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Best Weekend Escapes Within Reach of Singapore

Top Weekend Getaways from Singapore

Singapore, located at the tip of the Malaysian peninsula, offers a plethora of activities, but sometimes a quick escape is needed. Nearby destinations are accessible by car, bus, ferry, or plane, catering to families and couples alike. For example, Sentosa Island is ideal for families, while Bintan Island is perfect for a romantic retreat.

Discover the best places to visit with our guide to the top weekend getaways from Singapore.

Read more: Where to stay in Singapore for sightseeing.

1. Desaru Coast, Malaysia

Desaru Coast offers beautiful beaches and a variety of resorts, shopping, and dining. It's a two-hour drive, 90-minute bus ride, or a quick ferry trip from Singapore. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy courses designed by Ernie Els and Vijay Singh, while families can have fun at the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark.

2. Malacca, Malaysia

Malacca, a historical city with a rich colonial past, is about three hours from Singapore by car or bus. Explore the remnants of Portuguese and Dutch rule, and enjoy the vibrant Jonker Street Night Market.

Read more: Where to stay in Malacca.

3. Bintan Island, Indonesia

A ferry ride of about 50 minutes from Singapore, Bintan Island is a popular beach destination with a variety of resorts and activities, including golf and cultural experiences.

4. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi, with its stunning beaches and resorts, is a two-hour flight from Singapore. The area is known for its national parks and water sports, including SCUBA diving and snorkeling.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali, less than three hours by plane from Singapore, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, cultural history, and luxury resorts. The island is a favorite for both relaxation and adventure.

6. Sentosa Island, Singapore

Just 15 minutes from Singapore, Sentosa Island is a convenient beach resort with a variety of attractions, including Universal Studios Singapore and luxury shopping.

7. Iskander Puteri, Malaysia

Iskander Puteri, a short drive from Singapore, is home to family-friendly attractions like Legoland Malaysia and the Hello Kitty Indoor Theme Park.

8. Penang, Malaysia

Penang is famous for its street food and historical sites. A short flight from Singapore, it offers a mix of urban and natural attractions.

9. Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, a three-hour flight from Singapore, combines a well-preserved old town with beautiful countryside and beaches.

10. Yangon, Myanmar

Yangon, under three hours by plane, is known for its stunning pagodas and temples, including the diamond-encrusted Shwedagon Pagoda.

11. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, or "KL," is a bustling city with a rich food scene, shopping, and iconic structures like the Petronas Twin Towers.

Read more: Guided tours in Kuala Lumpur and nearby.

12. Batam, Indonesia

An hour by ferry, Batam offers beautiful beaches, water sports, and duty-free shopping.

13. Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Close to Singapore, Johor Bahru is known for its diverse cuisine and attractions like Legoland Malaysia and the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple.

Read more: Guided tours & Day trips in Johor Bahru.

14. Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Yogyakarta, steeped in Javanese culture, is home to the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.

15. Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi, a 90-minute flight from Singapore, is an archipelago known for its beaches and the Sky Bridge.

16. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap, a little over two hours by air, is the gateway to the Angkor temple complex.

17. Borneo

Borneo, less than three hours by flight, is an ecological haven with ancient rainforests and endangered orangutans.

18. Brunei

Brunei, on the island of Borneo, offers a mix of rainforest beauty, culture, and history, with opportunities for outdoor adventures.