A hi-tech, modern metropolis, Singapore makes for a unique travel experience in Asia. The island country stuns visitors with glistening skyscrapers, new-age gardens, and well-designed waterfronts. These go hand-in-hand with the city’s colonial heritage, its hawker markets and colourful neighbourhoods that are home to various cultures. Spend three days here to acquaint yourself with a futuristic city that remains rooted, in many ways, in tradition. Here is the perfect 3-day Singapore itinerary!
3 days in Singapore - How to spend your day
-min.jpg?auto=compress&fm=pjpg&fit=min&crop=faces&&w=260&h=165)
Singapore in 3 days - Detailed itinerary
Start with a slow first day in Singapore
Singapore Zoo
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Waterfront Promenade
The impressive Singapore Zoo is well-known because it astonishingly recreates a tropical rainforest-like atmosphere to house over 4000 animals. Home to wildlife from all over the world, the Zoo’s several zones are home to creatures big and small – from ferocious lions to tiny tortoises with star-spangled shells, from large elephants to cute rabbits. You can stop by exhibits to observe kangaroos hopping around, swinging orangutans, quick-footed ibexes, slithering reptiles, and whatnot. Guests can also attend interactive animal shows, go on tours and safaris, and feed some of the animals.
- Be prepared with sunscreen and a poncho for untimely rains.
- Apply insect repellent upon arrival to avoid unexpected bites.
- Don’t share your food with the animals unless it is allowed.
Local travel tip
The zoo hosts ‘Breakfast in the Wild’ every morning where guests, who have signed up, can enjoy a delectable buffet while meeting up with the attraction’s ambassadors, including, orangutans, penguins, owls, and sea lions.
A trip to Marina Bay would certainly not be complete without a visit to the SkyPark Observation Deck. Rise 57 feet above the city and witness the heart of Singapore in all its glory. The public observation deck at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark resonates with luxury and even reveals the world’s largest infinity pool. Sip a tall glass of champagne as you overlook the breathtaking city skyline. If it's in your budget, you can also indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the fine restaurants in the vicinity. Offering a spectacular wine-and-dine experience, it's sure to be an unforgettable meal. Be sure to take home some exclusive souvenirs from the aesthetic Sands SkyPark Shop.
- Make sure you buy a ticket to Sands Sky Park if you’re not staying at the Marina Bay Sands.
- The SkyPark may be closed for an event or occasion, it is best to check with the hotel before you plan out your day.
After soaking up the views from atop the SkyPark, head to the waterfront below for some more sightseeing. The waterfront promenade at Marina Bay is a 3.5 km stretch that serves as a popular walkway and recreational space in Singapore. Designed as an environmentally friendly area, it also successfully brings people together. Rejuvenate as the mist relieves you from the Singaporean humidity, or, sit back at a 'breeze shelter', equipped with motion sensor fans. A walk around the promenade will acquaint you with some of the most impressive-looking skyscrapers that make up the city’s skyline. Frolic by the fountain or take a picturesque walk down the boardwalk. After a day of fun, watch the sun go down over the glorious waterfront.
- Every night, Marina by Bay hosts Spectra – a 15-minute light and water show that enthrals crowds. This is free of cost. The shows happen at 8pm and 9pm between Sundays and Thursdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, the shows take place at 8, 9, and 10 at night.
- You can also take a boat ride in the bay; however, the experience can be steep if you’re on a budget.
Hit Singapore's top attractions
Singapore Flyer
River Wonders
Gardens by the Bay
At a staggering height of 165m, the Flyer is one of the world’s largest observatory wheels - think of it as the London Eye of Asia. It's even been deemed as one of the biggest tourist attractions on the continent. The breathtaking view aboard the Flyer promises an expansive view of the skyline, along with a brief glimpse of Malaysia and Indonesia from the top. The urban architecture is a masterful addition to the country and displays flawless engineering along with a cosmopolitan cityscape. Sip on champagne as you enjoy the panoramic views of Singapore aboard the Flyer and see the city in a whole new light.
- It is advisable to go either early in the morning or late in the evening for the best possible experience.
- Book online in case you’re planning to visit on a weekend, when the attraction will undoubtedly be busy and crowded.
- It’s best to check the skies for clear weather if you wish to enjoy an unobstructed view of the skyline.
Local Travel Tip
Late evenings and early mornings are the best time to visit the Singapore Flyer as there will be little to no crowd. Pre-purchase your tickets online to avoid long queues at the ticket counter.
Nestled right in between the well-known Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, River Wonders is a river-themed zoo and aquarium. Designed to recreate the wildlife experience along famous rivers from around the world, the park is home to some rare and impressive creatures from across the globe. Get set to begin your journey alongside meandering rivers and enjoy the chance to view giant river otters, Indian gharials, giant freshwater stingrays, Mekong giant catfish, piranhas, electric eels and other underwater beauties.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen and water to protect from the heat and high humidity.
- Arrive early, as the animals tend to nap midday, resulting in poor sightings during the safari.
- Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there is plenty of walking to do around this attraction.
Next, make your way to one of the most unique tourist attractions in Singapore. The famed Gardens by the Bay resembles a sci-fi movie set. It was initially brought about by the Government’s initiative to make Singapore a ‘city in a garden’ instead of a ‘garden city’. Gardens by the Bay is divided into three elaborate sections: Bay Central Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay South Garden. In each area, visitors can enjoy a natural extravaganza of flora and fauna. With an alien-like appearance, you'll feel like you've stepped into a colourful, fantasy world.
- Visit the Gardens at sunset and linger here to see it come alive at night.
- The restaurants inside can be a little expensive. If you’re on a budget, we recommend you eat someplace outside before arriving.
- Bring a light jacket if you plan to tour the on-site conservatories as they can get a bit chilly.
Explore Sentosa Island
Singapore Cable Car
Universal Studios Singapore
Wings of Time
-min.jpg?ixlib=rb-0.3.5&ixid=eyJhcHBfaWQiOjEyMDd9&s=cc1080b2c97301bbd83d70d0ebbdce45&auto=format&fit=crop&w=658&q=10)
Spend your third day on the beloved Sentosa Island. Known for its breathtaking views between Faber Peak and Sentosa Island, Singapore's cable car is the first and only cableway that links mainland Singapore to the island of Sentosa. Enjoy 360-degree views of forests, skyscrapers, and sandy beaches as the car ferries you almost 5 kilometres on a 30-minute ride.
- You can pick an all-glass cable car to add a little excitement to your journey.
- Tickets are cheaper in the evening. If you wish to time your ride for the sunset, plan your trip for after 7pm.
- The cable car cabins can get stuffy on sunny days. While there are fans inside the car, ensure you leave the windows slightly open for extra ventilation.
Thrill-seekers can have a ball of a time at Singapore’s Universal Studios, located on Sentosa Island. Go beyond the screen and experience cutting-edge rides, shows, and attractions based on your favourite blockbuster films like Battlestar Galactica, The Mummy, Jurassic Park, Shrek, and Puss in Boots.
- It is advisable to arrive 20 to 30 minutes before the park opens in order avoid the queue. In addition, being among the first to enter the park will ensure you can enjoy the most popular rides without having to wait in long lines.
- Schedule your day around any shows you wish to watch and arrive about 15 minutes before the show starts to get the best seats.
- Don’t forget to join the studio tour at the end of the day to complete your Universal Studios experience.
Local travel tip
The first thing you should do is take the USS map and card with various entertainment timings with you.
Mesmerising and captivating, the Wings of Time is Singapore’s award-winning outdoor night show. A multi-sensory extravaganza, the show combines water displays, laser projections, and fire effects - all into one captivating presentation. Created by a critically acclaimed team of local and international entertainment experts and set against a signature backdrop and a larger-than-life water screen, the show tells a contemporary tale of courage, mystery and magic. Sit back and get lost in this magical world as you journey across time.
- Arrive 15-25 minutes early to snag a good spot for the show.
Local travel tip
If you are purchasing standard seats, arrive early to secure a central seat that gives you picturesque views throughout the show
More Singapore itinerary options?
Have some more time to kill in Singapore? That's alright, we've got other options for you. Check out our other itineraries for further inspiration:
Public transportation in Singapore
The easiest way to travel around Singapore is using a public transport system that is affordable, fast, and amicable for tourists of all types. Different types of transport modes are available to hop around the city
- Singapore's MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): It is the fastest way of traveling to any popular destination. Generally, such places are located at a walkable distance from the MRT station. One can opt for a tourist pass, foreign-issued Mastercard and VISA facilities, and an Adult Stored Value Smartcard while traveling by train.
- Buses: They are a great option to travel the city at your own pace. Buses cover an extensive network of places in Singapore; they are air-conditioned and may be single or double-decker buses.
- Taxis: Taxis are another affordable option as meters are reasonably priced, and there are no safety concerns. There might be surcharges sometimes, and you can always ask the driver for a receipt. The pricing and fares highly depend on the company from which you are taking the services.
- Bicycle: If you love cycling around the place, Singapore has some great options as it has a good cycling path for people traveling there. One can even get cycles and gears from the licensed operator there, and you are good to traverse the city on your own.
Where to stay in Singapore?
Despite being a relatively small island country, Singapore offers tourists a wide range of stay options across its many neighbourhoods. When planning your trip here, choose your accommodation according to your budget and if you are keen on staying close to a particular city attraction. Additionally, Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world and you can be assured of safety no matter where you stay in this hi-tech metropolis.
Recommendations:
1. Around Marina Sand Bays:
- Pan Pacific Singapore (5-star)
- Marina Bay Sands Singapore (5-star)
- Hotel Mi (4-star)
- JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach (5-star)
- Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon (4-star)
- Park View Hotel (3-star)
- River City Inn (2-star)
- Jayleen Clarke Quay Hotel (3-star)
- NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento (5-star)
- Park Regis Singapore (4-star)
- Wink Capsule Hostel (2-star)
- Bliss Hotel Singapore (3-star)
- Furama RiverFront (4-star)
Tips and hacks for making the best of your 3 days in Singapore
- Before heading to Singapore, read through the city’s many rules and regulations. Singapore has strict laws – especially on public decorum – and you should be aware of them to have a seamless travel experience.
- While liquor is freely available, drinking at bars attracts a high liquor tax and it will prove to be heavy on your wallet. Look for bar offerings like happy hours to ease the burden.
- Tap water is easily available around the city and is safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic ones. Remember, littering in Singapore attracts hefty fines!
- Wear light clothing and always carry an umbrella to shield you from the sun or sudden rains.
- Buy an EZ-Link card so that you can travel by public transport easily.
- At smaller shops and hawker centres, make sure you carry cash and also plenty of small change to pay the vendors without a hassle.
- While heading out, make sure you get a tax refund for your shopping purchases.
More Singapore Guides
Check out the top things to do in Singapore & our comprehensive Singapore Travel Guide packed with itineraries, tours, culture trips, best hotels, restaurants and a lot more.
Here are a few more guides that should help you plan your visit.
FAQs
Singapore is one of the top Asian destinations to visit and is home to many world-famous attractions such as Sentosa Island, Gardens By The Bay, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, and so on.
The best time to visit Singapore is when the weather is pleasant, ie February to April. For budget travelers, the best time to visit are August and September.
The top things to do in Singapore are visiting Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, experiencing the Singapore Cable Car, spending a day at Universal Studios Singapore, and more.
The cheapest way to get around Singapore is by using MRT and buses.
Regardless of when you are visiting Singapore, make sure to pack a raincoat/umbrella, sunscreen, and bug spray for your trip.
For families, Sentosa Island is the best place to stay, but if you are on a budget, then Little India is a good place to stay in.
