How to Spend 24 Hours in Singapore: Must-See Spots & Hidden Gems
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How to Spend 24 Hours in Singapore: Quick Guide for a Perfect Day
Short on time but big on adventure?
I was on a layover once from my trip to Europe to Australia and just had 24 hours, ofcourse , did not need visa but did make the most of it. So whether you’re on a layover, cruise stop, or just passing through, Singapore is the perfect city to explore in a day.
In just 24 hours, you can experience futuristic skylines, colorful heritage districts, hawker food heaven, and even squeeze in a rooftop cocktail. This guide is crafted for solo female travelers, couples, and digital nomads who want a blend of must-sees and hidden gems—with zero time wasted.
Pin this itinerary now so it’s ready when you touch down!
Morning: Marina Bay & Gardens
Start Early at Marina Bay
- 6:30–8:00 AM Catch sunrise at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark or Merlion Park
- 8:00–9:00 AM: Grab breakfast at TOBY'S Estate (great coffee + river views)
Explore Gardens by the Bay
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9:00–10:30 AM: Walk through the Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest Dome
- Tip: Outdoor gardens are free!
Optional Tour:
Midday: Culture & Hawker Lunch
Chinatown + Maxwell Food Centre
- 10:45–12:00 PM: Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & browse nearby shops
- I did spot a lot of vegetarian options around the temple
Hidden Gem Stop
- Walk to Ann Siang Hill Park — quiet, leafy, and charming
Afternoon: Little India & Kampong Glam
Explore Colorful Culture
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1:30–2:30 PM: Stroll through Little India and eat lot of Indian food around!
- Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
- Pop into Tan Teng Niah House for Insta-worthy photos
Visit Kampong Glam
-
2:30–4:00 PM: Walk to Haji Lane (street art + indie shops)
- Visit Sultan Mosque
- Coffee or cold drink at % Arabica
Hidden Gem Alert: Stop by Gelam Gallery, Singapore’s first outdoor art gallery.
Late Afternoon: Sentosa or Botanic Gardens
Choose Your Vibe:
-
Beach Chill Option: Take MRT + boardwalk to Sentosa Island
- Visit Palawan Beach, free and scenic
- Green Escape Option: Head to Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO site, free entry)
Evening: Skyline Views & Dinner
Sunset Cocktails
-
6:30–7:30 PM: Enjoy panoramic views with a drink at CÉ LA VI SkyBar or Level33
- (Reserve in advance for best views)
Dinner Options
-
8:00 PM: Dine at:
- Makansutra Gluttons Bay – Local dishes by the bay
- Lau Pa Sat – Iconic hawker centre for satay under the stars
Bonus Tips for Layover Travelers
- Store your luggage at Changi Airport or city luggage lockers
- Use Grab app for fast transport
- Allow 3 hours buffer before your flight if returning to the airport
- Singapore MRT is safe, clean, and fast
24-Hour Budget Estimate
| Item | Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Attractions | $0–30 |
| Food + Drinks | $20–40 |
| Transport (MRT/Grab) | $10–20 |
| Total | $30–90 |
FAQs for One-Day Trips in Singapore
Is 24 hours enough to see Singapore?
Yes, if you plan smart. You’ll see major highlights and get a taste of local life.
Can I do this itinerary on a long layover?
Yes. Just skip Sentosa and stay near Marina Bay or Chinatown.
Is Singapore safe for solo female travelers?
Absolutely. It’s one of the safest cities in the world, even at night.
Can I drink tap water?
Yes! Save money and refill your bottle.
Make Every Hour Count
Even with just one day, Singapore offers a feast for your senses—lush gardens, spicy hawker food, rooftop drinks, and vibrant culture.
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