Discover Exciting Getaways And Short Trips From Singapore
If you are planning a trip to Singapore and looking at possible add on from Singapore, this travel guide is perfect for you; with some great top rated weekend getaways from Singapore to consider.
If you’re considering travelling from Singapore and seeking thrilling destinations, numerous fantastic options exist. Secluded beaches are just a short flight away, diverse cultural experiences are within a bus ride, and even a golfing paradise is accessible by ferry.
There are plenty of enticing weekend getaways waiting for you. Each destination offers its unique charm and activities, making them perfect for a short escape from the bustling city life of Singapore.
Info
Visa – If you looking for an easy way to get a visa, or if you aren’t sure if you really need one in the first place. Ivisa makes the process easy, with a click of a button and few simple steps you will be able to sort out your visa requirements in a flash!
Insurance -We all know how important travel insurance is when you are abroad, but we also know how expensive it can be as well, right? Well, I am here to help solve both those problems. Safetywings is both affordable and reliable and better still easy to purchase. There are no hidden agendas, just choose the dates you will be away and check the coverage you need. It is that simple.
Car Hire– If you are planning to hire a car on your next trip, DiscoverCars is the perfect solution, why? Because you will find it in most countries around the world and all mandatory fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden surprises.
E-sim– If you want to know the most affordable way to be connected when travelling, it is with an e-sim. I have to admit I have come late to the party on this one, and I wish I had known earlier as it would have saved me hundreds of dollars in the past. I have been using Airalo for the past few months now and it has been so easy to set up and use while I am away.
Airline Tickets– CheapOair is a leading provider of airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars and vacation packages with top travel brands to choose from globally. The CheapOair brand provides diversified travel services, however I highly recommend checking out their airline ticket options for best prices.
Plan Your Short Trips From Singapore
When planning your short trip from Singapore, you have several transport options to consider. If you prefer a comfortable and convenient journey, taking a bus or coach to nearby destinations offers affordable fares and ease of travel.
For more flexibility and independence, renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace and reach locations inaccessible by public transport.
Alternatively, suppose you’re seeking a quick getaway. In that case, you can opt for a short plane trip to nearby destinations or enjoy a scenic ferry ride to picturesque islands just a short distance from Singapore.
Each transport mode offers its advantages, catering to different preferences and travel styles.
Top Weekend Getaways from Singapore
Indonesia – Bali
How to get to Bali
Singapore to Bali is just under a 3-hour flight; many airlines fly direct, including Scoot, Singapore Airlines, and Jetstar. You can take a shuttle taxi or arrange a private transfer in advance. It takes approximately 20 minutes (depending on traffic).
Best Time to Go
You can visit Bali all year round; however, if it is your first time and you prefer not to be there during the rainy season, I suggest October, January (especially) and February. However, be warned that beaches can be crowded and bars can be packed during peak season, so make sure you make a reservation at your favourite restaurants to avoid disappointment.
Best Things to Do in Bali
There are many fun things to do in Bali; however, if you are on a short stay, you don’t want to spend most of your weekend travelling to faraway destinations.
- If you enjoy water sports, you are in the perfect location to enjoy a day on the water; from underwater walking to jetskiing, Nusa Dua has it all.
- Spa Treatments are a luxury that can become very expensive in Singapore, so book a day of treatments for pure indulgence on a weekend.
- Enjoy some culture at the Devdan Show, where you can be entertained in true Balinese style. This 45-minute theatre production is held on Saturdays from 7:30 to 8 p.m.
Where to Stay
If you are only there for a weekend, Nusa Dua is close to the airport and a great place to relax if you are only there for a short time (traffic can be out of control, so a quick departure is a good idea).
Recommendations: I have two because I enjoyed them for two reasons. St Regis Nusa Dua is an excellent luxurious vacation spot, with plenty to do at the resort. You could spend the entire weekend without leaving the resort. Grand Hyatt Bali is another favourite, especially for a family or group trip. It is affordable, offers many activities, and is next to one of the island’s most extensive water sports areas.
Indonesia – Batam
How To Get to Batam
Batam Island is part of the Riau Islands province in Indonesia. It is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Singapore and will take approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal place for a weekend getaway. The ferries run regularly; you can quickly download the app and book a ticket online.
Best Time to Go
Like Singapore, the best time to go is from February to August due to the rainfall and lower humidity.
Best Things To do In Batam
- Spend the day at Tempat Senang Spa, where you can choose from a 3-hour or 6-hour spa treatment. You can choose from many therapies, such as massages, pedicures, facials and other body and hair treatments.
- Indulge in a 6-course meal. Each course came from a different country, and each course just improved. Each dish is from a different country, so it is fun guessing the origin of each course that arrives.
- Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Buddhist Temple is the largest in Indonesia and reportedly the largest in Southeast Asia. It covers approximately 4.5 hectares. Admission is free, and the temple is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Special Note: If you plan on heading to Batam as a day trip: consider booking a day spa in advance or a tour of the island. This way, you wont waste your time getting around yourself when you only have limited time.
Where to Stay
Batam is the perfect location choice for short trips, and Tempat Senang Spa Resort and Restaurant is a beautiful resort tucked away on the quieter side of Batam. You can be mistaken in thinking you are on the island of Bali with its Balinese architecture and beautiful surroundings.
The Radisson golf and convention centre is perfect for anyone who loves golf as it is opposite Padang Golf Sukajadi. The hotel has all the facilities you would expect, and the rooms are beautifully decorated.
Indonesia – Bintan Island
How to Get to Bintan
It is a 60-minute ferry ride from Singapore to Bintan Island t via Bintan Resort Ferries. However, some resorts have a ferry directly to their resort, so it is worth checking with them first.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is between March and October. However, if a little bit of rain doesn’t bother you, then in December, as the weather is excellent, you may have a few wet patches.
Best Things to Do in Bintan
- Bintan is the perfect weekend away for golf lovers because the courses there are affordable (some people even head to Bintan for the day for a game of golf, so imagine spending an entire weekend playing).
- Treasure Bay Bintan is a fun day out for everyone. It is only 20 minutes from The new Movenpick Bintan Lagoon Resort (formerly known as Bintan Lagoon Resorts) and 15 minutes from Banyan Tree.
- Spend your entire weekend getting away from the hustle and bustle of city and go exploring the island or indulge in many of the islands activities.
Where To Stay
Formerly known as Bintan Lagoon Resort, the newly renovated Movenpick Bintan Lagoon Resort is the perfect place for your weekend away. It is beautifully renovated and boasts its ferry service from Singapore. But, of course, you can never go wrong with a Banyan Tree hotel. The Banyan Tree Bintan has the most amazing Balinese-style villas with private pools or excellent rooms overlooking the ocean.
Indonesia – Nikoi Island
How to Get to Nikoi Island
You can take a ferry or speedboat from Singapore to Bintan to reach Nikoi Island. From there, the resort will organise transportation to the other side of the island to catch a private boat, which is about a 15-minute ride. It’s essential to check the ferry schedules and arrange the transfer in advance to ensure a smooth journey to this beautiful island paradise.
Best Things To Do in Nikoi Island
- – Snorkel and explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Nikoi Island.
- – Unwind with a relaxing beachside massage and spa treatment.
- – Explore the island’s lush jungle and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.
Best Time to Go
The best time to travel to Nikoi Island, Indonesia, is during the dry season, typically from May to September. This period offers sunny weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for enjoying the pristine beaches and engaging in outdoor activities.
The temperature during these months is hot with less rain, so it is an excellent time for island exploration and relaxation. In contrast, the wet season, from October to April, brings heavier rainfall and increased humidity, which may affect travel plans and limit outdoor excursions.
Where To Stay
The question is not where to stay but what type of treehouse suits your needs! Read the full Nikoi Island review for more details!
Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur
How to Get To Kuala Lumpur
Jetstar, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Malinda Air and Air Asia fly directly from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur in approximately 1 hour. You can also catch a bus, but it takes about 7 hours.
Best Time to Go
Although the weather is hot and humid all year round, the Monsoon season does apply between April–May and Oct–Nov, but rain is possible at any time and can come when you least expect it.
Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
Like any significant city, Kuala Lumpur offers many things to do, but if you are only there for a few days, you should stay in and around the city.
- Kuala Lumpur is a city full of great places to eat. It has everything, whether you like local street foods or a fine dining experience. A food tour might be perfect for your weekend if you are a real foodie.
- Enjoy a day at Petronas Twin Towers. It is a great place to shop and eat and offers an impressive view of Kuala Lumpur. There is also a tourist payback scheme, so bring your passport when shopping.
- Putra Mosque, Putrajaya, also named The Pink Mosque, is a beautiful pink mosque in the cyber area of Kuala Lumpur; if you aren’t sure how to get there or don’t want to waste time, then a tour of Putrajaya is highly recommended.If you want more recommendations, check out my favourite things to do in KL on the weekend.
Where to Stay
For a real sense of nostalgia, the Majestic Hotel is the perfect place to stay for your short getaway. The old-world charm will make you feel like you stepped back to a place long ago, the brunch here is fantastic, and the high tea here is undoubtedly the best in Kuala Lumpur.
However, if you want to stay in the city’s heart, The Traders is in the perfect location. Walking distance to KLCC, and if you do enough shopping, you can pop your bags onto the golf cart at the back of KLCC and have them delivered back to your room now that is service.
Malaysia – Desaru coast
How to Get to Desaru Coast
Another Malaysian favourite is Desaru Coast, located 1.5 hours from Singapore. There are two ways to get there: hire a car, as it is only a 1.5-hour drive, or take a ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, which is also 1.5 hours. The most convenient way to get there is by private transfer, which you can book online before you go.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Desaru is from April to October. These months are outside the monsoon season, which prevents ferry delays and activity cancellations.
Best Things to Do on The Desaru Coast
Its laid-back feeling makes it an obvious choice to add to your weekend getaways list. One of the best places to get away from the hustle and bustle and wind down.
- Enjoy the wildlife in this part of Malaysia, whether you go on a guided tour or explore the area yourself; it is a must-do on your Desaru Coast getaway.
- Desaru Waterpark is not just for kids; it’s a fun day for the entire family. Spend the day enjoying the rides, relaxing in a cabana or cooling down at Tidal Wave Beach,
- Playing golf can be expensive in Singapore, so this would be an excellent opportunity to take full advantage of the affordable prices. Need to learn how to play? No worries at all because you can organise golf lessons before you arrive.
Where to Stay
The Hard Rock Hotel is an easy option, especially if you are going with families. It offers many activities and swimming pools to keep the kids (little and big) happy. Anantara Desaru Coast Resort and Villas is an excellent option for golf lovers. It also has an outdoor theatre, pools, and a spa to relax.
Klook.comCambodia – Phnom Penh
How to Get to Phnom Penh
With just under two hours of travel time from Singapore, it is a perfect long weekend destination. You can fly there by Singapore Airlines, Cambodia Air, or Jetstar to Phnom Penh.
Best Time to Go
Although the best time to visit Phnom Penh is between November and May because there is less rainfall and lower temperatures, you can travel there at any time of the year.
Best Things to Do In Phnom Penh
Most people visit Cambodia to stay at Siem Reap and visit Angkor Wat. Still, the capital city has much to offer, especially for a weekend trip.
- The Mekong River Sunset cruise is a great two-hour trip along the river’s edge. Here, you will see everything from the Villages along the river’s edge to the modern city it is today.
- S-21 Prison and Killing Fields: Yes, Angor Wat is beautiful, but we must remember what happened here (not long ago). If you want to know about the history of this beautiful country, then you must visit the S-21 prison and killing fields (I wouldn’t recommend children). Adults will be moved by the harrowing history that went on here.
- Visit the Royal Palace. The Phnom Penh Royal Palace is a Khmer-style Throne Hall built in 1866 to serve as the residence of the King
Where To Stay
Hands down, Raffles Hotel Le Royal wins me with its old-world charm, fantastic customer service, and colonial decor. It is similar to Raffles in Singapore but with a Cambodian twist. The rooms are beautiful and lead down to a great pool area.
This hotel screams old-time luxury. Palace Gate Hotel is a beautifully unique hotel with that old Colonial feel but at an affordable price. The hotel is in an ideal position right across from the Royal Palace.
Vietnam – Hanoi
How to Get to Hanoi
Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines fly directly to Hanoi from Singapore, which takes approximately 3.5 hours.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Hanoi is from April to November when there is less rain, and the weather is a little cooler and less humid.
Best Things to Do in Hanoi
- Paloma Motor Bike Tours: This exciting tour takes you on a moped driven by females. Your guide will take you through the streets of Hanoi, stopping at great food venues and historical spots.
- Thang Long Water Puppet Show Ticket in Hanoi: Securing a ticket to the Thang Long Water Puppet Show offers a unique chance to witness a captivating blend of traditional Vietnamese storytelling and intricate water puppetry, all set against a backdrop of live music and vibrant stagecraft.
- Old Quarter Food Tour: The food tour is a delicious dive into the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Wander through bustling streets and markets, sampling iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. Led by local guides, you’ll uncover hidden gems and hear the stories behind each dish, offering a rich blend of Hanoi’s food culture and history in every bite.
Where to Stay
Hotel Emerald Waters Classy is affordable, rooms are comfortable, breakfast is included, and it is centrally located. It also has a rooftop pool and bar area. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel speaks luxury, retaining the hotel’s original decor. The rooms have an elegant French feel to them.
Thailand – Phuket
How to Get to Phuket
You can fly directly from Singapore to Phuket with Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar, and Air Asia in under two hours. Otherwise, many other airlines from around the world will stop by Bangkok.
Best Time to Go
Although Phuket is a destination to travel to all year round, the best time is between December and March, when there is less rain. However, the hottest month is March, and the most incredible month is September (which is also lovely because of fewer crowds and lower humidity).
Best Things to Do in Phuket
- Island hopping is the real reason most people fly to Phuket; a day out on pristine waters, snorkelling and visiting beaches with pure white sand is probably the best thing about Phuket.
- If you are anything like me and trying new foods is a passion, then a food tour of this area is also a great way to try delicious new dishes that the street food here creates.
- Phuket Island has fun activities, from aquariums and water parks to Muay Thai events and elephant sanctuaries. There are countless fun activities in Phuket, so there is something for various age groups and fitness ranges. If you want more options, click here.
Where to Stay
The Slate Hotel is close to the airport and has 196 modern industrial Thai-style rooms, each tastefully decorated while leaning into Phuket’s tin history. The resort has a fantastic restaurant, and the hotel pools will relax you quickly. The JW Marriott Mai Khao Phuket is also close to the airport. This resort has everything you need for your Phuket weekend away, including an airport shuttle, fitness centre, and spa facilities. Want more options? Click here for more details.
Thailand – Koh Samui
How to Get to Koh Samui
The short flight via Bangkok Airlines to Koh Samui takes about 2 hours.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is from December to March when the weather is more relaxed and the rainfall is less.
Best Things to Do in Koh Samui
- Visit an ethical elephant Sanctuary, where you can see first-hand how well the elephants are being cared for, learn about these beautiful animals, and get up close and personal with them without riding them.
- You are always young enough to enjoy a day at Koh Samui’s Beach clubs dotted around the island. Sit by the pool at Nikki Beach Club or plop yourself down on a beach bag and enjoy the live music at Pure Beach.
- Spend an entire day out on the water snorkelling, kayaking or stand-up paddling. Choose a water toy that suits you best and head out on tour, or hire one from a local company and enjoy the day playing in the crystal-clear water.
Where to Stay
The Lamai Samui (once Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa)) is a beautiful hotel in a quiet location, perfect for a romantic weekend with that special someone. These villas are unique, with 75 rooms, including beautiful villas with a shared pool entrance.
If sitting by a pool all day at one of the best beach clubs in the area, why not stay at Nikki Beach Koh Samui Resort and Spa? You won’t have to leave the resort for the entire weekend.
Thailand – Chiang Mai
How To Get to Chiang Mai
With a short 3-hour flight via Scoot and Air Asia, both airlines fly directly from Singapore and Chiang Mai.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between October and April, as it is more relaxed, with less humidity and less rainfall.
Best Things To Do in Chiang Mai
- Elephant Sanctuary: Thais love their elephants, and the Chiang Mai region is no different. This area has many elephant sanctuaries to choose from, where the animals are treated respectfully, and there is a significant educational aspect for visitors.
- Bamboo Rafting: Spend a full day hiking to a fantastic waterfall, hanging out with rescued elephants, and then sailing down the river on a bamboo raft. This is a tremendous experience for all ages.
- Thai Cooking class: If you love Thai food and cooking, this is the best opportunity to learn how to create some of your favourite dishes. Visit an organic farm where you will cook with the ingredients you pick straight from the farm.
Where To Stay
The Deer Resort is in a great location, with friendly staff and a great swimming pool at an affordable price. In addition, the Deer Resort is 1.7 km from Grand Canyon Water Park, which is also a fun day out on your weekend in Chiang Mai.
Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is ideally located in Chiang Mai Old Town, with modern Northern Thai-style rooms and a gorgeous swimming pool; this resort is perfect for that weekend away with someone special.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.
Check out my Instagram page or join the Singapore Truly Facebook group.
Pin it for later
