The Ultimate First-Timer's Guide to Singapore: From Changi Airport to City Landmarks

Welcome to Singapore, the vibrant city-state where futuristic architecture meets lush green spaces, and a melting pot of cultures creates a culinary paradise. This guide is designed for the first-time visitor, providing a comprehensive roadmap to ensure your trip is as smooth and enriching as possible. From essential pre-flight preparations to a detailed daily itinerary, we've distilled everything you need to know from seasoned travelers to help you navigate the Lion City with confidence.

Planning Your Arrival

Before you even pack your bags, a few key steps will guarantee a seamless entry into Singapore. The country offers visa-free access for many nationalities, including China, for stays up to 30 days, but preparation is still crucial.

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your date of entry. This is a strict requirement.
• SG Arrival Card (SGAC): This is a mandatory electronic入境 card that must be completed within three days prior to your arrival. You can fill it out for free using the official MyICA Mobile app. Save the confirmation QR code to your phone for a smooth process at immigration.
• Documentation: While not always checked, it's wise to have electronic or printed copies of your return flight ticket and hotel booking confirmations.
• Currency: The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). While many establishments accept Visa and even Alipay, it's recommended to exchange a small amount of cash (around 200-300 SGD) for use at smaller eateries or hawker centres. You can do this at a bank in your home country for better rates.
• Connectivity: Staying connected is easy. Consider purchasing a StarHub SIM card, which often comes in a convenient package with a transport card. You can pre-order online and pick it up at Changi Airport upon arrival. These cards typically offer ample 5G data.

Packing Smart for the Tropics

Singapore's climate is consistently hot and humid, with temperatures hovering between 25-32°C year-round. However, the indoor air conditioning is notoriously powerful.

• Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable summer clothes like shorts and t-shirts. Crucially, also bring a light jacket or cardigan for malls, museums, and the metro.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Singapore is a city best explored on foot, and you'll likely be clocking thousands of steps daily.
• Essentials:
  • An umbrella is a must for both sudden tropical downpours and intense sun.
  • High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are vital for sun protection.
  • A reusable water bottle is a great idea, as there are many free drinking water fountains available, and bottled water can be expensive.
  • A UK-style three-pin power adapter is necessary for charging your devices.
  • A portable power bank with 3C certification is essential for long days out.

Your Singapore adventure begins the moment you land at Changi Airport, an attraction in its own right. Consistently voted the world's best, it's far more than a transport hub. Plan to spend at least a few hours here either upon arrival or before departure.

Jewel Changi Airport

The crown jewel is, fittingly, Jewel Changi. This stunning nature-themed complex connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

• HSBC Rain Vortex: The centerpiece is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, a spectacular 40-meter cascade. It's a breathtaking sight from multiple levels, especially at night when a mesmerizing light and sound show takes place.
• Shiseido Forest Valley: Surrounding the waterfall is a lush, four-story indoor garden with walking trails, offering a tranquil escape.
• Canopy Park: Located on the top floor (Level 5), this area features paid attractions like the Canopy Bridge, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, and thrilling Sky Nets.

Exploring the Terminals

Each terminal boasts unique, free attractions that are worth exploring.

• Terminal 1: Don't miss the Kinetic Rain sculpture, a mesmerizing installation of 1,216 copper-plated droplets that move in fluid harmony. The Cactus Garden offers views of the runway amidst over 100 species of cacti.
• Terminal 2: Home to The Wonderfall, a 14-meter-high digital waterfall with stunning 3D projections, and a rooftop Sunflower Garden, perfect for photos with planes in the background.
• Terminal 3: Discover the world's first airport Butterfly Garden, a tropical habitat with over 1,000 butterflies and a 6-meter grotto waterfall. For a bit of fun, head to The Slide@T3, a four-story-high slide that's the tallest in any airport.

Getting around is simple with the free Skytrain, which connects the terminals. The ride between T2 and T3 is particularly scenic as it passes directly by the Rain Vortex in Jewel.

This itinerary is designed to cover Singapore's highlights without feeling rushed, blending iconic landmarks, cultural enclaves, and natural wonders.

Day 1: Cultural Immersion and Riverside Charm

Start your day exploring Singapore's diverse cultural districts. Begin in Little India, a vibrant area filled with colorful buildings and the scent of spices. Then, move to Kampong Glam, home to the majestic golden-domed Sultan Mosque and the trendy, mural-filled Haji Lane. For lunch, grab some local food before heading to the Civic District. Here you'll find the stunning white Gothic architecture of St. Andrew's Cathedral and the iconic Old Hill Street Police Station with its 911 rainbow-colored windows. A short walk away is the renowned National Gallery Singapore. As evening approaches, make your way to Clarke Quay. While it's a bustling hub of nightlife, a riverside walk offers beautiful views. Enjoy a classic Singaporean dinner of Bak Kut Teh at the famous Song Fa restaurant here.

Day 2: Iconic Skylines and Gardens of the Future

Today is all about Singapore's famous skyline. Start your morning at Merlion Park for the essential photo with the city's mythical icon, set against the backdrop of Marina Bay Sands. From there, it's a pleasant walk across the bridge to the Marina Bay area. Spend your afternoon exploring the magnificent Gardens by the Bay. Don't miss the two cooled conservatories: the Flower Dome, which showcases exotic plants from different continents, and the Cloud Forest, featuring a stunning indoor waterfall and a misty treetop walk. As dusk falls, find a spot in the Supertree Grove to witness the spectacular Garden Rhapsody light and sound show, which happens nightly at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM. It's a truly magical experience.

Day 3: Island Adventures on Sentosa

Dedicate a full day to Sentosa, Singapore's island playground. The main attraction for many is Universal Studios Singapore. To make the most of your time, arrive at opening and prioritize popular rides like Transformers: The Ride 3D and Revenge of the Mummy. If theme parks aren't your style, the S.E.A. Aquarium offers a mesmerizing look at marine life with its massive Open Ocean habitat. For some adrenaline-fueled fun, the Skyline Luge Sentosa is a must-do, offering a thrilling ride down a winding track with scenic views. In the late afternoon, unwind at Palawan Beach, where you can cross a rope bridge to the 'Southernmost Point of Continental Asia' for a perfect sunset photo.

Day 4: Wildlife Encounters and Departure

For your final day, immerse yourself in Singapore's world-class wildlife parks. The Singapore Zoo is renowned for its open-concept enclosures. A unique experience is the 'Breakfast with the Orangutans'. Next door, the River Wonders takes you on a journey through the world's major river habitats. If time permits and you have an evening flight, the Night Safari is the world's first nocturnal zoo and offers a completely different perspective on the animal kingdom. For those interested in an alternative, the Bird Paradise is another fantastic option. If you're considering a short trip out of the country, you could even plan a ferry to Bintan Island, with tickets available online at Bintan Resort Ferries. Finally, head to Changi Airport, leaving plenty of time to explore its attractions before your flight home.

Singapore is a food lover's paradise. The city's hawker centres (food courts) are the heart of its culinary scene, offering a staggering variety of delicious and affordable dishes. Many stalls are even recognized by the Michelin guide.

Must-Try Dishes

• Hainanese Chicken Rice: Considered a national dish, this seemingly simple meal of poached chicken and fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock is sublime. Don't forget the trio of dipping sauces: chili, ginger, and dark soy sauce.
• Chilli Crab: Another iconic dish, featuring large mud crabs stir-fried in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy tomato-based sauce. It's messy but incredibly satisfying. Be sure to order fried buns (mantou) to mop up every last bit of the gravy.
• Laksa: A rich and spicy noodle soup with a coconut milk base. The Katong style is particularly famous, with thick rice noodles cut into smaller pieces, often eaten with just a spoon.
• Bak Kut Teh (Meat Bone Tea): A peppery pork rib soup that is simmered for hours. It's a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for any time of day. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh is a highly recommended spot.
• Kaya Toast with Soft-Boiled Eggs: The quintessential Singaporean breakfast. Thin slices of toast are grilled over charcoal, slathered with coconut and egg jam (kaya) and a slice of cold butter. It's served with soft-boiled eggs drizzled with dark soy sauce and white pepper.

Drinks and Desserts

• Mr. Coconut: This local beverage chain is incredibly popular for its refreshing coconut shakes and is a perfect way to beat the tropical heat.
• Lao Ban Soya Beancurd: A silky, smooth chilled soybean pudding that melts in your mouth. A light and delightful dessert.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: Look for the street vendors, often on a bicycle cart, selling slabs of ice cream (in flavors like durian, mango, or mint chocolate chip) sandwiched between slices of rainbow-colored bread or thin wafers. It's a nostalgic local treat.

Singapore is a shopper's dream, offering everything from high-end luxury boutiques on Orchard Road to unique finds in cultural districts. There are also many local brands and products that are cheaper here than elsewhere.

What to Buy

• Charles & Keith: As a Singaporean brand, you'll find the latest collections and often better prices for their trendy shoes and bags compared to overseas stores.
• Bacha Coffee & TWG Tea: These luxury beverage brands make for elegant souvenirs. Their beautifully packaged products are available at Jewel Changi and throughout the city.
• SK-II: This popular Japanese skincare brand is often available in promotional sets at department stores and Changi's duty-free shops, making it a great value purchase.
• Local Snacks: Don't leave without grabbing some Irvins Salted Egg Fish Skin or potato chips. For a taste of local breakfast, buy a jar of Killiney Kaya Jam.
• Medicinal Products: Classic souvenirs include Tiger Balm and Axe Brand Universal Oil, which can be found in pharmacies and supermarkets across the island.

Shopping Tips

• Tax Refund: As a tourist, you can claim a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund on single purchases over S$100. Remember to ask the retailer for a tax-free form and present your passport. You can easily process the refund at the electronic eTRS kiosks at Changi Airport before checking in your luggage.
• Changi Airport: The duty-free shopping here is extensive. The Shilla Duty Free is a great place for cosmetics and perfumes, while brands like Arc'teryx can sometimes be found at a lower price than in other countries. You can even use the Shop Changi app to pre-order items for pickup.

Navigating Singapore is straightforward, but knowing a few local customs and rules will make your trip even smoother.

Transportation Etiquette

• EZ-Link Card: This reloadable card is the easiest way to pay for buses and the MRT (metro). You can purchase and top it up at any MRT station.
• MRT Rules: Keep your EZ-Link card balance above S$3, as you won't be able to enter the gantry otherwise. Eating and drinking are strictly forbidden on the MRT and in stations, with hefty fines for violators.
• Bus Etiquette: When you see your bus approaching, you must flag it down by raising your hand. To alight, press one of the red buttons located on the handrails before your stop. Remember to tap your card on the reader when you board and again when you get off, as fares are calculated by distance.

General Rules and Customs

• No Durians: The pungent 'king of fruits' is not allowed on public transport or in most hotels due to its strong smell.
• Chope-ing: In busy hawker centres, you'll see tables with tissue packets on them. This is the local custom of 'choping', or reserving a seat. It's a widely accepted practice, so look for a completely empty table.
• Cleanliness: After eating at a hawker centre or food court, you are required to return your tray and clear your table. There are designated tray return stations.
• No Feeding Pigeons: Feeding pigeons or any other wildlife is illegal and can result in a fine.
• Weather: Be prepared for the weather. The sun is intense, so stay hydrated. Evenings are the best time for outdoor activities. The period from November to January is generally the monsoon season, so expect more rain.