Explore Singapore in 24 Hours

Tiny Singapore has a lot to offer, allowing you to enjoy a snapshot of the island-state even if you’re only here for a short time. In the years that I’ve spent living in Singapore, I have guided many visiting friends on what to do during a 24-hour stopover. Here’s how you can maximize your limited time before your onward flight.

Getting from the Airport to the City

Singapore is renowned for its exceptional public transport system. You can easily catch the MRT, bus, taxi, or Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) from the airport straight into the heart of the city. In just about 40 minutes, you can reach your hotel, no matter where you decide to stay. For those on a very quick visit, utilize the luggage storage facilities at the airport terminals for hands-free exploration.

The Singapore Tourist Pass costs around SGD$22 per day, offering unlimited access to buses and the MRT during that time. Taxis are also reasonably priced, making it easy to travel between nearby attractions. Popular locations are often just minutes apart; for example, a quick five-minute taxi ride can take you from the Marina Bay area to Chinatown, while a 10-minute ride can whisk you from Little India to Orchard Road’s upscale shopping district. The city is also quite walkable, though seeking shade is advisable around midday.

Your 24-Hour Itinerary in Singapore

The fastest way to immerse yourself in Singaporean culture is through its food. Hawker centers, where locals gather to enjoy their favorite dishes, are integral to the culture. Some hawker stalls are so noteworthy that they have been recognized by UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage list. A great starting point is Lau Pa Sat, located near Singapore’s financial district, offering a wide array of culinary options and operating 24 hours a day. Adjacent to the food court, Satay St comes alive at 6 p.m. with stalls serving skewers of meat grilled over charcoal.

After your meal, consider walking around the bay or taking a six-minute taxi ride to Gardens by the Bay. This area is perfect for an Instagram shot against the backdrop of the famed Supertrees. While you’re there, take an elevator to the top of the tallest Supertree for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, including sights like Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer. If time allows, spend a couple of hours in the air-conditioned glasshouses known as the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, both open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Your next destination can be the heritage area of Kampong Glam. Amidst pastel-colored shophouses and vibrant street art, you’ll discover charming cafes and unique boutiques. A visit to local perfumery offers a chance to create a bespoke scent. Don’t miss out on sampling delicious treats; indulge in sweet potato donuts coated in palm sugar, or cool down with a bowl of chendol, a delightful mix of shaved ice and jelly noodles.

Next, consider visiting Sentosa Island. This destination features beach clubs, theme parks, and a historic 19th-century fort, ideal for those looking to sip cocktails while enjoying the stunning Singapore skyline.

Accommodations in Singapore

If you arrive at night and need a place to rest, Singapore boasts several new hotels worth exploring. The design-forward 21 Carpenter, located in a heritage building near Clarke Quay, features a stunning stainless-steel rooftop pool perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. Alternatively, Artyzen, situated near Orchard Road, embraces Singapore’s vibrant Peranakan culture, offering colorful rooms and delightful breakfast options featuring local kopi (coffee) or teh (tea).

Affordability of Your Layover in Singapore

Affordable options abound for enjoying Singapore without emptying your wallet. Budget accommodations like YMCA One Orchard, which has a rooftop pool, are available for around S$128 per night.

Additionally, there are numerous free and inexpensive activities such as cycling along Singapore’s parkway connectors or picnicking in the stunning Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also explore free attractions like the East Coast Park beach. If you’re inclined to visit Har Paw Villa, Singapore’s first theme park, be aware that entry is free, though there is a nominal fee for the Hell’s Museum.

Short Layover Options in Singapore

If your layover is at least 5.5 hours, consider taking the free Singapore tour from Changi Airport, provided your luggage is checked through to your destination. Alternatively, you can enjoy a vintage Vespa sidecar tour with Singapore Sidecars, which will transport you through iconic locations like Marina Bay Sands and Little India, without needing a motorcycle license.

If you have only a couple of hours, be sure to visit Jewel at Changi Airport, featuring cafes, designer stores, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, making it a truly unique experience.

No matter how brief your visit, a stopover in Singapore provides a memorable experience filled with culture and adventure.