The island city-state of Singapore is the only city-state in the world that is also an island. This popular cruise port is located off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula and just north of the equator, offering a wonderful tropical rainforest climate year-round. Eastern and Western cultural influences blend seamlessly in Singapore through culture, religions and ancient treasures.
Filled with incredible high-end fashion shopping on Orchard Road, wonderful antique shops in Chinatown, dozens of peaceful city parks and the cuisine is a national obsession. Cruise to Singapore for activities to fill everyone’s interests.
Welcome to Singapore! Whether you’re stopping by on a cruise vacation or simply passing through, Singapore is an exciting, modern city-state with a rich blend of cultures, stunning architecture, and plenty of things to see and do. Though a one-day visit may seem short, you can certainly make the most of it with a carefully planned itinerary.
From iconic landmarks to delicious food and shopping, here's a guide to help you experience the best of Singapore in just one day!
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Start Your Day at Marina Bay Sands
Begin your day at Marina Bay Sands, one of Singapore's most iconic landmarks. The impressive resort complex consists of a hotel, shopping mall, observation deck, and infinity pool. Take a walk along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the city’s skyline. You can visit the SkyPark Observation Deck on the 57th floor for a panoramic view of the city, or if you have time, explore the ArtScience Museum next door.
Tip: If you're keen to experience luxury shopping, the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands offers a wide range of designer boutiques and international brands. The light-filled atrium is also an architectural wonder.
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Marvel at the Gardens by the Bay
Just a short walk from Marina Bay Sands is Gardens by the Bay, a must-visit attraction for any nature lover. This futuristic park features stunning outdoor gardens, as well as the impressive Supertree Grove, where giant tree-like structures are covered in plants. Don’t miss the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome—indoor conservatories that showcase exotic plants and flowers from around the world.
Tip: The Supertree Grove lights up every evening with a mesmerizing light and sound show. If you're visiting later in the day, make sure to catch it!
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Explore Chinatown
From the futuristic landscapes of Marina Bay, head over to Chinatown, a vibrant district filled with heritage, food, and culture. Here, you can explore colorful streets, visit traditional Chinese temples like Sri Mariamman Temple, and shop for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the Chinatown Heritage Centre, where you can learn about the history of Chinese immigrants in Singapore.
Tip: While you’re in Chinatown, stop by the famous Maxwell Food Centre to try Chicken Rice, a Singaporean dish that’s both flavorful and a crowd favorite.
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Stroll Through Little India
Next, make your way to Little India, a colorful and lively district filled with aromatic spices, temples, and vibrant markets. Explore the bustling Tekka Centre for fresh produce, textiles, and delicious Indian food. Visit the ornate Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, and take in the vibrant street art and murals that adorn many of the buildings.
Tip: If you have a sweet tooth, try Kailasa's Sweet Shop for traditional Indian sweets like Jalebi or Barfi.
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Visit the National Orchid Garden
If you're a nature enthusiast, head to the National Orchid Garden, located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts one of the largest collections of orchids in the world, with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with beautifully manicured gardens and serene paths.
Tip: The Botanic Gardens are free to enter, but the Orchid Garden has a small entrance fee.
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Relax at Sentosa Island
For a bit of leisure and adventure, head to Sentosa Island, a popular resort destination offering everything from beautiful beaches to theme parks. You can visit Universal Studios Singapore for a dose of fun, or simply relax at Palawan Beach, which is perfect for a few hours of sunbathing or a swim.
Tip: If you're short on time, the Sentosa Express monorail is an easy and quick way to explore the island.
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Indulge in Singapore’s Culinary Delights
Singapore is famous for its hawker food culture, and you absolutely can’t miss out on trying local delicacies. Visit Lau Pa Sat or Chinatown Food Street for an authentic experience. Some must-try dishes include Chilli Crab, Satay Skewers, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and Laksa (spicy noodle soup).
Tip: Don't forget to try Kaya Toast with soft-boiled eggs and coffee for a traditional Singaporean breakfast snack.
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Shop at Orchard Road
If shopping is on your agenda, head over to Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping street. This famous retail hub is lined with malls, department stores, and boutique shops offering everything from luxury brands to high-street fashion. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or simply window shopping, Orchard Road is the place to be.
Tip: Even if you're not shopping, take a stroll along Orchard Road to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and impressive malls.
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Take a River Cruise on the Singapore River
For a different perspective of the city, take a Singapore River Cruise. This scenic boat ride offers views of the iconic Raffles Hotel, Clarke Quay, and historic bridges along the river. You’ll also get to admire the city’s unique blend of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers from the water.
Tip: The evening cruises are especially beautiful when the city lights begin to twinkle, giving you a magical view of the skyline.
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Catch the Spectra Light & Water Show
End your day with the Spectra Light & Water Show, a stunning outdoor performance held at the Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza. This 15-minute light and water spectacle features lasers, fountains, and projections set to music. It’s an impressive show that perfectly sums up Singapore’s blend of nature, technology, and creativity.
Tip: The show is free to watch, and it runs several times in the evening, so be sure to check the timing before heading over.
While a day in Singapore may feel short, this vibrant city offers so much to see and do. From ancient temples and bustling markets to futuristic gardens and breathtaking views, you can experience a wide variety of attractions in just one day. Whether you’re into history, culture, nature, or shopping, Singapore has something for everyone.