Best Singapore Day Tour

1. Singapore is in a manageable land area of only 734 sq km (284 sq mi), comparable to the size of a city in many countries. Therefore, it is feasible to experience its highlights on a single day trip.
2. Singapore is nice, but pricey. It shares the top spot with Zurich as the most expensive city in the world to live in. Hotels here are more than twice as expensive as those in the notoriously pricey Tokyo. A simple bottle of drinking water costs SGD 2.5 (USD 2) at convenience stores. Here’s a reminder that you can buy bottled water from supermarkets for as low as SGD 1.
3. Singaporeans are hospitable. Lost and need directions? Locals will immediately gather around ready to help you. They speak English well and are very friendly and enthusiastic, unlike other Asians like Chinese and Japanese being some indifferent.

► Consider the following schedule a reference for the time of visit. We’re happy to customize the tour’s sequence and pacing to match your preferences.

Welcome to Singapore! Our guide will connect with you a day before to confirm the meeting time, and pick you up from your hotel this morning. Let’s start on an expert-crafted route to maximize your experience and ensure you see the best of the country in a time-efficient yet fulfilling way.
► Notes:
1. Accommodation not included, but we can help you book a hotel if you need it. It is recommended that you stay near the Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Bugis, Kampong Glam or Chinatown, which are all vibrant neighborhoods conveniently located and rich in activities.
2. This day tour begins at your hotel. Airport pick-up can be added if you’d like a hassle-free arrival – just let us know if need it.

Our guide will accompany you to navigate the city’s efficient public transport system, for a traffic-free adventure. First, we’ll get right to the heart of the action, the Merlion Park, to snap a photo with Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue. Standing over 8 meters tall and overlooking the waterfront, this mythical creature, half-lion and half-fish, represents the innovative soul of the Singaporean people. On the nearby Jubilee Bridge, our savvy guide will show you the best angles to capture a fun photo with the Merlion – pretending to hold or drink water spray from the lion’s mouth – a surefire hit for your social media!

Next, stroll along the Waterfront Promenade. Immerse yourself in the city’s modern charm as you admire the landmarks like the durian-shaped Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, the towering Singapore Flyer observation wheel, the ArtScience Museum, and the Marina Bay Sands complex. Looking at the modernized cityscape, it’s hard to imagine that in 1965, when Singapore was kicked out of the Federation of Malaysia and became independent, it was still a desolate scene. However, in just 60 years, fueled by the enterprising spirit of its people and its advantageous location as a natural port, Singapore has established itself as a leading center for trade and finance and one of the world’s most developed economies. What a miracle!

Next, we’ll explore the Gardens by the Bay, a sprawling waterfront resort, where you’ll get a full sense of Singapore’s vision of ‘A City in a Garden’. Visit the Flower Dome, the world’s largest glasshouse, which brings together the plants from five continents, from thousand-year-old olive trees to delicate magnolias. Continue to see the Floral Fantasy, Cloud Forest, Supertree Grove, and Dragonfly Lake. Surrounded by a kaleidoscope of tropical blooms, you’ll feel your stress melt away and a sense of calm settle in.

Singapore’s Chinese population accounts for more than 70%. Around noon, we’ll delve into the Chinatown. This district reflects its roots, dating back to the early 19th century, when a large influx of immigrant workers from China’s Guangdong and Fujian Provinces settled here, laying the foundation for the bustling shopping center and food court of Chinatown we see today. Step into the Chinatown Heritage Center to get an insight into the Chinese history and tradition. Marvel at the architectural beauty of the magnificent Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Get tantalized by the aromas as you wander through the lively century-old shops and various food stalls. Snacks such as Char Kway Teow (Fried Rice Noodles), Fried Carrot Cake, and Rojak (local salad) are tempting. According to your own taste, you can try Chinese food here for lunch, or follow the guide to the next stop in the Arab quarter to explore its culinary scene. (Lunch is at your own expense).

The afternoon unfolds as you get further inspired by Singapore’s inclusive culture and harmonious blend of ethnicities. Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Muslim communities have lived in harmony and thrived side-by-side. We’ll walk around Kampong Glam and experience the Muslim way of life. This Arab-inspired neighborhood features a range of Muslim buildings, including the noteworthy Sultan Mosque, and offers a delightful change of pace. Recharge your afternoon with a delicious culinary adventure, savoring a variety of local treats.

► Recommended Restaurant in Kampong Glam:
Located just opposite the mosque, Singapore Zam Zam Restaurant is a local favorite you won’t want to miss. Founded in 1908, this Indian Muslim restaurant has become a culinary gem, standing the test of time for over a century. The enduring popularity stems from its commitment to authentic recipes that have remained unchanged for generations. It offers the best Murtabak (a stuffed folded pancake) and Biryani (a mixed rice dish) in town, with many varieties like lamb, beef, chicken, and deer (rusa), in quite big portions and with acceptable prices - an average of SGD 10 to 20 (USD 8 to 15) per person. For a more spacious dining experience with air conditioning, head upstairs to the second floor.

Our next stop will be the Little India. In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles’ ship sailed to Singapore, accompanied by many Indian assistants and soldiers who later became the first Indian settlers in Singapore and established a neighborhood steeped in cultural identity. Walking into the streets, the dazzling colors and strong aroma of spices and curries would transport you to the real India. Admire the architectural splendor of the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a Hindu shrine adorned with golden statues and intricate carvings. Around 17:00, there is a traditional puja ceremony in the temple, when you can experience the soul-stirring bhajans as devotees step forward to the beat of music to light lamps and offer flowers in front of the deity statues.

Finally, our guide will escort you back to your hotel, or if you prefer, we can drop you off at a convenient downtown location.
► Note: Airport see-off not included. Let us know if you’d like us to arrange it.

► Recommended Night Activities:
Don’t leave tonight? Then get ready to experience Singapore’s lively nightlife. Head to the Marina Bay for the spectacular Garden Rhapsody Light Show (Supertree Light Show), a visual and photographic extravaganza. Otherwise, you can soak in the laid-back atmosphere at the Clarke Quay. Try the delicious Nanyang-style dinner here, or unwind with a cool drink at a trendy bar.