Make The Most Of Your Singapore Stopover; Fun, Food and Sights
If you're flying through Southeast Asia, don't just breeze through Changi—plan to stay a few days and dive into all that Singapore has to offer. This city is more than just a layover; it's a vibrant, futuristic, and flavorful destination that’s packed with unique experiences. Here's how to make the most of your stopover in the Lion City.
Day One: Nature Meets Innovation
Gardens by the Bay
Start your adventure with a stroll through Gardens by the Bay—a surreal blend of nature and cutting-edge design. It’s free to walk around, and the Supertree Grove is an absolute must-see, especially during the Garden Rhapsody light show in the evening.
Don’t miss the Cloud Forest and Floral Fantasy (tickets required), and consider grabbing a bite at Satay by the Bay for some local flavor.
Pro tip: Pre-book your ticket to the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck for panoramic city views and to avoid long lines.
Marina Bay Sands Shoppes
Take a break and explore the stunning Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Check out the canal ride and the Rain Oculus, a giant whirlpool skylight that's part art, part engineering marvel.
Day Two: Culture & City Life
Chinatown, Kampong Gelam, and Little India
Immerse yourself in Singapore’s diverse heritage with a visit to Chinatown’s night markets, the colourful streets of Little India, and the hip, cultural enclave of Kampong Gelam. Each neighbourhood has its own vibe, street art, food, and hidden gems.
Marina Bay & The Lotus
Take a harbour walk and snap some shots of the ArtScience Museum, affectionately called “the lotus.” It’s a beautiful spot by day or night.
Bum Boat Light Show Cruise
In the evening, hop on a Bum Boat with Water B Boats for a river cruise. You’ll get front-row views of the Spectra light show, framed perfectly by the Marina Bay Sands. It's one of the most enjoyable and scenic ways to take in the city skyline.
Day Three: Adventure & Family Fun
Sentosa Island
For some thrills, head to Sentosa. Take the cable car from Mt. Faber—a scenic ride with sweeping views. Then try the Skyline Luge and Skyride for a fun gravity-fueled adventure.
Got kids? You’ll want to check out Universal Studios Singapore, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and Singapore Zoo. Don’t skip the Night Safari, complete with a tram ride through nocturnal animal habitats.
Original Duck Tours & Trishaw Uncle
Get quirky with the Original Duck Tours (amphibious vehicle fun) or see the streets up close with a nostalgic Trishaw Uncle guided tour.
Bonus: Don’t Miss Changi Airport
Even if you're stuck in the airport, you're in luck. Changi Airport is a destination in itself. Explore:
The Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
Canopy Park with its Bouncing Nets, Topiary Garden, Slides, and Canopy Bridge.
Sunflower Garden and the new T2 Digital Wonderfall.
Optional Escape: Bintan Island
If you’ve got an extra day or two, take a quick 1-hour ferry to Bintan Island. Stay at Nirwana Resorts for a beach break that feels a world away.
Singapore might be small, but it punches way above its weight. Whether you’re into architecture, adventure, or just eating your way through hawker stalls, it’s the kind of place that makes a stopover feel like a full-blown holiday.
Have you been to Singapore recently? What are your top tips? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.