Ten days in Singapore is a trip most people don't plan, but should. Singapore rewards a slower pace better than almost any city its size — once you've covered the seven-day route, you've still got three days to do the things that make a trip feel like a stay rather than a visit: a day trip across the strait, revisits to your favourite spots, and time to explore neighbourhoods properly instead of on a schedule.
Days 1–7: The Full Route
Day 1 Marina Bay (Gardens by the Bay (from S$10), Singapore Flyer (from S$28)), Day 2 Sentosa (Universal Studios Singapore (from S$47), Wings of Time + Singapore Cable Car (from S$44)), Day 3 Mandai (Singapore Zoo (from S$60), Night Safari (from S$22)), Day 4 river and heritage, Day 5 ethnic quarters and Orchard Road, Day 6 Jewel Changi and nature, Day 7 hidden gems (Haw Par Villa, Science Centre, Snow City).
Day 8: Day Trip to Batam or Bintan
One of the most underrated things about basing yourself in Singapore is how close Indonesia is — a 45-60 minute ferry from HarbourFront gets you to Batam or Bintan, both popular for their beaches, golf resorts, and noticeably slower pace than Singapore. It's a genuinely different country stamp in your passport for the cost of a half-day trip, and a nice contrast after a week of city sightseeing. Bring your passport and check visa requirements before you go.
Day 9: Rainforest Wild and Repeat Favourites
If Mandai on Day 3 left you wanting more, this is the day to go back — specifically to try Rainforest Wild Asia (from S$39), a newer immersive nature trail through recreated Southeast Asian, South American, and African habitats, with far smaller crowds than the Zoo or Night Safari next door. It's also a good day to revisit whichever single attraction from the earlier week you wished you'd had more time at — for a lot of our travellers, that's a second, unhurried lap of Gardens by the Bay (from S$10) at golden hour, camera in hand, without the pressure of a packed schedule.
Day 10: Deeper Neighbourhood Exploration
Spend your last day without an itinerary. By day ten you'll know the MRT map better than some locals, so pick whichever neighbourhood you liked most — Tiong Bahru's art deco shophouses and independent cafés, Holland Village's expat-friendly bars and brunch spots, or a longer, unhurried walk through Katong-Joo Chiat are all good options. This is also the day to circle back to Madame Tussauds Singapore (from S$42) if you skipped it earlier in the week — a solid rainy-day option that rarely makes the cut on a shorter trip.
10-Day Itinerary Overview
| Days | Focus |
|---|---|
| Days 1-7 | Full core route (see our 7-day guide) |
| Day 8 | Day trip to Batam or Bintan, Indonesia |
| Day 9 | Rainforest Wild Asia and repeat favourites |
| Day 10 | Unstructured neighbourhood exploration |
Practical Tips for a Slow-Travel Singapore Trip
- Ferries to Batam and Bintan depart from the HarbourFront Centre ferry terminal — book tickets a day ahead in peak season.
- Check passport validity and visa-on-arrival requirements for Indonesia before booking the day trip.
- Rainforest Wild Asia has timed-entry tickets with a capped daily capacity — book ahead, it does sell out on weekends.
- Ten days is long enough that we'd genuinely recommend building in at least one completely unplanned "do nothing" morning — Singapore's heat adds up over a long trip.
Ten days means you can slow right down and actually live in Singapore for a while. Browse Rainforest Wild and more experiences →
Recommended Singapore Tours and Experiences
Singapore packs world-class attractions into a compact city-state. From thrilling theme parks on Sentosa Island to iconic skyline experiences, these are the must-book experiences that locals and seasoned visitors swear by.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Singapore?
A: Singapore is a year-round destination thanks to its tropical climate. However, avoid the haze season (August-October) if possible. December to January brings festive lights and slightly cooler evenings.
Q: Do I need a visa for Singapore?
A: Citizens of most countries get visa-free entry for 30-90 days. Check the ICA website or our visa requirements page for your specific nationality.
Q: How do I get around Singapore?
A: The MRT (subway) is fast, clean, and covers all major attractions. Use a contactless card or buy an EZ-Link/Tourist Pass at any station. Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app.
Q: Is Singapore expensive?
A: Attractions and hotels can be pricey, but hawker centres serve excellent meals for S$3-6. Booking tickets online in advance often saves 10-20% versus gate prices.
Q: What should I not miss in Singapore?
A: Gardens by the Bay Supertree light show (free), a hawker centre meal, Marina Bay Sands skypark, and at least one Sentosa attraction are the essentials for a first visit.
Recommended Experiences
Here are some top-rated experiences you can book in advance to make the most of your trip: