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Visiting Singapore and not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered!
This dynamic city-state is a place where futuristic skyscrapers meet tropical gardens, and bustling hawker centers sit just steps away from sleek rooftop bars. One moment you’re exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown or Little India, the next you’re watching Supertrees glow at night or sipping a drink with skyline views.
After multiple trips to this fascinating city, we’ve crafted the ultimate 3-day itinerary that balances guided tours, iconic sights, and time to explore at your own pace. Expect unforgettable meals, world-famous landmarks, and plenty of cultural gems. First-time visitor or repeat traveler, this itinerary has you covered. Here’s how to make it happen!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this bike tour of Singapore! This let us explore the top neighborhoods, get off the beaten path, learn unique history, and see the city in a super fun way.
Itinerary Overview
Singapore is one of those cities that mixes sleek skyscrapers, green parks, and incredible food all in one place. Over three days, this itinerary combines the must-see highlights with authentic local experiences, from bustling hawker centers and cooking classes to heritage districts and waterfront sunsets.
Most tours include hotel pickup, and taxis or the MRT make getting around easy, so exploring is simple and stress-free. You can also easily book a Grab, the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber, for a safe and convenient way to get around. With everything laid out and easy to navigate, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying the experience.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s included in this 3-day Singapore itinerary:
Day 1: Kick off your adventure with a small-group bike tour of the city’s top sights, dive into its legendary hawker food scene, and wrap up the night with a guided river cruise and spectacular light shows around Marina Bay.
Day 2: Start today diving deep into Singapore’s food scene on a small-group Chinatown tasting tour, then balance it out with museums, gardens, or shopping before ending the night under glowing lanterns in Chinatown.
Day 3: Spend your final day mastering Singaporean dishes in a hands-on cooking class, wandering the colorful streets of Kampong Glam, and toasting your trip with skyline views from Marina Bay.
Day 1
Morning – Explore Singapore’s highlights on two wheels
With only three days in Singapore, you’ll want to hit the ground running. Instead of spending hours figuring out where to start, this small-group bike tour makes it easy to see the major highlights and understand the city’s layout right away.
The tour begins at 9 am and lasts for about 4 hours, so you’ll cover a huge portion of the city by lunchtime and still have most of the afternoon free. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want more than just a quick overview.
The route is mostly flat and rolls through Marina Bay, where you’ll get incredible views of landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, and the Singapore Flyer. Along this stretch, you’ll even ride on part of the Formula 1 race track, which is easily a highlight. I mean, it’s not every day you get to cycle where race cars fly by.
Beyond the skyline, the tour dives into the cultural heart of the city. You’ll cycle through Chinatown’s buzzing streets, pass colorful temples in Little India, and explore Kampong Glam, where the golden dome of Sultan Mosque rises above the Arab Quarter. Cruising down Haji Lane to see the bold street art adds a fun, creative edge to the ride.
This tour really packs in the best of Singapore in just a few hours, and the small-group setup keeps it relaxed and personal. With over 6,000 glowing reviews, plenty of other travelers agree it’s a winner and an easy choice for your first day in Singapore.
Book this award-winning bike tour here before it sells out!
Lunch – Sample street food at a hawker center
After wrapping up your bike tour around 1 pm, it’s time to reward yourself with one of the best parts of visiting Singapore—the food! Just a short 7-minute walk from the tour ending point, you’ll find Golden Mile Food Centre, a local favorite that delivers an authentic hawker experience without needing to travel far.
Hawker centers are at the heart of Singapore’s food culture. These bustling food courts bring together dozens of individual stalls under one roof, with each vendor usually specializing in just a handful of dishes they’ve perfected over years, sometimes decades. It’s where locals grab quick lunches, families meet for casual dinners, and visitors get their first real taste of the city.
Golden Mile Food Centre has a slightly gritty, old-school feel, which only adds to its charm. Wander through the aisles, scan the menus, and follow the longest lines since that’s usually where you’ll find the best bites. This is the perfect place to try Singapore staples like creamy, spicy laksa, tender Hainanese chicken rice, or smoky satay skewers fresh off the grill.
Order a few dishes to share, grab a table, and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s casual, flavorful, and exactly how lunch in Singapore should be.
Afternoon – Wander through Gardens by the Bay
After lunch, hop in a taxi or Grab for a quick 9-minute ride to Gardens by the Bay. While you may have gotten a glimpse of this area during the morning tour, now’s the time to slow down and really take it in. Expect to arrive around 2:30 pm, which leaves you with a comfortable two-hour window to explore the gardens.
Highlights to check out include:
- Supertree Grove – Towering vertical gardens up to 50 meters (164 feet) high form a futuristic forest. For an extra experience, walk the OCBC Skyway (about 15 minutes for ~$14 USD per person), a suspended walkway between two Supertrees with sweeping views of the Marina Bay skyline.
- Cloud Forest Dome – Step inside a cool, misty environment where the world’s tallest indoor waterfall cascades down a lush, green mountain. It’s a refreshing break from Singapore’s heat and humidity.
- Flower Dome – Wander through vibrant gardens showcasing plants from around the globe, from Mediterranean olive trees to colorful South American blooms. Seasonal displays keep the exhibits fresh and ever-changing.
You’ll also find Starbucks and a few casual, hawker center-style eateries nearby, so this is a good spot to grab a small bite if you’re feeling hungry. Dinner will be relatively late tonight, so a quick snack can help tide you over until then.
Evening – Cruise through Marina Bay
As evening approaches, it’s time for one of the highlights of this Singapore itinerary—this 4-hour night tour that bundles the skyline, river cruise, and two major light shows into one seamless experience.
Instead of coordinating everything yourself, it’s all handled for you, so you can simply relax and enjoy the city after dark. We recommend booking the 5:30 pm option with no hotel pick-up, since you’ll already be near Marina Bay after visiting Gardens by the Bay.
The evening kicks off at Merlion Park, just as the skyline starts to glow. It’s a perfect time for those classic Marina Bay photos. From there, you’ll swing by Clarke Quay, where the colorful riverside shophouses light up, and the atmosphere starts to buzz. As night settles in, you’ll hop aboard a 30-minute Singapore River cruise, gliding under illuminated bridges and cruising into Marina Bay with the skyline sparkling ahead.
Once back on land, the night continues at Gardens by the Bay for the Garden Rhapsody light show, where the Supertrees glow to music against the dark sky. The grand finale is Spectra at Marina Bay Sands, a vibrant mix of fountains, lasers, and music that wraps up the evening in classic Singapore style.
When the tour wraps up, you can choose hotel drop-off or opt to be dropped off at Lau Pa Sat instead. You’ll probably be hungry, so heading there for a late-night bite is a fun way to end your first day in Singapore.
Lock in your spot on this night tour here with FREE cancellation!
Dinner – Lau Pa Sat
Since the evening cruise offers an optional drop-off at Lau Pa Sat, this is the perfect place to grab dinner. Even if you booked the “no pick-up” option for the tour, drop-off here is still included, which makes it a super convenient way to end the night without needing to arrange another ride.
Lau Pa Sat is one of Singapore’s most famous hawker centers, housed in a beautiful Victorian-style building with ornate ironwork and a lively atmosphere. While you may have visited a hawker center earlier in the day, this one showcases just how diverse Singapore’s food scene really is. You’ll find everything from local favorites to international dishes, so there’s no shortage of options.
If you can, head outside to Satay Street, where vendors fire up smoky skewers in the open air after dark. Grab a cold drink, order a few plates to share, and soak up the buzz of the crowd. It’s casual, energetic, and a memorable way to wrap up your first day in Singapore.
Day 2
Morning – Taste your way around Singapore
There’s no need to plan breakfast or lunch today because this morning is all about eating your way through Chinatown on this guided gourmet food tour. Hawker centers can feel overwhelming at first, so having a local expert lead the way makes all the difference.
This small-group tour starts at 9:30 am and runs for about 3 hours and 30 minutes, finishing around 1 pm. Along the way, you’ll visit Michelin Guide and Bib Gourmand hawker stalls, sampling the very best bites Singapore has to offer.
The route winds through the heart of Chinatown, stopping at heavy hitters like Maxwell Food Centre and the Chinatown Complex, where hawker culture truly comes alive. Between tastings, your guide shares the stories behind the dishes and explains why hawker food is such an important part of Singapore’s identity.
You’ll also pass landmarks like Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, adding a little sightseeing between bites.
With a small group, the experience feels relaxed and interactive, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized recommendations. By the end, you’ll not only be full, but you’ll also have a better understanding of Singapore’s food scene, and likely a few favorite stalls to revisit later in your trip.
Read all the raving reviews and book your food tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Free time to explore or relax
With your tour finishing around 1 pm, you’ll have a few hours to either relax back at the hotel or squeeze in another experience. Whether you’re in the mood for culture, shopping, or simply a cool drink, here are some great options:
- Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Wander through tropical greenery in this peaceful escape from the city. The shaded paths, sweeping lawns, and tranquil lakes make it easy to slow down and recharge. Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here for a relaxed wander, though you could easily stay 3 hours if you add the National Orchid Garden and take your time.
- National Gallery Singapore: Housed in two beautifully restored monuments, this museum features the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia. The mix of historic architecture and cutting-edge exhibitions makes it a must for both art lovers and casual visitors alike. Allow around 2 hours for a comfortable visit, or up to 3 hours if you really enjoy modern art and want to explore it properly.
- Peranakan Museum: Learn about Singapore’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) culture through vibrant exhibits of traditional clothing, jewelry, and artifacts. The colorful displays bring history to life and are easy to appreciate during a short visit. Most visitors spend about an hour, though you could stay longer if you enjoy more in-depth exhibits.
- Shopping along Orchard Road: From luxury brands to quirky local boutiques, Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping street, and a great spot for people-watching. Even a quick stroll here gives you a taste of the city’s modern, cosmopolitan vibe. Budget 1.5 to 2 hours for a casual browse and a few stops, or 3 to 4 hours if you’re planning a proper shopping session.
- Raffles Hotel Long Bar: For something iconic, stop by the historic Raffles Hotel and sip on a classic Singapore Sling, where it was first invented. The colonial-style setting, complete with rattan chairs and peanut shells on the floor, makes the experience feel like stepping back in time. Plan for about an hour to enjoy your drink, snap a few photos, and take in the atmosphere.
If you’d prefer to keep things simple, you can easily center your afternoon around Singapore’s Civic District, where several of these stops are close together and easy to connect. Start with the Peranakan Museum for about an hour to dive into Singapore’s colorful Straits Chinese heritage, then stroll or take a short Grab ride over to the National Gallery Singapore. Spending a couple of hours here gives you time to appreciate the modern Southeast Asian art while also admiring the beautifully restored historic buildings themselves.
From there, it’s just a 10–15 minute walk to Raffles Hotel Long Bar, making it a natural next stop. Settle in for about an hour with a classic Singapore Sling in one of the city’s most iconic colonial settings—it’s a relaxed way to break up the afternoon. If you’re still feeling energized afterward, you can wrap things up on Orchard Road, either via MRT or a quick taxi ride, for a few hours of shopping, window browsing, and people-watching before dinner.
This route keeps travel time minimal while giving you a balanced mix of culture, history, and a little indulgence.
Dinner – Peach Garden
After a full day of food and exploring, settle in for a relaxed sit-down dinner at Peach Garden, a well-loved Chinese restaurant known for its quality Cantonese cuisine. It’s a nice change of pace from hawker centers, offering a more refined setting while still showcasing flavors Singapore does exceptionally well.
The menu features everything from delicate dim sum and fresh seafood to roast meats and comforting soups. If you’re dining with a group, sharing a few dishes family-style is the way to go so you can sample a bit of everything. Their Peking duck and seafood dishes are especially popular, but you’ll find plenty of options whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or lighter.
Reservations are a good idea in the evening, particularly on weekends. It’s a satisfying way to end the day before heading back to your hotel to recharge for tomorrow.
Evening – Enjoy the buzz of Chinatown in the evening
After dinner at Peach Garden, you’re already in one of the most atmospheric parts of the city, so it’s worth lingering a little longer. Chinatown takes on a different energy in the evening, when the lanterns glow, the streets fill with people, and the night markets come alive.
Spend some time wandering along Pagoda Street and Smith Street, browsing for souvenirs or simply soaking up the lively street scenes. The mix of heritage shophouses, bright lights, and buzzing crowds gives the area a distinctly Singaporean feel, especially after dark.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Mei Heong Yuen Dessert (closed Mondays) for a traditional local treat. Try a bowl of chendol (shaved ice topped with coconut milk, palm sugar, and green rice jelly) or go for ice kacang, piled high with colorful toppings. It’s refreshing, fun, and a great way to cool down in the evening humidity.
For a change of pace, take a 10-minute walk over to Ann Siang Hill, where the atmosphere shifts completely. Here, you’ll find stylish wine bars and relaxed rooftop terraces that offer a calmer, more intimate way to wind down. Whether you stick with the buzz of Chinatown or opt for something quieter, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to wrap up day two.
Related Read: If you find yourself with extra time, see our blog on the Best Things to do in Singapore for more fun activities!
Day 3
Breakfast – MERCI MARCEL
Start your final day in Singapore with a relaxed breakfast at MERCI MARCEL, a charming French café with a laid-back European vibe. We recommend getting there right when it opens at 8 am so you can enjoy a leisurely meal and still have plenty of time before your cooking class at 9:30 this morning.
The atmosphere here is bright and welcoming, with a laid-back European feel that makes it easy to settle in and savor your coffee. If you’re craving something classic, you can’t go wrong with a flaky croissant or a rich pain au chocolat. For something more filling, the Croque Marcel (a gourmet ham-and-cheese topped with a fried egg) is a standout. The scrambled eggs with truffle paste and aged Parmesan are another flavor-packed option that feels a little elevated without being over-the-top.
Prefer to start the day on a sweeter note? The French toast is always a solid choice, too. MERCI MARCEL is a calm, comfortable way to ease into the morning before diving into your final day’s activities.
Morning – Learn to cook delicious Singaporean dishes
After breakfast, make your way to Chinatown for this hands-on Singapore cooking class that starts at 9:30 am. The class runs for 3 hours, finishing around 12:30 pm, so it conveniently doubles as your lunch.
Singapore is world-famous for its food, and this class is a fun way to go beyond tasting it and actually learn how it all comes together. Once you meet your local instructors and suit up with an apron, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking.
During the class, you’ll prepare three dishes, with the menu changing depending on the day. One session might feature laksa with fried spring rolls, while another could include char kway teow with nyonya popiah, or nasi lemak paired with sambal prawns. Whateve
As you cook, the instructors share the cultural influences behind each dish, from Malay and Chinese to Indian and British traditions, so you walk away with more than just a handful of recipes. When everything is ready, you’ll gather around the table to enjoy the dishes you’ve created together.
It’s an engaging way to spend the morning in Chinatown and a deeper dive into Singapore’s food culture than simply eating out. It’s one of those experiences people genuinely rave about afterward—you can even check out over a THOUSAND 5-star reviews here!
Book this cooking tour here and don’t pay until just before you go!
Afternoon – Explore Kampong Glam’s colorful streets
After your cooking class wraps up around 12:30 pm, you’ll have a few hours before heading back toward Marina Bay for the evening. For a change of scenery from Chinatown, hop in a taxi for about a 10 to 15-minute ride to Kampong Glam.
This historic district is one of Singapore’s most character-filled neighborhoods, blending heritage architecture with a creative, modern edge. The streets are lined with beautifully preserved shophouses, giving you that classic Singapore look, but the area also feels fresh and lively thanks to independent boutiques, cafés, and street art.
One of the main highlights is the striking Sultan Mosque, with its golden dome rising above the neighborhood. It’s open to visitors from 2–4 pm, making this the perfect time to step inside and learn more about its cultural and religious significance. Nearby, Arab Street is known for its textile shops and traditional businesses, while Haji Lane offers bold murals, quirky storefronts, and a fun, energetic atmosphere that’s great for photos.
Plan to spend about 2–3 hours wandering at your own pace before heading over to Marina Bay for the final part of your trip. It’s a relaxed yet vibrant way to round out your afternoon in Singapore.
Late Afternoon – Take in city views from the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
After exploring Kampong Glam, grab a taxi and head over to Marina Bay for one last iconic view of the city. The ride typically takes about 10–15 minutes, though it’s wise to allow a little extra time if traffic is building in the late afternoon.
Once you arrive, make your way up to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck—one of the best spots in Singapore for sweeping skyline views. Entry costs around $25–30 USD per person (depending on the time slot), and tickets can easily be booked online in advance to save time.
Head up 57 floors to the open-air deck, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the skyline, Marina Bay, and even out toward the South China Sea. Arriving in the late afternoon means you’ll catch the city glowing in soft light, which is ideal for photos. It’s also the perfect way to wind down your day of sightseeing before shifting into your evening plans.
Dinner/Evening – Toast to your trip with a view from the waterfront
After soaking in the skyline from Marina Bay Sands, stay in the area for a memorable dinner with a view. For a more upscale experience, CÉ LA VI Singapore sits right on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands and pairs incredible city views with refined dishes and drinks. It’s the kind of spot that makes dinner feel like an event, so it’s worth splurging if you want a night to remember.
If you’d prefer something a little more casual but still delicious, head across the river to The BOILER @ Esplanade. This seafood restaurant is known for hearty portions, flavorful sauces, and a lively atmosphere—all at a more affordable price point.
Both restaurants are popular, so it’s a good idea to make reservations ahead of time, especially if you’re dining during peak evening hours. However you choose to spend it, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate your time in Singapore, with skyline views and great food to match.
Where to Stay in Singapore
With so many amazing things to do in Singapore, having the perfect place to stay will make your trip even more unforgettable. The right accommodation can be the difference between a good trip and a great one!
To help you find the best fit, I’ve rounded up top picks for every budget. Whether you’re looking for affordable comfort, stylish mid-range stays, or pure luxury, you’ll find a spot that suits your travel style below.
Luxury – $$$
For a truly iconic and luxurious stay in Singapore, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel is unbeatable. This landmark hotel is as much an experience as it is a place to stay!
The rooftop infinity pool offers jaw-dropping views of the skyline, while guests also get access to the SkyPark observation deck, exclusive shopping, and world-class dining at celebrity-chef restaurants. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the city, bay, or gardens. Plus, with a prime location in Marina Bay, you’re steps from the City’s top attractions.
Prices vary by season and room selection but usually start around $700 USD per night. Check availability and learn more about this hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
During our last visit to Singapore, we stayed at The Clan Hotel and can’t recommend it enough! This sleek, modern hotel blends heritage-inspired design with contemporary luxury for a truly unique experience. The spacious rooms feature plush beds, large windows, and dark wood finishes. One of the highlights is the rooftop infinity pool with sweeping city views. There’s also a fitness center and an on-site restaurant serving delicious Asian cuisine!
Located near Chinatown and Telok Ayer, The Clan Hotel’s prime location makes it easy to explore Singapore’s best spots. Prices start around $300 USD per night, and rooms can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a modern, budget-friendly stay in Singapore, CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel at Boat Quay is a smart pick. Each capsule features a comfortable bed, personal lighting, and charging ports, plus privacy curtains and lockers for personal space.
The hotel’s prime location in Boat Quay puts you steps from the riverfront’s best restaurants, bars, and views. And with a shared lounge and social bar area, this hotel is perfect for anyone wanting a stylish, affordable stay in the heart of Singapore.
The rooms are well priced and range from around $40 to $200 USD per night, depending on whether you choose an individual capsule or a private room. Check dates and book your stay on Booking.com.
Related Read: For a complete look at the top areas and hotel picks, check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Singapore here!
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Thanks for reading!
Three days is the perfect amount of time in Singapore. It lets you experience the big-ticket sights, like the Supertrees, Marina Bay, and the Merlion, as well as wander through the neighborhoods and discover hidden gems on your own. This city-state isn’t large, but it packs a lot of unique sights that you’ll experience on this itinerary!
If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Asia blogs! Whether it’s your first visit or tenth, we have more resources to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related reads to inspire your next destination – cheers!
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