Table of Contents
| You have never been to Singapore if… FOOD – you haven’t tasted real Nasi Goreng, traditional food consisting of rice seasoned with shrimp and chicken! ATTRACTIONS – you have not taken part in a Hindu ceremony in one of the many temples! SOUVENIRS – you didn’t toast with Tiger Beer, the most famous local beer! |
Introduction
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, futuristic architecture, and lush gardens, making it an exciting destination for a short getaway. We’re Tiziano and Claudia, and after three wonderful months in Australia for work, we decided to break up our very long journey back to Italy with a 3-days stopover in Singapore.
During our time in this vibrant city, we experienced the perfect blend of sightseeing, food, and shopping. From the iconic Marina Bay to the colorful streets of Little India and the high-end stores on Orchard Road, Singapore captured our hearts with its diversity and charm.
We flew here with JetStar from Darwin (read our article here), had an amazing three days in Singapore and then flew back home.
Here’s our guide about what to see in Singapore in 3 days! Leave your comments in the box below!
Day 1: Marina Bay and Marina Bay Sands SkyDeck
We kicked off our trip by exploring the stunning Marina Bay area, where sleek skyscrapers meet beautiful waterfronts and green spaces. There’s nothing like starting your morning with a relaxing stroll around this iconic area!
Morning: A Walk Around Marina Bay
We began our day early with a leisurely walk along Marina Bay, taking in the impressive views of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the futuristic ArtScience Museum, and the city skyline.
As the sun rose, we enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and snapped plenty of photos at the Merlion Park—the home of Singapore’s half-lion, half-fish symbol. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who want to soak in the city’s iconic waterfront and get a feel for Singapore’s modern side.
Afternoon: Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Gardens by the Bay
In the afternoon, we headed to the nearby Gardens by the Bay. You can buy your tickets through GetYourGuide right here (OCBC Skyway ticket not included, it must be purchased separately).
It’s a paradise for nature lovers, and we couldn’t wait to explore the famous conservatories.
Our first stop was the Flower Dome, where we marveled at the variety of exotic plants and vibrant flowers from all over the world. The scent of fresh blooms filled the air, making it a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle.
Next up was the Cloud Forest, which was easily one of our favorite places in Singapore. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the impressive waterfall cascading from the towering “mountain” inside the dome.
We spent time wandering the mist-filled paths, admiring the lush greenery and learning about the different ecosystems housed in the dome. It’s truly a must-see!
Evening: Marina Bay Sands SkyDeck at Sunset
As the sun began to set, we made our way to the iconic Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. We’d heard that sunset from the SkyDeck was spectacular, and it did not disappoint! From up there, we had a 360° panoramic view of the city. We booked our visit by buying the ticket on GetYourGuide here at a cost of €31.58 for 2 people (in 2022, it might have increased slightly today!).
From up there, you can enjoy the wonderful and verdant Gardens by the Bay, the glass domes of Cloud Forest and Flowers Dome, and you can even see the many ships waiting to dock in one of the largest and busiest ports in the world!
Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Little India and Arab Street
Our second day was all about exploring Singapore’s rich cultural diversity. We started the day in Little India, enjoyed a delicious Swedish lunch, and explored the colorful streets of the Arab Quarter in the afternoon.
Morning: Little India
We started our morning with a visit to Little India, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Singapore. Walking through the narrow streets, we were immediately hit by the rich scents of spices, incense, and flowers from the local markets.
The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, with its ornate and colorful carvings, was an incredible sight. We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a morning ceremony inside, with chanting, offerings, and vibrant decorations making the experience even more special. We also visited the amazing Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple nearby.
We spent the rest of the morning exploring the bustling streets, popping into little shops selling everything from fragrant spices to beautiful textiles. The colors, the sounds, and the people made Little India an experience to remember.
Lunch: Fika Swedish Café and Bistro
You know how much we love Sweden and Northern Europe in general. For lunch we needed a break from the humid and stifling heat of Singapore. For this reason, we opted for something a little different: Fika Swedish Café and Bistro on 257 Beach Road.
It was a refreshing break from the heat, and we were excited to try Swedish cuisine in the middle of Singapore! The cozy interior and friendly service made us feel right at home. We ordered the classic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes, and it was every bit as comforting as we hoped. Fika also offers a range of vegetarian and halal options, making it a great stop for everyone.
Afternoon: Arab Street
After lunch, we took a short walk over to Arab Street, another colorful part of Singapore. The area is known for its Middle Eastern shops, textiles, and beautiful mosques. The highlight of the area is Sultan Mosque, with its golden dome standing proudly in the heart of the neighborhood. We spent the afternoon wandering the quaint streets, shopping for unique souvenirs, and admiring the street art that gives this district so much character.
Evening: Dinner in Chinatown
For dinner, we headed to Chinatown, another neighborhood that’s bursting with energy and history. We found a cozy Chinese restaurant tucked away in one of the side streets, where we enjoyed a delicious meal.
The lively atmosphere and fragrant smells coming from the nearby stalls made for an exciting evening out.
Looking for unique dining experiences? Follow our blog for personalized restaurant recommendations!
Day 3: Hindu Ceremonies and Birthday Celebrations on Orchard Road
Our final day in Singapore was packed with memorable experiences. From attending a traditional Hindu ceremony to celebrating Claudia’s birthday with some shopping and a walk in the clouds, it was the perfect way to wrap up our trip.
Morning: Hindu Ceremony in Little India
We wanted to start the day with something truly unique, so we made our way back to China Town, because nearby there was the Hindu Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman Temple. Here, we were able to witness a beautiful Hindu ceremony, with devotees offering prayers and gifts at the temple. The spiritual atmosphere, the vibrant colors of the offerings, and the rhythmic sounds of the ceremony left a lasting impression on us.
After the ceremony, we were able to visit a small Taoist temple a few steps away from the Hindu temple.
Afternoon: Birthday Shopping on Orchard Road
It was a special day because it was Claudia’s birthday, and what better way to celebrate than with a little retail therapy? We headed to Orchard Road, Singapore’s shopping paradise. This bustling street is lined with high-end stores, malls, and boutiques, and we spent the afternoon wandering through shops and picking out a few birthday treats for Claudia.
Evening: Gardens by the Bay and OCBC Skyway
To cap off our day, we returned to Gardens by the Bay—this time to walk along the OCBC Skyway. As we walked through the Supertree Grove at sunset, the trees began to light up in dazzling colors.
Walking along the OCBC Skyway, suspended between the towering Supertrees, was an unforgettable experience.
We took in the panoramic views of the gardens and the Marina Bay area, marveling at the beauty of the city as the day came to an end.
Celebrating a special occasion while traveling? Check out our travel tips for the best experiences around the world!
Bonus Stop: Singapore’s Incredible Changi Airport
Before we wrap up, we have to mention a hidden gem we explored upon arriving in Singapore—Changi Airport. Recently declared the world’s best airport multiple times, Changi is not just a place to catch a flight—it’s an attraction in itself!
After landing from Darwin, we couldn’t resist exploring the airport before heading into the city. The highlight of Changi is found in Terminal 4, which was recently inaugurated and showcases a futuristic shopping center alongside an absolutely stunning architectural feature: a massive glass dome where a waterfall cascades from the ceiling, surrounded by tropical vegetation. We couldn’t believe our eyes! It was like stepping into a futuristic oasis, right inside the airport.
Here you can view and book the amazing attractions at the world’s most beautiful airport.
Extra-Tip: Sun Protection
We highly recommend using Avene SPF 50 sunscreen during your trip to Singapore, where the heat is intense and the sun shines strong year-round. With temperatures soaring 365 days a year, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while exploring the city.
We’ve been using this sunscreen for years, and it’s been a lifesaver on our travels. It offers high protection without feeling greasy, making it perfect for those long days outdoors. Avene’s quality is top-notch, and it’s a must-have for anyone visiting tropical destinations like Singapore. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
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Conclusions
Our three days in Singapore flew by, but we managed to see and do so much in that short time. From the architectural wonders of Marina Bay to the cultural richness of Little India and Arab Street, and even some birthday fun on Orchard Road, Singapore left us with lasting memories and a desire to return.
The city’s seamless blend of modernity and tradition, its warm hospitality, and its diverse food scene make it a destination like no other. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, Singapore is sure to captivate you with its endless possibilities.
Have you been to the Lion City? We really hope this guide about what to see in Singapore in 3 days will help you plan your trip! Share your favorite experiences in the comments below and subscribe to our blog for more travel inspiration and tips!
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