3 Days in Singapore: What to See, Eat & Do (A First-Timer’s Guide to the City of the Future)
Singapore is one of those destinations that seamlessly blends nature, innovation, and culture. From futuristic gardens and rooftop sunsets to hawker stalls that deserve Michelin stars, this small island packs a big punch. My husband and I spent three full days exploring the city, walking, eating, and discovering its many contrasts, and I’m sharing what we loved most to help you plan your first visit.
Where We Stayed in Singapore
We checked into the Grand Park City Hall Hotel, a centrally located stay just a short ride from Marina Bay and Kampong Glam. The hotel blends modern comfort with convenience, spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy MRT access made it an ideal base for exploring the city’s top attractions. It’s also a great option for first-time visitors who want to be close to both cultural neighborhoods and the waterfront.
Day 1 – The Jewel, East Coast Park & Kampong Glam
Our Singapore adventure began the moment we landed at Jewel Changi Airport. The Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall steals the show. If you’re arriving in the evening, stay for the Rain Vortex Light and Sound Show, which happens hourly from 7:30–11:30 PM. It’s free and absolutely mesmerizing.
After dropping our bags, we headed to the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade, a scenic walkway that curves around the harbor with stunning skyline views. As the sun set, the city lights reflected off the water, and we stopped to watch locals jogging, couples taking photos, and boats gliding across the bay. It was the perfect introduction to Singapore’s vibrant energy and beauty.
Dinner was in Kampong Glam, Singapore’s vibrant Muslim Quarter. The area’s colorful streets are lined with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants. We had dinner at Cappadocia Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant, but Alaturka and Tabbouleh Lebanese Restaurant also looked incredible, all are located along Bussorah Street near the Sultan Mosque.
Day 2 – Southern Ridges, Botanic Gardens & Marina Bay Sands
We started early with a walk along the Southern Ridges, a 6-kilometer trail connecting several parks with sweeping city views. It’s best to go in the morning before the heat kicks in.
In the afternoon, we visited the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of tropical beauty. Don’t miss the National Orchid Garden for stunning photo ops, it’s one of the most peaceful spots in the city.
By late afternoon, we made our way to Marina Bay Sands. We booked tickets to the SkyPark Observation Deck (via Klook) and went up to the LAVO Bar for drinks at sunset. Tickets are around $23 per person, and the view is worth every penny. Stay for the Spectra Light & Water Show at 8 PM below the hotel, a 15-minute display of fountains, lights, and music over the bay.
Day 3 – Sentosa Island & Gardens by the Bay
We took the Singapore Cable Car to Sentosa Island, an easy and scenic ride (book on Klook for the best rates). Sentosa is packed with things to do, beaches, the Wings of Time water show, and plenty of dining options. If you’re short on time, spend the morning on the beach, then head back to the city mid-afternoon.
That evening, we visited Gardens by the Bay, one of the most iconic attractions in Singapore. The Supertree Grove is free to enter and absolutely magical at night during the Garden Rhapsody Light Show (7:45 PM and 8:45 PM daily). We watched the lights dance to music from the ground level, an unforgettable experience.
If you have time earlier in the day, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome are also worth exploring (tickets ~ $32 and $20). Book ahead online, especially during weekends or holidays.
Bonus Stops for Nature Lovers
If you have extra time in Singapore, consider adding:
MacRitchie Reservoir – Hike lush forest trails and cross the Treetop Walk suspension bridge.
Pulau Ubin – A rustic island showing what Singapore looked like decades ago.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – For those who want to climb Singapore’s highest hill and spot local wildlife.
Where to Eat: Singapore’s Famous Hawker Centers
No trip to Singapore is complete without sampling its hawker food — delicious, affordable, and packed with local flavor.
Maxwell Food Centre – Try the world-famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice.
Lau Pa Sat – Perfect for satay skewers under twinkling lights.
Newton Food Centre – Great for seafood and local favorites.
East Coast Lagoon Food Village – Enjoy grilled seafood right by the beach.
Pro Tip: Head to the stalls with long lines — that’s always a good sign.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Best Time to Visit: November – March or July – September for lower humidity and fewer crowds.
Getting Around: Singapore’s MRT is clean, safe, and efficient — or use Grab or Gojek (their version of Uber).
Dress Comfortably: It’s humid year-round, so bring breathable fabrics, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable shoes.
Book Ahead: Reserve popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, and Sentosa activities through Klook to save time and skip lines.
Final Thoughts
Singapore is futuristic yet full of history, structured yet bursting with creativity. From walking along the Southern Ridges to sipping cocktails 57 stories above the city, every day felt like a new discovery.
Whether you’re here for a long layover or a full-week adventure, this city proves you don’t need a lot of time to see a lot, just curiosity, comfortable shoes, and maybe a few advance bookings.
