Have you planned what you’re doing for the Singapore National Day Weekend? Here are 9 destinations you can count on to always have your back!
The Singapore National Day Weekend is almost upon us! Looking to make the most of it? Why limit your celebrations to the Lion City – we have so many options all around us!
Whether you’re craving a cultural deep-dive, a foodie paradise, or simply a change of scenery, we’ve got you covered with these 9 destinations perfect for short trips from Singapore.
Pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for an unforgettable Singapore National Day weekend trip. Let’s dive into these exciting getaways that promise to turn your National Day break into a mini-adventure!
Malacca, Malaysia
This UNESCO World Heritage city is a melting pot of cultures, perfect for history buffs and foodies alike. Stay at The Majestic Malacca for colonial vibes or Noble Resort Hotel Melaka for a familiar brand (this building used to be occupied by Novotel).
Getting there – you can take a bus from Singapore or JB, depending on how adventurous you are. The bus rides typically cost between $50 to $80 per person. You can get your tickets here. But the jam during National Day can be massive, FYIP!
What to do – Don’t miss trying the famous Nyonya laksa! While you’re there, explore Jonker Street Night Market, take a river cruise, and visit the iconic red Christ Church. Here’s a list of what you can eat while there!
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
KL’s got it all – shopping, food, and culture. Book a room at The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel for that Insta-worthy infinity pool or go luxe at Mandarin Oriental.
Getting there – while taking a bus is an option, I would highly recommend flying. Getting stuck in the causeway jam is simply not worth it.
What to do: KL has SO MANY cafes, restaurants and delicious street food to whet your appetite. Must-dos: Visit the Petronas Twin Towers which is also a damn good mall, explore Batu Caves, and hunt for bargains at Central Market – they sometimes have the coolest local finds, made by local artisans.
12 new cafes to check out in KL this year!
Bali, Indonesia
Beach, culture, or adventure? Bali’s got you covered. Chill at Alila Seminyak or go boho at The Slow in Canggu.
Getting there – AirAsia has the most wallet-friendly flights to Bali, though Scoot is a close second.
What to do – Dive into a plate of babi guling (suckling pig) – it’s a local fave. Bali, like KL, has a huge list of cafes you can chill at in the mornings, and then watch the day go by. If you’re staying in Seminyak, then make it a point to visit a beach bar (or four). Then, catch the sunset at Tanah Lot temple, take a yoga class in Ubud, and brave the Bali Swing for that adrenaline rush.
Surabaya, Indonesia
East Java’s capital is a hidden gem that’s becoming increasingly popular with Singaporean travellers. And the Singapore National Day Weekend is the perfect time to explore! If you’re into an adventurous holiday, then this destination is for you! Stay at JW Marriott Surabaya or Hotel Majapahit for a taste of history.
Getting there – Jetstar has regular flights to Surabaya.
What to do – Slurp up some soto ayam Surabaya, then hit the town. Check out the massive Al-Akbar Mosque, stroll through the Old Town, and shop till you drop at Tunjungan Plaza.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok never sleeps, and neither will you! This city needs no introduction in this blog, we’re VERY Bangkok-obsessed people. If you’re feeling funky, then crash at the W Bangkok. If you’re looking for a more central place to stay, close to a mall and train station, then check out Mercure Sukhumvit 24.
Getting there – Many, many flights. Many many days. The only problem you might face would be the price during peak periods like now.
What to do – Cafe-hop, eat at street food places, shop till you drop or dip into local culture; Bangkok is a gift that keeps on giving. Here’s a comprehensive list of all things Bangkok.
Hat Yai, Thailand
This southern Thai city is a chill alternative to busy Bangkok. Book a room at Centara Hotel Hat Yai or Habita Hatyai for a boutique experience. Hat Yai is a relatively small city; it has one beach that’s about a 30-minute drive and a huge BIG C shopping complex. It’s a great place to chill, dye your hair, get a massage and then head back.
Getting there – Scoot flies to Hat Yai weekly.
What to do – Feast on some juicy Hat Yai fried chicken, a classic. Hat Yai is famous for its dim sum, which will be a great breakfast option. You can walk off the food at the Hat Yai Municipal Park, shop at Kim Yong Market, and view the city from the top of Hat Yai Cable Car.
Here’s a breakdown of all things Hat Yai you need to know!
Hong Kong
East meets West in this vibrant metropolis. HK has some really nice places to stay, either on Hong Kong Island or the mainland (which is connected by train). Splurge on a harbour view at The Peninsula or go trendy at Eaton HK. A budget-friendly hotel located on Hong Kong Island is Ibis; it’s close to many of the eateries and has all the amenities we will need for a short weekend stay.
Getting there – there are many flight options; I took Cathay Pacific; it was a comfortable journey!
What to do – Taking a tram to Victoria Peak is an absolute must, as are the Central Mid-level Escalators. Dim sum is non-negotiable – try Lin Heung Tea House. Explore the streets of Mong Kok, and end your day with the Symphony of Lights show. My most unforgettable experience here was riding the trams on Hong Kong Island, otherwise known as the Ding Dings.
Taipei, Taiwan
Foodie heaven alert! So many night markets, so little time! I’ll admit going to Taipei for the Singapore National Day weekend is a wee bit of a stretch, but if you were to be strategic about it, you can get a lot done in 4 days! Stay at the iconic Grand Hotel Taipei or the hip amba Taipei Songshan.
Getting there – Scoot, my friends! They also have non-budget options at reasonable prices, such as China Airlines.
What to do – Walk up the elephant mountain to see the spectacular Taipei 101, enjoy street corner dim sum, visit the plentiful night markets or take a train to explore the outskirts of the city! Between meals, visit Taipei 101, soak in Beitou Hot Springs, and shop at Shilin Night Market.
Here’s what you can do in Taipei!
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Think chaos, but make it organised! That’s HCMC in a nutshell; lots of things happening, plenty of bikes that weave in and out of the sidewalks. Rest your head at The Reverie Saigon for ultimate luxury or Hotel des Arts for French colonial charm.
Getting there – Vietjet Air and Scoot have several flights every week.
What to do – other than visiting some dark tourist sites, such as the Chu Chi Tunnels, HCMC has plenty of great food and chill-out cafes to offer eager tourists. My favourite? Banh Mi 25 – the sandwiches are really good! Explore the War Remnants Museum, haggle at Ben Thanh Market, and take a day trip to the padi fields.
Looking for recommendations? Here you go!
Remember, the joy of travel isn’t just in the destinations, but in the experiences you collect and the stories you’ll tell. So pick your favourite spot, and turn this National Day into an adventure you’ll never forget. After all, what better way to celebrate Singapore’s global connections than by exploring our vibrant neighbourhood?
Just don’t forget to be back in time for some chilli crab and to catch the National Day Parade on TV. Happy travels, and happy National Day, Singapore!