Do you have a Singapore layover coming up, or are you just short on time? We’ve created a one day itinerary for Singapore so you can make the most out of your 24 hours there.
We really enjoyed visiting this famous city state and we’ve created this article based on our own (short) trip to Singapore.
As opposed to many other countries in the region, Singapore’s public transport system is excellent and is an easy and affordable option to get around quickly.
Our itinerary starts in the morning, and this way our 24-hour guide also works if you would spend two nights in Singapore and have 1 full day to explore.
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Morning: Explore Kampong Glam
Start your 24-hours in Singapore by heading over to Kampong Glam, one of the most colorful and historic neighborhoods in Singapore. This area is full of charm with its street art, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.
Be sure to visit the stunning Sultan Mosque and then wander down Haji Lane, where murals, indie fashion stores, and fun coffee spots fill the narrow street. It is one of the most photogenic places in the city and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
Afternoon: China Town – Explore and Lunch
After Kampong Glam, go to Chinatown by MRT (Stop at D18 Telok Ayer) for some lunch and more sightseeing.
China town is vibrant, colorful, and the perfect place to spend your (early) afternoon. Wander through the lively streets, see the China Town street market, visit the beautiful Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and just soak in the atmosphere.
Make sure you stop by a hawker center for a quick, delicious and affordable lunch. There are many hawker center’s available, but we recommend going to either the Maxxwell food center or to the famous Lau Pat Sat.
Afternoon: Experience the Iconic Marina Bay Sands
In the afternoon, make your way to the legendary Marina Bay Sands. Even if you have seen this famous hotel in pictures, standing right in front of this enormous hotel is nothing but impressive.
Buy tickets for the SkyPark Observation deck to get to the top the Marina Bay Sands hotel and admire the beautiful skyline of Singapore.
Alternatively if you don’t want to pay for an entrance ticket, you can also make your way up to the bar. If you’re there you can simply order a drink and enjoy the same views! Beware though these drinks are priced as high as the bar is located.
Evening: Watch the Gardens by the Bay Light Show
End your day with something truly magical. Head over to Gardens by the Bay around sunset and grab a good spot at the Supertree Grove.
Every evening, the Supertrees come alive with a free light and music show that feels absolutely dreamy. It’s a great way to end your day and the music in combination with the lights make it feel magical.
After the show, take a slow stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the view of the city lights shimmering over Marina Bay. It is the perfect closing moment to a fast but unforgettable day in Singapore.
✈️ Reading Tip: Flying into Changi Airport? We wrote about what to do at Singapore Terminal 4 and we now know why this airport is considered to be one of the best in the world!
Where to Stay in Singapore
For a good and convenient place to stay, we recommend Lyf Bugis Singapore (formerly known as G Hotel). We stayed here ourselves and loved the location across from the MRT, the style of the hotel and the fact that it was sort of affordable. Singapore is expensive!
When we stayed here in 2023 we booked a room for 160 SGD per night and our rate included a good buffet breakfast.
Thank you for reading and safe travels!
– Laurens & Laura
Laura is the co-founder of Yes and Explore and a travel professional with over 10 years of experience in the tourism industry. She loves sharing her insider knowledge and practical tips to help you make the most of every trip.
