Whether you are a first-time traveller or a regular visitor of Singapore, the tropical island of Singapore always delights travellers with its exciting fusion of modern glitzy metropolis and old-world charm.
It is common to see travellers in a dilemma over their travel itineraries because there is simply too many things to do and see. So we thought, what better way as tour guides ourselves than to come up with an “Ultimate 3-day Singapore Travel Guide” for tourists who love to have fun, just like us!
Let us show you what to do in Singapore, the epic way. Must-visit landmarks, hidden gems, favourite haunts frequented by locals, insider travel tips and more - all within 3 days.
Read on for an extraordinary itinerary of Singapore highlights that are curated for travellers who want to have the best experience of their vacation!
Day 1 - Go On A Cultural Adventure
To many, Singapore is known as the country with strict fines and bans against chewing gum. Not wrong there, but there is plenty more beneath this somewhat sterile facade. Our diverse cultural landscape, influenced by various ethnic groups and religions, is a facet that every traveller should experience.
830am: Fuel Up With A Traditional Breakfast
Start off your day with a classic breakfast that is well-loved by Singaporeans - our very-own version of eggs, toast and coffee!
Thin, well-toasted slices of bread are slathered with Kaya (coconut jam) and a luscious slab of butter. This is then served alongside two soft-boiled eggs drizzled with soya sauce and pepper. Of course, this yummy breakfast is not complete without authentic Singapore-style Kopi, the colloquial slang for coffee. Our local coffee is unlike the western version that you are familiar with. Roasted with butter under high heat to caramelise the beans, the resulting brew is strong and aromatic.
Wholesome and satisfyingly delicious, Singapore’s local favourite breakfast is definitely a must-try!
>> Where to eat this: Yakun or Nanyang Old Coffee.
930 to 12pm: Stretch Those Legs On A Free Walking Tour
With a content tummy, it is now time to hit the streets of Singapore. And, what better way to explore the cultural enclaves than with the professionals at Monster Day Tours!
As the biggest free walking tour operator in Singapore, you would get a pretty good exploration of some of the best places of Singapore through interesting stories told by fun-loving local guides.
The Chinatown Free Walking Tour lets you soak in the bustling atmosphere and get a glimpse of the local Chinese community leisurely playing chess under the trees. Discover must-see spots such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, the local market in Chinatown Complex and beautifully preserved conversation shophouses.
Or, you can go for the Little India Free Walking Tour and excite your senses with an intoxicating tapestry of sights, smells and tastes that still holds much significance to the Indian community. Art lovers will also get the chance to see art murals located amidst the busy streets and take plenty of insta-worthy photos!
These free walking tours also give you the opportunity to mingle and make friends with like-minded travellers from all over the world. Who knows? You might just find your new travel buddy for your upcoming adventures.
1230pm: Lunch At Kampong Glam
The best way to fully understand a culture is through food. For that, you have got to makan (local slang for Eat) at The Malayan Council, a contemporary and cosy halal eatery nestled within the vibrant vicinity of Kampong Glam. They serve a mouthwatering array of dishes that are influenced by both Asian and Western places, and makes the most delectable cakes inspired by local flavours. Yums!
2pm: Continue Exploring Kampong Glam
After a filling meal, take a photo journey down Haji Lane and find yourself surrounded by vivid art murals, hipster cafes and local designer stores. This is where you can walk off the sumptuous lunch while shopping for local crafts and unique souvenirs.
For art enthusiasts, do make it a point to venture to the back lanes of Muscat street where you can see Gelam Gallery, Singapore’s first outdoor gallery that comprises more than 25 street artworks done by local artists.
Kampong Glam is teeming with culture and art. But, besides being a favourite haunt for photographers and trendy hipsters, this area is also a focal point for the Malay community.
It is hard to miss the magnificent golden-dome Sultan Mosque that stands imposingly over Arab Street. Visitors are allowed inside at certain timings to take a closer look but are prohibited from entering the actual prayer hall. Remember to snap a picture with the majestic mosque in the background before you leave!
430pm: Do Some Cheap Local Shopping
About 20 minutes walk away is the boisterous Bugis Street Market - a local shopping street that has a colourful past. And, trust us when we say this is definitely one of the fun things to do in Singapore.
Containing more than 600 stalls across three levels peddling trendy clothing and cheap souvenirs, Bugis Street immerses both bargain-hunting locals and tourists in its lively atmosphere. However, what many people do not know is that this street was once famous for drag queens, riotous parties and gawking sailors!
If you have time after shopping, take a quick stroll to nearby Waterloo Street where the scene drastically changes. This is a most unique street where different religions come together to pray in harmony. You can find a Taoist temple, a South Indian Hindu Temple, the 2nd oldest Catholic church in Singapore and a Jewish Synagogue - all along one street.
730pm: City Lights and Outdoor Laser Show
Wind down the day with a spectacular view of the city from the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, the famed spiky-domed landmark that resembles Durian, the king of fruits. This is the hub of Singapore’s art scene and this venue plays host to music, theatre and dance events all year round.
If you are lucky, you might even chance upon free performances held at the outdoor stage!
Sit down along the waterfront promeade and be treated to a unblocked view of Marina Bay, the Singapore flyer, the iconic Merlion and the stunning city skyline lit up in twinkling lights. From here, you can also catch the dazzling Marina Bay Sands light and water show at 8pm across the harbour.
830pm: Local Delicacies To End The Day
End the day on a perfect note with dinner at Makansutra Gluttons Bay, a popular open-air hawker centre adjacent to Esplanade. Makansutra celebrates the diverse food culture that we have here in Singapore and offers some of the city’s most-loved local favourites.
A good variety of local street food can be found here, such as satay, chicken rice, fried carrot cake and BBQ seafood. Discover the wonderful tastes of Singapore and eat to your heart’s delight!
Day 2 - Have a Date with the Singapore River
The Singapore River has been integral to Singapore’s success since almost 200 years ago. It began as a fishing village and trading port but today, this gently meandering river is a beloved hotspot where you can find a buzzing F&B scene, historical monuments and some of Singapore’s best museums.
You will be surprised to discover what this river has in store for you!
930am: Experience Hawker Culture
The good thing about SIngapore is that food can be found at all times of the day. So, you can sleep in later because you are on holiday and not worry about missing breakfast.
So, one of the top things to do in Singapore is to eat at the ubiquitous hawker centre, a distinctive food culture unique to Singapore. You have got to try it! It is like a huge food market with many different stalls selling a wide variety of local foods. A good hawker centre close to the Singapore River would be Maxwell Food Centre or Hong Lim Food Centre.
Popular breakfast foods include fried carrot cake, nasi lemak, wanton noodles and roti prata. The best thing is, you can eat like a king here and not feel the pinch.
11am: Wander Through Quaint Chinatown
Take a leisure stroll through Chinatown and admire the rows of beautifully-conserved shophouses lining the roads. These traditional houses make a good backdrop so do take some pictures here for your social media fans.
Along the way, there are several attractions that are off the tourist trap and worth a visit. If you are into history, the Singapore Musical Box Museum shares some fascinating insights into the background of musical boxes in South-east Asia and how it made its way to Singapore in the 19th century.
Nearby, step into the Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple built in Singapore. Never mind if you are not into religion, this building is an architectural masterpiece filled with intricate wood carvings and gold lacquered decorations.
And, lonely hearts seeking for love have to pay a visit to the Yueh Hai Ching Temple standing quietly in a corner. The ancient love deity here is reputed to have high success rates for love and marriages. Or, you can just soak in the peaceful atmosphere and appreciate the temple’s exquisite oriental sculptures and spatterns of flora and fauna.
1pm: Take A Stroll With Local Tour Experts
Once again, put yourself in the good hands of the local guides at Monster Day Tours by joining the Original Singapore City Free Walking Tour. The meeting point is conveniently set at Raffles Place MRT, the heart of the financial district and a stone’s throw away from Chinatown.
Some of the many interesting spots that you would visit along the Singapore River include the majestic Fullerton Hotel (site of the first post office in Singapore), the historically-significant Padang and the beautiful Victoria Theatre built in neoclassical style. Of course, this tour would not be complete without saying hello to Singapore’s most famous water-spewing statue - the Merlion!
4pm: Escape To A Museum
Take a break from a busy day of sightseeing and check out some of the best museums located around the Singapore River. It is also a good way to escape the heat and humidity for a while.
The National Museum of Singapore is the nation’s oldest museum, with its history dating back to 1849.If interactive galleries and immersive digital technologies that tell various journeys of the Singapore story appeal to you, this museum will easily engage you for hours.
For a deeper understanding of Singapore’s multicultural influences, head to the Asian Civilisations Museum. Strategically situated at along the Singapore River, this relatively small museum is devoted to exploring the rich heritage around Asia and in actual fact, has a lot to see.
Art lovers cannot miss the The National Gallery Singapore. Home to the world's largest public display of over 8,000 modern Southeast Asian artworks, this award-winning museum is worth a slot on your Singapore travel itinerary. Ahh, the bliss of spending a few intoxicating hours appreciating art in this well-preserved historical building.
7pm: Dinner With A View
Dinner time is always an excitement in the food paradise of Singapore. For the best dining experience, we highly suggest choosing one of the restaurants at Clarke Quay that has al fresco eating areas overlooking the Singapore River. While the sun goes down, sip a cold beer and watch the city come alive with mesmerising lights .
This is also the time when Clarke Quay starts buzzing with tourists and locals alike. Travellers who like a lively ambience is sure to enjoy this area.
9pm: Party With The Locals
For the party animals and nocturnal revellers, you will be happy to know that Singapore is a city that never sleeps. In fact, the night just got started! From swanky dance clubs to live music and even late-night karaoke, Clarke Quay is the place to go for anyone looking for a boozy good time.
If you are looking for a different experience, you can try your hand at Holey Moley - an ingenious mini golf course and cocktail bar venue that offers putters a multi-sensory labyrinth of unique holes. Oh, this place is also crammed full with highly instagrammable spots.
Day 3 - A Day Of Excitement And Thrills
On your last day in Singapore, leave the mainstream tourist trail and play to your heart’s content. In this small urbanised country, almost 50% is greenery so there are nature attractions galore. There is also a great deal of fun recreational activities, both outdoor and indoor, for travellers to enjoy.
930am: A Jaunt In A UNESCO Park
Mornings are always a great time to explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens because the air is much cooler. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive 161-yo garden wows visitors with 82 hectares of photogenic landscapes and more than 10,000 species of flora. It also has interactive play areas for young ones if you are travelling with kids.
If you are thinking, what about breakfast?! Not to worry, there are several delightful eateries located in the premises itself. Indulge in a hearty Asian breakfast at the cosy Fusion Spoon or reward yourself for enduring Singapore’s stifling heat with a scrumptious brunch at the posh Halia restaurant.
You will find no lack of interesting things to do at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Get lost in the splendour of orchid blooms at the National Orchid Garden, with over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids on display. Or, simply sit down on the grass and watch splendid black swans swimming elegantly at the gorgeous Eco-Lake.
1pm: Shop At One Of The Largest Shopping Mall
Escape the midday heat at Mustafa Centre, Singapore’s only 24-hour shopping mall situated at the heart of Little India. This one-stop mega shopping mall is a favourite haunt for Singaporeans and it sells everything you can possibly need. Necessities, souvenirs, food items and even luggages, Mustafa is a paradise for both bargain-hunters and tourists. You can also find money remittance services and plenty of reliable money changers here.
Hungry? Head up to the rooftop for a scrumptious Indian meal at Mustafa’s in-house restaurant, Kebabs N Curries. Spice up your taste buds with a provocative variety of South and North Indian dishes such as tandoori meats, kebabs, curries and biryani. The surprisingly romantic and breezy setting is a wonderful break away from the hustle and bustle outside.
4pm: Bounce On Suspended Nets
Across the road is Airzone, the world’s first concept of an indoor elevated playground with suspended nets. It is a one-of-a-kind experience not only for the thrill-seekers, but for anyone looking for a bit of fun, really. Kids and adults are all welcome!
There are three levels of fun that you can explore. Crawl through the three-dimensional maze, bounce on the floaty nets and dive into the suspended ball pits. The more adventurous ones can also scale the playground to get to the big slide at the top for an exhilarating ride down.
6pm: Get Up-close To Nocturnal Animals
Many travellers focus their time on sightseeing and shopping. However. the Night Safari is one of the unique things to do in Singapore for a truly memorable experience. It is the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park and the nocturnal animals are not caged up but allowed to roam freely in their respective enclosures.
The entrance ticket includes a comfortable 40-minute tram ride where you will be taken through six geographical regions that belong to the animals’ natural habitats. We recommend walking around the designated trails afterwards to get a closer look at the animals. Our favourites are the Spotted Hyaenas, the African White Lions and the towering Asian Elephants.
That is not all. There are live feeding sessions, fire performances and not forgetting their signature “Creatures of the Night Show”!
With this comprehensive 3-day travel guide and insider travel tips for Singapore, we are pretty sure you are going to have a fantastic vacation here on our little tropical island.
And, if you prefer to explore Singapore with the friendly company of a professional tour guide, Monster Day Tours is at your service. Personalised and private, we will plan the perfect day for you or design a special itinerary to spend with your loved ones! Check out our private tours here.
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