24 Hours in Singapore: The Best Things to Do in Just One Day

The Ultimate One-Day Singapore Itinerary: How to See It All in Just 24 Hours

So, you’ve got just one day in Singapore—not ideal, but definitely doable! Singapore might be a small island nation, but it’s packed with culture, food, history, and futuristic attractions, making it one of the most exciting cities to explore, even on a tight schedule.

I’ve been living in Singapore for the past four and a half years, so trust me, I know how to maximize a day here without feeling rushed. In this itinerary, we’ll hit four diverse areas—Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, and Marina Bay—to give you a taste of everything that makes this city special.

Are you ready for an unforgettable 24 hours? Let’s go!

9:00 AM – Arrive at Changi Airport & Head to Chinatown

Let’s pretend you land at Changi Airport at 9:00 AM. First things first—take the MRT (Singapore’s ultra-efficient metro) straight to Chinatown. It’s about an hour’s ride, giving you time to freshen up and plan your adventure.

10:00 AM – Explore Chinatown

The moment you step onto Pagoda Street, you’ll be greeted by colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and the smell of delicious street food. This area is a fantastic mix of heritage and modernity, and it’s one of the best places to experience Singapore’s rich Chinese culture.

Top things to do in Chinatown:
✔️ Stroll through Pagoda Street – Shop for souvenirs like lanterns, chopsticks, and traditional paintings.
✔️ Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – A stunning temple housing what is believed to be Buddha’s tooth. Don’t miss the rooftop orchid garden!
✔️ Try local food at a hawker center – Head to Chinatown Complex Food Centre for the famous chicken rice or chili crab.

After soaking in the sights (and maybe buying a few trinkets), it's time to hop back on the Downtown Line MRT to Bugis—next stop, Kampong Glam.

12:00 PM – Discover Kampong Glam

Singapore’s Malay and Arab heritage is best experienced in Kampong Glam, one of the city’s most stylish and culturally rich neighborhoods.

Must-Visit Spots in Kampong Glam:

🏛️ Sultan Mosque – The golden-domed Sultan Mosque is the heart of this area. It’s one of Singapore’s most beautiful landmarks.
🛍️ Haji Lane – This narrow alley is packed with boutique shops, street art, and quirky cafés. Perfect for a quick photo session!
🍽️ Lunch at a Middle Eastern Restaurant – Try some Turkish, Lebanese, or Malay cuisine. I recommend Zam Zam for their delicious Murtabak (stuffed pancake).

Kampong Glam is small but packed with character, so take your time to wander and soak in the vibes. After lunch, it’s time to explore another cultural hotspot—Little India.

2:00 PM – Experience the Colors of Little India

A short 5-minute MRT ride takes you to Little India, one of the most vibrant and energetic areas in Singapore. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world—colorful temples, Bollywood music, and the irresistible aroma of Indian spices fill the air.

What to See & Do in Little India:

🏠 Visit the Tan Teng Niah House – This rainbow-colored heritage home is an Instagram favorite!
🙏 Explore Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple – A stunning Hindu temple with intricate carvings and spiritual ceremonies.
🛍️ Shop at Mustafa Centre – A legendary 24-hour shopping mall where you can find everything from electronics to Indian sweets.
🍛 Eat at a local Indian restaurant – Try butter chicken, naan, and Malai Kulfi (Indian ice cream) at Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine.

Little India is a sensory overload in the best way possible. After indulging in some delicious Indian food, it’s time for the grand finale—Marina Bay.

4:30 PM – Explore Marina Bay & Gardens by the Bay

Take the MRT to Bayfront—and welcome to the futuristic heart of Singapore! Marina Bay is where modern architecture, luxury, and nature collide to create some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Must-See Attractions in Marina Bay:

🏙️ Marina Bay Sands – The city’s most famous hotel, featuring a rooftop infinity pool (but you’ll need a room to swim there!).
🌿 Gardens by the Bay – Walk among giant Supertrees and lush gardens that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.
💡 Garden Rhapsody Light Show – At 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM, watch the Supertrees light up to synchronized music—a magical experience!
🚶 Helix Bridge – A futuristic DNA-shaped pedestrian bridge with breathtaking views of the bay.

8:00 PM – Watch the Spectacular Marina Bay Light & Water Show

You can’t leave Singapore without seeing Spectra – A Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands. The show features dancing fountains, laser lights, and music, all set against the stunning skyline. Showtimes: 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

After the show, if you still have energy, grab a cocktail at CÉ LA VI, a rooftop bar with sky-high views of Singapore.

10:00 PM – Unwind and Soak in Singapore's Nightlife

After an action-packed day, it’s time to slow things down and enjoy Singapore’s nightlife. If you're up for a nightcap with a view, head to CÉ LA VI at Marina Bay Sands or Lantern Rooftop Bar for a cocktail overlooking the dazzling skyline.

Prefer something more laid-back? Take a leisurely stroll along the Singapore River, where you’ll find vibrant nightlife spots at Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. Grab a drink, listen to some live music, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

If you still have energy left, explore the famous night markets or satisfy your late-night cravings at a hawker center like Lau Pa Sat or Newton Food Centre—because supper is a must in Singapore.

Can You Really See Singapore in One Day?

The answer? Yes! You won’t see everything, but this itinerary gives you a perfect mix of culture, food, history, and modern attractions—all in just 24 hours.

Whether you’re here on a layover, business trip, or just passing through, Singapore will leave you craving for more. And trust me, once you get a taste of this city, you’ll want to come back for a longer adventure.Until then, safe travels and happy exploring.