A Perfect 3-Day Singapore Travel Itinerary for First-Timers

Looking for a Singapore travel itinerary? I’ve got you covered!

Singapore is known for its unique blend of modernity and tradition, offering a wealth of experiences.

My 3-day itinerary will guide you through top attractions, from iconic landmarks to cultural hotspots, so you can experience the best of Singapore.

This plan ensures you navigate the city efficiently and enjoy a comprehensive view of what Singapore has to offer.

Ready to dive into your Singapore adventure? Let’s get started!

Day 1 of Singapore Travel Itinerary

Morning: Gardens by the Bay

Kick off your Singapore adventure at Gardens by the Bay, a groundbreaking nature park covering 101 hectares. It’s famous for its innovative horticultural practices and sustainable design.

Start with the Flower Dome, the world’s largest glass greenhouse, featuring a diverse range of plants from various climates.

Then, head to the Supertree Grove, where you can admire 18 towering vertical gardens, some soaring up to 50 meters high.

Finish your visit with the Cloud Forest, home to a 35-meter-tall indoor mountain, complete with a breathtaking waterfall and lush flora.

Pro Tips:

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Visit the Cloud Forest around noon to see the misting effect.
The OCBC Skyway, which connects the Supertrees, offers fantastic views but can have long lines.
Return in the evening to see the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM.

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM daily
Ticket Prices: Conservatories (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest) – SGD 59 for adults, SGD 45 for children

Afternoon: Marina Bay Sands

Next, make your way to Marina Bay Sands, an iconic resort complex with a hotel, casino, shopping mall, and various attractions.

Begin at the SkyPark Observation Deck, where you can take in panoramic views from 57 floors above ground.

Then, explore The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, a luxury mall featuring high-end brands.

Wrap up your visit at the ArtScience Museum, where you can discover exhibits that merge art, science, and technology.

Pro Tips:

For a more affordable view, consider the Ce La Vi rooftop bar.
Don’t miss the Spectra light and water show at the Event Plaza (8 PM and 9 PM Sun-Thu, with an additional 8 PM, 9 PM and 10 PM shows on Fri-Sat).
The mall features a canal with sampan boat rides.

Opening Hours: Varies by attraction
Ticket Prices: SkyPark Observation Deck – SGD 32-36 for adults

Evening: Night Safari

Conclude your day with a visit to the Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park.

Begin with a tram ride through seven geographical zones to observe animals in their natural nighttime habitat.

Next, explore the walking trails for up-close encounters with various nocturnal species.

Finish with the Creatures of the Night Show, showcasing the unique behaviors of these nighttime animals.

Pro Tips:

Start with the tram ride for an overview, then explore on foot.
Bring mosquito repellent.
Don’t miss the Fishing Cat Trail and Leopard Trail.

Opening Hours: 7:15 PM – 12 AM daily
Ticket Prices: SGD 56 for adults, SGD 39 for children

Day 2 of Singapore Travel Itinerary

Morning: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Start your cultural exploration at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a Tang-style Chinese Buddhist temple located in Chinatown.

Begin by viewing the Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic, a revered artifact housed in the temple.

Next, visit the Buddhist Culture Museum to learn about Buddhist culture and history.

Finish with a peaceful stroll in the Rooftop Orchid Garden, where you can enjoy a variety of beautiful orchids and panoramic views of the city skyline.

Pro Tips:

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Visit the free tea house on the second floor.
Attend the morning drum ceremony for a unique experience.

Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM daily (9:00 AM – 5 PM for the Buddhas of the World Museum)
Admission: Free

Late Morning: Chinatown

Explore the lively Chinatown district surrounding the temple.

Start at the Chinatown Street Market, where you can browse stalls filled with souvenirs, clothing, and unique finds.

Next, head to the Chinatown Heritage Centre to discover the rich history and development of Chinatown.

Finish your visit at Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the goddess of the sea.

Pro Tips:

Try local snacks like egg tarts and bakkwa (sweet meat jerky).
For an authentic hawker experience, visit the Chinatown Complex Food Centre.
Look out for street art along Temple Street and Pagoda Street.

Afternoon: Little India

Head to Little India, a vibrant district rich in Indian culture.

Start at the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a colorful Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali.

Next, explore Tekka Centre, a bustling hawker center and wet market offering a variety of local foods and products.

Finish your visit at Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall renowned for its extensive range of goods.

Pro Tips:

Sample Indian sweets at Moghul Sweet Shop.
Visit the Indian Heritage Centre to learn more about Indian culture in Singapore.
Browse for spices, textiles, and jewelry along Serangoon Road.

Evening: Singapore Botanic Gardens

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start at the National Orchid Garden to explore its vast collection of orchids.

Then, enjoy a peaceful stroll around Swan Lake, a picturesque spot within the gardens.

Finish with a walk through the Rainforest Walking Trail, featuring ancient rainforest flora.

Pro Tips:

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the garden lawns.
Check the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage schedule for free concerts.
Visit the Evolution Garden for insights into plant history.

Opening Hours: 5 AM – 12 AM daily (National Orchid Garden 8:30 AM – 7 PM)
Admission: Free (National Orchid Garden: SGD 15 for adults, free for children below 12 years of age)

Late Evening: Hawker Centre Dinner

Experience Singapore’s renowned food culture at a hawker centre.

Start at Lau Pa Sat, located downtown and famous for its satay street. Don’t miss the Satay, skewered and grilled meats served with peanut sauce.

Next, head to Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown, known for its delicious local dishes. Try the Hainanese Chicken Rice, tender chicken served with fragrant rice, and Char Kway Teow, stir-fried noodles with seafood and pork.

Finish with a visit to Old Airport Road Food Centre, renowned for its wide variety of local favorites, including Chili Crab, a spicy crab dish with a rich tomato-based sauce.

Pro Tips:

Choose stalls with long lines; they often serve the best food.
Use tissue packets to reserve a seat (‘chope’).
Be prepared to share tables during busy times.
Bring cash, as many stalls do not accept credit cards.

Day 3 of Singapore Travel Itinerary

Morning: Universal Studios Singapore

Start your day with excitement at Universal Studios Singapore, Southeast Asia’s first Hollywood movie theme park.

Begin with Transformers: The Ride, an immersive 3D experience based on the popular film series.

Next, thrill on Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon, a ride featuring dueling roller coasters.

Continue your adventure with the Jurassic World Ride, where you’ll delve into a prehistoric dinosaur-themed experience.

Wrap up with the Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase, a family-friendly attraction featuring beloved Sesame Street characters.

Pro Tips:

Arrive early and head directly to the popular rides to avoid long wait times.
Use single rider lines where available to shorten waits.
Download the Universal Studios Singapore app for real-time ride wait times.
On Sundays, stay for the Star Power Parade until 7 PM.

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (varies by season)
Ticket Prices: SGD 87 for adults, SGD 65 for children

Afternoon: Sentosa Island

Start at the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums, showcasing a diverse collection of marine life.

Next, have fun at Adventure Cove Waterpark, where you can enjoy thrilling water rides and attractions.

Then, take a ride down the Skyline Luge Sentosa for a fun and scenic experience.

Finally, unwind on the sandy shores of Siloso Beach, a popular spot to relax with options for beachside dining and various water sports.

Pro Tips:

Take the cable car from Mount Faber for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit Fort Siloso to learn about Singapore’s WWII history.
End your visit with the Wings of Time night show, a multimedia spectacle.

Opening Hours and Prices: Vary by attraction

Evening: Orchard Road

Conclude your trip with shopping on Orchard Road, Singapore’s famous retail street.

Start at ION Orchard, a modern mall featuring high-end boutiques and luxury brands.

Next, visit Takashimaya Shopping Centre, known for its wide range of international and local brands, including popular department stores.

Then, check out Design Orchard, which showcases local designers and unique fashion items, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Finish with a stroll through Emerald Hill, an area of restored shophouses that offers charming bars and diverse dining options for a relaxing end to your day.

Pro Tips:

Visit the mall basements for food courts offering local cuisine.
Check out Lucky Plaza for Filipino goods and services.
Enjoy a Singapore Sling at Alley Bar on Emerald Hill.

Shopping Hours: Generally 10 AM – 10 PM daily

Before You Go

Weather: Singapore is hot and humid throughout the year. Pack light, breathable clothing, and comfortable walking shoes to stay cool.
Currency: The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). While credit cards are widely accepted, carry some cash for hawker centers and small vendors.
Stay Connected: Get a local SIM card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi device to ensure you have internet access throughout your stay.

Transportation

The MRT (subway) is efficient and covers most tourist areas. Buses are also comprehensive but can be slower due to traffic.
Purchase an EZ-Link card for convenient travel on public buses and the MRT. It’s more practical than buying individual tickets.
Grab is the popular ride-hailing app for taxis.
Taxis are metered and reliable but may be hard to find during peak hours.

Etiquette

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore.
Smoking is prohibited in many public areas.
Littering carries heavy fines.
Always queue for services; this is a serious cultural norm in Singapore.

Money-Saving Tips

Use public transportation instead of taxis.
Eat at hawker centres rather than restaurants.
Look for tourist passes that offer bundled attractions.
Visit free attractions like the Southern Ridges walk or MacRitchie Reservoir.

Must-Try Local Experiences

Have breakfast at a traditional kopitiam (coffee shop), and try kaya toast with soft-boiled eggs and kopi (local coffee).
Visit a wet market early in the morning to see locals shopping for fresh produce.
Join locals for morning exercises in parks or public spaces.
Try durian, the “king of fruits,” if you can handle its strong smell.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Haw Par Villa: A unique theme park based on Chinese mythology.
Pulau Ubin: A rustic island offering a glimpse of old Singapore.
Joo Chiat/Katong: A neighborhood known for Peranakan culture and cuisine.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: A nature park with diverse wildlife.

3-Day Singapore Travel Itinerary: Wrapping It Up

That’s a wrap! You now have a complete guide on what to see in Singapore in just 3 days.

This Singapore travel itinerary highlights the city’s top attractions, but feel free to adjust it based on your interests. With so much to explore in this unique city, you’ll likely want to return soon!

Check out my Kuala Lumpur Itinerary too!

If you found this itinerary helpful, please share it with friends. Have you visited Singapore? Share your favorite experiences in the comments below. Happy exploring!

A Perfect 3-Day Singapore Travel Itinerary for First-Time Visitors