Singapore Day Trip: How to Spend 1 Day in Singapore?
What to Do in Singapore in 24 Hours: A Perfect Day Trip Guide and Itinerary
Ever wondered if it’s possible to experience the best of Singapore in just one day? It turns out you absolutely can. With its mix of futuristic architecture, rich culture, and unforgettable food, Singapore is the kind of place where every hour offers something exciting. A day here can feel like a full-blown adventure. And yes, delicious local eats are part of the journey because you’ll need to fuel up along the way.
This guide is here to help. It lays out exactly what to see, do, and eat in 24 hours for the perfect Singapore day trip. Ready? Let’s go!
How to Spend 1 Day Trip in Singapore: Itinerary of Must-See, Must-Eat, Must-Do Guide
Singapore may be small, but it’s packed with amazing things to see, eat, and do. In just one day, you can explore stunning cityscapes, enjoy world-famous dishes, and experience the unique blend of cultures that make this city so special. But to make the most of your time, you’ll need a well-planned itinerary.
That’s where this guide comes in. It’s divided into three easy sections: Must-Eat, Must-See, and Must-Do so you won’t miss out on any highlights. Here’s how to spend one unforgettable day in Singapore.
1. Must-Eat: Where to Fuel Up on Best Food Singapore can Offer
No one can explore Singapore on an empty stomach. This city is a melting pot of tastes, from rich Thai curries to sizzling Japanese BBQ and nostalgic local comfort food. If you're craving spice, something grilled, or a slow lunch in the garden, here are the must-eat spots to make your one-day trip deliciously unforgettable.
1. Sarai Fine Thai – For the Love of Thai Curries and Royal Cuisine
When in doubt, go Thai and go all out. Sarai Fine Thai brings elegance and bold flavour to the table, with standout dishes like their signature Thai curries, seafood, and slow-cooked meat mains. The vegetable dishes and classic Thai desserts round off the meal beautifully. It’s a modern royal Thai dining experience that’s refined without losing soul.
📍 Tanglin Mall, #03-122
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
2. Tajimaya Yakiniku – Japanese BBQ, the All-you-can-eat Way
Tajimaya is where Japanese BBQ dreams come true. Think buttery wagyu slices, fresh pork cuts, sashimi, and smoky seafood. All grilled to perfection at your table. The buffet lets you go at your own pace, making it a great stop for hungry travellers who want both flavour and fun.
📍 VivoCity & Great World
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
3. Barossa Steak & Grill – Aussie Plates with a Laid-Back Singapore Twist
Love juicy steaks and good vibes? Barossa hits the spot. From its showstopping tomahawk and Josper-grilled meats to barramundi fish & chips, the menu’s built for both solo eaters and sharing groups. Don’t miss the weekend buzz when live music adds extra flavour to the scene.
📍 VivoCity, #01-161/162
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
4. Tanglin Cookhouse – British-Colonial Comfort Meets Local Soul
A day in Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a taste of its heritage. Tanglin Cookhouse blends British classics with local touches. New favourites include the Croque Madame Croissant, sticky coffee chicken wings, and the crowd-pleasing Norwegian Salmon Wellington. Their Pandan Kaya Croissant or Gula Melaka dessert is a must-try for sweet way to wrap up your meal.
📍 Tanglin Mall & PLQ 3
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
5. Vineyard at HortPark – A Scenic Spot for Lunches
Take a breather at this nature escape. Nestled in lush HortPark, Vineyard offers a French-inspired menu with dishes like Moules Marinière and Iberian Pork Tenderloin. With garden views and sharing plates, it’s the perfect pause between sightseeing stops especially for couples or anyone craving a slower pace.
📍 33 Hyderabad Road, HortPark
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
6. Suki-Ya – A Cozy Japanese Hotpot Fix with Endless Refills
Comfort food lovers, this one’s for you. Suki-Ya serves up all-you-can-eat hotpot with rich broths like their signature mala. Load your bowl with fresh meat, tofu, and vegetables from their salad bar. It’s warm, soothing, and just the right kind of messy.
📍 VivoCity, Bugis+, Marina Square, Plaza Singapura
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
7. Suki-Suki Hotpot – Halal Buffet with Broths to Brag About
For variety and value, head to Suki-Suki. With seven broth choices including a flavour-packed sukiyaki and fiery mala. Plus 40+ fresh ingredients, this halal hotpot buffet checks every box. Great for family meals or group feasting sessions.
📍 HomeTeamNS Khatib, #01-01
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
8. Siam Kitchen – Where Halal Thai Hits the Spot
Spice fans, don’t skip this one. Siam Kitchen serves halal-certified Thai dishes full of punchy flavours. Think Tom Yum, Green Curry, and the unique build-your-own Thai Ambeng platter. Perfect for sharing and sampling a bit of everything.
📍 HomeTeamNS Khatib
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
9. Bangkok Jam – Thai Comfort with a Creative Spin
Modern and full of flair, Bangkok Jam reinvents Thai favourites with bold new twists. Their set meals like the Bangkok Set or Chiang Mai Set (also available in vegan options) offer a complete taste of Thailand in one plate flavourful, fun, and fuss-free.
📍 Great World
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
10. Typhoon Café – Your Taiwanese Comfort Stop
Soft soufflé pancakes, crispy chicken cutlets, xiao long bao? Typhoon Café delivers Taiwanese comfort food that hits all the right notes. Try their Dynasty Delights menu, featuring dishes like Sweet & Sour Pork and Mala Scallion Noodles. Ideal for a casual meal or sweet escape.
📍 Plaza Singapura & Kallang Wave Mall
🔗 See full menu – reserve via website or concierge
2. Must See- Iconic Sights & Scenic Stops for Your One-Day Itinerary
If it’s your first time in Singapore or you’re here on a short layover. This city is packed with visually stunning, culturally rich, and conveniently located attractions. Here’s a thoughtfully curated list of must-see spots. Perfect for a unique day exploring across Singapore. You can easily experience these highlights with a mix of walking, MRT rides, and even a breezy river cruise. Let’s dive into the best bet list of what to see in just one day in Singapore.
1. Little India & Hindu Temple
Immerse yourself in vibrant sights, smells, and sounds in Little India, home to temples, art, and flower garlands. Don’t miss the ornate Hindu temple near the main MRT station. A spiritual and architectural marvel.
2. Merlion Park – The Iconic Landmark
A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Merlion, the iconic landmark symbolizing the city’s beginnings as a fishing village. It’s a quick photo stop near Marina Bay Sands, and a classic for any one stop traveler.
3. Chinatown & Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Step into one of Singapore’s oldest districts. Chinatown is full of charm, culture, and great food. Visit the stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, then explore heritage streets on foot or hop on a historical bike tour if you’re short on time.
4. Marina Bay Sands & Sands SkyPark Observation Deck
Start your day with panoramic views from the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, perched atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel. It’s one of Singapore’s most photographed skyscrapers, and for good reason sunrises and sunsets here are unforgettable.
5. Gardens by the Bay & Supertrees
A walk through the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome is like entering another world, but the towering Supertrees steal the spotlight. Especially during the nightly light show. This futuristic garden is a world-famous attraction and a must for your one-day itinerary.
6. Kampong Glam & Sultan Mosque
No city tour is complete without a visit to Kampong Glam, where tradition and trend meet. Snap a photo of the golden-domed Sultan Mosque, stroll down Arab Street, and explore colorful shophouses that reflect Singapore’s multicultural spirit.
7. Singapore River, Boat Quay & Clarke Quay
Walk or cruise along the Singapore River, passing Boat Quay and lively Clarke Quay. These waterfront areas are full of energy and history, showcasing how far Singapore since its early trading days has come.
8. Sentosa & Universal Studios Singapore
Head east of Singapore to Sentosa, an island packed with fun. Ride the cable car, lounge on the beach, or dive into thrills at Universal Studios Singapore. Great for families or anyone looking for action-packed moments during their day exploring.
9. National Gallery Singapore
Art lovers shouldn’t skip the National Gallery, housed in one of Singapore’s grandest colonial buildings. It features the largest public collection of modern Southeast Asian art ideal for soaking in culture in just half a day.
10. Pulau Ubin – Old-School Singapore Off the Mainland
If you have more time or want to leave Singapore’s urban buzz, take a short boat ride to Pulau Ubin. A rustic island that feels untouched by modern development. It's one of the best day trips for nature and nostalgia.
Bonus: Hawker Centres for Culture and Food
While not a sight in the traditional sense, no list of things to do in Singapore is complete without stopping at a hawker centre. These food hubs are where Singaporean culture lives affordable, tasty, and totally unforgettable.
Before You Go: Changi Airport & the Free Singapore Tour
If you’re only visiting Singapore on a short transit. Don’t miss out on the free Singapore tour available at Changi Airport. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the highlights of the city during a layover in Singapore, especially for travelers heading to or from Indonesia or Johor Bahru.
3. Must-Do: Time-Saving Tips & Planning Tricks for a Perfect One-Day Trip
Only have one day in Singapore? No problem! It’s totally doable with a bit of smart planning. Here are must-do tips to help you stay on track, maximise your time, and enjoy the full range of food, sights, and experiences featured above.
1. Start Early: Aim for 8 AM
Singapore is best enjoyed in the early hours, especially iconic outdoor spots like Merlion Park and Gardens by the Bay. Beat the crowds, the heat, and enjoy the peace of early city life before it gets busy. Have breakfast at a hawker centre or grab a light bite at your hotel if you're staying nearby.
2. Use the MRT for Fast & Cheap Transit
Singapore’s MRT system is efficient, clean, and the fastest way to get around. Stations are close to almost all major attractions. From Chinatown to Little India and Clarke Quay. Get a one-day tourist pass or use a contactless card (like EZ-Link or NETS) to skip the ticket queue.
3. Group Your Stops by Area
To save time and avoid backtracking:
Morning: Explore the Singapore River and downtown sights like Boat Quay, Merlion, and Marina Bay Sands.
Midday: Head to Gardens by the Bay, then grab lunch at places like Sarai Fine Thai or Tajimaya Yakiniku nearby.
Afternoon: Venture to cultural districts such as Kampong Glam or Little India.
Evening: Wind down with dinner and drinks at Vineyard at HortPark, or enjoy the light show at the Supertrees.
4. Make Dining Reservations in Advance
You don’t want to waste time queuing during your one-day trip. Most of the must-eat restaurants we featured. They accept reservations online or via concierge platforms. Secure your lunch or dinner slots early, especially for weekends.
5. Add One Flexible Activity
If you find yourself with extra time, go for a spontaneous river cruise, a stroll through Kampong Glam, or a short visit to National Gallery Singapore. These activities are light, flexible, and easy to fit into any time gap in your day.
6. Download Helpful Apps
Before your trip, download:
CityMapper or Google Maps for real-time MRT directions
Chope or Quandoo for last-minute restaurant bookings
VisitSingapore app for attraction info, ticketing, and promos
7. Luggage Storage Options at Changi Airport
If you're on a layover, don’t drag your bags around. Changi Airport offers secure baggage storage, making it easy to leave Singapore for the day and return stress-free.
8. Be Realistic, Not Rushed
Remember: You don’t need to do everything. Prioritise what excites you the most. A one-day trip is all about balance, not burnout.
Wrapping Up Your One-Day Adventure in Singapore
A well-planned one day itinerary in Singapore can truly feel like a full vacation. From iconic sights and vibrant neighbourhoods to world-class food and hidden gems, this guide brings you the very best places in Singapore to explore. If you're looking for the top Singapore attractions or considering top 10 Singapore day trips, this is your ultimate starting point. Thinking of extending your stay in Singapore or ready to book a tour before you leave Singapore? Don’t forget every part of Singapore, even a bustling shopping mall, can surprise you. Plan smart, pack light, and enjoy the city in a day! Happy Trip everyone!