Singapore in 96 Hours: The Ultimate 4-Day Guide to the Garden City

96 hours—that’s just 4 days. For one of the smallest countries in the world, that’s… barely anything! Singapore is a concentrated Asian syrup, where in a single day, you can dive into multiple cultures, sample a variety of cuisines, and enjoy an incredible blend of nature and futuristic urban design. Clean and organized, without the usual chaotic buzz of Asia, this city-state will win you over with its thoughtfulness, safety, and unique mix of cultures, technology, and greenery.

Arrival: Changi Airport

This airport is truly amazing, but be prepared—it has four terminals.
Once you land, I highly recommend spending a bit of time exploring the airport, especially if you arrive at Terminal 1. If you’re landing at a different terminal, don’t worry—getting between them is easy thanks to shuttle buses that run all the time (roughly every 10 minutes), or you can walk.

Also, keep in mind that passport control is handled through automated gates—super quick and convenient. And they don’t stamp your passport, so no need to worry about saving space for that!

In Terminal 1, there’s something you absolutely must see: Jewel.

Jewel

Jewel—a complex featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the HSBC Rain Vortex, standing at 40 meters tall and surrounded by a lush indoor garden. It’s a stunning place, and I suggest viewing it from one of the upper floors and from below. The waterfall plunges from a glass dome above into what looks like an endless vortex below—it’s seriously impressive.

Also, don’t miss the Skytrain that passes right next to the waterfall! It connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, and for a few magical moments, you get an incredible view of the Rain Vortex through the train’s panoramic windows as you glide past. If you’re lucky enough to be on that route, grab a window seat for a surreal experience.

How to Get to the City?

Getting from Changi Airport to downtown Singapore is fast and easy:

Bus — Cheap but slow. Takes about an hour, but it’s budget-friendly.
Taxi — Convenient and fast, around 20–30 minutes, but more expensive.
MRT (Subway) — The sweet spot. Affordable and no traffic. Takes around 30–40 minutes.

Getting Around the City

Singapore’s public transportation is incredibly efficient. They even have double-decker buses! It’s so much fun exploring the city from the top level, especially if you score a front-row seat. I rode the bus around five times and always found a good spot—if not in the front row, then close to it.

You can pay using a regular bank card or with an EZ-Link card (you got one already, right?). Not only is it super convenient, but the card itself is adorable—just look at it! It also makes a great souvenir. You can return it before your flight if you want to. More details are available on their website: [link]

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is another easy and reliable way to get around—especially handy for getting from the airport to your hotel or between major attractions.
Here’s the MRT map to get familiar with.

Food Heaven

Oh, Singapore is all about the food. Here, street food rivals high-end restaurants—sometimes it’s even better. In local food courts, you can try everything: from noodles and the famous chicken rice to chili crab and mango desserts. Every dish is its own little adventure, and honestly, you could eat here for a week and never have the same thing twice. Just don’t be afraid to try something new!

What to try (things I personally tasted):

Singaporean breakfast: traditional kaya toast with coconut jam, soft-boiled eggs, and coffee
Oyster omelet: a popular dish in hawker centers
Michelin noodle stalls: Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle and Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle — the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred meals
Chicken rice: the national dish, a must-try at Maxwell Food Centre

Where to eat:

Food courts: budget-friendly with tons of local dishes
Hawker centers: authentic vibes and delicious food at reasonable prices
Restaurants: from casual to upscale
Michelin-starred places: a chance to taste world-class food without breaking the bank

Pro tip: Orange juice! You’ll find vending machines all over the city serving amazing, freshly squeezed orange juice for just $2. Definitely try it—it’s super refreshing in Singapore’s heat, and the locals love it too.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Changi Airport
Take the MRT to your hotel and check in
Stroll along Marina Bay
Visit Gardens by the Bay
Catch the Garden Rhapsody light show at Supertree Grove (free, at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM)
Take the MRT or bus back to your hotel

Changi Airport is connected to the city via the East-West Line on the MRT. The ride to downtown takes about 30–40 minutes.

Tip: Get an EZ-Link card (Singapore’s version of the Octopus card) at the airport for smooth travel. The card costs about 12 SGD (5 SGD deposit + 7 SGD starting balance).

Marina Bay

A symbol of modern Singapore with stunning views of the bay and skyline.
Time: 2–3 hours for a relaxed walk.

Gardens by the Bay

Singapore’s iconic attraction. This futuristic park spans 101 hectares. The main highlight is the giant glowing Supertrees that light up in the evening with a mesmerizing light-and-music show. Don’t miss the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome — it’s cool inside (literally and figuratively) and feels nothing like the tropical weather outside. You can stroll around, enjoy the atmosphere, take in the details, and snap your best vacation pics here.

Must-see highlights:

Supertree Grove — 18 “trees” between 25–50 meters tall
OCBC Skyway — a 128-meter sky bridge between the trees (ticketed, ~8 SGD)
Flower Dome — the world’s largest columnless greenhouse with plants from Mediterranean and arid climates (ticketed, ~20 SGD)
Cloud Forest — a misty indoor mountain with a 35-meter waterfall and tropical flora (ticketed, ~20 SGD)

Time needed: At least 3–4 hours. Combo tickets are available for the conservatories.

Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Supertree Grove

A free light and music show happening twice nightly — at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM. Arrive 15–20 minutes early to grab a great spot under the trees.
Duration: About 15–20 minutes.

TIP:
The OCBC Skyway is a fantastic place to watch the show from above. Although visits are technically limited to 30 minutes, no one really enforces it. If you go up a bit early, you can wait on the first platform and enjoy the view. When the show starts, take a slow walk along the bridge for a magical experience.

That said, in my honest opinion, the show looks way more epic from the ground. I’ve seen it from both perspectives, and while both are cool, watching it from below feels way more awe-inspiring.

Day 2

Breakfast at one of Singapore’s Michelin-starred noodle stalls
Explore the vibrant Haji Lane and Arab Quarter
Visit colorful Little India
Lunch at a local eatery
Stroll through Chinatown
Dinner at a Michelin-rated rice place
Evening walk through downtown and the opposite side of the bay + fountain show

Michelin-Starred Noodle Stall

Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle (Crawford Lane, #01-12) — one of Singapore’s most iconic hawker stalls, awarded a Michelin star. It’s known for its signature bak chor mee (minced pork noodles), prepared fresh right in front of you.

What to try:

Bak Chor Mee — dry noodles with minced pork, liver, dumplings, and vinegar sauce
Dumpling Noodle Soup — light, savory, and highly recommended if you prefer soup-based dishes

Prices:
Same pricing for all dishes:

Small: 8 SGD
Medium: 10 SGD
Large: 12 SGD
Very fair prices considering the quality and Michelin recognition.

Location: Crawford Lane, #01-12
Stall size: Very small — about 15 square meters, mostly counter-style dining
Ordering system: Orders are cooked fresh behind the cashier counter as you wait

Tip: Go early (before 11:00 AM) to avoid long queues — locals and tourists line up early.
Time needed: 1–1.5 hours (including wait time)

Haji Lane & Arab Quarter

Just a short walk from the noodle stall, this is one of the most colorful and photogenic areas in Singapore.

What to see:

Haji Lane — a narrow, artsy street full of boutiques, cafes, and vibrant murals
Sultan Mosque — Singapore’s largest mosque with its iconic golden dome
Muscat Street — lined with Arabic restaurants and shops
Malay Heritage Centre — a museum showcasing Malay culture and history

Time needed: 2–3 hours

Little India

From here, walk over to Little India — a vibrant, aromatic neighborhood bursting with Indian culture and energy.

What to see:

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple — a colorful Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali
Mustafa Centre — a 24/7 shopping mall where you can find just about anything
Tekka Centre — a local market filled with spices, fabrics, and Indian street food
House of Tan Teng Niah — a brightly colored, historic Chinese villa

Time needed: 2–3 hours

Chinatown

Hop on a bus and enjoy the views as you head toward one of Singapore’s most historic districts.

What to see:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum — an impressive Buddhist temple with intricate interiors
Sri Mariamman Temple — Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple
Chinatown Street Market — stroll down Pagoda Street, Trengganu Street, and Sago Street for souvenirs
Chinatown Food Street — packed with hawker stalls and small restaurants

Time needed: 2–3 hours

Dinner: Michelin-Star Hawker Meal at Hawker Chan

End your day with a visit to Hawker Chan, the world’s first hawker stall to receive a Michelin star. Their famous Soya Sauce Chicken Rice has been made using the same recipe for over 35 years.

What to try:

Soya Sauce Chicken Rice (signature dish)
Soya Sauce Chicken Noodles

Location: 78 Smith Street, Singapore 058972
Nearest MRT: Chinatown Station — 100 meters from Exit (DT19 / NE4, Downtown or North East Line)
Opening hours: Daily, 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Prices:

Main dishes: 5–7 SGD
Soft drinks: 1–2 SGD
Very affordable by Singapore standards.

Ordering system:
Order and pay at the counter, get a number, and wait for it to appear on the screen before picking up your food.

Tip: Arrive before the dinner rush for shorter wait times.

Evening Walk Along the Bay

Singapore’s skyline comes alive at night, with beautifully lit buildings and bridges.

Suggested route:

Walk along Clarke Quay, where historic warehouses have been turned into vibrant bars and restaurants
Cross Cavenagh Bridge toward The Fullerton Hotel (formerly the city’s General Post Office)
Stroll across Esplanade Bridge for incredible views of Marina Bay Sands and the financial district

Time needed: 1.5–2 hours

Optional: Catch one of the fountain/light shows at Marina Bay!

Day 3

Traditional Singaporean breakfast at a local café
Iconic photo on the spiral staircase: Fort Canning Tree Tunnel
Visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Cable car ride to Sentosa Island during sunset
Dinner at a hawker-style food court on Sentosa

Traditional Singaporean Breakfast

Start your day like a local with breakfast at a kopi tiam (traditional coffee shop). This is a must-try experience that reflects Singapore’s rich mix of cultures and flavors.

What to try:

Kaya toast — crispy toast filled with fragrant coconut jam, served with soft-boiled eggs
Kopi — strong, bold coffee roasted with butter and sugar for a distinct, caramelized aroma
Teh tarik — frothy milk tea that’s “pulled” for extra smoothness

Recommended spot (personal favorite):
Killiney Kopitiam – Lorong Telok
One of the oldest kopi tiams in Singapore, dating back to 1919. This branch has a charming old-school vibe and is less touristy than some chains — perfect for soaking in the local morning atmosphere.

Address: 18 Lorong Telok, Singapore 049030
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Time needed: ~1 hour

Tip: After breakfast, walk a few minutes toward Boat Quay for a scenic riverfront.

Photo Stop: Fort Canning Tree Tunnel

Before heading to your next destination, make a quick stop at the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel — one of Singapore’s most photogenic hidden gems.

This spot is an underground spiral staircase where lush greenery spills down from above, creating a natural, dreamlike frame that’s perfect for photos. You’ve probably seen it all over Instagram — and yes, it’s just as magical in real life.

Location: Exit B of Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station or near Fort Canning Park’s escalator entrance
Best time to go: Early morning (to avoid crowds and get soft natural light)

Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens or use your phone’s ultra-wide setting to capture the full dramatic curve from the bottom of the stairs.

Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Founded in 1859, this is Singapore’s green gem and a peaceful contrast to the city’s skyscrapers. Entry is free, except for the National Orchid Garden.

What to see:

National Orchid Garden — home to over 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. Look out for the famous orchid tunnel (entrance ~5 SGD).
Rainforest Trail — a preserved patch of primary rainforest with thick canopies and chirping cicadas
Ginger Garden — a lush garden dedicated to the ginger family, with a small waterfall and pond
Swan Lake — a serene lake with real swans, a perfect rest stop
Evolution Garden — a fascinating outdoor exhibit that tells the story of plant evolution through immersive landscaping and fossils

Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid the midday heat, and bring water.
Time needed: 3–4 hours (more if you’re a plant lover or photography enthusiast)

Sentosa Island — Cable Car Ride at Sunset

Sentosa is Singapore’s island playground—a tropical escape packed with fun and iconic sights.

Getting there:
The most scenic route is via the Singapore Cable Car from HarbourFront Station, next to VivoCity Mall.
Cost: ~35 SGD round-trip

Tip: Time your ride so you’re in the air during sunset. The views of the harbor, skyline, and Sentosa’s greenery are breathtaking at golden hour.

What to see on Sentosa (choose based on your interests):

Universal Studios Singapore — great if you have extra time for rides and entertainment
S.E.A. Aquarium — one of the world’s largest aquariums with over 100,000 marine animals
Beaches — Palawan (family-friendly), Siloso (more lively with bars), and Tanjong (quiet and romantic)
Fort Siloso — Singapore’s only preserved coastal fort from WWII, now a museum with panoramic views
Sentosa Merlion — this 37-meter-tall statue was an iconic landmark (note: closed as of 2020, but area still worth visiting for views and photos)

Time needed: 4–5 hours depending on activities

Dinner at Sentosa — Malaysian Food Street

Wrap up your day with a flavorful dinner at Malaysian Food Street near Resorts World Sentosa. This indoor hawker-style street recreates the atmosphere of old Malaysia with vintage decor and authentic dishes.

What to try:

Char Kway Teow — stir-fried noodles with shrimp, sausage, and dark soy
Penang Laksa — spicy, tangy noodle soup with fish broth
Satay — grilled skewers with peanut sauce
Chendol — a cold dessert with green jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup

Time needed: 1–1.5 hours
Tip: It’s indoors but can get crowded during peak hours. Try to go before 7 PM for shorter lines.

Day 4: Flexible Options Depending on Your Flight Time

This final day is all about making the most of your remaining hours in Singapore. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, nature, or exploring local neighborhoods, here are a few great options to choose from:

Option 1: Shopping & City Sights

Orchard Road
Singapore’s most famous shopping street, packed with malls, international brands, and hidden boutiques. A paradise for fashion lovers and window-shoppers alike.

National Museum of Singapore
A great place to dive into the country’s rich history and multicultural identity through interactive exhibits and beautifully curated displays.

Fort Canning Park
A peaceful green space in the heart of the city, with historic colonial structures, walking trails, and panoramic views of downtown. Great for a relaxing walk and some last-minute photos.

Option 2: More Nature & Wildlife

Singapore Zoo
One of the world’s best zoos, known for its “open-concept” enclosures that let animals roam more naturally. Ideal for families and animal lovers.

River Safari
Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park, featuring animals from iconic rivers like the Amazon and Yangtze. Includes a relaxing boat ride and a chance to see pandas!

Bird Paradise (formerly Jurong Bird Park)
A massive bird park with walk-in aviaries, interactive feeding sessions, and the world’s tallest waterfall inside an aviary. A paradise for nature photographers and birdwatchers.

Option 3: Local Hidden Gems

Tiong Bahru
A hip, artsy neighborhood known for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, indie boutiques, trendy cafés, and local bakeries. It’s a great spot to chill and grab brunch.

Katong / Joo Chiat
A colorful heritage district filled with vibrant Peranakan shophouses, traditional eateries, and local charm. Perfect for a slow-paced walk and Instagram-worthy photos.

Back to the Airport

Plan to head back to Changi Airport at least 2–3 hours before your flight.
If you didn’t have time to explore Jewel Changi Airport on arrival, don’t miss it now!
The HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, along with its lush indoor forest and shops, is the perfect way to end your Singapore adventure.