EDITOR’S NOTE: Traveleater Marion shares with us tips on how to spend the perfect three days in Singapore.
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Singapore is well-suited to a quick getaway, offering just the right blend of cultural immersion, modern attractions, and seamless connectivity.
Despite the island state’s small size — Singapore’s Department of Statistics puts the total land area at about 734.3km² as of December 2022 — it’s packed with unique sites and ethnically varied neighbourhoods, making it easy for travellers to experience a lot in just three days.
Even if you have a tight schedule, you can immerse yourself in the Lion City’s vibrant neighbourhoods — from the historic temples of Chinatown to the ultra-modern Marina Bay — and still have time to unwind on Sentosa Island’s scenic beaches.
Find out how to visit Singapore’s must-see spots in three days, all while getting a balanced mix of culture, modern marvels, and iconic experiences that showcase the best of The Red Dot.
What Should You Pack for Your 3-day Singapore Holiday?
As with all trips, your passport and visa (if you need one) should be at the top of your packing list for your Singapore trip. Ensure you have adequate local currency and that your international debit or credit card will work during your stay in the city.
Singapore is a tropical country, so pack light clothing, swimwear to hit the beach, a rechargeable fan, and an umbrella for unexpected showers. Take comfortable walking shoes, as the city is best explored on foot.
The island’s National Environment Agency says it’s common for the UV Index to reach Very High and Extreme levels from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on days with little cloud cover, so take sun protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
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Carry your smartphone, charger, and a power bank if you plan to be on the go most of the day. Singapore uses G-type plugs and outlets, so bring a universal power adapter if you’re from a country where this type isn’t the standard.
Don’t forget to purchase an eSIM plan like Saily so you can easily navigate the city, share your experiences on social media, and stay in touch with loved ones without the stress of finding free Wi-Fi networks or buying a local SIM card.
Is 3 Days in Singapore Enough Time for a Full Experience?
With the right itinerary, three days in Singapore is plenty of time to capture the city’s essence. Singapore’s MRT and bus networks are easy to navigate and highly efficient, making it easy for visitors to check off several attractions on their must-see list. The city’s compact plan ensures you’ll spend more time exploring it than commuting.
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Singapore offers a balance of heritage and innovation, from cultural districts like Little India and Kampong Glam to modern marvels like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay. The city’s diverse mix of experiences perfectly suits a three-day itinerary, giving you a taste of everything without feeling rushed.
While three days are enough for the highlights, you can always work in one or two unique spots like Haw Par Villa or Pulau Ubin for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
DAY 1: Discover Singapore’s Rich History
Discover the city’s historical sites and streets and make the most of your first day in Singapore. Start early so you can work in as many attractions as you can to avoid the daytime heat as much as possible.
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MORNING
Begin at Merlion Park — home to the famous half-lion, half-fish statue that has become the symbol of Singapore — for breathtaking vistas of Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore skyline. Then stroll around Marina Bay, where you’ll see landmarks like the Esplanade and the Helix Bridge.
AFTERNOON
Head to Chinatown for lunch at a traditional hawker centre to sample local delicacies like Hainanese chicken rice and satay. Make stops at historic temples, such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple. Don’t miss the bustling street markets, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local snacks.
EVENING
Visit some of Singapore’s colonial buildings to see them in all their illuminated glory. Make sure your list includes The Fullerton Hotel, with its beautifully lit façade along the Singapore River, the imposing Raffles Hotel, and Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, with its blend of Renaissance and Palladian styles.
DAY 2: Explore Modern Singapore
Delve into the modern side of Singapore, which boasts everything from innovative museums to lush urban gardens. This programme will let you experience the city’s artistic, architectural, and natural marvels.
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MORNING
Start the day at the ArtScience Museum located by Marina Bay Sands. Take in the museum’s lotus-inspired architecture and go over the interactive exhibitions that merge art, science, technology, and culture.
Then ride the 165-metre-high Singapore Flyer, Asia’s largest observation wheel, to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and even spot nearby Indonesian islands on a clear day.
AFTERNOON
Explore the two most famous attractions in the Gardens by the Bay — the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is a sprawling conservatory filled with plants from around the world, while the Cloud Forest features a mist-filled mountain, waterfalls, and rare orchids that mimic a tropical highland environment.
Pencil in a daytime visit to the Supertree Grove to see its walkways that offer unique vantage points for capturing the surrounding landscape.
EVENING
End the day by heading up to the SkyPark Observation Deck to see the sparkling lights of Marina Bay, or choose the Supertree Observatory at Gardens by the Bay for an equally impressive view of the city by night.
If time permits, catch a light-and-music performance at the Spectra Light and Water Show by the waterfront. Keen to check out the city’s nightlife scene? You can’t do better than Clarke Quay — a riverside district known for its lively nightlife and range of dining options.
DAY 3: Relax on Sentosa Island
For your final day, journey to Sentosa Island for a heady mix of relaxation and adventure. This island resort, just a short ride from the main island, has something for everyone — from thrilling attractions to serene beaches — making it a perfect finale for your Singapore sojourn.
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MORNING
Hop on a cable car to Sentosa and take in aerial views of the island and Singapore’s coastline. If you’re in the mood for theme-park excitement, start your day at Universal Studios Singapore and explore its rides and shows based on popular movies and characters.
Marine life lovers should check out S.E.A. Aquarium, which has over 100,000 marine animals housed in expansive underwater displays.
AFTERNOON
Unwind at Siloso Beach, where you can chill out on the sandy shores or sign up for water sports. Adrenaline junkies can make a beeline for Skyline Luge and Mega Adventure Park, which have thrilling zipline rides and toboggan runs. These attractions have options for both solo and family-friendly activities.
EVENING
Savour a memorable dinner at one of Sentosa’s beachside restaurants or head back to the main island to indulge in local dishes at Newton Food Centre — a famous hawker centre renowned for chilli crab, laksa, and satay.
Final Thoughts
A three-day stop in Singapore offers the perfect snapshot of this dynamic city, where historic charm meets futuristic innovation. With careful planning, you’ll see iconic landmarks, indulge in diverse cuisines, and explore lush green spaces—all within a dense and vibrant setting.