10 Ways to Spend One Day in Singapore

Hey there fellow travelers and welcome to my post where we will cover 10 ways to spend one day in Singapore. Now, we all know the joys that travel can bring, from visiting far off places, experiencing different cultures and of course, all the new foods. But there is also a downside, – that dreaded day to ‘waste’ in a city whilst waiting for a midnight flight.

So if you are like me (as I live in Australia, all outgoing flights seems to leave late at night), there has been many a day where you need to find something to do that is enjoyable, but doesn’t take too much time – or cost too much money. So if you have a long layover or a day to kill in Singapore, here are 10 things you can do to pass the time in an enjoyable way.

Ways to Spend One Day in Singapore

Singapore, a bustling metropolis and city-state in Southeast Asia, stands as a remarkable blend of culture, cuisine and commerce. Known for its safety, clean streets, efficient urban planning and a skyline dotted with modern skyscrapers, Singapore is a global financial hub with a tropical climate and multicultural population.

So if you are there for a day, here are some good options for some things to do!

1. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Maybe one of the most iconic landmarks of Singapore, Marina Bay Sands Skypark is an architectural and engineering marvel that crowns the top of the three towers of the Marina Bay Sands complex. This spectacular rooftop oasis offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline and beyond where visitors can gaze out over the bustling city, the serene waters of Marina Bay and the lush greenery of Gardens by the Bay.

The Skypark’s most famous feature is its stunning infinity pool, the world’s largest at this height, providing an illusion of swimming atop the city. Although the pool is exclusive to hotel guests, the observation deck is open to the public, offering a unique vantage point to take in the sights.

The Skypark also hosts a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the magnificent views, especially during sunset.

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2. Gardens by the Bay

Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore’s Marina Bay area, Gardens by the Bay is an award-winning horticultural attraction is renowned for its architectural ingenuity and environmental sustainability. The park’s most iconic features are the Supertree Grove comprising towering vertical gardens that mimic trees, some of which are integrated with solar cells and collect rainwater. These Supertrees are especially enchanting at night when they light up in a dazzling display of colors.

Another highlight is the Cloud Forest, a mist-filled landscape with a towering indoor waterfall and a mountain covered in lush vegetation, showcasing plant life from tropical highlands. Adjacent to it is the Flower Dome, the world’s largest glass greenhouse, featuring changing floral displays and plants from Mediterranean and semi-arid regions.

All in all, Gardens by the Bay is a place where nature meets technology, creating an interactive space that educates and inspires visitors about ecology and sustainable practices. The park also hosts various events, concerts and festivals, making it a dynamic and vibrant attraction for both locals and tourists alike.

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3. Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island, a popular island resort in Singapore, is a vibrant playground of entertainment and leisure activities making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Accessible via a short cable car ride, monorail or a pedestrian boardwalk, Sentosa offers a diverse range of attractions catering to all ages.

The island is famously home to Universal Studios Singapore, a Hollywood-themed park with exciting rides, shows and attractions based on blockbuster films. Another key highlight is the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the world’s largest where visitors can marvel at the rich marine life.

The island also boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong Beach, perfect for relaxation, beach sports and parties. For adventure seekers, Sentosa offers activities like the Skyline Luge, Mega Adventure Park and iFly, an indoor skydiving simulator.

Beyond the thrills and spills, Sentosa is dotted with luxurious resorts, spas and golf courses, alongside a great array of dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants as well.

Book your trip to Singapore here!

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4. Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo, renowned for its innovative design and approach to wildlife conservation, stands as one of the world’s best rainforest zoos. Spread over 28 hectares in a lush tropical setting, the zoo is home to over 2,800 animals representing over 300 species, many of which are rare and endangered.

What sets Singapore Zoo apart is its ‘open concept’, where the animals are housed in spacious, landscaped enclosures separated from the visitors by natural barriers like streams, rock walls and vegetation instead of cages, allowing them to live in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats.

The zoo’s layout encourages interactive and educational experiences, with numerous opportunities for up-close encounters with wildlife. Key attractions include the Fragile Forest, a biodome replicating a rainforest ecosystem, the Frozen Tundra home to polar bears and raccoon dogs and the Primate Kingdom, showcasing a variety of primates in a naturalistic setting.

The zoo also offers unique experiences like the Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife, where visitors can dine alongside animals like orangutans. And finally, the zoo’s commitment to providing a naturalistic environment for its inhabitants and its efforts in conservation make it a model for animal parks worldwide and a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families.

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5. Chinatown

Like most cities around the world, Chinatown in Singapore is a vibrant and culturally rich district that offers a vivid contrast to the city’s modernity. This historic area, with its colorful Peranakan shop-houses and narrow lanes, is a bustling hub of activity and a testament to the city’s Chinese heritage.

As you wander through the streets of Chinatown, you are greeted by the fragrant aromas of traditional Chinese cuisine, the lively chatter of market vendors and an array of shops selling everything from souvenirs and traditional crafts to herbal remedies.

One of the district’s main attractions is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, an impressive four-story structure housing what is believed to be the left canine tooth of Buddha. The temple, with its richly decorated interiors and comprehensive exhibits on Buddhist art and culture, is a significant cultural landmark and Chinatown is also home to the Chinatown Heritage Centre, which offers insightful glimpses into the lives of early Chinese immigrants in Singapore.

The food scene in Chinatown is particularly noteworthy, with hawker stalls and eateries offering a variety of local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow and dim sum. During major festivals like Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, Chinatown is particularly lively, adorned with festive decorations and bustling with street markets and cultural performances as well.

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6. Little India and Arab Street

Little India and Arab Street are two distinct and vibrant enclaves in Singapore, each offering a unique cultural experience.

Little India, as the name suggests, is a bustling neighborhood that captures the essence of India’s vast and diverse culture. Walking through its streets, visitors are introduced to the scents of spices and jasmine, the sounds of Bollywood music and the sight of colorful saris and intricate gold jewelry.

The area is famous for its traditional Indian restaurants, serving authentic dishes like biryani, dosa, and curry and must-visit spots in Little India include the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a stunning Hindu temple adorned with intricate carvings and the 24-hour shopping mall, Mustafa Centre, known for its wide range of products at affordable prices.

Arab Street, Just a short distance away, is known for its Islamic heritage and Malay-Arab influences. This area exudes a different kind of charm with its rows of shop-houses, vibrant murals and the majestic Sultan Mosque as its centerpiece which with its massive golden dome and spacious prayer hall, is a significant landmark and a place of worship for the Muslim community.

Arab Street is also famous for its fabric shops, selling a variety of textiles from silk to batik. The area’s cafes and restaurants offer Middle Eastern cuisine including dishes like kebabs, falafel and baklava and the Haji Lane nearby is a narrow alley known for its trendy boutiques, graffiti and hipster cafes, adding a modern twist to the traditional atmosphere.

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7. The Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer, standing at a height of 165 meters, is one of the world’s largest Giant Observation Wheels and a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Since its opening in 2008, it has become a must-visit attraction for those seeking breathtaking panoramic views of Singapore.

Each rotation on the Flyer takes approximately 30 minutes, offering ample time for visitors to soak in the spectacular vistas that stretch from the Marina Bay waterfront and the city’s skyscrapers to the islands of Indonesia and Malaysia on a clear day. Each of the 28 air-conditioned capsules is spacious and designed to provide a sense of serenity as you ascend into the sky.

At the base of the Flyer is a terminal building that houses a variety of shops, restaurants and other facilities adding to the overall experience. Whether it’s day or night, a ride on the Singapore Flyer is a serene and memorable way to witness the beauty and dynamism of Singapore from an extraordinary perspective.

Book your trip to Singapore here!

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8. Hawker Centers

Hawker Centers in Singapore is an open-air complexes house numerous stalls, each specializing in different types of affordable and delicious food, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural heritage. From Chinese, Malay, Indian to Peranakan and Western dishes, the variety is staggering. Iconic dishes such as Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow, satay and roti prata are just a few examples of the local fare available.

One of the most appealing aspects of hawker centers is their communal and democratic nature. They are places where people from all walks of life come together to enjoy good food in a casual setting with the clatter of woks, the sizzle of frying food and the chatter of diners creating a uniquely Singaporean soundscape.

Hawker centers are a testament to Singapore’s successful efforts in preserving its street food culture while ensuring hygiene and affordability and for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of Singapore, a visit here is an absolute must.

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9. The ArtScience Museum

Located within the Marina Bay Sands complex, the ArtScience Museum , designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie, opened its doors in 2011 and has since become a landmark for its innovative approach to exhibitions and its striking architecture.

The museum’s structure itself is a marvel, featuring 10 ‘petals’ anchored by a round base in the middle, each housing different gallery spaces with skylights at the apex that illuminate the interiors naturally. It is renowned for its diverse range of exhibitions that are often a blend of art, science, technology, culture and history, showcasing installations that range from historical artifacts to cutting-edge interactive digital works.

One of the museum’s permanent exhibitions, “Future World: Where Art Meets Science,” created in collaboration with teamLab, a renowned interdisciplinary art collective, is particularly popular. This immersive and interactive exhibit invites visitors of all ages to experience a digital universe of art, magic and science through a series of engaging installations.

All in all, the ArtScience Museum not only provides a platform for stunning exhibitions but also serves as a space where visitors are encouraged to explore the intersections and dialogues between different disciplines, reflecting Singapore’s vision as a city where innovation and creativity thrive.

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10. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay

Clarke Quay and Boat Quay, situated along the picturesque Singapore River, are two of the city’s most lively and popular entertainment districts, each with its own unique charm and history.

Clarke Quay, with its vibrant, colorful shop-houses and modern, futuristic canopy, is a bustling waterfront promenade known for its energetic nightlife. The area is packed with a wide array of bars, nightclubs and restaurants offering everything from fine dining to casual eats. At night, Clarke Quay comes alive with live music, bustling crowd, and a festive atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience Singapore’s nightlife.

Boat Quay, on the other hand, has a more historical feel, with its row of restored shop-houses and old-world charm. This area was once the heart of Singapore’s trade and commerce bustling with bumboats and traders. Today, it’s transformed into a lively dining and entertainment hub with its alfresco pubs and eateries lining the riverbank, offering a picturesque view of the Singapore River and the city skyline. The cuisine here is diverse, ranging from local Singaporean fare to international dishes, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Both Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are not just about nightlife; they are also cultural and historical landmarks. The areas are connected by scenic riverside walks, making them ideal for leisurely strolls, especially in the evening when the area is beautifully lit up.

Getting Around

When it comes to getting around Singapore, there are several options available to you. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose from public transportation, taxis, or even a Singapore River Cruise.

Arrival at Changi Airport

If you’re arriving at Changi Airport, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s one of the best airports in the world and is well-connected to the city allowing you to easily get to your destination using public transportation or taxis.

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train is the fastest and most convenient way to get from the airport to downtown Singapore. Alternatively, you can also opt for a taxi or use a ridesharing app such as Grab or Gojek.

While you’re at the airport, don’t forget to check out the stunning indoor waterfall, Rain Vortex, at Jewel Changi Airport. It’s a sight to behold and definitely worth a visit.

Public Transportation

Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable and easy to use. The MRT is the backbone of the system, and you can get almost anywhere in the city using the train.

If you’re planning to use public transportation extensively, consider getting a transport pass or tapping in/out with a local app. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Singapore and they’re a convenient way to get around the city. However, they can be expensive during peak hours, so be prepared to pay a premium if you’re traveling during rush hour.

To save money, consider using a ridesharing app such as Grab or Gojek. These apps are popular in Singapore, and they’re often cheaper than taxis.

FAQs

Conclusion

There you have it; 10 things you can try if you find yourself in Singapore with a day to kill. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul