3 Day Singapore Itinerary (2025)

This 3 day Singapore itinerary covers the best sights, neighborhoods and places to eat in just a few days in Singapore.

ingapore is a vibrant city-state that blends modern innovation with rich cultural heritage, making it one of Asia’s most exciting destinations to visit. From its futuristic skyline and world-class attractions like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay to its lush green spaces and pristine streets, Singapore offers a perfect balance between urban sophistication and natural beauty.

You can explore colorful neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, each showcasing a unique cultural flavor. Food lovers will be in paradise with the city’s famous hawker centers serving delicious and affordable dishes from around Asia.

Safe, clean, and incredibly easy to get around, Singapore is an ideal destination for both first-time travelers and seasoned explorers.

Why visit Singapore?

Singapore is a magical country, filled to the brim with exciting opportunities. Traveling through South-East Asia Singapore is a natural stop on many itineraries. Singapore is also wildly popular as a travel destination for most of the world as well as its neighboring countries; there are plenty of attractions on your Singapore bucket list. Plus, most visitors don’t need a Singapore visa and there are a variety of neighborhoods to explore.

The downside with Singapore is that it is not the cheapest country. Compared to its neighboring countries Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, it can be quite the money sucker. While it is not the best for your wallet Singapore definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list. This 3-day Singapore itinerary will guide you through the perfect weekend getaway to Singapore. See everything you need to see in 3 days so you do not break your budget on long hotel stays and lots of eating out.

3 Day Singapore Itinerary

Day 1 in Singapore

Start the day exploring on your own. Getting lost on purpose is an amazing (free) way to experience a new place. Singapore is the perfect place to walk around; it is safe, clean and concise.

Since Singapore is such a “small” country you can easily see a lot in a few hours of walking. You can just start walking wherever you are, and you encounter new places and hidden secrets you would not see on a guided tour.

Some of the highlights to experience are the Fort Canning park, Chinatown, Little India and Clarke Quay. Fort Canning Park is stunning with so much amazing history. In the park, you can find beautiful art, historical marks, and even an outside gym. There are plenty of things to do in Chinatown Singapore; such as the Chinatown Heritage Centre and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

If you want to feel multicultural of Singapore this is where to do it. You get to experience three countries in one. In Clarke Quay, you can walk lazily by the river and take advantage of the many happy hour offers.

Walking around is a great way to start the first day in a new place, and see the city on your own. You get to go exactly where you want to when you want to.

EAT AT A HAWKER CENTER

No Singapore itinerary is complete without a meal stop at a hawker center. A hawker is someone who sells food, and in a hawker center, you can find tons of food stands. You will be able to find a huge selection of food.

Singapore is famous for its food, and it is the perfect place for foodies. In 2013 TripAdvisor awarded Singapore “street food city of the year”. Remember to try the amazing Singapore crab. The hawker centers are also great for your wallet.

Eating out in Singapore is not ideal for most budgets, but hawker food is a great option. The prices for a meal and a soft drink usually comes to around 5 Singapore Dollars.

GARDENS BY THE BAY LIGHT SHOW

Every night there is a free light show at Gardens by the bay. Again totally free. Gardens by the Bay is a 101 hectares garden. Singapore has a huge focus on being a “green” city, there are tons of parks and green spots all over the country. So many that the city is known as the garden city, and that is for good reason as it consists of 50 major parks and 4 nature reservoirs.

Gardens by the Bay is a huge tourist attraction in Singapore, the outside is all free. You can walk around admiring nature and of course, the Super Tree Grove, where you can find the light show in the evening. If you are willing to spend some money you can also visit the conservatories, the flower dome, and the cloud forest.

Walking into the flower dome is like walking into a rainbow, the flowers and the props are perfectly put together. The flower dome was awarded the largest glass greenhouse in the world by Guinness records in 2015. The cloud dome is out of this world, it feels like entering into another dimension. It can not be explained, it has to be experienced.

The light show has multiple showings every night and it is located in the Super Tree Grove. The show consists of magical light and beautiful music, that together make up a story. You see the lights play in the trees, and you feel mesmerized.

Visit or stay at the nearby Marina Bay Sands Hotel for incredible views of the gardens and skyline.

Day 2

Yesterday was all good as free so today is the day where you can splurge a bit. The key to budgeting a trip is letting yourself splurge on what matters most to you, but remembering to save it in on other things.

Today it is time to make your way to Sentosa Island, perfect for those visiting Singapore with kids. All the way south in Singapore is where this Island of Fun is located.

A lot of people ignore this because looking at it, it seems more targeted toward kids (and it is a great attraction for those visiting Singapore with kids). However, this island is also perfect for fun-loving adults. Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark are the highlights of Sentosa.

• Universal Studios is perfect for anyone, there is something for everyone. If you love a thrill there are perfect rollercoasters for you, if you prefer more calm there are great shows and performances and if you are a foodie there are tons of great snacks, meals, and foods for you. Grab a map, and just follow it; try all the rides that look interesting, grab lunch, and then head back to your favorite rides.

• Adventure Cove Waterpark is great for a fun-filled day. Relax in the lazy river or enjoy the thrill of the many water slides.

• Sentosa is perfect for a whole day trip, there are enough activities to keep you busy for hours and food enough for all your meals.

Day 3

Start off your day with some culture and history at The National Museum of Singapore. The museum started as a section of a library and dates all the way back to 1849. One of the best parts about this museum is the price, it is totally free. The museum shows Singaporean history through different exhibitions, photo stories and so much more. It is a definite must on any Singapore Itinerary.

Continue your day eating at a hawker center, before heading on to what might be the highlight of the whole trip. The Singapore Flyer is the second highest ferris wheel in the world. It gives you amazing views o Singapore. Take it at night after dark and you will see the magical lights of the city, you get face to face with glorious skyscrapers.

The Singapore Flyer is a bit pricy, but it is worth the price. If you go in the evening you avoid the crowds and if you are lucky you get an empty capsule. The ride takes 30 minutes and takes you 165 meters up in the air. You have a 365 view to enjoy. This ride is great for challenging yourself and facing your fears, you will not regret it. If there was only one thing to be put on this Singapore itinerary it would be this.

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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Because Singapore is near the equator, expect warm and humid weather year-round. Rain showers are common—especially in the afternoon—so pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella. Peak visitor periods include the year-end holiday season, Chinese New Year and school-holiday weeks; planning ahead for hotel and flight bookings is wise. For fewer crowds and moderate pricing, consider shoulder months.

Where to Stay: Neighbourhood Guide

• Marina Bay / Downtown: Ideal for first-timers who want to be near iconic landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.
• Chinatown / Clarke Quay: A vibrant mix of heritage, nightlife and restored shophouses.
• Little India / Kampong Glam: Culture-rich areas with strong local character and good food options.
• Sentosa Island: More resort-style; great if you want beach or theme-park time.
  Choosing the right base can save travel time and help you get the most out of your 3-day window.

Getting Around Singapore

Singapore’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network covers most key zones and is complemented by buses and taxis. Grab a Singapore Tourist Pass or a reloadable card if you plan frequent rides. Because of the city’s compact nature, many attractions are walkable in clusters—so plan your days geographically to minimise commuting.

Budget Tips: How to Save Without Sacrificing Experience

• Eat like a local at hawker centres instead of high-end restaurants.
• Use public transport instead of taxis for most trips.
• Choose a centrally located mid-range hotel to reduce transport time and cost.
• Visit free outdoor attractions (parks, neighbourhoods) and select one or two paid experiences to keep costs in check.
• Book major paid attractions online in advance for discounts or skip-the-line perks.

Foodie’s Guide: Must-Try Singapore Dishes

Food is a highlight in Singapore. Be sure to sample:

• Chilli crab – one of the iconic local seafood dishes.
• Laksa – spicy curry-noodle soup combining flavours of Chinese, Malay and Peranakan cuisine.
• Hainanese chicken rice – simple but outstanding: poached chicken, fragrant rice and chilli sauce.
• Night-time hawker spots in areas like Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat and Tekka Centre come alive: go with an empty stomach!

Practical Travel Info & Cultural Notes

• English is widely used; street signs and MRT announcements are clear.
• Singapore enforces strict laws (e.g., fineable littering, no chewing gum sales) – respect local rules.
• Weather is hot and humid—wear breathable clothing, stay hydrated and apply sunscreen.
• Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in higher-end restaurants.
• MRT hours: Most lines run roughly from 5:30 a.m. to around midnight—check last train times if staying later out.

Alternative Itinerary Ideas (if you stay longer)

If you have a 4th or 5th day:

• Explore the Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO site) and the leafy Tanglin area.
• Visit the ethnic enclaves: Joo Chiat / Katong for Peranakan heritage, or Haw Par Villa for kitschy mythological fun.
• Take a day-trip across the border to Malaysia’s Johor Bahru or opt for a nature-escape at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

Reasons to Visit Singapore

3 Day Singapore Itinerary FAQ

• Is 3 days enough to visit Singapore?
  Yes, 3 days is enough to see Singapore’s main highlights. You can explore the top attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, Little India, and Sentosa Island without feeling rushed. If you plan your itinerary well, you’ll get a great overview of the city’s culture, cuisine, and modern landmarks.

• What should I not miss in Singapore in 3 days?
  Don’t miss the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, a walk around Merlion Park, and a visit to Sentosa Island. Make time for hawker centre food such as chilli crab and Hainanese chicken rice, and explore cultural areas like Kampong Glam or Chinatown for a deeper look at local life.

• How much money do I need for 3 days in Singapore?
  On average, a mid-range traveller should budget around USD $100–$150 per day, covering accommodation, meals, transport, and attractions. Backpackers can manage on $60–$80 per day, while luxury travellers might spend $300+ depending on dining and hotel choices.

• What is the best way to get around Singapore?
  The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the easiest and cheapest way to get around. It connects all major attractions. Taxis and Grab (ride-hailing app) are convenient for late nights or when carrying luggage. Many areas like Marina Bay and Chinatown are walkable.

• When is the best time to visit Singapore?
  Singapore is a year-round destination with a tropical climate, but February to April is generally the driest and most comfortable period. Avoid major public holidays like Chinese New Year if you want fewer crowds and lower hotel prices.

• Where should I stay for 3 days in Singapore?
  For first-time visitors, Marina Bay is perfect for sightseeing, while Orchard Road suits shoppers. Chinatown and Little India offer great food and culture on a budget. If you prefer a relaxed vibe, Sentosa Island is ideal for resorts and beaches.

• Is Singapore expensive for tourists?
  Singapore can be pricey, but you can easily enjoy it on a budget. Eat at hawker centres instead of restaurants, use public transport, and choose budget-friendly hotels or hostels. Many attractions like parks, gardens, and light shows are free.

• What are some free things to do in Singapore?
  Free attractions include Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor gardens, the Marina Bay light show, Merlion Park, and Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO site). Walking through cultural neighborhoods like Kampong Glam and Chinatown is also free and fascinating.

• What should I wear in Singapore?
  Light, breathable clothes are best due to the hot and humid weather. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking. If visiting temples, bring a scarf or wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

• What souvenirs should I buy in Singapore?
  Popular souvenirs include Kaya jam, Merlion-themed items, Singapore sling mix, local snacks, and unique Peranakan crafts. You’ll find great options at Bugis Street Market, Chinatown, and Jewel Changi Airport.

• Can I use cash or card in Singapore?
  Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it’s good to have some Singapore Dollars (SGD) for hawker centres, small shops, or local taxis. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

• Is Singapore safe to visit?
  Yes, Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world. Crime rates are very low, and the city is clean and well-organized. Just follow local laws—chewing gum sales are banned, and littering can result in fines.