Ready to embrace a metropolis going to enchant you? After breakfast, follow our guide on a city tour by convenient public transport. We’ll kickstart from the iconic
Merlion Park, where the eye-catching statue, half-lion, half-fish, with water squirting out of its mouth, stands majestically as a national symbol. Take a photo with this landmark and see if you can spot the baby Merlion nearby - a secret that many visitors would be unaware of without a savvy guide like ours. There are actually seven large and small Merlion statues throughout Singapore! Following the footbridge to the scenic
Waterfront Promenade, you’ll enjoy a guided orientation walk of the city’s core, and be wowed by the modern architectural wonders, including the
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, which looks like a big durian, the towering
Singapore Flyer observation wheel, the
ArtScience Museum, and the resort complex
Marina Bay Sands. Later, head to the
Gardens by the Bay, a beautiful horticultural masterpiece. Take a deep breath and feast your eyes on lush greenery and vibrant blooms. Let’s visit two giant greenhouse gardens, the Flower Dome planted with exotic flora from across the globe except Antarctica, and the Cloud Forest filled with plants from a tropical plateau 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level. Next, plunge into the bustle of
Chinatown. Step into a world of classical Chinese architecture, and feel surrounded by red lanterns and decorations. Check out a dazzling array of shops lining the streets tempting you with their wares and foods.
This afternoon, let’s dive deep into Singapore’s diverse ethnic mix and multicultural tapestry. Step into
Kampong Glam, which was originally the activity center of the Malay royal family and later became a hub for Singapore’s Muslims as Arabs came here to do business. The golden onion dome of the
Sultan Mosque beckons from afar. Step inside and you’ll be transported to a world of intricate design, Islamic artistry, and serene ambiance, as if you had strayed into a fairytale scene straight out of the ‘One Thousand and One Nights’. Next, wander along the colorful
Haji Lane, lined with creative boutiques from local designers and filled with unique finds and photogenic corners.
► Lunch Recommendation: Singapore Zam Zam Restaurant
Zam Zam Restaurant
While exploring the sights of Kampong Glam, don’t miss the chance to tantalize your taste buds with Muslim cuisine at Zam Zam Restaurant. This two-story historic building, located across from the Sultan Mosque, specializes in preparing authentic Halal Indian food, with generous portions and friendly prices. Be sure to try their signature dishes – Murtabak (stuffed pancake) and Biryani (mixed rice). Choose from a variety of tempting options. If you prefer tender protein, go for chicken; while if you like lean meat, go for lamb or beef. If you would like to try something new, the specialty deer (rusa) fillings is right for you. Be prepared for a potential wait as the restaurant can get crowded at lunchtime and on weekends.
Later, follow the aromas of spices and curries as you venture into the
Little India, a vibrant Indian enclave full of dazzling decorations, delicious street food, and elegant Hindu temples. We will visit the
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, the undisputed crown jewel, for not only its incredible architecture and carvings, but also the immersive puja ceremony at around 17:00. Finally, our guide will escort you back to your hotel, or to a downtown place of your choice if you’re still in the mood to explore on your own.
► Recommended Night Activities:
Singapore’s energy doesn’t fade with the sunset. Experience the magic of the ‘Spectra - A Light and Water Show’ at the Marina Bay. This free, 15-minute spectacle of lights will leave you mesmerized (Sun – Thu: 8pm & 9pm; Fri & Sat: 8pm, 9pm & 10pm). Prefer a more chilled vibe? Head to the Clarke Quay, a riverfront street with tasteful restaurants and bars for a pleasant evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mercure Singapore Bugis (4 stars) or similar
