Best Weekend Getaways in Singapore

LIFESTYLE

Best Weekend Getaways in Singapore

There’s never a dull moment in the Lion City. From entertainment experiences to thrilling adventures and spa escapes, a weekend in Singapore will always be well spent.

By Kissa Castañeda • 3 January 2023

COVER A sunset sail from Marina Cove

Experience the best of Singapore city like no other

Nestled in Singapore’s skyscrapers and iconic structures are experiences waiting to be discovered. A premier destination for entertainment, shopping, and leisure, it pulses with vibrant energy and entices any traveler to do more. Never mind the tropical heat—you’ll feel recharged and refreshed after spending a weekend in the Lion City.

IMAGE Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore VIP Tour

A weekend in Singapore would not be complete without a tour of the Universal Studios. Southeast Asia’s first Hollywood-themed park, it is located inside Resorts World Sentosa and features 28 attractions, including Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Battlestar Galactica, Transformers: The Ride, Waterworld, and Shrek 4D Adventure.

While certainly exhilarating and worth queueing for, these attractions are also often in high demand. Skip the lines and get the red-carpet treatment with the Universal Studios Singapore VIP experience. A ticket gets you a five-hour guided tour with exclusive access to the rides and shows, unlimited passes to select attractions, a private meet-and-greets, merchandise discounts, and complimentary food and refreshments.

DayAway tip:
Book your slot in advance as the VIP experience is subject to availability.

IMAGE Singapore Lyric Opera

Singapore Lyric Opera

A treat for opera lovers and the opera-curious, a show is the perfect holiday treat. A flagship company of Western Opera in Singapore, the Singapore Lyric Opera engages its audience with Western operas and concerts uncommon in Southeast Asia.

Its first inaugural performance—Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte—was in 1991. Since then, the Singapore Lyric Opera has staged state-of-the-art performances such as Mozart’s Così fan Tutte, Giacomo Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, and Franco Alpino and Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot.

Their newest production is Johann Strauss II’s operetta, Die Fledermaus, also known as “The Revenge of the Bat”. It features the Singapore Lyric Opera Chorus and Orchestra reuniting onstage. Originally in a Viennese setting, the opera is adapted to the modern Singaporean context. The dialogue is in English while the operatta is in German, English and Chinese, with subtitles provided.

DayAway tip:
Singapore Lyric Opera is at the Goodman Arts Center. Ticket prices range from SGD23 to SGD9000 for the VIP Box.

IMAGE Raffles Spa

Raffles Spa

A luxurious hotel with a tradition of excellence of over 133 years, the Raffles Hotel is an icon worth revisiting on every trip. Its beautifully restored suites, restaurants and other social areas encourage people to relax, dine, shop and celebrate. A landmark in Singapore’s landscape and its rich history, it is in itself a destination to explore.

Unwind after a busy week or squeeze in a relaxing treatment between flights at the Raffles Spa, located at the Raffles Arcade. It features seven modern treatment rooms and lounge areas that promise the ultimate pampering experience. Among its most popular treatments are their signature Gemstone Massage and Chakra Deep Sleep Ritual.

DayAway tip:
Hanging out with a friend? Enjoy a 60-minute facial for two by French cult-favorite Biologique Recherche, followed by a classic afternoon tea at the Grand Lobby.

IMAGE Marina Bay Sands infinity pool

Staycation at Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands’ recognizable skyline is a treat in itself, but the hotel and entertainment complex is an even better experience up close.

With the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, a wide range of leisure options, and world-class celebrity-chef restaurants, Marina Bay Sands offers one of the best weekend getaways in the city. Located along Marina Bay waterfront, the hotel is a few minutes from the lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum and Gardens By the Bay. the Cloud Forest currently features “Avatar: The Experience”, which you can catch until March 31, 2023. If you don’t have the time for an overnight stay, consider a daycation at this must-visit destination.

DayAway tip:
For those craving a mid-week pick-me-up at the best hotels in Singapore, you can also book a a DayAway experience, from poolside escapes at Raffles Hotel Singapore to wellness retreats at The Capitol Kempinski.

IMAGE Aerial view of Singapore

Helicopter Sightseeing Tour

Singapore’s unique skyline is a sight to behold—which is now something you can do from a private helicopter ride. Helicopter Charpter is a premier provider of chartered helicopter services for sightseeing. The 45-minute exclusive tour of the city covers scenic views of famous landmarks. These include Marina Bay Sands, Keppel Bay, Sentosa Island, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, MacRitchie Reservoir, War Memorial Park, and the Northern Coastline.

Guests can choose between a Robinson R44, an Airbus EC 120 Colibri, and AgustaWestland AW 109, and even select the pilot and flight crew for their peace of mind.

DayAway tip:
To book this unique sightseeing experience, you can visit Helicopters Charter and download their mobile app.

IMAGE A cruise with Valencia Yachts

Valencia Yachts Sailing Experience

Not a fan of heights? Try exploring the waters instead. With Singapore having the reputation of a bustling, vibrant city, it’s easy to forget how it is also a tropical paradise. With Valencia Yachts, guests can discover a new side of the island.

A luxury yacht charter company, Valencia Yachts offers luxurious cruises on Leopard catamarans ranging from 43 to 51 feet. Through this premium cruise experience, you can enjoy the sunrise or sunset, or go island-hopping complete with first-class customer service.

Along with premium experiences, enjoy first-class customer service from start to finish. All you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the cruise.

DayAway tip:
A SailAway with The Valencia experience includes a barbeque lunch option plus other activities, apart from a leisurely trip around the bay.

IMAGE Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re an F1 fan or happen to be visiting in September, the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix is something you shouldn’t miss. Made for weekenders with a taste for speed, the Singapore Grand Prix is the world’s only night-time Formula 1 race. Here, patrons get to enjoy high-velocity entertainment at the Marina Bay Race Circuit and Singapore’s illuminated landscape.

Get the VIP treatment when you book a ticket at the Champions Club or Formula 1 Paddock Club. This gives you access to the exclusive Pit Lane Walk, The Observatory, and a view of the Pit Straight and starting grid. The 2023 Singapore Grand Prix will take place from September 15 to 17 and reservations are already open.

DayAway tip:
Don’t miss out on this annual event! Follow Formula 1’s schedule and get your tickets here.

While we strive to include accurate prices and details in DayAway Journal, these may change.
Please check mydayaway.com for the most updated information on pricing, availability and details.

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