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The Ultimate 3 Days In Singapore Itinerary! A Complete Guide.

Are you looking for a short, sweet, unforgettable 3 days in Singapore Itinerary? Then, I have you covered.

I’ve been fortunate to travel to Singapore twice, once in 2019 and once in 2023. This incredible, unique, and forward-thinking city blew me away both times.

Singapore is a green metropolis, a garden mega city. As someone who has never understood why urban landscapes have to be so dull and toxic, Singapore’s landscaped nature and sustainability-focused solutions weaved next to colonial architecture and a thriving cultural scene. It is unlike any city in the world.

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Where Is Singapore Located?

Nestled at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is a tiny island nation that punches well above its weight in size and significance.

Boasting a strategic location in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, making it a truly unique destination to explore! Many people, myself included, use Singapore for onward travel to places like Indonesia (Bali & Java) and the Banana Pancake Trail… (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam & Laos)


How to Travel to Singapore:

Getting to Singapore is a breeze thanks to its modern and efficient transportation infrastructure. Changi Airport, consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world, serves as a central hub for international flights.

We had a 6-hour delay here, and we still didn’t have enough time to explore everything on offer there!

Whether you’re arriving from neighbouring Southeast Asian countries or from halfway around the globe, you’ll find plenty of flight options to suit your needs.

Once you’ve landed in Singapore, getting around is a piece of cake. The city-state boasts extensive public transportation, including an efficient MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) network, buses, and taxis. With affordable fares and easy-to-navigate routes, getting from point A to point B has never been easier.

The Jewel at Changi Airport

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Singapore?

While Singapore has a reputation for being one of the more expensive destinations in Southeast Asia, there are plenty of ways to experience the city on a budget.

From affordable accommodation options to delicious street food, there are plenty of ways to stretch your dollar while still enjoying Singapore’s offerings.

  • Flights: The cost of flights to Singapore can vary depending on the time of year and where you fly. However, with some planning and flexibility, you can often find great deals on airfare.
  • Accommodation: Singapore offers various accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxury hotels to budget hostels and everything in between, you will surely find the perfect place to stay.
  • Food: Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, with an incredible array of culinary delights. Whether you’re craving local hawker fare or fine dining, there’s something for everyone here.

Best Time of Year to Travel to Singapore:

Singapore enjoys a tropical climate, which means it’s warm and humid year-round. However, certain times of the year are more popular with tourists than others.

  • High Season: The best time to visit Singapore is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. You can expect plenty of sunshine and relatively low rainfall during this time.
  • Low Season: The wet season, which runs from November to January, sees higher levels of rainfall and increased humidity. However, this can also be a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and score great deals on accommodation and airfare.

3 Days in Singapore – The Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of the City

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gardens by the Bay. Explore the lush greenery of the outdoor gardens, marvel at the stunning Supertree Grove, and don’t miss the breathtaking Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.

cloud forest singapore
Cloud Forest

Top Tip: To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon!

Afternoon: After lunch, head to the historic district of Kampong Glam. Explore the colourful streets, visit the majestic Sultan Mosque, and shop at the bustling Arab Street market.

Arab Street

Evening: End your day with a visit to Marina Bay Sands. Take in the stunning city skyline views from the observation deck, and don’t miss the spectacular light and water show at the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. Head up to the SkyPark just before sunset for the best views.

Top Tip: Try the best food the traditional Malay cuisine, at one of the area’s many local eateries!


Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Culture and History

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Singapore. Learn about the history and culture of the city-state through interactive exhibits, artefacts, and multimedia displays.

Afternoon: After lunch, stroll through the vibrant neighbourhood of Chinatown. Explore the colourful streets, visit the historic Thian Hock Keng Temple, and don’t miss the bustling Chinatown Food Street.

Arab Street Mosque, Singapore

Evening: End your day with a visit to the Singapore River. Take a leisurely cruise along the river, and soak in the stunning views of the city skyline lit up at night.

Top Tip: For the best experience, book a dinner cruise and enjoy a delicious meal as you take in the sights.


Day 3: Indulge in Singapore’s Culinary Delights

Morning: Start your day with a visit to a local hawker centre for breakfast. Sample some of Singapore’s most famous dishes, including Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow.

Top Tip: Try local favourites like kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs.

Raffles Hotel

Afternoon: After lunch, take a food tour of Little India. Explore the colourful streets, visit the bustling markets, and indulge in delicious Indian food. Be sure to visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and the Tekka Centre for an authentic taste of Indian culture.

Evening: End your day with a visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery, and don’t miss the stunning Orchid Garden. Then, end your evening on a high with a famous Singapore Sling at Raffles!

Top Tip: Be sure to visit in the evening when the gardens are lit up with beautiful lights and live music performances.

My Personal Favourite Highlights of Singapore

1) HAJI LANE / ARAB STREET

Haji Lane is a small, colourful street filled with artisan shops, tattoo parlours and, surprisingly, an excellent Mexican restaurant!

It’s parallel to the Arab street, a road filled with Asian goods, from pretty lanterns to large geometric rugs, Indian scarves and saris.

Both a 3-minute walk from Bugis station, these quaint hidden gems are a must-see with a good nightlife scene, too, with live music performed on Haji Lane most evenings!

2) CLOUD FOREST at Gardens by the bay

A winding tower of waterfalls, flowers and plants beautifully constructed in the world’s largest greenhouse.

It is a perfect way to bring people back to nature, even in the centre of one of the world’s busiest cities. If you spend three days in Singapore, you may come back here multiple times as there is much more to see. There are many gardens to wander around and, of course, the light shows at night.

3) BOAT QUAY / RIVERSIDE

You can take a ride on the river cruises along the quay up to Marina Bay Sands or stroll along the river banks.

Marvel at the horizon lit up by skyscrapers reflecting onto the waters next to you.

Sit and watch the world go by, and with plenty of restaurants and bars along the riverside, you can do that with beer in hand.

4) LIGHT SHOW at Gardens of the Bay.

It is a magical, mystical show of glittering lights underneath the stars. If you spend three days in Singapore, I recommend coming every night! It truly is fantastic.

The show is twice an evening at 7.45 pm and 8.45 pm. Get there early to grab the best spot. And pray the weather is good enough to let you marvel from the skywalk! (Note this is only accessible when it’s dry)

BUY YOUR LIGHT SHOW TICKETS HERE!

5) NIGHT SAFARI

We heard from multiple people that the night safari they hosted at Singapore Zoo was the most fantastic experience and a highlight of their trip! We didn’t have time, but it’s definitely on the bucket list.

6) BOTANICAL GARDENS

Take a break from the humid climate by strolling the manicured botanical gardens. The botanical gardens here are huge and a welcome break from the city. There are ponds, lakes, manicured gardens, pagodas, and water displays.

I took my journal here to draw, read, and write. It’s a beautiful chilled spot to relax in nature and take time-out from city life.

7) GET LOST WANDERING

I spent hours roaming the streets of Singapore and found myself in such contrasting areas. There’s little India, vast shopping malls and streets, beautiful gardens, rivers and skyscrapers. It is the most incredible, well-kept city I have ever visited.

8) RAFFLES

Raffles is a famous British colonial hotel and bar that is truly world-class! It is an outstanding piece of history sitting right in the middle of New World Singapore. You must go to the bar and order one of their world-famous cocktails – “The Singapore Sling!”

3 days in singapore - raffles

Where to Stay in Singapore?

Luxury Options:

Raffles Singapore:

  • Immerse yourself in colonial charm at Raffles Singapore, an iconic hotel known for its luxurious accommodations and legendary service.
  • Price Range: $$$$

Marina Bay Sands:

  • Experience unparalleled luxury at Marina Bay Sands, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline from the famous viewpoint and infinity pool.
  • Price Range: $$$$

Mid-Range Option:

Hotel Fort Canning:

  • Nestled in the city’s heart, Hotel Fort Canning offers stylish accommodations and modern amenities, all within walking distance of Singapore’s top attractions.
  • Price Range: $$$

ST Signature Tanjong Pagar

  • Experience modern and minimalist accommodations at ST Signature Tanjong Pagar. Conveniently located in the city’s heart, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Singapore’s top attractions.
  • Price $$

Budget Option:

Hotel 81 Orchid

  • Enjoy affordable accommodations at Hotel 81 Orchid. Located in the vibrant Geylang district, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Singapore’s top attractions.
  • Price Range $ (As cheap as it gets for a Private room in Singapore!)
marina bay sands singapore
Gardens by The Bay

If you enjoyed this travel guide, check out our other Asian travel Guides below!

Thank you for reading our ultimate “How to Spend 3 Days in Singapore!” If you liked this post, read our Travel Routes and Recommendations Here!

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