Singapore In A Day Adventures • Travel Guide

Must-Do’s, Must-Not-Do’s & Tips for a Great Stay

Singapore is compact, modern, and surprisingly easy to explore—if you know what to prioritise. Use this guide to plan smarter: what to see, what to eat, how to move around, and what to avoid.

Want a budget-friendly day plan?

If you love exploring on foot (or you’re keeping spending low), check out our local guide: 12 free things to do in Singapore .

Read the Free Singapore Guide →

Things to See (Top Picks)

First time in Singapore? Start with these landmarks and neighbourhoods. They’re easy to combine into a 1–2 day plan.

Marina Bay Sands

Iconic skyline views from the SkyPark, plus the ArtScience Museum nearby. The infinity pool is famous—but access is limited to hotel guests.

Gardens by the Bay

Futuristic gardens with Supertree Grove, Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. Go at night for the Supertree light-up (great photos, cooler weather).

Sentosa Island

Singapore’s entertainment hub: Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove, plus beaches for sunset.

Chinatown

Heritage streets, temples, and hawker food. Great for souvenirs and a quick cultural deep-dive.

Little India

Colourful streets and markets. Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and try classic Indian dishes nearby.

Singapore Zoo & Night Safari

A world-class zoo with open-concept habitats. Night Safari is a unique evening option for animal lovers.

Clarke Quay (Singapore River)

Riverside dining, lights at night, and the perfect place for a river cruise.

Raffles Hotel

A colonial landmark worth visiting for architecture, gardens, and the famous Singapore Sling.

Prefer attractions that don’t require tickets? Save this for later: budget-friendly Singapore sights (12 free things to do) .

Want these highlights done efficiently?

If you’re short on time (or travelling with family), a private guide helps you cover the best stops without rushing.

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Where to Eat (Local Classics)

Singapore is famous for hawker culture—delicious, fast, and budget-friendly. These are the “don’t leave without trying” dishes:

  • Hainanese Chicken Rice
    Maxwell Food Centre is a popular starting point.
  • Chilli Crab
    Best shared; order mantou (fried buns) to dip in the sauce.
  • Laksa
    Coconut-spicy noodles; Katong is known for laksa culture.
  • Char Kway Teow
    Smoky stir-fried noodles; great at older hawker centres.
  • Satay
    Grilled skewers + peanut sauce; Lau Pa Sat is a tourist-friendly stop.
  • Kaya Toast + Kopi
    A classic breakfast with soft-boiled eggs.

Want a “no guesswork” food plan? Message me and I’ll recommend hawker stops based on your location and dietary needs.

Best Spots for Photos

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Wide skyline shots (go near sunset for best light).
Supertree Grove (night)
Colourful lights + futuristic vibes. Singapore’s signature photo moment.
Sentosa Beaches
Siloso / Tanjong for sunsets and relaxed holiday shots.
Chinatown & Temples
Colourful streets and heritage architecture (morning = fewer crowds).
Clarke Quay at night
Best for reflections and riverside neon.
Raffles Hotel
Elegant colonial frames, especially in daylight.

Getting Around (Fast & Easy)

  • MRT
    Most efficient and affordable for tourists.
  • Walking
    Many key sights are close, especially around Marina Bay and heritage districts.
  • Grab / Gojek
    Great for short trips, families, or late-night rides.
  • Bikes & scooters
    Fun for park connectors and scenic areas.
  • Private transfer / guide
    Best for comfort, families, and tight schedules.

Singapore is surprisingly walkable. If you like exploring by foot, use our walkable Singapore itinerary (12 free things) to plan a low-cost, high-impact day.

What to Avoid

  • Overpriced tourist traps near major shopping belts, compare prices before ordering or buying.
  • Skipping hawker centres—you’ll miss the heart of Singapore’s food culture.
  • Heat + humidity—carry water, pace yourself, and plan indoor stops mid-day.
  • Careless valuables in crowded markets—Singapore is safe, but stay alert.

Extra Recommendations (If You Have Time)

Pulau Ubin Day Trip
A rustic island escape. Rent a bike and explore nature trails and villages.
Singapore Flyer
A slower, scenic skyline experience from above Marina Bay.
Singapore River Bumboat Cruise
A relaxing ride past historic riverside buildings and Marina Bay views.
Haw Par Villa
Quirky and cultural. Chinese mythology told through dramatic sculptures.