72 hours in Singapore

You might feel a little jet-lagged after your journey, so why not take it easy on your first day? Get your bearings with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city. You can find out about Singapore’s history and culture thanks to the audio guide, as you take in Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, Chinatown and beyond. Relax in comfort and stop off at any key sights, like the National Museum or the Botanic Gardens. These gardens are one of only three in the world to be awarded UNESCO status, so they’re certainly worth a visit.

In the evening, head to one of Singapore’s famous hawker centres and prepare for a feast. These laidback marketplaces are crammed with street food stalls, many of which specialise in one particular dish. And the quality is incredible. Chinatown Complex Food Centre is even home to the cheapest Michelin-starred dish in the word – stall Hawker Chan serves its star-winning Cantonese soya sauce chicken rice for only S$2.

On the second day of your Singapore stopover, it’s time for some serious sightseeing, starting with the iconic Gardens by the Bay. Right by the marina, this exotic Eden is made up of beautiful gardens and tropical zones, including the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome. But the Supertree Grove is the star of the show. Instantly recognisable, these man-made trees are 50 metres tall. And they’re connected by a canopy walkway, where you’ll have panoramic views over the gardens below.

Singapore Zoo is another must-see. If you can, go in the evening – or, better still, plan your visit at night. When it’s cooler, the animals will be far more active. On a night safari, you’ll see big cats, elephants, rhinos, bears and much more.

Complete your day with a trip to Singapore’s most famous hotel, Raffles. Sip cocktails in the Long Bar, where a bar tender once invented the Singapore Sling – a refreshing drink made with gin, cherry brandy and lemon juice. Or relax in the Writer’s Bar, which was once a favourite haunt of Joseph Conrad and Rudyard Kipling.

With just one day left, it’s time to go souvenir shopping on Orchard Road. This bustling avenue is the number one spot for retail therapy in Singapore, especially if you’re into designer labels. But if you’d prefer to pick up something unique, head to colourful Haji Lane. Independent boutiques are the order of the day here, and you can admire the bright street art too.

Alternatively, spend your day on Sentosa Island. Connected to Singapore by Causeway Bridge, this thrilling island is a hub of theme parks and beaches. Get your adrenaline pumping at Universal Studios Singapore, try out exciting watersports, or simply relax on the sun-soaked sands.

If you want to round off your 72 hours in Singapore in style, why not treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind dining experience? Boasting a whopping 52 Michelin-starred restaurants, Singapore certainly knows a thing or two about gourmet cuisine. Whether you’re looking for an award-winning French bistro or a decadent Japanese eatery, there’s bound to be a spot you’ll love. 

A short trip to Singapore is the perfect start to your holiday – but where to next? You could jet off to Malaysia to see the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur and the tranquil islands of Langkawi. Experience a variety of cultures in Penang, or head to Borneo to see orangutans, tropical rainforest and bright coral reefs.

Or perhaps you’d prefer to explore beautiful Bali? When you pair this Indonesian gem with Singapore, you’ll have the perfect combination of urban adventures and relaxing beach time. 

Alternatively, Singapore is more than half between the UK and Australia – so why not continue your travels Down Under? You can fly to Sydney and discover the east coast’s glittering cities and stunning natural landscapes, or head to Perth and explore Western Australia’s vineyards and beaches. Whatever you’re looking for, our experts will help you plan the ultimate Singapore multi-centre holiday.