Planning a Singapore trip and looking for the best kid-friendly itinerary? You’re in the right place! We spent 5 days in Singapore in July 2024 with our daughters, who were 2 and 7 years old at the time.
In this blog post, I’ve put together our personal Singapore with kids itinerary for you. You’ll experience the top kid-friendly attractions and get helpful tips for a Singapore vacation with young children, including tips on transportation, food, safety, and budgeting.
I hope this helps with your holiday planning!
Overview of the 5-day Singapore with Kids Itinerary
Here’s a quick look at what I recommend for an exciting Singapore with kids itinerary over 5 days.
Day 1: Arrival
- Taxi from the airport to the hotel.
- Stay at a family-friendly hotel.
- Get an e-SIM and use Grab for transport.
Day 2: Universal Studios
- Morning visit to Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa.
- Buy priority tickets to avoid long waits.
- Relax in the afternoon at the hotel pool.
Day 3: Science & Shopping
- Morning at Singapore Science Center.
- Afternoon movie and shopping at VivoCity or Marina Square.
Day 4: Gardens & Nature
- Ride the Singapore Flyer.
- Visit Marina Bay Gardens (Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest).
- Picnic at the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Day 5: Departure
- Explore Jewel Changi Airport (Rain Vortex, Canopy Park).
- Let the kids play at the indoor playground before the flight.
Disclaimer: I do not recommend or promote attractions that involve animal exploitation, such as the Sea Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark (they have dolphin shows), Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park, or similar activities. I believe in responsible and ethical travel and encourage experiences that respect and protect animal welfare.
Day 1: Arrival in Singapore
Arriving in Singapore was super smooth. We got there in the late afternoon, and since we only had backpacks, we went straight to the taxi stand.
Taxis are easy to find at the designated taxi stands in all terminals (1, 2, 3, and 4). The airport transfer to the city center takes about 30 minutes and costs between S$20 and S$40 (USD 15 – 30), depending on traffic. All taxis use metered fares, so you’ll always pay the standard rate.
There’s also a public bus and MRT, but as always, I recommend going for the more convenient option, especially with small kids.
At the airport, you can easily get an e-SIM online using the free Wi-Fi. I use Airalo as it’s the easiest and cheapest option. As soon as you have the e-sim, you can download the Grab app. You’ll need it to book taxis and order food. Sometimes, I even have things like diapers or shampoo delivered straight to the hotel via Grab – super handy!
Where to Stay in Singapore
Our Stay at Pan Pacific Singapore:
Picking the right place to stay is key for making your Singapore with kids trip as hassle-free as possible. We stayed at the Pan Pacific Singapore in Marina Bay, one of the many luxury hotels in the city. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend it.
The hotel was huge, and as a result, it felt really crowded and busy. For $500 a night, I expected better service—someone to open the door or help with our luggage, but the staff was just too busy.
Although we had booked two connecting rooms, the door between them was locked, and it took 1.5 hours to get it unlocked. The breakfast situation was unbearable with hundreds of people fighting over the buffet – so stressful! On the plus side, the staff was friendly, the swimming pool was great, and the kids’ club was phenomenal.
Best kid-friendly hotels in Singapore:
These hotels are great options for making your Singapore with kids itinerary comfortable. Next time we’ll chose one of those options rather than the Pan Pacific.
Shangri-La Hotel Singapore (Orchard Road Area)
Price range: $$$$
This luxury hotel has an indoor playground, Buds by Shangri La, an outdoor pool with a splash zone, and family-friendly rooms. Perfect for families near Orchard Road’s shops and restaurants while still having loads of fun on-site for the kids.Resorts World Sentosa – Festive Hotel (Sentosa Island)
Price range: $$$
Located steps away from Universal Studios, close to the beach and theme parks. The family rooms come with loft beds and a colorful ambience.Marina Bay Sands (Marina Bay Area)
Price range: $$$$
Famous for its stunning infinity pool, this hotel is close to family attractions like Gardens by the Bay and the ArtScience Museum. Perfect for families looking for central accommodations with iconic views.Village Hotel Sentosa (Sentosa Island)
Price range: $$$
Family-friendly pools with slides and splash zones, spacious rooms, and easy access to Sentosa’s attractions. Great for families wanting a resort-like experience on Sentosa Island.
Best Areas in Singapore to Stay with Kids
Sentosa Island: The ultimate family destination in Singapore, home to Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and lovely beaches. It’s a relaxing getaway from the city but still close enough to enjoy it.
Marina Bay: Perfect for families who want to be in the heart of Singapore’s landmarks. You’re close to Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and Marina Bay Sands.
Orchard Road: Known for shopping, Orchard Road is great for families who enjoy a mix of retail therapy and family fun. There are many family-friendly hotels and plenty of places to eat. For our next stay, we’ll definitely pick this area—it felt more lively and exciting than Marina Bay.
Day 2: A Fun Day at Universal Studios
I recommend starting your Singapore with kids adventure with Universal Studios because it’s likely to be one of the most tiring days. Today you’ll still have lots of energy to enjoy it!
We took a Grab taxi and arrived at 10 AM for the opening. It was a Monday, and the line at the ticket counters was already long. At first, we didn’t buy priority tickets, but after seeing the wait times for each ride (20 to 60 minutes), we realized we needed them! With a 2 and 7-year-old, waiting in the heat for so long just wasn’t an option.
Tip: Priority ticket prices depend on demand. The more people buy them, the higher the price goes. So, buy them first thing in the morning when prices are usually lower.
The Minions were definitely the highlight for our girls — especially for Lila, who couldn’t hide her excitement!
For our youngest (who was almost 3), there was the ride “Dino-Soarin” at Lost World (Jurassic Park theme) and the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase she could go on, plus the water stunt show, Minion live shows, and a 4D cinema at Far Far Away Castle.
However, Ruby spent a lot of time in a rented stroller (available at the entrance). Our 7-year-old, Lila, had the ultimate blast on nearly every ride.
Overall, I’d say Universal Studios is best for kids aged 5 and up, but with a stroller and lots of ice cream breaks, it can still be fun for younger ones too. With older kids you can easily stay here for the whole day.
Day 3: Science, Shopping, and Cinema
Morning at the Singapore Science Center
Right after breakfast, head to the Singapore Science Center, it’s a must-visit on any Singapore with Kids Itinerary for curious little minds. Make sure to book your ticket online here, as it’s a pretty complicated process (my tech-savvy husband almost gave up).
The center has over 1,000 interactive exhibits across 14 galleries, with themes like space, technology, and biology.
It’s fun for kids of all ages, but older kids will get the most out of the hands-on activities. Little ones will still love exploring all the moving and glowing things, especially the outdoor Waterworks play area. Don’t forget to pack swimsuits and towels! Older kids will love the Digital Fabrication Lab and the robotics exhibits.
We really enjoyed our time here, although it did get quite crowded with school groups.
Opening hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Closed on Mondays (except during public/school holidays).
Ticket prices:
Adults: S$12 (USD 9)
Children (ages 3-12): S$8 (USD 6)
Seniors (60+): S$6 (USD 4.50)
Afternoon Cinema with the kids:
We love going to the movies with our kids, so we caught the latest Minions film at Golden Village x The Projector at Cineleisure. The prices were reasonable, and they even had booster seats for the kids! Don’t forget to bring noise-canceling headphones and warm sweaters – Southeast Asian cinemas are notoriously cold.
Evening at Singapore’s iconic malls:
In the afternoon, it’s time to explore Singapore’s shopping malls. The great thing is that most of them have amazing (but pricey) kids’ areas. Some are even supervised, so parents can shop while the kids play in a safe, exciting environment.
Here are some of the best malls:
VivoCity: One of Singapore’s largest malls, with a rooftop playground, fountains, and a cinema. There’s also an indoor playground and easy access to Sentosa Island.
Marina Square: Offers Kidzland with bumper cars, an arcade, and a soft play area, plus Pororo Park, an indoor playground based on the cartoon character.
Suntec City: Known for its fun water fountain area, it also has workshops for kids and family-friendly dining.
Paragon Mall: While a luxury mall, it has a dedicated children’s floor with stores like Mothercare and a small indoor playground.
Forum The Shopping Mall: Tailored for kids, with shops like Toys “R” Us and a colorful indoor playground.
Light Show at Marina Bay in the Evening
Every evening, you can catch the Spectra light show at Marina Bay Sands – a free event worth seeing! It’s a mix of water fountains, lights, lasers, and music that lights up the skyline. The shows run at 8 PM and 9 PM, with an extra 10 PM show on weekends.
It’s about 15 minutes long, and it’s best to arrive early for a good spot. Or, just pop your kids on your shoulders so they can see! This fantastic light show is the perfect way to wrap up a day during your Singapore with kids adventure.
Day 4: Gardens and Greenery
Adding some nature time to your Singapore with Kids Itinerary is a must. So today, it’s time to explore more of Singapore’s famous green spots. There are so many, and they’re all breathtaking and unique.
Morning Ride on the Singapore Flyer
To get a great view of the city, start your day with a ride on the Singapore Flyer – this adds a thrilling adventure to your Singapore with kids trip! The Flyer is one of the world’s largest observation wheels, giving you stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline, Marina Bay, and even Malaysia and Indonesia on clear days. Standing at 165 meters tall, each rotation takes about 30 minutes.
I have to admit, my hands were sweaty from my fear of heights, but the stunning views were a perfect distraction.
We walked from our hotel in Marina Bay to the Singapore Flyer. Honestly, it was quite tiring, and next time, I’d definitely take a Grab Taxi. It wasn’t crowded when we arrived, and there was no queue. Still, I’d recommend buying tickets online beforehand, just to be safe.
Before getting on the Flyer, you pass through a two-story 3D exhibition with interactive displays that tell the story of Singapore. It was really interesting and well done. Even our 2-year-olds had a blast!
Then we got into the gondola. The gondolas are shared, so you’ll likely ride with others. The kids got a little bored eventually, but we all enjoyed the experience and would definitely do it again.
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Last entry at 9:30 pm)
Ticket Prices: Adults (13+): S$40
Children (3-12): S$25
Seniors (60+): S$25
Walk at Marina Bay Gardens
Marina Bay Gardens is a must-see on any Singapore with Kids Itinerary and one of the most iconic spots in Singapore. Our highlight was the Supertree Grove canopy walk—although, to be honest, it was a bit overpriced! You’ll be high up, surrounded by these amazing, artistic trees, with breathtaking views all around.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Ticket Prices (OCBC Skyway):
Adults: SGD 10
Children: SGD 6
Supertree Grove also has a magical light and sound show every evening called Garden Rhapsody. The shows are at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM, and they’re free! Get there early to grab a good spot—it can get busy.
Explore the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest with Kids
The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are perfect for little adventurers. In the Flower Dome, you can wander through various flower landscapes from all over the world. The Cloud Forest has a misty, lush green atmosphere with a stunning waterfall.
Opening Hours Flower Dome and Cloud Forest:
Daily: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry at 8:30 PM)
Ticket Prices:
Adults: SGD 28
Children: SGD 15
Botanical Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
If you still have the time and energy, it’s worth taking a trip further north to explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Here, you’ll find the National Orchid Garden with over 1,000 species of orchids.
Opening Hours National Orchid Garden:
Daily: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry at 6:00 PM)
Ticket Prices:
Adults: SGD 15
Children (12 and under): Free
Students & Seniors: SGD 5
However, my personal highlight is the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, which is north of the park. It’s all about fun and learning for little ones, with play areas, water features, and gardens to explore.
Opening Hours Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden:
Daily: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
Entry: Free entry for children (must be accompanied by an adult)
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, snacks, and a towel. We also brought our Kindles so we could enjoy some reading while the girls played in the water.
Day 5: Departure Day at Jewel Changi Airport
Our flight was in the early afternoon, so after checking out of the hotel, we headed straight to Jewel Changi Airport. We had heard so many great things about it, so we were excited!
About Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi isn’t just an airport—it’s an attraction itself and the perfect way to end your Singapore with kids trip. What makes it special? First off, the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 40 meters high. Watching the water cascade down, surrounded by lush greenery in the Shiseido Forest Valley, feels like you’ve stepped into a mini jungle right inside the airport.
With over 280 shops and restaurants, whether you’re in the mood to shop or grab a bite, Jewel has something for everyone. It’s designed as a space where locals and tourists can hang out, and in its first year alone, over 50 million people visited!
For kids (and adults, too!), Canopy Park is a big hit. From bouncing nets to hedge mazes, and the view from the Canopy Bridge is unforgettable. We didn’t have time to do it anymore. But on our next visit, we’ll definitely do it.
4 Hours at Jewel Changi – Our Experience
I wish I could say we had an amazing time at this airport. But honestly, it was a super stressful experience for us. The airport was packed (I swear, it felt even busier than Universal Studios). We got lost multiple times, and the kids were in a bad mood because they couldn’t run around—it was just way too crowded.
We finally decided to let the kids play in the indoor playground “Kidztopia Club” at Toys R Us for an hour so they could burn off some energy before the flight. It wasn’t cheap (I think it was around 35 SGD per child, plus we had to buy socks), but it was the best thing we could do with grumpy kids at that point. Since the slots fill up fast, I’d recommend getting tickets for the playground as soon as you arrive so you don’t end up waiting an hour for the next available time.
The Best Activities for Parents (Without Kids)
I’m a big fan of having some couple time on vacation, so my husband and I treated ourselves to two nights out with a nanny (more on that later). Here’s what we did:
Rooftop Cocktail Experience
We headed to the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands, to CÉ LA VI Singapore: Restaurant, SkyBar & Club Lounge. We had (very overpriced – 25 SGD for a classic) cocktails and watched the sunset. The great thing is, if you go to the bar, you get the same view as everyone who paid for rooftop access. It gets really busy around sunset, so I’d recommend arriving on time (we got there at 5 pm) or booking a table in advance.
Fine Dining
We love fine dining and had to try it in Singapore. Since we’re vegetarians, we picked a casual fine dining spot called “Joie.” Honestly, I didn’t love the atmosphere, so I wouldn’t recommend it.
But here are four of the best fine dining options in Singapore:
Odette
Located at the National Gallery, Odette is a Michelin 3-star restaurant offering French fine dining with a modern twist. Chef Julien Royer combines classic French techniques with Asian influences, creating one of the most sought-after dining experiences in Singapore.Cuisine: French
Vegan/Vegetarian Options: Limited but available upon request
Location: National Gallery, 1 St. Andrew’s Road
Opening Hours:
Lunch: Tue to Sat, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Dinner: Tue to Sat, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $$$$Les Amis
Another Michelin 3-star gem, Les Amis offers refined French cuisine in a luxurious setting. They highlight seasonal ingredients with dishes that emphasize simplicity and elegance. The extensive wine list is also a dream for wine lovers.Cuisine: French
Vegan/Vegetarian Options: Vegetarian tasting menu available
Location: Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road
Opening Hours:
Lunch: Mon to Sat, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Dinner: Mon to Sat, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $$$$Candlenut
Candlenut is the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, offering a modern twist on traditional Straits Chinese cuisine. Chef Malcolm Lee brings old Peranakan recipes to life with creative presentations. The flavors are bold and refined, making it a must-try for those who want to taste local culture.Cuisine: Peranakan
Vegan/Vegetarian Options: Customizable dishes available
Location: COMO Dempsey, 17A Dempsey Road
Opening Hours:
Daily: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: $$$
How to Find a Nanny in Singapore
Oh boy, this was a serious headache! I always book nannies through recognized agencies ahead of time when we travel. This time was no different, but the quotes I got left me speechless! One agency wanted a 95 SGD fee just for the first contact, and another asked for 50% of the nanny’s hourly rate as a commission. And this was on top of the already high hourly rates!
Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to pay extra for a great, experienced nanny, but these prices for two 4-hour sessions at the hotel were way too much.
So, I posted in the Facebook group SG Nanny/Babysitter/Helper Services in Singapore to try and find someone privately. A lovely-sounding nanny replied, but on the day she was supposed to sit for us, she just didn’t show up. I got ghosted!
In the end, we booked a nanny through our hotel. She was fantastic and charged a reasonable hourly rate. I could have saved myself a lot of stress by just going through the hotel from the start.
If you need a nanny, I’d recommend checking with your hotel first and only using an agency as a backup, as they can be much pricier.
Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Singapore Family Vacation
Here are some helpful tips for a smooth and memorable Singapore with kids Itinerary:
- Always carry sunscreen and swimsuits – You’ll likely come across splash pads or water play areas, and the sun can be strong all day long.
- Prebook tickets for attractions – Skip the long lines at popular spots like Universal Studios or the Singapore Flyer by booking in advance, especially during busy seasons. Preplanning activities and attractions is essential for a smooth Singapore with kids itinerary.
- Use Grab taxis or MRT – Singapore’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use, making getting around with kids a breeze.
- Bring a lightweight stroller – Singapore is stroller-friendly, but baby carriers are also useful for crowded spots or areas with stairs.
- Pack snacks and wet wipes – Handy for keeping kids happy during sightseeing or while waiting for food.
- Plan indoor activities during peak heat – Explore places like the Science Centre, indoor playgrounds, or malls to cool off during the hottest parts of the day.
- Book accommodation with a pool area – It’s a great way for kids to unwind after a busy day and helps beat the heat.
- Visit attractions early in the day – Beat the crowds and the heat by getting to popular spots early.
Final Thoughts on the Perfect 5-Day Singapore with Kids Itinerary
Singapore is a fantastic destination for families. It’s safe, clean, and full of fun activities for all ages. Getting around is super easy, whether you’re walking, using the MRT, or grabbing a taxi. There are tons of family-friendly attractions like Universal Studios, beautiful parks, and awesome indoor and outdoor playgrounds.
But, it does come at a price. We’ve traveled to many Asian countries, but Singapore took the cake in terms of costs. It got to the point where going out to eat or visiting attractions stopped being fun because everything was so expensive—mostly hundreds of Singapore Dollars. But maybe we’re just too spoiled by Thailand.
I wish you lots of fun in Singapore with your family, and I hope my Singapore with kids guide helps you a bit!
Are you planning a Singapore family trip with your kids? Got any questions? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading and making me part of your day!
Yours, Lulu
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What’s the best time to visit Singapore with kids?
The best time to visit Singapore with kids is between February and April. These months tend to have pleasant weather, avoiding the rainy season that usually hits from November to January. Singapore’s weather is generally hot and humid, so pack light clothing and always have sunscreen on hand. During the school holidays, attractions can get busy, so if possible, plan your trip outside these peak times for a more relaxed experience. Festivals like Chinese New Year in January or February and the Great Singapore Sale in June can also be fun.
Is Singapore really that expensive?
Yes, Singapore is often ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially when it comes to dining out, accommodations, and attractions. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2024 Worldwide Cost of Living survey, Singapore regularly tops the list as the most expensive city in Southeast Asia. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant can cost around SGD 25-40 per person, while hotel prices can range from SGD 150 to over SGD 500 per night, depending on the location and season. However, there are plenty of ways to manage costs, like eating at hawker centers, using public transport, and visiting free attractions like the Botanic Gardens or Marina Bay.
What are the best tips for saving money in Singapore with kids?
Saving money in Singapore is definitely possible with a bit of planning. Here are some top tips:
1. Eat at hawker centers: Meals at hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell Food Centre can cost as little as SGD 5-10, offering delicious local food at a fraction of restaurant prices.
2. Use public transport: The MRT and buses are highly efficient and affordable. A one-way trip on the MRT costs between SGD 1.40 to SGD 2.50, depending on the distance.
3. Book tickets online: Many attractions like Universal Studios or the Singapore Flyer offer online discounts, so pre-book tickets to save on costs.
4. Stay in family-friendly hotels: Hotels like Village Hotel Sentosa offer deals for families, and staying in areas like Little India or Geylang can offer more affordable accommodations.
5. Visit free attractions: Many iconic spots like Gardens by the Bay (Supertree Grove), Sentosa beaches, and Chinatown offer free activities.
What religion is the majority in Singapore?
Singapore is a multicultural and multi-religious society, but the majority of the population practices Buddhism, which accounts for around 31% of the population, according to the 2020 Singapore Census. Other major religions include Christianity (18%), Islam (15%), Taoism (8%), and Hinduism (5%). The country celebrates religious diversity, with public holidays for major religious events such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa (for Muslims), and Deepavali (for Hindus).
Are there any must-visit cultural spots?
Yes, Singapore has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several spots worth visiting. Little India is a vibrant area filled with colorful markets, temples, and authentic Indian cuisine. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown is another must-see, with its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. For a deep dive into history, the Chinatown Heritage Centre offers an interactive experience about the lives of early Chinese immigrants in Singapore.
How many people live in Singapore?
As of 2023, Singapore has a population of around 5.6 million people. Of these, about 4 million are citizens and permanent residents, while the rest are foreign workers and expatriates. Singapore is known for its high population density, with about 7,800 people per square kilometer, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Despite this, the city is well-planned, with efficient public services and plenty of green spaces.
