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Complete guide to Things to do in Singapore with tips

Complete Singapore Activity Guide: 3-Day Itinerary, Transport, Accommodation, and Budget Tips

If you’re looking for a city in Southeast Asia with the most straightforward travel routes and that you can safely walk around at night, Singapore is the answer. In today’s post, we’re focusing on a 3-day travel itinerary, how to use local transport (MRT, EZ-Link, taxis), recommended areas to stay, budgeting tips, and unmissable activities in Singapore—all organized efficiently. We’ve also provided approximate price ranges in Korean Won to quickly incorporate them into your actual plans (please check official information before your visit as prices may vary due to exchange rates and policy changes).

Here’s what you’ll find below:

  • Travel essentials, currency exchange, and SIM (eSIM) tips
  • Direct flights from Incheon to Changi and how to get to the city from the airport
  • A day-by-day 3-day itinerary that’s easy to follow (Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, Orchard, Botanic Garden, Jewel Changi)
  • Tips for booking Singapore activities (on-site/advance) and budget ticket usage
  • Recommended accommodation areas and budgeting for lodging, food, and transport

Travel Preparation

Singapore’s hot and humid weather is consistent year-round because it’s near the equator. Preparing for UV rays and sudden showers can significantly affect your travel satisfaction.

  • Voltage/outlets: 230V, 50Hz, British-type G plug (adapter necessary)
  • Clothing: Breathable clothes, comfortable walking shoes, a thin raincoat or collapsible umbrella
  • Power bank, sunscreen, hat, portable fan
  • Payment: Card payments are common (Visa, Master, etc.), but some hawker centers and small stores recommend cash.

Check your travel essentials for adapters, raincoats, and power banks to make preparations much easier before departure.

Tip

Air conditioning is often strong indoors in Singapore. Carrying a light outer garment in your bag will help you adjust comfortably to the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors.

Note

Chewing gum sales and imports are strictly restricted. Additionally, smoking outside designated areas, littering, and jaywalking can result in fines. Familiarizing yourself with these simple local regulations can save you unnecessary expenses and time.

Flight Details

Direct flights from Incheon to Changi, Singapore, typically take about 6.5 to 7 hours, with a one-hour time difference from Korea (-1 hour). Both Korean and Singaporean carriers operate these flights, and with many arriving late at night, keeping your first day’s schedule light can be helpful for managing your condition.

Use book the cheapest flights to compare different options by date, including weekend/friday night departures and Sunday/Monday returns easily.

Tip

Requesting an aisle seat during check-in allows for more comfortable hydration and in-flight stretching. If you’re on a night flight, bringing a neck pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs can help reduce fatigue upon arrival.

Changi Airport & City Transfer

True to its reputation, Changi Airport offers glimpses of Singapore attractions right from your arrival. Connected to the terminal, Jewel (HSBC Rain Vortex waterfall, indoor garden) has plenty to offer even if you only tour the free areas. However, if you arrive late at night, heading directly to your accommodation for the next day’s schedule is also a good idea.

  • MRT: From Airport Station (East-West Line) to downtown takes around 40-60 minutes. Fares depend on transfers and distance, averaging between 1,500-3,000 KRW.
  • Taxi/Ride-hailing: From the airport to Marina Bay or Orchard Road costs around 20,000-40,000 KRW, plus possible night charges, depending on traffic.
  • Airport Pickup: Convenient doorstep service, especially if traveling with family or seniors, or if you have a lot of luggage.

Booking an airport pickup in advance lets you leave immediately upon arrival according to your vehicle type/group size, making it very convenient.

Tip

Currency exchange in downtown areas (Chinatown, Little India) is often more favorable than at the airport. Thus, consider exchanging a small amount at the airport and more in the city as needed.

Day 1 Itinerary: Marina Bay & Gardens by the Bay

On your first day, keep travel distances short and start with iconic Singapore attractions.

  • Merlion Park: Marvel at the cityscape with this iconic sculpture as your backdrop (free). Early mornings or dusk are prime photo times.
  • ArtScience Museum: With many interactive exhibits, admission varies between 20,000-40,000 KRW depending on the exhibition.
  • Gardens by the Bay: Supertree Grove (outdoor, free area), Flower Dome, Cloud Forest (admission cost), OCBC Skyway (admission cost). Each key greenhouse costs around 20,000-40,000 KRW, Skylines about mid-10 thousand. The nighttime light shows are free and offer excellent value.
  • Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck: Offers a panoramic view of the city skyline, ranging around 30,000-40,000 KRW.
  • Spectra Laser & Fountain Show: Outdoor free show in front of Marina Bay Sands (evening time slots, varies by day).

Popular Singapore attractions can have long waiting lines, so securing some tickets in advance is advisable. Gardens by the Bay, the observation deck, and interactive exhibitions often sell out by date.

Book activities for specific dates and times, enter directly with a mobile voucher, and streamline your itinerary.

Recommendation

For dinner, Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center’s satay street is highly recommended. Trying a few skewers paired with soda or beer allows you to explore diversified flavors at around 15,000-30,000 KRW per person.

Note

Outdoor experiences may be temporarily suspended due to adverse weather. For outdoor performances, skywalks, or panoramic activities, check official notices beforehand and adjust your schedule to indoor exhibitions in case of rain.

Day 2 Itinerary: Sentosa Area

Travel from the city by subway to VivoCity, then enter Sentosa either on foot through the boardwalk or by monorail to enjoy beach, activities, and theme parks in one compact space. It’s a great day for relaxing and enjoying leisure-oriented Singapore activities with a view of the sea.

  • Skyline Luge Sentosa: A gravity slide perfect for families. Pricing varies by the number of rides, typically between 20,000-40,000 KRW.
  • Adventure Cove Waterpark: Water rides and tube floats cost around 30,000-50,000 KRW.
  • USS (Universal Studios Singapore): A famous theme park focused on attractions. During peak season, it ranges between 80,000-100,000 KRW. Visit on a weekday morning for easier access to popular lines.
  • Siloso, Palawan, Tanjong Beach: Free walking and beach picnics with public shower facilities and cafes create a perfect urban coastal day.

Access methods and fees for the island vary by transportation type. Boardwalk walks are often free, while the monorail and cable cars require tickets. Operational changes and rate updates may apply, so checking before your visit is recommended.

Tip

If you plan to spend only half a day in Sentosa, enter early morning to enjoy the luge and water park first. Then relax at a beach cafe in the afternoon before returning to VivoCity for dinner, creating an efficient path.

Recommendation

On your way back, purchase simple snacks and drinks in the VivoCity supermarket to stock your fridge at your accommodation, making morning prep easier the next day.

Note

With plenty of outdoor activities during the day, apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours and carry waterproof pouches for electronic devices and spare clothing to reduce discomfort.

Day 3 Itinerary: Local Neighborhood Walks & Shopping

On the third day, enjoy Singapore activities with a local flair by strolling through neighborhoods rich in diverse cultural traditions.

  • Chinatown: Explore heritage sites, souvenir shopping along Pagoda Street, and Maxwell Food Center, where authentic meals can range from 5,000-15,000 KRW per person with Chicken Rice, Laksa, or Wonton Noodles.
  • Little India: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Mustafa Center (24-hour shopping), and recommended Indian curry and biryani at Tekka Center.
  • Kampong Glam: Sultan Mosque, Haji Lane street art and designer shops, and a lane of cafes perfect for an afternoon break.
  • Orchard Road: A main street lined with shopping malls and department stores. Brand shopping satisfaction peaks during sale seasons.
  • Singapore Botanic Garden: Urban garden included in UNESCO World Heritage (general area free). Ideal for those who love morning walks, consider shifting this to earlier in your plan.
  • Jewel Changi (before departure): While the Rain Vortex waterfall and indoor garden at Jewel Changi are worth a visit even within the free zones, canopy parks and other experiences range between 5,000-20,000 KRW within the paid zones.

The MRT connections are comprehensive between walking routes, making transit simple. This itinerary can flexibly adapt to rainy days with cafes or indoor shopping malls.

Tip

Unlike food courts, hawker centers usually require securing a table before joining individual lines to order. Carry some wet wipes, tissues, and a little cash for convenience.

A Quick Guide to Local Transport

  • MRT/Bus: Covers the entire city, offering quick and convenient travel when avoiding rush hours.
  • Payment methods:
    • EZ-Link/NETS Card: Preloaded transportation cards are available for purchase and top-up at stations and convenience stores.
    • Singapore Tourist Pass (STP): 1-3 day unlimited access passes (around 22,000-35,000 KRW + deposit regulations apply).
    • Contactless cards (Visa, Master, etc.)/Mobile Pay: Just tap and go at entry and exit points respectively.
  • Taxi/Ride-hailing: Convenient but expect surcharges and longer waits during peak hours or rainfall.

Recommendation

If you plan on using public transport extensively for 2-3 days, consider the STP. For fewer trips with some walking or taxi use, contactless payments are convenient. Choose based on your stay duration.

Note

Always tag in and out at entry and exit gates for accurate fare calculations. Tagging with multiple cards for a single person is not allowed.

Budget & Discount Tips

The cost of living in Singapore is slightly higher than or similar to central Seoul. Here are rough single-person budgets:

  • Food: Hawker center meals range from 5,000-15,000 KRW, general restaurants from 20,000-50,000 KRW, and specialty cafes from 6,000-15,000 KRW.
  • Transport: MRT short trips range from 1,500-3,000 KRW, and taxi rides from the airport to the city range between 20,000-40,000 KRW.
  • Major paid experiences: Business zones/Observation decks/Museums/Theme Parks can range from 20,000-100,000 KRW per experience.

Advance booking often offers promotions, making it more economical than on-the-spot purchases. Popular Singapore activities (viewing points, Gardens, Sentosa activities) frequently sell out on weekends and holidays, so check in advance.

Apply the latest coupons for activities, transportation passes, and SIMs at Check this month’s Klook discount codes for small savings.

Compare with check MyRealTrip discount codes, carefully review dates, times, and inclusions, then choose what best suits your needs.

Tip

Alcohol is relatively expensive. Consider buying water or isotonic drinks at a supermarket for outdoor activities to save costs and ensure you stay hydrated.

Dining & Hawker Centers

Singapore activities can lead to flexible meal times. Hawker centers offer a reliable choice when you need a fulfilling meal.

  • Signature dishes: Chicken rice, chili crab (restaurant), laksa, Hainanese noodles, satay, Cantonese-style roast
  • Popular hawker centers: Maxwell, Lau Pa Sat, Newton Food Center, Chinatown Complex
  • Ordering tips: As cash/card acceptance varies by vendor, always prepare a small amount of cash or locate nearby ATMs.

Note

Dinner-time reservations may lead to long wait times at popular restaurants. Consider lunch or an early evening visit to places you have in mind.

Accommodation Choice Guide

Considering both your itinerary and budget increases satisfaction.

  • Marina Bay/Civic District: Easier access to night views and iconic spots. Generally higher prices.
  • Orchard Road: Abundant shopping and dining options. Good MRT access.
  • Bugis/City Hall: A balanced choice between price and access. Walking itineraries are convenient.
  • Chinatown: Many budget-friendly accommodation options plus ample local food choices.
  • Sentosa: Best for leisure-centric schedules. Downtown transfers may take longer.

Accommodations in Singapore generally have smaller rooms and often non-inclusive breakfast rates. Decide which amenities (pool, fitness, lounge) are important for you and compare options.

At compare hotel prices, compare locations, reviews, and prices on one screen to quickly narrow down your options during peak seasons.

Tip

Luggage storage before and after check-in is generally free. If you plan to shop at Jewel Changi or Orchard on your last day, store luggage and move around freely.

Practical Booking & Itinerary Layout: Try It Like This

  • Flight: Select and book desired time slots and baggage regulations
  • Accommodation: Pick central locations and make tentative bookings with free cancellation options
  • Activities: Prioritize top Singapore activities (Gardens, observation decks, Sentosa) and plan flexibility based on local conditions for others
  • Transport: Confirm airport to city method (pickup, MRT, taxi), choose between contactless or STP for city travel
  • Budget: Set daily limits for food, transport, entry fees, and shopping categories

During peak times or holidays, popular time slots fill up fast. Confirm major plans early to reduce line waits and experience more Singapore activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Summary)

  • When is the rainy season? Showers occur year-round, but it rains more often from November to January. Always carry a raincoat or waterproof pack.
  • Is it safe? Walking at night is relatively safe, but basic personal management in crowded places is advised.
  • Is cash necessary? Card usage is high, but some hawker centers or small businesses still prefer cash. Keep a small amount handy.

Final Thought: Get Ready Now

One of Singapore’s strengths is how much you can fit into a short itinerary. Iconic views of Merlion and Marina Bay, the stunning nighttime light shows at Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa’s activities, and the vibrant cultures of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam are all experiences you can thoroughly enjoy with a well-planned itinerary within just three days.

When preparing for travel, it’s recommended to first book flights, accommodations, and must-see Singapore activities. Feel free to check the links below for easy confirmation.

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