The ultimate guide to a Singapore stopover

Did you know Changi airport is only a 20-25min taxi ride from the city and about 40-45min by train?

If you have more than 5 hours in transit in Singapore it may be worth leaving the airport and exploring some of the city-state’s highlights.

Here is a guide to nail your Singapore stopover no matter how much time you’ve got:

What to do during your Singapore stopover?

4 hours – the stressful version

It might be pushing it but if you really are keen for a stressful run you might head to East Coast Park for a delicious Singapore Chilli Crab.

One of the best addresses is the iconic Jumbo restaurant. More info on their website here.

Jumbo's signature Singapore Chilli Crab – Courtesy of Jumbo

6 hours – the express version

Take a taxi to Gardens By The Bay and, if hungry, start with a taste of Singapore at Satay by the Bay, the local food court.

Once your tastebuds are satisfied head to the Gardens By The Bay ticket office. Take the path near Marina Barrage (close to the water) and try to spot some otters along the way, there is a colony that lives there.

The ottar colony near Satay By The Bay

Gardens By The Bay is home to 1.5 million plants and two magnificent glass domes hosting very distinct typed of gardens. Depending how much time you have but also where you come from, you should explore at least one of them.

The majestic Cloud Forest’s waterfall

The Cloud Forest focuses on tropical rainforest plants and flowers, while the Flower Dome focuses on mediterranean flowers and cooler climate’s plants.

The Cloud Forest’s walkway

If you need to pick one only, I recommend picking the type of flora you are less familiar with (eg if you are from Europe, go for the Cloud Forest, but if you are from Indonesia, maybe visit the Flower Dome). The ticket to the domes is SGD28 per adult and SGD15 per child.

You can also add the OCBC Skyway for SGD8 which is certainly a highlight and will give you a beautiful viewpoint over Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Downtown area.

The OCBC walkway

Then head towards Collyer Quay for a drink with a view at one of the best terrace bars in Singapore:

1. Lantern

2. Kinki

3. Level 33

4. Picotin

5. Smoke & Mirrors

Enjoy a Singapore Sling or one of the many delicious Asian beers Singapore offers, before heading back to the airport.

View over Marina Bay from Kinki

8 hours – the “best of” version

Same as for 6 hours but you can add the Temple of Buddha’s Sacred Tooth and/or Lau Pasat, the most iconic food court in Singapore.

Chinatown streets

At night the neighbouring Boon Tat street and tens of food stalls and tables appear. The street is particularly famous for its satay skewers and the delicious “aerated tea” teh tarik.

24 hours – the relaxed version

Haji Lane and the Arab district are a must. The gorgeous Sultan Mosque and the surrounding towns are well worth the detour.

If you need some shopping therapy the iconic Orchard Rd and its many shopping malls will surely please you.

At night don’t forget to head to Clarke Quay for a Singapore Chilli Crab at Jumbo Seafood followed by a wander around.

Gardens By The Bay are very impressive at night and have a definite “Avatar-like” atmosphere. The supertrees are beautifully lit and they regularly host light and sound shows. More info here.

Night show at Gardens By The Bay

48 hours – the advanced version

Before or after Haji Lane and the Arab district, it is worth heading to Little India. Make sure you walk past Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and explore the different streets around.

While you’re at it, it may be worth checking out Mustafa Shopping Centre. It is one of the only shopping malls that operate 24/7 in the world and has a delicious Indian restaurant on its rooftop.

If you are keen for an indoor rock climbing session, head to one of the Climb Central gyms. The one in Kallang is uniquely set in the middle of a shopping mall which means it also has air conditioned!

Climb Central Kallang

If you prefer walking or hiking, head to MacRitchie’s reservoir, a beautiful reserve that reminds anyone how wild and tropical Singapore used to be! You can also do the 11km loop running.

The Nitty Gitty

Storage: There is a 24hr baggage storage located at Terminal 3 on the Arrivals level.

Showers: There are various options for showers at the airport, either free near the toilets or at one of the lounges. If you have a credit card, check if your provider offers any complementary lounge access.

Taxi: a taxi from the airport to the city will cost you approx SGD 25-30. Uber is no longer available in Singapore but you can use Grab or Gojet.

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