Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 to next day of 2:00
Official Website: https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/

How To Buy the Gardens by the Bay Ticket

The entrance ticket to the Garden by the bay is free but there are five attractions in the gardens that require an admission fee. The Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skywalk, and Floral Fantasy are the popular attractions and those are also the paid attraction with admission fees. Each ticket can be purchased near the entrance and some can even be purchased online. We will share each attraction in more detail at the below travel guide.

Get the Gardens Bay the Bay Ticket from Klook

Garden by the Bay is extremely popular among travelers and even locals. We strongly recommend buying the tickets before visiting. Klook offers E-ticket to Gardens by the Bay. Various packages with add-on options are available. Choose the one that suits your travel plan. It is easy to redeem and hassle-free.

Pro Tips: Klook offers the Gardens by the Bay Package Package at a discount price. Check for more detail if this suit your travel plan.

How to get to Gardens by the Bay

To get to Gardens by the Bay, the easiest and cheapest way is by taking Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT). Two MRT stations serve Gardens by the Bay: Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16) and Gardens by the Bay MRT Station (TE22).

If you are arriving at Bayfront MRT Station, take Exit B which is near the Bayfront Plaza. Next, walk across the Dragonfly Bridge and towards the Gardens by the Bay. Alternatively, you can take a Shuttle Service that runs from Bayfront Plaza to the Flower Dome. The Shuttle Service fee is $3 for one 2-way ride per person.

If you are arriving at Gardens by the Bay MRT Station, take Exit 1. Following the navigation, we will pass by the Satay by the Bay before you arrive at the main Gardens by the Bay drop-off point. From there, you can head up to the domes.

Another option is the handy Grab. There are a few drop-off points when you type Gardens by the Bay on Grab, but the main one is the main entrance by the Supertrees in the Golden Garden.

What To do for Garden by the Bay itinerary

Gardens by the Bay itinerary

There are many things to do when visiting Gardens by the Bays. We will share the must-see attractions and also what to do for a one-day Garden by the Bay itinerary.

Things to do for 1-day Garden by the Bay itinerary:

  • Flower Dome
  • Cloud Forest
  • Floral Fantasy
  • Supertree Grove
  • Supertree Observatory
  • OCBC Skywalk
  • Gardens by the Bay Light Show
  • and more gardens and parks.

Pro Tips: Get your ticket before the visit to save the queuing time – Klook offers E-ticket to redeem at the entrance.

Flower Dome

Flower Dome

Flower Dome is the world’s largest glass greenhouse. It is an air-conditioned Mediterranean space that contains plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world. Flower Dome is kept at a temperature of 23 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Flower Dome - Succulent Garden

Travelers can learn about various ecosystems, from baobab trees (aka Bottle Tree) to Mediterranean gardens in the nine themed areas. In the center of the dome, there is an area called the Flower Field, which regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and changes themes each season.

The Precious Peony floral display at the Flower Dome is unique. It featured more than 70 artifacts of Chinese and Peranakan culture.

Flower Dome
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30)
Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour

Cloud Forest

Cloud Forest

Another fantastic paid attraction at the Gardens by the Bay is the Cloud Forest which replicates the cloud forest mountain environment. It is a tall structure simulating a mountain with a 35-meter waterfall and a luscious green mountain with tropical plants from around the world.

Waterfall at Cloud Forest

The dome itself is as big as a 1.5 regular football field with lots to see. You can easily spend well over an hour and we spent almost 2 hours here on our visit.

Cloud Forest - Tree Top Walk

You can see many of these exotic plants up close via the guided path, along the Tree Top Walk. Make your way to the mountain peak at Lost World with flower and plant displays.

Cloud Forest
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:00)
Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5 hour

Floral Fantasy

Beautiful View in Floral Fantasy

The beautiful Floral Fantasy is an indoor exhibit of creative floral arrangements. It is the best place for flowers and taking pictures! There are over 15,000 fresh-cut and preserved flowers hanging from the ceiling and mixed with other creative displays. You can follow the trail and see a diverse garden landscape.

Floral Fantasy
Opening Hours: Weekday from 10:00 to 19:00 and weekend from 10:00 to 20:00
Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour

Supertree Grove

Supertree Grove

A visit to Supertree Grove is a truly magical experience. This futuristic Supertree is an Avatar-ish forest made with 12 giant high metal trees ranging from 25 and 50 meters tall. Every supertree has different functions, some have photovoltaics, some are cooling towers, and some release moisture into the environment. These trees were symbols of modern architecture.

We recommended reaching the place in the evening while there’s still light so that the gardens and the plants can be enjoyed before heading over the light show.

Supertree Grove
Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30)
Required Admission Fee: Free (With add-on Paid Attraction to OCBC Skywalk and Skytree Observation Deck)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour (For Day Visit)

Supertree Observatory

A visit to the Supertree Grove ground area is free. But you can also opt to have go observation deck and the skywalk. The views from the skyway bridge and observation deck are fantastic and well worth the admission fee. Truly recommend this experience.

Skytree Observation is located on the canopy level (about 16 stories high) of the tallest Supertree. There is an observation deck that offers unparalleled views of Gardens by the Bay’s lush surrounds and the Marina Bay area. And there’s even a restaurant at the top!

Supertree Observatory
Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30)
Required Admission Fee: Yes (Check Ticket Price)
Recommended Visit Duration: 45 minutes

OCBC Skywalk

Sponsored and branded by OCBC, one of the Singapore banks, the OCBC Skywalk is one of the popular attractions in the Garden by the Bay. This OCBC Skywalk is a 128m-long aerial walkway suspended between two Supertrees at 22 meters above ground.

It takes about 15 minutes to walk the entire skywalk. Another fun way to see Supertree Grove and the surrounding area in Marina Bay!

OCBC Skywalk
Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 to 21:00 (Last admission at 20:30)
Required Admission Fee: Yes
Recommended Visit Duration: 15 minutes

Gardens by the Bay Light Show

Gardens by the Bay at night

At night you won’t want to miss the amazing Light Show at the Supertree Grove called Garden Rhapsody.

It is one of the most popular attractions in Gardens by the Bay. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular light and music show where the Supertrees light and change colors to the beat of the music. The ambiance is truly amazing.

Gardens by the Bay Light Show

The 15min light show starts at 19:45 and 20:45 every evening and it is truly worth seeing during your trip. We would advise getting to the Supertree Grove at least 30 minutes before the show starts as it gets pretty crowded.

Must-See Gardens by the Bay Light Show

Find yourself a good spot. It was an experience watching silence a beautiful atmospheric light show. The trees light up to the music which is themed depending on the time of year you visit.

Pro Tips: Arrive at least 30 min early, especially during weekends and special occasions as the show gets really packed.

Gardens and Parks inside Garden by Bay

Far East Organization Childrens Garden

There are many gardens and parks where you explore when visiting Gardens by the Bay. All are free entry. Feel free to take a quick visit and include it on your Gardens by the Bay itinerary.

Heritage Garden: North of the Supertree Grove is the Heritage Gardens. The four themed gardens provide some insight into the significance of plants to Singapore’s ethnic groups. These gardens combine plants, trees, and all kinds of cultural expressions.

Far East Organization Children’s Garden – This is the Gardens by the Bay children’s playground with both wet and dry play areas. Entry is only for adults with kids.

Kingfisher Wetlands and Kingfisher Lake provide a new sanctuary in the heart of the city for wildlife. The area is over 15,000 sqm and has over 200 mangrove trees and a diversity of exotic flora and fauna. A place where visitors can take a stroll to enjoy nature.

More Gardens by the Bay Travel Tips

Here is a quick guide to commonly asked questions for those who are visiting Gardens by the Bay.

Is there an admission fee to visit Gardens by the Bay?

Most of the outdoor gardens of Gardens by the Bay are open for free to visitors. Only 5 attractions with admission fees apply for entry – The Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skywalk, and Floral Fantasy.

What is the best time to visit garden by the Bay?

Visit Gardens by the Bay on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Go either early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is not too hot. This is an ideal time to explore the gardens and take in their lush beauty.

How many hours to visit Garden by the Bay?

Expect to spend between 3 to 4 hours to see the attractions. You will need a longer time if you are a flower lover.

Are there restaurants at Gardens by the Bay?

There are a variety of dining options at Gardens by the Bay such as fast food restaurants, cafes, casual dining restaurants, and formal dining establishments.

Overall: A Visit to Garden by the Bay

Travel Guide to Gardens by the Bay

All in all, we hope you enjoyed this Gardens by the Bay travel guide blog post. It is a fantastic place to visit in Singapore and you will never get bored. We are still returning to explore other areas and discover hidden gardens and gems. A must-see attraction and include on your itinerary!

Are you planning on going to Singapore? Check out our Singapore travel stories on what to see and do in this fantastic and vibrant city!