Singapore in 48 Hours: Must-See Spots and Tips

On our way back from Bali, we decided to extend the vacation a little and spend two extra days in Singapore.

On the way there, we had already enjoyed a fantastic multi-day stop in Dubai, but this time Singapore felt really special to me. I had been there many times for work, always during the Formula 1 season. But this time, I wanted to finally enjoy the city privately, show my little man how impressive Singapore is, and fulfill a very special dream of my own.

A dream come true: the Marina Bay Sands Hotel

All those years, while walking past the Marina Bay Sands Hotel* during the Formula 1 season, I always thought: One day, I will stay there, too. This futuristic mega-hotel with the legendary rooftop Infinity Pool was something I just had to experience for myself. So the hotel eventually made its way onto my vision board.

Of course, it wasn’t cheap, but only hotel guests can access the infinity pool, so it was a no-brainer: we were doing this! The massive lobby is impressive, but the moment we stepped into our room was even better. Our view? Right over the Gardens by the Bay with the evening light show.

Of course, we didn’t waste a second. We changed straight away and headed up to the pool. And yes, it was just as amazing as you imagine. The view, the vibe, the pool that seems to melt into the sky. We ordered a cold drink, made a toast, went for a swim, and soaked it all in before heading back out to explore the city again.

Marina Bay, City-Vibes and a walk to Clarke Quay

After our first pool adventure, we went for a little stroll around the city. I was eager to visit Clarke Quay, where we used to hang out in the evenings during my Formula 1 days. Clarke Quay is a small, colorful hotspot right on the river, with charming buildings, restaurants, and bars that really come alive at night.

The walk there was already an experience in itself. We passed through the Marina Bay Sands Mall, where one luxury brand follows the next. The mall is practically a sightseeing spot on its own; complete with an indoor canal and little boats, just like in Venice. Singapore is simply impressive in every way: modern, spotless, and buzzing with energy.

Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay

In the evening, we of course had to catch the Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay. The 15-minute spectacle combines water fountains, colorful lights, and music in a stunning performance. It takes place Sunday to Thursday at 8 pm and 9 pm, with an extra show on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 pm. Watching it from the waterfront is pure magic. A perfect way to end the night in Singapore.

After that, we headed back to our room, where we could watch the Garden Rhapsody light show from above before calling it a night. The Gardens by the Bay are an absolute must-see. Those giant glowing Supertrees look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. Every evening at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm, the gardens come alive with a stunning mix of light, sound, and color. We enjoyed it from our room, but walking through the gardens and standing right beneath the trees is just as magical.

Early Birds in the Infinity Pool

Unser Plan für den nächsten Morgen war ehrgeizig: Wir wollten zur Eröffnungszeit um sechs Uhr morgens die ersten im Pool sein. Und was soll ich sagen – es hat geklappt. Wir hatten den Infinity Pool tatsächlich ganz für uns. Die Stadt lag noch im Dunkeln und wir schwammen ganz allein über den Dächern von Singapur. Ein Moment, den ich nie vergessen werde. Ein weiterer Punkt auf der Bucketlist: abgehakt!

After swimming, we had breakfast at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, which is also located on the rooftop. The breakfast buffet is small but really high-quality. We didn’t want to head down to the big, air-conditioned lobby; instead, we preferred sitting outside in the warmth with a view over the city. And I swear, we had the best chicken wings ever up there. Yuuum!

Hotel Parkroyal Collection Pickering in Singapore

After checking out of Marina Bay Sands, we moved to the Parkroyal on Pickering, which we immediately loved. The Parkroyal Collection Pickering* in Singapore stands out with its multi-level hanging gardens. It’s centrally located and a relaxed base to explore the city. The architecture is extraordinary, green on the outside, and full of charm, while our room was styled with natural elements, totally our vibe. And of course, we tested the infinity pool right away, because what’s better than jumping in, when it’s really hot? The hotel is within walking distance to Chinatown, Singapore, making it perfect for an afternoon stroll straight into the colorful hustle and bustle.

Discover Chinatown in Singapore

Chinatown is an exciting mix of tradition and modernity. Between red lanterns, fragrant street food, and colorful shophouses, you get the true Singapore vibe. A highlight is the impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, as well as the Maxwell Food Centre with its many food stalls. In the evening, the streets glow warmly with lights, making it perfect for a stroll through one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city.

In Chinatown we wandered through the narrow streets and past the varied buildings. The area is definitely worth a visit, and next time we’ll make sure to explore Little India as well, since we didn’t have enough time this trip.

Boat Quay: The Colorful Riverside Houses

In the evening, we found ourselves back around Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, easily reachable from the Parkroyal Pickering. The architecture here, like Singapore itself, is a mix of old, new, and seriously cool. Along the river, colorful shophouses with wooden shutters and terraces now host bars and small restaurants, while shiny skyscrapers rise behind them, creating Singapore’s upgrade to a historic backdrop. You sit between history and high gloss, wondering whether to snap a photo or order another cocktail. We kept it simple with a McDonald’s by the water, a unicorn ice cream, and an early night. Sometimes, that’s exactly right.

Departure Day at Changi Airport

The next morning it was already time to leave. After an early but delicious and hearty breakfast, we headed to Changi Airport. And the airport itself is almost a tourist attraction, with plenty to explore within the terminal complex.

Singapore’s Changi Airport is more than just an airport – it’s almost a destination in itself. Between waterfalls, gardens, and rooftop pools, time flies. At Jewel Changi you’ll find the stunning Rain Vortex surrounded by the tropical Forest Valley. For some fun, explore the Canopy Park with its hanging bridges and mazes, or visit the Butterfly Garden with real butterflies. There are also cinemas, play areas, and even a pool with runway views. In short, Changi isn’t just the world’s most beautiful airport – it’s an experience all on its own.

Our short stopover in Singapore was a complete success. Hotel, pool, Chinatown, an evening at Clarke Quay, and the airport as a finale, we really enjoyed every moment. Next time we’ll stay a few days longer, explore Sentosa Island, and visit Universal Studios Singapore. There’s still so much more to discover in this vibrant city.

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  Singapore in 48 Hours: Must-See Spots and Tips