Welcome to Singapore, one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant and diverse cities! With just three days in this bustling city-state, planning your Singapore 3 days itinerary is essential to make the most of your time here. In this blog, we'll provide a comprehensive guide to help you discover the best of Singapore. Having lived here for over twenty years, I'm confident that my suggestions will ensure an authentic and enjoyable experience for you.
Table of Contents
Quick tips for your 3-day trip to Singapore
WEATHER
You'll experience hot and humid weather throughout the year in Singapore, as it's located just one degree north of the equator. The temperature usually ranges from 27-33C or 80-91F, with a high humidity level of 60-90%. As soon as you step out, you'll feel the sweat dripping.
As you won't experience four seasons in Singapore, you'll have to keep in mind the monsoon season when planning your trip. It's more likely to rain heavily from November to January, with daily thunderstorms. But don't worry, the rain usually lasts no more than 2 hours, and the weather becomes more pleasant and cooler after it stops.
LANGUAGE
You'll encounter a multicultural society that uses English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin as its four major languages. Although the official language is Malay, you can communicate well in English. However, be prepared for the local variation of English called Singlish, which mixes all four languages.
CURRENCY
The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), with an exchange rate of 0.75 USD to 1 SGD, making it easy for conversion when shopping and dining.
SIM CARD
It's recommended to purchase a prepaid data SIM card upon arrival. You can find them at the airport or any 7/11 store in Singapore for under S$15. Just keep in mind that you'll need to show your passport to buy a SIM card
SINGAPORE TOURIST PASS
If you plan to use public transportation during your stay in Singapore, the Singapore Tourist Pass is the best option, especially if you're visiting for less than three days. It's the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel around the city.This
If you're staying in Singapore for more than three days and relying on public transportation, you should opt for the EZ Link card, which is affordable and convenient. There's no need to worry about returning the card before leaving.
However, if you plan to use public transport only occasionally, it's best to pay by cash instead of purchasing either the Singapore Tourist Pass or EZ Link card.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
S$10 for one day, |
S$16 for two days, |
S$20 for three days |
S$10 deposit is required upon purchase NOTE: this is refundable if you return the card within 5 days. If you choose to keep the card, there will be no refund |
TAXI
If you are a tourist arriving at Changi Airport and need to get to your hotel, taking a taxi is a great option. Taxis in Singapore are reasonably priced and can take you directly to your hotel without the need for transfers.
You'll find taxi stands located at each terminal's arrival hall. There is no need to book in advance, just queue up and take the next available taxi.
The journey from Changi Airport to the city center takes around 30 minutes and should cost approximately S$20-40, depending on your destination and traffic conditions.
NOTE: PEAK HOURS SURCHARGE
Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 9:30 am
Monday to Sunday, 6:00 pm to 12:00 midnight
REMEMBER TO PACK THESE ITEMS
Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, a foldable umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes when packing for your trip to Singapore. Pack light and breathable clothing, as it can get scorching in Singapore. And don't worry too much if you forget anything - you can easily find what you need in the city.
BEST AREA TO STAY IN SINGAPORE
As a tourist in Singapore, you'll want to stay in an area that is close to public transport and offers easy access to the city's top attractions. Some of the best areas to stay in Singapore include:
Marina Bay: This area offers stunning views of Singapore's skyline, as well as access to popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the ArtScience Museum.
Orchard Road: This shopping district is home to many high-end hotels, as well as shopping malls and restaurants.
Clarke Quay: This lively area offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, as well as easy access to the Singapore River and the city's many museums and cultural attractions.
Sentosa Island: This resort island is home to many of Singapore's top attractions, including Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Singapore will depend on your preferences and what you want to see and do during your trip.
Alright, here's what I suggest you do for your 3 days Itinerary in Singapore
Day 1: Explore the City's Landmark
MORNING: GARDENS BY THE BAY
Start your Singapore 3 days itinerary with a visit to the Gardens by the Bay, a beautiful nature park that features a variety of gardens and conservatories. Explore the Supertree Grove: Start your tour by exploring the Supertree Grove, where you can see the famous Supertrees up close. We'll also visit the OCBC Skyway, a walkway that gives you panoramic views of the surrounding gardens.
Visit the Flower Dome: The Flower Dome is one of the main attractions of the Gardens by the Bay. The Flower Dome itself is a climate-controlled conservatory that houses a collection of plants from various regions around the world. Explore some of the different sections of the Flower Dome, include the Baobabs and Bottle Trees, the Succulent Garden, and the Orchid Display.
Check out the Cloud Forest: The Cloud Forest is another popular attraction, and it's a great way to beat the heat and humidity of Singapore. Explore the different levels of the Cloud Forest, including the mist-filled Cloud Walk and the Secret Garden.
Visit the Heritage Gardens: The Heritage Gardens are often overlooked by visitors, but they're a great way to learn about Singapore's cultural heritage. Check the different sections of the Heritage Gardens, including the Malay Garden and the Chinese Garden.
LUNCH: SATAY BY THE BAY
Have lunch in Satay By The Bay: Located in the nearby Marina Bay area. It offers a variety of local hawker fare, including satay (grilled meat skewers), laksa (spicy noodle soup), and chicken rice. The location is outdoor and provides a more authentic experience.
AFTERNOON: MERLION PARK
Next, head to the Merlion Park, located just a short walk away. This iconic statue, a symbol of Singapore, features a lion’s head and a fish’s body. Learn about the history and significance of the Merlion, and take some memorable photos with this majestic statue as the backdrop.
Then head to Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill on the ground floor of One Fullerton. It's just a stone's throw away from Merlion. The outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the Marina Bay waterfront. Sip a drink while soaking up the sun. Take advantage of this exceptional spot!
EVENING: MARINA BAY SANDS
Go to Marina Bay Sands, the iconic hotel that defines Singapore’s skyline. And visit the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck for stunning views of the city skyline from 57 stories high. Take in the panoramic views of the city and watch as the sun sets over Singapore. If you like, you can watch the sunset at the Ce La Vie Restaurant while enjoying a glass of wine or cocktails.
After the Observation Deck, head to Ce La Vie, a rooftop bar and restaurant on the 57th floor above the observation deck, and enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks while taking in the stunning views of the Singapore skyline. You should check out the CÉ LA VI SkyBar & Club Lounge for a drink or two after dinner, as the view there is fantastic, especially at night.
You must purchase a ticket to go up
Standard ticket for adults: SGD $26 (approximately USD $19)
Standard ticket for children aged 2 to 12: SGD $20 (approximately USD $15)
Standard ticket for senior citizens aged 65 and above: SGD $23 (approximately USD $17)
Note: A dinner at Ce La Vie will give you the same view as the observation deck . The restaurant is just above the observation deck.
Day 2: Discover Singapore’s Culture and Heritage
MORNING: CHINATOWN
Start your day in Chinatown Point:
For a quintessential Singaporean breakfast experience that's sure to tantalize your taste buds, head to TOAST BOX, try the Kaya Toast Set with coconut jam, butter, soft-boiled eggs, and a cup of kopi or teh Tarik.
For more filling, go for the Laksa, a spicy noodle soup with shrimp and tofu puffs. Nasi Lemak is another popular option - fragrant rice with fried anchovies, peanuts, and sambal. Take advantage of the Curry Chicken served with bread or rice.
And for a sweet treat, try the Milo Dinosaur, a popular drink made with Milo powder and condensed milk. Toast Box has all the local flavors you need to start your day right.
After breakfast, head to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. This stunning temple is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha and houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth. You can explore the temple's beautiful architecture, admire the intricate carvings and decorations, and learn about the history of Buddhism in Singapore.
Every trip to Chinatown would be complete with a visit to the street markets. Plenty of shops sell souvenirs, trinkets, and traditional Chinese goods. Be sure to check out Chinatown Street Market and Chinatown Food Street. You can try local food, such as oyster omelets, popiah, and satay and dare to try Durian.
LUNCH: MAXWELL FOOD CENTRE
Sit one of the restaurants in Chinatown or you can head to Chinatown's Maxwell Food Centre for a taste of Singapore's must-try dishes like Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and refreshing sugarcane juice from one of the many drink stalls.
AFTERNOON: LITTLE INDIA & ARAB STREET
After lunch, head to Little India, a colorful neighborhood that is home to a large Indian community. The Tekka Centre, a bustling food and wet market, is also worth a visit. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant streets of Little India, filled with colorful murals and unique shops.
Then head to Arab Street, a neighborhood that showcases the Islamic heritage of Singapore. Visit the Masjid Sultan Mosque, a beautiful mosque that features intricate Islamic architecture. Check out Kampong Glam, the historic Malay district, is another must-see attraction. Stroll along the colorful streets, lined with unique shops and restaurants. Sit one of the restaurant here and just enjoy the sorroundings.
DINNER: DIN TAI FUNG IN ORCHARD ROAD
Head to Din Tai Fung and indulge in their famous xiao long bao, which is soup-filled dumplings that are steamed to perfection, and other dishes like Pork Chop, fried rice, noodle soups, and Xiao Long Bao desserts.
Looking for late night shopping in Singapore? Check out Orchard Road with its wide range of shopping malls and department stores open until late at night. Find everything you need from luxury brands to affordable fashion.
Finally, take a cab and visit Raffles Bar at Raffles Hotel for a taste of Singapore's history and culture. Don't miss their signature cocktail, the Singapore Sling. And fun fact: it's the only place in Singapore where it's okay to litter - they provide you with peanut shells to throw on the floor!
Day 3: Fun and Adventure
MORNING: SENTOSA ISLAND
Start your third day with a visit to Universal Studios Singapore, which is located on Sentosa Island. This theme park offers thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. Singapore on Sentosa Island is a beautiful resort island with tons of attractions to explore.
LUNCH AT UNIVERSAL STUDIO or COASTES
If you're not keen to go to Universal Studios in Singapore, no worries, you can still have an amazing time on Sentosa Island. One activity that I highly recommend is the Sentosa Luge Ride. It's so much fun. You get to ride down a winding track on a small toboggan-like cart, while taking in stunning views of the island and its surroundings. The best part is, the ride is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. You can even choose from different track options to make it more interesting.
After experiencing the thrill of the Sentosa Luge Ride, I suggest taking a leisurely stroll along the island's picturesque beaches. You can soak up the sun and feel the sand between your
toes, while admiring the stunning views of the sea.
If you're feeling thirsty, you can head over to Coastes, a popular beach bar located right on Siloso Beach. They serve up delicious cocktails and ice-cold beers, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. The atmosphere is really laid-back and casual, with a friendly staff and great music playing in the background.
After that, go to S.E.A. Aquarium, it has a vast array of marine life from all around the world.
AFTERNOON: SINGAPORE ZOO
After your fun-filled morning, head over to the Singapore Zoo, a world-renowned zoo that is home to a wide variety of animals. The River Safari, which features animals from freshwater habitats around the world, is a must-see attraction.
Then head to the Night Safari, which gives you the chance to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. I would recommend walking as it provides a more immersive and interactive experience with the animals. However, if you're short on time or prefer a more relaxed experience, the tram is also a great option.
DINNER AT SINGAPORE NIGHT SAFARI
Eat dinner at Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant in Singapore. The restaurant offers a buffet of Asian and local cuisine, including seafood, meats, vegetables, and desserts.
Finally, I highly recommend ending your day at Clarke Quay, a charming riverside district with a rich history. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many bars and restaurants while taking in the bustling atmosphere and admiring the river views. With so many options to choose from, Clarke Quay is the perfect place to experience Singapore's vibrant nightlife.
IN CONCLUSION
Let me tell you that even though you're only spending three days in Singapore, our guide is packed with fantastic recommendations that will help you make the most out of your visit. With our insider knowledge, you can explore the city like a pro and hassle-free. So, let's hit the streets and create some fantastic memories!